Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Sunday said that so long as China had its current regime under President XI Jinping, it would not be able to join Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade agreement. Suga was quoted by NHK World as he spoke with a commercial broadcaster's radio programme. Suga said he believed that countries, where businesses were run by the state, would find it difficult to join the TPP because its regulations are too high for such a business structure to follow.

The Japanese Prime Minister was responding to Xi Jinping's comments that suggested that China was "positive" about joining the TPP Pact.

Nikkei Asia Review had reported Xi as saying on November 20 that China is open to joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact, in a likely move to bolster the country`s presence in Asia while the US focuses on its presidential transition. China "will favourably consider joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership," the Chinese President added.

(With agency inputs)

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Sunday said that so long as China had its current regime under President XI Jinping, it would not be able to join Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade agreement.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Sunday said that so long as China had its current regime under President XI Jinping, it would not be able to join Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade agreement. Suga was quoted by NHK World as he spoke with a commercial broadcaster's radio programme. Suga said he believed that countries, where businesses were run by the state, would find it difficult to join the TPP because its regulations are too high for such a business structure to follow. The Japanese Prime Minister was responding to Xi Jinping's comments that suggested that China was "positive" about joining the TPP Pact. Nikkei Asia Review had reported Xi as saying on November 20 that China is open to joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact, in a likely move to bolster the country`s presence in Asia while the US focuses on its presidential transition. China "will favourably consider joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership," the Chinese President added. (With agency inputs)

China won't be able to join TPP under Xi Jinping: Japanese PM

Anthony Fauci, Director of USA's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Sunday rejected current US President Donald Trump's claim that data on COVID-19 cases and deaths in US was overblown.

"The deaths are real deaths," Anthony Fauci told ABC News. He added that jam-packed hospitals and stressed-out healthcare workers are "not fake. That's real".

On Sunday,&nbsp;Trump fired off a tweet making the allegations about inflated numbers and blamed Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for using "ridiculous method" to collate and calculate numbers.

"The number of cases and deaths of the China Virus is far exaggerated in the United States because of @CDCgov ’s ridiculous method of determination compared to other countries, many of whom report, purposely, very inaccurately and low. “When in doubt, call it Covid.” Fake News!" tweeted Trump.

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The number of cases and deaths of the China Virus is far exaggerated in the United States because of <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a>’s ridiculous method of determination compared to other countries, many of whom report, purposely, very inaccurately and low. “When in doubt, call it Covid.” Fake News!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1345720107255926784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Anthony Fauci along with US Surgeon General Jerome Adams defended accuracy of data published by CDC. Adams appeared on CNN's State of the Union.

“From a public health perspective, I have no reason to doubt those numbers and I think people need to be very aware that it’s not just about the deaths,” Adams said. “It’s about the hospitalizations, the capacity.”

Fauci and Adams expressed optimism that the pace of vaccinating Americans against the virus is accelerating after a slow start. More than 4.2 million people have been inoculated since Dec. 14 with one of two vaccines, far short of the Trump administration’s goal of 20 million by the end of 2020.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-mike-pence-welcomes-senate-republican-efforts-to-derail-joe-biden-victory-certification-354243">US VP Mike Pence 'welcomes' Senate Republican efforts to derail Joe Biden victory certification</a>

“We wanted to get to 20 million, but some glimmer of hope is that in the last 72 hours, they’ve gotten 1.2 million doses into peoples’ arms, which is an average of about 500,000 a day,” Fauci said. “We are not where we want to be. There’s no doubt about that. But I think we can get there.”

Trump, a Republican who leaves office on Jan. 20 after losing a bid for a second term to Democrat Joe Biden, has frequently downplayed the severity of the pandemic. He has also scorned and ignored federal recommendations for containing the spread.

More than 20 million people have been infected in the United States and nearly 347,000 have died – or one out of every 950 U.S. residents - since the virus first emerged in China in late 2019, according to the CDC.

(With Reuters inputs)

Anthony Fauci, Director of USA's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Sunday rejected current US President Donald Trump's claim that data on COVID-19 cases and deaths in US was overblown.

Anthony Fauci, Director of USA's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Sunday rejected current US President Donald Trump's claim that data on COVID-19 cases and deaths in US was overblown. "The deaths are real deaths," Anthony Fauci told ABC News. He added that jam-packed hospitals and stressed-out healthcare workers are "not fake. That's real". On Sunday, Trump fired off a tweet making the allegations about inflated numbers and blamed Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for using "ridiculous method" to collate and calculate numbers. "The number of cases and deaths of the China Virus is far exaggerated in the United States because of @CDCgov ’s ridiculous method of determination compared to other countries, many of whom report, purposely, very inaccurately and low. “When in doubt, call it Covid.” Fake News!" tweeted Trump. The number of cases and deaths of the China Virus is far exaggerated in the United States because of @CDCgov’s ridiculous method of determination compared to other countries, many of whom report, purposely, very inaccurately and low. “When in doubt, call it Covid.” Fake News! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2021 × Anthony Fauci along with US Surgeon General Jerome Adams defended accuracy of data published by CDC. Adams appeared on CNN's State of the Union. “From a public health perspective, I have no reason to doubt those numbers and I think people need to be very aware that it’s not just about the deaths,” Adams said. “It’s about the hospitalizations, the capacity.” Fauci and Adams expressed optimism that the pace of vaccinating Americans against the virus is accelerating after a slow start. More than 4.2 million people have been inoculated since Dec. 14 with one of two vaccines, far short of the Trump administration’s goal of 20 million by the end of 2020. Also Read | US VP Mike Pence 'welcomes' Senate Republican efforts to derail Joe Biden victory certification “We wanted to get to 20 million, but some glimmer of hope is that in the last 72 hours, they’ve gotten 1.2 million doses into peoples’ arms, which is an average of about 500,000 a day,” Fauci said. “We are not where we want to be. There’s no doubt about that. But I think we can get there.” Trump, a Republican who leaves office on Jan. 20 after losing a bid for a second term to Democrat Joe Biden, has frequently downplayed the severity of the pandemic. He has also scorned and ignored federal recommendations for containing the spread. More than 20 million people have been infected in the United States and nearly 347,000 have died – or one out of every 950 U.S. residents - since the virus first emerged in China in late 2019, according to the CDC. (With Reuters inputs)

Anthony Fauci rejects Trump's assertion of 'exaggerated' COVID data in US

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday warned the country of tougher coronavirus restrictions in coming days owing to surge in coronavirus cases. He was speaking with BBC. Britain recorded 57,725 new coronavirus cases on Saturday. On top of that, a new virus strain is tearing through the country.

"It may be that we need to do things in the next few weeks that will be tougher in many parts of the country," Johnson told the BBC's The Andrew Marr Show.

"I'm fully, fully reconciled to that."

UK's health officials are concerned about the possibility that surging numbers could overwhelm hospitals.

Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer urged the prime minister to immediately impose national lockdown measures.

"It's no good the prime minister hinting that further restrictions are coming into place in a week or two or three," he told British media, adding the virus was "clearly out of control".

"So I say bring in those restrictions now, national restrictions within the next 24 hours."

Much of Britain is already under strict regional rules to prevent the spread, although primary schools are set to reopen in most of the country when the Christmas holiday ends on Monday.

However, around one million four to 11-year-olds will learn remotely after the government announced primary schools in London, where case rates are particularly high, would remain closed.

Johnson told parents elsewhere that they should "absolutely" send their young children to school when term begins.

"I understand people's frustrations, I understand people's anxieties but there is no doubt in my mind that schools are safe and that education is a priority.

"We've really fought very hard throughout this pandemic across the country to keep schools open," he added.

But Jerry Glazier, national executive member of the National Education Union, told AFP on Sunday that "schools are now playing a significant part in the spreading of the infection" and called for them all to be closed for at least two weeks.

"Schools are unsafe for the kids and unsafe for the education workers," he added. "Many teachers are very anxious about going back into the workplace."

Johnson said that public health experts had highlighted the long term health and social costs of children being kept out of school.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday warned the country of tougher coronavirus restrictions in coming days owing to surge in coronavirus cases. He was speaking with BBC.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday warned the country of tougher coronavirus restrictions in coming days owing to surge in coronavirus cases. He was speaking with BBC. Britain recorded 57,725 new coronavirus cases on Saturday. On top of that, a new virus strain is tearing through the country. "It may be that we need to do things in the next few weeks that will be tougher in many parts of the country," Johnson told the BBC's The Andrew Marr Show. "I'm fully, fully reconciled to that." UK's health officials are concerned about the possibility that surging numbers could overwhelm hospitals. Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer urged the prime minister to immediately impose national lockdown measures. "It's no good the prime minister hinting that further restrictions are coming into place in a week or two or three," he told British media, adding the virus was "clearly out of control". "So I say bring in those restrictions now, national restrictions within the next 24 hours." Much of Britain is already under strict regional rules to prevent the spread, although primary schools are set to reopen in most of the country when the Christmas holiday ends on Monday. However, around one million four to 11-year-olds will learn remotely after the government announced primary schools in London, where case rates are particularly high, would remain closed. Johnson told parents elsewhere that they should "absolutely" send their young children to school when term begins. "I understand people's frustrations, I understand people's anxieties but there is no doubt in my mind that schools are safe and that education is a priority. "We've really fought very hard throughout this pandemic across the country to keep schools open," he added. But Jerry Glazier, national executive member of the National Education Union, told AFP on Sunday that "schools are now playing a significant part in the spreading of the infection" and called for them all to be closed for at least two weeks. "Schools are unsafe for the kids and unsafe for the education workers," he added. "Many teachers are very anxious about going back into the workplace." Johnson said that public health experts had highlighted the long term health and social costs of children being kept out of school. (With AFP inputs)

UK PM warns country of tougher COVID restriction in coming days

US Presidential election 2020 drama does not seem to be over as Republican Senators' efforts to scuttle Joe Biden's certification in US Senate has got support from US Vice President Mike Pence himself. 11 Republican senators and senator-elect led by Senator Ted Cruz have declared that they would not vote to endorse Joe Biden as the next US President. Pence's Chief of Staff Marc Short said that Pence 'welcomes' the effort of Senators.

Mr Pence "welcomes the efforts of members of the House and Senate to use the authority they have under the law to raise objections and bring forward evidence before the Congress and the American people", Short was quoted as saying by BBC.

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&nbsp;

The latest move from Republicans is seen as yet another attempt to delay or even prevent Joe Biden from taking over as US President this month. The US Election has been called in favour of Biden who has amassed enough Electoral College votes to secure the Oval Office. But outgoing US President Donald Trump has continued allegations of widespread fraud in voting. He has not provided any evidence and he himself along with Republican Party has received setbacks in courts across USA including in US Supreme Court which refused to overturn the result.

Trump's claims of election fraud have continued even after all these setbacks.

Now Ted Cruz and others have targetted US courts.

Signed by Ted Cruz and six others, the statement accuses that all the court rulings which have concluded the elections were fair have been given a wrong decision and asserts that all "allegations of fraud and irregularities in the 2020 election exceed any in our lifetimes".

The lawmakers are planning to demand the creation of a special commission to carry an "emergency 10-day audit" of the results. They plan to protest the Pro-forma certification of Biden's victory o Wednesday when the Congress convenes in a joint session.

This can then later be revised for total votes by individual states by convening special legislative sessions.

US Presidential election 2020 drama does not seem to be over as Republican Senators' efforts to scuttle Joe Biden's certification in US Senate has got support from US Vice President Mike Pence himself.

US Presidential election 2020 drama does not seem to be over as Republican Senators' efforts to scuttle Joe Biden's certification in US Senate has got support from US Vice President Mike Pence himself. 11 Republican senators and senator-elect led by Senator Ted Cruz have declared that they would not vote to endorse Joe Biden as the next US President. Pence's Chief of Staff Marc Short said that Pence 'welcomes' the effort of Senators. Mr Pence "welcomes the efforts of members of the House and Senate to use the authority they have under the law to raise objections and bring forward evidence before the Congress and the American people", Short was quoted as saying by BBC. × The latest move from Republicans is seen as yet another attempt to delay or even prevent Joe Biden from taking over as US President this month. The US Election has been called in favour of Biden who has amassed enough Electoral College votes to secure the Oval Office. But outgoing US President Donald Trump has continued allegations of widespread fraud in voting. He has not provided any evidence and he himself along with Republican Party has received setbacks in courts across USA including in US Supreme Court which refused to overturn the result. Trump's claims of election fraud have continued even after all these setbacks. Now Ted Cruz and others have targetted US courts. Signed by Ted Cruz and six others, the statement accuses that all the court rulings which have concluded the elections were fair have been given a wrong decision and asserts that all "allegations of fraud and irregularities in the 2020 election exceed any in our lifetimes". The lawmakers are planning to demand the creation of a special commission to carry an "emergency 10-day audit" of the results. They plan to protest the Pro-forma certification of Biden's victory o Wednesday when the Congress convenes in a joint session. This can then later be revised for total votes by individual states by convening special legislative sessions.

US VP Mike Pence 'welcomes' Senate Republican efforts to derail Joe Biden victory certification

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq. Soleimani along with his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were among those killed in addition to other commanders.

Thousands of Iraqi mourners condemned the killing and raised anti-US chants near Baghdad airport. Similar protests were seen in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and elsewhere. Thousands of black-clad mourners Saturday night converged at the spot near Baghdad's international airport where the US hit the two vehicles and killed Soleimani, Muhandis and eight other men. The drone strike was ordered last year by outgoing US President Donald Trump last year.

Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus.

The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels.

"We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar.

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&nbsp;

The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes.&nbsp;

Soleimani's killing led to skyrocketing of tension between Iran and US who have been at odds for the much of Trump's presidency. As the first death anniversary approached the tension began rising again.

With more mass gatherings planned Sunday at Baghdad's central Tahrir Square, Ahmed Assadi, one of the leaders of Hashed's parliamentary bloc, vowed: "Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, we will go out by the millions to brandish your portrait on Tahrir".

In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-year-after-soleimanis-killing-the-operation-the-method-and-sanctions-354213">A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions</a>

Giant posters of Soleimani and Muhandis were hung up above the iconic square, which in late 2019 became the centre of large anti-government protests, from an abandoned building known as the Turkish restaurant.

Amid the tensions, Iraqis, and many in the wider region, are nervously watching for any signs of escalation before Trump leaves the White House on January 20.

Trump confronted decades-old foe Iran by withdrawing in 2018 from its nuclear deal with world powers and launching a "maximum pressure" campaign to further economically punish and isolate the country.

Trump recently tweeted that the US was hearing the "chatter of additional attacks against Americans in Iraq", and warned that "if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over."

In recent days, US B-52 bombers have flown across the region for the second time in less than a month but, in what some read as a sign of de-escalation, Washington has also reportedly ordered its Nimitz aircraft carrier to leave the Gulf.

There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran's side as well as the anniversary drew nearer.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed on Saturday to respond to any "action the enemy takes", as he visited a strategic Gulf island.

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif even accused that Israel may try to provoke war by targetting US soldiers stationed in Iraq.

(With AFP inputs)

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq.

January 3, 2021, marked completion of one year of the assassination of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq. Soleimani along with his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were among those killed in addition to other commanders. Thousands of Iraqi mourners condemned the killing and raised anti-US chants near Baghdad airport. Similar protests were seen in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and elsewhere. Thousands of black-clad mourners Saturday night converged at the spot near Baghdad's international airport where the US hit the two vehicles and killed Soleimani, Muhandis and eight other men. The drone strike was ordered last year by outgoing US President Donald Trump last year. Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus. The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels. "We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar. × The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes. Soleimani's killing led to skyrocketing of tension between Iran and US who have been at odds for the much of Trump's presidency. As the first death anniversary approached the tension began rising again. With more mass gatherings planned Sunday at Baghdad's central Tahrir Square, Ahmed Assadi, one of the leaders of Hashed's parliamentary bloc, vowed: "Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, we will go out by the millions to brandish your portrait on Tahrir". In Pics | A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions Giant posters of Soleimani and Muhandis were hung up above the iconic square, which in late 2019 became the centre of large anti-government protests, from an abandoned building known as the Turkish restaurant. Amid the tensions, Iraqis, and many in the wider region, are nervously watching for any signs of escalation before Trump leaves the White House on January 20. Trump confronted decades-old foe Iran by withdrawing in 2018 from its nuclear deal with world powers and launching a "maximum pressure" campaign to further economically punish and isolate the country. Trump recently tweeted that the US was hearing the "chatter of additional attacks against Americans in Iraq", and warned that "if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over." In recent days, US B-52 bombers have flown across the region for the second time in less than a month but, in what some read as a sign of de-escalation, Washington has also reportedly ordered its Nimitz aircraft carrier to leave the Gulf. There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran's side as well as the anniversary drew nearer. Iran's Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami vowed on Saturday to respond to any "action the enemy takes", as he visited a strategic Gulf island. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif even accused that Israel may try to provoke war by targetting US soldiers stationed in Iraq. (With AFP inputs)

A year of Soleimani killing: Protesters raise anti-US chants in Iran, Iraq, Syria

Top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was assassinated exactly one year ago today. The day saw widespread protests and mourning in Iran, Iraq and other West Asian countries. Meanwhile, UK PM Boris Johnson said that Scottish independence referendum should be a 'once in a generation thing'. Harvard professor claims celestial objects are space garbage. Read this and more in Top 10 World News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-year-of-soleimani-killing-protesters-raise-anti-us-chants-in-iran-iraq-syria-354215">A year of Soleimani killing: Protesters raise anti-US chants in Iran, Iraq, Syria</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-year-of-soleimani-killing-protesters-raise-anti-us-chants-in-iran-iraq-syria-354215"><img alt="Soleimani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="da46e8d2-b775-4b85-831e-6c7f5aa4f716" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Soleimani.JPG" /></a> 
 
Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-scottish-referendum-should-be-once-in-a-generation-thing-354216">Boris Johnson says Scottish referendum should be 'once in a generation' thing</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-scottish-referendum-should-be-once-in-a-generation-thing-354216"><img alt="Boris Johnson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17cddb49-b6be-4b39-8898-ca2841adcc09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Boris%20Johnson_2.JPG" /></a> 
 
Referendum for Scottish independence was held in 2014. Scotland had voted to remain in the UK. However, in light of Brexit, demand for Scottish independence has risen again

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-defence-law-expands-power-of-its-military-headed-by-xi-jinping-354221">China's new defence law expands power of its military headed by Xi Jinping</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-defence-law-expands-power-of-its-military-headed-by-xi-jinping-354221"><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7021df36-294e-44f5-b22f-d7f2bdf8f6d5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_7.JPG" /></a> 
 
The new law, effective from January 1, weakens the role of the State Council, China's Cabinet headed by Premier Li Keqiang, in formulating military policy, handing decision-making powers to the Central Military Commission (CMC), the overall high-command of the two million-strong People's Liberation Army (PLA) headed by Xi, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Sunday

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-allegations-are-nonsense-says-israeli-minister-354228">Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-allegations-are-nonsense-says-israeli-minister-354228"><img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ebf091c3-7dba-49cc-84a6-45a053bd4bc1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Israeli.JPG" /></a> 
 
Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-year-after-soleimanis-killing-the-operation-the-method-and-sanctions-354213">A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions</a>

<img alt="Soleimani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="740bdd47-a579-48b3-b89d-c371da071f9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gallery.JPG" />

Take a look at how the strikes were carried out and the aftermath

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-million-planned-to-vaccinated-in-israel-by-end-of-january-354217">2 million planned to be vaccinated in Israel by end of January</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-million-planned-to-vaccinated-in-israel-by-end-of-january-354217"><img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b1531dd-77cd-433f-bc62-f7b063a4537a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Israel_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
Netanyahu's administration launched a fiery push on December 19 to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine made by US-German pharma alliance.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-11-miners-in-balochistan-354211">Gunmen kill 11 miners in Balochistan</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-11-miners-in-balochistan-354211"><img alt="Balochistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c52246df-c6a8-48b6-8291-cbca34f2ca9a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Balochistan.JPG" /></a> 
 
Balochistan is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-denounces-conditions-for-hundreds-of-migrants-in-bosnia-354167">EU denounces conditions for hundreds of migrants in Bosnia</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-denounces-conditions-for-hundreds-of-migrants-in-bosnia-354167"><img alt="Bosnia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffc81777-93e1-423f-8f43-35f70f8e8ee1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bosnia.JPG" /></a> 
 
The migrants have been left homeless in freezing and rainy conditions since their camp near the northwestern town of Bihac burned down last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-executed-in-iran-for-terrorist-acts-and-murder-354186">Three executed in Iran for 'terrorist' acts and murder</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-executed-in-iran-for-terrorist-acts-and-murder-354186"><img alt="iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8215c854-baea-4f73-8ef3-c98d86a089d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_6.JPG" /></a> 
 
The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neighbours-trash-harvard-professor-claims-celestial-objects-are-space-garbage-354170">Neighbour's trash: Harvard professor claims celestial objects are space garbage</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neighbours-trash-harvard-professor-claims-celestial-objects-are-space-garbage-354170"><img alt="Trash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9072aefe-e2ed-44da-b1c0-887f127acf2e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Trash.JPG" /></a> 
 
The professor also offers the physical appearance of the object as a proof for his claim

Top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was assassinated exactly one year ago today. The day saw widespread protests and mourning in Iran, Iraq and other West Asian countries.

Top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was assassinated exactly one year ago today. The day saw widespread protests and mourning in Iran, Iraq and other West Asian countries. Meanwhile, UK PM Boris Johnson said that Scottish independence referendum should be a 'once in a generation thing'. Harvard professor claims celestial objects are space garbage. Read this and more in Top 10 World News. A year of Soleimani killing: Protesters raise anti-US chants in Iran, Iraq, Syria Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus Boris Johnson says Scottish referendum should be 'once in a generation' thing Referendum for Scottish independence was held in 2014. Scotland had voted to remain in the UK. However, in light of Brexit, demand for Scottish independence has risen again China's new defence law expands power of its military headed by Xi Jinping The new law, effective from January 1, weakens the role of the State Council, China's Cabinet headed by Premier Li Keqiang, in formulating military policy, handing decision-making powers to the Central Military Commission (CMC), the overall high-command of the two million-strong People's Liberation Army (PLA) headed by Xi, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Sunday Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad A year after Soleimani's killing: The operation, the method, and sanctions Take a look at how the strikes were carried out and the aftermath 2 million planned to be vaccinated in Israel by end of January Netanyahu's administration launched a fiery push on December 19 to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine made by US-German pharma alliance. Gunmen kill 11 miners in Balochistan Balochistan is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence. EU denounces conditions for hundreds of migrants in Bosnia The migrants have been left homeless in freezing and rainy conditions since their camp near the northwestern town of Bihac burned down last month. Three executed in Iran for 'terrorist' acts and murder The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. Neighbour's trash: Harvard professor claims celestial objects are space garbage The professor also offers the physical appearance of the object as a proof for his claim

Top 10 world news: One year to Soleimani killing, Johnson on Scotland, and more

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said.

The incident was reported in the morning when around 50 people, who came for the last rites of a fruit-seller, took shelter under the recently-built structure to save themselves from getting drenched.

However, minutes later, the roof of the structure collapsed.

Teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) retrieved three bodies while the remaining were recovered by police and district administration during the rescue operation, officials told IANS.

After the NDRF teams called off the rescue operation, NDRF Deputy Commandant Rajkamal Malik said: "Two teams of 45 men each searched the whole site and now no one else is feared to be trapped inside."

Muradnagar SHO Inspector Amit Kumar said that 19 people have lost their lives while 20 received serious injuries. However, the official numbers will be announced by the District Magistrate.

The injured have been admitted to the various hospitals including district hospital of Ghaziabad for the treatment, he added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the incident and ordered the DM and SSP of the district to ensure the effective rescue of the victims. 
&nbsp;

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said.

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said. The incident was reported in the morning when around 50 people, who came for the last rites of a fruit-seller, took shelter under the recently-built structure to save themselves from getting drenched. However, minutes later, the roof of the structure collapsed. Teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) retrieved three bodies while the remaining were recovered by police and district administration during the rescue operation, officials told IANS. After the NDRF teams called off the rescue operation, NDRF Deputy Commandant Rajkamal Malik said: "Two teams of 45 men each searched the whole site and now no one else is feared to be trapped inside." Muradnagar SHO Inspector Amit Kumar said that 19 people have lost their lives while 20 received serious injuries. However, the official numbers will be announced by the District Magistrate. The injured have been admitted to the various hospitals including district hospital of Ghaziabad for the treatment, he added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the incident and ordered the DM and SSP of the district to ensure the effective rescue of the victims.

21 killed as cemetery roof collapses on mourners in UP's Ghaziabad

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad.

Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes.

There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region.

"New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif.

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New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. 
 
Be careful of a trap, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1345370089063915523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries.

Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus.

The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels.

"We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar.

The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense".

An Israeli minister on Sunday rubbished Iranian allegations that it would attack US troops in Iraq to spark a war in the region. Yuval Steinitz, Israeli energy minister said that the allegations amounted to "nonsense". He was speaking on Kan public radio. Sunday (January 3) marked the first anniversary of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of the US in Baghdad. Steinitz said that it was Israel that needed to be on alert for possible Iranian strikes. There was a lot of muscle-flexing from Iran in the run-up to assassination anniversary. Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif had tweeted on January 2 that Israel was "plotting" an attack on US troops stationed in Iraq to spark a war in the region. "New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs." tweeted Zarif. New intelligence from Iraq indicate that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans—putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli. Be careful of a trap, @realDonaldTrump. Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 2, 2021 × As Sunday marked completion of a year of Soleimani assassination, protests were observed in Iran, Iraq and other countries. Qasem Soleimani was one of the most important military commanders responsible for rising Iranian influence in the region. His assassination was a huge blow to Iran's proxies and security apparatus. The mourners gathered near Baghdad airport on Saturday night said they were honouring their "martyrs" and used strong words for the US. The site of Soleimani's assassination is still pockmarked by shrapnels. "We tell America and the enemies of Islam that they can inflict the greatest sacrifices on us, but we will continue to resist despite the bloodshed," said Hashed supporter Batul Najjar. The Hashed -- factions of which Washington has blamed for rocket strikes against its embassy and troops in Iraq -- has increasingly challenged Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, whom it accuses of having helped plot the drone strikes. (With agency inputs)

Iran's allegations are 'nonsense', says Israeli minister

China has revised its National Defence Law, expanding the power of its armed forces headed by President Xi Jinping to mobilise military and civilian resources to defend its national interests both at home and abroad.

The new law, effective from January 1, weakens the role of the State Council, China's Cabinet headed by Premier Li Keqiang, in formulating military policy, handing decision-making powers to the Central Military Commission (CMC), the overall high-command of the two million-strong People's Liberation Army (PLA) headed by Xi, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Sunday.

Xi, 67, has emerged as the Communist Party of China's (CPC) most powerful leader after its founder Mao Zedong, holding the posts of CPC General Secretary, head of the military besides the Presidency with prospects of a life-long tenure.

He is the only civilian leader in the CMC, packed with high-ranking military officials. The amendments for the National Defence Law (NDL) were passed by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) on December 26 last year.

The revised law came into force after the key conclave of the ruling CPC in November last year finalised plans to build a fully modern military on par with the US by 2027. 
By the year 2027, which marks the centennial of the founding of the PLA, China will build a fully modern military, a goal that is in alignment with the national strength and will fulfil the future national defence need, official media reports earlier said.

The revised law specifically stresses the need to build a nationwide coordination mechanism for the mobilisation of state-owned and private enterprises to take part in research into new defence technologies covering conventional weapons, as well as the non-traditional domains of cybersecurity, space and electromagnetics.

Military and political analysts said the new NDL aimed to strengthen the country's military leadership under Xi, providing it with the legal grounds to respond to the challenges of accelerating confrontations between China and the US.

Deng Yuwen, a former deputy editor of the Communist Party publication Study Times, said the amendments aimed to legalise and formally apply the ?special? nature of China's political and defence system when dealing with situations that could harm the regime at home and abroad.

"China's political nature is very different from many countries...It's not surprising for Beijing to enhance the leadership of the CMC when the PLA is going out to defend China's national interests across the world,"&nbsp;Deng told the Post.

Chen Daoyin, a former professor of Political Science and Law at the Shanghai University, said the changes showed the regime had gained the confidence to legitimise its long-standing principle that ?the party commands the gun? and stamp its ?absolute leadership over-armed and reserved forces?.

"The move to include 'development interests' as a reason for armed mobilisation and war in the law would provide legal grounds for the country to launch a war in the legitimate name of defending national development interests,"&nbsp;Chen said.

Zeng Zhiping, a military law expert at Soochow University said one of the big changes of the law was the downgrading of the State Council's role in formulating the principles of China's national defence, and the right to direct and administer the mobilisation of its armed forces.

"The CMC is now formally in charge of making national defence policy and principles, while the State Council becomes a mere implementing agency to provide support to the military,"&nbsp;Zeng, who is a retired PLA lieutenant colonel, said.

"It's a big contrast when compared with developed countries like Israel, Germany and France, which prefer to put their armed forces under civilian leadership. Even in the US, the civilian-led defence ministry plays a more important role than their military top brass, the Joint Chiefs of Staff,"&nbsp;he said.

China has revised its National Defence Law, expanding the power of its armed forces headed by President Xi Jinping to mobilise military and civilian resources to defend its national interests both at home and abroad.

China has revised its National Defence Law, expanding the power of its armed forces headed by President Xi Jinping to mobilise military and civilian resources to defend its national interests both at home and abroad. The new law, effective from January 1, weakens the role of the State Council, China's Cabinet headed by Premier Li Keqiang, in formulating military policy, handing decision-making powers to the Central Military Commission (CMC), the overall high-command of the two million-strong People's Liberation Army (PLA) headed by Xi, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Sunday. Xi, 67, has emerged as the Communist Party of China's (CPC) most powerful leader after its founder Mao Zedong, holding the posts of CPC General Secretary, head of the military besides the Presidency with prospects of a life-long tenure. He is the only civilian leader in the CMC, packed with high-ranking military officials. The amendments for the National Defence Law (NDL) were passed by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) on December 26 last year. The revised law came into force after the key conclave of the ruling CPC in November last year finalised plans to build a fully modern military on par with the US by 2027. By the year 2027, which marks the centennial of the founding of the PLA, China will build a fully modern military, a goal that is in alignment with the national strength and will fulfil the future national defence need, official media reports earlier said. The revised law specifically stresses the need to build a nationwide coordination mechanism for the mobilisation of state-owned and private enterprises to take part in research into new defence technologies covering conventional weapons, as well as the non-traditional domains of cybersecurity, space and electromagnetics. Military and political analysts said the new NDL aimed to strengthen the country's military leadership under Xi, providing it with the legal grounds to respond to the challenges of accelerating confrontations between China and the US. Deng Yuwen, a former deputy editor of the Communist Party publication Study Times, said the amendments aimed to legalise and formally apply the ?special? nature of China's political and defence system when dealing with situations that could harm the regime at home and abroad. "China's political nature is very different from many countries...It's not surprising for Beijing to enhance the leadership of the CMC when the PLA is going out to defend China's national interests across the world," Deng told the Post. Chen Daoyin, a former professor of Political Science and Law at the Shanghai University, said the changes showed the regime had gained the confidence to legitimise its long-standing principle that ?the party commands the gun? and stamp its ?absolute leadership over-armed and reserved forces?. "The move to include 'development interests' as a reason for armed mobilisation and war in the law would provide legal grounds for the country to launch a war in the legitimate name of defending national development interests," Chen said. Zeng Zhiping, a military law expert at Soochow University said one of the big changes of the law was the downgrading of the State Council's role in formulating the principles of China's national defence, and the right to direct and administer the mobilisation of its armed forces. "The CMC is now formally in charge of making national defence policy and principles, while the State Council becomes a mere implementing agency to provide support to the military," Zeng, who is a retired PLA lieutenant colonel, said. "It's a big contrast when compared with developed countries like Israel, Germany and France, which prefer to put their armed forces under civilian leadership. Even in the US, the civilian-led defence ministry plays a more important role than their military top brass, the Joint Chiefs of Staff," he said.

China's new defence law expands power of its military headed by Xi Jinping

UK PM Boris Johnson made a statement on Wednesday that will surely not go well with supporters of Scottish independence from the UK. Johnson said on Sunday that another Scottish independence referendum should not take place for a generation. He was talking on BBC's Andrew Marr show.&nbsp;

"Referendums in my experience, direct experience, in this country are not particularly jolly events," he said.

"They don't have a notably unifying force in the national mood, they should be only once in a generation," he added.

Referendum for Scottish independence was held in 2014. Scotland had voted to remain in the UK.

However, in light of Brexit, demand for Scottish independence has risen again. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has repeatedly made public comments of displeasure against Brexit. Although she had called the 2014 referendum a once in a generation vote, she has recently said that Scotland would like to be part of the European Union.

Recent polls have shown consistent support for independence, boosted by rows between London and the devolved governments over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-could-lose-his-seat-and-majority-at-next-election-poll-says-354108">UK PM Johnson could lose his seat and majority at next election, poll says</a>

"For too long, successive UK governments have taken Scotland in the wrong direction, culminating in Brexit. It's no wonder so many people in Scotland have had enough," Sturgeon wrote on her party's website on Saturday.

"We didn't want to leave and we hope to join you again soon as an equal partner," she added, in a message to the EU.

Johnson has ruled out holding another vote, but Sturgeon will likely claim a mandate and heap pressure on the prime minister should her party perform well in upcoming local elections.

When asked why it was fair to hold a referendum on EU membership but not another on Scottish independence, Johnson told Marr: "The difference is we had a (European) referendum in 1975 and we then had another one in 2016.

"That seems to be about the right sort of gap."

(With AFP inputs)

UK PM Boris Johnson made a statement on Wednesday that will surely not go well with supporters of Scottish independence from the UK. Johnson said on Sunday that another Scottish independence referendum should not take place for a generation.

UK PM Boris Johnson made a statement on Wednesday that will surely not go well with supporters of Scottish independence from the UK. Johnson said on Sunday that another Scottish independence referendum should not take place for a generation. He was talking on BBC's Andrew Marr show. "Referendums in my experience, direct experience, in this country are not particularly jolly events," he said. "They don't have a notably unifying force in the national mood, they should be only once in a generation," he added. Referendum for Scottish independence was held in 2014. Scotland had voted to remain in the UK. However, in light of Brexit, demand for Scottish independence has risen again. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has repeatedly made public comments of displeasure against Brexit. Although she had called the 2014 referendum a once in a generation vote, she has recently said that Scotland would like to be part of the European Union. Recent polls have shown consistent support for independence, boosted by rows between London and the devolved governments over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read | UK PM Johnson could lose his seat and majority at next election, poll says "For too long, successive UK governments have taken Scotland in the wrong direction, culminating in Brexit. It's no wonder so many people in Scotland have had enough," Sturgeon wrote on her party's website on Saturday. "We didn't want to leave and we hope to join you again soon as an equal partner," she added, in a message to the EU. Johnson has ruled out holding another vote, but Sturgeon will likely claim a mandate and heap pressure on the prime minister should her party perform well in upcoming local elections. When asked why it was fair to hold a referendum on EU membership but not another on Scottish independence, Johnson told Marr: "The difference is we had a (European) referendum in 1975 and we then had another one in 2016. "That seems to be about the right sort of gap." (With AFP inputs)

Boris Johnson says Scottish referendum should be 'once in a generation' thing

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence.

"Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP.

The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital.

A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them.&nbsp;

Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community.

Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-more-arrested-over-attack-on-hindu-temple-in-northwest-pakistan-354175">Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan</a>

It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP.

The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers.

No group has claimed responsibility.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism".

Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism.

Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare.

(With AFP inputs)

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan.

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence. "Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP. The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital. A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them. Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community. Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains. Also Read | Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP. The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers. No group has claimed responsibility. In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism". Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism. Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare. (With AFP inputs)

Gunmen kill 11 miners in Balochistan

More than 800,000 Russians have been inoculated against coronavirus, said Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko on Saturday. He added that more than 1.5 million vaccine doses have been dispatched. Russia has world's fourth-highest number of COVID-19 cases.

Russia began rolling out Sputnik V vaccine in early December. It will now issue electronic vaccination certificates to people who will receive the vaccine from January 1 onwards. The ministry is keeping a database of Russians who have been vaccinated, TASS reported.

The Sputnik V vaccine, which Russia already started supplying to other countries, is administered in two doses, which use different components, 21 days apart.

Russia sent 300,000 doses of the vaccine to Argentina last week, causing frustration at home, with some people arguing that more shots should be made available at home.

On Saturday, Russia reported 26,301 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking its total caseload to 3,212,637.

Authorities said 447 people had died in the past 24 hours, taking the official death toll to 58,002.

(With Reuters inputs)

More than 800,000 Russians have been inoculated against coronavirus, said Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko on Saturday. He added that more than 1.5 million vaccine doses have been dispatched.

More than 800,000 Russians have been inoculated against coronavirus, said Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko on Saturday. He added that more than 1.5 million vaccine doses have been dispatched. Russia has world's fourth-highest number of COVID-19 cases. Russia began rolling out Sputnik V vaccine in early December. It will now issue electronic vaccination certificates to people who will receive the vaccine from January 1 onwards. The ministry is keeping a database of Russians who have been vaccinated, TASS reported. The Sputnik V vaccine, which Russia already started supplying to other countries, is administered in two doses, which use different components, 21 days apart. Russia sent 300,000 doses of the vaccine to Argentina last week, causing frustration at home, with some people arguing that more shots should be made available at home. On Saturday, Russia reported 26,301 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking its total caseload to 3,212,637. Authorities said 447 people had died in the past 24 hours, taking the official death toll to 58,002. (With Reuters inputs)

Russia inoculates 800,000 people, will now issue certificates

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