&nbsp;Public health inspectors in Sri Lanka on Friday announced that they will refrain from COVID-19 related duties to protest Health Minister Pavitra Wanniarachchi's recent remarks against them.

Minister Wanniarachchi recently said that PHI officers engaged in COVID-19 duties were causing inconvenience by revealing details of the latest detections of coronavirus patients to the media.

Public Health Inspectors Union (PHIU) in a statement said they are protesting Wanniarachchi's remarks that PHIs had caused problems in COVID-19 prevention and therefore they would not be provided legal cover for their work. 
They said they were withdrawing from all COVID-19 combat work from mid-day Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/postal-voting-for-over-70000-sri-lankan-officials-begins-amid-new-covid-19-threat-313095">Also read:&nbsp;Postal voting for over 700,00 Sri Lankan officials begins amid new COVID-19 threat</a>

Health Minister Wanniarachchi's comments came as she took action to gazette the health guidelines after a long delay on holding the August 5 parliamentary elections.

The Election Commission had complained that guidelines that were forwarded to the authorities early June had not been given legal effect by way of a gazette publication even by Thursday.

Election Commission chief Mahinda Deshapriya said it would be extremely difficult to conduct the election on August 5 without the gazette on health guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-cancels-election-rallies-over-surge-in-new-virus-cases-312781">Also read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka cancels election rallies over surge in new virus cases</a>

The PHIs told the Election Commission that the legal cover for their work was a must as people tend to object to and ignore their work to comply with health guidelines without the legal cover.

It was announced Saturday morning that COVID-19 (Elections) regulations 2020 are to deal only with issues concerning election rallies, canvassing by political parties and maintenance of elections offices by political parties.

This excludes the PHI functions in respective areas to enforce health guidelines. 
The election which had been twice postponed is due to be held on August 5.

The need for legality to the health guidelines became even more important in the face of what seemed a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

A sudden spike of over 500 cases from the north central region forced the cancellation of election campaigning and closure of schools.

Public health inspectors in Sri Lanka on Friday announced that they will refrain from COVID-19 related duties to protest Health Minister Pavitra Wanniarachchi's recent remarks against them.

Public health inspectors in Sri Lanka on Friday announced that they will refrain from COVID-19 related duties to protest Health Minister Pavitra Wanniarachchi's recent remarks against them. Minister Wanniarachchi recently said that PHI officers engaged in COVID-19 duties were causing inconvenience by revealing details of the latest detections of coronavirus patients to the media. Public Health Inspectors Union (PHIU) in a statement said they are protesting Wanniarachchi's remarks that PHIs had caused problems in COVID-19 prevention and therefore they would not be provided legal cover for their work. They said they were withdrawing from all COVID-19 combat work from mid-day Friday. Also read: Postal voting for over 700,00 Sri Lankan officials begins amid new COVID-19 threat Health Minister Wanniarachchi's comments came as she took action to gazette the health guidelines after a long delay on holding the August 5 parliamentary elections. The Election Commission had complained that guidelines that were forwarded to the authorities early June had not been given legal effect by way of a gazette publication even by Thursday. Election Commission chief Mahinda Deshapriya said it would be extremely difficult to conduct the election on August 5 without the gazette on health guidelines. Also read: Sri Lanka cancels election rallies over surge in new virus cases The PHIs told the Election Commission that the legal cover for their work was a must as people tend to object to and ignore their work to comply with health guidelines without the legal cover. It was announced Saturday morning that COVID-19 (Elections) regulations 2020 are to deal only with issues concerning election rallies, canvassing by political parties and maintenance of elections offices by political parties. This excludes the PHI functions in respective areas to enforce health guidelines. The election which had been twice postponed is due to be held on August 5. The need for legality to the health guidelines became even more important in the face of what seemed a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. A sudden spike of over 500 cases from the north central region forced the cancellation of election campaigning and closure of schools.

Lanka health inspectors withdraw from COVID-19 duties over minister's remarks against them

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against&nbsp;Pakistan's attempt to construct&nbsp;the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts&nbsp;to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project.

Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/domestic-violence-coronavirus-not-the-only-battle-being-fought-by-women-in-pakistan-313812">Also read:&nbsp;Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan</a>

"The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said.

"This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said.

India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said.

The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. 
Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill.

"Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said.

"So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said.

Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.&nbsp;

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation. India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project. Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged. Also read: Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan "The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said. "This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said. India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said. The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill. "Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said. "So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said. Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.

India slams Pakistan over 'continuous attempts' to construct Diamer-Bhasha dam in PoK

Apple Inc said on Thursday it was working with 10 additional historically Black universities and colleges to become "hubs" that will teach computer programming and app design skills in their regions.

Apple started a community education initiative last year to provide iPads, Mac computers, teaching curricula and access to its staff and engineers for schools that serve under-represented minority students. The company said Thursday that the program now includes 24 locations, half of which are historically Black schools, with plans to add 10 more historically Black schools this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-accounts-of-jeff-bezos-elon-musk-bill-gates-and-others-hit-in-major-hack-313558">Also read:&nbsp;Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack</a>

Apple has worked with Tennessee State University, which has become a national hub for training teachers from other historically Black colleges and universities to start offering courses in their own schools as well as secondary and elementary schools in their surrounding communities.

The 10 schools Apple said will become new hubs are Arkansas Baptist College, Central State University in Ohio, Claflin University in South Carolina, Dillard University in Louisiana, Fisk University in Tennessee, Lawson State Community College in Alabama, Morehouse College in Georgia, Prairie View A&amp;M University in Texas, Tougaloo College in Mississippi and Southern University at Shreveport, Louisiana.

The expansion in Apple`s schools program follows its creation last month of a $100 million racial justice initiative after the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.

Apple Inc said on Thursday it was working with 10 additional historically Black universities and colleges to become "hubs" that will teach computer programming and app design skills in their regions.

Apple Inc said on Thursday it was working with 10 additional historically Black universities and colleges to become "hubs" that will teach computer programming and app design skills in their regions. Apple started a community education initiative last year to provide iPads, Mac computers, teaching curricula and access to its staff and engineers for schools that serve under-represented minority students. The company said Thursday that the program now includes 24 locations, half of which are historically Black schools, with plans to add 10 more historically Black schools this year. Also read: Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack Apple has worked with Tennessee State University, which has become a national hub for training teachers from other historically Black colleges and universities to start offering courses in their own schools as well as secondary and elementary schools in their surrounding communities. The 10 schools Apple said will become new hubs are Arkansas Baptist College, Central State University in Ohio, Claflin University in South Carolina, Dillard University in Louisiana, Fisk University in Tennessee, Lawson State Community College in Alabama, Morehouse College in Georgia, Prairie View A&M University in Texas, Tougaloo College in Mississippi and Southern University at Shreveport, Louisiana. The expansion in Apple`s schools program follows its creation last month of a $100 million racial justice initiative after the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.

Apple expands coding education programs to more historically Black schools

Nepal's archaeological department plans to start studies and excavation in Thori in the country's south after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's claim that it is the "real birthplace" of Lord Ram, according to a media report on Thursday. 
Several top Nepalese political leaders from different parties have slammed Oli for making "senseless and irrelevant" remarks that Lord Ram was born in Thori near Birgunj and the real Ayodhya lies in Nepal. They have asked him to withdraw his controversial statement.

Following Oli's remarks, the Department of Archaeology (DoA) has been discussing a possible archeological study in the area with different ministries, My Republica newspaper reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-blames-india-whenever-he-finds-himself-in-a-sticky-situation-313300">Also read:&nbsp;Nepal PM Oli blames India whenever he finds himself in a sticky situation</a>

"The department has been holding several meetings with different ministries to discuss the possibility of starting archaeological studies in Thori of Birgunj," it quoted Ram Bahadur Kunwar, the spokesperson for the DOA, as saying.

DoA Director General Damodar Gautam said the department is serious about conducting archaeological studies in Thori after Prime Minister Oli's statement.

"The department will discuss with experts and will come to a conclusion soon," said Gautam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-olis-remarks-on-ayodhya-lord-ram-not-to-debase-significance-of-ayodhya-nepal-313269">Also read:&nbsp;PM Oli's remarks on Ayodhya &amp; Lord Ram not to debase significance of Ayodhya: Nepal</a>

However, the DoA doesn't have any basis to start any excavation at Thori - the birthplace of Lord Ram, as claimed by Oli.

"It is our responsibility to carry out a study after such statements by the prime minister. Having said that, I cannot say that we have enough bases to prove that Ayodhya is in Nepal," according to Gautam.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday clarified that the remarks made by Prime Minister Oli "are not linked to any political subject and have no intention at all to hurt the feelings and sentiments of anyone."

It further stressed that his remarks "were not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-faces-corruption-charges-with-chinese-deals-under-scanner-313298">Also read:&nbsp;Nepal PM Oli faces corruption charges with Chinese deals under scanner</a>

"As there have been several myths and references about Shri Ram and the places associated with him, the Prime Minister was simply highlighting the importance of further studies and research of the vast cultural geography the Ramayana represents to obtain facts about Shri Ram, Ramayana and the various places linked to this rich civilisation," the ministry said.

The clarification came after much public outcry in India and Nepal over Prime Minister Oli's controversial remarks on Ayodhya.

BJP national spokesperson Bizay Sonkar Shastri condemned Oli's remarks and said that the Left parties even in India played with people's faith, and the Communists in Nepal will be rejected by the masses in the same way they have been here.

"Lord Ram is a matter of faith for us, and people will not allow anybody, be it prime minister of Nepal or anyone, to play with this," he said on Monday.

Opposition Nepali Congress has strongly condemned Oli's controversial statements on Ayodhya and said that he has "lost the moral and political basis" to rule the country.

The party also sought the official stand of the ruling Communist Party of Nepal (NCP) and the government on the Prime Minister's remarks on Ayodhya.

Oli is already facing strong opposition from his own party leaders who are pressing for his resignation over his autocratic style of functioning and previous anti-India statement.&nbsp;

Nepal's archaeological department plans to start studies and excavation in Thori in the country's south after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's claim that it is the "real birthplace" of Lord Ram, according to a media report on Thursday.

Nepal's archaeological department plans to start studies and excavation in Thori in the country's south after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli's claim that it is the "real birthplace" of Lord Ram, according to a media report on Thursday. Several top Nepalese political leaders from different parties have slammed Oli for making "senseless and irrelevant" remarks that Lord Ram was born in Thori near Birgunj and the real Ayodhya lies in Nepal. They have asked him to withdraw his controversial statement. Following Oli's remarks, the Department of Archaeology (DoA) has been discussing a possible archeological study in the area with different ministries, My Republica newspaper reported. Also read: Nepal PM Oli blames India whenever he finds himself in a sticky situation "The department has been holding several meetings with different ministries to discuss the possibility of starting archaeological studies in Thori of Birgunj," it quoted Ram Bahadur Kunwar, the spokesperson for the DOA, as saying. DoA Director General Damodar Gautam said the department is serious about conducting archaeological studies in Thori after Prime Minister Oli's statement. "The department will discuss with experts and will come to a conclusion soon," said Gautam. Also read: PM Oli's remarks on Ayodhya & Lord Ram not to debase significance of Ayodhya: Nepal However, the DoA doesn't have any basis to start any excavation at Thori - the birthplace of Lord Ram, as claimed by Oli. "It is our responsibility to carry out a study after such statements by the prime minister. Having said that, I cannot say that we have enough bases to prove that Ayodhya is in Nepal," according to Gautam. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday clarified that the remarks made by Prime Minister Oli "are not linked to any political subject and have no intention at all to hurt the feelings and sentiments of anyone." It further stressed that his remarks "were not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears." Also read: Nepal PM Oli faces corruption charges with Chinese deals under scanner "As there have been several myths and references about Shri Ram and the places associated with him, the Prime Minister was simply highlighting the importance of further studies and research of the vast cultural geography the Ramayana represents to obtain facts about Shri Ram, Ramayana and the various places linked to this rich civilisation," the ministry said. The clarification came after much public outcry in India and Nepal over Prime Minister Oli's controversial remarks on Ayodhya. BJP national spokesperson Bizay Sonkar Shastri condemned Oli's remarks and said that the Left parties even in India played with people's faith, and the Communists in Nepal will be rejected by the masses in the same way they have been here. "Lord Ram is a matter of faith for us, and people will not allow anybody, be it prime minister of Nepal or anyone, to play with this," he said on Monday. Opposition Nepali Congress has strongly condemned Oli's controversial statements on Ayodhya and said that he has "lost the moral and political basis" to rule the country. The party also sought the official stand of the ruling Communist Party of Nepal (NCP) and the government on the Prime Minister's remarks on Ayodhya. Oli is already facing strong opposition from his own party leaders who are pressing for his resignation over his autocratic style of functioning and previous anti-India statement.

Nepal's archaeological department plans excavation in Thori after Oli claims it as real Ayodhya

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Blood samples taken from a group of volunteers who were involved in the study showed the vaccine stimulated antibodies and 'killer T-cells'.

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The Boris Johnson government in the United Kingdom decided ban Chinese telecom giant Huawei from its 5G network. Pompeo backed UK's decision hailing it as 'welcome news'.

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According to the survey, only 14 per cent feel that US would retain its position as the superior superpower.

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The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks.&nbsp;

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The Pakistan foreign office said two consular officers of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad were provided 'unimpeded and uninterrupted consular access to Jadhav'.

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The authorities in the southwestern city of Bristol said they had taken down the sculpture&nbsp;almost \24 hours after it was placed on the plinth without permission.

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As many as 13,706,323 people around the world have been diagnosed with COVID-19, while more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far.

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The Russian military had earlier announced the vaccine it had developed was 'safe' after conducting clinical trials since June 18.

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The military said a Bell 0H-58D helicopter crashed as it returned to Hsinchu airbase from one of the exercises, killing the pilot and co-pilot.

COVID-19 vaccine: Oxford university's phase one human trials shows encouraging trends Blood samples taken from a group of volunteers who were involved in the study showed the vaccine stimulated antibodies and 'killer T-cells'.

COVID-19 vaccine: Oxford university's phase one human trials shows encouraging trends Blood samples taken from a group of volunteers who were involved in the study showed the vaccine stimulated antibodies and 'killer T-cells'. 'I'm not a bad guy': A distraught George Floyd says in newly released footage The footage has been released by two Minneapolis police officers involved in Floyd's arrest. US is the biggest human rights abuser, says China on Trump administration's visa sanction on Huawei employees The Boris Johnson government in the United Kingdom decided ban Chinese telecom giant Huawei from its 5G network. Pompeo backed UK's decision hailing it as 'welcome news'. Many Germans predict China to replace US as next superpower: Survey According to the survey, only 14 per cent feel that US would retain its position as the superior superpower. France makes wearing face masks indoors compulsory The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks. Fully committed to implement ICJ judgement, says Pakistan after granting consular access to Jadhav The Pakistan foreign office said two consular officers of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad were provided 'unimpeded and uninterrupted consular access to Jadhav'. UK Black Lives Matter sculpture removed The authorities in the southwestern city of Bristol said they had taken down the sculpture almost \24 hours after it was placed on the plinth without permission. Coronavirus: Global tally rises to 13.7 million As many as 13,706,323 people around the world have been diagnosed with COVID-19, while more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far. Group linked to Russian intelligence hacking COVID-19 vaccine research: UK The Russian military had earlier announced the vaccine it had developed was 'safe' after conducting clinical trials since June 18. Two Taiwan helicopter crew members killed in China 'invasion' drill The military said a Bell 0H-58D helicopter crashed as it returned to Hsinchu airbase from one of the exercises, killing the pilot and co-pilot.

Top 10 world news today: New George Floyd footage, COVID-19 vaccine hacking and more

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates.

The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The rates, finalised for private hospitals and medical colleges by Dr KK Talwar Committee, cover isolation beds, ICU treatment and hospitalisation charges, per day of admission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-set-to-cap-covid-19-charges-in-private-hospitals-307355">Also read:&nbsp;Punjab set to cap COVID-19 charges in private hospitals</a>

For moderate sickness requiring isolation beds, including supportive care and oxygen, the rates per day of admission are fixed at Rs 10,000 for all private medical colleges/NABH private hospitals with teaching program from NBE, Rs 9,000 for NABH accredited hospitals (including private medical colleges without PG/DNB course) and Rs 8,000 for non-NABH accredited hospitals.

The rates across these categories of hospitals for severe sickness (ICU without need for ventilator) have been capped, respectively, at Rs 15,000, Rs 14,000 and Rs 13,000, while for very severe or critical patients, these are fixed at Rs 18,000, Rs 16,500 and Rs 15,000 respectively.

All these rates are inclusive of PPE costs, according to an official spokesperson.In order to encourage private hospitals to cater to mild sickness cases also, the Dr Talwar Committee has also fixed per day admission rates for such cases at Rs 6,500, Rs 5,500 and Rs 4,500, respectively.

The move comes amid several complaints received by the state government of private hospitals charging exorbitantly for COVID treatment.

The Chief Minister had asked the Dr Talwar committee and the state health and family welfare department to look into the matter and work out the rates after discussions with private hospitals. 
&nbsp;

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates. The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates. The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. The rates, finalised for private hospitals and medical colleges by Dr KK Talwar Committee, cover isolation beds, ICU treatment and hospitalisation charges, per day of admission. Also read: Punjab set to cap COVID-19 charges in private hospitals For moderate sickness requiring isolation beds, including supportive care and oxygen, the rates per day of admission are fixed at Rs 10,000 for all private medical colleges/NABH private hospitals with teaching program from NBE, Rs 9,000 for NABH accredited hospitals (including private medical colleges without PG/DNB course) and Rs 8,000 for non-NABH accredited hospitals. The rates across these categories of hospitals for severe sickness (ICU without need for ventilator) have been capped, respectively, at Rs 15,000, Rs 14,000 and Rs 13,000, while for very severe or critical patients, these are fixed at Rs 18,000, Rs 16,500 and Rs 15,000 respectively. All these rates are inclusive of PPE costs, according to an official spokesperson.In order to encourage private hospitals to cater to mild sickness cases also, the Dr Talwar Committee has also fixed per day admission rates for such cases at Rs 6,500, Rs 5,500 and Rs 4,500, respectively. The move comes amid several complaints received by the state government of private hospitals charging exorbitantly for COVID treatment. The Chief Minister had asked the Dr Talwar committee and the state health and family welfare department to look into the matter and work out the rates after discussions with private hospitals.

Punjab caps COVID treatment rates for private hospitals

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday.

"Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district. Afghan forces launched an airstrike killing 15 terrorists and injuring ten others," Kandahar police spokesperson Jamal Nasir Barakzai said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-faces-grim-economic-outlook-as-pandemic-wipes-out-growth-world-bank-313765">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank</a>

According to him, three police officers were killed and four others were injured in clashes with Taliban terrorists.

The group has not commented on the incident so far.

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday. "Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district.

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday. "Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district. Afghan forces launched an airstrike killing 15 terrorists and injuring ten others," Kandahar police spokesperson Jamal Nasir Barakzai said. Also read: Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank According to him, three police officers were killed and four others were injured in clashes with Taliban terrorists. The group has not commented on the incident so far.

Afghanistan: 15 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrike

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment.

The World Bank said it was forecasting gross domestic product to contract between 5.5 per cent and 7.4 per cent in 2020, compared with growth of 2.9 per cent&nbsp;in 2019, with more than 70 per cent of the population expected to slip under the poverty line.

"COVID-19 has hit Afghanistan in the midst of a difficult political transition, an intensifying conflict, and significant uncertainty regarding future grant support," Henry Kerali, World Bank Afghanistan director, told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/european-union-in-contact-with-india-on-afghan-peace-process-officials-313291">Also read|&nbsp;European Union in contact with India on Afghan peace process: Officials</a>

Due to the lockdown, domestic government revenue is expected to fall up to 30 per cent at a time when the economists and diplomats say Afghanistan is facing a likely fall in foreign funding as countries deal with their own economic crises at home and the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks between the insurgent Taliban and the Afghan government.

With few options to borrow and investment stalled by years conflict, the government is heavily reliant on foreign aid. Pledges made by foreign donors in 2016 run out this year, with a conference to renew pledges due in November.

"Without progress towards a sustainable peace and commitments to continued grant support from international partners, medium-term prospects appear increasingly grim," the World Bank said.

Ministry of Finance spokesman Shamroz Khan Masjedi said the government was concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy.

"There will be more unemployment, more poverty and reduction in government revenue because many business and economic activities ... have stopped," he said.

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment.

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment. The World Bank said it was forecasting gross domestic product to contract between 5.5 per cent and 7.4 per cent in 2020, compared with growth of 2.9 per cent in 2019, with more than 70 per cent of the population expected to slip under the poverty line. "COVID-19 has hit Afghanistan in the midst of a difficult political transition, an intensifying conflict, and significant uncertainty regarding future grant support," Henry Kerali, World Bank Afghanistan director, told reporters. Also read| European Union in contact with India on Afghan peace process: Officials Due to the lockdown, domestic government revenue is expected to fall up to 30 per cent at a time when the economists and diplomats say Afghanistan is facing a likely fall in foreign funding as countries deal with their own economic crises at home and the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks between the insurgent Taliban and the Afghan government. With few options to borrow and investment stalled by years conflict, the government is heavily reliant on foreign aid. Pledges made by foreign donors in 2016 run out this year, with a conference to renew pledges due in November. "Without progress towards a sustainable peace and commitments to continued grant support from international partners, medium-term prospects appear increasingly grim," the World Bank said. Ministry of Finance spokesman Shamroz Khan Masjedi said the government was concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy. "There will be more unemployment, more poverty and reduction in government revenue because many business and economic activities ... have stopped," he said.

Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday.

EU judges, who have followed such opinions in four out of five cases, rule on the issue in the coming months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-accounts-of-jeff-bezos-elon-musk-bill-gates-and-others-hit-in-major-hack-313558">Also read:&nbsp;Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack</a>

"As EU law currently stands, online platform operators, such as YouTube and Uploaded, are not directly liable for the illegal uploading of protected works by the users of those platforms," Advocate General Saugmandsgaard said in a non-binding opinion relating to two cases before the court.

The cases are C-682/18 YouTube &amp; C-683/18 Cyando.

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday.

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday. EU judges, who have followed such opinions in four out of five cases, rule on the issue in the coming months. Also read: Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack "As EU law currently stands, online platform operators, such as YouTube and Uploaded, are not directly liable for the illegal uploading of protected works by the users of those platforms," Advocate General Saugmandsgaard said in a non-binding opinion relating to two cases before the court. The cases are C-682/18 YouTube & C-683/18 Cyando.

YouTube not liable for illegal copyrighted works on its platform, EU court adviser says

Two crew members were killed in a helicopter crash Thursday as Taiwan's military held drills across the island -- including one simulating coastal assaults from China.

Thursday's climax of the five-day drill aimed to test how democratic Taiwan's armed forces would repel an invasion from its giant neighbour.

Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it -- by force if necessary.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-conducts-live-fire-drill-to-thwart-invasion-amid-china-tensions-313667">Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan conducts live-fire drill to thwart 'invasion' amid China tensions</a>

Thursday's main simulation saw Taiwan fighter jets, warships and ground troops repelling an enemy attempt to land on a beach in the central city of Taichung in an operation involving some 8,000 service members.

The military said a Bell 0H-58D helicopter crashed as it returned to Hsinchu airbase from one of the exercises, killing the pilot and co-pilot.

Taipei has lived with the threat of invasion by China since the two sides split in 1949 after a civil war.

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I was saddened to learn that Army Major Chien Jen-chuan &amp; Captain Kao Chia-lung lost their lives in a training accident, &amp; I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to their families. This is a great loss for our military, &amp; we all share in their grief.
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iingwen/status/1283712108316614656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In recent decades it has found itself increasingly outnumbered and outgunned by China's enormous People's Liberation Army.

Beijing has piled military, economic and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016 because she refuses to acknowledge its stance that the island is part of "one China".

Tsai won a landslide re-election in January in what was seen as a strong rebuke to China's strong-arm tactics against the island.

Last year President Xi Jinping gave an especially bellicose speech about Taiwan, warning unification was coming.

"I think it's inevitable that the People's Republic of China will realise the reunification of the motherland," Beijing foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters when asked about Taiwan's drills.

In recent months Chinese warplanes have started buzzing Taiwan with unprecedented frequency, repeatedly breaching its air defence zone and prompting Taipei to scramble its own fighter jets.

New hardware

The military mismatch has been compounded by Western governments being increasingly wary of selling Taiwan advanced weapon systems, fearful of incurring Beijing's wrath.

That has pushed the island to develop its own hardware, including advanced missiles, boats and a new trainer jet.

Some of that hardware, including locally built surface-to-air and hypersonic missiles, was used during this week's drills.

China's increasingly muscular approach towards the island has also sparked renewed international co-operation with Taiwan.

Under US President Donald Trump, Washington has become far more willing to sell big-ticket items, including F-16 fighter jets and other hardware.

Earlier this week, Beijing vowed to impose sanctions on defence company Lockheed Martin in response to the US agreeing to upgrade Taiwan's Patriot missile systems.

France has also angered Beijing by agreeing to upgrade the missile interference systems on frigates Taiwan purchased in the 1990s.

Washington has remained a leading unofficial ally and arms supplier to Taipei despite switching diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979.

Two crew members were killed in a helicopter crash Thursday as Taiwan's military held drills across the island -- including one simulating coastal assaults from China.

Two crew members were killed in a helicopter crash Thursday as Taiwan's military held drills across the island -- including one simulating coastal assaults from China. Thursday's climax of the five-day drill aimed to test how democratic Taiwan's armed forces would repel an invasion from its giant neighbour. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it -- by force if necessary. Also read: Taiwan conducts live-fire drill to thwart 'invasion' amid China tensions Thursday's main simulation saw Taiwan fighter jets, warships and ground troops repelling an enemy attempt to land on a beach in the central city of Taichung in an operation involving some 8,000 service members. The military said a Bell 0H-58D helicopter crashed as it returned to Hsinchu airbase from one of the exercises, killing the pilot and co-pilot. Taipei has lived with the threat of invasion by China since the two sides split in 1949 after a civil war. I was saddened to learn that Army Major Chien Jen-chuan & Captain Kao Chia-lung lost their lives in a training accident, & I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to their families. This is a great loss for our military, & we all share in their grief. — 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) July 16, 2020 × In recent decades it has found itself increasingly outnumbered and outgunned by China's enormous People's Liberation Army. Beijing has piled military, economic and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016 because she refuses to acknowledge its stance that the island is part of "one China". Tsai won a landslide re-election in January in what was seen as a strong rebuke to China's strong-arm tactics against the island. Last year President Xi Jinping gave an especially bellicose speech about Taiwan, warning unification was coming. "I think it's inevitable that the People's Republic of China will realise the reunification of the motherland," Beijing foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters when asked about Taiwan's drills. In recent months Chinese warplanes have started buzzing Taiwan with unprecedented frequency, repeatedly breaching its air defence zone and prompting Taipei to scramble its own fighter jets. New hardware The military mismatch has been compounded by Western governments being increasingly wary of selling Taiwan advanced weapon systems, fearful of incurring Beijing's wrath. That has pushed the island to develop its own hardware, including advanced missiles, boats and a new trainer jet. Some of that hardware, including locally built surface-to-air and hypersonic missiles, was used during this week's drills. China's increasingly muscular approach towards the island has also sparked renewed international co-operation with Taiwan. Under US President Donald Trump, Washington has become far more willing to sell big-ticket items, including F-16 fighter jets and other hardware. Earlier this week, Beijing vowed to impose sanctions on defence company Lockheed Martin in response to the US agreeing to upgrade Taiwan's Patriot missile systems. France has also angered Beijing by agreeing to upgrade the missile interference systems on frigates Taiwan purchased in the 1990s. Washington has remained a leading unofficial ally and arms supplier to Taipei despite switching diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979.

Two Taiwan helicopter crew members killed in China 'invasion' drill

Another protest was held in Moscow against the&nbsp;constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036.

A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protest-in-moscow-against-reforms-that-could-keep-putin-in-power-till-2036-313573#no-to-eternal-putin-313564">Have a look:&nbsp;Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036</a>

The voting, amid the coronavirus, attracted a lot of international criticism, combined with reports of rigging in elections and various other malpractices.

The rally was broken off by Moscow police which claims to have detained 132 protestors. However,&nbsp;OVD-Info rights group that monitors arrests and detentions in Russia reported the detainee number as&nbsp;147.

The rally was unauthorised and reportedly was blocking Moscow traffic. In the videos shown on the local news channels, the riot police and protetsors were seen clashing and some images also showed the riot police dragging the protestors to the police vans, before detaining them.

Chair of Russia's Journalists Union Vladimir Solovyov also reported that several reporters, who were covering and reporting the protest, were also detained.

Another protest was held in Moscow against the constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036. A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage.

Another protest was held in Moscow against the constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036. A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage. Have a look: Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036 The voting, amid the coronavirus, attracted a lot of international criticism, combined with reports of rigging in elections and various other malpractices. The rally was broken off by Moscow police which claims to have detained 132 protestors. However, OVD-Info rights group that monitors arrests and detentions in Russia reported the detainee number as 147. The rally was unauthorised and reportedly was blocking Moscow traffic. In the videos shown on the local news channels, the riot police and protetsors were seen clashing and some images also showed the riot police dragging the protestors to the police vans, before detaining them. Chair of Russia's Journalists Union Vladimir Solovyov also reported that several reporters, who were covering and reporting the protest, were also detained.

Moscow police detains 132 protestors over 'anti-Putin rule' protest

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus.

France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces.

The new rule will be implemented from August 1 all over the country, President Emmanuel Macron said. Mayenne region, however,&nbsp;made it obligatory immediately in several places.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wearing-masks-can-cut-down-coronavirus-infection-risk-by-65-313450">Also read:&nbsp;Wearing masks can cut down coronavirus infection risk by 65%</a>

The rule is being imposed after French health experts said that the coronavirus was&nbsp;"coming back a bit".

"We were considering implementing (this measure) on August 1 because, once again, we are acting preventively and not as a matter of emergency", Prime Minister Jean Castex told the Senate.

"I have heard and understood that this deadline appeared late or raised some questions, so the decree will come into force next week."

The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks.&nbsp;

In addition to this, Macron also proposed open COVID testing for all, without any doctors' prescriptions.

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus. France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces.

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus. France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces. The new rule will be implemented from August 1 all over the country, President Emmanuel Macron said. Mayenne region, however, made it obligatory immediately in several places. Also read: Wearing masks can cut down coronavirus infection risk by 65% The rule is being imposed after French health experts said that the coronavirus was "coming back a bit". "We were considering implementing (this measure) on August 1 because, once again, we are acting preventively and not as a matter of emergency", Prime Minister Jean Castex told the Senate. "I have heard and understood that this deadline appeared late or raised some questions, so the decree will come into force next week." The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks. In addition to this, Macron also proposed open COVID testing for all, without any doctors' prescriptions.

France makes wearing face masks indoors compulsory

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