As the number of coronavirus cases is on a constant rise in the capital&nbsp; Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been under a spotlight for the lack of available beds for coronavirus patients.

To meet the rising demand, and the future predictions by health experts,&nbsp;All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi has decided to convert its newly constructed 'Burns and Plastic Block' into a COVID 19 facility.

The arrangements will be finalized by the end of this week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-added-10000-coronavirus-cases-in-just-eight-days-from-june-1-304957">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi added 10,000 coronavirus cases in just eight days from June 1</a>

The decision comes after Kejriwal recently rolled back his order of not allowing patients from other states to come to Delhi for treatment, and forecasted that Delhi would need 1.5 lakh beds in healthcare facilities by July 31, once people from other neighbouring states would start coming to the city for treatment.

Presently, AIIMS has almost 250 beds available at its&nbsp;apex trauma centre. The burns and plastic block will be able to accommodate atleast 100 more beds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-will-increase-significantly-in-delhi-warns-cm-kejriwal-304792">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19 will increase significantly in Delhi, warns CM Kejriwal</a>

"We are increasing healthcare facilities for coronavirus patients.&nbsp;Hence, we are working to start burns and plastic block into a dedicated COVID-19 treatment centre.&nbsp;This will create overall 350 beds (including 250 beds at the trauma centre and 100 beds at burns and plastic block) for virus-infected patients."Burns and plastic block was near completion. Some minor work needs to be completed. It will have 30 ICU beds and 70 beds in the general ward", said&nbsp;Dr DK Sharma, Medical Superintendent at AIIMS.

The state government is expecting&nbsp;almost 5.5 lakh total COVID-19 cases.

AIIMS is alos planning to shift all experts from the non-COVID wards to the COVID facilities, to meet the rising demand.

As the number of coronavirus cases is on a constant rise in the capital Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been under a spotlight for the lack of available beds for coronavirus patients.

As the number of coronavirus cases is on a constant rise in the capital Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been under a spotlight for the lack of available beds for coronavirus patients. To meet the rising demand, and the future predictions by health experts, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi has decided to convert its newly constructed 'Burns and Plastic Block' into a COVID 19 facility. The arrangements will be finalized by the end of this week. Also read: Delhi added 10,000 coronavirus cases in just eight days from June 1 The decision comes after Kejriwal recently rolled back his order of not allowing patients from other states to come to Delhi for treatment, and forecasted that Delhi would need 1.5 lakh beds in healthcare facilities by July 31, once people from other neighbouring states would start coming to the city for treatment. Presently, AIIMS has almost 250 beds available at its apex trauma centre. The burns and plastic block will be able to accommodate atleast 100 more beds. Also Read: COVID-19 will increase significantly in Delhi, warns CM Kejriwal "We are increasing healthcare facilities for coronavirus patients. Hence, we are working to start burns and plastic block into a dedicated COVID-19 treatment centre. This will create overall 350 beds (including 250 beds at the trauma centre and 100 beds at burns and plastic block) for virus-infected patients."Burns and plastic block was near completion. Some minor work needs to be completed. It will have 30 ICU beds and 70 beds in the general ward", said Dr DK Sharma, Medical Superintendent at AIIMS. The state government is expecting almost 5.5 lakh total COVID-19 cases. AIIMS is alos planning to shift all experts from the non-COVID wards to the COVID facilities, to meet the rising demand.

AIIMS Delhi adds 100 beds in 'Burns and Plastic Block' and turns into COVID 19 facility

PML-N President and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif has tested positive for coronavirus, party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed on Thursday to Dawn.

Shehbaz Sharif has self-quarantined himself at home after his report came out. A PML-N party leader Ataullah Tarar said that Sharif`s "life had been endangered in this situation by NAB`s summoning of him".

"NAB was informed multiple times in writing that Shehbaz Sharif has suffered from cancer and compared to other people, his immunity system is weak," Tarar was quoted as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharifs-leaked-photo-sparks-debate-over-his-health-302183">Also read:&nbsp;Nawaz Sharif's leaked photo sparks debate over his health</a>

"Imran Niazi and NAB will be responsible if something happens to Shehbaz Sharif," he added.

When asked about the news, Hamza Shehbaz, Sharif's son and PML-N leader, said: "This is a difficult time for Pakistan. May Allah grant health to everyone's parents."

The PML-N president had appeared before the National Accountability Bureau on Tuesday in connection with investigations pertaining to money laundering and income-beyond-means.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/decoding-the-sex-scandal-that-has-rocked-politics-in-pakistan-304365">Also read:&nbsp;Decoding the sex scandal that has rocked politics in Pakistan</a>

Earlier this month, he had also appeared before the Lahore High Court to obtain a pre-arrest bail in cases regarding money laundering and assets beyond means. Sharif had filed the appeal in the high court a day before a NAB team raided his residence to arrest him on June 2, after he refused to appear before the accountability watchdog.

Sharif had thrice refused to appear before NAB citing health reasons. In a statement submitted to the bureau, he said: "It has been widely reported in the media that some NAB officials have tested positive for COVID-19."

Please appreciate [that] I am a cancer survivor and 69 years old. I have been advised limited exposure on account of the peculiar background of low immunity," he said.

He added that he was available to answer any queries by the investigation team via Skype.

Sharif is the latest PML-N leader to have tested positive for the virus. Multiple other members of PML-N's top-tier leadership have been diagnosed with the disease, including Aurangzeb, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Ahsan Iqbal and former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.&nbsp;

PML-N President and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif has tested positive for coronavirus, party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed on Thursday to Dawn.

PML-N President and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif has tested positive for coronavirus, party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed on Thursday to Dawn. Shehbaz Sharif has self-quarantined himself at home after his report came out. A PML-N party leader Ataullah Tarar said that Sharif`s "life had been endangered in this situation by NAB`s summoning of him". "NAB was informed multiple times in writing that Shehbaz Sharif has suffered from cancer and compared to other people, his immunity system is weak," Tarar was quoted as saying. Also read: Nawaz Sharif's leaked photo sparks debate over his health "Imran Niazi and NAB will be responsible if something happens to Shehbaz Sharif," he added. When asked about the news, Hamza Shehbaz, Sharif's son and PML-N leader, said: "This is a difficult time for Pakistan. May Allah grant health to everyone's parents." The PML-N president had appeared before the National Accountability Bureau on Tuesday in connection with investigations pertaining to money laundering and income-beyond-means. Also read: Decoding the sex scandal that has rocked politics in Pakistan Earlier this month, he had also appeared before the Lahore High Court to obtain a pre-arrest bail in cases regarding money laundering and assets beyond means. Sharif had filed the appeal in the high court a day before a NAB team raided his residence to arrest him on June 2, after he refused to appear before the accountability watchdog. Sharif had thrice refused to appear before NAB citing health reasons. In a statement submitted to the bureau, he said: "It has been widely reported in the media that some NAB officials have tested positive for COVID-19." Please appreciate [that] I am a cancer survivor and 69 years old. I have been advised limited exposure on account of the peculiar background of low immunity," he said. He added that he was available to answer any queries by the investigation team via Skype. Sharif is the latest PML-N leader to have tested positive for the virus. Multiple other members of PML-N's top-tier leadership have been diagnosed with the disease, including Aurangzeb, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Ahsan Iqbal and former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

Nawaz Sharif's brother Shehbaz Sharif tests positive for COVID-19, party blames PM 'Imran Niazi'

China's Xiaomi Corp and Oppo are importing some smartphone models into India as their local plants struggle to get back to production levels needed to meet demand that built up during lockdown, sources familiar with matter said. 
The move is a costly one as the world`s second-largest smartphone market imposes steep tariffs on imports of devices and components - part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s push to boost manufacturing in India. Most foreign brands in India make nearly all of their smartphones locally.

It also underscores the challenges India faces in kick-starting production as new coronavirus cases soar to nearly 300,000 while more than 8,000 people have died.

Manufacturing facilities in India have been allowed since May to resume operations but several smartphone plants are still grappling with labour shortages, three sources told Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/zoom-shuts-account-of-us-based-chinese-dissidents-after-tiananmen-anniversary-meeting-304999">Also read:&nbsp;Zoom shuts account of US-based Chinese dissidents after Tiananmen anniversary meeting</a>

At the same time, demand is high because phones - not deemed essential goods by the government - were not allowed to be sold during the nationwide lockdown of nearly two months.

The bulk of the Xiaomi smartphones sold in India are made by contract manufacturer Foxconn in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, while Oppo assembles its India-made phones at a plant on the outskirts of New Delhi.

It was not immediately clear how many phones the Chinese brands are now importing, the sources added, declining to be identified as they were not authorised to discuss the matter with media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/apple-rolls-out-cheaper-iphone-as-pandemic-curbs-spending-292856">Also read:&nbsp;Apple rolls out cheaper iPhone as pandemic curbs spending</a>

"This is purely to take care of the demand that is there and the fact that they (Xiaomi) are not able to produce to meet demand," one of the sources said, adding the imports were a short-term measure until production and distribution gets back to normal.

Xiaomi did not respond to a request for comment and Foxconn declined to comment.

Oppo`s plant, which also makes phones for the OnePlus and Realme brands owned by common parent BBK Electronics, reopened with reduced staffing on May 7. But it had to close again for more than a week after several workers tested positive for the coronavirus.

In a few instances, staff at Oppo and other smartphone plants have either resigned or not shown up for work for fear of contracting the virus on assembly lines where people work closely, sources said.

"My father said if you live, you`ll find another job," one worker who recently resigned from the Oppo factory told Reuters, asking not to be named.

Oppo India declined to comment.

The production woes have meant delays to sales plans.

OnePlus, which competes with Apple Inc in India`s $400-plus smartphone segment, has had to stagger sales of its latest model on Amazon`s India website.

Realme said in an emailed statement it has been challenging to meet market demand due to supply chain disruptions and "limited production capabilities".

It added it would not risk the health of factory workers by ramping up production quickly and that it expected to be at normal manufacturing capacity by the end of July.

China's Xiaomi Corp and Oppo are importing some smartphone models into India as their local plants struggle to get back to production levels needed to meet demand that built up during lockdown, sources familiar with matter said.

China's Xiaomi Corp and Oppo are importing some smartphone models into India as their local plants struggle to get back to production levels needed to meet demand that built up during lockdown, sources familiar with matter said. The move is a costly one as the world`s second-largest smartphone market imposes steep tariffs on imports of devices and components - part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s push to boost manufacturing in India. Most foreign brands in India make nearly all of their smartphones locally. It also underscores the challenges India faces in kick-starting production as new coronavirus cases soar to nearly 300,000 while more than 8,000 people have died. Manufacturing facilities in India have been allowed since May to resume operations but several smartphone plants are still grappling with labour shortages, three sources told Reuters. Also read: Zoom shuts account of US-based Chinese dissidents after Tiananmen anniversary meeting At the same time, demand is high because phones - not deemed essential goods by the government - were not allowed to be sold during the nationwide lockdown of nearly two months. The bulk of the Xiaomi smartphones sold in India are made by contract manufacturer Foxconn in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, while Oppo assembles its India-made phones at a plant on the outskirts of New Delhi. It was not immediately clear how many phones the Chinese brands are now importing, the sources added, declining to be identified as they were not authorised to discuss the matter with media. Also read: Apple rolls out cheaper iPhone as pandemic curbs spending "This is purely to take care of the demand that is there and the fact that they (Xiaomi) are not able to produce to meet demand," one of the sources said, adding the imports were a short-term measure until production and distribution gets back to normal. Xiaomi did not respond to a request for comment and Foxconn declined to comment. Oppo`s plant, which also makes phones for the OnePlus and Realme brands owned by common parent BBK Electronics, reopened with reduced staffing on May 7. But it had to close again for more than a week after several workers tested positive for the coronavirus. In a few instances, staff at Oppo and other smartphone plants have either resigned or not shown up for work for fear of contracting the virus on assembly lines where people work closely, sources said. "My father said if you live, you`ll find another job," one worker who recently resigned from the Oppo factory told Reuters, asking not to be named. Oppo India declined to comment. The production woes have meant delays to sales plans. OnePlus, which competes with Apple Inc in India`s $400-plus smartphone segment, has had to stagger sales of its latest model on Amazon`s India website. Realme said in an emailed statement it has been challenging to meet market demand due to supply chain disruptions and "limited production capabilities". It added it would not risk the health of factory workers by ramping up production quickly and that it expected to be at normal manufacturing capacity by the end of July.

China's Xiaomi, Oppo turn to expensive smartphone imports for India market as plants struggle: sources

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than&nbsp;37,000 infections and 326&nbsp;fatalities.

While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-record-1927-fresh-covid-19-cases-tamil-nadus-case-count-crosses-36000-304879">Also read:&nbsp;With record 1927 fresh Covid-19 cases, Tamil Nadu's case count crosses 36,000</a>

However, Palaniswami has rejected all allegations&nbsp;of under-reporting of fatalities.

"Where is the difference in deaths ? ... There is no ground to conceal deaths and nobody can hide deaths," Palaniswami slammed the local reporters who asked him about the allegation.

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We don't hide the number of deaths, we won't gain anything if we do that: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2">https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2</a>
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The Chief Minister also claimed that there is no community transmission of coronavirus in the state.

After the allegation, the government set up a reconciliation committee to look into alleged mismatch of coronavirus deaths. However, the Chief Minister, a day later, jumped in defense of his administration claiming manipullting of figures is impossible when a daily bulletin is being issued on the basis of daily testing, recoveries, infections, deaths and active cases.

"How it (deaths) could be shown less ? if somebody dies of COVID-19, the media shows (visuals) and people come to know. This cannot be hidden. For the government, it serves no good (purpose) by hiding deaths," he said.

The reconciliation committee, comprises doctors from the Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services and Directorate of Medical Education and the city corporation; the panel will&nbsp;look into the question of alleged discrepancies in deaths.

The reconciliation initiative was taken up by the government also in the wake of a complaint by an NGO to authorities claiming that three COVID-19 deaths were not recorded.

(With inputs from PTI)

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than 37,000 infections and 326 fatalities. While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate.

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than 37,000 infections and 326 fatalities. While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate. Also read: With record 1927 fresh Covid-19 cases, Tamil Nadu's case count crosses 36,000 However, Palaniswami has rejected all allegations of under-reporting of fatalities. "Where is the difference in deaths ? ... There is no ground to conceal deaths and nobody can hide deaths," Palaniswami slammed the local reporters who asked him about the allegation. We don't hide the number of deaths, we won't gain anything if we do that: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. #COVID19 https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2 — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2020 × The Chief Minister also claimed that there is no community transmission of coronavirus in the state. After the allegation, the government set up a reconciliation committee to look into alleged mismatch of coronavirus deaths. However, the Chief Minister, a day later, jumped in defense of his administration claiming manipullting of figures is impossible when a daily bulletin is being issued on the basis of daily testing, recoveries, infections, deaths and active cases. "How it (deaths) could be shown less ? if somebody dies of COVID-19, the media shows (visuals) and people come to know. This cannot be hidden. For the government, it serves no good (purpose) by hiding deaths," he said. The reconciliation committee, comprises doctors from the Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services and Directorate of Medical Education and the city corporation; the panel will look into the question of alleged discrepancies in deaths. The reconciliation initiative was taken up by the government also in the wake of a complaint by an NGO to authorities claiming that three COVID-19 deaths were not recorded. (With inputs from PTI)

There's no community spread and fatalities mismatch: claims K Palaniswami

The man who open fired at a mosque in Norway, after killing his step sister, has been sentenced to jail for 21 years.

In Norway, a far-right&nbsp;Norwegian man shot his&nbsp;Chinese-born stepsister and then open-fired at people in mosque, in a racially motivated act of terrorism.

Philip Manshaus, who is now 22 years old,&nbsp;shot and killed Johanne Zhangjia Ihle-Hansen, his adopted stepsister, in their family home. He then&nbsp;drove to the nearby al-Noor Islamic Centre. He entered the building and open-fired.

He was unsuccessful in injuring anyone at the mosque, as a 65-year-old man tackled the shooter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lockdowns-saved-many-lives-and-easing-them-is-risky-say-scientists-304354">Also read:&nbsp;Lockdowns saved many lives and easing them is risky, say scientists</a>

Philip, in his defense, said he assumed that the Asian-origin adopted sister posed a threat to his family, simply because of her origin.

"He went in with the purpose of killing as many Muslims as possible," judge Annika Lindstroem said.

He was inspired by the New Zealand mosque shooting, which killed more than 50 people. Just like that incident, Philip, too&nbsp;wore a helmet camera to film the mosque shooting. However, unlike New Zealand shooter, he\&nbsp;failed in his attempt to broadcast the attack online.

The court rejected his plea of being declared insane, and went with the word of a psychiatric evaluation which found him fit to stand trial.

The court has also&nbsp;contained a provision that his release can be put off indefinitely should he still be considered a threat to society.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The man who open fired at a mosque in Norway, after killing his step sister, has been sentenced to jail for 21 years. In Norway, a far-right Norwegian man shot his Chinese-born stepsister and then open-fired at people in mosque, in a racially motivated act of terrorism.

The man who open fired at a mosque in Norway, after killing his step sister, has been sentenced to jail for 21 years. In Norway, a far-right Norwegian man shot his Chinese-born stepsister and then open-fired at people in mosque, in a racially motivated act of terrorism. Philip Manshaus, who is now 22 years old, shot and killed Johanne Zhangjia Ihle-Hansen, his adopted stepsister, in their family home. He then drove to the nearby al-Noor Islamic Centre. He entered the building and open-fired. He was unsuccessful in injuring anyone at the mosque, as a 65-year-old man tackled the shooter. Also read: Lockdowns saved many lives and easing them is risky, say scientists Philip, in his defense, said he assumed that the Asian-origin adopted sister posed a threat to his family, simply because of her origin. "He went in with the purpose of killing as many Muslims as possible," judge Annika Lindstroem said. He was inspired by the New Zealand mosque shooting, which killed more than 50 people. Just like that incident, Philip, too wore a helmet camera to film the mosque shooting. However, unlike New Zealand shooter, he\ failed in his attempt to broadcast the attack online. The court rejected his plea of being declared insane, and went with the word of a psychiatric evaluation which found him fit to stand trial. The court has also contained a provision that his release can be put off indefinitely should he still be considered a threat to society. (With inputs from Reuters)

Norway mosque shooter jailed for 21 years under murder and anti-terrorism charges

Amid the rising number of cases, Russia has released a drug approved to be used for the treatment of coronavirus patients in the country.

Russia's total infections from the novel coronavirus crossed the mark of half a million, as the cases surged to&nbsp;502,436 cases, and a death toll of&nbsp;6,532.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-names-and-shames-china-russia-for-spreading-disinformation-campaigns-304973">Also read:&nbsp;EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns'</a>

Russia is the third worst affected country in the world right now. With a low death rate, the country is hoping to contain the spread if the virus.

The drug has been registered under the name of 'Avifavir', and was distributed to handful hospitals in the first phase on Thursday, reported&nbsp;RDIF sovereign wealth fund.

RDIF has funded trials and has a 50% share in the drug's manufacturer ChemRar, through which it hopes the company can produce enough to treat 60,000 patients in a month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moscow-lifts-covid-19-lockdown-beauty-salons-reopen-305032">Also watch:&nbsp;Moscow lifts COVID-19 lockdown, beauty salons reopen</a>

The permission to release the drug was given under an accelerated process, as the number of cases was growing rapidly. The clinical trials for this drug were performed over a shorter period of time, and on fewer number of humans, when compared to other countries. Few trials are still underway.

Out of al ost 8- regions, seven regions have received the drug on Thursday, and negotiations are underway to&nbsp;supply the drug to other regions.

Amid the rising number of cases, Russia has released a drug approved to be used for the treatment of coronavirus patients in the country. Russia's total infections from the novel coronavirus crossed the mark of half a million, as the cases surged to 502,436 cases, and a death toll of 6,532.

Amid the rising number of cases, Russia has released a drug approved to be used for the treatment of coronavirus patients in the country. Russia's total infections from the novel coronavirus crossed the mark of half a million, as the cases surged to 502,436 cases, and a death toll of 6,532. Also read: EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns' Russia is the third worst affected country in the world right now. With a low death rate, the country is hoping to contain the spread if the virus. The drug has been registered under the name of 'Avifavir', and was distributed to handful hospitals in the first phase on Thursday, reported RDIF sovereign wealth fund. RDIF has funded trials and has a 50% share in the drug's manufacturer ChemRar, through which it hopes the company can produce enough to treat 60,000 patients in a month. Also watch: Moscow lifts COVID-19 lockdown, beauty salons reopen The permission to release the drug was given under an accelerated process, as the number of cases was growing rapidly. The clinical trials for this drug were performed over a shorter period of time, and on fewer number of humans, when compared to other countries. Few trials are still underway. Out of al ost 8- regions, seven regions have received the drug on Thursday, and negotiations are underway to supply the drug to other regions.

COVID 19: Russia supplies antivirus drug to hospitals; cases cross 500,000

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis.

Greg Foran laid out an 800-day plan to customers and staff under which the national flag carrier will look at how to further cut labour costs, including leave without pay, reduced hours or possibly laying off more people.

"We must first survive, then revive and finally thrive," Foran said in an email to staff and customers, as he forecast revenue for the next financial year to more than halve from recent levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-last-active-patient-of-coronavirus-recovers-country-now-has-zero-cases-304099">Also read:&nbsp;New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases</a>

Shares of the airline surged 11% to NZ$1.82, its highest in almost three months.

Airlines have slashed thousands of jobs and set aside cash for impairments on aircraft as the coronavirus damaged demand amid global lockdowns. Even as countries re-open, profits may be threatened by people refraining from travel and lower fares due to discounts.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said last week that global airlines cut domestic fares by an average 23% in May, and previously warned traffic would not return to pre-crisis levels until at least 2023.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airlines-secures-1-billion-additional-credit-after-rights-issue-304149">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue</a>

Foran envisions Air New Zealand will be 70% of its pre-COVID-19 size by August 2022 and hinted at further layoffs as the second phase of a cost-cutting plan, to save around NZ$150 million ($98 million), began.

"I am really sorry we are in a situation of needing to reduce our wages bills further, but I believe this is what we need to do with some urgency," he said.

The company has ramped up domestic capacity to 55% of normal levels as New Zealand eases curbs after containing the outbreak, but is not betting on a return to long haul flying until next year.

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis.

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis. Greg Foran laid out an 800-day plan to customers and staff under which the national flag carrier will look at how to further cut labour costs, including leave without pay, reduced hours or possibly laying off more people. "We must first survive, then revive and finally thrive," Foran said in an email to staff and customers, as he forecast revenue for the next financial year to more than halve from recent levels. Also read: New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases Shares of the airline surged 11% to NZ$1.82, its highest in almost three months. Airlines have slashed thousands of jobs and set aside cash for impairments on aircraft as the coronavirus damaged demand amid global lockdowns. Even as countries re-open, profits may be threatened by people refraining from travel and lower fares due to discounts. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said last week that global airlines cut domestic fares by an average 23% in May, and previously warned traffic would not return to pre-crisis levels until at least 2023. Also read: Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue Foran envisions Air New Zealand will be 70% of its pre-COVID-19 size by August 2022 and hinted at further layoffs as the second phase of a cost-cutting plan, to save around NZ$150 million ($98 million), began. "I am really sorry we are in a situation of needing to reduce our wages bills further, but I believe this is what we need to do with some urgency," he said. The company has ramped up domestic capacity to 55% of normal levels as New Zealand eases curbs after containing the outbreak, but is not betting on a return to long haul flying until next year.

''Survive, Revive, Thrive'': Air New Zealand's 800-day runway to healthy profits

Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic.

Global airlines have taken a huge blow as curbs imposed to stop the spread of the coronavirus led to a plunge in travel demand, leading to a liquidity crisis at firms. Singapore Airlines` total financing is among the biggest raised by any carrier amid the global health crisis.

Singapore Airlines said it had raised S$900 million through loans on some of its aircraft. It had also arranged new lines of credit and a short-term loan with several banks for further liquidity of more than S$500 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/singapore-plans-a-coronavirus-contact-tracing-device-for-all-to-wear-303495">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore plans a coronavirus contact tracing device for all to wear</a>

"During this period of high uncertainty, SIA will continue to explore additional means to shore up liquidity as necessary," the company said in a statement.

On June 5, the company raised about S$8.8 billion through a rights issue, which was backed by existing shareholder Temasek Holdings [TEM.UL].

Singapore Airlines added that the maturity dates for some of its debts had been extended to 2021 or later, ensuring an available liquidity of more than S$1.7 billion.

The company also has the option to raise up to a further S$6.2 billion in additional mandatory convertible bonds until up to July 2021.

Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singapore Airlines Ltd said on Monday that it had secured about $1 billion in credit facilities, in addition to the S$8.8 billion ($6.32 billion) it recently raised from a rights issue, to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Global airlines have taken a huge blow as curbs imposed to stop the spread of the coronavirus led to a plunge in travel demand, leading to a liquidity crisis at firms. Singapore Airlines` total financing is among the biggest raised by any carrier amid the global health crisis. Singapore Airlines said it had raised S$900 million through loans on some of its aircraft. It had also arranged new lines of credit and a short-term loan with several banks for further liquidity of more than S$500 million. Also read: Singapore plans a coronavirus contact tracing device for all to wear "During this period of high uncertainty, SIA will continue to explore additional means to shore up liquidity as necessary," the company said in a statement. On June 5, the company raised about S$8.8 billion through a rights issue, which was backed by existing shareholder Temasek Holdings [TEM.UL]. Singapore Airlines added that the maturity dates for some of its debts had been extended to 2021 or later, ensuring an available liquidity of more than S$1.7 billion. The company also has the option to raise up to a further S$6.2 billion in additional mandatory convertible bonds until up to July 2021.

Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue

Reports of mass chaos have been circulating due to the ongoing nationwide protest against the racist killing of men and women of the African-American community in the US.

One such report was spotted by a Buffalo local man, Antonio Gwynn Jr., who was moved by the damage he saw on the roads of his hometown, after the protests.

After seeing all the damage and the clutter on the roads, he decided to start cleaning the streets on his own.

The 18-year-old high school senior grabbed grabbed some trash bags, broom and started cleaning the streets around 2 am on Monday. It took him nearly 10 hours to completely clean the streets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-across-the-us-march-again-demanding-police-reforms-after-floyd-killing-304116">Also read:&nbsp;Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing</a>

When an organized group of neighbours came out on Monday morning to clean the trash from the streets, they realized Gwynn had single-handedly cleaned the whole mess.

Gwynn said he saw&nbsp;Bailey Avenue in Buffalos covered in glass and garbage, and decided to clean the street to help the office-goers have a smooth morning.

When the word spread, the locals came ahead to applaud the youngster's actions.One such man was Matt Block who decided to gift&nbsp;his dream car, a&nbsp;2004 red Mustang convertible to Gwynn, after he spotted the latter asking for car buying advice of Facebook.

The gift, Gwynn said, meant a lot as his late mother also drove a red Mustang before she passed away in 2018.

On learning about this geneours gift, an insurance agent&nbsp;Bob Briceland&nbsp; decided to offer&nbsp;a year of free auto insurance coverage.

As Gwynn is a high-schooler who is saving up for college,&nbsp;Medaille College in Buffalo offered him a full scholarship. Gwynn will now be starting his course in business in the coming fall session.

Reports of mass chaos have been circulating due to the ongoing nationwide protest against the racist killing of men and women of the African-American community in the US.

Reports of mass chaos have been circulating due to the ongoing nationwide protest against the racist killing of men and women of the African-American community in the US. One such report was spotted by a Buffalo local man, Antonio Gwynn Jr., who was moved by the damage he saw on the roads of his hometown, after the protests. After seeing all the damage and the clutter on the roads, he decided to start cleaning the streets on his own. The 18-year-old high school senior grabbed grabbed some trash bags, broom and started cleaning the streets around 2 am on Monday. It took him nearly 10 hours to completely clean the streets. Also read: Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing When an organized group of neighbours came out on Monday morning to clean the trash from the streets, they realized Gwynn had single-handedly cleaned the whole mess. Gwynn said he saw Bailey Avenue in Buffalos covered in glass and garbage, and decided to clean the street to help the office-goers have a smooth morning. When the word spread, the locals came ahead to applaud the youngster's actions.One such man was Matt Block who decided to gift his dream car, a 2004 red Mustang convertible to Gwynn, after he spotted the latter asking for car buying advice of Facebook. The gift, Gwynn said, meant a lot as his late mother also drove a red Mustang before she passed away in 2018. On learning about this geneours gift, an insurance agent Bob Briceland decided to offer a year of free auto insurance coverage. As Gwynn is a high-schooler who is saving up for college, Medaille College in Buffalo offered him a full scholarship. Gwynn will now be starting his course in business in the coming fall session.

American teen spends 10 hours cleaning streets; gets Mustang and scholarship as gifts

A&nbsp;29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days.&nbsp;Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in&nbsp;Pecatu village.

The visitor was in the&nbsp;Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog. While trying to save himself from the dog, he fell into a&nbsp;four-metre-deep concrete pit.

Alarms were raised after a local farmer heard his cries of help. After that,&nbsp;Jacob was rescued by a local and research team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-witness-spike-in-coronavirus-records-686-cases-and-55-deaths-in-one-day-302990">Also read:&nbsp;Indonesia witness spike in coronavirus, records 686 cases and 55 deaths in one day</a>

“Jacob’s calls for help were heard by a local who was going to feed his cows,” local search and rescue chief Gede Darmada told reporters.

“He looked thin and injured,” South Kuta police chief Yusak Agustinus Sooai said after Jason’s rescue.

He has been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

More details are awaited.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days. Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in Pecatu village. The visitor was in the Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog.

A 29-year-old was rescued from a well in Bali, Indonesia after six long days. Jacob Roberts, a British citizen, fell into the well in Pecatu village. The visitor was in the Pecatu village when he was chased by a dog. While trying to save himself from the dog, he fell into a four-metre-deep concrete pit. Alarms were raised after a local farmer heard his cries of help. After that, Jacob was rescued by a local and research team. Also read: Indonesia witness spike in coronavirus, records 686 cases and 55 deaths in one day “Jacob’s calls for help were heard by a local who was going to feed his cows,” local search and rescue chief Gede Darmada told reporters. “He looked thin and injured,” South Kuta police chief Yusak Agustinus Sooai said after Jason’s rescue. He has been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. More details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

British man rescued from a Bali well after six days

A verbal war has been going on between China and Australia over the origin of the novel coronavirus that has taken more than&nbsp;402,699 lives and has infected 7 million people globally.

The spat began between two trading partners when Australia&nbsp;called for an international enquiry into the origin of the novel coronavirus, alleging that the virus probably originated from a wildlife market in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

China replied to this accusation by calling this to be Australia's&nbsp;"petty tricks". Chinese ambassador to Australia went on to warn a possibility of Chinese population boycotting Australian products if the latter continue pursuing the investigation.&nbsp;China is by far Australia's biggest export market, taking more than 30% of Australia's exports by value.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-exploiting-george-floyds-death-for-political-gain-mike-pompeo-304106">Also watch|&nbsp;China exploiting George Floyd's death for political gain: Mike Pompeo&nbsp;</a>

Now, Australia has stated that China has been unresponsive&nbsp;its weeks-long pleas to ease tensions.

"Unfortunately, our requests for a discussion have so far been met negatively," Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham told a local broadcaster.&nbsp;"That's disappointing."

China has also, following this accusation, warned its population against travelling to Australia, citing possibility of racial discrimination and violence. China has also&nbsp;suspended beef imports from four of Australia's largest meat processors and imposed hefty tariffs on imports of barley. However, the officials have stated this to be unrelated to the ongoing verbal war.

China has not yet responded to this accusation by Australia.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A verbal war has been going on between China and Australia over the origin of the novel coronavirus that has taken more than 402,699 lives and has infected 7 million people globally.

A verbal war has been going on between China and Australia over the origin of the novel coronavirus that has taken more than 402,699 lives and has infected 7 million people globally. The spat began between two trading partners when Australia called for an international enquiry into the origin of the novel coronavirus, alleging that the virus probably originated from a wildlife market in the Chinese city of Wuhan. China replied to this accusation by calling this to be Australia's "petty tricks". Chinese ambassador to Australia went on to warn a possibility of Chinese population boycotting Australian products if the latter continue pursuing the investigation. China is by far Australia's biggest export market, taking more than 30% of Australia's exports by value. Also watch| China exploiting George Floyd's death for political gain: Mike Pompeo Now, Australia has stated that China has been unresponsive its weeks-long pleas to ease tensions. "Unfortunately, our requests for a discussion have so far been met negatively," Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham told a local broadcaster. "That's disappointing." China has also, following this accusation, warned its population against travelling to Australia, citing possibility of racial discrimination and violence. China has also suspended beef imports from four of Australia's largest meat processors and imposed hefty tariffs on imports of barley. However, the officials have stated this to be unrelated to the ongoing verbal war. China has not yet responded to this accusation by Australia. (With inputs from Reuters)

Australia says China unresponsive to its pleas to ease tensions

After 75 days of a nationwide lockdown, India is finally opening up the economy for people. As India gears up for Unlock 1.0, the number of rising cases is still on a constant rise.

From today, majority Indian states are reopening malls, religious places, inter-state travel, weddings, funerals and more -- with few restrictions.

However, the constant rise in number of cases is raising questions on whether or not the decision of reopening the economy at this stage of a lockdown is a good idea or not.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-overtakes-spain-with-9971-new-cases-5th-highest-in-world-303934">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world</a>

From today, a token&nbsp;system for regulated entry will be followed in all religious places. There are strict guidelines to the religious places to not offer any prasad or let anyone have any kind of physical touch -- such as ringing bells or touching the idols.

<img alt="People gather at Jhandewalan Temple to offer prayers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6573eb6-e218-449a-b385-d60d9e89b76d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_106.jpg" />

The count of new coronavirus cases in the country yesterday was 9,971, as India overtook Spain and became the fifth highest in the world. This is the first phase of the three-phase plan for reopening of prohibited activities in non-containment zones with a strict set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which will be in place till June 30.

In the malls, cinema halls, gaming arcades and children play areas will continue to be closed. The Central Government issued a standard set of SOPs, and urged the states to finetune these SOPs according to the local needs and situations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-more-die-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-taking-total-death-toll-to-251-303883">Also read:&nbsp;19 more die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu taking total death toll to 251</a>

While majority states have opened religious places and has event banquets to start mini-functions, some states like Rajasthan have, for now, put a hold on resuming the religious places.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on Sunday, announced opening of borders but announced that the hotels and banquet halls will remain closed as the authorities may need these facilities to convert them into hospitals.

All weddings are allowed with a gathering capacity of 50 people, and funerals can have a gathering of 20 people only.

Domestic travel has been allowed now, however the Delhi Metro in the capital of India will not resume its services yet.

While the economy is reopening from today, all educational institutions will remain closed in all states for the month of June. Schools and colleges have been advised to continue with online classes.

All eateries, however, will only be allowed to operate take-aways and deliveries of orders.&nbsp;

In all public places, it is compulsory for people to wear masks and maintain social distance from each other. At no point will an individual be allowed to come in physical contact with another person. All institutions have been advised to conduct proper sanitisation throughout the day, and hand sanitizing machines have been installed in malls, temples, stations and other places.

The Centre, meanwhile, defended the timing of the imposition of the lockdown and rejected as "baseless" media reports expressing concern that it did not take inputs from technical experts while drawing up its COVID-19 strategy.

The daily number of new cases and deaths is yet to be announced by the government officials on the first day of economy unlocking.

(With inputs from agencies)

After 75 days of a nationwide lockdown, India is finally opening up the economy for people. As India gears up for Unlock 1.0, the number of rising cases is still on a constant rise.

After 75 days of a nationwide lockdown, India is finally opening up the economy for people. As India gears up for Unlock 1.0, the number of rising cases is still on a constant rise. From today, majority Indian states are reopening malls, religious places, inter-state travel, weddings, funerals and more -- with few restrictions. However, the constant rise in number of cases is raising questions on whether or not the decision of reopening the economy at this stage of a lockdown is a good idea or not. Also read: COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world From today, a token system for regulated entry will be followed in all religious places. There are strict guidelines to the religious places to not offer any prasad or let anyone have any kind of physical touch -- such as ringing bells or touching the idols. The count of new coronavirus cases in the country yesterday was 9,971, as India overtook Spain and became the fifth highest in the world. This is the first phase of the three-phase plan for reopening of prohibited activities in non-containment zones with a strict set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which will be in place till June 30. In the malls, cinema halls, gaming arcades and children play areas will continue to be closed. The Central Government issued a standard set of SOPs, and urged the states to finetune these SOPs according to the local needs and situations. Also read: 19 more die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu taking total death toll to 251 While majority states have opened religious places and has event banquets to start mini-functions, some states like Rajasthan have, for now, put a hold on resuming the religious places. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on Sunday, announced opening of borders but announced that the hotels and banquet halls will remain closed as the authorities may need these facilities to convert them into hospitals. All weddings are allowed with a gathering capacity of 50 people, and funerals can have a gathering of 20 people only. Domestic travel has been allowed now, however the Delhi Metro in the capital of India will not resume its services yet. While the economy is reopening from today, all educational institutions will remain closed in all states for the month of June. Schools and colleges have been advised to continue with online classes. All eateries, however, will only be allowed to operate take-aways and deliveries of orders. In all public places, it is compulsory for people to wear masks and maintain social distance from each other. At no point will an individual be allowed to come in physical contact with another person. All institutions have been advised to conduct proper sanitisation throughout the day, and hand sanitizing machines have been installed in malls, temples, stations and other places. The Centre, meanwhile, defended the timing of the imposition of the lockdown and rejected as "baseless" media reports expressing concern that it did not take inputs from technical experts while drawing up its COVID-19 strategy. The daily number of new cases and deaths is yet to be announced by the government officials on the first day of economy unlocking. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places

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