Turkiye police on Sunday detained more than 150 demonstrators in a Pride march in Istanbul, as reported by AFP. The governor's office had banned the march around Taksim Square in the heart of Istanbul but protesters gathered nearby under heavy police presence earlier than scheduled. &nbsp;

"All those detained solely for their participation in Pride must be released immediately and unconditionally," Milena Buyum of Amnesty International said.&nbsp;

Police detained protesters, loading them into buses. Kilic, who was also detained last year during the Pride march, was in police custody.&nbsp;

Hundreds of protesters carrying rainbow flags pressed ahead with the rally in defiance of the police.&nbsp;

"The future is queer," they chanted. "We are here. We are queer. We are not going anywhere."

Police prevented the press from filming the arrests, according to AFP journalists.&nbsp;

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTQ individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

Diren, a 22-year-old university student, condemned the hate crimes targeting LGBTQ people.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-announced-600-billion-global-infrastructure-plan-to-rival-chinas-bri-492064">G7 announced $600 billion global infrastructure plan to rival China’s BRI</a>

"We are banned, prevented, discriminated and even killed at every second of our lives. Today, it's a very special day for us to defend our rights and to say that we do exist," Diren told AFP.&nbsp;

Istanbul Pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last march which went ahead without a ban was in 2014 and drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTQ events in the majority Muslim region.

In 2020, streaming giant Netflix cancelled the production of a series in Turkiye featuring a gay character after failing to obtain government permission for the filming. The same year, French sports brand Decathlon faced boycott calls in Turkiye for posting messages of support for LGBTQ people.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Turkiye police on Sunday detained more than 150 demonstrators in a Pride march in Istanbul, as reported by AFP. The governor's office had banned the march around Taksim Square in the heart of Istanbul but protesters gathered nearby under heavy police presence earlier than scheduled.

Turkiye police on Sunday detained more than 150 demonstrators in a Pride march in Istanbul, as reported by AFP. The governor's office had banned the march around Taksim Square in the heart of Istanbul but protesters gathered nearby under heavy police presence earlier than scheduled. "All those detained solely for their participation in Pride must be released immediately and unconditionally," Milena Buyum of Amnesty International said. Police detained protesters, loading them into buses. Kilic, who was also detained last year during the Pride march, was in police custody. Hundreds of protesters carrying rainbow flags pressed ahead with the rally in defiance of the police. "The future is queer," they chanted. "We are here. We are queer. We are not going anywhere." Police prevented the press from filming the arrests, according to AFP journalists. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTQ individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. Diren, a 22-year-old university student, condemned the hate crimes targeting LGBTQ people. Also Read: G7 announced $600 billion global infrastructure plan to rival China’s BRI "We are banned, prevented, discriminated and even killed at every second of our lives. Today, it's a very special day for us to defend our rights and to say that we do exist," Diren told AFP. Istanbul Pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last march which went ahead without a ban was in 2014 and drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTQ events in the majority Muslim region. In 2020, streaming giant Netflix cancelled the production of a series in Turkiye featuring a gay character after failing to obtain government permission for the filming. The same year, French sports brand Decathlon faced boycott calls in Turkiye for posting messages of support for LGBTQ people. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkiye police detain pride march demonstrators in Istanbul

The G7 announced $600 billion for global infrastructure programmes in poor countries to compete with China's formidable Belt and Road Initiative on Sunday, as reported by AFP.

Between now and 2027, the US government and allies will shoot for the $600-billion figure "through grants, federal financing, and leveraging private sector investments," the White House said.

The Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, unveiled with fanfare by US President Joe Biden and G7 allies from Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan and the European Union, aims to fill a huge gap left as communist China uses its economic clout to stretch diplomatic tentacles into the furthest reaches of the world.

Biden said the target was for the United States to bring $200 billion to the table, with the rest of the G7 another $400 billion by 2027.

Funding the kinds of projects that China currently dominates everything from roads to harbours in far-flung corners of the world is not "aid or charity," Biden said.

Highlighting the geostrategic thinking behind the plan, Biden said such projects "deliver returns for everyone, including the American people and the people of all our nations."

As reported by AFP, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen echoed this, saying "it is up to us to give a positive, powerful investment impulse to the world, to show our partners in the developing world that they have a choice."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dollar-bankruptcy-russia-may-default-on-debt-servicing-492039">Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing</a>

Unlike China's state-run BRI initiative, the proposed G7 funding would depend largely on private companies being willing to commit to massive investments and is therefore not guaranteed.

According to US officials, however, that is a good thing.

In this capitalist vs communist scenario, US officials say, recipient countries will be able to avoid the debt traps and other strongarm tactics allegedly used by the Chinese.

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The G7 announced $600 billion for global infrastructure programmes in poor countries to compete with China's formidable Belt and Road Initiative on Sunday, as reported by AFP.

The G7 announced $600 billion for global infrastructure programmes in poor countries to compete with China's formidable Belt and Road Initiative on Sunday, as reported by AFP. Between now and 2027, the US government and allies will shoot for the $600-billion figure "through grants, federal financing, and leveraging private sector investments," the White House said. The Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, unveiled with fanfare by US President Joe Biden and G7 allies from Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan and the European Union, aims to fill a huge gap left as communist China uses its economic clout to stretch diplomatic tentacles into the furthest reaches of the world. Biden said the target was for the United States to bring $200 billion to the table, with the rest of the G7 another $400 billion by 2027. Funding the kinds of projects that China currently dominates everything from roads to harbours in far-flung corners of the world is not "aid or charity," Biden said. Highlighting the geostrategic thinking behind the plan, Biden said such projects "deliver returns for everyone, including the American people and the people of all our nations." As reported by AFP, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen echoed this, saying "it is up to us to give a positive, powerful investment impulse to the world, to show our partners in the developing world that they have a choice." Also Read: Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing Unlike China's state-run BRI initiative, the proposed G7 funding would depend largely on private companies being willing to commit to massive investments and is therefore not guaranteed. According to US officials, however, that is a good thing. In this capitalist vs communist scenario, US officials say, recipient countries will be able to avoid the debt traps and other strongarm tactics allegedly used by the Chinese. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

G7 announced $600 billion global infrastructure plan to rival China’s BRI

In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP. In the first of three planned launches from the Arnhem Space Centre, the rocket, carrying technology likened to a "mini Hubble" telescope, lifted off and blasted about 350 kilometres (218 miles) into the night sky.

Equatorial Launch Australia CEO Michael Jones told AFP ahead of the lift-off, "It is a momentous occasion for us as a company in particular, but it's historic for Australia."&nbsp;

Jones, whose company owns and operates the launch site in the far north of Australia, described it as a "coming out" party for the country's space industry and said the chance to work with NASA was a milestone for commercial space firms in the country.

After a series of rain and wind delays, the suborbital-sounding rocket soared into the sky to study x-rays emanating from the Alpha Centauri A and B systems. After reaching its apogee, the rocket's payload was to capture data on the star systems before parachuting back to earth.

According to NASA, the launch offers a unique glimpse of the distant systems and unlocked fresh possibilities for scientists.

"We're excited to be able to launch important science missions from the Southern Hemisphere and see targets that we can't from the United States," Nicky Fox, NASA's Heliophysics Division director in Washington, said on announcing the mission.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dollar-bankruptcy-russia-may-default-on-debt-servicing-492039">Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing</a>

Jones said the unique location had made preparations hard, with years of work to get regulatory approval and the need to haul rockets on barges to the launch site -- about 28 hours drive from Darwin in northern Australia.

"I think for the team, it's gonna be, you know, a huge relief that it's done," he said.

It is the first NASA rocket to launch from Australia since 1995, and the project was hailed as the start of a "new era" for the country's space industry by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.&nbsp;

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In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP.

In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP. In the first of three planned launches from the Arnhem Space Centre, the rocket, carrying technology likened to a "mini Hubble" telescope, lifted off and blasted about 350 kilometres (218 miles) into the night sky. Equatorial Launch Australia CEO Michael Jones told AFP ahead of the lift-off, "It is a momentous occasion for us as a company in particular, but it's historic for Australia." Jones, whose company owns and operates the launch site in the far north of Australia, described it as a "coming out" party for the country's space industry and said the chance to work with NASA was a milestone for commercial space firms in the country. After a series of rain and wind delays, the suborbital-sounding rocket soared into the sky to study x-rays emanating from the Alpha Centauri A and B systems. After reaching its apogee, the rocket's payload was to capture data on the star systems before parachuting back to earth. According to NASA, the launch offers a unique glimpse of the distant systems and unlocked fresh possibilities for scientists. "We're excited to be able to launch important science missions from the Southern Hemisphere and see targets that we can't from the United States," Nicky Fox, NASA's Heliophysics Division director in Washington, said on announcing the mission. Also Read: Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing Jones said the unique location had made preparations hard, with years of work to get regulatory approval and the need to haul rockets on barges to the launch site -- about 28 hours drive from Darwin in northern Australia. "I think for the team, it's gonna be, you know, a huge relief that it's done," he said. It is the first NASA rocket to launch from Australia since 1995, and the project was hailed as the start of a "new era" for the country's space industry by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Historic: NASA’s first-ever commercial launch outside United States

Russia is on the brink of its first debt default since 1998 as the Sunday deadline to make a $100m interest payment seems certain to be missed. Russia has the money and is willing to pay, but sanctions make it impossible to get the payments to international creditors, as reported by BBC.

On Thursday, Russia made two interest payments on dollar-denominated debt in rubles, as Moscow faces the risk of an external debt default.

"Funds for the payment of coupons on external bonds of the Russian Federationmaturing in 2027 and 2047 in the total amount of 12.51 billion rubles (the equivalent of £234.85 million) have been received by the National Settlement Depository (NSD) payment agency," the ministry said in a statement.

In the statement, the ministry said that it is using a new temporary payment system which came into force on June 22, after sanctions imposed over Ukraine made it difficult for Moscow to service its foreign debt.&nbsp;

Under the new system, the ministry transfers the ruble equivalent of the coupon's value to the Moscow-based National Settlement Depository that reimburses creditors in rubles at the Central Bank exchange rate "to ensure the maximum equivalence of payments".&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cash-strapped-sri-lanka-on-lookout-for-discounted-russian-oil-492001">Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on lookout for discounted Russian oil</a>

Russia's finance ministry said in a statement earlier, "ready to consider and, if there are necessary grounds, to bilaterally settle all complaints regarding the complete fulfilment of debt obligations on the 'Russia-2022' Eurobonds".

The statement provided two e-mail addresses to which complaints should be directed, adding that "all requests will be considered". Some creditors are requesting "additional interest" for as long as the payments are outstanding, the statement said.

The ministry blamed the delay in processing payments on the "illegal actions of foreign financial intermediaries."

(with inputs from agencies)

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Russia is on the brink of its first debt default since 1998 as the Sunday deadline to make a $100m interest payment seems certain to be missed. Russia has the money and is willing to pay, but sanctions make it impossible to get the payments to international creditors, as reported by BBC.

Russia is on the brink of its first debt default since 1998 as the Sunday deadline to make a $100m interest payment seems certain to be missed. Russia has the money and is willing to pay, but sanctions make it impossible to get the payments to international creditors, as reported by BBC. On Thursday, Russia made two interest payments on dollar-denominated debt in rubles, as Moscow faces the risk of an external debt default. "Funds for the payment of coupons on external bonds of the Russian Federationmaturing in 2027 and 2047 in the total amount of 12.51 billion rubles (the equivalent of £234.85 million) have been received by the National Settlement Depository (NSD) payment agency," the ministry said in a statement. In the statement, the ministry said that it is using a new temporary payment system which came into force on June 22, after sanctions imposed over Ukraine made it difficult for Moscow to service its foreign debt. Under the new system, the ministry transfers the ruble equivalent of the coupon's value to the Moscow-based National Settlement Depository that reimburses creditors in rubles at the Central Bank exchange rate "to ensure the maximum equivalence of payments". Also Read: Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on lookout for discounted Russian oil Russia's finance ministry said in a statement earlier, "ready to consider and, if there are necessary grounds, to bilaterally settle all complaints regarding the complete fulfilment of debt obligations on the 'Russia-2022' Eurobonds". The statement provided two e-mail addresses to which complaints should be directed, adding that "all requests will be considered". Some creditors are requesting "additional interest" for as long as the payments are outstanding, the statement said. The ministry blamed the delay in processing payments on the "illegal actions of foreign financial intermediaries." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing

The counting of votes for three Lok Sabha and seven assembly seats started on Sunday morning at 8 am. The seats are spread across five states and Delhi. The by-poll election took place in Delhi, Punjab, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand on June 23.

In Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Durgesh Pathak won the Rajinder Nagar election by a margin of around 11,555 votes.

In a major political development in Uttar Pradesh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi on Sunday won the Lok Sabha by-poll in Rampur under the leadership of&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanatah, the bastion of Samajwadi Party (SP) big shot Azam Khan.

In Rampur, BJP had fielded Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi who recently joined the party. Whereas, SP candidate Asim Raja was handpicked by Azam Khan.

"I dedicate my victory to the workers of the party. They have been working continuously day and night. I want to thank the people of Rampur. BJP has always been working for the development of the public," BJP's winning candidate Lodhi said.

As the counting of votes for the Azamgarh Lok Sabha by-poll is underway, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and Bhojpuri actor-singer Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirhua' is leading with a margin of 
over 11,000 votes, according to the Election Commission of India. This is the second stronghold of the Samajwadi party where the BJP is unfurling the lotus in UP under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath.

In Andhra Pradesh, the ruling YSR Congress Party’s Mekapati Vikram Reddy headed towards a big win in the Atmakur by-poll, leading by over 82888 votes at the end of the final counting.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/diamond-city-of-india-loses-its-sheen-as-ukraine-war-disrupts-supply-chains-491987">&nbsp;‘Diamond city’ of India loses its sheen, as Ukraine war disrupts supply chains</a>

In Punjab, in a major setback to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) leader Simranjit Singh Mann on Sunday won the Sangrur Lok Sabha by-poll, the home turf of Chief Minister and AAP leader Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Mann won the by-poll with 2,53,154 votes thus defeating the ruling party's candidate on a Lok Sabha seat held last by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

"This is a great win for our party. We have defeated all national parties in this by-poll. My priority will be to raise the issue of the poor economic condition of Sangrur, including the condition of farmers under debt. We will work with the Punjab government," said winning candidate Mann.

Tripura Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manik Saha won the assembly poll from the Town Bardowali constituency by a margin of 6,104 votes, the Election Commission said. 
BJP has bagged victory on three out of four seats in the Tripura by-polls while Congress won one seat.

Congress candidate Sudip Roy Barman won from Agartala seat by 3,163 votes. The BJP won Town Bordowali, Jubarajnagar and Surma seats respectively. The by-polls in Tripura were crucial for Manik Saha who replaced Biplab Kumar Deb last month.

In Jharkhand, the BJP's Gangotri Kujur is leading by 112 votes while the Congress is trailing in the second position.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The counting of votes for three Lok Sabha and seven assembly seats started on Sunday morning at 8 am. The seats are spread across five states and Delhi. The by-poll election took place in Delhi, Punjab, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand on June 23.

The counting of votes for three Lok Sabha and seven assembly seats started on Sunday morning at 8 am. The seats are spread across five states and Delhi. The by-poll election took place in Delhi, Punjab, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand on June 23. In Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Durgesh Pathak won the Rajinder Nagar election by a margin of around 11,555 votes. In a major political development in Uttar Pradesh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi on Sunday won the Lok Sabha by-poll in Rampur under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanatah, the bastion of Samajwadi Party (SP) big shot Azam Khan. In Rampur, BJP had fielded Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi who recently joined the party. Whereas, SP candidate Asim Raja was handpicked by Azam Khan. "I dedicate my victory to the workers of the party. They have been working continuously day and night. I want to thank the people of Rampur. BJP has always been working for the development of the public," BJP's winning candidate Lodhi said. As the counting of votes for the Azamgarh Lok Sabha by-poll is underway, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and Bhojpuri actor-singer Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirhua' is leading with a margin of over 11,000 votes, according to the Election Commission of India. This is the second stronghold of the Samajwadi party where the BJP is unfurling the lotus in UP under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath. In Andhra Pradesh, the ruling YSR Congress Party’s Mekapati Vikram Reddy headed towards a big win in the Atmakur by-poll, leading by over 82888 votes at the end of the final counting. Also Read: ‘Diamond city’ of India loses its sheen, as Ukraine war disrupts supply chains In Punjab, in a major setback to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) leader Simranjit Singh Mann on Sunday won the Sangrur Lok Sabha by-poll, the home turf of Chief Minister and AAP leader Bhagwant Singh Mann. Mann won the by-poll with 2,53,154 votes thus defeating the ruling party's candidate on a Lok Sabha seat held last by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. "This is a great win for our party. We have defeated all national parties in this by-poll. My priority will be to raise the issue of the poor economic condition of Sangrur, including the condition of farmers under debt. We will work with the Punjab government," said winning candidate Mann. Tripura Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manik Saha won the assembly poll from the Town Bardowali constituency by a margin of 6,104 votes, the Election Commission said. BJP has bagged victory on three out of four seats in the Tripura by-polls while Congress won one seat. Congress candidate Sudip Roy Barman won from Agartala seat by 3,163 votes. The BJP won Town Bordowali, Jubarajnagar and Surma seats respectively. The by-polls in Tripura were crucial for Manik Saha who replaced Biplab Kumar Deb last month. In Jharkhand, the BJP's Gangotri Kujur is leading by 112 votes while the Congress is trailing in the second position. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India by-poll election updates: BJP wins SP’s bastion Rampur, and more

The Sri Lankan government has extended a two-week closure of non-essential state institutions until further notice in order to save fuel, maintaining only a skeleton staff to provide minimum services. The cash-strapped country on Sunday announced sending ministers to Russia and Qatar to try and secure cheap oil a day after the government said it had all but run out of fuel, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said two ministers will travel to Russia on Monday to discuss getting more oil following last month's purchase of 90,000 tonnes of Siberian crude. The shipment was arranged through Coral Energy, a Dubai-based intermediary, but politicians have been urging the authorities to negotiate directly with President Vladimir Putin's government.

"Two ministers are going to Russia and I will go to Qatar tomorrow to see if we can arrange concessionary terms," Wijesekera told reporters in Colombo.

Wijesekera had announced on Saturday that Sri Lanka was virtually out of petrol and diesel after several scheduled shipments were delayed indefinitely due to "banking" reasons. Fuel reserves were sufficient to meet less than two days' demand and it was being reserved for essential services, Wijesekera said while apologising for the situation.

The state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation on Sunday hiked the price for diesel by 15 per cent to 460 rupees ($1.27) a litre and petrol by 22 per cent to 550 rupees. Since the beginning of the year, diesel prices have gone up nearly four-fold and gasoline has almost tripled.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/diamond-city-of-india-loses-its-sheen-as-ukraine-war-disrupts-supply-chains-491987">‘Diamond city’ of India loses its sheen, as Ukraine war disrupts supply chains</a>

Wijesekera said there would be an indefinite delay in getting new shipments of oil and urged motorists not to queue up until he introduces a token system to a limited number of vehicles daily. Unable to repay its $51 billion foreign debt, the government declared it was defaulting in April and is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a possible bailout.

Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka said, "Our economy has faced a complete collapse. We are now facing a far more serious situation beyond the mere shortages of fuel, gas, electricity and food." Sri Lanka's official inflation at the end of May was 45.3 per cent, according to official data, but private economists have placed it at 128 per cent, the second-highest in the world after Zimbabwe.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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The Sri Lankan government has extended a two-week closure of non-essential state institutions until further notice in order to save fuel, maintaining only a skeleton staff to provide minimum services.

The Sri Lankan government has extended a two-week closure of non-essential state institutions until further notice in order to save fuel, maintaining only a skeleton staff to provide minimum services. The cash-strapped country on Sunday announced sending ministers to Russia and Qatar to try and secure cheap oil a day after the government said it had all but run out of fuel, as reported by AFP. Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said two ministers will travel to Russia on Monday to discuss getting more oil following last month's purchase of 90,000 tonnes of Siberian crude. The shipment was arranged through Coral Energy, a Dubai-based intermediary, but politicians have been urging the authorities to negotiate directly with President Vladimir Putin's government. "Two ministers are going to Russia and I will go to Qatar tomorrow to see if we can arrange concessionary terms," Wijesekera told reporters in Colombo. Wijesekera had announced on Saturday that Sri Lanka was virtually out of petrol and diesel after several scheduled shipments were delayed indefinitely due to "banking" reasons. Fuel reserves were sufficient to meet less than two days' demand and it was being reserved for essential services, Wijesekera said while apologising for the situation. The state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation on Sunday hiked the price for diesel by 15 per cent to 460 rupees ($1.27) a litre and petrol by 22 per cent to 550 rupees. Since the beginning of the year, diesel prices have gone up nearly four-fold and gasoline has almost tripled. Also Read: ‘Diamond city’ of India loses its sheen, as Ukraine war disrupts supply chains Wijesekera said there would be an indefinite delay in getting new shipments of oil and urged motorists not to queue up until he introduces a token system to a limited number of vehicles daily. Unable to repay its $51 billion foreign debt, the government declared it was defaulting in April and is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a possible bailout. Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka said, "Our economy has faced a complete collapse. We are now facing a far more serious situation beyond the mere shortages of fuel, gas, electricity and food." Sri Lanka's official inflation at the end of May was 45.3 per cent, according to official data, but private economists have placed it at 128 per cent, the second-highest in the world after Zimbabwe. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on lookout for discounted Russian oil

The Gujarat Diamond Workers' Union has asked Gujarat's chief minister for a 10-billion-rupee ($128-million) relief package for workers who have lost their jobs as diamond supply chains have been disrupted due to the Russia-Ukraine war.

As reported by AFP, Union vice-president Bhavesh Tank said, "If the situation does not improve in the coming days, our workers will be compelled to commit suicide. Surat has given the world so much. Surat has scrubbed diamonds for the entire world but our diamond workers are now getting scrubbed."

"We can only pray to God that the war will end. If the war does not end, we don't know how bad things will get," he added.

Originally founded as a port city at the mouth of the Tapi river, Surat earned a reputation as the "Diamond City of India" in the 1960s and '70s. Some 90 per cent of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in the bustling industrial city and elsewhere in the western state of Gujarat.

Traders in Surat's crowded Mahidharpura market openly trade diamonds worth millions of dollars on the streets each day, carrying the precious gems loose in paper wrappings.

"If it doesn't go through Surat, a diamond is not a diamond," said Chirag Patel, CEO of Chirag Gems.

Also Read:&nbsp;Illegal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/illegal-afghan-migrants-deported-to-afghanistan-by-turkey-491967">Afghan migrants deported to Afghanistan by Turkey</a>

Russian mining giants like Alrosa traditionally accounted for over a third of India's rough diamonds, but supply has all but stopped because of Western sanctions.

For Chirag Gems, Russia was even more important, accounting for half the 900 "roughs" that his firm turns into dazzling gems that sell anywhere from $150 to $150,000.

"We are not getting goods from Russia because the payments system is stuck due to the war," Patel, 32, told AFP, saying he is trying to bridge the gap with supplies from South Africa and Ghana.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The Gujarat Diamond Workers' Union has asked Gujarat's chief minister for a 10-billion-rupee ($128-million) relief package for workers who have lost their jobs as diamond supply chains have been disrupted due to the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Gujarat Diamond Workers' Union has asked Gujarat's chief minister for a 10-billion-rupee ($128-million) relief package for workers who have lost their jobs as diamond supply chains have been disrupted due to the Russia-Ukraine war. As reported by AFP, Union vice-president Bhavesh Tank said, "If the situation does not improve in the coming days, our workers will be compelled to commit suicide. Surat has given the world so much. Surat has scrubbed diamonds for the entire world but our diamond workers are now getting scrubbed." "We can only pray to God that the war will end. If the war does not end, we don't know how bad things will get," he added. Originally founded as a port city at the mouth of the Tapi river, Surat earned a reputation as the "Diamond City of India" in the 1960s and '70s. Some 90 per cent of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in the bustling industrial city and elsewhere in the western state of Gujarat. Traders in Surat's crowded Mahidharpura market openly trade diamonds worth millions of dollars on the streets each day, carrying the precious gems loose in paper wrappings. "If it doesn't go through Surat, a diamond is not a diamond," said Chirag Patel, CEO of Chirag Gems. Also Read: Illegal Afghan migrants deported to Afghanistan by Turkey Russian mining giants like Alrosa traditionally accounted for over a third of India's rough diamonds, but supply has all but stopped because of Western sanctions. For Chirag Gems, Russia was even more important, accounting for half the 900 "roughs" that his firm turns into dazzling gems that sell anywhere from $150 to $150,000. "We are not getting goods from Russia because the payments system is stuck due to the war," Patel, 32, told AFP, saying he is trying to bridge the gap with supplies from South Africa and Ghana. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Diamond city’ of India loses its sheen, as Ukraine war disrupts supply chains

Afghan refugees who crossed borders to escape Taliban atrocities and sought shelter in Turkey were deported back to Afghanistan on Friday under stringent measures. &nbsp;A total of 136 undocumented Afghan migrants were sent back to Afghanistan on charter planes, Khama Press reported, citing local media.

Turkey's northwest city named Kocaeli received 272 illegal migrants from Afghanistan on Friday under unlawful means, of whom 136 were sent back to their country of origin right away, local media added.

According to the state-run Anadolu Agency, more than 37,000 undocumented refugees have been deported back to their home countries since the start of this year, a rise of 89 per cent from the previous year. However, International refugee law clearly states that it is unlawful to deport asylum applicants without first hearing and deciding their case.

Citing sources, Khama Press reported that more than 20,000 of those who were deported came from Afghanistan and were flown back to the war-ravaged country. Turkey is home to 4 million refugees, including 3.6 million Syrians, according to official statistics.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-parliament-voiced-support-for-bill-enshrining-right-to-abortion-in-constitution-491809">French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution</a>

Since the Taliban took over in mid-August last year, Afghanistan has not only seen a mass exodus but also the illegal crossings of Afghans into neighbouring countries like Iran via Nimroz province and Turkey. More than 653,000 Afghan refugees have returned or been deported to Afghanistan mainly from neighbouring countries since August 2021, according to official figures from the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation.

Although the fighting in the country has ended, Afghanistan's situation has been deteriorating as serious human rights violations continue unabated. Earlier, UNHCR has asked the European Union to accept 42,500 Afghans over five years but the request was resisted by the countries.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Afghan refugees who crossed borders to escape Taliban atrocities and sought shelter in Turkey were deported back to Afghanistan on Friday under stringent measures.

Afghan refugees who crossed borders to escape Taliban atrocities and sought shelter in Turkey were deported back to Afghanistan on Friday under stringent measures. A total of 136 undocumented Afghan migrants were sent back to Afghanistan on charter planes, Khama Press reported, citing local media. Turkey's northwest city named Kocaeli received 272 illegal migrants from Afghanistan on Friday under unlawful means, of whom 136 were sent back to their country of origin right away, local media added. According to the state-run Anadolu Agency, more than 37,000 undocumented refugees have been deported back to their home countries since the start of this year, a rise of 89 per cent from the previous year. However, International refugee law clearly states that it is unlawful to deport asylum applicants without first hearing and deciding their case. Citing sources, Khama Press reported that more than 20,000 of those who were deported came from Afghanistan and were flown back to the war-ravaged country. Turkey is home to 4 million refugees, including 3.6 million Syrians, according to official statistics. Also Read: French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution Since the Taliban took over in mid-August last year, Afghanistan has not only seen a mass exodus but also the illegal crossings of Afghans into neighbouring countries like Iran via Nimroz province and Turkey. More than 653,000 Afghan refugees have returned or been deported to Afghanistan mainly from neighbouring countries since August 2021, according to official figures from the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation. Although the fighting in the country has ended, Afghanistan's situation has been deteriorating as serious human rights violations continue unabated. Earlier, UNHCR has asked the European Union to accept 42,500 Afghans over five years but the request was resisted by the countries. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Illegal Afghan migrants deported to Afghanistan by Turkey

Three people were wounded and one person was arrested following a shooting Saturday at an automotive interior products warehouse in suburban Chicago, as reported by AP.

Bolingbrook police responded about 6:25 a.m. to reports of the shooting at the WeatherTech facility, Capt. Anthony Columbus told WLS-TV.

In a statement, the Bolingbrook Police Department said one person died, another victim is in critical condition, and the third person wounded has been released from an area hospital.&nbsp;

Officials confirmed the shootings and the number of people injured but did not release information on their conditions or the extent of their wounds, according to WGN-TV.

The suspected shooter fled the building, but was found about 9:25 a.m. and taken into custody, police said.

According to CBS Chicago, Illinois senator Eric Mattson issued a statement saying, "My heart goes out to the victims and their families, and I pray that the three people who've been shot will recover. While much remains to be learned about the perpetrator, what's clear is that this individual should not have had a gun because they were not mentally fit to be a responsible gun owner.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-talks-with-united-states-to-resume-soon-says-eus-foreign-policy-chief-491767">Iran-US nuclear talks to resume soon, says EU’s foreign policy chief</a>

"We need real gun reform, and we need it now. Without taking action, we continue to put people and first responders at risk of devastation and tragedy," he added.

President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law the first significant federal bill on gun safety in decades, saying that while it falls short of what's really needed it will "save lives."

"While this bill doesn't do everything I want, it does include actions I've long called for that are going to save lives," he said at the White House before leaving for two major diplomatic summits in Europe, as reported by AFP.

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Three people were wounded and one person was arrested following a shooting Saturday at an automotive interior products warehouse in suburban Chicago, as reported by AP.

Three people were wounded and one person was arrested following a shooting Saturday at an automotive interior products warehouse in suburban Chicago, as reported by AP. Bolingbrook police responded about 6:25 a.m. to reports of the shooting at the WeatherTech facility, Capt. Anthony Columbus told WLS-TV. In a statement, the Bolingbrook Police Department said one person died, another victim is in critical condition, and the third person wounded has been released from an area hospital. Officials confirmed the shootings and the number of people injured but did not release information on their conditions or the extent of their wounds, according to WGN-TV. The suspected shooter fled the building, but was found about 9:25 a.m. and taken into custody, police said. According to CBS Chicago, Illinois senator Eric Mattson issued a statement saying, "My heart goes out to the victims and their families, and I pray that the three people who've been shot will recover. While much remains to be learned about the perpetrator, what's clear is that this individual should not have had a gun because they were not mentally fit to be a responsible gun owner. Also Read: Iran-US nuclear talks to resume soon, says EU’s foreign policy chief "We need real gun reform, and we need it now. Without taking action, we continue to put people and first responders at risk of devastation and tragedy," he added. President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law the first significant federal bill on gun safety in decades, saying that while it falls short of what's really needed it will "save lives." "While this bill doesn't do everything I want, it does include actions I've long called for that are going to save lives," he said at the White House before leaving for two major diplomatic summits in Europe, as reported by AFP. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US gun terror: One dead in Chicago warehouse shooting

Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP.

On Monday Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises released a statement saying the vessel had capsized on Sunday near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea after it "encountered adverse conditions" and began to take on water.

"The water depth at the scene is over 1,000 metres, making it extremely difficult to carry out salvage works," it added.

On Thursday night, Hong Kong's Marine Department put out a statement saying it had only learnt of the incident from media reports and had immediately requested a report from the company.

The department said the report was delivered on Thursday, saying the restaurant had capsized but that "at present, both Jumbo and the tugboat are still in the waters off Xisha islands," using the Chinese name for the Paracels.

Hours later an AFP journalist was contacted by a spokesman representing the restaurant who said the company had always used the word "capsized" not "sank".

Asked directly if the boat had sunk, he said again the statement had said "capsized", and did not explain why it had referred to the depth of the water when mentioning salvage.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-parliament-voiced-support-for-bill-enshrining-right-to-abortion-in-constitution-491809">&nbsp;French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution</a>

The South China Morning Post reported a similar conversation with a spokeswoman for the company, in which they insisted the boat had "capsized", not "sank", but refused to clarify whether it was still afloat.

The newspaper said it had been told by the Marine Department that the company might have breached local regulations if it had not notified the authorities of a sinking incident within 24 hours.

Widespread reporting in both local and international media at the beginning of the week that Jumbo had sunk was not contradicted by the company.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP.

Mystery over whether the financially struggling tourist attraction, Hong Kong's Jumbo Floating Restaurant, had actually sunk while being towed away from the city last week deepened on Friday after its owner stirred confusion, as reported y AFP. On Monday Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises released a statement saying the vessel had capsized on Sunday near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea after it "encountered adverse conditions" and began to take on water. "The water depth at the scene is over 1,000 metres, making it extremely difficult to carry out salvage works," it added. On Thursday night, Hong Kong's Marine Department put out a statement saying it had only learnt of the incident from media reports and had immediately requested a report from the company. The department said the report was delivered on Thursday, saying the restaurant had capsized but that "at present, both Jumbo and the tugboat are still in the waters off Xisha islands," using the Chinese name for the Paracels. Hours later an AFP journalist was contacted by a spokesman representing the restaurant who said the company had always used the word "capsized" not "sank". Asked directly if the boat had sunk, he said again the statement had said "capsized", and did not explain why it had referred to the depth of the water when mentioning salvage. Also Read: French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution The South China Morning Post reported a similar conversation with a spokeswoman for the company, in which they insisted the boat had "capsized", not "sank", but refused to clarify whether it was still afloat. The newspaper said it had been told by the Marine Department that the company might have breached local regulations if it had not notified the authorities of a sinking incident within 24 hours. Widespread reporting in both local and international media at the beginning of the week that Jumbo had sunk was not contradicted by the company. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sinking of Hong Kong's jumbo floating restaurant engulfed in mystery

Amid the United States supreme court judgement banning the right to abortion, politicians representing a parliamentary majority on Saturday voiced support for a bill enshrining abortion rights in France's constitution, as reported by AFP.

The landmark ruling by the conservative-majority court on Friday overturned almost five decades of constitutional protections for abortion in the United States, allowing individual states to regulate the procedure.

The American religious right had never accepted the previous 1973 "Roe v. Wade" ruling that guaranteed US abortion rights and several conservative states immediately announced they would ban abortion. France was one of several US allies to condemn the decision, with President Emmanuel Macron denouncing a threat to women's freedom.

The leader of Macron's party in parliament on Saturday said she had tabled a bill to "enshrine the respect for abortion in our constitution" amid the rise of the far-right National Rally, a party she described as "fierce opponents" of abortion. "Women's rights are always fragile rights that are regularly threatened," Aurore Berge told the France Inter radio station.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-pushes-g7-to-backtrack-on-fossil-fuel-finance-rule-may-affect-climate-targets-491791">Germany pushes G7 to backtrack on fossil fuel finance rule, may affect climate targets</a>

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said the government would support the bill "wholeheartedly", echoing the support expressed by other ministers. "For all women, for human rights, we must set this gain in stone. Parliament must be able to unite overwhelmingly over this text," she wrote on Twitter.

Leading politicians from left-wing parties welcomed the government's "U-turn" in a statement and invited like-minded parliamentary groups to submit a joint text.

The left-wing NUPES alliance and Macron's Ensemble coalition would together command a large majority in favour of such a constitutional change. Changing the constitution requires the National Assembly and Senate to adopt the same text, then a three-fifths majority of parliament sitting in congress. The other option is a referendum.

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Amid the United States supreme court judgement banning the right to abortion, politicians representing a parliamentary majority on Saturday voiced support for a bill enshrining abortion rights in France's constitution, as reported by AFP.

Amid the United States supreme court judgement banning the right to abortion, politicians representing a parliamentary majority on Saturday voiced support for a bill enshrining abortion rights in France's constitution, as reported by AFP. The landmark ruling by the conservative-majority court on Friday overturned almost five decades of constitutional protections for abortion in the United States, allowing individual states to regulate the procedure. The American religious right had never accepted the previous 1973 "Roe v. Wade" ruling that guaranteed US abortion rights and several conservative states immediately announced they would ban abortion. France was one of several US allies to condemn the decision, with President Emmanuel Macron denouncing a threat to women's freedom. The leader of Macron's party in parliament on Saturday said she had tabled a bill to "enshrine the respect for abortion in our constitution" amid the rise of the far-right National Rally, a party she described as "fierce opponents" of abortion. "Women's rights are always fragile rights that are regularly threatened," Aurore Berge told the France Inter radio station. Also Read: Germany pushes G7 to backtrack on fossil fuel finance rule, may affect climate targets Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said the government would support the bill "wholeheartedly", echoing the support expressed by other ministers. "For all women, for human rights, we must set this gain in stone. Parliament must be able to unite overwhelmingly over this text," she wrote on Twitter. Leading politicians from left-wing parties welcomed the government's "U-turn" in a statement and invited like-minded parliamentary groups to submit a joint text. The left-wing NUPES alliance and Macron's Ensemble coalition would together command a large majority in favour of such a constitutional change. Changing the constitution requires the National Assembly and Senate to adopt the same text, then a three-fifths majority of parliament sitting in congress. The other option is a referendum. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French parliament voiced support for bill enshrining right to abortion in constitution

In a major reversal on tackling climate change, Germany is pushing for Group of Seven nations to walk back a commitment that would halt the financing of overseas fossil fuel projects by the end of the year, as energy supplies dwindle due to Russia Ukraine war, as reported by Bloomberg.&nbsp;

On Friday, speaking during a press conference in Brussels, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said Italy has managed to reduce Russian gas imports from 40 per cent last year to 25 per cent at the moment. This has been possible also by signing new gas deals in countries including Congo, Algeria and Angola.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Habeck raised the alert level under Germany's emergency gas plan after supplies of gas from Russia were slashed, bringing Europe's economy one step closer to rationing.&nbsp;

Russian energy giant Gazprom last week reduced deliveries via the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany by 60 per cent, attributing the move to a delayed repair. Germany has dismissed the gas company's technical justification, seeing a "political" motive behind the decision: retaliation for the West's support for Ukraine following Moscow's invasion.

Germany has responded to the cuts by reviving coal plants and providing financing to secure gas supplies. The World Nuclear Association, an industry lobby group, is urging the G7 to boost access to nuclear technologies.

G7 ministers, in making their commitment to end direct international financing of fossil fuels by the end of 2022, acknowledged for the first time that fossil fuel subsidies were incompatible with the Paris Agreement. The group also reaffirmed a commitment to end “inefficient fossil fuel subsidies” by 2025.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-netizens-compare-potholes-on-bihar-national-highway-to-takeshis-castle-491689">&nbsp;Watch: Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle</a>

The ministers acknowledged, however, that investment in the LNG sector was a necessary response to the current crisis “in a manner consistent with our climate objectives and without creating lock-in effects.

As reported by Bloomberg, Alden Meyer, a senior associate at climate change think tank E3G said, “This would be a huge setback from the progress we made last month at the G7 energy and environment ministers when we finally brought Japan, the last G7 holdout, into the commitment to end such financial support for fossil fuels.”

“Where we saw Chancellor Merkel being the climate chancellor at the last G7 summit Germany hosted, Scholz could go down in history as the climate backtracking Chancellor, which I think would be a real mark on his record, and we don’t need to do this,” he added.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In a major reversal on tackling climate change, Germany is pushing for Group of Seven nations to walk back a commitment that would halt the financing of overseas fossil fuel projects by the end of the year, as energy supplies dwindle due to Russia Ukraine war, as reported by Bloomberg.

In a major reversal on tackling climate change, Germany is pushing for Group of Seven nations to walk back a commitment that would halt the financing of overseas fossil fuel projects by the end of the year, as energy supplies dwindle due to Russia Ukraine war, as reported by Bloomberg. On Friday, speaking during a press conference in Brussels, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said Italy has managed to reduce Russian gas imports from 40 per cent last year to 25 per cent at the moment. This has been possible also by signing new gas deals in countries including Congo, Algeria and Angola. On Thursday, Habeck raised the alert level under Germany's emergency gas plan after supplies of gas from Russia were slashed, bringing Europe's economy one step closer to rationing. Russian energy giant Gazprom last week reduced deliveries via the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany by 60 per cent, attributing the move to a delayed repair. Germany has dismissed the gas company's technical justification, seeing a "political" motive behind the decision: retaliation for the West's support for Ukraine following Moscow's invasion. Germany has responded to the cuts by reviving coal plants and providing financing to secure gas supplies. The World Nuclear Association, an industry lobby group, is urging the G7 to boost access to nuclear technologies. G7 ministers, in making their commitment to end direct international financing of fossil fuels by the end of 2022, acknowledged for the first time that fossil fuel subsidies were incompatible with the Paris Agreement. The group also reaffirmed a commitment to end “inefficient fossil fuel subsidies” by 2025. Also Read: Watch: Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle The ministers acknowledged, however, that investment in the LNG sector was a necessary response to the current crisis “in a manner consistent with our climate objectives and without creating lock-in effects. As reported by Bloomberg, Alden Meyer, a senior associate at climate change think tank E3G said, “This would be a huge setback from the progress we made last month at the G7 energy and environment ministers when we finally brought Japan, the last G7 holdout, into the commitment to end such financial support for fossil fuels.” “Where we saw Chancellor Merkel being the climate chancellor at the last G7 summit Germany hosted, Scholz could go down in history as the climate backtracking Chancellor, which I think would be a real mark on his record, and we don’t need to do this,” he added. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany pushes G7 to backtrack on fossil fuel finance rule, may affect climate targets

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