Pharma major Pfizer said on Tuesday that clinical trials showed that its Covid pill drastically reduces probability of hospitalisation and death among at-risk people. The reduction was pegged by the company to be at 90 per cent.

The announcement came as a real-world study from South Africa showed two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 70 percent effective in stopping severe illness from the new variant, a result called encouraging by researchers, though it represents a drop compared to earlier strains.

Data for the new pill, which hasn't yet been authorised anywhere in the world, came from more than 2,200 volunteers, and backed up preliminary findings announced last month.

The American drugmaker said its treatment, called Paxlovid, also held up against the Omicron variant in lab-testing. 
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla told CBS News the drug was a "game changer," and he expected the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to give its green light as soon as this month.

The trial showed that the pill reduced the need for hospitalisation in high-risk adults with Covid-19 by 89 percent if the treatment was given within three days of symptom onset and by 88 percent if given within five days.

Overall, there were 12 deaths in the placebo group, and none in the drug group.

Side-effects were found at comparable rates between the treatment and placebo groups (23 percent and 24 percent, respectively), and were mostly mild.&nbsp;

Paxlovid also reduced the risk of severe disease, as well as the amount of virus detected, in a separate study of people at normal risk -- but the results were on the edge of statistical significance and need further confirmation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pharma major Pfizer said on Tuesday that clinical trials showed that its Covid pill drastically reduces probability of hospitalisation and death among at-risk people.

Pharma major Pfizer said on Tuesday that clinical trials showed that its Covid pill drastically reduces probability of hospitalisation and death among at-risk people. The reduction was pegged by the company to be at 90 per cent. The announcement came as a real-world study from South Africa showed two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 70 percent effective in stopping severe illness from the new variant, a result called encouraging by researchers, though it represents a drop compared to earlier strains. Data for the new pill, which hasn't yet been authorised anywhere in the world, came from more than 2,200 volunteers, and backed up preliminary findings announced last month. The American drugmaker said its treatment, called Paxlovid, also held up against the Omicron variant in lab-testing. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla told CBS News the drug was a "game changer," and he expected the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to give its green light as soon as this month. The trial showed that the pill reduced the need for hospitalisation in high-risk adults with Covid-19 by 89 percent if the treatment was given within three days of symptom onset and by 88 percent if given within five days. Overall, there were 12 deaths in the placebo group, and none in the drug group. Side-effects were found at comparable rates between the treatment and placebo groups (23 percent and 24 percent, respectively), and were mostly mild. Paxlovid also reduced the risk of severe disease, as well as the amount of virus detected, in a separate study of people at normal risk -- but the results were on the edge of statistical significance and need further confirmation. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer claims Covid pill drastically reduces severe infection

Japan's prime minister said on Wednesday that the government had overstated the value of some construction orders received from builders for years, in a blow to the credibility of official statistics widely used by investors and economists.

Officials and analysts said the builders involved were relatively small firms and therefore this practice was likely to have had only a minimal impact on gross domestic product (GDP) figures.

"It is regrettable that such a thing has happened," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said. "The government will examine as soon as possible what steps it can take to avoid such an incident from happening again."

He made the comment in parliament after the Asahi newspaper reported that the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism had been "rewriting" data received from about 12,000 companies since 2013 at a pace of about 10,000 entries per year.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slept-soundly-japans-kishida-assures-he-hasnt-seen-any-ghosts-in-pm-residence-yet-436431">'Slept soundly': Japan's Kishida assures he hasn't seen any ghosts in PM residence yet</a>

Kishida said that "improvements" had been made since January 2020 and that there was no direct impact on GDP data for the fiscal years 2020 and 2021.

However, the news is likely to raise questions about the reliability of data that is a cornerstone for economists and investors looking to understand and forecast trends in the world's third-largest economy.

It is not the first time that issues have been raised about government data. Similar concern was voiced about a flaw in health ministry wage data found in 2018.

"The biggest problem is not the effect on the GDP per se but the damage to reliability of (official) statistics," said Saisuke Sakai, senior economist at Mizuho Research and Technologies.

"We can't help doubting this kind of issue could happen across government ministries," Sakai said.

'UNDER PRESSURE'

The construction orders data combines public and private orders, which in fiscal 2020 totalled roughly 80 trillion yen ($700 billion). The figures also feed into Japan's GDP calculations.

For the construction survey, the ministry collects monthly orders data from building companies through local prefectural authorities.

Companies that fall behind in submitting data often sent in several months' worth of figures at a time. In these instances, the ministry would instruct local authorities to rewrite the orders for the combined months as the figure for the latest, single month.

"We engaged in such a practice to reflect the actual situation regarding orders placed. If we had refused to collect data that way, the number of samples would have dwindled," said a ministry official directly in charge of the data.

The official added that the practice may have begun in around 2000, when the ministry started tracking the data.

"We were under pressure not to reduce samples, even though looking back, this practice was weird."

Furthermore, when an entry was missing from a company, the ministry would put in a tentative figure by taking the average of the orders from the rest of the industry in that month, resulting in double-counting once the missing sum arrived.

Considering Japan has hundreds of thousands of construction companies, the proportion of those concerned was very small, said Akiyoshi Takumori, chief economist at Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management.

"How much influence do they have? The kind of sloppy company which puts out numbers late is probably not big."

Still, Land Minister Tetsuo Saito, a veteran lawmaker of the Komeito party, the smaller of the two ruling coalition parties, confirmed the practice in parliament and said it was "extremely regrettable".

Ministry officials said they had not directly reported the data flaws to Saito's predecessor, Kazuyoshi Akaba.

Asked about the issue, the government's top spokesperson said only that the land ministry had been instructed to analyse "as soon as possible" what had led to the practice.

"We will first wait for the results of that investigation," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters.

Restating data this way, which may have broken the law, continued until January 2020 after the Board of Audit pointed it out to the ministry, the ministry said. It added that the original construction survey forms from before 2019 had already been discarded so it would be hard to restore monthly figures from previous years.

Japan's prime minister said on Wednesday that the government had overstated the value of some construction orders received from builders for years, in a blow to the credibility of official statistics widely used by investors and economists.

Japan's prime minister said on Wednesday that the government had overstated the value of some construction orders received from builders for years, in a blow to the credibility of official statistics widely used by investors and economists. Officials and analysts said the builders involved were relatively small firms and therefore this practice was likely to have had only a minimal impact on gross domestic product (GDP) figures. "It is regrettable that such a thing has happened," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said. "The government will examine as soon as possible what steps it can take to avoid such an incident from happening again." He made the comment in parliament after the Asahi newspaper reported that the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism had been "rewriting" data received from about 12,000 companies since 2013 at a pace of about 10,000 entries per year. Also Read | 'Slept soundly': Japan's Kishida assures he hasn't seen any ghosts in PM residence yet Kishida said that "improvements" had been made since January 2020 and that there was no direct impact on GDP data for the fiscal years 2020 and 2021. However, the news is likely to raise questions about the reliability of data that is a cornerstone for economists and investors looking to understand and forecast trends in the world's third-largest economy. It is not the first time that issues have been raised about government data. Similar concern was voiced about a flaw in health ministry wage data found in 2018. "The biggest problem is not the effect on the GDP per se but the damage to reliability of (official) statistics," said Saisuke Sakai, senior economist at Mizuho Research and Technologies. "We can't help doubting this kind of issue could happen across government ministries," Sakai said. 'UNDER PRESSURE' The construction orders data combines public and private orders, which in fiscal 2020 totalled roughly 80 trillion yen ($700 billion). The figures also feed into Japan's GDP calculations. For the construction survey, the ministry collects monthly orders data from building companies through local prefectural authorities. Companies that fall behind in submitting data often sent in several months' worth of figures at a time. In these instances, the ministry would instruct local authorities to rewrite the orders for the combined months as the figure for the latest, single month. "We engaged in such a practice to reflect the actual situation regarding orders placed. If we had refused to collect data that way, the number of samples would have dwindled," said a ministry official directly in charge of the data. The official added that the practice may have begun in around 2000, when the ministry started tracking the data. "We were under pressure not to reduce samples, even though looking back, this practice was weird." Furthermore, when an entry was missing from a company, the ministry would put in a tentative figure by taking the average of the orders from the rest of the industry in that month, resulting in double-counting once the missing sum arrived. Considering Japan has hundreds of thousands of construction companies, the proportion of those concerned was very small, said Akiyoshi Takumori, chief economist at Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management. "How much influence do they have? The kind of sloppy company which puts out numbers late is probably not big." Still, Land Minister Tetsuo Saito, a veteran lawmaker of the Komeito party, the smaller of the two ruling coalition parties, confirmed the practice in parliament and said it was "extremely regrettable". Ministry officials said they had not directly reported the data flaws to Saito's predecessor, Kazuyoshi Akaba. Asked about the issue, the government's top spokesperson said only that the land ministry had been instructed to analyse "as soon as possible" what had led to the practice. "We will first wait for the results of that investigation," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters. Restating data this way, which may have broken the law, continued until January 2020 after the Board of Audit pointed it out to the ministry, the ministry said. It added that the original construction survey forms from before 2019 had already been discarded so it would be hard to restore monthly figures from previous years.

Japan overstated some construction order data for years, PM says

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has said, in a surprising turn of events, that Taliban were invited to Kabul before they took over the capital city. Karzai said that he had invited the Taliban. The group had agreed to wait outside Kabul in order to discuss power-sharing agreement.

US-backed government in Afghanistan fell swiftly after foreign troops left the country. The power was seized by the Taliban on August 15 this year.

"It was a request to come in and protect the population, so that the country, the city doesn't fall into chaos. and the unwanted elements who would probably loot the country, loot shops...," he said in an interview with the Associated Press.

The day the Taliban came into power they told Karzai that government officials should stay in their place and they would not invade. "I and others spoke to various officials and assurances were given to us that, yes, that was the case, that the Americans and the government forces were holding firm to the places [and] that Kabul would not fall," Karzai said.

As negotiations were happening, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and other government officials left the country, in a move that hindered a peaceful transition agreement, said Karzai. He was quoted by Washington-based publication The Hill

The former Afghanistan President, who has been at the helm of humanitarian affairs in Afghanistan, has been holding talks with UN officials and other stakeholders in the country.

Karzai said that the Taliban government must now do all that is necessary within the country to safeguard the interests of all Afghans. 
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is threatening basic rights, with women, girls, and civil society among those most affected.

On Tuesday, a senior UN rights official said that respect for fundamental rights and freedoms by authorities in Afghanistan is critical to ensuring stability in the country.

"How the de facto authorities - indeed, and the international community - address the drastic economic and humanitarian crises in the country will determine Afghans' enjoyment of human rights, now and into the future," said Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, during a press briefing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has said, in a surprising turn of events, that Taliban were invited to Kabul before they took over the capital city. Karzai said that he had invited the Taliban.

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has said, in a surprising turn of events, that Taliban were invited to Kabul before they took over the capital city. Karzai said that he had invited the Taliban. The group had agreed to wait outside Kabul in order to discuss power-sharing agreement. US-backed government in Afghanistan fell swiftly after foreign troops left the country. The power was seized by the Taliban on August 15 this year. "It was a request to come in and protect the population, so that the country, the city doesn't fall into chaos. and the unwanted elements who would probably loot the country, loot shops...," he said in an interview with the Associated Press. The day the Taliban came into power they told Karzai that government officials should stay in their place and they would not invade. "I and others spoke to various officials and assurances were given to us that, yes, that was the case, that the Americans and the government forces were holding firm to the places [and] that Kabul would not fall," Karzai said. As negotiations were happening, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and other government officials left the country, in a move that hindered a peaceful transition agreement, said Karzai. He was quoted by Washington-based publication The Hill The former Afghanistan President, who has been at the helm of humanitarian affairs in Afghanistan, has been holding talks with UN officials and other stakeholders in the country. Karzai said that the Taliban government must now do all that is necessary within the country to safeguard the interests of all Afghans. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is threatening basic rights, with women, girls, and civil society among those most affected. On Tuesday, a senior UN rights official said that respect for fundamental rights and freedoms by authorities in Afghanistan is critical to ensuring stability in the country. "How the de facto authorities - indeed, and the international community - address the drastic economic and humanitarian crises in the country will determine Afghans' enjoyment of human rights, now and into the future," said Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, during a press briefing. (With inputs from agencies)

I invited Taliban to Kabul, says former Afghan president Hamid Karzai

Berlin's metro network has come up with a curious idea to ease travel stress of commuters. It is selling edible tickets laced with hemp oil. hemp is cannabis grown for medicinal use.

"This way you can travel hassle-free around Berlin all day and then simply swallow your Christmas stress along with your ticket," said public transport operator BVG, known for its quirky marketing stunts.

The hemp tickets cost 8.80 euros (USD 9.95). The tickets have been made of edible paper. BVG says the edible paper has been sprinkled with "no more than three drops" of hemp oil.

They are valid for 24 hours and are "completely legal", the company said.

"Hemp oil is 100 percent vegetarian and also makes an excellent salad dressing," it added, suggesting that customers may like to wash their tickets down with one of Berlin's famous doner kebabs.&nbsp;

The new German government, sworn in last week, has agreed to legalise recreational use of cannabis.

But BVG said it was "against any kind of drug use -- whether illegal or legal. That is why there is a strict ban on drugs and alcohol in all BVG vehicles and stations."

In 2018, hundreds of people braved long early-morning queues when BVG launched a limited-edition pair of Adidas sneakers that also functioned as an annual metro ticket.

Retailing at 180 euros, the shoes bearing the design of seat covers on Berlin's U-Bahn trains were fitted with an annual ticket normally worth 761 euros.

(With inputs from agencies)

Berlin's metro network has come up with a curious idea to ease travel stress of commuters. It is selling edible tickets laced with hemp oil. hemp is cannabis grown for medicinal use.

Berlin's metro network has come up with a curious idea to ease travel stress of commuters. It is selling edible tickets laced with hemp oil. hemp is cannabis grown for medicinal use. "This way you can travel hassle-free around Berlin all day and then simply swallow your Christmas stress along with your ticket," said public transport operator BVG, known for its quirky marketing stunts. The hemp tickets cost 8.80 euros (USD 9.95). The tickets have been made of edible paper. BVG says the edible paper has been sprinkled with "no more than three drops" of hemp oil. They are valid for 24 hours and are "completely legal", the company said. "Hemp oil is 100 percent vegetarian and also makes an excellent salad dressing," it added, suggesting that customers may like to wash their tickets down with one of Berlin's famous doner kebabs. The new German government, sworn in last week, has agreed to legalise recreational use of cannabis. But BVG said it was "against any kind of drug use -- whether illegal or legal. That is why there is a strict ban on drugs and alcohol in all BVG vehicles and stations." In 2018, hundreds of people braved long early-morning queues when BVG launched a limited-edition pair of Adidas sneakers that also functioned as an annual metro ticket. Retailing at 180 euros, the shoes bearing the design of seat covers on Berlin's U-Bahn trains were fitted with an annual ticket normally worth 761 euros. (With inputs from agencies)

Berlin metro is selling edible hemp tickets for 'calming effect' on travellers

As Omicron continues to spread, some European countries are rushing to vaccinate kids. In Netherlands, primary schools will be shut. Hungary, Greece, Spain and Germany have begun vaccinating kids. In other news Chinese President Xi Jinping thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for resisting attempts to undermine China-Russia relations. Indian origin Leena Nair has been named CEO of Chanel. Read this and more in Top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-battles-to-vaccinate-kids-as-eu-chief-warns-omicron-could-become-dominant-variant-437171">Europe battles to vaccinate kids as EU chief warns Omicron could become dominant variant</a> 
 
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that the Omicron variant should not be dismissed as 'mild' as Europe battles a new COVID-19 wave.

<img alt="Europe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0488e9e3-5c12-4292-9ee1-201d49b38b46" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Europe.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-thanks-putin-for-standing-against-attempts-to-undermine-china-russia-relations-437021">Xi thanks Putin for standing against attempts to undermine China-Russia relations</a> 
 
Following separate meetings with President Biden in recent weeks, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are attending a virtual summit today.

<img alt="Jinping" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2f4203c-f761-400c-aeca-13520d9ed922" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jinping.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-leena-nair-named-global-ceo-of-french-fashion-group-chanel-437061">Indian-origin Leena Nair named global CEO of French fashion group Chanel</a> 
 
Nair, who is a British nationalist, will join Chanel by the end of January next year and will be based in London, the group said.

<img alt="Nair" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4f07551-1411-49c3-9b33-7a0b2d69c86b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nair.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-allows-vaccinated-non-citizens-to-enter-amid-omicron-threat-437153">Australia allows vaccinated non-citizens to enter amid Omicron threat</a> 
 
The reopening comes even as Sydney in New South Wales recorded 800 new COVID-19 cases.

<img alt="Melbourne" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f185c6c-2330-48fc-8ece-c034bcc37988" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Melbourne.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-10-years-in-power-a-look-back-at-his-reign-in-north-korea-437013">Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea</a>

<img alt="Kim Jong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cf6279d-7803-4051-b829-63b30eea695b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Korea.PNG" />

Unlike most of his contemporaries, Kim has no qualms about elections or term limits, and with his age on his side (he is just in his late 30s), he may expect to stay in government for decades if his health holds up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-cases-may-reach-parity-with-delta-by-mid-december-uk-health-agency-437127">Omicron cases may reach parity with Delta by mid-December: UK health agency</a> 
 
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said AstraZeneca and Pfizer-BioNTech provided much "lower levels of protection against symptomatic infection" compared to Delta.

<img alt="Omicron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6d76f5a9-669d-482b-9e7d-7eac8a2b4fe3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Omicron_0.PNG" />

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Northern Kenya has gotten less than 30% of typical rainfall since September.The lack of rain has wreaked havoc on the region's biodiversity, aggravated food and water shortages, and pushed cattle to the edge of extinction.

<img alt="Kenya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f7f1f5e6-6a84-4119-a0e4-ba0d930e2c3d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kenya.PNG" />&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-all-set-to-get-first-ever-female-police-commissioner-437114">New York all set to get first-ever female police commissioner</a> 
 
Keechant Sewell will also be only the third Black person to lead the New York Police Department (NYPD).

<img alt="New York" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a56a28f0-8c5e-4383-b363-97a56c58be02" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20York.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tesla-hit-by-string-of-sexual-harassment-lawsuits-6-women-file-complaints-437090">Tesla hit by string of sexual harassment lawsuits: 6 women file complaints</a> 
 
These latest complaints were filed less than a month after two other women brought similar claims against the corporation.

<img alt="Tesla" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b5cf436-d6e4-4f08-84f4-87aaac12107c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tesla.PNG" />&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dad-gives-4-year-old-son-phone-to-play-he-orders-usd-1139-worth-of-ice-cream-and-cakes-437191">Dad gives 4-year-old son phone to play, he orders USD 1139 worth of ice cream and cakes</a> 
 
A firefighter in Sydney thought handing his phone to his 4-year-old son would be a good way to keep him engaged till he watched daughter's football match. In his words, &nbsp;'steam was coming' out of his ears when he realised what his boy had done

<img alt="Ice Cream" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a63c563f-1b65-4ee3-931e-ef8c35888419" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ice%20cream.PNG" />

As Omicron continues to spread, some European countries are rushing to vaccinate kids. In Netherlands, primary schools will be shut. Hungary, Greece, Spain and Germany have begun vaccinating kids.

As Omicron continues to spread, some European countries are rushing to vaccinate kids. In Netherlands, primary schools will be shut. Hungary, Greece, Spain and Germany have begun vaccinating kids. In other news Chinese President Xi Jinping thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for resisting attempts to undermine China-Russia relations. Indian origin Leena Nair has been named CEO of Chanel. Read this and more in Top 10 world news. Europe battles to vaccinate kids as EU chief warns Omicron could become dominant variant WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that the Omicron variant should not be dismissed as 'mild' as Europe battles a new COVID-19 wave. Xi thanks Putin for standing against attempts to undermine China-Russia relations Following separate meetings with President Biden in recent weeks, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are attending a virtual summit today. Indian-origin Leena Nair named global CEO of French fashion group Chanel Nair, who is a British nationalist, will join Chanel by the end of January next year and will be based in London, the group said. Australia allows vaccinated non-citizens to enter amid Omicron threat The reopening comes even as Sydney in New South Wales recorded 800 new COVID-19 cases. Kim Jong Un's 10 years in power: A look back at his reign in North Korea Unlike most of his contemporaries, Kim has no qualms about elections or term limits, and with his age on his side (he is just in his late 30s), he may expect to stay in government for decades if his health holds up. Omicron cases may reach parity with Delta by mid-December: UK health agency UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said AstraZeneca and Pfizer-BioNTech provided much "lower levels of protection against symptomatic infection" compared to Delta. Drought in Kenya: Horrific images show dead giraffes who starved to death Northern Kenya has gotten less than 30% of typical rainfall since September.The lack of rain has wreaked havoc on the region's biodiversity, aggravated food and water shortages, and pushed cattle to the edge of extinction. New York all set to get first-ever female police commissioner Keechant Sewell will also be only the third Black person to lead the New York Police Department (NYPD). Tesla hit by string of sexual harassment lawsuits: 6 women file complaints These latest complaints were filed less than a month after two other women brought similar claims against the corporation. Dad gives 4-year-old son phone to play, he orders USD 1139 worth of ice cream and cakes A firefighter in Sydney thought handing his phone to his 4-year-old son would be a good way to keep him engaged till he watched daughter's football match. In his words, 'steam was coming' out of his ears when he realised what his boy had done

Top 10 World News: Europe vaccinates kids, Leena Nair named Chanel CEO, more

Are you sad? Have an ice cream. Is your mood all bad? Eat a cake.

Many of us know the obvious connection between happy mood and some sweet stuff. These things really change our mood and give us a few moments of bliss before life decides to hit you again.

Nothing wrong to indulge sometimes. But a mammoth order of ice creams and cake did nothing to uplift an Australian man's mood because his son had spent more than 1000 dollars on it. In his words, 'steam was coming' out of his ears when he realised what his four-year-old boy had done.

Kris King, who lives in Sudney, gave his smartphone to his son Christian to keep him busy as he watched his daughter's football match.

"Something's on the way," said Christian to his dad who probably ignored it as child talk.

Minutes later King's wife got a call from UberEats driver about delivery. King family ordered food often so this probably didn't seem unusal until mom realised what her dear child had done.

Christian had spent USD 1139 to order cakes and ice-cream. The order was so long that Kris had to flick the screen 30 times to see the complete list.

On display in the UberEats delivery car was fine assortment of sweets.

Christian had ordered 99 cakes which included 'two of the tiramisu, two of the mushroom cake, the chocolate log' among others. These were his favorite cakes.

The boy wasn't choosing randomly while ordering.

In addition to this, he ordered multiple tubs of gelato ice-cream. These were 8-9 tubs of 1.5 litre ice cream.

Kris King works as a firefighter. His boy ordered the sweets on the address of the fire station where firefighters promptly put the sweets in fridge.

What was to be a huge hole in King's pocket turned out to be a close shave. After hearing what had happened. UberEats agreed to make a refund.

Are you sad? Have an ice cream. Is your mood all bad? Eat a cake. Many of us know the obvious connection between happy mood and some sweet stuff. These things really change our mood and give us a few moments of bliss before life decides to hit you again.

Are you sad? Have an ice cream. Is your mood all bad? Eat a cake. Many of us know the obvious connection between happy mood and some sweet stuff. These things really change our mood and give us a few moments of bliss before life decides to hit you again. Nothing wrong to indulge sometimes. But a mammoth order of ice creams and cake did nothing to uplift an Australian man's mood because his son had spent more than 1000 dollars on it. In his words, 'steam was coming' out of his ears when he realised what his four-year-old boy had done. Kris King, who lives in Sudney, gave his smartphone to his son Christian to keep him busy as he watched his daughter's football match. "Something's on the way," said Christian to his dad who probably ignored it as child talk. Minutes later King's wife got a call from UberEats driver about delivery. King family ordered food often so this probably didn't seem unusal until mom realised what her dear child had done. Christian had spent USD 1139 to order cakes and ice-cream. The order was so long that Kris had to flick the screen 30 times to see the complete list. On display in the UberEats delivery car was fine assortment of sweets. Christian had ordered 99 cakes which included 'two of the tiramisu, two of the mushroom cake, the chocolate log' among others. These were his favorite cakes. The boy wasn't choosing randomly while ordering. In addition to this, he ordered multiple tubs of gelato ice-cream. These were 8-9 tubs of 1.5 litre ice cream. Kris King works as a firefighter. His boy ordered the sweets on the address of the fire station where firefighters promptly put the sweets in fridge. What was to be a huge hole in King's pocket turned out to be a close shave. After hearing what had happened. UberEats agreed to make a refund.

Dad gives 4-year-old son phone to play, he orders USD 1139 worth of ice cream and cakes

At least 60&nbsp;people have lost their lives in a gas tanker explosion in Haitian city of Cap-Haitien. The blast took place on Tuesday morning as per local time.

"I saw on the scene between 50 and 54 people burned alive," Deputy Mayor Patrick Almonor said. "It is impossible to identify them."

He later said that the death toll had increased to 60

Almonor also said "about 20" houses in the area were set ablaze by the explosion.&nbsp;

"We can't yet give details on the number of people inside the houses," he said.

Haiti is in the midst of a severe fuel shortage as gangs have seized gas lines. 
 
Haitian authorities searched for victims of a fuel truck explosion, amid accusations that surrounding villagers attempted to steal fuel from the vehicle before it exploded.

On Tuesday, hundreds of people remained at the blast site, including stunned neighbours searching for loved ones among the ruined homes and workers attempting to disassemble the burned remnants of the truck for scrap metal.&nbsp;

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Fuel tank explodes killing at least 40 in the city of Cap-Haitien – dozens injured in blast.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haiti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haiti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/explosion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#explosion</a> <a href="https://t.co/hWi36wSCTs">pic.twitter.com/hWi36wSCTs</a>
— shahinur (@shahinu_r) <a href="https://twitter.com/shahinu_r/status/1470749596674494464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(The video above has not been independently verified by WION.)

Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste quoted Patrick Almonor of the Cap-Haitien municipal commission as saying, "Local residents were flocking to the truck when the explosion occurred."

Severe fuel shortages in recent months have left many Haitians desperate to ensure supplies of gasoline.

Earlier, rescue workers loaded bodies covered in white sheets onto trucks to be taken away. The blast damaged nearby houses and shops and destroyed motorbikes and cars.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry visited the Justinien University Hospital, where most of the victims are being treated. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

At least 60 people have lost their lives in a gas tanker explosion in Haitian city of Cap-Haitien. The blast took place on Tuesday morning as per local time. "I saw on the scene between 50 and 54 people burned alive," Deputy Mayor Patrick Almonor said.

At least 60 people have lost their lives in a gas tanker explosion in Haitian city of Cap-Haitien. The blast took place on Tuesday morning as per local time. "I saw on the scene between 50 and 54 people burned alive," Deputy Mayor Patrick Almonor said. "It is impossible to identify them." He later said that the death toll had increased to 60 Almonor also said "about 20" houses in the area were set ablaze by the explosion. "We can't yet give details on the number of people inside the houses," he said. Haiti is in the midst of a severe fuel shortage as gangs have seized gas lines. Haitian authorities searched for victims of a fuel truck explosion, amid accusations that surrounding villagers attempted to steal fuel from the vehicle before it exploded. On Tuesday, hundreds of people remained at the blast site, including stunned neighbours searching for loved ones among the ruined homes and workers attempting to disassemble the burned remnants of the truck for scrap metal. Fuel tank explodes killing at least 40 in the city of Cap-Haitien – dozens injured in blast.#Haiti #explosion pic.twitter.com/hWi36wSCTs — shahinur (@shahinu_r) December 14, 2021 × (The video above has not been independently verified by WION.) Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste quoted Patrick Almonor of the Cap-Haitien municipal commission as saying, "Local residents were flocking to the truck when the explosion occurred." Severe fuel shortages in recent months have left many Haitians desperate to ensure supplies of gasoline. Earlier, rescue workers loaded bodies covered in white sheets onto trucks to be taken away. The blast damaged nearby houses and shops and destroyed motorbikes and cars. Prime Minister Ariel Henry visited the Justinien University Hospital, where most of the victims are being treated. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti: At least 60 dead in gas tanker explosion

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was listed as 8th most admired man in the world as per an international survey carried out by YouGov. Former US President Barack Obama has retained his position at the top.

For this survey, 42,000 people from 38 countries were asked who they admired most.

Barack Obama continued to maintain his position at number 1. He had dethroned Bill Gates last year. Among women, Michelle Obama bagged the top spot. Microsoft founder and one of the richest persons in the world Bill Gates is in second spot among men while Chinese President Xi Jinping is on third place.

Men's list has many sportspersons in top 20. Football stars Christiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are in 4th and 7th spots respectively. Messi has been the biggest gainer among men as he rose from 11th spot to 7th. Other sportspersons in top 20 include Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan. Sachin Tendulkar leads this pack at number 12.

Indian movie stars have also found a place on the list Shahrukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan are at 14th and 15th places respectively.

Among women, Angelina Jolie and UK's Queen Elizabeth have followed Michelle Obama in rankings. Women's list has been dominated by actresses and singers. After Jolie, Scarlett Johansson is at number 5, followed by Emma Watson and Taylor Swift. Germany's former chancellor Angela Merkel is in 8th spot. Priyanka Chopra is at number 10. Chopra and Afghan activist Malala Yousafzai have climbed the farthest in the list.

List of most admired men has been dominated by those in political, business and sporting backgrounds. Women's list has more actresses, TV presenters and singers.

 
&nbsp;

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was listed as 8th most admired man in the world as per an international survey carried out by YouGov. Former US President Barack Obama has retained his position at the top.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was listed as 8th most admired man in the world as per an international survey carried out by YouGov. Former US President Barack Obama has retained his position at the top. For this survey, 42,000 people from 38 countries were asked who they admired most. Barack Obama continued to maintain his position at number 1. He had dethroned Bill Gates last year. Among women, Michelle Obama bagged the top spot. Microsoft founder and one of the richest persons in the world Bill Gates is in second spot among men while Chinese President Xi Jinping is on third place. Men's list has many sportspersons in top 20. Football stars Christiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are in 4th and 7th spots respectively. Messi has been the biggest gainer among men as he rose from 11th spot to 7th. Other sportspersons in top 20 include Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan. Sachin Tendulkar leads this pack at number 12. Indian movie stars have also found a place on the list Shahrukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan are at 14th and 15th places respectively. Among women, Angelina Jolie and UK's Queen Elizabeth have followed Michelle Obama in rankings. Women's list has been dominated by actresses and singers. After Jolie, Scarlett Johansson is at number 5, followed by Emma Watson and Taylor Swift. Germany's former chancellor Angela Merkel is in 8th spot. Priyanka Chopra is at number 10. Chopra and Afghan activist Malala Yousafzai have climbed the farthest in the list. List of most admired men has been dominated by those in political, business and sporting backgrounds. Women's list has more actresses, TV presenters and singers.

Narendra Modi among most admired global personalities, Obama tops list

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace. This had made approaching the Sun a giant problem because human spacecraft made of any known material was feared to promptly melt , making the mission &nbsp;useless. But NASA's Parker Solar Probe has opened a new frontier for science by entering Corona, the atmosphere of the Sun.

What is Corona?

Corona is the solar atmosphere. It is an envelope around the Sun in which the material given off by the Sun is more bound to the Sun. Outside the Corona, the solar material is sent in space in the form of Solar wind at high speeds. Scientists do not yet fully know the reason behind this disparity fully.

Why do we study solar atmosphere?

As much as it supports life on Earth, Sun in unforgiving to anything that is in its vicinity without proper protection. Solar material is constantly ejected from the Sun at extremely high speeds. This is called Solar Wind. It is capable of making million-dollar satellites a piece of junk. Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field shields all life on the surface but same isn't always true about satellites revolving around Earth.

We do not fully know why solar wind is sent out at very high speeds from Sun. It originates from Sun's atmosphere (the Corona). Understanding solar atmosphere may make us protect our spacecrafts and satellites better. 
When was Parker solar probe launched?

NASA launched Parker solar probe in August 2018. The probe went around the Sun several times, the orbit reducing each time. The end goal was to enter the corona. During its 8th revolution around the Sun in April 2021, Parker solar probe entered the Corona

What did Parker solar probe find inside solar atmosphere?

<img alt="Corona" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c43dffa1-7b43-4b93-a208-4f64e650f4e6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/corona.PNG" />

(Solar particles inside corona (left) are more bound to the Sun. Outside Corona they are ejected as Solar Wind. Image: NASA)

The instruments of the probe found that as the craft entered Corona, there was marked difference in the extent to which solar material was projected out in space. Outside Corona, the material was more readily sent out. But inside it was more bound to the Sun. At this time, the probe was 8 million kms away from solar surface.

As the probe entered corona, it also found that magnetic field of the Sun grew much stronger.

What now?

Parker probe's achievements has been nothing short of a 'dream come true' in words of NASA scientists quoted by the agency in its reports. Mankind had dreamed of knowing more about the Sun for millennia at least. NASA publicly declared its ambition of sending a probe to the Sun in the 50s. Parker solar probe's achievement has been a result of decades of patient research and resolute, steady scientific progress towards the goal. Something that was unimaginable has been achieved.

Who knows? We may even develop technology that will allow us to venture even closer to our very own star.

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace.

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace. This had made approaching the Sun a giant problem because human spacecraft made of any known material was feared to promptly melt , making the mission useless. But NASA's Parker Solar Probe has opened a new frontier for science by entering Corona, the atmosphere of the Sun. What is Corona? Corona is the solar atmosphere. It is an envelope around the Sun in which the material given off by the Sun is more bound to the Sun. Outside the Corona, the solar material is sent in space in the form of Solar wind at high speeds. Scientists do not yet fully know the reason behind this disparity fully. Why do we study solar atmosphere? As much as it supports life on Earth, Sun in unforgiving to anything that is in its vicinity without proper protection. Solar material is constantly ejected from the Sun at extremely high speeds. This is called Solar Wind. It is capable of making million-dollar satellites a piece of junk. Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field shields all life on the surface but same isn't always true about satellites revolving around Earth. We do not fully know why solar wind is sent out at very high speeds from Sun. It originates from Sun's atmosphere (the Corona). Understanding solar atmosphere may make us protect our spacecrafts and satellites better. When was Parker solar probe launched? NASA launched Parker solar probe in August 2018. The probe went around the Sun several times, the orbit reducing each time. The end goal was to enter the corona. During its 8th revolution around the Sun in April 2021, Parker solar probe entered the Corona What did Parker solar probe find inside solar atmosphere? (Solar particles inside corona (left) are more bound to the Sun. Outside Corona they are ejected as Solar Wind. Image: NASA) The instruments of the probe found that as the craft entered Corona, there was marked difference in the extent to which solar material was projected out in space. Outside Corona, the material was more readily sent out. But inside it was more bound to the Sun. At this time, the probe was 8 million kms away from solar surface. As the probe entered corona, it also found that magnetic field of the Sun grew much stronger. What now? Parker probe's achievements has been nothing short of a 'dream come true' in words of NASA scientists quoted by the agency in its reports. Mankind had dreamed of knowing more about the Sun for millennia at least. NASA publicly declared its ambition of sending a probe to the Sun in the 50s. Parker solar probe's achievement has been a result of decades of patient research and resolute, steady scientific progress towards the goal. Something that was unimaginable has been achieved. Who knows? We may even develop technology that will allow us to venture even closer to our very own star.

The other Corona: Know about the Sun's atmosphere 'touched' by a man-made probe for the first time

When President Biden met his Indonesian counterpart, Joko Widodo, last month in Glasgow, he praised Indonesia’s “essential” leadership in the Indo-Pacific and “strong commitment” to democratic values.

But the reality of American engagement with the world’s third-most-populous democracy has been more tepid than these warm words imply, belying Indonesia’s position as the leading Southeast Asian power and a vital balancing force in the geopolitical contest of our time between the United States and China.

The Biden administration has spent much of its first year in office shoring up support among allies and partners who share Washington’s concerns about Beijing but were bruised by four years of Donald Trump. That period of reassurance was important and necessary. But if the real goal of strategic competition with China is to ensure a “free and open Indo-Pacific” — rather than pursuing great-power competition for its own sake — America cannot rely on a few fast friends who share its worldview.

Washington needs to move closer to nonaligned, and sometimes quarrelsome, emerging powers like Indonesia and help them become less reliant on China.

A proud nation of 275 million people, Indonesia jealously guards its autonomy in international affairs, knowing full well how damaging foreign interventions can be — from colonial rule to violent coups and uprisings supported by America in the 1950s and ’60s.

Indonesia established an “independent and active” foreign policy after declaring independence from the Netherlands in 1945. It still refuses to sign alliances with any other powers, is a committed member of the Non-Aligned Movement and reacts angrily to perceived threats to its sovereignty.

Relations with Washington have seesawed over the decades. The United States ended a lengthy period of confrontation with Sukarno, Indonesia’s founding president, by backing his ouster and propelling the rise of Suharto, a taciturn general who ruled as a dictator for 32 years until 1998. But the Indonesian government soured on Washington because it felt that President Bill Clinton had pressured Indonesia to accept a punishing I.M.F. bailout in 1998 and later grant an independence referendum to East Timor.

Today, Indonesia maintains close ties with U.S. adversaries Russia and Iran. And there’s its growing relationship with China. Under President Joko, known as Jokowi, China has become one of Indonesia’s biggest investors, spending billions of dollars on new highways, power plants and a high-speed rail line. It also provided Indonesia with around 80 percent of its Covid-19 vaccines.

While Indonesia cooperates with the United States on military, counterterrorism and development programs, it also is wary about new American security initiatives in the region — like the AUKUS partnership, which aims to equip neighboring Australia with nuclear-powered submarines.

Now is the perfect time for Washington and its allies to woo Indonesia. The goal should not be to peel Indonesia away from China but to support Mr. Joko’s plans for economic and social development — he is looking to cement his legacy before he’s due to step down in 2024 — and help the country become an alternative pole of strength to challenge the emerging sense in Asia that China alone holds the keys to the region’s future.

So far, Washington has shown limited ambition for boosting the relationship with Indonesia. Despite warnings over Beijing’s growing strategic leverage with Jakarta, it has yet to come up with significant economic counterweights.

But closer relations with China don’t mean that Mr. Joko is choosing a side in great-power competition. Rather, he is approaching foreign policy with the practicality of the furniture factory owner and mayor he used to be, willing to work with whoever can help him meet core objectives — like boosting the economy.

Kurt Campbell, who leads Indo-Pacific policy in the White House, once told me that if you ranked the countries most important to the United States but least understood, Indonesia would be first. The world’s fourth-most-populous nation, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation and the world’s largest archipelago nation: Generating interest in Indonesia usually requires a list of superlatives.

Between domestic issues and a long list of foreign policy challenges to address, it seems that Indonesia is falling off the agenda again, even as the Biden administration starts to step up in Southeast Asia. The president’s interim national security strategic guidance, released in March, name-checked Singapore and Vietnam, which support U.S. pushback against China, as important Southeast Asian partners, but not Indonesia.

When Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made separate trips to Southeast Asia earlier this year, they skipped Indonesia — which The Jakarta Post, the country’s leading English language newspaper, called a “snub.”

The good news is that Mr. Joko does not bear grudges. While writing his first English-language political biography, I watched him work with all comers to get what he wants, from street hawkers to billionaires to hard-line Islamist preachers.

A planned visit to Jakarta this week by Secretary of State Antony Blinken is a much-needed corrective to earlier oversights. But one trip does not build a relationship, especially when Chinese ministers have had more regular face-to-face contact with Indonesian counterparts. The Biden administration should use this visit to kick-start a sustained charm offensive to bring the world’s third-largest democracy closer.

Much like Mr. Biden, Mr. Joko is a doer, not a thinker. So the United States should concentrate on areas of practical cooperation with Indonesia — like trade and investment, financing for Jakarta’s plans to curb coal-fired power and deforestation, and greater support for Indonesia’s Covid-19 vaccination campaign.

Helping Indonesia emerge from the economic and health crisis spurred by the pandemic will win favor with Mr. Joko while reducing his reliance on Beijing. Supporting Indonesia’s recovery also will bolster the argument that democracy — not authoritarianism — can deliver for developing countries in Asia.

If the Biden administration wants to dispel China’s line that Washington is an unreliable, declining power, then its proposed Indo-Pacific economic framework, due early next year, must bring real heft. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia merits its own special attention too.

A stronger, wealthier, democratic Indonesia won’t always agree with the United States — but it will add a critical counterweight to China in Asia.

When President Biden met his Indonesian counterpart, Joko Widodo, last month in Glasgow, he praised Indonesia’s “essential” leadership in the Indo-Pacific and “strong commitment” to democratic values.

When President Biden met his Indonesian counterpart, Joko Widodo, last month in Glasgow, he praised Indonesia’s “essential” leadership in the Indo-Pacific and “strong commitment” to democratic values. But the reality of American engagement with the world’s third-most-populous democracy has been more tepid than these warm words imply, belying Indonesia’s position as the leading Southeast Asian power and a vital balancing force in the geopolitical contest of our time between the United States and China. The Biden administration has spent much of its first year in office shoring up support among allies and partners who share Washington’s concerns about Beijing but were bruised by four years of Donald Trump. That period of reassurance was important and necessary. But if the real goal of strategic competition with China is to ensure a “free and open Indo-Pacific” — rather than pursuing great-power competition for its own sake — America cannot rely on a few fast friends who share its worldview. Washington needs to move closer to nonaligned, and sometimes quarrelsome, emerging powers like Indonesia and help them become less reliant on China. A proud nation of 275 million people, Indonesia jealously guards its autonomy in international affairs, knowing full well how damaging foreign interventions can be — from colonial rule to violent coups and uprisings supported by America in the 1950s and ’60s. Indonesia established an “independent and active” foreign policy after declaring independence from the Netherlands in 1945. It still refuses to sign alliances with any other powers, is a committed member of the Non-Aligned Movement and reacts angrily to perceived threats to its sovereignty. Relations with Washington have seesawed over the decades. The United States ended a lengthy period of confrontation with Sukarno, Indonesia’s founding president, by backing his ouster and propelling the rise of Suharto, a taciturn general who ruled as a dictator for 32 years until 1998. But the Indonesian government soured on Washington because it felt that President Bill Clinton had pressured Indonesia to accept a punishing I.M.F. bailout in 1998 and later grant an independence referendum to East Timor. Today, Indonesia maintains close ties with U.S. adversaries Russia and Iran. And there’s its growing relationship with China. Under President Joko, known as Jokowi, China has become one of Indonesia’s biggest investors, spending billions of dollars on new highways, power plants and a high-speed rail line. It also provided Indonesia with around 80 percent of its Covid-19 vaccines. While Indonesia cooperates with the United States on military, counterterrorism and development programs, it also is wary about new American security initiatives in the region — like the AUKUS partnership, which aims to equip neighboring Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Now is the perfect time for Washington and its allies to woo Indonesia. The goal should not be to peel Indonesia away from China but to support Mr. Joko’s plans for economic and social development — he is looking to cement his legacy before he’s due to step down in 2024 — and help the country become an alternative pole of strength to challenge the emerging sense in Asia that China alone holds the keys to the region’s future. So far, Washington has shown limited ambition for boosting the relationship with Indonesia. Despite warnings over Beijing’s growing strategic leverage with Jakarta, it has yet to come up with significant economic counterweights. But closer relations with China don’t mean that Mr. Joko is choosing a side in great-power competition. Rather, he is approaching foreign policy with the practicality of the furniture factory owner and mayor he used to be, willing to work with whoever can help him meet core objectives — like boosting the economy. Kurt Campbell, who leads Indo-Pacific policy in the White House, once told me that if you ranked the countries most important to the United States but least understood, Indonesia would be first. The world’s fourth-most-populous nation, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation and the world’s largest archipelago nation: Generating interest in Indonesia usually requires a list of superlatives. Between domestic issues and a long list of foreign policy challenges to address, it seems that Indonesia is falling off the agenda again, even as the Biden administration starts to step up in Southeast Asia. The president’s interim national security strategic guidance, released in March, name-checked Singapore and Vietnam, which support U.S. pushback against China, as important Southeast Asian partners, but not Indonesia. When Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made separate trips to Southeast Asia earlier this year, they skipped Indonesia — which The Jakarta Post, the country’s leading English language newspaper, called a “snub.” The good news is that Mr. Joko does not bear grudges. While writing his first English-language political biography, I watched him work with all comers to get what he wants, from street hawkers to billionaires to hard-line Islamist preachers. A planned visit to Jakarta this week by Secretary of State Antony Blinken is a much-needed corrective to earlier oversights. But one trip does not build a relationship, especially when Chinese ministers have had more regular face-to-face contact with Indonesian counterparts. The Biden administration should use this visit to kick-start a sustained charm offensive to bring the world’s third-largest democracy closer. Much like Mr. Biden, Mr. Joko is a doer, not a thinker. So the United States should concentrate on areas of practical cooperation with Indonesia — like trade and investment, financing for Jakarta’s plans to curb coal-fired power and deforestation, and greater support for Indonesia’s Covid-19 vaccination campaign. Helping Indonesia emerge from the economic and health crisis spurred by the pandemic will win favor with Mr. Joko while reducing his reliance on Beijing. Supporting Indonesia’s recovery also will bolster the argument that democracy — not authoritarianism — can deliver for developing countries in Asia. If the Biden administration wants to dispel China’s line that Washington is an unreliable, declining power, then its proposed Indo-Pacific economic framework, due early next year, must bring real heft. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia merits its own special attention too. A stronger, wealthier, democratic Indonesia won’t always agree with the United States — but it will add a critical counterweight to China in Asia.

If the US is serious about China competition, it needs Indonesia

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday withdrew his bid for a seat in the country's Senate. The elections are due in 2022. This has come month after he made last-minute entry in the race.

As per the constitution, Duterte (76) is barred from seeking re-election. His decision to file papers for a seat in Senate was seen as his way of maintaining his position in active politics. He faces an international probe into his deadly drug war.

"The President has filed his withdrawal from the Senatorial elections," James Jimenez, spokesman for the Commission on Elections office, said on Twitter.

Duterte decided to withdraw from the May elections to "better focus" on the government's pandemic response and ensure "orderly and peaceful elections", his spokesman Karlo Nograles said.

"After over four decades in public service, the President plans to retire from government to spend more time with his family when his term ends in June 2022," Nograles added, without specifying if Duterte was quitting politics altogether.

The elections will see thousands of candidates contest more than 18,000 posts from president to town councillor.&nbsp;

Duterte said previously he would run for the country's second-highest office, before changing his mind and announcing plans to retire from politics -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts.

His latest withdrawal does not necessarily mean he will exit politics. Under election rules, he has until midday on election day to substitute in for another candidate sharing his surname if they are disqualified or die.&nbsp;

Duterte's daughter Sara is running for vice president while his son Sebastian is contesting the mayoral race in the family's southern stronghold of Davao City.

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday withdrew his bid for a seat in the country's Senate. The elections are due in 2022. This has come month after he made last-minute entry in the race.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday withdrew his bid for a seat in the country's Senate. The elections are due in 2022. This has come month after he made last-minute entry in the race. As per the constitution, Duterte (76) is barred from seeking re-election. His decision to file papers for a seat in Senate was seen as his way of maintaining his position in active politics. He faces an international probe into his deadly drug war. "The President has filed his withdrawal from the Senatorial elections," James Jimenez, spokesman for the Commission on Elections office, said on Twitter. Duterte decided to withdraw from the May elections to "better focus" on the government's pandemic response and ensure "orderly and peaceful elections", his spokesman Karlo Nograles said. "After over four decades in public service, the President plans to retire from government to spend more time with his family when his term ends in June 2022," Nograles added, without specifying if Duterte was quitting politics altogether. The elections will see thousands of candidates contest more than 18,000 posts from president to town councillor. Duterte said previously he would run for the country's second-highest office, before changing his mind and announcing plans to retire from politics -- which was met with deep scepticism among analysts. His latest withdrawal does not necessarily mean he will exit politics. Under election rules, he has until midday on election day to substitute in for another candidate sharing his surname if they are disqualified or die. Duterte's daughter Sara is running for vice president while his son Sebastian is contesting the mayoral race in the family's southern stronghold of Davao City. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippine President Duterte withdraws candidacy from Senate race

A court in Belarus has reportedly sentenced opposition leader Syarhei Tikhanovsky to 18 years in prison. Tikhanovsky had spearheaded protests against Belarus President Lukashenko last year. Meanwhile, two explosions hit Camilo Daza Airport in the city of Cucuta of Colombia. This was a terrorist attack. In other news a gas tanker explosion killed at least 60 in Haiti. Read this and more in Top 10 World News

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-court-sentences-opposition-leader-to-18-years-in-prison-436870">Belarus court sentences opposition leader to 18 years in prison</a> 
 
Syarhei Tikhanovsky's wife Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya who is in exile hit out against the court's decision saying that it was an act of "revenge" by the current government.

<img alt="Belarus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f16d93dd-6113-4f9f-bd51-e57573756e11" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Belarus.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terror-attack-flights-suspended-after-explosions-hit-colombian-airport-say-reports-436879">Terror attack: Flights suspended after explosions hit Colombian airport, say reports</a> 
 
Numerous flights have been suspended after two explosions caused by terrorists hit Camilo Daza Airport in the city of Cucuta on Tuesday. The airport is located in northeastern Colombia near the border with Venezuela. The blasts also damaged several buildings. A person with explosives was also seen near the runway of the airport.

<img alt="Blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="509a5932-ed46-4415-be3e-67a7951218fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Blast.PNG" /> 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-at-least-60-dead-in-gas-tanker-explosion-436878 Death toll is feared to rise">Haiti: At least 60 dead in gas tanker explosion</a>

<img alt="Haiti" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e0b4aa8-7c32-42ba-ae1c-b9469a13bef7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Haiti.PNG" />

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-wion-ground-report-locals-say-they-are-not-allowed-inside-gwadar-cricket-stadium-436910">WATCH | WION Ground Report: Locals say they are not allowed inside Gwadar Cricket Stadium</a> 
 
WION found authorities have built a stadium in Gwadar although people have been crying out for the construction of a university in the city.

<img alt="Wion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27c6049a-7525-46e5-b508-8243773e34b3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Wion.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-spyware-row-nso-may-shut-down-pegasus-unit-436902">Amid spyware row, NSO may shut down Pegasus unit</a> 
 
US government had said that Pegasus spyware allowed foreign governments to 'target dissidents, journalists and activists outside of their sovereign borders to silence dissent," as it moved to blacklist Israel's NSO group.

<img alt="Pegasus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64a0ffa1-42b4-45c7-a075-32121df6571b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NSO.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angry-conservative-mps-can-rebel-against-uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-436920">Angry Conservative MPs can rebel against UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> 
 
They have accused Johnson and his ministers of enforcing 'disproportionate' COVID-19 curbs based on incomplete evidence.

<img alt="Boris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4502ce8c-fb45-4767-8ca8-1f36eb64e52b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Boris%20Johnson.PNG" />

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-how-is-russias-s-500-missile-defence-system-superior-to-s-400-436847">Explainer: How is Russia's S-500 missile defence system superior to S-400?</a> 
 
Russia has already begun the delivery of S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems to India. The S-500 surface-to-air missile defence system can target hypersonic cruise missiles including UAVs.

<img alt="S500" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fc0a02b-be7c-4966-8732-fc10bf59723e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/s500.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diplomacy-is-a-two-way-street-iran-slams-west-for-playing-blame-game-over-2015-nuclear-deal-436877">'Diplomacy is a two-way street': Iran slams West for playing blame game over 2015 nuclear deal</a> 
 
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Washington continues to pursue diplomacy with Iran.

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="142df5da-f0a1-424e-8f70-7b823eda0833" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-deadly-tornadoes-hit-us-state-woman-claims-superman-saved-her-life-436893">When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life</a> 
 
In sort of a rerun of a superhero movie, a woman claims that she was saved by a 'superman' when the deadly tornadoes hit the US state of Kentucky. The woman, Autumn Kirks, was working at the Mayfield candle factory, when the tornadoes struck. Kirks lost her boyfriend Lannis Ward in the natural calamity.

<img alt="Superman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43c4f3b0-3da5-46d0-a221-87bb39e438d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/tornado.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/arctic-region-recorded-highest-temperature-ever-in-2020-says-world-meteorological-organization-436887">Arctic region recorded highest temperature ever in 2020, says World Meteorological Organization</a> 
 
Reflecting on the adverse impact of climate change, the UN agency said devastating fires all across the globe were a driving factor of massive sea ice loss.

<img alt="Arctic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cda0d1fc-602e-46d3-a3e7-f33ea3cde01f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Arctic.PNG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coffee-giant-starbucks-caught-serving-food-with-expired-ingredients-in-china-436853">US coffee giant Starbucks caught serving food with expired ingredients in China</a> 
 
A video of the company's employee replacing an expiration date sticker from a bottle of chocolate sauce has gone viral on China's Twitter-like platform, Weibo

<img alt="Starbucks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a0d8d20-7ad7-4a12-9917-56a464e66926" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Starbucks.PNG" /> 
&nbsp;

A court in Belarus has reportedly sentenced opposition leader Syarhei Tikhanovsky to 18 years in prison. Tikhanovsky had spearheaded protests against Belarus President Lukashenko last year.

A court in Belarus has reportedly sentenced opposition leader Syarhei Tikhanovsky to 18 years in prison. Tikhanovsky had spearheaded protests against Belarus President Lukashenko last year. Meanwhile, two explosions hit Camilo Daza Airport in the city of Cucuta of Colombia. This was a terrorist attack. In other news a gas tanker explosion killed at least 60 in Haiti. Read this and more in Top 10 World News Belarus court sentences opposition leader to 18 years in prison Syarhei Tikhanovsky's wife Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya who is in exile hit out against the court's decision saying that it was an act of "revenge" by the current government. Terror attack: Flights suspended after explosions hit Colombian airport, say reports Numerous flights have been suspended after two explosions caused by terrorists hit Camilo Daza Airport in the city of Cucuta on Tuesday. The airport is located in northeastern Colombia near the border with Venezuela. The blasts also damaged several buildings. A person with explosives was also seen near the runway of the airport. Haiti: At least 60 dead in gas tanker explosion WATCH | WION Ground Report: Locals say they are not allowed inside Gwadar Cricket Stadium WION found authorities have built a stadium in Gwadar although people have been crying out for the construction of a university in the city. Amid spyware row, NSO may shut down Pegasus unit US government had said that Pegasus spyware allowed foreign governments to 'target dissidents, journalists and activists outside of their sovereign borders to silence dissent," as it moved to blacklist Israel's NSO group. Angry Conservative MPs can rebel against UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson They have accused Johnson and his ministers of enforcing 'disproportionate' COVID-19 curbs based on incomplete evidence. Explainer: How is Russia's S-500 missile defence system superior to S-400? Russia has already begun the delivery of S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems to India. The S-500 surface-to-air missile defence system can target hypersonic cruise missiles including UAVs. 'Diplomacy is a two-way street': Iran slams West for playing blame game over 2015 nuclear deal US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Washington continues to pursue diplomacy with Iran. When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life In sort of a rerun of a superhero movie, a woman claims that she was saved by a 'superman' when the deadly tornadoes hit the US state of Kentucky. The woman, Autumn Kirks, was working at the Mayfield candle factory, when the tornadoes struck. Kirks lost her boyfriend Lannis Ward in the natural calamity. Arctic region recorded highest temperature ever in 2020, says World Meteorological Organization Reflecting on the adverse impact of climate change, the UN agency said devastating fires all across the globe were a driving factor of massive sea ice loss. US coffee giant Starbucks caught serving food with expired ingredients in China A video of the company's employee replacing an expiration date sticker from a bottle of chocolate sauce has gone viral on China's Twitter-like platform, Weibo

Top 10 world news: Belarus court jails opposition leader, Colombia terror attack, more

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