<p>A court in the US sentenced an art dealer to two years and three months imprisonment on Tuesday (May 30) after he was found involved in a scheme which was aimed at the sale of fake Andy Warhol paintings.<br />
<br />
Daniel Elie Bouaziz,69, was sentenced in Fort Pierce federal court in South Florida. In February, he pleaded guilty to a single count of money laundering, while prosecutors decided to drop 16 other counts which are related to embezzlement and fraud.<br />
<br />
A fine of $15,000 was imposed on Bouaziz, and the court will hold a restitution hearing on August 16. Prosecutors stated that Palm Beach County's Danieli Fine Art and Galerie Danieli's owner Bouaziz sold counterfeit artworks in October 2021 to a customer, which included pieces purportedly by Warhol.<br />
<br />
He also sold fake paintings by Keith Haring, Henri Matisse and Roy Lichtenstein.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-italian-historian-claims-to-have-found-location-of-bridge-in-mona-lisa-painting-588723">Italian historian claims to have found location of bridge in Mona Lisa painting</a></p>

<p>The customer was told by Bouaziz that the pieces, which were being sold by him for prices ranging between $75,000 and $240,000, were all authentic originals and that some pieces have been signed by the artists themselves, stated investigators.<br />
<br />
Officials stated that Bouaziz was made a down payment of $200,000 by the customer which was deposited into the account of Bouaziz, and then the comingled funds were transferred to other accounts. In reality, the paintings were reproductions purchased in online auctions.</p>

<h2><strong>Appeal for 'reasonable' sentence to&nbsp;Bouaziz</strong></h2>

<p>The judge was appealed to give a “reasonable” sentence to Bouaziz, considering his age and poor health.<br />
<br />
“While Bouaziz may (have) been generous to some, as countless people claim in their letters of support to this court, he was defrauding others,” stated Assistant US Attorney Sarah Schall.<br />
<br />
“Bouaziz won people over with his philanthropy, high-end vehicles, ties to the local synagogue, invitations to lunch, history as an opera singer, art events and more,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Van Gogh 360 degree debuts in India, a new digital immersive art travelling exhibition</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/van-gogh-360-degree-debuts-in-india-a-new-digital-immersive-art-travelling-exhibition-557432/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In a sentencing memorandum, federal prosecutors noted that Bouaziz “knew some of the pieces he sold were not genuine”. They added that, in one instance, he sold fraudulent art for $25,0000 to an undercover agent.<br />
<br />
The prosecutors said that Bouaziz had won over many people in Palm Beach with his luxury cars, invitations to art events and lunch and his philanthropy. They added that Bouaziz's generosity belied a darker reality. “Bouaziz painted a picture of himself that he wanted others to see and believe,” they stated.<br />
<br />
Bouaziz was charged in June after an investigation which involved serving search warrants at his galleries, reviewing his financial records as well as undercover purchases of what has been deemed to be fraudulent art.</p>

<main>
<section>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A court in the US sentenced an art dealer to two years and three months imprisonment on Tuesday (May 30) after he was found involved in a scheme which was aimed at the sale of fake Andy Warhol paintings.

A court in the US sentenced an art dealer to two years and three months imprisonment on Tuesday (May 30) after he was found involved in a scheme which was aimed at the sale of fake Andy Warhol paintings. Daniel Elie Bouaziz,69, was sentenced in Fort Pierce federal court in South Florida. In February, he pleaded guilty to a single count of money laundering, while prosecutors decided to drop 16 other counts which are related to embezzlement and fraud. A fine of $15,000 was imposed on Bouaziz, and the court will hold a restitution hearing on August 16. Prosecutors stated that Palm Beach County's Danieli Fine Art and Galerie Danieli's owner Bouaziz sold counterfeit artworks in October 2021 to a customer, which included pieces purportedly by Warhol. He also sold fake paintings by Keith Haring, Henri Matisse and Roy Lichtenstein. ALSO READ | Italian historian claims to have found location of bridge in Mona Lisa painting The customer was told by Bouaziz that the pieces, which were being sold by him for prices ranging between $75,000 and $240,000, were all authentic originals and that some pieces have been signed by the artists themselves, stated investigators. Officials stated that Bouaziz was made a down payment of $200,000 by the customer which was deposited into the account of Bouaziz, and then the comingled funds were transferred to other accounts. In reality, the paintings were reproductions purchased in online auctions. Appeal for 'reasonable' sentence to Bouaziz The judge was appealed to give a “reasonable” sentence to Bouaziz, considering his age and poor health. “While Bouaziz may (have) been generous to some, as countless people claim in their letters of support to this court, he was defrauding others,” stated Assistant US Attorney Sarah Schall. “Bouaziz won people over with his philanthropy, high-end vehicles, ties to the local synagogue, invitations to lunch, history as an opera singer, art events and more,” he added. WATCH | Van Gogh 360 degree debuts in India, a new digital immersive art travelling exhibition In a sentencing memorandum, federal prosecutors noted that Bouaziz “knew some of the pieces he sold were not genuine”. They added that, in one instance, he sold fraudulent art for $25,0000 to an undercover agent. The prosecutors said that Bouaziz had won over many people in Palm Beach with his luxury cars, invitations to art events and lunch and his philanthropy. They added that Bouaziz's generosity belied a darker reality. “Bouaziz painted a picture of himself that he wanted others to see and believe,” they stated. Bouaziz was charged in June after an investigation which involved serving search warrants at his galleries, reviewing his financial records as well as undercover purchases of what has been deemed to be fraudulent art. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Art dealer faces two years in prison for selling fake Andy Warhol paintings

<p>With a lack of jobs for thousands of students graduating every year and a shortage of factory labour because of an ageing workforce, the job market imbalance is deepening in China, with&nbsp;graduates&nbsp;who are failing to land a job opting for manual labour.<br />
<br />
Applied maths graduate Liang Huaxiao, explaining her failure at landing a job in one of the tech giants of China, said, "Finding a job has been really difficult. I told my family that I'm willing to take up manual labour and my mum straight-up cried. She felt so sorry for me."<br />
<br />
In April, the country's youth unemployment hit a record 20.4 per cent, and this summer another batch of 11.58 million university students is ready to graduate.<br />
<br />
The graduates will be competing for jobs in what is one of the fastest-growing major economies of the world, but also a country whose manufacturing-heavy structure is out of step with the younger generation's aspirations.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-drilling-10000-metre-deep-hole-into-earths-crust-heres-why-599062">China drilling 10,000-metre deep hole into Earth's crust. Here's why</a></p>

<p>In recent years, the industries which are popular among fresh graduates, like tech, education, real estate and finance, have faced regulatory crackdowns.<br />
<br />
Even though some measures were rolled back, business sentiment is showing a slow recovery. Private investment increased only by 0.4 per cent in January-April, while state investment rose by 9.4 per cent.<br />
<br />
"China's education raced ahead of the economy, which means that more diplomas were handed out than were needed by a manufacturing-based economy," stated Keyu Jin, author of The New China Playbook, which tells of the economic ascent of the country. "There's a big mismatch between expectations and the reality of the economic circumstances,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Roll up your sleeves'</strong></h2>

<p>It still remains unclear how many graduates are opting for jobs which are below their skill level, however, the trend has been acknowledged by the state media. Young graduates have been encouraged by the state media editorials to "roll up their sleeves".<br />
<br />
Youngsters have been repeatedly exhorted by President Xi Jinping to "seek hardships" in a state media article, which talked about his suffering during the Cultural Revolution.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India and China hold in-person diplomatic talks in New Delhi | 'Frank and open' discussions</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-and-china-hold-in-person-diplomatic-talks-in-new-delhi-frank-and-open-discussions-598999/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>State-owned enterprises have been appealed by the government to recruit more university graduates and expand vocational training schools which can fill shortages in advanced manufacturing.<br />
<br />
Some local governments, like that of Shanghai, have been offering employment subsidies to firms which are hiring 2023 graduates.<br />
<br />
Few high-skilled roles are being offered by the service industries which are at the forefront of the post-pandemic recovery of China.<br />
<br />
"Many white-collar service positions have vanished,” stated Chim Lee, an analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit. "Jobs being created are predominantly in areas not requiring higher education, such as catering and tourism,” he added.</p>

<main>
<section>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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With a lack of jobs for thousands of students graduating every year and a shortage of factory labour because of an ageing workforce, the job market imbalance is deepening in China, with graduates who are failing to land a job opting for manual labour.

With a lack of jobs for thousands of students graduating every year and a shortage of factory labour because of an ageing workforce, the job market imbalance is deepening in China, with graduates who are failing to land a job opting for manual labour. Applied maths graduate Liang Huaxiao, explaining her failure at landing a job in one of the tech giants of China, said, "Finding a job has been really difficult. I told my family that I'm willing to take up manual labour and my mum straight-up cried. She felt so sorry for me." In April, the country's youth unemployment hit a record 20.4 per cent, and this summer another batch of 11.58 million university students is ready to graduate. The graduates will be competing for jobs in what is one of the fastest-growing major economies of the world, but also a country whose manufacturing-heavy structure is out of step with the younger generation's aspirations. ALSO READ | China drilling 10,000-metre deep hole into Earth's crust. Here's why In recent years, the industries which are popular among fresh graduates, like tech, education, real estate and finance, have faced regulatory crackdowns. Even though some measures were rolled back, business sentiment is showing a slow recovery. Private investment increased only by 0.4 per cent in January-April, while state investment rose by 9.4 per cent. "China's education raced ahead of the economy, which means that more diplomas were handed out than were needed by a manufacturing-based economy," stated Keyu Jin, author of The New China Playbook, which tells of the economic ascent of the country. "There's a big mismatch between expectations and the reality of the economic circumstances,” he added. 'Roll up your sleeves' It still remains unclear how many graduates are opting for jobs which are below their skill level, however, the trend has been acknowledged by the state media. Young graduates have been encouraged by the state media editorials to "roll up their sleeves". Youngsters have been repeatedly exhorted by President Xi Jinping to "seek hardships" in a state media article, which talked about his suffering during the Cultural Revolution. WATCH | India and China hold in-person diplomatic talks in New Delhi | 'Frank and open' discussions State-owned enterprises have been appealed by the government to recruit more university graduates and expand vocational training schools which can fill shortages in advanced manufacturing. Some local governments, like that of Shanghai, have been offering employment subsidies to firms which are hiring 2023 graduates. Few high-skilled roles are being offered by the service industries which are at the forefront of the post-pandemic recovery of China. "Many white-collar service positions have vanished,” stated Chim Lee, an analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit. "Jobs being created are predominantly in areas not requiring higher education, such as catering and tourism,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ambitions of Chinese graduates die a slow death in moribund jobs market

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements.</p>

<p>Speaking about his visit to Nepal&nbsp;in 2014, Indian PM Modi said that&nbsp;he had offered&nbsp;a 'hit formula' to improve relations between India and Nepal&nbsp;and that&nbsp;the agreements signed would help that relationship become a 'super hit'.</p>

<p>"I remember... nine years ago, in 2014, I made my first visit to Nepal. At that time I had given a 'hit' formula for India-Nepal relations - highways, I-ways, and trans-ways. I said we will establish such contacts that our borders do not become barriers. Today, the Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit," Modi stated.</p>

<p>"We will continue to strive to take India-Nepal ties to Himalayan heights," he added. On Wednesday, the Nepalese prime minister embarked on his four-day visit to India.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳 🇳🇵| Deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> greets PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. <a href="https://t.co/oxRo7bxROo">pic.twitter.com/oxRo7bxROo</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664149331165999104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The visit to India marks the first bilateral trip of Prachanda abroad after the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader came to power in December 2022.</p>

<p>After PM Modi welcomed "Prachanda"&nbsp;at the Hyderabad House, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, "Deepening the bonds of friendship and co-operation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Transforming India-Nepal civilizational ties.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> hold discussions on ways to take the special &amp; unique 🇮🇳-🇳🇵 relationship to greater heights. <a href="https://t.co/xFIyjXRFyu">pic.twitter.com/xFIyjXRFyu</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664155062220775425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Delegation-level talks were also held between PM Modi and Prachanda. Tweeting about the talks, Bagchi stated, “Agenda includes bolstering our age-old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of the economy, energy, infrastructure, education &amp; people to people contacts.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delegation level talks led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> of Nepal get underway.<br />
<br />
Agenda includes bolstering our age old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of economy, energy, infrastructure, education &amp; people to people contacts. <a href="https://t.co/LUAHRWda2U">pic.twitter.com/LUAHRWda2U</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664163592219029504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<h2><strong>Cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs yard flagged off</strong></h2>

<p>Post the delegation-level talks, the two prime ministers&nbsp;jointly unveiled the e-plaque of the Kurtha-Bijalpura section of the Railway and flagged off the Indian Railway cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs Yard.</p>

<p>The two leaders exchanged agreements. After this PM Modi, addressing the joint press conference said, "Transit agreements have been signed today. We have established new rail links to increase physical connectivity. Long term power trade agreement has been established between India and Nepal today. This will give strength to the power sector of our countries. The religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are very old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to Ramayana Circuit should be expedited."</p>

<p>"I had said that we will establish such contacts between India-Nepal that our borders do not become barriers between us. Today Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit in the future," he added.</p>

<h2>The Ramayana Circuit</h2>

<p>During the joint press conference, Modi stated, "Religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to the Ramayana Circuit - one of 15 tourism circuits identified for development - should be expedited."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepalese-pm-embarks-on-crucial-indian-visit-aimed-at-boosting-energy-and-trade-598858">Nepalese PM embarks on crucial India visit aimed at boosting energy and trade</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Prachanda's&nbsp;fourth visit to India</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Prachanda said, "This is my fourth visit to India. The relationship between India and Nepal is age-old. Today we discussed steps to strengthen the ties between both nations. We also jointly launched many groundbreaking projects. I have extended a cordial invitation to PM Modi to visit Nepal. I look forward to welcoming him to Nepal. I also urge PM Modi, to resolve the border issues with bilateral talks."</p>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Dahal laid a wreath at Raj Ghat in the capital city of New Delhi. He also wrote a message in the visitor's book present at Raj Ghat.<br />
<br />
"PM @cmprachanda of Nepal paid solemn tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat," wrote India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter.</p>

<p>The Nepalese prime minister is on an official visit to India from May 31-June 3. This marks his fourth visit to India. Prachanda reached New Delhi on Wednesday and received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi.<br />
<br />
India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, informing about PM Dahal's arrival tweeted, "Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi, PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship."<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, PM Dahal held talks with India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.<br />
<br />
Along with the official engagements, Dahal will also visit Indore and Ujjain, as part of his bilateral visit. During his visit, the two countries will work on the successes achieved in the bilateral partnerships by India and Nepal during previous high-level visits.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Nepal PM Dahal to meet India's PM Modi, to sign hydropower &amp; airline deals</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-pm-dahal-to-meet-indias-pm-modi-to-sign-hydropower-airline-deals-599011/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>During his official visit, Nepal Prime Minister Dahal will also hold talks with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, Nepal's ambassador to India Shankar P Sharma called Pushpa Kamal Dahal's trip to India a "goodwill visit" and stated that it "will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height".<br />
<br />
In a statement issued last week about the visit of Prachanda to India, Nepal's foreign ministry stated that the tour would "further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted, and cordial relations" between both nations.</p>

<main>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements. Speaking about his visit to Nepal in 2014, Indian PM Modi said that he had offered a 'hit formula' to improve relations between India and Nepal and that the agreements signed would help that relationship become a 'super hit'. "I remember... nine years ago, in 2014, I made my first visit to Nepal. At that time I had given a 'hit' formula for India-Nepal relations - highways, I-ways, and trans-ways. I said we will establish such contacts that our borders do not become barriers. Today, the Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit," Modi stated. "We will continue to strive to take India-Nepal ties to Himalayan heights," he added. On Wednesday, the Nepalese prime minister embarked on his four-day visit to India. 🇮🇳 🇳🇵| Deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. pic.twitter.com/oxRo7bxROo — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × The visit to India marks the first bilateral trip of Prachanda abroad after the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader came to power in December 2022. After PM Modi welcomed "Prachanda" at the Hyderabad House, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, "Deepening the bonds of friendship and co-operation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks.” Transforming India-Nepal civilizational ties. PM @narendramodi and PM @cmprachanda hold discussions on ways to take the special & unique 🇮🇳-🇳🇵 relationship to greater heights. pic.twitter.com/xFIyjXRFyu — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × Delegation-level talks were also held between PM Modi and Prachanda. Tweeting about the talks, Bagchi stated, “Agenda includes bolstering our age-old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of the economy, energy, infrastructure, education & people to people contacts.” Delegation level talks led by PM @narendramodi and PM @cmprachanda of Nepal get underway. Agenda includes bolstering our age old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of economy, energy, infrastructure, education & people to people contacts. pic.twitter.com/LUAHRWda2U — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × Cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs yard flagged off Post the delegation-level talks, the two prime ministers jointly unveiled the e-plaque of the Kurtha-Bijalpura section of the Railway and flagged off the Indian Railway cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs Yard. The two leaders exchanged agreements. After this PM Modi, addressing the joint press conference said, "Transit agreements have been signed today. We have established new rail links to increase physical connectivity. Long term power trade agreement has been established between India and Nepal today. This will give strength to the power sector of our countries. The religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are very old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to Ramayana Circuit should be expedited." "I had said that we will establish such contacts between India-Nepal that our borders do not become barriers between us. Today Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit in the future," he added. The Ramayana Circuit During the joint press conference, Modi stated, "Religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to the Ramayana Circuit - one of 15 tourism circuits identified for development - should be expedited." ALSO READ | Nepalese PM embarks on crucial India visit aimed at boosting energy and trade PM Prachanda's fourth visit to India Meanwhile, Prachanda said, "This is my fourth visit to India. The relationship between India and Nepal is age-old. Today we discussed steps to strengthen the ties between both nations. We also jointly launched many groundbreaking projects. I have extended a cordial invitation to PM Modi to visit Nepal. I look forward to welcoming him to Nepal. I also urge PM Modi, to resolve the border issues with bilateral talks." Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Dahal laid a wreath at Raj Ghat in the capital city of New Delhi. He also wrote a message in the visitor's book present at Raj Ghat. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal paid solemn tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat," wrote India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter. The Nepalese prime minister is on an official visit to India from May 31-June 3. This marks his fourth visit to India. Prachanda reached New Delhi on Wednesday and received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi. India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, informing about PM Dahal's arrival tweeted, "Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi, PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship." On Wednesday, PM Dahal held talks with India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Along with the official engagements, Dahal will also visit Indore and Ujjain, as part of his bilateral visit. During his visit, the two countries will work on the successes achieved in the bilateral partnerships by India and Nepal during previous high-level visits. WATCH | Nepal PM Dahal to meet India's PM Modi, to sign hydropower & airline deals During his official visit, Nepal Prime Minister Dahal will also hold talks with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. On Wednesday, Nepal's ambassador to India Shankar P Sharma called Pushpa Kamal Dahal's trip to India a "goodwill visit" and stated that it "will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height". In a statement issued last week about the visit of Prachanda to India, Nepal's foreign ministry stated that the tour would "further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted, and cordial relations" between both nations. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Making our partnership superhit', says PM Modi on talks with Nepalese counterpart Prachanda

<p>Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet.<br />
<br />
China has started drilling to create what will be the deepest borehole ever made in the country. The drilling started in the oil-rich Tarim Basin, in northwest China's Xinjiang region on Tuesday, reported the official Xinhua News Agency.<br />
<br />
The operation kicked off at 11:46 am on Tuesday. The construction of the borehole is a landmark event in the deep-Earth exploration of China, providing the nation with an unprecedented opportunity to study areas of Earth which are deep beneath the surface.<br />
<br />
The borehole is being constructed in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, which is China's largest desert.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-enhancing-its-air-power-along-lac-reveal-new-satellite-images-599013">China enhances air power along Line of Actual Control, reveal satellite images</a></p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday morning, for the first time, China's civilian astronaut was sent into space from the Gobi Desert.</p>

<h2><strong>Narrow shaft to reach&nbsp;cretaceous system in Earth's crust</strong></h2>

<p>The narrow shaft which is being constructed inside the ground, along with the drill bits and drill pipes which weigh more than 2,000 tonnes, will reach the cretaceous system in the Earth's crust after penetrating more than 10 layers of rocks or continental strata, as per the report.<br />
<br />
The cretaceous system of the Earth features rock that date back some 145 million years.<br />
<br />
Technical expert Wang Chunsheng, who recently joined the operation, stated that drilling a borehole which is more than 10,000 metres deep is a bold step to explore the Earth's unknown territory and enhance the boundaries of human understanding.<br />
<br />
"The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables," said Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, while speaking to Xinhua.<br />
<br />
The Tarim Basin, where the borehole is being constructed, is one of the toughest areas to explore because of its harsh ground environment along with complicated underground conditions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;China: Xi Jinping warns state security becoming complex, says 'more security challenges lie ahead'</strong></p>

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<p>While addressing the leading scientists of the nation in 2021, President Xi Jinping in his speech had called for greater progress in the exploration of deep Earth.<br />
<br />
Such explorations help in identifying mineral and energy resources and assessing the risks of environmental disasters, like volcano eruptions and earthquakes.<br />
<br />
The Earth's deepest man-made hole is the Russian Kola Superdeep Borehole, which was drilled for 20 years to reach a depth of 12,262 metres (40,230 feet) in 1989.<br />
<br />
According to a BBC report, the Kola Superdeep Borehole is so deep that locals claim one can hear the moans of souls who get tortured in hell.</p>

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Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet.

Chinese scientists have started drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the crust of the Earth, as the second largest economy of the world is exploring new frontiers not just above but below the surface of the planet. China has started drilling to create what will be the deepest borehole ever made in the country. The drilling started in the oil-rich Tarim Basin, in northwest China's Xinjiang region on Tuesday, reported the official Xinhua News Agency. The operation kicked off at 11:46 am on Tuesday. The construction of the borehole is a landmark event in the deep-Earth exploration of China, providing the nation with an unprecedented opportunity to study areas of Earth which are deep beneath the surface. The borehole is being constructed in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, which is China's largest desert. ALSO READ | China enhances air power along Line of Actual Control, reveal satellite images Earlier on Tuesday morning, for the first time, China's civilian astronaut was sent into space from the Gobi Desert. Narrow shaft to reach cretaceous system in Earth's crust The narrow shaft which is being constructed inside the ground, along with the drill bits and drill pipes which weigh more than 2,000 tonnes, will reach the cretaceous system in the Earth's crust after penetrating more than 10 layers of rocks or continental strata, as per the report. The cretaceous system of the Earth features rock that date back some 145 million years. Technical expert Wang Chunsheng, who recently joined the operation, stated that drilling a borehole which is more than 10,000 metres deep is a bold step to explore the Earth's unknown territory and enhance the boundaries of human understanding. "The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables," said Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, while speaking to Xinhua. The Tarim Basin, where the borehole is being constructed, is one of the toughest areas to explore because of its harsh ground environment along with complicated underground conditions. WATCH | China: Xi Jinping warns state security becoming complex, says 'more security challenges lie ahead' While addressing the leading scientists of the nation in 2021, President Xi Jinping in his speech had called for greater progress in the exploration of deep Earth. Such explorations help in identifying mineral and energy resources and assessing the risks of environmental disasters, like volcano eruptions and earthquakes. The Earth's deepest man-made hole is the Russian Kola Superdeep Borehole, which was drilled for 20 years to reach a depth of 12,262 metres (40,230 feet) in 1989. According to a BBC report, the Kola Superdeep Borehole is so deep that locals claim one can hear the moans of souls who get tortured in hell. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China drilling 10,000-metre deep hole into Earth's crust. Here's why

<p>The expansion of airfields by China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2020 has enhanced its military's capabilities to conduct multiple ranges of operations and counter comparative advantages of India in some areas, as per an analysis of recent satellite imagery.<br />
<br />
The report on the analysis of the satellite imagery from LAC was published by the Hindustan Times.<br />
<br />
The changes observed in the satellite imagery since the military standoff began in May 2020 on the LAC show that Beijing has been massively expanding airfields, helipads, railway facilities, missile bases, roads and bridges.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-cautions-top-chinese-officials-to-prepare-for-worst-case-scenarios-598918">Xi Jinping tells national security team to prepare for ‘worst case scenarios’, warns of ‘stormy seas’</a></p>

<h2><strong>China's expansion boosts&nbsp;offensive capabilities</strong></h2>

<p>The expansion is being carried out for creating a range of offensive capabilities and for the faster deployment of troops, stated he report published by the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The analysis of satellite images of airfields at Hotan, Ngari Gunsa and Lhasa shows the Chinese authorities have either expanded their facilities by creating new runways and hardened shelters, which are designed for the protection of combat jets, and constructing new military operations and support buildings.<br />
<br />
The three airfields of China were selected for analysis due to their locations, which were opposite strategic positions of India and on the basis of their use in current operations amid a military standoff with India, which has severely hit the bilateral relations between the two countries.<br />
<br />
According to the report, the Intel Lab's geo-intelligence researcher Damien Symon said that developments which have surfaced at these three airfields and even at other regions along the border clearly indicate “China’s strategic intention to bolster its military capabilities and offset India’s advantages in the area”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India and China hold in-person diplomatic talks in New Delhi | 'Frank and open' discussions</strong></p>

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<p>“The ongoing construction activities, along with significant and diverse deployments at these sites, including the use of UAVs and advanced aircraft, underscore China’s efforts to enhance its offensive capabilities, especially in light of the active border situation with India,” he added.<br />
<br />
“It is crucial to recognise these developments fundamentally transform the dynamics of air warfare, extending China’s operational range and presenting challenges to India’s deterrence strategies,” Symon further stated.<br />
<br />
Air Vice Marshal (retired) Manmohan Bahadur, who had once served as an aviator in the Ladakh region, stated that the Chinese government has used the last three years to find ways for countering the comparative advantages of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) in the region.<br />
<br />
“The IAF could carry the war to them because of these advantages. Most of the Indian airbases are along the foothills and the aircraft could take off with larger [weapons] payload,” said Bahadur, while speaking to the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

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The expansion of airfields by China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2020 has enhanced its military's capabilities to conduct multiple ranges of operations and counter comparative advantages of India in some areas, as per an analysis of recent satellite imagery.

The expansion of airfields by China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2020 has enhanced its military's capabilities to conduct multiple ranges of operations and counter comparative advantages of India in some areas, as per an analysis of recent satellite imagery. The report on the analysis of the satellite imagery from LAC was published by the Hindustan Times. The changes observed in the satellite imagery since the military standoff began in May 2020 on the LAC show that Beijing has been massively expanding airfields, helipads, railway facilities, missile bases, roads and bridges. ALSO READ | Xi Jinping tells national security team to prepare for ‘worst case scenarios’, warns of ‘stormy seas’ China's expansion boosts offensive capabilities The expansion is being carried out for creating a range of offensive capabilities and for the faster deployment of troops, stated he report published by the Hindustan Times. The analysis of satellite images of airfields at Hotan, Ngari Gunsa and Lhasa shows the Chinese authorities have either expanded their facilities by creating new runways and hardened shelters, which are designed for the protection of combat jets, and constructing new military operations and support buildings. The three airfields of China were selected for analysis due to their locations, which were opposite strategic positions of India and on the basis of their use in current operations amid a military standoff with India, which has severely hit the bilateral relations between the two countries. According to the report, the Intel Lab's geo-intelligence researcher Damien Symon said that developments which have surfaced at these three airfields and even at other regions along the border clearly indicate “China’s strategic intention to bolster its military capabilities and offset India’s advantages in the area”. WATCH | India and China hold in-person diplomatic talks in New Delhi | 'Frank and open' discussions “The ongoing construction activities, along with significant and diverse deployments at these sites, including the use of UAVs and advanced aircraft, underscore China’s efforts to enhance its offensive capabilities, especially in light of the active border situation with India,” he added. “It is crucial to recognise these developments fundamentally transform the dynamics of air warfare, extending China’s operational range and presenting challenges to India’s deterrence strategies,” Symon further stated. Air Vice Marshal (retired) Manmohan Bahadur, who had once served as an aviator in the Ladakh region, stated that the Chinese government has used the last three years to find ways for countering the comparative advantages of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) in the region. “The IAF could carry the war to them because of these advantages. Most of the Indian airbases are along the foothills and the aircraft could take off with larger [weapons] payload,” said Bahadur, while speaking to the Hindustan Times. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China enhances air power along Line of Actual Control, reveal satellite images: Report

<p>A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up.</p>

<p>Around 1,000 and 1,200 black bears live in Connecticut, as per the state environmental agency, with 158 sightings recorded last year in &nbsp;169 towns and cities of the state.</p>

<p>In an Instagram post, bakery owner Miriam Stephens stated that she heard her employee Maureen Williams “screaming bloody murder” and shouting that a bear has entered the garage.</p>

<p>She further shared an image of half-eaten cupcakes and empty trays lying on the pavement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bear-aware-police-rescue-curious-bear-trapped-inside-car-watch-video-598360">&nbsp;'Bear-aware': Police rescue curious bear trapped inside car. Watch video</a></p>

<h2><strong>Real Story&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Alongside, the owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident.</p>

<p>“Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote.</p>

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<p>“The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes and a bunch of coconut cakes. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe and wasn't hurt, as well as the rest of the team. We do not have video or pictures - that was the last thing on our mind,” she further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting on the same, an Instagram user joked, “Glad you guys are ok - let’s hope this bear isn’t a gossip!”.</p>

<p>“Bear necessities,” stated another.</p>

<p>“That is SO scary!! So glad everyone’s ok,” said a third user.</p>

<p>“Holy macaroni!!!!! Definitely pretty scary!!! And now....the bear knows where the goods are!!!!!!” wrote a fourth user.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russian 'spy whale' spotted near Sweden</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Video of the bizarre incident</strong></h2>

<p>Recently a video of the bizarre incident was posted by the owner on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The video you’ve all been waiting for. Enjoy! A few facts: No bears will be harmed. They have not hurt anyone and will be totally ok. No need to worry! This video was 10 minutes that we cut to 30 seconds. So yes, all the facts we put out there are true. Why was our door up? Because we were about to make our shop deliveries. We’re not irresponsible. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We all have had a good laugh about it at this point and think the bears are cute,” she wrote while sharing the video.</p>

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<p>Various reactions of people poured in on the video. “I mean- he’s got good taste!!” said a Facebook user.</p>

<p>“I laughed everything funnier sped up!” added another. “Kinda what I look like when I get cupcakes from you guys. I'm glad everyone is safe!!” stated a third. “A new customer,” wrote a fourth user.</p>

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A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up.

A hungry black bear broke into the garage of a Connecticut bakery and gobbled up 60 cupcakes before going away, as several scared employees watched helplessly. The employees at Taste by Spellbound, located in the town of Avon, were busy loading a van with cakes on Wednesday for delivery when the bear showed up. Around 1,000 and 1,200 black bears live in Connecticut, as per the state environmental agency, with 158 sightings recorded last year in 169 towns and cities of the state. In an Instagram post, bakery owner Miriam Stephens stated that she heard her employee Maureen Williams “screaming bloody murder” and shouting that a bear has entered the garage. She further shared an image of half-eaten cupcakes and empty trays lying on the pavement. ALSO READ | 'Bear-aware': Police rescue curious bear trapped inside car. Watch video Real Story Alongside, the owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident. “Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miriam Hope (@tastebyspellbound) × “The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes and a bunch of coconut cakes. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe and wasn't hurt, as well as the rest of the team. We do not have video or pictures - that was the last thing on our mind,” she further stated. Reacting on the same, an Instagram user joked, “Glad you guys are ok - let’s hope this bear isn’t a gossip!”. “Bear necessities,” stated another. “That is SO scary!! So glad everyone’s ok,” said a third user. “Holy macaroni!!!!! Definitely pretty scary!!! And now....the bear knows where the goods are!!!!!!” wrote a fourth user. WATCH | Gravitas: Russian 'spy whale' spotted near Sweden Video of the bizarre incident Recently a video of the bizarre incident was posted by the owner on social media. “The video you’ve all been waiting for. Enjoy! A few facts: No bears will be harmed. They have not hurt anyone and will be totally ok. No need to worry! This video was 10 minutes that we cut to 30 seconds. So yes, all the facts we put out there are true. Why was our door up? Because we were about to make our shop deliveries. We’re not irresponsible. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We all have had a good laugh about it at this point and think the bears are cute,” she wrote while sharing the video. × Various reactions of people poured in on the video. “I mean- he’s got good taste!!” said a Facebook user. “I laughed everything funnier sped up!” added another. “Kinda what I look like when I get cupcakes from you guys. I'm glad everyone is safe!!” stated a third. “A new customer,” wrote a fourth user. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Bear breaks into US bakery, gobbles up dozens of cupcakes

<p>Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes reached the federal prison on Tuesday to start her 11-year sentence. 39-year-old Holmes was last year convicted on four counts of fraud related to her failed blood testing start-up.</p>

<p>In mid-May, a request for bail made by Holmes was rejected by a court while they considered a challenge filed against the original conviction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The founder will be serving her prison sentence in a minimum-security prison in Texas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Holmes reached the federal facility in Bryan, Texas on Tuesday. The prison currently has around 500 and 700 inmates. The prison is located about 100 miles (160km) north of Houston, which is her hometown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed her arrival at the facility, which refused to give any more details about Holmes' imprisonment, citing privacy concerns.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-theranos-founder-elizabeth-holmes-heads-to-prison-what-was-the-scam-all-about-598509">Explained: Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes heads to prison. What was the blood-testing scam about?</a></p>

<p>In the prison, Holmes,&nbsp;who was once considered as the youngest self-made billionaire in the world, may have to work alongside other prison inmates for earning a mere 12 cents (10p) and $1.15 (93p) an hour. A large amount of money earned by Holmes in prison will go towards her court-mandated restitution payments.</p>

<h2><strong>Holmes' partner serves prison sentence</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in May, &nbsp;Holmes and her former romantic and business partner, ex-Theranos boss Ramesh 'Sunny'&nbsp;Balwani were ordered by a US judge to pay $452 million to victims.</p>

<p>Balwani has been serving 13-year imprisonment in California for the role he played in the scam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pair together have been accused of duping some of the most prominent and richest investors of the world,&nbsp;which includes media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and former US Treasury Secretary George Shultz,&nbsp;who had backed Theranos.</p>

<p>The firm, which was once valued at $9 billion, had promised to be possessing the technology which can detect health conditions like diabetes with just a few drops of blood. However, the technology never came to work. Finally, the company collapsed in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Texas prison camp&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Texas prison camp, where Holmes has been imprisoned, is a sprawling 37-acre facility. Most inmates in the prison have been convicted for low-level drug dealing, non-violent crimes or white-collar offences.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes sentenced to 11 years in prison for defrauding investors</strong></p>

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<p>According to the handbook of the facility, a prisoner is generally busy with work and extracurricular activities which include foreign language, computer literacy or business courses.</p>

<p>Holmes had made all possible efforts to stay out of prison. She had stated that a delay would permit her to raise "substantial questions" about the case which could warrant a new trial.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes reached the federal prison on Tuesday to start her 11-year sentence. 39-year-old Holmes was last year convicted on four counts of fraud related to her failed blood testing start-up.

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes reached the federal prison on Tuesday to start her 11-year sentence. 39-year-old Holmes was last year convicted on four counts of fraud related to her failed blood testing start-up. In mid-May, a request for bail made by Holmes was rejected by a court while they considered a challenge filed against the original conviction. The founder will be serving her prison sentence in a minimum-security prison in Texas. Holmes reached the federal facility in Bryan, Texas on Tuesday. The prison currently has around 500 and 700 inmates. The prison is located about 100 miles (160km) north of Houston, which is her hometown. The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed her arrival at the facility, which refused to give any more details about Holmes' imprisonment, citing privacy concerns. ALSO READ | Explained: Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes heads to prison. What was the blood-testing scam about? In the prison, Holmes, who was once considered as the youngest self-made billionaire in the world, may have to work alongside other prison inmates for earning a mere 12 cents (10p) and $1.15 (93p) an hour. A large amount of money earned by Holmes in prison will go towards her court-mandated restitution payments. Holmes' partner serves prison sentence Earlier in May, Holmes and her former romantic and business partner, ex-Theranos boss Ramesh 'Sunny' Balwani were ordered by a US judge to pay $452 million to victims. Balwani has been serving 13-year imprisonment in California for the role he played in the scam. The pair together have been accused of duping some of the most prominent and richest investors of the world, which includes media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and former US Treasury Secretary George Shultz, who had backed Theranos. The firm, which was once valued at $9 billion, had promised to be possessing the technology which can detect health conditions like diabetes with just a few drops of blood. However, the technology never came to work. Finally, the company collapsed in 2018. Texas prison camp The Texas prison camp, where Holmes has been imprisoned, is a sprawling 37-acre facility. Most inmates in the prison have been convicted for low-level drug dealing, non-violent crimes or white-collar offences. WATCH | Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes sentenced to 11 years in prison for defrauding investors According to the handbook of the facility, a prisoner is generally busy with work and extracurricular activities which include foreign language, computer literacy or business courses. Holmes had made all possible efforts to stay out of prison. She had stated that a delay would permit her to raise "substantial questions" about the case which could warrant a new trial. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes reaches federal prison to start 11-year sentence

<p>The Sudanese army called off its participation in the ceasefire talks, which were brokered by the US and Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday as it accused its paramilitary foes of not honouring their commitments. Notably, the warring factions have&nbsp;accused each other of cease-fire violations.</p>

<p>The mediators in Jeddah, the Saudi Red Sea city, have acknowledged that both sides have repeatedly violated the truce, but so far no sanctions have been imposed with the hope of keeping the warring parties on the negotiating table.</p>

<p>The army walked out "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings," said a Sudanese government official.</p>

<p>The army stated that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) also "repeatedly violated the truce".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/truce-in-sudan-extended-by-five-days-598095">Sudan: Warring parties agree to extend tottering ceasefire by five days</a></p>

<p>On Monday, US and Saudi mediators said that the warring parties agreed to increase their humanitarian truce, which had been violated frequently in the previous week, by five days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mediators accepted that the truce had been "imperfectly observed", however, it stated that the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts".</p>

<p>However, even after both sides pledged, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in the western region of Darfur and in greater Khartoum&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The army is ready to fight until victory," declared army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan while visiting the troops in the capital.</p>

<p>The RSF, headed by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, stated they will "exercise their right to defend themselves" and held the army responsible for violating the truce.</p>

<h2><strong>Fears of breakdown&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said that the mediators were trying to avoid a complete breakdown of talks, as they feared a major escalation on the ground.</p>

<p>"The mediators know that the situation is bad but they do not want to state that a ceasefire is gone for fear that the situation would then become even worse," stated Verjee, a researcher at Sweden's University of Gothenburg.</p>

<p>"The hope is that by keeping the parties talking, the prospects of arrangements that are better respected will eventually improve," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Refugees flee fighting Sudan</strong></p>

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<p>Since rival security forces started fighting on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, stated the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.</p>

<p>The United Nations stated that more than a million people were internally displaced and around 350,000 have fled abroad, which includes&nbsp;over 170,000 to Egypt.</p>

<p>The UN stated that more than half the population - 25 million people -- now need aid and protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khartoum's entire district no longer has running water and electricity is available to people only for a few hours a week, and almost three-quarters of hospitals are out of service in combat zones.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Sudanese army called off its participation in the ceasefire talks, which were brokered by the US and Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday as it accused its paramilitary foes of not honouring their commitments.

The Sudanese army called off its participation in the ceasefire talks, which were brokered by the US and Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday as it accused its paramilitary foes of not honouring their commitments. Notably, the warring factions have accused each other of cease-fire violations. The mediators in Jeddah, the Saudi Red Sea city, have acknowledged that both sides have repeatedly violated the truce, but so far no sanctions have been imposed with the hope of keeping the warring parties on the negotiating table. The army walked out "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings," said a Sudanese government official. The army stated that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) also "repeatedly violated the truce". ALSO READ | Sudan: Warring parties agree to extend tottering ceasefire by five days On Monday, US and Saudi mediators said that the warring parties agreed to increase their humanitarian truce, which had been violated frequently in the previous week, by five days. The mediators accepted that the truce had been "imperfectly observed", however, it stated that the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts". However, even after both sides pledged, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in the western region of Darfur and in greater Khartoum "The army is ready to fight until victory," declared army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan while visiting the troops in the capital. The RSF, headed by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, stated they will "exercise their right to defend themselves" and held the army responsible for violating the truce. Fears of breakdown Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said that the mediators were trying to avoid a complete breakdown of talks, as they feared a major escalation on the ground. "The mediators know that the situation is bad but they do not want to state that a ceasefire is gone for fear that the situation would then become even worse," stated Verjee, a researcher at Sweden's University of Gothenburg. "The hope is that by keeping the parties talking, the prospects of arrangements that are better respected will eventually improve," he added. WATCH | Refugees flee fighting Sudan Since rival security forces started fighting on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, stated the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations stated that more than a million people were internally displaced and around 350,000 have fled abroad, which includes over 170,000 to Egypt. The UN stated that more than half the population - 25 million people -- now need aid and protection. Khartoum's entire district no longer has running water and electricity is available to people only for a few hours a week, and almost three-quarters of hospitals are out of service in combat zones. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sudan negotiation talks fall apart as warring factions blame each other for ceasefire violations

<p>As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started&nbsp;spreading its tentacles.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The positivity rate has increased by 36 per cent in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels. Although the percentages were high in April, they decreased in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report published by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that there has been a decrease in positivity rates during the warmer months, which is similar to what has been observed in flu and colds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data states that the Antigen detection rate and PCR detection rate as observed on April 3, 2023, were 19.395 and 10.368, respectively, which decreased to the rate of 0.000 and 2.558, respectively, when observed on May 20, 2023.</p>

<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's report states that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can affect a person's upper and lower respiratory tracts irrespective of their age and have higher vulnerability in older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.</p>

<p>HMPV's severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period for HMPV is around three&nbsp;to six&nbsp;days, and the recovery period from the illness depends on its severity. However, it is similar to other respiratory infections, such as colds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sars-cov-2-virus-can-alter-our-dna-lead-to-long-covid-study-575438">SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is human metapneumovirus?</strong></h2>

<p>First discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, human metapneumovirus is a type of paramyxovirus, which is a family of viruses that cause multiple common infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other paramyxoviruses include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza, measles and mumps.</p>

<p>"This one usually causes a cold — not a big deal in most individuals,” stated Monica Gandhi, an infectious-disease expert at the University of California in San Francisco.</p>

<p>In 2001, experts collected 28 samples from children who were suffering from unexplained respiratory infections. A few children were very ill and needed mechanical ventilation, but their test results didn't show positive for any known pathogens.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is metapneumovirus being discussed?</strong></h2>

<p>There has been a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, just like other respiratory illnesses.</p>

<p>This month, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reported unusual spikes in cases across the United States.</p>

<p>According to virus experts, there has been an increase in the number of viruses, which include RSV. The experts have speculated that this may have occurred as an aftereffect of lockdowns and masking due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per experts, if our systems have small interactions with viruses, it prepares our body to better handle exposure to viruses in future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after years of social distancing and masking in school, children are left with fewer biological defences to fight the exposure to multiple viruses at once.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan Virus wave grips China, again</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What are the symptoms of HPMV?</strong></h2>

<p>The virus, which has been observed to usually make its appearance in spring and winter, most commonly affects the body's upper respiratory tract and leads to nasal congestion, cough and shortness of breath, along with fever. &nbsp;The illness generally lasts three to seven days.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Can HPMV turn into a serious illness?</strong></h2>

<p>Usually, human metapneumovirus is mild, however, the infection can lead to more serious consequences for older adults, young children, older adults and those people with weakened immune systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Human metapneumovirus has been spreading similarly to other viruses through airborne particles which are produced by sneezing or coughing, by coming in physical contact with a person who is carrying the virus, or by handling objects which are contaminated by the virus and then touching the nose, eyes or mouth, according to the CDC.</p>

<p>Gandhi emphasised that the virus can spread even from someone who is asymptomatic. As per a study, at least 38 per cent of infections are recorded as asymptomatic human metapneumovirus infections.</p>

<p>“But the time you’re most infectious in all infectious diseases is when you’re having active symptoms because you’re spreading it — you’re coughing it out through your mouth, you’re sneezing it out through your nose,” Gandhi stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Is there a vaccine for the virus? How is HMPV treated?</strong></h2>

<p>No vaccines have till now being created for human metapneumovirus, and medical treatment for the illness remains limited to supportive care.</p>

<p>“We try to make you feel better and make sure that your breathing is okay while your body fights off the virus,” stated William Schaffner, who is a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Schaffner said that severe cases are rare in which people have been reported to be facing difficulty in breathing. However, he added, “We can put them in an intensive care unit and treat them there,” but generally people fully recover on their own.</p>

<p>"Unlike the novel coronavirus and its variants that cause covid, human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that has been around for decades," Gandhi said.</p>

<p>“Hopefully, in the future, we will actually see advances against human metapneumovirus. But we’ve been living with it for a long time. This is not one that is going to cause a pandemic," she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started spreading its tentacles. In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US.

As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started spreading its tentacles. In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US. The positivity rate has increased by 36 per cent in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels. Although the percentages were high in April, they decreased in May. A report published by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that there has been a decrease in positivity rates during the warmer months, which is similar to what has been observed in flu and colds. The data states that the Antigen detection rate and PCR detection rate as observed on April 3, 2023, were 19.395 and 10.368, respectively, which decreased to the rate of 0.000 and 2.558, respectively, when observed on May 20, 2023. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's report states that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can affect a person's upper and lower respiratory tracts irrespective of their age and have higher vulnerability in older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems. HMPV's severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period for HMPV is around three to six days, and the recovery period from the illness depends on its severity. However, it is similar to other respiratory infections, such as colds. ALSO READ | SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study What is human metapneumovirus? First discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, human metapneumovirus is a type of paramyxovirus, which is a family of viruses that cause multiple common infections. Other paramyxoviruses include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza, measles and mumps. "This one usually causes a cold — not a big deal in most individuals,” stated Monica Gandhi, an infectious-disease expert at the University of California in San Francisco. In 2001, experts collected 28 samples from children who were suffering from unexplained respiratory infections. A few children were very ill and needed mechanical ventilation, but their test results didn't show positive for any known pathogens. Why is metapneumovirus being discussed? There has been a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, just like other respiratory illnesses. This month, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reported unusual spikes in cases across the United States. According to virus experts, there has been an increase in the number of viruses, which include RSV. The experts have speculated that this may have occurred as an aftereffect of lockdowns and masking due to the coronavirus pandemic. As per experts, if our systems have small interactions with viruses, it prepares our body to better handle exposure to viruses in future. However, after years of social distancing and masking in school, children are left with fewer biological defences to fight the exposure to multiple viruses at once. WATCH | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus wave grips China, again What are the symptoms of HPMV? The virus, which has been observed to usually make its appearance in spring and winter, most commonly affects the body's upper respiratory tract and leads to nasal congestion, cough and shortness of breath, along with fever. The illness generally lasts three to seven days. Can HPMV turn into a serious illness? Usually, human metapneumovirus is mild, however, the infection can lead to more serious consequences for older adults, young children, older adults and those people with weakened immune systems. Human metapneumovirus has been spreading similarly to other viruses through airborne particles which are produced by sneezing or coughing, by coming in physical contact with a person who is carrying the virus, or by handling objects which are contaminated by the virus and then touching the nose, eyes or mouth, according to the CDC. Gandhi emphasised that the virus can spread even from someone who is asymptomatic. As per a study, at least 38 per cent of infections are recorded as asymptomatic human metapneumovirus infections. “But the time you’re most infectious in all infectious diseases is when you’re having active symptoms because you’re spreading it — you’re coughing it out through your mouth, you’re sneezing it out through your nose,” Gandhi stated. Is there a vaccine for the virus? How is HMPV treated? No vaccines have till now being created for human metapneumovirus, and medical treatment for the illness remains limited to supportive care. “We try to make you feel better and make sure that your breathing is okay while your body fights off the virus,” stated William Schaffner, who is a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University. Schaffner said that severe cases are rare in which people have been reported to be facing difficulty in breathing. However, he added, “We can put them in an intensive care unit and treat them there,” but generally people fully recover on their own. "Unlike the novel coronavirus and its variants that cause covid, human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that has been around for decades," Gandhi said. “Hopefully, in the future, we will actually see advances against human metapneumovirus. But we’ve been living with it for a long time. This is not one that is going to cause a pandemic," she stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What is HMPV respiratory virus? The most important virus still unheard of

<p>The police stated that a radio broadcaster was shot dead outside his home in the central Philippines on Wednesday, adding to the long list of journalists killed in the country.</p>

<p>50-year-old Cresenciano Bunduquin was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro province, said Colonel Samuel Delorino, while speaking to Agence France-Presse.</p>

<p>After Bunduquin was shot, one of the assailants was killed after the gunmen were hit by Bunduquin’s son with his vehicle as they tried to flee the scene of the attack at pre-dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The remaining suspect was able to run off. The hot pursuit operation is still ongoing,” Delorino stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The archipelago nation has turned out as the most dangerous place for journalists in the world and most of the killers are able to flee and remain unpunished. Radio broadcasters have often become the target outside the capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-mawar-thousands-evacuated-in-philippines-amid-warnings-of-floods-landslides-598080">Typhoon Mawar: Thousands evacuated in Philippines amid floods, landslides warning</a></p>

<p>Since President Ferdinand Marcos came to power in June 2022, Bunduquin is the third journalist who has been murdered.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Broadcaster's ‘hard-hitting’ reports on local issues</strong></h2>

<p>Bunduquin was also the host of a programme which was aired on radio station 101.7 DWXR and on Facebook, stated station manager Jester Joaquin. He added that the broadcaster presented “hard-hitting” reports on local issues.</p>

<p>The radio broadcaster was recently outspoken about a recent oil spill which had affected the province, illegal gambling and politics.</p>

<p>“He told me before that he’s receiving threats but he didn’t elaborate,” Joaquin said, while speaking AFP. “He mentioned to me that he wanted a change in his line of work, that’s why he put up a chicken farm, because he wants to go quiet," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delorino said that police were carrying out an investigation if Bunduquin had an enemy or if he was involved in a personnel quarrel.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Is United States provoking China by using Philippines?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-united-states-provoking-china-by-using-philippines-598516/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The latest killing of a journalist took place a year after radio personality Percival Mabasa was killed in Manila, while he was driving to his studio.</p>

<p>National Union of Journalists of the Philippines chairman Jonathan de Santos said, “Bunduquin’s killing further shows that journalists in the Philippines still operate under threat despite our improvement in the press freedom index and the relatively friendlier relations that media has with the current administration."</p>

<p>“When perpetrators of attacks on media are not held to account and victims of these attacks do not get justice, future attacks become more likely," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The police stated that a radio broadcaster was shot dead outside his home in the central Philippines on Wednesday, adding to the long list of journalists killed in the country.

The police stated that a radio broadcaster was shot dead outside his home in the central Philippines on Wednesday, adding to the long list of journalists killed in the country. 50-year-old Cresenciano Bunduquin was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro province, said Colonel Samuel Delorino, while speaking to Agence France-Presse. After Bunduquin was shot, one of the assailants was killed after the gunmen were hit by Bunduquin’s son with his vehicle as they tried to flee the scene of the attack at pre-dawn. “The remaining suspect was able to run off. The hot pursuit operation is still ongoing,” Delorino stated. The archipelago nation has turned out as the most dangerous place for journalists in the world and most of the killers are able to flee and remain unpunished. Radio broadcasters have often become the target outside the capital. ALSO READ | Typhoon Mawar: Thousands evacuated in Philippines amid floods, landslides warning Since President Ferdinand Marcos came to power in June 2022, Bunduquin is the third journalist who has been murdered. Broadcaster's ‘hard-hitting’ reports on local issues Bunduquin was also the host of a programme which was aired on radio station 101.7 DWXR and on Facebook, stated station manager Jester Joaquin. He added that the broadcaster presented “hard-hitting” reports on local issues. The radio broadcaster was recently outspoken about a recent oil spill which had affected the province, illegal gambling and politics. “He told me before that he’s receiving threats but he didn’t elaborate,” Joaquin said, while speaking AFP. “He mentioned to me that he wanted a change in his line of work, that’s why he put up a chicken farm, because he wants to go quiet," he added. Delorino said that police were carrying out an investigation if Bunduquin had an enemy or if he was involved in a personnel quarrel. WATCH | Is United States provoking China by using Philippines? The latest killing of a journalist took place a year after radio personality Percival Mabasa was killed in Manila, while he was driving to his studio. National Union of Journalists of the Philippines chairman Jonathan de Santos said, “Bunduquin’s killing further shows that journalists in the Philippines still operate under threat despite our improvement in the press freedom index and the relatively friendlier relations that media has with the current administration." “When perpetrators of attacks on media are not held to account and victims of these attacks do not get justice, future attacks become more likely," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Radio broadcaster shot dead by gunman in Philippines, say police

<p>A new study has warned that using the fat of dead pigs, cattle and chickens to make greener jet fuel will adversely affect the planet Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Animal fats are believed to be a waste, so aviation fuel which is made using it is considered to have a lower carbon footprint.</p>

<p>The requirement for fuel which is made using animal by-products is likely to triple by 2030, as airlines lead the charge.</p>

<p>However, experts fear scarcity will lead to other industries using more palm oil, which is a huge generator of carbon emissions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pigs-exported-to-singapore-confirmed-to-have-african-swine-fever-virus-588391">Pigs exported to Singapore from Indonesia confirmed to have African swine fever virus</a></p>

<p>Airlines have been under pressure to control their huge carbon emissions which are generally generated after fossil-based kerosene burns in aircraft engines.</p>

<p>However, a study released by Brussels-based Transport &amp; Environment, which is a clean transport campaign group, emphasised that not enough animals get slaughtered every year to meet the growing demand of airlines for animal fats.</p>

<p>"There's not a never-ending supply of animals or animal fat," stated Matt Finch from Transport &amp; Environment.</p>

<p>"So if you put on a massive extra demand source from anywhere from aviation, in this case, the industries where fat is currently being used, will have to look for alternatives. And that alternative is palm oil. So aviation indirectly, will be responsible for increasing the amount of palm oil being pulled through the European systems," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How many dead pigs are needed to fuel an airplane?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Transport &amp; Environment, a flight from Paris to New York requires fat from 8,800 dead pigs if all the fuel to be used in the aircraft must come from animal sources.</p>

<p>Since the UK is likely to restrict the use of animal products, flights which will get refuelled in Britain are likely to contain small amounts of animal-derived material in their engines.</p>

<p>In the EU, airlines will be given a target of using six&nbsp;per cent sustainable aviation fuel for 2030 of which 1.2 per cent is likely to come from e-kerosene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the remaining 4.8 per cent of fuel is made out of animal fat, it would require around 400 dead pigs for every transatlantic flight.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indonesia confirms African Swine Fever outbreak</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-confirms-african-swine-fever-outbreak-590922/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Pet food manufacturers and many other industries will have to source different ingredients if a greater share of animal fat is consumed by the aviation industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are really valuable ingredients for us and they are hard to replace, and they're put to good use already in a very sustainable way," stated Nicole Paley, deputy chief executive of UK Pet Food, the manufacturers' trade association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So diverting these ingredients to biofuels is actually creating another problem. It would put us in competition with the aviation industry. And when it comes to the purse strings of the aviation sector, the pet food industry would find it really difficult to compete," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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A new study has warned that using the fat of dead pigs, cattle and chickens to make greener jet fuel will adversely affect the planet Earth. Animal fats are believed to be a waste, so aviation fuel which is made using it is considered to have a lower carbon footprint.

A new study has warned that using the fat of dead pigs, cattle and chickens to make greener jet fuel will adversely affect the planet Earth. Animal fats are believed to be a waste, so aviation fuel which is made using it is considered to have a lower carbon footprint. The requirement for fuel which is made using animal by-products is likely to triple by 2030, as airlines lead the charge. However, experts fear scarcity will lead to other industries using more palm oil, which is a huge generator of carbon emissions. ALSO READ | Pigs exported to Singapore from Indonesia confirmed to have African swine fever virus Airlines have been under pressure to control their huge carbon emissions which are generally generated after fossil-based kerosene burns in aircraft engines. However, a study released by Brussels-based Transport & Environment, which is a clean transport campaign group, emphasised that not enough animals get slaughtered every year to meet the growing demand of airlines for animal fats. "There's not a never-ending supply of animals or animal fat," stated Matt Finch from Transport & Environment. "So if you put on a massive extra demand source from anywhere from aviation, in this case, the industries where fat is currently being used, will have to look for alternatives. And that alternative is palm oil. So aviation indirectly, will be responsible for increasing the amount of palm oil being pulled through the European systems," he added. How many dead pigs are needed to fuel an airplane? As per Transport & Environment, a flight from Paris to New York requires fat from 8,800 dead pigs if all the fuel to be used in the aircraft must come from animal sources. Since the UK is likely to restrict the use of animal products, flights which will get refuelled in Britain are likely to contain small amounts of animal-derived material in their engines. In the EU, airlines will be given a target of using six per cent sustainable aviation fuel for 2030 of which 1.2 per cent is likely to come from e-kerosene. If the remaining 4.8 per cent of fuel is made out of animal fat, it would require around 400 dead pigs for every transatlantic flight. WATCH | Indonesia confirms African Swine Fever outbreak Pet food manufacturers and many other industries will have to source different ingredients if a greater share of animal fat is consumed by the aviation industry. "These are really valuable ingredients for us and they are hard to replace, and they're put to good use already in a very sustainable way," stated Nicole Paley, deputy chief executive of UK Pet Food, the manufacturers' trade association. "So diverting these ingredients to biofuels is actually creating another problem. It would put us in competition with the aviation industry. And when it comes to the purse strings of the aviation sector, the pet food industry would find it really difficult to compete," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Use of pig fat for green jet fuel likely to hurt planet, warn experts

<p>Beijing on Wednesday&nbsp;blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane&nbsp;aggressively manoeuvring&nbsp;near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea.</p>

<p>"The United States' long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harm China's national sovereignty and security," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning&nbsp;while speaking&nbsp;about the incident.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;demanded&nbsp;Washington "immediately stop this form of dangerous provocation".</p>

<p>The United States military had earlier stated that a Chinese fighter pilot carried out an “unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre” around an American surveillance aircraft flying over the South China Sea last week.</p>

<p>The incident, which the Pentagon called a common behaviour of China, occurred at a time when tensions had already escalated between Beijing and Washington after the latter shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon which was spotted traversing the skies of the United States. The ties were further strained over the issue of Taiwan as China increased military aggression near the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence” on Friday, stated the Indo-Pacific Command (IndoPaCom) in a statement.</p>

<p>“The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law,” the command added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-us-voice-need-to-bring-stability-to-relations-590308">China and US voice need to bring stability to relations</a></p>

<p>In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane is seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter very audaciously intercepts and derails an American reconnaissance aircraft over the neutral waters of the South China Sea on May 26th. According to SkyNews, the US military has released footage of a Chinese fighter jet making what they say is an… <a href="https://t.co/tfJRNauo1i">pic.twitter.com/tfJRNauo1i</a></p>
— GWAR69 🇩🇰🇺🇦 (@GwarWorin) <a href="https://twitter.com/GwarWorin/status/1663668026254696450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A senior US defence official stated that there has been an “alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea” by Chinese aircraft and ships – actions that “have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation”.</p>

<p>“We don’t believe it’s done by pilots operating independently. We believe it’s part of a wider pattern," the official stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A similar incident, which involved a US RC-135 and a Chinese jet took place in December and forced the American plane “to take evasive manoeuvres to avoid a collision”, stated IndoPaCom at the time.</p>

<h2><strong>China turns down invitation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made on the latest incident a day after the Pentagon stated that an invitation made by the US to Beijing for Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore later in the week was rejected.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thaw-in-us-china-relationship-spotlight-on-beijings-state-led-development-calls-to-rethink-ties-597045/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, senior officials stated that the announcement's timing was not related to the refusal of the invitation by China, adding that information about the aircraft incident “was subject to the US military declassification process and US diplomatic communication process”.</p>

<p>Austin as well as other US officials have been taking steps to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia with the aim to counter Beijing's increasingly assertive moves. Still, there have been tentative signs that show both nations are working to lower the temperature.</p>

<p>US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi held talks in Vienna earlier this month, and later, US President Joe Biden stated that relations between Beijing and Washington should thaw “very soon”.</p>

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Beijing on Wednesday blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane aggressively manoeuvring near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea.

Beijing on Wednesday blamed US "provocation" for an incident involving a Chinese plane aggressively manoeuvring near an American surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea. "The United States' long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harm China's national sovereignty and security," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning while speaking about the incident. He demanded Washington "immediately stop this form of dangerous provocation". The United States military had earlier stated that a Chinese fighter pilot carried out an “unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre” around an American surveillance aircraft flying over the South China Sea last week. The incident, which the Pentagon called a common behaviour of China, occurred at a time when tensions had already escalated between Beijing and Washington after the latter shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon which was spotted traversing the skies of the United States. The ties were further strained over the issue of Taiwan as China increased military aggression near the island. The Chinese plane “flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence” on Friday, stated the Indo-Pacific Command (IndoPaCom) in a statement. “The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law,” the command added. ALSO READ | China and US voice need to bring stability to relations In a declassified video footage, a fighter plane is seen crossing in front of the American aircraft which appears to be shaking due to the resulting turbulence. A Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter very audaciously intercepts and derails an American reconnaissance aircraft over the neutral waters of the South China Sea on May 26th. According to SkyNews, the US military has released footage of a Chinese fighter jet making what they say is an… pic.twitter.com/tfJRNauo1i — GWAR69 🇩🇰🇺🇦 (@GwarWorin) May 30, 2023 × A senior US defence official stated that there has been an “alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea” by Chinese aircraft and ships – actions that “have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation”. “We don’t believe it’s done by pilots operating independently. We believe it’s part of a wider pattern," the official stated. A similar incident, which involved a US RC-135 and a Chinese jet took place in December and forced the American plane “to take evasive manoeuvres to avoid a collision”, stated IndoPaCom at the time. China turns down invitation The announcement was made on the latest incident a day after the Pentagon stated that an invitation made by the US to Beijing for Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore later in the week was rejected. WATCH | Thaw in U.S-China relationship? Spotlight on Beijing's state-led development, calls to rethink ties However, senior officials stated that the announcement's timing was not related to the refusal of the invitation by China, adding that information about the aircraft incident “was subject to the US military declassification process and US diplomatic communication process”. Austin as well as other US officials have been taking steps to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia with the aim to counter Beijing's increasingly assertive moves. Still, there have been tentative signs that show both nations are working to lower the temperature. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi held talks in Vienna earlier this month, and later, US President Joe Biden stated that relations between Beijing and Washington should thaw “very soon”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US 'provocation' led to South China Sea fighter jet incident, says Beijing

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