European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured everyone that Brexit trade deal talks were to continue. Sunday was the deadline agreed by UK an EU. Meanwhile, German Chancelloe Angela Merkel has announced another Covid-19 lockdown. Want to know about a Taliban terrorist who purchased a 'life insurance policy'? Scroll through our&nbsp;list of top 10 world news!

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-talks-to-continue-says-eu-chief-on-day-of-the-deadline-349522">Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-talks-to-continue-says-eu-chief-on-day-of-the-deadline-349522"><img alt="Brexit deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b54ebf82-554b-4dba-930e-bf9e2a0d8c97" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Brexit_2.JPG" /></a> 
 
European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-salons-shut-down-in-germany-as-merkel-announces-another-covid-19-lockdown-349511">Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-salons-shut-down-in-germany-as-merkel-announces-another-covid-19-lockdown-349511"><img alt="Germany lockdown" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b093442-7fc4-417e-ac3a-771068088394" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Germany.JPG" /></a> 
 
In addition to schools, all companies, too, have been suggested to shift to 'work-from-home' or offer extended company holidays

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-summons-german-envoy-over-eu-criticism-of-journalists-execution-report-349517">Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-summons-german-envoy-over-eu-criticism-of-journalists-execution-report-349517"><img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce5e1cd7-d968-4ac2-a9d4-c59c8559d48c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_4.JPG" /></a> 
Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-mp-urges-donald-trump-to-pardon-julian-assange-before-leaving-white-house-349532">Australian MP urges Donald Trump to pardon Julian Assange before leaving White House</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-mp-urges-donald-trump-to-pardon-julian-assange-before-leaving-white-house-349532"><img alt="Assange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="18d7c78e-8796-44fd-8b29-2f395ce47b0d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Assange.JPG" /></a> 
Alleging the Democrats, especially the Barack Obama administration, of targetting Assange for 'exposing' Hillary Clinton

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-coast-guard-seizes-2-tonnes-of-meth-worth-26-million-349530">Malaysian coast guard seizes 2 tonnes of meth worth $26 million</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-coast-guard-seizes-2-tonnes-of-meth-worth-26-million-349530"><img alt="Meth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58b3f092-1319-4880-91a0-daffa1cd3485" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Meth.JPG" /></a> 
 
Coastguard chief Zubil Mat Som said that the shipment may have meant to be sent to other countries where it would fetch more price than in Malaysia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/this-dead-taliban-terrorist-had-purchased-an-actual-life-insurance-policy-349505">This dead Taliban terrorist had purchased an actual 'life insurance policy'</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/this-dead-taliban-terrorist-had-purchased-an-actual-life-insurance-policy-349505"><img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9acee0f1-44d8-45e6-bb78-d6165a19bcdb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taliban.JPG" /></a> 
The interesting, even bizarre bit came to light during a terror funding case against the terrorist in a Pakistan court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/several-taliban-militants-killed-as-fighting-rocks-insurgent-bastion-349479">Several Taliban militants killed as fighting rocks insurgent bastion</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/several-taliban-militants-killed-as-fighting-rocks-insurgent-bastion-349479"><img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50704b8d-c37a-4a87-b79b-25b4981818ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
Taliban militants attacked checkpoints in five districts surrounding the city of Kandahar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-citizens-charged-for-spying-on-turkey-349500">Greek citizens charged for spying on Turkey</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-citizens-charged-for-spying-on-turkey-349500"><img alt="Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c562a1c5-c8b3-44a5-817b-516dc8054edc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Greece_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
The two were arrested after a secret investigation that was 'conducted in close cooperation with the Greek National Intelligence Service, EYP'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-maps-removes-road-of-bones-route-after-russian-driver-freezes-to-death-349526">Google Maps removes 'Road of Bones' route after Russian driver freezes to death</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-maps-removes-road-of-bones-route-after-russian-driver-freezes-to-death-349526"><img alt="Google maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70810fc3-39c9-4ab8-abbd-d9c457532063" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Google%20maps.JPG" /></a> 
This incident has also given a boost to the debate of whether Google Maps can be trusted, or should Russians rely on the locally-based mapping service called Yandex

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-not-afraid-of-the-gas-chamber-zodiac-killers-cryptic-message-decoded-after-50-years-349519">'I am not afraid of the gas chamber': Zodiac Killer's cryptic message decoded after 50 years</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-not-afraid-of-the-gas-chamber-zodiac-killers-cryptic-message-decoded-after-50-years-349519"><img alt="Zodiac killer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c48d04-a09b-40a7-9eef-0b841b5ec295" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/zodiac.JPG" /></a> 
The authorities had hoped they will be able to identify the infamous Zodiac Killer after decoding this message

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured everyone that Brexit trade deal talks were to continue. Sunday was the deadline agreed by UK an EU. Meanwhile, German Chancelloe Angela Merkel has announced another Covid-19 lockdown.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured everyone that Brexit trade deal talks were to continue. Sunday was the deadline agreed by UK an EU. Meanwhile, German Chancelloe Angela Merkel has announced another Covid-19 lockdown. Want to know about a Taliban terrorist who purchased a 'life insurance policy'? Scroll through our list of top 10 world news! Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown In addition to schools, all companies, too, have been suggested to shift to 'work-from-home' or offer extended company holidays Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday Australian MP urges Donald Trump to pardon Julian Assange before leaving White House Alleging the Democrats, especially the Barack Obama administration, of targetting Assange for 'exposing' Hillary Clinton Malaysian coast guard seizes 2 tonnes of meth worth $26 million Coastguard chief Zubil Mat Som said that the shipment may have meant to be sent to other countries where it would fetch more price than in Malaysia. This dead Taliban terrorist had purchased an actual 'life insurance policy' The interesting, even bizarre bit came to light during a terror funding case against the terrorist in a Pakistan court. Several Taliban militants killed as fighting rocks insurgent bastion Taliban militants attacked checkpoints in five districts surrounding the city of Kandahar. Greek citizens charged for spying on Turkey The two were arrested after a secret investigation that was 'conducted in close cooperation with the Greek National Intelligence Service, EYP' Google Maps removes 'Road of Bones' route after Russian driver freezes to death This incident has also given a boost to the debate of whether Google Maps can be trusted, or should Russians rely on the locally-based mapping service called Yandex 'I am not afraid of the gas chamber': Zodiac Killer's cryptic message decoded after 50 years The authorities had hoped they will be able to identify the infamous Zodiac Killer after decoding this message

Top 10 world news: Brexit talks to continue, Aussie MP wants Trump to pardon Assange, and more

Malaysia's coast guard made its largest-ever seizure of Methamphetamine as it seized 2.12 tonnes of the drug. The value of the cache is USD 26.2 million. The drugs were disguised as tea in a shipment believed to have come from Myanmar.

Coastguard chief Zubil Mat Som said the drugs found on a boat in northern Penang state were worth around 105.9 ringgit ($26.2 million). A local suspected trafficker was arrested.

"It is the coastguard's record-breaking seizure in its 15-year history," he told AFP.

He said that it was likely that the drug was smuggled out from Myanmar's 'Golden Triangle'.

Mat Som said that the shipment may have meant to be sent to other countries where it would fetch more price than in Malaysia.

Zubil said on December 9 a coastguard vessel had noticed a recreational boat moving suspiciously off Penang island in broad daylight.

A chase ensued after a lone 26-year-old man aboard refused to stop. He subsequently jumped off the vessel and was arrested, the coastguard said in a statement.

Malaysian law provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.

(With AFP inputs)

Malaysia's coast guard made its largest-ever seizure of Methamphetamine as it seized 2.12 tonnes of the drug. The value of the cache is USD 26.2 million. The drugs were disguised as tea in a shipment believed to have come from Myanmar.

Malaysia's coast guard made its largest-ever seizure of Methamphetamine as it seized 2.12 tonnes of the drug. The value of the cache is USD 26.2 million. The drugs were disguised as tea in a shipment believed to have come from Myanmar. Coastguard chief Zubil Mat Som said the drugs found on a boat in northern Penang state were worth around 105.9 ringgit ($26.2 million). A local suspected trafficker was arrested. "It is the coastguard's record-breaking seizure in its 15-year history," he told AFP. He said that it was likely that the drug was smuggled out from Myanmar's 'Golden Triangle'. Mat Som said that the shipment may have meant to be sent to other countries where it would fetch more price than in Malaysia. Zubil said on December 9 a coastguard vessel had noticed a recreational boat moving suspiciously off Penang island in broad daylight. A chase ensued after a lone 26-year-old man aboard refused to stop. He subsequently jumped off the vessel and was arrested, the coastguard said in a statement. Malaysian law provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers. (With AFP inputs)

Malaysian coast guard seizes 2 tonnes of meth worth $26 million

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.

This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state.

"By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference.

BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies.

"Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said.

BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system.

"The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday. This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state. "By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference. BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies. "Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said. BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system. "The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.

BJP lodges complaint against Kerala CM for announcing free Covid-19 vaccine amid local polls

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing. She said that both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck 'even at this late stage'.

UK and EU had set today's deadline for a deal.

"Despite the fact the deadlines have been missed over and over, we both think that it is responsible at this point in time, to go the extra mile. We have accordingly mandated our negotiators to continue this task and to see whether an agreement can be reached even at this late stage," said Ursula von der Leyen

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We had a useful call with <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> this morning. 
 
We agreed that talks will continue.<a href="https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i">https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1338087730690060288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month and there is no trade deal between the two sides.

Both sides differ on the issues of competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-bank-of-england-talks-of-disruption-in-financial-services-in-new-year-349028">Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year</a>

It was apparent that all was not well as UK PM Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was a "strong possibility" that EU and Britain would not be able to strike a trade deal. However, he had said that he would explore all options in order to seal a deal.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-navy-to-help-uk-in-case-of-no-deal-brexit-349216">Royal Navy to help UK in case of no-deal Brexit</a>

On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had tweeted that positions of EU and UK "remain far apart"

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing. She said that both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck 'even at this late stage'. UK and EU had set today's deadline for a deal. "Despite the fact the deadlines have been missed over and over, we both think that it is responsible at this point in time, to go the extra mile. We have accordingly mandated our negotiators to continue this task and to see whether an agreement can be reached even at this late stage," said Ursula von der Leyen We had a useful call with @BorisJohnson this morning. We agreed that talks will continue.https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 13, 2020 × European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month and there is no trade deal between the two sides. Both sides differ on the issues of competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play. Also Read | Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year It was apparent that all was not well as UK PM Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was a "strong possibility" that EU and Britain would not be able to strike a trade deal. However, he had said that he would explore all options in order to seal a deal. Also Read | Royal Navy to help UK in case of no-deal Brexit On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had tweeted that positions of EU and UK "remain far apart"

Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it. But coronavirus did just that. Given what this year has shown us, it won't be hard to believe that a Taliban terrorist had a 'life insurance policy'

The terrorist in question is Mullah Akhtar Mansour. He was killed in a US drone strike in the year 2016. He had apparently purchased an actual 'life insurance' policy from a private company in Pakistan.

The interesting bit came to light during a terror funding case against Mansour and his absconding accomplices. An anti-terrorism court in Karachi heard from the insurance company which confirmed that the Taliban terrorist had indeed purchased an insurance policy. The revelation was made last year at the hearing of the case filed by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

Mullah Akhtar Mansour purchased the policy under fake identity.

It appears that Mansour paid IGI General Insurance Limited Pakistani Rs 300,000 before his death on May 21, 2016.

The insurance company presented a cheque of Pakistani Rs 300,000 in the court in order to deposit in government treasury.

Check out: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-10-mind-bending-space-discoveries-and-observations-from-2020-349472#do-black-holes-have-hair-349460">Top 10 mind-bending space discoveries and observations from 2020</a>

However, FIA investigators told the company to pay the principal amount along with premiums so that the entire amount could get deposited in the treasury.

The anti-terrorism court judge also sought reports from two private banks, Allied Bank Ltd and Bank Al-Falah, regarding the accounts purportedly obtained and operated by the Afghan Taliban leader and/or his accomplices along with details of the money deposited/transacted through them.

(With ANI inputs)

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it.

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it. But coronavirus did just that. Given what this year has shown us, it won't be hard to believe that a Taliban terrorist had a 'life insurance policy' The terrorist in question is Mullah Akhtar Mansour. He was killed in a US drone strike in the year 2016. He had apparently purchased an actual 'life insurance' policy from a private company in Pakistan. The interesting bit came to light during a terror funding case against Mansour and his absconding accomplices. An anti-terrorism court in Karachi heard from the insurance company which confirmed that the Taliban terrorist had indeed purchased an insurance policy. The revelation was made last year at the hearing of the case filed by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Mullah Akhtar Mansour purchased the policy under fake identity. It appears that Mansour paid IGI General Insurance Limited Pakistani Rs 300,000 before his death on May 21, 2016. The insurance company presented a cheque of Pakistani Rs 300,000 in the court in order to deposit in government treasury. Check out: Top 10 mind-bending space discoveries and observations from 2020 However, FIA investigators told the company to pay the principal amount along with premiums so that the entire amount could get deposited in the treasury. The anti-terrorism court judge also sought reports from two private banks, Allied Bank Ltd and Bank Al-Falah, regarding the accounts purportedly obtained and operated by the Afghan Taliban leader and/or his accomplices along with details of the money deposited/transacted through them. (With ANI inputs)

This dead Taliban terrorist had purchased an actual 'life insurance policy'

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency.

Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well.

The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran.

Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers.

The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.”

The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.”

Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution.

In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest.

(With Reuters inputs)

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency.

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency. Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well. The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran. Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers. The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.” The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.” Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution. In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest. (With Reuters inputs)

Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report

Russian army on Saturday reported ceasefire violation in Karabakh region. The ceasefire is being maintained between Azerbaijan and Armenia after both countries went to fight each other over Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Russian Defence Ministry, which has deployed peacekeepers to the region.

The Armenian army reported attacks from Azerbaijan on two villages that are under the control of Karabakh forces.

The Azerbaijani Defence Ministry said "adequate countermeasures" had been taken against "provocations" from the other side but added that the truce was "currently being respected".&nbsp;

A spokesman for Russian peacekeeping forces told RIA Novosti press agency that requests to respect ceasefire had been sent to both parties after "exchanges of fire with automatic weapons". &nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Karabakh forces announced that three of their fighters had been wounded in an attack by Azerbaijani forces.&nbsp;

Azerbaijani troops attacked Armenian fighters on Friday evening and "three were wounded in the ensuing firefight", the territorial defence ministry said.

Six weeks of fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh, which left thousands dead on both sides, ended in a rout for the Armenian military.

The Moscow-sponsored deal in November handed territorial gains to Azerbaijan and allowed for some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers to be deployed to the region.

(With AFP inputs)

Russian army on Saturday reported ceasefire violation in Karabakh region. The ceasefire is being maintained between Azerbaijan and Armenia after both countries went to fight each other over Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Russian army on Saturday reported ceasefire violation in Karabakh region. The ceasefire is being maintained between Azerbaijan and Armenia after both countries went to fight each other over Nagorno-Karabakh region. Russian Defence Ministry, which has deployed peacekeepers to the region. The Armenian army reported attacks from Azerbaijan on two villages that are under the control of Karabakh forces. The Azerbaijani Defence Ministry said "adequate countermeasures" had been taken against "provocations" from the other side but added that the truce was "currently being respected". A spokesman for Russian peacekeeping forces told RIA Novosti press agency that requests to respect ceasefire had been sent to both parties after "exchanges of fire with automatic weapons". Earlier in the day, Karabakh forces announced that three of their fighters had been wounded in an attack by Azerbaijani forces. Azerbaijani troops attacked Armenian fighters on Friday evening and "three were wounded in the ensuing firefight", the territorial defence ministry said. Six weeks of fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh, which left thousands dead on both sides, ended in a rout for the Armenian military. The Moscow-sponsored deal in November handed territorial gains to Azerbaijan and allowed for some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers to be deployed to the region. (With AFP inputs)

Ceasefire breached in Karabakh, says Russian army

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan. Erdogan recited the poem when he was in Azerbaijan capital Baku for parade marking its victory over Armenia in connection with disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Iran said that the poem could fan separatism among Iran's Azeri minority.

"We condemn the use of offensive language towards our president and our country over the recitation of a poem, whose meaning has been deliberately taken out of context," said Fahrettin Altun, Turkish presidential communications director.&nbsp;

After Erdogan's recital of the poem in Baku earlier this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted that "President Erdogan was not informed that what he ill-recited in Baku refers to the forcible separation of areas north of Aras from Iranian motherland".

According to Iran's ISNA news agency, the poem is "one of the separatist symbols of pan-Turkism". 
ISNA said the verses point to Aras and "complains of the distance between Azeri-speaking people on the two sides of the river".

Iranian authorities summoned Turkey's ambassador to Tehran to complain about Erdogan's "interventionist and unacceptable remarks".

In return, Turkey summoned Iran's ambassador to Ankara over the "baseless" claims.&nbsp;

(With IANS inputs)

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan.

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan. Erdogan recited the poem when he was in Azerbaijan capital Baku for parade marking its victory over Armenia in connection with disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. Iran said that the poem could fan separatism among Iran's Azeri minority. "We condemn the use of offensive language towards our president and our country over the recitation of a poem, whose meaning has been deliberately taken out of context," said Fahrettin Altun, Turkish presidential communications director. After Erdogan's recital of the poem in Baku earlier this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted that "President Erdogan was not informed that what he ill-recited in Baku refers to the forcible separation of areas north of Aras from Iranian motherland". According to Iran's ISNA news agency, the poem is "one of the separatist symbols of pan-Turkism". ISNA said the verses point to Aras and "complains of the distance between Azeri-speaking people on the two sides of the river". Iranian authorities summoned Turkey's ambassador to Tehran to complain about Erdogan's "interventionist and unacceptable remarks". In return, Turkey summoned Iran's ambassador to Ankara over the "baseless" claims. (With IANS inputs)

Turkey protests Iran's 'offensive language' against Erdogan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India was not just on-track to achieve its Paris Agreement targets, but it will also exceed them beyond expectation. He was speaking at the Climate Ambition Summit hosted by the United Nations and UK. The Summit marked fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Paris Agreement.

"We have reduced our emission intensity by 21 per cent over 2005 levels. Our solar capacity has grown from 2.63GW in 2014 to 36 GW in 2020. Our renewable energy capacity is the fourth largest in the world. It will reach 175GW before 2022. "

He added that India had an even more ambitious target now: 450GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, and the country has also succeeded in expanding its forest cover and safeguarding its biodiversity.

PM Modi said that as the world was setting its sight to achieve higher targets, it must not lose sight of the past.

"Also review our achievements against targets already set, only then can our voices be credible for future generations. India is not only on track to achieve its Paris Agreement targets, but to exceed them beyond expectations", said Modi.

PM Modi added that in 2047, India will celebrate 100 years as a modern independent nation.

"To all fellow residents of this planet, I make a solemn pledge today that Centennial India will not only meet its own targets but also exceed your expectations," said Modi.

Citing India`s contribution on a global level to fight climate change, Modi said on the world stage, India has pioneered two major initiatives -- the international solar alliance and coalition for disaster resilience infrastructure.

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. The agreement was adopted by 196 parties at 21st Conference of Parties in Paris, on December 12, 2015, and was enforced on November 4, 2016.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India was not just on-track to achieve its Paris Agreement targets, but it will also exceed them beyond expectation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India was not just on-track to achieve its Paris Agreement targets, but it will also exceed them beyond expectation. He was speaking at the Climate Ambition Summit hosted by the United Nations and UK. The Summit marked fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Paris Agreement. "We have reduced our emission intensity by 21 per cent over 2005 levels. Our solar capacity has grown from 2.63GW in 2014 to 36 GW in 2020. Our renewable energy capacity is the fourth largest in the world. It will reach 175GW before 2022. " He added that India had an even more ambitious target now: 450GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, and the country has also succeeded in expanding its forest cover and safeguarding its biodiversity. PM Modi said that as the world was setting its sight to achieve higher targets, it must not lose sight of the past. "Also review our achievements against targets already set, only then can our voices be credible for future generations. India is not only on track to achieve its Paris Agreement targets, but to exceed them beyond expectations", said Modi. PM Modi added that in 2047, India will celebrate 100 years as a modern independent nation. "To all fellow residents of this planet, I make a solemn pledge today that Centennial India will not only meet its own targets but also exceed your expectations," said Modi. Citing India`s contribution on a global level to fight climate change, Modi said on the world stage, India has pioneered two major initiatives -- the international solar alliance and coalition for disaster resilience infrastructure. The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. The agreement was adopted by 196 parties at 21st Conference of Parties in Paris, on December 12, 2015, and was enforced on November 4, 2016.

India will easily meet Paris Agreement targets and exceed them: PM Modi

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) on Saturday denied that the emergency approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine was not given under political pressure. The regulator granted the approval on Saturday paving the way for mass vaccination in USA, the worst affected country in the global coronavirus pandemic.

"The representations in the press that I was threatened to be fired if we didn't get it done by a certain date is inaccurate," said Stephen Hahn, USFDA Commissioner refuting claims of political pressure.

He added that the decision, which had been expected a few days later, was "based on the strongest scientific integrity."

The agency also released new information for health care providers and for patients as the US shipped millions of doses of the vaccine across the country.&nbsp;

The United States has the highest pandemic death toll of any in the world, with fatalities now approaching 300,000 and nearly 16 million cases of infection.

FDA is now warning people who have a history of severe allergic reaction to ingredients in the vaccine, which are included on a patient fact sheet, not to take it.

If they receive the first dose and have a severe allergic reaction, they are advised to not take the second dose.

The FDA has made no definitive ruling regarding whether pregnant women or the immunocompromised should be given the shots, instead punting that call to people to make for themselves in consultation with their doctors.&nbsp;

"There were not enough pregnant women in the trials, or women who became pregnant in the trials to actually know, and make any statement about that," said FDA scientist Peter Marks.

"It will be something that providers will need to consider on an individual basis for patients."

Marks also voiced support for Pfizer's plan to allow people involved in the clinical trial to find out whether they had received the vaccine or placebo.

Under this proposal, if they received the placebo, they can request the vaccine when their demographic group's turn comes up.

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) on Saturday denied that the emergency approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine was not given under political pressure. The regulator granted the approval on Saturday paving the way for mass vaccination in USA, the worst affected country in the global coronavirus pandemic.

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) on Saturday denied that the emergency approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine was not given under political pressure. The regulator granted the approval on Saturday paving the way for mass vaccination in USA, the worst affected country in the global coronavirus pandemic. "The representations in the press that I was threatened to be fired if we didn't get it done by a certain date is inaccurate," said Stephen Hahn, USFDA Commissioner refuting claims of political pressure. He added that the decision, which had been expected a few days later, was "based on the strongest scientific integrity." The agency also released new information for health care providers and for patients as the US shipped millions of doses of the vaccine across the country. The United States has the highest pandemic death toll of any in the world, with fatalities now approaching 300,000 and nearly 16 million cases of infection. FDA is now warning people who have a history of severe allergic reaction to ingredients in the vaccine, which are included on a patient fact sheet, not to take it. If they receive the first dose and have a severe allergic reaction, they are advised to not take the second dose. The FDA has made no definitive ruling regarding whether pregnant women or the immunocompromised should be given the shots, instead punting that call to people to make for themselves in consultation with their doctors. "There were not enough pregnant women in the trials, or women who became pregnant in the trials to actually know, and make any statement about that," said FDA scientist Peter Marks. "It will be something that providers will need to consider on an individual basis for patients." Marks also voiced support for Pfizer's plan to allow people involved in the clinical trial to find out whether they had received the vaccine or placebo. Under this proposal, if they received the placebo, they can request the vaccine when their demographic group's turn comes up.

USFDA denies political pressure to approve Pfizer COVID vaccine quickly

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology.&nbsp;

"Alexion has established itself as a leader in complement biology, bringing life-changing benefits to patients with rare diseases," AstraZeneca chief executive Pascal Soriot said in a statement, announcing the year's biggest deal in the pharma sector.

"We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues at Alexion so that we can together build on our combined expertise in immunology and precision medicines to drive innovation that delivers life-changing medicines for more patients," he said.

Both boards have agreed to the cash-and-stock deal, which values Alexion at $175 a share, a premium of 45 percent to the Boston-based company's closing price on Friday.

Since taking the helm at AstraZeneca in 2012, Soriot has pushed the group into lucrative treatments such as cancer therapies, and the Alexion takeover will give it more heft in areas such as treating blood disorders.

Along with researchers from the University of Oxford, AstraZeneca has developed an effective Covid-19 vaccine which the UK government plans to use as the lynchpin of its inoculation drive, after first rolling out another vaccine by Pfizer/BioNTech.

But approval of the AstraZeneca/Oxford drug has been held up after queries over its initial trial results.&nbsp; 
On Tuesday, the UK partners became the first Covid-19 vaccine makers to publish final-stage clinical trial data in a scientific journal, clearing a key hurdle.

The new acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, and Alexion shareholders will own 15 percent of the combined company.

"This transaction marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Alexion," Alexion chief executive Ludwig Hantson said.

"We bring to AstraZeneca a strong portfolio, innovative rare disease pipeline, a talented global workforce and strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics," he said.

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology.

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology. "Alexion has established itself as a leader in complement biology, bringing life-changing benefits to patients with rare diseases," AstraZeneca chief executive Pascal Soriot said in a statement, announcing the year's biggest deal in the pharma sector. "We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues at Alexion so that we can together build on our combined expertise in immunology and precision medicines to drive innovation that delivers life-changing medicines for more patients," he said. Both boards have agreed to the cash-and-stock deal, which values Alexion at $175 a share, a premium of 45 percent to the Boston-based company's closing price on Friday. Since taking the helm at AstraZeneca in 2012, Soriot has pushed the group into lucrative treatments such as cancer therapies, and the Alexion takeover will give it more heft in areas such as treating blood disorders. Along with researchers from the University of Oxford, AstraZeneca has developed an effective Covid-19 vaccine which the UK government plans to use as the lynchpin of its inoculation drive, after first rolling out another vaccine by Pfizer/BioNTech. But approval of the AstraZeneca/Oxford drug has been held up after queries over its initial trial results. On Tuesday, the UK partners became the first Covid-19 vaccine makers to publish final-stage clinical trial data in a scientific journal, clearing a key hurdle. The new acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, and Alexion shareholders will own 15 percent of the combined company. "This transaction marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Alexion," Alexion chief executive Ludwig Hantson said. "We bring to AstraZeneca a strong portfolio, innovative rare disease pipeline, a talented global workforce and strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics," he said.

AstraZeneca to buy US biotech firm Alexion for USD 39 billion 

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state.

"I request the Ministry of Civil Aviation to kindly expedite finalizing the sites and getting all statutory clearances on a single-window basis so that the government can commence the infrastructure work," said Rao.

Rao is currently in New Delhi, where he personally met Puri and discussed the matter.

KCR, as Rao is popularly known, said this will enable Telangana to start non-scheduled operators` permit (NSOP) operations with its own funds.

Rao reminded Puri that he had requested the Prime Minister immediately after the formation of Telangana in 2014 to establish six more airports as the state has only one at Hyderabad.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-in-hyderabad-factory-several-injured-many-feared-trapped-349294">Fire in Hyderabad factory: Several injured, many feared trapped</a>

Telangana had proposed new airports to be built at Basantnagar (Peddapally district), Mamnoor (Warangal urban), Adilabad, Jakranpally (Nizamabad), Devarkadra (Mehboobnagar) and Bhadradri Kothagudem.

Following discussions with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it was decided that only no-frills airports for smaller aircraft will be developed, which may be expanded in the future for commercial operations depending on demand.

"Though AAI has already taken up the Obstacle Limitation Surface Survey (OLS), soil testing and other investigations at the sites and some draft reports have recently come, the final reports are yet to be given," he highlighted.

Rao also produced a copy of the letter he wrote to Narendra Modi on September 6, 2014 about the proposal for Puri`s reference.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to speed up the process to build six more airports in the state. "I request the Ministry of Civil Aviation to kindly expedite finalizing the sites and getting all statutory clearances on a single-window basis so that the government can commence the infrastructure work," said Rao. Rao is currently in New Delhi, where he personally met Puri and discussed the matter. KCR, as Rao is popularly known, said this will enable Telangana to start non-scheduled operators` permit (NSOP) operations with its own funds. Rao reminded Puri that he had requested the Prime Minister immediately after the formation of Telangana in 2014 to establish six more airports as the state has only one at Hyderabad. Also Read | Fire in Hyderabad factory: Several injured, many feared trapped Telangana had proposed new airports to be built at Basantnagar (Peddapally district), Mamnoor (Warangal urban), Adilabad, Jakranpally (Nizamabad), Devarkadra (Mehboobnagar) and Bhadradri Kothagudem. Following discussions with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), it was decided that only no-frills airports for smaller aircraft will be developed, which may be expanded in the future for commercial operations depending on demand. "Though AAI has already taken up the Obstacle Limitation Surface Survey (OLS), soil testing and other investigations at the sites and some draft reports have recently come, the final reports are yet to be given," he highlighted. Rao also produced a copy of the letter he wrote to Narendra Modi on September 6, 2014 about the proposal for Puri`s reference.

Telangana CM asks Centre to expedite work on 6 airports

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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