In first face-to-face talks since the US withdrawal, the Taliban warned the United States not to "destabilise" the regime, its foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said on Saturday. &nbsp;

After talks in Doha, Muttaqi told the Afghan state news agency Bakhtar, "We clearly told them that trying to destabilise the government in Afghanistan is good for no one." &nbsp;

In a recorded statement, the minister said, "Good relations with Afghanistan are good for everyone. Nothing should be done to weaken the existing government in Afghanistan, which can lead to problems for the people." &nbsp;

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The remarks came as Taliban is holding two-day talks with a US team led by the State Department's Deputy Special Representative Tom West and top USAID humanitarian official Sarah Charles. &nbsp;

There was no immediate comment available from the US side. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US delegation is hoping that they will be able to press Taliban to work on providing proper human rights and freedom to women and minority groups in the war-torn country. &nbsp;

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"We will press the Taliban to respect the rights of all Afghans, including women and girls, and to form an inclusive government with broad support," the spokesperson of State Department said on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"As Afghanistan faces the prospect of a severe economic contraction and possible humanitarian crisis, we will also press the Taliban to allow humanitarian agencies free access to areas of need," the spokesperson added. &nbsp;

The delegation will also urge Taliban to let the US citizens and US allies leave Afghanistan peacefully and unharmed whenever these people wish to in the future. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In first face-to-face talks since the US withdrawal, the Taliban warned the United States not to "destabilise" the regime, its foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said on Saturday.

In first face-to-face talks since the US withdrawal, the Taliban warned the United States not to "destabilise" the regime, its foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said on Saturday. After talks in Doha, Muttaqi told the Afghan state news agency Bakhtar, "We clearly told them that trying to destabilise the government in Afghanistan is good for no one." In a recorded statement, the minister said, "Good relations with Afghanistan are good for everyone. Nothing should be done to weaken the existing government in Afghanistan, which can lead to problems for the people." Also Read: ISIS claims responsibility of mosque blast that killed at least 60 people The remarks came as Taliban is holding two-day talks with a US team led by the State Department's Deputy Special Representative Tom West and top USAID humanitarian official Sarah Charles. There was no immediate comment available from the US side. Meanwhile, the US delegation is hoping that they will be able to press Taliban to work on providing proper human rights and freedom to women and minority groups in the war-torn country. Also Read: Afghanistan's unpaid electricity bills cross $62 million "We will press the Taliban to respect the rights of all Afghans, including women and girls, and to form an inclusive government with broad support," the spokesperson of State Department said on Friday. "As Afghanistan faces the prospect of a severe economic contraction and possible humanitarian crisis, we will also press the Taliban to allow humanitarian agencies free access to areas of need," the spokesperson added. The delegation will also urge Taliban to let the US citizens and US allies leave Afghanistan peacefully and unharmed whenever these people wish to in the future. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't try to 'destabilise' regime, Taliban warns US in first face-to-face talks after withdrawal

Amid ongoing outrage over the killings of two young women near their homes in London, a UK government official is looking to back a company's proposal for a new tracking service to help protect women walking alone. &nbsp;

In a letter to Home Secretary Priti Patel, Britain's biggest phone company BT’s chief executive proposed the 'walk me home' service. &nbsp;

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In the letter, Philip Jansen said, once a woman activated an app on her phone, the service would track her journey and send an alert to her emergency contacts if she didn't reach her destination on time. &nbsp;

Confirming Patel received the letter, the UK Home Office said she would respond in 'due course’. &nbsp;

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In comments to the Daily Mail, Patel was more supportive. "This new phone line is exactly the kind of innovative scheme, which would be good to get going as soon as we can. I'm now looking at it with my team and liaising with BT,'' the newspaper quoted Patel as saying. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The 'walk me home' service could be up and running by Christmas, reported the Mail. The service may complement Britain's existing nationwide emergency number, said Jansen. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid ongoing outrage over the killings of two young women near their homes in London, a UK government official is looking to back a company's proposal for a new tracking service to help protect women walking alone.

Amid ongoing outrage over the killings of two young women near their homes in London, a UK government official is looking to back a company's proposal for a new tracking service to help protect women walking alone. In a letter to Home Secretary Priti Patel, Britain's biggest phone company BT’s chief executive proposed the 'walk me home' service. Also Read: Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry In the letter, Philip Jansen said, once a woman activated an app on her phone, the service would track her journey and send an alert to her emergency contacts if she didn't reach her destination on time. Confirming Patel received the letter, the UK Home Office said she would respond in 'due course’. Also Read: Mali-France tensions spurs debate over foreign influence In comments to the Daily Mail, Patel was more supportive. "This new phone line is exactly the kind of innovative scheme, which would be good to get going as soon as we can. I'm now looking at it with my team and liaising with BT,'' the newspaper quoted Patel as saying. The 'walk me home' service could be up and running by Christmas, reported the Mail. The service may complement Britain's existing nationwide emergency number, said Jansen. (With inputs from agencies)

To safeguard lone women, UK looks for 'walk me home' phone-tracker

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday. The leaders are highly likely to discuss the developments in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

While announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday, "The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in our bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The visit will be a continuation of India's increased engagement with countries in its "extended neighbourhood". &nbsp;

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Jaishankar's first destination will be Kyrgyzstan, where he will hold talks with his counterpart apart from calling on the President of the nation, the MEA said. &nbsp;

"This will be his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister," the MEA said. Some agreements are also expected to be signed during the visit. &nbsp;

On October 11 and 12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is the current chair of the grouping. &nbsp;

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Jaishankar will hold talks with the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Kazakhstan. &nbsp;

"The external affairs minister will be visiting Armenia on October 12 and 13. This will be the first-ever visit of an external affairs minister of India to independent Armenia," the MEA said. &nbsp;

The minister will have meetings with Armenian counterpart and Prime Minister. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday.

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday. The leaders are highly likely to discuss the developments in Afghanistan. While announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday, "The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in our bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region." The visit will be a continuation of India's increased engagement with countries in its "extended neighbourhood". Also Read: Indian defence minister lauds coast guard for ensuring maritime peace, security, saving lives Jaishankar's first destination will be Kyrgyzstan, where he will hold talks with his counterpart apart from calling on the President of the nation, the MEA said. "This will be his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister," the MEA said. Some agreements are also expected to be signed during the visit. On October 11 and 12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is the current chair of the grouping. Also Read: How Maharaja returned 'home': Timeline of Air India disinvestment Jaishankar will hold talks with the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Kazakhstan. "The external affairs minister will be visiting Armenia on October 12 and 13. This will be the first-ever visit of an external affairs minister of India to independent Armenia," the MEA said. The minister will have meetings with Armenian counterpart and Prime Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

From October 10 to 13, Jaishankar to visit Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia

According to local media, Lebanon's two major power stations have resulted in shut down on Saturday due to fuel shortage. It has resulted in power outages in most parts of the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities are working "to partially restore electricity to various Lebanese regions, by supplying production stations with fuel from the reserves available for extreme necessities," reported state-run NNA news. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Electricity will gradually return in the coming hours," it reported. &nbsp;

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The local residents have also started cutting off roads in several areas to protest the deteriorating living conditions following the power outages. It has resulted in water shortages, the reports said. &nbsp;

On Friday, Minister of Energy and Water Walid Fayyad said, "Everyone is seriously working on this issue in order to secure additional... electricity for Lebanon."

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"The matter is related to the expected financing from the World Bank. I met with an official from the World Bank for the Middle East, and he conveyed to me the determination to end the process by providing all the necessary facilities to Lebanon," Fayyad added. &nbsp;

Although in short supply, many Lebanese rely on private generators that run on diesel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

According to local media, Lebanon's two major power stations have resulted in shut down on Saturday due to fuel shortage. It has resulted in power outages in most parts of the country.

According to local media, Lebanon's two major power stations have resulted in shut down on Saturday due to fuel shortage. It has resulted in power outages in most parts of the country. Authorities are working "to partially restore electricity to various Lebanese regions, by supplying production stations with fuel from the reserves available for extreme necessities," reported state-run NNA news. "Electricity will gradually return in the coming hours," it reported. Also Read: India, 135 Other Nations Agree On Landmark Global Corporate Tax Deal The local residents have also started cutting off roads in several areas to protest the deteriorating living conditions following the power outages. It has resulted in water shortages, the reports said. On Friday, Minister of Energy and Water Walid Fayyad said, "Everyone is seriously working on this issue in order to secure additional... electricity for Lebanon." Also Read | Two killed in Israel strike on Syria base: Monitor "The matter is related to the expected financing from the World Bank. I met with an official from the World Bank for the Middle East, and he conveyed to me the determination to end the process by providing all the necessary facilities to Lebanon," Fayyad added. Although in short supply, many Lebanese rely on private generators that run on diesel. (With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon loses electricity as 2 power stations face shut down amid fuel crisis

The Iran's first president after the 1979 Islamic revolution, Abolhassan Bani-Sadr, passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday. &nbsp;

On Bani-Sadr's official website, the leader died at the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital in Paris following a long illness, his wife and children said. &nbsp;

Bani-Sadr had emerged from obscurity to become Iran's first president with the help of the Islamic clergy in February 1980. &nbsp;

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After a power struggle with radical clerics, the leader fled the following year to France, where he spent the rest of his life. &nbsp;

While announcing the death, the family said on his website that Bani-Sadr had "defended freedom in the face of new tyranny and oppression in the name of religion". &nbsp;

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His family would like him to be buried in Versailles, the Paris suburb where he lived during his exile, his longstanding assistant, Jamaledin Paknejad, told Reuters. &nbsp;

In an interview with Reuters, the former president said that Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini had betrayed the principles of the revolution after sweeping to power in 1979, adding this had left a "very bitter" taste among some of those who had returned with him to Tehran in triumph. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Iran's first president after the 1979 Islamic revolution, Abolhassan Bani-Sadr, passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday. On Bani-Sadr's official website, the leader died at the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital in Paris following a long illness, his wife and children said.

The Iran's first president after the 1979 Islamic revolution, Abolhassan Bani-Sadr, passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday. On Bani-Sadr's official website, the leader died at the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital in Paris following a long illness, his wife and children said. Bani-Sadr had emerged from obscurity to become Iran's first president with the help of the Islamic clergy in February 1980. Also Read: Mali-France tensions spurs debate over foreign influence After a power struggle with radical clerics, the leader fled the following year to France, where he spent the rest of his life. While announcing the death, the family said on his website that Bani-Sadr had "defended freedom in the face of new tyranny and oppression in the name of religion". Also Read: France and Germany say Poland must abide by EU rules His family would like him to be buried in Versailles, the Paris suburb where he lived during his exile, his longstanding assistant, Jamaledin Paknejad, told Reuters. In an interview with Reuters, the former president said that Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini had betrayed the principles of the revolution after sweeping to power in 1979, adding this had left a "very bitter" taste among some of those who had returned with him to Tehran in triumph. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Iranian President Bani-Sadr passes away in Paris  

In the latest development in the row over China’s organic fertilizer containing harmful bacteria, the country’s embassy in Sri Lanka has issued a clarification. &nbsp;

In a statement, the embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka has given clarification on the organic fertilizer to be supplied by Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group to the country. This comes after the embassy contacted the product supplier to examine the issue. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The statement said that in the process of enforcing the contract, the Sri Lanka National Plant Quarantine Services (NPQS) claimed that the sample received contained harmful bacteria including Erwinia, after only three days of test and analysis, but as per the International Plant Protection Convention, it takes at least six days to detect the bacteria. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The hasty conclusion made by NPQS lacks scientific basis. The decision made by the authorities to reject Seawin’s organic fertilizer based on the report is not only questionable but also causes great financial loss to the company, read the statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The embassy said it hopes that the related parties on Sri Lankan side and the Chinese company could coordinate to resolving this issue and address differences through dialogue in good faith for the mutual benefits of the China-Sri Lanka cooperation.

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Sri Lanka’s Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage said samples from China had tested positive for the presence of the Erwinia Bacteria, which is harmful to certain cultivations in the country. &nbsp;

The minister said the government will never import fertilizer that is harmful to humans, animals, and plants and will only import fertiliser that meets the standards imposed by the Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI). &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the latest development in the row over China’s organic fertilizer containing harmful bacteria, the country’s embassy in Sri Lanka has issued a clarification. In a statement, the embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka has given clarification on the organic fertilizer to be supplied by Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group to the country.

In the latest development in the row over China’s organic fertilizer containing harmful bacteria, the country’s embassy in Sri Lanka has issued a clarification. In a statement, the embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka has given clarification on the organic fertilizer to be supplied by Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group to the country. This comes after the embassy contacted the product supplier to examine the issue. Also Read: US, China chief trade negotiators hold 'candid exchange' The statement said that in the process of enforcing the contract, the Sri Lanka National Plant Quarantine Services (NPQS) claimed that the sample received contained harmful bacteria including Erwinia, after only three days of test and analysis, but as per the International Plant Protection Convention, it takes at least six days to detect the bacteria. The hasty conclusion made by NPQS lacks scientific basis. The decision made by the authorities to reject Seawin’s organic fertilizer based on the report is not only questionable but also causes great financial loss to the company, read the statement. The embassy said it hopes that the related parties on Sri Lankan side and the Chinese company could coordinate to resolving this issue and address differences through dialogue in good faith for the mutual benefits of the China-Sri Lanka cooperation. Also Read: Sri Lanka allows sharp rise in food prices to ease shortages Sri Lanka’s Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage said samples from China had tested positive for the presence of the Erwinia Bacteria, which is harmful to certain cultivations in the country. The minister said the government will never import fertilizer that is harmful to humans, animals, and plants and will only import fertiliser that meets the standards imposed by the Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI). (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Embassy defends firm after Lanka junks organic fertiliser over harmful bacteria concerns

Instead of being vaccinated against COVID-19, three members of the Vatican Swiss Guards have decided to call it quits, reported Swiss newspaper ‘Tribune de Geneva’. &nbsp;

The Vatican Swiss Guards are the elite colourfully dressed corps that protect the pope. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the paper, three Swiss guards have departed on a "voluntary" basis after the Holy See's implementation of new COVID-19 measures, a spokesperson for the corps said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-backs-pfizer-booster-for-over-18s-418403" hreflang="en">EU watchdog backs Pfizer booster for over-18s</a>

Three other recruits, who are still unvaccinated, had decided to get a shot but were temporarily suspended till they were fully inoculated, the spokesperson said. &nbsp;

Since October 1, a health certificate showing proof of immunity to COVID-19 is required to enter the Vatican. &nbsp;

The Green Pass, which was originally conceived to ease travel among European Union states, shows that someone has been vaccinated, tested negative or recently recovered from the coronavirus. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-pandemic-expose-pcr-test-kit-orders-doubled-months-before-first-covid-19-case-418395" hreflang="en">China's pandemic expose: PCR-test kit orders doubled months before first COVID-19 case</a>

The Swiss Guards, who together with the Vatican's gendarme work in close vicinity to the Pope on a daily basis, have been asked to show proof of full vaccination. &nbsp;

Nearly all of the guards are single men, who live in barracks just inside the Vatican gates. Commanders and married members live in separate apartments. All the members have Swiss nationality. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Instead of being vaccinated against COVID-19, three members of the Vatican Swiss Guards have decided to call it quits, reported Swiss newspaper ‘Tribune de Geneva’.

Instead of being vaccinated against COVID-19, three members of the Vatican Swiss Guards have decided to call it quits, reported Swiss newspaper ‘Tribune de Geneva’. The Vatican Swiss Guards are the elite colourfully dressed corps that protect the pope. According to the paper, three Swiss guards have departed on a "voluntary" basis after the Holy See's implementation of new COVID-19 measures, a spokesperson for the corps said. Also Read: EU watchdog backs Pfizer booster for over-18s Three other recruits, who are still unvaccinated, had decided to get a shot but were temporarily suspended till they were fully inoculated, the spokesperson said. Since October 1, a health certificate showing proof of immunity to COVID-19 is required to enter the Vatican. The Green Pass, which was originally conceived to ease travel among European Union states, shows that someone has been vaccinated, tested negative or recently recovered from the coronavirus. Also Read | China's pandemic expose: PCR-test kit orders doubled months before first COVID-19 case The Swiss Guards, who together with the Vatican's gendarme work in close vicinity to the Pope on a daily basis, have been asked to show proof of full vaccination. Nearly all of the guards are single men, who live in barracks just inside the Vatican gates. Commanders and married members live in separate apartments. All the members have Swiss nationality. (With inputs from agencies)

Three Vatican Swiss Guards resign over Covid vaccination mandate, says report

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recently, the country has voted for a new government. And the lawmakers are again considering the issue. However, the people are divided over the matter. &nbsp;

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Depending on road conditions, variable speed limits have already been applied to different stretches of highways of the country. &nbsp;

Like the country, political parties in Germany, are also divided on the topic. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The neoliberal Free Democrats (FDP), the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the conservative CDU/CSU of outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel oppose a highway speed limit. But the Greens, the socialist Left Party and the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) are in favour of it. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-eu-time-running-out-to-fix-ni-accord-418123" hreflang="en">UK warns EU time running out to fix NI accord</a>

It is hard to say that will a general speed limit be imposed? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

There are only a dozen countries in the world, which have not imposed speed limits on their roads. In Europe, the only other place where road traffic is allowed to travel at unlimited speeds is the Isle of Man. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas.

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas. Recently, the country has voted for a new government. And the lawmakers are again considering the issue. However, the people are divided over the matter. Also Read: Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’ Depending on road conditions, variable speed limits have already been applied to different stretches of highways of the country. Like the country, political parties in Germany, are also divided on the topic. The neoliberal Free Democrats (FDP), the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the conservative CDU/CSU of outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel oppose a highway speed limit. But the Greens, the socialist Left Party and the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) are in favour of it. Also Read: UK warns EU time running out to fix NI accord It is hard to say that will a general speed limit be imposed? There are only a dozen countries in the world, which have not imposed speed limits on their roads. In Europe, the only other place where road traffic is allowed to travel at unlimited speeds is the Isle of Man. (With inputs from agencies)

After polls, Germany looks to set highway speed limit

Federal investigators Tuesday morning raided the Manhattan office of one of New York City’s main police unions in connection with an ongoing investigation, according to two people with the knowledge of the matter.

The union, the Sergeants Benevolent Association, represents about 13,000 active and retired police sergeants in New York. Its headquarters were searched as part of an investigation by the FBI and the public corruption unit in the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan, the people said.

Investigators also executed a search warrant at the Long Island home of the union’s president, Edward D. Mullins, a person with knowledge of the operation said.

While the precise focus and scope of the investigation could not immediately be determined, the search of Mullins’ home suggests that the inquiry is at least in some measure focused on him.

An FBI spokesman said only that agents “were conducting a law enforcement operation pursuant to an ongoing investigation” at the union’s offices in Lower Manhattan.

At least four federal agents were inside the union’s headquarters around noon Tuesday. The investigators lowered dark wooden blinds and placed pieces of cardboard inside four windows to prevent the public from gazing inside.

Mullins, who has run the union since 2002, could not immediately be reached for comment. The sergeants’ union, which says it is the fifth-largest police union in the country, did not immediately respond to questions about the raid, which was reported earlier by The New York Daily News.

Mullins, long an outspoken figure, has become known in recent years for making brash and incendiary remarks on social media, particularly against Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Mullins recently faced internal discipline charges over his behavior on Twitter, including for sharing a police report documenting the arrest of de Blasio’s daughter, Chiara, during protests in New York.

The Police Department does not typically release internal reports, and the one that Mullins shared contained personal information about Chiara de Blasio.

Bill de Blasio declined to comment on the raid at a news conference Tuesday, saying he did not know any details, but he said that Mullins had long been a “divisive voice” whose behavior had been “destructive.”

Mullins also faces internal discipline over tweets in which he used profane language against Dr. Oxiris Barbot, the former city health commissioner, and Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democratic congressman who represents the Bronx.

Torres, who has called for Mullins’ resignation over what he has described as racist, misogynistic and homophobic remarks, tweeted Tuesday that Mullins had received a “first-class raid” from the FBI.

Mullins has also drawn scrutiny for his outspoken right-wing politics in a city where Democrats significantly outnumber Republicans. Both the sergeants’ union and its larger sister union, the Police Benevolent Association, have been run mostly by conservatives whose views are not representative of the metropolis they police.

Mullins has praised former President Donald Trump, a Republican who was deeply unpopular among city residents. He also came under fire from liberal lawmakers after giving an interview to Fox News surrounded by paraphernalia linked to QAnon, a fringe conspiracy theory backed largely by Trump supporters.

Federal investigators Tuesday morning raided the Manhattan office of one of New York City’s main police unions in connection with an ongoing investigation, according to two people with the knowledge of the matter.

Federal investigators Tuesday morning raided the Manhattan office of one of New York City’s main police unions in connection with an ongoing investigation, according to two people with the knowledge of the matter. The union, the Sergeants Benevolent Association, represents about 13,000 active and retired police sergeants in New York. Its headquarters were searched as part of an investigation by the FBI and the public corruption unit in the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan, the people said. Investigators also executed a search warrant at the Long Island home of the union’s president, Edward D. Mullins, a person with knowledge of the operation said. While the precise focus and scope of the investigation could not immediately be determined, the search of Mullins’ home suggests that the inquiry is at least in some measure focused on him. An FBI spokesman said only that agents “were conducting a law enforcement operation pursuant to an ongoing investigation” at the union’s offices in Lower Manhattan. At least four federal agents were inside the union’s headquarters around noon Tuesday. The investigators lowered dark wooden blinds and placed pieces of cardboard inside four windows to prevent the public from gazing inside. Mullins, who has run the union since 2002, could not immediately be reached for comment. The sergeants’ union, which says it is the fifth-largest police union in the country, did not immediately respond to questions about the raid, which was reported earlier by The New York Daily News. Mullins, long an outspoken figure, has become known in recent years for making brash and incendiary remarks on social media, particularly against Mayor Bill de Blasio. Mullins recently faced internal discipline charges over his behavior on Twitter, including for sharing a police report documenting the arrest of de Blasio’s daughter, Chiara, during protests in New York. The Police Department does not typically release internal reports, and the one that Mullins shared contained personal information about Chiara de Blasio. Bill de Blasio declined to comment on the raid at a news conference Tuesday, saying he did not know any details, but he said that Mullins had long been a “divisive voice” whose behavior had been “destructive.” Mullins also faces internal discipline over tweets in which he used profane language against Dr. Oxiris Barbot, the former city health commissioner, and Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democratic congressman who represents the Bronx. Torres, who has called for Mullins’ resignation over what he has described as racist, misogynistic and homophobic remarks, tweeted Tuesday that Mullins had received a “first-class raid” from the FBI. Mullins has also drawn scrutiny for his outspoken right-wing politics in a city where Democrats significantly outnumber Republicans. Both the sergeants’ union and its larger sister union, the Police Benevolent Association, have been run mostly by conservatives whose views are not representative of the metropolis they police. Mullins has praised former President Donald Trump, a Republican who was deeply unpopular among city residents. He also came under fire from liberal lawmakers after giving an interview to Fox News surrounded by paraphernalia linked to QAnon, a fringe conspiracy theory backed largely by Trump supporters.

FBI raids headquarters of New York Sergeants’ Union 

In a narrow escape, an airline’s passenger plane landed safely after being hit by a bird near Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore on Tuesday. &nbsp;

The plane, which had around 350 passengers on board, belonged to a foreign airline. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As soon as it took off from the airport, the Istanbul-bound plane was hit by a bird. The pilot managed to turn the plane around&nbsp;and landed it safely at the airport. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-airlines-net-losses-expected-at-116-bn-in-2022-iata-418248" hreflang="en">Global airlines' net losses expected at $11.6 bn in 2022: IATA</a>

The airline company has accepted the request of the passengers and made arrangements for their stay in a hotel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The company has also promised passengers that it will arrange another flight for Istanbul. It also refunded the cost of the PCR tests to the customers. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recently, a private plane crashed into an empty building on the outskirts of Milan, northern Italy, on Sunday, killing all eight people on board, reveals police.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-tourism-surges-in-july-but-falls-short-of-pre-covid-levels-418165" hreflang="en">World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the officials, the aeroplane had taken off from Milan's Linate city airport and was heading for the island of Sardinia. The crash occurred just outside a suburban metro station. &nbsp;

People in the area could hear a blast when the plane collided with the two-storey building. The building was empty at the time as it was being renovated. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a narrow escape, an airline’s passenger plane landed safely after being hit by a bird near Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore on Tuesday. The plane, which had around 350 passengers on board, belonged to a foreign airline.

In a narrow escape, an airline’s passenger plane landed safely after being hit by a bird near Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore on Tuesday. The plane, which had around 350 passengers on board, belonged to a foreign airline. As soon as it took off from the airport, the Istanbul-bound plane was hit by a bird. The pilot managed to turn the plane around and landed it safely at the airport. Also Read: Global airlines' net losses expected at $11.6 bn in 2022: IATA The airline company has accepted the request of the passengers and made arrangements for their stay in a hotel. The company has also promised passengers that it will arrange another flight for Istanbul. It also refunded the cost of the PCR tests to the customers. Recently, a private plane crashed into an empty building on the outskirts of Milan, northern Italy, on Sunday, killing all eight people on board, reveals police. Also Read: World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels As per the officials, the aeroplane had taken off from Milan's Linate city airport and was heading for the island of Sardinia. The crash occurred just outside a suburban metro station. People in the area could hear a blast when the plane collided with the two-storey building. The building was empty at the time as it was being renovated. (With inputs from agencies)

After getting hit by bird, airplane lands safely at Lahore airport in Pakistan  

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. &nbsp;

On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-congratulates-japans-new-pm-kishida-on-phone-call-both-confirm-strong-alliance-418308" hreflang="en">Biden congratulates Japan's new PM on phone call, both confirm strong alliance</a> &nbsp;

“January 6 was a tragic day in the history of our Capitol building, but thanks to the efforts of Capitol Hill police [and] federal officials, the Capitol was secured,” Pence added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We finished our work, and the president and I sat down a few days later and talked through all of it. I can tell you that we parted amicably at the end of the administration, and we've talked a number of times since we both left office,” the leader said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After he certified the Electoral College votes that gave Joe Biden the presidency, the Trump supporters turned on Pence. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-officials-end-ban-on-abortion-referrals-at-federally-funded-clinics-418364" hreflang="en">Biden officials end ban on abortion referrals at federally funded clinics</a>

The leader had reportedly disapproved of Trump’s actions on the day, which led to the infamous Capitol riots. The former president has since publicly criticised Pence for certifying the vote. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the interview, Pence slammed withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan as an “example of what weak leadership means on the world stage." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship.

Even despite disagreements over January 6 developments, former US vice president Mike Pence insists he is still close to ex-president Donald Trump. On Monday, the former vice president told Fox News, “You can't spend almost five years in a political foxhole with somebody without developing a strong relationship." Also Read: Biden congratulates Japan's new PM on phone call, both confirm strong alliance “January 6 was a tragic day in the history of our Capitol building, but thanks to the efforts of Capitol Hill police [and] federal officials, the Capitol was secured,” Pence added. “We finished our work, and the president and I sat down a few days later and talked through all of it. I can tell you that we parted amicably at the end of the administration, and we've talked a number of times since we both left office,” the leader said. After he certified the Electoral College votes that gave Joe Biden the presidency, the Trump supporters turned on Pence. Also Read: Biden officials end ban on abortion referrals at federally funded clinics The leader had reportedly disapproved of Trump’s actions on the day, which led to the infamous Capitol riots. The former president has since publicly criticised Pence for certifying the vote. In the interview, Pence slammed withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan as an “example of what weak leadership means on the world stage." (With inputs from agencies)

Despite disagreements over January 6, Pence still 'close to' Trump

Taliban’s love for radio stations is quite old. In its earlier stint at ruling Afghanistan, it used to run a radio station for various purposes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The love seems to have grown with time. Now, it seems to have allegedly taken over a radio station in Laghman province by force as it did for the whole country a few months back. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-the-talibans-repression-of-women-may-be-more-tactical-than-ideological-418352" hreflang="en">Why the Taliban’s repression of women may be more tactical than ideological</a>

As per reports, the head of Radio Khyber Nawekht, a local radio station, said that a local commander affiliated with the Islamic Emirate stormed into the radio compound and took over its control after the fall of the former government.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hamid Khyber, head of the radio station, said, “On the first day the Taliban came to power, a local commander took custody of the compound. In addition, the Taliban threatened the journalists with death. So, the operations were halted.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-faces-winter-blackout-as-taliban-unable-to-pay-electricity-suppliers-report-418292" hreflang="en">Kabul faces winter blackout as Taliban unable to pay electricity suppliers: Report</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

“The broadcasting has stopped and our colleagues are facing a lot of challenges,” said Salahuddin Ahmadzai, a journalist, who works at the station. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Although the local commander is yet to provide details, the interior ministry said that an investigation is underway. &nbsp;

Saeed Khosti, spokesman, interior ministry, said, “Our request from the people is that if the Mujahideen station themselves in their houses or offices, contact the nearby officials. They will pass on the case to us.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taliban’s love for radio stations is quite old. In its earlier stint at ruling Afghanistan, it used to run a radio station for various purposes. The love seems to have grown with time.

Taliban’s love for radio stations is quite old. In its earlier stint at ruling Afghanistan, it used to run a radio station for various purposes. The love seems to have grown with time. Now, it seems to have allegedly taken over a radio station in Laghman province by force as it did for the whole country a few months back. Also Read: Why the Taliban’s repression of women may be more tactical than ideological As per reports, the head of Radio Khyber Nawekht, a local radio station, said that a local commander affiliated with the Islamic Emirate stormed into the radio compound and took over its control after the fall of the former government. Hamid Khyber, head of the radio station, said, “On the first day the Taliban came to power, a local commander took custody of the compound. In addition, the Taliban threatened the journalists with death. So, the operations were halted.” Also Read: Kabul faces winter blackout as Taliban unable to pay electricity suppliers: Report “The broadcasting has stopped and our colleagues are facing a lot of challenges,” said Salahuddin Ahmadzai, a journalist, who works at the station. Although the local commander is yet to provide details, the interior ministry said that an investigation is underway. Saeed Khosti, spokesman, interior ministry, said, “Our request from the people is that if the Mujahideen station themselves in their houses or offices, contact the nearby officials. They will pass on the case to us.” (With inputs from agencies)

After Ghani govt fell, Taliban commander took over radio station in Laghman

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