Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered.

Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack? Who is to blame? And what does it mean for a volatile West Asia?

At least 100 people have died in this twin explosion so far. More than 4,000 are injured. This is now a humanitarian crisis. Up to 300,000 people have been left homeless.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-five-videos-tell-the-tale-of-beirut-blasts-318451/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The damage could range from 3 to 5 billion dollars.

The cause of the explosion? Ammonium nitrate. There were two blasts in the port area of Beirut. There were 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored there.

This chemical is used as a fertiliser in agriculture. It can be used in explosives too.

But, for now, officials in Lebanon haven’t been able to ascertain the exact cause of the blast.

Lebanon’s prime minister has declared the guilty will be punished.

The biggest question right now is this.

Was this accidental? Or was it a terrorist attack?

No one knows for sure. A local media report rules out the terrorism angle. Reportedly, a defence official has said this wasn’t a terrorist act.

What were the circumstances that led to this catastrophe?

There are no clear answers yet. Reports say the first blast may have happened at a fireworks warehouse in the port.

The fire then could have spread to the stockpile of ammonium nitrate. Something, that had been stored in a depot for six years now.

But, this calamity only makes the situation worse for Lebanon.

Before the explosion, Lebanon was suffering as the value of its currency had plunged.

The Lebanese economy is on life support. There was an influx of refugees from neighbouring Syria and the outbreak of Wuhan virus. This pandemic had pushed Lebanon to its knees.

This explosion will seriously cripple Lebanon. The implications are many.

First, the explosion is a big blow for Lebanon’s economy.

It has destroyed its biggest port. Lebanon is an import-dependent country.

Local authorities are now worried. How are they going to bring in food, medical and other badly needed supplies?

While there is an alternative, a port in tripoli could handle the imports. But, there could be serious shortages.

The country imports 90% of its wheat consumption. Nearly half of Lebanon's population lives below the poverty line. 35% of the people are reportedly out of work.

Already, the central bank had to dip into its reserves. Just to subsidize wheat, fuel and medicine.

This is Lebanon’s worst crisis in decades and it couldn’t have come at a worse time.

Last year, Lebanon witnessed massive protests against the political establishment.

These were nationwide protests against corruption, economic mismanagement and sectarian politics. There could be another wave of protests. 
This is a crisis of gigantic proportions.

Earlier today, Beirut's governor broke down in tears during a tv interview at the blast site. Several countries have now come forward with help. The European nations have rushed aid to Lebanon with some nations even offering relief.

Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered. Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack?

Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered. Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack? Who is to blame? And what does it mean for a volatile West Asia? At least 100 people have died in this twin explosion so far. More than 4,000 are injured. This is now a humanitarian crisis. Up to 300,000 people have been left homeless. The damage could range from 3 to 5 billion dollars. The cause of the explosion? Ammonium nitrate. There were two blasts in the port area of Beirut. There were 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored there. This chemical is used as a fertiliser in agriculture. It can be used in explosives too. But, for now, officials in Lebanon haven’t been able to ascertain the exact cause of the blast. Lebanon’s prime minister has declared the guilty will be punished. The biggest question right now is this. Was this accidental? Or was it a terrorist attack? No one knows for sure. A local media report rules out the terrorism angle. Reportedly, a defence official has said this wasn’t a terrorist act. What were the circumstances that led to this catastrophe? There are no clear answers yet. Reports say the first blast may have happened at a fireworks warehouse in the port. The fire then could have spread to the stockpile of ammonium nitrate. Something, that had been stored in a depot for six years now. But, this calamity only makes the situation worse for Lebanon. Before the explosion, Lebanon was suffering as the value of its currency had plunged. The Lebanese economy is on life support. There was an influx of refugees from neighbouring Syria and the outbreak of Wuhan virus. This pandemic had pushed Lebanon to its knees. This explosion will seriously cripple Lebanon. The implications are many. First, the explosion is a big blow for Lebanon’s economy. It has destroyed its biggest port. Lebanon is an import-dependent country. Local authorities are now worried. How are they going to bring in food, medical and other badly needed supplies? While there is an alternative, a port in tripoli could handle the imports. But, there could be serious shortages. The country imports 90% of its wheat consumption. Nearly half of Lebanon's population lives below the poverty line. 35% of the people are reportedly out of work. Already, the central bank had to dip into its reserves. Just to subsidize wheat, fuel and medicine. This is Lebanon’s worst crisis in decades and it couldn’t have come at a worse time. Last year, Lebanon witnessed massive protests against the political establishment. These were nationwide protests against corruption, economic mismanagement and sectarian politics. There could be another wave of protests. This is a crisis of gigantic proportions. Earlier today, Beirut's governor broke down in tears during a tv interview at the blast site. Several countries have now come forward with help. The European nations have rushed aid to Lebanon with some nations even offering relief.

First economy, then protests and now explosions: How Lebanon situation turned from bad to worse?

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower.&nbsp;

Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-aftershocks-of-the-pandemic-tech-sector-is-the-new-battleground-318195/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok.

India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal.&nbsp;

The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money.&nbsp;

Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa.

Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers...

He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever."

In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions.

For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks.

A total of six people and three groups have been punished.

This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency.

Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper.

A hack that targeted different companies across six continents.

Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list.

World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons.

Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet.

The next geopolitical battleground is the technology and it is not just China that is a target. Countries around the world are building borders for their internet. Cutting off access for everything. From apps to even manpower. Trump along with the prime ministers of Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom is citing a threat to national security to strike at Chinese tech titans. But, what’s happening right now is no game. Technology companies are feeling the aftershock of the pandemic. It began with TikTok. India banned it first and now the United States might break it up. US President Donald Trump is willing to allow a deal. The United States is trying to get reimbursed or be paid a substantial amount of money. Donald Trump dealt another big blow to techies. This time he is targeting IT professionals of Indian-origin and shutting off another door for employment via the H1-B visa. Trump has signed an order reserving government jobs for Americans. Now, American government agencies won’t be allowed to contract or subcontract foreign workers... He said: "Today i am signing an executive order to ensure that the federal government lives by a very simple rule: hire American. We've been doing it at a level that hasn't been done, maybe ever." In Europe, the union is taking on three countries with cyber sanctions. For the first time, the European Union has imposed sanctions for cyber attacks. A total of six people and three groups have been punished. This includes four Russians. Allegedly part of the Russian GRU military agency. Two Chinese nationals have been sanctioned for operation cloud hopper. A hack that targeted different companies across six continents. Northern Korean firm Chosun expo is the sixth name on the list. World leaders are laying the foundations for post-pandemic world order. One that will be dictated by optic fibres and not weapons. Big tech is now a geopolitical force and technology companies around the world can’t afford to stay above the political fray.

Technology: World's next geopolitical battleground

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade.

The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people.

The king is in a luxury hotel in Europe with 20 concubines. The army chief turned prime minister has dissolved opposition parties and made critics disappear.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-harry-potter-themed-protests-in-thailand-318190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now young demonstrators are dressing up as harry potter. Young Thais have held daily protests at universities and town halls. They are openly denouncing King Rama X.&nbsp;

And, the military-backed government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha, a former junta leader. The young demonstrators say -- there is more fear than freedom in Thailand. They want a complete overhaul of the constitution.

This king took the throne in 2016. He revised the constitution, acquired more powers. In Thailand, insulting the royals will land you in jail for 15 years.

The lese majeste law is being enforced with an iron fist. Protestors are unhappy about all of this. Plus the king's disregard for his people.

As Thailand fights a pandemic, the king has gone into isolation with 20 concubines. For months, he has been holed up in a luxury hotel in the bavarian alps.

The protestors see the prime minister as a greater villain. Especially after an opposition party was dissolved.

Not just parties, political activists are also under pressure. Many have disappeared. Not just in Thailand, but also in neighbouring Laos.

Prayut first came to power in 2014. As the army chief, he organised a military coup to overthrow an elected government. He retained the position of prime minister in 2019.

The protesters say -- the election was rigged. Under his rule, the military, political and royal elite have consolidated power.

The protest against this new powerful establishment is the largest since the military coup in 2014. Thailand's history known for protests, coups and constitutional rewriting.

It is happening all over again. A battle between the govt-backed monarchy and people's freedom.

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade. The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people.

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade. The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people. The king is in a luxury hotel in Europe with 20 concubines. The army chief turned prime minister has dissolved opposition parties and made critics disappear. Now young demonstrators are dressing up as harry potter. Young Thais have held daily protests at universities and town halls. They are openly denouncing King Rama X. And, the military-backed government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha, a former junta leader. The young demonstrators say -- there is more fear than freedom in Thailand. They want a complete overhaul of the constitution. This king took the throne in 2016. He revised the constitution, acquired more powers. In Thailand, insulting the royals will land you in jail for 15 years. The lese majeste law is being enforced with an iron fist. Protestors are unhappy about all of this. Plus the king's disregard for his people. As Thailand fights a pandemic, the king has gone into isolation with 20 concubines. For months, he has been holed up in a luxury hotel in the bavarian alps. The protestors see the prime minister as a greater villain. Especially after an opposition party was dissolved. Not just parties, political activists are also under pressure. Many have disappeared. Not just in Thailand, but also in neighbouring Laos. Prayut first came to power in 2014. As the army chief, he organised a military coup to overthrow an elected government. He retained the position of prime minister in 2019. The protesters say -- the election was rigged. Under his rule, the military, political and royal elite have consolidated power. The protest against this new powerful establishment is the largest since the military coup in 2014. Thailand's history known for protests, coups and constitutional rewriting. It is happening all over again. A battle between the govt-backed monarchy and people's freedom.

Thai youth dressed as Harry Potter protest against government and royal family

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption.

In a letter to his son King Felipe VI, he said it is time to go into exile outside Spain. The entire country is gripped by shock and speculation.

Some claim he went to his childhood house in Portugal, before taking the flight to the Dominican Republic.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ex-spain-king-goes-into-exile-escapes-graft-probe-318193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nobody knows where he is, but no doubts remain over why he left. In 2008, 100 million dollars were secretly transferred into one of his Swiss bank accounts. A gift from the late Saudi King Abdullah.

The scandal came to light after a former mistress of Juan Carlos spilt the beans to the media. She said Carlos received the money as commission.

A consortium of Spanish companies was awarded a high-speed railway contract.

This was to link the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

As a former king -- Juan Carlos enjoys no immunity against these allegations. Only the king -- the head of state -- gets constitutional protection in Spain.

In 2014, he vacated the throne for his son, King Felipe, who has distanced himself from his father's affairs. He not only renounced his father's inheritance but also withdrew the annual royal allowance.

The rule of Juan Carlos ended with scandals. His daughter and son-in-law faced a corruption investigation. And, a controversial elephant hunting trip to Botswana during Spain's financial crisis sparked public anger.

Juan Carlos took the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco. Under Franco, Spain suffered the ills of dictatorship.

But, Carlos guided Spain to democracy. A new system of parliamentary monarchy.

Carlos even dismantled an attempted coup in 1981. In Spain, King Juan Carlos will still be a historical figure.

But, not one who will be remembered kindly.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption. In a letter to his son King Felipe VI, he said it is time to go into exile outside Spain. The entire country is gripped by shock and speculation. Some claim he went to his childhood house in Portugal, before taking the flight to the Dominican Republic. Nobody knows where he is, but no doubts remain over why he left. In 2008, 100 million dollars were secretly transferred into one of his Swiss bank accounts. A gift from the late Saudi King Abdullah. The scandal came to light after a former mistress of Juan Carlos spilt the beans to the media. She said Carlos received the money as commission. A consortium of Spanish companies was awarded a high-speed railway contract. This was to link the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. As a former king -- Juan Carlos enjoys no immunity against these allegations. Only the king -- the head of state -- gets constitutional protection in Spain. In 2014, he vacated the throne for his son, King Felipe, who has distanced himself from his father's affairs. He not only renounced his father's inheritance but also withdrew the annual royal allowance. The rule of Juan Carlos ended with scandals. His daughter and son-in-law faced a corruption investigation. And, a controversial elephant hunting trip to Botswana during Spain's financial crisis sparked public anger. Juan Carlos took the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco. Under Franco, Spain suffered the ills of dictatorship. But, Carlos guided Spain to democracy. A new system of parliamentary monarchy. Carlos even dismantled an attempted coup in 1981. In Spain, King Juan Carlos will still be a historical figure. But, not one who will be remembered kindly.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country

There is something Beijing wants from Tajikistan. It is the Pamir region. The region accounts for 45 per cent of Tajikistan's territory.

Why does China want it?

China says that the Pamir has been its part as a part of history. It is something Beijing has said for every territory it tries to annexe.&nbsp;

It's China's well-known skill with alternative facts.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-temple-bhoomi-pujan-today-itinerary-of-pm-modis-ayodhya-visit-india-318228/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

One Chinese historian recently wrote an article. He said China lost Pamir during the last years of the Qin dynasty.

'Pamir was outside China [for] 128 years due to the pressure of world powers', these are the words of Cho Yau Lu.

But the research conducted by us said otherwise. What he is claiming is that 45 per cent of Tajikistan belongs to China.

In 2011, China forced Tajikistan to cede 1000 sq km of Pamir land to Beijing.

This was 5.5 per cent of the total land China wants to grab. The dragon kept fighting for the remaining 94.5 per cent.

In 2019, the Washington Post ran a front-page story on Chinese security presence in the Pamirs. The article quoted a Chinese soldier who said the troops have been in the region for three to four years. He said: “We’ve been here three, four years.”

China is trying to buy Pamir by debt-trapping Dushanbe. Tajikistan joined the belt and road initiative in 2017. At least 350 Chinese companies operate in the country.

As of this year, Beijing owns over half of Tajikistan's external debt. It is around 35.9 per cent of the country's GDP.

In the past, Tajikistan has paid off debts to China by ceding mining rights. China is hoping Pamir maybe next. It is already publishing articles to push this narrative.

This article in Baidu points out that China has shelled out 7 billion dollars for Tajikistan.

And it hints at a repeat of 2011. 'They returned Pamirs to us because they are grateful for China's help.'

It allowed China to build border posts &amp; airports in the Pamir region. This is a lesson for all countries taking Chinese loans.&nbsp;

There is something Beijing wants from Tajikistan. It is the Pamir region. The region accounts for 45 per cent of Tajikistan's territory. Why does China want it? China says that the Pamir has been its part as a part of history.

There is something Beijing wants from Tajikistan. It is the Pamir region. The region accounts for 45 per cent of Tajikistan's territory. Why does China want it? China says that the Pamir has been its part as a part of history. It is something Beijing has said for every territory it tries to annexe. It's China's well-known skill with alternative facts. One Chinese historian recently wrote an article. He said China lost Pamir during the last years of the Qin dynasty. 'Pamir was outside China [for] 128 years due to the pressure of world powers', these are the words of Cho Yau Lu. But the research conducted by us said otherwise. What he is claiming is that 45 per cent of Tajikistan belongs to China. In 2011, China forced Tajikistan to cede 1000 sq km of Pamir land to Beijing. This was 5.5 per cent of the total land China wants to grab. The dragon kept fighting for the remaining 94.5 per cent. In 2019, the Washington Post ran a front-page story on Chinese security presence in the Pamirs. The article quoted a Chinese soldier who said the troops have been in the region for three to four years. He said: “We’ve been here three, four years.” China is trying to buy Pamir by debt-trapping Dushanbe. Tajikistan joined the belt and road initiative in 2017. At least 350 Chinese companies operate in the country. As of this year, Beijing owns over half of Tajikistan's external debt. It is around 35.9 per cent of the country's GDP. In the past, Tajikistan has paid off debts to China by ceding mining rights. China is hoping Pamir maybe next. It is already publishing articles to push this narrative. This article in Baidu points out that China has shelled out 7 billion dollars for Tajikistan. And it hints at a repeat of 2011. 'They returned Pamirs to us because they are grateful for China's help.' It allowed China to build border posts & airports in the Pamir region. This is a lesson for all countries taking Chinese loans.

Now, China eyes Pamir region in Tajikistan

As many as 112 patients succumbed to&nbsp;COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu, the highest single day death so far, taking the toll to 4,461 on Wednesday while 5,175 more people tested positive propelling the case count to 2.73 lakh.

Recoveries outnumbered fresh cases with 6,031 people getting discharged from various hospitals, taking the cumulative recoveries to 2,14,815 as the active cases dropped to 54,184, a government bulletin said.

Those who succumbed to the deadly virus included a man and a woman aged 28 and 90 respectively and in total 104 had co- morbidities and eight without other chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes.

Of the fresh cases, Chennai's share was 1,044 and three nearby districts of Chengelpet, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram together logged in 1,301 cases going well beyond the state capital's count.

Tamil Nadu's case tally touched 2,73,460 and Chennai accounted for 1,05,004.

As many as 61,166 samples were tested on Wednesday and so far 29,53,561 specimens have been examined, the bulletin said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

As many as 112 patients succumbed to COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu, the highest single day death so far, taking the toll to 4,461 on Wednesday while 5,175 more people tested positive propelling the case count to 2.

As many as 112 patients succumbed to COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu, the highest single day death so far, taking the toll to 4,461 on Wednesday while 5,175 more people tested positive propelling the case count to 2.73 lakh. Recoveries outnumbered fresh cases with 6,031 people getting discharged from various hospitals, taking the cumulative recoveries to 2,14,815 as the active cases dropped to 54,184, a government bulletin said. Those who succumbed to the deadly virus included a man and a woman aged 28 and 90 respectively and in total 104 had co- morbidities and eight without other chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Of the fresh cases, Chennai's share was 1,044 and three nearby districts of Chengelpet, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram together logged in 1,301 cases going well beyond the state capital's count. Tamil Nadu's case tally touched 2,73,460 and Chennai accounted for 1,05,004. As many as 61,166 samples were tested on Wednesday and so far 29,53,561 specimens have been examined, the bulletin said. (With inputs from PTI)

112 patients succumb to COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan.

Xi Jinping has another dream to win a football world cup but Chinese football team is a national humiliation and, therefore, Xi Jinping decided to take matters in&nbsp;his own hands.&nbsp;

Here is how the Chinese president is chasing the world cup glory.

Xi hopes to be the world’s most powerful football coach. Even better than the likes of Jose Mourinho or Zinedine Zidane. Xi Jinping is not quitting his day job. But, for quite some time now, the Chinese president has been on a mission. A mission to turn China into a superpower, on the football pitch.

The battle is a personal one. When President Xi was party chief in rural Hebei, he witnessed the trashing of the Chinese side by a British club Watford FC which defeated China’s national team 5-1 in 1983.&nbsp;

Xi hasn’t forgotten the humiliation. So, in 2011, he unveiled the great soccer dream. The Chinese president wants to not just host the football world cup but even lift the trophy one day. With China’s football ambition, the geopolitical power battle is now set to kick off in the stadium too.&nbsp;

With his world cup bid, Xi Jinping will be rubbing shoulders with his good friend Vladimir Putin. Russia had hosted the 2018 world cup with the Russian president attending every game to cheer his side.

The US is an adversary here too. The American women’s national team is the world’s most successful side. China may be able to push its weight around against Russia and the US. But on the football field, China is a non-starter.&nbsp;

The Chinese national side is ranked 76th in the world. It has qualified only once for the world cup, way back in 2002. The talent deficit is quite evident. But the dragon is desperate and is recruiting foreign players into its national side.

In 2019, Nico Yennaris gave up his British passport and moved to Beijing. Yennaris, now known as like, is now a member of the Chinese side.

Others players rejected in the West, are chasing stardom in China now. John Hou Saeter renounced his Norwegian passport to play in China.

Brazil-born strike Elkeson has joined the Chinese team too. Reports say, at least nine foreign footballers have switched their allegiance to be naturalized Chinese citizens. With the recruits, China is targeting world cup qualification once again.

The world is still gripped by the Wuhan virus but football has resumed in China with the national team starting practice. Xi Jinping wants to transform China into a great soccer nation but he must first know the score... Or he'll end up with more embarrassment.

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan.

Xi Jinping has many dreams. The dreams to make China a superpower. Put the middle kingdom at the centre of global commerce and to take back the breakaway province of Taiwan. Xi Jinping has another dream to win a football world cup but Chinese football team is a national humiliation and, therefore, Xi Jinping decided to take matters in his own hands. Here is how the Chinese president is chasing the world cup glory. Xi hopes to be the world’s most powerful football coach. Even better than the likes of Jose Mourinho or Zinedine Zidane. Xi Jinping is not quitting his day job. But, for quite some time now, the Chinese president has been on a mission. A mission to turn China into a superpower, on the football pitch. The battle is a personal one. When President Xi was party chief in rural Hebei, he witnessed the trashing of the Chinese side by a British club Watford FC which defeated China’s national team 5-1 in 1983. Xi hasn’t forgotten the humiliation. So, in 2011, he unveiled the great soccer dream. The Chinese president wants to not just host the football world cup but even lift the trophy one day. With China’s football ambition, the geopolitical power battle is now set to kick off in the stadium too. With his world cup bid, Xi Jinping will be rubbing shoulders with his good friend Vladimir Putin. Russia had hosted the 2018 world cup with the Russian president attending every game to cheer his side. The US is an adversary here too. The American women’s national team is the world’s most successful side. China may be able to push its weight around against Russia and the US. But on the football field, China is a non-starter. The Chinese national side is ranked 76th in the world. It has qualified only once for the world cup, way back in 2002. The talent deficit is quite evident. But the dragon is desperate and is recruiting foreign players into its national side. In 2019, Nico Yennaris gave up his British passport and moved to Beijing. Yennaris, now known as like, is now a member of the Chinese side. Others players rejected in the West, are chasing stardom in China now. John Hou Saeter renounced his Norwegian passport to play in China. Brazil-born strike Elkeson has joined the Chinese team too. Reports say, at least nine foreign footballers have switched their allegiance to be naturalized Chinese citizens. With the recruits, China is targeting world cup qualification once again. The world is still gripped by the Wuhan virus but football has resumed in China with the national team starting practice. Xi Jinping wants to transform China into a great soccer nation but he must first know the score... Or he'll end up with more embarrassment.

Why Xi Jinping's dream to conquer the soccer world will just fall short

Terrorists opened fire on a security forces deployment in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. The terrorists opened fire on security personnel in the COVID-19 containment deployment at Sangloo bridge in Shopian district this morning, a police official said.

Terrorists opened fire on a security forces deployment in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. The terrorists opened fire on security personnel in the COVID-19 containment deployment at Sangloo bridge in Shopian district this morning, a police official said. He said there was no report of any damage caused, adding that the militants escaped from the spot. In another incident, the security forces detected an improvised explosive device (IED) in a tin can at Youniso in Handwara area of Kupwara district. A bomb disposal squad has been rushed to the spot to defuse the explosive, the official added.

Terrorists open fire on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian

Sri Lanka is heading for parliamentary polls today, August 5. There is a lot at stake in these elections being held in middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic. There are 16 million registered voters in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna is the political party with the highest stake in these elections.

The party is led by the Rajapaksa brothers -- President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and caretaker Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaska. Rajapaksa brothers are looking at is a 2/3rd majority in the parliament.

Sri Lanka does not have the tradition of opinion polls but experts say the opposition currently looks pretty fractured. There is the United National Party by former prime minister Wickremesinghe. Its breakaway group SJN s being led by Sajith Premadasa. There are smaller parties like Tamil National Alliance and the NPP.

The Lankan parliament has 225 seats and the election will be held under proportional representation system.

196 members will be elected from 22 electoral districts. The remaining 29 parliamentarians will be appointed based on each party's cumulative votes tally. 
&nbsp; 
The Rajapaksa brothers will go ahead and make constitutional changes if they win the polls. They would look at repealing the 19th amendment- which had reduced the power of the lankan president. Gotabaya Rajapaksa veiws this as a hurdle. 
&nbsp; 
It could mean the end of road for those seeking justice for war crime. Gotabaya is surrounded by current and former members of the Lanka military. Many of them are accused of war time abuses during the Lankan civil war. A 2/3rd majority in favour of the Rajapaksa could spell bad news for the minorities. While Gotabaya Rajapaksa won the presidential elections promising a united Lanka, he has walked in the opposite direction ever since.

The voters have been instructed to wear masks,carry their pens and maintaint physical distancing.

The votes will be counted on Thursday.

Polling booths will open at 7 am local time and voting will go on till 5 pm.

The counting will take place on Thursday. This is the first election since the 1970s when the counting has veen deferred to the next day... 
If Mahinda Rajapaksa wins, the brothers will be able to chnage the lankan constitution.

Sri Lanka is heading for parliamentary polls today, August 5. There is a lot at stake in these elections being held in middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic. There are 16 million registered voters in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is heading for parliamentary polls today, August 5. There is a lot at stake in these elections being held in middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic. There are 16 million registered voters in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna is the political party with the highest stake in these elections. The party is led by the Rajapaksa brothers -- President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and caretaker Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaska. Rajapaksa brothers are looking at is a 2/3rd majority in the parliament. Sri Lanka does not have the tradition of opinion polls but experts say the opposition currently looks pretty fractured. There is the United National Party by former prime minister Wickremesinghe. Its breakaway group SJN s being led by Sajith Premadasa. There are smaller parties like Tamil National Alliance and the NPP. The Lankan parliament has 225 seats and the election will be held under proportional representation system. 196 members will be elected from 22 electoral districts. The remaining 29 parliamentarians will be appointed based on each party's cumulative votes tally. The Rajapaksa brothers will go ahead and make constitutional changes if they win the polls. They would look at repealing the 19th amendment- which had reduced the power of the lankan president. Gotabaya Rajapaksa veiws this as a hurdle. It could mean the end of road for those seeking justice for war crime. Gotabaya is surrounded by current and former members of the Lanka military. Many of them are accused of war time abuses during the Lankan civil war. A 2/3rd majority in favour of the Rajapaksa could spell bad news for the minorities. While Gotabaya Rajapaksa won the presidential elections promising a united Lanka, he has walked in the opposite direction ever since. The voters have been instructed to wear masks,carry their pens and maintaint physical distancing. The votes will be counted on Thursday. Polling booths will open at 7 am local time and voting will go on till 5 pm. The counting will take place on Thursday. This is the first election since the 1970s when the counting has veen deferred to the next day... If Mahinda Rajapaksa wins, the brothers will be able to chnage the lankan constitution.

Sri Lanka to vote today in high-stakes election

Young people must curb their party instincts to help prevent new outbreaks of the COVID-19 disease, officials at the World Health Organization (WHO) pleaded on Wednesday.

Young people must curb their party instincts to help prevent new outbreaks of the COVID-19 disease, officials at the World Health Organization (WHO) pleaded on Wednesday. Tired of lockdowns and eager to enjoy the northern hemisphere summer, young people in some countries have been contributing to resurgences by gathering again for parties, barbecues and holidays. Even in Geneva, where the global UN health body is based, cabarets and clubs were closed last week after evidence that nearly half of new cases were coming from there. Also read: COVID-19: Global tally rises to 18,469,834; death toll nears nears 700,000 "Younger people also need to take on board that they have a responsibility," said WHO emergencies chief and father-of-three Mike Ryan in an online discussion. "Ask yourself the question: do I really need to go to that party?" Young people are less likely to suffer a severe form of the respiratory disease than their parents or grandparents, but the proportion of those infected aged 15-24 has risen three-fold in about five months, WHO data shows. Ryan said young people were often reticent in giving their details or disclosing friends' names to contact tracers. "It's tough but it is what is needed to stop the virus," he said. Swiss newspapers said that in one night club in Zurich from which cases emerged recently, partygoers had given fake names including "Donald Duck". As well as reducing risks to others, WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove said young people should be careful as even a mild version of the disease might have long-term consequences.

'Do you really need to party?' WHO asks world's youth to help prevent new outbreaks

Initial investigations indicate years of inaction and negligence over the storage of highly explosive material in Beirut port caused the blast that killed over 100 people on Tuesday, an official source familiar with the findings said.

Initial investigations indicate years of inaction and negligence over the storage of highly explosive material in Beirut port caused the blast that killed over 100 people on Tuesday, an official source familiar with the findings said. The prime minister and presidency said on Tuesday that 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, used in fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years at the port without safety measures. "It is negligence," the official source told Reuters, adding that the storage safety issue had been before several committees and judges and "nothing was done" to issue an order to remove or dispose of the highly combustible material. Also read: Beirut blasts: Over 100 killed as PM Hassan Diab vows those responsible will 'pay the price The source said a fire had started at warehouse 9 of the port and spread to warehouse 12, where the ammonium nitrate was stored. Tuesday's explosion was the most powerful ever suffered by Beirut, a city is still scarred by civil war three decades ago and reeling from a deep financial crisis rooted in decades of corruption and economic mismanagement. Badri Daher, Director General of Lebanese Customs, told broadcaster LBCI on Wednesday that customs had sent six documents to the judiciary warning that the material posed a danger. "We requested that it be re-exported but that did not happen. We leave it to the experts and those concerned to determine why," Daher said. Another source close to a port employee said a team that inspected the ammonium nitrate six months ago warned that if it was not moved it would "blow up all of Beirut". According to two documents seen by Reuters, Lebanese Customs had asked the judiciary in 2016 and 2017 to ask the "concerned maritime agency" to re-export or approve the sale of the ammonium nitrate, removed from the a cargo vessel, Rhosus, and deposited in warehouse 12, to ensure port safety. One of the documents cited similar requests in 2014 and 2015. Also read: Explosion in Beirut killed more than 100 people, toll expected to go up: Lebanese Red Cross "A local and international investigation needs to be conducted into the incident, given the scale and the circumstances under which these goods were brought into the ports," said Ghassan Hasbani, former deputy prime minister and a member of the Lebanese Forces party. Shiparrested.com, an industry network dealing with legal cases, had said in a 2015 report that the Rhosus, sailing under a Moldovan flag, docked in Beirut in September 2013 when it had technical problems while sailing from Georgia to Mozambique with 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate. It said that, upon inspection, the vessel was forbidden from sailing and shortly afterwards it was abandoned by its owners, leading to various creditors coming forward with legal claims. "Owing to the risks associated with retaining the ammonium nitrate on board the vessel, the port authorities discharged the cargo onto the port's warehouses," it added.

Initial investigations point to negligence as cause of Beirut blast: Source

French President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Beirut Thursday to "meet all political actors" following the blasts that devastated the Lebanese capital Beirut, the French presidency said.

French President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Beirut Thursday to "meet all political actors" following the blasts that devastated the Lebanese capital Beirut, the French presidency said. Macron will meet his counterpart Michel Aoun, whom he called late Tuesday, as well as Prime Minister Hassan Diab, the Elysee announced as France prepared to send three planes with search and rescue personnel and medical equipment to the ravaged city. Macron's office said France would send 55 security personnel to Lebanon and 6 tonnes of health equipment, while around 10 emergency doctors would also fly to Beirut. Also read: Trump promises to assist Lebanon, calls the Beirut explosion an 'attack' "France is always on the side of Lebanon and the Lebanese people. It is ready to offer assistance depending on the needs expressed by Lebanese authorities," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Twitter. Turkey's Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) is helping in the search for survivors, digging through debris to look for people and recover bodies. The group has also mobilised a kitchen at a Palestinian refugee camp to deliver food to those in need, said Mustafa Ozbek, an Istanbul-based IHH official. Also read: Beirut blasts: Over 100 killed as PM Hassan Diab vows those responsible will 'pay the price' "We are providing assistance with one ambulance to transfer patients. We may provide help according to the needs of the hospital," he said. Kuwait, Iran, Russia, Netherlands and Gulf states among those aiding Beirut after the blast.

French President Macron to meet Lebanon counterpart, PM on Thursday

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