Interim results published on Friday said that a single dose of Johnson &amp; Johnson's experimental Covid-19 vaccine produced a strong immune response against novel coronavirus in early-to-mid stage clinical trial. The vaccine is called Ad26.COV2.S. It was well tolerated at two different doses, as per the results. A single shot of the vaccine could simplify the distribution of the vaccine.

It is still unclear whether elderly people will be protected to the same degree as younger people with Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

The results, released on the medical website medRxiv, have not been peer-reviewed.

In July, the vaccine was found to offer strong protection in a single dose to monkeys. The vaccine is backed by the US government. The trial in about 1000 healthy adults started after the vaccine elicited a strong immune response.

On Wednesday, Johnson &amp; Johnson kicked off a final 60,000 person trial. This may pave way for regulatory approval post an application.

Researchers, including those from J&amp;J's unit Janssen Pharmaceuticals, said 98% of participants with data available for the interim analysis had neutralizing antibodies, which defend cells from pathogens, 29 days after vaccination.

However, immune response results were available from only a small number of people - 15 participants - over 65 years old, limiting the interpretation.

In participants older than 65, the rate of adverse reactions such as fatigue and muscle aches was 36%, much lower than the 64% seen in younger participants, the results showed, suggesting the immune response in older people may not be as strong.

The researchers said more details on safety and effectiveness will follow when the study is completed.

For now, the results justify why more studies are needed in larger numbers to look for serious adverse effects, Dr. Barry Bloom, a professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health who was not involved in the J&amp;J trial, told Reuters.

"Overall, the vaccine is doing what you would expect it to do if you were to move it to Phase 3 trials," Bloom said. 
&nbsp;

Interim results published on Friday said that a single dose of Johnson & Johnson's experimental Covid-19 vaccine produced a strong immune response against novel coronavirus in early-to-mid stage clinical trial.

Interim results published on Friday said that a single dose of Johnson & Johnson's experimental Covid-19 vaccine produced a strong immune response against novel coronavirus in early-to-mid stage clinical trial. The vaccine is called Ad26.COV2.S. It was well tolerated at two different doses, as per the results. A single shot of the vaccine could simplify the distribution of the vaccine. It is still unclear whether elderly people will be protected to the same degree as younger people with Johnson and Johnson vaccine. The results, released on the medical website medRxiv, have not been peer-reviewed. In July, the vaccine was found to offer strong protection in a single dose to monkeys. The vaccine is backed by the US government. The trial in about 1000 healthy adults started after the vaccine elicited a strong immune response. On Wednesday, Johnson & Johnson kicked off a final 60,000 person trial. This may pave way for regulatory approval post an application. Researchers, including those from J&J's unit Janssen Pharmaceuticals, said 98% of participants with data available for the interim analysis had neutralizing antibodies, which defend cells from pathogens, 29 days after vaccination. However, immune response results were available from only a small number of people - 15 participants - over 65 years old, limiting the interpretation. In participants older than 65, the rate of adverse reactions such as fatigue and muscle aches was 36%, much lower than the 64% seen in younger participants, the results showed, suggesting the immune response in older people may not be as strong. The researchers said more details on safety and effectiveness will follow when the study is completed. For now, the results justify why more studies are needed in larger numbers to look for serious adverse effects, Dr. Barry Bloom, a professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health who was not involved in the J&J trial, told Reuters. "Overall, the vaccine is doing what you would expect it to do if you were to move it to Phase 3 trials," Bloom said.

Coronavirus vaccine being tested by Johnson & Johnson shows promise

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday.

The largest increase was identified in Moscow, the Russian capital, where 1,792 new positive tests were registered. Additionally, 232 new cases were identified in St. Petersburg and 204 more were found in the Moscow region.

The response center also reported 169 coronavirus-related fatalities over the last 24 hours, which brings the total death toll to 20,225, and 6,004 people were confirmed to have recovered from the disease over the last day, bringing the total number of discharges to 940,150.

Saturday`s rise to the case total is the largest observed in Russia since June, and the head of the national public health watchdog Anna Popova said that the increase in the number of new positive tests was due to residents not abiding by the country`s epidemiological recommendations.

"We are seeing growth, we already sense it. It is more pronounced and begun in the last days of August ... First of all, it is connected with the fact that people are not complying with requirements.

Therefore, the main task today is not to return to fear or scaring people, but to call on people to be alert to prevent new infections," Popova said during an appearance on Russia`s Rossiya 1 broadcaster.

Popova added that public health officials had expected to see a rise in new cases with the onset of the influenza season at the start of fall.Sergei Sobyanin, the mayor of Moscow, on Friday issued new recommendations amid the rising number of new cases in the Russian capital.&nbsp;

Senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions have been asked to remain at home and large companies have been requested to transfer employees to remote work wherever possible.

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday.

Russia has registered 7,523 new cases of the coronavirus disease over the preceding 24 hours, up from 7,212 a day earlier, which brings the cumulative total to 1,143,571, the federal response center said on Saturday. The largest increase was identified in Moscow, the Russian capital, where 1,792 new positive tests were registered. Additionally, 232 new cases were identified in St. Petersburg and 204 more were found in the Moscow region. The response center also reported 169 coronavirus-related fatalities over the last 24 hours, which brings the total death toll to 20,225, and 6,004 people were confirmed to have recovered from the disease over the last day, bringing the total number of discharges to 940,150. Saturday`s rise to the case total is the largest observed in Russia since June, and the head of the national public health watchdog Anna Popova said that the increase in the number of new positive tests was due to residents not abiding by the country`s epidemiological recommendations. "We are seeing growth, we already sense it. It is more pronounced and begun in the last days of August ... First of all, it is connected with the fact that people are not complying with requirements. Therefore, the main task today is not to return to fear or scaring people, but to call on people to be alert to prevent new infections," Popova said during an appearance on Russia`s Rossiya 1 broadcaster. Popova added that public health officials had expected to see a rise in new cases with the onset of the influenza season at the start of fall.Sergei Sobyanin, the mayor of Moscow, on Friday issued new recommendations amid the rising number of new cases in the Russian capital. Senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions have been asked to remain at home and large companies have been requested to transfer employees to remote work wherever possible.

Russia COVID-19 cases total rises by 7,523 to 1,143,571

Without taking any names, Nawaz Sharif indicted the Pakistan Army for ruining his country. What is said is well known. It's no secret that the army generals run Pakistan. But when a former Pakistan PM says it, it becomes quite significant.

Nawaz Sharif has banned his party members from meeting the Pakistan Army. The announcement was made on Twitter.

'Recent events once again prove that some meetings are hidden behind seven curtains and how some are advertised as to the wishes of some...This game needs to stop...'

'In the future, no member of our party will meet with representatives of the military and relevant agencies at individual --- party --- or personal level to remind them of their compliance..'

These are some very strong words coming from a leader in exile. But what is Nawaz Sharif is talking about?

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On Thursday, we told you that Imran Khan wanted to male Gilgit-Baltistan Pakistan's fifth province. There are plenty of benefits for Islamabad and the Pakistan Army. It will give Imran Khan's PTI and edge in the upcoming elections. It will give his government a strategic edge over India. And it will give more money to army generals by legitimising CPEC projects.

Pakistan Army wants the Opposition to join this cause. It is clearing the road for a smooth passage of an ascension bill. Secret meetings are taking place at army headquarters. Some opposition leaders have fallen into the trap.

Like Muhammad Zubair, Governor of Sindh. He is a senior leader in Nawaz Sharif''s party.

He is said to have met the Pakistan Army chief twice in recent weeks along with other opposition leaders. These meetings have rattled Nawaz Sharif.

His party has recently managed to establish a grand political alliance to take on Imran Khan. Almost all major opposition parties have joined the Pakistan Democratic Movement. They are planning to carry out a civil disobedience movement to dethrone Imran Khan. The protests will be launched next month. Nawaz Sharif's party PML-N plans on sustaining them till January next year. Lawyers, traders, farmers, students, journalists and everybody has been invited to join the movement.

It promises to be bigger than the so-called 'Tsunami March' which Imran Khan organised in 2014. 
&nbsp; 
It was month-long movement that pushed him to national politics. He became Prime Minister in 2018 thanks to army's support.

Nawaz Sharif has something similar planned.

The only difference is that he is taking on the army as well. He aspires to end Pakistan Army's control on civilian government. He is openly criticising army generals.

There is irony in this. Nawaz Sharif was himself a puppet in the hands of the Pakistan Army. He has been Prime Minister of Pakistan 3 times. He has worked under several army generals. In fact, he was among the few civilian leaders to have friendly relations with the military establishment. But that did not take him anywhere.

He ended up getting deposed General Pervez Musharraf in 1999. Sharif was put on trial for corruption and he went in exile.

But he came back stronger in 2013. He became prime minister for the third time.&nbsp;

He is said to have told his confidantes that he would curtail the role of army and ascertain the supremacy of civilian governments in Pakistan forever. To add to that, the army saw Nawaz Sharif to have become pro-India. 
&nbsp; 
He invited newly elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Islamabad. Pakistan Army didn't like this, it propped up Imran Khan. Panama leaks took place, the Azadi march followed. And the rest is history.

Sharif is 70-years-old now. He is living in exile in London. And he is locking horns with Pakistan Army once again.

He is not as powerful as before. He does not have public sympathy this time. He is going down politically. But he wants to go down fighting. 
&nbsp;

Without taking any names, Nawaz Sharif indicted the Pakistan Army for ruining his country. What is said is well known. It's no secret that the army generals run Pakistan.

Without taking any names, Nawaz Sharif indicted the Pakistan Army for ruining his country. What is said is well known. It's no secret that the army generals run Pakistan. But when a former Pakistan PM says it, it becomes quite significant. Nawaz Sharif has banned his party members from meeting the Pakistan Army. The announcement was made on Twitter. 'Recent events once again prove that some meetings are hidden behind seven curtains and how some are advertised as to the wishes of some...This game needs to stop...' 'In the future, no member of our party will meet with representatives of the military and relevant agencies at individual --- party --- or personal level to remind them of their compliance..' These are some very strong words coming from a leader in exile. But what is Nawaz Sharif is talking about? × On Thursday, we told you that Imran Khan wanted to male Gilgit-Baltistan Pakistan's fifth province. There are plenty of benefits for Islamabad and the Pakistan Army. It will give Imran Khan's PTI and edge in the upcoming elections. It will give his government a strategic edge over India. And it will give more money to army generals by legitimising CPEC projects. Pakistan Army wants the Opposition to join this cause. It is clearing the road for a smooth passage of an ascension bill. Secret meetings are taking place at army headquarters. Some opposition leaders have fallen into the trap. Like Muhammad Zubair, Governor of Sindh. He is a senior leader in Nawaz Sharif''s party. He is said to have met the Pakistan Army chief twice in recent weeks along with other opposition leaders. These meetings have rattled Nawaz Sharif. His party has recently managed to establish a grand political alliance to take on Imran Khan. Almost all major opposition parties have joined the Pakistan Democratic Movement. They are planning to carry out a civil disobedience movement to dethrone Imran Khan. The protests will be launched next month. Nawaz Sharif's party PML-N plans on sustaining them till January next year. Lawyers, traders, farmers, students, journalists and everybody has been invited to join the movement. It promises to be bigger than the so-called 'Tsunami March' which Imran Khan organised in 2014. It was month-long movement that pushed him to national politics. He became Prime Minister in 2018 thanks to army's support. Nawaz Sharif has something similar planned. The only difference is that he is taking on the army as well. He aspires to end Pakistan Army's control on civilian government. He is openly criticising army generals. There is irony in this. Nawaz Sharif was himself a puppet in the hands of the Pakistan Army. He has been Prime Minister of Pakistan 3 times. He has worked under several army generals. In fact, he was among the few civilian leaders to have friendly relations with the military establishment. But that did not take him anywhere. He ended up getting deposed General Pervez Musharraf in 1999. Sharif was put on trial for corruption and he went in exile. But he came back stronger in 2013. He became prime minister for the third time. He is said to have told his confidantes that he would curtail the role of army and ascertain the supremacy of civilian governments in Pakistan forever. To add to that, the army saw Nawaz Sharif to have become pro-India. He invited newly elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Islamabad. Pakistan Army didn't like this, it propped up Imran Khan. Panama leaks took place, the Azadi march followed. And the rest is history. Sharif is 70-years-old now. He is living in exile in London. And he is locking horns with Pakistan Army once again. He is not as powerful as before. He does not have public sympathy this time. He is going down politically. But he wants to go down fighting.

Why has Nawaz Sharif taken stance against Pakistan Army

Owners of oil supertanker MT New Diamond, that caught fire near Sri Lanka in the first week of September have agreed to pay USD 1.84 million to Sri Lanka for help in extinguishing fire. This is an interim claim and does not include damages for fuel leak into the sea.

The claim was made for the services provided by Sri Lankan Navy, port authority, Sri Lankan Air Force and Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA).

MT New Diamond was ferrying Kuwaiti Oil to Indian port of Paradip. The tanker was chartered by Indian Oil Corporation. The tanker caught fire on September 3 after an explosion in its engine room.

The fire was doused by joint efforts of Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy, Air Force and Indian Coast Guard.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-apex-court-set-to-hear-petitions-against-20a-330308">Sri Lanka apex court set to hear petitions against 20A</a> 
 
Sri Lankan Marine Environment Protection Authority's (MEPA) Chairperson Dharshani Lahandapura said that insurers of the vessel West of England will settle the bill.

New Diamond is currently 122 kilometres (66 nautical miles) away from Batticaloa on Sri Lanka's east coast.

MEPA has allowed the release of 20 crew members while one injured sailor is undergoing treatment in a private hospital in Sri Lanka, Lahandapura said.

The captain has not been allowed to leave the country as he is going through legal proceedings, she said.

Greece-based Porto Emporios Shipping Inc is the registered owner of the 20-year old Panama-flagged very large crude carrier, Refinitiv data showed.

(With Reuters inputs)

Owners of oil supertanker MT New Diamond, that caught fire near Sri Lanka in the first week of September have agreed to pay USD 1.84 million to Sri Lanka for help in extinguishing fire.

Owners of oil supertanker MT New Diamond, that caught fire near Sri Lanka in the first week of September have agreed to pay USD 1.84 million to Sri Lanka for help in extinguishing fire. This is an interim claim and does not include damages for fuel leak into the sea. The claim was made for the services provided by Sri Lankan Navy, port authority, Sri Lankan Air Force and Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). MT New Diamond was ferrying Kuwaiti Oil to Indian port of Paradip. The tanker was chartered by Indian Oil Corporation. The tanker caught fire on September 3 after an explosion in its engine room. The fire was doused by joint efforts of Indian Navy, Sri Lankan Navy, Air Force and Indian Coast Guard. Also Read: Sri Lanka apex court set to hear petitions against 20A Sri Lankan Marine Environment Protection Authority's (MEPA) Chairperson Dharshani Lahandapura said that insurers of the vessel West of England will settle the bill. New Diamond is currently 122 kilometres (66 nautical miles) away from Batticaloa on Sri Lanka's east coast. MEPA has allowed the release of 20 crew members while one injured sailor is undergoing treatment in a private hospital in Sri Lanka, Lahandapura said. The captain has not been allowed to leave the country as he is going through legal proceedings, she said. Greece-based Porto Emporios Shipping Inc is the registered owner of the 20-year old Panama-flagged very large crude carrier, Refinitiv data showed. (With Reuters inputs)

Fire-hit supertanker's owner agrees to pay USD 1.8 million to Sri Lanka in damages

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday discussed the Afghan peace process and strengthening of bilateral engagement.

During a telephonic conversation with Ghani, Khan reaffirmed Pakistan's steadfast support to the Afghan peace process and noted the positive results of these efforts which culminated in the US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the commencement of Intra-Afghan Negotiations, according to an official statement.

He said that all stakeholders must work together to secure an inclusive and comprehensive political agreement through the Afghan-led and Afghan-owed process.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-responsible-for-miseries-genocide-of-afghan-pashtuns-ptm-leader-at-unhrc-330426">Pak responsible for miseries, genocide of Afghan-Pashtuns: PTM leader at UNHRC</a>

The prime minister also underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to constructive engagement with Afghanistan and to peace, stability and prosperity of the Afghan people.

Khan noted that the Chairman of Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), Dr Abdullah Abdullah, will be visiting Islamabad next week.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday discussed the Afghan peace process and strengthening of bilateral engagement.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday discussed the Afghan peace process and strengthening of bilateral engagement. During a telephonic conversation with Ghani, Khan reaffirmed Pakistan's steadfast support to the Afghan peace process and noted the positive results of these efforts which culminated in the US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the commencement of Intra-Afghan Negotiations, according to an official statement. He said that all stakeholders must work together to secure an inclusive and comprehensive political agreement through the Afghan-led and Afghan-owed process. Also Read: Pak responsible for miseries, genocide of Afghan-Pashtuns: PTM leader at UNHRC The prime minister also underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to constructive engagement with Afghanistan and to peace, stability and prosperity of the Afghan people. Khan noted that the Chairman of Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), Dr Abdullah Abdullah, will be visiting Islamabad next week.

Imran Khan, Ashraf Ghani discuss Afghan peace process

Nepal's coronavirus cases jumped to 71,821 after 1,207 new cases were reported on Saturday while the death toll increased to 467 with eight new fatalities.

According to the Ministry of Health and Population, so far, 53,013 COVID-19 patients have recovered, 1,147 of them in the past 24 hours.

The Kathmandu Valley has recorded the highest number of cases with 724 new infections in the past 24 hours. 
The government lifted restrictions on long-haul transportation last week. Domestic flights, too, resumed operations after six months on Monday.

Nepal's coronavirus cases jumped to 71,821 after 1,207 new cases were reported on Saturday while the death toll increased to 467 with eight new fatalities. According to the Ministry of Health and Population, so far, 53,013 COVID-19 patients have recovered, 1,147 of them in the past 24 hours.

Nepal's coronavirus cases jumped to 71,821 after 1,207 new cases were reported on Saturday while the death toll increased to 467 with eight new fatalities. According to the Ministry of Health and Population, so far, 53,013 COVID-19 patients have recovered, 1,147 of them in the past 24 hours. The Kathmandu Valley has recorded the highest number of cases with 724 new infections in the past 24 hours. The government lifted restrictions on long-haul transportation last week. Domestic flights, too, resumed operations after six months on Monday.

Nepal's COVID-19 tally reaches 71,821 with 1,207 new cases

Japan's new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. This was both leaders'&nbsp;first talk with each other. Both leaders agreed that regional stability was the need of the hour.

"Stable relations are important not just for our countries but for the region and the international community. I want to fulfil that responsibility," Suga said in comments aired by pubic broadcaster NHK after he spoke with Xi on the telephone.

Xi said that China and Japan shared extensive common interests and that there was wide scope for cooperation.

Both China and Japan are locked in a dispute over an island in the South China Sea. Japan maintains that it has sovereignty pn Senkaku Island. China calls the island Diaoyu and has a similar claim of sovereignty.

China hopes both countries will jointly maintain a stable supply chain and fair and open investment environments, China's state broadcaster CCTV quoted Xi as saying.

Suga, who became prime minister this month and has little diplomatic experience, must manage relations with Japan's bigger neighbour as tension between China and the United States increases amid the coronavirus pandemic and lingering trade friction. Suga spoke on the phone to U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday.

Japan, a close U.S. ally, is also embroiled in a dispute with China over the ownership of islands in the East China Sea, and is concerned about an uptick in Chinese military activity in the region.

A planned state visit by Xi to Japan earlier this year was cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Suga said he did not discuss rescheduling the visit during the call with Xi.

(With Reuters input)

Japan's new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. This was both leaders' first talk with each other. Both leaders agreed that regional stability was the need of the hour.

Japan's new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. This was both leaders' first talk with each other. Both leaders agreed that regional stability was the need of the hour. "Stable relations are important not just for our countries but for the region and the international community. I want to fulfil that responsibility," Suga said in comments aired by pubic broadcaster NHK after he spoke with Xi on the telephone. Xi said that China and Japan shared extensive common interests and that there was wide scope for cooperation. Both China and Japan are locked in a dispute over an island in the South China Sea. Japan maintains that it has sovereignty pn Senkaku Island. China calls the island Diaoyu and has a similar claim of sovereignty. China hopes both countries will jointly maintain a stable supply chain and fair and open investment environments, China's state broadcaster CCTV quoted Xi as saying. Suga, who became prime minister this month and has little diplomatic experience, must manage relations with Japan's bigger neighbour as tension between China and the United States increases amid the coronavirus pandemic and lingering trade friction. Suga spoke on the phone to U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday. Japan, a close U.S. ally, is also embroiled in a dispute with China over the ownership of islands in the East China Sea, and is concerned about an uptick in Chinese military activity in the region. A planned state visit by Xi to Japan earlier this year was cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak. Suga said he did not discuss rescheduling the visit during the call with Xi. (With Reuters input)

Japanese PM Suga speaks with Xi Jinping, both agree on need for regional stability

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US. The administration's move has been mentioned in a federal notification.

This may open a new front of tussle between USA and China as bilateral relations worsen. Both the countries are locked in a tit-for-tat battle over coronavirus, trade, diplomatic presence on each other's soil.

As per the new proposal, Chinese journalists in the US can apply for an extension of 90 days. Journalists from Macau have been given exception.

Although a provision of extension of 90 days has been proposed, the period is much less than that granted to other foreign journalists.

Journalists from countries other than China can spend 240 days in the US and ask for an extension for same period ahead.

In March, the State Department asked Chinese media outlets to reduce their number of staff in the US.

Four Chinese State-run media outlets -- Xinhua News Agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and China Daily- were asked to reduce their total staff of 160 Chinese nationals to 100.

In June, the US designated four top state-run Chinese media houses as "foreign missions," terming them as "propaganda" outlets "controlled" by the ruling Communist Party of China.

It will be interesting two see how China responds to the fresh proposal that is set to come into effect in 30 days.

In past China has retaliated US moves.

When US asked China to shut it embassy in Houston, China had retaliated by asking US to do the same with its embassy in Chengdu province.

After this, both countries have increasingly chosen to restrict movements of each other's diplomats on their own soil.

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US.

USA is seeking to limit stay of Chinese journalists on its soil to 90 days. The proposal of the Departement of Homeland Security is part of fixed time limit on visas of students, researchers and foreign journalists in the US. The administration's move has been mentioned in a federal notification. This may open a new front of tussle between USA and China as bilateral relations worsen. Both the countries are locked in a tit-for-tat battle over coronavirus, trade, diplomatic presence on each other's soil. As per the new proposal, Chinese journalists in the US can apply for an extension of 90 days. Journalists from Macau have been given exception. Although a provision of extension of 90 days has been proposed, the period is much less than that granted to other foreign journalists. Journalists from countries other than China can spend 240 days in the US and ask for an extension for same period ahead. In March, the State Department asked Chinese media outlets to reduce their number of staff in the US. Four Chinese State-run media outlets -- Xinhua News Agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and China Daily- were asked to reduce their total staff of 160 Chinese nationals to 100. In June, the US designated four top state-run Chinese media houses as "foreign missions," terming them as "propaganda" outlets "controlled" by the ruling Communist Party of China. It will be interesting two see how China responds to the fresh proposal that is set to come into effect in 30 days. In past China has retaliated US moves. When US asked China to shut it embassy in Houston, China had retaliated by asking US to do the same with its embassy in Chengdu province. After this, both countries have increasingly chosen to restrict movements of each other's diplomats on their own soil.

US seeks to restrict stay of Chinese journalists to 90 days

A white supremacist was killed in a shootout with police in Templeton, California on Friday. Christopher Straub, the deceased was a wanted felon and had previously served jail time in prison. A Deputy Sheriff was injured due to bullets fired by Straub.

Before the shootout, the police tried at first to conduct a traffic stop on Starub near a cemetery. This was when Straub grabbed a gun he had in his car and ran through the vineyards in the cemetery. The police gave a chase.

Inside the cemetery, Starub ambushed and opened fire at the police. One policeman was injured. The policeman was airlifted to a hospital and his health is said to be stable.

As policemen retaliated and fired bullets at Christopher Straub, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police found a large cache of weaponry inside his car. As per CNN, this included four assault-style rifles, one hunting rifle, one shotgun, two handguns along with the one he used to fire at police and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

The police later discovered that Stroub was illegally manufacturing weapons parts.

He had links with white supremacist groups and had been booked more than a dozen times in various parts of California.

A white supremacist was killed in a shootout with police in Templeton, California on Friday. Christopher Straub, the deceased was a wanted felon and had previously served jail time in prison.

A white supremacist was killed in a shootout with police in Templeton, California on Friday. Christopher Straub, the deceased was a wanted felon and had previously served jail time in prison. A Deputy Sheriff was injured due to bullets fired by Straub. Before the shootout, the police tried at first to conduct a traffic stop on Starub near a cemetery. This was when Straub grabbed a gun he had in his car and ran through the vineyards in the cemetery. The police gave a chase. Inside the cemetery, Starub ambushed and opened fire at the police. One policeman was injured. The policeman was airlifted to a hospital and his health is said to be stable. As policemen retaliated and fired bullets at Christopher Straub, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police found a large cache of weaponry inside his car. As per CNN, this included four assault-style rifles, one hunting rifle, one shotgun, two handguns along with the one he used to fire at police and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. The police later discovered that Stroub was illegally manufacturing weapons parts. He had links with white supremacist groups and had been booked more than a dozen times in various parts of California.

White supremacist killed in shootout in California

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism. He was addressing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During his speech, he stressed on multilaterlism and two-state solution for Israel-Palestine.

"We would like to see peace and stability in the Middle East with a twostate solution for Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with secure and recognized international borders based on 
relevant United Nations resolutions," he said

Oli said that Nepal believed in amity with all and enmity with none. But at the same time he noted in his speech that geopolitical tensions were resurfacing. He added that world needed more social funding to improve lives and not military funding to destroy them.

This is 75th General Assembly of the United Nations. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, world leaders are addressing the assembly through electronic modes.

Nepal PM Oli said Nepal was firmly committed to protect its sovereignty based on principles he mentioned earlier in his speech.

"Let's choose peace over war, co-operation over collision," he said. During his speech, he said Nepal had enduring faith in multilateralism. He added that the country was performing its due role on multilateral platforms like SAARC, BIMSTEC.

In his speech, he touched upon ongoing global conflicts.

"Nepal is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situations in Libya, Syria and Yemen. Protracted conflicts inflict painful miseries to the innocent civilians.Nepal calls for peaceful resolution of all such conflicts, led and owned by the people of the respective countries," he said.

Nepal and India currently have a border dispute. Nepal included Indian terrotories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura in its national map earlier this year.

Nepalese government has now begun a new controversy by introducing a new book which showed the region of Kalapani within its boundary.&nbsp;

Nepal's education minister Giriraj Mani Pokharel has told TOI&nbsp;that the book titled as 'Nepalko Bhubhaag Ra Seesmasambandhi Swadhyay Samagri', which loosely translated as Nepal's territorial boundary and geography, has been introduced for students in higher secondary schools.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday, declared Nepal's firm stand against terrorism as he added that the country called for an early conclusion of a comprehensive convention against terrorism. He was addressing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). During his speech, he stressed on multilaterlism and two-state solution for Israel-Palestine. "We would like to see peace and stability in the Middle East with a twostate solution for Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with secure and recognized international borders based on relevant United Nations resolutions," he said Oli said that Nepal believed in amity with all and enmity with none. But at the same time he noted in his speech that geopolitical tensions were resurfacing. He added that world needed more social funding to improve lives and not military funding to destroy them. This is 75th General Assembly of the United Nations. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, world leaders are addressing the assembly through electronic modes. Nepal PM Oli said Nepal was firmly committed to protect its sovereignty based on principles he mentioned earlier in his speech. "Let's choose peace over war, co-operation over collision," he said. During his speech, he said Nepal had enduring faith in multilateralism. He added that the country was performing its due role on multilateral platforms like SAARC, BIMSTEC. In his speech, he touched upon ongoing global conflicts. "Nepal is deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situations in Libya, Syria and Yemen. Protracted conflicts inflict painful miseries to the innocent civilians.Nepal calls for peaceful resolution of all such conflicts, led and owned by the people of the respective countries," he said. Nepal and India currently have a border dispute. Nepal included Indian terrotories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura in its national map earlier this year. Nepalese government has now begun a new controversy by introducing a new book which showed the region of Kalapani within its boundary. Nepal's education minister Giriraj Mani Pokharel has told TOI that the book titled as 'Nepalko Bhubhaag Ra Seesmasambandhi Swadhyay Samagri', which loosely translated as Nepal's territorial boundary and geography, has been introduced for students in higher secondary schools.

UNGA: Nepal PM bats for multilateralism, two-state solution for Israel-Palestine

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's&nbsp;population. When farm bills passed,&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;called the passage of the bills a 'watershed' moment.

But on Friday, farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks in a protest against the new legislation that they say could pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices, leaving them at the mercy of private buyers.

Will the new farm bills help Indian farmer? Or will this step be counterproductive? Are farm bills good or bad? What are the pros and cons of the farm bills? Let's take a look.

The three farm bills passed by the parliament are --

<ol>
	<li>Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill</li>
	<li>Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill ( Also referred to as APMC Bypass Bill)</li>
	<li>Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill</li>
</ol>

Provisions of these bills may result in elimination of the monopoly of government-run APMCs (Agricultural Produce Market Committees). As per older laws and provisions, farmers have to sell their produce at APMCs. It was mandatory that the first sale of agri-produce took place in the market yard of the 'mandis'.

APMCs were formed by the Government of India to shield farmers from big retailers and to ensure that retail prices did not get too high.

As per the new bills, farmers will now be free to sell their produce even to private buyers, including big companies. Farm bills passed in the Indian parliament give farmers the freedom to sell their crop anywhere in India.

In APMCs, licensed middlemen brokered the deal between farmers and the government. Over the years, these middlemen monopolised their authority in APMCs and cartelisation occurred. Farmers were often at the mercy of these middlemen.

The newly passed farm bills are likely to break the monopoly of these middlemen as it gives farmers the freedom to carry out the first sale outside APMCs.

PROS of new farm bills

<ul>
	<li>Farmers will have a choice to sell their produce to anyone without APMC getting in the way</li>
	<li>Monopoly of APMC will be destroyed.</li>
	<li>The changes proposed will take out the middlemen who essentially run APMC.</li>
	<li>Payment will be made to farmers in three days</li>
</ul>

Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the bills would promote inter-state trade. Farmers will have more options when it comes to selling their agricultural produce.

Some farmer groups, however, are up against the new provisions. The protests are especially strong in Punjab.

States like Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh have strong market systems based on APMCs. The farmers there do not want a change in well-oiled machinery that is functional.

Another point critics of the farm bills passed by the parliament are raising is that of the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

MSP is the minimum price guaranteed by the government to farmers in APMCs. This is supposed to be a safety net for farmers and it ensures that selling prices don't go too low for farmers.

The Centre currently fixes MSPs for 23 farm commodities --

<ul>
	<li>Seven oilseeds (Groundnut, Soybean, Sesamum, Safflower, Nigerseed, Rapseed-mustard, sunflower)</li>
	<li>Seven cereals &nbsp;(Wheat, padyy, Bajra, Jowar, Barley, Ragi, Maize)</li>
	<li>Five pulses ( Arhar/Tur, Chana, Moong, Urad, Masur)</li>
	<li>Four commercial crops (Cotton, Sugarcane, Raw jute, Copra)</li>
	<li>Tomar has said that APMC system will continue and will not be dismantled overnight. However, critics of farm bill 2020 say that there is no clarity on MSP.</li>
</ul>

MSP, unlike the Public Distribution System, is not a right. There was no official legal standing to MSP even as per older laws. But successive governments announced MSPs from time-to-time as a way to provide a safety net to the farmers.

Now, farmers and critics fear that eliminating monopoly of APMCs will soon pave way for abolishing MSP.

CONS:

<ul>
	<li>Farmers will be at the mercy of big corporations during dealings. If at all MSP is abolished, farmers will lose the bargaining chip and a last-ditch sale option they've always had.</li>
	<li>Critics of the farm bills say there is not much government regulatory oversight in the new provisions.</li>
	<li>There are still doubts over the way the government can comprehensively intervene in case farmers get cheated from private buyers.</li>
	<li>Examples across the globe shows that when farmers were exposed to market forces, their incomes decreased rather than increased.</li>
</ul>

To this end, the main opposition Congress party has called the bills “black law” and “pro-corporate”. Its top leader Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of “making farmers ‘slaves’ of the capitalists”.&nbsp;

Keeping the protests in consideration, police in various states have tightened security in the hope of heading off any violence, especially around New Delhi.

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's population.

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's population. When farm bills passed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the passage of the bills a 'watershed' moment. But on Friday, farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks in a protest against the new legislation that they say could pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices, leaving them at the mercy of private buyers. Will the new farm bills help Indian farmer? Or will this step be counterproductive? Are farm bills good or bad? What are the pros and cons of the farm bills? Let's take a look. The three farm bills passed by the parliament are -- Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill ( Also referred to as APMC Bypass Bill) Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill Provisions of these bills may result in elimination of the monopoly of government-run APMCs (Agricultural Produce Market Committees). As per older laws and provisions, farmers have to sell their produce at APMCs. It was mandatory that the first sale of agri-produce took place in the market yard of the 'mandis'. APMCs were formed by the Government of India to shield farmers from big retailers and to ensure that retail prices did not get too high. As per the new bills, farmers will now be free to sell their produce even to private buyers, including big companies. Farm bills passed in the Indian parliament give farmers the freedom to sell their crop anywhere in India. In APMCs, licensed middlemen brokered the deal between farmers and the government. Over the years, these middlemen monopolised their authority in APMCs and cartelisation occurred. Farmers were often at the mercy of these middlemen. The newly passed farm bills are likely to break the monopoly of these middlemen as it gives farmers the freedom to carry out the first sale outside APMCs. PROS of new farm bills Farmers will have a choice to sell their produce to anyone without APMC getting in the way Monopoly of APMC will be destroyed. The changes proposed will take out the middlemen who essentially run APMC. Payment will be made to farmers in three days Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the bills would promote inter-state trade. Farmers will have more options when it comes to selling their agricultural produce. Some farmer groups, however, are up against the new provisions. The protests are especially strong in Punjab. States like Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh have strong market systems based on APMCs. The farmers there do not want a change in well-oiled machinery that is functional. Another point critics of the farm bills passed by the parliament are raising is that of the Minimum Support Price (MSP). MSP is the minimum price guaranteed by the government to farmers in APMCs. This is supposed to be a safety net for farmers and it ensures that selling prices don't go too low for farmers. The Centre currently fixes MSPs for 23 farm commodities -- Seven oilseeds (Groundnut, Soybean, Sesamum, Safflower, Nigerseed, Rapseed-mustard, sunflower) Seven cereals (Wheat, padyy, Bajra, Jowar, Barley, Ragi, Maize) Five pulses ( Arhar/Tur, Chana, Moong, Urad, Masur) Four commercial crops (Cotton, Sugarcane, Raw jute, Copra) Tomar has said that APMC system will continue and will not be dismantled overnight. However, critics of farm bill 2020 say that there is no clarity on MSP. MSP, unlike the Public Distribution System, is not a right. There was no official legal standing to MSP even as per older laws. But successive governments announced MSPs from time-to-time as a way to provide a safety net to the farmers. Now, farmers and critics fear that eliminating monopoly of APMCs will soon pave way for abolishing MSP. CONS: Farmers will be at the mercy of big corporations during dealings. If at all MSP is abolished, farmers will lose the bargaining chip and a last-ditch sale option they've always had. Critics of the farm bills say there is not much government regulatory oversight in the new provisions. There are still doubts over the way the government can comprehensively intervene in case farmers get cheated from private buyers. Examples across the globe shows that when farmers were exposed to market forces, their incomes decreased rather than increased. To this end, the main opposition Congress party has called the bills “black law” and “pro-corporate”. Its top leader Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of “making farmers ‘slaves’ of the capitalists”. Keeping the protests in consideration, police in various states have tightened security in the hope of heading off any violence, especially around New Delhi.

India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be

International Labour Organisation, in its report, has said that income earned from work worldwide has dropped by 10.7 per cent in first nine months of 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic. The drop in income is estimated to be USD 3.5 trillion. The figure is equivalent to 5.5 per cent of global GDP.

ILO said that the worst hit in these developments are those in informal employment in emerging economies. Such people have been hit worse than they were during crises in the past.

“Just as we need to redouble our efforts to beat the virus, so we need to act urgently and at scale to overcome its economic, social and employment impacts. That includes sustaining support for jobs, businesses and incomes,” ILO Director-General Guy Ryder said in a statement.

The ILO said that work hour losses due to closure of workplaces are higher than previously estimated.

The UN agency said that the estimate of working time lost was 17.3 per cent, up from 14 per cent estimated previously. This is equivalent to 495 million full time jobs. This estimate was made for the second quarter of this year.

ILO said that it expected 12.1 per cent of work hour losses in the third quarter.

The projection in final quarter of 2020 is 8.6 per cent loss of working hours. This translates to 245 million full-time jobs.

(With inputs from Reuters)

International Labour Organisation, in its report, has said that income earned from work worldwide has dropped by 10.7 per cent in first nine months of 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic.

International Labour Organisation, in its report, has said that income earned from work worldwide has dropped by 10.7 per cent in first nine months of 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic. The drop in income is estimated to be USD 3.5 trillion. The figure is equivalent to 5.5 per cent of global GDP. ILO said that the worst hit in these developments are those in informal employment in emerging economies. Such people have been hit worse than they were during crises in the past. “Just as we need to redouble our efforts to beat the virus, so we need to act urgently and at scale to overcome its economic, social and employment impacts. That includes sustaining support for jobs, businesses and incomes,” ILO Director-General Guy Ryder said in a statement. The ILO said that work hour losses due to closure of workplaces are higher than previously estimated. The UN agency said that the estimate of working time lost was 17.3 per cent, up from 14 per cent estimated previously. This is equivalent to 495 million full time jobs. This estimate was made for the second quarter of this year. ILO said that it expected 12.1 per cent of work hour losses in the third quarter. The projection in final quarter of 2020 is 8.6 per cent loss of working hours. This translates to 245 million full-time jobs. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus pandemic reduced worldwide income by about 10 per cent: ILO

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Manas Joshi

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