A court in Belgium on Friday ordered pharma giant AstraZeneca to deliver 50 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine to European Union (EU) members by September 27. This is fewer than what the EU had demanded.

Both, the EU and AstraZeneca have claimed victory. The European Commission has stressed that AstraZeneca would pay financial penalty for each missed dose while the company has promised it would easily meet the target.

The UK-based pharmaceutical fell well short of fulfilling its contract to supply the EU in the first quarter, delivering only 30 million of the 120 million promised.

However, while the court found in favour of the EU it oredered only 50 million more doses by the end of September.

If the firm fails to do so it would pay a fine of 10 euros per dose not delivered.

"This decision confirms the position of the Commission: AstraZeneca did not live up to the commitments it made in the contract," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

"It is good to see that an independent judge confirms this," she said.

"This shows that our European vaccination campaign not only delivers for our citizens day by day. It also demonstrates, that it was founded on a sound legal basis."

AstraZeneca in a company statement, welcomed the ruling.

"The European Commission had requested 120 million vaccine doses cumulatively by the end of June 2021, and a total of 300 million doses by the end of September 2021," the firm said.&nbsp;

"The judge ordered delivery of 80.2 million doses by 27 September 2021," it said -- including the 30 million it already delivered in the first quarter in its calculation.&nbsp;

"To date, the Company has supplied more than 70 million doses to the European Union and will substantially exceed 80.2 million doses by the end of June 2021."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A court in Belgium on Friday ordered pharma giant AstraZeneca to deliver 50 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine to European Union (EU) members by September 27. This is fewer than what the EU had demanded.

A court in Belgium on Friday ordered pharma giant AstraZeneca to deliver 50 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine to European Union (EU) members by September 27. This is fewer than what the EU had demanded. Both, the EU and AstraZeneca have claimed victory. The European Commission has stressed that AstraZeneca would pay financial penalty for each missed dose while the company has promised it would easily meet the target. The UK-based pharmaceutical fell well short of fulfilling its contract to supply the EU in the first quarter, delivering only 30 million of the 120 million promised. However, while the court found in favour of the EU it oredered only 50 million more doses by the end of September. If the firm fails to do so it would pay a fine of 10 euros per dose not delivered. "This decision confirms the position of the Commission: AstraZeneca did not live up to the commitments it made in the contract," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said. "It is good to see that an independent judge confirms this," she said. "This shows that our European vaccination campaign not only delivers for our citizens day by day. It also demonstrates, that it was founded on a sound legal basis." AstraZeneca in a company statement, welcomed the ruling. "The European Commission had requested 120 million vaccine doses cumulatively by the end of June 2021, and a total of 300 million doses by the end of September 2021," the firm said. "The judge ordered delivery of 80.2 million doses by 27 September 2021," it said -- including the 30 million it already delivered in the first quarter in its calculation. "To date, the Company has supplied more than 70 million doses to the European Union and will substantially exceed 80.2 million doses by the end of June 2021."

Court orders AstraZeneca to deliver less vaccines than EU demand

Facebook is launching ads globally on Instagram Reels, it said on Thursday.

Facebook began testing Instagram Reels ads in India, Brazil, Germany and Australia in April. The tests ran with brands like BMW, Louis Vuitton, Netflix and Uber.&nbsp;

Facebook is aiming to monetise&nbsp;its short-form video feature.

"We see Reels as a great way for people to discover new content on Instagram, and so ads are a natural fit," said Instagram's Chief Operating Officer Justin Osofsky. "Brands of all sizes can take advantage of this new creative format in an environment where people are already being entertained."

The company said that Reels ads, which will loop and can be up to 30 seconds long, will appear between individual Reels.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook is launching ads globally on Instagram Reels, it said on Thursday. Facebook began testing Instagram Reels ads in India, Brazil, Germany and Australia in April.

Facebook is launching ads globally on Instagram Reels, it said on Thursday. Facebook began testing Instagram Reels ads in India, Brazil, Germany and Australia in April. The tests ran with brands like BMW, Louis Vuitton, Netflix and Uber. Facebook is aiming to monetise its short-form video feature. "We see Reels as a great way for people to discover new content on Instagram, and so ads are a natural fit," said Instagram's Chief Operating Officer Justin Osofsky. "Brands of all sizes can take advantage of this new creative format in an environment where people are already being entertained." The company said that Reels ads, which will loop and can be up to 30 seconds long, will appear between individual Reels. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook launches ads for Instagram Reels

France on Friday accused Russia of making efforts amounting to "seizure of power" in Central African Republic (CAR) acknowledging CAR's CAR's cooperation with Russian "mercenaries" had prompted Paris to scale down its military support.

France suspended military help and budgetary aid to the CAR this month&nbsp;accusing it of being "complicit" in anti-French disinformation campaign backed by Russia.

The CAR has become a key area in the controversy over the role in Africa of the Wagner mercenary group which is allegedly run by the shadowy businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close confidant of President Vladimir Putin.

"In the Central African Republic, there is a form of a seizure of power, and in particular of military power, by Russian mercenaries," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told BFM TV.

"We are fighting this and it has led us to take measures to withdraw a certain number of our military personnel."

French Foreign Minister said Russian personnel were surrounding CAR President Faustin Archange Touadera and were exploiting the wealth of the country.

CAR is one of the poorest countries in the world. It has been chronically unstable since its independence from France.

France launched three-year military operation in 2013 to halt sectarian violence. The operation was launched after the then president Francois Bozize, was ousted by predominantly Muslim rebel groups.

The CAR's closer relationship with Moscow dates back to 2018, when Russia sent "instructors" to help train its beleaguered armed forces and supplied small arms, gaining exemption from a UN weapons embargo.

Last December, under a bilateral cooperation agreement, the Kremlin sent several hundred personnel to shore up Touadera, who was threatened by a rebel offensive.&nbsp;

Russians also provide the president's personal protection and his powerful national security advisor, Valery Zakharov, is a Russian.

On May 30, in an interview with France's Journal du Dimanche newspaper, French President Emmanuel Macron said "anti-French talk has provided legitimacy to predatory Russian mercenaries at the apex of the state.

"Touadera... today is a hostage of the Wagner group," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

France on Friday accused Russia of making efforts amounting to "seizure of power" in Central African Republic (CAR) acknowledging CAR's CAR's cooperation with Russian "mercenaries" had prompted Paris to scale down its military support.

France on Friday accused Russia of making efforts amounting to "seizure of power" in Central African Republic (CAR) acknowledging CAR's CAR's cooperation with Russian "mercenaries" had prompted Paris to scale down its military support. France suspended military help and budgetary aid to the CAR this month accusing it of being "complicit" in anti-French disinformation campaign backed by Russia. The CAR has become a key area in the controversy over the role in Africa of the Wagner mercenary group which is allegedly run by the shadowy businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close confidant of President Vladimir Putin. "In the Central African Republic, there is a form of a seizure of power, and in particular of military power, by Russian mercenaries," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told BFM TV. "We are fighting this and it has led us to take measures to withdraw a certain number of our military personnel." French Foreign Minister said Russian personnel were surrounding CAR President Faustin Archange Touadera and were exploiting the wealth of the country. CAR is one of the poorest countries in the world. It has been chronically unstable since its independence from France. France launched three-year military operation in 2013 to halt sectarian violence. The operation was launched after the then president Francois Bozize, was ousted by predominantly Muslim rebel groups. The CAR's closer relationship with Moscow dates back to 2018, when Russia sent "instructors" to help train its beleaguered armed forces and supplied small arms, gaining exemption from a UN weapons embargo. Last December, under a bilateral cooperation agreement, the Kremlin sent several hundred personnel to shore up Touadera, who was threatened by a rebel offensive. Russians also provide the president's personal protection and his powerful national security advisor, Valery Zakharov, is a Russian. On May 30, in an interview with France's Journal du Dimanche newspaper, French President Emmanuel Macron said "anti-French talk has provided legitimacy to predatory Russian mercenaries at the apex of the state. "Touadera... today is a hostage of the Wagner group," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

France decries Russia's 'seizure of power' in central Africa

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases.

"It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic.

Sobyanin noted that daily infections in the capital had soared from 3,000 to 7,000 within a few days and were expected to hit more than 9,000 on Friday.

"It's tripling, there's an enormous dynamic that we have not seen during the previous waves," Sobyanin added. 
The mayor had on Wednesday ordered mandatory vaccinations for Moscow residents working in the service industry, citing a "dramatic" rise in coronavirus infections.

60 per cent of all service industry workers in Moscow were ordered to be fully vaccinated by August 15. This amounts to just over two million people.

Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told the video conference the number of cases across Russia had climbed an average of 30 percent in recent weeks and people aged 30-40 were particularly affected.

"The proportion of the Indian (Delta) variant has clearly progressed over the last two weeks," added Anna Popova, head of the health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases. "It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic.

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases. "It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic. Sobyanin noted that daily infections in the capital had soared from 3,000 to 7,000 within a few days and were expected to hit more than 9,000 on Friday. "It's tripling, there's an enormous dynamic that we have not seen during the previous waves," Sobyanin added. The mayor had on Wednesday ordered mandatory vaccinations for Moscow residents working in the service industry, citing a "dramatic" rise in coronavirus infections. 60 per cent of all service industry workers in Moscow were ordered to be fully vaccinated by August 15. This amounts to just over two million people. Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told the video conference the number of cases across Russia had climbed an average of 30 percent in recent weeks and people aged 30-40 were particularly affected. "The proportion of the Indian (Delta) variant has clearly progressed over the last two weeks," added Anna Popova, head of the health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow mayor says new variant is behind Covid spike

Sweden's minority government may get toppled next week as four parties in parliament announced on Thursday that they would support a no confidence vote. This may trigger a snap election.

The far-right Sweden Democrats (SD) party has announced that it was calling for motion of no confidence for Monday after the Left Party earlier warned it would seek similar move.

"There is now a majority in parliament that wants to dismiss the prime minister," Henrik Vinge, SD's parliament group leader, told a press conference.

He said they hoped the government would fall a year ahead of next election.

But Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said later Thursday: "To throw Sweden into a political crisis in this dire situation for the country, that is not responsible."

Addressing a news conference, the Social Democrat stressed that Sweden was still in the midst of a pandemic and resulting economic crisis.

Both the conservative Moderate Party and the Christian Democrats followed suit after SD's announcement, thereby securing a parliamentary majority for the no-confidence motion.

"We were against the Lofven government when they took power. We were against the Lofven government then, we are against (it) &nbsp;now," Ebba Busch, party leader of the Christian Democrats, told a press conference.

Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson echoed Busch.

"Our opinion is very clear, this government should never have taken office," Kristersson wrote on Facebook.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sweden's minority government may get toppled next week as four parties in parliament announced on Thursday that they would support a no confidence vote. This may trigger a snap election.

Sweden's minority government may get toppled next week as four parties in parliament announced on Thursday that they would support a no confidence vote. This may trigger a snap election. The far-right Sweden Democrats (SD) party has announced that it was calling for motion of no confidence for Monday after the Left Party earlier warned it would seek similar move. "There is now a majority in parliament that wants to dismiss the prime minister," Henrik Vinge, SD's parliament group leader, told a press conference. He said they hoped the government would fall a year ahead of next election. But Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said later Thursday: "To throw Sweden into a political crisis in this dire situation for the country, that is not responsible." Addressing a news conference, the Social Democrat stressed that Sweden was still in the midst of a pandemic and resulting economic crisis. Both the conservative Moderate Party and the Christian Democrats followed suit after SD's announcement, thereby securing a parliamentary majority for the no-confidence motion. "We were against the Lofven government when they took power. We were against the Lofven government then, we are against (it) now," Ebba Busch, party leader of the Christian Democrats, told a press conference. Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson echoed Busch. "Our opinion is very clear, this government should never have taken office," Kristersson wrote on Facebook. (With inputs from agencies)

Swedish government may lose confidence vote next week

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi.

"The media and the people have testified that this is a good competition," said the head of the 12-member council, Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee, a day before almost 60 million voters are asked to head to the ballots.

Kadkhodaee said that the televised debates between the seven candidates showed that the competition was serious.

The candidates were approved by the unelected body of jurists and clerics.

The vote Friday will choose a successor to Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who cannot run again now after serving two consecutive four-year terms, and who leaves office in August.

Turnout for the voting is expected to be low owing to demoralised electorate which faced years of economic crisis brought on by crippling US sanctions regime and worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic

"I left my main job because I could not pay the rent for my shop, and my (former) employees are now jobless," lamented Tehran resident Nasrollah, who said he had been a car mechanic for 47 years.&nbsp;

"I have no money. All families are now facing an economic problem. How can we vote for these people who did this to us? It's not right."&nbsp;

'No political views'

The election comes as Tehran holds renewed talks with world powers to revive a battered 2015 nuclear deal, which the United States unilaterally withdrew from three years ago under then president Donald Trump.

Ultimate power in Iran lies with the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the president has significant influence on issues from industrial policy to foreign affairs.

Many voters were dismayed however when a field of almost 600 hopefuls for the presidency was reduced to just seven candidates by the Guardian Council.

Among the prominent figures barred from running were former parliament speaker Ali Larijani, who demanded that the council "officially and publicly disclose all the reasons" for his disqualification.

Rouhani later said he had urged greater "competition" in a letter to the supreme leader, who acknowledged that some candidates had been treated "unjustly" as "they and their families were accused of false things", without giving names.

The field was further reduced Wednesday when three of the seven candidates dropped out, shortly before the election campaign ended at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi.

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi. "The media and the people have testified that this is a good competition," said the head of the 12-member council, Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee, a day before almost 60 million voters are asked to head to the ballots. Kadkhodaee said that the televised debates between the seven candidates showed that the competition was serious. The candidates were approved by the unelected body of jurists and clerics. The vote Friday will choose a successor to Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who cannot run again now after serving two consecutive four-year terms, and who leaves office in August. Turnout for the voting is expected to be low owing to demoralised electorate which faced years of economic crisis brought on by crippling US sanctions regime and worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic "I left my main job because I could not pay the rent for my shop, and my (former) employees are now jobless," lamented Tehran resident Nasrollah, who said he had been a car mechanic for 47 years. "I have no money. All families are now facing an economic problem. How can we vote for these people who did this to us? It's not right." 'No political views' The election comes as Tehran holds renewed talks with world powers to revive a battered 2015 nuclear deal, which the United States unilaterally withdrew from three years ago under then president Donald Trump. Ultimate power in Iran lies with the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the president has significant influence on issues from industrial policy to foreign affairs. Many voters were dismayed however when a field of almost 600 hopefuls for the presidency was reduced to just seven candidates by the Guardian Council. Among the prominent figures barred from running were former parliament speaker Ali Larijani, who demanded that the council "officially and publicly disclose all the reasons" for his disqualification. Rouhani later said he had urged greater "competition" in a letter to the supreme leader, who acknowledged that some candidates had been treated "unjustly" as "they and their families were accused of false things", without giving names. The field was further reduced Wednesday when three of the seven candidates dropped out, shortly before the election campaign ended at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Presidential vote is a 'serious' contest, says Iran

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent of its national income. This will result in cut of 4 billion Pounds.

The WHO has joined many other agencies to warn about the impact of UK's decision. It mentioned that the "neglected tropical disease" included Trachoma, Elecphantiasis and Guinea Worm. These diseases are among 20 disease groups which mostly affect poorest countries. These disease are preventable but the WHO said the disease could "kill, blind, disfigure and maim"

WHO also said that without UK's aid, about 277 million tablets will expire and will have to be destroyed.

"No obvious alternative source of funding exists to fill the funding gaps that will be left by the exit of Ascend," the WHO added.

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.

The World Health Organisation has said that UK's decision to cut aid will make millions of people susceptible to dying from "neglected tropical diseases". The UK has reduced foreign aid budget from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent of its national income. This will result in cut of 4 billion Pounds. The WHO has joined many other agencies to warn about the impact of UK's decision. It mentioned that the "neglected tropical disease" included Trachoma, Elecphantiasis and Guinea Worm. These diseases are among 20 disease groups which mostly affect poorest countries. These disease are preventable but the WHO said the disease could "kill, blind, disfigure and maim" WHO also said that without UK's aid, about 277 million tablets will expire and will have to be destroyed. "No obvious alternative source of funding exists to fill the funding gaps that will be left by the exit of Ascend," the WHO added.

UK's foreign aid cut may put millions at risk: WHO

Thursday was a major day for Hong Kong as office of&nbsp;prominent pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily was raided by police. About 500 police officers swooped-in on Apple Daily, one of the prominent news outlet that has fiercely guarded its pro-democracy stance and has criticised China's heavy-handed responses that stifled liberties in the financial hub.

Apple Daily has been around for 26 years and has been fiercest pro-democracy voice in Hong Kong. On Thursday, the police officers arrested five executives of Apple Daily, seized computers and journalistic material

Apple Daily's journey&nbsp;

It was founded in 1995 "as a newspaper for Hong Kong people" by Jimmy Lai, a billionaire mogul who had fled to the city from the mainland as a penniless child, and amassed a fortune selling clothes.

Lai had not been especially political until the events of June 4, 1989, when he and many other Hong Kongers watched in horror as China sent tanks and troops to crush democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

In the ensuing years he became increasingly outspoken -- often using especially colourful language to describe China's leaders -- and his clothing brand Giordano soon found itself in trouble with mainland authorities.

So Lai sold up and ploughed the proceeds into a new endeavour -- founding a media empire.

The emergence of Apple Daily coincided with Hong Kong's return by Britain to China in 1997.

As many Hong Kongers fretted about their future freedoms, Apple Daily became the voice of the city's pro-democracy, Beijing-sceptical wing.

National Security Law

Hong Kong's controversial National Security Law was passed in June 2020. Critics have termed it 'The end of Hong Kong'. It is feared that the law would be used by China to end Hong Kong's limited autonomy.

Hong Kong was a British colony and its was handed over to China under assurances of 'One country, two systems' in 1997. Since then, Hong Kongers have enjoyed greater degree of freedoms than the mainland Chinese.

However, the National Security Law, which was passed after strong pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong threatens to end the autonomy.

The law, Jimmy Lai and Apple Daily

Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law last year radically changed the paper's fortunes. 
Lai, 73, was among the first high-profile democracy activists arrested under the law.

He was jailed for attending protests, and faces a national security charge of collusion that could land him a life sentence.

In an interview with AFP almost exactly a year ago, shortly before the law came in, he predicted it would be used to silence his newspaper.

"Whatever we write, whatever we say, can be subversion, can be sedition," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thursday was a major day for Hong Kong as office of prominent pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily was raided by police. About 500 police officers swooped-in on Apple Daily, one of the prominent news outlet that has fiercely guarded its pro-democracy stance and has criticised China's heavy-handed responses that stifled liberties in the financial hub.

Thursday was a major day for Hong Kong as office of prominent pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily was raided by police. About 500 police officers swooped-in on Apple Daily, one of the prominent news outlet that has fiercely guarded its pro-democracy stance and has criticised China's heavy-handed responses that stifled liberties in the financial hub. Apple Daily has been around for 26 years and has been fiercest pro-democracy voice in Hong Kong. On Thursday, the police officers arrested five executives of Apple Daily, seized computers and journalistic material Apple Daily's journey It was founded in 1995 "as a newspaper for Hong Kong people" by Jimmy Lai, a billionaire mogul who had fled to the city from the mainland as a penniless child, and amassed a fortune selling clothes. Lai had not been especially political until the events of June 4, 1989, when he and many other Hong Kongers watched in horror as China sent tanks and troops to crush democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. In the ensuing years he became increasingly outspoken -- often using especially colourful language to describe China's leaders -- and his clothing brand Giordano soon found itself in trouble with mainland authorities. So Lai sold up and ploughed the proceeds into a new endeavour -- founding a media empire. The emergence of Apple Daily coincided with Hong Kong's return by Britain to China in 1997. As many Hong Kongers fretted about their future freedoms, Apple Daily became the voice of the city's pro-democracy, Beijing-sceptical wing. National Security Law Hong Kong's controversial National Security Law was passed in June 2020. Critics have termed it 'The end of Hong Kong'. It is feared that the law would be used by China to end Hong Kong's limited autonomy. Hong Kong was a British colony and its was handed over to China under assurances of 'One country, two systems' in 1997. Since then, Hong Kongers have enjoyed greater degree of freedoms than the mainland Chinese. However, the National Security Law, which was passed after strong pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong threatens to end the autonomy. The law, Jimmy Lai and Apple Daily Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law last year radically changed the paper's fortunes. Lai, 73, was among the first high-profile democracy activists arrested under the law. He was jailed for attending protests, and faces a national security charge of collusion that could land him a life sentence. In an interview with AFP almost exactly a year ago, shortly before the law came in, he predicted it would be used to silence his newspaper. "Whatever we write, whatever we say, can be subversion, can be sedition," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: Why Apple Daily is being raided in Hong Kong

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

"At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying.

After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area,&nbsp;as per the report.

Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased.

According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district. "At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying. After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area, as per the report. Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased. According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago. Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country. (With inputs from agencies)

23 Afghan troops killed in clashes with Taliban: Report

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office. The police officers made arrests and went through computers and seized journalistic material.

"Today's raids &amp; arrests at Apple Daily in Hong Kong demonstrate Beijing is using the National Security Law to target dissenting voices, not tackle public security," Raab wrote on Twitter.

"Freedom of the press is one of the rights China promised to protect in the Joint Declaration &amp; should be respected," Raab said.

It is the first time the content of media reporting has sparked arrests under the city's new national security law. Jimmy Lai, the media tycoon who runs Apple Daily is already in jail

In a message to readers, Apple Daily warned that Hong Kong's press freedoms were "hanging by a thread" but the paper vowed to "stand tall".&nbsp;

Its union described the operation as a "wanton violation of press freedom" that "displayed how much police power has inflated under the national security law".

Police said the five executives were arrested for collusion with a foreign country or external elements "to endanger national security".

"They have overall responsibility for the content, style and principles of news reporting," senior superintendent Steve Li told reporters.&nbsp;

Authorities also seized HK$18 million (US$2.3 million) in Apple Daily assets, the first time a national security law seizure order has been made directly against a Hong Kong media company, rather than an individual.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office.

United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on Thursday accused China of using security legislation to "target dissenting voices" in Hong Kong. Earlier on Thursday, about 500 police officers swooped-in on Hong Kong's pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily's office. The police officers made arrests and went through computers and seized journalistic material. "Today's raids & arrests at Apple Daily in Hong Kong demonstrate Beijing is using the National Security Law to target dissenting voices, not tackle public security," Raab wrote on Twitter. "Freedom of the press is one of the rights China promised to protect in the Joint Declaration & should be respected," Raab said. It is the first time the content of media reporting has sparked arrests under the city's new national security law. Jimmy Lai, the media tycoon who runs Apple Daily is already in jail In a message to readers, Apple Daily warned that Hong Kong's press freedoms were "hanging by a thread" but the paper vowed to "stand tall". Its union described the operation as a "wanton violation of press freedom" that "displayed how much police power has inflated under the national security law". Police said the five executives were arrested for collusion with a foreign country or external elements "to endanger national security". "They have overall responsibility for the content, style and principles of news reporting," senior superintendent Steve Li told reporters. Authorities also seized HK$18 million (US$2.3 million) in Apple Daily assets, the first time a national security law seizure order has been made directly against a Hong Kong media company, rather than an individual. (With inputs from agencies)

China 'targetting dissenting voices' in Hong Kong, says UK

Finding alien life has long been a preoccupation of the human mind. Scientists and artists have both cast their imagination and vision in this direction. Till today though, we haven't heard from our counterparts from space. Bt research in this direction goes on. Hunt for the alien life continues.

Now scientists from the University of Concepción in Chile have concluded that 'rogue planets' in space may have moons with conditions conducive to life. The scientists made a mathematical model and based on this, have concluded that some of the 'exomoons' may have conditions for liquid water as well as atmosphere.

What are rogue planets?

Rogue planets are planets without a star. These planets roam the skies without being bound to a star. Rogue planets may have natural satellites and these are generally referred to as exomoons. Since rogue planets do not have a star, it has no heat source.

But as per the mathematical model drawn up by the scientists, cosmic radiation and gravitational effect of the rogue planet create just enough heat for liquid water and atmosphere to exits. Though the amount of water would be much much less than what it would be on Earth, it may well be the first step towards forming alien life.

Not all life needs light to survive, although Earth derives all its energy from the Sun, there are lifeforms deep, deep within the oceans who survive on heat emitted by Earth. Sunlight does not reach those depths.

It is hence quite possible for life to thrive in the waters of exomoons. We haven't found a conclusive proof of this yet. But imagine if one fine day, we woke up to a proven fact that we are indeed not alone in the universe!

The research by the scientists has been published in scientific journal International Journal of Astrobiology.

Finding alien life has long been a preoccupation of the human mind. Scientists and artists have both cast their imagination and vision in this direction. Till today though, we haven't heard from our counterparts from space.

Finding alien life has long been a preoccupation of the human mind. Scientists and artists have both cast their imagination and vision in this direction. Till today though, we haven't heard from our counterparts from space. Bt research in this direction goes on. Hunt for the alien life continues. Now scientists from the University of Concepción in Chile have concluded that 'rogue planets' in space may have moons with conditions conducive to life. The scientists made a mathematical model and based on this, have concluded that some of the 'exomoons' may have conditions for liquid water as well as atmosphere. What are rogue planets? Rogue planets are planets without a star. These planets roam the skies without being bound to a star. Rogue planets may have natural satellites and these are generally referred to as exomoons. Since rogue planets do not have a star, it has no heat source. But as per the mathematical model drawn up by the scientists, cosmic radiation and gravitational effect of the rogue planet create just enough heat for liquid water and atmosphere to exits. Though the amount of water would be much much less than what it would be on Earth, it may well be the first step towards forming alien life. Not all life needs light to survive, although Earth derives all its energy from the Sun, there are lifeforms deep, deep within the oceans who survive on heat emitted by Earth. Sunlight does not reach those depths. It is hence quite possible for life to thrive in the waters of exomoons. We haven't found a conclusive proof of this yet. But imagine if one fine day, we woke up to a proven fact that we are indeed not alone in the universe! The research by the scientists has been published in scientific journal International Journal of Astrobiology.

Rogue planets with habitable exomoons may have alien life

World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday welcomed the pledge made by G7 nations to donate 870 million vaccine doses. However, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus underlined that more help was needed.

"I welcome the support expressed by the G7 for WHO...This is a big help, but we need more and we need them faster," said Dr Ghebreyesus.

Faced with outrage over disparities in jab access, the Group of Seven industrialised powers pledged during a weekend summit in Britain to take their total dose donations to more than one billion, up from 130 million promised in February.

While people in many wealthy nations are enjoying a return to a sense of normalcy thanks to high vaccination rates, the shots remain scarce in less well-off parts of the world.

In terms of doses administered, the imbalance between the G7 and low-income countries, as defined by the World Bank, is 73 to one.

Many of the donated G7 doses will be filtered through Covax, a global body charged with ensuring equitable vaccine distribution.

Run by the WHO, the Gavi vaccine alliance and CEPI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, it has to date shipped more than 87 million vaccine doses to 131 countries -- far fewer than anticipated.

70% target

The WHO wants at least 70 percent of the world's population vaccinated by the next G7 meeting in Germany next year.

"To do that, we need 11 billion doses. The G7 and G20 can make this happen," said Tedros. 
Medical charity Doctors Without Borders questioned how sincere the G7 was in pursuing vaccine equity.

"We need to see more clarity around the actual number of doses donated, and exactly how long it's going to take to translate their pledges into real impact and access," the medical charity's Hu Yuanqiong told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday welcomed the pledge made by G7 nations to donate 870 million vaccine doses. However, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus underlined that more help was needed.

World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday welcomed the pledge made by G7 nations to donate 870 million vaccine doses. However, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus underlined that more help was needed. "I welcome the support expressed by the G7 for WHO...This is a big help, but we need more and we need them faster," said Dr Ghebreyesus. Faced with outrage over disparities in jab access, the Group of Seven industrialised powers pledged during a weekend summit in Britain to take their total dose donations to more than one billion, up from 130 million promised in February. While people in many wealthy nations are enjoying a return to a sense of normalcy thanks to high vaccination rates, the shots remain scarce in less well-off parts of the world. In terms of doses administered, the imbalance between the G7 and low-income countries, as defined by the World Bank, is 73 to one. Many of the donated G7 doses will be filtered through Covax, a global body charged with ensuring equitable vaccine distribution. Run by the WHO, the Gavi vaccine alliance and CEPI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, it has to date shipped more than 87 million vaccine doses to 131 countries -- far fewer than anticipated. 70% target The WHO wants at least 70 percent of the world's population vaccinated by the next G7 meeting in Germany next year. "To do that, we need 11 billion doses. The G7 and G20 can make this happen," said Tedros. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders questioned how sincere the G7 was in pursuing vaccine equity. "We need to see more clarity around the actual number of doses donated, and exactly how long it's going to take to translate their pledges into real impact and access," the medical charity's Hu Yuanqiong told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 vaccine pledge is 'big help' but 'more' is needed: WHO

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