Contrary to the speculations swirling around that the upcoming special session of the Indian Parliament would take up bills on ‘One Nation, One Election’, renaming India to Bharat or women’s reservation bill, the central government said that five-day session would see discussion on parliament’s 75-year&nbsp;journey.

According to the bulletin issued by Lok Sabha (lower house) Secretariat, the two Houses would discuss the “Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha — Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings”, and take up for consideration four bills.

The legislations that would be taken up include the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, which was introduced during the Monsoon Session in the Lok Sabha; the Advocates (Amendment) Bill and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, passed by the&nbsp;Rajya Sabha&nbsp;in the Monsoon Session; and the Post Office Bill, introduced in the&nbsp;Rajya Sabha&nbsp;during the Monsoon Session.

The&nbsp;Rajya Sabha&nbsp;agenda also lists the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2023, which was passed by the&nbsp;Lok Sabha&nbsp;in July.

<h2>Govt calls for all-party meeting</h2>

The government has called an all-party meeting on September 17, a day before the special session of the parliament.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that all leaders of the opposition parties have been invited to the meeting.

The session is expected to begin in the old parliament building and shift to the new structure the next day.

The shift to the new Parliament building will coincide with Ganesh Chaturthi on September 19, considered auspicious among the Hindus as a sign of making new beginnings.

<h2>Oppn expresses apprehension&nbsp;</h2>

However, the opposition leaders have raised suspicions about the agenda of the special session, adding that the central government may have something up its sleeve.

Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh said on X that the Modi government was “compelled” to announce the agenda under “pressure” after the party supremo Sonia Gandhi wrote to the PM.

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“The agenda as published at the moment, is much ado about nothing – all this could have waited till the Winter session in November. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-receives-rousing-welcome-at-bjp-headquarters-after-successful-g20-summit-635737">PM Modi gets a rousing welcome at BJP headquarters after successful G20 Summit</a>

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien said the agenda has a caveat, “not to be taken as exhaustive”, and wondered whether the government was up to some “dirty tricks”.

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Contrary to the speculations swirling around that the upcoming special session of the Indian Parliament would take up bills on ‘One Nation, One Election’, renaming India to Bharat or women’s reservation bill, the central government said that five-day session would see discussion on parliament’s 75-year journey.

Contrary to the speculations swirling around that the upcoming special session of the Indian Parliament would take up bills on ‘One Nation, One Election’, renaming India to Bharat or women’s reservation bill, the central government said that five-day session would see discussion on parliament’s 75-year journey. According to the bulletin issued by Lok Sabha (lower house) Secretariat, the two Houses would discuss the “Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha — Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings”, and take up for consideration four bills. The legislations that would be taken up include the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, which was introduced during the Monsoon Session in the Lok Sabha; the Advocates (Amendment) Bill and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, passed by the Rajya Sabha in the Monsoon Session; and the Post Office Bill, introduced in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session. The Rajya Sabha agenda also lists the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2023, which was passed by the Lok Sabha in July. Govt calls for all-party meeting The government has called an all-party meeting on September 17, a day before the special session of the parliament. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that all leaders of the opposition parties have been invited to the meeting. The session is expected to begin in the old parliament building and shift to the new structure the next day. The shift to the new Parliament building will coincide with Ganesh Chaturthi on September 19, considered auspicious among the Hindus as a sign of making new beginnings. Oppn expresses apprehension However, the opposition leaders have raised suspicions about the agenda of the special session, adding that the central government may have something up its sleeve. Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh said on X that the Modi government was “compelled” to announce the agenda under “pressure” after the party supremo Sonia Gandhi wrote to the PM. Also read | Indian Army Colonel, Major and J&K Police DSP killed during encounter with terrorists in Anantnag “The agenda as published at the moment, is much ado about nothing – all this could have waited till the Winter session in November. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual,” he said. Also read | PM Modi gets a rousing welcome at BJP headquarters after successful G20 Summit Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien said the agenda has a caveat, “not to be taken as exhaustive”, and wondered whether the government was up to some “dirty tricks”. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

75 years of Indian Parliament, clearing pending bills: Govt lists agenda for special session

Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific.

Between Wednesday and Thursday morning, 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected, the Taipei defence ministry said in a statement.

The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island.

Taiwan’s defence ministry said that some of the planes and warships detected on Wednesday were heading to an unspecified location at the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training with the Shandong aircraft carrier."

<h2>Movements spotted amidst Chinese military drills</h2>

Shandong is the first carrier built by the mainland and the PLA’s second battle group. The defence ministry said that it was spotted 60 nautical miles off Taiwan’s southernmost tip on Monday when it headed for combat training.

“Twenty-eight of them crossed the median line and entered our southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ),” the ministry said, referring to the de facto line that separates the island from the mainland in the Taiwan Strait.

“Some of the warplanes headed towards the western Pacific through Bashi Channel to join the Shandong for a joint sea and air training.”

China has so far not officially commented on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific.

But its Eastern Theatre Command, which organises drills around Taiwan, on Wednesday said that an "aviation unit" had carried out training "recently", in a range of "thousands of kilometres."

It, however, did not mention Taiwan.

<h2>Presence of&nbsp;Shandong rattles Taiwan</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-demands-clarification-after-ukrainian-official-questions-intellectual-potential-635807">Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect</a>

Though China regularly conducts military drills around Taiwan in a bid to assert its authority over the self-ruled island, the presence of the Shandong aircraft carrier has rattled Taipei.

Major General Huang Wen-chi, of the ministry’s general staff for intelligence, said that Shandong would form a new risk for the island.

“The Shandong, flanked by such new destroyers as [the] Type 052C and Type O52D, evidently would form a considerable threat to our near-sea and coastal defence but the carrier still does not possess the full capability in air and sea strikes,” he said in Taipei on Tuesday, reports South China Morning Post.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific.

Taiwan on Thursday (Sept 14) said that it has detected at least 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships in three days near its territory, as the People Liberation of Army (PLA) conducts one of its biggest joint sea and air drills in months in the Western Pacific. Between Wednesday and Thursday morning, 68 PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected, the Taipei defence ministry said in a statement. The previous day on Tuesday, Taiwan said it detected 35 warplanes around the island. Taiwan’s defence ministry said that some of the planes and warships detected on Wednesday were heading to an unspecified location at the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training with the Shandong aircraft carrier." Movements spotted amidst Chinese military drills Shandong is the first carrier built by the mainland and the PLA’s second battle group. The defence ministry said that it was spotted 60 nautical miles off Taiwan’s southernmost tip on Monday when it headed for combat training. “Twenty-eight of them crossed the median line and entered our southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ),” the ministry said, referring to the de facto line that separates the island from the mainland in the Taiwan Strait. “Some of the warplanes headed towards the western Pacific through Bashi Channel to join the Shandong for a joint sea and air training.” China has so far not officially commented on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific. But its Eastern Theatre Command, which organises drills around Taiwan, on Wednesday said that an "aviation unit" had carried out training "recently", in a range of "thousands of kilometres." It, however, did not mention Taiwan. Presence of Shandong rattles Taiwan Also read | Beijing demands clarification after Ukrainian official questions intellect Though China regularly conducts military drills around Taiwan in a bid to assert its authority over the self-ruled island, the presence of the Shandong aircraft carrier has rattled Taipei. Major General Huang Wen-chi, of the ministry’s general staff for intelligence, said that Shandong would form a new risk for the island. “The Shandong, flanked by such new destroyers as [the] Type 052C and Type O52D, evidently would form a considerable threat to our near-sea and coastal defence but the carrier still does not possess the full capability in air and sea strikes,” he said in Taipei on Tuesday, reports South China Morning Post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan detects 84 Chinese warplanes and 33 warships near island in three days

Alarms are ringing in India over yet another deadly virus. The southern state of Kerala has reported four cases of the Nipah virus out of which two succumb to the infection. Now Nipah is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted to people from animals. It mainly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs and horses. Though the infection does not spread as quickly as COVID-19 the case fatality rate or the proportion of deaths among those who test positive is very high as per the World Health Organization.

Nipah Outbreak: Kerala govt strengthen measures to stop the spread of virus

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate".

The journalists were arrested in Kurdish region of Iraq last year after their coverage of anti-government protests in Duhok, a province controlled by ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party, reported Al-Jazeera. The freelance journalists were found guilty on February 16 by a court in Erbil that held them guilty for putting Kurdish national security at risk.

They cited social media exchanges wherein they had criticised the government. According to a report by Voice of America (VOA), Sherwani`s lawyer said journalistic materials were presented as evidence of spying, and others pointed out that the region`s prime minister had described the journalists as spies in a press conference a week before the trial.

"With this verdict, the Kurdish authorities are sending a clear message: the press freedom that they claim to defend and to uphold and to respect is not being respected," Ignacio Miguel Delgado, the CPJ Middle East and North Africa representative, told Al Jazeera.

"Iraqi Kurdistan keeps claiming that it`s the only democracy [in the region] and it takes pride in that...But what we have witnessed throughout 2020 and into this new year is the exact opposite, at least as far as press freedom goes," said Delgado.

Meanwhile, the VOA has reported Sherwani as saying that he was tortured both mentally and physically during the investigation."While I was under investigation, I was not allowed to see my lawyers, I got tortured physically and mentally, they threatened me of raping my wife," Sherwani told the court.

(With ANI inputs)

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate".

Committee to Protect Journalists said on Saturday that sentencing of Iraqi Kurdish journalists Sherwan Sherwani and Guhdar Zebari to six years in jail "for jeopardising Kurdish national security" was "unfair and disproportionate". The journalists were arrested in Kurdish region of Iraq last year after their coverage of anti-government protests in Duhok, a province controlled by ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party, reported Al-Jazeera. The freelance journalists were found guilty on February 16 by a court in Erbil that held them guilty for putting Kurdish national security at risk. They cited social media exchanges wherein they had criticised the government. According to a report by Voice of America (VOA), Sherwani`s lawyer said journalistic materials were presented as evidence of spying, and others pointed out that the region`s prime minister had described the journalists as spies in a press conference a week before the trial. "With this verdict, the Kurdish authorities are sending a clear message: the press freedom that they claim to defend and to uphold and to respect is not being respected," Ignacio Miguel Delgado, the CPJ Middle East and North Africa representative, told Al Jazeera. "Iraqi Kurdistan keeps claiming that it`s the only democracy [in the region] and it takes pride in that...But what we have witnessed throughout 2020 and into this new year is the exact opposite, at least as far as press freedom goes," said Delgado. Meanwhile, the VOA has reported Sherwani as saying that he was tortured both mentally and physically during the investigation."While I was under investigation, I was not allowed to see my lawyers, I got tortured physically and mentally, they threatened me of raping my wife," Sherwani told the court. (With ANI inputs)

Putin-Kim meet begins as North Korea fires ‘unidentified’ ballistic missiles

Russian President Vladimir Putin heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ policy while promoting the use of Russian-made cars&nbsp;in the domestic market.

Putin made these remarks in response to a media question on Russian-made cars at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) on Tuesday (Sept 12). &nbsp;

This is the second time that Putin has praised the ‘Make in India’ policy, which was launched in 2014 as part of India's renewed focus on boosting manufacturing at home.

“You know, we did not have domestically made cars then (1990s), but we do now. It is true that they look more modest than Mercedes or Audi cars, which we bought in vast amounts in the 1990s, but this is not an issue. I think that we should emulate many of our partners, for example, India. They are focused on the manufacture and use of Indian-made vehicles. I think that Prime Minister Modi is doing the right thing in promoting the Make in India programme. He is right."

He said that it was absolutely fine to use Russian-made automobiles.

"We have [Russian-made] automobiles, and we must use them; this is absolutely fine. This will not lead to any infringements of our WTO obligations, absolutely not. It will concern state purchases. We must create a certain chain regarding what cars different classes of officials can drive, so that they will use domestically-made cars," Putin said in Vladivostok, according to a transcript of the plenary session posted on the Kremlin's website.

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Watch: Russian President Vladimir Putin praises PM Modi's policies. Says, he is "doing the right thing in promoting the Make in India programme". Was speaking at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum. <a href="https://t.co/u0u7Ko71gO">pic.twitter.com/u0u7Ko71gO</a>
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"You probably know about the proposals to continue buying these cars. It would be easy to do, because the logistics are streamlined," he added.

<h2>Welcomes India Middle East Europe connectivity project</h2>

The Russian president also welcomed the India-Middle East-Europe connectivity project launched in New Delhi after the G20 Summit, saying that it “will help us develop logistics and will be an addition to the international North–South transport project that connects Moscow to Mumbai”.

He said that the US jumped into the "last car" by agreeing with the European Union, Saudi Arabia and India on the creation of a new economic corridor, but added that the project will be beneficial for Russia.

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"I believe that this will only benefit us. I believe that this will only help us develop logistics. Firstly, this project has been discussed for a long time, for several years."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiR66S2zKaBAxWCg2MGHacWDykQvOMEKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-to-change-the-face-of-the-middle-east-israel-pm-634703" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-to-change-the-face-of-the-middle-east-israel-pm-634703&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiR66S2zKaBAxWCg2MGHacWDykQvOMEKAB6BAgOEAE">India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to change the face of the Middle East: Israel PM</a>

"True, the Americans jumped on this train at the last moment. But for them, I don't see much point in being in this project. Only, perhaps, from the point of view of business interest. Meanwhile, the additional movement of goods along this corridor is, in fact, an addition to our North-South project. We have nothing here we see something that could somehow hinder us," he added.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ policy while promoting the use of Russian-made cars in the domestic market.

Russian President Vladimir Putin heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ policy while promoting the use of Russian-made cars in the domestic market. Putin made these remarks in response to a media question on Russian-made cars at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) on Tuesday (Sept 12). This is the second time that Putin has praised the ‘Make in India’ policy, which was launched in 2014 as part of India's renewed focus on boosting manufacturing at home. “You know, we did not have domestically made cars then (1990s), but we do now. It is true that they look more modest than Mercedes or Audi cars, which we bought in vast amounts in the 1990s, but this is not an issue. I think that we should emulate many of our partners, for example, India. They are focused on the manufacture and use of Indian-made vehicles. I think that Prime Minister Modi is doing the right thing in promoting the Make in India programme. He is right." He said that it was absolutely fine to use Russian-made automobiles. "We have [Russian-made] automobiles, and we must use them; this is absolutely fine. This will not lead to any infringements of our WTO obligations, absolutely not. It will concern state purchases. We must create a certain chain regarding what cars different classes of officials can drive, so that they will use domestically-made cars," Putin said in Vladivostok, according to a transcript of the plenary session posted on the Kremlin's website. Watch: Russian President Vladimir Putin praises PM Modi's policies. Says, he is "doing the right thing in promoting the Make in India programme". Was speaking at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum. pic.twitter.com/u0u7Ko71gO — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) September 12, 2023 × "You probably know about the proposals to continue buying these cars. It would be easy to do, because the logistics are streamlined," he added. Welcomes India Middle East Europe connectivity project The Russian president also welcomed the India-Middle East-Europe connectivity project launched in New Delhi after the G20 Summit, saying that it “will help us develop logistics and will be an addition to the international North–South transport project that connects Moscow to Mumbai”. He said that the US jumped into the "last car" by agreeing with the European Union, Saudi Arabia and India on the creation of a new economic corridor, but added that the project will be beneficial for Russia. Also read | Libya: Over 5,000 dead, nearly 10,000 people feared missing in flood-hit Derna "I believe that this will only benefit us. I believe that this will only help us develop logistics. Firstly, this project has been discussed for a long time, for several years." Also read | India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to change the face of the Middle East: Israel PM "True, the Americans jumped on this train at the last moment. But for them, I don't see much point in being in this project. Only, perhaps, from the point of view of business interest. Meanwhile, the additional movement of goods along this corridor is, in fact, an addition to our North-South project. We have nothing here we see something that could somehow hinder us," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin praises PM Modi for 'Make in India’ policy

Recently appointed Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan, Zhao Sheng, presented his credentials to Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund in the capital Kabul on Wednesday (Sept 13), effectively becoming the first country to establish diplomatic relations after the radical organisation toppled the civilian government in August 2021 and established its rule.

During the ceremony, the new Chinese envoy expressed his happiness on his new mission in Afghanistan.

“It is a place of honour for me to start my work as the Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan. He also mentioned the virtues of the leadership of the People’s Republic of China. Wishes and greetings were presented to the Prime Minister Alhaji Mulla Mohammad Hassan Akhund.”

Sheng also said that China, as a good neighbour, fully respects Afghanistan’s independence, territorial integrity and independence of decisions.

The new envoy claimed that under the Taliban regime, there have been many improvements in the fight against corruption, crimes and drugs, along with ensuring the economy and security.

<h2>China's interests in Afghanistan&nbsp;</h2>

“I will try to strengthen China-Afghanistan relations and cooperation in politics, economy and other fields,” he added.

Russia and China were among the first nations to acknowledge the Taliban leadership of Afghanistan, and have repeatedly called for the deepening of relations with the strife-torn country.

China has been betting big in Afghanistan and invested millions of dollars in the cash-starved nation, as it seeks to expand its influence.

<h2>Growing investments&nbsp;</h2>

Kabul also has been actively seeking investments ever since the West froze its annual aid, which accounts for a significantly large chunk of the country’s GDP.

In January 2023, a Chinese company signed a $450 million deal&nbsp;to explore and develop oil reserves in northern Afghanistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-praises-indian-pm-modi-for-make-in-india-policy-again-635461">Russian President Vladimir Putin praises PM Modi for 'Make in India’ policy</a>

In April,&nbsp;the Taliban regime announced&nbsp;they were in discussions with a Chinese firm to undertake the exploration and development of Afghanistan’s lithium reserves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-pilots-could-be-flying-f-16s-before-end-of-2023-us-air-national-guard-635497">Ukrainian pilots could be flying F-16s before end of 2023: US Air National Guard</a>

Though China has faced violence by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in recent years, the Taliban have also described China as a “friend” in Afghanistan and gone out of their way to signal that they will not interfere&nbsp;in Beijing's domestic affairs while promising that territory under the Islamist group's&nbsp;control would not be used against other countries.

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Recently appointed Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan, Zhao Sheng, presented his credentials to Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund in the capital Kabul on Wednesday (Sept 13), effectively becoming the first country to establish diplomatic relations after the radical organisation toppled the civilian government in August 2021 and established its rule.

Recently appointed Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan, Zhao Sheng, presented his credentials to Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund in the capital Kabul on Wednesday (Sept 13), effectively becoming the first country to establish diplomatic relations after the radical organisation toppled the civilian government in August 2021 and established its rule. During the ceremony, the new Chinese envoy expressed his happiness on his new mission in Afghanistan. “It is a place of honour for me to start my work as the Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan. He also mentioned the virtues of the leadership of the People’s Republic of China. Wishes and greetings were presented to the Prime Minister Alhaji Mulla Mohammad Hassan Akhund.” Sheng also said that China, as a good neighbour, fully respects Afghanistan’s independence, territorial integrity and independence of decisions. The new envoy claimed that under the Taliban regime, there have been many improvements in the fight against corruption, crimes and drugs, along with ensuring the economy and security. China's interests in Afghanistan “I will try to strengthen China-Afghanistan relations and cooperation in politics, economy and other fields,” he added. Russia and China were among the first nations to acknowledge the Taliban leadership of Afghanistan, and have repeatedly called for the deepening of relations with the strife-torn country. China has been betting big in Afghanistan and invested millions of dollars in the cash-starved nation, as it seeks to expand its influence. Growing investments Kabul also has been actively seeking investments ever since the West froze its annual aid, which accounts for a significantly large chunk of the country’s GDP. In January 2023, a Chinese company signed a $450 million deal to explore and develop oil reserves in northern Afghanistan. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin praises PM Modi for 'Make in India’ policy In April, the Taliban regime announced they were in discussions with a Chinese firm to undertake the exploration and development of Afghanistan’s lithium reserves. Also read | Ukrainian pilots could be flying F-16s before end of 2023: US Air National Guard Though China has faced violence by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in recent years, the Taliban have also described China as a “friend” in Afghanistan and gone out of their way to signal that they will not interfere in Beijing's domestic affairs while promising that territory under the Islamist group's control would not be used against other countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China becomes first country to send envoy to Afghanistan after Taliban takeover

Many leading institutions in Britain have an “unhealthy reliance” on international students, especially the Chinese, a report led by a former minister has stated.

As the undergraduate fees have been frozen for local students since 2018 and due to the increased costs, many universities rely on international students to recover tuition fees.

The report by the Industry and Regulators Committee says that the universities are struggling to diversify the international student population as the British government has frozen tuition fees for local students and due to increased costs, the Industry and Regulators Committee led by former universities minister Lord&nbsp;Jo Johnson, BBC reported.

The report calls on the government and the regulator, the Office for Students, to tackle the "looming crisis", adding that a sustained diplomatic rift between Britain and China could financially affect the universities.

The undergraduate fees were frozen at £9,250 in 2018 to deliver better value for students. As a result, the institutions are now making a loss when teaching domestic students and conducting research, the report says.

<h2>China accounts for 22% of international students in UK</h2>

According to Higher Education Student Statistics, there were 469,160 international students in the UK in 2017-18, rising to 679,970 by 2021-22.

And last year, the Office for Student figures showed that 22.3 per cent were from China, followed by students from India and Nigeria.

“The sector continues to follow a ‘cross your fingers’ strategy that decoupling is in the future never necessary for China, in the same ways it was for relations with Russia in February 2022. The China question therefore to a great degree remains unanswered,” the report states.

The paper noted that China has become the world’s largest spender on research and development and UK universities benefit from the higher tuition fees paid by Chinese students.

“The government must urgently help universities with a framework for how to maximise the benefits from research collaboration and student and academic mobility, while managing the downsides, including the risks to national security from bad-faith actors and the dangers of over-reliance on a single country,” the study said.

<h2>Financial risk for British universities?</h2>

The proportion of Chinese full-time doctoral entrants had increased significantly over the past five years, from 17 per cent in 2017/18 to 28 per cent in 2021/22, even if they had declined in number in the most recent data, according to the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/she-had-limited-value-us-cop-caught-on-cam-joking-about-indian-students-death-635612">US cop caught on cam joking over Indian student’s death</a>

In May, the Office for Students (OfS) warned that an over-reliance on tuition fees from overseas students – especially those from a single country such as China – was a financial risk for English universities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-assures-to-build-satellites-for-north-korea-kim-supports-sacred-battle-with-west-635566">Kim and Putin hold talks on space and defence cooperation</a>

The OfS wrote to 23 institutions with high levels of student recruitment from China to ensure they had contingency plans to protect them from any possible drop in income from overseas students.

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Many leading institutions in Britain have an “unhealthy reliance” on international students, especially the Chinese, a report led by a former minister has stated.

Many leading institutions in Britain have an “unhealthy reliance” on international students, especially the Chinese, a report led by a former minister has stated. As the undergraduate fees have been frozen for local students since 2018 and due to the increased costs, many universities rely on international students to recover tuition fees. The report by the Industry and Regulators Committee says that the universities are struggling to diversify the international student population as the British government has frozen tuition fees for local students and due to increased costs, the Industry and Regulators Committee led by former universities minister Lord Jo Johnson, BBC reported. The report calls on the government and the regulator, the Office for Students, to tackle the "looming crisis", adding that a sustained diplomatic rift between Britain and China could financially affect the universities. The undergraduate fees were frozen at £9,250 in 2018 to deliver better value for students. As a result, the institutions are now making a loss when teaching domestic students and conducting research, the report says. China accounts for 22% of international students in UK According to Higher Education Student Statistics, there were 469,160 international students in the UK in 2017-18, rising to 679,970 by 2021-22. And last year, the Office for Student figures showed that 22.3 per cent were from China, followed by students from India and Nigeria. “The sector continues to follow a ‘cross your fingers’ strategy that decoupling is in the future never necessary for China, in the same ways it was for relations with Russia in February 2022. The China question therefore to a great degree remains unanswered,” the report states. The paper noted that China has become the world’s largest spender on research and development and UK universities benefit from the higher tuition fees paid by Chinese students. “The government must urgently help universities with a framework for how to maximise the benefits from research collaboration and student and academic mobility, while managing the downsides, including the risks to national security from bad-faith actors and the dangers of over-reliance on a single country,” the study said. Financial risk for British universities? The proportion of Chinese full-time doctoral entrants had increased significantly over the past five years, from 17 per cent in 2017/18 to 28 per cent in 2021/22, even if they had declined in number in the most recent data, according to the report. Also read | US cop caught on cam joking over Indian student’s death In May, the Office for Students (OfS) warned that an over-reliance on tuition fees from overseas students – especially those from a single country such as China – was a financial risk for English universities. Also read | Kim and Putin hold talks on space and defence cooperation The OfS wrote to 23 institutions with high levels of student recruitment from China to ensure they had contingency plans to protect them from any possible drop in income from overseas students. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Many British universities relying on international students, especially Chinese, to survive: Report

A probe has been launched against a Seattle cop after bodycam footage showed him joking and laughing over the death of an Indian-origin woman who was killed by a police car in January this year.

In the clip that was released on Monday (Sept 11), officer Daniel Auderer can be heard joking that the student, Jaahnavi Kandula, had “limited value” and the city should “just write a check".

“She is dead,” Auderer says before bursting out laughing. “No, it’s a regular person,” he says, referring to Kandula, according to New York Post.

“Yeah, just write a check. 11,000 dollars. She was 26 anyway,” he said, misstating the victim’s age. “She had limited value.”

The video was released by the Seattle police department “in the interest of transparency”.

Kandula, a native of Andhra Pradesh, was struck and killed by Officer Kevin Dave, a colleague of Auderer, on January 23.

Auderer, who serves as the Seattle Police Guild’s vice president, further claims that he did not believe a criminal investigation was being conducted.

“I mean, he was going 50 mph. That’s not out of control. That’s not reckless for a trained driver,” Auderer said.

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But a report released in June revealed that Dave was in fact driving 74 mph in a 25-mph zone while responding to a different “high-priority” call, local news outlet KIRO 7 reported.

The Seattle Community Police Commission (CPC) condemned the incident after the video was released, calling the conversation between Auderer and his colleague, "heartbreaking and shockingly insensitive."

''The people of Seattle deserve better from a police department that is charged with fostering trust with the community and ensuring public safety,'' the CPC said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Seattle police department has said that the matter is being probed by the Police Accountability Office, and that it won’t make any statement until the probe concludes.

Jaahnavi arrived in Seattle in 2021 to receive a master’s degree, and was pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems at the College of Engineering. She was set to graduate this December.

The police patrol, which was being driven at top speed, ran over her at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street, Fox13 Seattle reported.

She was taken to Harborview Medical Center where she succumbed to the&nbsp;injuries sustained in the accident.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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A probe has been launched against a Seattle cop after bodycam footage showed him joking and laughing over the death of an Indian-origin woman who was killed by a police car in January this year.

A probe has been launched against a Seattle cop after bodycam footage showed him joking and laughing over the death of an Indian-origin woman who was killed by a police car in January this year. In the clip that was released on Monday (Sept 11), officer Daniel Auderer can be heard joking that the student, Jaahnavi Kandula, had “limited value” and the city should “just write a check". “She is dead,” Auderer says before bursting out laughing. “No, it’s a regular person,” he says, referring to Kandula, according to New York Post. “Yeah, just write a check. 11,000 dollars. She was 26 anyway,” he said, misstating the victim’s age. “She had limited value.” The video was released by the Seattle police department “in the interest of transparency”. Kandula, a native of Andhra Pradesh, was struck and killed by Officer Kevin Dave, a colleague of Auderer, on January 23. Auderer, who serves as the Seattle Police Guild’s vice president, further claims that he did not believe a criminal investigation was being conducted. “I mean, he was going 50 mph. That’s not out of control. That’s not reckless for a trained driver,” Auderer said. × But a report released in June revealed that Dave was in fact driving 74 mph in a 25-mph zone while responding to a different “high-priority” call, local news outlet KIRO 7 reported. The Seattle Community Police Commission (CPC) condemned the incident after the video was released, calling the conversation between Auderer and his colleague, "heartbreaking and shockingly insensitive." ''The people of Seattle deserve better from a police department that is charged with fostering trust with the community and ensuring public safety,'' the CPC said in a statement. Meanwhile, the Seattle police department has said that the matter is being probed by the Police Accountability Office, and that it won’t make any statement until the probe concludes. Jaahnavi arrived in Seattle in 2021 to receive a master’s degree, and was pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems at the College of Engineering. She was set to graduate this December. The police patrol, which was being driven at top speed, ran over her at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street, Fox13 Seattle reported. She was taken to Harborview Medical Center where she succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘She had limited value’: US cop caught on cam joking over Indian student’s death

Russia President Vladimir Putin hosted North Korea’s Kim Jong-un at the country’s spaceport in far east Vostochny Cosmodrome on Wednesday (Sept 13) to begin talks on a range of issues like arms deal, space cooperation and humanitarian aid.

Putin said the location was chosen as Moscow planned to help North Korea with its satellite programmes, RIA Novosti reported.

During the more than an hour long meeting, Putin assured that Russia will help North Korea in building satellites, while Kim extended his support to Moscow’s “sacred fight” against the West.

Kim also praised Russia for having "stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security, a veiled reference to the US and the West, and said he has expressed "full and unconditional support to all that Russia does in response."

<h2>'Will always stand by Russia'</h2>

"And that in the frontline of anti-imperialism and independence, I will always be standing with Russia, I’m using this opportunity to make it clear," the North Korean leader said.

Regarding arms deal, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the dialogue also centred on defence cooperation, but did not provide any further information.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-unidentified-ballistic-missiles-as-kim-and-putin-set-to-meet-635483">Putin-Kim meet begins as North Korea fires ‘unidentified’ ballistic missiles</a>

According to state-run outlet Russia 1, when asked about reports of arms talks between the two, Peskov said, "The full range of relations [between the two countries] implies dialogue and interaction in sensitive areas, such as military interaction."

<h2>Kim's powerful sister among delegates in Russia</h2>

"All other issues concern only our two sovereign countries," he added. "And they should not be a subject of concern to any third state.&nbsp;Our cooperation is carried out for the benefit of the peoples of our two countries, but not against anyone."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-hotel-standoff-when-chinese-g20-delegation-refused-to-get-their-big-bags-scanned-by-security-635479">When Chinese G20 delegation refused to get their big bags scanned by security</a>

Kim's powerful entourage includes Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korea's leader, his number two and commander of the Korean People's Army Ri Pyong Chol, Pak Jong Chon,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jo Chun Ryong, the director of North Korea's Munitions Industry Department.

Putin was accompanied by Russia's defence minister Sergei Shoigu and foreign minister Sergei Lavrov.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia President Vladimir Putin hosted North Korea’s Kim Jong-un at the country’s spaceport in far east Vostochny Cosmodrome on Wednesday (Sept 13) to begin talks on a range of issues like arms deal, space cooperation and humanitarian aid.

Russia President Vladimir Putin hosted North Korea’s Kim Jong-un at the country’s spaceport in far east Vostochny Cosmodrome on Wednesday (Sept 13) to begin talks on a range of issues like arms deal, space cooperation and humanitarian aid. Putin said the location was chosen as Moscow planned to help North Korea with its satellite programmes, RIA Novosti reported. During the more than an hour long meeting, Putin assured that Russia will help North Korea in building satellites, while Kim extended his support to Moscow’s “sacred fight” against the West. Kim also praised Russia for having "stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security, a veiled reference to the US and the West, and said he has expressed "full and unconditional support to all that Russia does in response." 'Will always stand by Russia' "And that in the frontline of anti-imperialism and independence, I will always be standing with Russia, I’m using this opportunity to make it clear," the North Korean leader said. Regarding arms deal, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the dialogue also centred on defence cooperation, but did not provide any further information. Also read | Putin-Kim meet begins as North Korea fires ‘unidentified’ ballistic missiles According to state-run outlet Russia 1, when asked about reports of arms talks between the two, Peskov said, "The full range of relations [between the two countries] implies dialogue and interaction in sensitive areas, such as military interaction." Kim's powerful sister among delegates in Russia "All other issues concern only our two sovereign countries," he added. "And they should not be a subject of concern to any third state. Our cooperation is carried out for the benefit of the peoples of our two countries, but not against anyone." Also read | When Chinese G20 delegation refused to get their big bags scanned by security Kim's powerful entourage includes Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korea's leader, his number two and commander of the Korean People's Army Ri Pyong Chol, Pak Jong Chon, and Jo Chun Ryong, the director of North Korea's Munitions Industry Department. Putin was accompanied by Russia's defence minister Sergei Shoigu and foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin assures to build satellites for North Korea, Kim supports ‘sacred battle’ with West

A disgraced Turkish crypto founder who fled to Albania and his two brothers have been sentenced to 11,196 years in jail each, the Anadolu state news agency reported Friday.

Prosecutors had asked for Thodex boss&nbsp;Faruk&nbsp;Fatih&nbsp;Ozer, 29, to be sentenced to 40,562 years in prison for money laundering, fraud and establishing a criminal organisation.

"If I were to establish a criminal organisation, I would not have acted so amateurishly," Anadolu quoted&nbsp;Ozer&nbsp;as telling the court.

His two brothers, Serap and Guven, received the same sentence, which was issued late Thursday after a brief trial, Turkish media reports said.

Turkey is known for issuing massive prison sentences, which became more common after it abolished the death penalty in 2004 to help its efforts to join the European Union.

Ozer&nbsp;was initially reported to have fled Turkey in April 2021 with $2 billion in investor assets, although that figure has since been disputed.

Prosecutors said&nbsp;Ozer&nbsp;had transferred 250 million liras in user assets (worth about $30 million at the time) to three secret accounts when he fled Turkey in April 2021, with much of the money ending up in a Malta bank.

The indictment said the&nbsp;Ozer&nbsp;brothers had caused 356 million liras of damage to clients in all.

The case grabbed local headlines because it coincided with a Turkish crypto boom that has since largely subsided due to heavier government regulation.

Turks began turning to various crypto currencies as a defence against a deep slide in the value of the lira that began more than two years ago.

Ozer&nbsp;gained further celebrity status after being pictured meeting with ultranationalist pro-government figures.

He was arrested last year in Albania on an international arrest warrant from Interpol.

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A disgraced Turkish crypto founder who fled to Albania and his two brothers have been sentenced to 11,196 years in jail each, the Anadolu state news agency reported Friday.

A disgraced Turkish crypto founder who fled to Albania and his two brothers have been sentenced to 11,196 years in jail each, the Anadolu state news agency reported Friday. Prosecutors had asked for Thodex boss Faruk Fatih Ozer, 29, to be sentenced to 40,562 years in prison for money laundering, fraud and establishing a criminal organisation. "If I were to establish a criminal organisation, I would not have acted so amateurishly," Anadolu quoted Ozer as telling the court. His two brothers, Serap and Guven, received the same sentence, which was issued late Thursday after a brief trial, Turkish media reports said. Turkey is known for issuing massive prison sentences, which became more common after it abolished the death penalty in 2004 to help its efforts to join the European Union. Ozer was initially reported to have fled Turkey in April 2021 with $2 billion in investor assets, although that figure has since been disputed. Prosecutors said Ozer had transferred 250 million liras in user assets (worth about $30 million at the time) to three secret accounts when he fled Turkey in April 2021, with much of the money ending up in a Malta bank. The indictment said the Ozer brothers had caused 356 million liras of damage to clients in all. The case grabbed local headlines because it coincided with a Turkish crypto boom that has since largely subsided due to heavier government regulation. Turks began turning to various crypto currencies as a defence against a deep slide in the value of the lira that began more than two years ago. Ozer gained further celebrity status after being pictured meeting with ultranationalist pro-government figures. He was arrested last year in Albania on an international arrest warrant from Interpol. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkish crypto boss sentenced to 11,196 years in jail

Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary was hit with cream cakes by climate activists. The U.S. Open semi-final was halted for 45 minutes due to climate protest. Can vandalism be justified in the name of activism? Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: How far can you go in the name of climate activism?

Around 900 people have lost their lives in the deadly 6.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked central Morocco late Friday.

The death toll, which was initially hovering in double digits, started rising exponentially throughout the day, and the casualties breached past 650 within&nbsp;a few hours.

The tremors were so strong that it was felt in neighbouring Algeria and all the way up to Portugal.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said that this was the strongest tremor to hit that part of the North African nation in more than a century.

Videos going viral on social media showed the moment the tremors jolted the city and people ran for safety.

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BREAKING: 6.8 magnitude earthquake strikes Morocco, killing over 300 people. 
 
My heart goes out to all those affected. Stay strong. 🇲🇦🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Morocco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Morocco</a> <a href="https://t.co/c2u56EA6DJ">pic.twitter.com/c2u56EA6DJ</a>
— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) <a href="https://twitter.com/HananyaNaftali/status/1700353544539328998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a 28-second clip, people can be seen running as the ground began shaking. Soon, buildings started falling too.

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A terrifying moment of a collapse captured by a security camera<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maroc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maroc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moroccoearthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moroccoearthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Morocco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Morocco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquakemorocco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquakemorocco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/9aeA7XsmoS">pic.twitter.com/9aeA7XsmoS</a>
— Kinetik (@KinetikNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/KinetikNews/status/1700345833709805820?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Morocco earthquake <a href="https://t.co/Krv4awedBB">pic.twitter.com/Krv4awedBB</a>
— Ｎｅｒｄｙ 🅰🅳🅳🅸🅲🆃 (@Nerdy_Addict) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nerdy_Addict/status/1700287147494818169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Residents of Marrakech, the nearest major city to the epicentre, said some buildings had collapsed in the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and local television showed pictures of a fallen mosque minaret with rubble lying on smashed cars.

Morocco's geophysical centre said the quake struck in the Ighil area of the High Atlas with a magnitude of 7.2.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/morocco-man-sets-his-priorities-right-holds-on-to-playstation-amid-earthquake-chaos-634052">Morocco man sets his priorities right, holds on to PlayStation amid earthquake chaos</a>

The US Geological Survey put the quake's magnitude at 6.8 and said it was at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 km (11.5 miles).

Meanwhile, Morocco's civil protection forces early on Saturday morning were preparing truck loads of supplies from a centre in Arjaat to be sent to quake zones.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morocco-rocked-by-powerful-earthquake-killing-dozens-633888">Morocco: Powerful earthquake kills 632; tremors felt till as far as Portuga</a>

Morocco often experiences earthquakes as it lies on the Azores-Gibraltar fault line, which separates the African and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The region is considered an active earthquake zone, with cities along the northern coast, such as Al Hoceima, experiencing seismic activity regularly.

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Around 900 people have lost their lives in the deadly 6.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked central Morocco late Friday. The death toll, which was initially hovering in double digits, started rising exponentially throughout the day, and the casualties breached past 650 within a few hours.

Around 900 people have lost their lives in the deadly 6.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked central Morocco late Friday. The death toll, which was initially hovering in double digits, started rising exponentially throughout the day, and the casualties breached past 650 within a few hours. The tremors were so strong that it was felt in neighbouring Algeria and all the way up to Portugal. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said that this was the strongest tremor to hit that part of the North African nation in more than a century. Videos going viral on social media showed the moment the tremors jolted the city and people ran for safety. BREAKING: 6.8 magnitude earthquake strikes Morocco, killing over 300 people. My heart goes out to all those affected. Stay strong. 🇲🇦🙏 #Morocco pic.twitter.com/c2u56EA6DJ — Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) September 9, 2023 × In a 28-second clip, people can be seen running as the ground began shaking. Soon, buildings started falling too. A terrifying moment of a collapse captured by a security camera#Maroc #moroccoearthquake #Morocco #earthquakemorocco #earthquake pic.twitter.com/9aeA7XsmoS — Kinetik (@KinetikNews) September 9, 2023 × Morocco earthquake pic.twitter.com/Krv4awedBB — Ｎｅｒｄｙ 🅰🅳🅳🅸🅲🆃 (@Nerdy_Addict) September 8, 2023 × Residents of Marrakech, the nearest major city to the epicentre, said some buildings had collapsed in the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and local television showed pictures of a fallen mosque minaret with rubble lying on smashed cars. Morocco's geophysical centre said the quake struck in the Ighil area of the High Atlas with a magnitude of 7.2. Also read | Morocco man sets his priorities right, holds on to PlayStation amid earthquake chaos The US Geological Survey put the quake's magnitude at 6.8 and said it was at a relatively shallow depth of 18.5 km (11.5 miles). Meanwhile, Morocco's civil protection forces early on Saturday morning were preparing truck loads of supplies from a centre in Arjaat to be sent to quake zones. Also read | Morocco: Powerful earthquake kills 632; tremors felt till as far as Portuga Morocco often experiences earthquakes as it lies on the Azores-Gibraltar fault line, which separates the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The region is considered an active earthquake zone, with cities along the northern coast, such as Al Hoceima, experiencing seismic activity regularly. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Video shows earthquake causing devastation in Morocco

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