India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (February 8) replied to the motion of thanks on President Droupadi Murmu's address in the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, amid sloganeering by opposition leaders for a discussion over the Adani issue. Before beginning his speech, some opposition parliamentarians staged a walkout over the issue.&nbsp;

Modi started his speech by saying, "In her visionary address, the President guided us and crores of Indians. Her presence as the Head of the Republic is historic as well as inspiring for the daughters and sisters of the country." &nbsp;

Modi said that President Murmu enhanced the pride of the tribal community, adding that after several years of independence, there was a sense of pride in the tribal community and an increase in their self-confidence, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-says-adani-gets-contracts-wherever-prime-minister-visits-bjp-labels-allegations-baseless-559724">Rahul Gandhi claims Adani gets contracts wherever prime minister visits, BJP labels allegations 'baseless'</a>

He took a veiled dig at Rahul Gandhi from the main opposition Congress, who on Tuesday had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government of favouring the Adani Group. "I was watching yesterday. After the speeches of a few people, some people were happily saying, "Ye hui na baat" (this is how it should be.) Maybe they slept well and couldn't wake up (on time)," Modi told the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister added that following the remarks of such people, the entire 'ecosystem' and their supporters were jubilant.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the Congress further, Modi took a veiled jibe at another senior party leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury over his contentious remarks on President Murmu last year.&nbsp;

"When President's Address was going on, some people avoided it. A tall leader even insulted the President. They displayed hatred against ST. When such things were said on TV, a sense of hatred deep within came out. An attempt was made to save oneself after writing a letter later," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also lashed out at the Congress' tenure as the central government from 2004-2014. "During 10 years of UPA (United Progressive Alliance) govt, inflation was in double digits and hence when something good happens, their sadness increases. In the history of the country's independence, 2004-2014 was full of scams," Modi told the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Adani Group has been roiled by days of market turmoil after a report by American short-seller Hindenburg Research last month alleged that the Indian conglomerate engaged in stock manipulation and used tax havens. The report also said that the Adani Group had unsustainable debt.

The conglomerate has denied the allegations, saying it complies with all laws and has made necessary disclosures over time.

On Tuesday, Congress' Rahul Gandhi had questioned the BJP's connections with the Adani Group and had&nbsp;accused Prime Minister Modi of favouring its founder Gautam Adani. Gandhi, who was the first opposition leader to speak during the debate on the motion of thanks to the President`s address in the Lok Sabha, said that the relationship with Gautam Adani began many years ago when Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat.

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"Relationships begin many years ago when Narendra Modi was Gujarat`s Chief Minister...one man stood shoulder to shoulder with PM Modi, he was loyal to the PM and helped Mr Modi construct the idea of a `Resurgent Gujarat`. The real magic began when PM Modi reached the national capital in 2014," Gandhi told the Lower House of Parliament.

"How the Indian government did not raise any questions regarding the shell companies owned by the Adani Group? How did the government not ask whose companies they are, especially, if it is a strategic matter concerning sectors like ports, airports (aviation), and defence? And the government does not know about the company (Adani Group) which is dealing in these strategic sectors?" Gandhi added.

Meanwhile, the BJP rejected the Congress leader's allegations and demanded evidence to support his claims. "Rahul Gandhi has made up these things in his head and he is making wild allegations. If he wants to make such allegations, he should bring documentary proof and present it," BJP leader and India's Law Minister Kiren Rijiju told Parliament on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said that Gandhi's comments were false and shameful. "Rahul Gandhi cannot digest the fact that people had twice elected Narendra Modi as the prime minister and he will again come back in 2024," Prasad said and pointed out that the Adani Group also invested in Congress-led states of Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (February 8) replied to the motion of thanks on President Droupadi Murmu's address in the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, amid sloganeering by opposition leaders for a discussion over the Adani issue.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (February 8) replied to the motion of thanks on President Droupadi Murmu's address in the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, amid sloganeering by opposition leaders for a discussion over the Adani issue. Before beginning his speech, some opposition parliamentarians staged a walkout over the issue. Modi started his speech by saying, "In her visionary address, the President guided us and crores of Indians. Her presence as the Head of the Republic is historic as well as inspiring for the daughters and sisters of the country." Modi said that President Murmu enhanced the pride of the tribal community, adding that after several years of independence, there was a sense of pride in the tribal community and an increase in their self-confidence, news agency ANI reported. ALSO READ | Rahul Gandhi claims Adani gets contracts wherever prime minister visits, BJP labels allegations 'baseless' He took a veiled dig at Rahul Gandhi from the main opposition Congress, who on Tuesday had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government of favouring the Adani Group. "I was watching yesterday. After the speeches of a few people, some people were happily saying, "Ye hui na baat" (this is how it should be.) Maybe they slept well and couldn't wake up (on time)," Modi told the Lok Sabha. The Prime Minister added that following the remarks of such people, the entire 'ecosystem' and their supporters were jubilant. Hitting out at the Congress further, Modi took a veiled jibe at another senior party leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury over his contentious remarks on President Murmu last year. "When President's Address was going on, some people avoided it. A tall leader even insulted the President. They displayed hatred against ST. When such things were said on TV, a sense of hatred deep within came out. An attempt was made to save oneself after writing a letter later," Modi said. He also lashed out at the Congress' tenure as the central government from 2004-2014. "During 10 years of UPA (United Progressive Alliance) govt, inflation was in double digits and hence when something good happens, their sadness increases. In the history of the country's independence, 2004-2014 was full of scams," Modi told the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The Adani Group has been roiled by days of market turmoil after a report by American short-seller Hindenburg Research last month alleged that the Indian conglomerate engaged in stock manipulation and used tax havens. The report also said that the Adani Group had unsustainable debt. The conglomerate has denied the allegations, saying it complies with all laws and has made necessary disclosures over time. On Tuesday, Congress' Rahul Gandhi had questioned the BJP's connections with the Adani Group and had accused Prime Minister Modi of favouring its founder Gautam Adani. Gandhi, who was the first opposition leader to speak during the debate on the motion of thanks to the President`s address in the Lok Sabha, said that the relationship with Gautam Adani began many years ago when Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat. ALSO READ | Adani Group’s $122 million bond plan shelved after Hindenburg allegations: Report "Relationships begin many years ago when Narendra Modi was Gujarat`s Chief Minister...one man stood shoulder to shoulder with PM Modi, he was loyal to the PM and helped Mr Modi construct the idea of a `Resurgent Gujarat`. The real magic began when PM Modi reached the national capital in 2014," Gandhi told the Lower House of Parliament. "How the Indian government did not raise any questions regarding the shell companies owned by the Adani Group? How did the government not ask whose companies they are, especially, if it is a strategic matter concerning sectors like ports, airports (aviation), and defence? And the government does not know about the company (Adani Group) which is dealing in these strategic sectors?" Gandhi added. Meanwhile, the BJP rejected the Congress leader's allegations and demanded evidence to support his claims. "Rahul Gandhi has made up these things in his head and he is making wild allegations. If he wants to make such allegations, he should bring documentary proof and present it," BJP leader and India's Law Minister Kiren Rijiju told Parliament on Tuesday. On Wednesday, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said that Gandhi's comments were false and shameful. "Rahul Gandhi cannot digest the fact that people had twice elected Narendra Modi as the prime minister and he will again come back in 2024," Prasad said and pointed out that the Adani Group also invested in Congress-led states of Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. (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.

In Parliament, India's PM Narendra Modi takes veiled dig at opposition leader Rahul Gandhi

North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles, including what analysts said could be a new, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). According to the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, the parade was held to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army. The KCNA said that the ICBM showed Pyongyang's greatest nuclear strike ability, adding, the parade also featured tactical nuclear units.&nbsp;

Kim Jong Un attended the parade with his wife Ri Sol Ju, and daughter Ju Ae, news agency AFP reported citing state media photographs. The supreme leader wore a black coat and fedora- a dress which was favoured by his grandfather and North Korea's founding leader Kim Il Sung. Kim Jon Un inspected rows of soldiers holding bayonets, and standing flanked by his top generals, saluting as troops and missile units parade past.

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Columns of missiles were paraded through Kim Il Sung Square. Among the systems on display was the largest ICBM yet, the Hwasong-17, followed by what some analysts said could be the new solid-fuel ICBM, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter on Thursday, Joseph Dempsey, a research associate for defence and military analysis at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) said, "Following the apparent Hwasong-17 ICBM pairs are four unidentified but apparently similarly sized canisterised systems."

Ankit Panda from the American think tank Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said the canistered ICBM might be seen during a parade and which has so far not been tested, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

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The news agency further pointed out that developing a solid-fuel ICBM has been seen as a key goal for Pyongyang as it could make its nuclear missiles harder to spot and destroy during a conflict. It is not yet clear how close the suspected new missile could be to testing as North Korea has sometimes displayed mockups during the parades.&nbsp;

North Korea has held four night-time military parades in recent years including the one on Wednesday, AFP reported. This comes after the country vowed to expand and intensify military drills to ensure readiness for war. Earlier, Kim Jong Un had called for an &nbsp;"exponential" increase in the nuclear arsenal, including mass-producing tactical nuclear weapons and developing new missiles for nuclear counterstrikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles, including what analysts said could be a new, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles, including what analysts said could be a new, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). According to the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, the parade was held to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army. The KCNA said that the ICBM showed Pyongyang's greatest nuclear strike ability, adding, the parade also featured tactical nuclear units. Kim Jong Un attended the parade with his wife Ri Sol Ju, and daughter Ju Ae, news agency AFP reported citing state media photographs. The supreme leader wore a black coat and fedora- a dress which was favoured by his grandfather and North Korea's founding leader Kim Il Sung. Kim Jon Un inspected rows of soldiers holding bayonets, and standing flanked by his top generals, saluting as troops and missile units parade past. ALSO READ | North Korea's second most powerful man after Kim Jong Un replaced Columns of missiles were paraded through Kim Il Sung Square. Among the systems on display was the largest ICBM yet, the Hwasong-17, followed by what some analysts said could be the new solid-fuel ICBM, news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Twitter on Thursday, Joseph Dempsey, a research associate for defence and military analysis at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) said, "Following the apparent Hwasong-17 ICBM pairs are four unidentified but apparently similarly sized canisterised systems." Ankit Panda from the American think tank Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said the canistered ICBM might be seen during a parade and which has so far not been tested, Reuters reported. ALSO READ | North Korea stole record crypto assets and currencies in 2022: UN report The news agency further pointed out that developing a solid-fuel ICBM has been seen as a key goal for Pyongyang as it could make its nuclear missiles harder to spot and destroy during a conflict. It is not yet clear how close the suspected new missile could be to testing as North Korea has sometimes displayed mockups during the parades. North Korea has held four night-time military parades in recent years including the one on Wednesday, AFP reported. This comes after the country vowed to expand and intensify military drills to ensure readiness for war. Earlier, Kim Jong Un had called for an "exponential" increase in the nuclear arsenal, including mass-producing tactical nuclear weapons and developing new missiles for nuclear counterstrikes. (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.

North Korea shows off largest-ever number of nuclear missiles at nighttime parade

The death toll due to the massive earthquake in Turkey and Syria has topped 15,000 and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. In the United States, the Pentagon revealed that Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that more information about the Chinese spy balloon is being received "almost by the hour" and relevant findings will be shared. And in North Korea, supreme leader Kim Jon Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-earthquake-erdogan-admits-shortcomings-as-death-toll-nears-12000-560116">Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll tops 15,000</a>

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Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-spy-balloons-have-flown-over-strategic-us-sites-in-the-past-pentagon-560169">Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past: Pentagon</a>

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The Pentagon has revealed that Chinese spy balloons have passed over US sites that might be of interest to Beijing on at least four previous occasions. However, it did not say if any of these sites were military bases.&nbsp;Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said Washington is aware of four such past flights before the latest Chinese balloon was detected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-oversees-nighttime-military-parade-which-displays-possible-icbm-560177">North Korea's Kim Jong Un oversees nighttime military parade which displays possible ICBM</a>

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North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles, including what analysts said could be a new, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). According to the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, the parade was held to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-made-security-cameras-to-be-removed-from-government-buildings-in-australia-560171">Chinese-made security cameras to be removed from government buildings in Australia</a>

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Chinese-made security cameras will be removed from government buildings in Australia, said the country's Defence Minister Richard Marles on Thursday, adding that it was important to make facilities "completely secure".&nbsp;

Watch: EU ministers tackle green subsidies with US | WION Climate Tracker

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The death toll due to the massive earthquake in Turkey and Syria has topped 15,000 and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake.

The death toll due to the massive earthquake in Turkey and Syria has topped 15,000 and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. In the United States, the Pentagon revealed that Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that more information about the Chinese spy balloon is being received "almost by the hour" and relevant findings will be shared. And in North Korea, supreme leader Kim Jon Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles. Click on the headlines to read more Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll tops 15,000 Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries. Chinese spy balloons have flown over strategic US sites in the past: Pentagon The Pentagon has revealed that Chinese spy balloons have passed over US sites that might be of interest to Beijing on at least four previous occasions. However, it did not say if any of these sites were military bases. Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said Washington is aware of four such past flights before the latest Chinese balloon was detected. North Korea's Kim Jong Un oversees nighttime military parade which displays possible ICBM North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a nighttime military parade on Wednesday (February 8) which displayed multiple long-range missiles, including what analysts said could be a new, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). According to the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, the parade was held to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army. Chinese-made security cameras to be removed from government buildings in Australia Chinese-made security cameras will be removed from government buildings in Australia, said the country's Defence Minister Richard Marles on Thursday, adding that it was important to make facilities "completely secure". Watch: EU ministers tackle green subsidies with US | WION Climate Tracker ×

Morning news brief: Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll tops 15,000, and more

With over 19,000 people killed due to earthquake in Turkey and Syria on Monday and aftershocks, and the toll increasing further to over 19,300, there is widespread anger among the Turkish people over the construction quality and standards of buildings in their country.

With over 19,000 people killed due to earthquake in Turkey and Syria on Monday and aftershocks, and the toll increasing further to over 19,300, there is widespread anger among the Turkish people over the construction quality and standards of buildings in their country. According to a report by the BBC on Wednesday (February 8), poor enforcement of regulations has contributed to the collapse of many buildings — including those built as recently as 2022 — in Turkey in the earthquakes. Construction regulations in the country were tightened following previous disasters, most recently in 2018. The report said that stringent safety standards were introduced following the quake in 1999 when over 17,000 had died. The latest regulations require structures in earthquake-prone regions to use high-quality concrete, reinforced with steel bars. Columns and beams must also be distributed to effectively absorb the impact of earthquakes. However, these laws have been poorly enforced. Recently constructed buildings collapsed after quake The BBC report verified examples of some recently constructed buildings which collapsed in the latest earthquakes. A building in Malatya city, which was finished in 2022, collapsed in Monday's quake. According to an advertisement on social media, this building was completed in compliance with the latest earthquake regulations. The advertisement also said that all materials used were of first-class quality. Another apartment block in the port city of Iskenderun was largely destroyed due to the quake. The construction of this building was completed in 2019. Another building which was opened in Antakya in 2019, was largely destroyed. ALSO READ | Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake Although the recent earthquakes have been powerful, experts pointed out that properly constructed buildings should have been able to withstand the tremors, the BBC report said. It quoted David Alexander, Professor of Emergency Planning and Management at University College London, as saying that the maximum intensity for this earthquake was quite high but not necessarily enough to bring down well-constructed quake-resistant buildings down. "In most places, the level of shaking was less than the maximum, so we can conclude out of the thousands of buildings that collapsed, almost all of them don't stand up to any reasonably expected earthquake construction code," Alexander added. Critics warn on construction amnesties provided by govt The Turkish government has provided periodic construction amnesties — effectively legal exemptions for payment of a fee, for those structures that are built without the required safety certificates. However, critics warned that such amnesties risk catastrophe in the event of a major earthquake, the BBC report added. In Southern Turkey, 75,000 buildings across the affected quake zone were given construction amnesties, said the Istanbul head of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects' Chamber of City Planners. And just a few days before the latest quakes, local media reported that a new draft law is awaiting parliamentary approval which would grant further amnesty for recent construction work. The anger at govt doesn't end here Apart from the anger about the standards of buildings, Turkish citizens have also severely censured the government over its response to the latest earthquakes. A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday (February 9) said that the police detained 18 people since Monday over "provocative" social media posts that criticised how the government had been dealing with the disaster. On social media, several people complained about lack of search and rescue efforts in their provinces. Twitter was blocked on Turkish mobile providers on Wednesday due to mounting online criticism. However, the site still worked using VPN services that disguise a user's location. The services were restored by early Thursday. 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.

Anger over construction standards in Turkey as combined quake toll rises over 19,300

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday (February 9) criticised French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Paris ahead of a summit of the European Union (EU) in Brussels, as the Russian offensive in Ukraine&nbsp;rages on. Speaking to reporters, Meloni said, "Frankly, the invitation (by Macron) to Zelensky yesterday seemed more inappropriate to me because I think our strength in this fight is unity."

"I understand the questions of internal politics, the fact of privileging domestic public opinion. But there are moments where privileging domestic public opinion risks being detrimental to the cause, and this seems to me one of those cases," Meloni added.&nbsp;

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Following his visit to London and Paris, Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Brussels on Thursday to push EU leaders for more weapons in the fight against Russia's invasion and also for a quick start to EU membership talks.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian President will meet Italian PM Meloni on Friday. On Thursday, Meloni said that she would tell Zelensky that Italy remains committed in supporting Ukraine.

"Ours is a 360-degree contribution because we are aware of how — and we have said this many times — in addition to the issue of respect for international law, the value of the sovereignty and freedom of a nation, the conflict in Ukraine involves us all directly. Therefore support for Ukraine at 360 degrees is also the best way to arrive at a possible negotiation," Meloni added.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, declined to comment specifically on Meloni's remarks. However, Macron told reporters, "I wanted to receive him, President Zelensky, with Chancellor Scholz" due to Germany and France's "particular role" in the Ukraine situation. Macron further added that it was up to Zelensky himself to choose his schedule, AFP reported.&nbsp;

"What matters is that we are effective together and that we have a strategy that finds a way to a durable peace," the French president added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday (February 9) criticised French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Paris ahead of a summit of the European Union (EU) in Brussels, as the Russian offensive in Ukraine rages on.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday (February 9) criticised French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Paris ahead of a summit of the European Union (EU) in Brussels, as the Russian offensive in Ukraine rages on. Speaking to reporters, Meloni said, "Frankly, the invitation (by Macron) to Zelensky yesterday seemed more inappropriate to me because I think our strength in this fight is unity." "I understand the questions of internal politics, the fact of privileging domestic public opinion. But there are moments where privileging domestic public opinion risks being detrimental to the cause, and this seems to me one of those cases," Meloni added. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky repeats demand for combat jets during his rare visit to UK Following his visit to London and Paris, Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Brussels on Thursday to push EU leaders for more weapons in the fight against Russia's invasion and also for a quick start to EU membership talks. The Ukrainian President will meet Italian PM Meloni on Friday. On Thursday, Meloni said that she would tell Zelensky that Italy remains committed in supporting Ukraine. "Ours is a 360-degree contribution because we are aware of how — and we have said this many times — in addition to the issue of respect for international law, the value of the sovereignty and freedom of a nation, the conflict in Ukraine involves us all directly. Therefore support for Ukraine at 360 degrees is also the best way to arrive at a possible negotiation," Meloni added. French President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, declined to comment specifically on Meloni's remarks. However, Macron told reporters, "I wanted to receive him, President Zelensky, with Chancellor Scholz" due to Germany and France's "particular role" in the Ukraine situation. Macron further added that it was up to Zelensky himself to choose his schedule, AFP reported. "What matters is that we are effective together and that we have a strategy that finds a way to a durable peace," the French president 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.

Ukraine war: Italy PM Meloni criticises French President Macron's invite to Zelensky

Five people, including a two-year-old child, were killed in a gas explosion in an apartment building in Russia's Novosibirsk on Thursday morning (February 9). Eleven people were injured in the explosion, the news agency Reuters reported citing regional authorities. Thirteen ambulances arrived at the scene and around 50 people were evacuated.&nbsp;

Videos published by the country's emergency ministries showed a section of the five-storey building largely destroyed, with its facade missing. Rescuers were seen saving a woman from the ruins of the building who was then transported to a hospital.

The explosion caused two entrances of the building to collapse, with 30 apartments destroyed by the ensuing fire, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press.&nbsp;

Regional governor Andrey Travnikov said the nature of the injuries was varied. "There are combined injuries, burns, and carbon monoxide poisoning,” Travnikov added. An investigation has been launched and further details are awaited.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, authorities said that residents made homeless by the explosion would be settled in a new place, a report by the Express said.

There have been hundreds of unexplained gas explosions and fires across Russia, particularly around the Moscow region, since President Vladimir Putin launched the special military operation in Ukraine. Analysts suggested that these incidents have something to do with a growing public disdain for the war, the report added

(With inputs from agencies)

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Five people, including a two-year-old child, were killed in a gas explosion in an apartment building in Russia's Novosibirsk on Thursday morning (February 9). Eleven people were injured in the explosion, the news agency Reuters reported citing regional authorities.

Five people, including a two-year-old child, were killed in a gas explosion in an apartment building in Russia's Novosibirsk on Thursday morning (February 9). Eleven people were injured in the explosion, the news agency Reuters reported citing regional authorities. Thirteen ambulances arrived at the scene and around 50 people were evacuated. Videos published by the country's emergency ministries showed a section of the five-storey building largely destroyed, with its facade missing. Rescuers were seen saving a woman from the ruins of the building who was then transported to a hospital. The explosion caused two entrances of the building to collapse, with 30 apartments destroyed by the ensuing fire, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press. Regional governor Andrey Travnikov said the nature of the injuries was varied. "There are combined injuries, burns, and carbon monoxide poisoning,” Travnikov added. An investigation has been launched and further details are awaited. Meanwhile, authorities said that residents made homeless by the explosion would be settled in a new place, a report by the Express said. There have been hundreds of unexplained gas explosions and fires across Russia, particularly around the Moscow region, since President Vladimir Putin launched the special military operation in Ukraine. Analysts suggested that these incidents have something to do with a growing public disdain for the war, the report 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.

Russia: Five, including a two-year-old child, killed in gas explosion in Novosibirsk

Several cryptocurrency firms have pledged donations worth millions to earthquake-hit Turkey and Syria as the combined death toll has now topped 16,000. The firms, which include Tether, OKZ and Kucoin will donate more than $9 million to aid victims from both countries, according to a report by Decrypt on Wednesday (February 8).

Several cryptocurrency firms have pledged donations worth millions to earthquake-hit Turkey and Syria as the combined death toll has now topped 16,000. The firms, which include Tether, OKZ and Kucoin will donate more than $9 million to aid victims from both countries, according to a report by Decrypt on Wednesday (February 8). In a statement on Monday (February 6), Tether said, "On behalf of Bitfinex, Keet, Synonym and Tether, we are pledging 5M TRY towards immediate humanitarian relief and recovery efforts and will seek ways to provide continued support towards helping Turkiye rebuild for the future." ALSO READ | Anger over building standards in Turkey as combined quake toll tops 16,000 Kucoin tweeted on Tuesday that it was donating $53,100 (around 1 million Liras) to Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) to support disaster relief efforts. Kucoin added that its team was also working with local emergency responders to provide essential aid. We stand with those affected during this difficult time. #KuCoin is proud to support disaster relief efforts by donating 1 million Liras to AFAD. Our team is also working with local emergency responders provide essential aid. #deprem Visit the link:https://t.co/bYdABJEYTv — KUCOIN (@kucoincom) February 7, 2023 × Binance announced on Tuesday that it would airdrop BNB worth $100 to all its users identified to be living in the regions in Turkey most affected by the earthquakes. "Identification of the users will be based on Proof of Address (POA) completed before February 6 in 10 cities where the earthquake has had a significant impact, including Kahramanmaraş, Kilis, Diyarbakır, Adana, Osmaniye, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Adıyaman, Malatya and Hatay," Binance added. ALSO READ | Turkey Earthquake: How long a person can survive under rubble; what role does mental condition play in this? Avalanche Foundation also joined in with help by tweeting that it donated $1M in AVAX to the disaster relief efforts, organised by Turkish singer Haluk Levent "for the earthquake that has affected Turkey and Syria, and added, "We encourage others to join the effort." The Avalanche Foundation has donated $1M in AVAX to the disaster relief efforts, organized by @haluklevent, for the earthquake that has affected Turkey and Syria. We encourage others to join the effort. https://t.co/Inr7oLX28q — Avalanche 🔺 (@avalancheavax) February 7, 2023 × Speaking to Decrypt, Avalanche's Executive Director Aytunc Yıldızlı said that Turkey was close to the heart of the Avalanche Foundation, and community and the funds would help people recover faster in the wake of this tragedy. "It is time to come together and show that crypto is a force for good and a sign of hope for all of us hurting," Yıldızlı added. Earthquake death toll tops 16,000; fatalities expected to rise sharply More than 16,000 people have been killed in the massive earthquake and the aftershocks in Turkey and Syria. The death toll is expected to rise sharply as rescue operations have passed the 72-hour mark which experts consider the most likely period to save lives, a report by the news agency AFP said on Thursday. The European Union (EU) is planning a donor conference next month to mobilise international aid for both countries. "We are now racing against the clock to save lives together. Soon we will provide relief aid, together. Türkiye and Syria can count on the EU. Swedish Prime Minister (Ulf Kristersson) and I will host a Donors' Conference early March in Brussels. Let’s mobilise funds globally for the affected communities," EU chief Ursula von der Leyen tweeted on Wednesday. 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: Cryptocurrency firms pledge donations worth millions

United States President Joe Biden, 80, has dismissed concerns about his age ahead of an expected reelection campaign in 2024. Some people have raised concerns that Biden will be 82 when the next presidential election takes place. At 80, Biden is the oldest president in American history. In an interview with the PBS Newshour on Wednesday (February 8), Biden said “Watch me. That’s all I can say,” while confirming that he plans to make another bid for the White House.&nbsp;

“I would be completely, thoroughly honest with the American people if I thought there was any health problem — anything — that would keep me from being able to do the job,” the President said, adding, “We’ll see but I think people just have to watch me."&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-slams-biden-over-extremely-irresponsible-remarks-on-xi-jinping-560250">Beijing slams Biden over 'extremely irresponsible' remarks on Xi Jinping</a>

Joe Biden has been facing renewed calls from some leaders in the Democratic Party for a new generation of leadership. According to an Associated Press NORC poll, a majority of Democrats said they preferred that Biden not run again.&nbsp;

During his State of the Union address on Tuesday, Biden called for American citizens to finish the job which seemed as a prelude to the 80-year-old seeking a second term as president. "Let's finish the job, there's more to do," he said, news agency Reuters reported. Biden also touted the achievements of his first term in office, including low unemployment and the passage of climate, health and infrastructure laws.&nbsp;

However, he will have to face major vulnerability if he runs again. As per a Washington Post-ABC News survey, over six in ten Americans did not believe he accomplished much in his first two years in office.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Dr Nadia Brown of Georgetown University said that many citizens didn't feel, or the polling said they were not that thrilled with Biden.

"They also are not really that thrilled with Donald Trump. But no one else has emerged. So I think we are just in this blah kind of wait-and-see. Perhaps fortunately for Biden, Trump has a lot more real reasons, like legal constraints, and ethical concerns, that would prohibit him from running. Whereas Biden just seems to have this likability issue, And the fact that he is the oldest American president," Dr Brown said.&nbsp;

"I can't think of a demographic group that he has locked up. And even die-hard steadfast Democrats like him, but they don't love him. I think that's the issue with Democrats, right. Democrats want to love their candidate, they want to feel warm and fuzzy and giddy inside, right. Republicans are more utilitarian, can this person get the job done, in the way I think the job should be done, and we are going there. So that's the uphill battle," she added, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden, 80, has dismissed concerns about his age ahead of an expected reelection campaign in 2024. Some people have raised concerns that Biden will be 82 when the next presidential election takes place.

United States President Joe Biden, 80, has dismissed concerns about his age ahead of an expected reelection campaign in 2024. Some people have raised concerns that Biden will be 82 when the next presidential election takes place. At 80, Biden is the oldest president in American history. In an interview with the PBS Newshour on Wednesday (February 8), Biden said “Watch me. That’s all I can say,” while confirming that he plans to make another bid for the White House. “I would be completely, thoroughly honest with the American people if I thought there was any health problem — anything — that would keep me from being able to do the job,” the President said, adding, “We’ll see but I think people just have to watch me." ALSO READ | Beijing slams Biden over 'extremely irresponsible' remarks on Xi Jinping Joe Biden has been facing renewed calls from some leaders in the Democratic Party for a new generation of leadership. According to an Associated Press NORC poll, a majority of Democrats said they preferred that Biden not run again. During his State of the Union address on Tuesday, Biden called for American citizens to finish the job which seemed as a prelude to the 80-year-old seeking a second term as president. "Let's finish the job, there's more to do," he said, news agency Reuters reported. Biden also touted the achievements of his first term in office, including low unemployment and the passage of climate, health and infrastructure laws. However, he will have to face major vulnerability if he runs again. As per a Washington Post-ABC News survey, over six in ten Americans did not believe he accomplished much in his first two years in office. On Wednesday, Dr Nadia Brown of Georgetown University said that many citizens didn't feel, or the polling said they were not that thrilled with Biden. "They also are not really that thrilled with Donald Trump. But no one else has emerged. So I think we are just in this blah kind of wait-and-see. Perhaps fortunately for Biden, Trump has a lot more real reasons, like legal constraints, and ethical concerns, that would prohibit him from running. Whereas Biden just seems to have this likability issue, And the fact that he is the oldest American president," Dr Brown said. "I can't think of a demographic group that he has locked up. And even die-hard steadfast Democrats like him, but they don't love him. I think that's the issue with Democrats, right. Democrats want to love their candidate, they want to feel warm and fuzzy and giddy inside, right. Republicans are more utilitarian, can this person get the job done, in the way I think the job should be done, and we are going there. So that's the uphill battle," she added, Reuters reported. (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.

US President Joe Biden dismisses questions about age ahead of expected 2024 campaign

A video of a seven-year-old Syrian girl protecting her little brother under the rubble of their collapsed house following a powerful earthquake has gone viral on social media.

A video of a seven-year-old Syrian girl protecting her little brother under the rubble of their collapsed house following a powerful earthquake has gone viral on social media. Taking to Twitter early Wednesday (February 7), user Vlogging Northwestern Syria shared the 17-second video showing the girl and her brother, both frightened, stuck under the rubble. The girl was seen placing her hand over her brother's head to protect him as authorities were rescuing them. The siblings made it out safely. ALSO READ | 'Miracle amid devastation': Baby born under rubble; rescued after Syria, Turkey earthquake. Watch! In another tweet, United Nations (UN) representative Mohammad Safa said the sister and brother were under the rubble for 17 hours. "The 7-year-old girl who kept her hand on her little brother's head to protect him while they were under the rubble for 17 hours has made it safely. I see no one sharing. If she were dead, everyone would share! Share positivity..." Safa tweeted. While under the rubble of her collapsed home this beautiful 7yr old Syrian girl has her hand over her little brothers head to protect him. Brave soul They both made it out ok. pic.twitter.com/GrffWBGd1C — Vlogging Northwestern Syria (@timtams83) February 7, 2023 × Earlier, a newborn in Syria was rescued from underneath the rubble. According to reports, the baby was born in the remains of a collapsed building. However, the mother who gave birth under the rubble died. Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll over 8,300 More than 8,300 people have died due to a massive earthquake of 7.8 magnitude that struck Turkey and Syria on Monday, news agency AFP reported on Wednesday. This was followed by another earthquake almost as powerful as the first one, toppling thousands of buildings including hospitals, schools and apartment blocks. Tens of thousands of people have been injured and countless others left homeless in Turkey and northern Syria. On Tuesday, rescuers in both countries braved the bitter cold to dig survivors out of the rubble of collapsed buildings. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan declared a state of emergency in 10 provinces of the country. However, residents in several damaged cities voiced anger and despair at what they said was a slow and inadequate response from the authorities to the earthquake, a report by news agency Reuters on Wednesday said. ALSO READ | Shocking reports suggest earthquakes in Turkey moved the country by up to 3 metres "There is not even a single person here. We are under the snow, without a home, without anything," said Murat Alinak, whose home in Malatya had collapsed. The Reuters report said that with little immediate help available, Turkish citizens were seen picking through rubble sometimes without even basic tools to search for survivors. The death toll in Turkey stands at 5,894. President Erdogan also said that his government would open up hotels in the tourism hub of Antalya to temporarily house people impacted by the earthquakes. Meanwhile, in Syria, the death toll has climbed to at least 2,470 . Funerals for several families were held in Hama city on Tuesday. Mosques in the country were seen opening doors to families whose homes were damaged. Speaking to Reuters, a UN humanitarian official said that fuel shortages and the harsh weather were creating obstacles. "The infrastructure is damaged, the roads that we used to use for humanitarian work are damaged," UN resident coordinator El-Mostafa Benlamlih said. More than a dozen countries including the United States, China and India pledged to help, and search teams as well as relief supplies started to arrive by air. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey-Syria earthquake: Video shows 7-year-old girl protecting her little brother under rubble

Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest in Karachi on Tuesday (February 7). Musharaff died at the age of 79 last Sunday following a prolonged illness. In Tunisia, President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied attempted to seize power in July 2021. And United States President Joe Biden, who addressed his second State of the Union address on Wednesday, issued a warning to China that Washington will act to protect if Beijing threatens its sovereignty.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistans-former-president-pervez-musharraf-laid-to-rest-in-karachi-559840">Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf laid to rest in Karachi; PM, army chief did not attend funeral</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/08/330854-musharraf-funeral.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Musharraf's funeral was held at the Malir Cantonment's Polo Ground which was attended by thousands of mourners including his family, relatives, senior Pakistani politicians retired and serving military officials.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-president-sacks-foreign-minister-amid-political-slugfest-economic-turmoil-559795">Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/08/330843-untitled-design-2023-02-08t021612995.png?imwidth=1920" />

Tunisia President Kais Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-no-mistake-us-will-act-if-china-threatens-its-sovereignty-says-joe-biden-559838">‘Make no mistake’ US will act if China threatens its sovereignty, says Joe Biden</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/08/330853-biden-4.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Addressing his second State of the Union address, US President Joe Biden issued a warning to China that Washington will act to protect if Beijing threatens its sovereignty, as the schism between the two nations widened over the Chinese spy balloon row.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-worth-300-billion-with-batman-stickers-found-floating-in-new-zealand-559833">Cocaine worth $300 billion with batman stickers found floating in New Zealand</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/08/330852-copy-of-untitled.png?imwidth=1920" />

In what comes as one of the biggest stashes of contraband confiscated, the New Zealand authorities on Wednesday said they had recovered cocaine worth $300 billion, weighing 3.3 tonnes floating in international waters.&nbsp;

WATCH | World of Africa: Massive spike in kidnappings in South Africa

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Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest in Karachi on Tuesday (February 7). Musharaff died at the age of 79 last Sunday following a prolonged illness.

Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest in Karachi on Tuesday (February 7). Musharaff died at the age of 79 last Sunday following a prolonged illness. In Tunisia, President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied attempted to seize power in July 2021. And United States President Joe Biden, who addressed his second State of the Union address on Wednesday, issued a warning to China that Washington will act to protect if Beijing threatens its sovereignty. Click on the headlines to read more. Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf laid to rest in Karachi; PM, army chief did not attend funeral Musharraf's funeral was held at the Malir Cantonment's Polo Ground which was attended by thousands of mourners including his family, relatives, senior Pakistani politicians retired and serving military officials. Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil Tunisia President Kais Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy. ‘Make no mistake’ US will act if China threatens its sovereignty, says Joe Biden Addressing his second State of the Union address, US President Joe Biden issued a warning to China that Washington will act to protect if Beijing threatens its sovereignty, as the schism between the two nations widened over the Chinese spy balloon row. Cocaine worth $300 billion with batman stickers found floating in New Zealand In what comes as one of the biggest stashes of contraband confiscated, the New Zealand authorities on Wednesday said they had recovered cocaine worth $300 billion, weighing 3.3 tonnes floating in international waters. WATCH | World of Africa: Massive spike in kidnappings in South Africa ×

Morning news brief: Pakistan PM, president and army chief skip Pervez Musharraf's funeral, and more

Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired)&nbsp;Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest at an army graveyard in Karachi with full military honours on Tuesday (February 7). Musharraf's funeral was held at the Malir Cantonment's Polo Ground which was attended by thousands of mourners including his family, relatives, senior Pakistani politicians, retired and serving military officials including former army chiefs Qamar Javed Bajwa and Ashfaq Parvez Kiyani. However, the funeral was not attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President&nbsp;Arif Alvi and army chief&nbsp;General Asim Munir Ahmed, according to a report by BBC.&nbsp;

According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, his coffin was draped in the national flag as a sign of respect, though the ceremony was not a state funeral.

Speaking to reporters, Lieutenant General (retired) Moinuddin Haider said on Tuesday that Musharraf had always put the interests of Pakistan first, and he even put his life at risk by waging a war against militancy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pervez-musharraf-pakistans-last-military-ruler-who-led-the-kargil-infiltration-against-india-558920">Pervez Musharraf: Pakistan’s last military dictator and architect of the Kargil War</a>

A day earlier, a special plane transported Musharraf's body from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where he died last Sunday (February 5) at the age of 79 following a prolonged illness. Before leaving for Pakistan, his body was given Ghusl (ritual washing and shrouding ahead of burial) in Dubai itself, news agency IANS reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Pervez Musharraf was elected as Pakistan's 10th president through a referendum in 2002 after seizing power in a bloodless coup in 1999. He was the architect of the Kargil war in 1999.&nbsp;

He made Pakistan a key ally of the United States after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Under his rule, foreign investment in Pakistan flourished and annual economic growth touched 7.5 per cent&nbsp;— which remains the highest in nearly three decades.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-gave-musharraf-a-second-chance-but-his-sins-could-not-be-washed-away-ex-envoy-to-pakistan-559678">Exclusive: India gave Musharraf a second chance, but his sins could not be washed away, says ex-envoy to Pakistan&nbsp;</a>

Musharraf lost his grip on power in 2008 during the general election as his party- the &nbsp;Pakistan Muslim League (Q) lost. Asif Ali Zardari from the Pakistan People’s Party, who won the election and became president, forced the former army chief to resign. The new government instigated a case against Musharraf but he was allowed to leave Pakistan on a bail to travel to Dubai in 2016 for medical treatment while proceedings were underway.&nbsp;

He remained in Dubai after being sentenced to death for treason (Pakistan) in 2019, although the death penalty was later overturned by another court.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest at an army graveyard in Karachi with full military honours on Tuesday (February 7).

Pakistan's former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf was laid to rest at an army graveyard in Karachi with full military honours on Tuesday (February 7). Musharraf's funeral was held at the Malir Cantonment's Polo Ground which was attended by thousands of mourners including his family, relatives, senior Pakistani politicians, retired and serving military officials including former army chiefs Qamar Javed Bajwa and Ashfaq Parvez Kiyani. However, the funeral was not attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Arif Alvi and army chief General Asim Munir Ahmed, according to a report by BBC. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, his coffin was draped in the national flag as a sign of respect, though the ceremony was not a state funeral. Speaking to reporters, Lieutenant General (retired) Moinuddin Haider said on Tuesday that Musharraf had always put the interests of Pakistan first, and he even put his life at risk by waging a war against militancy. ALSO READ | Pervez Musharraf: Pakistan’s last military dictator and architect of the Kargil War A day earlier, a special plane transported Musharraf's body from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where he died last Sunday (February 5) at the age of 79 following a prolonged illness. Before leaving for Pakistan, his body was given Ghusl (ritual washing and shrouding ahead of burial) in Dubai itself, news agency IANS reported on Tuesday. Pervez Musharraf was elected as Pakistan's 10th president through a referendum in 2002 after seizing power in a bloodless coup in 1999. He was the architect of the Kargil war in 1999. He made Pakistan a key ally of the United States after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Under his rule, foreign investment in Pakistan flourished and annual economic growth touched 7.5 per cent — which remains the highest in nearly three decades. ALSO READ | Exclusive: India gave Musharraf a second chance, but his sins could not be washed away, says ex-envoy to Pakistan Musharraf lost his grip on power in 2008 during the general election as his party- the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) lost. Asif Ali Zardari from the Pakistan People’s Party, who won the election and became president, forced the former army chief to resign. The new government instigated a case against Musharraf but he was allowed to leave Pakistan on a bail to travel to Dubai in 2016 for medical treatment while proceedings were underway. He remained in Dubai after being sentenced to death for treason (Pakistan) in 2019, although the death penalty was later overturned by another court. (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.

Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf laid to rest in Karachi; PM, army chief did not attend funeral

Elian Gonzalez, 29, is set to become a lawmaker in Cuba this week. On Monday (February 6), state newspaper Granma released the list of 470 candidates running for a spot in the upcoming session of the National Assembly of People's Power which includes Gonzalez, a report by news agency AFP on Wednesday (February 8) said.

Elian Gonzalez, 29, is set to become a lawmaker in Cuba this week. On Monday (February 6), state newspaper Granma released the list of 470 candidates running for a spot in the upcoming session of the National Assembly of People's Power which includes Gonzalez, a report by news agency AFP on Wednesday (February 8) said. Seen by many people as the youth candidate, Gonzalez is running for Parliament to represent Cardenas city, which is 135 kilometres east of the capital Havana. Being a part of the National Assembly would be the highest profile position for the 29-year-old since the agonising custody battle between his father and relatives in Miami that led to his return to the communist-run island in 2000, according to a report by CNN on Tuesday. Who is Elian Gonzalez? Gonzalez, who is currently working as an executive in a public company, first gained international notoriety back in 1999 on Thanksgiving Day when fishermen rescued him, then aged five, from a flimsy boat floating between Cuba and Florida after his mother and 10 others had died while trying to reach the United States. After his rescue, a dramatic and widely watched dispute ensued. A few relatives of Gonzalez argued that he belonged to Miami, while his father Juan Miguel, fought to bring his son back to Cuba. The dispute became a global flashpoint and provoked fascination within the two countries- sparking a debate over the immigration policy in the United States and mass protests in Cuba calling for Gonzalez's return, the AFP report on Wednesday said. Gonzalez put in custody of his father; relatives raided in Miami American immigration officials decided to place Gonzalez in his father's custody which was refused by the boy's family in Miami. In 2000, armed US federal agents raided the home of the boy's relatives in Miami to retrieve him and send him back to live with his father in Cuba. What has happened since his return to Cuba? Gonzalez's return to Cuba was celebrated with fervour by the government. For years to follow, he was surrounded by bodyguards, the CNN report on Tuesday said, adding his father was appointed to the National Assembly but later stepped down without an official explanation. Since his return, Elian Gonzalez has taken on a visible position in pro-revolution politics in Cuba. The 29-year-old also said that he has plans to reconnect with his relatives in Miami. "We have been separated by laws, by the embargo, by the sea. We don't have to continue to separate ourselves as a family," he told CNN in 2017 but pointed out he planned to continue vocally supporting the government that brought him home. (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.

Who is Elian Gonzalez? The 29-year-old running for Cuba's parliament

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