A judge investigating last year's devastating Beirut port blast said on Friday that he had summoned the outgoing premier and has taken steps towards indicting former ministers and security officials.

On August 4, 2020. Hundreds of tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate exploded in Beirut port. The huge blast killed more than 200 people and injured thousands. Swathes of Lebanon capital were ravaged in the blast

After the blast, it came to light that the officials had knowledge for years that explosive substances were stored unsafely at the Beirut port.

The slow pace of the investigation has sparked outrage at home and fuelled distrust among international donors. 
Tareq Bitar in February became the second judge to probe the explosion following a court order removing his predecessor, who had issued charges against prime minister Hassan Diab and three former ministers over the blast.

Bitar on Friday told a small group of journalists, including one from AFP, that he had summoned Diab, who is still indicted in the case.

He said he had also taken steps towards charging four former ministers -- ex-finance minister Ali Hasan Khalil, former public works ministers Ghazi Zaiter and Yusef Fenianos, and ex-interior minister Nohad Machnouk.

Bitar said he would be looking at possible charges of "probable intent to murder" and "negligence", as the officials "did not take measures to avert the risk of an explosion".

Bitar's predecessor, Fadi Sawan, had in December last year charged Diab, Khalil, Fenianos and Zaiter with "negligence and causing death to hundreds".

But Khalil and Zaiter managed to get a court to remove Sawan in February, arguing that the indictment of a lawmaker needed parliament clearance.&nbsp;

Bitar said he has requested that parliament lift the immunity of lawmakers Khalil, Zaiter and Machnouk.

(With inputs from agencies)

A judge investigating last year's devastating Beirut port blast said on Friday that he had summoned the outgoing premier and has taken steps towards indicting former ministers and security officials.

A judge investigating last year's devastating Beirut port blast said on Friday that he had summoned the outgoing premier and has taken steps towards indicting former ministers and security officials. On August 4, 2020. Hundreds of tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate exploded in Beirut port. The huge blast killed more than 200 people and injured thousands. Swathes of Lebanon capital were ravaged in the blast After the blast, it came to light that the officials had knowledge for years that explosive substances were stored unsafely at the Beirut port. The slow pace of the investigation has sparked outrage at home and fuelled distrust among international donors. Tareq Bitar in February became the second judge to probe the explosion following a court order removing his predecessor, who had issued charges against prime minister Hassan Diab and three former ministers over the blast. Bitar on Friday told a small group of journalists, including one from AFP, that he had summoned Diab, who is still indicted in the case. He said he had also taken steps towards charging four former ministers -- ex-finance minister Ali Hasan Khalil, former public works ministers Ghazi Zaiter and Yusef Fenianos, and ex-interior minister Nohad Machnouk. Bitar said he would be looking at possible charges of "probable intent to murder" and "negligence", as the officials "did not take measures to avert the risk of an explosion". Bitar's predecessor, Fadi Sawan, had in December last year charged Diab, Khalil, Fenianos and Zaiter with "negligence and causing death to hundreds". But Khalil and Zaiter managed to get a court to remove Sawan in February, arguing that the indictment of a lawmaker needed parliament clearance. Bitar said he has requested that parliament lift the immunity of lawmakers Khalil, Zaiter and Machnouk. (With inputs from agencies)

Beirut blast judge takes aim at top officials

US House of Representatives panel passed an amendment this week to repeal US State Department's ability to waive sanctions on Russia's &nbsp;Nord steam 2 natural gas pipeline. This may put pressure on Biden administration to block the Russian project.

"These sanctions are mandatory not discretionary," said Representative Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat and a sponsor of the amendment to a foreign aid bill. The House panel passed it unanimously.

The amendment passed by the House of Representatives panel seeks to repeal sanctions waiver in fiscal year 2022. But the pipeline is 95 per cent finished. The bill however, has a long way to go before becoming a law. The amendment needs to pass another House committee, the full House, the Senate. Biden will then sign the bill into the law.

In May, the State Department sent to Congress a report that concluded that Nord Stream 2 AG and its CEO, Matthias Warnig, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, engaged in sanctionable activity. But Secretary of State Antony Blinken immediately waived those sanctions, saying it was in the U.S. national interest.

President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has opposed the $11 billion project that would take Russian gas from the Arctic to Germany, saying it is a bad deal for Europe. But Biden also wants to improve ties with Germany, an ally he needs to help deal with broader issues including climate change, the economic recovery and relations with Iran and China. The United States is an exporter of natural gas to Europe in the form of LNG, but Russian gas is cheaper.

Washington fears Russia could use Nord Stream 2 as leverage to weaken European Union states by increasing their dependency on Moscow. The project, now about 95% complete, would bypass Ukraine, depriving it of lucrative transit fees and potentially undermining its struggle against Russian aggression.

(With inputs from agencies)

US House of Representatives panel passed an amendment this week to repeal US State Department's ability to waive sanctions on Russia's Nord steam 2 natural gas pipeline.

US House of Representatives panel passed an amendment this week to repeal US State Department's ability to waive sanctions on Russia's Nord steam 2 natural gas pipeline. This may put pressure on Biden administration to block the Russian project. "These sanctions are mandatory not discretionary," said Representative Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat and a sponsor of the amendment to a foreign aid bill. The House panel passed it unanimously. The amendment passed by the House of Representatives panel seeks to repeal sanctions waiver in fiscal year 2022. But the pipeline is 95 per cent finished. The bill however, has a long way to go before becoming a law. The amendment needs to pass another House committee, the full House, the Senate. Biden will then sign the bill into the law. In May, the State Department sent to Congress a report that concluded that Nord Stream 2 AG and its CEO, Matthias Warnig, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, engaged in sanctionable activity. But Secretary of State Antony Blinken immediately waived those sanctions, saying it was in the U.S. national interest. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has opposed the $11 billion project that would take Russian gas from the Arctic to Germany, saying it is a bad deal for Europe. But Biden also wants to improve ties with Germany, an ally he needs to help deal with broader issues including climate change, the economic recovery and relations with Iran and China. The United States is an exporter of natural gas to Europe in the form of LNG, but Russian gas is cheaper. Washington fears Russia could use Nord Stream 2 as leverage to weaken European Union states by increasing their dependency on Moscow. The project, now about 95% complete, would bypass Ukraine, depriving it of lucrative transit fees and potentially undermining its struggle against Russian aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

US House panel passes amendment seeking to repeal waivers on Nord Stream 2

Twitter on Friday said that it had unblocked accounts of group of exile opposition groups that call themselves 'Belarussian people's embassies'. The accounts were suspended after they were accused of identity theft apparently by Belarussian authorities

"We took enforcement action on the accounts referenced in error," a Twitter spokesperson said. "This has been reversed, and access to the accounts have been reinstated."

The people's embassy movement sprang up after last year's presidential election, in which long-serving strongman Alexander Lukashenko claimed a resounding victory despite a widespread belief that the vote was fraudulent.

The crackdown that resulted saw hundreds thrown in prison. There were allegations that opposition activists were tortured. The sequence of events started a lively exile movement even in Latvia, Lithuania and Germany. There are many Belarussians in these countries.

The various groups, which assert that Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, now living in Lithuanian exile, won the election, and acknowledge her as Belarus's legitimate President, argue that their social media accounts are in effect 'embassies' of the Belarusian people, not Lukashenko's state.

"Even though the regime is illegitimate, we never claim to be an official embassy," the People's Embassy group in Germany said in a statement. "We represent the people, not the regime."

There was no proof that Belarusian authorities reported the three accounts, @BelarusinS, @BelarusInUK and @BelarusInDE, representing groups in Spain, Britain and Germany, all of which were listed as suspended on the Twitter platform on Friday afternoon, before access was reinstated.

But the group earlier sent journalists and activists a screenshot of an e-mail from Twitter in which the platform said it had been "made aware that this account violates Twitter rules, in particular against identity theft."

Belarus has stepped up its activities against exiled activists.

(With inputs from agencies)

Twitter on Friday said that it had unblocked accounts of group of exile opposition groups that call themselves 'Belarussian people's embassies'. The accounts were suspended after they were accused of identity theft apparently by Belarussian authorities "We took enforcement action on the accounts referenced in error," a Twitter spokesperson said.

Twitter on Friday said that it had unblocked accounts of group of exile opposition groups that call themselves 'Belarussian people's embassies'. The accounts were suspended after they were accused of identity theft apparently by Belarussian authorities "We took enforcement action on the accounts referenced in error," a Twitter spokesperson said. "This has been reversed, and access to the accounts have been reinstated." The people's embassy movement sprang up after last year's presidential election, in which long-serving strongman Alexander Lukashenko claimed a resounding victory despite a widespread belief that the vote was fraudulent. The crackdown that resulted saw hundreds thrown in prison. There were allegations that opposition activists were tortured. The sequence of events started a lively exile movement even in Latvia, Lithuania and Germany. There are many Belarussians in these countries. The various groups, which assert that Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, now living in Lithuanian exile, won the election, and acknowledge her as Belarus's legitimate President, argue that their social media accounts are in effect 'embassies' of the Belarusian people, not Lukashenko's state. "Even though the regime is illegitimate, we never claim to be an official embassy," the People's Embassy group in Germany said in a statement. "We represent the people, not the regime." There was no proof that Belarusian authorities reported the three accounts, @BelarusinS, @BelarusInUK and @BelarusInDE, representing groups in Spain, Britain and Germany, all of which were listed as suspended on the Twitter platform on Friday afternoon, before access was reinstated. But the group earlier sent journalists and activists a screenshot of an e-mail from Twitter in which the platform said it had been "made aware that this account violates Twitter rules, in particular against identity theft." Belarus has stepped up its activities against exiled activists. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter unblocks accounts of Belarus 'embassies' suspended earlier

Israel carried out airstrikes against Islamist militant sites in Gaza on Friday&nbsp;, reportedly in retaliation to&nbsp;incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Amid the growing panic over the Delta variant of coronavirus,&nbsp;USA top coronavirus expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci says that vaccines that have been authorised by the US are effective against the 'variant of concern' B.1.617.2.&nbsp;

In other news, the Taliban has expressed joy over the exit of all US and NATO forces from Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, saying that they "welcome and support" it as&nbsp;a sign of an imminent final withdrawal of foreign troops from the country.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-gaza-after-incendiary-balloon-launch-395339">Israel strikes Gaza after incendiary balloon launch</a>

 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/16/198628-untitled-design-3.jpg" />

In retaliation to incendiary&nbsp;balloon&nbsp;launches from the Palestinian enclave Israel launches airstrikes against&nbsp;Islamist militant sites in&nbsp;Gaza.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorised-vaccines-protect-against-delta-variant-says-dr-fauci-395380">US-authorised vaccines protect against Delta variant, says Dr Fauci</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/04/197245-untitled-design-2021-06-04t084009719.jpg" />Repeating&nbsp;his request for everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible,&nbsp;USA top coronavirus expert Dr Anthony Fauci says&nbsp;that US authorised vaccines are effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-welcome-and-support-exit-of-foreign-forces-from-bagram-395324">Taliban 'welcome and support' exit of foreign forces from Bagram</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200750-untitled-design-32.jpg" />The Taliban say that they "welcome and support" the exit of all US and NATO forces from Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, a sign of an imminent final withdrawal of foreign troops from the country.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-pakistan-turkey-to-list-of-countries-implicated-in-use-of-child-soldiers-395335">US adds Pakistan, Turkey to list of countries implicated in use of child soldiers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200752-untitled-design-33.jpg" />

The United States has added Turkey and&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;to&nbsp;Child Soldiers Prevention Act (CSPA), a list of countries that are implicated in the use of child soldiers over the past year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-demands-over-xinjiang-unacceptable-says-china-395373">EU demands over Xinjiang 'unacceptable', says China</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/11/18/117187-untitled-design-5.jpg" />

China accused the European Union of 'hypocrisy' and of setting 'unacceptable' preconditions for visiting Xinjiang region in China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-inducts-china-made-vt-4-battle-tanks-395404">Pakistan inducts China-made VT-4 battle tanks</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200788-china1.jpg" />

Pakistan has inducted VT-4 battle tanks built by China's state-owned Norinco company&nbsp;into its military.&nbsp;The tanks was earlier delivered to the&nbsp;Pakistan Army and&nbsp;have also been supplied to Thailand and Nigeria.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-report-of-china-building-more-than-100-nuclear-missile-silos-concerning-395234">US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200692-untitled-design-22.jpg" />The United States calls China's rapid build-up of its nuclear forces&nbsp;concerning and called on Beijing to engage with it "on practical measures to reduce the risks of destabilising arms races."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-holds-discussion-on-nuclear-testing-in-french-polynesia-over-declassified-report-395382">France holds discussion on nuclear testing in French Polynesia over declassified report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200776-french1.jpg" />After a declassified French defence report indicated the hidden&nbsp;impact of&nbsp;nuclear testing&nbsp;in French Polynesia between 1966-1996, the French government holds a round table meeting to discuss the issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-turtle-carcasses-wash-ashore-in-the-aftermath-of-the-sri-lankan-ship-disaster-395370">Hundreds of turtle carcasses wash ashore in the aftermath of the Sri Lankan ship disaster</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/02/200770-untitled-design-5.jpg" />Hundreds of dead turtles have washed ashore in Sri Lanka. The marine disaster has reportedly caused death&nbsp;of 176 turtles, 20 dolphins and four whales to date.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-introduces-alerts-support-option-to-combat-extremism-on-its-platform-395314">Facebook introduces alerts, support option to combat extremism on its platform</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/22/192361-untitled-design-7.jpg" />

Social media giant Facebook has introduced an option of getting alerts or warnings and a support system to combat extremism on its platform.

Israel carried out airstrikes against Islamist militant sites in Gaza on Friday , reportedly in retaliation to incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave.

Israel carried out airstrikes against Islamist militant sites in Gaza on Friday , reportedly in retaliation to incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave. Meanwhile, Amid the growing panic over the Delta variant of coronavirus, USA top coronavirus expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci says that vaccines that have been authorised by the US are effective against the 'variant of concern' B.1.617.2. In other news, the Taliban has expressed joy over the exit of all US and NATO forces from Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, saying that they "welcome and support" it as a sign of an imminent final withdrawal of foreign troops from the country. Click on headlines to read more Israel strikes Gaza after incendiary balloon launch In retaliation to incendiary balloon launches from the Palestinian enclave Israel launches airstrikes against Islamist militant sites in Gaza. US-authorised vaccines protect against Delta variant, says Dr Fauci Repeating his request for everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible, USA top coronavirus expert Dr Anthony Fauci says that US authorised vaccines are effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus. Taliban 'welcome and support' exit of foreign forces from Bagram The Taliban say that they "welcome and support" the exit of all US and NATO forces from Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, a sign of an imminent final withdrawal of foreign troops from the country. US adds Pakistan, Turkey to list of countries implicated in use of child soldiers The United States has added Turkey and Pakistan to Child Soldiers Prevention Act (CSPA), a list of countries that are implicated in the use of child soldiers over the past year. EU demands over Xinjiang 'unacceptable', says China China accused the European Union of 'hypocrisy' and of setting 'unacceptable' preconditions for visiting Xinjiang region in China. Pakistan inducts China-made VT-4 battle tanks Pakistan has inducted VT-4 battle tanks built by China's state-owned Norinco company into its military. The tanks was earlier delivered to the Pakistan Army and have also been supplied to Thailand and Nigeria. US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning' The United States calls China's rapid build-up of its nuclear forces concerning and called on Beijing to engage with it "on practical measures to reduce the risks of destabilising arms races." France holds discussion on nuclear testing in French Polynesia over declassified report After a declassified French defence report indicated the hidden impact of nuclear testing in French Polynesia between 1966-1996, the French government holds a round table meeting to discuss the issue. Hundreds of turtle carcasses wash ashore in the aftermath of the Sri Lankan ship disaster Hundreds of dead turtles have washed ashore in Sri Lanka. The marine disaster has reportedly caused death of 176 turtles, 20 dolphins and four whales to date. Facebook introduces alerts, support option to combat extremism on its platform Social media giant Facebook has introduced an option of getting alerts or warnings and a support system to combat extremism on its platform.

Top 10 world news: Israel airstrikes on Gaza, Fauci says US-approved vaccines effective against Delta variant & more

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

"I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds.

Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week.

Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme.

The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant. "I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds. Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week. Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme. The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel concerned about big Euro 2020 crowds

A Boeing 737 cargo aircraft made an emergency landing on water in the early hours of July 2 (local time). The landing took place in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Honolulu, Hawaii.

"The pilots had reported engine trouble and were attempting to return to Honolulu when they were forced to land the aircraft in the water," the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a statement.

There were two members of the crew and both of them were rescued by the US Coast Guard. The plane was operated by Rhodes express.

A spokesman for the Coast Guard, Petty Officer Third Class Matthew West, told CNN that a Coast Guard helicopter rescued one of the crew, while "a fire department helicopter rescued the other." A Coast Guard cutter was also dispatched to the scene.

Both crew members were taken to a Honolulu hospital for treatment, West said, adding he did not have additional information about their condition.

CNBC earlier reported that a Boeing 737 had come down in the water.

Shares of Boeing fell by 2 per cent after the news of emergency landing

Boeing's 737 MAX was cleared to fly by regulators late last year after a 20-month grounding following two accidents that killed hundreds of people.

(With agency inputs)

A Boeing 737 cargo aircraft made an emergency landing on water in the early hours of July 2 (local time). The landing took place in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Honolulu, Hawaii.

A Boeing 737 cargo aircraft made an emergency landing on water in the early hours of July 2 (local time). The landing took place in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Honolulu, Hawaii. "The pilots had reported engine trouble and were attempting to return to Honolulu when they were forced to land the aircraft in the water," the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a statement. There were two members of the crew and both of them were rescued by the US Coast Guard. The plane was operated by Rhodes express. A spokesman for the Coast Guard, Petty Officer Third Class Matthew West, told CNN that a Coast Guard helicopter rescued one of the crew, while "a fire department helicopter rescued the other." A Coast Guard cutter was also dispatched to the scene. Both crew members were taken to a Honolulu hospital for treatment, West said, adding he did not have additional information about their condition. CNBC earlier reported that a Boeing 737 had come down in the water. Shares of Boeing fell by 2 per cent after the news of emergency landing Boeing's 737 MAX was cleared to fly by regulators late last year after a 20-month grounding following two accidents that killed hundreds of people. (With agency inputs)

Boeing 737 cargo plane makes emergency landing on water off Hawaii

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is opting for Moderna vaccine as his second dose. For first dose, he had taken AstraZeneca vaccine. The decision has been taken just weeks after Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunisation (NACI) said that mRNA vaccines could be preferred for second dose even when AstraZeneca vaccine was used to give first dose.

Justin Trudeau was scheduled to receive the second dose on Friday in Ottawa. His wife will be vaccinated as well.

NACI has endorsed vaccine interchangeability. Under this, those who have taken first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine may opt for mRNA vaccines like those developed by Pfizer or Moderna.

Even Germany has recommended vaccine interchangeability. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has already received Moderna dose after taking AstraZeneca for the first dose.

On Friday, German Health Minister Jens Spahn held discussions with his colleagues from 16 German states. The discussions came a day after the country's standing committee on vaccination issued a draft recommendation

In a statement, the committee said that "according to current study results," the immune response from a mixture of AstraZeneca with an mRNA vaccine was "significantly superior" to that from two doses of AstraZeneca.

It recommended that the second dose with an mRNA vaccine &nbsp;"Germany uses those made by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna" be administered four weeks or more after the first AstraZeneca shot. That is much shorter than the nine to 12 weeks the committee recommends between two doses of AstraZeneca.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is opting for Moderna vaccine as his second dose. For first dose, he had taken AstraZeneca vaccine. The decision has been taken just weeks after Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunisation (NACI) said that mRNA vaccines could be preferred for second dose even when AstraZeneca vaccine was used to give first dose.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is opting for Moderna vaccine as his second dose. For first dose, he had taken AstraZeneca vaccine. The decision has been taken just weeks after Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunisation (NACI) said that mRNA vaccines could be preferred for second dose even when AstraZeneca vaccine was used to give first dose. Justin Trudeau was scheduled to receive the second dose on Friday in Ottawa. His wife will be vaccinated as well. NACI has endorsed vaccine interchangeability. Under this, those who have taken first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine may opt for mRNA vaccines like those developed by Pfizer or Moderna. Even Germany has recommended vaccine interchangeability. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has already received Moderna dose after taking AstraZeneca for the first dose. On Friday, German Health Minister Jens Spahn held discussions with his colleagues from 16 German states. The discussions came a day after the country's standing committee on vaccination issued a draft recommendation In a statement, the committee said that "according to current study results," the immune response from a mixture of AstraZeneca with an mRNA vaccine was "significantly superior" to that from two doses of AstraZeneca. It recommended that the second dose with an mRNA vaccine "Germany uses those made by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna" be administered four weeks or more after the first AstraZeneca shot. That is much shorter than the nine to 12 weeks the committee recommends between two doses of AstraZeneca. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau to take Moderna vaccine after first jab of AstraZeneca

Do you love French fries but feel guilty after eating them?

You'll be glad to hear this. According to a recent study, eating French fries (baked, not fried) is actually good for you.

Researchers found that consuming baked french fries may be the key to controlling blood pressure.&nbsp;

Apparently, potatoes contain more natural potassium than supplements, according to a study by researchers from Purdue University.&nbsp;

Since potatoes are loaded with carbohydrates, they've long had a bad rap, and are generally considered junk food due to their high carbohydrate content. But now, that narrative is changing, the story of this root vegetable is changing as well.

A study published in the journal Nutrients found that eating potatoes and baked potato dishes reduces systolic blood pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Connie Weaver, the primary investigator for this study, lowering dietary sodium intake is often emphasised to control blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but this is only half the story. In her opinion, potassium also plays an essential role in reducing the amount of sodium retained by the body.

Weaver and her team discovered that potato meal is much more effective than potassium supplements in reducing sodium retention.

The researchers tested for over two weeks the benefits of potassium on 30 participants divided into four groups. Some people added potassium to their diets by eating potato-based foods, while others used supplements.&nbsp;

Researchers determined that a higher potency potassium-gluconate supplement had less of a positive effect than eating grilled or baked potatoes.

So we can conclude that french fries aren't just tasty, they're also good for you. The addition of baked French fries to your diet helps you achieve a more balanced diet, and the best part is that there is no guilt attached.&nbsp;

Do you love French fries but feel guilty after eating them? You'll be glad to hear this. According to a recent study, eating French fries (baked, not fried) is actually good for you.

Do you love French fries but feel guilty after eating them? You'll be glad to hear this. According to a recent study, eating French fries (baked, not fried) is actually good for you. Researchers found that consuming baked french fries may be the key to controlling blood pressure. Apparently, potatoes contain more natural potassium than supplements, according to a study by researchers from Purdue University. Since potatoes are loaded with carbohydrates, they've long had a bad rap, and are generally considered junk food due to their high carbohydrate content. But now, that narrative is changing, the story of this root vegetable is changing as well. A study published in the journal Nutrients found that eating potatoes and baked potato dishes reduces systolic blood pressure. According to Connie Weaver, the primary investigator for this study, lowering dietary sodium intake is often emphasised to control blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but this is only half the story. In her opinion, potassium also plays an essential role in reducing the amount of sodium retained by the body. Weaver and her team discovered that potato meal is much more effective than potassium supplements in reducing sodium retention. The researchers tested for over two weeks the benefits of potassium on 30 participants divided into four groups. Some people added potassium to their diets by eating potato-based foods, while others used supplements. Researchers determined that a higher potency potassium-gluconate supplement had less of a positive effect than eating grilled or baked potatoes. So we can conclude that french fries aren't just tasty, they're also good for you. The addition of baked French fries to your diet helps you achieve a more balanced diet, and the best part is that there is no guilt attached.

Study says eating french fries good for health

USA top coronavirus expert Dr Anthony Fauci said on Thursday (local time) said that vaccines that have been authorised by the US are effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus. He repeated his request for everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. He was speaking at press briefing at the White House

&nbsp;"...From Public Health England, from June 14, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 96 per cent effective against hospitalization from the Delta variant after two doses, and the AZ (AstraZeneca) was 92 per cent effective against hospitalization after two doses," said Fauci.

"Since these vaccines -- the AZ and the J&amp;J (Johnson &amp; Johnson) are based on very similar platforms, one could anticipate and make a reasonable assumption that the results against the Delta variant would be at least similar, perhaps even better. We are now looking at neutralization data, and soon we will have more firm data which we will make available to you as soon as it occurs," he mentioned while speaking on the J&amp;J single-dose vaccine.

Dr Fauci said that science was clear and that the best way to protect yourself was to get fully vaccinated.

"It works. It`s free. It`s safe. It`s easy. And it`s convenient," he added.

Regarding full approval of the COVID-19 vaccines by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the top US health expert exuded confidence that it will happen soon, adding that "it would really be a most unusual situation not to see this get full approval".He also said that the US can still celebrate the July 4 national holiday if people are fully vaccinated and protected against the virus.

Meanwhile, Rochelle Walensky, the Director of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said that the Delta variant is likely to eclipse the Alpha variant, first identified in the UK, in coming weeks.

"An estimated 25 percent of all reported SARS-CoV-2 sequences nationwide are the Delta variant. And in some regions of the country, nearly one in two sequences is the Delta variant," she said.

In tandem with Fauci`s statements, Walensky said that all US-authorised vaccines provide protection against the circulating variants in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

USA top coronavirus expert Dr Anthony Fauci said on Thursday (local time) said that vaccines that have been authorised by the US are effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus.

USA top coronavirus expert Dr Anthony Fauci said on Thursday (local time) said that vaccines that have been authorised by the US are effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus. He repeated his request for everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. He was speaking at press briefing at the White House "...From Public Health England, from June 14, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 96 per cent effective against hospitalization from the Delta variant after two doses, and the AZ (AstraZeneca) was 92 per cent effective against hospitalization after two doses," said Fauci. "Since these vaccines -- the AZ and the J&J (Johnson & Johnson) are based on very similar platforms, one could anticipate and make a reasonable assumption that the results against the Delta variant would be at least similar, perhaps even better. We are now looking at neutralization data, and soon we will have more firm data which we will make available to you as soon as it occurs," he mentioned while speaking on the J&J single-dose vaccine. Dr Fauci said that science was clear and that the best way to protect yourself was to get fully vaccinated. "It works. It`s free. It`s safe. It`s easy. And it`s convenient," he added. Regarding full approval of the COVID-19 vaccines by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the top US health expert exuded confidence that it will happen soon, adding that "it would really be a most unusual situation not to see this get full approval".He also said that the US can still celebrate the July 4 national holiday if people are fully vaccinated and protected against the virus. Meanwhile, Rochelle Walensky, the Director of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said that the Delta variant is likely to eclipse the Alpha variant, first identified in the UK, in coming weeks. "An estimated 25 percent of all reported SARS-CoV-2 sequences nationwide are the Delta variant. And in some regions of the country, nearly one in two sequences is the Delta variant," she said. In tandem with Fauci`s statements, Walensky said that all US-authorised vaccines provide protection against the circulating variants in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

US-authorised vaccines protect against Delta variant, says Dr Fauci

China on Friday accused the European Union of setting 'unacceptable' preconditions for visiting Xinjiang region in China. The Chinese mission to the European Union released a statement in this regard.

The mission also accused European Union of 'hypocrisy'.

“China has sent an invitation to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit Xinjiang and the two sides have been in constant communication," said the statement as per South China Mrning Post

“China has also invited diplomats from the EU and its member states posted in China many times to visit Xinjiang. However, the trip has not been carried out due to preconditions set by the EU side, which are unacceptable to any sovereign state,” it added.

China faces allegations that Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang region are forced into 're-education' camps where they are indoctrinated, mistreated and tortured.

The US has already called the situation in Xinjiang a 'genocide'.

China has been denying the allegations and has been saying that its moves in Xinjiang have been designed to combat extremism and reduce poverty. 
&nbsp;

China on Friday accused the European Union of setting 'unacceptable' preconditions for visiting Xinjiang region in China. The Chinese mission to the European Union released a statement in this regard.

China on Friday accused the European Union of setting 'unacceptable' preconditions for visiting Xinjiang region in China. The Chinese mission to the European Union released a statement in this regard. The mission also accused European Union of 'hypocrisy'. “China has sent an invitation to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit Xinjiang and the two sides have been in constant communication," said the statement as per South China Mrning Post “China has also invited diplomats from the EU and its member states posted in China many times to visit Xinjiang. However, the trip has not been carried out due to preconditions set by the EU side, which are unacceptable to any sovereign state,” it added. China faces allegations that Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang region are forced into 're-education' camps where they are indoctrinated, mistreated and tortured. The US has already called the situation in Xinjiang a 'genocide'. China has been denying the allegations and has been saying that its moves in Xinjiang have been designed to combat extremism and reduce poverty.

EU demands over Xinjiang 'unacceptable', says China

As predicted by the Sri Lankan government,&nbsp;Singapore ship <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-braces-for-oil-spill-from-sunken-ship-here-is-what-we-know-389485">MV X-Press Pearl</a> burning is proving to be the country’s “worst marine disaster”.

Hundreds of dead turtles have washed ashore in Sri Lanka. The marine disaster has reportedly caused death&nbsp;of 176 turtles, 20 dolphins and four whales to date.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dead-marine-animals-and-birds-wash-up-ashore-in-sri-lanka-after-burning-of-cargo-ship-389873">Dead marine animals and birds wash up ashore in Sri Lanka after burning of cargo ship</a>

This data was presented by Sri Lanka’s Deputy Solicitor General Madawa Tennakoon, during&nbsp;the initial court hearing of the&nbsp;$40 million case, filed by the country’s government against X-Press Feeders, the ship’s operating company. &nbsp;

On May 20, a Singapore ship laden with chemicals erupted into fire. The ship was carrying 1,486 containers and had a 25 tonnes load of nitric acid along with other chemicals and cosmetics. After days of harrowing smoke and oil spill, the ship sank on June 2nd as salvage crew attempted to tow the vessel away from the coast.

Videos by local television stations show volunteers working hard to clear away carcasses of Dead Sea turtles and innumerable plastic pellets scattered across the shores.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-cargo-ship-sinking-sri-lanka-faces-one-of-its-worst-environmental-disasters-in-decades-389108">With cargo ship sinking, Sri Lanka faces one of its worst environmental disasters in decades</a>

Sri Lankan government has named fifteen people as co-accused for the caused damages, this includes the Russian captain Tyutkalo Vitaly was arrested on June 14. And released later. As of now, he has not been charged in the environmental case.&nbsp;

Environmental minister Mahinda Amaraweera while talking to reporters said that sea creatures&nbsp;don’t die like this during the Southwestern monsoon and that most of the carcasses found have been directly impacted by the shipwreck.&nbsp;

As predicted by the Sri Lankan government, Singapore ship MV X-Press Pearl burning is proving to be the country’s “worst marine disaster”. Hundreds of dead turtles have washed ashore in Sri Lanka.

As predicted by the Sri Lankan government, Singapore ship MV X-Press Pearl burning is proving to be the country’s “worst marine disaster”. Hundreds of dead turtles have washed ashore in Sri Lanka. The marine disaster has reportedly caused death of 176 turtles, 20 dolphins and four whales to date. Also read | Dead marine animals and birds wash up ashore in Sri Lanka after burning of cargo ship This data was presented by Sri Lanka’s Deputy Solicitor General Madawa Tennakoon, during the initial court hearing of the $40 million case, filed by the country’s government against X-Press Feeders, the ship’s operating company. On May 20, a Singapore ship laden with chemicals erupted into fire. The ship was carrying 1,486 containers and had a 25 tonnes load of nitric acid along with other chemicals and cosmetics. After days of harrowing smoke and oil spill, the ship sank on June 2nd as salvage crew attempted to tow the vessel away from the coast. Videos by local television stations show volunteers working hard to clear away carcasses of Dead Sea turtles and innumerable plastic pellets scattered across the shores. Also read | With cargo ship sinking, Sri Lanka faces one of its worst environmental disasters in decades Sri Lankan government has named fifteen people as co-accused for the caused damages, this includes the Russian captain Tyutkalo Vitaly was arrested on June 14. And released later. As of now, he has not been charged in the environmental case. Environmental minister Mahinda Amaraweera while talking to reporters said that sea creatures don’t die like this during the Southwestern monsoon and that most of the carcasses found have been directly impacted by the shipwreck.

Hundreds of turtle carcasses wash ashore in the aftermath of the Sri Lankan ship disaster

Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India has been officially launched for Android users in India. No matter your preference of guns, VSS or Uzi or even any other in the game, the shot at the famed Chicken Dinner is yours for the taking again. The installation link for the Indian version of Pubg has been made available in Google Play Store. The hardcore fans have waited for long for the re-launch of the game in India.

Pubg was a huge hit in India years ago. It was credited with making the Battle Royale game mode hugely popular in India. In an age where attention spans are constantly shrinking, players use to spend hours in game, one round of which lasted for about half an hour.

However, the game was banned in India after tension with China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Since the game had links with Chinese company Tencent Games, it drew the wrath of Indian government and the game was banned. Krafton Inc. the Korean company severed its Chinese ties and the game is now available again for Indian users.

The game was under beta testing for a while and was available only for select users. But now everyone using Android can download the game.

 
How to download Pubg Battleground Mobile India.

<ol>
	<li>Go to Google Store on your smartphone</li>
	<li>Search for Battlegrounds Mobile India</li>
	<li>Be sure to select the official game from the search results</li>
	<li>This version has been developed by Krafton Inc and NOT Tencent</li>
	<li>Click on 'Install' button and you are sorted</li>
</ol>

 
&nbsp;

Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India has been officially launched for Android users in India. No matter your preference of guns, VSS or Uzi or even any other in the game, the shot at the famed Chicken Dinner is yours for the taking again.

Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India has been officially launched for Android users in India. No matter your preference of guns, VSS or Uzi or even any other in the game, the shot at the famed Chicken Dinner is yours for the taking again. The installation link for the Indian version of Pubg has been made available in Google Play Store. The hardcore fans have waited for long for the re-launch of the game in India. Pubg was a huge hit in India years ago. It was credited with making the Battle Royale game mode hugely popular in India. In an age where attention spans are constantly shrinking, players use to spend hours in game, one round of which lasted for about half an hour. However, the game was banned in India after tension with China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Since the game had links with Chinese company Tencent Games, it drew the wrath of Indian government and the game was banned. Krafton Inc. the Korean company severed its Chinese ties and the game is now available again for Indian users. The game was under beta testing for a while and was available only for select users. But now everyone using Android can download the game. How to download Pubg Battleground Mobile India. Go to Google Store on your smartphone Search for Battlegrounds Mobile India Be sure to select the official game from the search results This version has been developed by Krafton Inc and NOT Tencent Click on 'Install' button and you are sorted

Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India officially launched for Android

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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