Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs.

Starting from Friday (April 16) and set to run to the end of the month, the new measures see an effective curfew after 8pm, indoor activities banned in public spaces, and schools closed.

When the coronavirus first appeared in South America last year, Argentina brought in a strict lockdown that initially kept a lid on cases but choked an already ailing economy in recession for the past three years.

Cases ended up rising regardless as many Argentines were forced out of doors to make a living as poverty rates shot up to 42 percent by the end of the year.

The restrictions have already sparked a battle between the federal government of centre-left President Alberto Fernandez and Buenos Aires' city mayor who strongly opposes the school shutdown and has said he was not consulted on the measures.

Fernandez says the country needs to gain time in the battle against the virus after daily cases hit a record 27,000 earlier this week. The South American country has recorded over 2.6 million cases and is nearing 59,000 deaths.

Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs.

Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs. Starting from Friday (April 16) and set to run to the end of the month, the new measures see an effective curfew after 8pm, indoor activities banned in public spaces, and schools closed. When the coronavirus first appeared in South America last year, Argentina brought in a strict lockdown that initially kept a lid on cases but choked an already ailing economy in recession for the past three years. Cases ended up rising regardless as many Argentines were forced out of doors to make a living as poverty rates shot up to 42 percent by the end of the year. The restrictions have already sparked a battle between the federal government of centre-left President Alberto Fernandez and Buenos Aires' city mayor who strongly opposes the school shutdown and has said he was not consulted on the measures. Fernandez says the country needs to gain time in the battle against the virus after daily cases hit a record 27,000 earlier this week. The South American country has recorded over 2.6 million cases and is nearing 59,000 deaths.

Argentina: People take to streets in Buenos Aires to protest lockdown

Following the series of violent protests by the radical Islamist party, the provincial government in Pakistan's Punjab on Saturday placed Saad Rizvi, the chief of the banned party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), on the country's fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), Geo News reports.

The fourth schedule is a list of proscribed individuals who are suspected of terrorism and/or sectarianism. 
According to a government notification, Rizvi's assets have been frozen, and his national identity card has been blocked. Under this provision, the TLP chief cannot conduct transactions via banks, nor can he sell or purchase any property.

This comes a day after TLP was banned, under the country's anti-terrorism law and the federal government of Pakistan moved to Supreme Court for dissolution of the TLP that caused violent protests this week following the arrest of their leader.

The TLP is protesting against the arrest of their leader Rizvi, who was taken into custody earlier this week, and blasphemous caricatures published in France. The protests have turned violent and several casualties have also been reported.

The demonstrators have demanded that the French ambassador be sent home and import of goods from that country should be banned, as reported by Dawn.

According to media reports, the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government signed an agreement with the TLP in November last agreeing to expel the French Ambassador.

The TLP launched a massive protest in November last year against the cartoons but dispersed after the agreement with the government to expel the Ambassador by February. The deal was extended until April 20.

Following the series of violent protests by the radical Islamist party, the provincial government in Pakistan's Punjab on Saturday placed Saad Rizvi, the chief of the banned party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), on the country's fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), Geo News reports.

Following the series of violent protests by the radical Islamist party, the provincial government in Pakistan's Punjab on Saturday placed Saad Rizvi, the chief of the banned party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), on the country's fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), Geo News reports. The fourth schedule is a list of proscribed individuals who are suspected of terrorism and/or sectarianism. According to a government notification, Rizvi's assets have been frozen, and his national identity card has been blocked. Under this provision, the TLP chief cannot conduct transactions via banks, nor can he sell or purchase any property. This comes a day after TLP was banned, under the country's anti-terrorism law and the federal government of Pakistan moved to Supreme Court for dissolution of the TLP that caused violent protests this week following the arrest of their leader. The TLP is protesting against the arrest of their leader Rizvi, who was taken into custody earlier this week, and blasphemous caricatures published in France. The protests have turned violent and several casualties have also been reported. The demonstrators have demanded that the French ambassador be sent home and import of goods from that country should be banned, as reported by Dawn. According to media reports, the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government signed an agreement with the TLP in November last agreeing to expel the French Ambassador. The TLP launched a massive protest in November last year against the cartoons but dispersed after the agreement with the government to expel the Ambassador by February. The deal was extended until April 20.

After violent protests, Pak govt freezes assets of banned party TLP's chief

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office.

During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process.

Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process,"&nbsp;it said.

He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said.

Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers.

During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan.

He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January.

Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations.

The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said.

Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country. Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office. During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process. Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process," it said. He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said. Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers. During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan. He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January. Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations. The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan. Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said. Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan supports 'orderly', 'responsible' troop pullout from Afghanistan: Qureshi

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail.

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies."

Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate".

On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday.

Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat.

Call for Nationwide protests in Russia

Navalny's team on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">called for massive protests across Russia</a> on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address.

"It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life</a>

Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come.

"Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute".

The United States on Sunday warned Russia of consequences if Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny died in prison. Doctors have said on Saturday that the jailed politician can die "any minute". Aides of Navalny have called for nationwide protests to ensure there was no harm to Navalny's life. Navalny is currently on a hunger strike inside the jail. US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Washington had warned the Kremlin that it would be "held accountable by the international community" if Navalny died. Sullivan added that Kremlin was told "that there will be consequences if Mr Navalny dies." Biden had said on Saturday that Navalny's plight was "totally, totally unfair, totally inappropriate". On Sunday, France, Germany and the European Union (EU) joined growing chorus over Navalny's plight. EU foreign ministers are going to discuss the situation on Monday. Russia has increasingly found itself cornered on many global issues. It is facing heat for its troop buildup near border with Ukraine. US has expelled Russian diplomats alleging Russian interference in US Election. Condition of Alexei Navalny may prove to be another front for Russia to face the global political heat. Call for Nationwide protests in Russia Navalny's team on Sunday called for massive protests across Russia on Wednesday evening, just hours after Putin is set to deliver his state of nation address. "It's time to act. We are talking not just about Navalny's freedom but his life," Navalny's right-hand man Leonid Volkov said on Facebook. Also Read | Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Volkov said Wednesday's rally could become a decisive battle against "absolute evil" or Russia's last opposition rally for years to come. "Call on all your acquaintances and take to central squares," wrote Volkov, who heads Navalny's regional offices, adding that the protests should be massive. (With inputs from agencies)

US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies

A train accident on Sunday in Egypt left 97 people injured, Egypt's health ministry said. The accident took place north of Cairo.

The ministry said "97 citizens were injured in a train accident in Toukh", a small farming town in the fertile Nile Delta about 40 kilometres (25 miles) outside the capital.

No death were immediately reported.

AFP quoted security source to say that train carriages came off the rails as it headed north towards the city of Mansoura.

The ministry said that over 55 ambulances were sent to treat the injured. The exact cause of the accident is yet unknown and investigation will be carried out.

Egyptian rail disasters are generally attributed to poor infrastructure and maintenance.

At least 20 people died and 199 were injured last month in a train crash in the country's south, according to the latest official toll, which authorities have revised several times.

The prosecution alleged last week that the driver of one train and his assistant had both left the driver's cabin when it crashed into another train.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has vowed to hold to account those responsible for the latest of several deadly train accidents in recent years.&nbsp;

A train accident on Sunday in Egypt left 97 people injured, Egypt's health ministry said. The accident took place north of Cairo. The ministry said "97 citizens were injured in a train accident in Toukh", a small farming town in the fertile Nile Delta about 40 kilometres (25 miles) outside the capital.

A train accident on Sunday in Egypt left 97 people injured, Egypt's health ministry said. The accident took place north of Cairo. The ministry said "97 citizens were injured in a train accident in Toukh", a small farming town in the fertile Nile Delta about 40 kilometres (25 miles) outside the capital. No death were immediately reported. AFP quoted security source to say that train carriages came off the rails as it headed north towards the city of Mansoura. The ministry said that over 55 ambulances were sent to treat the injured. The exact cause of the accident is yet unknown and investigation will be carried out. Egyptian rail disasters are generally attributed to poor infrastructure and maintenance. At least 20 people died and 199 were injured last month in a train crash in the country's south, according to the latest official toll, which authorities have revised several times. The prosecution alleged last week that the driver of one train and his assistant had both left the driver's cabin when it crashed into another train. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has vowed to hold to account those responsible for the latest of several deadly train accidents in recent years.

Egypt: Nearly 100 hurt in train accident north of Cairo

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

"We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added.

Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950.

On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities.

"The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said.

The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying. "We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added. Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950. On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities. "The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said. The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh likely to extend lockdown for another week as COVID-19 situation worsens

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed.&nbsp;

So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed. So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours. There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours. India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

Maharashtra records biggest single day jump of 68,631 new COVID-19 cases

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa.

In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said.

"The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting.

With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent.

Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority."

But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada.&nbsp;

The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony.

A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area.

After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation".

Virus surge despite isolation

Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy.

Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases.

With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11.

Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote.

In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year.

In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly.

Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes.

Elections for the presidency take place on October 17.&nbsp;

In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out.

It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy. Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa. In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said. "The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting. With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority." But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada. The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony. A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area. After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation". Virus surge despite isolation Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy. Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases. With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11. Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote. In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year. In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly. Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes. Elections for the presidency take place on October 17. In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out. It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Voters go to the polls in Cape Verde, Africa's model of democracy

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks to ease tension, say sources 
https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-and-iran-held-talks-to-ease-tension-say-sources-378445 
The meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-aides-call-for-protests-to-save-his-life-378419">Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life</a>

<img alt="Navalny" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="973ad5cf-4058-444b-b550-52b0c724eb6a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alexei%20Navalny.JPG" />

Doctors warned on Saturday that Alexei Navalny could 'die any minute'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-to-hold-presidential-election-on-may-26-says-parliament-speaker-378401">Syria to hold presidential election on May 26, says parliament speaker</a>

<img alt="Assad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88af5c3f-c7f1-4404-bf53-8881f1bc2d9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Assad.JPG" />

Bashar Al-Assad, who took power following the death of his father Hafez in 2000, has not yet officially announced that he will stand for re-election

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinn-fein-apologises-for-ira-killing-of-lord-mountbatten-prince-philips-uncle-378433">Sinn Fein apologises for IRA killing of Lord Mountbatten, Prince Philip's uncle</a>

<img alt="Mountbatten" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0592e052-24eb-432c-a2ec-21f31dbf4837" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mountbatten.JPG" />

It was the first time the political leader of Irish republicans has apologised for assassination of Lord Mountbatten, who was also the last Viceroy of India

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/germany-pays-respect-to-80000-coronavirus-victims-in-a-ceremony-378423#for-the-80000-378417">Germany pays respect to 80,000 coronavirus victims in a ceremony</a>

<img alt="Germany" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d7892fe-c0d8-43dc-b681-329e163147d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/germany_0.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-drops-public-mask-mandate-with-more-than-half-citizens-vaccinated-378441">Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated</a>

<img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="405d4177-0522-489e-bbdd-c8d0a1c6908a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Israel_3.JPG" />

Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hit-by-59-magnitude-quake-five-injured-378437">Iran hit by 5.9-magnitude quake, five injured</a>

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42415b80-fd31-44ae-a660-58f8efd9a66a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran%20earthquake.JPG" />

The 10-kilometre (six mile) deep quake hit 27 kilometres northwest of the port city of Genaveh at 11:11 am local time

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/petflix-uk-sees-surge-in-pet-care-products-as-people-return-to-offices-378410">Petflix! UK sees surge in pet-care products as people return to offices</a>

<img alt="Petflix" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e794f67a-8fa4-457b-8ea3-f8fa933eaaa5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Petflix.JPG" />

Platforms such as Spotify, Amazon prime and RelaxMyDogs have increased the supply of material tailor-made for dogs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-posts-stunning-new-photos-of-earth-captured-from-international-space-station-378407">NASA posts stunning new photos of Earth captured from International Space Station</a>

<img alt="NASA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d257aa7f-9a90-44ca-9bc7-100d1903709d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Earth_0.JPG" />

The new images posted by NASA are in celebration of Earth Day, which is fast approaching (April 22)

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-reveal-why-some-people-are-always-hungry-378442">Scientists reveal why some people are always hungry</a>

<img alt="Scientist" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cdeaf1c4-9cf9-46bc-acac-b9027d9e188f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/burger.JPG" />

A recent study has established a link between appetite and blood sugar, helping people figure out why they keep getting hungry throughout the day.

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks to ease tension, say sources https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-and-iran-held-talks-to-ease-tension-say-sources-378445 The meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015 Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Doctors warned on Saturday that Alexei Navalny could 'die any minute' Syria to hold presidential election on May 26, says parliament speaker Bashar Al-Assad, who took power following the death of his father Hafez in 2000, has not yet officially announced that he will stand for re-election Sinn Fein apologises for IRA killing of Lord Mountbatten, Prince Philip's uncle It was the first time the political leader of Irish republicans has apologised for assassination of Lord Mountbatten, who was also the last Viceroy of India Germany pays respect to 80,000 coronavirus victims in a ceremony Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload.

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks to ease tension, say sources https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-and-iran-held-talks-to-ease-tension-say-sources-378445 The meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015 Alexei Navalny aides call for protests to save his life Doctors warned on Saturday that Alexei Navalny could 'die any minute' Syria to hold presidential election on May 26, says parliament speaker Bashar Al-Assad, who took power following the death of his father Hafez in 2000, has not yet officially announced that he will stand for re-election Sinn Fein apologises for IRA killing of Lord Mountbatten, Prince Philip's uncle It was the first time the political leader of Irish republicans has apologised for assassination of Lord Mountbatten, who was also the last Viceroy of India Germany pays respect to 80,000 coronavirus victims in a ceremony Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day Iran hit by 5.9-magnitude quake, five injured The 10-kilometre (six mile) deep quake hit 27 kilometres northwest of the port city of Genaveh at 11:11 am local time Petflix! UK sees surge in pet-care products as people return to offices Platforms such as Spotify, Amazon prime and RelaxMyDogs have increased the supply of material tailor-made for dogs NASA posts stunning new photos of Earth captured from International Space Station The new images posted by NASA are in celebration of Earth Day, which is fast approaching (April 22) Scientists reveal why some people are always hungry A recent study has established a link between appetite and blood sugar, helping people figure out why they keep getting hungry throughout the day.

Top 10 World News: Saudi-Iran talks, Navalny protests, and more

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries. Iran and Saudi Arabia are bitter rivals and are actively trying to reduce each other's influence through diplomatic efforts and also through proxy military conflicts.

The regional source told Reuters that the meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015.

The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials took place on April 9 in Iraq. It was first reported by Financial Times.

The second regional source said the talks also touched on Lebanon, which is facing a political vacuum amid a dire financial crisis. Gulf Arab states are alarmed by the expanding role of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.

Iraq's prime minister held talks with Saudi Arabia's crown prince earlier this month and also visited the United Arab Emirates.

The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials did not lead to any breakthrough.

Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The FT report said that a senior Saudi official denied there had been any talks with Iran.

A Western diplomat in the region said the United States and Britain were informed in advance of the Saudi-Iran talks but had "not seen the outcome".

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries.

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries. Iran and Saudi Arabia are bitter rivals and are actively trying to reduce each other's influence through diplomatic efforts and also through proxy military conflicts. The regional source told Reuters that the meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015. The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials took place on April 9 in Iraq. It was first reported by Financial Times. The second regional source said the talks also touched on Lebanon, which is facing a political vacuum amid a dire financial crisis. Gulf Arab states are alarmed by the expanding role of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. Iraq's prime minister held talks with Saudi Arabia's crown prince earlier this month and also visited the United Arab Emirates. The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials did not lead to any breakthrough. Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The FT report said that a senior Saudi official denied there had been any talks with Iran. A Western diplomat in the region said the United States and Britain were informed in advance of the Saudi-Iran talks but had "not seen the outcome". (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks to ease tension, say sources

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces.

"It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering.

"You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled.

For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding.

It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again."&nbsp;

Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day.

That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces.

Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard.

"We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said.

"I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns. Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces. "It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering. "You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled. For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding. It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again." Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day. That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces. Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard. "We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said. "I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated

President of Sein Fein party, once the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on Sunday apologised for IRA's role in killing Lord Louis Mountbatten. Lord Mountbatten was Prince Philip's uncle and last Viceroy of India. The IRA assassinated Mountbatten in 1979 as part of a decades-long conflict waged between Irish republicans and those who wanted Northern Ireland to remain in British hands.

Sein Fein president Mary Lou McDonald's comment came just a day after Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth the Second, was laid to rest. He passed away at the age of 99 on April 9.

"Of course I am sorry that happened, of course that is heart-breaking," McDonald told Times Radio.

"I am happy to reiterate that on the weekend that your queen buried her beloved husband," she added.

It was the first time the political leader of Irish republicans has apologised for the bombing, with McDonald's predecessor Gerry Adams saying at the time that Mountbatten was a legitimate target.

Three other people, including Mountbatten's 14-year-old grandson and a 15-year-old boy, were killed when the IRA blew up Mountbatten's yacht in the Irish village of Mullaghmore.

Mountbatten was a mentor to Prince Philip and Prince Charles.

McDonald said Sunday that "my job, and I think Prince Charles... would absolutely appreciate this, is to lead from the front now, in these times.

"It's all of our jobs to make sure that no other child, no other family, irrespective of who they are, face the kind of trauma and heartbreak that was all too common sadly in all sides on this island and beyond," she said.&nbsp;

Around 3,500 lives were lost in the conflict between unionists and nationalists over the future of Northern Ireland that ended with a landmark peace deal in 1998.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

President of Sein Fein party, once the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on Sunday apologised for IRA's role in killing Lord Louis Mountbatten. Lord Mountbatten was Prince Philip's uncle and last Viceroy of India.

President of Sein Fein party, once the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on Sunday apologised for IRA's role in killing Lord Louis Mountbatten. Lord Mountbatten was Prince Philip's uncle and last Viceroy of India. The IRA assassinated Mountbatten in 1979 as part of a decades-long conflict waged between Irish republicans and those who wanted Northern Ireland to remain in British hands. Sein Fein president Mary Lou McDonald's comment came just a day after Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth the Second, was laid to rest. He passed away at the age of 99 on April 9. "Of course I am sorry that happened, of course that is heart-breaking," McDonald told Times Radio. "I am happy to reiterate that on the weekend that your queen buried her beloved husband," she added. It was the first time the political leader of Irish republicans has apologised for the bombing, with McDonald's predecessor Gerry Adams saying at the time that Mountbatten was a legitimate target. Three other people, including Mountbatten's 14-year-old grandson and a 15-year-old boy, were killed when the IRA blew up Mountbatten's yacht in the Irish village of Mullaghmore. Mountbatten was a mentor to Prince Philip and Prince Charles. McDonald said Sunday that "my job, and I think Prince Charles... would absolutely appreciate this, is to lead from the front now, in these times. "It's all of our jobs to make sure that no other child, no other family, irrespective of who they are, face the kind of trauma and heartbreak that was all too common sadly in all sides on this island and beyond," she said. Around 3,500 lives were lost in the conflict between unionists and nationalists over the future of Northern Ireland that ended with a landmark peace deal in 1998. (With inputs from agencies)

Sinn Fein apologises for IRA killing of Lord Mountbatten, Prince Philip's uncle

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.