Taliban, coronavirus, crippling economy, floods, rising unemplyment and limited resources: Afghanistan has been one of the worst-hit countries this year.

As the pandemic and the floods hit the country, locals lost their paid and season jobs, and had to turn to the next best solution. Sadly, the next best solution for majority locals was heading towards the poppy fields.

Afghanistan is one of the highest producer of opium as it produces nearly 80 per cent of the global supply and also provides thousands of jobs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kill-four-survivors-of-afghanistan-flash-floods-323487">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban kill four survivors of Afghanistan flash floods</a>

When coronavirus hit the country, lots of locals lost their jobs to the pandemic. So, majority of them turned towards the poppy fields to provide for their families.

"Because of the coronavirus I lost my job. I have a family of 12 members, I am the breadwinner," said Fazily, 42, a mechanic in the central province of Uruzgan who, like many Afghans, goes by one name.

"I have no other way but to work in poppy fields to make some money."

The poppy fields are usually taken care of by seasonal labourers in spring and summer. However, the pandemic scared a lot of them and the labourers were hesitant to participate this season. This caused a shortage of workers too, especially as the borders with Pakistan, too, are now closed.

The lack of seasonal labourers and lack of jobs helped the farmers and the unemployed meet each other halfway.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/landmine-blast-kills-13-in-southern-afghanistan-323677">Also read: Landmine blast kills 13 in southern Afghanistan</a>

Sadly, it is not just the unemployed labourers laid off from work who are attending to the crops. Students, too, have started working at the field to earn some quick cash in their unexpected free time.

Since the pandemic began, schools in Afghanistan have been closed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. This has led to children going out with their parents to earn extra money, instead of opting for home-schooling — which is a vague concept in the country.

"Our school is closed and I have enough time to go work in a poppy field and make some money," said Nazir Ahmad, an 18-year-old student in Kandahar.

"About 20 of my classmates are also working here."

While it has been portrayed that poppy cultivation is not encouraged and is, in some ways, illegal — especially when children are involved — the poppy cultivation has increased this year due to the lockdown. The reality underneath is that Taliban, and to some extent the local government, do encourage poppy cultivation as the Taliban profits from&nbsp;taxing farmers and traffickers, and running its own drug-making factories that turn raw opium into morphine or heroin for export, with drugs then trafficked through neighbouring Pakistan and Iran.

With the economy slowly reopening, there is still some hope for children to head back to schools. However,&nbsp;till now more than 38,000 cases of coronavirus have been declared in Afghanistan and more than 1,400 deaths, and the government believes that a third of the population has likely contracted the disease.

Taliban, coronavirus, crippling economy, floods, rising unemplyment and limited resources: Afghanistan has been one of the worst-hit countries this year. As the pandemic and the floods hit the country, locals lost their paid and season jobs, and had to turn to the next best solution.

Taliban, coronavirus, crippling economy, floods, rising unemplyment and limited resources: Afghanistan has been one of the worst-hit countries this year. As the pandemic and the floods hit the country, locals lost their paid and season jobs, and had to turn to the next best solution. Sadly, the next best solution for majority locals was heading towards the poppy fields. Afghanistan is one of the highest producer of opium as it produces nearly 80 per cent of the global supply and also provides thousands of jobs. Also read: Taliban kill four survivors of Afghanistan flash floods When coronavirus hit the country, lots of locals lost their jobs to the pandemic. So, majority of them turned towards the poppy fields to provide for their families. "Because of the coronavirus I lost my job. I have a family of 12 members, I am the breadwinner," said Fazily, 42, a mechanic in the central province of Uruzgan who, like many Afghans, goes by one name. "I have no other way but to work in poppy fields to make some money." The poppy fields are usually taken care of by seasonal labourers in spring and summer. However, the pandemic scared a lot of them and the labourers were hesitant to participate this season. This caused a shortage of workers too, especially as the borders with Pakistan, too, are now closed. The lack of seasonal labourers and lack of jobs helped the farmers and the unemployed meet each other halfway. Also read: Landmine blast kills 13 in southern Afghanistan Sadly, it is not just the unemployed labourers laid off from work who are attending to the crops. Students, too, have started working at the field to earn some quick cash in their unexpected free time. Since the pandemic began, schools in Afghanistan have been closed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. This has led to children going out with their parents to earn extra money, instead of opting for home-schooling — which is a vague concept in the country. "Our school is closed and I have enough time to go work in a poppy field and make some money," said Nazir Ahmad, an 18-year-old student in Kandahar. "About 20 of my classmates are also working here." While it has been portrayed that poppy cultivation is not encouraged and is, in some ways, illegal — especially when children are involved — the poppy cultivation has increased this year due to the lockdown. The reality underneath is that Taliban, and to some extent the local government, do encourage poppy cultivation as the Taliban profits from taxing farmers and traffickers, and running its own drug-making factories that turn raw opium into morphine or heroin for export, with drugs then trafficked through neighbouring Pakistan and Iran. With the economy slowly reopening, there is still some hope for children to head back to schools. However, till now more than 38,000 cases of coronavirus have been declared in Afghanistan and more than 1,400 deaths, and the government believes that a third of the population has likely contracted the disease.

Afghan children and unemployed turn to opium for quick cash

On August 28, 1965, a&nbsp;group of Indian soldiers led by Major Ranjit Singh Dayal captured the strategic Haji Pir pass that Pakistan had been using to infiltrate the Kashmir valley. They called it operation Gibraltar. However, the Indian army decided to put a stop to that.

In the run-up to the 1965 India-Pakistan war,&nbsp;India registered the first win after a 37-hour battle in hostile terrain. Thirteen days later, India sealed the victory. It captured Kahuta on September 10 ending Pakistani resistance.

This operation was the Indian army's most successful military action during the entire war of 1965, but within months, India gave up the prize.

In the Tashkent agreement of 1966, India returned the Haji Pir pass to Pakistan. Later on January 10,&nbsp;1966, right after signing the Tashkent declaration with President Ayub Khan of Pakistan, India's then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri died. Had the pass been held by India, the distance from Jammu to Srinagar through Poonch and Uri would have been reduced by over 200 kms.

Once Pakistan got it back, it resumed infiltration into Jammu.

Lal Bahadur Shastri returned the Haji Pir to save Akhnoor in the bargain. Shastri bartered for Pakistan's withdrawal from the Chamb sector. Pakistan was already stationed in the sector 4, kilometeres away from Akhnoor and was all set to wrest control of the Jammu-Srinagar highway via Akhnoor.

On August 28, 1965, a group of Indian soldiers led by Major Ranjit Singh Dayal captured the strategic Haji Pir pass that Pakistan had been using to infiltrate the Kashmir valley.

On August 28, 1965, a group of Indian soldiers led by Major Ranjit Singh Dayal captured the strategic Haji Pir pass that Pakistan had been using to infiltrate the Kashmir valley. They called it operation Gibraltar. However, the Indian army decided to put a stop to that. In the run-up to the 1965 India-Pakistan war, India registered the first win after a 37-hour battle in hostile terrain. Thirteen days later, India sealed the victory. It captured Kahuta on September 10 ending Pakistani resistance. This operation was the Indian army's most successful military action during the entire war of 1965, but within months, India gave up the prize. In the Tashkent agreement of 1966, India returned the Haji Pir pass to Pakistan. Later on January 10, 1966, right after signing the Tashkent declaration with President Ayub Khan of Pakistan, India's then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri died. Had the pass been held by India, the distance from Jammu to Srinagar through Poonch and Uri would have been reduced by over 200 kms. Once Pakistan got it back, it resumed infiltration into Jammu. Lal Bahadur Shastri returned the Haji Pir to save Akhnoor in the bargain. Shastri bartered for Pakistan's withdrawal from the Chamb sector. Pakistan was already stationed in the sector 4, kilometeres away from Akhnoor and was all set to wrest control of the Jammu-Srinagar highway via Akhnoor.

Operation Gibraltar: The day when Pakistan infiltrated deep within India through Haji Pir pass

Shinzo Abe is the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan. He is the man&nbsp;who has shaped the destiny of Japan for the better part of this decade is resigning from the Prime Minister's office due to health reasons.

Shinzo Abe's term in office would have ended in September 2021, but he will not be completing it as his&nbsp;health has come in his way.

His decision ends intense speculation over his political future. In a span of one week, Abe visited the hospital twice. The visits triggered questions over his health.

WION had earlier questioned if Shinzo Abe is fit to be in office, and today&nbsp;the Japanese Prime Minister put the question and the speculation to rest. He is suffering from a relapse of ulcerative colitis. This is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes long lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract of the body.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-resigns-how-the-world-is-reacting-to-the-news-323702">Also read|&nbsp;Japan PM Abe resigns: How the world is reacting to the news</a>

"I needed to fight against the disease and be treated and I was not really in a perfect state in terms of health conditions and still I had to make important political decisions. I cannot make any mistakes in terms of important decision-making. The support of the public - I needed to respond to this with confidence. I cannot do this and I made a decision to not continue my job as the prime minister," he said.

This is a disease that Abe has lived with since he was a teenager. It is a chronic condition that led to his first resignation in 2007.

Reports say, Shinzo Abe will now receive treatment with a new and promising drug.

India's Prime Minister Modi sent his best wishes through this tweet. "Pained to hear about your ill health, my dear friend&nbsp;@AbeShinzo"

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Pained to hear about your ill health, my dear friend <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a>. In recent years, with your wise leadership and personal commitment, the India-Japan partnership has become deeper and stronger than ever before. I wish and pray for your speedy recovery. <a href="https://t.co/JjziLay2gD">pic.twitter.com/JjziLay2gD</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1299329663144132609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Abe's decision effectively means that he will exit public life. He is Japan's longest serving Prime Minister. Abe has been in office since almost eight years now as took over the office in 2012.Before Abe, Japan saw&nbsp;six Prime Ministers in six years.

In the eight years that he has been the PM, Abe has done a lot. He oversaw Japan's recovery from a devastating earthquake, a tsunami and a nuclear disaster. He introduced stimulus policies to revive the economy. These measures led to the nickname "Abenomics'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/health-or-power-what-the-world-leaders-can-learn-from-japanese-pm-shinzo-abe-323767">Also read|&nbsp;Health or power: What the world leaders can learn from Japanese PM Shinzo Abe</a>

Under Shinzo Abe, Japan made defence expenditure a priority. In 2017, he scrapped the rule that restricted defence spending to just one per cent of the GDP. Under him, Japan's defence budget has shot up by 13 per cent.

Abe's end game was, of course, to revise Japan's pacifist constitution — a&nbsp;constitution that forbids the use of force as a means to settle international disputes. It forbids Japan from maintaining its own defence forces.

Japan doesn't have an army and Abe wanted to change that. However, the plan may have to wait now.

Abe's another accomplishment is working with Donald Trump. It's quite an achievement as most world leaders have struggled on this front. However,&nbsp;Abe has kept the boat steady. As North Korea tested more missiles, Japan became a closer strategic partner of the US. Abe had his moments with President Trump, though. In 2017, Trump gave a memorable handshake which was hugely trolled.

Abe's future

Shinzo Abe will remain in office until a successor is chosen. His announcement has led to a vote in his party, the liberal democratic party.

Next Tuesday, they will decide how to hold an internal election to find Abe's replacement. After that, there will be a parliamentary vote to elect the new Prime Minister.

Some names are already doing the rounds. The first one is Taro Aso, the Finance Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister of Japan. He is a&nbsp;core member of team Abe and a political royalty. Just like Abe,&nbsp;he too is the grandson of a former Premier.

The next name on the list is Shigeru Ishiba, a former Defence Minister known for his hawkish policy stands. He had defeated abe in the first round of the party presidential election in 2012, but&nbsp;he lost the second round.

Contender number three is Fumio Kishida who served&nbsp;as the Foreign Minister under Abe from 2012 to 2017. Reports say he was less keen on revising the pacifist status of Japan's constitution.

Shinzo Abe is the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan. He is the man who has shaped the destiny of Japan for the better part of this decade is resigning from the Prime Minister's office due to health reasons.

Shinzo Abe is the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan. He is the man who has shaped the destiny of Japan for the better part of this decade is resigning from the Prime Minister's office due to health reasons. Shinzo Abe's term in office would have ended in September 2021, but he will not be completing it as his health has come in his way. His decision ends intense speculation over his political future. In a span of one week, Abe visited the hospital twice. The visits triggered questions over his health. WION had earlier questioned if Shinzo Abe is fit to be in office, and today the Japanese Prime Minister put the question and the speculation to rest. He is suffering from a relapse of ulcerative colitis. This is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes long lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract of the body. Also read| Japan PM Abe resigns: How the world is reacting to the news "I needed to fight against the disease and be treated and I was not really in a perfect state in terms of health conditions and still I had to make important political decisions. I cannot make any mistakes in terms of important decision-making. The support of the public - I needed to respond to this with confidence. I cannot do this and I made a decision to not continue my job as the prime minister," he said. This is a disease that Abe has lived with since he was a teenager. It is a chronic condition that led to his first resignation in 2007. Reports say, Shinzo Abe will now receive treatment with a new and promising drug. India's Prime Minister Modi sent his best wishes through this tweet. "Pained to hear about your ill health, my dear friend @AbeShinzo" Pained to hear about your ill health, my dear friend @AbeShinzo. In recent years, with your wise leadership and personal commitment, the India-Japan partnership has become deeper and stronger than ever before. I wish and pray for your speedy recovery. pic.twitter.com/JjziLay2gD — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2020 × Abe's decision effectively means that he will exit public life. He is Japan's longest serving Prime Minister. Abe has been in office since almost eight years now as took over the office in 2012.Before Abe, Japan saw six Prime Ministers in six years. In the eight years that he has been the PM, Abe has done a lot. He oversaw Japan's recovery from a devastating earthquake, a tsunami and a nuclear disaster. He introduced stimulus policies to revive the economy. These measures led to the nickname "Abenomics'. Also read| Health or power: What the world leaders can learn from Japanese PM Shinzo Abe Under Shinzo Abe, Japan made defence expenditure a priority. In 2017, he scrapped the rule that restricted defence spending to just one per cent of the GDP. Under him, Japan's defence budget has shot up by 13 per cent. Abe's end game was, of course, to revise Japan's pacifist constitution — a constitution that forbids the use of force as a means to settle international disputes. It forbids Japan from maintaining its own defence forces. Japan doesn't have an army and Abe wanted to change that. However, the plan may have to wait now. Abe's another accomplishment is working with Donald Trump. It's quite an achievement as most world leaders have struggled on this front. However, Abe has kept the boat steady. As North Korea tested more missiles, Japan became a closer strategic partner of the US. Abe had his moments with President Trump, though. In 2017, Trump gave a memorable handshake which was hugely trolled. Abe's future Shinzo Abe will remain in office until a successor is chosen. His announcement has led to a vote in his party, the liberal democratic party. Next Tuesday, they will decide how to hold an internal election to find Abe's replacement. After that, there will be a parliamentary vote to elect the new Prime Minister. Some names are already doing the rounds. The first one is Taro Aso, the Finance Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister of Japan. He is a core member of team Abe and a political royalty. Just like Abe, he too is the grandson of a former Premier. The next name on the list is Shigeru Ishiba, a former Defence Minister known for his hawkish policy stands. He had defeated abe in the first round of the party presidential election in 2012, but he lost the second round. Contender number three is Fumio Kishida who served as the Foreign Minister under Abe from 2012 to 2017. Reports say he was less keen on revising the pacifist status of Japan's constitution.

Shinzo Abe: A successful story of a successful leader

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive&nbsp;the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing.

The shooter, Brenton Tarrant, has been sentenced to life in prison for killing&nbsp;51 people in cold blood while live streaming&nbsp;the act on Facebook for 17 minutes.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-life-sentence-for-christchurch-gunman-listen-to-the-moving-testimonies-from-victims-323536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Christchurch shootings were beyond shocking. They showed the world how hatred and terror are amplified on social media. It was the deadliest mass shooting in the history of New Zealand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/looking-at-new-zealands-response-to-christchurch-shootings-should-us-mend-their-gun-laws-323502">Also read|&nbsp;Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws?</a>

Brenton Tarrant opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch. He entered while the Friday prayers were going on&nbsp;and opened fire on worshippers.

This week, the trial has concluded and it is safe to say that&nbsp;the four day sentencing hearing was a mere formality.

The verdict was foregone conclusion as the terrorist showed no guilt or remorse for what he had done.

He was charged with the murder of 51 people and the attempted murder of another 40 people. There was one charge of terrorism, and today he has been found guilty for all these counts.

Last year, in an admission to the police, Tarrant said he wished he had killed more people. He doctored the triggers to make his weapons fire faster and&nbsp;used a strobe light to blind his victims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-should-thank-god-on-that-day-i-didnt-catch-you-christchurch-hero-confronts-killer-in-court-323343">Also read|&nbsp;'You should thank God on that day I didn't catch you': Christchurch hero confronts killer in court</a>

Through this week, as he was being sentenced, Tarrant appeared emotionless and showed no remorse even when&nbsp;he was confronted by almost 90 victims.

In the last three days, many people came face-to-face with the man who killed their loved ones.&nbsp;The testimonies were moving and heartbreaking.

Maysoon Salama, who lost her son in the attack, faced the terrorist while holding back her tears and said,&nbsp;"I constantly try to imagine how my beloved ata felt at the moment of the attack, how he faced the shooter with his chest armed only with his courage like others. What was in his mind when he realised he is departing this life to his last journey? How is life going to be without him being around?

"May you get the severest punishment for your evil act in this life and in the hereafter, we know that allah is the most just.&nbsp;

"Ata is gone but never forgotten, he will always be the light of our lives and we will live his legacy everyday."

Justice Cameron Mander, the judge presiding over the hearings showed no mercy. and announced the first terrorism conviction in his country.

Since New Zealand does not have the death penalty as part of its justice system, Mander handed down the toughest sentence possible — a life sentence without the possibility of a parole.

"It is difficult to look beyond the wicked nature of each murder. And pain and suffering you have caused to individual victims, to their families and loved ones," Judge Mander said.

"It was brutal and beyond callous. Your actions were inhuman," he continued.

The victims and their families&nbsp;celebrated outside the court&nbsp; by raising their hands and fists, and greeting supporters with roses and signs painted with hearts.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she is relieved by the verdict.&nbsp;"Well this is, this has. This has been a crime in new zealand the likes of which have never occurred before. And now we've seen a sentence the likes of which we've seen before as well. But yes, it gave me relief, to know that that person will never see the light of day."

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing.

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing. The shooter, Brenton Tarrant, has been sentenced to life in prison for killing 51 people in cold blood while live streaming the act on Facebook for 17 minutes. The Christchurch shootings were beyond shocking. They showed the world how hatred and terror are amplified on social media. It was the deadliest mass shooting in the history of New Zealand. Also read| Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws? Brenton Tarrant opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch. He entered while the Friday prayers were going on and opened fire on worshippers. This week, the trial has concluded and it is safe to say that the four day sentencing hearing was a mere formality. The verdict was foregone conclusion as the terrorist showed no guilt or remorse for what he had done. He was charged with the murder of 51 people and the attempted murder of another 40 people. There was one charge of terrorism, and today he has been found guilty for all these counts. Last year, in an admission to the police, Tarrant said he wished he had killed more people. He doctored the triggers to make his weapons fire faster and used a strobe light to blind his victims. Also read| 'You should thank God on that day I didn't catch you': Christchurch hero confronts killer in court Through this week, as he was being sentenced, Tarrant appeared emotionless and showed no remorse even when he was confronted by almost 90 victims. In the last three days, many people came face-to-face with the man who killed their loved ones. The testimonies were moving and heartbreaking. Maysoon Salama, who lost her son in the attack, faced the terrorist while holding back her tears and said, "I constantly try to imagine how my beloved ata felt at the moment of the attack, how he faced the shooter with his chest armed only with his courage like others. What was in his mind when he realised he is departing this life to his last journey? How is life going to be without him being around? "May you get the severest punishment for your evil act in this life and in the hereafter, we know that allah is the most just. "Ata is gone but never forgotten, he will always be the light of our lives and we will live his legacy everyday." Justice Cameron Mander, the judge presiding over the hearings showed no mercy. and announced the first terrorism conviction in his country. Since New Zealand does not have the death penalty as part of its justice system, Mander handed down the toughest sentence possible — a life sentence without the possibility of a parole. "It is difficult to look beyond the wicked nature of each murder. And pain and suffering you have caused to individual victims, to their families and loved ones," Judge Mander said. "It was brutal and beyond callous. Your actions were inhuman," he continued. The victims and their families celebrated outside the court by raising their hands and fists, and greeting supporters with roses and signs painted with hearts. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she is relieved by the verdict. "Well this is, this has. This has been a crime in new zealand the likes of which have never occurred before. And now we've seen a sentence the likes of which we've seen before as well. But yes, it gave me relief, to know that that person will never see the light of day."

Justice prevails as Christchurch shooter jailed for life without parole

China's policies of expansionism and aggression seem to be backfiring. In an effort to exude power, Beijing has painted itself in a corner and is now without any allies.

China is running a multimillion dollar misinformation campaign.&nbsp;Chinese propaganda is an organised and orchestrated effort.

Some tweets by Chinese diplomats, the Chinese state and the Chinese media look genuine on first look, but all of hose are fake which were posted from fake accounts when the border standoff was at its worst point.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-psychological-warfare-against-india-on-social-media-323538/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China's four distinct methods

Number one: through fake accounts. Some of them impersonating well known news platforms.

Number two: through bots. They amplify a message.

Number three: through the state media. Pushing a well crafted narrative.

Number four: through chinese diplomats themselves.

The interesting thing is that social media platforms such as&nbsp;Twitter are banned in China. However, WION's investigation has found out&nbsp;that the Chinese government has an inventory of fake accounts and many of these are being used to spread disinformation against India.

Around 5,000 suspected fake Chinese Twitter accounts were repurposed to spread disinformation. They were tweeting about the coronavirus and the Hong Kong protests, but suddenly they switched subjects and started running disinformation on the border standoff, the situation in ladakh and on the boycott calls of Chinese products.

Out of the 5,000 suspected fake Chinese accounts, 1,500 were allegedly created in the last five months and another 1,000 in the last 12 months.

The Twitter account of&nbsp;Radio Free Asia, a US government funded broadcaster, is fake. The account has a post that shows a fake photograph of dead Indian soldiers — a picture that has been&nbsp;shared by multiple accounts. The idea behind these posts is to show how India suffered at the hands of the Chinese, but all&nbsp;of these stories are fake.

Cchinese diplomats are involved in pushing disinformation against India, and we have proof. Some tweets from a Chinese Consul General posted in Karachi show him&nbsp;accusing India of “provoking conflicts” with China after being instigated by the United States.

ANother one is Lin Jing, the Chinese Consul General in Cape Town. Once again, his tweets&nbsp;blame India for triggering the standoff in Ladakh.

These Chinese diplomats on Twitter are not only pushing the state’s message, but are also&nbsp;following fake accounts&nbsp;who publish disinformation against India.

We have found that more than 7,000 fake Twitter accounts have links to Chinese diplomats, and this&nbsp;includes Zhao Lijian too, the spokesman of the Chinese Foreign Ministry — better known as the 'wolf warrior in chief'.

There are several such fake accounts and they are being followed&nbsp;by Chinese diplomats. The network of accounts&nbsp;have been caught sharing the same fake photographs of Indian soldiers.

The 'main-man' behind this network of lies and fake accounts comes from the top. This wolf warrior brand of diplomacy and these disinformation campaigns on social media are all&nbsp;run under direct supervision of the Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Why do we say this? We will give you the answer in the second part of our investigation.

China's policies of expansionism and aggression seem to be backfiring. In an effort to exude power, Beijing has painted itself in a corner and is now without any allies.

China's policies of expansionism and aggression seem to be backfiring. In an effort to exude power, Beijing has painted itself in a corner and is now without any allies. China is running a multimillion dollar misinformation campaign. Chinese propaganda is an organised and orchestrated effort. Some tweets by Chinese diplomats, the Chinese state and the Chinese media look genuine on first look, but all of hose are fake which were posted from fake accounts when the border standoff was at its worst point. China's four distinct methods Number one: through fake accounts. Some of them impersonating well known news platforms. Number two: through bots. They amplify a message. Number three: through the state media. Pushing a well crafted narrative. Number four: through chinese diplomats themselves. The interesting thing is that social media platforms such as Twitter are banned in China. However, WION's investigation has found out that the Chinese government has an inventory of fake accounts and many of these are being used to spread disinformation against India. Around 5,000 suspected fake Chinese Twitter accounts were repurposed to spread disinformation. They were tweeting about the coronavirus and the Hong Kong protests, but suddenly they switched subjects and started running disinformation on the border standoff, the situation in ladakh and on the boycott calls of Chinese products. Out of the 5,000 suspected fake Chinese accounts, 1,500 were allegedly created in the last five months and another 1,000 in the last 12 months. The Twitter account of Radio Free Asia, a US government funded broadcaster, is fake. The account has a post that shows a fake photograph of dead Indian soldiers — a picture that has been shared by multiple accounts. The idea behind these posts is to show how India suffered at the hands of the Chinese, but all of these stories are fake. Cchinese diplomats are involved in pushing disinformation against India, and we have proof. Some tweets from a Chinese Consul General posted in Karachi show him accusing India of “provoking conflicts” with China after being instigated by the United States. ANother one is Lin Jing, the Chinese Consul General in Cape Town. Once again, his tweets blame India for triggering the standoff in Ladakh. These Chinese diplomats on Twitter are not only pushing the state’s message, but are also following fake accounts who publish disinformation against India. We have found that more than 7,000 fake Twitter accounts have links to Chinese diplomats, and this includes Zhao Lijian too, the spokesman of the Chinese Foreign Ministry — better known as the 'wolf warrior in chief'. There are several such fake accounts and they are being followed by Chinese diplomats. The network of accounts have been caught sharing the same fake photographs of Indian soldiers. The 'main-man' behind this network of lies and fake accounts comes from the top. This wolf warrior brand of diplomacy and these disinformation campaigns on social media are all run under direct supervision of the Chinese President Xi Jinping. Why do we say this? We will give you the answer in the second part of our investigation.

EXCLUSIVE | WION investigates China's network of fake Twitter accounts

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan.

However, now, the Pakistan media has reported that several Chinese banks and financial institutions do not want to fund the China-Pakistan economic corridor anymore.

Reports say&nbsp;they are not happy with the “current state of affairs“. Chinese banks and institutions are showing no or limited interest in financing the much-criticised CPEC.

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Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is said to have raised this issue during his recent visit to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-setback-for-imran-khan-govt-germany-refuses-to-modernise-pakistani-submarines-323027">Also read:&nbsp;In setback for Imran Khan govt, Germany refuses to modernise Pakistani submarines</a>

China uses its banks routinely to bankroll the&nbsp;Belt and Road projects.&nbsp;

The country's biggest and most powerful banks are state-run and so money is usually not a problem for China. This raises the question of why, then,&nbsp;are Chinese financiers looking away from CPEC.

The reason behind this is simple: it’s a loss-making enterprise.

The reports about this started coming last year. The first one was published in Wall Street Journal which stated that the Chinese projects for CPEC will run up to $62 billion and&nbsp;less than half of these are in progress. That's because&nbsp;Pakistan faces massive debt and Chinese stakeholders want Islamabad to guarantee repayments.

As the facts are laid out, the fears of these Chinese lenders are legitimate. You only extend a loan to those who can repay and Pakistan is in no condition to repay.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-things-have-got-worse-in-balochistan-akbar-bugtis-grandson-appeals-for-global-support-323071">Also read:&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support</a>

In July this year, Pakistan received $1.8 billion in gross foreign loans. This is a jump of 263 per cent compared to the same month the last year.

In the last fiscal year, Pakistan received $13 billion dollars in foreign loans and a&nbsp;little more than $10 billion was utilized to repay maturing loans.

Pakistan is a country that’s surviving on loans as it borrows from one source to repay another lender. By now, any bank would have declared pakistan a non-performing asset. However, China seems to be holding on to its friendship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-taliban-leaders-to-start-peace-talks-323092">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks</a>

Now Chinese banks want nothing to do with Pakistan and it only hints towards the fact that they, too, are running short of cash.

A Bloomberg report claimed that&nbsp;China’s biggest banks will face a capital shortage of well over $900 billion&nbsp;by 2024.

China’s four largest lenders are facing a funding gap, namely&nbsp;The Industrial and Commercial bank of China, The Bank of China, The China Construction Bank, and The Agricultural Bank of China. All of these banks are important, not just for CHina but also for the global economy because if they fail, it could trigger a financial crisis.

According to a report, these four banks had a total shortage of $323 billion&nbsp;last year and&nbsp;this shortage can grow up to $940 billion by 2024.

It is not the just the lenders who are suffering. The combined earnings of more than 1,000 commercial Chinese banks has slumped&nbsp;by 24 per cent, according to one claim, and the reason is the same - bad loans.

China’s big state-owned banks are the hardest hit. Beijing has used these banks to salvage the economy and write cheques to buy heft. However, the Chinese banks and lenders can’t afford any more bad debts.

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan.

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan. However, now, the Pakistan media has reported that several Chinese banks and financial institutions do not want to fund the China-Pakistan economic corridor anymore. Reports say they are not happy with the “current state of affairs“. Chinese banks and institutions are showing no or limited interest in financing the much-criticised CPEC. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is said to have raised this issue during his recent visit to China. Also read: In setback for Imran Khan govt, Germany refuses to modernise Pakistani submarines China uses its banks routinely to bankroll the Belt and Road projects. The country's biggest and most powerful banks are state-run and so money is usually not a problem for China. This raises the question of why, then, are Chinese financiers looking away from CPEC. The reason behind this is simple: it’s a loss-making enterprise. The reports about this started coming last year. The first one was published in Wall Street Journal which stated that the Chinese projects for CPEC will run up to $62 billion and less than half of these are in progress. That's because Pakistan faces massive debt and Chinese stakeholders want Islamabad to guarantee repayments. As the facts are laid out, the fears of these Chinese lenders are legitimate. You only extend a loan to those who can repay and Pakistan is in no condition to repay. Also read: EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support In July this year, Pakistan received $1.8 billion in gross foreign loans. This is a jump of 263 per cent compared to the same month the last year. In the last fiscal year, Pakistan received $13 billion dollars in foreign loans and a little more than $10 billion was utilized to repay maturing loans. Pakistan is a country that’s surviving on loans as it borrows from one source to repay another lender. By now, any bank would have declared pakistan a non-performing asset. However, China seems to be holding on to its friendship. Also read: Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks Now Chinese banks want nothing to do with Pakistan and it only hints towards the fact that they, too, are running short of cash. A Bloomberg report claimed that China’s biggest banks will face a capital shortage of well over $900 billion by 2024. China’s four largest lenders are facing a funding gap, namely The Industrial and Commercial bank of China, The Bank of China, The China Construction Bank, and The Agricultural Bank of China. All of these banks are important, not just for CHina but also for the global economy because if they fail, it could trigger a financial crisis. According to a report, these four banks had a total shortage of $323 billion last year and this shortage can grow up to $940 billion by 2024. It is not the just the lenders who are suffering. The combined earnings of more than 1,000 commercial Chinese banks has slumped by 24 per cent, according to one claim, and the reason is the same - bad loans. China’s big state-owned banks are the hardest hit. Beijing has used these banks to salvage the economy and write cheques to buy heft. However, the Chinese banks and lenders can’t afford any more bad debts.

Chinese banks' reluctance towards CPEC hint towards their funding gap

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a&nbsp;survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders.

In this survey, it has been revealed that the Chinese citizens like India with more than 50 per cent holding a favorable impression of China. Almost 51 per cent respondents appreciate the Modi government.

Nearly 70 per cent believe the anti-China sentiment in India is excessive. More than 30 per cent feel the ties will improve, and almost nine per cent of the respondents said they see improvement in the short term, while 25 per cent feel&nbsp;things will improve in the long term.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ambassador-wins-seat-international-tribunal-for-law-on-the-sea-323276">Also read: Chinese ambassador wins seat International Tribunal for Law on the Sea</a>

Meanwhile, China’s biggest tech company Huawei is trying to woo India by running big advertisements on all leading dailies of India. Huawei claims to as committed as ever, with india, for India and&nbsp;says it has been doing business in India for 20 years now.

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The reason behind this gesture by Huawei may lie in a report published by the Financial Times earlier this week. The report claims&nbsp;that India is looking to phase out equipment from Huawei and other Chinese players.

Instead of a formal ban, India has reportedly indicated to telecom companies that they should stay away from Chinese gear.

Huawei is already facing a complete ban in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. It is also partially banned in New Zealand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-court-blocks-release-of-intelligence-documents-to-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-323085">Also read:&nbsp;Canada court blocks release of intelligence documents to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou</a>

Canada might soon join this list as a Reuters' report states that the country will soon be deciding the fate of Huawei.

But, Canada has delayed a final verdict --- the delay is long enough for huawei to get the message.

Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou is facing extradition proceedings in Canada, with the US hoping to get her custody over alleged violations of Iran sanctions.

While Canada and China are fighting a diplomatic war, Huawei is caught in the crossfire.

So, the advertisements and gestures may be Huawei's trial of saving its position and relationship with India. With Global Times recent survey, Huawei is expected to make a major PR push and they seem to be regretting the decisions of the Communist Party.

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders.

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders. In this survey, it has been revealed that the Chinese citizens like India with more than 50 per cent holding a favorable impression of China. Almost 51 per cent respondents appreciate the Modi government. Nearly 70 per cent believe the anti-China sentiment in India is excessive. More than 30 per cent feel the ties will improve, and almost nine per cent of the respondents said they see improvement in the short term, while 25 per cent feel things will improve in the long term. Also read: Chinese ambassador wins seat International Tribunal for Law on the Sea Meanwhile, China’s biggest tech company Huawei is trying to woo India by running big advertisements on all leading dailies of India. Huawei claims to as committed as ever, with india, for India and says it has been doing business in India for 20 years now. The reason behind this gesture by Huawei may lie in a report published by the Financial Times earlier this week. The report claims that India is looking to phase out equipment from Huawei and other Chinese players. Instead of a formal ban, India has reportedly indicated to telecom companies that they should stay away from Chinese gear. Huawei is already facing a complete ban in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. It is also partially banned in New Zealand. Also read: Canada court blocks release of intelligence documents to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou Canada might soon join this list as a Reuters' report states that the country will soon be deciding the fate of Huawei. But, Canada has delayed a final verdict --- the delay is long enough for huawei to get the message. Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou is facing extradition proceedings in Canada, with the US hoping to get her custody over alleged violations of Iran sanctions. While Canada and China are fighting a diplomatic war, Huawei is caught in the crossfire. So, the advertisements and gestures may be Huawei's trial of saving its position and relationship with India. With Global Times recent survey, Huawei is expected to make a major PR push and they seem to be regretting the decisions of the Communist Party.

More than 50% Chinese citizens like Modi government: Global Times

A new study looking at male and female immune responses to the new coronavirus may shed new light on why men are more likely to become seriously ill with Covid-19, researchers said Wednesday. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Since early in the pandemic it has been clear that men, particularly older men, are at a far higher risk of dying from the virus than women of a similar age, but scientists have not yet been able to pinpoint exactly why.&nbsp;

A new study published in the journal Nature noted that globally men account for about 60 percent of deaths from COVID-19 and looked at whether differences in immune responses could explain why.

"What we found was that men and women indeed develop different types of immune responses to Covid-19," said the study's lead author Akiko Iwasaki, a professor at Yale University, in a video.&nbsp;

The immunity specialist said "these differences may underlie heightened disease susceptibility in men".&nbsp;

Researchers collected nasal, saliva, and blood samples from non-infected control subjects and patients with the disease who were treated at Yale New Haven Hospital in the United States. &nbsp;

They then monitored patients to look at their immune responses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chemical-present-in-insect-spray-can-kill-coronavirus-study-323280">Also read|&nbsp;Chemical present in insect spray can kill coronavirus: Study</a>

Researchers found that women mounted a more robust immune response involving T lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that can recognize viruses and eliminate them. &nbsp;

This was the case even among older women, the study found.&nbsp;

In contrast, older men had weaker T cell activity -- the older they were, the weaker the response.&nbsp;

Overall men also produced more cytokines, which are inflammatory proteins that form another part of the body's natural immune defence.&nbsp;

However, severe cases of Covid-19 have been linked to what is known as a "cytokine storm", when the immune system goes into overdrive, which is harmful and potentially deadly.&nbsp;

Men who showed high concentrations early on were more likely to have a severe case of the disease, while those women who also showed significant cytokine levels also appeared to fare worse, the study found.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-new-strain-of-coronavirus-10-times-more-infectious-found-321114">Also read|&nbsp;Malaysia: New strain of coronavirus, 10 times more infectious found</a>

According to the authors, this could imply that men and women need different treatments.

For men, for example "we should be enhancing their T cell responses with vaccines" Iwasaki said, while women could be given treatment to dampen the cytokine response. &nbsp;

Treated differently?

But the study has limitations.

Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, with 98 patients in total.&nbsp;

The average age of the patients was also high, at around sixty years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-first-coronavirus-reinfection-case-confirmed-in-hong-kong-322896">Also read|&nbsp;World’s 'first' coronavirus reinfection case confirmed in Hong Kong</a>

Commenting on the research, Eleanor Riley, a professor at the University of Edinburgh, said some of the divergence noted in the study is "likely due to differences in age or BMI (the sex differences disappear once these other factors are taken into account)". BMI measures body fat.

She said others could have arisen "by chance".

"Importantly, although the average response may differ between men and women, the range of most of the measurements in men and women overlap significantly, meaning that many women have responses that are indistinguishable from those of many men," she added.&nbsp;

Riley said this is why treatments would be better if they were individually tailored, rather than defined solely on sex.&nbsp;

A new study looking at male and female immune responses to the new coronavirus may shed new light on why men are more likely to become seriously ill with Covid-19, researchers said Wednesday.

A new study looking at male and female immune responses to the new coronavirus may shed new light on why men are more likely to become seriously ill with Covid-19, researchers said Wednesday. Since early in the pandemic it has been clear that men, particularly older men, are at a far higher risk of dying from the virus than women of a similar age, but scientists have not yet been able to pinpoint exactly why. A new study published in the journal Nature noted that globally men account for about 60 percent of deaths from COVID-19 and looked at whether differences in immune responses could explain why. "What we found was that men and women indeed develop different types of immune responses to Covid-19," said the study's lead author Akiko Iwasaki, a professor at Yale University, in a video. The immunity specialist said "these differences may underlie heightened disease susceptibility in men". Researchers collected nasal, saliva, and blood samples from non-infected control subjects and patients with the disease who were treated at Yale New Haven Hospital in the United States. They then monitored patients to look at their immune responses. Also read| Chemical present in insect spray can kill coronavirus: Study Researchers found that women mounted a more robust immune response involving T lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that can recognize viruses and eliminate them. This was the case even among older women, the study found. In contrast, older men had weaker T cell activity -- the older they were, the weaker the response. Overall men also produced more cytokines, which are inflammatory proteins that form another part of the body's natural immune defence. However, severe cases of Covid-19 have been linked to what is known as a "cytokine storm", when the immune system goes into overdrive, which is harmful and potentially deadly. Men who showed high concentrations early on were more likely to have a severe case of the disease, while those women who also showed significant cytokine levels also appeared to fare worse, the study found. Also read| Malaysia: New strain of coronavirus, 10 times more infectious found According to the authors, this could imply that men and women need different treatments. For men, for example "we should be enhancing their T cell responses with vaccines" Iwasaki said, while women could be given treatment to dampen the cytokine response. Treated differently? But the study has limitations. Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, with 98 patients in total. The average age of the patients was also high, at around sixty years. Also read| World’s 'first' coronavirus reinfection case confirmed in Hong Kong Commenting on the research, Eleanor Riley, a professor at the University of Edinburgh, said some of the divergence noted in the study is "likely due to differences in age or BMI (the sex differences disappear once these other factors are taken into account)". BMI measures body fat. She said others could have arisen "by chance". "Importantly, although the average response may differ between men and women, the range of most of the measurements in men and women overlap significantly, meaning that many women have responses that are indistinguishable from those of many men," she added. Riley said this is why treatments would be better if they were individually tailored, rather than defined solely on sex.

Women may mount stronger COVID-19 immune response

US retail giant Walmart said Thursday it had teamed with Microsoft in a bid to buy Chinese-owned short-form video app TikTok.

The app has been at the center of a diplomatic storm between Washington and Beijing after President Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 6 giving Americans 45 days to stop doing business with its Chinese parent company ByteDance.&nbsp;

The move effectively set a deadline for a sale of TikTok to a US company.

"We are confident that a Walmart and Microsoft partnership would meet both the expectations of US TikTok users while satisfying the concerns of US government regulators," the retailer told AFP.

Walmart is likely interested in TikTok to better connect with younger shoppers who turn to the internet for lifestyle trends, according to analysts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-in-trouble-again-with-an-offensive-holocaust-trend-323437">Also read|&nbsp;TikTok in trouble again with an 'offensive' Holocaust trend</a>

Younger people are much less likely to shop at Walmart, whether online or in real-world stores, according to GlobalData Retail managing director Neil Saunders.

"A social platform like TikTok would give Walmart easy access to the very audience it wants and needs to attract," Saunders said.

Having access to the social media sensation could help Walmart's marketing campaigns while tapping into "a rich seam of data" or product development and more, according to Saunders.

Walmart teaming with US technology colossus Microsoft was "the final piece of the puzzle that ultimately cements Microsoft successfully acquiring TikTok's US operations for likely $35 billion to $40 billion," according to Wedbush analyst Dan Ives.

'High stakes poker'

"While deal negotiations will be complex with a number of technology and data privacy issues that need to be worked out before an agreement is inked, we believe ByteDance is playing a game of high stakes poker with Microsoft looking like the only true white knight around," Ives said in a note to investors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-decided-to-leave-the-company-tiktok-ceo-kevin-mayer-resigns-amid-us-government-crackdown-323355">Also read|&nbsp;'I have decided to leave the company': TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer resigns amid US government crackdown</a>

TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer said Wednesday he had quit the company as tensions soar between Washington and Beijing over the Chinese-owned video platform.

Mayer's departure was taken by some in the market as a sign that a deal to sell TikTok is imminent. Oracle is also said to be in the bidding

Mayer's resignation came just days after TikTok filed a lawsuit challenging a crackdown by the US government over claims the wildly popular social media app can be used to spy on Americans.

TikTok, which has been downloaded 175 million times in the US and more than a billion times around the world, argued in the suit that Trump's order was a misuse of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

The platform — on which users share often playful short-form videos — is not "an unusual and extraordinary threat," it said.

The platform's kaleidoscopic feeds of clips feature everything from dance routines and hair-dye tutorials to jokes about daily life and politics.&nbsp;

The company holds firm that it has never provided any US user data to the Chinese government, and Beijing has blasted Trump's crackdown as political.

US retail giant Walmart said Thursday it had teamed with Microsoft in a bid to buy Chinese-owned short-form video app TikTok. The app has been at the center of a diplomatic storm between Washington and Beijing after President Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 6 giving Americans 45 days to stop doing business with its Chinese parent company ByteDance.

US retail giant Walmart said Thursday it had teamed with Microsoft in a bid to buy Chinese-owned short-form video app TikTok. The app has been at the center of a diplomatic storm between Washington and Beijing after President Donald Trump signed an executive order on August 6 giving Americans 45 days to stop doing business with its Chinese parent company ByteDance. The move effectively set a deadline for a sale of TikTok to a US company. "We are confident that a Walmart and Microsoft partnership would meet both the expectations of US TikTok users while satisfying the concerns of US government regulators," the retailer told AFP. Walmart is likely interested in TikTok to better connect with younger shoppers who turn to the internet for lifestyle trends, according to analysts. Also read| TikTok in trouble again with an 'offensive' Holocaust trend Younger people are much less likely to shop at Walmart, whether online or in real-world stores, according to GlobalData Retail managing director Neil Saunders. "A social platform like TikTok would give Walmart easy access to the very audience it wants and needs to attract," Saunders said. Having access to the social media sensation could help Walmart's marketing campaigns while tapping into "a rich seam of data" or product development and more, according to Saunders. Walmart teaming with US technology colossus Microsoft was "the final piece of the puzzle that ultimately cements Microsoft successfully acquiring TikTok's US operations for likely $35 billion to $40 billion," according to Wedbush analyst Dan Ives. 'High stakes poker' "While deal negotiations will be complex with a number of technology and data privacy issues that need to be worked out before an agreement is inked, we believe ByteDance is playing a game of high stakes poker with Microsoft looking like the only true white knight around," Ives said in a note to investors. Also read| 'I have decided to leave the company': TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer resigns amid US government crackdown TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer said Wednesday he had quit the company as tensions soar between Washington and Beijing over the Chinese-owned video platform. Mayer's departure was taken by some in the market as a sign that a deal to sell TikTok is imminent. Oracle is also said to be in the bidding Mayer's resignation came just days after TikTok filed a lawsuit challenging a crackdown by the US government over claims the wildly popular social media app can be used to spy on Americans. TikTok, which has been downloaded 175 million times in the US and more than a billion times around the world, argued in the suit that Trump's order was a misuse of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The platform — on which users share often playful short-form videos — is not "an unusual and extraordinary threat," it said. The platform's kaleidoscopic feeds of clips feature everything from dance routines and hair-dye tutorials to jokes about daily life and politics. The company holds firm that it has never provided any US user data to the Chinese government, and Beijing has blasted Trump's crackdown as political.

Walmart says teaming with Microsoft in bid for TikTok

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders.

EU foreign ministers meeting in Berlin are discussing tensions in the area, where the two NATO members are locked in a standoff observers fear could accidentally tip into conflict.

Turkey on Thursday announced new "gunnery exercises" at the edge of its territorial waters in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean, after Greece -- joined by France, Cyprus and Italy -- staged its own war games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392#cyprus-323383">Have a look|&nbsp;Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

"We need a diplomatic solution to this conflict... The preconditions for these talks are that these manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, are stopped," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who has tried to mediate between the two countries, told reporters in Berlin.

"For sure the parties will not sit down at the table when warships are facing each other in the eastern Mediterranean."

The EU has long been angered by Turkey sending ships on exploratory missions to drill for gas in waters claimed by Cyprus and earlier this year imposed sanctions on two Turkish nationals involved in the work.

The bloc's diplomatic chief Josep Borrell will present ministers with a "range of options" for dealing with Turkey, officials say, though he has been keen to stress the importance of keeping dialogue with Ankara going.

But there is pressure from some quarters for tough action on Turkey, and while the Berlin meeting is an informal one, with no decisions to be taken, EU leaders will focus on the issue at a summit next month.

"Europe's credibility is at stake. The European Union, a union of 27 member states, must stand up for international values, for a global international order based on the values and principles of the European Union," Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said as he arrived for the talks in Berlin.

"EU solidarity must be real and substantial."

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His Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg said the eastern Mediterranean was an "ever-growing powder keg" where the number of naval vessels made incidents "almost inevitable"

"Turkey disregards all conventions... international law cannot be negotiated," he added.

Ahead of the Berlin talks, a senior EU official said Borrell wanted ministers to consider the bloc's relationship with Turkey in its entirety, stressing that whatever difficulties there might be, Ankara remained a "very important neighbour" that had to be managed.

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders.

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders. EU foreign ministers meeting in Berlin are discussing tensions in the area, where the two NATO members are locked in a standoff observers fear could accidentally tip into conflict. Turkey on Thursday announced new "gunnery exercises" at the edge of its territorial waters in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean, after Greece -- joined by France, Cyprus and Italy -- staged its own war games. Have a look| Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes "We need a diplomatic solution to this conflict... The preconditions for these talks are that these manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, are stopped," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, who has tried to mediate between the two countries, told reporters in Berlin. "For sure the parties will not sit down at the table when warships are facing each other in the eastern Mediterranean." The EU has long been angered by Turkey sending ships on exploratory missions to drill for gas in waters claimed by Cyprus and earlier this year imposed sanctions on two Turkish nationals involved in the work. The bloc's diplomatic chief Josep Borrell will present ministers with a "range of options" for dealing with Turkey, officials say, though he has been keen to stress the importance of keeping dialogue with Ankara going. But there is pressure from some quarters for tough action on Turkey, and while the Berlin meeting is an informal one, with no decisions to be taken, EU leaders will focus on the issue at a summit next month. "Europe's credibility is at stake. The European Union, a union of 27 member states, must stand up for international values, for a global international order based on the values and principles of the European Union," Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said as he arrived for the talks in Berlin. "EU solidarity must be real and substantial." × His Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg said the eastern Mediterranean was an "ever-growing powder keg" where the number of naval vessels made incidents "almost inevitable" "Turkey disregards all conventions... international law cannot be negotiated," he added. Ahead of the Berlin talks, a senior EU official said Borrell wanted ministers to consider the bloc's relationship with Turkey in its entirety, stressing that whatever difficulties there might be, Ankara remained a "very important neighbour" that had to be managed.

Mediterranean war games must stop to allow talks: Germany

Scientists have found a radiation-resistant bacteria can survive at least three years exposed in orbit, suggesting simple life forms could manage the long journey between between Earth and Mars unprotected.

The Japanese scientists behind the research said Wednesday the finding lends credence to so-called "panspermia theory", which posits that microbes can travel from one planet to another, seeding life on arrival.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-satellite-astrosat-detects-uv-light-from-galaxy-93-billion-light-years-away-from-earth-322936">Also read|&nbsp;Indian satellite AstroSat detects UV light from galaxy 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth</a>

To test the theory, the researchers deposited a bacteria called Deinococcus radiodurans outside the International Space Station at an altitude of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the Earth.

Despite enduring the harsh environment of outer space and exposure to strong UV and large temperature changes, the bacteria was still alive in parts after three years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-crew-switch-cabins-to-look-for-source-of-small-cabin-air-leak-322157">Also read|&nbsp;ISS crew switch cabins to look for source of small cabin air leak</a>

"I knew it would survive after carrying out various experiments in the lab, but when it came back alive, I was relieved," Akihiko Yamagishi, study author and emeritus professor at Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, told AFP.

The results show that the bacteria could weather a journey between Mars and Earth, and opens up intriguing possibilities, he said.

"Everyone thinks the origin of life started on Earth, but the new findings indicate that other planets could also be where life began."

Yamagishi and his team hope to carry out similar experiments outside the Van Allen radiation belt, which would expose the bacteria to even more radiation.

Scientists believe that more than three billion years ago Mars was much warmer than today and was covered in rivers and lakes, conditions which could have led to simple microbial life.

The discovery, published Wednesday in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, comes with Mars back in the headlines as three missions head for the Red Planet.

They include the Hope probe from the United Arab Emirates, the Tianwen-1 from China and Mars 2020 from the United States, all of which are taking advantage of a period when the Earth and Mars are nearer to each other than usual.

Scientists have found a radiation-resistant bacteria can survive at least three years exposed in orbit, suggesting simple life forms could manage the long journey between between Earth and Mars unprotected.

Scientists have found a radiation-resistant bacteria can survive at least three years exposed in orbit, suggesting simple life forms could manage the long journey between between Earth and Mars unprotected. The Japanese scientists behind the research said Wednesday the finding lends credence to so-called "panspermia theory", which posits that microbes can travel from one planet to another, seeding life on arrival. Also read| Indian satellite AstroSat detects UV light from galaxy 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth To test the theory, the researchers deposited a bacteria called Deinococcus radiodurans outside the International Space Station at an altitude of 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the Earth. Despite enduring the harsh environment of outer space and exposure to strong UV and large temperature changes, the bacteria was still alive in parts after three years. Also read| ISS crew switch cabins to look for source of small cabin air leak "I knew it would survive after carrying out various experiments in the lab, but when it came back alive, I was relieved," Akihiko Yamagishi, study author and emeritus professor at Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, told AFP. The results show that the bacteria could weather a journey between Mars and Earth, and opens up intriguing possibilities, he said. "Everyone thinks the origin of life started on Earth, but the new findings indicate that other planets could also be where life began." Yamagishi and his team hope to carry out similar experiments outside the Van Allen radiation belt, which would expose the bacteria to even more radiation. Scientists believe that more than three billion years ago Mars was much warmer than today and was covered in rivers and lakes, conditions which could have led to simple microbial life. The discovery, published Wednesday in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, comes with Mars back in the headlines as three missions head for the Red Planet. They include the Hope probe from the United Arab Emirates, the Tianwen-1 from China and Mars 2020 from the United States, all of which are taking advantage of a period when the Earth and Mars are nearer to each other than usual.

Bacteria can survive cosmic trip: International Space Station study

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-banks-looking-to-curtail-investments-in-cpec-due-to-instability-in-pakistan-323485">Chinese banks looking to curtail investments in CPEC due to instability in Pak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148097-cpec.jpg?itok=VrYK9jd0" />

The financial institutions and banks of China are showing reluctance in investing in the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC), the flagship component of China's massive BRI infrastructure project due to instable political climate in the Islamic republic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tsar-bomba-russia-declassifies-the-footage-of-biggest-nuclear-weapon-of-all-time-323458">'Tsar Bomba': Russia declassifies the footage of biggest nuclear weapon of all time</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/27/156823-untitled-design-7.jpg?itok=IOCXYlWN" />

"Tsar Bomba" was tested by the Soviet Union in 1961. The bomb was so powerful that people saw the flash from up to over 1000 KM away.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-hezbollah-not-behind-beirut-explosion-we-are-people-standing-against-occupation-says-spokesperson-323460">Exclusive: Hezbollah not behind Beirut explosion, we are people standing against 'occupation', says Spokesperson</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/27/156824-moussawi-final.jpg?itok=NRxmAiCE" />

WION spoke with Ibrahim Al Moussawi, Lebanese MP and Hezbollah spokesperson on situation in West Asia and the organisation's role in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vote-for-trump-to-stop-chinas-aggression-chinese-human-rights-activist-323425">Vote for Trump to stop China's ‘aggression’: Chinese Human Rights activist</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/24/156141-trump-reuters.jpg?itok=9AxhIQy_" />

The Communist Party of China is an "enemy" of humanity and is terrorising its own people, a blind Chinese human rights activist has said, urging other countries to join US President Donald Trump to stop China's "aggression".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-starts-investigating-alexei-navalnys-alleged-poisoning-323449">Russia starts investigating Alexei Navalny's alleged 'poisoning'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/36870-untitled%25252520design%25252520%2525281%252529-20171226123002.jpg?itok=69L-dIVp" />

To put an end to the rumours and the controversies, Russia's Interior Ministry is launching an investigation into the hospitalisation of the opposition leader. As of now, the investigators have not found any drugs or any other potent substances from the hotel room.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-in-trouble-again-with-an-offensive-holocaust-trend-323437">TikTok in trouble again with an 'offensive' Holocaust trend</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/27/156808-tiktoks-holocaust-trend.jpg?itok=FJIxZIqm" />

The participants of the trend are recording short videos telling their made-up stories of how they survived the Holocaust.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-dangerous-hurricane-laura-makes-landfall-in-louisiana-323367">'Extremely dangerous' Hurricane Laura makes landfall in Louisiana</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/27/156753-untitled-design-2.jpg?itok=HDN_6P9a" />

Hurricane Laura made landfall early Thursday in southwestern Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms to hit the state, with forecasters warning it could push a massive wall of water 40 miles inland from the sea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-to-nominate-replacement-of-phil-hogan-for-eu-trade-chief-role-323468">Ireland to nominate replacement of Phil Hogan for EU trade chief role</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/27/156829-phil-hogan.jpg?itok=CCq3YKjC" />

The Irish government has been asked to propose names for replacement for the position of the EU trade commissioner after Phil Hogan resigned for breaching coronavirus guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-war-games-must-stop-to-allow-talks-germany-323456">Mediterranean war games must stop to allow talks: Germany</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/14/154577-mediterranean-ship.jpg?itok=12mA_ICH" />

Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-at-risk-of-disappearing-french-foreign-minister-warns-323433">Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/19/155441-untitled-design-4.jpg?itok=zaSyVcbQ" />

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government.

Chinese banks looking to curtail investments in CPEC due to instability in Pak The financial institutions and banks of China are showing reluctance in investing in the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC), the flagship component of China's massive BRI infrastructure project due to instable political climate in the Islamic republic.

Chinese banks looking to curtail investments in CPEC due to instability in Pak The financial institutions and banks of China are showing reluctance in investing in the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC), the flagship component of China's massive BRI infrastructure project due to instable political climate in the Islamic republic. 'Tsar Bomba': Russia declassifies the footage of biggest nuclear weapon of all time "Tsar Bomba" was tested by the Soviet Union in 1961. The bomb was so powerful that people saw the flash from up to over 1000 KM away. Exclusive: Hezbollah not behind Beirut explosion, we are people standing against 'occupation', says Spokesperson WION spoke with Ibrahim Al Moussawi, Lebanese MP and Hezbollah spokesperson on situation in West Asia and the organisation's role in it. Vote for Trump to stop China's ‘aggression’: Chinese Human Rights activist The Communist Party of China is an "enemy" of humanity and is terrorising its own people, a blind Chinese human rights activist has said, urging other countries to join US President Donald Trump to stop China's "aggression". Russia starts investigating Alexei Navalny's alleged 'poisoning' To put an end to the rumours and the controversies, Russia's Interior Ministry is launching an investigation into the hospitalisation of the opposition leader. As of now, the investigators have not found any drugs or any other potent substances from the hotel room. TikTok in trouble again with an 'offensive' Holocaust trend The participants of the trend are recording short videos telling their made-up stories of how they survived the Holocaust. 'Extremely dangerous' Hurricane Laura makes landfall in Louisiana Hurricane Laura made landfall early Thursday in southwestern Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms to hit the state, with forecasters warning it could push a massive wall of water 40 miles inland from the sea. Ireland to nominate replacement of Phil Hogan for EU trade chief role The Irish government has been asked to propose names for replacement for the position of the EU trade commissioner after Phil Hogan resigned for breaching coronavirus guidelines. Mediterranean war games must stop to allow talks: Germany Germany on Thursday called for an end to naval exercises in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to allow space for talks between Greece and Turkey, at odds over gas resources and maritime borders. Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that Lebanon is at "risk of disappearing". He urged emergency reforms under a new government.

Top 10 world news today: Kremlin investigates Navalny's poisoning, Chinese banks reluctant to invest in CPEC and more

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