At a time when the use of artificial intelligence has triggered a raging conversation all over - with ChatGPT catching attention worldwide - the Netherlands is set to host a two-day conference from Wednesday (February 15) on risks, challenges, and responsibilities linked to the use of AI during a conflict. Hailed as the first global summit on responsible AI in the military domain, 'REAIM 2023' is being held in The Hague - often termed as "the international city of peace and justice" - &nbsp;and the Republic of Korea is the co-host, an official statement highlighted.&nbsp;

The conference is set to see participation from 50 nations, including the United States, and China, as per the news agency Reuters. Russia, however, has not been invited due to the Ukraine war, which completes a year on February 24. Talking points at the session would be governance frameworks, responsible deployment and myth-busting. The Ukraine conflict is also expected to come up during the discussions.&nbsp;

One of the biggest challenges associated with the deployment of AI in war is the lack of human control and the possibility of escalation of violence. An agreement from the participating delegations is likely. &nbsp;"AI is developing at a rapid pace, including in the military domain," Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra said last year at the United Nations General Assembly in New York when he made the announcement about the conference. "This new technology is set to become one of the greatest challenges we will face in the area of international security and arms control. If we don’t make international agreements now about frameworks for the responsible development, deployment and use of AI, we will regret it later," he stressed. Hoekstra has also insisted that bringing international stakeholders together on the issue "is an idea for which the time has come".&nbsp;

Also Watch:&nbsp;Apple facing hurdles in India, 50% rejection rate for iPhone casings | World Business Watch

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The conference is being held at a time when everyone is talking about chatbot ChatGPT developed by American research firm OpenAI. From making resumes to cracking jokes, giving relationship advice,&nbsp;and doing complex tasks such as coding, the chatbot is useful in a wide variety of tasks. It has, however, also triggered concerns about the extent of use after it passed an MBA exam recently. The AI tool has also pitted tech giants Microsoft and Google against each other amid debates&nbsp;on the future of search engines.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-powered-chatbot-chatgpt-can-help-detect-early-stages-of-alzheimers-disease-study-549315">AI-powered chatbot, ChatGPT can help detect early stages of Alzheimer's disease, says study</a>

While tech aficionados are still understanding more about ChatGPT, the Dutch conference will tackle a much bigger issue of war and AI where "slaughterbots" might also figure in talks. "The summit is expected to attract a live audience of between 1,000 and 1,500 participants in The Hague, including government ministers, policymakers, academics, business leaders, civil society organisations and journalists from all over the world," the Dutch foreign ministry underlined ahead of the first-of-its-kind event.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At a time when the use of artificial intelligence has triggered a raging conversation all over - with ChatGPT catching attention worldwide - the Netherlands is set to host a two-day conference from Wednesday (February 15) on risks, challenges, and responsibilities linked to the use of AI during a conflict.

At a time when the use of artificial intelligence has triggered a raging conversation all over - with ChatGPT catching attention worldwide - the Netherlands is set to host a two-day conference from Wednesday (February 15) on risks, challenges, and responsibilities linked to the use of AI during a conflict. Hailed as the first global summit on responsible AI in the military domain, 'REAIM 2023' is being held in The Hague - often termed as "the international city of peace and justice" - and the Republic of Korea is the co-host, an official statement highlighted. The conference is set to see participation from 50 nations, including the United States, and China, as per the news agency Reuters. Russia, however, has not been invited due to the Ukraine war, which completes a year on February 24. Talking points at the session would be governance frameworks, responsible deployment and myth-busting. The Ukraine conflict is also expected to come up during the discussions. One of the biggest challenges associated with the deployment of AI in war is the lack of human control and the possibility of escalation of violence. An agreement from the participating delegations is likely. "AI is developing at a rapid pace, including in the military domain," Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra said last year at the United Nations General Assembly in New York when he made the announcement about the conference. "This new technology is set to become one of the greatest challenges we will face in the area of international security and arms control. If we don’t make international agreements now about frameworks for the responsible development, deployment and use of AI, we will regret it later," he stressed. Hoekstra has also insisted that bringing international stakeholders together on the issue "is an idea for which the time has come". Also Watch: Apple facing hurdles in India, 50% rejection rate for iPhone casings | World Business Watch https://www.wionews.com/videos/apple-facing-hurdles-in-india-50-rejection-rate-for-iphone-casings-world-business-watch-562164 × The conference is being held at a time when everyone is talking about chatbot ChatGPT developed by American research firm OpenAI. From making resumes to cracking jokes, giving relationship advice, and doing complex tasks such as coding, the chatbot is useful in a wide variety of tasks. It has, however, also triggered concerns about the extent of use after it passed an MBA exam recently. The AI tool has also pitted tech giants Microsoft and Google against each other amid debates on the future of search engines. Also read: AI-powered chatbot, ChatGPT can help detect early stages of Alzheimer's disease, says study While tech aficionados are still understanding more about ChatGPT, the Dutch conference will tackle a much bigger issue of war and AI where "slaughterbots" might also figure in talks. "The summit is expected to attract a live audience of between 1,000 and 1,500 participants in The Hague, including government ministers, policymakers, academics, business leaders, civil society organisations and journalists from all over the world," the Dutch foreign ministry underlined ahead of the first-of-its-kind event. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Use of AI in war risky? In a first, global summit on artificial intelligence in military domain

UFC 284 main event: Islam Makhachev from Russia remains the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight champion after he defeated Australia's Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski by a unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia on Sunday (February 12).

UFC 284 main event: Islam Makhachev from Russia remains the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight champion after he defeated Australia's Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski by a unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia on Sunday (February 12). This was one of the biggest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fights of this year. The fight lasted for five rounds with both fighters showing incredible striking and ground skills. Alexander Volkanovski, the UFC's Featherweight champion, was earlier underestimated for his ground game. However, he proved his wrestling prowess against Makhachev inside the Octagon. The first round started with Volkanovski and Makhachev having a wild exchange on the feet. Volkanovski fired punches at Makhachev and the Russian countered with a head kick. Makhachev grabbed Volkanovski against the fence and tried for a takedown, according to a report by The Independent. Makhachev took the back Volkanovski is defending against a rear naked choke attempt. The Russian then settled for a neck crank and the round ended soon. THE NEW P4P #1 IN THE WORLD!! 🏆@MakhachevMMA has defeated Alex Volkanovski by unanimous decision! #UFC284 pic.twitter.com/zpqyy7HKZ6 — UFC (@ufc) February 12, 2023 × In the second round, Volkanovski kneed Makhachev on the head and switched his fighting stance multiple times. The Australian also delivered lots of feints and dropped Makhachev with a left hook. Makhachev, then went for a single-leg takedown and managed to secure it, while Volkanovski stood against the fence. The third round started with Makhachev stumbling after a strong low kick from Volkanovski. The Russian clinched Volkanovski but the Australian drove him back to the fence and took him down. In the fourth round, Makhachev pinned Volkanovksi to the ground for most of the time as the Australian struggled to let go of his grip. The fifth and final round started and Volkanovski almost took down Makhachev with just one minute for the round to finish. Volkanovski dropped the Russian and was on his guard, trying to get off punches and elbows, the report added. The fight ended and Islam Makhachev was declared the Lightweight champion by a unanimous decision. “I showed why I am number one. I am the best fighter in the world right now,” Makhachev said jeers ran around a sold-out 13,000 crowd at RAC Arena. Yair Rodriguez is interim UFC Featherweight champion Among the other fights on the UFC 284 main card was Yair Rodriguez (Mexico) vs Josh Emmett (United States)- which was the co-main event. Rodriguez choked out Emmett to become the interim Featherweight champion. Rodriguez submitted the American with a triangle choke in the second round. He will now take on Alexander Volkanovski at a later date. Meanwhile, in the Heavyweight division, Justin Tafa (New Zealand) knocked out Parker Porter (United States) in the first round of the fight after landing a right uppercut. And in the Welterweight division, Della Maddalena (Australia) defeated Randy Brown (United States) with a rear-naked choke in the first round. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UFC 284: Islam Makhachev defeats Alexander Volkanovski by unanimous decision

The UFC 284: Islam Makhachev (Russia) remains the UFC Lightweight champion after he defeated Australia's Alexander Volkanovski via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46). Makhachev is now also the No.1 Pound for Pound in the world. This was one of the biggest MMA fights of this year. 

Meanwhile, Yair Rodriguez (Mexico) was declared the interim UFC Featherweight champion after he defeated Josh Emmett by submission in the second round. 

UFC 284 Highlights: Islam Makhachev defeats Alexander Volkanovksi by unanimous decision

A United States fighter jet shot down an unidentified object over Canada on Saturday (February 11), hours after a 'high-altitude object' which was flying over Alaska was shot down. UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria will increase by "double or more" from its current toll of 28,000. And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

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An American fighter jet shot down an unidentified object over Canada on Saturday (February 11). The operation took place hours after the US shot down a 'high-altitude object' which was flying over Alaska.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-toll-crosses-28000-as-un-relief-chief-predicts-deaths-to-top-50000-561042">Turkey earthquake: Contractors detained over collapsed buildings; UN predicts combined toll to reach 50,000</a>

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UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria will increase by "double or more" from its current toll of 28,000.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-sacks-top-official-as-the-clean-up-drive-continues-amid-war-561063">Ukraine's Zelensky sacks top official as the clean-up drive continues amid war</a>

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Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against wrongdoing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-outraged-teachers-in-portugal-intensify-their-protest-against-govt-561036">'We are outraged': Teachers in Portugal intensify their protest against govt</a>

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Thousands of teachers in Portugal took to the streets of the capital city of Lisbon on Saturday (February 11) in the latest round of demonstrations demanding higher pay and better working conditions.&nbsp;

WATCH | France protests rage on! Unions ready to call for mass turnout

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A United States fighter jet shot down an unidentified object over Canada on Saturday (February 11), hours after a 'high-altitude object' which was flying over Alaska was shot down.

A United States fighter jet shot down an unidentified object over Canada on Saturday (February 11), hours after a 'high-altitude object' which was flying over Alaska was shot down. UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria will increase by "double or more" from its current toll of 28,000. And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked a senior security figure on Saturday (February 11), stating that his drive to clean up the government would continue. Click on the headlines to read more US F-22 fighter jet shoots down 'unidentified object' over northern Canada An American fighter jet shot down an unidentified object over Canada on Saturday (February 11). The operation took place hours after the US shot down a 'high-altitude object' which was flying over Alaska. Turkey earthquake: Contractors detained over collapsed buildings; UN predicts combined toll to reach 50,000 UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria will increase by "double or more" from its current toll of 28,000. Ukraine's Zelensky sacks top official as the clean-up drive continues amid war Amid the ongoing war, Ukrainian authorities have dismissed dozens of officials in recent weeks and investigations have also been opened in several cases as part of a widespread drive against wrongdoing. 'We are outraged': Teachers in Portugal intensify their protest against govt Thousands of teachers in Portugal took to the streets of the capital city of Lisbon on Saturday (February 11) in the latest round of demonstrations demanding higher pay and better working conditions. WATCH | France protests rage on! Unions ready to call for mass turnout ×

Morning brief: US shoots down 'unidentified object' over Canada, Turkey-Syria quake toll to reach 50K, & more

With earthquakes ravaging Turkey and Syria earlier this week, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has been working to share aerial views and data from space in ways that could aid relief and recovery workers in the region, and also improve its ability to model and predict such events.

With earthquakes ravaging Turkey and Syria earlier this week, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has been working to share aerial views and data from space in ways that could aid relief and recovery workers in the region, and also improve its ability to model and predict such events. According to a statement on Saturday (February 11), NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said, "NASA’s hearts and minds are with those impacted by the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria." “NASA is our eyes in the sky, and our teams of experts are working hard to provide valuable information from our Earth-observing fleet to first responders on the ground,” Nelson added. Proxy maps The statement went on to say that one of the key capabilities of the American space agency is an expert with synthetic aperture radar, or SAR, which is used to measure how the ground moves and built landscape changes after this type of event (in this case, an earthquake). ALSO READ | Turkey earthquake: Contractors detained over collapsed buildings; UN says toll may reach 50,000 "Scenes collected before and after the earthquake were used by a team of scientists from the Earth Observatory of Singapore and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California to create something called a damage proxy map for Turkey. These maps compare before and after radar images of a given event to see how the landscape has changed," the statement added. Such maps are made available to several organisations such as the World Bank, the Miyamoto Global Disaster Relief, the US State Department and the California Seismic Safety Commission. NASA said on Saturday that its members provide observations and maps via the Disaster Mapping Portal. Lori Schultz, who is NASA's coordinator for this earthquake, said that the space agency takes seriously its obligation to support open science, and make information widely accessible. "We don’t know everyone who is using this information or how, but we are fortunate to have heard back from a few groups. For instance, the World Central Kitchen – which is providing food to those who’ve been displaced – have let us know they make use of it," Schultz said. Apart from assessing the damage, NASA is also using space- and ground-based observations to improve its ability to understand related events that cascade from the original natural disaster. "By making use of data from the Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition programme, which acquires observations from commercial satellites to help with NASA’s research goals, as well as from NOAA and international space agencies in Europe and Japan, scientists can spot areas that might be prone to increased landslide risks. Other satellites, such as Suomi-NPP and its nighttime lights observations can show the location of power outages," Saturday's statement said. A new tool to assess the aftermath of an earthquake NASA is hoping to add a new tool to assess the aftermath of an earthquake. It said on Saturday that Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) was launched to the International Space Station in July 2022. "As part of its observations of the composition of the material in Earth’s atmosphere, it can assess methane emissions," NASA said. The EMIT's observations, times and locations are dictated by the station’s orbit. However, when passing over an earthquake site, measurements of increased or new emissions could point to events not otherwise easily spotted from space. Turkey-Syria quake: Death toll passes 33,000 More than 33,000 people have died due to the earthquakes, and the United Nations expects the toll to at rise to 50,000. The UN also warned that at least 870,000 people urgently need hot meals across Turkey and Syria. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey-Syria earthquake: Aerial shots from NASA satellites help in response, relief

"I'm gonna beat him (Alexander Volkanovski) easy," Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight division champion Islam Makhachev from Russia said during the pre-fight conference on Friday (February 10)&nbsp;as all eyes are set on his fight against&nbsp;UFC&nbsp;Featherweight division champion Alexander Volkanovski on Sunday (February 12).&nbsp;The UFC 284 is one of the biggest MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fights of this year. Makhachev would defend his title for the first time and Volkanovski makes his move to the Lightweight division- which is one of the deepest in terms of talent.&nbsp;

During the pre-fight press conference at the RAC Arena Perth, Western Australia, Makhachev was asked if Volkanovski defeated him, could the Australian be considered the GOAT (Greatest of all time). “It’s not possible. Because I am the champion. This is not his (Alexander’s) area. This is other power, other division. I am gonna beat him easy,” Makhachev said. However, the Dagestani showered praises on Volkanovski, the first UFC champion from Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ufc-284-makhachev-vs-volkanovski-live-streaming-know-when-how-to-watch-ufc-284-livestream-and-broadcast-560261">UFC 284 Makhachev vs Volkanovski live streaming: Know when &amp; how to watch UFC 284 livestream and broadcast</a>

Meanwhile, Volkanovski, who holds the longest active win streak in the UFC, expressed confidence that he would win Sunday’s fight. On being asked whether Volkanovski would be prepared for a submission from Makhachev, the Australian said, “I ain’t tapping. I ain’t going to sleep. I’m getting out and I’m putting hands on him (Makhachev).” 
Following the press conference, the two champions had a staredown.&nbsp;

Standing at 5 feet 6 inches, (1.68 meters), &nbsp;Volkanovski (with 25 wins, 1 loss) will give up four inches in height and 15 pounds in weight to Makhachev (23 wins, 1 loss) as he moves up the division. The Australian is the underdog against the formidable wrestling and grappling skills of Makhachev.

A day earlier, both fighters held separate briefings. Islam Makhachev told reporters that he would be the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world if he defeats Volkanovski inside the octagon on Sunday. "I believe he (Volkanovski) is the best fighter in the world right now in rankings. But I know I am the best MMA fighter because I have all skills," Makhachev said.&nbsp;

Volkanovski, meanwhile, said the Dagestani is a calculative fighter and doesn't take any unnecessary risks. Calling Islam a great fighter, the Australian said, "He will fight on the back foot and wait for the right time to shoot. His distance game isn’t too bad. He’s calculated, brilliant at the basics."

UFC 284 will take place at the RAC Arena, Perth on Sunday. In the United States, the fight will be broadcast on ESPN and PPV. In India, the fight can be watched on Sony LIV app and website.&nbsp;

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"I'm gonna beat him (Alexander Volkanovski) easy," Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight division champion Islam Makhachev from Russia said during the pre-fight conference on Friday (February 10) as all eyes are set on his fight against UFC Featherweight division champion Alexander Volkanovski on Sunday (February 12).

"I'm gonna beat him (Alexander Volkanovski) easy," Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight division champion Islam Makhachev from Russia said during the pre-fight conference on Friday (February 10) as all eyes are set on his fight against UFC Featherweight division champion Alexander Volkanovski on Sunday (February 12). The UFC 284 is one of the biggest MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fights of this year. Makhachev would defend his title for the first time and Volkanovski makes his move to the Lightweight division- which is one of the deepest in terms of talent. During the pre-fight press conference at the RAC Arena Perth, Western Australia, Makhachev was asked if Volkanovski defeated him, could the Australian be considered the GOAT (Greatest of all time). “It’s not possible. Because I am the champion. This is not his (Alexander’s) area. This is other power, other division. I am gonna beat him easy,” Makhachev said. However, the Dagestani showered praises on Volkanovski, the first UFC champion from Australia. ALSO READ | UFC 284 Makhachev vs Volkanovski live streaming: Know when & how to watch UFC 284 livestream and broadcast Meanwhile, Volkanovski, who holds the longest active win streak in the UFC, expressed confidence that he would win Sunday’s fight. On being asked whether Volkanovski would be prepared for a submission from Makhachev, the Australian said, “I ain’t tapping. I ain’t going to sleep. I’m getting out and I’m putting hands on him (Makhachev).” Following the press conference, the two champions had a staredown. Standing at 5 feet 6 inches, (1.68 meters), Volkanovski (with 25 wins, 1 loss) will give up four inches in height and 15 pounds in weight to Makhachev (23 wins, 1 loss) as he moves up the division. The Australian is the underdog against the formidable wrestling and grappling skills of Makhachev. A day earlier, both fighters held separate briefings. Islam Makhachev told reporters that he would be the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world if he defeats Volkanovski inside the octagon on Sunday. "I believe he (Volkanovski) is the best fighter in the world right now in rankings. But I know I am the best MMA fighter because I have all skills," Makhachev said. Volkanovski, meanwhile, said the Dagestani is a calculative fighter and doesn't take any unnecessary risks. Calling Islam a great fighter, the Australian said, "He will fight on the back foot and wait for the right time to shoot. His distance game isn’t too bad. He’s calculated, brilliant at the basics." UFC 284 will take place at the RAC Arena, Perth on Sunday. In the United States, the fight will be broadcast on ESPN and PPV. In India, the fight can be watched on Sony LIV app and website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UFC 284 presser: I’m gonna beat Volkanovski easy, says Makhachev as Aussie is keen to clinch Lightweight belt

UFC 284- Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski: The weigh-ins for the battle for the Lightweight title is over (on February 11) and here are the results- Islam Makhachev from Russia weighs 155 pounds while the official weight for Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski is 154.5 pounds. With the weigh-ins, the UFC 284 main event is now official and the fight for the Lightweight belt will take place on Sunday (February 12) at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ufc-284-presser-im-gonna-beat-volkanovski-easy-says-makachev-as-aussie-is-keen-to-clinch-lightweight-belt-560575">UFC 284 presser: I’m gonna beat Volkanovski easy, says Makachev as Aussie is keen to clinch Lightweight belt</a>

Following the weigh-ins, the two fighters had a final staredown before they step into&nbsp;the octagon.&nbsp;

Volkanovski, the current UFC Featherweight champion will take on Lightweight champion Makhachev in a five-round championship bout on Sunday. This is one of the biggest MMA fights of this year. Makhachev would defend his title for the first time and Volkanovski makes his move to the Lightweight division- which is one of the deepest in terms of talent.&nbsp;

Volkanovski with 25 wins and 1 loss is currently the No. 1 Men’s Pound-for Pound and is the first UFC champion from Australia. The Aussie is the underdog against the world-class wrestling and grappling skills of Makhachev, who has 23 wins and 1 loss.

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HISTORY, LEGACY, AND P4P #1 ON THE LINE! <a href="https://twitter.com/MAKHACHEVMMA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakhachevMMA</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/alexvolkanovski?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlexVolkanovski</a> in one of the biggest fights in UFC HISTORY tomorrow night! 
 
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During the pre-fight press conference on Friday, Volkanvoski said expressed confidence that he would beat Makachev, and added, “I ain’t tapping. I ain’t going to sleep. I’m getting out and I’m putting hands on him (Makhachev).”

Makhachev, who became the newly crowned Lightweight champion after defeating Brazil's Charles Oliveira via second-round head-and-arm choke last year, told reporters on Friday that he was going to beat Volkanovski easily.&nbsp;

UFC 284 will take place at the RAC Arena, Perth on Sunday. In the United States, the fight will be broadcast on ESPN and PPV. And in India, the fight that will start at 8.30 am can be watched on the Sony LIV app and website.&nbsp;

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UFC 284- Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski: The weigh-ins for the battle for the Lightweight title is over (on February 11) and here are the results- Islam Makhachev from Russia weighs 155 pounds while the official weight for Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski is 154.

UFC 284- Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski: The weigh-ins for the battle for the Lightweight title is over (on February 11) and here are the results- Islam Makhachev from Russia weighs 155 pounds while the official weight for Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski is 154.5 pounds. With the weigh-ins, the UFC 284 main event is now official and the fight for the Lightweight belt will take place on Sunday (February 12) at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia. ALSO READ | UFC 284 presser: I’m gonna beat Volkanovski easy, says Makachev as Aussie is keen to clinch Lightweight belt Following the weigh-ins, the two fighters had a final staredown before they step into the octagon. Volkanovski, the current UFC Featherweight champion will take on Lightweight champion Makhachev in a five-round championship bout on Sunday. This is one of the biggest MMA fights of this year. Makhachev would defend his title for the first time and Volkanovski makes his move to the Lightweight division- which is one of the deepest in terms of talent. Volkanovski with 25 wins and 1 loss is currently the No. 1 Men’s Pound-for Pound and is the first UFC champion from Australia. The Aussie is the underdog against the world-class wrestling and grappling skills of Makhachev, who has 23 wins and 1 loss. HISTORY, LEGACY, AND P4P #1 ON THE LINE! @MakhachevMMA and @AlexVolkanovski in one of the biggest fights in UFC HISTORY tomorrow night! [ #UFC284 | Order the ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xFq6ldwHKy ] pic.twitter.com/KpmkSkpuB6 — UFC (@ufc) February 11, 2023 × During the pre-fight press conference on Friday, Volkanvoski said expressed confidence that he would beat Makachev, and added, “I ain’t tapping. I ain’t going to sleep. I’m getting out and I’m putting hands on him (Makhachev).” Makhachev, who became the newly crowned Lightweight champion after defeating Brazil's Charles Oliveira via second-round head-and-arm choke last year, told reporters on Friday that he was going to beat Volkanovski easily. UFC 284 will take place at the RAC Arena, Perth on Sunday. In the United States, the fight will be broadcast on ESPN and PPV. And in India, the fight that will start at 8.30 am can be watched on the Sony LIV app and website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UFC 284: Islam Makhachev, Alexander Volkanovski over with weigh-ins; battle for Lightweight title on Feb 12

An operation by Brazilian authorities succeeded in destroying an illegal mining area in Yanomami indigenous territory on Saturday (February 11).&nbsp;Images captured by Reuters showed helicopters intercepting a raft of illegal miners and revealing the area where they were working.&nbsp;The area had been discovered the day before (February 10) during a flyover by agents of the operation coordinated by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, the Ministry of the Environment, the government's indigenous affairs agency (FUNAI), the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), the National Force and the Federal Police.

The Brazilian government is fighting wildcat mining on Yanomami land in the&nbsp;Amazon, its largest indigenous reservation, amid a humanitarian crisis blamed on illegal gold miners.

More than 20,000 miners invaded the reservation, bringing disease, sexual abuse, and armed violence that has terrified the Yanomamis, estimated to be about 28,000 in number, and led to severe malnutrition and deaths.

The Yanomami have long lived in isolation on a vast reservation the size of Portugal on the border with Venezuela. Their mineral-rich lands have attracted wildcat miners for decades, especially after a military government built a road through the&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;rainforest in the 1970s.

Ex-president Jair Bolsonaro advocated mining on protected indigenous lands, and his government turned a blind eye to a renewed surge in invasions of reservations by wildcat miners and illegal loggers.

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An operation by Brazilian authorities succeeded in destroying an illegal mining area in Yanomami indigenous territory on Saturday (February 11). Images captured by Reuters showed helicopters intercepting a raft of illegal miners and revealing the area where they were working.

An operation by Brazilian authorities succeeded in destroying an illegal mining area in Yanomami indigenous territory on Saturday (February 11). Images captured by Reuters showed helicopters intercepting a raft of illegal miners and revealing the area where they were working. The area had been discovered the day before (February 10) during a flyover by agents of the operation coordinated by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, the Ministry of the Environment, the government's indigenous affairs agency (FUNAI), the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), the National Force and the Federal Police. The Brazilian government is fighting wildcat mining on Yanomami land in the Amazon, its largest indigenous reservation, amid a humanitarian crisis blamed on illegal gold miners. More than 20,000 miners invaded the reservation, bringing disease, sexual abuse, and armed violence that has terrified the Yanomamis, estimated to be about 28,000 in number, and led to severe malnutrition and deaths. The Yanomami have long lived in isolation on a vast reservation the size of Portugal on the border with Venezuela. Their mineral-rich lands have attracted wildcat miners for decades, especially after a military government built a road through the Amazon rainforest in the 1970s. Ex-president Jair Bolsonaro advocated mining on protected indigenous lands, and his government turned a blind eye to a renewed surge in invasions of reservations by wildcat miners and illegal loggers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brazilian authorities drive away illegal miners from Yanomami land in the Amazon

A Parliament committee has said that Richard Sharp, the chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), made significant errors of judgment in failing to disclose his role in a loan to former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, risking public trust in the news network. This month, Sharp was questioned by the Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) committee in helping arrange $964,960 (£800,000) for Johnson,&nbsp;who was serving as the PM when Sharp applied for his position to lead the BBC, a report by news agency Bloomberg on Sunday (February 12) said.&nbsp;

According to a separate report, the committee called on Sharp to consider the impact his actions would have on the trust in him, the BBC, and the public appointment process. Sharp was also questioned by the committee two years back about whether he should get the top position on the BBC.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-rich-hold-british-property-through-offshore-companies-this-report-explains-556776">How the rich hold British property through offshore companies? This report explains</a>

Damian Green, the acting chair of the DCMS committee, said, "Such a significant error of judgment meant we were not in the full possession of the facts when we were required to rule on his suitability for the role of BBC Chair.”

Sharp is a Conservative Party donor and has given over $482,500 (around £400,000) to Tories. He also has ties with current British PM Rishi Sunak as they both worked at Goldman Sachs at the same time, Bloomberg reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (February 7), the BBC chairman told the DCMS committee that he acted “in good faith” and was just the “go-between for the loan.” Sharp added that he did not offer financial advice to Boris Johnson but regretted the distraction caused by the matter to the BBC. By not recusing himself from involvement in the loan or disclosing it to officials, the committee was left without full facts needed to fully scrutinize Sharp's appropriateness as a candidate.&nbsp;

Recently, Richard Sharp was in news for declaring that he owned British property through offshore jurisdictions. According to a report by the Guardian last month, Sharp is the beneficial owner of a £4 million flat in London held through a Jersey-based trust. But a spokesperson said aid that the flat in question was his elderly mother's home.&nbsp;

“Mr Sharp is a UK citizen, UK domiciled and has always been meticulous about always paying the full amount of tax here," the spokesperson said. "Like many parents, he has been thinking about how to provide for his children on his death. This arrangement isn’t about a personal tax benefit to him as he pays more UK tax under this arrangement, but about him planning for provision for his children," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A Parliament committee has said that Richard Sharp, the chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), made significant errors of judgment in failing to disclose his role in a loan to former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, risking public trust in the news network.

A Parliament committee has said that Richard Sharp, the chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), made significant errors of judgment in failing to disclose his role in a loan to former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, risking public trust in the news network. This month, Sharp was questioned by the Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) committee in helping arrange $964,960 (£800,000) for Johnson, who was serving as the PM when Sharp applied for his position to lead the BBC, a report by news agency Bloomberg on Sunday (February 12) said. According to a separate report, the committee called on Sharp to consider the impact his actions would have on the trust in him, the BBC, and the public appointment process. Sharp was also questioned by the committee two years back about whether he should get the top position on the BBC. ALSO READ | How the rich hold British property through offshore companies? This report explains Damian Green, the acting chair of the DCMS committee, said, "Such a significant error of judgment meant we were not in the full possession of the facts when we were required to rule on his suitability for the role of BBC Chair.” Sharp is a Conservative Party donor and has given over $482,500 (around £400,000) to Tories. He also has ties with current British PM Rishi Sunak as they both worked at Goldman Sachs at the same time, Bloomberg reported on Sunday. On Tuesday (February 7), the BBC chairman told the DCMS committee that he acted “in good faith” and was just the “go-between for the loan.” Sharp added that he did not offer financial advice to Boris Johnson but regretted the distraction caused by the matter to the BBC. By not recusing himself from involvement in the loan or disclosing it to officials, the committee was left without full facts needed to fully scrutinize Sharp's appropriateness as a candidate. Recently, Richard Sharp was in news for declaring that he owned British property through offshore jurisdictions. According to a report by the Guardian last month, Sharp is the beneficial owner of a £4 million flat in London held through a Jersey-based trust. But a spokesperson said aid that the flat in question was his elderly mother's home. “Mr Sharp is a UK citizen, UK domiciled and has always been meticulous about always paying the full amount of tax here," the spokesperson said. "Like many parents, he has been thinking about how to provide for his children on his death. This arrangement isn’t about a personal tax benefit to him as he pays more UK tax under this arrangement, but about him planning for provision for his children," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BBC chairman Richard Sharp made errors of judgment in Boris Johnson £800,000 loan

Thousands of teachers in Portugal took to the streets of the capital city of Lisbon on Saturday (February 11) in the latest round of demonstrations demanding higher pay and better working conditions. The teachers have been calling for an improvement in tenure and career progression, and salaries to keep pace with inflation, a report by a news agency AFP said. The National Federation of Teachers (FENPROF), which is the main union of the teaching profession, said that over 150,000 teachers took part in the rally.

FENPROF Secretary General Mario Nogueira said, "This is probably the biggest demonstration of teachers." Augusto Figueiredo, a technology teacher from Rio Maior, told AFP, "We are outraged," adding, miserable salaries, discriminatory appraisals, and inhuman schedules were the reality of the teaching profession at present.&nbsp;

"We're really tired, no one is listening to us, this government needs to listen to us," Joao Tristao, a sports teacher, told the news agency on Saturday.&nbsp;

Apart from the above demands, the protesting teachers also want their real working hours to be taken into account. Maria da Luz Ribeiro, an English teacher, told AFP that working time had to be released as she expressed concerns about the future of teachers and schools in Portugal. "I was forced to work longer to try to improve my pension," Riberio, who stopped working last year, added.&nbsp;

Saturday's national demonstration in Lisbon comes after a series of protests and rotating strikes, which have led to the closure of schools. Earlier, Portugal's Education Minister Joao Costa said that negotiations with teachers' unions were ongoing and that they hoped to reach an agreement soon.

Portugal is one of Western Europe's poorest countries. Citing government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday said that more than 50% of workers earned less than 1,000 euros per month last year and the minimum wage is 760 euros per month.&nbsp;

The protests are not only limited to teachers. Nurses have been striking lack of career advancement and doctors are expected to walk out for two days in March, Reuters reported. On Thursday, the CGTP, which is Portugal's biggest umbrella union, held protests and strikes across the country against rising prices and urged the government to increase the pay of workers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thousands of teachers in Portugal took to the streets of the capital city of Lisbon on Saturday (February 11) in the latest round of demonstrations demanding higher pay and better working conditions.

Thousands of teachers in Portugal took to the streets of the capital city of Lisbon on Saturday (February 11) in the latest round of demonstrations demanding higher pay and better working conditions. The teachers have been calling for an improvement in tenure and career progression, and salaries to keep pace with inflation, a report by a news agency AFP said. The National Federation of Teachers (FENPROF), which is the main union of the teaching profession, said that over 150,000 teachers took part in the rally. FENPROF Secretary General Mario Nogueira said, "This is probably the biggest demonstration of teachers." Augusto Figueiredo, a technology teacher from Rio Maior, told AFP, "We are outraged," adding, miserable salaries, discriminatory appraisals, and inhuman schedules were the reality of the teaching profession at present. "We're really tired, no one is listening to us, this government needs to listen to us," Joao Tristao, a sports teacher, told the news agency on Saturday. Apart from the above demands, the protesting teachers also want their real working hours to be taken into account. Maria da Luz Ribeiro, an English teacher, told AFP that working time had to be released as she expressed concerns about the future of teachers and schools in Portugal. "I was forced to work longer to try to improve my pension," Riberio, who stopped working last year, added. Saturday's national demonstration in Lisbon comes after a series of protests and rotating strikes, which have led to the closure of schools. Earlier, Portugal's Education Minister Joao Costa said that negotiations with teachers' unions were ongoing and that they hoped to reach an agreement soon. Portugal is one of Western Europe's poorest countries. Citing government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday said that more than 50% of workers earned less than 1,000 euros per month last year and the minimum wage is 760 euros per month. The protests are not only limited to teachers. Nurses have been striking lack of career advancement and doctors are expected to walk out for two days in March, Reuters reported. On Thursday, the CGTP, which is Portugal's biggest umbrella union, held protests and strikes across the country against rising prices and urged the government to increase the pay of workers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We are outraged': Teachers in Portugal intensify protest for better pay and working conditions

New Zealand braces for the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Sunday (February 12) warning citizens to hunker down and prepare an evacuation plan. A report by the news agency AFP said that the cyclone is forecast to envelop the upper half of the North Island over 48 hours from Sunday evening.&nbsp; 
Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister Hipkins said that everyone should be ready to face the threats posed by flooding, huge ocean swells, and strong winds.

"Our main message to people across the country is to please take the severe weather warning seriously and to make sure you're prepared," Hipkins said. He added that people should ensure they have their grab-and-go kits, and also ensure where they need to go in case they have to evacuate their homes.&nbsp;

Auckland city remains under a state of emergency as it faces another bout of heavy rainfall and severe winds, the AFP report said. On January 27, flash floods swamped Auckland resulting in four deaths and forcing thousands from their homes.&nbsp;

On Sunday morning, the MetService weather bureau measured wind gusts of up to 140 kilometres per hour (86 miles per hour) in northern New Zealand. The weather bureau said, "This system poses a very high risk of extreme, impactful, and unprecedented weather over many regions of the North Island from Sunday to Tuesday."

Cyclone Gabrielle is also forecast to weaken slightly as it moves slowly south on Monday and Tuesday. Strong winds led to the closure of Auckland's Harbour Bridge on Sunday, while most flights into and out of Auckland Airport on Monday had already been cancelled.&nbsp;

The report further said Gabrielle was downgraded from a tropical cyclone as it approached New Zealand. On Saturday night, the cyclone passed over Australia's remote Norfolk Island. There were reports of downed trees and power cuts but no significant damage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand braces for the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Sunday (February 12) warning citizens to hunker down and prepare an evacuation plan.

New Zealand braces for the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Sunday (February 12) warning citizens to hunker down and prepare an evacuation plan. A report by the news agency AFP said that the cyclone is forecast to envelop the upper half of the North Island over 48 hours from Sunday evening. Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister Hipkins said that everyone should be ready to face the threats posed by flooding, huge ocean swells, and strong winds. "Our main message to people across the country is to please take the severe weather warning seriously and to make sure you're prepared," Hipkins said. He added that people should ensure they have their grab-and-go kits, and also ensure where they need to go in case they have to evacuate their homes. Auckland city remains under a state of emergency as it faces another bout of heavy rainfall and severe winds, the AFP report said. On January 27, flash floods swamped Auckland resulting in four deaths and forcing thousands from their homes. On Sunday morning, the MetService weather bureau measured wind gusts of up to 140 kilometres per hour (86 miles per hour) in northern New Zealand. The weather bureau said, "This system poses a very high risk of extreme, impactful, and unprecedented weather over many regions of the North Island from Sunday to Tuesday." Cyclone Gabrielle is also forecast to weaken slightly as it moves slowly south on Monday and Tuesday. Strong winds led to the closure of Auckland's Harbour Bridge on Sunday, while most flights into and out of Auckland Airport on Monday had already been cancelled. The report further said Gabrielle was downgraded from a tropical cyclone as it approached New Zealand. On Saturday night, the cyclone passed over Australia's remote Norfolk Island. There were reports of downed trees and power cuts but no significant damage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand braces for impact of Cyclone Gabrielle

A Nicaraguan court sentenced Catholic&nbsp;Bishop&nbsp;Rolando Alvarez to more than 26 years in prison on Friday, a day after the cleric and critic of President Daniel Ortega declined to be expelled to the United States as part of a prisoner release.&nbsp;Alvarez,&nbsp;bishop&nbsp;of the Matagalpa diocese, was convicted of treason, undermining national integrity and spreading false news, among other charges.

During Friday's court hearing it was also announced that he would be fined and stripped of his Nicaraguan citizenship.

Originally scheduled for late March, the sentencing of the&nbsp;bishop, widely known by the Catholic honorific monsignor, was sped up without explanation.

"The Nicaraguan dictatorship's hatred of Mons. Rolando Alvarez is irrational and out of control," Silvio Baez, a senior Nicaraguan&nbsp;bishop&nbsp;exiled in Miami, wrote on Twitter after the sentence.

Praising Alvarez's "moral high ground," Baez predicted Alvarez will eventually be freed.

Alvarez was included in the surprise political prisoner release covering more than 200 people announced by Ortega's government Thursday, but Alvarez would not board the plane destined for a Washington, DC, area airport.

In televised remarks later Thursday, Ortega derided the released prisoners as criminal mercenaries for foreign powers who sought to undermine national sovereignty, and said Alvarez had been returned to jail.

Last August, Ortega's police arrested Alvarez after dislodging him from the church property where he, four other priests and two seminarians from his diocese had barricaded themselves.

A cameraman for a Catholic television channel was also arrested with them.

This month, seven of the men were sentenced to 10-year prison terms on charges of treason and spreading false news. But all of them boarded the flight to Washington on Thursday.

Ortega has accused Catholic leaders of attempting to overthrow him when some served as mediators with protest groups after protests that killed about 300 people erupted in 2018.

Since then, the government of the former Cold War-era Marxist rebel has expelled Catholic nuns and missionaries and closed Catholic radio and television stations.

After Alvarez's arrest in August, Pope Francis called for "open and sincere" dialogue to resolve the conflict in Nicaragua. He said he was following the situation "with worry and pain."

The comments marked Francis' only remarks in the aftermath of the 2018 protests, and he did not specifically mention Alvarez by name. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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A Nicaraguan court sentenced Catholic Bishop Rolando Alvarez to more than 26 years in prison on Friday, a day after the cleric and critic of President Daniel Ortega declined to be expelled to the United States as part of a prisoner release.

A Nicaraguan court sentenced Catholic Bishop Rolando Alvarez to more than 26 years in prison on Friday, a day after the cleric and critic of President Daniel Ortega declined to be expelled to the United States as part of a prisoner release. Alvarez, bishop of the Matagalpa diocese, was convicted of treason, undermining national integrity and spreading false news, among other charges. During Friday's court hearing it was also announced that he would be fined and stripped of his Nicaraguan citizenship. Originally scheduled for late March, the sentencing of the bishop, widely known by the Catholic honorific monsignor, was sped up without explanation. "The Nicaraguan dictatorship's hatred of Mons. Rolando Alvarez is irrational and out of control," Silvio Baez, a senior Nicaraguan bishop exiled in Miami, wrote on Twitter after the sentence. Praising Alvarez's "moral high ground," Baez predicted Alvarez will eventually be freed. Alvarez was included in the surprise political prisoner release covering more than 200 people announced by Ortega's government Thursday, but Alvarez would not board the plane destined for a Washington, DC, area airport. In televised remarks later Thursday, Ortega derided the released prisoners as criminal mercenaries for foreign powers who sought to undermine national sovereignty, and said Alvarez had been returned to jail. Last August, Ortega's police arrested Alvarez after dislodging him from the church property where he, four other priests and two seminarians from his diocese had barricaded themselves. A cameraman for a Catholic television channel was also arrested with them. This month, seven of the men were sentenced to 10-year prison terms on charges of treason and spreading false news. But all of them boarded the flight to Washington on Thursday. Ortega has accused Catholic leaders of attempting to overthrow him when some served as mediators with protest groups after protests that killed about 300 people erupted in 2018. Since then, the government of the former Cold War-era Marxist rebel has expelled Catholic nuns and missionaries and closed Catholic radio and television stations. After Alvarez's arrest in August, Pope Francis called for "open and sincere" dialogue to resolve the conflict in Nicaragua. He said he was following the situation "with worry and pain." The comments marked Francis' only remarks in the aftermath of the 2018 protests, and he did not specifically mention Alvarez by name. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nicaraguan Catholic bishop sentenced to over 26 years in prison, stripped of citizenship

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