Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced discovery of a new natural gas in the Black Sea on Friday. This can help Turkey reduce its dependence on energy imports

Erdogan last year announced a 405-billion-cubic-metre &nbsp;(14.3-trillion-cubic-feet) find in the so-called Sakarya field -- the biggest ever discovery in the Black Sea.

He hopes to put bring the first gas from that find to consumers in time for Turkey's &nbsp;centenary celebrations in 2023.

Erdogan said that further Turkish exploration work in the region resulted in the discovery of a new well with 135 billion cubic metres of reserves.

"The new discovery of 135 billion cubic metres was made in the Amasra-1 exploration well," Erdogan said while attending a special ceremony in the Black Sea city of Zonguldak.

Every year, Turkey consumes 45-50 billion cubic metres of natural gas.

Analysts have urged caution over the discoveries' significance

There has been no independent audit of the Sakarya field published to date.

Erdogan has said that Turkey intends to exploit the wells without foreign assistance and would not need outside financing.

Turkey's search for natural gas sparked an international crisis last year when it began conducting work in disputed waters claimed by EU members Cyprus and Greece.

The EU pulled back from its threat to expand existing sanctions on Ankara when Turkey pulled back its main exploration vessel and opened informal talks with Greece at the start of the year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced discovery of a new natural gas in the Black Sea on Friday. This can help Turkey reduce its dependence on energy imports Erdogan last year announced a 405-billion-cubic-metre (14.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced discovery of a new natural gas in the Black Sea on Friday. This can help Turkey reduce its dependence on energy imports Erdogan last year announced a 405-billion-cubic-metre (14.3-trillion-cubic-feet) find in the so-called Sakarya field -- the biggest ever discovery in the Black Sea. He hopes to put bring the first gas from that find to consumers in time for Turkey's centenary celebrations in 2023. Erdogan said that further Turkish exploration work in the region resulted in the discovery of a new well with 135 billion cubic metres of reserves. "The new discovery of 135 billion cubic metres was made in the Amasra-1 exploration well," Erdogan said while attending a special ceremony in the Black Sea city of Zonguldak. Every year, Turkey consumes 45-50 billion cubic metres of natural gas. Analysts have urged caution over the discoveries' significance There has been no independent audit of the Sakarya field published to date. Erdogan has said that Turkey intends to exploit the wells without foreign assistance and would not need outside financing. Turkey's search for natural gas sparked an international crisis last year when it began conducting work in disputed waters claimed by EU members Cyprus and Greece. The EU pulled back from its threat to expand existing sanctions on Ankara when Turkey pulled back its main exploration vessel and opened informal talks with Greece at the start of the year. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President announces new Black Sea gas find

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave&nbsp;this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war.

The US&nbsp;has said that it will withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan on September 11 this year. More than 20 allied countries plan to follow suit.

"There is a lot of fear right now in Pakistan and I assure you that we are trying our level best that there is some sort of political settlement before the Americans leave," Khan told Reuters on Friday at his official residence in Islamabad.

Since the announcement of troop withdrawal, violence in Afghanistan has risen sharply. Taliban is resisiting pressure from Washington and its allies to agree to a political understanding leading to a peace deal.

"Since the moment the Americans gave a date, of when they were going to leave Afghanistan ... the Taliban feel they have won the war," Khan said, adding it was not going to be easy to get concessions from the Taliban after the U.S. decision.

Khan said Pakistan would suffer the most, after Afghanistan itself, if there was civil war and a refugee crisis.

"And then there would be pressure on us to jump in and become a part of it," Khan said.

He said his government had changed Pakistan's decades-long policy of pushing for "strategic depth" in Afghanistan to ensure that there was a friendly government there.

"Any Afghan government chosen by the people is who Pakistan should deal with," Khan said, adding that Pakistan "should not try to do any manipulation in Afghanistan".

Pakistan has long been accused of harbouring leaders and fighters of the Taliban, whom Islamabad helped to power in 1996, even as the insurgent group fought U.S.-led foreign troops.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war. The US has said that it will withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan on September 11 this year. More than 20 allied countries plan to follow suit. "There is a lot of fear right now in Pakistan and I assure you that we are trying our level best that there is some sort of political settlement before the Americans leave," Khan told Reuters on Friday at his official residence in Islamabad. Since the announcement of troop withdrawal, violence in Afghanistan has risen sharply. Taliban is resisiting pressure from Washington and its allies to agree to a political understanding leading to a peace deal. "Since the moment the Americans gave a date, of when they were going to leave Afghanistan ... the Taliban feel they have won the war," Khan said, adding it was not going to be easy to get concessions from the Taliban after the U.S. decision. Khan said Pakistan would suffer the most, after Afghanistan itself, if there was civil war and a refugee crisis. "And then there would be pressure on us to jump in and become a part of it," Khan said. He said his government had changed Pakistan's decades-long policy of pushing for "strategic depth" in Afghanistan to ensure that there was a friendly government there. "Any Afghan government chosen by the people is who Pakistan should deal with," Khan said, adding that Pakistan "should not try to do any manipulation in Afghanistan". Pakistan has long been accused of harbouring leaders and fighters of the Taliban, whom Islamabad helped to power in 1996, even as the insurgent group fought U.S.-led foreign troops. (With inputs from agencies)

'Lot of fear' in Pakistan, PM Imran Khan on troop pullout in Afghanistan

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials. First cases of the delta variant of coronavirus have been detected in Sindh.

"Any government employee who is not vaccinated should have their salary stopped from July," he tweeted, adding that orders had been given to the finance ministry.

Third wave of coronavirus infections has begun to stabilise in the country after weeks of restrictions on public gatherings. However, Sindh has reported highest number of cases since the beginning of the pandemic.

Pakistan's initially sluggish vaccination rollout has been ramped up in recent weeks with more than 200,000 doses administered most days.

But the impoverished country has fully vaccinated only around 2.2 million people -- a fraction of its 220 million population.

Misinformation and conspiracy theories about the side effects of the jab have sparked hesitancy in Pakistan, while the requirement to have a mobile phone to register for a shot has proved a barrier for some poor and illiterate citizens.

Those in rural areas have also struggled to get access to vaccine centres, the majority of which are in major cities.&nbsp;

The Sindh salary order mystified employee representatives.

"This is a strange order, as people are very much volunteering and willing to get vaccinated," said Liaqat Sahi, the secretary general of a labour union at the central State Bank of Pakistan, adding that he has been vaccinated.

"Instead the government should... create more vaccination centres, especially in rural areas." 
Pakistan has recorded more than 850,000 infections and 21,022 deaths, but with limited testing and a ramshackle healthcare sector, many fear the true extent of the disease is much worse.

(With inputs from agencies)

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials.

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials. First cases of the delta variant of coronavirus have been detected in Sindh. "Any government employee who is not vaccinated should have their salary stopped from July," he tweeted, adding that orders had been given to the finance ministry. Third wave of coronavirus infections has begun to stabilise in the country after weeks of restrictions on public gatherings. However, Sindh has reported highest number of cases since the beginning of the pandemic. Pakistan's initially sluggish vaccination rollout has been ramped up in recent weeks with more than 200,000 doses administered most days. But the impoverished country has fully vaccinated only around 2.2 million people -- a fraction of its 220 million population. Misinformation and conspiracy theories about the side effects of the jab have sparked hesitancy in Pakistan, while the requirement to have a mobile phone to register for a shot has proved a barrier for some poor and illiterate citizens. Those in rural areas have also struggled to get access to vaccine centres, the majority of which are in major cities. The Sindh salary order mystified employee representatives. "This is a strange order, as people are very much volunteering and willing to get vaccinated," said Liaqat Sahi, the secretary general of a labour union at the central State Bank of Pakistan, adding that he has been vaccinated. "Instead the government should... create more vaccination centres, especially in rural areas." Pakistan has recorded more than 850,000 infections and 21,022 deaths, but with limited testing and a ramshackle healthcare sector, many fear the true extent of the disease is much worse. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan province to block salaries of unvaccinated employees

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that European nations should pay for Russian gas in euros. This comes as Kremlin moves to dump the dollar after US sanctions.

"The euro is completely acceptable for us in terms of gas payments. This can be done, of course, and probably should be done," Putin said at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum.

Putin's comments came a day after Russian economy ministry announced that it was dropping the dollar from its National Wealth Fund (NWF) and shifting to other currencies.

Russia has been trying for years to wean the economy off the dollar. Even Russia's state-owned energy companies have been turning to non-dollar settlement.

The economy ministry said that from May 20 the share of dollar assets in the fund had been reduced to zero percent from 35 percent.

Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said the euro will make up 40 percent of the fund, with 30 percent in yuan and 20 percent in gold.

The British pound and the Japanese yen will make up five percent each.

Some economists said the move was designed to send a signal to Washington ahead of a summit between Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden on June 16.

The face-to-face meeting in Geneva comes amid the biggest crisis in ties between the two countries in years, with tensions high over a litany of issues including human rights, election meddling, Ukraine, and Belarus.

Moscow has been reducing the share of its dollar holdings since the West imposed sanctions on Russia following the annexation of Crimea in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that European nations should pay for Russian gas in euros. This comes as Kremlin moves to dump the dollar after US sanctions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that European nations should pay for Russian gas in euros. This comes as Kremlin moves to dump the dollar after US sanctions. "The euro is completely acceptable for us in terms of gas payments. This can be done, of course, and probably should be done," Putin said at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum. Putin's comments came a day after Russian economy ministry announced that it was dropping the dollar from its National Wealth Fund (NWF) and shifting to other currencies. Russia has been trying for years to wean the economy off the dollar. Even Russia's state-owned energy companies have been turning to non-dollar settlement. The economy ministry said that from May 20 the share of dollar assets in the fund had been reduced to zero percent from 35 percent. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said the euro will make up 40 percent of the fund, with 30 percent in yuan and 20 percent in gold. The British pound and the Japanese yen will make up five percent each. Some economists said the move was designed to send a signal to Washington ahead of a summit between Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden on June 16. The face-to-face meeting in Geneva comes amid the biggest crisis in ties between the two countries in years, with tensions high over a litany of issues including human rights, election meddling, Ukraine, and Belarus. Moscow has been reducing the share of its dollar holdings since the West imposed sanctions on Russia following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin urges Europe to pay in euro not dollars

Shipwrecks are certainly not a pleasant thing. Such incidents may have been given a cinematic touch in popular media but these are horrific tragedies. Fortunately, with modern technology and machinery, we are able to save lives in a much better manner but these events remain dramatic nonetheless.

Three ships sank in past one year. In Mauritius, near Sri Lanka and Iran. These events resulted in the spillage of pollutants into sea and beaches, while another blocked the most crucial trade waterway, the Suez Canal. And now, there are fears of an impending ship disaster in Yemen.

Yemen

<img alt="Yemen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a8c0100-7d9c-4c1d-b049-bd1e4679054c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B99KV.jpg" />

Greenpeace, the environmental organisation warned on Thursday that a long-abandoned fuel tanker ship off the coast of Yemen may explode any time. Such a disaster will cause an oil slick in the Red Sea that can be disastrous.

As per media reports FSO Safer, the ship, has 1.1 million barrels of crude oil on board.

Sri Lanka

<img alt="Sri Lanka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a506938b-4c53-4e6f-82ff-04f0f237889f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B93UN_0.jpg" />

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil slick in seas off capital Colombo as container ship MV Express Pearl remains partially sunk as of June 4. The ship contains 350 tonnes of oil and other material. Sri Lankan navy and Indian coastguard battled flames on the ship for more than 10 days

 
Mauritius

<img alt="Mauritius" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b9a5fed-7b9a-4110-9d50-116302a4b301" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WQ64I.jpg" />

Last year, on July 25 Japanese-owned bulk carrier MV Wakashio crashed off Mauritius with 4,000 tonnes of fuel. It began leaking oil for more than a week. Later the oil slick reached the shore and coated corals, mangroves and other ecosystems that are very fragile. The ship split in two, and was forcibly sunken.

Iran

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c27450ca-aa8f-4afd-9f5d-009e5c8834da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B88Q3.jpg" />

Iran navy ship Kharg 431 sank on June 2, 2021 after it caught fire while on a "training mission". It was one of Iran's largest naval ships. The circumstances leading its sinking are not yet clear.

Suez Canal blockage

<img alt="Suez Canal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fe819b7-07f9-49e0-8336-a6938d0bad40" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_96Z2NA.jpg" />

This is perhaps the most famous ship mishaps in recent times. In this case, the ship did not sink, but caused one of the biggest of global disruptions. MV Ever Given got stuck in the Suez Canal in an awkward position, stalling the traffic completely and affecting global trade.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shipwrecks are certainly not a pleasant thing. Such incidents may have been given a cinematic touch in popular media but these are horrific tragedies. Fortunately, with modern technology and machinery, we are able to save lives in a much better manner but these events remain dramatic nonetheless.

Shipwrecks are certainly not a pleasant thing. Such incidents may have been given a cinematic touch in popular media but these are horrific tragedies. Fortunately, with modern technology and machinery, we are able to save lives in a much better manner but these events remain dramatic nonetheless. Three ships sank in past one year. In Mauritius, near Sri Lanka and Iran. These events resulted in the spillage of pollutants into sea and beaches, while another blocked the most crucial trade waterway, the Suez Canal. And now, there are fears of an impending ship disaster in Yemen. Yemen Greenpeace, the environmental organisation warned on Thursday that a long-abandoned fuel tanker ship off the coast of Yemen may explode any time. Such a disaster will cause an oil slick in the Red Sea that can be disastrous. As per media reports FSO Safer, the ship, has 1.1 million barrels of crude oil on board. Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil slick in seas off capital Colombo as container ship MV Express Pearl remains partially sunk as of June 4. The ship contains 350 tonnes of oil and other material. Sri Lankan navy and Indian coastguard battled flames on the ship for more than 10 days Mauritius Last year, on July 25 Japanese-owned bulk carrier MV Wakashio crashed off Mauritius with 4,000 tonnes of fuel. It began leaking oil for more than a week. Later the oil slick reached the shore and coated corals, mangroves and other ecosystems that are very fragile. The ship split in two, and was forcibly sunken. Iran Iran navy ship Kharg 431 sank on June 2, 2021 after it caught fire while on a "training mission". It was one of Iran's largest naval ships. The circumstances leading its sinking are not yet clear. Suez Canal blockage This is perhaps the most famous ship mishaps in recent times. In this case, the ship did not sink, but caused one of the biggest of global disruptions. MV Ever Given got stuck in the Suez Canal in an awkward position, stalling the traffic completely and affecting global trade. (With inputs from agencies)

Ships of woes: When ship disasters hit global headlines

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk. Foreign experts have been deployed to help Sri Lanka contain a potential oil leak. An Indian coastguard vessel is also in the area with equipment&nbsp;to deal with a possible oil slick.

What is the ship's condition now?

The ship's stern is now on the sea bed and the bow is slowly sinking.

Choppy seas and poor visibility prevented navy divers from checking the hull for a second day Friday, Sri Lanka Navy spokesperson Indika de Silva told AFP.

He said a team reached the sinking vessel and made a cursory inspection on Thursday, but could not carry out their mission because of poor visibility.

<img alt="Sri Lanka ship fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b597157-3bf0-45aa-94bb-14b4f5a5ec5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B93UN.jpg" />

Representatives from the International Tankers Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) and Oil Spill Response (OSR) were onshore monitoring the MV X-Press Pearl, X-Press Feeders said.

"They continue to coordinate with MEPA (Marine Environment Protection Authority) and the Sri Lankan navy on an established plan to deal with any possible spill of oil and other pollutants," the company said.

Its chief executive, Shmuel Yoskovitz, apologised to Sri Lanka for the disaster, which saw the ship burn for 13 days and inundated the island's beaches with huge amounts of plastic pellets.

"I'd like to express my deep regrets and apologies to the Sri Lankan people for the harm this incident has caused to the livelihood and to the environment of Sri Lanka," Yoskovitz told Channel News Asia.

Photos | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ship-with-chemicals-plastics-onboard-sinks-off-sri-lanka-389060#burned-for-13-days-389050">Ship with chemicals &amp; plastics onboard sinks off Sri Lanka</a>

The ship contains 350 tonnes of fuel oil.

Sri Lanka's Harbour Master Nirmal Silva said on Thursday that no oil had leaked so far.

"Looking at the way the ship burnt, expert opinion is that bunker oil may have burnt out, but we are preparing for the worst-case scenario," Silva said.

The fire on the ship broke out on May 20. Sri Lankan Navy and Indian coastguard battled the flames for over 10 days.

'Worst environmental disaster'

In addition to fuel oil, the ship is containing "dangerous cargo" including acids and lead ingots. The cargo is also releasing microplastic granules into the water and this has already has begun to affect the environment.

<img alt="Sri Lanka ship fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2abc6dc1-f535-41ab-8c75-3e85ef514028" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AW8JC.jpg" />

In case oil leaks from the ship into the sea, it may constitute what has been called the worst such environmental disaster.

However, experts fear that damage to the environment may already have taken place.

Charitha Pattiaratchi, a professor of coastal oceanography at the University of Western Australia, said the plastic pellets, that are expected to travel as far as Indonesia and Somalia, could act as a breeding ground for bacteria, putting marine life at risk.

Sri Lankan fishermen impacted

Fishermen in Sri Lanka expressed helplessness on Friday as they reconciled with the fishing ban in effect on Sri Lanka's western coast. Fishing activity has been prohibitted along 50 km of Sri Lanka's western coast. The ban has been in effect since May 22.

<img alt="Sri Lanka Fishermen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ce2ddbd-22d6-449c-aba9-ce22173ded4a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AZ2NM.jpg" />

"We're told not to go to sea: that has caused a lot of problems," said 67-year-old fisherman Antony Sebastian. He was quoted by Reuters.

"Fishermen are very helpless. We can't do our work because of this ship for more than a week now. We are just hanging around at home."

Nirashan Fernando, a 44-year-old fisherman, said some boats had been able to evade the navy, that has been turning back those still trying to work, but the outlook wasn't good.

"A few of those who went to sea found that the catch has reduced," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk.

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk. Foreign experts have been deployed to help Sri Lanka contain a potential oil leak. An Indian coastguard vessel is also in the area with equipment to deal with a possible oil slick. What is the ship's condition now? The ship's stern is now on the sea bed and the bow is slowly sinking. Choppy seas and poor visibility prevented navy divers from checking the hull for a second day Friday, Sri Lanka Navy spokesperson Indika de Silva told AFP. He said a team reached the sinking vessel and made a cursory inspection on Thursday, but could not carry out their mission because of poor visibility. Representatives from the International Tankers Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) and Oil Spill Response (OSR) were onshore monitoring the MV X-Press Pearl, X-Press Feeders said. "They continue to coordinate with MEPA (Marine Environment Protection Authority) and the Sri Lankan navy on an established plan to deal with any possible spill of oil and other pollutants," the company said. Its chief executive, Shmuel Yoskovitz, apologised to Sri Lanka for the disaster, which saw the ship burn for 13 days and inundated the island's beaches with huge amounts of plastic pellets. "I'd like to express my deep regrets and apologies to the Sri Lankan people for the harm this incident has caused to the livelihood and to the environment of Sri Lanka," Yoskovitz told Channel News Asia. Photos | Ship with chemicals & plastics onboard sinks off Sri Lanka The ship contains 350 tonnes of fuel oil. Sri Lanka's Harbour Master Nirmal Silva said on Thursday that no oil had leaked so far. "Looking at the way the ship burnt, expert opinion is that bunker oil may have burnt out, but we are preparing for the worst-case scenario," Silva said. The fire on the ship broke out on May 20. Sri Lankan Navy and Indian coastguard battled the flames for over 10 days. 'Worst environmental disaster' In addition to fuel oil, the ship is containing "dangerous cargo" including acids and lead ingots. The cargo is also releasing microplastic granules into the water and this has already has begun to affect the environment. In case oil leaks from the ship into the sea, it may constitute what has been called the worst such environmental disaster. However, experts fear that damage to the environment may already have taken place. Charitha Pattiaratchi, a professor of coastal oceanography at the University of Western Australia, said the plastic pellets, that are expected to travel as far as Indonesia and Somalia, could act as a breeding ground for bacteria, putting marine life at risk. Sri Lankan fishermen impacted Fishermen in Sri Lanka expressed helplessness on Friday as they reconciled with the fishing ban in effect on Sri Lanka's western coast. Fishing activity has been prohibitted along 50 km of Sri Lanka's western coast. The ban has been in effect since May 22. "We're told not to go to sea: that has caused a lot of problems," said 67-year-old fisherman Antony Sebastian. He was quoted by Reuters. "Fishermen are very helpless. We can't do our work because of this ship for more than a week now. We are just hanging around at home." Nirashan Fernando, a 44-year-old fisherman, said some boats had been able to evade the navy, that has been turning back those still trying to work, but the outlook wasn't good. "A few of those who went to sea found that the catch has reduced," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka braces for oil spill from sunken ship: Here is what we know

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar. Myanmar is currently in turmoil due to military rule.

The military junta overthrew the civilian government run by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The country has since been on the boil with pro-democracy protests and clashes with military.

A group of ousted lawmakers -- mostly from the National League for Democracy (NLD) -- later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together.

Military junta has classified the NUG as "terrorists". It means that anyone speaking to them, even journalists, may be slapped with charges under counter-terrorism laws.

"We invite Rohingyas to join hands with us and with others to participate in this Spring Revolution against the military dictatorship," the group said in a statement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lawyer-for-myanmars-suu-kyi-worried-over-representation-for-secrets-case-389389">Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case</a>

Suu Kyi's NLD government had avoided the term "Rohingya" because of sensitivity among ethnic groups in the majority-Buddhist country, referring to the minority as "Muslims living in Rakhine."

In Myanmar, the Rohingya are widely seen as interlopers from Bangladesh and have been denied citizenship, rights and access to services for decades under what Amnesty International calls apartheid-like conditions.&nbsp;

The NUG has also promised to end a 1982 citizenship law that discriminates against the Rohingya. The NUG has promised that all those born in Myanmar or to a Myanmar citizen would be granted citizenship.&nbsp;

The group also said it was committed to repatriating all Rohingya languishing in camps in Bangladesh "as soon as repatriation can be accomplished voluntarily, safely and with dignity."

IN 2017, more than 740,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh after a bloody military campaign that the United Nations has termed as ethnic cleansing.

The military claimed its operations were justified to root out Rohingya insurgents following a series of deadly attacks on police posts and has denied all allegations of wrongdoing.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi defended the army's conduct and even travelled to The Hague to rebut charges of genocide at the UN's top court.

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar.

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar. Myanmar is currently in turmoil due to military rule. The military junta overthrew the civilian government run by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The country has since been on the boil with pro-democracy protests and clashes with military. A group of ousted lawmakers -- mostly from the National League for Democracy (NLD) -- later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together. Military junta has classified the NUG as "terrorists". It means that anyone speaking to them, even journalists, may be slapped with charges under counter-terrorism laws. "We invite Rohingyas to join hands with us and with others to participate in this Spring Revolution against the military dictatorship," the group said in a statement. Also Read | Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case Suu Kyi's NLD government had avoided the term "Rohingya" because of sensitivity among ethnic groups in the majority-Buddhist country, referring to the minority as "Muslims living in Rakhine." In Myanmar, the Rohingya are widely seen as interlopers from Bangladesh and have been denied citizenship, rights and access to services for decades under what Amnesty International calls apartheid-like conditions. The NUG has also promised to end a 1982 citizenship law that discriminates against the Rohingya. The NUG has promised that all those born in Myanmar or to a Myanmar citizen would be granted citizenship. The group also said it was committed to repatriating all Rohingya languishing in camps in Bangladesh "as soon as repatriation can be accomplished voluntarily, safely and with dignity." IN 2017, more than 740,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh after a bloody military campaign that the United Nations has termed as ethnic cleansing. The military claimed its operations were justified to root out Rohingya insurgents following a series of deadly attacks on police posts and has denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Suu Kyi defended the army's conduct and even travelled to The Hague to rebut charges of genocide at the UN's top court. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Shadow government urges Rohingya to fight against military junta

Former Russian lawmaker and Kremlin critic Gennady Gudkov said on Thursday that Russian authorities had opened a criminal case against him over ammunition found at his apartment. Gudkov lives abroad.

The pistol ammunition was found in a safe during a police search of Gudkov's apartment in Russia. The search was carried out over an unrelated criminal case this week. He said it was an award he received in 2005 and that the police had been earlier informed about it.

There was no official confirmation of the criminal case from law enforcement.

The action has come amid a broad crackdown on the Kremlin's political opponents. The 64-year-old, who lives in European Union member state Bulgaria, accused authorities of opening the case to stop him from being able to return to Russia.

His son, Dmitry Gudkov, who is a prominent opposition politician, was detained in Moscow on Tuesday over an allegedly unpaid debt on a rented property dating from several years ago. His father said his son had nothing to do with that debt.

A Moscow court had been expected on Thursday to consider the terms of pre-trial custody for Dmitry. However, no hearing had begun by early evening and he was due to be released from custody at 1640 GMT unless it took place, his lawyer said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Russian lawmaker and Kremlin critic Gennady Gudkov said on Thursday that Russian authorities had opened a criminal case against him over ammunition found at his apartment.

Former Russian lawmaker and Kremlin critic Gennady Gudkov said on Thursday that Russian authorities had opened a criminal case against him over ammunition found at his apartment. Gudkov lives abroad. The pistol ammunition was found in a safe during a police search of Gudkov's apartment in Russia. The search was carried out over an unrelated criminal case this week. He said it was an award he received in 2005 and that the police had been earlier informed about it. There was no official confirmation of the criminal case from law enforcement. The action has come amid a broad crackdown on the Kremlin's political opponents. The 64-year-old, who lives in European Union member state Bulgaria, accused authorities of opening the case to stop him from being able to return to Russia. His son, Dmitry Gudkov, who is a prominent opposition politician, was detained in Moscow on Tuesday over an allegedly unpaid debt on a rented property dating from several years ago. His father said his son had nothing to do with that debt. A Moscow court had been expected on Thursday to consider the terms of pre-trial custody for Dmitry. However, no hearing had begun by early evening and he was due to be released from custody at 1640 GMT unless it took place, his lawyer said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia: Kremlin critic, ex-lawmaker says criminal case opened against him 

Twitter on Wednesday removed Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari's post threatening punishment for regional secessionists blamed for attacks on government buildings. The tweet was in reference to 1967-70 civil war in Biafra region. The war had killed 1 million people. Twitter said Buhari's tweet violated its "abusive behavior" policy leading to a 12-hour suspension of his account.

Buhari has served in the army against the secessionists and was Nigeria's military ruler in the 1980s. He tweeted on Tuesday that &nbsp;many people misbehaving today were too young to remember the deaths and destruction from the civil war.

"Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand," he warned in the tweet that was taken down.

Nigeria has seen a spate of arson attacks on electoral offices and police stations in recent weeks, especially in the southeast. Officers have also been killed.

Buhari's tweet attracted criticism from some social media users before it was removed. They accused him of targetting Igbo people from the largest ethnic group in the southeast The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is influential in the region and its efforts to revive sentiments over Biafra have prompted a crackdown from security agencies in recent years.

Nigeria's Information Minister Lai Mohammed was dismissive of Twitter's action, saying Buhari had every right to express dismay at violence by a banned organization.

(With inputs from agencies)

Twitter on Wednesday removed Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari's post threatening punishment for regional secessionists blamed for attacks on government buildings.

Twitter on Wednesday removed Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari's post threatening punishment for regional secessionists blamed for attacks on government buildings. The tweet was in reference to 1967-70 civil war in Biafra region. The war had killed 1 million people. Twitter said Buhari's tweet violated its "abusive behavior" policy leading to a 12-hour suspension of his account. Buhari has served in the army against the secessionists and was Nigeria's military ruler in the 1980s. He tweeted on Tuesday that many people misbehaving today were too young to remember the deaths and destruction from the civil war. "Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand," he warned in the tweet that was taken down. Nigeria has seen a spate of arson attacks on electoral offices and police stations in recent weeks, especially in the southeast. Officers have also been killed. Buhari's tweet attracted criticism from some social media users before it was removed. They accused him of targetting Igbo people from the largest ethnic group in the southeast The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is influential in the region and its efforts to revive sentiments over Biafra have prompted a crackdown from security agencies in recent years. Nigeria's Information Minister Lai Mohammed was dismissive of Twitter's action, saying Buhari had every right to express dismay at violence by a banned organization. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter suspends Nigerian president's account for 12 hours

&nbsp;

Group of countries led by Canada said on Thursday that they've made reparation claim against Iran over its downing of a Ukrainian jetliner. The countries said that the claim had been made on behalf of victims' families.

Iran shot down Ukraine International Airlines flight PS 572 shortly after takeoff from Tehran. All 176 people onboard were killed. These included 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

The Islamic Republic admitted three days later that its forces had targetted the plane by mistake.

Britain, Canada, Sweden and Ukraine said in a joint statement that the two missile strikes on the plane, as well as Iran's "omissions" in an investigation report on the crash, "amount to breaches of international law."

"Our claim states that our respective countries, nationals and residents onboard flight PS752 were seriously and irreversibly harmed by the tragedy and Iran must fulfill its legal responsibility to make full reparations to the group of states," they said, calling on Iran to formally begin negotiations on reparations.

In a separate statement, the group also announced that Afghanistan would not take part in the upcoming talks as it focuses on domestic strife.

In a final report in March, the Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation (CAO) pointed to the "alertness" of its troops on the ground who shot the missiles amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States at the time.

Ukraine, which lost 11 citizens in the disaster, has said the report was "a cynical attempt to hide (the) true causes" of the tragedy, while Canada said it contained "no hard facts or evidence."

Canada and the other nations said they're seeking "equitable compensation for material and moral damages suffered by the victims and their families regardless of nationality and in an amount consistent with its obligations under international law."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Group of countries led by Canada said on Thursday that they've made reparation claim against Iran over its downing of a Ukrainian jetliner. The countries said that the claim had been made on behalf of victims' families.

Group of countries led by Canada said on Thursday that they've made reparation claim against Iran over its downing of a Ukrainian jetliner. The countries said that the claim had been made on behalf of victims' families. Iran shot down Ukraine International Airlines flight PS 572 shortly after takeoff from Tehran. All 176 people onboard were killed. These included 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents. The Islamic Republic admitted three days later that its forces had targetted the plane by mistake. Britain, Canada, Sweden and Ukraine said in a joint statement that the two missile strikes on the plane, as well as Iran's "omissions" in an investigation report on the crash, "amount to breaches of international law." "Our claim states that our respective countries, nationals and residents onboard flight PS752 were seriously and irreversibly harmed by the tragedy and Iran must fulfill its legal responsibility to make full reparations to the group of states," they said, calling on Iran to formally begin negotiations on reparations. In a separate statement, the group also announced that Afghanistan would not take part in the upcoming talks as it focuses on domestic strife. In a final report in March, the Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation (CAO) pointed to the "alertness" of its troops on the ground who shot the missiles amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States at the time. Ukraine, which lost 11 citizens in the disaster, has said the report was "a cynical attempt to hide (the) true causes" of the tragedy, while Canada said it contained "no hard facts or evidence." Canada and the other nations said they're seeking "equitable compensation for material and moral damages suffered by the victims and their families regardless of nationality and in an amount consistent with its obligations under international law." (With inputs from agencies)

Canada-led group of nations demands reparations from Iran for Ukraine flight's downing

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions."

In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace".

The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo &amp; Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC.&nbsp;

The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position.

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions." In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace". The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo & Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.

Our position not new, says India after Palestine FM writes to EAM

A bus blast in Kabul claimed at least four lives on Thursday. The attack is latest on commuters in the capital of Afghanistan. In past two days, two other attacks targetted buses in the city. This has given rise to fears that more violence is in store as USA withdraws troops from the country.

Police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz said the explosion happened on a road in southwestern Kabul near a neighbourhood largely populated by the Shiite Hazara community, who have been the frequent target of militant attacks.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as yet.

Earlier this week, the Islamic State group's Afghan affiliate claimed back-to-back attacks on two buses in Kabul that killed at least 10 people.&nbsp;

Violence has soared in Afghanistan in recent weeks. Government forces and the Taliban are clashing almost daily in the countryside. Militants are appearing to focus on battering checkpoints and bases near Kabul.

The surge in violence comes as the US military continues to withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan.

US President Joe Biden has ordered complete pullout by September 11, 2021, the day of 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks.

But as the Americans pack up, experts fear Afghanistan will remain home to a number of jihadist groups.

In a report published by the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, the body warned that IS continues "to pose a threat to both the country and the wider region", saying the group had approximately 2,000 fighters inside Afghanistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A bus blast in Kabul claimed at least four lives on Thursday. The attack is latest on commuters in the capital of Afghanistan. In past two days, two other attacks targetted buses in the city.

A bus blast in Kabul claimed at least four lives on Thursday. The attack is latest on commuters in the capital of Afghanistan. In past two days, two other attacks targetted buses in the city. This has given rise to fears that more violence is in store as USA withdraws troops from the country. Police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz said the explosion happened on a road in southwestern Kabul near a neighbourhood largely populated by the Shiite Hazara community, who have been the frequent target of militant attacks. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as yet. Earlier this week, the Islamic State group's Afghan affiliate claimed back-to-back attacks on two buses in Kabul that killed at least 10 people. Violence has soared in Afghanistan in recent weeks. Government forces and the Taliban are clashing almost daily in the countryside. Militants are appearing to focus on battering checkpoints and bases near Kabul. The surge in violence comes as the US military continues to withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan. US President Joe Biden has ordered complete pullout by September 11, 2021, the day of 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks. But as the Americans pack up, experts fear Afghanistan will remain home to a number of jihadist groups. In a report published by the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, the body warned that IS continues "to pose a threat to both the country and the wider region", saying the group had approximately 2,000 fighters inside Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Kabul bus blast claims four lives

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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