Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval paid an unannounced visit to Moscow on Tuesday to assess progress and recent developments in bilateral relations as India continues to deepen its engagement with Russia on regional and international concerns.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
During his two-day visit to Moscow, Doval will meet with Russian officials, notably his counterpart Nikolai Patrushev, to discuss a number of regional and international concerns, including Afghanistan, counterterrorism, defence, and food and energy security in the wake of the Ukraine war. 
&nbsp; 
Nevertheless, the visit was not formally acknowledged. Sources revealed that the visit is part of ongoing discussions between the nations on "strategic bilateral, regional, and global issues." India has recently increased its imports of both oil and fertilisers despite demands from the West to limit its crude purchases from Russia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In June, Russia beat Saudi Arabia to become the country's second-largest oil exporter to India, according to a Bloomberg article from the previous week. Last Monday, the foreign ministry reaffirmed that India will base its oil purchases on its needs for energy security. 
&nbsp; 
In the sessions, the NSA will place specific emphasis on counterterrorism cooperation, particularly in relation to Afghanistan. On Thursday and Friday of this week in Uzbekistan, Doval is also set to attend a meeting of the top security officials of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states, where the situation in Afghanistan is likely to once again take centre stage.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-military-need-to-use-nuclear-arms-in-ukraine-says-russia-calls-speculations-absolute-lies-507644">No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia, calls speculations 'absolute lies'</a>

India continues to be concerned about the Taliban's connections to Pakistan-based terrorist organisations while cooperating with the Kabul administration on humanitarian problems and reopening its embassy there. According to official sources here, who quote a recent United Nations Security Council report, these organisations continue to run terror camps in Afghanistan under the Taliban. 
&nbsp; 
The agenda for security-related topics on which the leaders of SCO nations will focus during the next summit next month in Samarkand will be finalised at the NSA conference of the SCO. The idea of an in-person SCO summit has not yet been ruled out, and if it does, PM Narendra Modi will meet physically with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif for the first time since the present border conflict with China began in May 2020. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
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Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval paid an unannounced visit to Moscow on Tuesday to assess progress and recent developments in bilateral relations as India continues to deepen its engagement with Russia on regional and international concerns.

Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval paid an unannounced visit to Moscow on Tuesday to assess progress and recent developments in bilateral relations as India continues to deepen its engagement with Russia on regional and international concerns. During his two-day visit to Moscow, Doval will meet with Russian officials, notably his counterpart Nikolai Patrushev, to discuss a number of regional and international concerns, including Afghanistan, counterterrorism, defence, and food and energy security in the wake of the Ukraine war. Nevertheless, the visit was not formally acknowledged. Sources revealed that the visit is part of ongoing discussions between the nations on "strategic bilateral, regional, and global issues." India has recently increased its imports of both oil and fertilisers despite demands from the West to limit its crude purchases from Russia. In June, Russia beat Saudi Arabia to become the country's second-largest oil exporter to India, according to a Bloomberg article from the previous week. Last Monday, the foreign ministry reaffirmed that India will base its oil purchases on its needs for energy security. In the sessions, the NSA will place specific emphasis on counterterrorism cooperation, particularly in relation to Afghanistan. On Thursday and Friday of this week in Uzbekistan, Doval is also set to attend a meeting of the top security officials of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states, where the situation in Afghanistan is likely to once again take centre stage. Also Read: No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia, calls speculations 'absolute lies' India continues to be concerned about the Taliban's connections to Pakistan-based terrorist organisations while cooperating with the Kabul administration on humanitarian problems and reopening its embassy there. According to official sources here, who quote a recent United Nations Security Council report, these organisations continue to run terror camps in Afghanistan under the Taliban. The agenda for security-related topics on which the leaders of SCO nations will focus during the next summit next month in Samarkand will be finalised at the NSA conference of the SCO. The idea of an in-person SCO summit has not yet been ruled out, and if it does, PM Narendra Modi will meet physically with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif for the first time since the present border conflict with China began in May 2020. (with inputs from agencies)

NSA Ajit Doval in Russia; Afghanistan, counter-terrorism, energy security on agenda

From a speculative asset class to a rapidly growing daily enterprise, cryptocurrencies have suddenly changed. The oldest cryptocurrency in the world, Bitcoin, is at the forefront of this expansion. We could reach a crossroads where Bitcoin becomes the world's standard value system as widespread acceptance of these digital assets increases. Hyperbitcoinisation is a common term for this inflexion point. Hyperbitcoinisation can be caused by a number of things, some of which are positive and some of which are negative. There are also various forecasts about the potential existence of such a monetary system.

What is hyperbitcoinisation?

Different terms have been used to describe this occurrence. The phrase was first used in 2014 to describe a shift away from subpar currencies and toward better ones like Bitcoin. It could be used to indicate a tipping point at which people stop using fiat money and switch to bitcoin instead.&nbsp;

Some see it as a process leading to the adoption of Bitcoin as the main reserve currency for the planet. The result is that goods and services will be priced in Bitcoin. Hyperbitcoinisation, in its simplest form, describes a situation in which digital assets are regularly utilised as a form of payment and are kept by people and organisations in the same ways that fiat money is.

Is this for real?

Hyperbitcoinisation may result from both positive and negative aspects. To start, one of the biggest drivers of hyperbitcoinisation may be widespread use. The time of hyperbitcoinisation doesn't seem all that far off as more people, businesses, and even entire nations start to invest in cryptocurrency.&nbsp;

Approximately 100 million people use Bitcoin, 250,000 BTC are held by countries, and nearly 400,000 BTC are held by both public and private companies, according to rough estimates. Hyperbitcoinisation will almost certainly occur if these figures stay on their current course.

Another element that could accelerate or lead to hyperbitcoinisation is the growing quantity of Bitcoin derivatives. Derivatives for bitcoin, such as ETFs, futures, options, and perpetual contracts, are becoming more popular today. They give conventional stock market traders and conservative investors access to the cryptocurrency marketplaces.&nbsp;

Furthermore, until a few years ago, the idea of using Bitcoin as a form of payment looked far-fetched. But since then, a lot has changed. Today, many well-known enterprises, including airlines, restaurants, and auto manufacturers, accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment. The number of businesses that take Bitcoin is expected to grow dramatically over time, pushing us closer to hyperbitcoinisation.

But, when?

Finder polled 42 cryptocurrency specialists in 2021. The results showed that 54% of the panel thought hyperbitcoinisation might occur by 2050. Some analysts (29 per cent) said it would occur as soon as 2035.&nbsp;

However, this would necessitate the onboarding of billions of new users over the following few years. 44 per cent of the panellists on Finder's survey said that hyperbitcoinisation would never take place because it would also need significant backing from governing bodies and regulatory agencies.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

From a speculative asset class to a rapidly growing daily enterprise, cryptocurrencies have suddenly changed. The oldest cryptocurrency in the world, Bitcoin, is at the forefront of this expansion.

From a speculative asset class to a rapidly growing daily enterprise, cryptocurrencies have suddenly changed. The oldest cryptocurrency in the world, Bitcoin, is at the forefront of this expansion. We could reach a crossroads where Bitcoin becomes the world's standard value system as widespread acceptance of these digital assets increases. Hyperbitcoinisation is a common term for this inflexion point. Hyperbitcoinisation can be caused by a number of things, some of which are positive and some of which are negative. There are also various forecasts about the potential existence of such a monetary system. What is hyperbitcoinisation? Different terms have been used to describe this occurrence. The phrase was first used in 2014 to describe a shift away from subpar currencies and toward better ones like Bitcoin. It could be used to indicate a tipping point at which people stop using fiat money and switch to bitcoin instead. Some see it as a process leading to the adoption of Bitcoin as the main reserve currency for the planet. The result is that goods and services will be priced in Bitcoin. Hyperbitcoinisation, in its simplest form, describes a situation in which digital assets are regularly utilised as a form of payment and are kept by people and organisations in the same ways that fiat money is. Is this for real? Hyperbitcoinisation may result from both positive and negative aspects. To start, one of the biggest drivers of hyperbitcoinisation may be widespread use. The time of hyperbitcoinisation doesn't seem all that far off as more people, businesses, and even entire nations start to invest in cryptocurrency. Approximately 100 million people use Bitcoin, 250,000 BTC are held by countries, and nearly 400,000 BTC are held by both public and private companies, according to rough estimates. Hyperbitcoinisation will almost certainly occur if these figures stay on their current course. Another element that could accelerate or lead to hyperbitcoinisation is the growing quantity of Bitcoin derivatives. Derivatives for bitcoin, such as ETFs, futures, options, and perpetual contracts, are becoming more popular today. They give conventional stock market traders and conservative investors access to the cryptocurrency marketplaces. Furthermore, until a few years ago, the idea of using Bitcoin as a form of payment looked far-fetched. But since then, a lot has changed. Today, many well-known enterprises, including airlines, restaurants, and auto manufacturers, accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment. The number of businesses that take Bitcoin is expected to grow dramatically over time, pushing us closer to hyperbitcoinisation. But, when? Finder polled 42 cryptocurrency specialists in 2021. The results showed that 54% of the panel thought hyperbitcoinisation might occur by 2050. Some analysts (29 per cent) said it would occur as soon as 2035. However, this would necessitate the onboarding of billions of new users over the following few years. 44 per cent of the panellists on Finder's survey said that hyperbitcoinisation would never take place because it would also need significant backing from governing bodies and regulatory agencies. (with inputs from agencies)

Explained: Phenomenon of hyperbitconisation could become a reality by 2050

Protests have erupted in China's Henan province over frozen bank accounts and mortgage payments for unfinished homes as the country's economy stagnates. In an effort to boost credit demand and assist the Covid-affected economy, China's central bank unexpectedly reduced a key interest rate for the second time this year and withdrew some cash from the banking sector on Monday. According to economists and observers, the Chinese government is eager to assist the weak economy by allowing a growing policy divergence from other major nations that are sharply hiking interest rates.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/china?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#china</a>'s Shangqiu in Henan (home of prevalent Bank Runs &amp; Developer Absconds), home buyers in large scale protests to condemn resident buildings developers' endless &amp; intentional completion postpone, refuse escrow w/ unfinished properties, demand to resume constructions... <a href="https://t.co/pyLBeNxdD3">pic.twitter.com/pyLBeNxdD3</a>
— Northrop Gundam ∀ (@GundamNorthrop) <a href="https://twitter.com/GundamNorthrop/status/1559655213186686977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Broad credit growth slowed in July in China as new Covid&nbsp;flare-ups, job-related concerns, and a worsening real estate crisis made businesses and consumers reluctant of taking on additional debt. New bank lending fell more than predicted during this time. Since the banking system was already replete with cash and interbank money rates were continuously below policy rates, market players have largely factored in the partial rollover.

The figures point to a confidence crisis among Chinese households and businesses, which poses a new threat to the global economy as demand for everything from Apple iPhones to luxury items declines. At the same time, when commodity prices like iron ore and copper are falling, a deteriorating property downturn is being felt both domestically and internationally.&nbsp;

Large-scale stimulus programmes have been ruled out by China's leadership&nbsp;which&nbsp;has also vowed to stick to the strict 'Zero-Covid'&nbsp;policy that mandates that when major outbreaks take place, as they currently have on the tourist island of Henan, authorities must close down businesses and lock the population in. The growth projection for the remainder of the year has been lowered further below 4 per cent as a result, according to experts.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-military-need-to-use-nuclear-arms-in-ukraine-says-russia-calls-speculations-absolute-lies-507644">No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia, calls speculations 'absolute lies'</a>

Earlier, on July 10, over a thousand enraged clients protested in force outside a Bank of China location in Henan, demanding recovery of their investments. Since April, four rural banks in the Chinese province of Henan have frozen millions of dollars worth of savings, endangering the livelihoods of thousands of consumers in an already fragile economy due to Covid lockdowns.

(with inputs from agencies)

Protests have erupted in China's Henan province over frozen bank accounts and mortgage payments for unfinished homes as the country's economy stagnates. In an effort to boost credit demand and assist the Covid-affected economy, China's central bank unexpectedly reduced a key interest rate for the second time this year and withdrew some cash from the banking sector on Monday.

Protests have erupted in China's Henan province over frozen bank accounts and mortgage payments for unfinished homes as the country's economy stagnates. In an effort to boost credit demand and assist the Covid-affected economy, China's central bank unexpectedly reduced a key interest rate for the second time this year and withdrew some cash from the banking sector on Monday. According to economists and observers, the Chinese government is eager to assist the weak economy by allowing a growing policy divergence from other major nations that are sharply hiking interest rates. #china's Shangqiu in Henan (home of prevalent Bank Runs & Developer Absconds), home buyers in large scale protests to condemn resident buildings developers' endless & intentional completion postpone, refuse escrow w/ unfinished properties, demand to resume constructions... pic.twitter.com/pyLBeNxdD3 — Northrop Gundam ∀ (@GundamNorthrop) August 16, 2022 × Broad credit growth slowed in July in China as new Covid flare-ups, job-related concerns, and a worsening real estate crisis made businesses and consumers reluctant of taking on additional debt. New bank lending fell more than predicted during this time. Since the banking system was already replete with cash and interbank money rates were continuously below policy rates, market players have largely factored in the partial rollover. The figures point to a confidence crisis among Chinese households and businesses, which poses a new threat to the global economy as demand for everything from Apple iPhones to luxury items declines. At the same time, when commodity prices like iron ore and copper are falling, a deteriorating property downturn is being felt both domestically and internationally. Large-scale stimulus programmes have been ruled out by China's leadership which has also vowed to stick to the strict 'Zero-Covid' policy that mandates that when major outbreaks take place, as they currently have on the tourist island of Henan, authorities must close down businesses and lock the population in. The growth projection for the remainder of the year has been lowered further below 4 per cent as a result, according to experts. Also Read: No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia, calls speculations 'absolute lies' Earlier, on July 10, over a thousand enraged clients protested in force outside a Bank of China location in Henan, demanding recovery of their investments. Since April, four rural banks in the Chinese province of Henan have frozen millions of dollars worth of savings, endangering the livelihoods of thousands of consumers in an already fragile economy due to Covid lockdowns. (with inputs from agencies)

Watch: Protests break out in Henan province as Chinese economy stagnates

On Saturday night, a monkey at a zoo in California dialled 911 using the zoo's cellphone after finding it. The 911 call, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office, was disconnected. And no one answered when dispatchers tried to phone the number back.&nbsp;

Deputies were then dispatched to the location of the cellphone to see whether assistance was needed. When they got to the offices of Zoo to You, which are close to Paso Robles, no one had placed the call.

The sheriff's office wrote on Facebook, "Was someone trying to make us look like a monkey's uncle?"

The likely caller was eventually identified as Route, a capuchin monkey from the zoo. The golf buggy used by the zoo to get about the 40-acre property seems to have been scooped up by Route.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/scientists-are-working-to-bring-back-the-tasmanian-tiger-an-animal-extinct-since-the-1930s-507611">Scientists are working to bring back the Tasmanian tiger, an animal extinct since the 1930s</a>

"We're told capuchin monkeys are very inquisitive and will grab anything and everything and just start pushing buttons," the sheriff's office said. The monkey had apparently just happened to push the right combination of numbers to call emergency services.

The social media post read, "Our Deputies have seen their fair share of 'monkey business' in the County. But nothing quite like this. Route is a little embarrassed by the whole thing. But you can't really blame her, after all monkey see, monkey do."

It's unclear whether the monkey dialled 911 via the keypad, a feature that can be easily accessed by the majority of locked devices.

(with inputs from agencies)

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On Saturday night, a monkey at a zoo in California dialled 911 using the zoo's cellphone after finding it. The 911 call, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office, was disconnected.

On Saturday night, a monkey at a zoo in California dialled 911 using the zoo's cellphone after finding it. The 911 call, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office, was disconnected. And no one answered when dispatchers tried to phone the number back. Deputies were then dispatched to the location of the cellphone to see whether assistance was needed. When they got to the offices of Zoo to You, which are close to Paso Robles, no one had placed the call. The sheriff's office wrote on Facebook, "Was someone trying to make us look like a monkey's uncle?" The likely caller was eventually identified as Route, a capuchin monkey from the zoo. The golf buggy used by the zoo to get about the 40-acre property seems to have been scooped up by Route. Also Read: Scientists are working to bring back the Tasmanian tiger, an animal extinct since the 1930s "We're told capuchin monkeys are very inquisitive and will grab anything and everything and just start pushing buttons," the sheriff's office said. The monkey had apparently just happened to push the right combination of numbers to call emergency services. The social media post read, "Our Deputies have seen their fair share of 'monkey business' in the County. But nothing quite like this. Route is a little embarrassed by the whole thing. But you can't really blame her, after all monkey see, monkey do." It's unclear whether the monkey dialled 911 via the keypad, a feature that can be easily accessed by the majority of locked devices. (with inputs from agencies)

Monkey business: Capuchin monkey at California zoo dials 911 accidentally

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort on Independence Day, August 15. Is the national flag hoisted or unfurled&nbsp;on Independence Day? Even though many people think the terms are interchangeable, there is actually a big distinction between the two.

Independence and Constitution

The flag is raised on Independence Day to represent the emergence of a new country, free from colonial rule. While on Republic Day, the nation commemorates the day the Indian Constitution came into force and the nation officially became a republic.&nbsp;

The distinction between the two ceremonies is that India was already an independent&nbsp;nation when it became a republic.

The raising of the national flag represents the emergence of a new nation that is no longer subject to colonial rule. On Republic Day, the flag is unfurled, signifying that India is already a free country and so the flag is already perched atop the flagpole.

Who hoists or unfurls?

There was no president in office on the first Independence Day. Prior to the office's abolition, Lord Mountbatten held the position of Governor General of India, which was comparable to the presidency. Since the coloniser could not be trusted to raise the flag of a newly independent country, the task fell on the prime minister, who was designated as the official representative of the Indian people.&nbsp;

On Independence Day, the prime minister, who serves as the head of the government, "hoists" the flag. As the nation's first citizen and constitutional head of state, the President of India "unfurls" the Tricolour&nbsp;on Republic Day.

Different location

The location of the two events is another distinction. The prime minister addresses the nation after hoisting the Tricolor from Red Fort.&nbsp;

On Republic Day, however, the President raises it on Rajpath, and a significant display of military might and cultural variety immediately follows.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort on Independence Day, August 15. Is the national flag hoisted or unfurled on Independence Day?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort on Independence Day, August 15. Is the national flag hoisted or unfurled on Independence Day? Even though many people think the terms are interchangeable, there is actually a big distinction between the two. Independence and Constitution The flag is raised on Independence Day to represent the emergence of a new country, free from colonial rule. While on Republic Day, the nation commemorates the day the Indian Constitution came into force and the nation officially became a republic. The distinction between the two ceremonies is that India was already an independent nation when it became a republic. The raising of the national flag represents the emergence of a new nation that is no longer subject to colonial rule. On Republic Day, the flag is unfurled, signifying that India is already a free country and so the flag is already perched atop the flagpole. Who hoists or unfurls? There was no president in office on the first Independence Day. Prior to the office's abolition, Lord Mountbatten held the position of Governor General of India, which was comparable to the presidency. Since the coloniser could not be trusted to raise the flag of a newly independent country, the task fell on the prime minister, who was designated as the official representative of the Indian people. On Independence Day, the prime minister, who serves as the head of the government, "hoists" the flag. As the nation's first citizen and constitutional head of state, the President of India "unfurls" the Tricolour on Republic Day. Different location The location of the two events is another distinction. The prime minister addresses the nation after hoisting the Tricolor from Red Fort. On Republic Day, however, the President raises it on Rajpath, and a significant display of military might and cultural variety immediately follows. (with inputs from agencies)

Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence Day? What's the difference?

The outgoing UK Prime Minister is getting ready to leave Downing Street as he and his family are seen enjoying the sun during their second trip abroad in as many weeks. Just a week after returning from their spa vacation in Slovenia, Mr Johnson, 58, was seen flaunting his physique with wide arms while his wife Carrie and his young family relaxed in a quiet area on the Greek island of Evia.

Locals were shocked by the Johnsons' selection of a sunbathing location when they saw the prime minister reading a book in the sweltering 93°F heat while his son, Wilf, paddled in the surrounding water. Even residents who have lived here for years are unaware of the beach, and Boris' group was the only ones there, a resident informed the Sun.

Senior Tories have previously stated that the Prime Minister is "still working," despite being photographed soaking up the late-August sun in the popular tourist destination and relaxing at The Aegean in Karistos just the day before. He was also seen carrying his son Wilf's backpack when he arrived at the Athens airport over the weekend.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-military-need-to-use-nuclear-arms-in-ukraine-says-russia-calls-speculations-absolute-lies-507644">Ukraine nuclear plant standoff: No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia</a>

The Prime Minister was captured in pictures strolling through a restaurant with a view of the gorgeous River Beach and the Aegean Sea, while earlier in the day, he was seen with his wife Carrie doing some grocery shopping in the nearby seaside town of Nea Makri. Stanley Johnson, Mr Johnson's father, owns a villa in Horto, some distance away.

The resort, which is 30 minutes from Slovenia's capital Ljubljana and is located in a valley near the village of Jezersko in the Kokra Valley, promises a calming 'balance of energies'&nbsp;and serves bear prosciutto to its guests. With only a few weeks until he is replaced by either Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak, Labour mocked Johnson for allegedly "laughing" at British citizens who are suffering from a severe cost-of-living crisis.

(with inputs from agencies)

The outgoing UK Prime Minister is getting ready to leave Downing Street as he and his family are seen enjoying the sun during their second trip abroad in as many weeks.

The outgoing UK Prime Minister is getting ready to leave Downing Street as he and his family are seen enjoying the sun during their second trip abroad in as many weeks. Just a week after returning from their spa vacation in Slovenia, Mr Johnson, 58, was seen flaunting his physique with wide arms while his wife Carrie and his young family relaxed in a quiet area on the Greek island of Evia. Locals were shocked by the Johnsons' selection of a sunbathing location when they saw the prime minister reading a book in the sweltering 93°F heat while his son, Wilf, paddled in the surrounding water. Even residents who have lived here for years are unaware of the beach, and Boris' group was the only ones there, a resident informed the Sun. Senior Tories have previously stated that the Prime Minister is "still working," despite being photographed soaking up the late-August sun in the popular tourist destination and relaxing at The Aegean in Karistos just the day before. He was also seen carrying his son Wilf's backpack when he arrived at the Athens airport over the weekend. Also Read: Ukraine nuclear plant standoff: No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia The Prime Minister was captured in pictures strolling through a restaurant with a view of the gorgeous River Beach and the Aegean Sea, while earlier in the day, he was seen with his wife Carrie doing some grocery shopping in the nearby seaside town of Nea Makri. Stanley Johnson, Mr Johnson's father, owns a villa in Horto, some distance away. The resort, which is 30 minutes from Slovenia's capital Ljubljana and is located in a valley near the village of Jezersko in the Kokra Valley, promises a calming 'balance of energies' and serves bear prosciutto to its guests. With only a few weeks until he is replaced by either Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak, Labour mocked Johnson for allegedly "laughing" at British citizens who are suffering from a severe cost-of-living crisis. (with inputs from agencies)

Boris Johnson spotted vacationing at Evia island, Tories insist PM is 'still working'

Following the issue over Northern Ireland, the UK has opened a dispute with the EU, accusing it of violating the terms of the Brexit accord by excluding it from scientific research initiatives. The trade and cooperation agreement had been a "clear breach," according to Liz Truss, the foreign secretary and front-runner for the Tory leadership. Her government had written to Brussels to request official dispute negotiations.

The UK government asserted that the EU was seriously harming research and development in both the UK and EU member states by barring Britain from participating in programmes like the Earth observation programme Copernicus, the nuclear research programme Euratom, the space surveillance and tracking programme, and the Horizon programme for science research.

“The EU is in clear breach of our agreement, repeatedly seeking to politicise vital scientific cooperation by refusing to finalise access to these important programmes,” she said, as reported by The Guardian. “We cannot allow this to continue. That is why the UK has launched formal consultations and will do everything necessary to protect the scientific community.”

Due to the ongoing Brexit dispute over the Northern Ireland protocol, 115 funding from the Horizon programme for British academic academics and scientists was cancelled in July.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-were-heartbroken-were-exhausted-france-battles-monster-wildfire-506842">IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire'</a>

After the then-Brexit minister, David Frost, successfully negotiated associate membership of the £80 billion Horizon Europe initiative, grants for British applicants were accepted; however, the majority of those grants are now being revoked. For the UK to take part in the scheme, a membership fee of £15 billion over seven years was required.

The beginning of negotiations through a partnership council is the first stage of a dispute procedure. If this is unsuccessful, the matter can be sent to an arbitration tribunal, which, if either party is found to have violated the agreement, might impose sanctions for non-compliance.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Following the issue over Northern Ireland, the UK has opened a dispute with the EU, accusing it of violating the terms of the Brexit accord by excluding it from scientific research initiatives.

Following the issue over Northern Ireland, the UK has opened a dispute with the EU, accusing it of violating the terms of the Brexit accord by excluding it from scientific research initiatives. The trade and cooperation agreement had been a "clear breach," according to Liz Truss, the foreign secretary and front-runner for the Tory leadership. Her government had written to Brussels to request official dispute negotiations. The UK government asserted that the EU was seriously harming research and development in both the UK and EU member states by barring Britain from participating in programmes like the Earth observation programme Copernicus, the nuclear research programme Euratom, the space surveillance and tracking programme, and the Horizon programme for science research. “The EU is in clear breach of our agreement, repeatedly seeking to politicise vital scientific cooperation by refusing to finalise access to these important programmes,” she said, as reported by The Guardian. “We cannot allow this to continue. That is why the UK has launched formal consultations and will do everything necessary to protect the scientific community.” Due to the ongoing Brexit dispute over the Northern Ireland protocol, 115 funding from the Horizon programme for British academic academics and scientists was cancelled in July. Also Read: IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire' After the then-Brexit minister, David Frost, successfully negotiated associate membership of the £80 billion Horizon Europe initiative, grants for British applicants were accepted; however, the majority of those grants are now being revoked. For the UK to take part in the scheme, a membership fee of £15 billion over seven years was required. The beginning of negotiations through a partnership council is the first stage of a dispute procedure. If this is unsuccessful, the matter can be sent to an arbitration tribunal, which, if either party is found to have violated the agreement, might impose sanctions for non-compliance. (with inputs from agencies)

UK claims EU breached Brexit treaty, citing exclusion from EU scientific research

A walrus known as Freya who drew crowds while enjoying the Oslo fjord was put to death on Sunday. Norwegian officials claimed it was the only option, while experts criticised the action as "infinitely sad."

The head of Norway's Fisheries Directorate Frank Bakke-Jensen said in a statement, "The decision to euthanise was taken on the basis of a global evaluation of the persistent threat to human security. We carefully examined all the possible solutions. We concluded that we could not guarantee the well-being of the animal by any of the means available," he said.&nbsp;

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Officials had earlier stated that they were considering euthanasia since the young girl, who weighed 600 kilos (1,300 pounds), was under a lot of stress and repeated requests to the public to keep their distance from her had been ineffective.&nbsp;

Since she was first discovered on July 17 in the waters off the coast of the Norwegian city, Freya—whose name is a homage to the Norse goddess of beauty and love—has garnered media attention. Walruses typically inhabit the Arctic's extremely northernmost regions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-were-heartbroken-were-exhausted-france-battles-monster-wildfire-506842">IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire'</a>

Freya had been captured on camera chasing a duck, assaulting a swan, and, more frequently than not, dozing on boats that were struggling to hold her weight in between long naps in the sun (a walrus may sleep up to 20 hours per day). Despite several requests, inquisitive people kept approaching the creature to take pictures, occasionally with kids in tow.&nbsp;

Experts opined that Freya's welfare was not considered in the decision to put her to death. Animal rights advocate Siri Martinsen told TV2 that the action was hasty and that fines ought to have been imposed to scatter the onlookers.

(with inputs from agencies)

A walrus known as Freya who drew crowds while enjoying the Oslo fjord was put to death on Sunday. Norwegian officials claimed it was the only option, while experts criticised the action as "infinitely sad.

A walrus known as Freya who drew crowds while enjoying the Oslo fjord was put to death on Sunday. Norwegian officials claimed it was the only option, while experts criticised the action as "infinitely sad." The head of Norway's Fisheries Directorate Frank Bakke-Jensen said in a statement, "The decision to euthanise was taken on the basis of a global evaluation of the persistent threat to human security. We carefully examined all the possible solutions. We concluded that we could not guarantee the well-being of the animal by any of the means available," he said. Looks like an amazing place pic.twitter.com/HvkFyoA7JZ — ⭐️Amazing Posts (@AmazingPosts_) August 6, 2022 × Officials had earlier stated that they were considering euthanasia since the young girl, who weighed 600 kilos (1,300 pounds), was under a lot of stress and repeated requests to the public to keep their distance from her had been ineffective. Since she was first discovered on July 17 in the waters off the coast of the Norwegian city, Freya—whose name is a homage to the Norse goddess of beauty and love—has garnered media attention. Walruses typically inhabit the Arctic's extremely northernmost regions. Also Read: IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire' Freya had been captured on camera chasing a duck, assaulting a swan, and, more frequently than not, dozing on boats that were struggling to hold her weight in between long naps in the sun (a walrus may sleep up to 20 hours per day). Despite several requests, inquisitive people kept approaching the creature to take pictures, occasionally with kids in tow. Experts opined that Freya's welfare was not considered in the decision to put her to death. Animal rights advocate Siri Martinsen told TV2 that the action was hasty and that fines ought to have been imposed to scatter the onlookers. (with inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Freya the walrus that attracted crowds in Oslo fjord euthanised

The mayor of the city where the facility is located stated on Sunday that the danger of an accident at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is "increasing&nbsp;every day." The largest plant in Europe was taken over by Russian troops early in the invasion, and it has been on the front lines ever since. The infrastructure has been attacked numerous times this week, with Kyiv and Moscow sharing the blame for the perilous escalation.

The mayor of the city of Energodar in the region's southeast stated that because Russian soldiers are "shelling the infrastructure that ensures the safe operation of the station," "the risks are increasing every day." Dmytro Orlov spoke with AFP over the phone from Zaporizhzhia, which is still a Ukrainian territory,&nbsp;"what is happening there is outright nuclear terrorism. It can end unpredictably at any moment. "

Kyiv has charged Moscow with stationing troops and weaponry there, initiating assaults, and using the nuclear plant as cover from retaliatory fire. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the plant to "intimidate people in an extremely cynical way" and nuclear "blackmail" in his broadcast address on Saturday. On Thursday, the UN Security Council convened an emergency session to discuss the situation and issued a warning that a "grave" crisis was developing in Zaporizhzhia.

Alos Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-were-heartbroken-were-exhausted-france-battles-monster-wildfire-506842">IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire'</a>

Orlov added that Energodar, which he left at the end of April, had begun to receive shelling for the first time in the previous day, and that the number of people wishing to flee had significantly increased. He expressed concern that there would not be enough staff to staff the station in the "near future." When a reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded and released radiation into the atmosphere in 1986, Ukraine was the scene of the worst nuclear disaster in history.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The mayor of the city where the facility is located stated on Sunday that the danger of an accident at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is "increasing every day.

The mayor of the city where the facility is located stated on Sunday that the danger of an accident at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is "increasing every day." The largest plant in Europe was taken over by Russian troops early in the invasion, and it has been on the front lines ever since. The infrastructure has been attacked numerous times this week, with Kyiv and Moscow sharing the blame for the perilous escalation. The mayor of the city of Energodar in the region's southeast stated that because Russian soldiers are "shelling the infrastructure that ensures the safe operation of the station," "the risks are increasing every day." Dmytro Orlov spoke with AFP over the phone from Zaporizhzhia, which is still a Ukrainian territory, "what is happening there is outright nuclear terrorism. It can end unpredictably at any moment. " Kyiv has charged Moscow with stationing troops and weaponry there, initiating assaults, and using the nuclear plant as cover from retaliatory fire. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using the plant to "intimidate people in an extremely cynical way" and nuclear "blackmail" in his broadcast address on Saturday. On Thursday, the UN Security Council convened an emergency session to discuss the situation and issued a warning that a "grave" crisis was developing in Zaporizhzhia. Alos Read: IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire' Orlov added that Energodar, which he left at the end of April, had begun to receive shelling for the first time in the previous day, and that the number of people wishing to flee had significantly increased. He expressed concern that there would not be enough staff to staff the station in the "near future." When a reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded and released radiation into the atmosphere in 1986, Ukraine was the scene of the worst nuclear disaster in history. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukraine nuclear plant 'risks increasing every day'; city mayor calls it 'nuclear terrorism'

The congressional delegation from the United States that arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Sunday, led by Senator Ed Markey, comprises of four other lawmakers and they will be visiting a number of countries in the “Indo-Pacific region”, the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei said. In other news,&nbsp;Nepali officials said that the China border will be closed for a week, however, it is not sure if trading will resume as there are high chances of the blockade getting extended.&nbsp;This development comes after Nepal foreign minister Dr. Narayan Khadka visited China and held bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on August 10.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-arrive-in-taiwan-days-after-nancy-pelosis-visit-angered-china-506828">US lawmakers arrive in Taiwan days after Nancy Pelosi's visit angered China</a>
<img alt="1" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8dfd14e-36e6-4c1a-a4c9-de6885850e95" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287598-00032gh68q.jpg" />
A congressional delegation from the United States arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Sunday and they will be meeting President Tsai Ing-wen during the two-day trip. This came just days after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi became the first high-ranking US official to visit the country in the recent past drawing the ire of China. In the aftermath of the visit, tensions have grown between the two nations and China have been conducting military drills around the border separating the Taiwan Strait.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-blocks-traders-from-nepal-impacting-trade-yet-again-506816">China blocks trading points citing Covid-19, Nepal traders suffer losses</a>
<img alt="2" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ab82377-9fde-4cc4-ab21-bc77105f1eae" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/231385-nepal.jpg" />
China for the last two years has imposed an ‘undeclared blockade’ of Nepal, allowing only a few containers to cross. Now, it has completely shut down both trading points with Nepal —&nbsp; Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi, the two main ones at border for importing goods from China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/country-most-at-risk-of-natural-disasters-to-switch-to-renewable-energy-by-2030-506745">Country ‘most at risk of natural disasters’ to switch to renewable energy by 2030</a>
<img alt="3" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d42f07c9-b543-4a3f-a422-dba9230efdb8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/155759-vanuatu-island-nation.jpg" />
The Pacific country of Vanuatu has experienced a number of major natural disasters over the years and according to the United Nations, the country is currently “most at risk of natural disasters” in the world. In order to improve the situation, Vanuatu has decided to switch to renewable energy completely by the year 2030. The small nation became only the 12th country to make this commitment. According to rough estimates, it will cost them around $1.2bn by 2030.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-were-heartbroken-were-exhausted-france-battles-monster-wildfire-506842">IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire'</a>
<img alt="4" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8174a2b8-cfac-4d63-9466-8c4433548255" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287600-untitled-design.png.jpeg" />
The "monster" wildfire, which has destroyed woods and forced 10,000 people to leave their homes, raged for a third day in southwest France on Thursday. The big fire was battling on multiple fronts, and firemen supported by water-bombing planes warned that there wouldn't be a break in the heat until the weekend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ghani-buried-by-history-embezzled-money-says-afghan-envoy-to-tajikistan-agbar-506806">Ghani embezzled money, buried by history, says Afghan envoy to Tajikistan Agbar</a>

&nbsp;
<img alt="5" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="da85b078-ab33-42e8-b301-21686df925c7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287577-afghan-1.png.jpeg" />
 
The Afghanistan Ambassador to Tajikistan Muhammad Zahir Agbar has slammed Afghanistan's Ashraf Ghani and blamed him for "situation in Afghanistan" for which the responsibility is in the "hand of Ghani."&nbsp;Ghani was the President of the Afghan Republic that collapsed on 15th August 2021 as he fled the country amid Taliban takeover.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-crashes-car-into-us-capitol-barricade-kills-self-after-firing-gun-report-506825">Man crashes car into US Capitol barricade, kills self after firing gun: Report</a>
<img alt="6" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="951e0aa6-4dd0-49ad-a6fb-ffb9d8ba1eda" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287599-untitled-design-8.jpg" />
In the early hours of Sunday, a man crashed his car close to the US Capitol, opened fire, and then killed himself. The US Capitol police are looking into the event.&nbsp;The US Capitol Police stated in a statement that the person didn't seem to be targeting any lawmakers. No other people were hurt.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/41-killed-55-injured-in-egyptian-church-fire-security-sources-506781">41 killed, 55 injured in Cairo church fire during Mass: Security sources</a>
<img alt="7" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="066a52a3-cf3d-45ba-9ec7-5ec0c205198b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287552-untitled-design-7.jpg" />
At least 41 people were killed and 55 others were injured when a massive fire broke out in a church on Sunday in a crowded neighbourhood of Cairo, the capital of Egypt.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/asia-sees-boom-in-apps-that-turn-restaurant-leftovers-into-low-cost-meals-506822">Asia sees boom in apps that turn restaurant leftovers into low-cost meals</a>
<img alt="8" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cba18d60-4ef7-47bb-82b9-9510dd509d5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287594-r.jpeg" />
The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deepening-cost-of-living-crisis-pushes-britons-to-give-up-pets-506800">Deepening cost-of-living crisis pushes Britons to give up pets</a>
<img alt="9" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d21ff7f5-584f-4883-b427-45b29281c6a6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287573-2022-08-14t104746z3lynxmpei7d01artroptp4britain-economy-pets.JPG" />
Harriet, a black English cocker spaniel, has been left behind as an increasing number of Britons are being forced to give up their pets due to the country's spiralling cost of living issue. She is standing on her hind legs to greet any potential owner who might approach her glass-doored kennel.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tomato-crisis-looms-large-in-california-as-drought-intensifies-506764">Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies &nbsp;</a>
<img alt="10" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5056c40-2abd-452d-8baa-1168912392ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/287539-tomaot.jpg" />
California, which accounts for a quarter of the world’s tomato output, is facing its worst crisis. Lack of adequate rainfall is forcing farmers to brace for a water crisis that’s undermining the crop cultivation.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The congressional delegation from the United States that arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Sunday, led by Senator Ed Markey, comprises of four other lawmakers and they will be visiting a number of countries in the “Indo-Pacific region”, the de facto U.

The congressional delegation from the United States that arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Sunday, led by Senator Ed Markey, comprises of four other lawmakers and they will be visiting a number of countries in the “Indo-Pacific region”, the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei said. In other news, Nepali officials said that the China border will be closed for a week, however, it is not sure if trading will resume as there are high chances of the blockade getting extended. This development comes after Nepal foreign minister Dr. Narayan Khadka visited China and held bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on August 10. Click on the headlines to read more: US lawmakers arrive in Taiwan days after Nancy Pelosi's visit angered China A congressional delegation from the United States arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Sunday and they will be meeting President Tsai Ing-wen during the two-day trip. This came just days after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi became the first high-ranking US official to visit the country in the recent past drawing the ire of China. In the aftermath of the visit, tensions have grown between the two nations and China have been conducting military drills around the border separating the Taiwan Strait. China blocks trading points citing Covid-19, Nepal traders suffer losses China for the last two years has imposed an ‘undeclared blockade’ of Nepal, allowing only a few containers to cross. Now, it has completely shut down both trading points with Nepal — Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi, the two main ones at border for importing goods from China. Country ‘most at risk of natural disasters’ to switch to renewable energy by 2030 The Pacific country of Vanuatu has experienced a number of major natural disasters over the years and according to the United Nations, the country is currently “most at risk of natural disasters” in the world. In order to improve the situation, Vanuatu has decided to switch to renewable energy completely by the year 2030. The small nation became only the 12th country to make this commitment. According to rough estimates, it will cost them around $1.2bn by 2030. IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire' The "monster" wildfire, which has destroyed woods and forced 10,000 people to leave their homes, raged for a third day in southwest France on Thursday. The big fire was battling on multiple fronts, and firemen supported by water-bombing planes warned that there wouldn't be a break in the heat until the weekend. Ghani embezzled money, buried by history, says Afghan envoy to Tajikistan Agbar The Afghanistan Ambassador to Tajikistan Muhammad Zahir Agbar has slammed Afghanistan's Ashraf Ghani and blamed him for "situation in Afghanistan" for which the responsibility is in the "hand of Ghani." Ghani was the President of the Afghan Republic that collapsed on 15th August 2021 as he fled the country amid Taliban takeover. Man crashes car into US Capitol barricade, kills self after firing gun: Report In the early hours of Sunday, a man crashed his car close to the US Capitol, opened fire, and then killed himself. The US Capitol police are looking into the event. The US Capitol Police stated in a statement that the person didn't seem to be targeting any lawmakers. No other people were hurt. 41 killed, 55 injured in Cairo church fire during Mass: Security sources At least 41 people were killed and 55 others were injured when a massive fire broke out in a church on Sunday in a crowded neighbourhood of Cairo, the capital of Egypt. Asia sees boom in apps that turn restaurant leftovers into low-cost meals The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps. Deepening cost-of-living crisis pushes Britons to give up pets Harriet, a black English cocker spaniel, has been left behind as an increasing number of Britons are being forced to give up their pets due to the country's spiralling cost of living issue. She is standing on her hind legs to greet any potential owner who might approach her glass-doored kennel. Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies California, which accounts for a quarter of the world’s tomato output, is facing its worst crisis. Lack of adequate rainfall is forcing farmers to brace for a water crisis that’s undermining the crop cultivation.

Top 10 world news: US lawmakers in Taiwan, China's blockade of Nepal, and more

IN PICS| 'We're heartbroken, we're exhausted': France battles 'Monster wildfire'

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps.

According to&nbsp;Preston Wong, chief executive officer and co-founder of Treatsure, which collaborates with chains including the Hyatt, Accor Group and the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel to allow app users to pick out and collect a “buffet-in-a-box” of food that would otherwise be thrown out, Treatsure has more than 30,000 customers and has prevented the waste of 30 metric tonnes of food since its introduction in 2017.

Users normally have to wait until the end of service before they can pick up their meals. Even still, that's a long cry from Singapore's 817,000 tonnes of food waste in 2021, a 23% increase from the previous year. According to officials, Semakau, Singapore's sole landfill, should be able to handle all of the country's solid waste disposal requirements through at least 2035.

Hong Kong has comparable issues. According to Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department, it has already filled 13 landfills and will continue to fill the remaining sites through 2020 at a rate of around 3,300 tonnes of food waste each day.

“The space is very limited,” said Anne-Claire Béraud, Hong Kong country manager of Phenix by OnTheList, an app launched in the territory last year. “Everything is very dense so there isn’t a lot of space to treat all this waste.”

Users of the app can pick up a "Mystery Basket" of food for at least a 50% discount from places like Pret A Manger and a nearby cake business called The Cakery. According to the business, it has sold 25,000 baskets thus far, preventing the waste of 4.5 kilogrammes of CO2 and around 1 kilogramme of food.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-is-indian-flag-unfurled-or-hoisted-on-independence-day-whats-the-difference-506751">Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference?</a>

The original Phenix platform was introduced in France in 2014 and then spread to four other European nations, saving 150 million meals. To launch the app in Asia, it worked with the flash sale startup OnTheList. In contrast to North America and Europe, where regulations are being strictly enforced, Asia is still in the early stages of developing the idea of sustainable food. Unsold food from supermarkets is already prohibited in France, while Spain has proposed laws to reduce waste by fining businesses. Laws have been passed in US states like California and New Jersey to lessen the quantity of food that ends up in landfills.

(with inputs from agencies)

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns.

The supper buffet at Singapore's Grand Hyatt hotel normally costs customers approximately $70 and features a delicious assortment of satay chicken, wok-fried mud crab, and chilled tiger prawns. For a tenth of that cost, those on a stricter budget who also care about sustainability can fill a box. Tech entrepreneurs in Asia are using food that would have otherwise gone to waste to offer cheap meals through mobile phone apps. According to Preston Wong, chief executive officer and co-founder of Treatsure, which collaborates with chains including the Hyatt, Accor Group and the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel to allow app users to pick out and collect a “buffet-in-a-box” of food that would otherwise be thrown out, Treatsure has more than 30,000 customers and has prevented the waste of 30 metric tonnes of food since its introduction in 2017. Users normally have to wait until the end of service before they can pick up their meals. Even still, that's a long cry from Singapore's 817,000 tonnes of food waste in 2021, a 23% increase from the previous year. According to officials, Semakau, Singapore's sole landfill, should be able to handle all of the country's solid waste disposal requirements through at least 2035. Hong Kong has comparable issues. According to Hong Kong's Environmental Protection Department, it has already filled 13 landfills and will continue to fill the remaining sites through 2020 at a rate of around 3,300 tonnes of food waste each day. “The space is very limited,” said Anne-Claire Béraud, Hong Kong country manager of Phenix by OnTheList, an app launched in the territory last year. “Everything is very dense so there isn’t a lot of space to treat all this waste.” Users of the app can pick up a "Mystery Basket" of food for at least a 50% discount from places like Pret A Manger and a nearby cake business called The Cakery. According to the business, it has sold 25,000 baskets thus far, preventing the waste of 4.5 kilogrammes of CO2 and around 1 kilogramme of food. Also Read: Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference? The original Phenix platform was introduced in France in 2014 and then spread to four other European nations, saving 150 million meals. To launch the app in Asia, it worked with the flash sale startup OnTheList. In contrast to North America and Europe, where regulations are being strictly enforced, Asia is still in the early stages of developing the idea of sustainable food. Unsold food from supermarkets is already prohibited in France, while Spain has proposed laws to reduce waste by fining businesses. Laws have been passed in US states like California and New Jersey to lessen the quantity of food that ends up in landfills. (with inputs from agencies)

Asia sees boom in apps that turn restaurant leftovers into low-cost meals

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