Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for Indian tourists under a pilot project that has begun with immediate effect until March 21, 2024.

Apart from India, six other countries have been added in the list. They are: China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand.

The country's foreign affairs minister Ali Sabry made the announcement on Tuesday (Oct 24) on social media platform X.

"Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia &amp; Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March,” he said.

The move comes five days after a proposal was made in this regard during a Cabinet meeting last week to give free tourist visas to foreigners from five countries who intend to visit Sri Lanka as tourists.

<h2>Lanka's economy heavily relies on tourism&nbsp;</h2>

Sri Lanka’s economy heavily relies on inbound tourism, with India accounting for the majority of tourist arrivals.

The move is expected to give a major boost for the crisis-hit island which has been battling persisting high inflation, unemployment and deteriorating economy post the Covid pandemic.

The move is aimed at attracting more tourists to the island nation. "We are expecting to increase tourist arrivals to five million over the coming years," the ministry was quoted as saying in Sri Lankan media outlets.

<h2>Country seeks a turnaround&nbsp;</h2>

In September, India led with more than 30,000 arrivals, comprising 26 per cent of the total, while Chinese tourists followed as the second-largest group with over 8,000 arrivals, reports PTI news agency citing official figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-dominate-the-list-of-immigrants-acquiring-citizenship-in-rich-nations-650722">Indians dominate the list of immigrants acquiring citizenship in rich nations</a>

Apart from that, the Cabinet also proposed an e-ticketing system for most of the tourist sites in Sri Lanka in the near future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-at-least-eight-killed-in-train-collision-at-bhairab-death-toll-expected-to-rise-650323">Bangladesh: Passenger and freight trains collide; 17 dead, over 100 injured, toll likely to go up</a>

The proposed free visas and e-ticketing system will save money and time spent on obtaining visas, the statement read.

The development also comes a month after Ali Sabry in an exclusive interview with ANI news agency said that Sri Lanka is looking at forging a closer relationship with India while adding they are trying for electricity, renewable energy, tourism and port shipping connectivity. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for Indian tourists under a pilot project that has begun with immediate effect until March 21, 2024. Apart from India, six other countries have been added in the list.

Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for Indian tourists under a pilot project that has begun with immediate effect until March 21, 2024. Apart from India, six other countries have been added in the list. They are: China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand. The country's foreign affairs minister Ali Sabry made the announcement on Tuesday (Oct 24) on social media platform X. "Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March,” he said. The move comes five days after a proposal was made in this regard during a Cabinet meeting last week to give free tourist visas to foreigners from five countries who intend to visit Sri Lanka as tourists. Lanka's economy heavily relies on tourism Sri Lanka’s economy heavily relies on inbound tourism, with India accounting for the majority of tourist arrivals. The move is expected to give a major boost for the crisis-hit island which has been battling persisting high inflation, unemployment and deteriorating economy post the Covid pandemic. The move is aimed at attracting more tourists to the island nation. "We are expecting to increase tourist arrivals to five million over the coming years," the ministry was quoted as saying in Sri Lankan media outlets. Country seeks a turnaround In September, India led with more than 30,000 arrivals, comprising 26 per cent of the total, while Chinese tourists followed as the second-largest group with over 8,000 arrivals, reports PTI news agency citing official figures. Also read | Indians dominate the list of immigrants acquiring citizenship in rich nations Apart from that, the Cabinet also proposed an e-ticketing system for most of the tourist sites in Sri Lanka in the near future. Also read | Bangladesh: Passenger and freight trains collide; 17 dead, over 100 injured, toll likely to go up The proposed free visas and e-ticketing system will save money and time spent on obtaining visas, the statement read. The development also comes a month after Ali Sabry in an exclusive interview with ANI news agency said that Sri Lanka is looking at forging a closer relationship with India while adding they are trying for electricity, renewable energy, tourism and port shipping connectivity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka announces visa-free entry for India, six other countries to boost tourism

A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag.

The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23).

<h2>Clip goes viral</h2>

The clip purportedly showed a police officer retrieving two tri-colour flags from a dustbin, while the bystanders questioned who discarded them in the first place.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Tamil Nadu Police put the Indian national flag into a dumpster when a cricket fan tried to bring it inside the Chepauk Cricket Stadium in Chennai for the Pakistan vs. Afghanistan match. 
This is unpardonable!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsAFG</a> National Flag <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chepauk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chepauk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bishensinghbedi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bishensinghbedi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/OvNx0XJRxE">pic.twitter.com/OvNx0XJRxE</a>
— Raj (@TheLicit_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheLicit_/status/1716477641090638212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Sometime later, some people were heard alleging that the police officer was the one who dumped the flags and started questioning him. Facing heat, he then takes the flag to his police vehicle.

“Enquiry has been initiated against the SI concerned deployed for bandobust duty at MAC Stadium. He was recalled to Control Room. Appropriate action as per law will be taken based on the findings,” the city police said in a statement on X.

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The incident mentioned has been brought to notice. Enquiry has been initiated against the SI concerned deployed for bandobust duty at MAC Stadium . He was recalled to Control Room. Appropriate action as per law will be taken based on the findings. 
Apart from this solitary…
— GREATER CHENNAI POLICE -GCP (@chennaipolice_) <a href="https://twitter.com/chennaipolice_/status/1716432636913283233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>BJP slams DMK</h2>

The incident drew wide condemnation, with the state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit president K Annamalai accusing the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) of “stooping to an all-new low by banning” the Indian national flag inside the stadium.

“Mourning our country’s independence, burning parts of our Constitution, seeking a separate statehood, and issuing threats that the call for independent statehood is still alive has been DMK or its ideological party’s way of not wanting TN integrated with our country.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-dominate-the-list-of-immigrants-acquiring-citizenship-in-rich-nations-650722">Indians dominate the list of immigrants acquiring citizenship in rich nations</a>

“Though they've failed miserably in this misadventure, the DMK Govt today stooped to an all-new low by banning entry to our Country’s Tricolour inside the Chepauk stadium. They hate everything about this great nation, from Sanatana Dharma to our sovereignty and wish to remain a parrot of our coloniser,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/father-arranges-celebratory-procession-for-daughter-wanting-to-end-marriage-650744">Father arranges celebratory procession for daughter who ended her marriage</a>

But the police vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that it was an isolated incident.

“Apart from this solitary incident, no others reported. It is observed that many spectators are freely carrying and displaying the Indian tricolour inside the stadium,” the police statement said

&nbsp;

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A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag.

A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag. The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23). Clip goes viral The clip purportedly showed a police officer retrieving two tri-colour flags from a dustbin, while the bystanders questioned who discarded them in the first place. Tamil Nadu Police put the Indian national flag into a dumpster when a cricket fan tried to bring it inside the Chepauk Cricket Stadium in Chennai for the Pakistan vs. Afghanistan match. This is unpardonable!#PAKvsAFG National Flag #Chepauk #Chennai #bishensinghbedi #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/OvNx0XJRxE — Raj (@TheLicit_) October 23, 2023 × Sometime later, some people were heard alleging that the police officer was the one who dumped the flags and started questioning him. Facing heat, he then takes the flag to his police vehicle. “Enquiry has been initiated against the SI concerned deployed for bandobust duty at MAC Stadium. He was recalled to Control Room. Appropriate action as per law will be taken based on the findings,” the city police said in a statement on X. The incident mentioned has been brought to notice. Enquiry has been initiated against the SI concerned deployed for bandobust duty at MAC Stadium . He was recalled to Control Room. Appropriate action as per law will be taken based on the findings. Apart from this solitary… — GREATER CHENNAI POLICE -GCP (@chennaipolice_) October 23, 2023 × BJP slams DMK The incident drew wide condemnation, with the state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit president K Annamalai accusing the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) of “stooping to an all-new low by banning” the Indian national flag inside the stadium. “Mourning our country’s independence, burning parts of our Constitution, seeking a separate statehood, and issuing threats that the call for independent statehood is still alive has been DMK or its ideological party’s way of not wanting TN integrated with our country.” Also read | Indians dominate the list of immigrants acquiring citizenship in rich nations “Though they've failed miserably in this misadventure, the DMK Govt today stooped to an all-new low by banning entry to our Country’s Tricolour inside the Chepauk stadium. They hate everything about this great nation, from Sanatana Dharma to our sovereignty and wish to remain a parrot of our coloniser,” he said. Also read | Father arranges celebratory procession for daughter who ended her marriage But the police vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that it was an isolated incident. “Apart from this solitary incident, no others reported. It is observed that many spectators are freely carrying and displaying the Indian tricolour inside the stadium,” the police statement said

India: Police officer suspended over tricolour row during PAK vs AFG World Cup match

Pakistan’s former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who recently came back from London after ending his four-year self-imposed exile, was granted bail by a local court on Tuesday (Oct 24) in connection with corruption cases registered against him.

Sharif appeared before the Islamabad-based Accountability Court of Judge Muhammad Bashir, who had suspended his arrest orders in the Toshakhana case to facilitate his return to Pakistan after four years, reports Dawn newspaper.

In 2020, several arrest warrants were issued against Nawaz on the allegations that he, along with former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani received luxury vehicles and gifts from the Toshakhana — a department that stores gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats and officials by heads of other governments, states, and foreign dignitaries.

<h2>Nawaz's busy day&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the day, Nawaz appeared in the court to surrender himself. He was allowed to go after the judge witnessed his presence in the courtroom.

Apart from that, he is also expected to appear before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday (Oct 24) for protective bail in the Al-Azizia and Avenfield references, in which he has been convicted.

The Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference pertains to a case in which Nawaz was&nbsp; sentenced to seven years in jail&nbsp;on Dec 24, 2018. He was also fined Rs 1.5 billion and US$25 million.

His appeal for the restoration of his appeals against his conviction is also expected to be heard in the same day.

Bashir is the same judge who convicted him in the Avenfield case. The court had suspended Sharif's arrest warrant until Tuesday.

<h2>Case adjourned for further hearing&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The court hearing also saw the attendance of several PML-N leaders Shehbaz Sharif, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Asif, Ayaz Sadiq and Saad Rafique.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-nawaz-sharifs-return-a-deal-with-pakistan-military-establishment-649672">Is ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's return a 'deal' with Pakistan military establishment?</a>

During the hearing, the prosecutor said that Nawaz had surrendered, therefore, his arrest warrants should be cancelled.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-supreme-court-declares-trial-of-civilians-in-military-courts-unconstitutional-650298">Pakistani Supreme Court rules against army trials of ex-PM Imran Khan's supporters</a>

“If the warrants are cancelled then the trial can move forward,” he said.

The court then confirmed Nawaz’s bail in the case against surety bonds of Rs 1 million.

The further hearing of the case was adjourned till November 20.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
 
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Pakistan’s former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who recently came back from London after ending his four-year self-imposed exile, was granted bail by a local court on Tuesday (Oct 24) in connection with corruption cases registered against him.

Pakistan’s former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who recently came back from London after ending his four-year self-imposed exile, was granted bail by a local court on Tuesday (Oct 24) in connection with corruption cases registered against him. Sharif appeared before the Islamabad-based Accountability Court of Judge Muhammad Bashir, who had suspended his arrest orders in the Toshakhana case to facilitate his return to Pakistan after four years, reports Dawn newspaper. In 2020, several arrest warrants were issued against Nawaz on the allegations that he, along with former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani received luxury vehicles and gifts from the Toshakhana — a department that stores gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats and officials by heads of other governments, states, and foreign dignitaries. Nawaz's busy day Earlier in the day, Nawaz appeared in the court to surrender himself. He was allowed to go after the judge witnessed his presence in the courtroom. Apart from that, he is also expected to appear before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday (Oct 24) for protective bail in the Al-Azizia and Avenfield references, in which he has been convicted. The Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference pertains to a case in which Nawaz was sentenced to seven years in jail on Dec 24, 2018. He was also fined Rs 1.5 billion and US$25 million. His appeal for the restoration of his appeals against his conviction is also expected to be heard in the same day. Bashir is the same judge who convicted him in the Avenfield case. The court had suspended Sharif's arrest warrant until Tuesday. Case adjourned for further hearing The court hearing also saw the attendance of several PML-N leaders Shehbaz Sharif, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Asif, Ayaz Sadiq and Saad Rafique. Also read | Is ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's return a 'deal' with Pakistan military establishment? During the hearing, the prosecutor said that Nawaz had surrendered, therefore, his arrest warrants should be cancelled. Also read | Pakistani Supreme Court rules against army trials of ex-PM Imran Khan's supporters “If the warrants are cancelled then the trial can move forward,” he said. The court then confirmed Nawaz’s bail in the case against surety bonds of Rs 1 million. The further hearing of the case was adjourned till November 20. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan’s former PM Nawaz Sharif surrenders before court, gets bail in Toshakhana case

The Israeli prime minister's son has come under fire from Israeli troops who have opted to fight alongside Hamas for staying in the US and "abandoning" his nation.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu's son not in Israel, faces flak

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's now many days since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides.

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Two Israeli hostages, Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, and Nurit Cooper, 79, were freed by Hamas. According to Hamas' armed branch, the ladies were freed for "compelling humanitarian" grounds. The two hostages' liberation was confirmed by the ICRC.

Israel-Hamas war: Newly released hostages by Hamas speaks to media

In a startling development, Israeli authorities have revealed that Hamas operatives who carried out the October 7 deadly attack, were found carrying instructions for cyanide-based chemical weapons. This has raised concerns about the intentions of the Gaza strip-based militants.

Chemical warfare: Was Hamas planning to use cyanide in Israel?

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin issued a warning on Sunday, October 22, 2023, against any worsening of the Israeli-Hamas confrontation in the Middle East. According to Austin, the US is entitled to self-defense and will respond appropriately to any aggravation.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel continues to pound Gaza, West Bank

A Russian court on Monday ordered Russian-American journalist&nbsp;Alsu&nbsp;Kurmasheva&nbsp;to be detained until December 5, after prosecutors said she had failed to register as a "foreign agent".

She is the second US journalist to be arrested in Russia this year, following Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in March on espionage charges that he and his employer vehemently deny.

Kurmasheva, who works for the US-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) media outlet, was detained by Russian law enforcement officers in the central city of Kazan last Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Sovietsky district court in Kazan -- the main city of the Tatarstan republic -- ruled she should be kept in detention as a "preventative measure".&nbsp;

She faces up to five years in jail if found guilty of the charges.&nbsp;

Following Monday's hearing, RFE/RL called for&nbsp;Kurmasheva&nbsp;to be released immediately.

"We are deeply disappointed by the outcome of today's hearing," said RFE/RL acting President Jeffrey Gedmin.&nbsp;

"We call for&nbsp;Alsu's immediate release so she can be reunited with her family," Gedmin said.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that the United States was "deeply concerned about her pretrial detention".

"We have requested consular access. So far it has not been granted. We will continue to press for it," Miller said.

<h2>'Harassing US citizens'&nbsp;</h2>

Miller said last week that&nbsp;Kurmasheva's arrest "appears to be another case of the Russian government harassing US citizens".&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Friday denied it was "persecuting" US citizens.

"There is no campaign in Russia to persecute US citizens. There are US citizens who break the law, and appropriate measures are taken against them," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;

Kurmasheva, editor of the US outlet's Tatar-Bashkir service, lives in Prague with her husband and two teenage daughters.&nbsp;

"Kurmasheva&nbsp;is an accomplished journalist who has long covered ethnic minority communities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan," RFE/RL said after she was detained last week.&nbsp;

Last year,&nbsp;Kurmasheva&nbsp;edited a book titled, "Saying No to War" -- a collection of interviews and stories of Russians who oppose Moscow's assault on Ukraine.&nbsp;

She returned to Russia in May for a family emergency and was temporarily detained at Kazan airport on June 2 before her return flight.&nbsp;

Her US and Russian passports were both confiscated and she was fined for failing to register her US passport with Russian authorities, according to RFE/RL.

The new charges were announced last week while she was still in Russia awaiting the return of her passports.

<h2>'Relentless crackdown'&nbsp;</h2>

Russia has used the "foreign agent" label -- which has Soviet-era connotations -- as part of an intense crackdown on independent news outlets and journalists over the past decade.

Journalists and outlets designated "foreign agents" must register and submit financial reports to Russia's justice ministry.&nbsp;

They face fines or imprisonment for non-compliance and attach a disclaimer which states they are a "foreign agent" to all of their content, including articles, videos and social media posts.

Rights groups said the detention of&nbsp;Kurmasheva&nbsp;marks a new threshold in Russia's campaign against independent media.

"The persecution of&nbsp;Alsu&nbsp;Kurmasheva&nbsp;is an example of the relentless crackdown on journalism and the right to freedom of expression in Russia," said Marie Struthers, Amnesty International's Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

"It also marks an alarming escalation in the harassment of media professionals, as it’s the first time this offence has been used to directly target a journalist for their professional activities," Struthers added.

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A Russian court on Monday ordered Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva to be detained until December 5, after prosecutors said she had failed to register as a "foreign agent".

A Russian court on Monday ordered Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva to be detained until December 5, after prosecutors said she had failed to register as a "foreign agent". She is the second US journalist to be arrested in Russia this year, following Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in March on espionage charges that he and his employer vehemently deny. Kurmasheva, who works for the US-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) media outlet, was detained by Russian law enforcement officers in the central city of Kazan last Wednesday. The Sovietsky district court in Kazan -- the main city of the Tatarstan republic -- ruled she should be kept in detention as a "preventative measure". She faces up to five years in jail if found guilty of the charges. Following Monday's hearing, RFE/RL called for Kurmasheva to be released immediately. "We are deeply disappointed by the outcome of today's hearing," said RFE/RL acting President Jeffrey Gedmin. "We call for Alsu's immediate release so she can be reunited with her family," Gedmin said. In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that the United States was "deeply concerned about her pretrial detention". "We have requested consular access. So far it has not been granted. We will continue to press for it," Miller said. 'Harassing US citizens' Miller said last week that Kurmasheva's arrest "appears to be another case of the Russian government harassing US citizens". The Kremlin on Friday denied it was "persecuting" US citizens. "There is no campaign in Russia to persecute US citizens. There are US citizens who break the law, and appropriate measures are taken against them," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Kurmasheva, editor of the US outlet's Tatar-Bashkir service, lives in Prague with her husband and two teenage daughters. "Kurmasheva is an accomplished journalist who has long covered ethnic minority communities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan," RFE/RL said after she was detained last week. Last year, Kurmasheva edited a book titled, "Saying No to War" -- a collection of interviews and stories of Russians who oppose Moscow's assault on Ukraine. She returned to Russia in May for a family emergency and was temporarily detained at Kazan airport on June 2 before her return flight. Her US and Russian passports were both confiscated and she was fined for failing to register her US passport with Russian authorities, according to RFE/RL. The new charges were announced last week while she was still in Russia awaiting the return of her passports. 'Relentless crackdown' Russia has used the "foreign agent" label -- which has Soviet-era connotations -- as part of an intense crackdown on independent news outlets and journalists over the past decade. Journalists and outlets designated "foreign agents" must register and submit financial reports to Russia's justice ministry. They face fines or imprisonment for non-compliance and attach a disclaimer which states they are a "foreign agent" to all of their content, including articles, videos and social media posts. Rights groups said the detention of Kurmasheva marks a new threshold in Russia's campaign against independent media. "The persecution of Alsu Kurmasheva is an example of the relentless crackdown on journalism and the right to freedom of expression in Russia," said Marie Struthers, Amnesty International's Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. "It also marks an alarming escalation in the harassment of media professionals, as it’s the first time this offence has been used to directly target a journalist for their professional activities," Struthers added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian court extends detention of US-Russian journalist

China seems to be dialling down on its investment commitments&nbsp;for President Xi Jinping’s pet infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Addressing the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing last week, Xi&nbsp;had said that China would allocate 350 billion yuan (US$106.6 billion) to the China Development Bank and a similar amount to the Export-Import Bank of China. The country will allocate an additional 80 billion yuan to the&nbsp;Silk Road Fund.

He stressed the funds would support the Belt and Road projects “on the basis of market and business operation”.

This is being seen by experts as a pivot.

They note that this time, China has earmarked “modest” sums for the new financing of its BRI compared to the previous years.

<h2>‘Small but beautiful projects’</h2>

The reason given by the Beijing authorities for the decrease in funds is extracting more bang for the buck on smaller projects.

They have been pushing the narrative that “small but beautiful”&nbsp;or “small yet impactful” projects should be targeted in contrast to the large road and rail projects that was the hallmark of the early days of the belt and road projects.

The reason?

Larger infrastructure projects are becoming increasingly difficult to finance because of sovereign debt issues and growing risk.

So China is focusing on handing out smaller loans.

Examples include solar power plants to serve areas not covered by the existing power grid or roads to open remote areas to trade, reports Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP).

“Gone are the days when it provides significant numbers of large loans for infrastructure projects,” David Shinn, a China expert and professor at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, told SCMP.

“Rather there will be ‘small yet smart’ programmes and projects that emphasise ‘green and low carbon development’, lower cost people-to-people activities, and commitments of financial support for less risky projects,” Shinn added.

<h2>China’s financial constraints </h2>

Since the initiative was launched a decade ago, China has spent over US$1 trillion on Belt and Road investments, South China Morning Post reported citing figures presented by Chinese officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-at-least-eight-killed-in-train-collision-at-bhairab-death-toll-expected-to-rise-650323">Bangladesh train collision: Death toll climbs to 15, over 100 injured</a>

China’s National Administration of Financial Regulation, the country’s financial institutions have lent around US$687 billion for BRI projects.

But in the past one year, investments for the BRI have been witnessing a stark fall.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-philippines-summons-chinese-envoy-over-two-collisions-650130">South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions</a>

From US$558 million in 2021, China spent US$325 million in 2022. It is also increasingly financing projects with shorter repayment periods

At the summit, Xi said China would promote both signature projects and “small yet smart” programmes, with plans to carry out 1,000 small-scale livelihood assistance projects.

He added that China would continue to deepen cooperation on green projects in infrastructure, energy and transport.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
 
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China seems to be dialling down on its investment commitments for President Xi Jinping’s pet infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Addressing the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing last week, Xi had said that China would allocate 350 billion yuan (US$106.

China seems to be dialling down on its investment commitments for President Xi Jinping’s pet infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Addressing the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing last week, Xi had said that China would allocate 350 billion yuan (US$106.6 billion) to the China Development Bank and a similar amount to the Export-Import Bank of China. The country will allocate an additional 80 billion yuan to the Silk Road Fund. He stressed the funds would support the Belt and Road projects “on the basis of market and business operation”. This is being seen by experts as a pivot. They note that this time, China has earmarked “modest” sums for the new financing of its BRI compared to the previous years. ‘Small but beautiful projects’ The reason given by the Beijing authorities for the decrease in funds is extracting more bang for the buck on smaller projects. They have been pushing the narrative that “small but beautiful” or “small yet impactful” projects should be targeted in contrast to the large road and rail projects that was the hallmark of the early days of the belt and road projects. The reason? Larger infrastructure projects are becoming increasingly difficult to finance because of sovereign debt issues and growing risk. So China is focusing on handing out smaller loans. Examples include solar power plants to serve areas not covered by the existing power grid or roads to open remote areas to trade, reports Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP). “Gone are the days when it provides significant numbers of large loans for infrastructure projects,” David Shinn, a China expert and professor at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, told SCMP. “Rather there will be ‘small yet smart’ programmes and projects that emphasise ‘green and low carbon development’, lower cost people-to-people activities, and commitments of financial support for less risky projects,” Shinn added. China’s financial constraints Since the initiative was launched a decade ago, China has spent over US$1 trillion on Belt and Road investments, South China Morning Post reported citing figures presented by Chinese officials. Also read | Bangladesh train collision: Death toll climbs to 15, over 100 injured China’s National Administration of Financial Regulation, the country’s financial institutions have lent around US$687 billion for BRI projects. But in the past one year, investments for the BRI have been witnessing a stark fall. Also read | South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions From US$558 million in 2021, China spent US$325 million in 2022. It is also increasingly financing projects with shorter repayment periods At the summit, Xi said China would promote both signature projects and “small yet smart” programmes, with plans to carry out 1,000 small-scale livelihood assistance projects. He added that China would continue to deepen cooperation on green projects in infrastructure, energy and transport. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Is China winding down some Belt and Road Initiative projects? Bang for the buck is new mantra

Scientists have found an ancient tectonic plate in Southeast Asia that had disappeared at least 20 million years ago.

Called the Pontus plate, the fragments of the crust were discovered in the South China Sea near Borneo island.

According to experts, this tectonic plate was once about 15 million square miles in size, approximately one-quarter of the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

It is estimated that the Pontus plate formed part of the world’s crust before the break up of the supercontinent Pangaea but it got subducted beneath the earth over the last millions of years. Scientists believe this gravitational force came from a neighbouring plate.

It has been christened "Pontus plate" because it was submerged under an ocean known as the Pontus Ocean at the time of its existence.

<h2>Surprising discovery&nbsp;</h2>

"It's surprising to find remnants of a plate that we just didn't know about at all,"&nbsp;Suzanna van de Lagemaat, a doctoral candidate at Utrecht University in the Netherlands who identified the plate, told Live Science on October 11.

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Press release!<a href="https://twitter.com/Suzannavdl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Suzannavdl</a>'s PhD research yielded a nice surprise: the reconstruction of the Pontus Plate that we predicted 11 years ago based on tomography. And now it rolled out of her reconstruction 🤠.<a href="https://t.co/rNUOM8oazK">https://t.co/rNUOM8oazK</a><a href="https://twitter.com/UUGeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UUGeo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UUEarthSciences?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UUEarthSciences</a> <a href="https://t.co/3hXVeSx334">pic.twitter.com/3hXVeSx334</a>
— Douwe van Hinsbergen (@vanHinsbergen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vanHinsbergen/status/1711278537699676541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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She came across the ancient plate crust while studying the rock formations in northern Borneo.

&nbsp;“We thought we were dealing with relicts of a lost plate that we already knew about,” Van de Lagemaat said.

&nbsp;“But our magnetic lab research on those rocks indicated that our finds were originally from much farther north, and had to be remnants of a different, previously unknown plate,” she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-old-is-the-moon-study-finds-its-40-million-years-older-than-believed-650419">How old is the Moon? Study finds it's 40 million years older than believed</a>

The team had predicted the existence of the Pontus about a decade ago. Their prediction came true after they discovered fragments of old tectonic plates deep in the Earth’s mantle earlier this month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-take-amusement-park-approach-to-bring-mars-samples-back-to-earth-650367">NASA to take 'amusement park' approach to bring Mars samples back to Earth</a>

<h2>Extends till New Zealand&nbsp;</h2>

They reconstructed the lost plates by combining field research with extensive investigations of Japan, Borneo, the Philippines, New Guinea, and New Zealand Mountain belts.

According to the scientists, these areas were the “most complicated plate tectonic region.”

Apart from this, the scientists also found the remnants of the Pontus plate in Palawan, an island in the Western Philippines, and the South China Sea.&nbsp;

The research also indicates that a single coherent plate tectonic system extends from southern Japan to New Zealand. Scientists believe this system may have existed for at least 150 million years.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Scientists have found an ancient tectonic plate in Southeast Asia that had disappeared at least 20 million years ago. Called the Pontus plate, the fragments of the crust were discovered in the South China Sea near Borneo island.

Scientists have found an ancient tectonic plate in Southeast Asia that had disappeared at least 20 million years ago. Called the Pontus plate, the fragments of the crust were discovered in the South China Sea near Borneo island. According to experts, this tectonic plate was once about 15 million square miles in size, approximately one-quarter of the Pacific Ocean. It is estimated that the Pontus plate formed part of the world’s crust before the break up of the supercontinent Pangaea but it got subducted beneath the earth over the last millions of years. Scientists believe this gravitational force came from a neighbouring plate. It has been christened "Pontus plate" because it was submerged under an ocean known as the Pontus Ocean at the time of its existence. Surprising discovery "It's surprising to find remnants of a plate that we just didn't know about at all," Suzanna van de Lagemaat, a doctoral candidate at Utrecht University in the Netherlands who identified the plate, told Live Science on October 11. Press release!@Suzannavdl's PhD research yielded a nice surprise: the reconstruction of the Pontus Plate that we predicted 11 years ago based on tomography. And now it rolled out of her reconstruction 🤠.https://t.co/rNUOM8oazK@UUGeo @UUEarthSciences pic.twitter.com/3hXVeSx334 — Douwe van Hinsbergen (@vanHinsbergen) October 9, 2023 × She came across the ancient plate crust while studying the rock formations in northern Borneo. “We thought we were dealing with relicts of a lost plate that we already knew about,” Van de Lagemaat said. “But our magnetic lab research on those rocks indicated that our finds were originally from much farther north, and had to be remnants of a different, previously unknown plate,” she added. Also read | How old is the Moon? Study finds it's 40 million years older than believed The team had predicted the existence of the Pontus about a decade ago. Their prediction came true after they discovered fragments of old tectonic plates deep in the Earth’s mantle earlier this month. Also read | NASA to take 'amusement park' approach to bring Mars samples back to Earth Extends till New Zealand They reconstructed the lost plates by combining field research with extensive investigations of Japan, Borneo, the Philippines, New Guinea, and New Zealand Mountain belts. According to the scientists, these areas were the “most complicated plate tectonic region.” Apart from this, the scientists also found the remnants of the Pontus plate in Palawan, an island in the Western Philippines, and the South China Sea. The research also indicates that a single coherent plate tectonic system extends from southern Japan to New Zealand. Scientists believe this system may have existed for at least 150 million years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives.

Though the whole context of their conversation is unclear, since the conversion is taking place amidst the Israel-Hamas war, their discussion may have been related to the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region.

"Spoke with His Majesty @KingAbdullahII of Jordan. Exchanged views on the developments in the West Asia region. We share concerns regarding terrorism, violence and loss of civilian lives,” Modi said on social media platform X.

He told the king that further concerted efforts are needed for early resolution of the security and humanitarian situation, alluding to the situation in the Gaza Strip where the stranded civilians have been finding it difficult to access shelter and food amidst Israel's counter operations against the Hamas militants.

The Jordanian foreign ministry later in a statement said that both leaders discussed means to stop the deteriorating situation in Gaza.

<h2>India wants efforts to end war in Gaza</h2>

“Discussions during the call covered the need to step up international efforts to end the war on Gaza, protect civilians and hospitals, and guarantee the sustained delivery of medical and relief aid into the strip,” the statement said.

“His Majesty warned of the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the repercussions of what is happening in the strip on the region&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;world,” he added.

On Sunday, India sent humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the conflict-torn region.

Nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material have been sent to Palestine, which will reach the country via Egypt.

<h2>Modi sends aid to Palestinians&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on X, "An IAF C-17 flight carrying nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material for the people of Palestine departs for El-Arish airport in Egypt."

The relief items will be sent to Palestine via the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-israel-bombed-syrian-airports-in-the-thick-of-its-ongoing-war-with-hamas-650322">Explained | Why Israel bombed Syrian airports, amid its ongoing war with Hamas</a>

The official further said that the humanitarian aid includes "essential life-saving medicines, surgical items, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, water purification tablets, among other necessary items".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks</a>

Aid to Palestine comes days after Prime Minister Modi spoke to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday.

During their conversation, PM Modi said that India would continue sending humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians, as he also conveyed his condolences on the loss of civilian lives in the Gaza Strip due to the bombing at a hospital.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives. Though the whole context of their conversation is unclear, since the conversion is taking place amidst the Israel-Hamas war, their discussion may have been related to the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region. "Spoke with His Majesty @KingAbdullahII of Jordan. Exchanged views on the developments in the West Asia region. We share concerns regarding terrorism, violence and loss of civilian lives,” Modi said on social media platform X. He told the king that further concerted efforts are needed for early resolution of the security and humanitarian situation, alluding to the situation in the Gaza Strip where the stranded civilians have been finding it difficult to access shelter and food amidst Israel's counter operations against the Hamas militants. The Jordanian foreign ministry later in a statement said that both leaders discussed means to stop the deteriorating situation in Gaza. India wants efforts to end war in Gaza “Discussions during the call covered the need to step up international efforts to end the war on Gaza, protect civilians and hospitals, and guarantee the sustained delivery of medical and relief aid into the strip,” the statement said. “His Majesty warned of the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the repercussions of what is happening in the strip on the region and the world,” he added. On Sunday, India sent humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the conflict-torn region. Nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material have been sent to Palestine, which will reach the country via Egypt. Modi sends aid to Palestinians External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on X, "An IAF C-17 flight carrying nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material for the people of Palestine departs for El-Arish airport in Egypt." The relief items will be sent to Palestine via the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza. Also read | Explained | Why Israel bombed Syrian airports, amid its ongoing war with Hamas The official further said that the humanitarian aid includes "essential life-saving medicines, surgical items, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, water purification tablets, among other necessary items". Also read | Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks Aid to Palestine comes days after Prime Minister Modi spoke to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday. During their conversation, PM Modi said that India would continue sending humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians, as he also conveyed his condolences on the loss of civilian lives in the Gaza Strip due to the bombing at a hospital. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: Indian PM Modi, Jordan King Abdullah II discuss developments in West Asia

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