China on Friday appealed for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine while pressing on "no use" of nuclear weapons to resolve the conflict. The comments were made by China in a 12-point proposal issued on the "political settlement" of the crisis in the wake of the completion of one year of the Russia-Ukraine war. &nbsp;

"All parties should support Russia and Ukraine in working in the same direction and resuming direct dialogue as quickly as possible," the paper stated, released on the website of the foreign ministry.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/141-in-favour-32-abstained-five-against-unga-votes-to-demand-russia-withdraw-from-ukraine-immediately-565280">India abstains as historic UNGA vote demands Russia to leave Ukraine 'immediately'</a>

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened that the conflict may take the shape of nuclear war. Clearing its stance on the issue, China stated that it strictly opposes not only the use of nuclear weapons but also the issuance of threats to deploy such weapons.&nbsp;

"Nuclear weapons must not be used and nuclear wars must not be fought. The threat or use of nuclear weapons should be opposed," the statement read. China further emphasised the need to protect civilians. "Parties to the conflict should strictly abide by international humanitarian law, and avoid attacking civilians or civilian facilities," it added.&nbsp;

"Conflict and war benefit no one. All parties must stay rational and exercise restraint, avoid fanning the flames and aggravating tensions and prevent the crisis from deteriorating further or even spiralling out of control. We oppose the development, and use of biological and chemical weapons by any country under any circumstances. There are no winners in conflict wars,” the proposal said.

Before the release of the proposal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called it a crucial step. “I think that, in general, the fact that China started talking about peace in Ukraine, I think that it is not bad. It is important for us that all states are on our side, on the side of justice,” Zelensky said on Friday.&nbsp;

On Thursday, China abstained when a nonbinding resolution was approved by the UN General Assembly that appealed to Russia to withdraw its forces and end hostilities in Ukraine. It is among the 16 countries that either voted in opposition or abstained on around five previous resolutions on the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

WATCH | Will China help Russia? Beijing's top Diplomat Wang Yi in Moscow

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The resolution, which Ukraine had drafted in consultation with its allies, passed 141-7 with 32 abstentions, giving a strong message to Russia on the war's first anniversary.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, China on Thursday told the United Nations that "brutal facts offer ample proof that sending weapons will not bring peace" in the Russia-Ukraine war.

"Adding fuel to the fire will only exacerbate tensions. Prolonging and expanding the conflict will only make ordinary people pay an even heftier price," said China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing, while speaking at the UN General Assembly.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Friday appealed for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine while pressing on "no use" of nuclear weapons to resolve the conflict. The comments were made by China in a 12-point proposal issued on the "political settlement" of the crisis in the wake of the completion of one year of the Russia-Ukraine war.

China on Friday appealed for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine while pressing on "no use" of nuclear weapons to resolve the conflict. The comments were made by China in a 12-point proposal issued on the "political settlement" of the crisis in the wake of the completion of one year of the Russia-Ukraine war. "All parties should support Russia and Ukraine in working in the same direction and resuming direct dialogue as quickly as possible," the paper stated, released on the website of the foreign ministry. ALSO READ | India abstains as historic UNGA vote demands Russia to leave Ukraine 'immediately' Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened that the conflict may take the shape of nuclear war. Clearing its stance on the issue, China stated that it strictly opposes not only the use of nuclear weapons but also the issuance of threats to deploy such weapons. "Nuclear weapons must not be used and nuclear wars must not be fought. The threat or use of nuclear weapons should be opposed," the statement read. China further emphasised the need to protect civilians. "Parties to the conflict should strictly abide by international humanitarian law, and avoid attacking civilians or civilian facilities," it added. "Conflict and war benefit no one. All parties must stay rational and exercise restraint, avoid fanning the flames and aggravating tensions and prevent the crisis from deteriorating further or even spiralling out of control. We oppose the development, and use of biological and chemical weapons by any country under any circumstances. There are no winners in conflict wars,” the proposal said. Before the release of the proposal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called it a crucial step. “I think that, in general, the fact that China started talking about peace in Ukraine, I think that it is not bad. It is important for us that all states are on our side, on the side of justice,” Zelensky said on Friday. On Thursday, China abstained when a nonbinding resolution was approved by the UN General Assembly that appealed to Russia to withdraw its forces and end hostilities in Ukraine. It is among the 16 countries that either voted in opposition or abstained on around five previous resolutions on the Ukraine war. WATCH | Will China help Russia? Beijing's top Diplomat Wang Yi in Moscow The resolution, which Ukraine had drafted in consultation with its allies, passed 141-7 with 32 abstentions, giving a strong message to Russia on the war's first anniversary. Meanwhile, China on Thursday told the United Nations that "brutal facts offer ample proof that sending weapons will not bring peace" in the Russia-Ukraine war. "Adding fuel to the fire will only exacerbate tensions. Prolonging and expanding the conflict will only make ordinary people pay an even heftier price," said China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing, while speaking at the UN General Assembly. (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

China calls for 'no use' of nuclear weapons in Russia-Ukraine war

New research suggests that lung function development can improve in children if air pollution is reduced. The reduction in pollution will&nbsp;also bring down the number of young people who suffer from pulmonary impairments.

In recent years, the impact of air pollution on health has remained a topic of concern&nbsp;with the research reflecting that every organ of the body can be affected by pollution. A new study shows that&nbsp;developing organs and nervous systems of children become more susceptible to long-term damage because of air pollution.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/air-pollution-is-dangerous-very-dangerous-for-your-brain-can-impair-functional-connectivity-study-556180">Air pollution is very dangerous for your brain, can impair functional connectivity: Study</a>

The issue came into the spotlight in 2020 after the death of nine-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah in the UK who became the first person on whose death certificate air pollution was listed as the reason for death.&nbsp;

Ella’s mother, Rosamund Kissi-Debrah has now become a leading campaigner for clean air&nbsp;and is advocating for legislation which can make&nbsp;access to clean air a human right.&nbsp;

Previously, researchers had found that even low levels of air pollution can have a bad effect on lung function development in children between the age of six to 15. However, the new study stated that there can be improvements if the air is cleaned.&nbsp;

Prof Erik Melen, Karolinska Institute's paediatrician and professor at the department of clinical research and education, who co-authored the new study, said, “That’s a strong message to policymakers and city planners that actions to decrease air pollution level and exposure will pay off in the long term, definitely, for children and across the life course."&nbsp;

WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Air pollution leading to increasing suicide rates

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“With better air quality, we reduce the risk of children (having)…clinically impaired lung function. That’s indeed important because those patients end up in my clinic. In the long run, any incremental improvement in lung function will have a positive effect on the risk of acquiring chronic diseases in adulthood, or even life expectancy," Melen added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New research suggests that lung function development can improve in children if air pollution is reduced. The reduction in pollution will also bring down the number of young people who suffer from pulmonary impairments.

New research suggests that lung function development can improve in children if air pollution is reduced. The reduction in pollution will also bring down the number of young people who suffer from pulmonary impairments. In recent years, the impact of air pollution on health has remained a topic of concern with the research reflecting that every organ of the body can be affected by pollution. A new study shows that developing organs and nervous systems of children become more susceptible to long-term damage because of air pollution. ALSO READ | Air pollution is very dangerous for your brain, can impair functional connectivity: Study The issue came into the spotlight in 2020 after the death of nine-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah in the UK who became the first person on whose death certificate air pollution was listed as the reason for death. Ella’s mother, Rosamund Kissi-Debrah has now become a leading campaigner for clean air and is advocating for legislation which can make access to clean air a human right. Previously, researchers had found that even low levels of air pollution can have a bad effect on lung function development in children between the age of six to 15. However, the new study stated that there can be improvements if the air is cleaned. Prof Erik Melen, Karolinska Institute's paediatrician and professor at the department of clinical research and education, who co-authored the new study, said, “That’s a strong message to policymakers and city planners that actions to decrease air pollution level and exposure will pay off in the long term, definitely, for children and across the life course." WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Air pollution leading to increasing suicide rates “With better air quality, we reduce the risk of children (having)…clinically impaired lung function. That’s indeed important because those patients end up in my clinic. In the long run, any incremental improvement in lung function will have a positive effect on the risk of acquiring chronic diseases in adulthood, or even life expectancy," Melen 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

Air pollution obstructs lung development in children, reveals new research

In Pics | Death, destruction and dying hope. How Ukraine survived one year of Russia's offensives

French President Emmanuel Macron organised a discreet ceremony at the Elysée Palace to give Légion d’honneur to Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos as thousands of workers continued to protest across France over the changes in the pension plan.&nbsp;

Légion d’honneur, the highest honour of the country, was presented by the French president in front of VIP guests and business leaders last Thursday, when an industrial action was planned against Macron's decision of raising&nbsp;the retirement age to 64, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

The Guardian report further stated that Bezos was designated as the Legion d’honneur's member around 10 years ago, before the entry of Macron into the Elysée, and the ceremony was organised to only hand over the ribboned medal which he should have been given but was not collected by Bezos.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reminds-france-of-napoleon-slams-emmanuel-macron-for-regime-change-remark-563666">Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate</a>

Elysee did not announce the ceremony or placed it in the official diary of the president because it was labelled as a private occasion, and the date was selected in a way that it coincides with the Bezos family's trip to Paris. Every year, around 300 foreigners are given the Legion d’honneur.&nbsp;

In France, &nbsp;the revelation of the ceremony by the news magazine Le Point has caused anger and leftwing critics have branded Macron as the “president of the rich”. Bezos is the third-richest person in the world, behind Tesla chief executive Elon Musk.&nbsp;

The event was described by Le Point as attended by “only a few hand-picked guests”, as “sumptuous but confidential”. The event also had no mention in the regular updates to the press which details the engagements of Macron.&nbsp;

WATCH | France protests rage on! Unions ready to call for mass turnout

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Leftwing La France Insoumise's (LFI) Manon Aubry tweeted, “Context: record CAC40 (French stock exchange) profits, inflation, massive demonstrations against the reform of pensions...Macron’s bright idea: decorate the boss of Amazon Jeff Bezos…with the Legion of Honour.”

LFI's MP François Piquemal, meanwhile, tweeted, “Always and forever, everything for the rich, nothing for the people.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron organised a discreet ceremony at the Elysée Palace to give Légion d’honneur to Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos as thousands of workers continued to protest across France over the changes in the pension plan.

French President Emmanuel Macron organised a discreet ceremony at the Elysée Palace to give Légion d’honneur to Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos as thousands of workers continued to protest across France over the changes in the pension plan. Légion d’honneur, the highest honour of the country, was presented by the French president in front of VIP guests and business leaders last Thursday, when an industrial action was planned against Macron's decision of raising the retirement age to 64, the Guardian reported. The Guardian report further stated that Bezos was designated as the Legion d’honneur's member around 10 years ago, before the entry of Macron into the Elysée, and the ceremony was organised to only hand over the ribboned medal which he should have been given but was not collected by Bezos. ALSO READ | Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate Elysee did not announce the ceremony or placed it in the official diary of the president because it was labelled as a private occasion, and the date was selected in a way that it coincides with the Bezos family's trip to Paris. Every year, around 300 foreigners are given the Legion d’honneur. In France, the revelation of the ceremony by the news magazine Le Point has caused anger and leftwing critics have branded Macron as the “president of the rich”. Bezos is the third-richest person in the world, behind Tesla chief executive Elon Musk. The event was described by Le Point as attended by “only a few hand-picked guests”, as “sumptuous but confidential”. The event also had no mention in the regular updates to the press which details the engagements of Macron. WATCH | France protests rage on! Unions ready to call for mass turnout Leftwing La France Insoumise's (LFI) Manon Aubry tweeted, “Context: record CAC40 (French stock exchange) profits, inflation, massive demonstrations against the reform of pensions...Macron’s bright idea: decorate the boss of Amazon Jeff Bezos…with the Legion of Honour.” LFI's MP François Piquemal, meanwhile, tweeted, “Always and forever, everything for the rich, nothing for the people.” (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

Emmanuel Macron faces criticism for handing Légion d’honneur to Jeff Bezos

&nbsp;The cloud employees and partners have been asked by Google to share their desks and decide alternate days when they and their desk mates will be in the office from next quarter, &nbsp;citing “real estate efficiency,” CNBC reported.

The new desk-sharing model will be applicable in the five largest US locations of Google Cloud, which are Kirkland, Washington; New York City; San Francisco; Seattle; and Sunnyvale, California and is taking place so that the company “can continue to invest in Cloud’s growth,” as per an internal FAQ recently shared with cloud employees. The document notes that a few buildings will be vacated as a result.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-carrying-out-tests-thatll-block-news-content-for-some-users-in-canada-565029">Google carrying out tests that'll block news content for some users in Canada</a>

“Most Googlers will now share a desk with one other Googler,” stated the internal document, adding that the employees are expected to come to the office on alternate days so that they are not on the same desk on the same day. “Through the matching process, they will agree on a basic desk setup and establish norms with their desk partner and teams to ensure a positive experience in the new shared environment," the document read.

The FAQ adds that the employees may come to the office on other days, however, if they turn up on an unassigned day, the employees will use “overflow drop-in space".&nbsp;

Internally, the new leadership has given a title to the new seating arrangement “Cloud Office Evolution” or “CLOE", which refers to “combining the best of pre-pandemic collaboration with the flexibility” of hybrid work. "The new workspace plan is not a temporary pilot. This will ultimately lead to more efficient use of our space,” the document said. The FAQ stated that the internal data was used by Google on its employee office return patterns to inform about the decision.&nbsp;

WATCH | Twitter shuts offices in India to lower costs

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&nbsp;“Since returning to the office, we’ve run pilots and conducted surveys with Cloud employees to explore different hybrid work models and help shape the best experience. Our data show Cloud Googlers value guaranteed in-person collaboration when they are in the office, as well as the option to work from home a few days each week. With this feedback, we’ve developed our new rotational model, combining the best of pre-pandemic collaboration with the flexibility and focus we’ve all come to appreciate from remote work, while also allowing us to use our spaces more efficiently," said a Google spokesperson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The cloud employees and partners have been asked by Google to share their desks and decide alternate days when they and their desk mates will be in the office from next quarter, citing “real estate efficiency,” CNBC reported.

The cloud employees and partners have been asked by Google to share their desks and decide alternate days when they and their desk mates will be in the office from next quarter, citing “real estate efficiency,” CNBC reported. The new desk-sharing model will be applicable in the five largest US locations of Google Cloud, which are Kirkland, Washington; New York City; San Francisco; Seattle; and Sunnyvale, California and is taking place so that the company “can continue to invest in Cloud’s growth,” as per an internal FAQ recently shared with cloud employees. The document notes that a few buildings will be vacated as a result. ALSO READ | Google carrying out tests that'll block news content for some users in Canada “Most Googlers will now share a desk with one other Googler,” stated the internal document, adding that the employees are expected to come to the office on alternate days so that they are not on the same desk on the same day. “Through the matching process, they will agree on a basic desk setup and establish norms with their desk partner and teams to ensure a positive experience in the new shared environment," the document read. The FAQ adds that the employees may come to the office on other days, however, if they turn up on an unassigned day, the employees will use “overflow drop-in space". Internally, the new leadership has given a title to the new seating arrangement “Cloud Office Evolution” or “CLOE", which refers to “combining the best of pre-pandemic collaboration with the flexibility” of hybrid work. "The new workspace plan is not a temporary pilot. This will ultimately lead to more efficient use of our space,” the document said. The FAQ stated that the internal data was used by Google on its employee office return patterns to inform about the decision. WATCH | Twitter shuts offices in India to lower costs “Since returning to the office, we’ve run pilots and conducted surveys with Cloud employees to explore different hybrid work models and help shape the best experience. Our data show Cloud Googlers value guaranteed in-person collaboration when they are in the office, as well as the option to work from home a few days each week. With this feedback, we’ve developed our new rotational model, combining the best of pre-pandemic collaboration with the flexibility and focus we’ve all come to appreciate from remote work, while also allowing us to use our spaces more efficiently," said a Google spokesperson. (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

Google downsizes office, asks employees to share desks

A Japanese airline which took off from Tokyo to land at Fukuoka airport faced last-minute changes before its departure because of which the delayed flight missed the commercial flights' curfew time and was forced to return back to its departure point.&nbsp;

Around 300 domestic flight passengers faced a nightmare in Japan after their two-hour flight was turned into a seven-hour ordeal because the flight missed the "deadline" of the destination airport. According to the schedule, Japan Airlines Co. flight JL331 was to depart from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport at 6:30 pm local time for a two-hour journey to reach Fukuoka, however, because of the last-minute plane switch, the takeoff faced a delay of around 90 minutes, reported Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-passengers-stranded-in-sweden-set-to-fly-back-to-delhi-on-friday-565221">Air India passengers, stranded in Sweden, set to fly back to Delhi on Friday</a>

As a result, the airline missed the 10 pm curfew time for commercial planes at the airport and had to fly back to its original departure point. The crisis took place despite the earlier expectations of officials that the flight would land with 4 minutes to spare, said the airline in a statement.&nbsp;

According to Fukuoka airport officials, the airport officials do make exceptions for congestion or bad weather, allowing the delayed flight past the curfew time, however, while speaking to &nbsp;Asahi Shimbun newspaper, the official said that they didn’t regard this delay in the landing of the flight as “unavoidable”.

After missing the 10 pm curfew time of the airport, the airline went on a roundabout journey, taking 335 passengers to Tokyo again. The Bloomberg report stated that initially, the officials were considering re-routing the flight to the nearest city of Kitakyushu, however, because they were facing difficulty in arranging accommodation at the last minute for the 335 passengers travelling onboard, the plan was cancelled.

The plane was then landed at 10:59 pm at Kansai International Airport near Osaka, which was around 450 kilometres away from their original destination, added the report citing the airline officials. However, the passengers suffering did not come to an end as this destination lacked the accommodation arrangement for all the passengers and hence, the pilot took off the flight with 335 passengers again onboard.&nbsp;

WATCH | UK: Airline Flybe goes into administration, cancels all flights

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On Monday's pre-dawn, the flight finally landed back in the capital city of Japan after a journey of around seven hours and at the same place where it took off. The airline said that the passengers were compensated by making payments for taxis and hotels. The airlines also paid in cash and replacement flight to make up for the horrid travelling experience of the customers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Japanese airline which took off from Tokyo to land at Fukuoka airport faced last-minute changes before its departure because of which the delayed flight missed the commercial flights' curfew time and was forced to return back to its departure point.

A Japanese airline which took off from Tokyo to land at Fukuoka airport faced last-minute changes before its departure because of which the delayed flight missed the commercial flights' curfew time and was forced to return back to its departure point. Around 300 domestic flight passengers faced a nightmare in Japan after their two-hour flight was turned into a seven-hour ordeal because the flight missed the "deadline" of the destination airport. According to the schedule, Japan Airlines Co. flight JL331 was to depart from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport at 6:30 pm local time for a two-hour journey to reach Fukuoka, however, because of the last-minute plane switch, the takeoff faced a delay of around 90 minutes, reported Bloomberg reported. ALSO READ | Air India passengers, stranded in Sweden, set to fly back to Delhi on Friday As a result, the airline missed the 10 pm curfew time for commercial planes at the airport and had to fly back to its original departure point. The crisis took place despite the earlier expectations of officials that the flight would land with 4 minutes to spare, said the airline in a statement. According to Fukuoka airport officials, the airport officials do make exceptions for congestion or bad weather, allowing the delayed flight past the curfew time, however, while speaking to Asahi Shimbun newspaper, the official said that they didn’t regard this delay in the landing of the flight as “unavoidable”. After missing the 10 pm curfew time of the airport, the airline went on a roundabout journey, taking 335 passengers to Tokyo again. The Bloomberg report stated that initially, the officials were considering re-routing the flight to the nearest city of Kitakyushu, however, because they were facing difficulty in arranging accommodation at the last minute for the 335 passengers travelling onboard, the plan was cancelled. The plane was then landed at 10:59 pm at Kansai International Airport near Osaka, which was around 450 kilometres away from their original destination, added the report citing the airline officials. However, the passengers suffering did not come to an end as this destination lacked the accommodation arrangement for all the passengers and hence, the pilot took off the flight with 335 passengers again onboard. WATCH | UK: Airline Flybe goes into administration, cancels all flights On Monday's pre-dawn, the flight finally landed back in the capital city of Japan after a journey of around seven hours and at the same place where it took off. The airline said that the passengers were compensated by making payments for taxis and hotels. The airlines also paid in cash and replacement flight to make up for the horrid travelling experience of the customers. (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

After 7-hour nightmare, flight with 300 passengers lands back at its original take-off point in Japan

A selfie photograph taken by a U2 spy plane’s pilot was released by the Pentagon. The highlight of the selfie is the suspected Chinese spy balloon which was captured by the pilot while the plane was hovering above the Chinese spy balloon in the US skies, after which the balloon was shot down by the US military off the coast of South Carolina earlier this month.

In the image, the controversial, silvery-white balloon is clearly seen with panels dangling below it. The picture was taken by the airman on the flight deck as the balloon got into the US airspace at a high altitude.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shot-down-hobbyists-balloon-worth-12-using-missile-costing-439000-563331">US shot down hobbyists’ balloon worth $12 using missile costing $439,000?</a>

China has continued to deny that it is a spy balloon and has rather claimed that it was a weather ship which veered off course. However, Washington continues to claim that the balloon was part of a Chinese intelligence collection programme. &nbsp;

When the balloon was spotted flying over US territory, around two planes gathered information on its trajectory and features.

Earlier this month, a senior State Department official said that fly-bys revealed it "was capable of conducting signals intelligence collection operations". Officials first spotted the balloon after it entered Alaskan airspace on January 28. &nbsp;

WATCH | US recovers debris of Chinese balloon; FBI to analyse downed spy balloon

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The image released by Pentagon was taken a day before it was shot down on February 4. The balloon was reported to be flying at 60,000 feet (18,200m) in the air. According to the Air Force, U-2 planes fly routinely at altitudes over 70,000 feet. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last Friday, the recovery efforts for the scattered remnants of the balloon ended in the Atlantic Ocean. Pentagon's deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said that they have recovered pieces of the debris, which includes its payload, and they are being studied.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A selfie photograph taken by a U2 spy plane’s pilot was released by the Pentagon. The highlight of the selfie is the suspected Chinese spy balloon which was captured by the pilot while the plane was hovering above the Chinese spy balloon in the US skies, after which the balloon was shot down by the US military off the coast of South Carolina earlier this month.

A selfie photograph taken by a U2 spy plane’s pilot was released by the Pentagon. The highlight of the selfie is the suspected Chinese spy balloon which was captured by the pilot while the plane was hovering above the Chinese spy balloon in the US skies, after which the balloon was shot down by the US military off the coast of South Carolina earlier this month. In the image, the controversial, silvery-white balloon is clearly seen with panels dangling below it. The picture was taken by the airman on the flight deck as the balloon got into the US airspace at a high altitude. ALSO READ | US shot down hobbyists’ balloon worth $12 using missile costing $439,000? China has continued to deny that it is a spy balloon and has rather claimed that it was a weather ship which veered off course. However, Washington continues to claim that the balloon was part of a Chinese intelligence collection programme. When the balloon was spotted flying over US territory, around two planes gathered information on its trajectory and features. Earlier this month, a senior State Department official said that fly-bys revealed it "was capable of conducting signals intelligence collection operations". Officials first spotted the balloon after it entered Alaskan airspace on January 28. WATCH | US recovers debris of Chinese balloon; FBI to analyse downed spy balloon The image released by Pentagon was taken a day before it was shot down on February 4. The balloon was reported to be flying at 60,000 feet (18,200m) in the air. According to the Air Force, U-2 planes fly routinely at altitudes over 70,000 feet. Last Friday, the recovery efforts for the scattered remnants of the balloon ended in the Atlantic Ocean. Pentagon's deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said that they have recovered pieces of the debris, which includes its payload, and they are being studied. (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

Selfie with spy balloon! US pilot captures Chinese balloon at 60,000 feet

In his blog "Gates Notes", Microsoft cofounder and Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates said India is the source of hope for the future and said that the country has solved big problems at once, at a time when multiple crises were being faced by the world. &nbsp;

Bill Gates, in his blog, said that he believes with the correct delivery channels and right innovations, the world is capable of progressing on a lot of major problems at once, even when the world is battling multiple crises and he receives responses like, "There isn't enough time or money to solve both at the same time."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-bets-big-on-australian-start-up-aiming-to-reduce-methane-from-cow-burps-555688">Bill Gates bets big on Australian start-up aiming to reduce methane from cow burps</a>

In his blog, Gates said that all the responses were proved wrong by India. "There is no better proof than the remarkable progress that India has accomplished," said Gates. 
"India as a whole gives me hope for the future. It's about to become the world's most populous country, which means you can't solve most problems there without solving them at scale. And yet, India has proven it can tackle big challenges. The country eradicated polio, lowered HIV transmission, reduced poverty, cut infant mortality, and increased access to sanitation and financial services," he said.

“India worked with experts and funders (including the Gates Foundation) to build factories and create large-scale delivery channels to distribute the vaccines. By 2021, 83 per cent of 1-year-olds had been inoculated against rotavirus, and these low-cost vaccines are now being used in other countries around the world,” Gates further wrote.

Speaking about providing funding to Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Gates said, "The Gates Foundation joined hands with India's public sector and CGIAR institutions to support the work of researchers at IARI. They found a new solution: chickpea varieties that have more than 10 per cent higher yields and are more drought-resistant. One variety is already available to farmers, and others are currently developing at the institute. As a result, India is better prepared to keep feeding its people and supporting its farmers even in a warming world. It's no exaggeration to say that India's agricultural future is growing right now in a field in Pusa."

WATCH | ChatGPT interviews Rishi Sunak and Bill Gates

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"One of the reasons why challenges like climate, hunger, and health seem insurmountable is that we don't yet have all the tools to solve them. But I'm optimistic that one day soon we will, thanks in part to innovators like researchers at IARI," he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In his blog "Gates Notes", Microsoft cofounder and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates said India is the source of hope for the future and said that the country has solved big problems at once, at a time when multiple crises were being faced by the world.

In his blog "Gates Notes", Microsoft cofounder and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates said India is the source of hope for the future and said that the country has solved big problems at once, at a time when multiple crises were being faced by the world. Bill Gates, in his blog, said that he believes with the correct delivery channels and right innovations, the world is capable of progressing on a lot of major problems at once, even when the world is battling multiple crises and he receives responses like, "There isn't enough time or money to solve both at the same time." ALSO READ | Bill Gates bets big on Australian start-up aiming to reduce methane from cow burps In his blog, Gates said that all the responses were proved wrong by India. "There is no better proof than the remarkable progress that India has accomplished," said Gates. "India as a whole gives me hope for the future. It's about to become the world's most populous country, which means you can't solve most problems there without solving them at scale. And yet, India has proven it can tackle big challenges. The country eradicated polio, lowered HIV transmission, reduced poverty, cut infant mortality, and increased access to sanitation and financial services," he said. “India worked with experts and funders (including the Gates Foundation) to build factories and create large-scale delivery channels to distribute the vaccines. By 2021, 83 per cent of 1-year-olds had been inoculated against rotavirus, and these low-cost vaccines are now being used in other countries around the world,” Gates further wrote. Speaking about providing funding to Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Gates said, "The Gates Foundation joined hands with India's public sector and CGIAR institutions to support the work of researchers at IARI. They found a new solution: chickpea varieties that have more than 10 per cent higher yields and are more drought-resistant. One variety is already available to farmers, and others are currently developing at the institute. As a result, India is better prepared to keep feeding its people and supporting its farmers even in a warming world. It's no exaggeration to say that India's agricultural future is growing right now in a field in Pusa." WATCH | ChatGPT interviews Rishi Sunak and Bill Gates "One of the reasons why challenges like climate, hunger, and health seem insurmountable is that we don't yet have all the tools to solve them. But I'm optimistic that one day soon we will, thanks in part to innovators like researchers at IARI," he stated. (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

India gives hope for future, proved it can solve major challenges, says Bill Gates

The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north.

The discovery comes in the wake of the United States’ recent allegations against China of sending spy balloons into the US and Canada’s airspace. China has also faced accusations of interference in the Canadian elections. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-china-operate-balloons-to-spy-on-several-countries-including-india-and-japan-559989">Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan?</a>

Last fall, the Canadian military discovered monitoring buoys as part of Operation Limpid, which is the Canadian military’s ongoing mission tasked with identifying threats to the security of the country by surveilling land, sea and air domains.

Canadian Department of National Defence’s spokesperson Daniel Le Bouthillier, in a statement, said, “The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are fully aware of recent efforts by China to conduct surveillance operations in Canadian airspace and maritime approaches utilising dual-purpose technologies.”

“Under Operation LIMPID, the CAF monitors Canada’s air, land and sea approaches, and since 2022, it has stopped attempts to surveil Canadian territory,” he added. 
Bouthillier did not elaborate on what was discovered. “To ensure the integrity of operations, we are unable to provide further information at this time,” he said.

Retired lieutenant-general Michael Day said that China may have used buoys to monitor the traffic of US nuclear submarines in the Arctic and for mapping ice thickness and seabeds.

WATCH |&nbsp;This World | The China- U.S. 'Spy' Balloon Row

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“China, like most nations, is super interested in the pretty significant changes that are happening up north. They do not have an icebound port, but they do have a rapidly growing icebreaking fleet,” he stated. He stated that travelling through the Arctic would have been significantly shorter for China’s ships in comparison to navigating around South America’s southern tip.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north.

The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north. The discovery comes in the wake of the United States’ recent allegations against China of sending spy balloons into the US and Canada’s airspace. China has also faced accusations of interference in the Canadian elections. ALSO READ | Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan? Last fall, the Canadian military discovered monitoring buoys as part of Operation Limpid, which is the Canadian military’s ongoing mission tasked with identifying threats to the security of the country by surveilling land, sea and air domains. Canadian Department of National Defence’s spokesperson Daniel Le Bouthillier, in a statement, said, “The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are fully aware of recent efforts by China to conduct surveillance operations in Canadian airspace and maritime approaches utilising dual-purpose technologies.” “Under Operation LIMPID, the CAF monitors Canada’s air, land and sea approaches, and since 2022, it has stopped attempts to surveil Canadian territory,” he added. Bouthillier did not elaborate on what was discovered. “To ensure the integrity of operations, we are unable to provide further information at this time,” he said. Retired lieutenant-general Michael Day said that China may have used buoys to monitor the traffic of US nuclear submarines in the Arctic and for mapping ice thickness and seabeds. WATCH | This World | The China- U.S. 'Spy' Balloon Row “China, like most nations, is super interested in the pretty significant changes that are happening up north. They do not have an icebound port, but they do have a rapidly growing icebreaking fleet,” he stated. He stated that travelling through the Arctic would have been significantly shorter for China’s ships in comparison to navigating around South America’s southern tip. (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

Canada's military discovers evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”.

The US president made the comment as he ended his wartime visit to Europe in Poland which was aimed at improving partnerships with allies on the eastern flank of NATO. Biden was holding a meeting with eastern European leaders and NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reportedly-failed-an-icbm-test-during-bidens-ukraine-trip-564688">Russia conducted ICBM test launch while Biden was in Ukraine, it failed: Report</a>

"It's a big mistake to do that, not very responsible. But I don't read into that that he's thinking of using nuclear weapons or anything like that," said the US president, adding that he had seen "no evidence" of any change in Moscow’s posture on the use of nuclear arms. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the participation of Moscow in the New START arms treaty will be suspended during a state of the nation address, a decision which had received approval from Russian lawmakers on Wednesday. Through the 2010 deal, the two nations committed to limiting their stockpile of nuclear warheads.

‘You’re the frontlines of our collective defence’, says Biden to Bucharest Nine

Addressing Bucharest Nine, which includes Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, Biden said, “You’re the frontlines of our collective defence.”

“And you know, better than anyone, what’s at stake in this conflict. Not just for Ukraine, but for the freedom of democracies throughout Europe and around the world,” he further stated.

WATCH | US President Biden rallies NATO allies in Poland, says 'Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia'

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Addressing the anxiety of these countries that Putin may take military action against them next if he achieves success in Ukraine, Biden said that the mutual defence pact of NATO is “sacred” and that “we will defend literally every inch of NATO”. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said, “We cannot allow Russia to continue to chip away at European security. We must break the cycle of Russian aggression.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”.

United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday condemned the decision of Russian president Vladimir Putin to suspend Moscow’s participation in the US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, calling it a “big mistake”. The US president made the comment as he ended his wartime visit to Europe in Poland which was aimed at improving partnerships with allies on the eastern flank of NATO. Biden was holding a meeting with eastern European leaders and NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw. ALSO READ | Russia conducted ICBM test launch while Biden was in Ukraine, it failed: Report "It's a big mistake to do that, not very responsible. But I don't read into that that he's thinking of using nuclear weapons or anything like that," said the US president, adding that he had seen "no evidence" of any change in Moscow’s posture on the use of nuclear arms. On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the participation of Moscow in the New START arms treaty will be suspended during a state of the nation address, a decision which had received approval from Russian lawmakers on Wednesday. Through the 2010 deal, the two nations committed to limiting their stockpile of nuclear warheads. ‘You’re the frontlines of our collective defence’, says Biden to Bucharest Nine Addressing Bucharest Nine, which includes Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, Biden said, “You’re the frontlines of our collective defence.” “And you know, better than anyone, what’s at stake in this conflict. Not just for Ukraine, but for the freedom of democracies throughout Europe and around the world,” he further stated. WATCH | US President Biden rallies NATO allies in Poland, says 'Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia' Addressing the anxiety of these countries that Putin may take military action against them next if he achieves success in Ukraine, Biden said that the mutual defence pact of NATO is “sacred” and that “we will defend literally every inch of NATO”. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said, “We cannot allow Russia to continue to chip away at European security. We must break the cycle of Russian aggression.” (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

‘Big mistake’ | Biden says Putin’s decision to withdraw from nuclear treaty ‘not very responsible’

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation".

"The co-operation between China and Russia on the world stage is very important to stabilise the international situation," said Putin, during the meeting. The talks were held as Wang Yi visited Moscow after concerns were raised by NATO and Washington about China providing weapons to Russia.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-diplomat-to-visit-russia-amid-beijings-call-to-end-ukraine-war-564123">China's top diplomat to visit Russia amid Beijing's call to end Ukraine war</a>

"We will not be overwhelmed by threats and pressure from third parties," he stated. After the meeting, a readout was published by Chinese state news agency Xinhua which quoted Wang stating that China was willing to "deepen political trust" and "strengthen strategic co-ordination" with Russia.

China would "uphold an objective and fair position and play a constructive role in solving the crisis through political means", it stated. The meeting between the two leaders comes as China is trying to work as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine and is expected to provide its own "political solution" to the Ukraine conflict.

Beijing has been positioning itself as a neutral party, while it continues to maintain close ties with its ally Russia. "With the Russian side, we are ready to strengthen our strategic partnership and our in-depth co-operation" Wang Yi said, according to his statement’s translation.

WATCH | China's top Diplomat Wang Yi says, 'Beijing-Moscow relations mature in character'

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The Chinese diplomat insisted that the two countries’ partnership was "not directed against any third country and does not give in to pressure”. Wang Yi earlier held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

"Despite the high turbulence on the world stage, we are demonstrating our solidarity and the readiness to defend each other's interests based on the respect for international law and the central role of the United Nations," said Lavrov.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation".

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while holding a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Wednesday, said that co-operation between Moscow and Beijing is important to "stabilise the international situation". "The co-operation between China and Russia on the world stage is very important to stabilise the international situation," said Putin, during the meeting. The talks were held as Wang Yi visited Moscow after concerns were raised by NATO and Washington about China providing weapons to Russia. ALSO READ | China's top diplomat to visit Russia amid Beijing's call to end Ukraine war "We will not be overwhelmed by threats and pressure from third parties," he stated. After the meeting, a readout was published by Chinese state news agency Xinhua which quoted Wang stating that China was willing to "deepen political trust" and "strengthen strategic co-ordination" with Russia. China would "uphold an objective and fair position and play a constructive role in solving the crisis through political means", it stated. The meeting between the two leaders comes as China is trying to work as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine and is expected to provide its own "political solution" to the Ukraine conflict. Beijing has been positioning itself as a neutral party, while it continues to maintain close ties with its ally Russia. "With the Russian side, we are ready to strengthen our strategic partnership and our in-depth co-operation" Wang Yi said, according to his statement’s translation. WATCH | China's top Diplomat Wang Yi says, 'Beijing-Moscow relations mature in character' The Chinese diplomat insisted that the two countries’ partnership was "not directed against any third country and does not give in to pressure”. Wang Yi earlier held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. "Despite the high turbulence on the world stage, we are demonstrating our solidarity and the readiness to defend each other's interests based on the respect for international law and the central role of the United Nations," said Lavrov. (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

Putin meets China’s Wang Yi, says ties important to 'stabilise international situation'

Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought. &nbsp;

The rocky white beaches of San Biagio island dotted with cypresses were accessible only by boat in the past. However, the lake’s historically low waters have brought out a sand and stone causeway, allowing tourists to flock to the site.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-scientists-in-italy-raise-concerns-after-venice-canals-run-dry-heres-why-564929">Explained | Scientists in Italy raise concerns after Venice canals run dry. Here’s why</a>

"It's a beautiful sight, but sad at the same time, because it's caused by drought. We hope it will be short-lived," said Alberto Pampuri, a tourist who cycled to the island along with his wife and two friends.

The "Floating Piers" installation which was created by artist Christo in 2016 was recalled by the unusual phenomenon when people place yellow floating footbridges across nearby Lake Iseo.

"But they were artificial bridges, whereas this is a natural work of art," Agata Carteri, a 48-year-old teacher, said. Warm temperatures, no spell of rain in six weeks and declining snow in the surrounding mountains have resulted in the decline in water levels of Garda, which is the largest lake in Italy, to its lowest level in winter in the span of 30 years.

Over the last few decades, the waterline has receded to 60-70cm, which is below the average. Five years ago, Matteo Fiori had waded his way to San Biagio island, which is also called the Island of Rabbits, while keeping his rucksack on his head to keep it dry.

"The water came up to my chest, it was an adventure," said the social worker, while surveying the newly-emerged causeway.

WATCH | Italy faces threat of another drought

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Mayor Flaviano Mattiotti said, “The island has become a popular out-of-season attraction. But if the level of the lake doesn't rise in the spring, we are ready to dredge the harbours to allow access for tourist boats, which would be a first."

"It's like walking on water," said another tourist, Afra Vorhauser, after walking to the uninhabited island through the causeway.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought.

Tourists in large numbers, on bike or foot, streamed across a narrow path which connected the edge of Lake Garda to a small island, a clear example of northern Italy being hit by a winter drought. The rocky white beaches of San Biagio island dotted with cypresses were accessible only by boat in the past. However, the lake’s historically low waters have brought out a sand and stone causeway, allowing tourists to flock to the site. ALSO READ | Explained | Scientists in Italy raise concerns after Venice canals run dry. Here’s why "It's a beautiful sight, but sad at the same time, because it's caused by drought. We hope it will be short-lived," said Alberto Pampuri, a tourist who cycled to the island along with his wife and two friends. The "Floating Piers" installation which was created by artist Christo in 2016 was recalled by the unusual phenomenon when people place yellow floating footbridges across nearby Lake Iseo. "But they were artificial bridges, whereas this is a natural work of art," Agata Carteri, a 48-year-old teacher, said. Warm temperatures, no spell of rain in six weeks and declining snow in the surrounding mountains have resulted in the decline in water levels of Garda, which is the largest lake in Italy, to its lowest level in winter in the span of 30 years. Over the last few decades, the waterline has receded to 60-70cm, which is below the average. Five years ago, Matteo Fiori had waded his way to San Biagio island, which is also called the Island of Rabbits, while keeping his rucksack on his head to keep it dry. "The water came up to my chest, it was an adventure," said the social worker, while surveying the newly-emerged causeway. WATCH | Italy faces threat of another drought Mayor Flaviano Mattiotti said, “The island has become a popular out-of-season attraction. But if the level of the lake doesn't rise in the spring, we are ready to dredge the harbours to allow access for tourist boats, which would be a first." "It's like walking on water," said another tourist, Afra Vorhauser, after walking to the uninhabited island through the causeway. (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

Tourists throng island as causeway surfaces in Italy’s Lake Garda due to winter drought

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