After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels. &nbsp;

The vessels, which include a survey boat, were present off the coasts of the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-world-witnessing-multiple-cold-wars-418374" hreflang="en">Is the world witnessing multiple cold wars?</a>&nbsp;

In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, the action is in contravention of 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The statement has not elaborated on the number of ships involved or when the incident took place. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Malaysia’s consistent position and actions are based on international law, in defence of our sovereignty and sovereign rights in our waters. It had also protested against the previous encroachments by other foreign vessels in our waters,” it said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-56-warplanes-into-taiwans-defence-zone-in-largest-ever-air-incursion-418264" hreflang="en">China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion</a>&nbsp;

The China has been militarising the region by allegedly deploying anti-ship cruise missiles, anti-aircraft guns, surface-to-air missiles and electronic jamming equipment on the disputed artificial islands in the South China Sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chinese have also been carrying out military drills in the region. They have been making all attempts to protect its occupation of these islands. For this, it has been sending its vessels to the area in large number to either terrorise other navies or sink the fishing vessels to discourage people from venturing into the area. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels.

After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels. The vessels, which include a survey boat, were present off the coasts of the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Also Read: Is the world witnessing multiple cold wars? In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, the action is in contravention of 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The statement has not elaborated on the number of ships involved or when the incident took place. “Malaysia’s consistent position and actions are based on international law, in defence of our sovereignty and sovereign rights in our waters. It had also protested against the previous encroachments by other foreign vessels in our waters,” it said. Also Read: China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion The China has been militarising the region by allegedly deploying anti-ship cruise missiles, anti-aircraft guns, surface-to-air missiles and electronic jamming equipment on the disputed artificial islands in the South China Sea. The Chinese have also been carrying out military drills in the region. They have been making all attempts to protect its occupation of these islands. For this, it has been sending its vessels to the area in large number to either terrorise other navies or sink the fishing vessels to discourage people from venturing into the area. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea: Malaysia summons Chinese envoy after Beijing’s vessels enter EEZ

Cold war is a very well-known phenomena. For years, the world witnessed its horrors in the tussle between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). It finally ended with the disintegration of the latter.&nbsp;

So, what is it actually? &nbsp;

Cold war in simple terms seems to be the tussle to be on the top. The struggle to be better than others builds mistrust then it finally leads to the cold war. &nbsp;

Has is it really ended? &nbsp;

The answer to this question is no. Just the players in the game have changed. The world nowadays seems to be witnessing numerous cold wars. &nbsp;

These wars are being fought between the US and China, the US and Russia,&nbsp;the US and Iran,&nbsp;North and South Korea, China and Taiwan, Iran and some Gulf states, etc. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-have-frank-conversations-with-china-on-trade-418119" hreflang="en">US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade</a>

The mistrust has started to build between the UK and the EU, which is the first step towards a cold war. &nbsp;

Not just this, several countries have been at war for numerous years like Israel-Palestine, India-Pakistan, India-China, Ukraine-Russia, etc. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Apart from these countries, several others are caught in the middle of the action. The countries and areas facing the brunt are Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Iraq, South China Sea, and slowly the large parts of Africa. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Many countries have also seen regime changes, coming up of dictators, etc in recent times. It somehow seems to be a way to gain more control in the world. This battle is going on unabatedly for years. &nbsp;

Several nations, such as India, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, the Phillipines, Ukraine, etc, are having a hard time due to the over aggressiveness of their adversaries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-56-warplanes-into-taiwans-defence-zone-in-largest-ever-air-incursion-418264" hreflang="en">China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion</a>

Almost every other day, there is either an incursion or a line of control, airspace or border violation. Several missile tests, airshows, military exercises, unveiling of new weapons or defence systems, buying of advanced weapons, etc are being done with the sole purpose of either preparing for any future war or dissuading the adversary. &nbsp;

Many countries are spending large parts of their budgets in the defence, neglecting other crucial sectors important for the development and prosperity of any nation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But overall, it has been just helpful in increasing mistrust, encouraging arms race, hiking debt ceiling, and most of all, erosion of peace in the world. &nbsp;&nbsp;

So, let’s hope the adversaries make peace and not bring an end to the world by actually engaging in a nuclear war in the future. The world can only keep a patient and close watch.&nbsp;

Cold war is a very well-known phenomena. For years, the world witnessed its horrors in the tussle between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

Cold war is a very well-known phenomena. For years, the world witnessed its horrors in the tussle between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). It finally ended with the disintegration of the latter. So, what is it actually? Cold war in simple terms seems to be the tussle to be on the top. The struggle to be better than others builds mistrust then it finally leads to the cold war. Has is it really ended? The answer to this question is no. Just the players in the game have changed. The world nowadays seems to be witnessing numerous cold wars. These wars are being fought between the US and China, the US and Russia, the US and Iran, North and South Korea, China and Taiwan, Iran and some Gulf states, etc. Also Read: US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade The mistrust has started to build between the UK and the EU, which is the first step towards a cold war. Not just this, several countries have been at war for numerous years like Israel-Palestine, India-Pakistan, India-China, Ukraine-Russia, etc. Apart from these countries, several others are caught in the middle of the action. The countries and areas facing the brunt are Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Iraq, South China Sea, and slowly the large parts of Africa. Many countries have also seen regime changes, coming up of dictators, etc in recent times. It somehow seems to be a way to gain more control in the world. This battle is going on unabatedly for years. Several nations, such as India, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, the Phillipines, Ukraine, etc, are having a hard time due to the over aggressiveness of their adversaries. Also Read: China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion Almost every other day, there is either an incursion or a line of control, airspace or border violation. Several missile tests, airshows, military exercises, unveiling of new weapons or defence systems, buying of advanced weapons, etc are being done with the sole purpose of either preparing for any future war or dissuading the adversary. Many countries are spending large parts of their budgets in the defence, neglecting other crucial sectors important for the development and prosperity of any nation. But overall, it has been just helpful in increasing mistrust, encouraging arms race, hiking debt ceiling, and most of all, erosion of peace in the world. So, let’s hope the adversaries make peace and not bring an end to the world by actually engaging in a nuclear war in the future. The world can only keep a patient and close watch.

Is the world witnessing multiple cold wars?

President Joe Biden urged congressional leaders to raise the debt ceiling Monday, excoriating Republicans for what he said was “reckless” and “disgraceful” obstruction ahead of a default deadline later this month that he warned would amount to “a self-inflicted wound that takes our economy over a cliff.”

Biden, trying to convey the risks to everyday Americans, warned that they could see the effects as early as this week if Senate Democrats were not able to vote to raise the debt ceiling. The debt ceiling controls the amount of money the government can borrow to fulfill its financial obligations, including Social Security checks, salaries for military personnel and other bills.

“It starts with a simple truth: The United States is a nation that pays its bills and always has,” Biden said. “If we’re going to make good on what has already been approved by previous Congresses, and previous presidents and parties, we have to pay for it.”

The remarks presaged increased public engagement by Biden on an issue that risks economic crisis.

Biden pointed out that Republicans had voted several times to increase the debt limit under President Donald Trump but are using a filibuster to block any attempt by Democrats to raise it this time around. He said that he would not be expecting Republicans to “do their part,” but he warned them “not to use procedural tricks to block us from doing the job.”

Technically, the United States hit its debt limit at the end of July, following a two-year extension that Congress agreed to in 2019. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has been using “extraordinary measures” since then to delay a default. Those are essentially fiscal accounting tools that curb certain government investments so that the bills can continue to be paid.

Yellen warned Congress last week of “catastrophic” consequences should lawmakers fail to suspend or raise the statutory debt limit before Oct. 18, which the Treasury believes is the date the United States will run out of enough money to pay all its bills.

Congress raises the debt limit to cover spending it has already approved, and the Treasury has warned that failure to do so would tank financial markets and have wide-ranging effects on Americans: Defaulting could pause Social Security checks, delay the pay of military troops and interfere with child tax credit payments.

But Republicans — who had voted to raise the debt cap by trillions when their party controlled Washington — have moved to block a spending bill needed to avoid default. Instead, Republicans including Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, have sought to place political responsibility on Democrats, who are at the same time seeking to advance a sprawling social policy bill that could cost as much as $3.5 trillion.

“Bipartisanship is not a light switch that Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer may flip on to borrow money and flip off to spend it,” McConnell wrote in a letter to Biden on Monday, referring to Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader. “For two and a half months, we have simply warned that since your party wishes to govern alone, it must handle the debt limit alone as well.”

The president said he planned on talking to McConnell about the letter: “He and I have been down this road once before,” Biden said.

Democrats have so far refused to try to raise the debt ceiling through a fast-track process known as reconciliation. On Monday, Schumer told Democrats that a spending bill needed to reach Biden’s desk within days, not weeks.

“Let me be clear about the task ahead of us: We must get a bill to the President’s desk dealing with the debt limit by the end of the week. Period. We do not have the luxury of waiting until Oct. 18,” he wrote in a “dear colleague” letter dated Monday.

Asked if he supported reconciliation to raise the debt ceiling, Biden said the process would be “fraught with all kinds of potential danger or miscalculation” and said the way to proceed would be a vote on a bill to raise the limit.

Administration officials say Biden will continue to pressure Republicans to step aside — by breaking their filibuster — and allow Democrats to vote on their own this week to raise the limit.

“Let us vote,” Biden said, “and end the mess.”

As he urges congressional leaders to find a way forward on raising the debt limit, Biden still must drum up support for a bipartisan infrastructure deal and an expansive social spending plan.

“I’ve been able to close the deal on 99% of my party,” Biden said, before adding that “two people” remain opposed to the second piece, a reference to Sens. Joe Manchin III of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona.

“It’s not a smart thing to negotiate with yourself in public,” Biden said, when asked if he would support a lower figure on the reconciliation package.

President Joe Biden urged congressional leaders to raise the debt ceiling Monday, excoriating Republicans for what he said was “reckless” and “disgraceful” obstruction ahead of a default deadline later this month that he warned would amount to “a self-inflicted wound that takes our economy over a cliff.

President Joe Biden urged congressional leaders to raise the debt ceiling Monday, excoriating Republicans for what he said was “reckless” and “disgraceful” obstruction ahead of a default deadline later this month that he warned would amount to “a self-inflicted wound that takes our economy over a cliff.” Biden, trying to convey the risks to everyday Americans, warned that they could see the effects as early as this week if Senate Democrats were not able to vote to raise the debt ceiling. The debt ceiling controls the amount of money the government can borrow to fulfill its financial obligations, including Social Security checks, salaries for military personnel and other bills. “It starts with a simple truth: The United States is a nation that pays its bills and always has,” Biden said. “If we’re going to make good on what has already been approved by previous Congresses, and previous presidents and parties, we have to pay for it.” The remarks presaged increased public engagement by Biden on an issue that risks economic crisis. Biden pointed out that Republicans had voted several times to increase the debt limit under President Donald Trump but are using a filibuster to block any attempt by Democrats to raise it this time around. He said that he would not be expecting Republicans to “do their part,” but he warned them “not to use procedural tricks to block us from doing the job.” Technically, the United States hit its debt limit at the end of July, following a two-year extension that Congress agreed to in 2019. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has been using “extraordinary measures” since then to delay a default. Those are essentially fiscal accounting tools that curb certain government investments so that the bills can continue to be paid. Yellen warned Congress last week of “catastrophic” consequences should lawmakers fail to suspend or raise the statutory debt limit before Oct. 18, which the Treasury believes is the date the United States will run out of enough money to pay all its bills. Congress raises the debt limit to cover spending it has already approved, and the Treasury has warned that failure to do so would tank financial markets and have wide-ranging effects on Americans: Defaulting could pause Social Security checks, delay the pay of military troops and interfere with child tax credit payments. But Republicans — who had voted to raise the debt cap by trillions when their party controlled Washington — have moved to block a spending bill needed to avoid default. Instead, Republicans including Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, have sought to place political responsibility on Democrats, who are at the same time seeking to advance a sprawling social policy bill that could cost as much as $3.5 trillion. “Bipartisanship is not a light switch that Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer may flip on to borrow money and flip off to spend it,” McConnell wrote in a letter to Biden on Monday, referring to Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader. “For two and a half months, we have simply warned that since your party wishes to govern alone, it must handle the debt limit alone as well.” The president said he planned on talking to McConnell about the letter: “He and I have been down this road once before,” Biden said. Democrats have so far refused to try to raise the debt ceiling through a fast-track process known as reconciliation. On Monday, Schumer told Democrats that a spending bill needed to reach Biden’s desk within days, not weeks. “Let me be clear about the task ahead of us: We must get a bill to the President’s desk dealing with the debt limit by the end of the week. Period. We do not have the luxury of waiting until Oct. 18,” he wrote in a “dear colleague” letter dated Monday. Asked if he supported reconciliation to raise the debt ceiling, Biden said the process would be “fraught with all kinds of potential danger or miscalculation” and said the way to proceed would be a vote on a bill to raise the limit. Administration officials say Biden will continue to pressure Republicans to step aside — by breaking their filibuster — and allow Democrats to vote on their own this week to raise the limit. “Let us vote,” Biden said, “and end the mess.” As he urges congressional leaders to find a way forward on raising the debt limit, Biden still must drum up support for a bipartisan infrastructure deal and an expansive social spending plan. “I’ve been able to close the deal on 99% of my party,” Biden said, before adding that “two people” remain opposed to the second piece, a reference to Sens. Joe Manchin III of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. “It’s not a smart thing to negotiate with yourself in public,” Biden said, when asked if he would support a lower figure on the reconciliation package.

Biden says Republicans being ‘reckless’ over debt limit increase

For a farewell visit before her expected departure from office, German Chancellor Angela Merkel will travel to Israel next week, said Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett on Monday. &nbsp;

Merkel remained in power for around 16 years. &nbsp;

Citing the tense situation in Afghanistan, the leader had cancelled a planned trip from August 28 to 30 to Israel. At that time, the United States, Germany and others were evacuating personnel and several Afghans ahead of an August 31 deadline for the withdrawal of foreign troops. &nbsp;

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Merkel "will arrive here early next week for an important farewell visit", said Bennett in Israel's parliament. The leader had last visited Israel in 2018. &nbsp;

In power since 2005, Merkel plans to step down after a new government is formed. &nbsp;

Earlier, Germans voted in the national elections in a tight race between Social Democrats (SPD) and Merkel's CDU-CSU conservative alliance. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-warming-arctic-ice-at-a-record-low-and-sea-levels-rising-418244" hreflang="en">Global warming: Arctic ice at a record low and sea levels rising</a>

Olaf Scholz was heading the Social Democrat (SPD) while Merkel had backed Armin Laschet of the CDU-CSU. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chancellor Angela Merkel had also urged Germans to give her would-be successor Laschet their vote to shape Germany's future, in a last-ditch push to shore up his beleaguered campaign 24 hours before Germans vote. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

For a farewell visit before her expected departure from office, German Chancellor Angela Merkel will travel to Israel next week, said Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett on Monday.

For a farewell visit before her expected departure from office, German Chancellor Angela Merkel will travel to Israel next week, said Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett on Monday. Merkel remained in power for around 16 years. Citing the tense situation in Afghanistan, the leader had cancelled a planned trip from August 28 to 30 to Israel. At that time, the United States, Germany and others were evacuating personnel and several Afghans ahead of an August 31 deadline for the withdrawal of foreign troops. Also Read: After polls, Germany looks to set highway speed limit Merkel "will arrive here early next week for an important farewell visit", said Bennett in Israel's parliament. The leader had last visited Israel in 2018. In power since 2005, Merkel plans to step down after a new government is formed. Earlier, Germans voted in the national elections in a tight race between Social Democrats (SPD) and Merkel's CDU-CSU conservative alliance. Also Read: Global warming: Arctic ice at a record low and sea levels rising Olaf Scholz was heading the Social Democrat (SPD) while Merkel had backed Armin Laschet of the CDU-CSU. Chancellor Angela Merkel had also urged Germans to give her would-be successor Laschet their vote to shape Germany's future, in a last-ditch push to shore up his beleaguered campaign 24 hours before Germans vote. (With inputs from agencies)

For a farewell visit, Germany's Merkel to head to Israel next week  

In Prince Andrew's fight against sex abuse allegations levelled by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, Queen is spending millions of pounds, say reports. &nbsp;

According to the Daily Telegraph, the 95-year-old Queen agreed to pay for the Duke's legal fees last year shortly after his disastrous interview on BBC Newsnight. As per the newspaper, the Queen will source funds from her private Duchy of Lancaster estate. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/immigration-to-not-solve-food-fuel-crises-says-uk-pm-boris-johnson-417977" hreflang="en">Immigration to not solve food, fuel crises, says UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

The 61-year-old Duke has recently expanded his US legal team to include Melissa Lerner alongside his lead counsel Andrew Brettler. Brettler is approximately charging Duke around $2,000 (£1,476) an hour. Royal courtiers believe the cost of the case will run into millions. &nbsp;

Giuffre, a victim of infamous Jeffrey Epstein, has accused Prince Andrew of sexually harassing her at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion and a few other places, in 2001 when she was 17 years old. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979" hreflang="en">UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

She has filed a legal complaint against Andrew but he has denied all the allegations. &nbsp;

In her complaint, Guiffre alleged that she "was compelled by express or implied threats by Epstein, [Ghislaine] Maxwell, and/or Prince Andrew to engage in sexual acts with Prince Andrew, and feared death or physical injury to herself or another and other repercussions for disobeying Epstein, Maxwell, and Prince Andrew due to their powerful connections, wealth and authority." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In Prince Andrew's fight against sex abuse allegations levelled by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, Queen is spending millions of pounds, say reports. According to the Daily Telegraph, the 95-year-old Queen agreed to pay for the Duke's legal fees last year shortly after his disastrous interview on BBC Newsnight.

In Prince Andrew's fight against sex abuse allegations levelled by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, Queen is spending millions of pounds, say reports. According to the Daily Telegraph, the 95-year-old Queen agreed to pay for the Duke's legal fees last year shortly after his disastrous interview on BBC Newsnight. As per the newspaper, the Queen will source funds from her private Duchy of Lancaster estate. Also Read: Immigration to not solve food, fuel crises, says UK PM Boris Johnson The 61-year-old Duke has recently expanded his US legal team to include Melissa Lerner alongside his lead counsel Andrew Brettler. Brettler is approximately charging Duke around $2,000 (£1,476) an hour. Royal courtiers believe the cost of the case will run into millions. Giuffre, a victim of infamous Jeffrey Epstein, has accused Prince Andrew of sexually harassing her at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion and a few other places, in 2001 when she was 17 years old. Also Read: UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss She has filed a legal complaint against Andrew but he has denied all the allegations. In her complaint, Guiffre alleged that she "was compelled by express or implied threats by Epstein, [Ghislaine] Maxwell, and/or Prince Andrew to engage in sexual acts with Prince Andrew, and feared death or physical injury to herself or another and other repercussions for disobeying Epstein, Maxwell, and Prince Andrew due to their powerful connections, wealth and authority." (With inputs from agencies)

Queen to spend millions over Prince Andrew's sex assault lawsuit

In a hearty welcome, US Marines, who were deployed in Afghanistan, could be seen getting flanked by family and friends on their arrival at the home base on Sunday. &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a6b2d04-28e6-4746-892f-ea898a966367" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20Marines%20%20%282%29.jpg" />

These Marines belonged to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment. Nine Marines from their battalion had lost their lives while defending the Kabul airport in a suicide bomb attack, which killed at least 13 US service members and scores of Afghans on August 26. &nbsp;

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Although the media personnel were not given access to the returning service members or their families by the Marine Corps, some briefly spoke on their return. &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5bfb4e91-76c6-4f03-8ed0-bd32002d49e0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20Marines%20.jpg" />

In order to protect the airport in the war-torn country, these Marines and other security personnel from the US carried out several operations. They screened people, maintained security, checked baggage and finally, evacuated thousands of people in just a few days. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-faces-an-awkward-visit-to-paris-his-second-home-418147" hreflang="en">Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’</a>

Not just this, they also cared for several Afghan newborns while carrying out their duties. &nbsp; &nbsp;

It was one of the most chaotic US airlifts. In it, eventually 124,000 people were evacuated out of the country. It included US citizens, Afghans, who aided the US war effort and their families. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a hearty welcome, US Marines, who were deployed in Afghanistan, could be seen getting flanked by family and friends on their arrival at the home base on Sunday.

In a hearty welcome, US Marines, who were deployed in Afghanistan, could be seen getting flanked by family and friends on their arrival at the home base on Sunday. These Marines belonged to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment. Nine Marines from their battalion had lost their lives while defending the Kabul airport in a suicide bomb attack, which killed at least 13 US service members and scores of Afghans on August 26. Also Read: Progressives stand firm on priorities as infrastructure debate continues Although the media personnel were not given access to the returning service members or their families by the Marine Corps, some briefly spoke on their return. In order to protect the airport in the war-torn country, these Marines and other security personnel from the US carried out several operations. They screened people, maintained security, checked baggage and finally, evacuated thousands of people in just a few days. Also Read: Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’ Not just this, they also cared for several Afghan newborns while carrying out their duties. It was one of the most chaotic US airlifts. In it, eventually 124,000 people were evacuated out of the country. It included US citizens, Afghans, who aided the US war effort and their families. (With inputs from agencies)

US Marines deployed in Afghanistan finally return home

Over the revelations made in Pandora Papers leak, Opposition leaders slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and demanded his resignation.&nbsp;

The opposition also called on the PM to order cabinet ministers and aides named in leak to resign and face investigation. &nbsp;

The names of over 700 Pakistanis have been mentioned in the leak. These rich and powerful people, include PM’s cabinet members, media moguls, retired generals&nbsp;and businessmen. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandora-papers-members-of-imran-khans-inner-circle-secretly-moved-millions-offshore-417997" hreflang="en">Pandora Papers: Members of Imran Khan's inner circle secretly moved millions</a>

PML-N's secretary-general Ahsan Iqbal told The News in Narowal that the Pandora leaks have "opened a new Pandora's box" against Khan. "That leader who used to present himself as sadiq (honest) and ameen (trustworthy), has two more offshore companies," added Khan. &nbsp;

The PM wore a "cloak of honesty" and "fooled" the people, said Iqbal. He added that the leader eroded the country’s respect and pride. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pandora-papers-leak-pakistan-govt-to-probe-all-citizens-exposed-says-pm-imran-khan-418153" hreflang="en">Pandora Papers leak: Pakistan govt to probe all citizens exposed, says PM Imran Khan</a>

PPP senator Sherry Rehman wasn't surprised that the leader’s close aides were listed in the leak.&nbsp;On Twitter, the PPP leader said we all know that slogans of "corruption, free Pakistan and accountability" are all hollow and a way to target the opposition. &nbsp;

Maryam Aurangzeb, spokeswoman, Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) told Reuters, "Imran Khan is bound to direct all his ministers and aides named in Pandora leaks to resign with immediate effect." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Over the revelations made in Pandora Papers leak, Opposition leaders slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and demanded his resignation. The opposition also called on the PM to order cabinet ministers and aides named in leak to resign and face investigation.

Over the revelations made in Pandora Papers leak, Opposition leaders slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and demanded his resignation. The opposition also called on the PM to order cabinet ministers and aides named in leak to resign and face investigation. The names of over 700 Pakistanis have been mentioned in the leak. These rich and powerful people, include PM’s cabinet members, media moguls, retired generals and businessmen. Also Read | Pandora Papers: Members of Imran Khan's inner circle secretly moved millions PML-N's secretary-general Ahsan Iqbal told The News in Narowal that the Pandora leaks have "opened a new Pandora's box" against Khan. "That leader who used to present himself as sadiq (honest) and ameen (trustworthy), has two more offshore companies," added Khan. The PM wore a "cloak of honesty" and "fooled" the people, said Iqbal. He added that the leader eroded the country’s respect and pride. Also Read | Pandora Papers leak: Pakistan govt to probe all citizens exposed, says PM Imran Khan PPP senator Sherry Rehman wasn't surprised that the leader’s close aides were listed in the leak. On Twitter, the PPP leader said we all know that slogans of "corruption, free Pakistan and accountability" are all hollow and a way to target the opposition. Maryam Aurangzeb, spokeswoman, Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) told Reuters, "Imran Khan is bound to direct all his ministers and aides named in Pandora leaks to resign with immediate effect." (With inputs from agencies)

Pandora Papers leak: Pak Opposition seeks PM's resignation, tainted ministers' removal

In one of the biggest leaks of financial documents in the world, the secret wealth and dealings of world leaders, politicians and billionaires have been exposed. &nbsp;

Dubbed as the Pandora Papers, around 35 current and former leaders and more than 300 public officials have been featured in the files from offshore companies. &nbsp;

Following FinCen Files, Paradise Papers, Panama Papers and LuxLeaks, it is the latest in a string of leaks. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandora-papers-largest-leak-of-offshore-data-in-history-explained-417996" hreflang="en">Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin has secret assets in Monaco, and Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis failed to declare an offshore investment company used for purchasing two villas for £12 million in the south of France, the leak revealed. &nbsp;

It shows the King of Jordan secretly amassed £70m in properties in the UK and the US. Former UK PM Tony Blair and his wife also saved £312,000 in stamp duty while buying a London office, these papers showed. &nbsp;

With more than 650 reporters taking part, the examination of the files was the largest organised by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandora-papers-members-of-imran-khans-inner-circle-secretly-moved-millions-offshore-417997" hreflang="en">Pandora Papers: Members of Imran Khan's inner circle secretly moved millions offshore</a>

In a joint investigation with several media partners, journalists had access to 12 million documents from 14 financial services companies in many countries. These included the British Virgin Islands, Belize, Panama, Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Switzerland. &nbsp;

Some people are facing allegations of money laundering, corruption and global tax avoidance. &nbsp;

One of the biggest revelations is how wealthy people have been legally setting up companies to secretly buy property in the UK. As per the documents, the owners of some 95,000 offshore firms are behind the purchases. It also shows the British government's failure to introduce a register of offshore property owners despite repeated promises to do so. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In one of the biggest leaks of financial documents in the world, the secret wealth and dealings of world leaders, politicians and billionaires have been exposed.

In one of the biggest leaks of financial documents in the world, the secret wealth and dealings of world leaders, politicians and billionaires have been exposed. Dubbed as the Pandora Papers, around 35 current and former leaders and more than 300 public officials have been featured in the files from offshore companies. Following FinCen Files, Paradise Papers, Panama Papers and LuxLeaks, it is the latest in a string of leaks. Also Read: Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained Russian President Vladimir Putin has secret assets in Monaco, and Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis failed to declare an offshore investment company used for purchasing two villas for £12 million in the south of France, the leak revealed. It shows the King of Jordan secretly amassed £70m in properties in the UK and the US. Former UK PM Tony Blair and his wife also saved £312,000 in stamp duty while buying a London office, these papers showed. With more than 650 reporters taking part, the examination of the files was the largest organised by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). Also Read: Pandora Papers: Members of Imran Khan's inner circle secretly moved millions offshore In a joint investigation with several media partners, journalists had access to 12 million documents from 14 financial services companies in many countries. These included the British Virgin Islands, Belize, Panama, Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Switzerland. Some people are facing allegations of money laundering, corruption and global tax avoidance. One of the biggest revelations is how wealthy people have been legally setting up companies to secretly buy property in the UK. As per the documents, the owners of some 95,000 offshore firms are behind the purchases. It also shows the British government's failure to introduce a register of offshore property owners despite repeated promises to do so. (With inputs from agencies)

It's Pandora papers or box? Secret wealth, dealings of world leaders unearthed

We bring you the biggest stories of the day. From&nbsp;Russia seeing nothing special in Pandora Papers to&nbsp;PM Imran Khan saying&nbsp;Pakistan government will probe all citizens exposed,&nbsp;we have it all.

You can also read reports about&nbsp;scrapped Air India plane getting stuck under a foot-over bridge in Delhi,&nbsp;US looking to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade,&nbsp;Iran making concerted efforts to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year' and more.

Please click on the headline to read the full story. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sees-nothing-special-in-pandora-papers-leak-and-dismisses-unsubstantiated-claims-418189">Russia sees nothing special in Pandora Papers, refutes unsubstantiated claims</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a176382-4b2e-434f-be57-0ed017ad88a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP1.JPG" />

Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Monday dismissed the Pandora papers as “unsubstantiated claims” and said that no hidden wealth was found in the Russian president’s inner circle.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-scientists-david-julius-ardem-patapoutian-win-nobel-prize-in-medicine-for-research-about-temperature-and-touch-418138">US scientists win Nobel in medicine for research about temperature and touch</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cce911a-2dcc-475a-bb44-4b3af91166a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP2.JPG" />

Two California scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine for finding new channels that help explain how heat, cold and touch trigger signals in people’s nervous system.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pandora-papers-leak-pakistan-govt-to-probe-all-citizens-exposed-says-pm-imran-khan-418153">Pandora Papers leak: Pakistan govt to probe all citizens exposed, says PM</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d41d5b7-adb0-4cdb-b7dd-8b62e1d65cc5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP3.JPG" />

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan said the government would investigate all citizens mentioned in the report. In the leak, several people from Pakistan have been claimed to be holding foreign assets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-cartoonist-who-depicted-prophet-mohammed-as-dog-dies-in-car-crash-418174">Swedish cartoonist who depicted Prophet Mohammed as dog dies in car crash</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bae40607-f2b4-4f08-82b4-cc1b2057ef23" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP4.JPG" />

Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks and two police officers were stravelling in a car that collided with an oncoming truck. Vilks had courted controversy in 2007 by depicting Prophet Mohammed as a dog.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-scrapped-air-india-plane-gets-stuck-under-a-foot-over-bridge-in-delhi-418159">Watch: Scrapped Air India plane gets stuck under a foot-over bridge in Delhi</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86efecdd-9e5c-44e1-9955-39b3024bdb23" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP5.JPG" />

A video of a wrecked Air India aircraft trapped underneath a pedestrian overbridge in Delhi while being moved has gone viral on the internet.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/made-in-amethi-kalashnikovs-russia-says-ready-to-train-indian-specialist-for-ak-203-project-418214">'Made in Amethi' Kalashnikovs: Russia says ready to train Indian specialist for AK-203 project</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a988e40-d8e5-4792-a454-f70e7bbc2244" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP6.JPG" />

Russia's Rosoboronexport, the state agency for exports and imports of defence products, is ready to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-have-frank-conversations-with-china-on-trade-418119">US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c9bfb9aa-abcd-45e1-b04c-53f27b36bffa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP7.JPG" />

The United States will soon have "frank conversations" with China on trade. The US President Joe Biden's administration believes the Asian giant has not honoured its commitments under an agreement signed in January 2020.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-launch-arak-nuclear-research-reactor-within-a-year-418149">Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year'</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df29dcf8-e37a-466b-b5d5-aa2ec69dc8d0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP8.JPG" />

An Iranian nuclear reactor is being converted from heavy water production to a power generating research&nbsp;facility. It&nbsp;will be launched within a year. In&nbsp;a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, the Islamic republic shut down the original Arak reactor in Markazi province.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-tourism-surges-in-july-but-falls-short-of-pre-covid-levels-418165">World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b5ad969-ed39-443b-9904-4280fe0e2357" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP9.JPG" />

In July, world tourism surged, all thanks to vaccination rollouts and fewer travel restrictions. But still the traveller numbers fell far short of pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;Some 54 million tourists crossed international borders in July, the highest figure since April 2020.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/manila-mayor-officially-joins-2022-presidential-race-418130">Manila Mayor officially joins 2022 presidential race</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ae775a5-7e18-4195-9170-b4d2140e9833" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TOP10.JPG" />

Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso on Monday filed his certificate of candidacy to run for May 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines.

We bring you the biggest stories of the day. From Russia seeing nothing special in Pandora Papers to PM Imran Khan saying Pakistan government will probe all citizens exposed, we have it all.

We bring you the biggest stories of the day. From Russia seeing nothing special in Pandora Papers to PM Imran Khan saying Pakistan government will probe all citizens exposed, we have it all. You can also read reports about scrapped Air India plane getting stuck under a foot-over bridge in Delhi, US looking to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade, Iran making concerted efforts to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year' and more. Please click on the headline to read the full story. Russia sees nothing special in Pandora Papers, refutes unsubstantiated claims Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Monday dismissed the Pandora papers as “unsubstantiated claims” and said that no hidden wealth was found in the Russian president’s inner circle. US scientists win Nobel in medicine for research about temperature and touch Two California scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine for finding new channels that help explain how heat, cold and touch trigger signals in people’s nervous system. Pandora Papers leak: Pakistan govt to probe all citizens exposed, says PM Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan said the government would investigate all citizens mentioned in the report. In the leak, several people from Pakistan have been claimed to be holding foreign assets. Swedish cartoonist who depicted Prophet Mohammed as dog dies in car crash Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks and two police officers were stravelling in a car that collided with an oncoming truck. Vilks had courted controversy in 2007 by depicting Prophet Mohammed as a dog. Watch: Scrapped Air India plane gets stuck under a foot-over bridge in Delhi A video of a wrecked Air India aircraft trapped underneath a pedestrian overbridge in Delhi while being moved has gone viral on the internet. 'Made in Amethi' Kalashnikovs: Russia says ready to train Indian specialist for AK-203 project Russia's Rosoboronexport, the state agency for exports and imports of defence products, is ready to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade The United States will soon have "frank conversations" with China on trade. The US President Joe Biden's administration believes the Asian giant has not honoured its commitments under an agreement signed in January 2020. Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year' An Iranian nuclear reactor is being converted from heavy water production to a power generating research facility. It will be launched within a year. In a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, the Islamic republic shut down the original Arak reactor in Markazi province. World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels In July, world tourism surged, all thanks to vaccination rollouts and fewer travel restrictions. But still the traveller numbers fell far short of pre-pandemic levels. Some 54 million tourists crossed international borders in July, the highest figure since April 2020. Manila Mayor officially joins 2022 presidential race Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso on Monday filed his certificate of candidacy to run for May 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines.

Top 10 world news: Russia sees nothing special in leak, Pak to probe all exposed and more

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas. Some fishermen from Iran are still missing. &nbsp;

On Sunday as the storm made landfall, a child drowned in Oman. The body of a man, who disappeared when floodwaters swept him away from his vehicle, has also been recovered by the authorities of the nation. Two foreigners from Asia have also died in a landslide in the country. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-child-dead-flights-suspended-as-cyclone-approaches-oman-417929" hreflang="en">One child dead, flights suspended as cyclone approaches Oman</a>

Seven additional deaths from the storm, were announced by the country's National Committee for Emergency Management on Monday afternoon. &nbsp;

Rescuers have found the bodies of two of five fishermen, who went missing off Pasabandar in Iran, the state-run IRNA news agency said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cyclone-shaheen-heavy-rains-to-lash-coastal-areas-in-pakistans-balochistan-417714" hreflang="en">Cyclone Shaheen: Heavy rains to lash coastal areas in Pakistan’s Balochistan</a>

Iranian deputy parliament speaker Ali Nikzad had earlier said on Sunday that he feared as many as six fishermen had been killed due to this cyclone. &nbsp;

The images of flooded roadways and valleys were telecasted by the Omani state television as the storm churned deeper into the sultanate. &nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates have already issued warnings to residents that the storm was coming. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas.

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas. Some fishermen from Iran are still missing. On Sunday as the storm made landfall, a child drowned in Oman. The body of a man, who disappeared when floodwaters swept him away from his vehicle, has also been recovered by the authorities of the nation. Two foreigners from Asia have also died in a landslide in the country. Also Read: One child dead, flights suspended as cyclone approaches Oman Seven additional deaths from the storm, were announced by the country's National Committee for Emergency Management on Monday afternoon. Rescuers have found the bodies of two of five fishermen, who went missing off Pasabandar in Iran, the state-run IRNA news agency said. Also Read: Cyclone Shaheen: Heavy rains to lash coastal areas in Pakistan’s Balochistan Iranian deputy parliament speaker Ali Nikzad had earlier said on Sunday that he feared as many as six fishermen had been killed due to this cyclone. The images of flooded roadways and valleys were telecasted by the Omani state television as the storm churned deeper into the sultanate. The United Arab Emirates have already issued warnings to residents that the storm was coming. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Shaheen: Death toll reaches 13 as storm moves further inland into Oman

World tourism surged in July, thanks to vaccination rollouts and fewer travel restrictions, but traveller numbers still fell far short of pre-pandemic levels, the UN's tourism body said on Monday.&nbsp;

Some 54 million tourists crossed international borders in July, the highest figure since April 2020, in the early months of the coronavirus crisis, the World Tourism Organization said in a statement.

That represented an increase of 58 percent compared with the level recorded in July 2020, but was still a drop of 67 per cent from the 164 million recorded in July 2019.&nbsp;

"This improvement was underpinned by the reopening of many destinations to international travel, mostly in Europe and the Americas&nbsp;coupled with progress made in the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines" which contributed to "gradually restoring safe mobility in Europe and other parts of the world," it said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-set-to-discontinue-compulsory-10-day-quarantine-rule-417795" hreflang="en">UK set to discontinue compulsory 10-day quarantine rule</a>

"Nevertheless, 2021 continues to be a challenging year for global tourism, with international arrivals down 80 per cent in January-July compared to 2019," said the Madrid-based organisation.&nbsp;

In the first seven months of the year, Asia and the Pacific continued to see the steepest declines, with a drop of 95 percent in international arrivals, followed by the Middle East where numbers were down 82 per cent, Europe and Africa, which registered a fall of 77 per cent, and the Americas which sustained a drop 68 per cent.

Only a few small islands in the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and the Pacific, alongside several small European destinations recovered and counted arrivals close to, or even higher, than pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;

Spain, which before the pandemic was the world's second most popular tourist destination, on Monday said it welcomed 15 million tourists in the first eight months of the year, a decline of 4.2 percent from the same period last year, the National Statistics Institute said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-tightens-travel-rules-as-covid-spreads-417811" hreflang="en">New Zealand tightens travel rules as Covid spreads</a>

The data cast doubt on the objective set by the Spanish government of attracting some 45 million foreign visitors this year, around half the number of 2019.

"The true restart of tourism and the benefits it brings, remains on hold as inconsistent rules and regulations and uneven vaccination rates continue to affect confidence in travel," UNWTO head Zurab Pololikashvili in the statement.

The UN body said it was expecting to see a "rebound" in 2022 although global tourism is not expected to reach pre-pandemic levels until 2023 or 2024.&nbsp;

World tourism surged in July, thanks to vaccination rollouts and fewer travel restrictions, but traveller numbers still fell far short of pre-pandemic levels, the UN's tourism body said on Monday.

World tourism surged in July, thanks to vaccination rollouts and fewer travel restrictions, but traveller numbers still fell far short of pre-pandemic levels, the UN's tourism body said on Monday. Some 54 million tourists crossed international borders in July, the highest figure since April 2020, in the early months of the coronavirus crisis, the World Tourism Organization said in a statement. That represented an increase of 58 percent compared with the level recorded in July 2020, but was still a drop of 67 per cent from the 164 million recorded in July 2019. "This improvement was underpinned by the reopening of many destinations to international travel, mostly in Europe and the Americas coupled with progress made in the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines" which contributed to "gradually restoring safe mobility in Europe and other parts of the world," it said. Also Read: UK set to discontinue compulsory 10-day quarantine rule "Nevertheless, 2021 continues to be a challenging year for global tourism, with international arrivals down 80 per cent in January-July compared to 2019," said the Madrid-based organisation. In the first seven months of the year, Asia and the Pacific continued to see the steepest declines, with a drop of 95 percent in international arrivals, followed by the Middle East where numbers were down 82 per cent, Europe and Africa, which registered a fall of 77 per cent, and the Americas which sustained a drop 68 per cent. Only a few small islands in the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and the Pacific, alongside several small European destinations recovered and counted arrivals close to, or even higher, than pre-pandemic levels. Spain, which before the pandemic was the world's second most popular tourist destination, on Monday said it welcomed 15 million tourists in the first eight months of the year, a decline of 4.2 percent from the same period last year, the National Statistics Institute said. Also Read: New Zealand tightens travel rules as Covid spreads The data cast doubt on the objective set by the Spanish government of attracting some 45 million foreign visitors this year, around half the number of 2019. "The true restart of tourism and the benefits it brings, remains on hold as inconsistent rules and regulations and uneven vaccination rates continue to affect confidence in travel," UNWTO head Zurab Pololikashvili in the statement. The UN body said it was expecting to see a "rebound" in 2022 although global tourism is not expected to reach pre-pandemic levels until 2023 or 2024.

World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts.

"The WTO is now predicting global merchandise trade volume growth of 10.8 per cent in 2021- up from 8.0 per cent forecasted in March - followed by a 4.7 per cent rise in 2022," up from four percent previously, the global trade body said.

The strong annual growth rate for merchandise trade in 2021 is mainly due to the collapse in 2020, when trade bottomed out in the second quarter.

The rate of growth is expected to moderate as merchandise trade returns to the long-term trend it was on before the COVID-19 crisis struck.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979" hreflang="en">UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

Supply-side issues such as semiconductor scarcity and port backlogs may strain supply chains, but are unlikely to have large impacts on global aggregates, WTO experts said.

They said the biggest downside risks came from the pandemic itself.

"Trade has been a critical tool in combatting the pandemic, and this strong growth underscores how important trade will be in underpinning the global economic recovery," said WTO director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

"But inequitable access to vaccines is exacerbating economic divergence across regions. The longer vaccine inequity is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that even more dangerous variants of COVID-19 will emerge, setting back the health and economic progress we have made to date."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-have-frank-conversations-with-china-on-trade-418119" hreflang="en">US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade</a>

While regions with access to COVID-19 jabs and sufficient fiscal space were recovering strongly, poorer regions with mostly unvaccinated populations are lagging behind, she said.

The WTO's 12th ministerial conference is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3.

Okonjo-Iweala has said that one of her main objectives is to push long-blocked trade talks on fishery subsidies across the finish line.

The former Nigerian finance and foreign minister started her four-year term at the WTO helm in March. She dismissed as "fake news" reports that she was threatening to resign if no progress is made on major logjams at the global trade body.

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts.

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts. "The WTO is now predicting global merchandise trade volume growth of 10.8 per cent in 2021- up from 8.0 per cent forecasted in March - followed by a 4.7 per cent rise in 2022," up from four percent previously, the global trade body said. The strong annual growth rate for merchandise trade in 2021 is mainly due to the collapse in 2020, when trade bottomed out in the second quarter. The rate of growth is expected to moderate as merchandise trade returns to the long-term trend it was on before the COVID-19 crisis struck. Also Read: UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss Supply-side issues such as semiconductor scarcity and port backlogs may strain supply chains, but are unlikely to have large impacts on global aggregates, WTO experts said. They said the biggest downside risks came from the pandemic itself. "Trade has been a critical tool in combatting the pandemic, and this strong growth underscores how important trade will be in underpinning the global economic recovery," said WTO director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. "But inequitable access to vaccines is exacerbating economic divergence across regions. The longer vaccine inequity is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that even more dangerous variants of COVID-19 will emerge, setting back the health and economic progress we have made to date." Also Read: US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade While regions with access to COVID-19 jabs and sufficient fiscal space were recovering strongly, poorer regions with mostly unvaccinated populations are lagging behind, she said. The WTO's 12th ministerial conference is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3. Okonjo-Iweala has said that one of her main objectives is to push long-blocked trade talks on fishery subsidies across the finish line. The former Nigerian finance and foreign minister started her four-year term at the WTO helm in March. She dismissed as "fake news" reports that she was threatening to resign if no progress is made on major logjams at the global trade body.

WTO says goods trade surging past pre-pandemic level

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