India recorded single-day spike of 64,399 cases and 861 deaths in the last 24 hours on Sunday morning.

The tally increased to 21,53,011 including 6,28,747 active cases, 14,80,885 cured/discharged/migrated and 43,379 deaths. The&nbsp;recovery rate now stands at 68.32 per cent.

Maharashtra recorded its highest single-day spike of 12,822 cases and 275 deaths on Saturday night, crossing the 12,000-mark. The state tally increased to&nbsp;5,03,084, including 1,47,048 active cases and 17,367 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-facility-catches-fire-in-vijayawada-7-declared-dead-30-rescued-319169">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19 facility catches fire in Vijayawada; 7 declared dead, 30 rescued</a>

Mumbai reported 1,304 cases, 1,454 recoveries and 58 deaths on Saturday morning. Total number of cases in the city is now at 1,22,331 including 95,354 recoveries, 19,932 active cases and 6,748 deaths.

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India’s total recoveries cross 14.2 lakhs as recovery rate continues to improve, stands at 68.32% today. National case-fatality rate has further dipped to 2.04%: Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare <a href="https://t.co/F7WO4c5hWI">pic.twitter.com/F7WO4c5hWI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1292077532980719617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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New Delhi recorded&nbsp;1,404 COVID-19 cases, 1,130 recoveries and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the national capital now stands at 1,44,127, including 1,29,362 recoveries, 10,667 active cases and 4,098 deaths. The state's health department conducted 5,500 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 19,092 Rapid antigen tests in the last 24 hours. So far, 11,68,295 tests have been conducted in the national capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/survivors-of-kozhikode-air-crash-yet-to-recover-from-shock-319074">Also read:&nbsp;Survivors of Kozhikode air crash yet to recover from shock</a>

Assam reported 2,218 COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours, taking total cases to 57,714 including 38,809 recoveries, 18,762 active cases and 140 deaths. The state conducted&nbsp;54,845 tests in the last 24 hours.

West Bengal recorded&nbsp;2,949 new cases, 2,064 discharged, and 51 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 92,615, including 65,124 discharged, 25,486 active cases and 2,005 deaths.

Tamil Nadu's state health department reported 5,883 new positive cases and 118 deaths. Total number of cases now at 2,90,907 including 53,481 active cases, 2,32,618 discharged cases and 4,808 deaths.

India recorded single-day spike of 64,399 cases and 861 deaths in the last 24 hours on Sunday morning. The tally increased to 21,53,011 including 6,28,747 active cases, 14,80,885 cured/discharged/migrated and 43,379 deaths.

India recorded single-day spike of 64,399 cases and 861 deaths in the last 24 hours on Sunday morning. The tally increased to 21,53,011 including 6,28,747 active cases, 14,80,885 cured/discharged/migrated and 43,379 deaths. The recovery rate now stands at 68.32 per cent. Maharashtra recorded its highest single-day spike of 12,822 cases and 275 deaths on Saturday night, crossing the 12,000-mark. The state tally increased to 5,03,084, including 1,47,048 active cases and 17,367 deaths. Also read: COVID-19 facility catches fire in Vijayawada; 7 declared dead, 30 rescued Mumbai reported 1,304 cases, 1,454 recoveries and 58 deaths on Saturday morning. Total number of cases in the city is now at 1,22,331 including 95,354 recoveries, 19,932 active cases and 6,748 deaths. India’s total recoveries cross 14.2 lakhs as recovery rate continues to improve, stands at 68.32% today. National case-fatality rate has further dipped to 2.04%: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare pic.twitter.com/F7WO4c5hWI — ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2020 × New Delhi recorded 1,404 COVID-19 cases, 1,130 recoveries and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the national capital now stands at 1,44,127, including 1,29,362 recoveries, 10,667 active cases and 4,098 deaths. The state's health department conducted 5,500 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 19,092 Rapid antigen tests in the last 24 hours. So far, 11,68,295 tests have been conducted in the national capital. Also read: Survivors of Kozhikode air crash yet to recover from shock Assam reported 2,218 COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours, taking total cases to 57,714 including 38,809 recoveries, 18,762 active cases and 140 deaths. The state conducted 54,845 tests in the last 24 hours. West Bengal recorded 2,949 new cases, 2,064 discharged, and 51 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 92,615, including 65,124 discharged, 25,486 active cases and 2,005 deaths. Tamil Nadu's state health department reported 5,883 new positive cases and 118 deaths. Total number of cases now at 2,90,907 including 53,481 active cases, 2,32,618 discharged cases and 4,808 deaths.

COVID-19: India's tally crosses 21 lakh mark with 64,399 new cases

The Spanish bishop Pedro Casaldaliga, a fervent defender of the indigenous people of the Amazon, died Saturday at the age of 92 in Brazil, where he had been living since 1968, his office said.

The Prelature of Sao Felix do Araguaia, in the central-western state of Mato Grosso, where Casaldaliga was bishop emeritus, announced in a statement that he passed away in the morning at hospital in Batatais, near Sao Paulo.

He had been in intensive care due to respiratory problems and was suffering from Parkinson's disease.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-silence-is-puzzling-as-chinese-hackers-infiltrate-vatican-316820">Also read:&nbsp;Pope Francis' silence is puzzling as Chinese hackers infiltrate Vatican</a>

"Our land, our people are losing today an example of generous living for a better world; we will miss him very much," former left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva tweeted.

Born in 1928 in Balsareny, Catalonia, and ordained a priest in 1952, he went on mission to Sao Felix do Araguaia, in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, in 1968, while the country was under a military dictatorship.

He opposed the regime, the wealthy landowning class, and even the Vatican, defending the landless and indigenous people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-bishop-believes-covid-crisis-a-sign-from-god-dies-of-coronavirus-316204">Also read:&nbsp;Brazilian Bishop believes covid-crisis a ‘sign from God’, dies of coronavirus</a>

"In this country, it is easy to be born and die, but difficult to live," the prelate told AFP in 2012, as a TV series about his life was released -- "Barefoot on Red Soil," from the book of the same name by Catalonian writer Francesc Escribano.&nbsp;

Living under the constant threat of hired killers in the pay of large landowners, he was one of the founders of the Pastoral Land Commission (CPT) and the Indigenous Missionary Council (CIMI), two key bodies in the struggle for agrarian reform.&nbsp;

In 1998, Bishop Casaldaliga was called to Rome, where he underwent a tough interrogation by the then Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who seven years later became Pope Benedict XVI.

In Spain, where news of Casaldaliga's death gained considerable media attention, government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero expressed "recognition and gratitude" for the bishop's dedication of his "life to serving the poor."

The Spanish Foreign Ministry expressed its condolences as well, noting Casaldaliga's "enormous religious, humanitarian and social work, whose tangible legacy resulted in... the creation of schools and medical assistance centers."

At the end of last month, Casaldaliga and 150 other Brazilian bishops signed an open letter criticizing the extreme right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro, castigating his "incompetence" and his "inability" to manage the coronavirus health crisis, which has caused nearly 100,000 deaths in Brazil -- including several hundred indigenous people.&nbsp;

The Spanish bishop Pedro Casaldaliga, a fervent defender of the indigenous people of the Amazon, died Saturday at the age of 92 in Brazil, where he had been living since 1968, his office said.

The Spanish bishop Pedro Casaldaliga, a fervent defender of the indigenous people of the Amazon, died Saturday at the age of 92 in Brazil, where he had been living since 1968, his office said. The Prelature of Sao Felix do Araguaia, in the central-western state of Mato Grosso, where Casaldaliga was bishop emeritus, announced in a statement that he passed away in the morning at hospital in Batatais, near Sao Paulo. He had been in intensive care due to respiratory problems and was suffering from Parkinson's disease. Also read: Pope Francis' silence is puzzling as Chinese hackers infiltrate Vatican "Our land, our people are losing today an example of generous living for a better world; we will miss him very much," former left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva tweeted. Born in 1928 in Balsareny, Catalonia, and ordained a priest in 1952, he went on mission to Sao Felix do Araguaia, in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, in 1968, while the country was under a military dictatorship. He opposed the regime, the wealthy landowning class, and even the Vatican, defending the landless and indigenous people. Also read: Brazilian Bishop believes covid-crisis a ‘sign from God’, dies of coronavirus "In this country, it is easy to be born and die, but difficult to live," the prelate told AFP in 2012, as a TV series about his life was released -- "Barefoot on Red Soil," from the book of the same name by Catalonian writer Francesc Escribano. Living under the constant threat of hired killers in the pay of large landowners, he was one of the founders of the Pastoral Land Commission (CPT) and the Indigenous Missionary Council (CIMI), two key bodies in the struggle for agrarian reform. In 1998, Bishop Casaldaliga was called to Rome, where he underwent a tough interrogation by the then Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who seven years later became Pope Benedict XVI. In Spain, where news of Casaldaliga's death gained considerable media attention, government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero expressed "recognition and gratitude" for the bishop's dedication of his "life to serving the poor." The Spanish Foreign Ministry expressed its condolences as well, noting Casaldaliga's "enormous religious, humanitarian and social work, whose tangible legacy resulted in... the creation of schools and medical assistance centers." At the end of last month, Casaldaliga and 150 other Brazilian bishops signed an open letter criticizing the extreme right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro, castigating his "incompetence" and his "inability" to manage the coronavirus health crisis, which has caused nearly 100,000 deaths in Brazil -- including several hundred indigenous people.

Bishop who defended indigenous people dies in Brazil aged 92

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that it was a matter of Ukraine's national security to stay out of US internal politics, particularly its election.

"#Ukraine did not and will not allow itself to interfere in the elections and thus harm our trusting and sincere partnership with the #USA," he wrote on Twitter late on Saturday.

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Never, under any circumstances it's acceptable to meddle in another country's sovereign elections. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> did not and will not allow itself to interfere in the elections and thus harm our trusting and sincere partnership with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1292177872317304834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Zelenskiy, 42, was a comic actor when he won a landslide election last year. But the first year of his presidency was overshadowed by Ukraine's unwitting involvement in events that led to the impeachment of Republican US President Donald Trump. Trump had unsuccessfully pressed Ukraine to launch an investigation into his Democratic rival in the 2020 presidential race, former Vice President Joe Biden.

"Never, under any circumstances, it`s acceptable to meddle in another country's sovereign elections," Zelenskiy wrote.

Zelenskiy appealed to Ukrainian politicians to avoid any actions that could be linked to US&nbsp;elections, nor allow themselves to try to solve any of their personal, political or business problems that way.

"Ukraine's reputation is worth much more than the reputation of any of our politicians," the president said.

Earlier this week, Zelenskiy told Reuters that he hoped U.S. support for Ukraine would remain strong regardless of who wins the American election.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that it was a matter of Ukraine's national security to stay out of US internal politics, particularly its election.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that it was a matter of Ukraine's national security to stay out of US internal politics, particularly its election. "#Ukraine did not and will not allow itself to interfere in the elections and thus harm our trusting and sincere partnership with the #USA," he wrote on Twitter late on Saturday. Never, under any circumstances it's acceptable to meddle in another country's sovereign elections. #Ukraine did not and will not allow itself to interfere in the elections and thus harm our trusting and sincere partnership with the #USA — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 8, 2020 × Zelenskiy, 42, was a comic actor when he won a landslide election last year. But the first year of his presidency was overshadowed by Ukraine's unwitting involvement in events that led to the impeachment of Republican US President Donald Trump. Trump had unsuccessfully pressed Ukraine to launch an investigation into his Democratic rival in the 2020 presidential race, former Vice President Joe Biden. "Never, under any circumstances, it`s acceptable to meddle in another country's sovereign elections," Zelenskiy wrote. Zelenskiy appealed to Ukrainian politicians to avoid any actions that could be linked to US elections, nor allow themselves to try to solve any of their personal, political or business problems that way. "Ukraine's reputation is worth much more than the reputation of any of our politicians," the president said. Earlier this week, Zelenskiy told Reuters that he hoped U.S. support for Ukraine would remain strong regardless of who wins the American election.

Ukraine president says Kyiv staying out of US internal politics, elections

As the UK is slowly reopening the economy and coming back to the normal day-to-day life, all schools and universities are still closed. However, recent local media reports claim schools might reopen very soon in the country.&nbsp;

A local newspaper has quoted a source who claims&nbsp;that the Prime Minister Boris Johnson is planning to reopen schools by September&nbsp; on 'urgent basis'.

"The PM stressed that the harm done to children's education by not attending school as well as to their mental health is far more damaging than the low risk posed (by the coronavirus), which schools will be carefully managing," the source said in a media report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boris-johnsons-new-obesity-strategy-316371">Also watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: Boris Johnson's new obesity strategy</a>

Boris Johnson has, reportedly, announced the reopening plans in a meeting held on Thursday. The Johnson administration wants children to return to school by first week of September, as the PM claims it is a national priority.

This news was not well received by health experts and parents who worry that the schools might pose a danger of rapid spread of the novel coronavirus.

The reports came out few days after a study claimed that the UK can expect a risk of second wave of COVID-19 in the winter season if the schools reopen with the present arrangements.

UK is not the only country going through a debate of reopening schools. The US, too, has been debating the idea of sending children back to classrooms. The US President Donald Trump had asked schools, especially public schools, to reopen by August first week, or face a rollback of funding. The decision was widely criticised by the Americans, with many schools continuing with online classes.&nbsp;

There has not been any official statement from the UK government on this matter yet.

As the UK is slowly reopening the economy and coming back to the normal day-to-day life, all schools and universities are still closed. However, recent local media reports claim schools might reopen very soon in the country.

As the UK is slowly reopening the economy and coming back to the normal day-to-day life, all schools and universities are still closed. However, recent local media reports claim schools might reopen very soon in the country. A local newspaper has quoted a source who claims that the Prime Minister Boris Johnson is planning to reopen schools by September on 'urgent basis'. "The PM stressed that the harm done to children's education by not attending school as well as to their mental health is far more damaging than the low risk posed (by the coronavirus), which schools will be carefully managing," the source said in a media report. Also watch| Gravitas: Boris Johnson's new obesity strategy Boris Johnson has, reportedly, announced the reopening plans in a meeting held on Thursday. The Johnson administration wants children to return to school by first week of September, as the PM claims it is a national priority. This news was not well received by health experts and parents who worry that the schools might pose a danger of rapid spread of the novel coronavirus. The reports came out few days after a study claimed that the UK can expect a risk of second wave of COVID-19 in the winter season if the schools reopen with the present arrangements. UK is not the only country going through a debate of reopening schools. The US, too, has been debating the idea of sending children back to classrooms. The US President Donald Trump had asked schools, especially public schools, to reopen by August first week, or face a rollback of funding. The decision was widely criticised by the Americans, with many schools continuing with online classes. There has not been any official statement from the UK government on this matter yet.

Boris Johnson to ask schools to reopen by September: Reports

August 09 in history: Richard Nixon's resignation, Singapore's independence and more

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past.

The shrine, dedicated to Japanese who have died during past wars including World War Two, is seen as a potent symbol of the controversy that persists over the conflict’s legacy in East Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/unspeakable-horror-the-tale-of-attacks-on-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-318534">Have a look|&nbsp;'Unspeakable horror': The tale of attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki</a>

“He will make a ritual offering to the shrine out of his personal expenses as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, as he has done in previous years,” sources close to the matter said, according to the report.

Since 1978, the shrine has also honoured leaders convicted as “Class A” war criminals at an allied tribunal in 1948, making it deeply controversial at home and abroad.

Abe’s last visit to the shrine, shortly after he took office in December 2013, caused outrage in China and South Korea, who see the visits as a sign that Japan has not repented for its militarist past and war atrocities.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will refrain from visiting the Yasukuni shrine for war dead on the 75th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, Jiji news agency said on Sunday, but will make an offering on the emotive day, as he has done in the past. The shrine, dedicated to Japanese who have died during past wars including World War Two, is seen as a potent symbol of the controversy that persists over the conflict’s legacy in East Asia. Have a look| 'Unspeakable horror': The tale of attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki “He will make a ritual offering to the shrine out of his personal expenses as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, as he has done in previous years,” sources close to the matter said, according to the report. Since 1978, the shrine has also honoured leaders convicted as “Class A” war criminals at an allied tribunal in 1948, making it deeply controversial at home and abroad. Abe’s last visit to the shrine, shortly after he took office in December 2013, caused outrage in China and South Korea, who see the visits as a sign that Japan has not repented for its militarist past and war atrocities.

Japan's Abe to avoid visit to war-linked shrine on 75th war anniversary: Jiji

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned. &nbsp;

During the three-day visit Health Secretary Alex Azar will meet President Tsai Ing-wen, who advocates Taiwan being recognised as a sovereign nation and is loathed by China's leaders.&nbsp;

Azar is the most senior US cabinet member to visit Taiwan in decades and his visit comes as relations between the world's two biggest economic powers plunge to historic lows.

In recent days, Trump has ordered sweeping restrictions on popular Chinese apps TikTok and WeChat and the US Treasury Department slapped sanctions on Hong Kong's leader over a tough law that curbs dissent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-begin-highest-level-taiwan-visit-in-decades-319160">Also read:&nbsp;US to begin highest level Taiwan visit in decades</a>

Washington has billed the Taiwan trip as an opportunity to learn from the island's fight against the coronavirus and to celebrate its progressive values.&nbsp;

"This trip is a recognition of Taiwan's success in combating COVID-19 and a testament to the shared beliefs that open and democratic societies are best equipped to combating disease threats like COVID-19," a health and human services department official told reporters ahead of the visit.

But Beijing balks at any recognition of self-ruled Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory and vows to one day seize, by force if necessary.

It has described Azar's visit as a threat to "peace and stability", while China's defence minister warned against Washington making any "dangerous moves".

As well as meeting Tsai, Azar will hold talks with his counterpart Chen Shih-chung and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.

He will also meet coronavirus experts and give a speech to public health students as well as alumni of a training programme with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Taiwan has become a poster child for defeating the coronavirus thanks to a well-honed track and tracing programme as well as firm border controls.&nbsp;

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Despite its proximity and economic links to China it has recorded fewer than 500 infections and seven deaths.

In contrast the US has recorded the most deaths in the world with more than 160,000 fatalities.

A cautious testing of China&nbsp; 
The rapidly deteriorating relationship between Beijing and Washington comes as Trump seeks re-election in November.&nbsp;

He is trailing in the polls to rival Joe Biden and has begun campaigning hard on an increasingly strident anti-Beijing message.

As public disapproval has grown for his handling of the epidemic, Trump has pivoted from his previous focus on striking a trade deal with China to blaming the country for the coronavirus crisis.

The two countries have clashed on a range of issues, from trade to espionage allegations and Beijing's human rights record such as the mass incarceration of Uighur Muslims and the political crackdown in Hong Kong.

Washington remains the leading arms supplier to Taiwan but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it.

Under Trump, relations with Taiwan have warmed dramatically and he has approved a number of major military sales, including F-16 fighter jets.

Douglas Paal, a former head of the American Institute in Taiwan, Washington's de facto embassy, said the Trump administration was still paying heed to China's red line -- that no US official handling national security visit Taiwan.&nbsp;

Throughout the 1990s the United States sent trade officials to Taiwan with regularity.&nbsp;

The difference this time, he said, is the context, with Azar travelling at a time when relations between Washington and Beijing have hit a new low.

"Sending him to Taiwan shows respect for the old framework while putting a finger in China's eye at the same time," Paal said.

"The fact that they didn't choose to send a national security advisor or someone else suggests they are trying to come as close as possible to China's red line but don't want to cross it."

The last cabinet minister to visit Taiwan was in 2014 when the then head of the Environmental Protection Agency led a delegation.

Taiwan has also built broad, bipartisan support in Washington.&nbsp;

Tsai has been hailed not only for her decisive coronavirus response but also, among US Democrats, for her progressive views including advocacy of gay rights, unusual for an Asian leader.

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned.

A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned. During the three-day visit Health Secretary Alex Azar will meet President Tsai Ing-wen, who advocates Taiwan being recognised as a sovereign nation and is loathed by China's leaders. Azar is the most senior US cabinet member to visit Taiwan in decades and his visit comes as relations between the world's two biggest economic powers plunge to historic lows. In recent days, Trump has ordered sweeping restrictions on popular Chinese apps TikTok and WeChat and the US Treasury Department slapped sanctions on Hong Kong's leader over a tough law that curbs dissent. Also read: US to begin highest level Taiwan visit in decades Washington has billed the Taiwan trip as an opportunity to learn from the island's fight against the coronavirus and to celebrate its progressive values. "This trip is a recognition of Taiwan's success in combating COVID-19 and a testament to the shared beliefs that open and democratic societies are best equipped to combating disease threats like COVID-19," a health and human services department official told reporters ahead of the visit. But Beijing balks at any recognition of self-ruled Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory and vows to one day seize, by force if necessary. It has described Azar's visit as a threat to "peace and stability", while China's defence minister warned against Washington making any "dangerous moves". As well as meeting Tsai, Azar will hold talks with his counterpart Chen Shih-chung and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu. He will also meet coronavirus experts and give a speech to public health students as well as alumni of a training programme with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Taiwan has become a poster child for defeating the coronavirus thanks to a well-honed track and tracing programme as well as firm border controls. × Despite its proximity and economic links to China it has recorded fewer than 500 infections and seven deaths. In contrast the US has recorded the most deaths in the world with more than 160,000 fatalities. A cautious testing of China The rapidly deteriorating relationship between Beijing and Washington comes as Trump seeks re-election in November. He is trailing in the polls to rival Joe Biden and has begun campaigning hard on an increasingly strident anti-Beijing message. As public disapproval has grown for his handling of the epidemic, Trump has pivoted from his previous focus on striking a trade deal with China to blaming the country for the coronavirus crisis. The two countries have clashed on a range of issues, from trade to espionage allegations and Beijing's human rights record such as the mass incarceration of Uighur Muslims and the political crackdown in Hong Kong. Washington remains the leading arms supplier to Taiwan but has historically been cautious in holding official contacts with it. Under Trump, relations with Taiwan have warmed dramatically and he has approved a number of major military sales, including F-16 fighter jets. Douglas Paal, a former head of the American Institute in Taiwan, Washington's de facto embassy, said the Trump administration was still paying heed to China's red line -- that no US official handling national security visit Taiwan. Throughout the 1990s the United States sent trade officials to Taiwan with regularity. The difference this time, he said, is the context, with Azar travelling at a time when relations between Washington and Beijing have hit a new low. "Sending him to Taiwan shows respect for the old framework while putting a finger in China's eye at the same time," Paal said. "The fact that they didn't choose to send a national security advisor or someone else suggests they are trying to come as close as possible to China's red line but don't want to cross it." The last cabinet minister to visit Taiwan was in 2014 when the then head of the Environmental Protection Agency led a delegation. Taiwan has also built broad, bipartisan support in Washington. Tsai has been hailed not only for her decisive coronavirus response but also, among US Democrats, for her progressive views including advocacy of gay rights, unusual for an Asian leader.

US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster.

The MV Wakashio, operated by Mitsui OSK Lines, struck the reef on Mauritius’ southeast coast on July 25. Fuel started leaking from the cracked vessel on Thursday.

“We apologise profusely and deeply for the great trouble we have caused,” Akihiko Ono, executive vice president of Mitsui OSK Lines said at a new conference in Tokyo.

He added that the company would “do everything in their power to resolve the issue”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauritius-declares-environmental-emergency-after-oil-spill-318992">Also read:&nbsp;Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill</a>

At least 1,000 tonnes of oil is estimated to have leaked from the ship onto the waters surrounding Mauritius. Some 500 tonnes of oil have been salvaged from the ship, but there are still 2,500 tonnes remaining on the ship.

Neither Mitsui OSK Lines nor Nagashiki Shipping, the ship’s owner, could confirm the cost of damages from the oil spill.

Japan will dispatch a six-person disaster relief team, on the request of the Mauritius government, to help with removing the spilt oil, according to a statement by the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Sunday.

“We hope that this assistance will contribute to recovery of the environment of Mauritius and prevention of marine pollution,” the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-exploring-avenues-to-help-mauritius-to-deal-with-oil-spill-319115">Also read:&nbsp;India exploring avenues to help Mauritius to deal with oil spill</a>

France was also sending specialist teams and equipment to Mauritius, once a French colony, to help deal with the spill.

Mauritius declared a state of “environmental emergency” on Friday following the accident.

Environmentalists fear the oil spill is the worst ecological disaster the island nation of Mauritius had seen, and would endanger its marine ecology and the pristine waters that attract tourists from around the globe.

Mauritius, famous for its pristine beaches, is popular with tourists who last year contributed 63 billion Mauritius rupees ($1.6 billion) to the economy.

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster.

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster. The MV Wakashio, operated by Mitsui OSK Lines, struck the reef on Mauritius’ southeast coast on July 25. Fuel started leaking from the cracked vessel on Thursday. “We apologise profusely and deeply for the great trouble we have caused,” Akihiko Ono, executive vice president of Mitsui OSK Lines said at a new conference in Tokyo. He added that the company would “do everything in their power to resolve the issue”. Also read: Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill At least 1,000 tonnes of oil is estimated to have leaked from the ship onto the waters surrounding Mauritius. Some 500 tonnes of oil have been salvaged from the ship, but there are still 2,500 tonnes remaining on the ship. Neither Mitsui OSK Lines nor Nagashiki Shipping, the ship’s owner, could confirm the cost of damages from the oil spill. Japan will dispatch a six-person disaster relief team, on the request of the Mauritius government, to help with removing the spilt oil, according to a statement by the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Sunday. “We hope that this assistance will contribute to recovery of the environment of Mauritius and prevention of marine pollution,” the statement said. Also read: India exploring avenues to help Mauritius to deal with oil spill France was also sending specialist teams and equipment to Mauritius, once a French colony, to help deal with the spill. Mauritius declared a state of “environmental emergency” on Friday following the accident. Environmentalists fear the oil spill is the worst ecological disaster the island nation of Mauritius had seen, and would endanger its marine ecology and the pristine waters that attract tourists from around the globe. Mauritius, famous for its pristine beaches, is popular with tourists who last year contributed 63 billion Mauritius rupees ($1.6 billion) to the economy.

Grounded Mauritius ship operator apologises for oil leak

Thousands&nbsp;of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday for a grand assembly, known as Loya Jirga, to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban.

After a long debate, several disagreements and few protests the grand assembly has come to a decision to release 400 "hard-core" Taliban prisoners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pompeo-speaks-with-pak-foreign-minister-on-afghanistan-and-regional-stability-319040">Also read:&nbsp;Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability</a>

"In order to remove the hurdles for the start of peace talks, stopping bloodshed, and for the good of the public, the jirga approves the release of 400 prisoners as demanded by the Taliban," jirga member Atefa Tayeb announced..

The grand assembly was attended by almost&nbsp;3,200 people with the aim to start a conversation on peace talks between Afghanistan and the Taliban.

This new resolution was passed after the Taliban&nbsp;insisted that the "hard-core" prisoners should be released before entering peace talks with the government.

The list of prisoners to be released includes some of the criminals who have been responsible for some serious offences, with almost 150 of them on death row.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chaos-erupts-as-afghanistan-holds-meeting-to-decide-fate-of-talibani-prisoners-318905">Also read:&nbsp;Chaos erupts as Afghanistan holds meeting to decide fate of Talibani prisoners</a>

The prisoners include 44 insurgents of particular concern to the United States and other countries for their role in "high-profile" attacks.

Criminals proven guilty of the&nbsp;2018 attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul and&nbsp;May 2017 truck bombing near the German embassy in Kabul are also in this list. The former Afghan army officer&nbsp;who killed five French troops and wounded 13 in 2012 will also be released under the agreement.

"The decision of the loya jirga has removed the last excuse and obstacles on the way to peace talks. We are on the verge of peace talks," said Abdullah Abdullah, who has been appointed by the government to lead negotiations with the Taliban.

"This is a very happy day. Based on the information I have the intra-Afghan talks would begin within two to three days after the release of the 400 Taliban prisoners," former president Hamid Karzai told the gathering.

Few hours before the resolution was passed,&nbsp;the family of a French woman murdered in Afghanistan criticised the the release of her killers.

"Such a decision to free (them) made on the basis of horse-trading would be, to us, her family, inconceivable," said Bettina Goislard's family, who was killed while working for the UN refugee agency in 2003 in Ghazni, south of Kabul, by two men who are on the list of Taliban prisoners held by the Afghan government and may be set free.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday for a grand assembly, known as Loya Jirga, to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban.

Thousands of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday for a grand assembly, known as Loya Jirga, to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban. After a long debate, several disagreements and few protests the grand assembly has come to a decision to release 400 "hard-core" Taliban prisoners. Also read: Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability "In order to remove the hurdles for the start of peace talks, stopping bloodshed, and for the good of the public, the jirga approves the release of 400 prisoners as demanded by the Taliban," jirga member Atefa Tayeb announced.. The grand assembly was attended by almost 3,200 people with the aim to start a conversation on peace talks between Afghanistan and the Taliban. This new resolution was passed after the Taliban insisted that the "hard-core" prisoners should be released before entering peace talks with the government. The list of prisoners to be released includes some of the criminals who have been responsible for some serious offences, with almost 150 of them on death row. Also read: Chaos erupts as Afghanistan holds meeting to decide fate of Talibani prisoners The prisoners include 44 insurgents of particular concern to the United States and other countries for their role in "high-profile" attacks. Criminals proven guilty of the 2018 attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul and May 2017 truck bombing near the German embassy in Kabul are also in this list. The former Afghan army officer who killed five French troops and wounded 13 in 2012 will also be released under the agreement. "The decision of the loya jirga has removed the last excuse and obstacles on the way to peace talks. We are on the verge of peace talks," said Abdullah Abdullah, who has been appointed by the government to lead negotiations with the Taliban. "This is a very happy day. Based on the information I have the intra-Afghan talks would begin within two to three days after the release of the 400 Taliban prisoners," former president Hamid Karzai told the gathering. Few hours before the resolution was passed, the family of a French woman murdered in Afghanistan criticised the the release of her killers. "Such a decision to free (them) made on the basis of horse-trading would be, to us, her family, inconceivable," said Bettina Goislard's family, who was killed while working for the UN refugee agency in 2003 in Ghazni, south of Kabul, by two men who are on the list of Taliban prisoners held by the Afghan government and may be set free. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's grand assembly to release 400 Taliban prisoners

Top news of week: Beirut blast, Air India crash and more

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system.

The tunnel was found on Tuesday in the desert near San Luis, Arizona by federal agents led by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s investigative arm, the agency said in a press release Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-in-latin-america-hit-global-high-318953">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths in Latin America hit global high</a>

Authorities have located hundreds of tunnels over the years under the Southwest border, saying they are used by drug cartels and criminal organizations to smuggle narcotics, people and weapons back and forth between the two countries.

The tunnel found this week measured 3 feet by 4 feet (91 cm by 1.22 meters) and included a “ventilation system, water lines, electrical wiring, rail system, [and] extensive reinforcement,” ICE said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-nabs-el-marro-fuel-theft-king-blamed-for-surge-in-drug-violence-317702">Also read:&nbsp;Mexico nabs 'El Marro', fuel theft king blamed for surge in drug violence</a>

Federal agents drilled and used underground cameras to investigate the tunnel after discovering a sinkhole near cross-border fencing in mid-July, ICE said.

Carl Landrum, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, said the tunnel “appears to be the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history, and certainly the most sophisticated I’ve seen in my career.” Landrum started with Border Patrol in 1996, according to the agency’s website.

In January this year, CBP announced federal agents had discovered the longest cross-border smuggling tunnel ever found along the Southwest border, originating in Baja California, Mexico. It measured 4,309 feet (1,300 meters).

President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the border with Mexico to stop illegal crossings and drug trafficking, but critics point to tunnels as one way people can get around such a barrier.

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system.

US authorities have discovered an unfinished 1,300-foot (400-meter) tunnel under the US-Mexico border, calling it an unusually sophisticated smuggling route complete with ventilation and a rail system. The tunnel was found on Tuesday in the desert near San Luis, Arizona by federal agents led by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s investigative arm, the agency said in a press release Friday. Also read: Coronavirus deaths in Latin America hit global high Authorities have located hundreds of tunnels over the years under the Southwest border, saying they are used by drug cartels and criminal organizations to smuggle narcotics, people and weapons back and forth between the two countries. The tunnel found this week measured 3 feet by 4 feet (91 cm by 1.22 meters) and included a “ventilation system, water lines, electrical wiring, rail system, [and] extensive reinforcement,” ICE said. Also read: Mexico nabs 'El Marro', fuel theft king blamed for surge in drug violence Federal agents drilled and used underground cameras to investigate the tunnel after discovering a sinkhole near cross-border fencing in mid-July, ICE said. Carl Landrum, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, said the tunnel “appears to be the most sophisticated tunnel in U.S. history, and certainly the most sophisticated I’ve seen in my career.” Landrum started with Border Patrol in 1996, according to the agency’s website. In January this year, CBP announced federal agents had discovered the longest cross-border smuggling tunnel ever found along the Southwest border, originating in Baja California, Mexico. It measured 4,309 feet (1,300 meters). President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the border with Mexico to stop illegal crossings and drug trafficking, but critics point to tunnels as one way people can get around such a barrier.

US officials find 'sophisticated' smuggling tunnel on Mexican border

India recorded a single-day spike of&nbsp;61,537 cases and 933 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the tally to 20,88,612 on Saturday morning.

The tally includes&nbsp;&nbsp;6,19,088&nbsp;active cases, 14,27,006 cured/discharged/migrated and 42,518 deaths, as reported by Ministry of Health.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also reported testing 5,98,778 samples in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of tested samples to&nbsp;2,33,87,171 till August 07.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-records-more-850-coronavirus-cases-318951">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai records more 850 coronavirus cases</a>

Maharashtra recorded&nbsp;10,483 new COVID-19 cases and 300 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 4,90,262, including 1,45,582 active cases, 3,27,281 recovered and 17,092 deaths.

India's national capital, New Delhi, reported&nbsp;1,192 new cases, 1,108 recoveries and 23 deaths. Total number of cases in the national capital now stands at 1,42,723, including 1,28,232 recoveries, 10,409 active cases and 4,082 deaths.&nbsp;The state health department also reported that the state conducted 5,612 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 17,773 rapid antigen tests in the last 24 hours. A total of 11,43,703 tests have been conducted so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/serum-institute-to-get-150-million-from-gates-foundation-for-covid-19-vaccine-318947">Also read:&nbsp;Serum Institute to get $150 million from Gates Foundation for COVID-19 vaccine</a>

Andhra Pradesh reported 10,171 new cases, 89 deaths and 7,594 recoveries in the last 24 hours. Total cases rise to 2,06,960 including 1,20,464 recoveries and 1,842 deaths. Number of active cases stands at 84,654.

On Friday, S Jaishankar and Mike Pompeo also had a telephonic call to discuss coordinated ways to tackle the surge in COVID-19 cases in the two countries.

India recorded a single-day spike of 61,537 cases and 933 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the tally to 20,88,612 on Saturday morning. The tally includes 6,19,088 active cases, 14,27,006 cured/discharged/migrated and 42,518 deaths, as reported by Ministry of Health.

India recorded a single-day spike of 61,537 cases and 933 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the tally to 20,88,612 on Saturday morning. The tally includes 6,19,088 active cases, 14,27,006 cured/discharged/migrated and 42,518 deaths, as reported by Ministry of Health. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also reported testing 5,98,778 samples in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of tested samples to 2,33,87,171 till August 07. Also read: Mumbai records more 850 coronavirus cases Maharashtra recorded 10,483 new COVID-19 cases and 300 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 4,90,262, including 1,45,582 active cases, 3,27,281 recovered and 17,092 deaths. India's national capital, New Delhi, reported 1,192 new cases, 1,108 recoveries and 23 deaths. Total number of cases in the national capital now stands at 1,42,723, including 1,28,232 recoveries, 10,409 active cases and 4,082 deaths. The state health department also reported that the state conducted 5,612 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 17,773 rapid antigen tests in the last 24 hours. A total of 11,43,703 tests have been conducted so far. Also read: Serum Institute to get $150 million from Gates Foundation for COVID-19 vaccine Andhra Pradesh reported 10,171 new cases, 89 deaths and 7,594 recoveries in the last 24 hours. Total cases rise to 2,06,960 including 1,20,464 recoveries and 1,842 deaths. Number of active cases stands at 84,654. On Friday, S Jaishankar and Mike Pompeo also had a telephonic call to discuss coordinated ways to tackle the surge in COVID-19 cases in the two countries.

India records 61,537 new COVID-19 cases; death toll crosses 42,000

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