Former NASA astronaut Bill Shepherd has expressed concerns over cracks developing in International Space Station (ISS). He has stated that development of cracks is a "fairly serious issue". He was speaking during US Congressional Committee hearing.

During the hearing, Shepherd said that "there are probably other cracks we haven't found yet."

Russian Cosmonaut Vladimir Solovyov in August spoke of the cracks in International Space Station's Zarya module. Solovyov is the flight director of Russian segment of the ISS. NASA has been maintaining that the cracks do not pose threat to astronauts at present. Shepherd's words throw a fresh light on the matter. He has added that the cracks are not long enough to cause a "serious problem".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/at-iss-sun-rises-and-sets-every-45-minutes-nasa-tells-why-412923">At ISS, Sun rises and sets every 45 minutes, NASA tells why</a>

Shepherd himself has flown in orbit in space shuttles four times. He commanded the first crew to ISS in 2000.

This is not the first time ISS has faced issues in 20 years of its functioning. The space station is ageing. Russian side of the space station has some of the oldest components.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-send-ice-seeking-rover-to-moon-414613">NASA to send ice-seeking rover to Moon</a>

In September 2019, Zvezda module of the ISS started leaking air. The module has living quarters for the cosmonauts. The hole was eventually patched and there was no threat to life.

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Russia's latest module Nauka, launched in July, shortly after docking with the ISS, unexpectedly started firing its thrusters. This caused the ISS to sping around 540 degrees and flip upside down.

Former NASA astronaut Bill Shepherd has expressed concerns over cracks developing in International Space Station (ISS). He has stated that development of cracks is a "fairly serious issue".

Former NASA astronaut Bill Shepherd has expressed concerns over cracks developing in International Space Station (ISS). He has stated that development of cracks is a "fairly serious issue". He was speaking during US Congressional Committee hearing. During the hearing, Shepherd said that "there are probably other cracks we haven't found yet." Russian Cosmonaut Vladimir Solovyov in August spoke of the cracks in International Space Station's Zarya module. Solovyov is the flight director of Russian segment of the ISS. NASA has been maintaining that the cracks do not pose threat to astronauts at present. Shepherd's words throw a fresh light on the matter. He has added that the cracks are not long enough to cause a "serious problem". Also Read | At ISS, Sun rises and sets every 45 minutes, NASA tells why Shepherd himself has flown in orbit in space shuttles four times. He commanded the first crew to ISS in 2000. This is not the first time ISS has faced issues in 20 years of its functioning. The space station is ageing. Russian side of the space station has some of the oldest components. Also Read | NASA to send ice-seeking rover to Moon In September 2019, Zvezda module of the ISS started leaking air. The module has living quarters for the cosmonauts. The hole was eventually patched and there was no threat to life. Also Read | NASA's Ingenuity helicopter is finding it tougher to fly on Mars Russia's latest module Nauka, launched in July, shortly after docking with the ISS, unexpectedly started firing its thrusters. This caused the ISS to sping around 540 degrees and flip upside down.

Cracks on ISS a 'serious issue', says former NASA astronaut

Australia hit by a rare magnitude 6.0 earthquake

Melbourne was struck by a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Wednesday. This was one of Australia's biggest quakes on record that caused damage to building in Melbourne and sent tremors throughout neighbouring states.

The epicentre was near Mansfield, a rural town in the state of Victoria. The town is about 200 km northeast of Melbourne. The epicentre was at a depth of 10 km. An aftershock of intensity 4.0 was recorded.

Images and videos on social media showed rubble blocking one of Melbourne's main streets. People in the northern parts of the city said that they were without power.

The earthquake was felt as far as Adelaide and Sydney. However, there were no immediate reports of damage and injuries outside Melbourne.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-submarines-make-waves-in-asia-long-before-they-go-to-sea-414743">Australia’s submarines make waves in Asia long before they go to sea</a> 
 
More than half of Australia's 25 million population lives in the southeast of the country from Adelaide to Melbourne to Sydney.

"We have had no reports of serious injuries, or worse, and that is very good news and we hope that good news will continue," Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters in Washington.

"It can be a very disturbing event, an earthquake of this nature. They are very rare events in Australia and as a result, I am sure people would have been quite distressed and disturbed."

<img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d657e838-1772-47c3-abbb-532732a3debb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9NA96R.jpg" />

Quakes are relatively unusual in Australia's populated east due to its position in the middle of the Indo-Australian Tectonic Plate, according to Geoscience Australia. The quake on Wednesday measured higher than the country's deadliest tremor, a 5.6 in Newcastle in 1989, which resulted in 13 deaths.

The mayor of Mansfield, Mark Holcombe, said he was in his home office on his farm when the quake struck and ran outside for safety.

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"I have been in earthquakes overseas before and it seemed to go on longer than I have experienced before," Holcombe told the ABC. "The other thing that surprised me was how noisy it was. It was a real rumbling like a big truck going past."

He knew of no serious damage near the quake epicentre, although some residents reported problems with telecommunications.

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No tsunami threat was issued to the Australian mainland, islands or territories, the country's Bureau of Meteorology said in a statement.

The quake presented a potential disruption for anti-lockdown protests expected in Melbourne on Wednesday, which would be the third day of unrest that has reached increasing levels of violence and police response.

(With inputs from agencies)

Melbourne was struck by a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Wednesday. This was one of Australia's biggest quakes on record that caused damage to building in Melbourne and sent tremors throughout neighbouring states.

Melbourne was struck by a magnitude 6.0 earthquake on Wednesday. This was one of Australia's biggest quakes on record that caused damage to building in Melbourne and sent tremors throughout neighbouring states. The epicentre was near Mansfield, a rural town in the state of Victoria. The town is about 200 km northeast of Melbourne. The epicentre was at a depth of 10 km. An aftershock of intensity 4.0 was recorded. Images and videos on social media showed rubble blocking one of Melbourne's main streets. People in the northern parts of the city said that they were without power. The earthquake was felt as far as Adelaide and Sydney. However, there were no immediate reports of damage and injuries outside Melbourne. Also Read: Australia’s submarines make waves in Asia long before they go to sea More than half of Australia's 25 million population lives in the southeast of the country from Adelaide to Melbourne to Sydney. "We have had no reports of serious injuries, or worse, and that is very good news and we hope that good news will continue," Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters in Washington. "It can be a very disturbing event, an earthquake of this nature. They are very rare events in Australia and as a result, I am sure people would have been quite distressed and disturbed." Quakes are relatively unusual in Australia's populated east due to its position in the middle of the Indo-Australian Tectonic Plate, according to Geoscience Australia. The quake on Wednesday measured higher than the country's deadliest tremor, a 5.6 in Newcastle in 1989, which resulted in 13 deaths. The mayor of Mansfield, Mark Holcombe, said he was in his home office on his farm when the quake struck and ran outside for safety. Also Read: Before trade talks, EU seeks apology from Australia over France’s treatment in Aukus row "I have been in earthquakes overseas before and it seemed to go on longer than I have experienced before," Holcombe told the ABC. "The other thing that surprised me was how noisy it was. It was a real rumbling like a big truck going past." He knew of no serious damage near the quake epicentre, although some residents reported problems with telecommunications. Also Read: Australia showed its 'affection' to France during world wars, says acting PM No tsunami threat was issued to the Australian mainland, islands or territories, the country's Bureau of Meteorology said in a statement. The quake presented a potential disruption for anti-lockdown protests expected in Melbourne on Wednesday, which would be the third day of unrest that has reached increasing levels of violence and police response. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Rare 6.0 magnitude earthquake strikes Melbourne

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body.

A nine-member credentials committee will now rule on the dueling requests, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told AFP, but it is unclear whether the committee will meet before the end of the convocation on Monday.

Dujarric said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received a letter from Taliban-appointed Amir Khan Muttaqi "requesting to participate" in the high-level debate.

The letter was dated Monday September 20, the day before the session got underway. The letter lists Muttaqi as "Minister of Foreign Affairs," said Dujarric.

The letter did not specify whether Muttaqi wanted to travel to New York to speak or whether the Taliban would submit a recorded video message, as many leaders are doing this year due to Covid-19.

The letter also indicated that Ghulam Isaczai "no longer represents" Afghanistan at the United Nations.

He was the ambassador to the UN of the Afghan government ousted from power in August as US military troops exited the country, ending their 20-year war.

The letter said that the Taliban had nominated their Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's permanent representative to the UN.

The note, which had the letterhead "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs," said that former president Ashraf Ghani was "ousted" on August 15, the day he fled the country.

"Countries across the world no longer recognize him as president," the letter said, according to the UN.

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The UN spokesman also said that Secretary-General Guterres had received a separate letter from Isaczai, dated September 15, containing the list of Afghanistan's delegation for the session.

That letter listed Isaczai as Afghanistan's permanent representative, Dujarric said.

"These two communications have been sent by the secretariat, after consultation with the office of the president of the General Assembly, to the members of the credentials committee of the 76th session of the General Assembly," he said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-alarm-to-wake-up-world-key-points-from-strong-speech-by-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-414680">Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres</a>

The committee is made up of Russia, China, the United States, Sweden, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Chile, Bhutan and the Bahamas.

The committee has in the past refrained from making a decision and instead referred it to the General Assembly for a vote, a diplomatic source told AFP.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-biden-raises-xinjiang-human-rights-abuse-issue-in-maiden-speech-414711">UN General Assembly 2021 | Biden raises Xinjiang human rights abuse issue in maiden speech</a>

No government has yet recognized the Taliban government, first demanding that it meet commitments on human rights, but some have made positive noises.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body.

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body. A nine-member credentials committee will now rule on the dueling requests, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told AFP, but it is unclear whether the committee will meet before the end of the convocation on Monday. Dujarric said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received a letter from Taliban-appointed Amir Khan Muttaqi "requesting to participate" in the high-level debate. The letter was dated Monday September 20, the day before the session got underway. The letter lists Muttaqi as "Minister of Foreign Affairs," said Dujarric. The letter did not specify whether Muttaqi wanted to travel to New York to speak or whether the Taliban would submit a recorded video message, as many leaders are doing this year due to Covid-19. The letter also indicated that Ghulam Isaczai "no longer represents" Afghanistan at the United Nations. He was the ambassador to the UN of the Afghan government ousted from power in August as US military troops exited the country, ending their 20-year war. The letter said that the Taliban had nominated their Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's permanent representative to the UN. The note, which had the letterhead "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs," said that former president Ashraf Ghani was "ousted" on August 15, the day he fled the country. "Countries across the world no longer recognize him as president," the letter said, according to the UN. Also Read: UN General Assembly 2021: US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy The UN spokesman also said that Secretary-General Guterres had received a separate letter from Isaczai, dated September 15, containing the list of Afghanistan's delegation for the session. That letter listed Isaczai as Afghanistan's permanent representative, Dujarric said. "These two communications have been sent by the secretariat, after consultation with the office of the president of the General Assembly, to the members of the credentials committee of the 76th session of the General Assembly," he said. Also Read: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres The committee is made up of Russia, China, the United States, Sweden, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Chile, Bhutan and the Bahamas. The committee has in the past refrained from making a decision and instead referred it to the General Assembly for a vote, a diplomatic source told AFP. Also Read: UN General Assembly 2021 | Biden raises Xinjiang human rights abuse issue in maiden speech No government has yet recognized the Taliban government, first demanding that it meet commitments on human rights, but some have made positive noises. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy

Board of Directors of ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) on Tuesday (September 21) unanimously gave in-principle approval for merger of ZEEL and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI).&nbsp;

"The Board of Directors at ZEEL have conducted a strategic review of the merger proposal between SPNI and ZEEL. As a Board that encompasses a blend of highly accomplished professionals having rich expertise across varied sectors, we always keep in mind the best interests of all the shareholders and ZEEL. We have unanimously provided an in-principle approval to the proposal and have advised the management to initiate the due diligence process...," said R Gopalan, Chairman, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd

Shareholders of SPNI will hold a majority stake in the merged entity. The merged entity will be a publicly listed company in India.

Based on the existing estimated equity values of ZEEL and SPNI, the indicative merger ratio would have been 61.25% in favour of ZEEL. However, with the proposed infusion of growth capital into SPNI, the resultant merger ratio is expected to result in 47.07% of the merged entity to be held by ZEEL shareholders and the balance 52.93% of the merged entity to be held by SPNI shareholders

ZEEL &amp; SPNI have entered into a non-binding term sheet to combine both companies' linear networks, digital assets, production operations and program libraries. The term sheet provides an exclusive period of 90 days during which ZEEL and SPNI will conduct mutual diligence and finalize definitive agreements.

Punit Goenka will continue to be the Managing Director and CEO of the merged entity. Sony Group will nominate majority of the Board of Directors.

Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation which is a different group

Board of Directors of ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) on Tuesday (September 21) unanimously gave in-principle approval for merger of ZEEL and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI).

Board of Directors of ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) on Tuesday (September 21) unanimously gave in-principle approval for merger of ZEEL and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). "The Board of Directors at ZEEL have conducted a strategic review of the merger proposal between SPNI and ZEEL. As a Board that encompasses a blend of highly accomplished professionals having rich expertise across varied sectors, we always keep in mind the best interests of all the shareholders and ZEEL. We have unanimously provided an in-principle approval to the proposal and have advised the management to initiate the due diligence process...," said R Gopalan, Chairman, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd Shareholders of SPNI will hold a majority stake in the merged entity. The merged entity will be a publicly listed company in India. Based on the existing estimated equity values of ZEEL and SPNI, the indicative merger ratio would have been 61.25% in favour of ZEEL. However, with the proposed infusion of growth capital into SPNI, the resultant merger ratio is expected to result in 47.07% of the merged entity to be held by ZEEL shareholders and the balance 52.93% of the merged entity to be held by SPNI shareholders ZEEL & SPNI have entered into a non-binding term sheet to combine both companies' linear networks, digital assets, production operations and program libraries. The term sheet provides an exclusive period of 90 days during which ZEEL and SPNI will conduct mutual diligence and finalize definitive agreements. Punit Goenka will continue to be the Managing Director and CEO of the merged entity. Sony Group will nominate majority of the Board of Directors. Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation which is a different group

ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India

Troubled Chinese housing giant Evergrande said on Wednesday that it has agreed a deal with domestic bondholders that may allow it to avoid default on one of its interest payments.

Evergrande's property unit Hengda said in a statement to the Shenzen stock exchange that a plan to pay interest worth 232 million yuan (USD 35.9 million) had been negotiated. There was no mention of its repayments on interest for an offshore bond.

All eyes are on Evergrande's interest payment as there are fears that default would start a global crisis which would further weaken global economy battered due to coronavirus pandemic. Payment of interest is due on Thursday (September 23)

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Fears of Evergrande default <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-stocks-slide-over-fears-of-china-property-giant-evergrandes-collapse-414580">have sent&nbsp;markets tumbling</a> across the globe in last few days. On Tuesday, &nbsp;Dow lost &nbsp;1.8 per cent and the S&amp;P 500 index fell 1.7 per cent.

Evergrande is second-biggest property firm in China. It has more than USD 300 billion debt. Since real estate accounts for more than a quarter of China's GDP, is feared that Evergrande's collapse would spill over to global economy and start a fresh financial crisis. This is undesirable given the current state of recovery from Covid pandemic.

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The crisis has triggered rare protests outside the company's offices in several Chinese cities by investors and suppliers demanding their money, some of whom claim they are owed as much as $1 million.

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The crisis sent shares in the firm diving around 17 percent Monday, leaving it down around 90 percent from the start of the year.

Troubled Chinese housing giant Evergrande said on Wednesday that it has agreed a deal with domestic bondholders that may allow it to avoid default on one of its interest payments.

Troubled Chinese housing giant Evergrande said on Wednesday that it has agreed a deal with domestic bondholders that may allow it to avoid default on one of its interest payments. Evergrande's property unit Hengda said in a statement to the Shenzen stock exchange that a plan to pay interest worth 232 million yuan (USD 35.9 million) had been negotiated. There was no mention of its repayments on interest for an offshore bond. All eyes are on Evergrande's interest payment as there are fears that default would start a global crisis which would further weaken global economy battered due to coronavirus pandemic. Payment of interest is due on Thursday (September 23) Also Read: China's Evergrande crisis: A global financial crisis in the making Fears of Evergrande default have sent markets tumbling across the globe in last few days. On Tuesday, Dow lost 1.8 per cent and the S&P 500 index fell 1.7 per cent. Evergrande is second-biggest property firm in China. It has more than USD 300 billion debt. Since real estate accounts for more than a quarter of China's GDP, is feared that Evergrande's collapse would spill over to global economy and start a fresh financial crisis. This is undesirable given the current state of recovery from Covid pandemic. Also Read: Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, others lose over $26 billion wealth due to Evergrande crisis The crisis has triggered rare protests outside the company's offices in several Chinese cities by investors and suppliers demanding their money, some of whom claim they are owed as much as $1 million. Also Read: US stocks slide over fears of China property giant Evergrande's collapse The crisis sent shares in the firm diving around 17 percent Monday, leaving it down around 90 percent from the start of the year.

China's crisis-hit Evergrande says deal has been reached to avoid default

House Democratic leaders on Tuesday introduced a much-anticipated package of proposed new limits on executive power, launching a post-Trump push to strengthen checks on the presidency that they hope will compare to the overhauls that followed the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War.

Democratic lawmakers have been negotiating with the Biden White House to refine their broad set of proposals, which amount to a point-by-point rebuke of the ways that President Donald Trump flouted norms.

The legislation, called the Protecting Our Democracy Act, would make it harder for presidents to take a series of actions, including offering or bestowing pardons in situations that raise suspicion of corruption; refusing to respond to oversight subpoenas; spending or secretly freezing funds contrary to congressional appropriations; firing inspectors general or retaliating against whistleblowers; and taking “emoluments” or payments while in office, including from commercial transactions.

At a news conference Tuesday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California said executive power had been gradually growing for years but that threats to the system of separation of powers seriously “picked up steam” during the Trump administration. She portrayed the bill as an “inoculation” against future abuses of presidential authority.

Pelosi had directed Democrats to compile various bills containing ideas for curbs into the package, which is chiefly sponsored by Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif.

The two appeared at an event with lawmakers who chair several committees that contributed pieces, including two New York representatives, Jerrold Nadler of the Judiciary Committee and Carolyn Maloney of the oversight committee, and Rep. John Yarmuth of Kentucky, chair of the Budget Committee.

Pelosi has not announced a timeline for when the bill might come to the floor, although Schiff has said he hopes the House will pass the package “this fall.”

It is expected to face headwinds in the Senate, where it would need the support of at least 10 Republicans to bring it to a vote. There, supporters say, the package is likely to be broken into pieces that will be attached to other bills.

House Democratic leaders on Tuesday introduced a much-anticipated package of proposed new limits on executive power, launching a post-Trump push to strengthen checks on the presidency that they hope will compare to the overhauls that followed the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War.

House Democratic leaders on Tuesday introduced a much-anticipated package of proposed new limits on executive power, launching a post-Trump push to strengthen checks on the presidency that they hope will compare to the overhauls that followed the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Democratic lawmakers have been negotiating with the Biden White House to refine their broad set of proposals, which amount to a point-by-point rebuke of the ways that President Donald Trump flouted norms. The legislation, called the Protecting Our Democracy Act, would make it harder for presidents to take a series of actions, including offering or bestowing pardons in situations that raise suspicion of corruption; refusing to respond to oversight subpoenas; spending or secretly freezing funds contrary to congressional appropriations; firing inspectors general or retaliating against whistleblowers; and taking “emoluments” or payments while in office, including from commercial transactions. At a news conference Tuesday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California said executive power had been gradually growing for years but that threats to the system of separation of powers seriously “picked up steam” during the Trump administration. She portrayed the bill as an “inoculation” against future abuses of presidential authority. Pelosi had directed Democrats to compile various bills containing ideas for curbs into the package, which is chiefly sponsored by Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif. The two appeared at an event with lawmakers who chair several committees that contributed pieces, including two New York representatives, Jerrold Nadler of the Judiciary Committee and Carolyn Maloney of the oversight committee, and Rep. John Yarmuth of Kentucky, chair of the Budget Committee. Pelosi has not announced a timeline for when the bill might come to the floor, although Schiff has said he hopes the House will pass the package “this fall.” It is expected to face headwinds in the Senate, where it would need the support of at least 10 Republicans to bring it to a vote. There, supporters say, the package is likely to be broken into pieces that will be attached to other bills.

House Democrats introduce the ‘Protecting Our Democracy Act’

The United States did not directly mention China in announcing its historic new security partnership with Australia and Britain last week, but it didn’t have to. The defense deal is a clear escalation and indication that Washington views Beijing as an adversary.

It also has thrust Australia into a central role in America’s rivalry with China. After hinting at a more self-reliant defense posture for the past several years, Australia’s government is now instead betting big on the future of its alliance with the United States with the new pact. Australia seems to be assuming that America will remain engaged in Asia for the long haul and will be prepared to face down China if necessary — but it shouldn’t.

The crux of the partnership, called AUKUS, is an agreement for the United States and Britain to share their technology to help Australia deploy nuclear-powered submarines. But this is no ordinary arms agreement, nothing like exporting fighter jets or howitzers. Only a handful of nations have nuclear-powered submarines, and Australia will be just the second country, after Britain, to benefit from the top-secret U.S. technology.

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Why is Australia worthy of such favorable treatment? It’s not just that it is one of America’s oldest and closest allies. It’s that for many American observers of China’s increasingly aggressive behavior, Australia is also the canary in the coal mine for great power competition with China.

Australia has been subject to economic coercion from China against its exports, such as barley and coal. Chinese hackers were implicated in a breach of the Australian parliament’s website in 2019. Its security agencies report widespread espionage and interference activities. And its ministers have been frozen out by their Chinese counterparts. Last year, a Chinese diplomat even released a list of 14 grievances Beijing holds against Australia — a document that featured in deliberations at the Group of 7 summit in June.

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Those grievances reflect the tough line Australia has taken against Beijing, from barring Chinese telecom giant Huawei from competing for a 5G infrastructure project to introducing far-reaching legislation to curb foreign interference in politics and tearing up a state’s Belt and Road agreements with China. Australia also has increased its defense spending over the past five years, particularly its naval procurement. AUKUS takes this to a new level.

Like the United States, Australia’s government has watched with increasing alarm the rapid and extensive buildup of China’s military capabilities, particularly its naval forces.

For most of its history, Australia has relied on a friend or ally to help secure the Pacific Ocean. The only serious threat to Australia’s territorial integrity since European settlement more than 200 years ago was during World War II. If Chinese — not American — maritime power were to dominate Asia’s waterways, Australia would undoubtedly face a more uncertain future.

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So although the AUKUS initiative was a surprise to many around the world, the Australian government’s motivation is clear. Saddled with a late and over-budget French submarine project, the Australian government saw an opportunity not only to bolster its naval strength by getting the world’s leading submarine technology but also to bring the United States into a closer embrace.

The Biden team agreed because it, too, is worried about China. But there is a difference. The United States is in Asia by choice; Australia has no such luxury. Washington’s gesture, this commitment of American military and technological prowess, is hugely significant. But it is no guarantee the United States is prepared to enter into a new Cold War-style contest with China.

The United States is blessed by geography, friendly neighbors, a huge economy, an unrivaled military and a nuclear-weapons arsenal to help maintain its security. But China is strong too. The size of its economy alone makes it one of the mightiest adversaries the United States has faced in more than a century. So the United States would need a very good reason to take on a power as great as China.

The fact that China is authoritarian and bullies its neighbors should not be reason enough. Nor should the threats against U.S. allies like Australia, as alliances exist to further the aims of both partners — not just the junior one. Nor the fact that America would be somehow diminished if and when China attains global supremacy. There would need to be clear indications that China poses a threat to America’s core national security interests, to its territory and to its way of life. Since China does not clear that bar, there’s no urgent reason for the United States to undertake grievous risks to prevent its rise to regional leadership.

That doubt should be nagging at the minds of Australian decision makers who just staked their future on the alliance, and it should be on the minds of Americans, too. Why should the United States commit itself to a contest with China when the stakes are less than existential? Without a clear answer to that question, Australia must assume that it will ultimately need to ensure its security alone.

The United States did not directly mention China in announcing its historic new security partnership with Australia and Britain last week, but it didn’t have to.

The United States did not directly mention China in announcing its historic new security partnership with Australia and Britain last week, but it didn’t have to. The defense deal is a clear escalation and indication that Washington views Beijing as an adversary. It also has thrust Australia into a central role in America’s rivalry with China. After hinting at a more self-reliant defense posture for the past several years, Australia’s government is now instead betting big on the future of its alliance with the United States with the new pact. Australia seems to be assuming that America will remain engaged in Asia for the long haul and will be prepared to face down China if necessary — but it shouldn’t. The crux of the partnership, called AUKUS, is an agreement for the United States and Britain to share their technology to help Australia deploy nuclear-powered submarines. But this is no ordinary arms agreement, nothing like exporting fighter jets or howitzers. Only a handful of nations have nuclear-powered submarines, and Australia will be just the second country, after Britain, to benefit from the top-secret U.S. technology. Also Read: Australia has lost 30% of its koala population in 3 years due to bushfire, deforestation Why is Australia worthy of such favorable treatment? It’s not just that it is one of America’s oldest and closest allies. It’s that for many American observers of China’s increasingly aggressive behavior, Australia is also the canary in the coal mine for great power competition with China. Australia has been subject to economic coercion from China against its exports, such as barley and coal. Chinese hackers were implicated in a breach of the Australian parliament’s website in 2019. Its security agencies report widespread espionage and interference activities. And its ministers have been frozen out by their Chinese counterparts. Last year, a Chinese diplomat even released a list of 14 grievances Beijing holds against Australia — a document that featured in deliberations at the Group of 7 summit in June. Also Read: Before trade talks, EU seeks apology from Australia over France’s treatment in Aukus row Those grievances reflect the tough line Australia has taken against Beijing, from barring Chinese telecom giant Huawei from competing for a 5G infrastructure project to introducing far-reaching legislation to curb foreign interference in politics and tearing up a state’s Belt and Road agreements with China. Australia also has increased its defense spending over the past five years, particularly its naval procurement. AUKUS takes this to a new level. Like the United States, Australia’s government has watched with increasing alarm the rapid and extensive buildup of China’s military capabilities, particularly its naval forces. For most of its history, Australia has relied on a friend or ally to help secure the Pacific Ocean. The only serious threat to Australia’s territorial integrity since European settlement more than 200 years ago was during World War II. If Chinese — not American — maritime power were to dominate Asia’s waterways, Australia would undoubtedly face a more uncertain future. Also Read: AUKUS won't impact bilateral cooperation, Quad: US to India So although the AUKUS initiative was a surprise to many around the world, the Australian government’s motivation is clear. Saddled with a late and over-budget French submarine project, the Australian government saw an opportunity not only to bolster its naval strength by getting the world’s leading submarine technology but also to bring the United States into a closer embrace. The Biden team agreed because it, too, is worried about China. But there is a difference. The United States is in Asia by choice; Australia has no such luxury. Washington’s gesture, this commitment of American military and technological prowess, is hugely significant. But it is no guarantee the United States is prepared to enter into a new Cold War-style contest with China. The United States is blessed by geography, friendly neighbors, a huge economy, an unrivaled military and a nuclear-weapons arsenal to help maintain its security. But China is strong too. The size of its economy alone makes it one of the mightiest adversaries the United States has faced in more than a century. So the United States would need a very good reason to take on a power as great as China. The fact that China is authoritarian and bullies its neighbors should not be reason enough. Nor should the threats against U.S. allies like Australia, as alliances exist to further the aims of both partners — not just the junior one. Nor the fact that America would be somehow diminished if and when China attains global supremacy. There would need to be clear indications that China poses a threat to America’s core national security interests, to its territory and to its way of life. Since China does not clear that bar, there’s no urgent reason for the United States to undertake grievous risks to prevent its rise to regional leadership. That doubt should be nagging at the minds of Australian decision makers who just staked their future on the alliance, and it should be on the minds of Americans, too. Why should the United States commit itself to a contest with China when the stakes are less than existential? Without a clear answer to that question, Australia must assume that it will ultimately need to ensure its security alone.

Australia is making a risky bet on the US

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality. Chief executive of Avolon, the company that'll provide aircrafts to Gol was quoted by Financial Times as saying that the move is going to be a "disruptor" that will "democratise air travel".

Sao Paulo's super-rich have access to helicopters that are often seen flying between the high-end beachfront properties. But for the common citizen, it is the roads and usual vehicles. Sao Paulo has a population of 12 million and has more than 8 million cars. Air taxis may thus help residents of this congested city.

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“Our basic estimate at the moment is that the operating cost here for this aircraft will be the equivalent of $1 per passenger over a 25-mile trip,” Dómhnal Slattery, chief executive of Avalon was quoted as saying by Financial Times. Avolon is providing the air taxis to budget airline Gol.

“We think we can get the cost of this down to the equivalent of an Uber ride, equivalent to downtown Manhattan to JFK.” Slattery further told Financial Times.

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Gol (GOLL4.SA) said on Tuesday that the VA-X4 eVTOL, manufactured by Britain's Vertical Aerospace, would boost its domestic regional offering and help it reach its 2050 carbon neutrality goal, lifting its shares in Sao Paulo.

"The VA-X4 is ideal for a city like Sao Paulo," Vertical Aerospace CEO Stephen Fitzpatrick said in a statement. "Our eVTOLs will transform how we travel around high population density cities that are clogged with traffic."

Avolon, which has agreed to buy up to 500 of the aircraft from the British manufacturer, said it was close to reaching agreement with Asian operators for the remaining 250 jets, with deals expected within 6-12 months.

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"I would fully expect us to have placed all of our initial 500 order in that time frame," Avolon Chief Commercial Officer Paul Geaney told Reuters.

"We'll be looking to Asia after Sao Paulo."

Gol said the move is part of its commercial strategy to invest in regional air transportation. The airline intends to open up new routes to "underserved domestic markets".

(With inputs from agencies)

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality.

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality. Chief executive of Avolon, the company that'll provide aircrafts to Gol was quoted by Financial Times as saying that the move is going to be a "disruptor" that will "democratise air travel". Sao Paulo's super-rich have access to helicopters that are often seen flying between the high-end beachfront properties. But for the common citizen, it is the roads and usual vehicles. Sao Paulo has a population of 12 million and has more than 8 million cars. Air taxis may thus help residents of this congested city. Also Read: Unvaccinated Bolsonaro forced to eat on sidewalk as New York eateries deny entry “Our basic estimate at the moment is that the operating cost here for this aircraft will be the equivalent of $1 per passenger over a 25-mile trip,” Dómhnal Slattery, chief executive of Avalon was quoted as saying by Financial Times. Avolon is providing the air taxis to budget airline Gol. “We think we can get the cost of this down to the equivalent of an Uber ride, equivalent to downtown Manhattan to JFK.” Slattery further told Financial Times. Also Read: Brazilian airline ordered to pay for women cabin crew's cosmetic costs Gol (GOLL4.SA) said on Tuesday that the VA-X4 eVTOL, manufactured by Britain's Vertical Aerospace, would boost its domestic regional offering and help it reach its 2050 carbon neutrality goal, lifting its shares in Sao Paulo. "The VA-X4 is ideal for a city like Sao Paulo," Vertical Aerospace CEO Stephen Fitzpatrick said in a statement. "Our eVTOLs will transform how we travel around high population density cities that are clogged with traffic." Avolon, which has agreed to buy up to 500 of the aircraft from the British manufacturer, said it was close to reaching agreement with Asian operators for the remaining 250 jets, with deals expected within 6-12 months. Also Read: Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules "I would fully expect us to have placed all of our initial 500 order in that time frame," Avolon Chief Commercial Officer Paul Geaney told Reuters. "We'll be looking to Asia after Sao Paulo." Gol said the move is part of its commercial strategy to invest in regional air transportation. The airline intends to open up new routes to "underserved domestic markets". (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil's budget airline Gol to bring flying taxis to Sao Paulo

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine. The development has come after fierce criticism for UK's travel advisory that mandated 10-day quarantine even for fully vaccinated Indians. However, certificates issued by India remains a grey area in the eyes of the UK as Indian public health bodies have not been recognised by the UK.

The new travel advisory that will be implemented from October 4 at 4 a.m. says, "Formulations of the four listed vaccines -- AstraZeneca Covishield, AstraZeneca vaxzevria and Moderna Takeda qualify as approved vaccines." It adds further, "You must have had a complete course of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before you arrive in England".

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However, the new travel advisory said that until October 4, mixed vaccines are only permitted if you are vaccinated under the UK, Europe, USA or UK overseas vaccination program.

About vaccine certificates, UK High Commission said on Tuesday that UK government was "working with India to expand recognition of vaccine certification." This indicated doubts about vaccine certification in India.

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This suggests that though Covishield has been approved by the UK, Indian travellers may still have to undergo quarantine on arrival in UK.

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A British High Commission spokesperson said, "The UK is committed to opening up international travel again as soon as is practicable and this announcement is a further step to enable people to travel more freely again, in a safe and sustainable way, while protecting public health. We are engaging with the Government of India to explore how we could expand UK recognition of vaccine certification to people vaccinated by a relevant public health body in India."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine.

In a fresh update to its travel rules, UK said on Wednesday that Covishield, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India, was an approved vaccine. The development has come after fierce criticism for UK's travel advisory that mandated 10-day quarantine even for fully vaccinated Indians. However, certificates issued by India remains a grey area in the eyes of the UK as Indian public health bodies have not been recognised by the UK. The new travel advisory that will be implemented from October 4 at 4 a.m. says, "Formulations of the four listed vaccines -- AstraZeneca Covishield, AstraZeneca vaxzevria and Moderna Takeda qualify as approved vaccines." It adds further, "You must have had a complete course of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before you arrive in England". Also Read: Neighbourhood to get first tranche as India announces resumption of Covid vaccine export However, the new travel advisory said that until October 4, mixed vaccines are only permitted if you are vaccinated under the UK, Europe, USA or UK overseas vaccination program. About vaccine certificates, UK High Commission said on Tuesday that UK government was "working with India to expand recognition of vaccine certification." This indicated doubts about vaccine certification in India. Also Read: COVID-19 virus evolving to get better at becoming airborne, study shows This suggests that though Covishield has been approved by the UK, Indian travellers may still have to undergo quarantine on arrival in UK. Also Read: Covid rage: Asked to put on mask, angry customer kills petrol station worker in Germany A British High Commission spokesperson said, "The UK is committed to opening up international travel again as soon as is practicable and this announcement is a further step to enable people to travel more freely again, in a safe and sustainable way, while protecting public health. We are engaging with the Government of India to explore how we could expand UK recognition of vaccine certification to people vaccinated by a relevant public health body in India." (With inputs from agencies)

UK approves Covishield but has problem with Indian vaccine certificates

The European Commission is due to present a legislative proposal on Thursday for a common charger for mobile phones, tablets and headphones, reported Reuters mentioning a person familiar with the matter. Such a move is likely to affect iPhone maker Apple more than its rivals.

The European Union executive and EU lawmakers have been pushing for a common charger for over a decade, saying it would be better for the environment and more convenient for users.

The Commission wants the sale of chargers to be decoupled from devices, and also propose a harmonised charging port, the person said.

Apple, whose iPhones are charged from its Lightning cable, has said rules forcing connectors to conform to one type could deter innovation, create a mountain of electronic waste and irk consumers.

Rival Android-based devices are charged using USB-C connectors. Half the chargers sold with mobile phones in 2018 had a USB micro-B connector, while 29% had a USB-C connector and 21% a Lightning connector, according to a 2019 Commission study.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Commission is due to present a legislative proposal on Thursday for a common charger for mobile phones, tablets and headphones, reported Reuters mentioning a person familiar with the matter.

The European Commission is due to present a legislative proposal on Thursday for a common charger for mobile phones, tablets and headphones, reported Reuters mentioning a person familiar with the matter. Such a move is likely to affect iPhone maker Apple more than its rivals. The European Union executive and EU lawmakers have been pushing for a common charger for over a decade, saying it would be better for the environment and more convenient for users. The Commission wants the sale of chargers to be decoupled from devices, and also propose a harmonised charging port, the person said. Apple, whose iPhones are charged from its Lightning cable, has said rules forcing connectors to conform to one type could deter innovation, create a mountain of electronic waste and irk consumers. Rival Android-based devices are charged using USB-C connectors. Half the chargers sold with mobile phones in 2018 had a USB micro-B connector, while 29% had a USB-C connector and 21% a Lightning connector, according to a 2019 Commission study. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to present proposal for common phone chargers despite Apple's displeasure

Coffee for some is the difference between a day half won and the battle lost at the outset. As its warm embrace cradles you out of your slumber each morning, you forget your worries for a little while, making you well-prepared for hammering life gives you afterwards.

So if you want to sip the drink and also give out informed opinion a-la a wine connoisseur, then you are in luck because University of Florence in Italy is offering a master's degree in coffee. The course has already found takers and first batch of 24 students will begin the course in January. This will be a nine-month course. They will gain practical and theoretical knowledge about coffee.

The supervisor of the course, also head of university's department of agriculture, has been quoted in media reports as saying that the course will cover all aspects of the business. This will include teaching students about origins of coffee and even serving of the drink. &nbsp;

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Students will learn history, chemistry, technology and economics of coffee. They will also be sent to gain practical experience with companies in the sector.

The very first course will be in Italian but the university is ready to offer course in English language if it gets good response.

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Italians are avid coffee drinkers. An average Italian drinks nearly 6 kg coffee in a year. That's more than the European average.

If all the jargon of the course bores you, the prospect of dreamily sipping coffee in one of Florentian squares may make you take the plunge.

Coffee for some is the difference between a day half won and the battle lost at the outset. As its warm embrace cradles you out of your slumber each morning, you forget your worries for a little while, making you well-prepared for hammering life gives you afterwards.

Coffee for some is the difference between a day half won and the battle lost at the outset. As its warm embrace cradles you out of your slumber each morning, you forget your worries for a little while, making you well-prepared for hammering life gives you afterwards. So if you want to sip the drink and also give out informed opinion a-la a wine connoisseur, then you are in luck because University of Florence in Italy is offering a master's degree in coffee. The course has already found takers and first batch of 24 students will begin the course in January. This will be a nine-month course. They will gain practical and theoretical knowledge about coffee. The supervisor of the course, also head of university's department of agriculture, has been quoted in media reports as saying that the course will cover all aspects of the business. This will include teaching students about origins of coffee and even serving of the drink. Check out: Iconic Indian adverts from the 90s that will warm the cockles of your heart Students will learn history, chemistry, technology and economics of coffee. They will also be sent to gain practical experience with companies in the sector. The very first course will be in Italian but the university is ready to offer course in English language if it gets good response. Also Read: Australian man suffering from acute pain breaks Guinness record for longest plank; Twitter explodes Italians are avid coffee drinkers. An average Italian drinks nearly 6 kg coffee in a year. That's more than the European average. If all the jargon of the course bores you, the prospect of dreamily sipping coffee in one of Florentian squares may make you take the plunge.

University of Florence to offer masters degree in coffee

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