Pakistan on Saturday reported 153 coronavirus deaths, the highest spike in a single-day in the country, while the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases crossed the 171,000-mark, health officials said.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Pakistan rose to 171,665 after 6,604 new infections were recorded in the last 24 hours. The total death toll stands at 3,382 after 153 more deaths were registered.

The ministry said that 63,504 people have recovered so far across Pakistan, making it a significant count. 
Out of the total infection so far, Sindh has 65,163, Punjab 64,216, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 20,790, Islamabad 10,279, Balochistan 9,162, Gilgit Baltistan 1,253 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 803 infected patients.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-international-aid-of-usd-15-billion-to-handle-covid-outbreak-307314">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak</a>

There are 810 hospitals with COVID-19 facilities, with 6,980 patients admitted across the country, according to the ministry.

Meanwhile, the aviation ministry said that the permission for international flight operations would be subject to restrictions in light of the current COVID-19 scenario and implementation of health protocols.

"Government of Pakistan has been pleased to authorise International Flight Operations to/ from All International Airports of Pakistan except Gwadar and Turbat airports, with effect from June 20, 2020, 0001 PST," according to the statement by the aviation ministry.

The cargo, special and diplomatic flights would continue to be authorised as per procedure in vogue and adherence to the relevant applicable standard operating procedures would be mandatory for all airline operators.

The government on Wednesday announced a new policy for inbound passengers with a resolve to transport approximately 200,000 people within a month, the Dawn newspaper reported.

The implementation of the new policy will start from Saturday which the government said would bring significant enhancement in the capacity to bring back stranded Pakistanis from across the world.

On March 21, Pakistan suspended all international flight operations to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

Pakistan on Saturday reported 153 coronavirus deaths, the highest spike in a single-day in the country, while the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases crossed the 171,000-mark, health officials said.

Pakistan on Saturday reported 153 coronavirus deaths, the highest spike in a single-day in the country, while the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases crossed the 171,000-mark, health officials said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Pakistan rose to 171,665 after 6,604 new infections were recorded in the last 24 hours. The total death toll stands at 3,382 after 153 more deaths were registered. The ministry said that 63,504 people have recovered so far across Pakistan, making it a significant count. Out of the total infection so far, Sindh has 65,163, Punjab 64,216, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 20,790, Islamabad 10,279, Balochistan 9,162, Gilgit Baltistan 1,253 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 803 infected patients. Also read: Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak There are 810 hospitals with COVID-19 facilities, with 6,980 patients admitted across the country, according to the ministry. Meanwhile, the aviation ministry said that the permission for international flight operations would be subject to restrictions in light of the current COVID-19 scenario and implementation of health protocols. "Government of Pakistan has been pleased to authorise International Flight Operations to/ from All International Airports of Pakistan except Gwadar and Turbat airports, with effect from June 20, 2020, 0001 PST," according to the statement by the aviation ministry. The cargo, special and diplomatic flights would continue to be authorised as per procedure in vogue and adherence to the relevant applicable standard operating procedures would be mandatory for all airline operators. The government on Wednesday announced a new policy for inbound passengers with a resolve to transport approximately 200,000 people within a month, the Dawn newspaper reported. The implementation of the new policy will start from Saturday which the government said would bring significant enhancement in the capacity to bring back stranded Pakistanis from across the world. On March 21, Pakistan suspended all international flight operations to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

Pakistan registers record single-day coronavirus deaths, cases cross 171,000 mark

As&nbsp;United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday&nbsp;accused the organisation&nbsp;of hypocrisy.

"The United Nations Human Rights Council, now comprised of Venezuela and recently, Cuba and China, has long been and remains a haven for dictators and democracies that indulge them," Pompeo said in a statement. "It is a grave disappointment to those genuinely seeking to advance human dignity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/black-lives-matter-protests-statues-toppled-across-united-states-307317">Also watch|&nbsp;Black Lives Matter protests: Statues toppled across United States</a>

Pompeo feels that the&nbsp;47-member-state forum's unanimous resolution on Friday goes on to show that the organisation does not recognize the democracy of the US.&nbsp;

He also accused the council of not holding the same ideas of transparency and accountability in their own actions and decisions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treatment-of-hong-kong-depends-on-how-beijing-treats-it-says-pompeo-307214">Also read|&nbsp;US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo</a>

"If the Council were serious about protecting human rights, there are plenty of legitimate needs for its attention, such as the systemic racial disparities in places like Cuba, China, and Iran," he said.

"If the Council were honest, it would recognize the strengths of American democracy and urge authoritarian regimes around the world to model American democracy and to hold their nations to the same high standards of accountability and transparency that we Americans apply to ourselves."

The resolution by the council was brought in after George Floyd's brother, Philonise Floyd, urged the Council to investigate the US police brutality and racial discrimination.

As United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday accused the organisation of hypocrisy.

As United Nations Human Rights Council condemned the killing of George Floyd in the US and raised concerns regarding the police brutality and ill treatment against the African American community in the country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has on Saturday accused the organisation of hypocrisy. "The United Nations Human Rights Council, now comprised of Venezuela and recently, Cuba and China, has long been and remains a haven for dictators and democracies that indulge them," Pompeo said in a statement. "It is a grave disappointment to those genuinely seeking to advance human dignity." Also watch| Black Lives Matter protests: Statues toppled across United States Pompeo feels that the 47-member-state forum's unanimous resolution on Friday goes on to show that the organisation does not recognize the democracy of the US. He also accused the council of not holding the same ideas of transparency and accountability in their own actions and decisions. Also read| US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo "If the Council were serious about protecting human rights, there are plenty of legitimate needs for its attention, such as the systemic racial disparities in places like Cuba, China, and Iran," he said. "If the Council were honest, it would recognize the strengths of American democracy and urge authoritarian regimes around the world to model American democracy and to hold their nations to the same high standards of accountability and transparency that we Americans apply to ourselves." The resolution by the council was brought in after George Floyd's brother, Philonise Floyd, urged the Council to investigate the US police brutality and racial discrimination.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo calls UNHRC 'haven for dictators'

U.S. President Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee (RNC) raised $74 million in May, Trump's re-election campaign announced on Saturday, short of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden's haul of for the month.

Trump's fundraising, up from $61.7 million in April, comes as the president is set to hold his first major campaign event since the coronavirus pandemic shut down most campaigning with a rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday.

Former Vice President Biden and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) raised $80.8 million in May, their largest single month of fundraising.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/coronapalooza-twitter-users-give-another-name-to-trumps-tulsa-rally-307206">Also read|&nbsp;Coronapalooza: Twitter users give another name to Trump's Tulsa rally</a>

The Trump campaign and the RNC hold a massive cash advantage over Biden ahead of the Nov. 3 election, however, amassing a total of $817 million in three years of fundraising, according to a statement.

The Trump campaign and RNC's joint fundraising committees had $265 million in cash on hand, and recently hired 300 new staff in "target states," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-prosecutor-who-has-investigated-trump-lawyer-refuses-resign-307237">Also read|&nbsp;US prosecutor who has investigated Trump lawyer refuses resign</a>

Trump's fundraising has regularly outstripped Biden's presidential campaign, which was only launched in April last year and fought a competitive Democratic primary campaign.

But since becoming the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee in April, Biden has built a lead over Trump in national opinion polls, amid the twin crises of the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest over police brutality in many U.S. cities.

Biden announced his first major advertising blitz on this week, launching $15 million in TV and digital ads in the crucial states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Florida and North Carolina, all states Trump won in 2016.

U.S. President Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee (RNC) raised $74 million in May, Trump's re-election campaign announced on Saturday, short of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden's haul of for the month.

U.S. President Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee (RNC) raised $74 million in May, Trump's re-election campaign announced on Saturday, short of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden's haul of for the month. Trump's fundraising, up from $61.7 million in April, comes as the president is set to hold his first major campaign event since the coronavirus pandemic shut down most campaigning with a rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday. Former Vice President Biden and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) raised $80.8 million in May, their largest single month of fundraising. Also read| Coronapalooza: Twitter users give another name to Trump's Tulsa rally The Trump campaign and the RNC hold a massive cash advantage over Biden ahead of the Nov. 3 election, however, amassing a total of $817 million in three years of fundraising, according to a statement. The Trump campaign and RNC's joint fundraising committees had $265 million in cash on hand, and recently hired 300 new staff in "target states," it said. Also read| US prosecutor who has investigated Trump lawyer refuses resign Trump's fundraising has regularly outstripped Biden's presidential campaign, which was only launched in April last year and fought a competitive Democratic primary campaign. But since becoming the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee in April, Biden has built a lead over Trump in national opinion polls, amid the twin crises of the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest over police brutality in many U.S. cities. Biden announced his first major advertising blitz on this week, launching $15 million in TV and digital ads in the crucial states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Florida and North Carolina, all states Trump won in 2016.

Trump campaign raised 74 million dollars in May, short of Biden's haul

Afghanistan government is refusing to release Taliban prisoners, and western powers are supporting this decision of the Afghanistan government, citing security issues.

Afghanistan government has decided to not allow the release of hundreds of Taliban prisoners, who are responsible for some of the most violent attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-have-met-our-part-of-commitment-with-taliban-top-us-commander-307023">Also read|&nbsp;We have met our part of commitment with Taliban: Top US commander</a>

This demand from Taliban is one of the major and last demands from Taliban in resolving the intra-Afghan peace negotiations&nbsp;in Qatar aimed at ending more than 18 years of war in a US-brokered peace process.

"The contentious part right now is the prisoners issue," a senior government source told a media house. Two European diplomats, an Asian diplomat and another Afghan official confirmed his account.

"There are some dangerous Taliban fighters named in the list, and releasing them is literally crossing a red line," said a senior European diplomat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/afghan-government-taliban-agree-to-doha-as-venue-for-first-peace-talks-306103">Also read|&nbsp;Afghan government, Taliban agree to Doha as venue for first peace talks</a>

"Some NATO members find it extremely uncomfortable to support the release of Taliban prisoners who were behind large-scale suicide attacks on minority groups and on expats."

The Taliban started a withdrawal&nbsp;agreement with the help of the US. However, the talks were delayed as the Taliban group asked 5,000 prisoners to be released, which the Afghanistan government denied.

Sources have revealed that even the US government raised concerns over some of the names in the list of the 5,000 prisoners to be released, as some of them are responsible for violent attacks.&nbsp;NATO and the Afghan government have objected in&nbsp;setting these prisoners free.

The sources said that if all prisoners walked free, including those accused of killing many civilians in some of Afghanistan's bloodiest attacks, it would give the impression the insurgent group had the upper hand over the government while negotiations got under way.

Taliban, however, has declined that the group has asked for release of high-profile prisoners. "There are no such people ... these are just excuses to create barriers against the peace process," said&nbsp;Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

Afghanistan has released over 3,000&nbsp; prisoners already, and is ready to release all other prisoners, excusing few hundreds. Taliban, too, has released some prisoners.

Afghanistan government is refusing to release Taliban prisoners, and western powers are supporting this decision of the Afghanistan government, citing security issues.

Afghanistan government is refusing to release Taliban prisoners, and western powers are supporting this decision of the Afghanistan government, citing security issues. Afghanistan government has decided to not allow the release of hundreds of Taliban prisoners, who are responsible for some of the most violent attacks. Also read| We have met our part of commitment with Taliban: Top US commander This demand from Taliban is one of the major and last demands from Taliban in resolving the intra-Afghan peace negotiations in Qatar aimed at ending more than 18 years of war in a US-brokered peace process. "The contentious part right now is the prisoners issue," a senior government source told a media house. Two European diplomats, an Asian diplomat and another Afghan official confirmed his account. "There are some dangerous Taliban fighters named in the list, and releasing them is literally crossing a red line," said a senior European diplomat. Also read| Afghan government, Taliban agree to Doha as venue for first peace talks "Some NATO members find it extremely uncomfortable to support the release of Taliban prisoners who were behind large-scale suicide attacks on minority groups and on expats." The Taliban started a withdrawal agreement with the help of the US. However, the talks were delayed as the Taliban group asked 5,000 prisoners to be released, which the Afghanistan government denied. Sources have revealed that even the US government raised concerns over some of the names in the list of the 5,000 prisoners to be released, as some of them are responsible for violent attacks. NATO and the Afghan government have objected in setting these prisoners free. The sources said that if all prisoners walked free, including those accused of killing many civilians in some of Afghanistan's bloodiest attacks, it would give the impression the insurgent group had the upper hand over the government while negotiations got under way. Taliban, however, has declined that the group has asked for release of high-profile prisoners. "There are no such people ... these are just excuses to create barriers against the peace process," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Afghanistan has released over 3,000 prisoners already, and is ready to release all other prisoners, excusing few hundreds. Taliban, too, has released some prisoners.

Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal.

Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars.

It was once described as the 'yam between the two rocks', by the founder of Modern Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah. Little did he know that in 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, the yam would be squashed by one rock.

For Nepal, its alliance with China has come at a very heavy cost. Kathmandu has lost its identity, and is dancing to the tunes of China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/enough-is-enough-nepal-youth-tells-prime-minister-kp-sharma-oli-306932">Also read|&nbsp;'Enough is Enough', Nepal youth tells Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli</a>

Nepal is indulging in unprecedented provocation, and not just in map fixing. While map fixing was bad, at least that was only on paper.&nbsp;The recent developments are&nbsp;on ground, as&nbsp;Nepal has deployed troops on its border with India.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-china-is-coaching-nepal-307195/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This has never happened before.&nbsp;The Nepali army has built a helipad, and is planted tents. All of this drama is playing out in Dharchula, which is&nbsp;just 80 kilometers from the Chinese border.

While playing around with a map is one thing, deploying troops is another. The former is not okay, but the latter counts as military provocation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/map-move-why-is-nepal-provoking-india-306906">Also read|&nbsp;Map move: Why is Nepal provoking India?</a>

This is very uncommon for Nepal. This has also made it clear that Nepal and China are not just friends or allies, but Chinese government has made Mr. Oli's government as its puppet.

Earlier today, the Nepal Communist Party held a workshop along with the Chinese Communist Party. Apparently, the two sides wanted to share experiences on running the party and the government. A similar workshop was held last year, few weeks before Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal.

There are two takeaways from this so-called virtual worship. First, there is no real sharing of experiences here. These are virtual schools being runs by the CCP. Comrade Oli and his team are being coached by the CCP.&nbsp;

A line from the statement of Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachand. He is the chairperson of the Nepal Communist Party -- the ruling party in Kathmandu.

Prachand told the gathering that the relations between Nepal and China are 'nurtured on the basis of sovereign equality'. He was once viewed as India's man, trusted to counterbalance Oli.&nbsp; However, that's not the case anymore.

Another important thing to note is the the timing of this virtual meet. It comes a day after Nepal constitutionally adopted a wrong map, claiming India's territories as its own. It also comes four&nbsp;days after the Galwan skirmish

Four days after so many lives were lost, Nepal's ruling party is taking classes from the CCP.

Mr. Oli is proving to be a fast learner. The first thing he has picked up from the CCP is how to ignore the problems of his people, and that's exactly what he's doing -- turning a blind eye to the problems in Nepal.

The first problem that Nepal locals are facing is the novel coronavirus, which has made over&nbsp;9,000 people sick in Nepal.

Healthcare in Nepal is a mess. Plus, there's a humanitarian crisis, as some 25,000 Nepali citizens are stranded abroad, without jobs.

Nepal's apex court has asked the government to evacuate them. It had to step in&nbsp;to remind Mr. Oli of his duty as a Prime Minister.

Another problem is the caste-based violence. A 21-year-old Dalit man was recently killed in Nepal. There are have been over 33 cases of violence against Dalits this year. There were at least 84 cases in 2019. There are thousands on the streets&nbsp;protesting these incidents. They have caught the attention of the United Nations and the European Union.

However, Mr.&nbsp;Oli is learning from China to not to care about human rights either.

The next problem is the crippling economy, again affected by the coronavirus. There is no money coming in to Nepal, and no tourists either. Remittances are expected to slide by 14 per cent this year, as per World economic forum.

Interestingly, remittances represent more than a quarter of Nepal's economic output. Any good government would understand the gravity of this situation. But Mr. Oli's poor governance is the reason behind his failed delivery.

Now his politics depends on fanning anti-India sentiment. Ultra-nationalism is politically profitable in Nepal, but remember the law of diminishing returns, and the significance of timing.

Now is not the time to construct helipads, or move troops. And it is never a good time to burn bridges with a friendly neighbour, especially one on whom you depend so heavily.

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal. Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars.

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal. Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars. It was once described as the 'yam between the two rocks', by the founder of Modern Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah. Little did he know that in 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, the yam would be squashed by one rock. For Nepal, its alliance with China has come at a very heavy cost. Kathmandu has lost its identity, and is dancing to the tunes of China. Also read| 'Enough is Enough', Nepal youth tells Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli Nepal is indulging in unprecedented provocation, and not just in map fixing. While map fixing was bad, at least that was only on paper. The recent developments are on ground, as Nepal has deployed troops on its border with India. This has never happened before. The Nepali army has built a helipad, and is planted tents. All of this drama is playing out in Dharchula, which is just 80 kilometers from the Chinese border. While playing around with a map is one thing, deploying troops is another. The former is not okay, but the latter counts as military provocation. Also read| Map move: Why is Nepal provoking India? This is very uncommon for Nepal. This has also made it clear that Nepal and China are not just friends or allies, but Chinese government has made Mr. Oli's government as its puppet. Earlier today, the Nepal Communist Party held a workshop along with the Chinese Communist Party. Apparently, the two sides wanted to share experiences on running the party and the government. A similar workshop was held last year, few weeks before Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal. There are two takeaways from this so-called virtual worship. First, there is no real sharing of experiences here. These are virtual schools being runs by the CCP. Comrade Oli and his team are being coached by the CCP. A line from the statement of Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachand. He is the chairperson of the Nepal Communist Party -- the ruling party in Kathmandu. Prachand told the gathering that the relations between Nepal and China are 'nurtured on the basis of sovereign equality'. He was once viewed as India's man, trusted to counterbalance Oli. However, that's not the case anymore. Another important thing to note is the the timing of this virtual meet. It comes a day after Nepal constitutionally adopted a wrong map, claiming India's territories as its own. It also comes four days after the Galwan skirmish Four days after so many lives were lost, Nepal's ruling party is taking classes from the CCP. Mr. Oli is proving to be a fast learner. The first thing he has picked up from the CCP is how to ignore the problems of his people, and that's exactly what he's doing -- turning a blind eye to the problems in Nepal. The first problem that Nepal locals are facing is the novel coronavirus, which has made over 9,000 people sick in Nepal. Healthcare in Nepal is a mess. Plus, there's a humanitarian crisis, as some 25,000 Nepali citizens are stranded abroad, without jobs. Nepal's apex court has asked the government to evacuate them. It had to step in to remind Mr. Oli of his duty as a Prime Minister. Another problem is the caste-based violence. A 21-year-old Dalit man was recently killed in Nepal. There are have been over 33 cases of violence against Dalits this year. There were at least 84 cases in 2019. There are thousands on the streets protesting these incidents. They have caught the attention of the United Nations and the European Union. However, Mr. Oli is learning from China to not to care about human rights either. The next problem is the crippling economy, again affected by the coronavirus. There is no money coming in to Nepal, and no tourists either. Remittances are expected to slide by 14 per cent this year, as per World economic forum. Interestingly, remittances represent more than a quarter of Nepal's economic output. Any good government would understand the gravity of this situation. But Mr. Oli's poor governance is the reason behind his failed delivery. Now his politics depends on fanning anti-India sentiment. Ultra-nationalism is politically profitable in Nepal, but remember the law of diminishing returns, and the significance of timing. Now is not the time to construct helipads, or move troops. And it is never a good time to burn bridges with a friendly neighbour, especially one on whom you depend so heavily.

Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-crew-stranded-on-cruise-ships-in-uk-appeal-for-repatriation-307303">Also read:&nbsp;Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation</a>

"And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added.

Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights."

"In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.&nbsp;

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now. Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it." Also read: Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation "And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added. Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights." "In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.

Hardeep Singh Puri 'confident and hopeful' about Air India's divestment, disinvestment plans

In a bid to help Mozambique, a country in East Africa financially amidst COVID crisis, India has suspended debt repayment on $700 million concessional loans to the country till the end of this year, Indian envoy to the country has told WION.

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from capital Maputo, Indian envoy Rajeev Kumar said, "We have agreed to provide this relief to all the LCD countries who are going through debt stress due to the economic impact of the virus."

He also talked about how India is providing medicines to the country and also reaching out to stranded Indian nationals for repatriation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-health-minister-arrested-over-60-million-covid-19-supplies-scandal-307239">Also read:&nbsp;Zimbabwe health minister arrested over $60 million COVID-19 supplies scandal</a>

WION: How are India and Mozambique working together to combat the crisis? 
Rajeev Kumar: As far as the bilateral relationships between India and Mozambique are concerned, particularly in this pandemic time, I should tell you, being the pharmacy of the world, our PM Modi has taken a great initiative of providing a healing touch to every country, every continent on the planet by offering medicines all around the world. We always believe in providing solutions to global problems and cure to the disease. This pandemic is no different.

On 3rd June, PM Modi called President of Mozambique to offer our assistance in the fight against COVID. Mozambique will soon be receiving medicines from India in the fight against the virus, some of the medicines are HCQ and azithromycin. The second offer as part of our g20 commitments is debt relief by the suspension to Mozambique. We have agreed to provide this relief to all the LCD countries who are going through debt stress due to the economic impact of the virus. These are two economic steps govt of India has taken to provide assistance to Mozambique.

WION: How have we helped in Medicines and also debt suspension? 
Rajeev Kumar: As far HCQ is concerned, we have agreed and will provide 100,000 tablets to the country. We are providing several medicines by the end of June or early July. As far as the debt situation of the country is concerned, Mozambique has 100% of the debt of GDP which is huge.

The country also had two&nbsp;very bad cyclones in the month of March and April 2019. We were the first responders then by providing relief to the people. IMF, in October 2019, did a study and forecasted a GDP growth of 6 per cent&nbsp;but because of the pandemic, IMF has downgraded the forecast to 2.2 per cent. With this kind of public debt level and lower economic growth, and various other factors like lack of investment from abroad, that will create a situation in which the government here might not have space for the fiscal and monetary area.

This debt suspension by India will give them space to operate and provide cure or solutions to the larger population to meet the needs during a crisis. Example, a month back the government here had promised to increase the budget for the health sector by 0.1 per cent. Earlier it was 0.2per cent of GDP, now they will spend 0.3 per cent of GDP on the health.

They will require funds and relief will help achieve that promise. Loans are not commercial loans by India but concessional loans by EXIM bank of India. The loan has been of the tune of $700 million for infrastructure projects and has been helping in the country's growth path. On account of concessional loans, they have debt service commitments, so on those commitments, we have agreed to give suspension till the end of this year--31st Dec 2020 and they to pay the obligations. This will help them fight COVID crisis.

WION: How have you be helping when it comes to stranded Indians in the country? 
Rajeev Kumar: The first COVID case&nbsp;was reported in capital Maputo on March 23&nbsp;and the total number of cases stands at 662 cases and 4 deaths. The number of deaths is low. The maximum number of cases was on June 6 -- 55 cases total. Out of 662, 175 have recovered so far. We have 487 active cases.

In the month of April, two Indians have also got infected by COVID but have fully recovered. The country has done 22,000 tests so far.

In the ranking of the COVID cases, Mozambique has been placed at 39 positions. The situation is not that bad, with 0.1 death per million but this month it has been increasing. As far as Indians are concerned, we have a large number of the Indian community here, close to 3000 Indians, passport holders.

Ever since the first case was reported, the high commission has reached out. They told us the visas were expiring and we spoke to authorities and they have agreed to extend them. Authorities have extended visa till June 30 and Indians have a legal document to stay in the country. We would like to thank the President and the&nbsp;Financial Minister for taking care of Indians stranded the country.

We created a helpline on March 23 with three officers dedicated. We have received a number of calls. GOI has started a help desk - a WhatsApp number. On March 30, the government of Mozambique imposed a state of emergency for a month; we created an online platform for Indians to register themselves.

Till date, 2,856 and 144 Indians have required for repatriation. As soon as we received a direction from Delhi that flights can go to India, we initiated a proposal to have a charted flight from Maputo to India for 144 stranded Indians. The Indians community is very dynamic, very supportive and with their support like from Indian cultural association, charted flight will take 100 passengers from Maputo to Mumbai. The 100 passengers are not only Indian but one was also Bhutanese. Five Indians coming came from neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

WION: How has the Indian community helping out in efforts? 
Rajeev Kumar: For me, the Indian community is the most important card in my ambassadorial toolbox. My last posting was in Senegal till August 2019, they were the one behind many positive outcomes. Here also in Mozambique, I can proudly tell u, Malayalee association helped 500 Bihari migrant labourers in March with food and provision. When they wanted to leave Kerala for Bihar, one individual who lives here in Maputo, Ms Vidya Vilas, contacted Kerala government to take care of them for more than a month.

Indian community provides us with help and when we saw first COVID cases here, I created a WhatsApp group to seek advice. The general manager of the best hotel here is an Indian offered Indians to stay here for free. Another Indian offered his hospital here. This gives you confidence, particularly during a crisis.&nbsp;I might be HC, but they are the real HC. All Indians have come together. Community is providing money and organising everything. I thank them for the help and support. They are the real envoys of India.

In a bid to help Mozambique, a country in East Africa financially amidst COVID crisis, India has suspended debt repayment on $700 million concessional loans to the country till the end of this year, Indian envoy to the country has told WION.

In a bid to help Mozambique, a country in East Africa financially amidst COVID crisis, India has suspended debt repayment on $700 million concessional loans to the country till the end of this year, Indian envoy to the country has told WION. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from capital Maputo, Indian envoy Rajeev Kumar said, "We have agreed to provide this relief to all the LCD countries who are going through debt stress due to the economic impact of the virus." He also talked about how India is providing medicines to the country and also reaching out to stranded Indian nationals for repatriation. Also read: Zimbabwe health minister arrested over $60 million COVID-19 supplies scandal WION: How are India and Mozambique working together to combat the crisis? Rajeev Kumar: As far as the bilateral relationships between India and Mozambique are concerned, particularly in this pandemic time, I should tell you, being the pharmacy of the world, our PM Modi has taken a great initiative of providing a healing touch to every country, every continent on the planet by offering medicines all around the world. We always believe in providing solutions to global problems and cure to the disease. This pandemic is no different. On 3rd June, PM Modi called President of Mozambique to offer our assistance in the fight against COVID. Mozambique will soon be receiving medicines from India in the fight against the virus, some of the medicines are HCQ and azithromycin. The second offer as part of our g20 commitments is debt relief by the suspension to Mozambique. We have agreed to provide this relief to all the LCD countries who are going through debt stress due to the economic impact of the virus. These are two economic steps govt of India has taken to provide assistance to Mozambique. WION: How have we helped in Medicines and also debt suspension? Rajeev Kumar: As far HCQ is concerned, we have agreed and will provide 100,000 tablets to the country. We are providing several medicines by the end of June or early July. As far as the debt situation of the country is concerned, Mozambique has 100% of the debt of GDP which is huge. The country also had two very bad cyclones in the month of March and April 2019. We were the first responders then by providing relief to the people. IMF, in October 2019, did a study and forecasted a GDP growth of 6 per cent but because of the pandemic, IMF has downgraded the forecast to 2.2 per cent. With this kind of public debt level and lower economic growth, and various other factors like lack of investment from abroad, that will create a situation in which the government here might not have space for the fiscal and monetary area. This debt suspension by India will give them space to operate and provide cure or solutions to the larger population to meet the needs during a crisis. Example, a month back the government here had promised to increase the budget for the health sector by 0.1 per cent. Earlier it was 0.2per cent of GDP, now they will spend 0.3 per cent of GDP on the health. They will require funds and relief will help achieve that promise. Loans are not commercial loans by India but concessional loans by EXIM bank of India. The loan has been of the tune of $700 million for infrastructure projects and has been helping in the country's growth path. On account of concessional loans, they have debt service commitments, so on those commitments, we have agreed to give suspension till the end of this year--31st Dec 2020 and they to pay the obligations. This will help them fight COVID crisis. WION: How have you be helping when it comes to stranded Indians in the country? Rajeev Kumar: The first COVID case was reported in capital Maputo on March 23 and the total number of cases stands at 662 cases and 4 deaths. The number of deaths is low. The maximum number of cases was on June 6 -- 55 cases total. Out of 662, 175 have recovered so far. We have 487 active cases. In the month of April, two Indians have also got infected by COVID but have fully recovered. The country has done 22,000 tests so far. In the ranking of the COVID cases, Mozambique has been placed at 39 positions. The situation is not that bad, with 0.1 death per million but this month it has been increasing. As far as Indians are concerned, we have a large number of the Indian community here, close to 3000 Indians, passport holders. Ever since the first case was reported, the high commission has reached out. They told us the visas were expiring and we spoke to authorities and they have agreed to extend them. Authorities have extended visa till June 30 and Indians have a legal document to stay in the country. We would like to thank the President and the Financial Minister for taking care of Indians stranded the country. We created a helpline on March 23 with three officers dedicated. We have received a number of calls. GOI has started a help desk - a WhatsApp number. On March 30, the government of Mozambique imposed a state of emergency for a month; we created an online platform for Indians to register themselves. Till date, 2,856 and 144 Indians have required for repatriation. As soon as we received a direction from Delhi that flights can go to India, we initiated a proposal to have a charted flight from Maputo to India for 144 stranded Indians. The Indians community is very dynamic, very supportive and with their support like from Indian cultural association, charted flight will take 100 passengers from Maputo to Mumbai. The 100 passengers are not only Indian but one was also Bhutanese. Five Indians coming came from neighbouring countries. WION: How has the Indian community helping out in efforts? Rajeev Kumar: For me, the Indian community is the most important card in my ambassadorial toolbox. My last posting was in Senegal till August 2019, they were the one behind many positive outcomes. Here also in Mozambique, I can proudly tell u, Malayalee association helped 500 Bihari migrant labourers in March with food and provision. When they wanted to leave Kerala for Bihar, one individual who lives here in Maputo, Ms Vidya Vilas, contacted Kerala government to take care of them for more than a month. Indian community provides us with help and when we saw first COVID cases here, I created a WhatsApp group to seek advice. The general manager of the best hotel here is an Indian offered Indians to stay here for free. Another Indian offered his hospital here. This gives you confidence, particularly during a crisis. I might be HC, but they are the real HC. All Indians have come together. Community is providing money and organising everything. I thank them for the help and support. They are the real envoys of India.

India gives debt relief to Mozambique amidst COVID, says Indian envoy

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue.

Taking to Twitter, Sisodia wrote in Hindi: "All the apprehensions of LG regarding home isolation were resolved in the SDMA meeting and now the system of home isolation will continue. We thank LG sir for this. Under the leadership of our Chief Minister Kejriwal Ji, the people of Delhi will not have any problem."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-covid-19-treatment-charges-in-private-hospitals-capped-by-indias-home-affairs-ministry-307212">Also watch|&nbsp;Delhi: COVID-19 treatment charges in private hospitals capped by India's Home Affairs Ministry</a>

"After stopping the home isolation, LG in his order yesterday also stated to stop the work of the company which was counseling the patients at home. Now this facility will continue till Monday and its other options will be discussed again on Monday with the preparations of the Health Department," he wrote in another tweet.

In another tweet, Sisodia stated, 100 per cent COVID beds shall be subsidized up to an upper limit of 60 per cent of total hospital capacity.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Saturday rolled back his order on mandatory five-day institutional quarantine period for COVID-19 positive patients stating that only those patients need to undergo institutional quarantine who do not require hospitalisation and do not have adequate facilities for home isolation.

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue.

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue. Taking to Twitter, Sisodia wrote in Hindi: "All the apprehensions of LG regarding home isolation were resolved in the SDMA meeting and now the system of home isolation will continue. We thank LG sir for this. Under the leadership of our Chief Minister Kejriwal Ji, the people of Delhi will not have any problem." Also watch| Delhi: COVID-19 treatment charges in private hospitals capped by India's Home Affairs Ministry "After stopping the home isolation, LG in his order yesterday also stated to stop the work of the company which was counseling the patients at home. Now this facility will continue till Monday and its other options will be discussed again on Monday with the preparations of the Health Department," he wrote in another tweet. In another tweet, Sisodia stated, 100 per cent COVID beds shall be subsidized up to an upper limit of 60 per cent of total hospital capacity. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Saturday rolled back his order on mandatory five-day institutional quarantine period for COVID-19 positive patients stating that only those patients need to undergo institutional quarantine who do not require hospitalisation and do not have adequate facilities for home isolation.

LG's apprehensions resolved in SDMA meeting, home-isolation for COVID-19 patients to continue in Delhi

Suspended Jammu and Kashmir DSP Davinder Singh, arrested while ferrying two Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorists in a vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway earlier this year, was granted bail on Friday by a court here in another terror case filed by Delhi Police after it failed to file a charge sheet within the prescribed time period. Singh and another accused in the case - Irfan Shafi Mir - were granted the relief by Special Judge Dharmender Rana in the case filed by the special cell of Delhi police, who noted that it failed to file the charge sheet within 90 days from their arrest, as prescribed under the law.

In the bail applications filed on behalf of the accused, their lawyer M S Khan said that neither the police filed charge sheet within statutory period of 90 days, nor any permission was sought from the court to extend that period.“Considering the fact that despite the lapse of statutory time limit to complete investigation, charge sheet in the instant matter is not filed till date, both the accused persons are entitled to be released on bail,” the judge said, while granting the relief on a personal bond of 1 lakh each and two sureties of like amount.

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Singh, however, will remain in jail since he has yet not secured bail in the case filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in relation to his arrest on January 10 this year while ferrying two Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorists in a vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway.The case was initially lodged by J&amp;K police which was later taken over by the NIA. Singh was suspended from the Jammu and Kashmir Police in January this year.

In the current case, filed by the special cell of Delhi Police under section 18 (conspiracy for terror acts) of stringent UAPA and section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC, Singh and Mir were arrested on March 14 and 19 respectively. The special cell had brought Singh to Delhi from Hira Nagar Jail in Jammu and Kashmir. The case relates to planning/ execution of terror attacks in Delhi and other parts of the country.

According to Delhi Police,Sayed Naveed Mushtaq, the commander of Shopian district of Hizbul Mujahiddeen, and others were planning to execute terror attacks in Delhi and other parts of the country as well as carry out targeted killings of protected persons. The FIR said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab are being trained for carrying out terrorist activities.

The FIR also mentioned the mafia's D Company and Chhota Shakeel. According to the FIR, Delhi Police's Special Cell had received an input that the D Company, run by fugitive Indian underworld kingpin Dawood Ibrahim, is funding pro-Khalistan terrorist organisations in Punjab. Davinder Singh was taken in custody under the same FIR.

Suspended Jammu and Kashmir DSP Davinder Singh, arrested while ferrying two Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorists in a vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway earlier this year, was granted bail on Friday by a court here in another terror case filed by Delhi Police after it failed to file a charge sheet within the prescribed time period.

Suspended Jammu and Kashmir DSP Davinder Singh, arrested while ferrying two Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorists in a vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway earlier this year, was granted bail on Friday by a court here in another terror case filed by Delhi Police after it failed to file a charge sheet within the prescribed time period. Singh and another accused in the case - Irfan Shafi Mir - were granted the relief by Special Judge Dharmender Rana in the case filed by the special cell of Delhi police, who noted that it failed to file the charge sheet within 90 days from their arrest, as prescribed under the law. In the bail applications filed on behalf of the accused, their lawyer M S Khan said that neither the police filed charge sheet within statutory period of 90 days, nor any permission was sought from the court to extend that period.“Considering the fact that despite the lapse of statutory time limit to complete investigation, charge sheet in the instant matter is not filed till date, both the accused persons are entitled to be released on bail,” the judge said, while granting the relief on a personal bond of 1 lakh each and two sureties of like amount. Also read: Pakistani spy drone carrying weapons shot down by BSF at Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua Singh, however, will remain in jail since he has yet not secured bail in the case filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in relation to his arrest on January 10 this year while ferrying two Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorists in a vehicle on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway.The case was initially lodged by J&K police which was later taken over by the NIA. Singh was suspended from the Jammu and Kashmir Police in January this year. In the current case, filed by the special cell of Delhi Police under section 18 (conspiracy for terror acts) of stringent UAPA and section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC, Singh and Mir were arrested on March 14 and 19 respectively. The special cell had brought Singh to Delhi from Hira Nagar Jail in Jammu and Kashmir. The case relates to planning/ execution of terror attacks in Delhi and other parts of the country. According to Delhi Police,Sayed Naveed Mushtaq, the commander of Shopian district of Hizbul Mujahiddeen, and others were planning to execute terror attacks in Delhi and other parts of the country as well as carry out targeted killings of protected persons. The FIR said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab are being trained for carrying out terrorist activities. The FIR also mentioned the mafia's D Company and Chhota Shakeel. According to the FIR, Delhi Police's Special Cell had received an input that the D Company, run by fugitive Indian underworld kingpin Dawood Ibrahim, is funding pro-Khalistan terrorist organisations in Punjab. Davinder Singh was taken in custody under the same FIR.

Suspended J&K DSP Davinder Singh gets bail in terror case after police fails to file charge sheet

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/05/21/141428-trump-new-reuters.jpg?itok=H0mgzJ7t" />

Trump has come under fire for his responses to the coronavirus pandemic and to the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in the custody of Minneapolis police.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145733-general-afp.jpeg?itok=yvOKRHDa" />

The incident comes on Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States, amid continuing anti-racism demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unveils-details-of-national-security-law-for-hong-kong-307310">China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145743-china-hong-kong.jpg?itok=nZ-QLv5E" />

The details of the law were unveiled following a three-day meeting of the top decision-making body of China's parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drag-china-to-un-court-over-hong-kong-security-law-eu-parliament-307287">Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliamen</a>t

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/12/144490-untitled-design-16.jpg?itok=4WEIhOLh" />

In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/coronapalooza-twitter-users-give-another-name-to-trumps-tulsa-rally-307206">Coronapalooza: Twitter users give another name to Trump's Tulsa rally</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145685-untitled-design-85.jpg?itok=QfQQ21pN" />

Many medical experts fear the rally could cause a spike in COVID-19 cases.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/05/06/139422-untitled-design-14.jpg?itok=4b-PcBoV" />

The 17-year-old has become a global figurehead of the youth climate movement since she started her one-woman protests outside the Swedish parliament in 2018.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145713-untitled-design-89.jpg?itok=jGiNB8iq" />

Former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor were arrested in late 2018 on state security charges, shortly after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada on a US warrant, in what is widely believed to have been a retaliatory move.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-of-new-and-dangerous-phase-of-coronavirus-pandemic-307244">WHO warns of 'new and dangerous phase' of coronavirus pandemic</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/05/18/140957-who-chief.jpg?itok=vvdZJnla" />

Colombia and Mexico also passed bleak milestones, as their death tolls topped 2,000 and 20,000, respectively, showing how the virus continues ravaging the Americas and parts of Asia even as Europe starts to ease out of lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treatment-of-hong-kong-depends-on-how-beijing-treats-it-says-pompeo-307214">US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145690-untitled-design-86.jpg?itok=LC1mFEZb" />

The United States is working its way through a decision-making process over who would be held accountable over curbs to Hong Kong’s freedoms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-gearing-up-to-send-anti-south-leaflets-across-border-amid-heightened-tensions-307209">North Korea gearing up to send anti-South leaflets across border amid heightened tensions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/12/31/121637-untitled-design-12.jpg?itok=-pD-nQ__" />

The two Koreas, which are still technically at war as their 1950-53 conflict ended without a peace treaty, have waged leaflet campaigns for decades.

Trump, back on campaign trail, to delight supporters with Tulsa rally Trump has come under fire for his responses to the coronavirus pandemic and to the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in the custody of Minneapolis police.

Trump, back on campaign trail, to delight supporters with Tulsa rally Trump has come under fire for his responses to the coronavirus pandemic and to the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in the custody of Minneapolis police. Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace' The incident comes on Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States, amid continuing anti-racism demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong The details of the law were unveiled following a three-day meeting of the top decision-making body of China's parliament. Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law. Coronapalooza: Twitter users give another name to Trump's Tulsa rally Many medical experts fear the rally could cause a spike in COVID-19 cases. Climate change as 'urgent' as coronavirus pandemic, says Greta Thunberg The 17-year-old has become a global figurehead of the youth climate movement since she started her one-woman protests outside the Swedish parliament in 2018. Trudeau 'very disappointed' after China charges two Canadians with suspected espionage Former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor were arrested in late 2018 on state security charges, shortly after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada on a US warrant, in what is widely believed to have been a retaliatory move. WHO warns of 'new and dangerous phase' of coronavirus pandemic Colombia and Mexico also passed bleak milestones, as their death tolls topped 2,000 and 20,000, respectively, showing how the virus continues ravaging the Americas and parts of Asia even as Europe starts to ease out of lockdown. US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo The United States is working its way through a decision-making process over who would be held accountable over curbs to Hong Kong’s freedoms. North Korea gearing up to send anti-South leaflets across border amid heightened tensions The two Koreas, which are still technically at war as their 1950-53 conflict ended without a peace treaty, have waged leaflet campaigns for decades.

Top 10 world news today: Trump back to campaigning, China details security law and more

As Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan gloated about extending monetary help to India, the country has&nbsp;signed agreements with three international financial institutions for a financial aid of USD 1.5 billion to tackle&nbsp;the coronavirus outbreak.

Pakistan's economy has seen a steep decline, especially after the nationwide lockdown was initiated to contain the spread of the virus. Sadly, Prime Minister Imran Khan had to reopen the economy to save the country from starving to death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-stimulus-package-is-as-large-as-gdp-of-pakistan-india-tells-imran-khan-after-he-offers-help-305154">Also read|&nbsp;Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help'</a>

The three organisations are&nbsp;World Bank (WB), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

Secretary of Ministry of Economic Affairs Noor Ahmed signed the agreements on behalf of Pakistan. WB Director, Pakistan, Patchamuthu Illangovan and Director ADB Xiaohong Yang signed the agreements on behalf of the three financial institutions.&nbsp;Imran Khan was present during the signing process.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/broken-promises-and-lavish-feasts-imran-khan-disappoints-people-of-pakistan-307176">Also read|&nbsp;Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan</a>

The ADB will lend USD 500 million to COVID-19 Active Response and Expenditure Support Program (CARES). The ADB has extended the help to support Pakistan's failing health system&nbsp;and mitigate socioeconomic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

The AIIB will be sending&nbsp;USD 500 million to the CARES to help the country deal with all direct and indirect impacts of the pandemic. Another sum of USD 500 million will be extended&nbsp;by the three donors under Securing Human Investments to Foster Transformation (SHIFT).

The money will be disbursed over the next few days.

As Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan gloated about extending monetary help to India, the country has signed agreements with three international financial institutions for a financial aid of USD 1.

As Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan gloated about extending monetary help to India, the country has signed agreements with three international financial institutions for a financial aid of USD 1.5 billion to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. Pakistan's economy has seen a steep decline, especially after the nationwide lockdown was initiated to contain the spread of the virus. Sadly, Prime Minister Imran Khan had to reopen the economy to save the country from starving to death. Also read| Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help' The three organisations are World Bank (WB), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Secretary of Ministry of Economic Affairs Noor Ahmed signed the agreements on behalf of Pakistan. WB Director, Pakistan, Patchamuthu Illangovan and Director ADB Xiaohong Yang signed the agreements on behalf of the three financial institutions. Imran Khan was present during the signing process. Also read| Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan The ADB will lend USD 500 million to COVID-19 Active Response and Expenditure Support Program (CARES). The ADB has extended the help to support Pakistan's failing health system and mitigate socioeconomic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The AIIB will be sending USD 500 million to the CARES to help the country deal with all direct and indirect impacts of the pandemic. Another sum of USD 500 million will be extended by the three donors under Securing Human Investments to Foster Transformation (SHIFT). The money will be disbursed over the next few days.

Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak

On Saturday, Pope Francis held his first audience post-coronavirus. He granted this audience to the healthcare workers of the country, who, he believes, have been one of the strongest support pillars of the society in these tough times.

"You were one of the supporting pillars of the entire country," he told doctors and nurses from the Lombardy region gathered in the Vatican's frescoed Clementine Hall, which had not been used for months because of the crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-calls-for-help-to-end-libyan-civil-war-305842">Also read:&nbsp;Pope Francis calls for help to end Libyan civil war</a>

"To those of you here and to your colleagues all across Italy go my esteem and my sincere thanks, and I know very well I am interpreting everyone's sentiments," he said.

Thanking the doctors for their selfless efforts, he talked about how these frontline workers event gave their pwn phones to the coronavirus patients to let them say goodbye to their loved ones, before breathing their last breath.

He called these doctors angels for helping the society so selflessly in such tough times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/education-is-listening-and-celebrating-life-pope-francis-says-in-video-conference-with-latin-first-ladies-304315">Also watch:&nbsp;'Education is listening and celebrating life', Pope Francis says in video conference with Latin first ladies</a>

All the attendees were wearing masks and had maintained social distance from each other.&nbsp;At the end the meeting, the Pope posed for a picture with the doctors calling it&nbsp;"the liturgy of the greeting". While bidding them farewell, the Pope greeted them from a distance as he passed down the aisle.

He has also resumed mas service, capping the maximum capacity to 50 people.

Italy is slowly returning back to the normal life, after losing almost 35,000 people, including over 170 healthcare workers, to the novel coronavirus.

On Saturday, Pope Francis held his first audience post-coronavirus. He granted this audience to the healthcare workers of the country, who, he believes, have been one of the strongest support pillars of the society in these tough times.

On Saturday, Pope Francis held his first audience post-coronavirus. He granted this audience to the healthcare workers of the country, who, he believes, have been one of the strongest support pillars of the society in these tough times. "You were one of the supporting pillars of the entire country," he told doctors and nurses from the Lombardy region gathered in the Vatican's frescoed Clementine Hall, which had not been used for months because of the crisis. Also read: Pope Francis calls for help to end Libyan civil war "To those of you here and to your colleagues all across Italy go my esteem and my sincere thanks, and I know very well I am interpreting everyone's sentiments," he said. Thanking the doctors for their selfless efforts, he talked about how these frontline workers event gave their pwn phones to the coronavirus patients to let them say goodbye to their loved ones, before breathing their last breath. He called these doctors angels for helping the society so selflessly in such tough times. Also watch: 'Education is listening and celebrating life', Pope Francis says in video conference with Latin first ladies All the attendees were wearing masks and had maintained social distance from each other. At the end the meeting, the Pope posed for a picture with the doctors calling it "the liturgy of the greeting". While bidding them farewell, the Pope greeted them from a distance as he passed down the aisle. He has also resumed mas service, capping the maximum capacity to 50 people. Italy is slowly returning back to the normal life, after losing almost 35,000 people, including over 170 healthcare workers, to the novel coronavirus.

Pope Francis thanks 'angelic' doctors in his first post-lockdown audience

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Deeksha Teri

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