Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile&nbsp;defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year.

Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud.&nbsp;

New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years.&nbsp;

Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc.&nbsp; 
On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White."

"I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said.&nbsp;

Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country."

A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry.

That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn.&nbsp;

Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis.&nbsp;

Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." 
Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote.

(With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year. Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud. New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years. Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc. On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White." "I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said. Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country." A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry. That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn. Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis. Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote. (With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Ashkenazi quits Gantz's Blue and White Party

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets. Meanwhile, blasts rocked airport in Aden, Yemen as plane carrying unity government members landed. A fisherman has been reported to have caught a 'Chinese' submarine drone in Indonesia. Read this and much more in top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-at-aden-airport-in-yemen-as-unity-government-arrives-5-dead-353398">Blasts at Aden airport in Yemen as unity government arrives; 5 dead</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-at-aden-airport-in-yemen-as-unity-government-arrives-5-dead-353398"><img alt="Yemen blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fc9849f-99d4-4068-87c1-559dc4d536cb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/yemen%20new.PNG" /></a> 
 
Reports said there were at least two blasts with five people killed in the explosion at Aden airport in Yemen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-china-agree-on-a-major-investment-deal-353420">EU-China agree on a major investment deal</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-china-agree-on-a-major-investment-deal-353420"><img alt="EU-China deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b43584a7-9b0f-488f-850a-3ab88fec7cf3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EU-China.PNG" /></a> 
 
Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-fisherman-catches-chinese-submarine-drone-353396">Indonesian fisherman catches 'Chinese' submarine drone</a>

<img alt="Indonesia Chinese drone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c2424db-6234-4cc9-8ab3-d6a8e8e48a82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture%201_0.JPG" />

China has long been working to increase its presence in Indian Ocean where Indian Navy is dominant

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-brushes-aside-fears-of-uighur-deportations-to-china-353427">Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China</a>

<img alt="Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="856d4935-8dad-4893-bc4d-a62c59c347dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Turkey_3.JPG" /> 
 
Turkey has linguistic and cultural ties with the Uighurs and Ankara has for quite some time been one of the primary safeguards of their motivation on the worldwide stage, however lately Turkey's public demonstration of help has faded

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-air-force-to-induct-indigenously-built-chinas-jf-17-fighter-jet-report-353387">Pakistan Air Force to induct indigenously built China's JF-17 fighter jet: Report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-air-force-to-induct-indigenously-built-chinas-jf-17-fighter-jet-report-353387"><img alt="Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c3d4f89-5d6b-485f-b99c-8935bfcfa4c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pakistan_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
China's JF-17 fighter mostly relies on Russian engine supplies even then Pakistan hopes it will give its Air Force an edge over the Indian Air Force(IAF).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-hardline-islamic-defenders-front-group-353416">Indonesia bans hardline Islamic Defender's Front group</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-hardline-islamic-defenders-front-group-353416"><img alt="Indonesia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd60de0f-7277-4c07-be71-4fe8edbf02ad" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indonesia_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
The ban follows the November return of the group's spiritual figurehead, Rizieq Shihab, from three years of self-exile in Saudi Arabia, which was celebrated with events attended by thousands

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pranksters-are-hijacking-smart-devices-to-live-stream-swatting-says-fbi-353401">Pranksters are hijacking smart devices to live-stream swatting, says FBI</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pranksters-are-hijacking-smart-devices-to-live-stream-swatting-says-fbi-353401"><img alt="SWAT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee478d10-e414-44d0-ba43-31300fcc256b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/swat.JPG" /></a> 
 
FBI authorities state pranksters are assuming control over gadgets on which proprietors made records yet reused accreditations that previously leaked online during data breaches at other companies

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-anti-semitic-attack-jewish-graves-vandalised-with-swastikas-353383">France anti-Semitic attack: Jewish graves vandalised with swastikas</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-anti-semitic-attack-jewish-graves-vandalised-with-swastikas-353383"><img alt="Swastika" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b59fb19a-a905-4991-82a8-125b68377e1c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Swastika.JPG" /></a> 
 
French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner assured that everything was being done to guarantee the miscreants are dealt with

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharifs-passport-will-be-cancelled-on-february-16-shaikh-rasheed-353399">Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16: Shaikh Rasheed</a>

<img alt="Nawaz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75561396-47b9-4371-97fb-8cdd1a8d39bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nawaz.JPG" />

Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-crackdown-on-alibabas-jack-ma-cost-him-11-billion-353324"><img alt="Jack Ma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6b9d3cf3-f1b2-4a24-bdee-65a989dc884d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jack%20ma.JPG" /></a> 
 
Chinese tycoon Jack Ma’s fortune has been hit hard as Chinese authorities crack down on his empire 
&nbsp;

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets.

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets. Meanwhile, blasts rocked airport in Aden, Yemen as plane carrying unity government members landed. A fisherman has been reported to have caught a 'Chinese' submarine drone in Indonesia. Read this and much more in top 10 world news. Blasts at Aden airport in Yemen as unity government arrives; 5 dead Reports said there were at least two blasts with five people killed in the explosion at Aden airport in Yemen. EU-China agree on a major investment deal Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors." Indonesian fisherman catches 'Chinese' submarine drone China has long been working to increase its presence in Indian Ocean where Indian Navy is dominant Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China Turkey has linguistic and cultural ties with the Uighurs and Ankara has for quite some time been one of the primary safeguards of their motivation on the worldwide stage, however lately Turkey's public demonstration of help has faded Pakistan Air Force to induct indigenously built China's JF-17 fighter jet: Report China's JF-17 fighter mostly relies on Russian engine supplies even then Pakistan hopes it will give its Air Force an edge over the Indian Air Force(IAF). Indonesia bans hardline Islamic Defender's Front group The ban follows the November return of the group's spiritual figurehead, Rizieq Shihab, from three years of self-exile in Saudi Arabia, which was celebrated with events attended by thousands Pranksters are hijacking smart devices to live-stream swatting, says FBI FBI authorities state pranksters are assuming control over gadgets on which proprietors made records yet reused accreditations that previously leaked online during data breaches at other companies France anti-Semitic attack: Jewish graves vandalised with swastikas French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner assured that everything was being done to guarantee the miscreants are dealt with Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16: Shaikh Rasheed Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment China's crackdown on Alibaba's Jack Ma cost him $11 billion Chinese tycoon Jack Ma’s fortune has been hit hard as Chinese authorities crack down on his empire

Top 10 world news: EU-China deal, blast in Yemen, and more

An Indonesian fisherman has caught what is apparently a 'Chinese' submarine drone.

News reports citing Indonesian news outlet Detik News have said that the object the fisherman identified as Saeruddin bears striking resemblance to submarine drones developed by Chinese Academy of Sciences, a state-run organisation in China.

The fisherman caught the drone on December 20 near Selayar Islands that are part of Indonesia's South Sulawesi province. He then handed the drone to police who, in turn, gave it to the Indonesian military.
<img alt="Indonesia Chinese drone" data-caption="Image tweeted by Twitter handle @Jatosint" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f7fc08e2-2f98-4f50-a7be-42388c90814f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indonesia%20drone.png" />
As per reports, the torpedo-shaped drone is 7.4 feet long. There is sensor equipment at the front while antenna-like structure protrudes from the rear end.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A fisherman in Selayar Island, South Sulawesi, has found a UUV: 
 
Length: 225 cm 
Tail: 18 cm 
Wingspan: 50 cm 
Trailing antenna: 93 cm 
 
Very similar to China's 'Sea Wing' UUV, which, if it's true, raised many questions especially how it managed to be found deep inside our territory <a href="https://t.co/RAiX8Xw2BK">pic.twitter.com/RAiX8Xw2BK</a>
— JATOSINT (@Jatosint) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jatosint/status/1343749243798896640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time these drones have been found in Indonesian waters. Such drones were reportedly found near Masalembu Islands and Riau Islands of Indonesia. These islands, along with Selayar Islands are situation near sea-routes that connect South China Sea and Indian Ocean.

China has long been working to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean where the Indian Navy is dominant. Whether these drones are being used to chart undersea routes for Chinese submarines is not yet clear.

An Indonesian fisherman has caught what is apparently a 'Chinese' submarine drone. News reports citing Indonesian news outlet Detik News have said that the object the fisherman identified as Saeruddin bears striking resemblance to submarine drones developed by Chinese Academy of Sciences, a state-run organisation in China.

An Indonesian fisherman has caught what is apparently a 'Chinese' submarine drone. News reports citing Indonesian news outlet Detik News have said that the object the fisherman identified as Saeruddin bears striking resemblance to submarine drones developed by Chinese Academy of Sciences, a state-run organisation in China. The fisherman caught the drone on December 20 near Selayar Islands that are part of Indonesia's South Sulawesi province. He then handed the drone to police who, in turn, gave it to the Indonesian military. As per reports, the torpedo-shaped drone is 7.4 feet long. There is sensor equipment at the front while antenna-like structure protrudes from the rear end. A fisherman in Selayar Island, South Sulawesi, has found a UUV: Length: 225 cm Tail: 18 cm Wingspan: 50 cm Trailing antenna: 93 cm Very similar to China's 'Sea Wing' UUV, which, if it's true, raised many questions especially how it managed to be found deep inside our territory pic.twitter.com/RAiX8Xw2BK — JATOSINT (@Jatosint) December 29, 2020 × This is not the first time these drones have been found in Indonesian waters. Such drones were reportedly found near Masalembu Islands and Riau Islands of Indonesia. These islands, along with Selayar Islands are situation near sea-routes that connect South China Sea and Indian Ocean. China has long been working to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean where the Indian Navy is dominant. Whether these drones are being used to chart undersea routes for Chinese submarines is not yet clear.

Indonesian fisherman catches 'Chinese' submarine drone

With new variant of the coronavirus already having made its way to India, the central government on Wednesday asked states to ensure that new year celebrations remain low-key and do not become superspreader events. Union Health Ministry all states to keep strict vigil on New Year celebrations. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan wrote a letter to all states and union territories. In it, he said that although coronavirus cases in the country have been on the decline lately, the rise in cases in Europe and America meant that high level of precaution was necessary in India.

"You will appreciate that in the wake of New Year and various celebratory events associated with it as well as ongoing winter season, strict vigil is required to be maintained to curb all potential 'super spreader' events and places where crowds may gather," Bhushan said in the letter.

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&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs has mandated that states and UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may impose local restrictions, such as night curfew, with a view to contain the spread of COVID-19.?

The Home Ministry has also stipulated that there shall be no restriction on interstate and intra-state movement of persons and goods.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-extends-suspension-of-flights-with-britain-to-january-7-353317">India extends suspension of flights with Britain to January 7</a>

Drawing attention to this, the Union health secretary has urged the states to "promptly assess the local situation and consider imposition of appropriate restrictions on December 30 and 31, as well as on January 1, 2021

Maharashtra

The state has been worst-hit during coronavirus pandemic in India. Maharashtra, notably Mumbai made up for a large chunk of coronavirus cases in the country.

Maharashtra government on Wednesday extended the lockdown till January 31, 2021. On New Year's Eve, hotels, restaurants, pubs and bars will remain open only till 11 pm at night.

"Hotels, restaurants,pubs and bars will remain open tomorrow (December 31) till 11 pm. There is no restriction on people stepping out to buy medicines and visiting friends and family members (after 11 PM). Gathering of five or more people at public places is prohibited," said Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh. He appealed to people to follow coronavirus guidelines.

The state government had clamped a night curfew between 11 PM and 6 AM from December 22 to January 5 after a new strain of the virus was found in the UK.

Coronavirus situation Delhi

Four Covid positive patients have been found infected with the new variant first detected in the UK, while around 200 people, including returnees from the UK and their contact have been put under institutional quarantine by the Delhi government, officials told IANS.

All four patients have been admitted in the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital.

The patients found infected with the new variant have been isolated separately in different rooms of a special ward designated for the patients suspected or found infected with the new variant, the hospital officials told IANS

The tally of positive patients suspected of carrying the new strain has reached 35 in the hospital. Of them, 20 have returned from the UK and the remaining are those who came in contact with them, officials confirmed.

The AAP government has quarantined around 200 people, who either returned from the UK within a month or are in contact with those travellers found positive, at two facilities.

The Delhi government has designated 2,000-bed LNJP as the nodal centre for isolation of persons who are suspected to have the new variant of the Covid-19.

The officials informed that more than 80 of them have been quarantined at a hotel in Aerocity while the rest are kept in a banquet hall turned quarantine facility situated near Chattarpur.

(With agency inputs)

With new variant of the coronavirus already having made its way to India, the central government on Wednesday asked states to ensure that new year celebrations remain low-key and do not become superspreader events.

With new variant of the coronavirus already having made its way to India, the central government on Wednesday asked states to ensure that new year celebrations remain low-key and do not become superspreader events. Union Health Ministry all states to keep strict vigil on New Year celebrations. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan wrote a letter to all states and union territories. In it, he said that although coronavirus cases in the country have been on the decline lately, the rise in cases in Europe and America meant that high level of precaution was necessary in India. "You will appreciate that in the wake of New Year and various celebratory events associated with it as well as ongoing winter season, strict vigil is required to be maintained to curb all potential 'super spreader' events and places where crowds may gather," Bhushan said in the letter. × The Ministry of Home Affairs has mandated that states and UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may impose local restrictions, such as night curfew, with a view to contain the spread of COVID-19.? The Home Ministry has also stipulated that there shall be no restriction on interstate and intra-state movement of persons and goods. Also Read | India extends suspension of flights with Britain to January 7 Drawing attention to this, the Union health secretary has urged the states to "promptly assess the local situation and consider imposition of appropriate restrictions on December 30 and 31, as well as on January 1, 2021 Maharashtra The state has been worst-hit during coronavirus pandemic in India. Maharashtra, notably Mumbai made up for a large chunk of coronavirus cases in the country. Maharashtra government on Wednesday extended the lockdown till January 31, 2021. On New Year's Eve, hotels, restaurants, pubs and bars will remain open only till 11 pm at night. "Hotels, restaurants,pubs and bars will remain open tomorrow (December 31) till 11 pm. There is no restriction on people stepping out to buy medicines and visiting friends and family members (after 11 PM). Gathering of five or more people at public places is prohibited," said Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh. He appealed to people to follow coronavirus guidelines. The state government had clamped a night curfew between 11 PM and 6 AM from December 22 to January 5 after a new strain of the virus was found in the UK. Coronavirus situation Delhi Four Covid positive patients have been found infected with the new variant first detected in the UK, while around 200 people, including returnees from the UK and their contact have been put under institutional quarantine by the Delhi government, officials told IANS. All four patients have been admitted in the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital. The patients found infected with the new variant have been isolated separately in different rooms of a special ward designated for the patients suspected or found infected with the new variant, the hospital officials told IANS The tally of positive patients suspected of carrying the new strain has reached 35 in the hospital. Of them, 20 have returned from the UK and the remaining are those who came in contact with them, officials confirmed. The AAP government has quarantined around 200 people, who either returned from the UK within a month or are in contact with those travellers found positive, at two facilities. The Delhi government has designated 2,000-bed LNJP as the nodal centre for isolation of persons who are suspected to have the new variant of the Covid-19. The officials informed that more than 80 of them have been quarantined at a hotel in Aerocity while the rest are kept in a banquet hall turned quarantine facility situated near Chattarpur. (With agency inputs)

Mutant coronavirus: Centre asks states to ensure low-key New Year celebrations

Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' again on Sunday as high moisture content due to light rains in neighbouring areas made pollutants heavier, weather department officials said.

The city's 24-hour averge air quality index (AQI) was 396, which falls in the "very poor" category. However, it rose to 406 by 10 pm.

The 24-hour average AQI was 337 on Saturday, 357 on Friday, 423 on Thursday, 433 on Wednesday and 418 on Tuesday.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the India Meteorological Department's regional forecasting centre, said light rainfall in neighbouring areas due to a Western Disturbance increased moisture content in the air.

"Water droplets suspended in the air and made pollutants heavier which do not get dispersed easily even with a moderate wind speed," he said.

A marginal improvement is likely as wind speed picks up during the day, Srivastava said.

He central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's ventilation index -- a product of mixing depth and average wind speed was 3,500 metre square per second.

Mixing is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants.

Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' again on Sunday as high moisture content due to light rains in neighbouring areas made pollutants heavier, weather department officials said.

Delhi's air quality turned 'severe' again on Sunday as high moisture content due to light rains in neighbouring areas made pollutants heavier, weather department officials said. The city's 24-hour averge air quality index (AQI) was 396, which falls in the "very poor" category. However, it rose to 406 by 10 pm. The 24-hour average AQI was 337 on Saturday, 357 on Friday, 423 on Thursday, 433 on Wednesday and 418 on Tuesday. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the India Meteorological Department's regional forecasting centre, said light rainfall in neighbouring areas due to a Western Disturbance increased moisture content in the air. "Water droplets suspended in the air and made pollutants heavier which do not get dispersed easily even with a moderate wind speed," he said. A marginal improvement is likely as wind speed picks up during the day, Srivastava said. He central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's ventilation index -- a product of mixing depth and average wind speed was 3,500 metre square per second. Mixing is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants.

Delhi's air quality turns 'severe' again

World Health Organisation Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Sunday called on countries to make greater investment in their public health systems to make the world better prepared for future epidemics and pandemics.

"History tells us that this will not be the last pandemic, and epidemics are a fact of life," Ghebreyesus said in his message as the world marks the first ever International Day of Epidemic Preparedness on Sunday.

"But with investments in public health, supported by an all-of-government, all-of-society, one health approach, we can ensure that our children and their children inherit a safer, more resilient and more sustainable world," the WHO chief said.

The Covid-19 pandemic has underscored the need for investing in systems to prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks.

The first ever International Day of Epidemic Preparedness was called by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate the importance of the prevention of, preparedness for, and partnership against epidemics.

"With Covid-19 having now killed more than 1.7 million people, devastated economies, upended societies and exposed the world`s vulnerabilities in the starkest ways, the value of health emergency preparedness has hit home like never before," said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

"As we strive to control and recover from the current pandemic, we must think about the next. Unfortunately, it is easy to imagine a virus just as infectious but even more lethal."

The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness falls on the birthdate of Louis Pasteur, the French biologist responsible for ground-breaking work on vaccinations.

"Preparedness is a sound investment, costing far less than emergency expenditures. Societies need stronger health systems, including universal health coverage. People and families need more social protection," said the UN Secretary General.

"Communities on the frontlines need timely support. Countries need more effective technical cooperation. And we need to pay greater attention to the encroachment of people and livestock into animal habitats; 75 per cent of new and emerging human infectious diseases are zoonotic," he said.

World Health Organisation Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Sunday called on countries to make greater investment in their public health systems to make the world better prepared for future epidemics and pandemics.

World Health Organisation Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Sunday called on countries to make greater investment in their public health systems to make the world better prepared for future epidemics and pandemics. "History tells us that this will not be the last pandemic, and epidemics are a fact of life," Ghebreyesus said in his message as the world marks the first ever International Day of Epidemic Preparedness on Sunday. "But with investments in public health, supported by an all-of-government, all-of-society, one health approach, we can ensure that our children and their children inherit a safer, more resilient and more sustainable world," the WHO chief said. The Covid-19 pandemic has underscored the need for investing in systems to prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks. The first ever International Day of Epidemic Preparedness was called by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate the importance of the prevention of, preparedness for, and partnership against epidemics. "With Covid-19 having now killed more than 1.7 million people, devastated economies, upended societies and exposed the world`s vulnerabilities in the starkest ways, the value of health emergency preparedness has hit home like never before," said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. "As we strive to control and recover from the current pandemic, we must think about the next. Unfortunately, it is easy to imagine a virus just as infectious but even more lethal." The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness falls on the birthdate of Louis Pasteur, the French biologist responsible for ground-breaking work on vaccinations. "Preparedness is a sound investment, costing far less than emergency expenditures. Societies need stronger health systems, including universal health coverage. People and families need more social protection," said the UN Secretary General. "Communities on the frontlines need timely support. Countries need more effective technical cooperation. And we need to pay greater attention to the encroachment of people and livestock into animal habitats; 75 per cent of new and emerging human infectious diseases are zoonotic," he said.

WHO chief calls for more investments in public health

Top US scientist Dr Anthony Fauci said on Sunday that coronavirus situation in the US after the holiday season. He said that the situation may drive the country to a "critical point".&nbsp;

"I share the concern of President-elect (Joe) Biden that as we get into the next few weeks, it might actually get worse," the infectious disease specialist told CNN.&nbsp;

Joe Biden had cautioned on Wednesday saying nation's "darkest days are ahead of us -- not behind us."

Fauci has been encouraging Americans to get vaccinated and said that that he felt fine after receiving a&nbsp; 
first shot and experienced "nothing serious at all."

Surgeon General Jerome Adams added on ABC that, like Fauci, he's "very concerned" about a post-holiday surge. 
US holiday travel this year was down substantially on the festive season but remained significant.

Air travel averaged more than one million passengers a day for six consecutive days last week, according to the Transportation Security Agency.

Following last month's Thanksgiving holiday, US coronavirus cases surged sharply in December, with more than 200,000 new cases and at times more than 3,000 deaths daily.

With intensive care units in many hospitals near capacity, Fauci reiterated that the country might be facing a "surge upon a surge."

But with new vaccines now moving across the country -- going first to front-line health workers and those in long-term care facilities -- Americans have finally seen a glimmer of hope. 
&nbsp;

Top US scientist Dr Anthony Fauci said on Sunday that coronavirus situation in the US after the holiday season. He said that the situation may drive the country to a "critical point".

Top US scientist Dr Anthony Fauci said on Sunday that coronavirus situation in the US after the holiday season. He said that the situation may drive the country to a "critical point". "I share the concern of President-elect (Joe) Biden that as we get into the next few weeks, it might actually get worse," the infectious disease specialist told CNN. Joe Biden had cautioned on Wednesday saying nation's "darkest days are ahead of us -- not behind us." Fauci has been encouraging Americans to get vaccinated and said that that he felt fine after receiving a first shot and experienced "nothing serious at all." Surgeon General Jerome Adams added on ABC that, like Fauci, he's "very concerned" about a post-holiday surge. US holiday travel this year was down substantially on the festive season but remained significant. Air travel averaged more than one million passengers a day for six consecutive days last week, according to the Transportation Security Agency. Following last month's Thanksgiving holiday, US coronavirus cases surged sharply in December, with more than 200,000 new cases and at times more than 3,000 deaths daily. With intensive care units in many hospitals near capacity, Fauci reiterated that the country might be facing a "surge upon a surge." But with new vaccines now moving across the country -- going first to front-line health workers and those in long-term care facilities -- Americans have finally seen a glimmer of hope.

COVID-19 situation in US may worsen after holidays: Dr Fauci

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media. United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, confirmed that a large fire had broken out in the camp and that the injured were taken to the hospital. The refugee camp is located in Miniyeh region of Lebanon.

"The fire has spread to all the tented shelters" -- made of plastic sheeting and wood -- UNHCR spokesman Khaled Kabbara told AFP.&nbsp;

The camp housed around 75 families, he said.

Lebanon's army said it had arrested 8 people in connection with the incident. Two of the arrested are Lebanese while six are Syrians.

"The Lebanese men fired bullets in the air and torched the tents of Syrian refugees," it said.

Lebanon's National News Agency earlier&nbsp;reported that the fire started after "altercation" between a member of a Lebanese family and "Syrian workers"

Other youths from the Lebanese family then "set fire to some of the refugees' tents", the NNA added.&nbsp;

The report said that Lebanese Civil Defence fought the blaze while army and police were deployed to restore calm.

A security source told AFP that the fight in the Bhanine area was sparked when Syrian workers demanded a wage which their employers refused to pay.

However, the same source said later that initial inquiries found the dispute could have been sparked by the harassment of a Syrian woman. &nbsp;

Lebanon says it hosts some 1.5 million Syrians, including around one million registered as refugees with the United Nations.

Authorities have called on refugees to return to Syria even though rights groups warn that the war-torn country is not yet safe.

(With AFP inputs)

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media.

Syrian refugee camp in northern Lebanon was set on fire on Saturday night after a fight between members of the camp and a local Lebanese family, said state media. United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, confirmed that a large fire had broken out in the camp and that the injured were taken to the hospital. The refugee camp is located in Miniyeh region of Lebanon. "The fire has spread to all the tented shelters" -- made of plastic sheeting and wood -- UNHCR spokesman Khaled Kabbara told AFP. The camp housed around 75 families, he said. Lebanon's army said it had arrested 8 people in connection with the incident. Two of the arrested are Lebanese while six are Syrians. "The Lebanese men fired bullets in the air and torched the tents of Syrian refugees," it said. Lebanon's National News Agency earlier reported that the fire started after "altercation" between a member of a Lebanese family and "Syrian workers" Other youths from the Lebanese family then "set fire to some of the refugees' tents", the NNA added. The report said that Lebanese Civil Defence fought the blaze while army and police were deployed to restore calm. A security source told AFP that the fight in the Bhanine area was sparked when Syrian workers demanded a wage which their employers refused to pay. However, the same source said later that initial inquiries found the dispute could have been sparked by the harassment of a Syrian woman. Lebanon says it hosts some 1.5 million Syrians, including around one million registered as refugees with the United Nations. Authorities have called on refugees to return to Syria even though rights groups warn that the war-torn country is not yet safe. (With AFP inputs)

Lebanon: Syrian refugee camp set on fire after fight between refugees and locals

China's financial regulators urged Ant Group on Sunday to outline a concrete plan as soon as possible to meet regulatory demands and fully understand the seriousness of the "rectification" work it needs to perform.

The central bank, banking, securities and foreign exchange regulators urged Ant to rectify illegal financial activities, including in its credit, insurance and wealth management businesses, and regulate its credit rating business to protect personal information, People's Bank of China (PBOC) Vice Governor Pan Gongsheng said a day after meeting with representatives of the fintech group.

Ant said in a statement it would establish a "rectification" working party and fully implement regulatory requirements.

The state-backed Economic Daily said in a commentary that Ant should serve the people's needs and economic development, taking effective corporate social responsibility.

Chinese regulators last month abruptly suspended Ant's planned $37 billion initial public offering, which had been on track to be the world's largest, just two days before its shares were due to begin trading in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

On Thursday, authorities said they had launched an antitrust investigation into parent Alibaba Group and would summon Ant, the latest blow for billionaire Jack Ma's e-commerce and fintech empire.

The new demands from the PBOC, China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, China Securities Regulatory Commission and State Administration of Foreign Exchange also include that Ant be more transparent about its third-party payment transactions and not conduct unfair competition, and that its setup of financial holding companies comply with the law to ensure the capital adequacy, Pan said.

China's annual Central Economic Work Conference, a gathering of top leaders and policymakers to chart the economy's course in 2021, vowed this month to strengthen antimonopoly efforts and rein in "disorderly capital expansion."

Pan said Ant must step up its risk management and maintain the continuity of its services and normal operations of its business.

During the meeting, regulators pointed out Ant's issues including its poor corporate governance, defiance of regulatory demands, illegal regulatory arbitrary, the use of its market advantage to squeeze out competitors, and harming consumers' legal interests, he said.

China's financial regulators urged Ant Group on Sunday to outline a concrete plan as soon as possible to meet regulatory demands and fully understand the seriousness of the "rectification" work it needs to perform.

China's financial regulators urged Ant Group on Sunday to outline a concrete plan as soon as possible to meet regulatory demands and fully understand the seriousness of the "rectification" work it needs to perform. The central bank, banking, securities and foreign exchange regulators urged Ant to rectify illegal financial activities, including in its credit, insurance and wealth management businesses, and regulate its credit rating business to protect personal information, People's Bank of China (PBOC) Vice Governor Pan Gongsheng said a day after meeting with representatives of the fintech group. Ant said in a statement it would establish a "rectification" working party and fully implement regulatory requirements. The state-backed Economic Daily said in a commentary that Ant should serve the people's needs and economic development, taking effective corporate social responsibility. Chinese regulators last month abruptly suspended Ant's planned $37 billion initial public offering, which had been on track to be the world's largest, just two days before its shares were due to begin trading in Shanghai and Hong Kong. On Thursday, authorities said they had launched an antitrust investigation into parent Alibaba Group and would summon Ant, the latest blow for billionaire Jack Ma's e-commerce and fintech empire. The new demands from the PBOC, China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, China Securities Regulatory Commission and State Administration of Foreign Exchange also include that Ant be more transparent about its third-party payment transactions and not conduct unfair competition, and that its setup of financial holding companies comply with the law to ensure the capital adequacy, Pan said. China's annual Central Economic Work Conference, a gathering of top leaders and policymakers to chart the economy's course in 2021, vowed this month to strengthen antimonopoly efforts and rein in "disorderly capital expansion." Pan said Ant must step up its risk management and maintain the continuity of its services and normal operations of its business. During the meeting, regulators pointed out Ant's issues including its poor corporate governance, defiance of regulatory demands, illegal regulatory arbitrary, the use of its market advantage to squeeze out competitors, and harming consumers' legal interests, he said.

China financial regulators urges Ant Group to set 'rectification' plan swiftly

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups.

Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index.

"I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for.

Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change.

"Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot.

Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms.

The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister.
<img alt="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-caption="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb6a7b2f-9a83-4c5c-aa2d-11a5b2823771" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT92K.jpg" />
"It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting.

Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus.

The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday.
<img alt="Niger election" data-caption="A Nigerien soldier stands guard as Niger's outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou arrives at a polling station in Niamey on December 27, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="419172b9-037a-411f-bb4f-1e7918068d5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT926.jpg" />
Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria.

A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN.

In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes.

(With AFP inputs)

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks.

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups. Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index. "I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for. Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change. "Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot. Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms. The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister. "It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting. Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus. The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday. Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria. A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN. In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes. (With AFP inputs)

Niger citizens vote in a historic election

China has made moves to prevent a split in Nepal Communist Party and pacify feuding camps in Nepal Communist Party. A high-level delegation arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday to "take stock" of political turmoil in Nepal. Factions within Nepal Communist Party led by current Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and party heavyweight Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' are battling with each other. The Chinese delegation is led by a vice minister of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Although no specific details about the agenda of the visit are available, the four-member delegation, led by Vice Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Guo Yezhou, will hold high-level talks during its stay in Kathmandu, My Republica newspaper reported, citing senior Nepal Communist Party leaders.

Quoting a diplomatic source, it said the visit is aimed at "taking stock of Nepal's evolving political situation after the dissolution of the House of Representatives and subsequent split in the ruling Nepal Communist Party amid already-deepened intra-party rift".

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Oli is considered to have pro-Beijing leanings. In a surprise move, he dissolved the 275-member lower house of Nepal Parliament last Sunday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-oli-recommends-calling-parliament-winter-session-on-january-1-352535">Nepal: Oli recommends calling Parliament winter session on January 1</a> 
 
Acting on the prime minister's recommendation, President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the House the same day and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10, sparking protests from a large section of the NCP led by Prachanda, also a co-chair of the ruling party.

China tight-lipped about the visit

Chinese embassy in Kathmandu and Chinese foreign ministry are tight-lipped about Chinese delegation's visit to Kathmandu, said the media report in My Reporter.

Earlier this week, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Hou Yanqi, had communicated about the visit of Guo to Kathmandu during her meetings with senior NCP leaders of both the Prachanda- and Oli-led factions.

Vice Minister Guo is scheduled to hold meetings with the leaders of both factions.

Beijing appears concerned over the move of Oli to dissolve the House of Representatives and the evolving political situation that saw a vertical split in the NCP. Shortly after the dissolution of the House, the Chinese ambassador expedited her meetings with top political leadership in Nepal.

Hou has already held meetings with President Bhandari, senior NCP leaders Prachanda and Madhav Kumar Nepal, former House speakers Krishna Bahadur Mahara and Barsha Man Pun, among others.

This is not the first time that China has intervened in Nepal's internal affairs at a time of crisis.

(With PTI inputs)

China has made moves to prevent a split in Nepal Communist Party and pacify feuding camps in Nepal Communist Party. A high-level delegation arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday to "take stock" of political turmoil in Nepal.

China has made moves to prevent a split in Nepal Communist Party and pacify feuding camps in Nepal Communist Party. A high-level delegation arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday to "take stock" of political turmoil in Nepal. Factions within Nepal Communist Party led by current Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and party heavyweight Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' are battling with each other. The Chinese delegation is led by a vice minister of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Although no specific details about the agenda of the visit are available, the four-member delegation, led by Vice Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Guo Yezhou, will hold high-level talks during its stay in Kathmandu, My Republica newspaper reported, citing senior Nepal Communist Party leaders. Quoting a diplomatic source, it said the visit is aimed at "taking stock of Nepal's evolving political situation after the dissolution of the House of Representatives and subsequent split in the ruling Nepal Communist Party amid already-deepened intra-party rift". × Oli is considered to have pro-Beijing leanings. In a surprise move, he dissolved the 275-member lower house of Nepal Parliament last Sunday. Also Read | Nepal: Oli recommends calling Parliament winter session on January 1 Acting on the prime minister's recommendation, President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the House the same day and announced fresh elections on April 30 and May 10, sparking protests from a large section of the NCP led by Prachanda, also a co-chair of the ruling party. China tight-lipped about the visit Chinese embassy in Kathmandu and Chinese foreign ministry are tight-lipped about Chinese delegation's visit to Kathmandu, said the media report in My Reporter. Earlier this week, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Hou Yanqi, had communicated about the visit of Guo to Kathmandu during her meetings with senior NCP leaders of both the Prachanda- and Oli-led factions. Vice Minister Guo is scheduled to hold meetings with the leaders of both factions. Beijing appears concerned over the move of Oli to dissolve the House of Representatives and the evolving political situation that saw a vertical split in the NCP. Shortly after the dissolution of the House, the Chinese ambassador expedited her meetings with top political leadership in Nepal. Hou has already held meetings with President Bhandari, senior NCP leaders Prachanda and Madhav Kumar Nepal, former House speakers Krishna Bahadur Mahara and Barsha Man Pun, among others. This is not the first time that China has intervened in Nepal's internal affairs at a time of crisis. (With PTI inputs)

China steps in to stop war within Nepal Communist Party

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world. Switzerland itself is not a member of EU but is a banking powerhouse and has a relationship that guarantees market access. Parmelin is currently economy minister and set to take over the annually rotating presidency on Friday.

"It is good news for the whole world that an agreement has been reached. For Switzerland too," he told the Sonntags Zeitung newspaper.

UK and European Union were able to strike a post-Brexit deal on December 24 after 10 months of heavy negotiation. The deal will soften economic shock of UK exiting European common market on December 31

Parmelin did not comment on what the deal might mean for Switzerland's own framework agreement negotiations with the EU.

"We are now waiting for the text and will analyse the whole situation," he said.

Experts believe that the Swiss government is now coming under strong pressure to negotiate a better agreement with Brussels, the SZ reported.

After turning down EU membership in 1992, the Swiss voted in 2000 for a range of bilateral accords with the bloc.

Brussels has made no secret of its growing impatience to pin down a "framework accord" to pull together various bilateral agreements touching on access to the single market and fine-tuning applicable Swiss and EU laws.

Since 2008, the EU has insisted Switzerland must sign a framework agreement before concluding any new bilateral deals with the bloc.

Parmelin had to go into quarantine before Christmas after visiting London to sign an agreement which secures reciprocal, facilitated market access for service providers from Switzerland and Britain from January. 
Parmelin takes over as president from Simonetta Sommaruga on Friday.

(With AFP inputs)

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world.

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world. Switzerland itself is not a member of EU but is a banking powerhouse and has a relationship that guarantees market access. Parmelin is currently economy minister and set to take over the annually rotating presidency on Friday. "It is good news for the whole world that an agreement has been reached. For Switzerland too," he told the Sonntags Zeitung newspaper. UK and European Union were able to strike a post-Brexit deal on December 24 after 10 months of heavy negotiation. The deal will soften economic shock of UK exiting European common market on December 31 Parmelin did not comment on what the deal might mean for Switzerland's own framework agreement negotiations with the EU. "We are now waiting for the text and will analyse the whole situation," he said. Experts believe that the Swiss government is now coming under strong pressure to negotiate a better agreement with Brussels, the SZ reported. After turning down EU membership in 1992, the Swiss voted in 2000 for a range of bilateral accords with the bloc. Brussels has made no secret of its growing impatience to pin down a "framework accord" to pull together various bilateral agreements touching on access to the single market and fine-tuning applicable Swiss and EU laws. Since 2008, the EU has insisted Switzerland must sign a framework agreement before concluding any new bilateral deals with the bloc. Parmelin had to go into quarantine before Christmas after visiting London to sign an agreement which secures reciprocal, facilitated market access for service providers from Switzerland and Britain from January. Parmelin takes over as president from Simonetta Sommaruga on Friday. (With AFP inputs)

Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world

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