Former pope Benedict XVI failed to stop four clergymen accused of child sex abuse in the Catholic Church in Munich, the law firm that carried out a key probe said on Thursday.

The ex-pontiff -- who was the archbishop of Munich and Freising from 1977 to 1982 -- has "strictly" denied any responsibility, said lawyer Martin Pusch of Westpfahl Spilker Wastl which was tasked by the church to carry out the probe.

But the experts do not consider this credible, he added.

Two of the cases involved clergymen who had committed several proven acts of abuse but were allowed to continue with pastoral duties, Pusch said.&nbsp;

An interest in the abuse victims was "not recognisable" in Benedict, he said.&nbsp;

In one case, a now notorious paedophile priest named Peter Hullermann was transferred to Munich from Essen in western Germany where he had been accused of abusing an 11-year-old boy.

Hullermann was reassigned to pastoral duties despite his history.

In 1986, by which time Benedict had been transferred to the Vatican, he was convicted of molesting more children and given a suspended prison sentence.

Even after the conviction, he continued to work with children for many years and his case is regarded as a pertinent example of the mishandling of abuse by the Church.

The ex-pope has denied knowing about the priest's history, but the lawyers said they were now convinced this was not the case.

Pusch said the pope emeritus had initially shown an "defensive attitude" when responding to questions for the report. However, he later changed his attitude and gave a detailed written statement.

Cardinal Reinhard Marx, the current archbishop of Munich and Freising, was also found to have failed to act in two cases of suspected abuse. 
&nbsp;

Former pope Benedict XVI failed to stop four clergymen accused of child sex abuse in the Catholic Church in Munich, the law firm that carried out a key probe said on Thursday.

Former pope Benedict XVI failed to stop four clergymen accused of child sex abuse in the Catholic Church in Munich, the law firm that carried out a key probe said on Thursday. The ex-pontiff -- who was the archbishop of Munich and Freising from 1977 to 1982 -- has "strictly" denied any responsibility, said lawyer Martin Pusch of Westpfahl Spilker Wastl which was tasked by the church to carry out the probe. But the experts do not consider this credible, he added. Two of the cases involved clergymen who had committed several proven acts of abuse but were allowed to continue with pastoral duties, Pusch said. An interest in the abuse victims was "not recognisable" in Benedict, he said. In one case, a now notorious paedophile priest named Peter Hullermann was transferred to Munich from Essen in western Germany where he had been accused of abusing an 11-year-old boy. Hullermann was reassigned to pastoral duties despite his history. In 1986, by which time Benedict had been transferred to the Vatican, he was convicted of molesting more children and given a suspended prison sentence. Even after the conviction, he continued to work with children for many years and his case is regarded as a pertinent example of the mishandling of abuse by the Church. The ex-pope has denied knowing about the priest's history, but the lawyers said they were now convinced this was not the case. Pusch said the pope emeritus had initially shown an "defensive attitude" when responding to questions for the report. However, he later changed his attitude and gave a detailed written statement. Cardinal Reinhard Marx, the current archbishop of Munich and Freising, was also found to have failed to act in two cases of suspected abuse.

Ex-pope Benedict accused of inaction in abuse cases

A 26-year-old Muslim woman in Pakistan was sentenced to death over a 'blasphemous' WhatsApp status which had&nbsp;caricatures of Prophet Mohammed. A court issued a summary that said that Aneeqa Ateeq (26) was arrested in May 2020. She was charged&nbsp;with posting 'blasphemous material' as&nbsp;her WhatsApp status.

Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, and laws prohibitting it can carry a potential death sentence -- although it has never been enforced for the crime.

The court said that when a friend asked the woman to change the status, she instead forwarded the material to him. The woman was also handed a 20-year jail sentence.&nbsp;

Islam forbids caricatures of Prophet Mohammed.

Up to 80 people are known to be jailed in Pakistan on blasphemy charges -- half of whom face life in prison or the death penalty -- according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.

While many cases involve Muslims accusing fellow Muslims, rights activists have warned that religious minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores.

In December, a Sri Lankan factory manager working in Pakistan was beaten to death and set ablaze by a mob after being accused of blasphemy.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 26-year-old Muslim woman in Pakistan was sentenced to death over a 'blasphemous' WhatsApp status which had caricatures of Prophet Mohammed. A court issued a summary that said that Aneeqa Ateeq (26) was arrested in May 2020.

A 26-year-old Muslim woman in Pakistan was sentenced to death over a 'blasphemous' WhatsApp status which had caricatures of Prophet Mohammed. A court issued a summary that said that Aneeqa Ateeq (26) was arrested in May 2020. She was charged with posting 'blasphemous material' as her WhatsApp status. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, and laws prohibitting it can carry a potential death sentence -- although it has never been enforced for the crime. The court said that when a friend asked the woman to change the status, she instead forwarded the material to him. The woman was also handed a 20-year jail sentence. Islam forbids caricatures of Prophet Mohammed. Up to 80 people are known to be jailed in Pakistan on blasphemy charges -- half of whom face life in prison or the death penalty -- according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom. While many cases involve Muslims accusing fellow Muslims, rights activists have warned that religious minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores. In December, a Sri Lankan factory manager working in Pakistan was beaten to death and set ablaze by a mob after being accused of blasphemy. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: 26-year-old woman given death sentence over 'blasphemous' WhatsApp status

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week.&nbsp;Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24). However, he warned that Omicron variant of coronavirus was not mild and those not vaccinated should especially take care.

He announced the lifting of Plan B Covid restrictions and a switch back to Plan A

Johnson also told the British parliament that people would not have to wear masks in closed spaces, while working from home and would not have to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;vaccination proof while&nbsp;entering public spaces such as nightclubs, shops or while using public transport.

Moreover, he said that masks will not be mandatory in UK schools Thursday onwards.

Johnson said that these steps were&nbsp;being taken after a successful&nbsp;mass booster jab programme in the country.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/opposition-mocks-downing-street-parties-calls-for-pm-boris-johnsons-resignation-grows-louder-446091/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Many nations across Europe have endured further winter lockdowns... but this government took a different path," Johnson told lawmakers, saying the government had got the toughest decisions right and that numbers going into intensive care were falling.

"Our scientists believe it is likely that the Omicron wave has now peaked nationally... because of the extraordinary booster campaign, together with the way the public have responded to the Plan B measures, we can return to Plan A."

Boris Johnson is currently facing a lot of political heat over 'partygate'. British people, as well as lawmakers, have Johnson under pressure over the 'BYOB' party held at his residence 10, Downing Street.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-year-old-girl-hilariously-trolls-johnson-over-partygate-netizens-hail-future-uk-pm-445878">5-year-old girl hilariously trolls Johnson over ‘partygate’, netizens hail 'future UK PM’</a> 
 
The anger is palpable as common citizens were under strict lockdown last year when the party took place on the lavish garden of the prime ministerial residence. About 100 people were in attendance.

Boris Johnson has apologised in the parliament but has explicitly refused to step down.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week. Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24).

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week. Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24). However, he warned that Omicron variant of coronavirus was not mild and those not vaccinated should especially take care. He announced the lifting of Plan B Covid restrictions and a switch back to Plan A Johnson also told the British parliament that people would not have to wear masks in closed spaces, while working from home and would not have to provide vaccination proof while entering public spaces such as nightclubs, shops or while using public transport. Moreover, he said that masks will not be mandatory in UK schools Thursday onwards. Johnson said that these steps were being taken after a successful mass booster jab programme in the country. × "Many nations across Europe have endured further winter lockdowns... but this government took a different path," Johnson told lawmakers, saying the government had got the toughest decisions right and that numbers going into intensive care were falling. "Our scientists believe it is likely that the Omicron wave has now peaked nationally... because of the extraordinary booster campaign, together with the way the public have responded to the Plan B measures, we can return to Plan A." Boris Johnson is currently facing a lot of political heat over 'partygate'. British people, as well as lawmakers, have Johnson under pressure over the 'BYOB' party held at his residence 10, Downing Street. Also Read | 5-year-old girl hilariously trolls Johnson over ‘partygate’, netizens hail 'future UK PM’ The anger is palpable as common citizens were under strict lockdown last year when the party took place on the lavish garden of the prime ministerial residence. About 100 people were in attendance. Boris Johnson has apologised in the parliament but has explicitly refused to step down. (With inputs from agencies)

Most Covid restrictions in UK to be lifted next week, says PM Boris Johnson

The Covid-19 crisis is continuing to hit jobs hard around the world, the United Nations said Monday, warning it could take years for employment levels to reach pre-pandemic levels.

In a new study, the UN's International Labour Organization revised its previous forecast that the global employment market will make a nearly full recovery from the virus this year.

Blaming the impacts of Covid variants like Delta and Omicron and uncertainty around how the pandemic will evolve, it now projects a significant deficit in working hours in 2022 compared to before Covid-19 emerged.&nbsp;

"Global labour markets are recovering from the crisis much more slowly than we previously expected," ILO chief Guy Ryder told reporters, warning that the outlook "remains fragile."

"We are already seeing potentially lasting damage to labour markets, along with concerning increases in poverty and inequality."

Monday's report predicted that global working hours would be two percent below the numbers seen in 2019, leaving the world short of the equivalent of some 52 million jobs.

Last May, the ILO predicted the working hour shortage would be just half that this year.

At the same time, the global official unemployment rate remains significantly higher than before the pandemic hit.

207 million unemployed

This year, 5.9 percent of workers globally, or some 207 million people, are expected to be officially registered as jobless, which is better than in 2021 and especially 2020, but still up from 186 million in 2019.

The ILO report said the global unemployment rate was projected to remain above the 5.4-percent rate seen before the crisis "until at least 2023".&nbsp;

And it cautioned that the overall impact on employment is significantly greater than what these figures would imply, since many people have left the labour force altogether.

In 2022, the global labour force participation rate is projected to remain 1.2 percentage points below the level three years ago, it said. 
That corresponds to a deficit of some 40 million workers worldwide, ILO said.

Ryder warned that the pandemic had already "weakened the economic, financial and social fabric in almost every country, regardless of development status."

At the same time, the ILO pointed out that differences in vaccine access and in economic recovery measures meant the crisis was impacting groups of workers and countries in vastly different ways.

Unsurprisingly perhaps, the report said labour markets in higher-income countries appeared to be recovering faster, although some were now beginning to face problems related to labour shortages, Ryder said.&nbsp;

'Years to repair'

Numerous factors appear to be driving the so-called "Great Resignation" seen in some countries, Ryder said, adding that the crisis clearly "has led a significant number of people in the workforce to reconsider the employment that they have."&nbsp;

Shifts in the way we work meanwhile seem to be deepening various forms of inequality, including exacerbating gender inequity, according to the report.

It has been clear from the start that the pandemic was disproportionately impacting women, who have taken on the lion's share of the additional care work, and also more often work in hard-hit sectors, like services and travel.

But Ryder cautioned the impact could last well after the pandemic ends.

"There are concerns that the long-Covid effect on gender at work would be a negative one," he said.

Changes like the move towards greater reliance on informal self-employment, the rise in remote work and shifting trends in temporary work, "all risk impairing the quality of working conditions", the report said.

Ryder insisted that only a "broad-based labour market recovery" would allow the world to truly recover from the pandemic.

"To be sustainable, this recovery must be based on the principles of decent work -- including health and safety, equity, social protection and social dialogue,” he said.

The ILO chief cautioned that "without concerted and effective international and domestic policies, it is likely that in many countries it will take years to repair this damage."

The Covid-19 crisis is continuing to hit jobs hard around the world, the United Nations said Monday, warning it could take years for employment levels to reach pre-pandemic levels.

The Covid-19 crisis is continuing to hit jobs hard around the world, the United Nations said Monday, warning it could take years for employment levels to reach pre-pandemic levels. In a new study, the UN's International Labour Organization revised its previous forecast that the global employment market will make a nearly full recovery from the virus this year. Blaming the impacts of Covid variants like Delta and Omicron and uncertainty around how the pandemic will evolve, it now projects a significant deficit in working hours in 2022 compared to before Covid-19 emerged. "Global labour markets are recovering from the crisis much more slowly than we previously expected," ILO chief Guy Ryder told reporters, warning that the outlook "remains fragile." "We are already seeing potentially lasting damage to labour markets, along with concerning increases in poverty and inequality." Monday's report predicted that global working hours would be two percent below the numbers seen in 2019, leaving the world short of the equivalent of some 52 million jobs. Last May, the ILO predicted the working hour shortage would be just half that this year. At the same time, the global official unemployment rate remains significantly higher than before the pandemic hit. 207 million unemployed This year, 5.9 percent of workers globally, or some 207 million people, are expected to be officially registered as jobless, which is better than in 2021 and especially 2020, but still up from 186 million in 2019. The ILO report said the global unemployment rate was projected to remain above the 5.4-percent rate seen before the crisis "until at least 2023". And it cautioned that the overall impact on employment is significantly greater than what these figures would imply, since many people have left the labour force altogether. In 2022, the global labour force participation rate is projected to remain 1.2 percentage points below the level three years ago, it said. That corresponds to a deficit of some 40 million workers worldwide, ILO said. Ryder warned that the pandemic had already "weakened the economic, financial and social fabric in almost every country, regardless of development status." At the same time, the ILO pointed out that differences in vaccine access and in economic recovery measures meant the crisis was impacting groups of workers and countries in vastly different ways. Unsurprisingly perhaps, the report said labour markets in higher-income countries appeared to be recovering faster, although some were now beginning to face problems related to labour shortages, Ryder said. 'Years to repair' Numerous factors appear to be driving the so-called "Great Resignation" seen in some countries, Ryder said, adding that the crisis clearly "has led a significant number of people in the workforce to reconsider the employment that they have." Shifts in the way we work meanwhile seem to be deepening various forms of inequality, including exacerbating gender inequity, according to the report. It has been clear from the start that the pandemic was disproportionately impacting women, who have taken on the lion's share of the additional care work, and also more often work in hard-hit sectors, like services and travel. But Ryder cautioned the impact could last well after the pandemic ends. "There are concerns that the long-Covid effect on gender at work would be a negative one," he said. Changes like the move towards greater reliance on informal self-employment, the rise in remote work and shifting trends in temporary work, "all risk impairing the quality of working conditions", the report said. Ryder insisted that only a "broad-based labour market recovery" would allow the world to truly recover from the pandemic. "To be sustainable, this recovery must be based on the principles of decent work -- including health and safety, equity, social protection and social dialogue,” he said. The ILO chief cautioned that "without concerted and effective international and domestic policies, it is likely that in many countries it will take years to repair this damage."

Pandemic still taking heavy toll on jobs: UN

Four inmates from the Arkansas jail in the USA are suing jail authorities for 'medical experimentation' involving ivermectin to treat Covid. The jail physician Dr Robert Karas has admitted that 254 inmates at the jail had been treated with the drug. The Arkansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed the lawsuit on behalf of the four inmates. Charges have been levelled against Washington county jail, the Washington county sheriff, Tim Helder, and jail physician Dr Robert Karas

The USFDA has previously said that ivermectin should not be used to treat Covid infection. Large doses of ivermectin can even be harmful.

On top of the 'medical experimentation carried out on the inmates, they say that Dr Karas told them that they were being given 'vitamins, antibiotics' and/ or 'steroids'.

“The lawsuit charges the defendants for administering ivermectin to incarcerated individuals without prior informed consent as to the nature, contents, or potential side effects of the drug,” the ACLU said in a statement last week.

The lawsuit says that the inmates suffered side-effects due to large doses of ivermectin. These included vision issues, diarrhea, bloody stools and stomach cramps. The inmates were also made to pay for the medical treatment they sought after experiencing these side effects.

Four inmates from the Arkansas jail in the USA are suing jail authorities for 'medical experimentation' involving ivermectin to treat Covid. The jail physician Dr Robert Karas has admitted that 254 inmates at the jail had been treated with the drug.

Four inmates from the Arkansas jail in the USA are suing jail authorities for 'medical experimentation' involving ivermectin to treat Covid. The jail physician Dr Robert Karas has admitted that 254 inmates at the jail had been treated with the drug. The Arkansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed the lawsuit on behalf of the four inmates. Charges have been levelled against Washington county jail, the Washington county sheriff, Tim Helder, and jail physician Dr Robert Karas The USFDA has previously said that ivermectin should not be used to treat Covid infection. Large doses of ivermectin can even be harmful. On top of the 'medical experimentation carried out on the inmates, they say that Dr Karas told them that they were being given 'vitamins, antibiotics' and/ or 'steroids'. “The lawsuit charges the defendants for administering ivermectin to incarcerated individuals without prior informed consent as to the nature, contents, or potential side effects of the drug,” the ACLU said in a statement last week. The lawsuit says that the inmates suffered side-effects due to large doses of ivermectin. These included vision issues, diarrhea, bloody stools and stomach cramps. The inmates were also made to pay for the medical treatment they sought after experiencing these side effects.

USA: Jailed convicts sue authorities over 'medical experimentation' with ivermectin

Tech giant&nbsp;Microsoft is going to buy Activision Blizzard, the iconic gaming studio that has made genre-defining and immensely popular games like 'Call of Duty', 'Candy Crush Saga' and more. The USD 68.7 billion deal is going to be the biggest deal in the history of gaming industry. Microsoft announced the all-cash deal on Tuesday. This deal is likely to give Microsoft a strong foothold in booming videogame market dominated by major players like Tencent and Sony.

It also represents the American multinational's bet on the "metaverse," virtual online worlds where people can work, play and socialize, as many of its biggest competitors are already doing.&nbsp;

"Gaming is the most dynamic and exciting category in entertainment across all platforms today and will play a key role in the development of metaverse platforms," Microsoft Chief Executive Satya Nadella said.

<img alt="Call of Duty" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7771ae5f-0564-4127-8408-5e9648f723d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2022-01-18T183255Z_1_LYNXMPEI0H0VU_RTROPTP_4_E3-GAMING.JPG" />

Microsoft's offer of $95 per share represents a premium of 45% to Activision's Friday close. Activision's shares were last up 27% at $83.11, still a steep discount to the offer price, reflecting concerns the deal could get stuck in regulators' crosshairs.

Microsoft has so far avoided the type of scrutiny faced by Google and Facebook but this deal, which would make it the world's third largest gaming company, will put the Xbox maker on lawmakers' radars, said Andre Barlow of the law firm Doyle, Barlow &amp; Mazard PLLC.

"Microsoft is already big in gaming," he said.

However, a source familiar with the matter said Microsoft would pay a $3 billion break-fee if the deal falls through, suggesting it is confident of winning antitrust approval.

The tech major's shares were last down 1.3%.

The deal comes at a time of weakness for Activision. Before the deal was announced, its shares had slumped more than 37% since reaching a record high last year, hit by allegations of sexual harassment of employees and misconduct by several top managers.

The company is still addressing those allegations and said on Monday it had fired or pushed out more than three dozen employees and disciplined another 40 since July.

CEO Bobby Kotick, who said Microsoft reached out to him for a possible buyout, would continue to be the CEO of Activision following the deal.

In a conference call with analysts, Microsoft boss Nadella did not directly refer to the scandal but talked about the importance of culture in the company.

"It's critical for Activision Blizzard to drive forward on its renewed cultural commitments," he said, adding "the success of this acquisition will depend on it."

(With inputs from agencies)

Tech giant Microsoft is going to buy Activision Blizzard, the iconic gaming studio that has made genre-defining and immensely popular games like 'Call of Duty', 'Candy Crush Saga' and more.

Tech giant Microsoft is going to buy Activision Blizzard, the iconic gaming studio that has made genre-defining and immensely popular games like 'Call of Duty', 'Candy Crush Saga' and more. The USD 68.7 billion deal is going to be the biggest deal in the history of gaming industry. Microsoft announced the all-cash deal on Tuesday. This deal is likely to give Microsoft a strong foothold in booming videogame market dominated by major players like Tencent and Sony. It also represents the American multinational's bet on the "metaverse," virtual online worlds where people can work, play and socialize, as many of its biggest competitors are already doing. "Gaming is the most dynamic and exciting category in entertainment across all platforms today and will play a key role in the development of metaverse platforms," Microsoft Chief Executive Satya Nadella said. Microsoft's offer of $95 per share represents a premium of 45% to Activision's Friday close. Activision's shares were last up 27% at $83.11, still a steep discount to the offer price, reflecting concerns the deal could get stuck in regulators' crosshairs. Microsoft has so far avoided the type of scrutiny faced by Google and Facebook but this deal, which would make it the world's third largest gaming company, will put the Xbox maker on lawmakers' radars, said Andre Barlow of the law firm Doyle, Barlow & Mazard PLLC. "Microsoft is already big in gaming," he said. However, a source familiar with the matter said Microsoft would pay a $3 billion break-fee if the deal falls through, suggesting it is confident of winning antitrust approval. The tech major's shares were last down 1.3%. The deal comes at a time of weakness for Activision. Before the deal was announced, its shares had slumped more than 37% since reaching a record high last year, hit by allegations of sexual harassment of employees and misconduct by several top managers. The company is still addressing those allegations and said on Monday it had fired or pushed out more than three dozen employees and disciplined another 40 since July. CEO Bobby Kotick, who said Microsoft reached out to him for a possible buyout, would continue to be the CEO of Activision following the deal. In a conference call with analysts, Microsoft boss Nadella did not directly refer to the scandal but talked about the importance of culture in the company. "It's critical for Activision Blizzard to drive forward on its renewed cultural commitments," he said, adding "the success of this acquisition will depend on it." (With inputs from agencies)

Microsoft to buy 'Candy Crush' and 'Call of Duty' maker Activision for USD 69 billion

We've heard of blind dates but neverending dates? That's new. But anything is possible in these crazy times. Picture this, a man and a woman go on a date and bam! There's a Covid lockdown in the city. The couple is then forced to spend the lockdown together. This can quickly become a nightmare if both of them regard each other to be 'swipe left' material. But it can be wonderful if situation is otherwise.

A couple in China's Shaanxi province has decided to get engaged after a turn of fate made them go on a neverending date of sorts

Zhao Xiaoqing, a 28-year-old woman from northern China's Shaanxi province, thought her date in mid-December with a young man living in a different city would be a one-day affair where she would also get to know his family.

Young Chinese in smaller cities and rural communities often rely on family and friends to introduce potential matches and can meet their date's family at the same time.

"I never thought about staying the night, because it's pretty awkward," Zhao Xiaoqing, who was meeting the man for only the second time, told local media Jimu News on Monday.

But authorities in her date's city of Xianyang suddenly ordered a lockdown due to a spike in virus cases, leaving the woman unable to return home. 
The man's parents urged the pair to get engaged after just one week together -- but Zhao said she felt it was "too rushed."

Zhao said she was "not too interested" when she first saw a photograph of the man -- named Zhao Fei -- but later thought he looked better in real life.

Despite the awkward start, the pair began to develop feelings for each other, and have now decided to get engaged.

"We get along very well," Zhao Xiaoqing, who is an online apple trader, told Jimu News.

"I have to sell apples on livestream at his house, but no matter how late it is he's always by my side. I'm very touched by this," she said.

"Our souls are compatible, we get along very well, and both our parents are happy," she said.

The story captured the imagination of online audiences.&nbsp;

But while some swooned over the relentless march of fate, others warned again rushed decisions.

"Then after a year or two you'll get tired of each other and divorce... I've seen too many of these kinds of flash marriages," wrote one.

"Sis, think clearly about this," warned another.&nbsp;

Zhao's story went viral on Chinese social media just days after another pair made headlines for being trapped on a week-long blind date thanks to a Covid lockdown.

Wang, a woman in central China's Henan province, has been stuck in her suitor's apartment since going for a home-cooked meal as their first date in early January.

But romance has not blossomed for Wang, who complained her date was as talkative as a "wooden mannequin".

(With inputs from agencies)

We've heard of blind dates but neverending dates? That's new. But anything is possible in these crazy times. Picture this, a man and a woman go on a date and bam!

We've heard of blind dates but neverending dates? That's new. But anything is possible in these crazy times. Picture this, a man and a woman go on a date and bam! There's a Covid lockdown in the city. The couple is then forced to spend the lockdown together. This can quickly become a nightmare if both of them regard each other to be 'swipe left' material. But it can be wonderful if situation is otherwise. A couple in China's Shaanxi province has decided to get engaged after a turn of fate made them go on a neverending date of sorts Zhao Xiaoqing, a 28-year-old woman from northern China's Shaanxi province, thought her date in mid-December with a young man living in a different city would be a one-day affair where she would also get to know his family. Young Chinese in smaller cities and rural communities often rely on family and friends to introduce potential matches and can meet their date's family at the same time. "I never thought about staying the night, because it's pretty awkward," Zhao Xiaoqing, who was meeting the man for only the second time, told local media Jimu News on Monday. But authorities in her date's city of Xianyang suddenly ordered a lockdown due to a spike in virus cases, leaving the woman unable to return home. The man's parents urged the pair to get engaged after just one week together -- but Zhao said she felt it was "too rushed." Zhao said she was "not too interested" when she first saw a photograph of the man -- named Zhao Fei -- but later thought he looked better in real life. Despite the awkward start, the pair began to develop feelings for each other, and have now decided to get engaged. "We get along very well," Zhao Xiaoqing, who is an online apple trader, told Jimu News. "I have to sell apples on livestream at his house, but no matter how late it is he's always by my side. I'm very touched by this," she said. "Our souls are compatible, we get along very well, and both our parents are happy," she said. The story captured the imagination of online audiences. But while some swooned over the relentless march of fate, others warned again rushed decisions. "Then after a year or two you'll get tired of each other and divorce... I've seen too many of these kinds of flash marriages," wrote one. "Sis, think clearly about this," warned another. Zhao's story went viral on Chinese social media just days after another pair made headlines for being trapped on a week-long blind date thanks to a Covid lockdown. Wang, a woman in central China's Henan province, has been stuck in her suitor's apartment since going for a home-cooked meal as their first date in early January. But romance has not blossomed for Wang, who complained her date was as talkative as a "wooden mannequin". (With inputs from agencies)

Couple on neverending date due to Covid lockdown gets engaged

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told British parliament that most Covid curbs would be lifted next week. The step would give greater freedom to British citizens in public places. Meanwhile, Biden administration is planning to give 400 million N95 masks for free to citizens. The drive would kick into high gear next month. Read this and more in our top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-masks-not-mandatory-in-uk-schools-from-tomorrow-says-boris-johnson-445976">Most Covid restrictions in UK to be lifted next week, says PM Boris Johnson</a> 
 
UK PM Boris Johnson was speaking in British parliament. He said that the step to relax Covid rules is being taken after a successful booster vaccine programme in the country.

<img alt="Johnson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f043cbe0-9d22-4bb5-9fbe-ea2a87515ec4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Johnson_2.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-to-distribute-400-million-covid-n95-masks-for-free-445957">US government to distribute 400 million Covid N95 masks for free</a> 
 
Distribution of free N95 masks in the USA will start as soon as next week and is expected to kick into full gear by February.

<img alt="USA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="41c28a66-4846-4fbd-8c41-becaab361de1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Biden_13.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-make-internet-giants-take-permission-before-raising-funds-investing-446014">China to make internet giants take permission before raising funds, investing</a> 
 
Chinese regulators in almost all sectors of its economy have been increasingly assertive. These rules are likely to increase oversight on internet companies.

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff23e16c-fff6-4ba9-910d-8d3da4092a8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_24.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/upset-at-culling-plans-thousands-of-hong-kongers-volunteer-to-adopt-the-pets-446002">Upset at culling plans, thousands of Hong Kongers volunteer to adopt the pets</a> 
 
Like China, Hong Kong maintains a "zero-Covid" policy, stamping out the merest trace of the virus with contact tracing, mass testing, strict quarantines and prolonged social-distancing rules.

<img alt="Hong Kong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37192c16-f337-4188-a8e4-14d3080a537a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hong%20Kong_2.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-probe-allegations-of-pegasus-spyware-use-against-own-citizens-445997">Israel to probe allegations of Pegasus spyware use against own citizens</a> 
 
There are allegations that Pegasus spyware was used to spy on Israelis who led protests against former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

<img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47c87ae8-ad1e-46c2-bf4a-391bd9c4f1f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pegasus.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-withdraw-from-kazakhstan-as-state-of-emergency-ends-445939">Russian troops withdraw from Kazakhstan as state of emergency ends</a> 
 
Russian troops were sent into Kazakhstan after unprecedented unrest there. The protests had started over the issue of high fuel prices but soon turned violent as protesters stormed government buildings.

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1b1e0f6-3401-4b67-8980-d5645b07ec01" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russia_4.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-inflation-rate-jumps-to-30-year-high-of-54-as-cost-pressures-continue-446027">Britain inflation rate jumps to 30-year high of 5.4% as cost pressures continue</a> 
 
Britain's cost of living crisis worsened in December after inflation jumped to 5.4% – its highest level in almost 30 years – driven by the higher cost of clothes, food and footwear.

<img alt="UK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="390e53e7-c98b-43d8-8116-ece3731ddc57" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/UK_1.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-education-minister-criticised-for-announcing-covid-19-measures-from-ibiza-trip-446017">French education minister criticised for announcing COVID-19 measures from Ibiza trip</a> 
 
Blanquer, who has enraged teachers with a series of protocol changes that sparked a huge protest last week, was speaking from the Spanish island resort of Ibiza, according to the daily, which included a photo of him in his office.

<img alt="France" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c61de3e4-1a10-4bd2-a88f-b1fffc709095" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/France_5.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-restrictions-in-scotland-to-end-on-monday-says-nicola-sturgeon-446009">Omicron restrictions in Scotland to end on Monday, says Nicola Sturgeon</a> 
 
The First Minister said recent figures ‘gives us confidence that we have turned the corner’.

<img alt="Scotland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6f5dd1c-48c9-46da-99ba-6c7b7444955c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Scotland_0.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tonga-volcano-eruption-australia-and-new-zealand-sending-aid-ships-to-tsunami-hit-island-445999">Tonga volcano eruption: Australia and New Zealand sending aid ships to tsunami-hit island</a> 
 
The United Nations said the agency will conduct most operations remotely, and may not send personnel to the island.

<img alt="Tonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03c1fa1b-d429-414a-9f8e-84d03f00ed96" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tonga.JPG" /> 
&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told British parliament that most Covid curbs would be lifted next week. The step would give greater freedom to British citizens in public places.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told British parliament that most Covid curbs would be lifted next week. The step would give greater freedom to British citizens in public places. Meanwhile, Biden administration is planning to give 400 million N95 masks for free to citizens. The drive would kick into high gear next month. Read this and more in our top 10 world news. Most Covid restrictions in UK to be lifted next week, says PM Boris Johnson UK PM Boris Johnson was speaking in British parliament. He said that the step to relax Covid rules is being taken after a successful booster vaccine programme in the country. US government to distribute 400 million Covid N95 masks for free Distribution of free N95 masks in the USA will start as soon as next week and is expected to kick into full gear by February. China to make internet giants take permission before raising funds, investing Chinese regulators in almost all sectors of its economy have been increasingly assertive. These rules are likely to increase oversight on internet companies. Upset at culling plans, thousands of Hong Kongers volunteer to adopt the pets Like China, Hong Kong maintains a "zero-Covid" policy, stamping out the merest trace of the virus with contact tracing, mass testing, strict quarantines and prolonged social-distancing rules. Israel to probe allegations of Pegasus spyware use against own citizens There are allegations that Pegasus spyware was used to spy on Israelis who led protests against former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Russian troops withdraw from Kazakhstan as state of emergency ends Russian troops were sent into Kazakhstan after unprecedented unrest there. The protests had started over the issue of high fuel prices but soon turned violent as protesters stormed government buildings. Britain inflation rate jumps to 30-year high of 5.4% as cost pressures continue Britain's cost of living crisis worsened in December after inflation jumped to 5.4% – its highest level in almost 30 years – driven by the higher cost of clothes, food and footwear. French education minister criticised for announcing COVID-19 measures from Ibiza trip Blanquer, who has enraged teachers with a series of protocol changes that sparked a huge protest last week, was speaking from the Spanish island resort of Ibiza, according to the daily, which included a photo of him in his office. Omicron restrictions in Scotland to end on Monday, says Nicola Sturgeon The First Minister said recent figures ‘gives us confidence that we have turned the corner’. Tonga volcano eruption: Australia and New Zealand sending aid ships to tsunami-hit island The United Nations said the agency will conduct most operations remotely, and may not send personnel to the island.

Top 10 world news: UK Covid curbs to go, US to distribute free masks, and more

Chinese cyberspace regulator has drafted new rules that would require large internet companies to obtain its permission before making investments or undertaking fundraising activities.

The proposed requirements from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) will apply to any platform company with more than 100 million users, or with more than 10 billion yuan ($1.58 billion) in revenue, they said.

Any internet firm involved in sectors named on the negative list issued by China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) last year will also need to apply for approval, said Reuters quoting sources.

Some internet companies have already been briefed, they added, and the draft rules are still subject to changes.

The sources declined to be identified as the information was not yet public. The CAC did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The proposed rules would intensify the oversight from China's increasingly assertive regulators, who have over the past year reined in formerly freewheeling internet giants in areas from dealmaking to their handling of user data.

It was not immediately clear what types of investments or fundraisings could be impacted. One senior technology industry executive said there were concerns whether it would be applied to private market investments, such as pre-IPO private funding rounds.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese cyberspace regulator has drafted new rules that would require large internet companies to obtain its permission before making investments or undertaking fundraising activities.

Chinese cyberspace regulator has drafted new rules that would require large internet companies to obtain its permission before making investments or undertaking fundraising activities. The proposed requirements from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) will apply to any platform company with more than 100 million users, or with more than 10 billion yuan ($1.58 billion) in revenue, they said. Any internet firm involved in sectors named on the negative list issued by China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) last year will also need to apply for approval, said Reuters quoting sources. Some internet companies have already been briefed, they added, and the draft rules are still subject to changes. The sources declined to be identified as the information was not yet public. The CAC did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The proposed rules would intensify the oversight from China's increasingly assertive regulators, who have over the past year reined in formerly freewheeling internet giants in areas from dealmaking to their handling of user data. It was not immediately clear what types of investments or fundraisings could be impacted. One senior technology industry executive said there were concerns whether it would be applied to private market investments, such as pre-IPO private funding rounds. (With inputs from agencies)

China to make internet giants take permission before raising funds, investing

Israel's justice minister on Wednesday said that a full investigation would be carried out into allegations that Pegasus spyware was used to spy on Israeli citizens, including those who protested against former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Pegasus, a surveillance product made by the Israeli firm NSO that can turn a mobile phone into a pocket spying device, has remained a source of global controversy following revelations last year it was used to spy on journalists and dissidents worldwide.&nbsp;

Business daily Cakcalist has alleged that Pegasus was also used by police in Israel to snoop on Israeli citizens who were at the forefront of anti-Netanyahu protests last year. The daily alleges that other Israeli citizens were also spied upon.

Israeli police have firmly denied the report.&nbsp;

Public Security Minister Omar Barlev, a Netanyahu critic who took office as part of a new government that ousted him in June, offered a more nuanced defence.&nbsp;

There was "no practice of wire-tapping or hacking devices by police without a judge's approval", he said.

Israeli security forces have wide leeway to conduct surveillance within Israel with judicial approval.&nbsp;

But Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, an expert at the Israel Democracy Institute think-tank, told AFP "you can't really ask for a court order authorising&nbsp;Pegasus" because Israeli law does not currently permit such invasive surveillance of its citizens.

"It is now clear that the current Protection of Privacy Law is not equipped to cope with today’s reality," she said.&nbsp;

'Balance'?&nbsp;

The justice ministry and State Comptroller's office both said they were looking into the Calcalist reports.&nbsp;

The Privacy Protection Authority, a division of the ministry, said use of Pegasus to monitor Israeli citizens" would constitute a "serious violation of privacy", announcing its investigation.

State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman said Tuesday he would expand his ongoing investigation into law enforcement's use of surveillance technology to include the latest Pegasus allegations.&nbsp;

He would in particular probe "the balance" between the "usefulness" of surveillance tools in investigations and "violations of the right to privacy". 
Justice Minister Gideon Saar, another Netanyahu rival, told parliament Wednesday that he fully backed the probes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's justice minister on Wednesday said that a full investigation would be carried out into allegations that Pegasus spyware was used to spy on Israeli citizens, including those who protested against former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel's justice minister on Wednesday said that a full investigation would be carried out into allegations that Pegasus spyware was used to spy on Israeli citizens, including those who protested against former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Pegasus, a surveillance product made by the Israeli firm NSO that can turn a mobile phone into a pocket spying device, has remained a source of global controversy following revelations last year it was used to spy on journalists and dissidents worldwide. Business daily Cakcalist has alleged that Pegasus was also used by police in Israel to snoop on Israeli citizens who were at the forefront of anti-Netanyahu protests last year. The daily alleges that other Israeli citizens were also spied upon. Israeli police have firmly denied the report. Public Security Minister Omar Barlev, a Netanyahu critic who took office as part of a new government that ousted him in June, offered a more nuanced defence. There was "no practice of wire-tapping or hacking devices by police without a judge's approval", he said. Israeli security forces have wide leeway to conduct surveillance within Israel with judicial approval. But Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, an expert at the Israel Democracy Institute think-tank, told AFP "you can't really ask for a court order authorising Pegasus" because Israeli law does not currently permit such invasive surveillance of its citizens. "It is now clear that the current Protection of Privacy Law is not equipped to cope with today’s reality," she said. 'Balance'? The justice ministry and State Comptroller's office both said they were looking into the Calcalist reports. The Privacy Protection Authority, a division of the ministry, said use of Pegasus to monitor Israeli citizens" would constitute a "serious violation of privacy", announcing its investigation. State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman said Tuesday he would expand his ongoing investigation into law enforcement's use of surveillance technology to include the latest Pegasus allegations. He would in particular probe "the balance" between the "usefulness" of surveillance tools in investigations and "violations of the right to privacy". Justice Minister Gideon Saar, another Netanyahu rival, told parliament Wednesday that he fully backed the probes. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to probe allegations of Pegasus spyware use against own citizens

Kyrgyzstan has borrowed $1.8 billion from China's Export-Import Bank. There are concerns if Kyrgyzstan can pay back these loans. Is Kyrgyzstan caught in China's debt trap? Palki Sharma brings you an exclusive conversation with former Kyrgyz PM Djoomart Otorbaev.

Gravitas: Exclusive: Is Central Asia the new victim of China's debt trap?

The UAE and its partners struck Houthi targets in Yemen - a day after the drone attacks on Abu Dhabi. Did Iran approve this brazen attack by their proxies in Yemen? How will this impact the Yemen civil war? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: The UAE hits back after Houthi drone attack

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.