Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka.

Asked about reports regarding a Chinese research vessel named Shi Yan 6 scheduled to be docked in Sri Lanka in October and India's concerns regarding it, he said that they have a standard operating procedure (SOP) and they have consulted many friends, including India.

"That's a conversation going on for some period of time. India has expressed its concerns over a long time, but we have come out with the SOP (standard operating procedure). When we were making that, we consulted many of our friends, including India. So, as long as it complies with the SOP, we have no problem. But if it doesn't comply with the SOP, we have a problem," Ali Sabry told ANI.

He said that Sri Lanka has not given permission for the Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to dock in October, adding that negotiations are going on.

"So, therefore, as far as I know, we have not given permission to come to Sri Lanka during October. Negotiations are going on. Indian security concerns, which are legitimate, are very, very important for us. We have always told that because we want to keep our region a zone of peace," said Ali Sabry.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe too had said that an SPO had been worked out for foreign vessels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-echoes-indias-security-concerns-over-chinas-shi-yan-6s-port-call-to-sri-lanka-report-639407">US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report</a>

The Chinese research vessel was expected in Sri Lanka in October to conduct research along with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror reported.

US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, during her meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, had raised concerns regarding Shi Yan 6's visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorists-found-safe-haven-in-canada-sri-lankan-minister-slams-trudeau-in-scathing-critique-639592">'Terrorists found safe haven in Canada': Sri Lankan minister slams Trudeau in scathing critique</a>

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Victoria Nuland stated, "The US supports a strong and prosperous Sri Lanka. Our work together continues at #UNGA. I met with @MFA_SriLanka Minister Ali Sabry to discuss U.S. economic assistance, human rights, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Sabry told Nuland that Sri Lanka had worked out the SOP to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory, according to the Daily Mirror report.

Reportedly, he told her that Sri Lanka had been even-handed in this approach for all nations and could not exclude China from the process. The two leaders held a meeting on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Last year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while commenting on Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang-5 which had docked in Sri Lanka, said that any developments that have a bearing on India's security are "obviously of an interest to us".

"What happens in our neighbourhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security obviously are of an interest to us," Mr Jaishankar said at a joint press conference after the 9th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting.

India had expressed its security concerns over the docking of the vessel at the Sri Lankan port as it was shown as a research vessel with the capability of mapping the ocean bed, which is critical to anti-submarine operations of the Chinese Navy. The Chinese research ship had docked at Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port.

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Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka. Asked about reports regarding a Chinese research vessel named Shi Yan 6 scheduled to be docked in Sri Lanka in October and India's concerns regarding it, he said that they have a standard operating procedure (SOP) and they have consulted many friends, including India. "That's a conversation going on for some period of time. India has expressed its concerns over a long time, but we have come out with the SOP (standard operating procedure). When we were making that, we consulted many of our friends, including India. So, as long as it complies with the SOP, we have no problem. But if it doesn't comply with the SOP, we have a problem," Ali Sabry told ANI. He said that Sri Lanka has not given permission for the Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to dock in October, adding that negotiations are going on. "So, therefore, as far as I know, we have not given permission to come to Sri Lanka during October. Negotiations are going on. Indian security concerns, which are legitimate, are very, very important for us. We have always told that because we want to keep our region a zone of peace," said Ali Sabry. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe too had said that an SPO had been worked out for foreign vessels. Also read | US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report The Chinese research vessel was expected in Sri Lanka in October to conduct research along with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror reported. US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, during her meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, had raised concerns regarding Shi Yan 6's visit. Also read | 'Terrorists found safe haven in Canada': Sri Lankan minister slams Trudeau in scathing critique Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Victoria Nuland stated, "The US supports a strong and prosperous Sri Lanka. Our work together continues at #UNGA. I met with @MFA_SriLanka Minister Ali Sabry to discuss U.S. economic assistance, human rights, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific." Sabry told Nuland that Sri Lanka had worked out the SOP to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory, according to the Daily Mirror report. Reportedly, he told her that Sri Lanka had been even-handed in this approach for all nations and could not exclude China from the process. The two leaders held a meeting on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Last year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while commenting on Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang-5 which had docked in Sri Lanka, said that any developments that have a bearing on India's security are "obviously of an interest to us". "What happens in our neighbourhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security obviously are of an interest to us," Mr Jaishankar said at a joint press conference after the 9th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting. India had expressed its security concerns over the docking of the vessel at the Sri Lankan port as it was shown as a research vessel with the capability of mapping the ocean bed, which is critical to anti-submarine operations of the Chinese Navy. The Chinese research ship had docked at Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important

The Indian Himalayan town of Joshimath, which witnessed an unprecedented and unexplained land subsidence phenomenon, seems to have sunk “vertically by over 3 feet and moved by 1.4 feet”, a report by the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) has stated.

The NGRI is one of the eight institutions mandated by the Uttarakhand High Court to ascertain the causes of land subsidence and suggest remedial measures.

The report, which was allegedly kept secret by the state government, was made public recently on the order of the court.

The report mentions that loose sediments, population pressure, construction of multi-storey buildings and the absence of a system for proper disposal of water coming from the upper reaches caused the Joshimath land to subside significantly.

According to its 43-page report, the middle and western side of the town saw land sinking, though isolated incidents were also observed in the whole of Joshimath town.

"Maximum horizontal displacement along the fissures was observed in Sunil, Manohar Bagh and Singhdhar with displacement as high as 45cm (1.4ft). Vertical displacement (sinking) as high as 110-110cm (3.6ft) was witnessed in Singhdhar and Marwari," the report said.

The report also pointed to “steep, air-filled&nbsp;fissures&nbsp;extensively developed and extending to a depth exceeding 100ft”.

<h2>Unplanned construction, overpopulation blamed&nbsp;</h2>

Joshimath, a historical town, is said to be built on the debris of a landslide triggered by an earthquake, and is located in a tremor-prone zone. It frequently witnesses landslides, which have reportedly weakened the soil.

Experts and environmental activists have been blaming unplanned construction activities, hydropower projects and improper drainage systems for the land subsidence.

The Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), which was among the institutes tasked to look into land sinking issue, in its report found that out of 2,364 buildings in Joshimath, 20 per cent of houses are "unusable", 42 per cent are under "further assessment", 37 per cent are "usable", and one per cent of them "need to be demolished".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lookout-notice-issued-against-absconding-punjabs-ex-finance-minister-in-corruption-case-639762">India: Lookout notice issued against absconding Punjab’s ex-finance minister in corruption case</a>

“There is a need for reviewing the principles of town planning for development of towns in hilly regions with rigorous stress on good construction typology, practices, material, regulatory mechanism, and awareness among the stakeholders based on geo-technical and geo-climatic condition,” the CBRI said in its recommendation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-govt-ensures-swift-action-after-photos-of-bodies-of-two-missing-students-go-viral-639684">Manipur govt ensures 'swift action' after photos of bodies of two missing students go viral</a>&nbsp;

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) said it is strongly advised to carry out ground-based terrestrial monitoring in different parts of Joshimath.

“The main reason for the subsidence appears to be internal erosion caused by the subsurface drainage, which may be due to infiltration of rainwater/melting of ice/waste water discharge from household and hotels. Though subsidence is a continuous phenomenon, it can be minimized by controlling infiltration of water, which helps in minimising internal erosion,” the IIT-Roorkee said in its report.

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The Indian Himalayan town of Joshimath, which witnessed an unprecedented and unexplained land subsidence phenomenon, seems to have sunk “vertically by over 3 feet and moved by 1.

The Indian Himalayan town of Joshimath, which witnessed an unprecedented and unexplained land subsidence phenomenon, seems to have sunk “vertically by over 3 feet and moved by 1.4 feet”, a report by the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) has stated. The NGRI is one of the eight institutions mandated by the Uttarakhand High Court to ascertain the causes of land subsidence and suggest remedial measures. The report, which was allegedly kept secret by the state government, was made public recently on the order of the court. The report mentions that loose sediments, population pressure, construction of multi-storey buildings and the absence of a system for proper disposal of water coming from the upper reaches caused the Joshimath land to subside significantly. According to its 43-page report, the middle and western side of the town saw land sinking, though isolated incidents were also observed in the whole of Joshimath town. "Maximum horizontal displacement along the fissures was observed in Sunil, Manohar Bagh and Singhdhar with displacement as high as 45cm (1.4ft). Vertical displacement (sinking) as high as 110-110cm (3.6ft) was witnessed in Singhdhar and Marwari," the report said. The report also pointed to “steep, air-filled fissures extensively developed and extending to a depth exceeding 100ft”. Unplanned construction, overpopulation blamed Joshimath, a historical town, is said to be built on the debris of a landslide triggered by an earthquake, and is located in a tremor-prone zone. It frequently witnesses landslides, which have reportedly weakened the soil. Experts and environmental activists have been blaming unplanned construction activities, hydropower projects and improper drainage systems for the land subsidence. The Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), which was among the institutes tasked to look into land sinking issue, in its report found that out of 2,364 buildings in Joshimath, 20 per cent of houses are "unusable", 42 per cent are under "further assessment", 37 per cent are "usable", and one per cent of them "need to be demolished". Also read | India: Lookout notice issued against absconding Punjab’s ex-finance minister in corruption case “There is a need for reviewing the principles of town planning for development of towns in hilly regions with rigorous stress on good construction typology, practices, material, regulatory mechanism, and awareness among the stakeholders based on geo-technical and geo-climatic condition,” the CBRI said in its recommendation. Also read | Manipur govt ensures 'swift action' after photos of bodies of two missing students go viral The Geological Survey of India (GSI) said it is strongly advised to carry out ground-based terrestrial monitoring in different parts of Joshimath. “The main reason for the subsidence appears to be internal erosion caused by the subsurface drainage, which may be due to infiltration of rainwater/melting of ice/waste water discharge from household and hotels. Though subsidence is a continuous phenomenon, it can be minimized by controlling infiltration of water, which helps in minimising internal erosion,” the IIT-Roorkee said in its report. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s Joshimath town sank by 3ft, says report, blaming overpopulation, construction for subsidence

A lookout notice was issued by Indian authorities against absconding former finance minister of Punjab and BJP leader Manpreet Singh Badal in a corruption case on Tuesday (Sept 26).

The notice was issued a day after the Punjab Vigilance Bureau found irregularities in the purchase of a property in Bathinda, following which a case was registered against Badal and five others on Monday.

Officials believe that Badal may flee the country to evade arrest, and have therefore put all airports on alert.

Meanwhile, a local court is scheduled to hear an anticipatory bail hearing of Badal on Tuesday.

Apart from Badal, former Bathinda Development Authority (BDA) chief administrator Bikramjit Shergill was also named in the case. The other four booked in the case were identified as Rajiv Kumar, Amandeep Singh, Vikas Arora and Pankaj.

<h2>On the hunt for Badal</h2>

The development follows an investigation launched by the vigilance bureau based on former MLA Sarup Chand Singla's complaint in 2021 alleging irregularities in the purchase of property at a prime location in Bathinda.

Singla, who was earlier with the Shiromani Akali Dal, had claimed that Badal, as a minister in the previous Congress government, used his position to convert two commercial plots into a residential plot for himself.

Badal had joined the BJP after quitting the Congress in January this year.

The case was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including sections 420 (cheating) and 468 (forgery), and also under the Prevention of Corruption Act

On Monday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched a tirade against Badal, saying those who used to boast about honesty are now running from pillar to post to save their skin.

"There is a huge difference between speaking the truth and standing by it," the chief minister said.

“These leaders earlier used to say that they would wait for whatever action is taken against them, but are now seeking legal protection against arrest,” he added.

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A lookout notice was issued by Indian authorities against absconding former finance minister of Punjab and BJP leader Manpreet Singh Badal in a corruption case on Tuesday (Sept 26).

A lookout notice was issued by Indian authorities against absconding former finance minister of Punjab and BJP leader Manpreet Singh Badal in a corruption case on Tuesday (Sept 26). The notice was issued a day after the Punjab Vigilance Bureau found irregularities in the purchase of a property in Bathinda, following which a case was registered against Badal and five others on Monday. Officials believe that Badal may flee the country to evade arrest, and have therefore put all airports on alert. Meanwhile, a local court is scheduled to hear an anticipatory bail hearing of Badal on Tuesday. Apart from Badal, former Bathinda Development Authority (BDA) chief administrator Bikramjit Shergill was also named in the case. The other four booked in the case were identified as Rajiv Kumar, Amandeep Singh, Vikas Arora and Pankaj. On the hunt for Badal The development follows an investigation launched by the vigilance bureau based on former MLA Sarup Chand Singla's complaint in 2021 alleging irregularities in the purchase of property at a prime location in Bathinda. Singla, who was earlier with the Shiromani Akali Dal, had claimed that Badal, as a minister in the previous Congress government, used his position to convert two commercial plots into a residential plot for himself. Badal had joined the BJP after quitting the Congress in January this year. The case was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including sections 420 (cheating) and 468 (forgery), and also under the Prevention of Corruption Act On Monday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched a tirade against Badal, saying those who used to boast about honesty are now running from pillar to post to save their skin. "There is a huge difference between speaking the truth and standing by it," the chief minister said. “These leaders earlier used to say that they would wait for whatever action is taken against them, but are now seeking legal protection against arrest,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Lookout notice against Punjab's absconding ex-finance minister in corruption case

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.

"It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency.

“So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying.

<h2>Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine</h2>

Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel&nbsp;reported.

The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have.

Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine.

According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment.

In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine.

<h2>Poland’s tiff with Ukraine</h2>

The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified.

Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetans-seek-autonomy-not-political-separation-from-china-dalai-lama-639609">Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama</a>

The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-moodys-hot-humid-claims-over-aadhaars-efficiency-639602">India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security</a>

“We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. &nbsp;

In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly admitted that Berlin had occasionally sent outdated or almost non-functional military equipment to Ukraine. "It does not only help to promise, and then you cannot deliver, or deliver things which do not work ... Some of our systems were really old-fashioned," Baerbock said in an interview with US media, according to Sputnik news agency. “So, because we know and we said that in the beginning, some are not really functioning, when we deliver, it does have to work in the field,” she was quoted as saying. Germany second-largest supplier of arms aid to Ukraine Recently, Ukraine had refused to accept a batch of 10 archaic Leopard-1A5 from Germany on the grounds that these tanks required extensive repair work, the German publication Spiegel reported. The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said that the repair and maintenance work would require spare parts and technical expertise that Kyiv does not have. Though initially late in responding to Ukraine’s demand for military aid, Germany has slowly become the second-largest contributor of arms aid to Ukraine. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy report, till July 2023, Germany has sent military aid worth $18.9 billion, second only to the United States which has sent $ 46.6 billion worth of arms and military equipment. In May this year, Berlin pledged to send a military aid package worth 2.7bn euros ($2.95bn), to show “that Germany is serious in its support” for Ukraine. Poland’s tiff with Ukraine The development comes after Poland, one of the most steadfast allies of Ukraine, refused to provide additional weaponry to Kyiv as a row over Ukrainian grain intensified. Poland, along with Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, had banned the imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds in a bid to protect their domestic market. Also read | Tibetans seek autonomy, not political separation from China: Dalai Lama The move angered Ukraine which threatened to sue these countries if they didn’t revoke their decision. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country had decided to prioritise its own defence in the future. Also read | India slams Moody's 'hot, humid' claims over Aadhaar's security “We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” he said. In terms of exporting arms to Ukraine for the war, Poland has offered not more than 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG-29 fighter jets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German minister admits Berlin sending outdated weapons to Ukraine for Russian war: Report

More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection.

The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24).

According to Dawn newspaper, these patients, who were diabetic, were administered Avastin injections. However, the medicine led to severe infections, ultimately resulting in the loss of eyesight of 12 patients, including the brother of senior Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Chaudhry Manzoor and his friend.

Till Tuesday (Sept 26), more than 70 diabetic patients are said to have been affected,&nbsp;prompting the provincial caretaker government to impose a two-week ban on the sale and use of Avastin for ophthalmological treatments. However, it is not known whether all of these 70 have lost vision.

PPP was one of the ruling coalition parties of the Pakistan government that was recently dissolved to pave&nbsp;the way for elections. Former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is the chairman of the party.

A case has been lodged against suppliers of locally manufactured injection Avastin and they are currently absconding, the health minister said, adding that the government has recalled the medicine from the market.

<h2>Gravitas: Pakistan army grabs government land to grow crops</h2>

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<h2>'Sale of fake injection stopped'</h2>

Nasir further said that dealers were selling counterfeit injections in several parts of the Punjab province. "None of the operatives of the fake injection-selling network has been arrested yet," he said.

Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on X said that a crucial meeting was held with the health department and doctors to address the blindness cases and an action plan has been devised.

As per the plan, “immediate strict action” would be taken against drug inspectors responsible for the availability of non-sterile injections with a pending inquiry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-denies-permission-to-chinese-spy-vessel-to-dock-in-colombo-min-says-indias-concerns-important-639654">Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important</a>

He said that the Punjab government would provide free treatment to all the patients and a high-powered inquiry team had been formed for swift investigation.

“The police have been instructed to ensure the arrests of those responsible,” the CM added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-imran-riaz-khan-reunites-with-family-after-going-missing-for-5-months-639360">Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months</a>

He said the Punjab government has formed&nbsp;a five-member committee to probe the loss of eyesight among patients.

Meanwhile, doctors raised concerns over unsterilised injections and called for serious attention to prevent such incidents in the future.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection. The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24).

More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection. The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24). According to Dawn newspaper, these patients, who were diabetic, were administered Avastin injections. However, the medicine led to severe infections, ultimately resulting in the loss of eyesight of 12 patients, including the brother of senior Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Chaudhry Manzoor and his friend. Till Tuesday (Sept 26), more than 70 diabetic patients are said to have been affected, prompting the provincial caretaker government to impose a two-week ban on the sale and use of Avastin for ophthalmological treatments. However, it is not known whether all of these 70 have lost vision. PPP was one of the ruling coalition parties of the Pakistan government that was recently dissolved to pave the way for elections. Former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is the chairman of the party. A case has been lodged against suppliers of locally manufactured injection Avastin and they are currently absconding, the health minister said, adding that the government has recalled the medicine from the market. Gravitas: Pakistan army grabs government land to grow crops 'Sale of fake injection stopped' Nasir further said that dealers were selling counterfeit injections in several parts of the Punjab province. "None of the operatives of the fake injection-selling network has been arrested yet," he said. Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on X said that a crucial meeting was held with the health department and doctors to address the blindness cases and an action plan has been devised. As per the plan, “immediate strict action” would be taken against drug inspectors responsible for the availability of non-sterile injections with a pending inquiry. Also read | Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important He said that the Punjab government would provide free treatment to all the patients and a high-powered inquiry team had been formed for swift investigation. “The police have been instructed to ensure the arrests of those responsible,” the CM added. Also read | Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months He said the Punjab government has formed a five-member committee to probe the loss of eyesight among patients. Meanwhile, doctors raised concerns over unsterilised injections and called for serious attention to prevent such incidents in the future. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 10 people in Pakistan lose eyesight after being injected with locally made medicine

This is How Chinese are Mocking Made-in-India iPhone 15 

Chinese netizens have found issues with Apple giving India the heft over the production of iPhones. 


For the past week, many netizens have been discussing how to avoid India-made iPhone 15s, a journalist covering China said on X.  


Some even published tutorials on how to identify India-made iPhones and how to return them to Apple. 

The boycott campaign against Made-in-India iPhone15 reached Weibo which has taken a racist turn

A popular comment on China's Quora-like platform Zhihu says that Apple was politically motivated to produce iPhones in India and that Chinese consumers should let them know this is not okay by boycotting them 


Some even wrote that the best way to identify India-made iPhones is to smell it. Others made fun of India-made iPhones being dirty because they say Indian people don't use toilet paper 


The rumours stem from unfound claim that Europe has rejected India's iPhones, citing poor quality  


This is How Chinese are Mocking Made-in-India iPhone 15

The speaker of the Canadian Parliament issued an apology after lawmakers, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, honoured a war veteran and a Ukrainian immigrant who fought for a Nazi unit during the Second World War.

The incident happened on Friday during Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Ottawa.

Yaroslav Hunka (98), who fought for the First Ukrainian Division, was welcomed with claps and cheers in the House of Commons.

The First Ukrainian Division was also known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division or the SS 14th Waffen Division, a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis.

Hunka was invited by Speaker Anthony Rota— an MP from the Trudeau-led Liberal Party of Canada—who introduced him.

"I am very proud to say that he is from North Bay and from my riding of Nipissing--Timiskaming," Rota, said.

"He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Friday, Canadian Parliament honored a 98 year old Ukrainian immigrant who fought the Russians in WW2, Yaroslav Hunka. 
 
He fought with the Nazis during the Third Reich as part of the 14th Waffen, aka SS Galincha. 
 
Standing ovations for literal Nazis… <a href="https://t.co/dgc8jWGSYH">pic.twitter.com/dgc8jWGSYH</a>
— Clandestine (@WarClandestine) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/1705929609022189614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Jewish community enraged </h2>

The incident drew widespread condemnation from the opposition parties and the Jewish community in Canada who demanded an apology.

In a statement on Sunday, the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies said the division "was responsible for the mass murder of innocent civilians with a level of brutality and malice that is unimaginable."

"An apology is owed to every Holocaust survivor and veteran of the Second World War who fought the Nazis, and an explanation must be provided as to how this individual entered the hallowed halls of Canadian Parliament and received recognition from the Speaker of the House and a standing ovation," the statement said.

Canada's Leader of Opposition Pierre Poilievre pointed out Trudeau’s “appalling error in judgement”.

In his post on social media platform X, Poilievre said Liberals arranged for a Nazi veteran to be recognised on the floor of the House of Commons during Zelensky's visit.

Also read &nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-cancel-dozens-of-oci-cards-in-crackdown-on-khalistani-activities-report-639289">India to cancel dozens of OCI cards in crackdown on Khalistani activities</a>

He said that it was an "appalling error in judgement" on Trudeau's part, as the prime minister's office is responsible for arranging and vetting all guests and programming for state visits.

<h2>Speaker apologises </h2>

Rota on late Sunday afternoon apologised for the glaring error saying he recognised an individual in the gallery on Friday, and that he has "subsequently become aware of more information which causes me to regret my decision to do so."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nijjar-row-canadian-defence-min-says-ties-with-india-important-will-continue-indo-pacific-strategy-639278">Nijjar row: Canadian defence min says ties with India 'important'</a>

"I wish to make clear that no one, including fellow parliamentarians and the Ukraine delegation, was aware of my intention or of my remarks before I delivered them," he wrote.

"I particularly want to extend my deepest apologies to Jewish communities in Canada and around the world."

He, however, did not make clear what he is apologising for, and did not name Hunka or give any details about what information Rota learned about him since Friday.

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The speaker of the Canadian Parliament issued an apology after lawmakers, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, honoured a war veteran and a Ukrainian immigrant who fought for a Nazi unit during the Second World War.

The speaker of the Canadian Parliament issued an apology after lawmakers, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, honoured a war veteran and a Ukrainian immigrant who fought for a Nazi unit during the Second World War. The incident happened on Friday during Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Ottawa. Yaroslav Hunka (98), who fought for the First Ukrainian Division, was welcomed with claps and cheers in the House of Commons. The First Ukrainian Division was also known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division or the SS 14th Waffen Division, a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis. Hunka was invited by Speaker Anthony Rota— an MP from the Trudeau-led Liberal Party of Canada—who introduced him. "I am very proud to say that he is from North Bay and from my riding of Nipissing--Timiskaming," Rota, said. "He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service." Friday, Canadian Parliament honored a 98 year old Ukrainian immigrant who fought the Russians in WW2, Yaroslav Hunka. He fought with the Nazis during the Third Reich as part of the 14th Waffen, aka SS Galincha. Standing ovations for literal Nazis… pic.twitter.com/dgc8jWGSYH — Clandestine (@WarClandestine) September 24, 2023 × Jewish community enraged The incident drew widespread condemnation from the opposition parties and the Jewish community in Canada who demanded an apology. In a statement on Sunday, the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies said the division "was responsible for the mass murder of innocent civilians with a level of brutality and malice that is unimaginable." "An apology is owed to every Holocaust survivor and veteran of the Second World War who fought the Nazis, and an explanation must be provided as to how this individual entered the hallowed halls of Canadian Parliament and received recognition from the Speaker of the House and a standing ovation," the statement said. Canada's Leader of Opposition Pierre Poilievre pointed out Trudeau’s “appalling error in judgement”. In his post on social media platform X, Poilievre said Liberals arranged for a Nazi veteran to be recognised on the floor of the House of Commons during Zelensky's visit. Also read | India to cancel dozens of OCI cards in crackdown on Khalistani activities He said that it was an "appalling error in judgement" on Trudeau's part, as the prime minister's office is responsible for arranging and vetting all guests and programming for state visits. Speaker apologises Rota on late Sunday afternoon apologised for the glaring error saying he recognised an individual in the gallery on Friday, and that he has "subsequently become aware of more information which causes me to regret my decision to do so." Also read | Nijjar row: Canadian defence min says ties with India 'important' "I wish to make clear that no one, including fellow parliamentarians and the Ukraine delegation, was aware of my intention or of my remarks before I delivered them," he wrote. "I particularly want to extend my deepest apologies to Jewish communities in Canada and around the world." He, however, did not make clear what he is apologising for, and did not name Hunka or give any details about what information Rota learned about him since Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau under fire after parliament honours Nazi soldier

France has pulled out its envoy and announced the end of its military presence in coup-hit Niger months after protests by people against French presence in the country.

Making the announcement on Sunday, President Emanuel Macron told a French news TV in an interview, “France has decided to withdraw its ambassador.”

&nbsp;“In the next hours our ambassador and several diplomats will return to France,” he added.

The French president further said that the military cooperation with the Niger was over and the troops would be withdrawn in “the months and weeks to come” with a full pullout by the end of the year.

“We will consult the putschists, because we want this to be done peacefully,” he added.

Currently, there are about 1,500 French troops in the Niger as part of an anti-jihadist deployment in the Sahel region.

Macron said that the junta “no longer wanted to fight against terrorism”.

<h2>France to pull out troops from Niger; French Ambassador to leave Niger</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-to-pull-out-troops-from-niger-french-ambassador-to-leave-niger-says-macron-wion-639316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Niger junta hails move</h2>

Hours after the statement, Niger’s junta said that the announcement signals a “new step towards the sovereignty” of the country. &nbsp;

“This Sunday, we celebrate a new step towards the sovereignty of Niger,” said the statement from the military rulers.

“This is a historic moment, which speaks to the determination and will of the Nigerien people,” the Niger statement added.

The military leaders ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26— a third such putsch in the region in as many years—citing persistent insecurity in the region.

Macron said that he still acknowledges Bazoum—currently in detention—as the&nbsp;"sole legitimate authority" and had informed him of his decision.

<h2>Anti-French sentiment at all-time high&nbsp;</h2>

"He was targeted by this coup d'etat because he was carrying out courageous reforms and because there was a largely ethnic settling of scores and a lot of political cowardice," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-group-of-karabakh-refugees-reaches-armenia-amid-mass-exodus-639190">First group of Karabakh refugees reaches Armenia amid mass exodus</a>

The development stems from years of anti-French sentiment running in the country, with many local politicians accusing Paris of carrying out neo-colonialist policies - a charge denied by France.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-cancel-dozens-of-oci-cards-in-crackdown-on-khalistani-activities-report-639289">India to cancel dozens of OCI cards in crackdown on Khalistani activities</a>

Moreover, there have been growing concerns about the role of Russia's Wagner mercenary group in toppling the civilian government.

The regional Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)&nbsp;has threatened military intervention in Niger to reinstate Bazoum, but it has not taken any action so far.

Niger is one of several former French colonies in West Africa where the military has recently seized control - it follows Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Chad.&nbsp;The latest coup was in Gabon&nbsp;in August.

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France has pulled out its envoy and announced the end of its military presence in coup-hit Niger months after protests by people against French presence in the country.

France has pulled out its envoy and announced the end of its military presence in coup-hit Niger months after protests by people against French presence in the country. Making the announcement on Sunday, President Emanuel Macron told a French news TV in an interview, “France has decided to withdraw its ambassador.” “In the next hours our ambassador and several diplomats will return to France,” he added. The French president further said that the military cooperation with the Niger was over and the troops would be withdrawn in “the months and weeks to come” with a full pullout by the end of the year. “We will consult the putschists, because we want this to be done peacefully,” he added. Currently, there are about 1,500 French troops in the Niger as part of an anti-jihadist deployment in the Sahel region. Macron said that the junta “no longer wanted to fight against terrorism”. France to pull out troops from Niger; French Ambassador to leave Niger Niger junta hails move Hours after the statement, Niger’s junta said that the announcement signals a “new step towards the sovereignty” of the country. “This Sunday, we celebrate a new step towards the sovereignty of Niger,” said the statement from the military rulers. “This is a historic moment, which speaks to the determination and will of the Nigerien people,” the Niger statement added. The military leaders ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26— a third such putsch in the region in as many years—citing persistent insecurity in the region. Macron said that he still acknowledges Bazoum—currently in detention—as the "sole legitimate authority" and had informed him of his decision. Anti-French sentiment at all-time high "He was targeted by this coup d'etat because he was carrying out courageous reforms and because there was a largely ethnic settling of scores and a lot of political cowardice," he said. Also read | First group of Karabakh refugees reaches Armenia amid mass exodus The development stems from years of anti-French sentiment running in the country, with many local politicians accusing Paris of carrying out neo-colonialist policies - a charge denied by France. Also read | India to cancel dozens of OCI cards in crackdown on Khalistani activities Moreover, there have been growing concerns about the role of Russia's Wagner mercenary group in toppling the civilian government. The regional Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has threatened military intervention in Niger to reinstate Bazoum, but it has not taken any action so far. Niger is one of several former French colonies in West Africa where the military has recently seized control - it follows Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Chad. The latest coup was in Gabon in August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

France recalls ambassador, announces withdrawal of troops from coup-hit Niger

Hollywood writers reached a tentative agreement&nbsp;with studios and streamers, ending a months-long&nbsp;strike that brought much of the production of TV&nbsp;shows and movies to a standstill.

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) reached an agreement on Sunday after five consecutive days of negotiations.&nbsp;The WGA and AMPTP are still drafting the final contract language.

“What we have won in this contract – most particularly, everything we have gained since May 2nd – is due to the willingness of this membership to exercise its power, to demonstrate its solidarity, to walk side-by-side, to endure the pain and uncertainty of the past 146 days,” the WGA said in an email to members on Sunday, according to CNN.

“It is the leverage generated by your strike, in concert with the extraordinary support of our union siblings, that finally brought the companies back to the table to make a deal.”

One of the sticking points in the last days before closing the pact was the details of language around the use of generative AI in content production.

However, the stand-off is not over yet as the members of the WGA, which represents more than 11,000 writers, are yet to ratify the agreement. But the picketing has been stopped.&nbsp;The guild members are expected to vote on Tuesday on whether to formally lift the strike order against AMPTP signatories.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/megan-thee-stallions-surprise-appearance-at-beyonces-renaissance-show-in-houston-makes-fans-go-gaga-639139">Watch Megan Thee Stallion's surprise appearance at Beyoncé's Renaissance show</a>

“To be clear, no one is to return to work until specifically authorized to by the Guild. We are still on strike until then,” the message to members stated

The current agitation lasted for 146 days and was coming close to beating the longest strike in WGA history—a 1988 strike that lasted 154 days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/doja-cat-takes-a-dig-at-kardashian-sisters-cosmetic-procedures-in-new-song-sparks-controversy-639135">Doja Cat takes a dig at Kardashian sisters' cosmetic procedures in new song; sparks controversy</a>

“Though we are eager to share the details of what has been achieved with you, we cannot do that until the last ‘i’ is dotted,” the WGA told its members in the&nbsp;e-mail.

“To do so would complicate our ability to finish the job. So, as you have been patient with us before, we ask you to be patient again – one last time.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hollywood writers reached a tentative agreement with studios and streamers, ending a months-long strike that brought much of the production of TV shows and movies to a standstill.

Hollywood writers reached a tentative agreement with studios and streamers, ending a months-long strike that brought much of the production of TV shows and movies to a standstill. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) reached an agreement on Sunday after five consecutive days of negotiations. The WGA and AMPTP are still drafting the final contract language. “What we have won in this contract – most particularly, everything we have gained since May 2nd – is due to the willingness of this membership to exercise its power, to demonstrate its solidarity, to walk side-by-side, to endure the pain and uncertainty of the past 146 days,” the WGA said in an email to members on Sunday, according to CNN. “It is the leverage generated by your strike, in concert with the extraordinary support of our union siblings, that finally brought the companies back to the table to make a deal.” One of the sticking points in the last days before closing the pact was the details of language around the use of generative AI in content production. However, the stand-off is not over yet as the members of the WGA, which represents more than 11,000 writers, are yet to ratify the agreement. But the picketing has been stopped. The guild members are expected to vote on Tuesday on whether to formally lift the strike order against AMPTP signatories. Also read | Watch Megan Thee Stallion's surprise appearance at Beyoncé's Renaissance show “To be clear, no one is to return to work until specifically authorized to by the Guild. We are still on strike until then,” the message to members stated The current agitation lasted for 146 days and was coming close to beating the longest strike in WGA history—a 1988 strike that lasted 154 days. Also read | Doja Cat takes a dig at Kardashian sisters' cosmetic procedures in new song; sparks controversy “Though we are eager to share the details of what has been achieved with you, we cannot do that until the last ‘i’ is dotted,” the WGA told its members in the e-mail. “To do so would complicate our ability to finish the job. So, as you have been patient with us before, we ask you to be patient again – one last time.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hollywood writers and studios reach tentative deal to end months-long strike

Pakistan Army is planning to take over large swathes of land owned by the government to boost food production, Nikkei Asia has reported, amidst concerns over the all-powerful military’s growing presence in the functioning of the country.

The fact that the army, which has significant influence over politics and foreign policy of the country, now intends to mark its presence in the agricultural sector has triggered concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the report, the army will acquire up to 1 million acres, or 405,000 hectares, of land in eastern Punjab province, which is three times the size of Delhi or about 5,500 times of Beijing's Forbidden City.

The land is purportedly in the Cholistan Desert—an arid region prone to water shortages.

“As much as 110,000 acres of additional land for transfer is in adjacent districts,” Nikkei Asia reported citing the documents.

The land would be leased for up to 30 years, where the army is expected to grow cash crops such as wheat, cotton and sugarcane, as well as vegetables and fruit, with 20 per cent of any profit earmarked for farming research and development.

The rest would be divided equally between the army and state government, according to leaked government documents accessed by Nikkei Asia.

<h2>Pakistan army to takeover one million acres of farmland to boost food production</h2>

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<h2>Army to become biggest landowner&nbsp;</h2>

Critics fear that the move could solidify the army’s status as the biggest landowner in Pakistan that could have otherwise been tasked to 25 million poor rural households.

There has been some resistance as the matter was heard in the Lahore High Court to halt the land transfer, but that ruling was overturned by another bench in July.

A small firm, Fongrow, has been tasked to oversee the farming in the barren lands.

Fongrow is part of an army conglomerate set up to provide employment for retired military personnel. According to its website, it has claimed to have developed a 2,250-acre corporate farm that grows cotton and corn in Punjab as a "test bed," with a 135 per cent boost to average crop yields.

It was unclear if any of the land to be transferred was already being farmed or controlled by small landowners, but Fongrow manager Muhammad Zahid Aziz disputed it was an issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-imran-riaz-khan-reunites-with-family-after-going-missing-for-5-months-639360">Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months</a>

"It is all barren land, so there is no question of farmers being displaced," he told Nikkei Asia.

<h2>Army says want to boost food production&nbsp;</h2>

In a press conference on April 25, Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the director general of the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations, was asked about the corporate farming project. He said that food security was a challenge for Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-40-population-slips-below-poverty-line-world-bank-sounds-alarm-bell-639087">Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell</a>

“In developing and developed countries their governments have used the military, in some way or the other, to improve the agriculture sector,” he said.

What role the military can play in making lands more cultivable was in the end the decision of the provincial and federal government, he added, according to a report in The News International website.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan Army is planning to take over large swathes of land owned by the government to boost food production, Nikkei Asia has reported, amidst concerns over the all-powerful military’s growing presence in the functioning of the country.

Pakistan Army is planning to take over large swathes of land owned by the government to boost food production, Nikkei Asia has reported, amidst concerns over the all-powerful military’s growing presence in the functioning of the country. The fact that the army, which has significant influence over politics and foreign policy of the country, now intends to mark its presence in the agricultural sector has triggered concerns. According to the report, the army will acquire up to 1 million acres, or 405,000 hectares, of land in eastern Punjab province, which is three times the size of Delhi or about 5,500 times of Beijing's Forbidden City. The land is purportedly in the Cholistan Desert—an arid region prone to water shortages. “As much as 110,000 acres of additional land for transfer is in adjacent districts,” Nikkei Asia reported citing the documents. The land would be leased for up to 30 years, where the army is expected to grow cash crops such as wheat, cotton and sugarcane, as well as vegetables and fruit, with 20 per cent of any profit earmarked for farming research and development. The rest would be divided equally between the army and state government, according to leaked government documents accessed by Nikkei Asia. Pakistan army to takeover one million acres of farmland to boost food production Army to become biggest landowner Critics fear that the move could solidify the army’s status as the biggest landowner in Pakistan that could have otherwise been tasked to 25 million poor rural households. There has been some resistance as the matter was heard in the Lahore High Court to halt the land transfer, but that ruling was overturned by another bench in July. A small firm, Fongrow, has been tasked to oversee the farming in the barren lands. Fongrow is part of an army conglomerate set up to provide employment for retired military personnel. According to its website, it has claimed to have developed a 2,250-acre corporate farm that grows cotton and corn in Punjab as a "test bed," with a 135 per cent boost to average crop yields. It was unclear if any of the land to be transferred was already being farmed or controlled by small landowners, but Fongrow manager Muhammad Zahid Aziz disputed it was an issue. Also read | Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months "It is all barren land, so there is no question of farmers being displaced," he told Nikkei Asia. Army says want to boost food production In a press conference on April 25, Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the director general of the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations, was asked about the corporate farming project. He said that food security was a challenge for Pakistan. Also read | Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell “In developing and developed countries their governments have used the military, in some way or the other, to improve the agriculture sector,” he said. What role the military can play in making lands more cultivable was in the end the decision of the provincial and federal government, he added, according to a report in The News International website. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan Army taking over govt land for farming to boost food production: Report

The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo.

According to Sri Lankan news outlet Daily Mirror Online, US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland during her meeting with Foreign Minister Ali Sabry raised concerns about the upcoming visit of the Chinese vessel.

Sabry reportedly briefed Nuland that the ship is acting in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SPO) drafted by Colombo that is to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory.

The minister reportedly told her that Sri Lanka, a neutral country, had been even-handed in this approach for all the countries and could not exclude China from the process as a result.

It is unclear when the meeting took place, but the report mentioned that the officials met in the United States on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session.

The Chinese vessel will be docking at Colombo port in October.

<h2>Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to reach Sri Lanka on October 25</h2>

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<h2>Chinese vessel for 'research purposes'&nbsp;</h2>

According to a statement published by the Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the ship would help “strengthen scientific research cooperation and exchanges with countries along the Maritime Silk Road and further realise the integration of science and education for Belt and Road Initiative”.

The so-called “scientific research vessel” has 60 crew members on board.

According to reports, researchers affiliated with Sri Lanka's National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), are set to commence a scientific expedition aboard the vessel Shi Yan 6.

Their primary objective is to carry out an extensive survey encompassing both the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the island nation and the region of the southern Indian Ocean.

<h2>India's concerns&nbsp;</h2>

China regularly sends its&nbsp;vessels to Sri Lanka for “research purposes”, but New Delhi believes that China is attempting to snoop on its defence installations.

Last year, it raised concerns over a Sri Lanka port call in Hambantota by Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 5, which specialises in spacecraft tracking and which New Delhi described as a spy ship.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-recalls-ambassador-announces-withdrawal-of-troops-from-coup-hit-niger-639339">France recalls ambassador, announces withdrawal of troops from coup-hit Niger</a>

Hambantota is seen as a “strategic” port in southern Sri Lanka and has been built by a Chinese company.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-matteo-messina-denaro-61-year-old-sicilian-mafia-boss-dies-in-custody-639363">Who was Matteo Messina Denaro, 61-year-old Sicilian mafia boss who has died in custody?</a>

Though India is yet to make an official comment on it, the Hindustan Times newspaper last month reported that Indian officials are engaging with Sri Lanka at the highest diplomatic levels.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo.

The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo. According to Sri Lankan news outlet Daily Mirror Online, US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland during her meeting with Foreign Minister Ali Sabry raised concerns about the upcoming visit of the Chinese vessel. Sabry reportedly briefed Nuland that the ship is acting in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SPO) drafted by Colombo that is to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory. The minister reportedly told her that Sri Lanka, a neutral country, had been even-handed in this approach for all the countries and could not exclude China from the process as a result. It is unclear when the meeting took place, but the report mentioned that the officials met in the United States on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session. The Chinese vessel will be docking at Colombo port in October. Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to reach Sri Lanka on October 25 Chinese vessel for 'research purposes' According to a statement published by the Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the ship would help “strengthen scientific research cooperation and exchanges with countries along the Maritime Silk Road and further realise the integration of science and education for Belt and Road Initiative”. The so-called “scientific research vessel” has 60 crew members on board. According to reports, researchers affiliated with Sri Lanka's National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), are set to commence a scientific expedition aboard the vessel Shi Yan 6. Their primary objective is to carry out an extensive survey encompassing both the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the island nation and the region of the southern Indian Ocean. India's concerns China regularly sends its vessels to Sri Lanka for “research purposes”, but New Delhi believes that China is attempting to snoop on its defence installations. Last year, it raised concerns over a Sri Lanka port call in Hambantota by Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 5, which specialises in spacecraft tracking and which New Delhi described as a spy ship. Also read | France recalls ambassador, announces withdrawal of troops from coup-hit Niger Hambantota is seen as a “strategic” port in southern Sri Lanka and has been built by a Chinese company. Also read | Who was Matteo Messina Denaro, 61-year-old Sicilian mafia boss who has died in custody? Though India is yet to make an official comment on it, the Hindustan Times newspaper last month reported that Indian officials are engaging with Sri Lanka at the highest diplomatic levels. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report

A team of scientists from China and Australia exploring the Pacific Ocean have stumbled upon a new type of virus 8.9 kilometres below sea level.

They found the virus in sediments taken from the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean.

According to the scientists, the virus is part of a previously unidentified family of viruses that’s distributed throughout the oceans, which the team is calling Suviridae (or ‘Siphoviruses’).

It’s also a bacteriophage, which means that this virus uses bacteria to make more of itself and cannot make humans its host. They have named this bacteriophage ‘vB_HmeY_H4907’.

The virus was found in the hadal zone, the deepest part of the ocean from 6km to 11km below sea level.

The team’s findings were published on Wednesday in the journal Microbiology Spectrum.

<h2>'Virus is known to affect bacteria only'</h2>

“The hadal trench is the planet’s least explored and the most mysterious environment, and it is the deepest habitat for life on Earth’s surface,” said study author Min Wang, a virologist at the Ocean University of China, in a statement from the American Society for Microbiology, publishers of the journal.

“Our understanding of hadal viruses has been greatly limited by the scarcity of isolated viruses in the hadal trenches.”

“This study reported the discovery of a temperate phage…isolated from surface sediment from the Mariana Trench at a depth of 8,900 metres. To our best knowledge, it is the deepest isolated siphovirus from the ocean.”

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The virus is said to specifically target Halomonas bacteria, a group of bacteria known to live in deep-sea&nbsp;environments and near hydrothermal vents.

<h2>Team intends to find more viruses</h2>

However, it is believed that the pair have a relatively friendly relationship. The scientists said that the virus is genetically similar to its host and is a lysogenic phage, meaning that it inserts its genetic material into the bacteria but usually doesn’t kill it; instead, both virus and bacteria replicate at the same time.

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The researchers theorize that vB_HmeY_H4907 might have co-evolved with these bacteria to ensure its survival in harsh conditions.

The scientists said that they are planning to further study the interactions between deep sea phages and their hosts on a molecular level, adding that they will keep looking for more strange viruses in the most inhospitable places on the planet.

“Extreme environments offer optimal prospects for unearthing novel viruses,” said Wang.

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A team of scientists from China and Australia exploring the Pacific Ocean have stumbled upon a new type of virus 8.9 kilometres below sea level. They found the virus in sediments taken from the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean.

A team of scientists from China and Australia exploring the Pacific Ocean have stumbled upon a new type of virus 8.9 kilometres below sea level. They found the virus in sediments taken from the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean. According to the scientists, the virus is part of a previously unidentified family of viruses that’s distributed throughout the oceans, which the team is calling Suviridae (or ‘Siphoviruses’). It’s also a bacteriophage, which means that this virus uses bacteria to make more of itself and cannot make humans its host. They have named this bacteriophage ‘vB_HmeY_H4907’. The virus was found in the hadal zone, the deepest part of the ocean from 6km to 11km below sea level. The team’s findings were published on Wednesday in the journal Microbiology Spectrum. 'Virus is known to affect bacteria only' “The hadal trench is the planet’s least explored and the most mysterious environment, and it is the deepest habitat for life on Earth’s surface,” said study author Min Wang, a virologist at the Ocean University of China, in a statement from the American Society for Microbiology, publishers of the journal. “Our understanding of hadal viruses has been greatly limited by the scarcity of isolated viruses in the hadal trenches.” “This study reported the discovery of a temperate phage…isolated from surface sediment from the Mariana Trench at a depth of 8,900 metres. To our best knowledge, it is the deepest isolated siphovirus from the ocean.” Also read | An incurable disease is on the prowl in UK, and it can spread from dogs to humans The virus is said to specifically target Halomonas bacteria, a group of bacteria known to live in deep-sea environments and near hydrothermal vents. Team intends to find more viruses However, it is believed that the pair have a relatively friendly relationship. The scientists said that the virus is genetically similar to its host and is a lysogenic phage, meaning that it inserts its genetic material into the bacteria but usually doesn’t kill it; instead, both virus and bacteria replicate at the same time. Also read | Scientists one step closer to resurrecting Tasmanian tiger that went extinct 100 years ago The researchers theorize that vB_HmeY_H4907 might have co-evolved with these bacteria to ensure its survival in harsh conditions. The scientists said that they are planning to further study the interactions between deep sea phages and their hosts on a molecular level, adding that they will keep looking for more strange viruses in the most inhospitable places on the planet. “Extreme environments offer optimal prospects for unearthing novel viruses,” said Wang. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists find new virus at depths of Pacific Ocean

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