The Taliban have arrested a prominent Afghan scholar who has openly criticised&nbsp;the group's hardline regime, said a government spokesman. Faizullah Jalal, the professor, has in past made several appearances on TV since the Taliban took power in August 2021. He has fiercely criticised the regime even on social media and has held the Taliban responsible for the economic crisis in the country.

Since returning to power, the Taliban have cracked down on dissent, forcefully dispersing women's rights protests and briefly detaining several Afghan journalists.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted that Jalal had been detained Saturday over statements he made on social media in which he was "trying to instigate people against the system and was playing with the dignity of the people".

"He has been arrested so that others don't make similar senseless comments in the name of being a professor or scholar that harm the dignity of others," he added.

Mujahid shared screenshots of tweets he claimed had been posted by Jalal, which said the Taliban intelligence chief was a stooge of Pakistan, and that the new government considers Afghans as "donkeys".

In one television appearance, Jalal called Taliban spokesman Mohammad Naeem -- who was also participating -- a "calf", a grave insult in Afghanistan. 
Clips of his passionate criticism went viral on social media, sparking concern he risked Taliban retribution.&nbsp;

Jalal's wife Massouda, who once stood as Afghanistan's first woman candidate for the presidency, posted on Facebook that her husband had been arrested by Taliban forces and detained in an unknown location.

"Dr. Jalal has fought and spoken out for justice and the national interest in all his activities pertaining to human rights," she said, as quoted by AFP.

A long-time professor of law and political science at Kabul University, Jalal has long had a reputation as a critic of Afghanistan's leaders.

On Twitter, rights group Amnesty International condemned the arrest of the lecturer "for exercising his freedom of expression and criticising the Taliban", calling for his immediate and unconditional release.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban have arrested a prominent Afghan scholar who has openly criticised the group's hardline regime, said a government spokesman. Faizullah Jalal, the professor, has in past made several appearances on TV since the Taliban took power in August 2021.

The Taliban have arrested a prominent Afghan scholar who has openly criticised the group's hardline regime, said a government spokesman. Faizullah Jalal, the professor, has in past made several appearances on TV since the Taliban took power in August 2021. He has fiercely criticised the regime even on social media and has held the Taliban responsible for the economic crisis in the country. Since returning to power, the Taliban have cracked down on dissent, forcefully dispersing women's rights protests and briefly detaining several Afghan journalists. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted that Jalal had been detained Saturday over statements he made on social media in which he was "trying to instigate people against the system and was playing with the dignity of the people". "He has been arrested so that others don't make similar senseless comments in the name of being a professor or scholar that harm the dignity of others," he added. Mujahid shared screenshots of tweets he claimed had been posted by Jalal, which said the Taliban intelligence chief was a stooge of Pakistan, and that the new government considers Afghans as "donkeys". In one television appearance, Jalal called Taliban spokesman Mohammad Naeem -- who was also participating -- a "calf", a grave insult in Afghanistan. Clips of his passionate criticism went viral on social media, sparking concern he risked Taliban retribution. Jalal's wife Massouda, who once stood as Afghanistan's first woman candidate for the presidency, posted on Facebook that her husband had been arrested by Taliban forces and detained in an unknown location. "Dr. Jalal has fought and spoken out for justice and the national interest in all his activities pertaining to human rights," she said, as quoted by AFP. A long-time professor of law and political science at Kabul University, Jalal has long had a reputation as a critic of Afghanistan's leaders. On Twitter, rights group Amnesty International condemned the arrest of the lecturer "for exercising his freedom of expression and criticising the Taliban", calling for his immediate and unconditional release. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban arrest professor after his fierce criticism of hardline regime 

Chinese state-affiliated media has tweeted a video spoof of James Bond movies apparently aimed at poking fun at British spy agency MI6 and its US counterpart CIA. In its tweet, Xinhua claims, in bold letters, that it is a leaked video.

The video, titled 'No time to die laughing' shows a Chinese actor, referred to as 'agent 0.07 James Pond' and his associate 'Black Window' discussing how they have been asked to focus their spying activities at China.

Dressed elegantly, both of them can be seen sipping champagne in a big mansion and discussing.

The discussion soon becomes one about CIA, and notification of an incoming call sounds.

"Speak of the Devil!" says Pond as he receives the call from CIA.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
*** LEAKED VIDEO *** 
"Secret Meeting" between MI6 Agent 0.07 and the <a href="https://twitter.com/CIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CIA</a> after <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefMI6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChiefMI6</a> Richard Moore made China the agency's top priority. 
Rib-tickling moments... <a href="https://t.co/rd6ZMM3neV">pic.twitter.com/rd6ZMM3neV</a>
— China Xinhua News (@XHNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/XHNews/status/1478312196191014916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The video has been posted less than a month after MI6 chief Richard Moore said that the premier British agency was focussing on China. Moore described China "the single greatest priority" for MI6.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Chinese "James Pond" trivialises concerns about Chinese espionage

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Moore appears to have countered the Chinese attempt at spoofing in a very British manner

"Thank you for your interest (and the unexpected free publicity!). For those able to access the link, you can read the full speech here," he has replied on Xinhua's tweet and has posted a link to his very first public speech

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Thank you for your interest (and the unexpected free publicity!). For those able to access the link, you can read the full speech here: <a href="https://t.co/sXZiTMzJc4">https://t.co/sXZiTMzJc4</a>
— Richard Moore (@ChiefMI6) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefMI6/status/1478828712535728134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Richard Moore is the only publicly acknowledged member of the MI6. In his interview with the BBC he mentioned Russia, Iran, and foreign terrorism as other top concerns

Chinese state-affiliated media has tweeted a video spoof of James Bond movies apparently aimed at poking fun at British spy agency MI6 and its US counterpart CIA.

Chinese state-affiliated media has tweeted a video spoof of James Bond movies apparently aimed at poking fun at British spy agency MI6 and its US counterpart CIA. In its tweet, Xinhua claims, in bold letters, that it is a leaked video. The video, titled 'No time to die laughing' shows a Chinese actor, referred to as 'agent 0.07 James Pond' and his associate 'Black Window' discussing how they have been asked to focus their spying activities at China. Dressed elegantly, both of them can be seen sipping champagne in a big mansion and discussing. The discussion soon becomes one about CIA, and notification of an incoming call sounds. "Speak of the Devil!" says Pond as he receives the call from CIA. *** LEAKED VIDEO *** "Secret Meeting" between MI6 Agent 0.07 and the @CIA after @ChiefMI6 Richard Moore made China the agency's top priority. Rib-tickling moments... pic.twitter.com/rd6ZMM3neV — China Xinhua News (@XHNews) January 4, 2022 × The video has been posted less than a month after MI6 chief Richard Moore said that the premier British agency was focussing on China. Moore described China "the single greatest priority" for MI6. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese "James Pond" trivialises concerns about Chinese espionage Moore appears to have countered the Chinese attempt at spoofing in a very British manner "Thank you for your interest (and the unexpected free publicity!). For those able to access the link, you can read the full speech here," he has replied on Xinhua's tweet and has posted a link to his very first public speech Thank you for your interest (and the unexpected free publicity!). For those able to access the link, you can read the full speech here: https://t.co/sXZiTMzJc4 — Richard Moore (@ChiefMI6) January 5, 2022 × Richard Moore is the only publicly acknowledged member of the MI6. In his interview with the BBC he mentioned Russia, Iran, and foreign terrorism as other top concerns

China spoofs James Bond, MI6 chief welcomes 'free publicity'

United Nation on Thursday urged everyone in Kazakhstan to refrain from violence. The central Asian nation declared nationwide emergency after protests against fuel hike went out of control and subsequent violence even saw people storming government buildings.

UN urged that peaceful solutions must be found.

Alarmed by reports of deadly violence and gun battles in the largest city Almaty, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said lethal force, notably live ammunition, should only be used as a last resort.

She also called for the release of people held solely for exercising their right to peaceful protest.

"People have the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression," Bachelet said in a statement.

"At the same time, protesters, no matter how angry or aggrieved they may be, should not resort to violence against others."&nbsp;

The UN high commissioner for human rights said that that force could only be used by Kazakh authorities if necessary and proportionate.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin

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Live bullets should only be used as a last resort against specific individuals to address an imminent threat of death or serious injury, she said.

Moscow-led troops have arrived to help quell the unrest that has so far left dozens dead and hundreds detained.

Bachelet said the use of force -- including by foreign troops -- to maintain public order should be guided by the standards of international law.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nation on Thursday urged everyone in Kazakhstan to refrain from violence. The central Asian nation declared nationwide emergency after protests against fuel hike went out of control and subsequent violence even saw people storming government buildings.

United Nation on Thursday urged everyone in Kazakhstan to refrain from violence. The central Asian nation declared nationwide emergency after protests against fuel hike went out of control and subsequent violence even saw people storming government buildings. UN urged that peaceful solutions must be found. Alarmed by reports of deadly violence and gun battles in the largest city Almaty, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said lethal force, notably live ammunition, should only be used as a last resort. She also called for the release of people held solely for exercising their right to peaceful protest. "People have the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression," Bachelet said in a statement. "At the same time, protesters, no matter how angry or aggrieved they may be, should not resort to violence against others." The UN high commissioner for human rights said that that force could only be used by Kazakh authorities if necessary and proportionate. Watch | Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin Live bullets should only be used as a last resort against specific individuals to address an imminent threat of death or serious injury, she said. Moscow-led troops have arrived to help quell the unrest that has so far left dozens dead and hundreds detained. Bachelet said the use of force -- including by foreign troops -- to maintain public order should be guided by the standards of international law. (With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan: UN urges all sides to refrain from violence

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element &nbsp;of US policy in the region for the year ahead.

Campbell, at a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace webinar, said President Joe Biden had made clear the United States needs to be instrumental in the framing of economic and commercial engagement and trade practices in the Indo-Pacific as China`s influence grows.

"That`s an area where the United States, indeed, needs to step up its game," Campbell said, adding that the U.S. role must go beyond traditional trade and include digital engagement and technological standard setting.

"We`ve got to make clear that not only are we deeply engaged diplomatically, militarily, comprehensively, strategically – that we have an open, engaged, optimistic approach to commercial interactions, investment in the Indo Pacific," Campbell said.

"I think we well understand inside the Biden administration that 2022 will be about these engagements comprehensively across the region," he said, without providing specifics.

US-China relations have sunk to their lowest point in decades. US President Joe Biden has sought to leverage ties with allies and partners to counter what Washington sees as increasing economic and military coercion by Beijing.

His administration has touted its so-called AUKUS pact, under which the United States and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines - as well as leader-level summits between the United States, Australia, India and Japan - as evidence that US partnerships are causing China "heartburn."

But some Indo-Pacific countries, many of which count China as their largest trading partner, have lamented what they see as lacking US economic engagement, especially after former President Donald Trump backed away from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element of US policy in the region for the year ahead.

White House Indo-Pacific co-ordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday that increased economic engagement in Asia would be a key element of US policy in the region for the year ahead. Campbell, at a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace webinar, said President Joe Biden had made clear the United States needs to be instrumental in the framing of economic and commercial engagement and trade practices in the Indo-Pacific as China`s influence grows. "That`s an area where the United States, indeed, needs to step up its game," Campbell said, adding that the U.S. role must go beyond traditional trade and include digital engagement and technological standard setting. "We`ve got to make clear that not only are we deeply engaged diplomatically, militarily, comprehensively, strategically – that we have an open, engaged, optimistic approach to commercial interactions, investment in the Indo Pacific," Campbell said. "I think we well understand inside the Biden administration that 2022 will be about these engagements comprehensively across the region," he said, without providing specifics. US-China relations have sunk to their lowest point in decades. US President Joe Biden has sought to leverage ties with allies and partners to counter what Washington sees as increasing economic and military coercion by Beijing. His administration has touted its so-called AUKUS pact, under which the United States and Britain have agreed to help Australia acquire nuclear submarines - as well as leader-level summits between the United States, Australia, India and Japan - as evidence that US partnerships are causing China "heartburn." But some Indo-Pacific countries, many of which count China as their largest trading partner, have lamented what they see as lacking US economic engagement, especially after former President Donald Trump backed away from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade deal. (With inputs from agencies)

US looks to step up economic relations in Indo-Pacific

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday refuted claims that China was tarpping African nations in debt trap by lending huge amounts of loans. Yi said such claims was just a 'narrative' pushed by opponents. He was speaking in Mobasa, Kenya ahead of touring China-funded infrastructure projects in the country.

Wang Yi claimed that Chinese loans to African nations were 'mutually benefiting'. He said that the loans were not a strategy to win diplomatic and commercial concessions

Wang, speaking ahead of touring Beijing-funded infrastructure projects in Kenya, said China's considerable lending to Africa was "mutually benefiting" and not a strategy to extract diplomatic and commercial concessions.

"That is simply not a fact. It is speculation being played out by some with ulterior motives," he told reporters in the Kenyan port city of Mombasa.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hotter-than-the-real-sun-chinas-artificial-sun-sets-massive-record-for-plasma-fusion-442592">Hotter than the real Sun?: China's 'artificial Sun' sets massive record for plasma fusion</a>

"This is a narrative that has been created by those who do not want to see development in Africa. If there is any trap, it is about poverty and underdevelopment," he said, speaking through an interpreter.

Wang's three-nation tour of Eritrea, Kenya and the Comoros follows a trip to Africa by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in November that in part aimed at countering China's growing influence on the continent.

China is Africa's largest trading partner, with direct trade worth over $200 billion (177 billion euros) in 2019, according to official Chinese figures.&nbsp;

China is Kenya's second-largest lender after the World Bank and has funded a number of costly infrastructure projects that have raised concerns about Nairobi taking on more debt than it can afford.

In Mombasa, Wang held a closed-door meeting with a team of government ministers and signed agreements on trade and investment, health, security, climate change and green technology transfer.

He later met President Uhuru Kenyatta and visited the Port of Mombasa, where China is constructing a new $353 million terminal to allow larger oil tankers to berth.

"The visit is a testament to the deepening of relations between the two countries," said Kenya's foreign minister, Raychelle Omamo.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday refuted claims that China was tarpping African nations in debt trap by lending huge amounts of loans. Yi said such claims was just a 'narrative' pushed by opponents.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday refuted claims that China was tarpping African nations in debt trap by lending huge amounts of loans. Yi said such claims was just a 'narrative' pushed by opponents. He was speaking in Mobasa, Kenya ahead of touring China-funded infrastructure projects in the country. Wang Yi claimed that Chinese loans to African nations were 'mutually benefiting'. He said that the loans were not a strategy to win diplomatic and commercial concessions Wang, speaking ahead of touring Beijing-funded infrastructure projects in Kenya, said China's considerable lending to Africa was "mutually benefiting" and not a strategy to extract diplomatic and commercial concessions. "That is simply not a fact. It is speculation being played out by some with ulterior motives," he told reporters in the Kenyan port city of Mombasa. Also Read | Hotter than the real Sun?: China's 'artificial Sun' sets massive record for plasma fusion "This is a narrative that has been created by those who do not want to see development in Africa. If there is any trap, it is about poverty and underdevelopment," he said, speaking through an interpreter. Wang's three-nation tour of Eritrea, Kenya and the Comoros follows a trip to Africa by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in November that in part aimed at countering China's growing influence on the continent. China is Africa's largest trading partner, with direct trade worth over $200 billion (177 billion euros) in 2019, according to official Chinese figures. China is Kenya's second-largest lender after the World Bank and has funded a number of costly infrastructure projects that have raised concerns about Nairobi taking on more debt than it can afford. In Mombasa, Wang held a closed-door meeting with a team of government ministers and signed agreements on trade and investment, health, security, climate change and green technology transfer. He later met President Uhuru Kenyatta and visited the Port of Mombasa, where China is constructing a new $353 million terminal to allow larger oil tankers to berth. "The visit is a testament to the deepening of relations between the two countries," said Kenya's foreign minister, Raychelle Omamo. (With inputs from agencies)

China not trapping African nations in debt, claims foreign minister

Pakistan may have a trouble at hand as the country is witnessing surge in Covid-19 cases caused by the Omicron variant. Major cities are increasingly reporting hundreds of cases of the new variant..

Omicron variant was first detected in Pakistan on December 13 in Karachi. Till yesterday, Lahore had 170 cases of Omicron and Islamabad has 141. Children under the age of fourteen have also got infected with the virus.

Lahore and Karachi have accounted for 60 per cent of the cases found in Pakistan in last 7 days.

On Wednesday, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar expressed worry. He said that Omicron cases were increasing at a "fast pace" in the country. He was speaking at a press conference

Joining him at the presser was Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan.&nbsp;

Asad Umar said, "The masses should avoid crowded places besides also wearing a facemask and adopting other precautionary measures".

He added, "The positivity ratio has reached 8.1 after the emergence of Omicron cases and those living in urban centres will be hurt the most".

Giving examples of the US, UK and South Africa, he spoke of how the surge in the Omicron cases has burdened the hospitals in these countries.

He further emphasized the importance of vaccination and said that vaccination can play a significant role in fighting the Omicron wave.He shared his concern on the Omicron variant and said that vaccination will lead to a lesser impact of the Omicron wave, reported ARY News.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan may have a trouble at hand as the country is witnessing surge in Covid-19 cases caused by the Omicron variant. Major cities are increasingly reporting hundreds of cases of the new variant.

Pakistan may have a trouble at hand as the country is witnessing surge in Covid-19 cases caused by the Omicron variant. Major cities are increasingly reporting hundreds of cases of the new variant.. Omicron variant was first detected in Pakistan on December 13 in Karachi. Till yesterday, Lahore had 170 cases of Omicron and Islamabad has 141. Children under the age of fourteen have also got infected with the virus. Lahore and Karachi have accounted for 60 per cent of the cases found in Pakistan in last 7 days. On Wednesday, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar expressed worry. He said that Omicron cases were increasing at a "fast pace" in the country. He was speaking at a press conference Joining him at the presser was Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan. Asad Umar said, "The masses should avoid crowded places besides also wearing a facemask and adopting other precautionary measures". He added, "The positivity ratio has reached 8.1 after the emergence of Omicron cases and those living in urban centres will be hurt the most". Giving examples of the US, UK and South Africa, he spoke of how the surge in the Omicron cases has burdened the hospitals in these countries. He further emphasized the importance of vaccination and said that vaccination can play a significant role in fighting the Omicron wave.He shared his concern on the Omicron variant and said that vaccination will lead to a lesser impact of the Omicron wave, reported ARY News. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron cases on the rise in Pakistan, government advises caution

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday. Cookies and the data used to track users online.

Tech giants like Apple and Amazon have received major flak from regulators over their business practices in Europe. Massive fines have already been slapped and new rules may have far-reaching impact on how they operate in Europe.

The 150-million-euro fine imposed on Google was a record by France's National Commission for Information Technology and Freedom (CNIL), beating a previous cookie-related fine of 100 million euros against the company in December 2020.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/the-metaverses-dark-side-here-come-harassment-and-assaults-442636">The Metaverse’s dark side: Here come harassment and assaults</a>

Facebook was handed a 60-million-euro fine.

"CNIL has determined that the sites facebook.com, google.fr and (Google-owned) youtube.com do not allow users to refuse the use of cookies as simply as to accept them," the regulatory body said.

Facebook and Google have three months to adapt their practices. If they fail to do so, France will impose fines of 100,000 euros per day.

Google told AFP it would change its practices following the ruling.

"In accordance with the expectations of internet users... we are committed to implementing new changes, as well as to working actively with CNIL in response to its decision," the US firm said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cookies are little packets of data that are set up on a user's computer when they visit a website, allowing web browsers to save information about their session.

They are highly valuable for Google and Facebook as ways to personalise advertising -- their primary source of revenue.&nbsp;

But privacy advocates have long pushed back.&nbsp;

Since the European Union passed a 2018 law on personal data, internet companies face stricter rules that oblige them to seek the direct consent of users before installing cookies on their computers.

90 notices issued

CNIL argued that Google, Facebook and YouTube make it very easy to consent to cookies via a single button, whereas rejecting the request requires several clicks.

It had given internet companies until April 2021 to adapt to the tighter privacy rules, warning that they would start facing sanctions after that date.

French newspaper Le Figaro was the first to be sanctioned, receiving a fine of 50,000 euros in July for allowing cookies to be installed by advertising partners without the direct approval of users, or even after they had rejected them.

CNIL said recently that it had sent 90 formal notices to websites since April.

In 2020, it inflicted fines of 100 million and 35 million euros respectively on Google and Amazon for their use of cookies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday.

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday. Cookies and the data used to track users online. Tech giants like Apple and Amazon have received major flak from regulators over their business practices in Europe. Massive fines have already been slapped and new rules may have far-reaching impact on how they operate in Europe. The 150-million-euro fine imposed on Google was a record by France's National Commission for Information Technology and Freedom (CNIL), beating a previous cookie-related fine of 100 million euros against the company in December 2020. Also Read | The Metaverse’s dark side: Here come harassment and assaults Facebook was handed a 60-million-euro fine. "CNIL has determined that the sites facebook.com, google.fr and (Google-owned) youtube.com do not allow users to refuse the use of cookies as simply as to accept them," the regulatory body said. Facebook and Google have three months to adapt their practices. If they fail to do so, France will impose fines of 100,000 euros per day. Google told AFP it would change its practices following the ruling. "In accordance with the expectations of internet users... we are committed to implementing new changes, as well as to working actively with CNIL in response to its decision," the US firm said in a statement. Cookies are little packets of data that are set up on a user's computer when they visit a website, allowing web browsers to save information about their session. They are highly valuable for Google and Facebook as ways to personalise advertising -- their primary source of revenue. But privacy advocates have long pushed back. Since the European Union passed a 2018 law on personal data, internet companies face stricter rules that oblige them to seek the direct consent of users before installing cookies on their computers. 90 notices issued CNIL argued that Google, Facebook and YouTube make it very easy to consent to cookies via a single button, whereas rejecting the request requires several clicks. It had given internet companies until April 2021 to adapt to the tighter privacy rules, warning that they would start facing sanctions after that date. French newspaper Le Figaro was the first to be sanctioned, receiving a fine of 50,000 euros in July for allowing cookies to be installed by advertising partners without the direct approval of users, or even after they had rejected them. CNIL said recently that it had sent 90 formal notices to websites since April. In 2020, it inflicted fines of 100 million and 35 million euros respectively on Google and Amazon for their use of cookies. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook, Google slapped with huge fines in France over 'cookies'

North Korea fired a projectile presumed to be a missile at 8:10 am (2310 GMT). The suspected ballistic missile was fired from inland location over the east coast and into the sea. The first such launch by the Kim Jong-Un regime from October is being seen as the country's resolve to bolster the military to counter an unstable international situation. The latest launch is eliciting reactions from countries

South Korea

South Korean President Moon Jae-In called for dialogue between the two countries. He acknowledged that the launch raised concerns of tensions and damage to inter-Korean relations, and called for North Korea to make sincere efforts for dialogue.

China

China's foreign ministry urged caution and dialogue&nbsp;

Speaking at a regular news conference in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged all parties to "bear in mind the bigger picture", cherish the "hard won" peace and stability on the peninsula and stick to the use of dialogue and consultation to reach political settlement.

Japan

Japanese government leaders condemned North Korea over its suspected missile launch toward the Sea of Japan.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio told reporters that it is regrettable that such action has occurred repeatedly since last year.

He said the government will further reinforce its surveillance of the situation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launches-unidentified-projectile-into-the-sea-442293">North Korea launches unidentified projectile into the sea</a>

Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo said the object is estimated to have flown around 500 kilometers and dropped into the sea outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

He said there have been no reports of damage to Japanese aircraft and ships.

Kishi added that Japan has been coordinating closely with countries such as the United States and South Korea to protect people's lives.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

North Korea fired a projectile presumed to be a missile at 8:10 am (2310 GMT). The suspected ballistic missile was fired from inland location over the east coast and into the sea.

North Korea fired a projectile presumed to be a missile at 8:10 am (2310 GMT). The suspected ballistic missile was fired from inland location over the east coast and into the sea. The first such launch by the Kim Jong-Un regime from October is being seen as the country's resolve to bolster the military to counter an unstable international situation. The latest launch is eliciting reactions from countries South Korea South Korean President Moon Jae-In called for dialogue between the two countries. He acknowledged that the launch raised concerns of tensions and damage to inter-Korean relations, and called for North Korea to make sincere efforts for dialogue. China China's foreign ministry urged caution and dialogue Speaking at a regular news conference in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged all parties to "bear in mind the bigger picture", cherish the "hard won" peace and stability on the peninsula and stick to the use of dialogue and consultation to reach political settlement. Japan Japanese government leaders condemned North Korea over its suspected missile launch toward the Sea of Japan. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio told reporters that it is regrettable that such action has occurred repeatedly since last year. He said the government will further reinforce its surveillance of the situation. Also Read | North Korea launches unidentified projectile into the sea Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo said the object is estimated to have flown around 500 kilometers and dropped into the sea outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. He said there have been no reports of damage to Japanese aircraft and ships. Kishi added that Japan has been coordinating closely with countries such as the United States and South Korea to protect people's lives. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean launch: China urges caution, Japan calls it regrettable

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening.

US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint."

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The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue."

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest</a>

Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook."

The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police.

Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings.

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening. US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint." × The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue." UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern." Also Read | Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook." The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police. Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint

The words 'Made in China' have negative connotations in India as they often come to represent substandard, cheap products that do not last long and are often not worth the price. Nepal Airlines is finding this out the hard way.

The airlines has grounded six Chinese-made aircrafts saying that it is proving to be unaffordable to fly them. China is known to supply sub-standard equipment that requires heavy maintenance.&nbsp;

Nepal Airlines has repeatedly said that the Chinese-made planes were causing heavy losses ever since they were acquired between 2014 and 2018, and that it wants to remove them to stop further losses.

In 2020, board members of Nepal Airlines took the decision to ground the planes which came six years after the first batch landed in Kathmandu.

In total, there were six Chinese aircraft— 2 MA60 and 4 Y12E. One each were given to Nepal in grant. Nepal bought four in a government-to-government agreement. These included 1 MA60 and 3 Y12E, however, Nepal lost one Y12E in an accident in 2018

One of the Nepal Airlines official told WION that functioning of these aircrafts ‘is and will not be profitable for Nepal’.

“We have been facing technical problems in functioning of these aircrafts. The spare parts are not easily available and repairing aircrafts is expensive and time taking. To run these planes, pilots with specific skills are required which we are short of. There are pilots in China but due to language barrier training pilots in Nepal is not possible,” the official who wished to remain anonymous said.

“We did approach China for help but nothing has been initiated from their side yet. The board of directors of Nepal Airlines hold meeting on a daily basis to discuss on training Nepalese pilots but we are yet to take a decision on that,” the source added.

When the deal was signed, Nepal Airlines Corporation did not have any pilots trained to fly the Chinese aircraft. Six years later, situation remains the same.

“It is a different aircraft which requires different training. Being a rare aircraft, there is a small-scale production of spare parts. The warranty period of many spare parts of these aircrafts have&nbsp;expired. Functioning of these aircrafts is and will not be profitable for us but still we are trying to put one aircraft in use as we are responsible to provide service to Nepalese people.”

Nepal's finance ministry owns the planes which are operated by Nepal Airlines.

Nepal Airlines had bought these planes on loan. Since then, the carrier has been struggling to make payments, especially since these aircrafts have not been fully utilized.&nbsp;

As per the deal, the Nepali government has to pay the Chinese side an annual interest rate of 1.5 per cent and a service charge and management expenses amounting to 0.4% of the overall loan amount taken by the Ministry of Finance. The ministry then charges the Nepali carrier 8% annual interest on the amount of the disbursed loan.

Another official of Nepal Airlines informed WION, the carrier is supposed to pay the loan of US $35.1 million to the Ministry of Finance.

China delivered these aircraft from 2014 to 2018 but did nothing to help Nepal in capacity building.&nbsp;

Another official of Nepal Airlines told WION, if planes are not operating then why should the corporation pay the loan.

In November 2011, when the sale for the aircraft began, technical teams from both Bangladesh and Nepal had visited China to inspect the MA60s and Y12s.

While Bangladesh had deemed the aircraft "not suitable", Nepal went ahead and signed an agreement with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) to procure six aircraft.

(With inputs from Saloni Murarka)

The words 'Made in China' have negative connotations in India as they often come to represent substandard, cheap products that do not last long and are often not worth the price.

The words 'Made in China' have negative connotations in India as they often come to represent substandard, cheap products that do not last long and are often not worth the price. Nepal Airlines is finding this out the hard way. The airlines has grounded six Chinese-made aircrafts saying that it is proving to be unaffordable to fly them. China is known to supply sub-standard equipment that requires heavy maintenance. Nepal Airlines has repeatedly said that the Chinese-made planes were causing heavy losses ever since they were acquired between 2014 and 2018, and that it wants to remove them to stop further losses. In 2020, board members of Nepal Airlines took the decision to ground the planes which came six years after the first batch landed in Kathmandu. In total, there were six Chinese aircraft— 2 MA60 and 4 Y12E. One each were given to Nepal in grant. Nepal bought four in a government-to-government agreement. These included 1 MA60 and 3 Y12E, however, Nepal lost one Y12E in an accident in 2018 One of the Nepal Airlines official told WION that functioning of these aircrafts ‘is and will not be profitable for Nepal’. “We have been facing technical problems in functioning of these aircrafts. The spare parts are not easily available and repairing aircrafts is expensive and time taking. To run these planes, pilots with specific skills are required which we are short of. There are pilots in China but due to language barrier training pilots in Nepal is not possible,” the official who wished to remain anonymous said. “We did approach China for help but nothing has been initiated from their side yet. The board of directors of Nepal Airlines hold meeting on a daily basis to discuss on training Nepalese pilots but we are yet to take a decision on that,” the source added. When the deal was signed, Nepal Airlines Corporation did not have any pilots trained to fly the Chinese aircraft. Six years later, situation remains the same. “It is a different aircraft which requires different training. Being a rare aircraft, there is a small-scale production of spare parts. The warranty period of many spare parts of these aircrafts have expired. Functioning of these aircrafts is and will not be profitable for us but still we are trying to put one aircraft in use as we are responsible to provide service to Nepalese people.” Nepal's finance ministry owns the planes which are operated by Nepal Airlines. Nepal Airlines had bought these planes on loan. Since then, the carrier has been struggling to make payments, especially since these aircrafts have not been fully utilized. As per the deal, the Nepali government has to pay the Chinese side an annual interest rate of 1.5 per cent and a service charge and management expenses amounting to 0.4% of the overall loan amount taken by the Ministry of Finance. The ministry then charges the Nepali carrier 8% annual interest on the amount of the disbursed loan. Another official of Nepal Airlines informed WION, the carrier is supposed to pay the loan of US $35.1 million to the Ministry of Finance. China delivered these aircraft from 2014 to 2018 but did nothing to help Nepal in capacity building. Another official of Nepal Airlines told WION, if planes are not operating then why should the corporation pay the loan. In November 2011, when the sale for the aircraft began, technical teams from both Bangladesh and Nepal had visited China to inspect the MA60s and Y12s. While Bangladesh had deemed the aircraft "not suitable", Nepal went ahead and signed an agreement with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) to procure six aircraft. (With inputs from Saloni Murarka)

Nepal grounds six Made-in-China planes, calls them liability

Facebook owner Meta has applied for an opportunity to appeal a British regulator's ruling that Meta should sell Giphy, a popular animated images platform.

Competition Appeal Tribunal said on Wednesday that Meta had lodged an application for review on December. Meta has challenged Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) ruling on six grounds.

The CMA had delivered the ruling on Giphy in November last year. The watchdog had said that Meta's acquisition &nbsp;of the animated graphics startup would hit competition and advertising.

Stuart McIntosh, who headed an inquiry into the buyout, said action was required because the tie-up had already affected competition in the display advertising market.

"Without action, it will also allow Facebook to increase its significant market power in social media even further, through controlling competitors' access to Giphy GIFs," he added.

"By requiring Facebook to sell Giphy we are protecting millions of social media users and promoting competition and innovation in digital advertising."

Meta, which announced the purchase of Giphy for a reported $400 million in May 2020, had said it disagreed with the ruling.

The CMA said the merger would allow Facebook to increase its significant market power by denying or limiting other platforms' access to Giphy GIFs.

It would also deny or limit other social media sites' access to Giphy GIFs, driving more traffic to Facebook-owned sites such as WhatsApp and Instagram, which account for 73 percent of social media user time in Britain.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook owner Meta has applied for an opportunity to appeal a British regulator's ruling that Meta should sell Giphy, a popular animated images platform. Competition Appeal Tribunal said on Wednesday that Meta had lodged an application for review on December.

Facebook owner Meta has applied for an opportunity to appeal a British regulator's ruling that Meta should sell Giphy, a popular animated images platform. Competition Appeal Tribunal said on Wednesday that Meta had lodged an application for review on December. Meta has challenged Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) ruling on six grounds. The CMA had delivered the ruling on Giphy in November last year. The watchdog had said that Meta's acquisition of the animated graphics startup would hit competition and advertising. Stuart McIntosh, who headed an inquiry into the buyout, said action was required because the tie-up had already affected competition in the display advertising market. "Without action, it will also allow Facebook to increase its significant market power in social media even further, through controlling competitors' access to Giphy GIFs," he added. "By requiring Facebook to sell Giphy we are protecting millions of social media users and promoting competition and innovation in digital advertising." Meta, which announced the purchase of Giphy for a reported $400 million in May 2020, had said it disagreed with the ruling. The CMA said the merger would allow Facebook to increase its significant market power by denying or limiting other platforms' access to Giphy GIFs. It would also deny or limit other social media sites' access to Giphy GIFs, driving more traffic to Facebook-owned sites such as WhatsApp and Instagram, which account for 73 percent of social media user time in Britain. (With inputs from agencies)

Meta appeals British regulator's ruling that asked Facebook to sell Giphy

James Webb Space telescope crossed a critical milestone on Tuesday. The space telescope fully deployed its sunshield and took another step towards being humanity most powerful 'eye in the sky'

"All five layers of the sunshield are fully tensioned," said an announcer at the telescope's control center in Baltimore, where team members cheered, a live feed showed.

The tennis court size, kite-shaped apparatus acts like a parasol, ensuring the observatory is kept in the shade so that it is able to detect faint infrared signals from the far reaches of the Universe.

Each of the layers was unfolded one by one over two days.

Because the telescope was too large to fit into a rocket's nose cone in its operational configuration, it had to be transported folded, origami style. Unfurling is a complex and challenging task, the most daunting such deployment NASA has ever attempted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-space-telescope-passes-key-review-ahead-of-fall-launch-396728">James Webb Space Telescope passes key review ahead of fall launch</a>

"When I get asked what keeps you up the most at night, it's the sunshield deployment," Bill Ochs, project manager for Webb, told reporters ahead of the operation.

The most powerful space telescope ever built, Webb blasted off on December 25, and is now more than halfway to its orbital point, a million miles (1.5 million kilometers) from Earth.

Powerful enough to see the first stars and galaxies that formed 13.5 billion years ago, it will give astronomers new insight into the early Universe. Its mission also includes the study of distant planets to determine their origin, evolution, and habitability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explainer-what-is-james-webb-space-telescope-that-is-set-to-be-launched-today-439852">Explainer: What is James Webb Space Telescope&nbsp;</a>

The sunshield will be permanently positioned between the telescope and the Sun, Earth and Moon, with the Sun-facing side built to withstand 230 degrees Fahrenheit (110 degrees Celsius).

Watch |&nbsp;James Webb space telescope launched successfully, NASA happy with initial progress

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/james-webb-space-telescope-launched-successfully-nasa-happy-with-initial-progress-440281/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Each successive layer is cooler than the one below, allowing the telescope's sensitive instruments to operate at -370F.

It is made of lightweight material called Kapton, coated with treated silicon. It also has special "ripstop" seaming to limit damage from meteoroids.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

James Webb Space telescope crossed a critical milestone on Tuesday. The space telescope fully deployed its sunshield and took another step towards being humanity most powerful 'eye in the sky' "All five layers of the sunshield are fully tensioned," said an announcer at the telescope's control center in Baltimore, where team members cheered, a live feed showed.

James Webb Space telescope crossed a critical milestone on Tuesday. The space telescope fully deployed its sunshield and took another step towards being humanity most powerful 'eye in the sky' "All five layers of the sunshield are fully tensioned," said an announcer at the telescope's control center in Baltimore, where team members cheered, a live feed showed. The tennis court size, kite-shaped apparatus acts like a parasol, ensuring the observatory is kept in the shade so that it is able to detect faint infrared signals from the far reaches of the Universe. Each of the layers was unfolded one by one over two days. Because the telescope was too large to fit into a rocket's nose cone in its operational configuration, it had to be transported folded, origami style. Unfurling is a complex and challenging task, the most daunting such deployment NASA has ever attempted. Also read | James Webb Space Telescope passes key review ahead of fall launch "When I get asked what keeps you up the most at night, it's the sunshield deployment," Bill Ochs, project manager for Webb, told reporters ahead of the operation. The most powerful space telescope ever built, Webb blasted off on December 25, and is now more than halfway to its orbital point, a million miles (1.5 million kilometers) from Earth. Powerful enough to see the first stars and galaxies that formed 13.5 billion years ago, it will give astronomers new insight into the early Universe. Its mission also includes the study of distant planets to determine their origin, evolution, and habitability. Also read | Explainer: What is James Webb Space Telescope The sunshield will be permanently positioned between the telescope and the Sun, Earth and Moon, with the Sun-facing side built to withstand 230 degrees Fahrenheit (110 degrees Celsius). Watch | James Webb space telescope launched successfully, NASA happy with initial progress Each successive layer is cooler than the one below, allowing the telescope's sensitive instruments to operate at -370F. It is made of lightweight material called Kapton, coated with treated silicon. It also has special "ripstop" seaming to limit damage from meteoroids. (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb Space Telescope fully deploys sunshield

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