The number of Hong Kong citizens applying to study at Australian universities has hit a three-year-high midway through 2020, according to government data, amid fears a new security law is ushering in a more authoritarian era for China`s freest city.

The rise in higher education applications from Hong Kong citizens in the first six months of the year contrasts with otherwise steep falls in the number of overseas students applying to study in Australia during the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-unknowingly-helps-hkindependence-trend-on-twitter-317026">Also read:&nbsp;Hong Kong police unknowingly helps #HKIndependence trend on Twitter</a>

The data released late on Thursday captured Hong Kong citizens` applications in the lead-up to the implementation of new security law late on June 30 which have exacerbated concerns over freedoms in the financial hub.

There was more than a 16% rise in applications from Hong Kong citizens in the first six months of 2020 compared to the corresponding period last year.

Australia is the third most popular destination for overseas students after the United States and United Kingdom, according to the International Education Association of Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-bars-12-prominent-democracy-activists-from-election-317150">Also watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong bars 12 prominent democracy activists from election</a>

Australian universities expect more students from Hong Kong will apply for study visas after the government earlier this month said Hong Kong students, graduates and workers on temporary visas will have the opportunity to stay and work for an extra five years and apply for permanent residency after that time.

"We have seen a sharp increase in enquiries from Hong Kong nationals in Australia and residents in Hong Kong following the government announcement," director at Stirling Henry global migration Simon De Vere told Reuters.

Australia`s $37 billion (US $26.54 billion) education sector, the country`s second largest services export after tourism, has taken a massive economic hit from the pandemic with universities warning they might lose A$16 billion in revenue by 2023.

Much of that anticipated loss is due to declining enrolments from mainland Chinese students, which has fallen to the lowest levels recorded since 2012-13 in the first half of the year, government data shows.

Australia has also effectively closed its international borders, allowing only a very limited number of inbound passengers each day. Universities are seeking schemes to allow foreign students in via travel bubbles with other countries.

The number of Hong Kong citizens applying to study at Australian universities has hit a three-year-high midway through 2020, according to government data, amid fears a new security law is ushering in a more authoritarian era for China`s freest city.

The number of Hong Kong citizens applying to study at Australian universities has hit a three-year-high midway through 2020, according to government data, amid fears a new security law is ushering in a more authoritarian era for China`s freest city. The rise in higher education applications from Hong Kong citizens in the first six months of the year contrasts with otherwise steep falls in the number of overseas students applying to study in Australia during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Hong Kong police unknowingly helps #HKIndependence trend on Twitter The data released late on Thursday captured Hong Kong citizens` applications in the lead-up to the implementation of new security law late on June 30 which have exacerbated concerns over freedoms in the financial hub. There was more than a 16% rise in applications from Hong Kong citizens in the first six months of 2020 compared to the corresponding period last year. Australia is the third most popular destination for overseas students after the United States and United Kingdom, according to the International Education Association of Australia. Also watch: Hong Kong bars 12 prominent democracy activists from election Australian universities expect more students from Hong Kong will apply for study visas after the government earlier this month said Hong Kong students, graduates and workers on temporary visas will have the opportunity to stay and work for an extra five years and apply for permanent residency after that time. "We have seen a sharp increase in enquiries from Hong Kong nationals in Australia and residents in Hong Kong following the government announcement," director at Stirling Henry global migration Simon De Vere told Reuters. Australia`s $37 billion (US $26.54 billion) education sector, the country`s second largest services export after tourism, has taken a massive economic hit from the pandemic with universities warning they might lose A$16 billion in revenue by 2023. Much of that anticipated loss is due to declining enrolments from mainland Chinese students, which has fallen to the lowest levels recorded since 2012-13 in the first half of the year, government data shows. Australia has also effectively closed its international borders, allowing only a very limited number of inbound passengers each day. Universities are seeking schemes to allow foreign students in via travel bubbles with other countries.

Hong Kong student applications to Australia hit three year high ahead of new security law

Michael Cohen, Donald Trump's old friend and ex-lawyer, has been given permission to publish a book critiquing the US President while completing his criminal sentence at home.

Earlier, Cohen was allowed to serve his sentence at home on the condition of no contact with the media and the outside world. However, when Cohen tweeted about his upcoming book, he was dragged back to the Otisville prison as a retaliation for planning to publish a book about Trump.

Later, on July 24 the&nbsp;US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein ordered Cohen to be released by 2 pm EDT (1800 GMT) from the prison in Otisville, New York.&nbsp;

The condition of not establishing contact with the outside world was still intact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-former-lawyer-michael-cohen-soon-to-return-home-from-prison-315714">Also read|&nbsp;Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen soon to return home from prison</a>

However, Cohen has now been allowed to&nbsp;engage with media houses and use social media, as he serves the remainder of his three-year term for campaign finance violations and other crimes in home confinement.

The judge has now given a week for both the concerned parties to negotiate a deal that is "consistent with the First Amendment but yet serves the purposes of confinement."

According to the agreement, which needs approval from the US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, "there shall be no specific media provision" governing Cohen's activities.

He was sentenced in 2018 for directing hush payments to pornographic film star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who claimed they had affairs with the current US President Donald Trump. All these claims were denied by Trump.

Cohen, who once claimed to "take a bullet" for Trump if needed, is now releasing a book&nbsp;critical of the US President before the upcoming Presidential election in November.

He is now servinf the remainder of his sentence in&nbsp;his apartment in Manhattan.

Michael Cohen, Donald Trump's old friend and ex-lawyer, has been given permission to publish a book critiquing the US President while completing his criminal sentence at home.

Michael Cohen, Donald Trump's old friend and ex-lawyer, has been given permission to publish a book critiquing the US President while completing his criminal sentence at home. Earlier, Cohen was allowed to serve his sentence at home on the condition of no contact with the media and the outside world. However, when Cohen tweeted about his upcoming book, he was dragged back to the Otisville prison as a retaliation for planning to publish a book about Trump. Later, on July 24 the US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein ordered Cohen to be released by 2 pm EDT (1800 GMT) from the prison in Otisville, New York. The condition of not establishing contact with the outside world was still intact. Also read| Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen soon to return home from prison However, Cohen has now been allowed to engage with media houses and use social media, as he serves the remainder of his three-year term for campaign finance violations and other crimes in home confinement. The judge has now given a week for both the concerned parties to negotiate a deal that is "consistent with the First Amendment but yet serves the purposes of confinement." According to the agreement, which needs approval from the US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, "there shall be no specific media provision" governing Cohen's activities. He was sentenced in 2018 for directing hush payments to pornographic film star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who claimed they had affairs with the current US President Donald Trump. All these claims were denied by Trump. Cohen, who once claimed to "take a bullet" for Trump if needed, is now releasing a book critical of the US President before the upcoming Presidential election in November. He is now servinf the remainder of his sentence in his apartment in Manhattan.

Trump's ex-laywer, Michael Cohen, to publish book against Trump while serving sentence at home

After the protests in Portland and the response to it by the federal police force garnered criticism from across the country, the US President Donald Trump has said the US agents will not leave the city "until there is safety".

Trump has taken on Twitter to express that according to him the Governor of Oregon was not doing her job properly.

He added that if she fails to do her job of arresting the "Anarchists &amp; Agitators in Portland", the the federal government will do it for her.

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Kate Brown, Governor of Oregon, isn’t doing her job. She must clear out, and in some cases arrest, the Anarchists &amp; Agitators in Portland. If she can’t do it, the Federal Government will do it for her. We will not be leaving until there is safety!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1288826742539464707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“Kate Brown, Governor of Oregon, isn’t doing her job. She must clear out, and in some cases arrest, the Anarchists &amp; Agitators in Portland. If she can’t do it, the Federal Government will do it for her. We will not be leaving until there is safety!” Trump tweeted.

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The tweet has come a day after&nbsp;one day after the state and his administration reached a deal to phase out a federal law enforcement presence.

The presence of federal force in Portland protests attracted a lot of criticism from the general public as well as political and defence experts, who stressed that this was unnecessary and, in some ways, illegal.

After the protests in Portland and the response to it by the federal police force garnered criticism from across the country, the US President Donald Trump has said the US agents will not leave the city "until there is safety".

After the protests in Portland and the response to it by the federal police force garnered criticism from across the country, the US President Donald Trump has said the US agents will not leave the city "until there is safety". Trump has taken on Twitter to express that according to him the Governor of Oregon was not doing her job properly. He added that if she fails to do her job of arresting the "Anarchists & Agitators in Portland", the the federal government will do it for her. Kate Brown, Governor of Oregon, isn’t doing her job. She must clear out, and in some cases arrest, the Anarchists & Agitators in Portland. If she can’t do it, the Federal Government will do it for her. We will not be leaving until there is safety! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 30, 2020 × “Kate Brown, Governor of Oregon, isn’t doing her job. She must clear out, and in some cases arrest, the Anarchists & Agitators in Portland. If she can’t do it, the Federal Government will do it for her. We will not be leaving until there is safety!” Trump tweeted. × The tweet has come a day after one day after the state and his administration reached a deal to phase out a federal law enforcement presence. The presence of federal force in Portland protests attracted a lot of criticism from the general public as well as political and defence experts, who stressed that this was unnecessary and, in some ways, illegal.

Trump asks Federal agents to stay in Portland till city is safe; criticises Oregon governor

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution.

Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-missiles-land-near-uae-airbase-where-indian-rafale-jets-are-on-overnight-halt-reports-316627">Also read|&nbsp;Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports</a>

"In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said.

The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran.

"We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee.

The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-as-diplomacy-fails-friends-of-jailed-scholar-in-iran-begin-public-campaign-317020">Also read|&nbsp;Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign&nbsp;</a>

Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution.

Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution.

France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program.

The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement.

After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence.

The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export.

Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses. Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution. Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5." Also read| Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports "In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said. The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran. "We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee. The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018. Also read| Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution. Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution. France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program. The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement. After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence. The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export. Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Pompeo warns of UN sanctions if Iran arms ban ends

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-federal-agents-to-stay-till-city-is-safe-criticises-oregon-governor-317127">Trump asks Federal agents to stay till city is safe; criticises Oregon governor</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/31/152316-feds-in-portland.jpg?itok=cK8Vin-p" />

The tweet has come a day after one day after the state and his administration reached a deal to phase out a federal law enforcement presence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-to-address-un-in-person-this-september-un-envoy-317125">Donald Trump to address UN in person this September: UN envoy</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/31/152315-donald-trump.jpg?itok=7flGDeKs" />

The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-first-lady-tests-positive-for-covid-19-317123">Brazil's first lady tests positive for COVID-19</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/31/152314-michelle-bolsonaro.jpg?itok=eV90Y_Qd" />

Michelle is in good health and is being taken care of by the President's medical team,&nbsp;according to a statement by the President's team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appeals-court-agrees-to-rehear-ex-trumps-aide-michael-flynns-case-317129">US appeals court agrees to rehear ex-Trump's aide Michael Flynn's case</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/31/152317-michael-flynn.jpg?itok=qvIKk5Di" />

All charged against Flynn were dropped despite his two affirmations of guilty plea for lying to the FBI in an interview over his Russia contacts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-this-pakistani-man-killed-a-us-citizen-in-a-court-317114">Gravitas: This Pakistani man killed a US citizen in a court</a>

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&nbsp;

Trump asks Federal agents to stay till city is safe; criticises Oregon governor The tweet has come a day after one day after the state and his administration reached a deal to phase out a federal law enforcement presence.

Trump asks Federal agents to stay till city is safe; criticises Oregon governor The tweet has come a day after one day after the state and his administration reached a deal to phase out a federal law enforcement presence. Donald Trump to address UN in person this September: UN envoy The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. Brazil's first lady tests positive for COVID-19 Michelle is in good health and is being taken care of by the President's medical team, according to a statement by the President's team. US appeals court agrees to rehear ex-Trump's aide Michael Flynn's case All charged against Flynn were dropped despite his two affirmations of guilty plea for lying to the FBI in an interview over his Russia contacts. Gravitas: This Pakistani man killed a US citizen in a court ×

Morning News Brief: Feds to stay in Portland; Bolsonaro’s wife tests positive for covid and more

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka.

In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated&nbsp;such as&nbsp;People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

On the face of it, the&nbsp;meeting was to discuss the coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond".

Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-using-buddhist-clergy-and-leaders-to-compromise-sri-lanka-elections-317068">Also read|&nbsp;China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections</a>

Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8&nbsp;billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing.

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In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry.

Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tried-to-steal-vaccine-research-from-us-university-investigators-316899">Also read|&nbsp;China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators</a>

Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold.

The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership&nbsp;with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the&nbsp;project has still not received a green light from the local government who&nbsp;apparently&nbsp;are hoping for a better deal.

Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the&nbsp;dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the&nbsp;strike was called off.

Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and&nbsp;someone who has served as a post-war army chief.

The US, too, is facing something similar. American government&nbsp;offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition.

A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President.

The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the&nbsp;cabinet won't matter.

So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka. On the face of it, the meeting was to discuss the coronavirus outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond". Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it. Also read| China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8 billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing. × In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry. Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground. Also read| China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold. The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the project has still not received a green light from the local government who apparently are hoping for a better deal. Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the strike was called off. Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and someone who has served as a post-war army chief. The US, too, is facing something similar. American government offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition. A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President. The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the cabinet won't matter. So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka

In six days from now, Sri Lanka will go to the polls for the parliamentary elections which were delayed due to coronavirus. However, now, the elections are being compromised by China.

China wants to win this election, no matter who gets the votes. So, China is cultivating the biggest political influencers in Sri Lanka — the Buddhist clergy and leaders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tried-to-steal-vaccine-research-from-us-university-investigators-316899">Also read|&nbsp;China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators</a>

Last year, the Lotus Tower was unveiled in Colombo. The tower which is 350 meters high&nbsp;was built by China. It is named after the lotus Sutra one of the sacred scriptures of Buddhism even the tower's design draws inspiration&nbsp;from Buddhism -&nbsp;the religion of the majority Sinhalese community in Sri Lanka.

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The Lotus Tower is an example of China’s Buddhist diplomacy.&nbsp; It goes back to 2015 during another previous elections in Sri Lanka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-professor-simon-ang-indicted-over-china-links-faces-44-counts-of-fraud-317016">Also read|&nbsp;US professor Simon Ang indicted over China links, faces 44 counts of fraud</a>

Reports say large payments were made from Chinese accounts to the Rajapaksa campaign and part of the money&nbsp;went to a Buddhist monk. The money involved was nearly $7 million. The payment was made by a company called China Harbor, the company that built the Hambanthota&nbsp;Port.

Out of these funds, $38,000 were allegedly paid to a popular Buddhist monk, a supporter of Rajapaksa.

As it turned out, he did not win the election but Chinese diplomats found a new partner in Sri Lanka — the Buddhist clergy.

In 2015, the Chinese ambassador met with monks of the Asgiriya chapter,&nbsp;one of the two most influential Buddhist orders in Sri Lanka. Last year, the chief monk of the&nbsp;chapter had accused Muslims of destroying the country.

Later that year, a Sri Lankan Buddhist delegation participated at the fourth World Buddhist Forum in China. More than 1,000 Buddhist monks and scholars from 52 countries were part of the event and the Sri Lankan delegation was among the largest.

China has been spending time, money and diplomatic capital to build influence in a key political bloc in Sri Lanka. However,&nbsp;it is not the only political bloc that China is trying to keep a tab on. China, that cracks down on Buddhists in Tibet is spending money to cultivate another short term relation.

In six days from now, Sri Lanka will go to the polls for the parliamentary elections which were delayed due to coronavirus. However, now, the elections are being compromised by China.

In six days from now, Sri Lanka will go to the polls for the parliamentary elections which were delayed due to coronavirus. However, now, the elections are being compromised by China. China wants to win this election, no matter who gets the votes. So, China is cultivating the biggest political influencers in Sri Lanka — the Buddhist clergy and leaders. Also read| China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators Last year, the Lotus Tower was unveiled in Colombo. The tower which is 350 meters high was built by China. It is named after the lotus Sutra one of the sacred scriptures of Buddhism even the tower's design draws inspiration from Buddhism - the religion of the majority Sinhalese community in Sri Lanka. × The Lotus Tower is an example of China’s Buddhist diplomacy. It goes back to 2015 during another previous elections in Sri Lanka. Also read| US professor Simon Ang indicted over China links, faces 44 counts of fraud Reports say large payments were made from Chinese accounts to the Rajapaksa campaign and part of the money went to a Buddhist monk. The money involved was nearly $7 million. The payment was made by a company called China Harbor, the company that built the Hambanthota Port. Out of these funds, $38,000 were allegedly paid to a popular Buddhist monk, a supporter of Rajapaksa. As it turned out, he did not win the election but Chinese diplomats found a new partner in Sri Lanka — the Buddhist clergy. In 2015, the Chinese ambassador met with monks of the Asgiriya chapter, one of the two most influential Buddhist orders in Sri Lanka. Last year, the chief monk of the chapter had accused Muslims of destroying the country. Later that year, a Sri Lankan Buddhist delegation participated at the fourth World Buddhist Forum in China. More than 1,000 Buddhist monks and scholars from 52 countries were part of the event and the Sri Lankan delegation was among the largest. China has been spending time, money and diplomatic capital to build influence in a key political bloc in Sri Lanka. However, it is not the only political bloc that China is trying to keep a tab on. China, that cracks down on Buddhists in Tibet is spending money to cultivate another short term relation.

As polls approach in Sri Lanka, China begins cultivating Buddhist clergy

Nepal will reopen its Himalayan mountains including Mount Everest to climbers for the autumn season, officials said on Thursday, to boost the tourism-dependent economy despite rising coronavirus infections.

Home to eight of the world’s 14 tallest mountains, Nepal shut down climbing and trekking in March to stem the novel coronavirus, which has so far infected 19,547 people and caused 52 deaths in the country of 30 million.

“We have reopened mountaineering and will issue climbing permits for the autumn season,” tourism department official Mira Acharya said, adding that climbers must follow health protocols issued by the government. The autumn climbing season in Nepal runs from September to November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rift-widens-as-prachanda-convenes-standing-committee-meeting-in-nepal-without-pm-oli-316816">Also read:&nbsp;Rift widens as Prachanda convenes Standing Committee meeting in Nepal without PM Oli</a>

While infections in many Western nations are falling, South Asian countries including Nepal are still witnessing a steady rise in the caseload.

The absence of climbing in the popular April-May season caused Nepal millions of dollars in losses. Hundreds of foreign travellers and some 200,000 sherpas, guides and porters were hit.

Though the government now wants to reopen climbing, international flights are shut until mid-August and travel restrictions within Nepal remain, meaning climbers will still be kept away in the short term, expedition organisers said.

“Some climbers to smaller mountains may come but I have doubts about big ones,” said Ang Tshering Sherpa, an expedition organiser in the capital Kathmandu.

Nepal on Thursday also allowed the reopening of hotels and restaurants with some restrictions. No conferences, seminars, gyms or casinos would be allowed, said Binayak Shah, vice president of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN).

“Now it is (about) which hotel is safe, not which offers better services,” Shah said.

Nepal will reopen its Himalayan mountains including Mount Everest to climbers for the autumn season, officials said on Thursday, to boost the tourism-dependent economy despite rising coronavirus infections.

Nepal will reopen its Himalayan mountains including Mount Everest to climbers for the autumn season, officials said on Thursday, to boost the tourism-dependent economy despite rising coronavirus infections. Home to eight of the world’s 14 tallest mountains, Nepal shut down climbing and trekking in March to stem the novel coronavirus, which has so far infected 19,547 people and caused 52 deaths in the country of 30 million. “We have reopened mountaineering and will issue climbing permits for the autumn season,” tourism department official Mira Acharya said, adding that climbers must follow health protocols issued by the government. The autumn climbing season in Nepal runs from September to November. Also read: Rift widens as Prachanda convenes Standing Committee meeting in Nepal without PM Oli While infections in many Western nations are falling, South Asian countries including Nepal are still witnessing a steady rise in the caseload. The absence of climbing in the popular April-May season caused Nepal millions of dollars in losses. Hundreds of foreign travellers and some 200,000 sherpas, guides and porters were hit. Though the government now wants to reopen climbing, international flights are shut until mid-August and travel restrictions within Nepal remain, meaning climbers will still be kept away in the short term, expedition organisers said. “Some climbers to smaller mountains may come but I have doubts about big ones,” said Ang Tshering Sherpa, an expedition organiser in the capital Kathmandu. Nepal on Thursday also allowed the reopening of hotels and restaurants with some restrictions. No conferences, seminars, gyms or casinos would be allowed, said Binayak Shah, vice president of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN). “Now it is (about) which hotel is safe, not which offers better services,” Shah said.

Nepal to reopen Everest to climbers despite coronavirus case rise

As the summer break started in Europe and the US, young people let down their guards and flocked to beaches and home-made clubs to spend time with friends and have fun.

However, that may not have been the best idea during a pandemic and may have caused a surge in the positive coronavirus cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-pandemic-is-one-big-wave-not-seasonal-world-health-organization-316561">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic is one big wave, not seasonal: World Health Organization</a>

This has even raised concerns and fears of a possible second wave of the novel coronavirus in various western and Asian countries.

The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe.

“We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keeping-international-borders-sealed-unsustainable-covid-19-strategy-who-316377">Also read|&nbsp;Keeping international borders sealed unsustainable Covid-19 strategy: WHO</a>

The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be.

According to Tedros, the spike in coronavirus cases is “driven in part by younger people letting down their guard during the northern hemisphere summer."

Maria Van Kerkhove, a top WHO epidemiologist, told the same briefing that nightclubs were “amplifiers of transmission”.

“The majority of young people infected tend to have more mild disease. But that’s not always consistent,” she said.

The WHO had earlier in June said it would be updating its travel guidelines in time for the northern hemisphere summer holidays, but has not yet done so.

As of now, the WHO has urged travellers to wear face masks at all times during travelling and to be informed about the surge of cases in the countries they are travelling to and travelling from.

As the summer break started in Europe and the US, young people let down their guards and flocked to beaches and home-made clubs to spend time with friends and have fun.

As the summer break started in Europe and the US, young people let down their guards and flocked to beaches and home-made clubs to spend time with friends and have fun. However, that may not have been the best idea during a pandemic and may have caused a surge in the positive coronavirus cases. Also read| COVID-19 pandemic is one big wave, not seasonal: World Health Organization This has even raised concerns and fears of a possible second wave of the novel coronavirus in various western and Asian countries. The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe. “We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva. Also read| Keeping international borders sealed unsustainable Covid-19 strategy: WHO The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be. According to Tedros, the spike in coronavirus cases is “driven in part by younger people letting down their guard during the northern hemisphere summer." Maria Van Kerkhove, a top WHO epidemiologist, told the same briefing that nightclubs were “amplifiers of transmission”. “The majority of young people infected tend to have more mild disease. But that’s not always consistent,” she said. The WHO had earlier in June said it would be updating its travel guidelines in time for the northern hemisphere summer holidays, but has not yet done so. As of now, the WHO has urged travellers to wear face masks at all times during travelling and to be informed about the surge of cases in the countries they are travelling to and travelling from.

'Young people are not invincible': WHO warns the young party-goers

The US appeals court on Thursday has agreed to rehear the arguments on&nbsp;Michael Flynn's case. The arguments will concentrate on whether or not the the judge should grant a request to dismiss the criminal case against Flynn.

An oral argument will be held in the US&nbsp;Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on August 11, month after a three-judge panel decided in favour of Flynn and ordered the US&nbsp;District Judge Emmet Sullivan in Washington to grant the Justice Department’s motion to clear Flynn.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charges-dropped-against-trumps-ex-adviser-despite-twice-guilty-affirmations-297324">Also read:&nbsp;Charges dropped against Trump's ex-adviser, despite twice guilty affirmations</a>

All charged against Flynn were dropped&nbsp;despite his two affirmations of guilty plea&nbsp;for lying to the FBI in an interview over his Russia contacts.

The decision was questioned and requested to reconsider by Sullivan.

Michael Flynn is an ex-aide of the US President Donald Trump and a retired Army lieutenant general. He was charged under former Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation that detailed Moscow’s interference in the 2016 US presidential election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-his-former-national-security-adviser-flynn-was-tormented-by-dirty-cops-295921">Also read:&nbsp;Trump says his former national security adviser Flynn was tormented by dirty cops</a>

Sullivan was taken back by the panel's decision to abandon the case against Flyyn. He said he cannot serve just as a&nbsp;“rubber stamp” and&nbsp;appointed a retired judge to argue against the Justice Department’s request.

Democrats have said the Flynn case is an example of Attorney General William Barr improperly meddling to help Trump’s friends and political allies.

The panel will now sit again and decide Michael Flynn's fate on August 11.

The US appeals court on Thursday has agreed to rehear the arguments on Michael Flynn's case. The arguments will concentrate on whether or not the the judge should grant a request to dismiss the criminal case against Flynn.

The US appeals court on Thursday has agreed to rehear the arguments on Michael Flynn's case. The arguments will concentrate on whether or not the the judge should grant a request to dismiss the criminal case against Flynn. An oral argument will be held in the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on August 11, month after a three-judge panel decided in favour of Flynn and ordered the US District Judge Emmet Sullivan in Washington to grant the Justice Department’s motion to clear Flynn. Also read: Charges dropped against Trump's ex-adviser, despite twice guilty affirmations All charged against Flynn were dropped despite his two affirmations of guilty plea for lying to the FBI in an interview over his Russia contacts. The decision was questioned and requested to reconsider by Sullivan. Michael Flynn is an ex-aide of the US President Donald Trump and a retired Army lieutenant general. He was charged under former Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation that detailed Moscow’s interference in the 2016 US presidential election. Also read: Trump says his former national security adviser Flynn was tormented by dirty cops Sullivan was taken back by the panel's decision to abandon the case against Flyyn. He said he cannot serve just as a “rubber stamp” and appointed a retired judge to argue against the Justice Department’s request. Democrats have said the Flynn case is an example of Attorney General William Barr improperly meddling to help Trump’s friends and political allies. The panel will now sit again and decide Michael Flynn's fate on August 11.

US appeals court agrees to rehear ex-Trump's aide Michael Flynn's case

The United States President Donald Trump may address the&nbsp;UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday.

While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly.

“We’re hoping that President Trump will actually be speaking in person in the General Assembly. He will be the only world leader to be speaking in person,” US Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-dominates-un-resolution-for-75th-anniversary-calls-for-reforms-300707">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19 dominates UN resolution for 75th anniversary; calls for reforms</a>

“Obviously we’re going to be focused on human rights issues, on transparency, on accountability,” she added.

The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. However, considering the travel restrictions, the&nbsp;UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres suggested in May that leaders send video statements.

The 193-member General Assembly agreed last week to the special measures, which allow one - possibly two - New York-based representatives for each country to be in the General Assembly hall for the speeches.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States President Donald Trump may address the UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday. While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly.

The United States President Donald Trump may address the UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday. While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly. “We’re hoping that President Trump will actually be speaking in person in the General Assembly. He will be the only world leader to be speaking in person,” US Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft said. Also read: COVID-19 dominates UN resolution for 75th anniversary; calls for reforms “Obviously we’re going to be focused on human rights issues, on transparency, on accountability,” she added. The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. However, considering the travel restrictions, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres suggested in May that leaders send video statements. The 193-member General Assembly agreed last week to the special measures, which allow one - possibly two - New York-based representatives for each country to be in the General Assembly hall for the speeches. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump to address UN in person this September: UN envoy

Brazilian first lady Michelle Bolsonaro has tested positive for the novel coronavirus a week after her husband, the Brazilian President, tested negative.

According to a statement by the President's team,&nbsp;Michelle is in good health and is being taken care of by the President's medical team.

“First lady Michelle Bolsonaro tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday. She is in good health and will follow all established protocols,” a statement by the President's House read.

She was last spotted on Wednesday where she accompanied Jair Bolsonaro to a public event to talk about&nbsp;an initiative for women in rural areas and indigenous communities, according to local media reports. Although, she was wearing a face mask at this public gathering.

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Her husband, Brazil's President, had few weeks ago tested positive for the novel coronavirus and was reportedly taking the much-debated&nbsp;hydroxychloroquine for the virus.&nbsp;Hydroxychloroquine has been debated to not be very useful in fighting against coronavirus and it has been observed that it affects the human body in negative manner, when taken for coronavirus. However, Bolsonaro claims to have gotten better with the help of this anti-viral drug.

There has not been any clarity on whether or not the First Lady of Brazil will any attend any further event till she recovers, since the Bolsonaros have not shied away from attending public events, with or without masks, during this pandemic.

Earlier on Thursday, Brazil’s science and technology minister, Marcos Pontes, too, tested positive for coronavirus. He is the fifth minister of Bolsonaro's cabinet to test positive for the virus.

Brazilian first lady Michelle Bolsonaro has tested positive for the novel coronavirus a week after her husband, the Brazilian President, tested negative. According to a statement by the President's team, Michelle is in good health and is being taken care of by the President's medical team.

Brazilian first lady Michelle Bolsonaro has tested positive for the novel coronavirus a week after her husband, the Brazilian President, tested negative. According to a statement by the President's team, Michelle is in good health and is being taken care of by the President's medical team. “First lady Michelle Bolsonaro tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday. She is in good health and will follow all established protocols,” a statement by the President's House read. She was last spotted on Wednesday where she accompanied Jair Bolsonaro to a public event to talk about an initiative for women in rural areas and indigenous communities, according to local media reports. Although, she was wearing a face mask at this public gathering. × Her husband, Brazil's President, had few weeks ago tested positive for the novel coronavirus and was reportedly taking the much-debated hydroxychloroquine for the virus. Hydroxychloroquine has been debated to not be very useful in fighting against coronavirus and it has been observed that it affects the human body in negative manner, when taken for coronavirus. However, Bolsonaro claims to have gotten better with the help of this anti-viral drug. There has not been any clarity on whether or not the First Lady of Brazil will any attend any further event till she recovers, since the Bolsonaros have not shied away from attending public events, with or without masks, during this pandemic. Earlier on Thursday, Brazil’s science and technology minister, Marcos Pontes, too, tested positive for coronavirus. He is the fifth minister of Bolsonaro's cabinet to test positive for the virus.

Brazil's first lady tests positive for COVID-19

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Deeksha Teri

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