In a latest development in the unresolved US-Russian tensions, nationals of Russia will have to travel to Warsaw for getting US immigrant visas. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In effect since October 12, the US visa move has prompted a heated rejoinder from Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pelosi-says-were-almost-there-on-huge-us-legislative-bills-423654" hreflang="en">Pelosi says 'we're almost there' on huge US legislative bills</a>

Zakharova wrote on the Telegram platform that US diplomats had long been "destroying" the consular services system in Russia. It has turned what should be a routine and technical procedure "into a real hell." &nbsp;

For its part, the state department pinned the blame on Moscow. In a statement received by AFP, a State Department spokesman, said, "The Russian government's decision to prohibit the United States from retaining, hiring or contracting Russian or third-country staff severely impacts our ability to provide consular services." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-coast-guard-evacuates-16-as-burning-container-ship-emits-toxic-gas-off-pacific-coast-423707" hreflang="en">Canadian Coast Guard evacuates 16 as burning container ship emits toxic gas off Pacific coast</a>

"The extremely limited number of consular staff in Russia at this time does not allow us to provide routine visa or US citizen services. We realise this is a significant change for visa applicants,” added spokesman. &nbsp;

The department also cautioned that don’t travel to Warsaw until an appointment is booked with the embassy there. The statement recognised that the shift of visa services to Warsaw was not an "ideal solution." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a latest development in the unresolved US-Russian tensions, nationals of Russia will have to travel to Warsaw for getting US immigrant visas. In effect since October 12, the US visa move has prompted a heated rejoinder from Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

In a latest development in the unresolved US-Russian tensions, nationals of Russia will have to travel to Warsaw for getting US immigrant visas. In effect since October 12, the US visa move has prompted a heated rejoinder from Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Also Read: Pelosi says 'we're almost there' on huge US legislative bills Zakharova wrote on the Telegram platform that US diplomats had long been "destroying" the consular services system in Russia. It has turned what should be a routine and technical procedure "into a real hell." For its part, the state department pinned the blame on Moscow. In a statement received by AFP, a State Department spokesman, said, "The Russian government's decision to prohibit the United States from retaining, hiring or contracting Russian or third-country staff severely impacts our ability to provide consular services." Also Read: Canadian Coast Guard evacuates 16 as burning container ship emits toxic gas off Pacific coast "The extremely limited number of consular staff in Russia at this time does not allow us to provide routine visa or US citizen services. We realise this is a significant change for visa applicants,” added spokesman. The department also cautioned that don’t travel to Warsaw until an appointment is booked with the embassy there. The statement recognised that the shift of visa services to Warsaw was not an "ideal solution." (With inputs from agencies)

Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US

At least 16 people have been evacuated from a burning container ship, which is emitting toxic gas off Canada's Pacific coast by coast guard of the country, said authorities on Sunday. &nbsp;

There is "no safety risk" to people on shore, added authorities. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ship, Zim Kingston, is currently anchored off the city of Victoria in British Columbia. It is in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, which marks the maritime border between Canada and the United States, as per the marine tracking site, MarineTraffic. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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All fires produce toxic substances. Incident Command has detailed information on the chemicals that were on fire and are now smoldering in the containers onboard the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZimKingston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZimKingston</a>. <a href="https://t.co/jtjhlJ1zAa">pic.twitter.com/jtjhlJ1zAa</a>
— Canadian Coast Guard (@CoastGuardCAN) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoastGuardCAN/status/1452380724473040906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Bound for Vancouver, the ship reported about the eruption of flames to the coast guard at around 11 pm local time on Saturday, reported CBC News. &nbsp;

In a navigational warning on its website, the Canadian Coast Guard said, "The ship is on fire and expelling toxic gas."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CCGLive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CCGLive</a>: CCGS Cape Calvert and CCGS Cape Naden have evacuated 16 people from the container ship M/V <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZimKingston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZimKingston</a> near Victoria, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BritishColumbia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BritishColumbia</a> after a fire broke out in ten containers earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/uiKSrmgpv8">pic.twitter.com/uiKSrmgpv8</a>
— Canadian Coast Guard (@CoastGuardCAN) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoastGuardCAN/status/1452150618467016713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Twitter account, the coast guard later posted a statement that 16 people had been evacuated from the Zim Kingston "after a fire broke out in 10 containers." &nbsp;

“Emergency tow vessels, tugs and CCG monitor the ship overnight to ensure the five crew members on the ship are safe, and that the ship remains secured,” said coast guard in a tweet. &nbsp;

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“The fire on the Zim Kingston has been stabilised. Depending on weather tomorrow, firefighters will board the ship to fight any remaining fires and ensure the fire is out,” added the coast guard. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Later, in a statement, the vessel's manager Danaos Shipping said that the incident was caused by "excessive listing due to extreme weather." &nbsp;

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"No injuries were reported. The fire appears to have been contained and DANAOS have commissioned a Salvage &amp; Fire Extinguishing Agency to come on board in order to ensure that conditions are appropriate for the safe return of the vessel's crew," the company added. &nbsp;

The coast guard said the ship was carrying more than 52,000 kilograms (115,000 pounds) of chemicals in two containers, which went up in flames, CBC News reported. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At least 16 people have been evacuated from a burning container ship, which is emitting toxic gas off Canada's Pacific coast by coast guard of the country, said authorities on Sunday.

At least 16 people have been evacuated from a burning container ship, which is emitting toxic gas off Canada's Pacific coast by coast guard of the country, said authorities on Sunday. There is "no safety risk" to people on shore, added authorities. The ship, Zim Kingston, is currently anchored off the city of Victoria in British Columbia. It is in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, which marks the maritime border between Canada and the United States, as per the marine tracking site, MarineTraffic. All fires produce toxic substances. Incident Command has detailed information on the chemicals that were on fire and are now smoldering in the containers onboard the #ZimKingston. pic.twitter.com/jtjhlJ1zAa — Canadian Coast Guard (@CoastGuardCAN) October 24, 2021 × Bound for Vancouver, the ship reported about the eruption of flames to the coast guard at around 11 pm local time on Saturday, reported CBC News. In a navigational warning on its website, the Canadian Coast Guard said, "The ship is on fire and expelling toxic gas." #CCGLive: CCGS Cape Calvert and CCGS Cape Naden have evacuated 16 people from the container ship M/V #ZimKingston near Victoria, #BritishColumbia after a fire broke out in ten containers earlier today. pic.twitter.com/uiKSrmgpv8 — Canadian Coast Guard (@CoastGuardCAN) October 24, 2021 × On Twitter account, the coast guard later posted a statement that 16 people had been evacuated from the Zim Kingston "after a fire broke out in 10 containers." “Emergency tow vessels, tugs and CCG monitor the ship overnight to ensure the five crew members on the ship are safe, and that the ship remains secured,” said coast guard in a tweet. Also Read: Nevada man is charged with voting using his dead wife’s ballot “The fire on the Zim Kingston has been stabilised. Depending on weather tomorrow, firefighters will board the ship to fight any remaining fires and ensure the fire is out,” added the coast guard. Later, in a statement, the vessel's manager Danaos Shipping said that the incident was caused by "excessive listing due to extreme weather." Also Read: Textbook withdrawn as 'shocking' question on Native Americans draws criticism "No injuries were reported. The fire appears to have been contained and DANAOS have commissioned a Salvage & Fire Extinguishing Agency to come on board in order to ensure that conditions are appropriate for the safe return of the vessel's crew," the company added. The coast guard said the ship was carrying more than 52,000 kilograms (115,000 pounds) of chemicals in two containers, which went up in flames, CBC News reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian Coast Guard evacuates 16 as burning container ship emits toxic gas off Pacific coast

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. &nbsp;

In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/work-hard-taliban-to-offer-wheat-in-exchange-of-work-to-reduce-poverty-and-starvation-423598" hreflang="en">Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation</a>

“In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said.

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For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US&nbsp;is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid.

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. Also Read: Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation “In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said. Also Read: Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government. “We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan government’s collapse was not in nation’s interest, says Taliban's Minister Zabiullah Mujahid

After Republican Governor of US state of Oklahoma Kevin Stitt insisted there was "no such thing as non-binary sex", a Democratic state representative, who identifies as "non-binary" complained. &nbsp;

Stitt made remark after a legal settlement prompted the Oklahoma State Department of Health to begin allowing residents to identify as non-binary on their birth certificates. The governor explained that he believes the change was made without "proper approval or oversight." &nbsp;

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In a statement last week, Stitt said, "I believe that people are created by God to be male or female. Period. There is no such thing as non-binary sex and I, wholeheartedly, condemn the purported OSDH court settlement that was entered into by rogue activists, who acted without receiving proper approval or oversight... I will be taking whatever action necessary to protect Oklahoma values and our way of life." &nbsp;

Oklahoma state Rep Mauree Turner claimed the governor's views "adamantly oppose" her existence. &nbsp;

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As per Fox 25, Turner said, "If you have to work with people who adamantly oppose your existence, right, to the point to where we can't work together, you can't talk to me, you can't talk to me like I'm a human being, you don't see me, that damages anyone’s working relationship." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"To be able to have that autonomy and have that part, that real intimate part of you really kind of recognised in a big way is really, really important in more ways than one," Turner added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After Republican Governor of US state of Oklahoma Kevin Stitt insisted there was "no such thing as non-binary sex", a Democratic state representative, who identifies as "non-binary" complained.

After Republican Governor of US state of Oklahoma Kevin Stitt insisted there was "no such thing as non-binary sex", a Democratic state representative, who identifies as "non-binary" complained. Stitt made remark after a legal settlement prompted the Oklahoma State Department of Health to begin allowing residents to identify as non-binary on their birth certificates. The governor explained that he believes the change was made without "proper approval or oversight." Also Read: US lawmakers seek info from Fauci over alleged experiments on puppies In a statement last week, Stitt said, "I believe that people are created by God to be male or female. Period. There is no such thing as non-binary sex and I, wholeheartedly, condemn the purported OSDH court settlement that was entered into by rogue activists, who acted without receiving proper approval or oversight... I will be taking whatever action necessary to protect Oklahoma values and our way of life." Oklahoma state Rep Mauree Turner claimed the governor's views "adamantly oppose" her existence. Also Read: Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US As per Fox 25, Turner said, "If you have to work with people who adamantly oppose your existence, right, to the point to where we can't work together, you can't talk to me, you can't talk to me like I'm a human being, you don't see me, that damages anyone’s working relationship." "To be able to have that autonomy and have that part, that real intimate part of you really kind of recognised in a big way is really, really important in more ways than one," Turner added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Non-binary' US lawmaker complains as state governor says ‘there's no such thing’

Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies.&nbsp;The demand has come from both the parties of the country. &nbsp;

On Friday, Democratic and Republican lawmakers sent a letter to Biden and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a request to share details regarding the alleged infection of 44 beagle puppies with parasites in order to test an experimental drug on them, the Hill reported. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-popularity-drops-more-than-that-of-any-other-us-leader-since-end-of-wwii-poll-423840" hreflang="en">Biden’s popularity drops more than that of any other US prez since WWII: Poll</a>

"We write with grave concerns about reports of costly, cruel, and unnecessary tax-payer funded experiments on dogs commissioned by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases," said the letter, which was signed by Republican South Carolina Rep Nancy Mace and 23 other lawmakers. &nbsp;

The letter goes on to state that according to invoices obtained through a Freedom of Information Act filing, cordectomies were performed on six- to eight-month-old dogs. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-russians-will-have-to-visit-warsaw-to-get-immigrant-visas-for-us-423730" hreflang="en">Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US</a>

"As you are likely aware, a cordectomy, also known as 'devocalisation,' involves splitting a dog's vocal cords in order to prevent them from barking, howling, or crying," the letter points out, explaining that this type of procedure is opposed by organisations, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies.

Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, is facing a surge in demand from lawmakers to share information regarding the alleged use of an experimental drug on puppies. The demand has come from both the parties of the country. On Friday, Democratic and Republican lawmakers sent a letter to Biden and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with a request to share details regarding the alleged infection of 44 beagle puppies with parasites in order to test an experimental drug on them, the Hill reported. Also Read | Biden’s popularity drops more than that of any other US prez since WWII: Poll "We write with grave concerns about reports of costly, cruel, and unnecessary tax-payer funded experiments on dogs commissioned by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases," said the letter, which was signed by Republican South Carolina Rep Nancy Mace and 23 other lawmakers. The letter goes on to state that according to invoices obtained through a Freedom of Information Act filing, cordectomies were performed on six- to eight-month-old dogs. Also Read: Now, Russians will have to visit Warsaw to get immigrant visas for US "As you are likely aware, a cordectomy, also known as 'devocalisation,' involves splitting a dog's vocal cords in order to prevent them from barking, howling, or crying," the letter points out, explaining that this type of procedure is opposed by organisations, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers seek info from Fauci over alleged experiments on puppies

With the rising Covid infections on the mind, organisers have postponed the weekend’s Beijing marathon in China. The country also seeks to return to zero cases ahead of the Winter Olympics. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-uphold-world-peace-says-xi-on-anniversary-of-return-to-un-423776" hreflang="en">China will uphold world peace, says Xi on anniversary of return to UN</a>

On Monday, China reported 39 new domestic infections. The cases are rising after an outbreak spread by a travelling group of tourists in the latest test of the country’s zero-tolerance approach with just over 100 days until the start of the Games. &nbsp;

Until further notice, Beijing marathon’s organisers have postponed the run “to prevent the risk of the epidemic spreading (and) effectively protect the health and safety of the majority of runners, staff and residents.” On October 31, some 30,000 people were expected to take part in the race.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-will-end-when-world-chooses-to-end-it-says-who-chief-423790" hreflang="en">Pandemic will end when world chooses to end it, says WHO chief</a> &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Wuhan Marathon, which was due to take place on Sunday, has been postponed due to a surge in COVID-19 cases, just ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. &nbsp;

Authorities have been making attempts to contain virus infections using mass testing of residents and targeted lockdowns. However, with a rise in cases, organisers of the Wuhan Marathon said in a statement released that they would postpone Sunday's event in the central Chinese city "to prevent the risk of epidemic spread". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

With the rising Covid infections on the mind, organisers have postponed the weekend’s Beijing marathon in China. The country also seeks to return to zero cases ahead of the Winter Olympics.

With the rising Covid infections on the mind, organisers have postponed the weekend’s Beijing marathon in China. The country also seeks to return to zero cases ahead of the Winter Olympics. Also Read: China will uphold world peace, says Xi on anniversary of return to UN On Monday, China reported 39 new domestic infections. The cases are rising after an outbreak spread by a travelling group of tourists in the latest test of the country’s zero-tolerance approach with just over 100 days until the start of the Games. Until further notice, Beijing marathon’s organisers have postponed the run “to prevent the risk of the epidemic spreading (and) effectively protect the health and safety of the majority of runners, staff and residents.” On October 31, some 30,000 people were expected to take part in the race. Also Read: Pandemic will end when world chooses to end it, says WHO chief Meanwhile, the Wuhan Marathon, which was due to take place on Sunday, has been postponed due to a surge in COVID-19 cases, just ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Authorities have been making attempts to contain virus infections using mass testing of residents and targeted lockdowns. However, with a rise in cases, organisers of the Wuhan Marathon said in a statement released that they would postpone Sunday's event in the central Chinese city "to prevent the risk of epidemic spread". (With inputs from agencies)

With Covid outbreak on mind, organisers postpone Beijing marathon in China

A group of recyclers in the Philippines is trying to ease the country's worsening plastic waste crisis by turning bottles, single-use sachets and snack food wrappers that clog rivers and spoil beaches into building materials.

The Plastic Flamingo, or "The Plaf", as they are commonly known, collect the waste, shred it and then mould it into posts and planks called "eco-lumber" that can be used for fencing, decking or even to make disaster-relief shelters.

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"It&nbsp;is 100 per cent&nbsp;upcycled material, 100 per cent made from plastic waste materials, we also include some additives and colorants and it is rot-free, maintenance-free, and splinter-free," said Erica Reyes, The Plaf's chief operating officer.

Having collected over 100 tonnes of plastic waste to date, the social enterprise is doing its bit to address a local problem that has global ramifications.

Approximately 80 per cent of global ocean plastic comes from Asian rivers, and the Philippines alone contributes a third of that total, according to a 2021 report by Oxford University's Our World in Data.

The Philippines does not have a clear strategy on tackling its plastics problem and its environment department has said it has been in contact with manufacturers to identify ways to manage waste.

COVID-19, though, has made the battle against plastic waste harder to win.

Some 300 million tonnes of plastic waste are produced annually, according to the United Nations Environment Programme, a problem that has been exacerbated by the pandemic which sparked a rush for plastic face shields, gloves, takeaway food containers and bubble wrap as online shopping surged.

"People are unaware of how to dispose of these plastics," said Allison Tan, The Plaf's marketing associate.

"We give that avenue that instead of putting it in landfills or oceans you give it to recycling centres like us and we would upcycle them into better products."

As well as tackling waste problems, the group says it is in talks with other non-government organisations to help rebuild houses destroyed by typhoons using their sustainable building materials.

A group of recyclers in the Philippines is trying to ease the country's worsening plastic waste crisis by turning bottles, single-use sachets and snack food wrappers that clog rivers and spoil beaches into building materials.

A group of recyclers in the Philippines is trying to ease the country's worsening plastic waste crisis by turning bottles, single-use sachets and snack food wrappers that clog rivers and spoil beaches into building materials. The Plastic Flamingo, or "The Plaf", as they are commonly known, collect the waste, shred it and then mould it into posts and planks called "eco-lumber" that can be used for fencing, decking or even to make disaster-relief shelters. Also Read | Into the 'plastisphere': Scientists comb Japan waters to study new eco threat "It is 100 per cent upcycled material, 100 per cent made from plastic waste materials, we also include some additives and colorants and it is rot-free, maintenance-free, and splinter-free," said Erica Reyes, The Plaf's chief operating officer. Having collected over 100 tonnes of plastic waste to date, the social enterprise is doing its bit to address a local problem that has global ramifications. Approximately 80 per cent of global ocean plastic comes from Asian rivers, and the Philippines alone contributes a third of that total, according to a 2021 report by Oxford University's Our World in Data. The Philippines does not have a clear strategy on tackling its plastics problem and its environment department has said it has been in contact with manufacturers to identify ways to manage waste. COVID-19, though, has made the battle against plastic waste harder to win. Some 300 million tonnes of plastic waste are produced annually, according to the United Nations Environment Programme, a problem that has been exacerbated by the pandemic which sparked a rush for plastic face shields, gloves, takeaway food containers and bubble wrap as online shopping surged. "People are unaware of how to dispose of these plastics," said Allison Tan, The Plaf's marketing associate. "We give that avenue that instead of putting it in landfills or oceans you give it to recycling centres like us and we would upcycle them into better products." As well as tackling waste problems, the group says it is in talks with other non-government organisations to help rebuild houses destroyed by typhoons using their sustainable building materials.

In major ocean polluter Philippines, group turns plastic waste into planks

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.

The death toll climbed to 4,54,712 with 443 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-proposes-mutual-recognition-of-covid-vaccine-certificates-to-pakistan-423132">India proposes mutual recognition of Covid vaccine certificates to Pakistan</a>

The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 30,000 for 31 straight days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 120 consecutive days now.

The active cases comprise 0.49 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.18 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said.

A decrease of 4,899 cases has been recorded in the total active number of COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mammoth-covid-19-vaccination-d">India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.43 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was also recorded at 1.24 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,35,67,367, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.

India logged 14,306 new COVID-19 cases, taking the virus tally to 3,41,89,774, while the active cases declined to 1,67,695, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday. The death toll climbed to 4,54,712 with 443 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am. Also Read | India proposes mutual recognition of Covid vaccine certificates to Pakistan The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 30,000 for 31 straight days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 120 consecutive days now. The active cases comprise 0.49 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.18 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said. A decrease of 4,899 cases has been recorded in the total active number of COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours. Also Read | India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.43 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was also recorded at 1.24 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,35,67,367, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.33 per cent.

India logs 14,306 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's&nbsp;Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued.

On October 17, the group of 13 trekkers – 12 from Maharashtra and 1 from Kolkata started their trekking from Rohru to Burua village in Kinnaur district but they were stranded at Burua Kanda area due to heavy snowfall in the region.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-11-of-17-missing-trekkers-found-dead-as-iafs-rescue-op-continues-423219">Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues</a>

Three trekkers have died while 10 of them have been rescued. The dead are lying somewhere at around 15,000 feet. ITBP team is reaching the spot today to search the bodies," said ITBP.

The deceased have been identified as Rajendra Pathak, Ashok Bhalerao and Deepak Rao.

Last week, at least 11 of 17 trekkers had gone missing due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather,&nbsp;during a trek to Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh via Harsil in Uttarkashi.&nbsp;

Uttarkashi search and rescue teams found&nbsp;bodies of five trekkers on Thursday. Two members of the team were also found dead in Himachal Pradesh, said Uttarkashi district disaster management officer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued.

Three trekkers from Maharashtra have died due to heavy snowfall in India's Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh state, while the 10 other trekkers have been rescued. On October 17, the group of 13 trekkers – 12 from Maharashtra and 1 from Kolkata started their trekking from Rohru to Burua village in Kinnaur district but they were stranded at Burua Kanda area due to heavy snowfall in the region. Also Read | Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues Three trekkers have died while 10 of them have been rescued. The dead are lying somewhere at around 15,000 feet. ITBP team is reaching the spot today to search the bodies," said ITBP. The deceased have been identified as Rajendra Pathak, Ashok Bhalerao and Deepak Rao. Last week, at least 11 of 17 trekkers had gone missing due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather, during a trek to Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh via Harsil in Uttarkashi. Uttarkashi search and rescue teams found bodies of five trekkers on Thursday. Two members of the team were also found dead in Himachal Pradesh, said Uttarkashi district disaster management officer. (With inputs from agencies)

3 trekkers dead, 10 rescued after heavy snowfall in India's Himachal Pradesh

President Xi Jinping vowed on Monday that China would always uphold world peace and international rules, amid concerns expressed by the United States and other countries over the nation’s increasing assertiveness globally.

The comments come after Taiwan said this month that military tension with China was at its worst in more than 40 years, amid mounting worries that the giant neighbour might try to take back by military force the self-ruled island it claims as its own.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">&nbsp;China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a>

In a speech marking the 50th anniversary of China’s return to the United Nations, Xi said it would always be the “builder of world peace” and a “protector of international order,” state news agency Xinhua said.

In 1971, the United Nations voted to recognise the People’s Republic of China, expelling Taiwan from the world body.

China has also staked its claims more assertively to disputed territories with India on its Himalayan border, with some southeast Asian nations over the South China Sea, and with Japan over some islands in the East China Sea.

“China resolutely opposes all forms of hegemony and power politics, unilateralism and protectionism,” Xi said, calling for greater global cooperation on issues such as regional conflicts, terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity and biosecurity.

He urged all countries to promote the values of peace, development, justice, democracy, freedom, making use of a phrase the “common values of all mankind” that he coined and first mentioned in a July speech for the 100th anniversary of the ruling Chinese Communist Party.

President Xi Jinping vowed on Monday that China would always uphold world peace and international rules, amid concerns expressed by the United States and other countries over the nation’s increasing assertiveness globally.

President Xi Jinping vowed on Monday that China would always uphold world peace and international rules, amid concerns expressed by the United States and other countries over the nation’s increasing assertiveness globally. The comments come after Taiwan said this month that military tension with China was at its worst in more than 40 years, amid mounting worries that the giant neighbour might try to take back by military force the self-ruled island it claims as its own. Also Read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden In a speech marking the 50th anniversary of China’s return to the United Nations, Xi said it would always be the “builder of world peace” and a “protector of international order,” state news agency Xinhua said. In 1971, the United Nations voted to recognise the People’s Republic of China, expelling Taiwan from the world body. China has also staked its claims more assertively to disputed territories with India on its Himalayan border, with some southeast Asian nations over the South China Sea, and with Japan over some islands in the East China Sea. “China resolutely opposes all forms of hegemony and power politics, unilateralism and protectionism,” Xi said, calling for greater global cooperation on issues such as regional conflicts, terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity and biosecurity. He urged all countries to promote the values of peace, development, justice, democracy, freedom, making use of a phrase the “common values of all mankind” that he coined and first mentioned in a July speech for the 100th anniversary of the ruling Chinese Communist Party.

China will uphold world peace, says Xi on anniversary of return to UN

October 25 in history: US military, under President Ronald Reagan, invades Grenada and more

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous.

She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met.

 
Countries like the UK and India believe in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-to-ensure-afghan-territory-is-not-used-to-attack-any-country-say-jaishankar-uk-counterpart-423172">Need to ensure Afghan territory is not used to attack any country, say Jaishankar, UK counterpart</a>

That is the mission of UK and India too," she said, adding that the two countries were working on a new trade deal in the areas of economy, defence, trade and climate.

India is the second largest investor in the UK and I want to see more UK investment in India. The UK has the third highest number of unicorns while India has the third highest number of start ups. If we bring our resources and assets together, we can do much more. I met the Indian finance minister and foreign minister and talked about how to deepen our partnership in areas like technology,&nbsp;she said.

The UK-India economic relationship is already strong with bilateral trade of over 18bn in 2020, supporting nearly half a million jobs in each other's economies, an official from the media department of the British High Commissioner said.

The official said the prime ministers of the two nations have set a target to double the value of UK-India trade by 2030, and have also declared their shared intent to begin negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year.

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met.

UK Foreign Minister Elizabeth Truss on Saturday said her country and India believed in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. She was speaking here at a reception held on HMS Defender where industrialists from the UK and India met. Countries like the UK and India believe in freedom and democracy and can make the world safer and prosperous. Also Read | Need to ensure Afghan territory is not used to attack any country, say Jaishankar, UK counterpart That is the mission of UK and India too," she said, adding that the two countries were working on a new trade deal in the areas of economy, defence, trade and climate. India is the second largest investor in the UK and I want to see more UK investment in India. The UK has the third highest number of unicorns while India has the third highest number of start ups. If we bring our resources and assets together, we can do much more. I met the Indian finance minister and foreign minister and talked about how to deepen our partnership in areas like technology, she said. The UK-India economic relationship is already strong with bilateral trade of over 18bn in 2020, supporting nearly half a million jobs in each other's economies, an official from the media department of the British High Commissioner said. The official said the prime ministers of the two nations have set a target to double the value of UK-India trade by 2030, and have also declared their shared intent to begin negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year.

India, UK democracies can make world safer, prosperous: British foreign minister

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