Canada's Quebec province on Friday passed a law that ended the requirement for elected officials to take an oath in the name of the corresponding British monarch of the time. The elected officials may now choose not to take an oath to Britain's King Charles III.&nbsp;

Charles, 73, became king of the United Kingdom and the head of state of 14 other nations, including Canada, when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September.

Earlier as well, there have been various calls in Quebec to change the oath. However, Queen Elizabeth's death as well as political pressure from the province's two main opposition parties, Party Quebecois (PQ) and Quebec solidaire, forced the legislative&nbsp;change this week. Both these parties also back Quebec's independence from Canada, and thereby run over a significant anti-monarchical sentiment.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/statues-of-queen-victoria-queen-elizabeth-toppled-in-canada-395639">Statues of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth toppled in Canada</a>

"It's a beautiful moment for Quebec democracy," said PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon on Twitter. "Another step toward the emancipation of the Quebec people from British colonialism."

"I think there is strong support in Quebec to modernize our institutions, to make sure that the representatives of the people are not forced in 2022 to swear an oath to a foreign king," Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, a co-spokesperson for Quebec solidaire was quoted as saying by Reuters last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-trudeau-declares-holiday-to-mourn-queen-elizabeth-ii-515906">Canada PM Trudeau declares holiday to mourn Queen Elizabeth II</a>

The PQ's three elected lawmakers tried unsuccessfully last week to enter the legislature after declining to take the oath.

Canada is a member of the Commonwealth, made up mostly of former British empire countries that have, or have had, the British monarch as head of state.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Canada's Quebec province on Friday passed a law that ended the requirement for elected officials to take an oath in the name of the corresponding British monarch of the time.

Canada's Quebec province on Friday passed a law that ended the requirement for elected officials to take an oath in the name of the corresponding British monarch of the time. The elected officials may now choose not to take an oath to Britain's King Charles III. Charles, 73, became king of the United Kingdom and the head of state of 14 other nations, including Canada, when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September. Earlier as well, there have been various calls in Quebec to change the oath. However, Queen Elizabeth's death as well as political pressure from the province's two main opposition parties, Party Quebecois (PQ) and Quebec solidaire, forced the legislative change this week. Both these parties also back Quebec's independence from Canada, and thereby run over a significant anti-monarchical sentiment. ALSO READ | Statues of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth toppled in Canada "It's a beautiful moment for Quebec democracy," said PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon on Twitter. "Another step toward the emancipation of the Quebec people from British colonialism." "I think there is strong support in Quebec to modernize our institutions, to make sure that the representatives of the people are not forced in 2022 to swear an oath to a foreign king," Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, a co-spokesperson for Quebec solidaire was quoted as saying by Reuters last week. ALSO READ | Canada PM Trudeau declares holiday to mourn Queen Elizabeth II The PQ's three elected lawmakers tried unsuccessfully last week to enter the legislature after declining to take the oath. Canada is a member of the Commonwealth, made up mostly of former British empire countries that have, or have had, the British monarch as head of state. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canada's Quebec makes mandatory oath to British monarch optional

Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital&nbsp;Dhaka's Golapbag.&nbsp; 
 
Protests sparked by power cuts and fuel price hikes have erupted across the country in recent months, demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-go-to-polls-in-jan-2024-sheikh-hasina-seeks-fifth-term-541217">Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term</a>

Prior to the Dhaka rally on December 10, two top leaders of BNP were arrested along with 500 supporters for allegedly instigating violence ahead of the rally.&nbsp; 
 
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the general secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Mirza Abbas, a former minister and member of the party’s top decision-making body, were taken from their homes at about 3am on Friday,&nbsp;Zahiruddin Swapan, head of the BNP’s media wing, told AFP.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-bangladesh-heading-toward-a-sri-lanka-like-crisis-504986">Gravitas: Is Bangladesh heading toward a Sri Lanka-like crisis?</a>

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Tensions were&nbsp;high in the capital before the rally, which the&nbsp;BNP said would draw hundreds of thousands of supporters from all over the country. The turnout at the rally on Saturday was reported to be 'significant' by local media.&nbsp;

Police said they will not allow a demonstration in front of the party office, which they called a crime scene&nbsp;after saying they had found Molotov cocktails at the location.

What are BNP's demands?

The BNP, along with the majority of other political parties and civil societies, have&nbsp;urged the government to reinstate the three-month non-political caretaker government system in preparation for the December 2023 national election. The governing Awami League government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, however, has rejected the demand, claiming that it would be contrary to the constitution.

Fifteen foreign embassies, including the U.S., issued a joint statement late on Tuesday calling for the country to allow free expression, peaceful assembly and fair elections, with the UN making a similar declaration a day later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital Dhaka's Golapbag.

Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital Dhaka's Golapbag. Protests sparked by power cuts and fuel price hikes have erupted across the country in recent months, demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government. ALSO READ | Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term Prior to the Dhaka rally on December 10, two top leaders of BNP were arrested along with 500 supporters for allegedly instigating violence ahead of the rally. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the general secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Mirza Abbas, a former minister and member of the party’s top decision-making body, were taken from their homes at about 3am on Friday, Zahiruddin Swapan, head of the BNP’s media wing, told AFP. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Bangladesh heading toward a Sri Lanka-like crisis? × Tensions were high in the capital before the rally, which the BNP said would draw hundreds of thousands of supporters from all over the country. The turnout at the rally on Saturday was reported to be 'significant' by local media. Police said they will not allow a demonstration in front of the party office, which they called a crime scene after saying they had found Molotov cocktails at the location. What are BNP's demands? The BNP, along with the majority of other political parties and civil societies, have urged the government to reinstate the three-month non-political caretaker government system in preparation for the December 2023 national election. The governing Awami League government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, however, has rejected the demand, claiming that it would be contrary to the constitution. Fifteen foreign embassies, including the U.S., issued a joint statement late on Tuesday calling for the country to allow free expression, peaceful assembly and fair elections, with the UN making a similar declaration a day later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka

The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent. By the middle of 2022, people on the island nation of Sri Lanka at India's south made up their mind that they were done with the perceived presidential incompetence and corruption by the then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa&nbsp;and his administration.&nbsp;

Imran Khan was ousted from power on April 10 following a midnight no-trust-vote in Pakistan's National Assembly. As Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party members lost no-trust motion, their walkout from the National Assembly was followed by the opposition lawmakers rising on their spots to sing the country's national anthem. No Pakistani Prime Minister has ever completed a five-year term and neither Imran Khan nor 2022 could break this convention that over the decades has come to mark Pakistan's democratic fragility.&nbsp;

By the middle of 2022, the Sri Lankans marched to the President's House in Colombo, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa&nbsp;to flee the nation. Pakistan eventually got Shehbaz Sharif as its 23rd Prime Minister, while Sri Lanka got Ranil Wickremsinghe as its President.&nbsp;

When Imran Khan said he will play 'till last ball'

On the evening of March 31, the televisions in Pakistan showed a man&nbsp;who had won the country its first-ever Cricket world cup in 1992. Still Pakistan's Prime Minister then, Imran Khan's body-language was timid. There were tongue-slips that resulted in diplomatic fiascos. There were unverified claims that gave fertile ground to&nbsp;opposition politicians to attack Khan's legitimacy as Prime Minister. Khan claimed that lawmakers were being paid 200 to 250 million Pakistani rupees to vote against him in the impending no-trust-vote. In what appeared to be a tongue-slip, Khan said that 'America... no not America some other country', had a hand in destabilising his government.&nbsp;

"I have played cricket for 20 years and I will play till the last ball. I have never given up in my life," Khan said with a triumphant pretense. "You will see that I will emerge stronger after the vote (on no-confidence), no matter what the result of the vote is," Imran Khan said on March 31 in a television address.&nbsp;

Ten days later, Khan was ousted from power after a no-trust-vote citing cricketer-turned-politician's alleged involvement in Toshakhana scandal.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-decoding-pakistans-toshakhana-gifts-controversy-473082">Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy</a>

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Khan was replaced by Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader and brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Months later in November, Khan faced an attempt at his life when he was shot in the leg while addressing people in Pakistan's Punjab province.

Both for democracy in Pakistan as well as for Imran Khan, 2022 could not bring the best that Pakistani citizens and Khan's supporters would have expected.&nbsp;

When Sri Lanka's economic decline brought people on streets

<img alt="Sri Lankans protesting in May 2022 against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c046c3-5d9a-4cbe-a9d7-a8dddf779a35" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2826%29_23.jpg" />

Stoked by an unprecedented economic decline, Sri Lanka had its most significant change at the country's helm in July 2022 when people stormed into President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office to demand his dismissal from duties. President Gotabaya's ancestral home, too, was set on fire by agitating protestors. People of all walks of life affected by 10-hour power outages, shortages of essentials such as cooking gas and fuel joined the protest movement holding the government responsible. 
Gotabaya fled for his life, first to the Maldives and later to Singapore.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/victory-for-the-people-sri-lankas-protests-marks-100-days-waiting-for-the-new-leader-498863#the-worst-economic-crisis-since-1948-498856">Victory for the people: Sri Lanka’s protests marks 100 days, waiting for the new leader</a>

Public fury against Gotabaya and his family members, who held prominent positions of power in the government, surged this year as Sri Lankans suffocated amid crippling shortages and soaring living costs that his government reportedly failed to address. The agitations, which first manifested as pocket protests, built up between April to June at Colombo’s seafront and several other locations across the island, and culminated in the unprecedented show of resistance in the capital on July 9.&nbsp; 
Gotabaya Rajapaksa officially resigned on July 15. The protesters, too, left the main anti-government protest camp at Colombo's Galle Face promenade where they had been stationed since April 9 branding it as the 'Gota go home village' (Rajapaksa go home).

Gotabaya Rajapaksa was replaced by Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lanka President. &nbsp;

For the Indian subcontinent, the 2022 ended with Nepal re-electing Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba for a second term. Whereas Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh sought a fifth term in the elections that are scheduled to be held in January 2024, against the demands of opposition that has been seeking immediate elections in the country.&nbsp;

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The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent.

The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent. By the middle of 2022, people on the island nation of Sri Lanka at India's south made up their mind that they were done with the perceived presidential incompetence and corruption by the then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his administration. Imran Khan was ousted from power on April 10 following a midnight no-trust-vote in Pakistan's National Assembly. As Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party members lost no-trust motion, their walkout from the National Assembly was followed by the opposition lawmakers rising on their spots to sing the country's national anthem. No Pakistani Prime Minister has ever completed a five-year term and neither Imran Khan nor 2022 could break this convention that over the decades has come to mark Pakistan's democratic fragility. By the middle of 2022, the Sri Lankans marched to the President's House in Colombo, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the nation. Pakistan eventually got Shehbaz Sharif as its 23rd Prime Minister, while Sri Lanka got Ranil Wickremsinghe as its President. When Imran Khan said he will play 'till last ball' On the evening of March 31, the televisions in Pakistan showed a man who had won the country its first-ever Cricket world cup in 1992. Still Pakistan's Prime Minister then, Imran Khan's body-language was timid. There were tongue-slips that resulted in diplomatic fiascos. There were unverified claims that gave fertile ground to opposition politicians to attack Khan's legitimacy as Prime Minister. Khan claimed that lawmakers were being paid 200 to 250 million Pakistani rupees to vote against him in the impending no-trust-vote. In what appeared to be a tongue-slip, Khan said that 'America... no not America some other country', had a hand in destabilising his government. "I have played cricket for 20 years and I will play till the last ball. I have never given up in my life," Khan said with a triumphant pretense. "You will see that I will emerge stronger after the vote (on no-confidence), no matter what the result of the vote is," Imran Khan said on March 31 in a television address. Ten days later, Khan was ousted from power after a no-trust-vote citing cricketer-turned-politician's alleged involvement in Toshakhana scandal. WATCH | Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy × Khan was replaced by Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader and brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Months later in November, Khan faced an attempt at his life when he was shot in the leg while addressing people in Pakistan's Punjab province. Both for democracy in Pakistan as well as for Imran Khan, 2022 could not bring the best that Pakistani citizens and Khan's supporters would have expected. When Sri Lanka's economic decline brought people on streets Stoked by an unprecedented economic decline, Sri Lanka had its most significant change at the country's helm in July 2022 when people stormed into President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office to demand his dismissal from duties. President Gotabaya's ancestral home, too, was set on fire by agitating protestors. People of all walks of life affected by 10-hour power outages, shortages of essentials such as cooking gas and fuel joined the protest movement holding the government responsible. Gotabaya fled for his life, first to the Maldives and later to Singapore. ALSO READ | Victory for the people: Sri Lanka’s protests marks 100 days, waiting for the new leader Public fury against Gotabaya and his family members, who held prominent positions of power in the government, surged this year as Sri Lankans suffocated amid crippling shortages and soaring living costs that his government reportedly failed to address. The agitations, which first manifested as pocket protests, built up between April to June at Colombo’s seafront and several other locations across the island, and culminated in the unprecedented show of resistance in the capital on July 9. Gotabaya Rajapaksa officially resigned on July 15. The protesters, too, left the main anti-government protest camp at Colombo's Galle Face promenade where they had been stationed since April 9 branding it as the 'Gota go home village' (Rajapaksa go home). Gotabaya Rajapaksa was replaced by Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lanka President. For the Indian subcontinent, the 2022 ended with Nepal re-electing Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba for a second term. Whereas Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh sought a fifth term in the elections that are scheduled to be held in January 2024, against the demands of opposition that has been seeking immediate elections in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan and Rajapaksa: 2022 was a year of political ousters in South Asia

The dire state of Pakistan's national finances have been a South Asian constant in the global news cycle. Only this time it's different, it's because of an Islamic prayer to ward off anxiety and depression that Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar tweeted earlier this week. While the minister tweeted citation of a prayer to his followers, many people from Pakistan interpreted it as his way to deal with the prevailing dire federal financial situation in the country.&nbsp;

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The finance minister of our country tweeting prayers for people to avoid depression!!!!! Good morning pakistan !!! 😣 <a href="https://t.co/IproddWkmg">https://t.co/IproddWkmg</a>
— حَل صرف جماعتِ اسلامی! (@mariaasaleem) <a href="https://twitter.com/mariaasaleem/status/1599974533272076288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Ishaq Dar's tweet did not result in any reactions for or against the actual depression or anxiety-related problems that people face in and beyond Pakistan. In fact, the supposed prayer to ward mental health problems off, stoked people to ask if the minister knew any prayers to ensure that the country doesn't default on the loans it has taken from various countries and multilateral organisations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-needs-usd-41-billion-in-next-12-months-says-finance-minister-486098">Pakistan needs USD 41 billion in next 12 months</a>

"Brother, tell us the prayer to prevent the loan default as well," one user replied. "It surely means that economic situation is out of hand and even the outspoken and&nbsp;self proclaimed experienced Finance Minister is praying to Allah to save him from public backlash amid imminent default threat the country is facing," interpreted another.

"The best thing our finance minister has done for us since returning back from a trip at UK is releasing his own assets from NAB (sic)," joked a third Twitter user, referring to the National Accountability Bureau that can seize illegal assets owned by Pakistani citizens.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-pak-finance-minister-speaks-on-trade-with-india-says-will-look-into-options-518547">Exclusive: Pak finance minister speaks on trade with India, says will look into options</a>

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On December 6, Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) called upon the State Bank of Pakistan to take necessary measures against what they called a&nbsp;'financial emergency' in the country.&nbsp;

"We still have foreign debt of $130 billion and $73 billion due in three years. Our deficit for next three years is a minimum of $20 billion to $30 billion. Additionally, super inflation is killing the poor. This is a financial emergency,"&nbsp;PBF CEO, Ahmad Jawad said in a statement.

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The dire state of Pakistan's national finances have been a South Asian constant in the global news cycle. Only this time it's different, it's because of an Islamic prayer to ward off anxiety and depression that Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar tweeted earlier this week.

The dire state of Pakistan's national finances have been a South Asian constant in the global news cycle. Only this time it's different, it's because of an Islamic prayer to ward off anxiety and depression that Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar tweeted earlier this week. While the minister tweeted citation of a prayer to his followers, many people from Pakistan interpreted it as his way to deal with the prevailing dire federal financial situation in the country. The finance minister of our country tweeting prayers for people to avoid depression!!!!! Good morning pakistan !!! 😣 https://t.co/IproddWkmg — حَل صرف جماعتِ اسلامی! (@mariaasaleem) December 6, 2022 × Ishaq Dar's tweet did not result in any reactions for or against the actual depression or anxiety-related problems that people face in and beyond Pakistan. In fact, the supposed prayer to ward mental health problems off, stoked people to ask if the minister knew any prayers to ensure that the country doesn't default on the loans it has taken from various countries and multilateral organisations. ALSO READ | Pakistan needs USD 41 billion in next 12 months "Brother, tell us the prayer to prevent the loan default as well," one user replied. "It surely means that economic situation is out of hand and even the outspoken and self proclaimed experienced Finance Minister is praying to Allah to save him from public backlash amid imminent default threat the country is facing," interpreted another. "The best thing our finance minister has done for us since returning back from a trip at UK is releasing his own assets from NAB (sic)," joked a third Twitter user, referring to the National Accountability Bureau that can seize illegal assets owned by Pakistani citizens. WATCH | Exclusive: Pak finance minister speaks on trade with India, says will look into options × On December 6, Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) called upon the State Bank of Pakistan to take necessary measures against what they called a 'financial emergency' in the country. "We still have foreign debt of $130 billion and $73 billion due in three years. Our deficit for next three years is a minimum of $20 billion to $30 billion. Additionally, super inflation is killing the poor. This is a financial emergency," PBF CEO, Ahmad Jawad said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pak finance minister trolled for tweet on depression, netizens doubt his ability to manage economy

Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced.

Women in Iran's anti-regime protests are being targeted by the country's security forces with shotgun fire to their faces, breasts and genitalia, reports citing interviews with medical professionals from all over Iran said.&nbsp;

Even in its 12th week, the anti-regime protests in Iran following the custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Al-Amini by the country's morality police, continue with remarkable resolve. Doctors and nurses are reportedly treating injured protestors in secret to avoid arrest.&nbsp;The medics reportedly found a significant difference in the nature of injuries between men and women.

While men had shotgun pellet injuries in their legs, buttocks and backs, the women often had injuries on their faces, breasts and genitalia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sister-of-irans-supreme-leader-denounces-her-brothers-despotic-regime-541157">Sister of Iran's supreme leader denounces her brother's 'despotic' regime</a>

A report in The Guardian citing interviews with 10 medical professionals said that the injuries faced by women were severe enough that they could leave hundreds of young Iranians with permanent damage.

"I treated a woman in her early 20s, who was shot in her genitals by two pellets. Ten other pellets were lodged in her inner thigh," one doctor told the newspaper.

"These 10 pellets were easily removed, but those two were a challenge because they were wedged in between her urethra and vaginal opening."

The doctor also explained how the woman concerned was afflicted by the wounds in the first place.&nbsp;

“There was a serious risk of vaginal infection, so I asked her to go to a trusted gynaecologist. She said she was protesting when a group of about 10 security agents circled around and shot her in her genitals and thighs.”

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-anti-hijab-protests-iran-executes-one-protester-says-report-541294">Iran anti-Hijab protests: Iran executes one protester</a>

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Medical professionals questioned the riot-control tactics of Iranian security forces, such as firing weapons at feet and legs to avoid damage to vital organs.&nbsp;

The custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Al-Amini by Iran's morality police has ignited the fiercest challenge to the Iranian regime in decades. The 22-year-old was arrested for improperly wearing her headscarf. She was beaten into a coma by Iran's now-partially defunct morality police.&nbsp;

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Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced. Women in Iran's anti-regime protests are being targeted by the country's security forces with shotgun fire to their faces, breasts and genitalia, reports citing interviews with medical professionals from all over Iran said.

Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced. Women in Iran's anti-regime protests are being targeted by the country's security forces with shotgun fire to their faces, breasts and genitalia, reports citing interviews with medical professionals from all over Iran said. Even in its 12th week, the anti-regime protests in Iran following the custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Al-Amini by the country's morality police, continue with remarkable resolve. Doctors and nurses are reportedly treating injured protestors in secret to avoid arrest. The medics reportedly found a significant difference in the nature of injuries between men and women. While men had shotgun pellet injuries in their legs, buttocks and backs, the women often had injuries on their faces, breasts and genitalia. ALSO READ | Sister of Iran's supreme leader denounces her brother's 'despotic' regime A report in The Guardian citing interviews with 10 medical professionals said that the injuries faced by women were severe enough that they could leave hundreds of young Iranians with permanent damage. "I treated a woman in her early 20s, who was shot in her genitals by two pellets. Ten other pellets were lodged in her inner thigh," one doctor told the newspaper. "These 10 pellets were easily removed, but those two were a challenge because they were wedged in between her urethra and vaginal opening." The doctor also explained how the woman concerned was afflicted by the wounds in the first place. “There was a serious risk of vaginal infection, so I asked her to go to a trusted gynaecologist. She said she was protesting when a group of about 10 security agents circled around and shot her in her genitals and thighs.” WATCH | Iran anti-Hijab protests: Iran executes one protester × Medical professionals questioned the riot-control tactics of Iranian security forces, such as firing weapons at feet and legs to avoid damage to vital organs. The custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Al-Amini by Iran's morality police has ignited the fiercest challenge to the Iranian regime in decades. The 22-year-old was arrested for improperly wearing her headscarf. She was beaten into a coma by Iran's now-partially defunct morality police. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iranian forces targeting protesting women's faces and genitalia, say medics

The White House on Thursday urged US Congress to pass a law that seeks to eliminate the per-country quota on Green Cards, or permanent residency, to allow US-based employers to focus on hiring people based on merit and not birthplace.&nbsp;

The House of Representatives, this week, is scheduled to vote on the Equal Access to Green Cards for Legal Employment (EAGLE) Act of 2022. The bill was cleared by the US House Judiciary Committee in April 2022 and will face the test of Congress this week.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-make-it-easier-for-indians-to-obtain-green-cards-412797">US to make it easier for Indians to obtain green cards</a>

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If passed, the law would benefit millions of immigrants, especially Indian-Americans and people from the Indian subcontinent, reported news agency PTI.

What is a Green Card?

A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing and working permanently in the country.&nbsp;

US Green Cards: What is per-country cap all about?

Under existing rules, the US issues only 140,000 green cards every year. There is a 7 per cent cap on every country. This translates into just 9,800 people per country for Green Cards. If applicants from one country overshoot the 7 per cent&nbsp;cap, this results in a backlog. The petitions for Green cards beyond the country cap&nbsp;are not considered until&nbsp;their petition falls within the initial 7 per cent&nbsp;per country cap. 
 
EAGLE Act: What difference would it make?

The EAGLE Act would eliminate a per-country cap on employment-based Green Cards. The country-cap policy disproportionately affects Indian immigrants, given the large number of applications.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sets-record-by-granting-permanent-residency-to-over-400000-in-2021-439831">Canada sets record by granting permanent residency to over 400,000</a>

The bill proposes the phasing out of per-country caps over a course of nine years to ensure that eligible immigrants from less-populated countries are not excluded as the Act is implemented.

The transition period is nine years. During this period of nine years, visas would be issued for nurses and physical therapists to address urgent needs in the healthcare industry, and for employment-based immigrants and their family members who are not currently in the United States, the White House said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House on Thursday urged US Congress to pass a law that seeks to eliminate the per-country quota on Green Cards, or permanent residency, to allow US-based employers to focus on hiring people based on merit and not birthplace.

The White House on Thursday urged US Congress to pass a law that seeks to eliminate the per-country quota on Green Cards, or permanent residency, to allow US-based employers to focus on hiring people based on merit and not birthplace. The House of Representatives, this week, is scheduled to vote on the Equal Access to Green Cards for Legal Employment (EAGLE) Act of 2022. The bill was cleared by the US House Judiciary Committee in April 2022 and will face the test of Congress this week. WATCH | US to make it easier for Indians to obtain green cards × If passed, the law would benefit millions of immigrants, especially Indian-Americans and people from the Indian subcontinent, reported news agency PTI. What is a Green Card? A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing and working permanently in the country. US Green Cards: What is per-country cap all about? Under existing rules, the US issues only 140,000 green cards every year. There is a 7 per cent cap on every country. This translates into just 9,800 people per country for Green Cards. If applicants from one country overshoot the 7 per cent cap, this results in a backlog. The petitions for Green cards beyond the country cap are not considered until their petition falls within the initial 7 per cent per country cap. EAGLE Act: What difference would it make? The EAGLE Act would eliminate a per-country cap on employment-based Green Cards. The country-cap policy disproportionately affects Indian immigrants, given the large number of applications. ALSO READ | Canada sets record by granting permanent residency to over 400,000 The bill proposes the phasing out of per-country caps over a course of nine years to ensure that eligible immigrants from less-populated countries are not excluded as the Act is implemented. The transition period is nine years. During this period of nine years, visas would be issued for nurses and physical therapists to address urgent needs in the healthcare industry, and for employment-based immigrants and their family members who are not currently in the United States, the White House said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Merit over birthplace: US Congress to debate removing per-country cap on Green Cards

Air travel costs will increase significantly next year all over the world. Airfares will increase by as much as 12 per cent on Europe-Asia routes and 10 per cent for America-Asia flights, a report by American Express Global Business Travel said.

Air travel costs are already higher than the pre-pandemic levels all over the world. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine will continue to aggravate airfares even more, as flights between Europe and Asia have to reroute by avoiding Russian airspace. The Russian airspace remains off-limits for non-Russia airlines following the launch of 'special military operations' by Russia in Ukraine in February this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-airline-industry-to-report-billions-in-losses-this-year-may-return-to-profit-in-2023-iata-540639">Global airline industry to report billions in losses this year; may return to profit in 2023: IATA</a>

One of the biggest airfare rises will be for business-class tickets within Australia, which are forecast to rise by about 19 per cent, according to the report.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-us-air-travel-to-be-highest-in-three-years-536292">World Business Watch: US air travel to be highest in three years</a>

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Economy class airfares on the Europe-Asia route will increase more than business class. The forecast suggests that economy fares will increase by 12 per cent on the Europe-Asia route while business class fares will rise by 7.6 per cent on average.&nbsp;

Compared with 2019, economy-class airfares from Asia to North America will be nearly 23 per cent higher and business will be about 15 per cent more expensive.

What else is driving global airfare rise?

Inflation, rising fuel costs and capacity constraints of airlines continue to drive airfares worldwide. All over the world, airlines have cut capacities in terms of staff to deal with high fuel costs, following which a significant elevation in airfares has been reported worldwide.

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Air travel costs will increase significantly next year all over the world. Airfares will increase by as much as 12 per cent on Europe-Asia routes and 10 per cent for America-Asia flights, a report by American Express Global Business Travel said.

Air travel costs will increase significantly next year all over the world. Airfares will increase by as much as 12 per cent on Europe-Asia routes and 10 per cent for America-Asia flights, a report by American Express Global Business Travel said. Air travel costs are already higher than the pre-pandemic levels all over the world. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine will continue to aggravate airfares even more, as flights between Europe and Asia have to reroute by avoiding Russian airspace. The Russian airspace remains off-limits for non-Russia airlines following the launch of 'special military operations' by Russia in Ukraine in February this year. ALSO READ | Global airline industry to report billions in losses this year; may return to profit in 2023: IATA One of the biggest airfare rises will be for business-class tickets within Australia, which are forecast to rise by about 19 per cent, according to the report. WATCH | World Business Watch: US air travel to be highest in three years × Economy class airfares on the Europe-Asia route will increase more than business class. The forecast suggests that economy fares will increase by 12 per cent on the Europe-Asia route while business class fares will rise by 7.6 per cent on average. Compared with 2019, economy-class airfares from Asia to North America will be nearly 23 per cent higher and business will be about 15 per cent more expensive. What else is driving global airfare rise? Inflation, rising fuel costs and capacity constraints of airlines continue to drive airfares worldwide. All over the world, airlines have cut capacities in terms of staff to deal with high fuel costs, following which a significant elevation in airfares has been reported worldwide. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Airfares set to rise in 2023; economy fares on some routes to rise more than business

The US plans to impose fresh sanctions on Russia and China over alleged human rights abuses by the two countries. The impending move also intends to target the alleged use of Iranian drones by Russia in Ukraine as well as illegal fishery activities by Beijing across the Pacific. Anti-competition watchdog&nbsp;Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on December 8 that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision.&nbsp;The Taliban regime in Afghanistan, meanwhile,&nbsp;backed the use&nbsp;of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities".

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-china-over-iranian-drones-rights-abuses-in-tibet-541443">US plans fresh sanctions on Russia, China over Iranian drones, rights abuses in Tibet</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/09/316848-untitled-design-13.jpg" />

The United States is set to impose fresh sanctions against Russia and China on Friday, citing Russia's alleged deployment of Iranian drones in Ukraine and human-rights abuse by both Moscow and Beijing. The sanctions on China will also cite Beijing's support for illegal fishing in the entire Pacific region as well as the harassment of the followers of exiled Tibetan spiritual leader&nbsp;Dalai Lama, Wall Street Journal reported while quoting officials familiar with the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-competition-watchdog-seeks-to-stop-microsoft-activision-gaming-deal-541422">US competition watchdog seeks to stop Microsoft-Activision mega gaming deal</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/13/303315-microsoftreutersnew1.jpeg?imwidth=1920" />

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on Thursday (December 8) that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision. This is the biggest ever deal in the gaming industy. The FTC has filed the complaint over concerns that the deal would thwart competition.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/taliban-back-usage-of-india-built-chabahar-port-say-ready-to-provide-facilities-541441">Taliban back usage of India-built Chabahar port, say 'ready to provide facilities'</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/09/316846-chabahar.jpg" />

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan have backed the use&nbsp;of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities".

A statement issued by the Taliban's foreign ministry "welcomed" the proposal to include&nbsp;Chabahar port in the North-South International Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and passes via Iran and Azerbaijan. The statement highlighted that the regime stands "ready to provide all necessary protection and facilities in this regard."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merit-over-birthplace-us-congress-to-debate-removing-per-country-cap-for-green-cards-541434">Merit over birthplace: US Congress to debate removing per country cap for Green Cards</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/09/316844-untitled-design-12.jpg" />

The White House on Thursday supported US Congress to pass a law that seeks to eliminate the per-country quota on green cards to allow US-based employers to focus on hiring people based on merit and not birthplace.&nbsp;

The House of Representatives, this week, is scheduled to vote on the Equal Access to Green Cards for Legal Employment (EAGLE) Act of 2022. The bill was cleared by the US House Judiciary Committee in April 2022 and will face the test of Congress this week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foxconn-founder-pushed-china-to-loosen-covid-19-restrictions-says-report-541431">Foxconn founder pushed China to loosen COVID-19 restrictions, says report</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/09/316843-untitled-design-2022-12-09t080928925.png?imwidth=1920" />

It was Foxconn founder Terry Gou who pushed China to move away from its zero-Covid policy and loosen restrictions. Gou apparently warned Beijing that the strict stance of COVID-19 threatens its position as the world's second-largest economy in the global supply chain.&nbsp;

The US plans to impose fresh sanctions on Russia and China over alleged human rights abuses by the two countries. The impending move also intends to target the alleged use of Iranian drones by Russia in Ukraine as well as illegal fishery activities by Beijing across the Pacific.

The US plans to impose fresh sanctions on Russia and China over alleged human rights abuses by the two countries. The impending move also intends to target the alleged use of Iranian drones by Russia in Ukraine as well as illegal fishery activities by Beijing across the Pacific. Anti-competition watchdog Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on December 8 that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision. The Taliban regime in Afghanistan, meanwhile, backed the use of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities". Click on the headlines to read more: US plans fresh sanctions on Russia, China over Iranian drones, rights abuses in Tibet The United States is set to impose fresh sanctions against Russia and China on Friday, citing Russia's alleged deployment of Iranian drones in Ukraine and human-rights abuse by both Moscow and Beijing. The sanctions on China will also cite Beijing's support for illegal fishing in the entire Pacific region as well as the harassment of the followers of exiled Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Wall Street Journal reported while quoting officials familiar with the matter. US competition watchdog seeks to stop Microsoft-Activision mega gaming deal Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on Thursday (December 8) that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision. This is the biggest ever deal in the gaming industy. The FTC has filed the complaint over concerns that the deal would thwart competition. Taliban back usage of India-built Chabahar port, say 'ready to provide facilities' The Taliban regime in Afghanistan have backed the use of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities". A statement issued by the Taliban's foreign ministry "welcomed" the proposal to include Chabahar port in the North-South International Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and passes via Iran and Azerbaijan. The statement highlighted that the regime stands "ready to provide all necessary protection and facilities in this regard." Merit over birthplace: US Congress to debate removing per country cap for Green Cards The White House on Thursday supported US Congress to pass a law that seeks to eliminate the per-country quota on green cards to allow US-based employers to focus on hiring people based on merit and not birthplace. The House of Representatives, this week, is scheduled to vote on the Equal Access to Green Cards for Legal Employment (EAGLE) Act of 2022. The bill was cleared by the US House Judiciary Committee in April 2022 and will face the test of Congress this week. Foxconn founder pushed China to loosen COVID-19 restrictions, says report It was Foxconn founder Terry Gou who pushed China to move away from its zero-Covid policy and loosen restrictions. Gou apparently warned Beijing that the strict stance of COVID-19 threatens its position as the world's second-largest economy in the global supply chain.

Morning brief: US sanctions on Russia, China; FTC opposes Microsoft-Activision deal and more

A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations. The bodies were found washed ashore in suitcases on Alki Beach in Seattle in 2020.

Michael Dudley, 64, murdered Jessica Lewis and her boyfriend Austin Wenne, a jury pronounced. He reportedly shot and mutilated the victims, following which he disposed of their remains in suitcases.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blackout-challenge-tiktok-sued-after-mother-alleges-daughter-died-attempting-dangerous-game-478886">'Blackout challenge': TikTok sued after mother alleges daughter died attempting dangerous game</a>

The crime garnered widespread attention from the public and media alike because of the way the bodies were reportedly discovered. A video of the finding was also posted on TikTok that spread like wildfire throughout the US and beyond.&nbsp;

The video was viewed more than 30 million times. TikTok even clarified that the video did not violate its terms of service.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_nF9WVgQPw">WION Fineprint: Twitter decides to 'copy' TikTok</a>

Prosecutors had no eyewitnesses or science that directly linked Dudley to the crime but had a mountain of evidence.&nbsp;

The court in Seattle heard a testimony from a neighbour who had heard gunshots and a man pleading for his life.

Police initially went to the home, but nobody answered. Dudley was later arrested.

Court documents indicate Lewis and Wenner got into a dispute over unpaid rent with Dudley, in whose home they were living.

Dudley will be sentenced in March and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

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A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations.

A Seattle-based landlord was found guilty of murdering two tenants in a case that was widely known as the 'TikTok suitcase murders' in social media conversations. The bodies were found washed ashore in suitcases on Alki Beach in Seattle in 2020. Michael Dudley, 64, murdered Jessica Lewis and her boyfriend Austin Wenne, a jury pronounced. He reportedly shot and mutilated the victims, following which he disposed of their remains in suitcases. ALSO READ | 'Blackout challenge': TikTok sued after mother alleges daughter died attempting dangerous game The crime garnered widespread attention from the public and media alike because of the way the bodies were reportedly discovered. A video of the finding was also posted on TikTok that spread like wildfire throughout the US and beyond. The video was viewed more than 30 million times. TikTok even clarified that the video did not violate its terms of service. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Twitter decides to 'copy' TikTok Prosecutors had no eyewitnesses or science that directly linked Dudley to the crime but had a mountain of evidence. The court in Seattle heard a testimony from a neighbour who had heard gunshots and a man pleading for his life. Police initially went to the home, but nobody answered. Dudley was later arrested. Court documents indicate Lewis and Wenner got into a dispute over unpaid rent with Dudley, in whose home they were living. Dudley will be sentenced in March and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Seattle: Landlord found guilty in Tiktok suitcase murder case

Racism poses a public health threat to millions of people worldwide as it continues to be a "profound" and "insidious" driver of health inequalities, according to a global review published in the Lancet.&nbsp;The review published suggests that health researchers and policymakers globally have ended up overlooking racism, xenophobia and discrimination as "fundamental influences" on public health.

The review says that Homo sapiens (modern-day human beings) are one of the most homogeneous species on Earth, more genetically similar than any other primate. "We cannot be divided into subspecies or breeds. It has become clearer over time that human genetic and physiological variation maps poorly onto the construct of racial categories," it argues against structural racism in global health.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-i-think-my-race-is-the-superior-one-white-texas-teacher-told-students-534932">'I think my race is the superior one', white Texas teacher tells students</a>

"Racism and xenophobia exist in every modern society and have profound effects on the health of disadvantaged people,"&nbsp;said the lead author, Prof Delan Devakumar of University College London.

"Until racism and xenophobia are universally recognised as significant drivers of determinants of health, the root causes of discrimination will remain in the shadows and continue to cause and exacerbate health inequities."

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-un-report-accuses-switzerland-of-racial-discrimination-522484">Gravitas: UN report accuses Switzerland of racial discrimination</a>

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The authors called for widespread recognition of racism and xenophobia as fundamental determinants of health. Once they are recognised as such, specific measures must be implemented that focus on the structural causes.

The Lancet series argues that by framing the role of racism, xenophobia, and discrimination within the context of overall determination of health, a world which, at its core, "centres antiracism, decoloniality, and equity instead of hierarchical power and separation", can be developed.&nbsp;

"Racism, xenophobia, and discrimination are important determinants of health, and public health has a responsibility to challenge and address these issues," it said.&nbsp;

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Racism poses a public health threat to millions of people worldwide as it continues to be a "profound" and "insidious" driver of health inequalities, according to a global review published in the Lancet.

Racism poses a public health threat to millions of people worldwide as it continues to be a "profound" and "insidious" driver of health inequalities, according to a global review published in the Lancet. The review published suggests that health researchers and policymakers globally have ended up overlooking racism, xenophobia and discrimination as "fundamental influences" on public health. The review says that Homo sapiens (modern-day human beings) are one of the most homogeneous species on Earth, more genetically similar than any other primate. "We cannot be divided into subspecies or breeds. It has become clearer over time that human genetic and physiological variation maps poorly onto the construct of racial categories," it argues against structural racism in global health. ALSO READ | 'I think my race is the superior one', white Texas teacher tells students "Racism and xenophobia exist in every modern society and have profound effects on the health of disadvantaged people," said the lead author, Prof Delan Devakumar of University College London. "Until racism and xenophobia are universally recognised as significant drivers of determinants of health, the root causes of discrimination will remain in the shadows and continue to cause and exacerbate health inequities." WATCH | Gravitas: UN report accuses Switzerland of racial discrimination × The authors called for widespread recognition of racism and xenophobia as fundamental determinants of health. Once they are recognised as such, specific measures must be implemented that focus on the structural causes. The Lancet series argues that by framing the role of racism, xenophobia, and discrimination within the context of overall determination of health, a world which, at its core, "centres antiracism, decoloniality, and equity instead of hierarchical power and separation", can be developed. "Racism, xenophobia, and discrimination are important determinants of health, and public health has a responsibility to challenge and address these issues," it said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Racism, xenophobia are public health threats, need to be addressed, says scientific review

Hours after President Joe Biden said that the US basketball player Brittney Griner "is on her way home" following a prisoner exchange with Russia, the state media in Moscow lauded President Vladimir Putin for "winning" a prisoner exchange with the United States by swapping a US basketball player&nbsp;for a prolific arms dealer.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-basketball-star-brittney-griner-pleads-guilty-to-drug-in-russia-495493">US basketball star Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug abuse charges in Russia</a>

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Viktor Bout, the arms dealers who was sentenced to 25 years in jail by a New York court in 2012, arrived in Moscow late on Thursday after Russia and the United States swapped the arms dealer for US basketball star Brittney Griner at Abu Dhabi airport.

Bout is described as "one of the world's most prolific arms dealers" who had sold weapons across the world to terrorists and individuals and entities that the US identifies as its enemies for decades. Bout though never accepted the charges.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-viktor-bout-the-merchant-of-death-swapped-with-us-basketball-star-brittney-griner-541386">Who is Viktor Bout? The ‘Merchant of death’ swapped with US basketball star Brittney Griner</a>

"It is a capitulation by America," Maria Butina, a lawmaker in the lower house of the Russian parliament, told state television on the tarmac of Moscow's Vnukovo airport just as Bout landed.

"It shows that Russia doesn't abandon its own while America has shown its defeat," Butina said beside Bout's wife and mother, who hugged him as he stepped back onto Russian soil. "Russia did not forget him."

Bout's life is subject to a Hollywood hit film "Lord of War".

Not much is known about Viktor Bout's&nbsp;early life, though he has been linked to Russian military intelligence (GRU). The GRU&nbsp;has made much of its reputation for never forgiving traitors and never abandoning its people no matter what the cost.

"Washington categorically refused to engage in dialogue on the inclusion of the Russian in the exchange scheme," the Russian foreign ministry said. "Nevertheless, the Russian Federation continued to actively work to rescue our compatriot."

"What a 'stupid' and unpatriotic embarrassment for the USA!!!," former President Donald Trump wrote on social media.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hours after President Joe Biden said that the US basketball player Brittney Griner "is on her way home" following a prisoner exchange with Russia, the state media in Moscow lauded President Vladimir Putin for "winning" a prisoner exchange with the United States by swapping a US basketball player for a prolific arms dealer.

Hours after President Joe Biden said that the US basketball player Brittney Griner "is on her way home" following a prisoner exchange with Russia, the state media in Moscow lauded President Vladimir Putin for "winning" a prisoner exchange with the United States by swapping a US basketball player for a prolific arms dealer. WATCH | US basketball star Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug abuse charges in Russia × Viktor Bout, the arms dealers who was sentenced to 25 years in jail by a New York court in 2012, arrived in Moscow late on Thursday after Russia and the United States swapped the arms dealer for US basketball star Brittney Griner at Abu Dhabi airport. Bout is described as "one of the world's most prolific arms dealers" who had sold weapons across the world to terrorists and individuals and entities that the US identifies as its enemies for decades. Bout though never accepted the charges. ALSO READ | Who is Viktor Bout? The ‘Merchant of death’ swapped with US basketball star Brittney Griner "It is a capitulation by America," Maria Butina, a lawmaker in the lower house of the Russian parliament, told state television on the tarmac of Moscow's Vnukovo airport just as Bout landed. "It shows that Russia doesn't abandon its own while America has shown its defeat," Butina said beside Bout's wife and mother, who hugged him as he stepped back onto Russian soil. "Russia did not forget him." Bout's life is subject to a Hollywood hit film "Lord of War". Not much is known about Viktor Bout's early life, though he has been linked to Russian military intelligence (GRU). The GRU has made much of its reputation for never forgiving traitors and never abandoning its people no matter what the cost. "Washington categorically refused to engage in dialogue on the inclusion of the Russian in the exchange scheme," the Russian foreign ministry said. "Nevertheless, the Russian Federation continued to actively work to rescue our compatriot." "What a 'stupid' and unpatriotic embarrassment for the USA!!!," former President Donald Trump wrote on social media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by America: State media

Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Saudi Arabia is yielding significant geopolitical results. While Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged China as his country's comprehensive strategic partner in the middle-east, Beijing said that it is willing to expand oil trade with Riyadh. The rise in oil trade will begin&nbsp;in consonance with the upgradation of bilateral ties and focus on China-Saudi bilateralism in two Gulf-oriented multilateral summits that Beijing will host next year.&nbsp;

The two sides agreed to upgrade the bilateral China-Saudi Arabia ties from the High-level Joint Committee to the prime minister’s level.&nbsp;President Xi also invited Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz to visit China, Saudi state TV al-Ekhbariya reported on Friday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-saudi-visit-china-saudi-arabia-sign-34-agreements-worth-30-billion-541177">Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion</a>

To boost its ties with Saudi Arabia and the larger Arab world, China will host the first China-Arab States Summit and the first China-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit next year.

Beijing said that the two summits will be of special significance and will play a "strategic role" in spearheading China-Arab relations and China-GCC relations.

President Xi gets support for deradicalisation efforts from Saudi

In a statement issued following the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman, China's ministry of foreign affairs said that Riyadh affirmed support for the "One-China principle" as well as its "measures and efforts for deradicalisation", reflecting Beijing's continued diplomatic overdrive to ward off criticism from its alleged human rights abuses against ethnic minorities in Tibet and Xinjiang.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-should-the-us-worry-about-the-china-saudi-summit-541036">WION Fineprint | Should the U.S. worry about the China-Saudi summit?</a>

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Beijing said that Saudi Arabia rejected "interference in China’s internal affairs by any external forces under the excuse of human rights or any other".&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia will continue to actively engage in Belt and Road cooperation with China and expand trade and two-way investment, it added.&nbsp;

Xi stresses on China-Saudi multilateral cooperation

The two countries will strengthen collaboration at the United Nations, the Group of 20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Xi wrote in an editorial in the Saudi newspaper Al Riyadh.

Riyadh said that it appreciates China for supporting Saudi Arabia to become a dialogue partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and will increase communication and coordination with China on multilateral occasions such as the G20 and BRICS.

Xi and Prince Mohammed “reviewed aspects of partnership and joint coordination efforts,” the state-run Saudi Press Agency said. China's Xinhua news agency said Xi agreed to help boost Chinese tourism to the Middle Eastern nation and expand cultural links. The Chinese leader is set to meet a broader range of Arab leaders on Friday.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Saudi Arabia is yielding significant geopolitical results. While Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged China as his country's comprehensive strategic partner in the middle-east, Beijing said that it is willing to expand oil trade with Riyadh.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Saudi Arabia is yielding significant geopolitical results. While Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged China as his country's comprehensive strategic partner in the middle-east, Beijing said that it is willing to expand oil trade with Riyadh. The rise in oil trade will begin in consonance with the upgradation of bilateral ties and focus on China-Saudi bilateralism in two Gulf-oriented multilateral summits that Beijing will host next year. The two sides agreed to upgrade the bilateral China-Saudi Arabia ties from the High-level Joint Committee to the prime minister’s level. President Xi also invited Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz to visit China, Saudi state TV al-Ekhbariya reported on Friday. ALSO READ | Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion To boost its ties with Saudi Arabia and the larger Arab world, China will host the first China-Arab States Summit and the first China-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit next year. Beijing said that the two summits will be of special significance and will play a "strategic role" in spearheading China-Arab relations and China-GCC relations. President Xi gets support for deradicalisation efforts from Saudi In a statement issued following the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman, China's ministry of foreign affairs said that Riyadh affirmed support for the "One-China principle" as well as its "measures and efforts for deradicalisation", reflecting Beijing's continued diplomatic overdrive to ward off criticism from its alleged human rights abuses against ethnic minorities in Tibet and Xinjiang. WATCH | WION Fineprint | Should the U.S. worry about the China-Saudi summit? × Beijing said that Saudi Arabia rejected "interference in China’s internal affairs by any external forces under the excuse of human rights or any other". Saudi Arabia will continue to actively engage in Belt and Road cooperation with China and expand trade and two-way investment, it added. Xi stresses on China-Saudi multilateral cooperation The two countries will strengthen collaboration at the United Nations, the Group of 20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Xi wrote in an editorial in the Saudi newspaper Al Riyadh. Riyadh said that it appreciates China for supporting Saudi Arabia to become a dialogue partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and will increase communication and coordination with China on multilateral occasions such as the G20 and BRICS. Xi and Prince Mohammed “reviewed aspects of partnership and joint coordination efforts,” the state-run Saudi Press Agency said. China's Xinhua news agency said Xi agreed to help boost Chinese tourism to the Middle Eastern nation and expand cultural links. The Chinese leader is set to meet a broader range of Arab leaders on Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From Saudi, for China — support for 'deradicalisation efforts' in exchange of refined bilateral ties

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