India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Tuesday said that connectivity and countering terror financing in cooperation with Central Asian countries remains India's key priority. The statement came at the first India-Central Asia meeting of the National Security Advisers in New Delhi. Doval added that "peaceful, secure and prosperous Central Asia" remains in Central Asia's common interest.

The joint statement of the meet asserted that no terrorist organisation "including those designated by UNSC resolution 1267 should be provided sanctuaries or allowed to use the territory of Afghanistan", meaning that Pakistan-based terrorist groups should not be provided with operational grounds in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.&nbsp;

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Just in: Joint statement after first Indi Central Asia NSAs meet issued. 
 
Full statement: <a href="https://t.co/o6KENqACfP">pic.twitter.com/o6KENqACfP</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1600034139486703617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Describing Central Asia as India’s “extended neighbourhood”, Doval said that New Delhi accords “highest priority” to the&nbsp;region, adding that Afghanistan is an important issue “concerning all of us”.&nbsp;A number of Central Asian countries share land borders with Afghanistan and thus are directly affected by Taliban's control of Kabul since August 15 last year.&nbsp;

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India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval inaugurated the first-ever India-Central Asia NSA meeting today. The meet's focus was tensions in Afghanistan and counter-terrorism among other issues.<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> talks to <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidhant</a> for details 
 
Watch more: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB">https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB</a> <a href="https://t.co/VjuaCilPdM">pic.twitter.com/VjuaCilPdM</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1600053437411958784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This is the first time India is hosting a conclave of top security officials from Central Asian countries including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan focusing on the evolving security situation in Afghanistan and ways to deal with the threat of terrorism.&nbsp;

This first India-Central Asia NSA meet coincides&nbsp;with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Central Asian countries.

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-money-for-terror-meet-global-effort-for-anti-terrorism-standards-has-long-way-to-go-535789">No Money For Terror meet: Ensure proposals for sanctions are not vetoed more than three times</a> 
 
Doval, in a message directed at Pakistan, appealed&nbsp;to all UN members to fulfill obligations enshrined in relevant counter-terror conventions.&nbsp;

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In a message to Pakistan at India-Central Asia NSAs meet, NSA Ajit Doval says, "should honour all UN members to fulfil obligations enshrined in relevant counter terror conventions &amp; refrain from providing support to entities involved in terror attacks" <a href="https://t.co/DrSZUmSyB9">pic.twitter.com/DrSZUmSyB9</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1599988408998559745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a message to China, Doval said that connectivity projects in the region must&nbsp;be "consultative, transparent and&nbsp;participatory with respect to sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the countries.

Doval also referred to the first India-Central Asia virtual summit in January that was hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Your presence is a testimony to our cohesiveness and it will enrich the discussions. Central Asia is our extended neighbourhood with which we have civilisational linkages and we accord highest priority to this region,” Doval said.

“At the January meeting of our leaders agreed to convene regular meetings of secretaries of security councils to discuss security-related developments in the region. This forms the basis of the meeting,” he said.

Boosting connectivity including the developments related to Chabahar port in Iran, a part of 7200-km long&nbsp;International North-South Transport Corridor spanning Central Asia all the way to Russia,&nbsp;was part of the discussions at the meet.&nbsp;

The NSA-level conclave&nbsp;comes 10 months after the first India-Central Asia virtual summit, and deliberated on ways to boost India’s connectivity with the Central Asian region among other issues.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Tuesday said that connectivity and countering terror financing in cooperation with Central Asian countries remains India's key priority.

India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Tuesday said that connectivity and countering terror financing in cooperation with Central Asian countries remains India's key priority. The statement came at the first India-Central Asia meeting of the National Security Advisers in New Delhi. Doval added that "peaceful, secure and prosperous Central Asia" remains in Central Asia's common interest. The joint statement of the meet asserted that no terrorist organisation "including those designated by UNSC resolution 1267 should be provided sanctuaries or allowed to use the territory of Afghanistan", meaning that Pakistan-based terrorist groups should not be provided with operational grounds in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Just in: Joint statement after first Indi Central Asia NSAs meet issued. Full statement: pic.twitter.com/o6KENqACfP — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 6, 2022 × Describing Central Asia as India’s “extended neighbourhood”, Doval said that New Delhi accords “highest priority” to the region, adding that Afghanistan is an important issue “concerning all of us”. A number of Central Asian countries share land borders with Afghanistan and thus are directly affected by Taliban's control of Kabul since August 15 last year. India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval inaugurated the first-ever India-Central Asia NSA meeting today. The meet's focus was tensions in Afghanistan and counter-terrorism among other issues.@eriknjoka talks to @sidhant for details Watch more: https://t.co/AXC5qRcEPB pic.twitter.com/VjuaCilPdM — WION (@WIONews) December 6, 2022 × This is the first time India is hosting a conclave of top security officials from Central Asian countries including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan focusing on the evolving security situation in Afghanistan and ways to deal with the threat of terrorism. This first India-Central Asia NSA meet coincides with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Central Asian countries. ALSO READ - No Money For Terror meet: Ensure proposals for sanctions are not vetoed more than three times Doval, in a message directed at Pakistan, appealed to all UN members to fulfill obligations enshrined in relevant counter-terror conventions. In a message to Pakistan at India-Central Asia NSAs meet, NSA Ajit Doval says, "should honour all UN members to fulfil obligations enshrined in relevant counter terror conventions & refrain from providing support to entities involved in terror attacks" pic.twitter.com/DrSZUmSyB9 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 6, 2022 × In a message to China, Doval said that connectivity projects in the region must be "consultative, transparent and participatory with respect to sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the countries. Doval also referred to the first India-Central Asia virtual summit in January that was hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Your presence is a testimony to our cohesiveness and it will enrich the discussions. Central Asia is our extended neighbourhood with which we have civilisational linkages and we accord highest priority to this region,” Doval said. “At the January meeting of our leaders agreed to convene regular meetings of secretaries of security councils to discuss security-related developments in the region. This forms the basis of the meeting,” he said. Boosting connectivity including the developments related to Chabahar port in Iran, a part of 7200-km long International North-South Transport Corridor spanning Central Asia all the way to Russia, was part of the discussions at the meet. The NSA-level conclave comes 10 months after the first India-Central Asia virtual summit, and deliberated on ways to boost India’s connectivity with the Central Asian region among other issues. (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.

Central Asia NSA meet: India's Doval calls for connectivity, counter-terror cooperation

Switzerland-based mining company Glencore will pay $180 million to the Democratic Republic of Congo to settle a series of corruption claims covering a period between 2007 and 2018. The development is the latest in Glencore's&nbsp;series of corruption-related payout aggregating up to $1.6 billion in fines this year.&nbsp;

WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-glencore-under-scanner-for-bribery-530745">WION Business News | Glencore under scanner for 'bribery'</a>

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Following an investigation by the US, British and Brazilian authorities, the company in May had admitted that it had bribed officials in several African nations including Democratic Republic of Congo.

Glencore,&nbsp;despite the&nbsp;clouds of corruption payouts dominating the skies of its assets,&nbsp;is forecasted to collect the rainy profits of nearly $3.2 billion this year.

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glencore-faces-steep-penalties-over-african-bribery-scandal-mining-corporation-used-private-jet-to-fly-bribe-530749">Glencore faces steep penalties over African bribery scandal; mining corporation used private jet to fly bribe</a>

In May, the US Department of Justice had said that Glencore conspired to pay around $27.5 million to third parties to secure "improper business advantages" in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while "intending a portion of the payments to be used as bribes".

Lately, a UK court last month ordered the company to pay more than £285m over bribes given in African nations that were found to be linked to its London-based commodities trading desk.&nbsp;

Glencore owns several assets in the country, including the Mutanda copper-cobalt mine and a controlling stake in Kamoto Copper Company, a large copper-cobalt project.

"Glencore is a long-standing investor in the DRC and is pleased to have reached this agreement to address the consequences of its past conduct," Glencore's chairman Kalidas Madhavpeddi said.

Glencore corruption row:&nbsp;Bribes given across Africa, Latin America

In May, Glencore also admitted to paying millions in bribes to officials in Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, South Sudan, Brazil and Venezuela.

Glencore's chairman has admitted "unacceptable practices" have taken place but that the firm today is "not the company it was".

Glencore is one of the world's largest commodities companies, employing around 135,000 people in more than 35 countries, including India, UAE, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan.&nbsp;

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Switzerland-based mining company Glencore will pay $180 million to the Democratic Republic of Congo to settle a series of corruption claims covering a period between 2007 and 2018.

Switzerland-based mining company Glencore will pay $180 million to the Democratic Republic of Congo to settle a series of corruption claims covering a period between 2007 and 2018. The development is the latest in Glencore's series of corruption-related payout aggregating up to $1.6 billion in fines this year. WATCH - WION Business News | Glencore under scanner for 'bribery' × Following an investigation by the US, British and Brazilian authorities, the company in May had admitted that it had bribed officials in several African nations including Democratic Republic of Congo. Glencore, despite the clouds of corruption payouts dominating the skies of its assets, is forecasted to collect the rainy profits of nearly $3.2 billion this year. ALSO READ - Glencore faces steep penalties over African bribery scandal; mining corporation used private jet to fly bribe In May, the US Department of Justice had said that Glencore conspired to pay around $27.5 million to third parties to secure "improper business advantages" in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while "intending a portion of the payments to be used as bribes". Lately, a UK court last month ordered the company to pay more than £285m over bribes given in African nations that were found to be linked to its London-based commodities trading desk. Glencore owns several assets in the country, including the Mutanda copper-cobalt mine and a controlling stake in Kamoto Copper Company, a large copper-cobalt project. "Glencore is a long-standing investor in the DRC and is pleased to have reached this agreement to address the consequences of its past conduct," Glencore's chairman Kalidas Madhavpeddi said. Glencore corruption row: Bribes given across Africa, Latin America In May, Glencore also admitted to paying millions in bribes to officials in Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, South Sudan, Brazil and Venezuela. Glencore's chairman has admitted "unacceptable practices" have taken place but that the firm today is "not the company it was". Glencore is one of the world's largest commodities companies, employing around 135,000 people in more than 35 countries, including India, UAE, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan. 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.

Mining major Glencore to pay $180m to DR Congo to settle 'corruption claims'

White House on Saturday clarified that President Joe Biden of the US has no intentions to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, contrasting Biden's earlier statement that he is willing to meet Putin if the latter wants to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil but it is not immediately clear if Russia has accepted the price cap going forward. Hate speech on Twitter spiked after Elon Musk's takeover of the platform amid the increasing reliance of the microblogging platform on automated moderation instead of human intervention. Meanwhile, India's RRR received a huge boost for its Oscar prospects after it won the 'Best Director' trophy at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/conditions-for-talks-with-putin-not-right-yet-white-house-says-539591">Biden has no intentions to talk to Putin right now, White House says</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/03/315394-untitled-design-62.png?imwidth=1920" />

US President Joe Biden does not intend to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin right now, the White House said on Friday.&nbsp;Earlier on Thursday, following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden had said he was ready to talk to Putin "if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he's looking for a way to end the war". He had added that the Russian leader "hasn't done that yet".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-tentatively-agrees-on-60-per-barrel-price-cap-on-russian-oil-539573">European Union tentatively agrees on $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/22/256541-untitled-design-4.png?imwidth=1920" />

The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil, AFP reported on Friday. The countries decided to follow the lead of the G7 economies who imposed a limit on Russian oil in a bid to hamper the revenues earned by the Kremlin. While the EU has already imposed multiple sanctions on Russia, they have not stopped the imports completely.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/floodgates-open-for-hate-speech-against-black-transgender-persons-after-elon-musks-twitter-takeover-539604">Floodgates open for hate speech after Elon Musk's Twitter takeover</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/07/308908-new-wion-25.png?imwidth=1920" />

Hate speech against Black people, transgender persons as well as engagement with hateful content on Twitter has increased sharply since Elon Musk took over the platform, a research by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found on Friday. The research findings are now being seen in the background of Twitter's increased reliance on automated moderation instead of human intervention against hate speech on Twitter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rrr-oscar-campaign-gets-a-huge-boost-ss-rajamouli-takes-best-director-award-at-new-york-film-critics-awards-539603">'RRR' Oscar campaign gets a huge boost: SS Rajamouli takes Best Director award at New York Film Critics Awards</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/30/307180-rrr.png?imwidth=1920" />

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-rrr-track-naatu-naatu-to-win-oscar-in-best-original-song-category-says-report-523621">Oscar campaign</a>&nbsp;of SS Rajamouli's colonial India-set Telugu epic action drama film&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rrr-to-have-a-sequel-confirms-director-ss-rajamouli-533796">'RRR'&nbsp;</a>just got a shot in the arm as the director won the 'Best Director' trophy at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards. The surprise win has increased the Oscar chances of &nbsp;NT Rama Rao Jr and Ram Charan film. The film was disappointingly not officially submitted to the Academy by the Indian government for the Best International Feature category. However, Rajamouli has submitted the film to the Oscars in 14 categories in 'For Your Consideration' campaign. Meanwhile, Charlotte Wells' 'Aftersun' was deemed the best first film by the jury.

&nbsp;

White House on Saturday clarified that President Joe Biden of the US has no intentions to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, contrasting Biden's earlier statement that he is willing to meet Putin if the latter wants to end the war in Ukraine.

White House on Saturday clarified that President Joe Biden of the US has no intentions to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, contrasting Biden's earlier statement that he is willing to meet Putin if the latter wants to end the war in Ukraine. The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil but it is not immediately clear if Russia has accepted the price cap going forward. Hate speech on Twitter spiked after Elon Musk's takeover of the platform amid the increasing reliance of the microblogging platform on automated moderation instead of human intervention. Meanwhile, India's RRR received a huge boost for its Oscar prospects after it won the 'Best Director' trophy at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards. Click on the headlines to read more: Biden has no intentions to talk to Putin right now, White House says US President Joe Biden does not intend to speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin right now, the White House said on Friday. Earlier on Thursday, following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden had said he was ready to talk to Putin "if in fact there is an interest in him deciding he's looking for a way to end the war". He had added that the Russian leader "hasn't done that yet". European Union tentatively agrees on $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil, AFP reported on Friday. The countries decided to follow the lead of the G7 economies who imposed a limit on Russian oil in a bid to hamper the revenues earned by the Kremlin. While the EU has already imposed multiple sanctions on Russia, they have not stopped the imports completely. Floodgates open for hate speech after Elon Musk's Twitter takeover Hate speech against Black people, transgender persons as well as engagement with hateful content on Twitter has increased sharply since Elon Musk took over the platform, a research by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found on Friday. The research findings are now being seen in the background of Twitter's increased reliance on automated moderation instead of human intervention against hate speech on Twitter. 'RRR' Oscar campaign gets a huge boost: SS Rajamouli takes Best Director award at New York Film Critics Awards The Oscar campaign of SS Rajamouli's colonial India-set Telugu epic action drama film 'RRR' just got a shot in the arm as the director won the 'Best Director' trophy at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards. The surprise win has increased the Oscar chances of NT Rama Rao Jr and Ram Charan film. The film was disappointingly not officially submitted to the Academy by the Indian government for the Best International Feature category. However, Rajamouli has submitted the film to the Oscars in 14 categories in 'For Your Consideration' campaign. Meanwhile, Charlotte Wells' 'Aftersun' was deemed the best first film by the jury.

Morning news brief: No Biden-Putin meet, EU's price cap on Russian oil, RRR's way to Oscars and more

Five winners were announced by Prince William as recipients of the prestigious Prince of Wales's annual Earthshot Prize on Friday. Among the five winners, two recipients were William's&nbsp;childhood friends from Oman who had reportedly discovered how carbon dioxide can be turned into rock. The prize is given by The Royal Foundation, co-founded by Prince William himself.&nbsp; 
 
The second edition of the Earthshot Prize award ceremony saw celebrities from across the globe like David Beckham, Billie Eilish, Ellie Goulding, Annie Lennox and Chloe Halle walking the “green carpet” in Boston, as royal guests of Prince William and Princess Catherine. 
 
The name of the winners was announced at the awards ceremony by Prince William. The environmental entrepreneurs were awarded $1.2 million each by Prince William for their “groundbreaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet”.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-recycling-project-bags-prince-williams-earthshot-environment-prize-421667">India's recycling project bags Prince William's earthshot environment prize</a>

Addressing the ceremony, Prince William said: "I believe that the Earthshot solutions you have seen this evening prove we can overcome our planet's greatest challenges.” 
"By supporting and scaling them we can change our future," he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthshot-prize-environmental-innovators-awarded-nearly-7-million-421803">'Earthshot Prize': Environmental innovators awarded nearly $7 million</a> 
 
The winning projects are based in Australia, Oman, Kenya, the UK and India. The Earthshot Prize award committee, which includes various influential personalities like singer Shakira, actress Cate Blanchett, naturalist and “Planet Earth” narrator Sir David Attenborough, soccer star Dani Alves and NBA Hall of Famer Yao Ming, soccer star Dani Alves finalised the winners. 
 
The winners were selected by the esteemed panel from the list of 15 finalists. One of the winners of the Earthshot Prize and founder of 44.01 Talal Hasan said that it was “a proud moment” for his team to win the prestigious award. 
 
"We started 44.01 two years ago because we saw the very real impact of climate change here in Oman. Winning the Earthshot Prize will help us scale our solution around the world, and ultimately eliminate billions of tonnes of CO2. Climate change is the greatest challenge we have ever faced but being part of this amazing group of finalists give us hope,” he said.

Who are the five winners of the Earthshot Prize 2022? 
 
Kenya's Mukuru Clean Stoves: Mukuru Clean Stoves, based in Kenya, is a business founded by a female and mostly run by female staff. They make stoves which are fired using processed biomass which constitutes wood, charcoal and sugarcane instead of solid fuels, which can lead to accidents and air pollution. 
 
India's Kheyti: Greenhouse-in-a-Box, founded and run by Kaushik Kappagantulu in India, is helping small-hold farmers in protecting their crops from pests and harsh weather conditions of the country, which has suffered the severe impact of climate change. 
 
United Kingdom's Notpla: Amongst the winners, one was a project based in the UK that provides a waste-free solution by creating bio-degradable and natural plastic, which is made of seaweed. The company, which is run by Pierre Paslier and Rodrigo Garcia Gonzalez, has supplied more than a million takeaway food boxes to Just Eat, a food delivery platform. 
 
Australia's Indigenous Women of the Great Barrier Reef: The Indigenous Women of the Great Barrier Reef from Australia were selected for running a programme under which 60 women were trained in both digital and traditional ocean conservation methods. 
 
Oman's 44.01: Talal Hasan's project 44.01 in Oman has a unique proposition for its clients where it ensures to turn carbon dioxide into peridotite, a rock found in abundance globally as well in Oman. The project offers safe and low-cost alternative methods for storing carbon, like burying it in disused oil wells. 
 
What is the annual Earthshot Prize? 
 
Prince William founded the Earthshot Prize in 2021 to provide funds for projects that work towards saving the planet. 
 
This is the second edition of the Earthshot Prize after the first edition was held last year. The name of the prize takes reference from the "Moonshot" ambition of US President John F Kennedy in the 1960s to make a man land over the Moon in a decade. 
 
Every year five Earthshot Prizes worth $1.2 million will be awarded till 2030 to extend support to environmental innovation projects that can help build a better future. On December 5, nominations will be open for the 2023 edition of the Earthshot Prize.

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Five winners were announced by Prince William as recipients of the prestigious Prince of Wales's annual Earthshot Prize on Friday. Among the five winners, two recipients were William's childhood friends from Oman who had reportedly discovered how carbon dioxide can be turned into rock.

Five winners were announced by Prince William as recipients of the prestigious Prince of Wales's annual Earthshot Prize on Friday. Among the five winners, two recipients were William's childhood friends from Oman who had reportedly discovered how carbon dioxide can be turned into rock. The prize is given by The Royal Foundation, co-founded by Prince William himself. The second edition of the Earthshot Prize award ceremony saw celebrities from across the globe like David Beckham, Billie Eilish, Ellie Goulding, Annie Lennox and Chloe Halle walking the “green carpet” in Boston, as royal guests of Prince William and Princess Catherine. The name of the winners was announced at the awards ceremony by Prince William. The environmental entrepreneurs were awarded $1.2 million each by Prince William for their “groundbreaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet”. ALSO READ | India's recycling project bags Prince William's earthshot environment prize Addressing the ceremony, Prince William said: "I believe that the Earthshot solutions you have seen this evening prove we can overcome our planet's greatest challenges.” "By supporting and scaling them we can change our future," he added. WATCH | 'Earthshot Prize': Environmental innovators awarded nearly $7 million The winning projects are based in Australia, Oman, Kenya, the UK and India. The Earthshot Prize award committee, which includes various influential personalities like singer Shakira, actress Cate Blanchett, naturalist and “Planet Earth” narrator Sir David Attenborough, soccer star Dani Alves and NBA Hall of Famer Yao Ming, soccer star Dani Alves finalised the winners. The winners were selected by the esteemed panel from the list of 15 finalists. One of the winners of the Earthshot Prize and founder of 44.01 Talal Hasan said that it was “a proud moment” for his team to win the prestigious award. "We started 44.01 two years ago because we saw the very real impact of climate change here in Oman. Winning the Earthshot Prize will help us scale our solution around the world, and ultimately eliminate billions of tonnes of CO2. Climate change is the greatest challenge we have ever faced but being part of this amazing group of finalists give us hope,” he said. Who are the five winners of the Earthshot Prize 2022? Kenya's Mukuru Clean Stoves: Mukuru Clean Stoves, based in Kenya, is a business founded by a female and mostly run by female staff. They make stoves which are fired using processed biomass which constitutes wood, charcoal and sugarcane instead of solid fuels, which can lead to accidents and air pollution. India's Kheyti: Greenhouse-in-a-Box, founded and run by Kaushik Kappagantulu in India, is helping small-hold farmers in protecting their crops from pests and harsh weather conditions of the country, which has suffered the severe impact of climate change. United Kingdom's Notpla: Amongst the winners, one was a project based in the UK that provides a waste-free solution by creating bio-degradable and natural plastic, which is made of seaweed. The company, which is run by Pierre Paslier and Rodrigo Garcia Gonzalez, has supplied more than a million takeaway food boxes to Just Eat, a food delivery platform. Australia's Indigenous Women of the Great Barrier Reef: The Indigenous Women of the Great Barrier Reef from Australia were selected for running a programme under which 60 women were trained in both digital and traditional ocean conservation methods. Oman's 44.01: Talal Hasan's project 44.01 in Oman has a unique proposition for its clients where it ensures to turn carbon dioxide into peridotite, a rock found in abundance globally as well in Oman. The project offers safe and low-cost alternative methods for storing carbon, like burying it in disused oil wells. What is the annual Earthshot Prize? Prince William founded the Earthshot Prize in 2021 to provide funds for projects that work towards saving the planet. This is the second edition of the Earthshot Prize after the first edition was held last year. The name of the prize takes reference from the "Moonshot" ambition of US President John F Kennedy in the 1960s to make a man land over the Moon in a decade. Every year five Earthshot Prizes worth $1.2 million will be awarded till 2030 to extend support to environmental innovation projects that can help build a better future. On December 5, nominations will be open for the 2023 edition of the Earthshot Prize. 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.

Prince William announces five winners of prestigious Earthshot Prize for environmentalism

Hate speech against black people, transgender persons as well as engagement with hateful content on Twitter has increased sharply since Elon Musk took over the platform, a research by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found on Friday. The research findings are now being seen in the background of Twitter's increased reliance on automated moderation instead of human intervention against hate speech on the platform.&nbsp;

The findings stand in contrast to Musk's claims last week that “hate speech impressions” on Twitter were down by one-third since he took the helm of the company. Musk, however, in a tweet on Saturday said that the findings are “utterly false” while responding to a New York Times story on the study.

Engagement with hateful content up by 372 per cent

In mid-November, Elon Musk had said that hateful tweets would be “max deboosted &amp; demonetized”, following which, the Twitter users wouldn’t see the content unless they search for it on the platform.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-not-happy-with-elon-musk-relaxing-twitter-moderation-rules-539322">Macron not happy with Elon Musk relaxing Twitter moderation rules</a>

But the research found that engagement with hate speech has increased to indiscriminate levels since Musk took over the company. The average number of likes, replies, and retweets on posts with slurs was 13.3 during the weeks before Musk's takeover of the platform.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/twitter-sees-a-surge-of-denialism-claims-as-scientists-look-for-an-alternative-site-539518">Twitter sees a surge of denialism claims, as scientists look for an alternative site</a>

Following Musk's&nbsp;takeover, the average engagements on hateful content have jumped to 49.5 — a whopping increase by 372 per cent — according to the report.

Worrying&nbsp;jump in hate speech against Black people

Before Elon Musk took over the platform, an average of 1,282 tweets with slurs&nbsp;against Black people appeared on a daily basis on Twitter. After Musk formally became Twitter's owner, this number jumped to 3,876 tweets. But last week, when Musk claimed that hate speech impressions were down by a third, the tweets with slurs against Black people went up even further to 4,650 tweets, the report said.&nbsp;

Hate speech against transgender people up by 62 per cent

The report found that slurs against transgender people — with 5,117 tweets at an average — increased by 62 per cent since Musk took over Twitter.

The data was reportedly gathered using Brandwatch, a social media analytics tool, and included tweets from around the world in English.

Why exactly Hate speech surging on Twitter?

Twitter vice president of Trust and Safety Product Ella Irwin told Reuters that the platform is doing away with certain manual reviews rather than removing certain speech outright. The platform is now relying heavily on automation to moderate content. &nbsp;

She said that Musk was focused on using automation more, arguing that the company had in the past erred on the side of using time and labuor-intensive human reviews of harmful content.

"He has encouraged the team to take more risks, move fast, get the platform safe," Irwin said.

Since taking over Twitter in late October, Elon Musk’s act of erratic firings of existing staff (by over fifty per cent) have reportedly gutted the trust and safety teams responsible for moderation, despite the continued concerns from civil rights groups over how hateful content could flourish on Twitter.

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Hate speech against black people, transgender persons as well as engagement with hateful content on Twitter has increased sharply since Elon Musk took over the platform, a research by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found on Friday.

Hate speech against black people, transgender persons as well as engagement with hateful content on Twitter has increased sharply since Elon Musk took over the platform, a research by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found on Friday. The research findings are now being seen in the background of Twitter's increased reliance on automated moderation instead of human intervention against hate speech on the platform. The findings stand in contrast to Musk's claims last week that “hate speech impressions” on Twitter were down by one-third since he took the helm of the company. Musk, however, in a tweet on Saturday said that the findings are “utterly false” while responding to a New York Times story on the study. Engagement with hateful content up by 372 per cent In mid-November, Elon Musk had said that hateful tweets would be “max deboosted & demonetized”, following which, the Twitter users wouldn’t see the content unless they search for it on the platform. ALSO READ | Macron not happy with Elon Musk relaxing Twitter moderation rules But the research found that engagement with hate speech has increased to indiscriminate levels since Musk took over the company. The average number of likes, replies, and retweets on posts with slurs was 13.3 during the weeks before Musk's takeover of the platform. ALSO READ | Twitter sees a surge of denialism claims, as scientists look for an alternative site Following Musk's takeover, the average engagements on hateful content have jumped to 49.5 — a whopping increase by 372 per cent — according to the report. Worrying jump in hate speech against Black people Before Elon Musk took over the platform, an average of 1,282 tweets with slurs against Black people appeared on a daily basis on Twitter. After Musk formally became Twitter's owner, this number jumped to 3,876 tweets. But last week, when Musk claimed that hate speech impressions were down by a third, the tweets with slurs against Black people went up even further to 4,650 tweets, the report said. Hate speech against transgender people up by 62 per cent The report found that slurs against transgender people — with 5,117 tweets at an average — increased by 62 per cent since Musk took over Twitter. The data was reportedly gathered using Brandwatch, a social media analytics tool, and included tweets from around the world in English. Why exactly Hate speech surging on Twitter? Twitter vice president of Trust and Safety Product Ella Irwin told Reuters that the platform is doing away with certain manual reviews rather than removing certain speech outright. The platform is now relying heavily on automation to moderate content. She said that Musk was focused on using automation more, arguing that the company had in the past erred on the side of using time and labuor-intensive human reviews of harmful content. "He has encouraged the team to take more risks, move fast, get the platform safe," Irwin said. Since taking over Twitter in late October, Elon Musk’s act of erratic firings of existing staff (by over fifty per cent) have reportedly gutted the trust and safety teams responsible for moderation, despite the continued concerns from civil rights groups over how hateful content could flourish on Twitter. 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.

Floodgates opened for hate speech against black, transgenders after Elon Musk's Twitter takeover

A woman in China was found hiding 202 computer chips and nine smartphones inside her fake baby bump during routine border check, reflecting the flourishing underground market for chips and cheap processors that has sprung up in China.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The woman was crossing into Zhuhai in the southern Guangdong province of China where she was arrested for smuggling semiconductors inside a pregnancy prosthetic. An officer who was part of the team that arrested the woman during routine border check said that he became suspicious of the woman after preliminary questioning.&nbsp;

"She was about five or six months pregnant but had a really big belly that looked like she was in the third trimester," an officer is quoted to have said by Bloomberg.

China reportedly has a massive grey market that involves hundreds of middlemen and remains riddled with second-hand chips.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semiconductor-war-us-announces-rules-that-will-set-back-the-chinese-chip-industry-by-years-523510">US enforces export controls to restrict China's chip supply for hi-tech military applications</a>

An underground market for semiconductors has sprung up in China since 2020 when a global shortage of chips started disrupting supplies of everything from smartphones to vehicles. A move by the United States to impose curbs on exports of high-end semiconductors and chip-making equipment to China, partly to stop them from being used for military purposes, has further disturbed the market.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-attempt-to-build-semiconductor-supply-chains-hindered-528878">China's attempt to build semiconductor supply chains hindered</a>

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China’s massive grey market predominantly deals with second-hand or out-of-date chips that can fetch prices 500 times the original cost.

Apple's iPhones are typically smuggled into China because they are more expensive there than in Hong Kong and Macau due to import taxes. Smugglers are routinely caught at the border with dozens of devices.

On its own, China produces approximately a quarter of all semiconductors on the planet.

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A woman in China was found hiding 202 computer chips and nine smartphones inside her fake baby bump during routine border check, reflecting the flourishing underground market for chips and cheap processors that has sprung up in China.

A woman in China was found hiding 202 computer chips and nine smartphones inside her fake baby bump during routine border check, reflecting the flourishing underground market for chips and cheap processors that has sprung up in China. The woman was crossing into Zhuhai in the southern Guangdong province of China where she was arrested for smuggling semiconductors inside a pregnancy prosthetic. An officer who was part of the team that arrested the woman during routine border check said that he became suspicious of the woman after preliminary questioning. "She was about five or six months pregnant but had a really big belly that looked like she was in the third trimester," an officer is quoted to have said by Bloomberg. China reportedly has a massive grey market that involves hundreds of middlemen and remains riddled with second-hand chips. ALSO READ | US enforces export controls to restrict China's chip supply for hi-tech military applications An underground market for semiconductors has sprung up in China since 2020 when a global shortage of chips started disrupting supplies of everything from smartphones to vehicles. A move by the United States to impose curbs on exports of high-end semiconductors and chip-making equipment to China, partly to stop them from being used for military purposes, has further disturbed the market. WATCH | China's attempt to build semiconductor supply chains hindered × China’s massive grey market predominantly deals with second-hand or out-of-date chips that can fetch prices 500 times the original cost. Apple's iPhones are typically smuggled into China because they are more expensive there than in Hong Kong and Macau due to import taxes. Smugglers are routinely caught at the border with dozens of devices. On its own, China produces approximately a quarter of all semiconductors on the planet. 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.

Chinese woman caught with computer chips inside fake pregnancy bump

One of the most significant internal debates at Twitter during pre-Elon Musk times have surfaced on Twitter. The revelation details the platform's controversial decision in 2020 to restrict the access to a New York Post article about contents of a laptop purportedly owned by Hunter Biden, son of the US President Joe Biden.

Author Matt Taibbi posted a series of tweets and images of what he said were leaked internal Twitter messages and emails, without revealing how they were obtained.

What is Hunter Biden-Twitter row all about?

In late 2020, during the final weeks of the US presidential campaign, Twitter restricted a New York Post article containing unverified claims about Hunter Biden’s activities in Ukraine. Twitter said at the time that the New York Post story included screenshots and images that violated the company’s “Hacked Materials Policy,” which forbids users from sharing images of hacked materials on the site. The company blocked users from sharing the article on Twitter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-has-enough-evidence-to-prosecute-hunter-biden-for-tax-crimes-report-says-523223">FBI has enough evidence to prosecute Hunter Biden for tax crimes, report says</a>

Then-Chief Executive Officer Jack Dorsey later tweeted that blocking the links without providing more context was “unacceptable.” The company also changed its policies soon after restricting the Biden story, saying it would “label tweets to provide context instead of blocking links” to stories.

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Our communication around our actions on the <a href="https://twitter.com/nypost?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nypost</a> article was not great. And blocking URL sharing via tweet or DM with zero context as to why we’re blocking: unacceptable. <a href="https://t.co/v55vDVVlgt">https://t.co/v55vDVVlgt</a>
— jack (@jack) <a href="https://twitter.com/jack/status/1316528193621327876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Jack later responded to the incident before the US Congress in November 2020.&nbsp;

What unfolded at Twitter as per Matt Taibbi?

In one message from that time, shared by Matt Taibbi, Trenton Kennedy, a member of Twitter’s communications team, wrote to a group including legal and policy head Vijaya Gadde and site integrity leader Yoel Roth to voice questions about why the story was being restricted.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-bidens-son-hunter-biden-on-fbis-radar-for-tax-crimes-523254">US: President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden on FBI's radar for tax crimes</a>

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“I’m struggling to understand the policy basis for marking this as unsafe, and I think the best explainability argument for this externally would be that we’re waiting to understand if this story is the result of hacked materials,” Taibbi’s tweets show Kennedy as writing. “We’ll face hard questions on this if we don’t have some kind of solid reasoning for marking the link unsafe.”

Taibbi's revelations, Musk's tweets of approval

When Taibbi began tweeting about the matter, Musk posted, "Here we go!!" Musk has teased "part two" of the story in future.&nbsp;

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16. The Twitter Files, Part One: How and Why Twitter Blocked the Hunter Biden Laptop Story
— Matt Taibbi (@mtaibbi) <a href="https://twitter.com/mtaibbi/status/1598830911776251906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Some Republican Party members claim that Twitter’s move to block the story helped President Biden in his victory over Trump, but a Federal Election Commission ruled last year that Twitter didn’t break election laws by doing so.

President Joe Biden is gearing up to face Republican-led investigations next year that will examine Hunter Biden and his business dealings.

Republican lawmakers allege the president’s son traded on his family name and created conflicts of interest for his father, allegations both of them deny.&nbsp;

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One of the most significant internal debates at Twitter during pre-Elon Musk times have surfaced on Twitter. The revelation details the platform's controversial decision in 2020 to restrict the access to a New York Post article about contents of a laptop purportedly owned by Hunter Biden, son of the US President Joe Biden.

One of the most significant internal debates at Twitter during pre-Elon Musk times have surfaced on Twitter. The revelation details the platform's controversial decision in 2020 to restrict the access to a New York Post article about contents of a laptop purportedly owned by Hunter Biden, son of the US President Joe Biden. Author Matt Taibbi posted a series of tweets and images of what he said were leaked internal Twitter messages and emails, without revealing how they were obtained. What is Hunter Biden-Twitter row all about? In late 2020, during the final weeks of the US presidential campaign, Twitter restricted a New York Post article containing unverified claims about Hunter Biden’s activities in Ukraine. Twitter said at the time that the New York Post story included screenshots and images that violated the company’s “Hacked Materials Policy,” which forbids users from sharing images of hacked materials on the site. The company blocked users from sharing the article on Twitter. ALSO READ | FBI has enough evidence to prosecute Hunter Biden for tax crimes, report says Then-Chief Executive Officer Jack Dorsey later tweeted that blocking the links without providing more context was “unacceptable.” The company also changed its policies soon after restricting the Biden story, saying it would “label tweets to provide context instead of blocking links” to stories. Our communication around our actions on the @nypost article was not great. And blocking URL sharing via tweet or DM with zero context as to why we’re blocking: unacceptable. https://t.co/v55vDVVlgt — jack (@jack) October 14, 2020 × Jack later responded to the incident before the US Congress in November 2020. What unfolded at Twitter as per Matt Taibbi? In one message from that time, shared by Matt Taibbi, Trenton Kennedy, a member of Twitter’s communications team, wrote to a group including legal and policy head Vijaya Gadde and site integrity leader Yoel Roth to voice questions about why the story was being restricted. WATCH | US: President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden on FBI's radar for tax crimes × “I’m struggling to understand the policy basis for marking this as unsafe, and I think the best explainability argument for this externally would be that we’re waiting to understand if this story is the result of hacked materials,” Taibbi’s tweets show Kennedy as writing. “We’ll face hard questions on this if we don’t have some kind of solid reasoning for marking the link unsafe.” Taibbi's revelations, Musk's tweets of approval When Taibbi began tweeting about the matter, Musk posted, "Here we go!!" Musk has teased "part two" of the story in future. 16. The Twitter Files, Part One: How and Why Twitter Blocked the Hunter Biden Laptop Story — Matt Taibbi (@mtaibbi) December 3, 2022 × Some Republican Party members claim that Twitter’s move to block the story helped President Biden in his victory over Trump, but a Federal Election Commission ruled last year that Twitter didn’t break election laws by doing so. President Joe Biden is gearing up to face Republican-led investigations next year that will examine Hunter Biden and his business dealings. Republican lawmakers allege the president’s son traded on his family name and created conflicts of interest for his father, allegations both of them deny. 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.

Twitter suppressed Hunter Biden laptop story in 2020, internal emails reveal

Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistani Army, will now be led by Major General Ahmed Sharif from the corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME). Sharif will be the first officer from EME corps to take up the designation, although this in itself is not unprecedented. As the new head of ISPR, Sharif replaces Lt Gen Babar Iftikhar.

Why change in ISPR ranks?

This is because the ISPR Director General's position is for an officer of major general or two-star rank. Lt Gen Iftikhar, however, became a three-star general last month.&nbsp;

It is now reported that Lt Gen Iftikhar will&nbsp;head to the militarily significant fifth Corps based out of Karachi,&nbsp;replacing Lt Gen Muhammed Saeed as V Corps commander.&nbsp;

Who will be the new Chief of General Staff (CGS)?

The Chief of General Staff is the second most powerful person in the Pakistani Army. According to sources, Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed, who currently commands Karachi-headquartered fifth Corps, is poised to become the new Chief of General Staff.

Asim Munir's COAS elevation triggers premature retirements in Pak army

Pakistan Army has nine corps and three corps-level formations.&nbsp;

Bahawalpur-headquartered 31 Corps doesn't have a Commanding Officer after Lt Gen Faiz Hameed prematurely demitted office following Asim Munir's appointment as new Chief of Army Staff. According to sources, 31 Corps will now be commanded by Lt Gen Saqib Mehmood Malik, who is currently the Chief of Logistics Staff in Pakistan's army.&nbsp;

Faiz was also one of the names among six shortlisted individuals sent to the Prime Minister's Office by Rawalpindi, and thus was in running for coveted designation of army chief. After Asim Munir's appointment as Chief of Army Staff, he prematurely demitted office.&nbsp;

Similarly, Lt Gen Azhar Abbas also took the path of premature retirement after his name&nbsp; wasn't finalised from the top 6 in contention for army chief's post. He was the second most powerful man in the army as Chief of General Staff (CGS).

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Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team.

Pakistan's new Army chief General Asim Munir is making his first major reshuffle in his Army staff, widely perceived to be the real power behind Islamabad's political semblance of democracy, and the development is being seen by observers as the start of building his team. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistani Army, will now be led by Major General Ahmed Sharif from the corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME). Sharif will be the first officer from EME corps to take up the designation, although this in itself is not unprecedented. As the new head of ISPR, Sharif replaces Lt Gen Babar Iftikhar. Why change in ISPR ranks? This is because the ISPR Director General's position is for an officer of major general or two-star rank. Lt Gen Iftikhar, however, became a three-star general last month. It is now reported that Lt Gen Iftikhar will head to the militarily significant fifth Corps based out of Karachi, replacing Lt Gen Muhammed Saeed as V Corps commander. Who will be the new Chief of General Staff (CGS)? The Chief of General Staff is the second most powerful person in the Pakistani Army. According to sources, Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed, who currently commands Karachi-headquartered fifth Corps, is poised to become the new Chief of General Staff. Asim Munir's COAS elevation triggers premature retirements in Pak army Pakistan Army has nine corps and three corps-level formations. Bahawalpur-headquartered 31 Corps doesn't have a Commanding Officer after Lt Gen Faiz Hameed prematurely demitted office following Asim Munir's appointment as new Chief of Army Staff. According to sources, 31 Corps will now be commanded by Lt Gen Saqib Mehmood Malik, who is currently the Chief of Logistics Staff in Pakistan's army. Faiz was also one of the names among six shortlisted individuals sent to the Prime Minister's Office by Rawalpindi, and thus was in running for coveted designation of army chief. After Asim Munir's appointment as Chief of Army Staff, he prematurely demitted office. Similarly, Lt Gen Azhar Abbas also took the path of premature retirement after his name wasn't finalised from the top 6 in contention for army chief's post. He was the second most powerful man in the army as Chief of General Staff (CGS). 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.

General Asim Munir kicks off Pakistan army's game of thrones with major reshuffle

Jonathan, the Seychelles giant tortoise, is having the biggest animal party this weekend as he prepares to ring his 190th birthday on Sunday in Saint Helena which has been his home since 1822, where the defeated French emperor Napoleon died a year before. 
 
Since the time he came as a gift to the south Atlantic island's governor, Jonathan has garnered a lot of fame and made his place in the Guinness World Records as the oldest living land animal along with the oldest chelonian, which is an order that comprises of terrapins, tortoises and turtles. Living a celebrity life, he was also featured on the reverse side of the local five-pence coin. 
 
Based on shell measurements, it is believed that Jonathan was hatched around 1832 and was brought from Seychelles to the UK overseas territory 50 years later. 
 
“Jonathan’s age is an estimation based on the fact that he was fully mature, and hence at least 50 years old when he arrived in Saint Helena from Seychelles in 1882. In all likelihood, he is even older than we think,” the Guinness World Records notes. 
 
He has been living a comfortable retirement life in Plantation House, which is the St Helena governor's official residence, where different events are being organised all weekend, which includes the issue of a special stamp, to mark his birthday. 
 
The birthday celebrations will end with a "birthday cake", which will be cooked using favourite food items of Jonathan. As per his caretakers, the oldest living tortoise has a special love for lettuce, carrots, pears, cucumber and apples.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giant-tortoise-believed-to-gone-extinct-century-ago-found-alive-on-galapagos-islands-486788">Giant tortoise believed to be extinct a century ago found alive on Galapagos Islands</a> 
 
In the initial months of 2022, Jonathan was given the title of world's oldest living land animal by the Guinness World Records and in December, he was also mentioned as the oldest tortoise ever.

"When you think, if he was hatched in 1832 - the Georgian era - my goodness, the changes in the world. The world wars, the rise and fall of the British Empire, and the many governors, kings and queens that have passed, it's quite extraordinary. And he's just been here, enjoying himself,” Jonathan's main care taker and retired veterinarian Joe Hollins said.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-tortoise-who-saved-his-species-306366">Gravitas: A tortoise who saved his species</a>

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Living through such historic world events, the old Jonathan is now covered in wrinkles, has no sense of smell and is blind with cataracts. After his precise birth date remained unknown for so many years, the governor of British overseas territory Nigel Phillips finally took the step of granting him an official birthday on December 4, 1832, in November of this year. 
 
While the residents of Saint Helena continue to pray for Jonathan's long life, the authorities have already planned to preserve the shell of the oldest chelonian for posterity after his demise.

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Jonathan, the Seychelles giant tortoise, is having the biggest animal party this weekend as he prepares to ring his 190th birthday on Sunday in Saint Helena which has been his home since 1822, where the defeated French emperor Napoleon died a year before.

Jonathan, the Seychelles giant tortoise, is having the biggest animal party this weekend as he prepares to ring his 190th birthday on Sunday in Saint Helena which has been his home since 1822, where the defeated French emperor Napoleon died a year before. Since the time he came as a gift to the south Atlantic island's governor, Jonathan has garnered a lot of fame and made his place in the Guinness World Records as the oldest living land animal along with the oldest chelonian, which is an order that comprises of terrapins, tortoises and turtles. Living a celebrity life, he was also featured on the reverse side of the local five-pence coin. Based on shell measurements, it is believed that Jonathan was hatched around 1832 and was brought from Seychelles to the UK overseas territory 50 years later. “Jonathan’s age is an estimation based on the fact that he was fully mature, and hence at least 50 years old when he arrived in Saint Helena from Seychelles in 1882. In all likelihood, he is even older than we think,” the Guinness World Records notes. He has been living a comfortable retirement life in Plantation House, which is the St Helena governor's official residence, where different events are being organised all weekend, which includes the issue of a special stamp, to mark his birthday. The birthday celebrations will end with a "birthday cake", which will be cooked using favourite food items of Jonathan. As per his caretakers, the oldest living tortoise has a special love for lettuce, carrots, pears, cucumber and apples. ALSO READ | Giant tortoise believed to be extinct a century ago found alive on Galapagos Islands In the initial months of 2022, Jonathan was given the title of world's oldest living land animal by the Guinness World Records and in December, he was also mentioned as the oldest tortoise ever. "When you think, if he was hatched in 1832 - the Georgian era - my goodness, the changes in the world. The world wars, the rise and fall of the British Empire, and the many governors, kings and queens that have passed, it's quite extraordinary. And he's just been here, enjoying himself,” Jonathan's main care taker and retired veterinarian Joe Hollins said. WATCH | Gravitas: A tortoise who saved his species × Living through such historic world events, the old Jonathan is now covered in wrinkles, has no sense of smell and is blind with cataracts. After his precise birth date remained unknown for so many years, the governor of British overseas territory Nigel Phillips finally took the step of granting him an official birthday on December 4, 1832, in November of this year. While the residents of Saint Helena continue to pray for Jonathan's long life, the authorities have already planned to preserve the shell of the oldest chelonian for posterity after his demise. 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.

Jonathan, world's oldest living tortoise, set to ring his 190th birthday

In Senegal's parliament, a male opposition lawmaker slapped a female colleague in the face, footage that later surfaced on social media showed, sparking global debate about violence against women even at the heart of a country's power center.&nbsp;

During a budget presentation, opposition member of parliament Massata Samb walked over and slapped Amy Ndiaye Gniby of the ruling Benno Bokk Yakaar (BBY) coalition, setting off a violent brawl in the parliament between members of government and opposition.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Senegal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Senegal</a> 🇸🇳Heated debate in Parliament turns into a MMA fight with MPs deliberately assaulting a FEMALE colleague. TF's wrong with those guys??? <a href="https://t.co/ywuQZ6eelu">pic.twitter.com/ywuQZ6eelu</a>
— Francis A. Konan (@Francis_A_K) <a href="https://twitter.com/Francis_A_K/status/1598614486113570819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Gniby threw a chair back at Samb before another MP tackled her to the floor. The session was suspended as lawmakers traded blows, accusations, and insults.

Senegal parliament brawl: What happened?

Samb on Thursday was addressing the assembly about comments Gniby made over the weekend in which she criticised a spiritual leader opposed to a third Sall term.

“Mister president, a deputy has stood in front of this tribune to insult someone’s marabout [spiritual leader],” said Samb.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-world-marks-international-day-for-the-elimination-of-violence-against-women-537589">World marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women</a>&nbsp;

Gniby scoffed at his remarks and declared she did not care, after which Samb walked over and hit her.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-calls-for-activisim-against-gender-violence-demonstrations-held-across-the-globe-537743">UN calls for activisim against gender violence, demonstrations held across the globe</a>

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Footage of the fight has been shared widely on social media.&nbsp;

Tensions on rise after July legislative election

Tensions have grown between ruling and opposition politicians since a July legislative election in which the ruling party lost its comfortable majority, damaged in part by concerns President Macky Sall will seek a third term in 2024. In Senegal, this would mean a breach of term limits set for the president.&nbsp;

President Macky Sall's supporters insist on pushing a constitutional reform which would allow Sall to run again.

Earlier in September, a scuffle had broken out when parliament convened for the first time after the election as lawmakers fought over leadership of the house.

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In Senegal's parliament, a male opposition lawmaker slapped a female colleague in the face, footage that later surfaced on social media showed, sparking global debate about violence against women even at the heart of a country's power center.

In Senegal's parliament, a male opposition lawmaker slapped a female colleague in the face, footage that later surfaced on social media showed, sparking global debate about violence against women even at the heart of a country's power center. During a budget presentation, opposition member of parliament Massata Samb walked over and slapped Amy Ndiaye Gniby of the ruling Benno Bokk Yakaar (BBY) coalition, setting off a violent brawl in the parliament between members of government and opposition. #Senegal 🇸🇳Heated debate in Parliament turns into a MMA fight with MPs deliberately assaulting a FEMALE colleague. TF's wrong with those guys??? pic.twitter.com/ywuQZ6eelu — Francis A. Konan (@Francis_A_K) December 2, 2022 × Gniby threw a chair back at Samb before another MP tackled her to the floor. The session was suspended as lawmakers traded blows, accusations, and insults. Senegal parliament brawl: What happened? Samb on Thursday was addressing the assembly about comments Gniby made over the weekend in which she criticised a spiritual leader opposed to a third Sall term. “Mister president, a deputy has stood in front of this tribune to insult someone’s marabout [spiritual leader],” said Samb. ALSO READ | World marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women Gniby scoffed at his remarks and declared she did not care, after which Samb walked over and hit her. WATCH | UN calls for activisim against gender violence, demonstrations held across the globe × Footage of the fight has been shared widely on social media. Tensions on rise after July legislative election Tensions have grown between ruling and opposition politicians since a July legislative election in which the ruling party lost its comfortable majority, damaged in part by concerns President Macky Sall will seek a third term in 2024. In Senegal, this would mean a breach of term limits set for the president. President Macky Sall's supporters insist on pushing a constitutional reform which would allow Sall to run again. Earlier in September, a scuffle had broken out when parliament convened for the first time after the election as lawmakers fought over leadership of the house. 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.

WATCH | Senegal lawmaker hits female colleague, sparks debate on gender violence

A day after an attack claimed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror outfit resulted in killings of four people in Balochistan's Quetta, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said that Islamabad will not initiate formal talks with the outfit. Instead, Sanuallah vowed for a crushing response by Pakistani security forces against the TTP. &nbsp;

Sanaullah said that the government had not reached a settlement with the TTP and it had not initiated any "formal dialogue" in the past either. Reports, however, suggest a pattern of consistent engagement between TTP and Pakistani Army, latter widely perceived as the 'real power' that runs Pakistan.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ttp-ends-ceasefire-warns-pakistan-of-nation-wide-attacks-538644">Gravitas: TTP ends ceasefire, warns Pakistan of nation-wide attacks</a>

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Shrouded in secrecy, the Pakistani Army has concealed both the aims of the negotiations as well as what it is willing to offer the TTP. A report by Islam Khabar in August this year claimed that Pakistani military negotiators offered to accommodate the TTP with a safe passage back to Pakistan from Afghanistan in exchange for the TTP agreeing to a long-term ceasefire by dissolving itself and beginning to join mainstream politics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-governments-talks-with-tehreek-e-taliban-pakistan-comes-to-a-halt-509830">Pak government's talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan come to a halt</a>

Contradicting his denial about formal engagement between the Pakistani state and the TTP, Sanaullah later clarified that the military leadership had been authorised to hold dialogue with the TTP under the Constitution, but only with those who were ready to lay down arms and peacefully become a part of society.&nbsp;

He said the doors will remain open for those interested in peace and dialogue and at the same time terrorism will be crushed with full force. He said military operations were underway against the TTP and the army had the capacity to defeat terrorism.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-calls-off-ceasefire-with-pakistan-government-538253">Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government</a>

Asked about former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's return to Pakistan, the minister said that Sharif will be available to lead the election campaign for Punjab's provincial assembly scheduled for later this year.

About Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan

The group is a by-product of al-Qaeda’s jihadi politics in Afghanistan and Pakistan after 9/11. The TTP aims to establish an Islamic political system in Pakistan based on its extreme interpretation of Sharia law. During the US invasion of Afghanistan, many terrorists that Pakistan hosted and subsequently sent over to India's Jammu and Kashmir turned against Pakistan for its support of the US operations against Taliban in Afghanistan. TTP subsequently began giving refuge, armed and economic support to Afghan Taliban, Al-Qaeda and other such groups fleeing Afghanistan during post-9/11 events.&nbsp;

Pakistani government eventually cracked down on the TTP safe havens in its FATA province but its military operations eventually prompted these Pakistani jihadists to band together and more formally ally with al-Qaeda and the Afghan Taliban. This led to the establishment of the TTP in 2007.

Since July 2020, ten militant groups opposed to the Pakistani state have merged with the TTP, including, among others, three Pakistani affiliates of al-Qaeda and four major factions that had separated from the TTP in 2014.&nbsp;

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A day after an attack claimed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror outfit resulted in killings of four people in Balochistan's Quetta, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said that Islamabad will not initiate formal talks with the outfit.

A day after an attack claimed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror outfit resulted in killings of four people in Balochistan's Quetta, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said that Islamabad will not initiate formal talks with the outfit. Instead, Sanuallah vowed for a crushing response by Pakistani security forces against the TTP. Sanaullah said that the government had not reached a settlement with the TTP and it had not initiated any "formal dialogue" in the past either. Reports, however, suggest a pattern of consistent engagement between TTP and Pakistani Army, latter widely perceived as the 'real power' that runs Pakistan. WATCH | Gravitas: TTP ends ceasefire, warns Pakistan of nation-wide attacks × Shrouded in secrecy, the Pakistani Army has concealed both the aims of the negotiations as well as what it is willing to offer the TTP. A report by Islam Khabar in August this year claimed that Pakistani military negotiators offered to accommodate the TTP with a safe passage back to Pakistan from Afghanistan in exchange for the TTP agreeing to a long-term ceasefire by dissolving itself and beginning to join mainstream politics. ALSO READ | Pak government's talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan come to a halt Contradicting his denial about formal engagement between the Pakistani state and the TTP, Sanaullah later clarified that the military leadership had been authorised to hold dialogue with the TTP under the Constitution, but only with those who were ready to lay down arms and peacefully become a part of society. He said the doors will remain open for those interested in peace and dialogue and at the same time terrorism will be crushed with full force. He said military operations were underway against the TTP and the army had the capacity to defeat terrorism. ALSO READ | Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government Asked about former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's return to Pakistan, the minister said that Sharif will be available to lead the election campaign for Punjab's provincial assembly scheduled for later this year. About Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan The group is a by-product of al-Qaeda’s jihadi politics in Afghanistan and Pakistan after 9/11. The TTP aims to establish an Islamic political system in Pakistan based on its extreme interpretation of Sharia law. During the US invasion of Afghanistan, many terrorists that Pakistan hosted and subsequently sent over to India's Jammu and Kashmir turned against Pakistan for its support of the US operations against Taliban in Afghanistan. TTP subsequently began giving refuge, armed and economic support to Afghan Taliban, Al-Qaeda and other such groups fleeing Afghanistan during post-9/11 events. Pakistani government eventually cracked down on the TTP safe havens in its FATA province but its military operations eventually prompted these Pakistani jihadists to band together and more formally ally with al-Qaeda and the Afghan Taliban. This led to the establishment of the TTP in 2007. Since July 2020, ten militant groups opposed to the Pakistani state have merged with the TTP, including, among others, three Pakistani affiliates of al-Qaeda and four major factions that had separated from the TTP in 2014. 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.

Pakistan hit by strong TTP challenge as minister says no to formal talks

European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market.&nbsp; 
 
"Ireland can always count on the EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement, there can be no hard border on the island of Ireland," the EC president stated on Thursday, on her visit to the Irish parliament in Dublin to mark the completion of 50 years of Ireland's membership of the European Union (EU).&nbsp;

"Joining the EU has unleashed Ireland's&nbsp;immense potential and has profoundly transformed this country," Ursula von der Leyen said. The EC president further expressed her confidence in reaching a positive conclusion over Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade issue if Britain is willing to reach a solution.&nbsp;

She had encouraging talks with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and added that a workable solution appeared to be within reach.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-northern-ireland-protocol-divides-britain-and-the-european-union-487135">How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union</a>

The EC president said that the GDP of Ireland has increased from half to double the EU average after it became a part of the bloc and added that Ireland will need Europe's help to become non-reliant on Russian energy.&nbsp;

She called Ireland "a wind energy superpower", and added that it "can become a net exporter of energy" to help the EU replace Russian fuel, Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-northern-ireland-deadlock-uk-pm-sunak-to-meet-irelands-martin-532994">Breaking Northern Ireland deadlock: UK PM Sunak to meet Ireland's Martin</a>

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Before addressing the parliament, Von der Leyen held talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. The two leaders talked about the EU's current agenda, which included the need to strengthen the partnership of the EU with allies like the UK and the US.

Technical talks over the Northern Ireland Protocol, which makes checks on few goods being transported to Northern Ireland from the remaining United Kingdom mandatory, resumed earlier in October after seven months of silence.&nbsp;

"We have always shown flexibility, we will always have a constructive approach to these issues," said the EC president before meeting Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in Dublin. "If there is the political will in the UK, I am very confident that we can reach a positive conclusion," she added.&nbsp;

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European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market.

European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market. "Ireland can always count on the EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement, there can be no hard border on the island of Ireland," the EC president stated on Thursday, on her visit to the Irish parliament in Dublin to mark the completion of 50 years of Ireland's membership of the European Union (EU). "Joining the EU has unleashed Ireland's immense potential and has profoundly transformed this country," Ursula von der Leyen said. The EC president further expressed her confidence in reaching a positive conclusion over Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade issue if Britain is willing to reach a solution. She had encouraging talks with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and added that a workable solution appeared to be within reach. ALSO READ | How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union The EC president said that the GDP of Ireland has increased from half to double the EU average after it became a part of the bloc and added that Ireland will need Europe's help to become non-reliant on Russian energy. She called Ireland "a wind energy superpower", and added that it "can become a net exporter of energy" to help the EU replace Russian fuel, Xinhua news agency reported. WATCH | Breaking Northern Ireland deadlock: UK PM Sunak to meet Ireland's Martin × Before addressing the parliament, Von der Leyen held talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. The two leaders talked about the EU's current agenda, which included the need to strengthen the partnership of the EU with allies like the UK and the US. Technical talks over the Northern Ireland Protocol, which makes checks on few goods being transported to Northern Ireland from the remaining United Kingdom mandatory, resumed earlier in October after seven months of silence. "We have always shown flexibility, we will always have a constructive approach to these issues," said the EC president before meeting Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in Dublin. "If there is the political will in the UK, I am very confident that we can reach a positive conclusion," she added. 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.

Ireland can always count on EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement: EC president

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