<p>The European Parliament’s speaker Roberta Metsola on Thursday promised "a wide-ranging reform package" for cleaning up the legislature which has been rocked by the graft scandal linked to Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host.</p>

<p>Metsola said that the plan "will include a strengthening of the parliament's whistle-blower protection systems, a ban on all unofficial friendship groups, a review of the policing of our code of conduct rules, and a complete and in-depth look at how we interact with third countries". She further stated that the changes would be led by her, and the reform package will be finalised "in the new year".</p>

<p>The scandal was triggered by the Belgian authorities after they detained six people last week. Amongst the six, four detained, which include MEP and former European Parliament vice president Eva Kaili, were charged with "criminal organisation, corruption and money laundering". &nbsp;The other two detained were later released.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-parliament-removes-eva-kaili-as-vice-president-after-qatar-corruption-allegations-542734">European Parliament removes Eva Kaili as vice-president after Qatar corruption allegations</a></p>

<p>Greece’s former TV newsreader Kaili as well as Qatari officials have refuted any wrongdoing. Around €1.5 million ($1.6 million) in cash was discovered by officials after a series of raids were conducted at the offices and homes of politicians, parliamentary assistants and lobbyists.</p>

<p>According to a judicial source from Belgium, around €600,000 were discovered at MEP-turned-lobbyist Pier Panzeri’s home and €150,000&nbsp;found in the flat of Kaili and €750,000 in the hotel room of her father.</p>

<p>The European Parliament has been stirred by the investigation and the allegations, and the conversations between non-EU countries’ representatives and lobbyists have come under intense scrutiny.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Qatar 'corruption scandal' rocks European parliament, Vice President Eva Kaili arrested</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-corruption-scandal-rocks-european-parliament-vice-president-eva-kaili-arrested-542496/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Metsola called the scandal an outside attack on "European democracy" and added that the debate was endorsed by the EU leaders who had arrived to attend a Brussels summit on Thursday.</p>

<p>She added that the law enforcement authorities of Belgium are carrying out the investigation, and the parliament was extending "full and open co-operation". However, she agreed that "the rules that we have already can be tightened can be improved” in case of monitoring the lawmakers’ trips and transactions.</p>

<p>"Certain things that happened in this context will not be allowed to happen again," she added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The European Parliament’s speaker Roberta Metsola on Thursday promised "a wide-ranging reform package" for cleaning up the legislature which has been rocked by the graft scandal linked to Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host.

The European Parliament’s speaker Roberta Metsola on Thursday promised "a wide-ranging reform package" for cleaning up the legislature which has been rocked by the graft scandal linked to Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host. Metsola said that the plan "will include a strengthening of the parliament's whistle-blower protection systems, a ban on all unofficial friendship groups, a review of the policing of our code of conduct rules, and a complete and in-depth look at how we interact with third countries". She further stated that the changes would be led by her, and the reform package will be finalised "in the new year". The scandal was triggered by the Belgian authorities after they detained six people last week. Amongst the six, four detained, which include MEP and former European Parliament vice president Eva Kaili, were charged with "criminal organisation, corruption and money laundering". The other two detained were later released. ALSO READ| European Parliament removes Eva Kaili as vice-president after Qatar corruption allegations Greece’s former TV newsreader Kaili as well as Qatari officials have refuted any wrongdoing. Around €1.5 million ($1.6 million) in cash was discovered by officials after a series of raids were conducted at the offices and homes of politicians, parliamentary assistants and lobbyists. According to a judicial source from Belgium, around €600,000 were discovered at MEP-turned-lobbyist Pier Panzeri’s home and €150,000 found in the flat of Kaili and €750,000 in the hotel room of her father. The European Parliament has been stirred by the investigation and the allegations, and the conversations between non-EU countries’ representatives and lobbyists have come under intense scrutiny. WATCH| Qatar 'corruption scandal' rocks European parliament, Vice President Eva Kaili arrested Metsola called the scandal an outside attack on "European democracy" and added that the debate was endorsed by the EU leaders who had arrived to attend a Brussels summit on Thursday. She added that the law enforcement authorities of Belgium are carrying out the investigation, and the parliament was extending "full and open co-operation". However, she agreed that "the rules that we have already can be tightened can be improved” in case of monitoring the lawmakers’ trips and transactions. "Certain things that happened in this context will not be allowed to happen again," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

EU parliament speaker vows wide-ranging reforms amid corruption scandal

<p>An urgent health alert has been sparked by toxic spinach in Australia after severe hallucinations and sickness were reported by people who consumed it.<br />
Medical care was given to nine people who consumed the Riviera Farms baby spinach from Costco shopping mall.</p>

<p>According to the health authorities, the patients also had symptoms of blurred vision, delirium and spiked heart rates. Riviera Farms said that a weed has most probably contaminated the spinach, however, it has not affected any other products.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-risk-to-public-health-and-biodiversity-if-china-eases-post-covid-restrictions-on-wildlife-farming-543460">New risk to public health and biodiversity if China eases post-Covid restrictions on wildlife farming</a></p>

<p>New South Wales Health has issued a warning that the brand’s packaged spinach which has an expiry date of December 16 should not be consumed. Meanwhile, people who have consumed spinach and are suffering from unusual symptoms have been urged to seek immediate hospital care.</p>

<p>While speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, the state's Poisons Information Centre’s Dr Darren Roberts said, "No one has died, so we're very happy with that and we hope it remains that way, but these people are quite sick... to the point of marked hallucinations, where they are seeing things that aren't there.”&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Gravitas: Is the world headed for a "Tridemic"</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-the-world-headed-for-a-tridemic-541713/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Meanwhile, the spokesperson of Riviera Farms said that immediate action has been taken and shops have been asked to remove their packages from shelves. "There is no suggestion, and to our knowledge no possibility, that any other products have been impacted by this weed," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>NSW Health said that those who have been affected by the toxic spinach are from Sydney, however, authorities have been asked to stay alert in other states, as the investigation carries on.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


An urgent health alert has been sparked by toxic spinach in Australia after severe hallucinations and sickness were reported by people who consumed it. Medical care was given to nine people who consumed the Riviera Farms baby spinach from Costco shopping mall.

An urgent health alert has been sparked by toxic spinach in Australia after severe hallucinations and sickness were reported by people who consumed it. Medical care was given to nine people who consumed the Riviera Farms baby spinach from Costco shopping mall. According to the health authorities, the patients also had symptoms of blurred vision, delirium and spiked heart rates. Riviera Farms said that a weed has most probably contaminated the spinach, however, it has not affected any other products. ALSO READ| New risk to public health and biodiversity if China eases post-Covid restrictions on wildlife farming New South Wales Health has issued a warning that the brand’s packaged spinach which has an expiry date of December 16 should not be consumed. Meanwhile, people who have consumed spinach and are suffering from unusual symptoms have been urged to seek immediate hospital care. While speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, the state's Poisons Information Centre’s Dr Darren Roberts said, "No one has died, so we're very happy with that and we hope it remains that way, but these people are quite sick... to the point of marked hallucinations, where they are seeing things that aren't there.” WATCH| Gravitas: Is the world headed for a "Tridemic" Meanwhile, the spokesperson of Riviera Farms said that immediate action has been taken and shops have been asked to remove their packages from shelves. "There is no suggestion, and to our knowledge no possibility, that any other products have been impacted by this weed," the spokesperson said. NSW Health said that those who have been affected by the toxic spinach are from Sydney, however, authorities have been asked to stay alert in other states, as the investigation carries on. (With inputs from agencies)

Spinach poisoning sparks health scare in Australia, people suffer sickness, hallucinations

<p>Tensions in Peru escalated after former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo’s jail term was extended by 18 months. The relatives and supporters of Castillo, meanwhile, demonstrated outside the Barbadillo penitentiary, asking for the ousted leader’s release. In other news, 36 Chinese companies were banned by the US from importing any components as part of the new export rules introduced by the nation. Also, almost half-a-dozen journalists’ Twitter accounts were suspended, without any explanations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peruvian-former-president-castillos-jail-term-extended-by-18-months-543537">Former Peru president Pedro Castillo's jail term extended by 18 months</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/16/318618-untitled-design-2022-12-16t074821755.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The prison term of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo was extended by 18 months as diplomatic tensions deepened with the region’s left-leaning nations that stand against his removal.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-follows-huawei-suit-again-imposes-trade-ban-on-36-chinese-firms-543552">US follows HUAWEI suit again, imposes trade ban on 36 Chinese firms</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/16/318627-untitled-design.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The United States on Thursday banned 36 Chinese companies from importing components from the United States as part of the country's new export rules. The banned Chinese companies also include Yangtze Memory Technologies and Shanghai Micro Electronics Equipment, two of China's biggest chipmakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-twitter-suspends-accounts-of-over-half-a-dozen-journalists-543548">Twitter suspends accounts of over half-a-dozen journalists, Elon Musk justifies it</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/16/318625-twitter.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;Twitter accounts of around half-a-dozen journalists from top media houses covering Technology were suspended without providing any explanation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-tiny-meteorite-probably-struck-soyuz-causing-a-coolant-leak-russian-official-says-543545">A tiny meteorite probably struck Soyuz causing a coolant leak, Russian official says</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/16/318623-untitled-design-2022-12-15t124946795.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A coolant leak aboard the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft that lasted at least three hours might have been caused by a tiny meteorite strike.</p>

<p><strong>Watch|&nbsp;Supporters of banned mayor Imamoglu rally in Istanbul</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/supporters-of-banned-mayor-imamoglu-rally-in-istanbul-543555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tensions in Peru escalated after former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo’s jail term was extended by 18 months. The relatives and supporters of Castillo, meanwhile, demonstrated outside the Barbadillo penitentiary, asking for the ousted leader’s release.

Tensions in Peru escalated after former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo’s jail term was extended by 18 months. The relatives and supporters of Castillo, meanwhile, demonstrated outside the Barbadillo penitentiary, asking for the ousted leader’s release. In other news, 36 Chinese companies were banned by the US from importing any components as part of the new export rules introduced by the nation. Also, almost half-a-dozen journalists’ Twitter accounts were suspended, without any explanations. Former Peru president Pedro Castillo's jail term extended by 18 months The prison term of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo was extended by 18 months as diplomatic tensions deepened with the region’s left-leaning nations that stand against his removal. US follows HUAWEI suit again, imposes trade ban on 36 Chinese firms The United States on Thursday banned 36 Chinese companies from importing components from the United States as part of the country's new export rules. The banned Chinese companies also include Yangtze Memory Technologies and Shanghai Micro Electronics Equipment, two of China's biggest chipmakers. Twitter suspends accounts of over half-a-dozen journalists, Elon Musk justifies it Twitter accounts of around half-a-dozen journalists from top media houses covering Technology were suspended without providing any explanation. A tiny meteorite probably struck Soyuz causing a coolant leak, Russian official says A coolant leak aboard the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft that lasted at least three hours might have been caused by a tiny meteorite strike. Watch| Supporters of banned mayor Imamoglu rally in Istanbul

Morning brief: Castillo's jail term, US ban on Chinese firms, Twitter accounts suspension and more

<p>The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free.<br />
The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities.</p>

<p>Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-says-it-does-not-change-search-results-amid-hong-kong-anthem-row-543340">Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row</a></p>

<p>"Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added.</p>

<p>The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets.</p>

<p>"Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-google-chrome-is-most-vulnerable-browser-in-2022-523417/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added.</p>

<p>The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free.

The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free. The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities. Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release. ALSO READ| Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row "Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added. The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets. "Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release. WATCH| WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022 "By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added. The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation. (With inputs from agencies)

Google’s rival tech firms join hands to make comprehensive mapping data

<p>Outgoing US House of Representatives&nbsp;Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday lashed out at a reporter while addressing her weekly press conference after the latter questioned the speaker if she will be completing her two-year term.</p>

<p>Pelosi called the question 'a waste of my time'. In the press conference, the Democrat said that this 'may be the last' leadership press conference by her. Last month, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries was officially elected by her party, after pressurising Pelosi for years to step aside and make way for a new generation.</p>

<p>Still, Pelosi was able to comfortably clinch victory in the election from California Bay Area district.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-858bn-defence-bill-repealing-vaccine-mandate-for-troops-543586">US Senate passes $858bn defence bill; repeals vaccine mandate for troops</a></p>

<p>During the press conference, the reporter had asked, “Will you commit to serving your full two-year term for the people of San Francisco?”</p>

<p>“What is this? What is this? Don't bother me with a question like that,” the speaker snapped.</p>

<p>The journalist, however, did not give up and once again clamoured to ask a question in a room filled with other reporters.</p>

<p>Overlapping the noise of journalists, Pelosi said, “Really? Really? Okay. I said what I'm gonna do. Those kind of questions are such a waste of my time.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rep. Nancy Pelosi chastised a reporter who asked if she intends to serve the entirety of her two-year term after announcing she will step down as House leader in January. "Don't bother me with a question like that," Pelosi said. <a href="https://t.co/3x9t2v4myx">pic.twitter.com/3x9t2v4myx</a></p>
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) <a href="https://twitter.com/Newsweek/status/1603492592808779779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the speaker did not provide the journalist with a definitive yes or no.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Tornado rage across U.S. South, killing several</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-tornado-rage-across-us-south-killing-several-543417/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On November 13, the speaker said that she has 'no plans to step away from Congress', while speaking to ABC News' This Week.</p>

<p>In January 2022, Pelosi stated that she is looking out for her 18th full term in Congress. On Twitter, Pelosi said, “While we have made progress much more needs to be done to improve people’s lives. This election is crucial: nothing less is at stake than our Democracy. But we don’t agonise-we organise.”</p>

<p>“I am running for re-election to Congress to deliver For The People and defend Democracy,” she added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Outgoing US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday lashed out at a reporter while addressing her weekly press conference after the latter questioned the speaker if she will be completing her two-year term.

Outgoing US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday lashed out at a reporter while addressing her weekly press conference after the latter questioned the speaker if she will be completing her two-year term. Pelosi called the question 'a waste of my time'. In the press conference, the Democrat said that this 'may be the last' leadership press conference by her. Last month, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries was officially elected by her party, after pressurising Pelosi for years to step aside and make way for a new generation. Still, Pelosi was able to comfortably clinch victory in the election from California Bay Area district. ALSO READ| US Senate passes $858bn defence bill; repeals vaccine mandate for troops During the press conference, the reporter had asked, “Will you commit to serving your full two-year term for the people of San Francisco?” “What is this? What is this? Don't bother me with a question like that,” the speaker snapped. The journalist, however, did not give up and once again clamoured to ask a question in a room filled with other reporters. Overlapping the noise of journalists, Pelosi said, “Really? Really? Okay. I said what I'm gonna do. Those kind of questions are such a waste of my time.” Rep. Nancy Pelosi chastised a reporter who asked if she intends to serve the entirety of her two-year term after announcing she will step down as House leader in January. "Don't bother me with a question like that," Pelosi said. pic.twitter.com/3x9t2v4myx — Newsweek (@Newsweek) December 15, 2022 × However, the speaker did not provide the journalist with a definitive yes or no. WATCH| WION Climate Tracker | Tornado rage across U.S. South, killing several On November 13, the speaker said that she has 'no plans to step away from Congress', while speaking to ABC News' This Week. In January 2022, Pelosi stated that she is looking out for her 18th full term in Congress. On Twitter, Pelosi said, “While we have made progress much more needs to be done to improve people’s lives. This election is crucial: nothing less is at stake than our Democracy. But we don’t agonise-we organise.” “I am running for re-election to Congress to deliver For The People and defend Democracy,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Nancy Pelosi snaps at a reporter: “Don't bother me with a question like that”

<p>The prison term of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo was extended by 18 months as diplomatic tensions deepened with the region’s left-leaning nations that stand against his removal.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court’s judicial panel on Thursday ruled that the former president, who was initially put behind bars for seven days, will remain in prison as investigations into the criminal charges levied against him are being carried out by the prosecutors.</p>

<p>The ruling did not refer to the merits of the accusations of conspiracy and rebellion being faced by the leader, however, a judge leading the panel said that Castillo faced a flight risk after an attempt was made by him to seek asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peru-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-nationwide-protests-543113">Peru declares state of emergency amid nationwide protests</a></p>

<p>All the charges levied against the former president were denied by him as he claimed that he is a lawful president of the country. However, the detention order of Castillo was extended till June 2024.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Castillo’s supporters and relatives on Thursday protested outside the Barbadillo penitentiary, demanding the ousted leader’s release. The relatives of Castillo visited him on Thursday, after which they informed the media that the leader "is not well".</p>

<p>"His hands started shaking, his face was shaking, and we bought him pills," Castillo's niece Vilma Castillo said while standing outside the jail. The protesters shouted in support of Castillo and slammed interim President Dina Boluarte for her actions and accused her of being a traitor.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Two killed in Peru as protests spread against the new president</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-killed-in-peru-as-protests-spread-against-the-new-president-542248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Authorities stated that ten protesters, which included mostly teenagers, lost their lives in clashes with police officials. According to rights groups, they were a victim of gunfire.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, highways were blocked, buildings were set on fire and airports were invaded by the demonstrators.</p>

<p>Castillo, who had clinched victory in elections by a narrow margin last year, was removed after lawmakers voted against him just hours after he had ordered the dissolution of the Congress on December 7.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The prison term of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo was extended by 18 months as diplomatic tensions deepened with the region’s left-leaning nations that stand against his removal.

The prison term of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo was extended by 18 months as diplomatic tensions deepened with the region’s left-leaning nations that stand against his removal. The Supreme Court’s judicial panel on Thursday ruled that the former president, who was initially put behind bars for seven days, will remain in prison as investigations into the criminal charges levied against him are being carried out by the prosecutors. The ruling did not refer to the merits of the accusations of conspiracy and rebellion being faced by the leader, however, a judge leading the panel said that Castillo faced a flight risk after an attempt was made by him to seek asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima. ALSO READ| Peru declares state of emergency amid nationwide protests All the charges levied against the former president were denied by him as he claimed that he is a lawful president of the country. However, the detention order of Castillo was extended till June 2024. Meanwhile, Castillo’s supporters and relatives on Thursday protested outside the Barbadillo penitentiary, demanding the ousted leader’s release. The relatives of Castillo visited him on Thursday, after which they informed the media that the leader "is not well". "His hands started shaking, his face was shaking, and we bought him pills," Castillo's niece Vilma Castillo said while standing outside the jail. The protesters shouted in support of Castillo and slammed interim President Dina Boluarte for her actions and accused her of being a traitor. WATCH| Two killed in Peru as protests spread against the new president Authorities stated that ten protesters, which included mostly teenagers, lost their lives in clashes with police officials. According to rights groups, they were a victim of gunfire. Meanwhile, highways were blocked, buildings were set on fire and airports were invaded by the demonstrators. Castillo, who had clinched victory in elections by a narrow margin last year, was removed after lawmakers voted against him just hours after he had ordered the dissolution of the Congress on December 7. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Peru president Pedro Castillo's jail term extended by 18 months

<p>China is planning to tighten its control over social media by targeting users who are hitting “like” on inappropriate social media posts after it faced massive criticism online over the government’s zero-COVID policy.&nbsp;The government authorities have been already empowered to restrict posts and comments on social media.</p>

<p>New directives have been issued by the Cyberspace Administration of China which came into effect on Thursday and impose restrictions on dian zan (like).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-delays-key-economic-policy-meeting-as-covid-cases-rise-542743">China to go ahead with key meeting on economic policy despite surge in Covid cases</a></p>

<p>The new rules are part of an update of cyberspace regulations dating back to October 2017, after the government enacted the Chinese Cybersecurity Law.</p>

<p>Social media posts receiving thousands of likes carry the potential of influencing opinion&nbsp; online. The authorities said that posts and comments now need to be closely examined by social media companies.</p>

<p>They added that the authorities need to promptly remove inappropriate or illegal posts and remarks. Work has already been started by the Chinese lawmakers on the Cybersecurity Law’s amendment.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-explains-chinas-covid-confusion-542466/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Tougher penalties will be faced by companies for violation of cyberspace rules. As per the amendment’s draft, operators of "critical information infrastructure" can be asked to pay a fine of 5% on the revenue earned in the previous year if any services or products are used by them that have not been subjected to security scrutiny.</p>

<p>Till recent times, the government of China firmly stood on its stance of maintaining a zero-COVID policy throughout the country. The social media posts against the COVID policies ignited a nationwide protest, which is rarely seen in the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


China is planning to tighten its control over social media by targeting users who are hitting “like” on inappropriate social media posts after it faced massive criticism online over the government’s zero-COVID policy.

China is planning to tighten its control over social media by targeting users who are hitting “like” on inappropriate social media posts after it faced massive criticism online over the government’s zero-COVID policy. The government authorities have been already empowered to restrict posts and comments on social media. New directives have been issued by the Cyberspace Administration of China which came into effect on Thursday and impose restrictions on dian zan (like). ALSO READ| China to go ahead with key meeting on economic policy despite surge in Covid cases The new rules are part of an update of cyberspace regulations dating back to October 2017, after the government enacted the Chinese Cybersecurity Law. Social media posts receiving thousands of likes carry the potential of influencing opinion online. The authorities said that posts and comments now need to be closely examined by social media companies. They added that the authorities need to promptly remove inappropriate or illegal posts and remarks. Work has already been started by the Chinese lawmakers on the Cybersecurity Law’s amendment. WATCH| Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion? Tougher penalties will be faced by companies for violation of cyberspace rules. As per the amendment’s draft, operators of "critical information infrastructure" can be asked to pay a fine of 5% on the revenue earned in the previous year if any services or products are used by them that have not been subjected to security scrutiny. Till recent times, the government of China firmly stood on its stance of maintaining a zero-COVID policy throughout the country. The social media posts against the COVID policies ignited a nationwide protest, which is rarely seen in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

China to crack down on online dissent, users to face action for ‘like’ on ‘inappropriate’ posts

<p>Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma.<br />
<br />
The audio guide titled "We Have Always Been Everywhere" narrates the story of Berlin's famed red-light district in central Schoeneberg, starting from the 1880s.<br />
<br />
The project, which has been launched by local sex workers with the support of the Schwules Museum of LGBTQ life and the city government, claims prostitution, although a taboo, is a time-honoured part of the city.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-largest-freestanding-aquarium-bursts-in-berlin-leaving-trail-of-destruction-543686">World’s largest freestanding aquarium bursts in Berlin, leaving trail of destruction</a><br />
<br />
“We've been here for generations and we belong here and we deserve to work here safely," Emma Pankhurst, one of the initiators, said. Three years ago, Pankhurst had emigrated from the US to carry on her trade legally, without fearing any arrest.<br />
<br />
She said that though liberal prostitution laws of Germany marked social progress compared to the situation of full criminalisation in the US, however, Berlin has not been able to prove itself as a sexual safe haven.<br />
<br />
Schoeneberg is "one of the gay paradises of the world", said Pankhurst. "That in part is due to the sex worker community being here first and the gay community following suit," she added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Germany to tighten gun control laws; more than 1,000 weapons confiscated</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-to-tighten-gun-control-laws-more-than-1000-weapons-confiscated-542107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>She said that gentrification is making things difficult for her and her colleagues.<br />
<br />
"Real estate prices are through the roof and that means there's quite a lot of money to be made here. People don't want to see sex workers on the street,” said Pankhurst.<br />
<br />
She further stated that they also faced the negative impact of the nine-month prostitution ban which was imposed during, which further became an excuse for violence and harassment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma.

Sex workers living in Germany's capital city, Berlin, are now moving out of the shadows to narrate their history through an audio application, hoping that the step will help fight abuse, the curse of gentrification and stigma. The audio guide titled "We Have Always Been Everywhere" narrates the story of Berlin's famed red-light district in central Schoeneberg, starting from the 1880s. The project, which has been launched by local sex workers with the support of the Schwules Museum of LGBTQ life and the city government, claims prostitution, although a taboo, is a time-honoured part of the city. ALSO READ| World’s largest freestanding aquarium bursts in Berlin, leaving trail of destruction “We've been here for generations and we belong here and we deserve to work here safely," Emma Pankhurst, one of the initiators, said. Three years ago, Pankhurst had emigrated from the US to carry on her trade legally, without fearing any arrest. She said that though liberal prostitution laws of Germany marked social progress compared to the situation of full criminalisation in the US, however, Berlin has not been able to prove itself as a sexual safe haven. Schoeneberg is "one of the gay paradises of the world", said Pankhurst. "That in part is due to the sex worker community being here first and the gay community following suit," she added. WATCH| Germany to tighten gun control laws; more than 1,000 weapons confiscated She said that gentrification is making things difficult for her and her colleagues. "Real estate prices are through the roof and that means there's quite a lot of money to be made here. People don't want to see sex workers on the street,” said Pankhurst. She further stated that they also faced the negative impact of the nine-month prostitution ban which was imposed during, which further became an excuse for violence and harassment. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex workers in Berlin emerge from shadows to narrate their history through audio app

<p>Following a similar practice every year, online food delivery app Swiggy announced which food or snack was ordered the most by Indians in 2022.<br />
<br />
As per Swiggy's report, Biryani emerged as the most-ordered dish in the year 2022. For the seventh time in a row, Biryani has topped the list.<br />
<br />
It was also revealed that a new record of 2.28 orders per second was set by Biryani. It was also noted by the food delivery application that 137 orders for biryani were delivered by the application every minute this year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-namami-gange-among-worlds-10-most-groundbreaking-conservation-efforts-543176">India's 'Namami Gange' among world's 10 most groundbreaking conservation efforts</a></p>

<p>According to the report, the dishes that were most ordered on Swiggy this year are Chicken Fried Rice, Veg Fried Rice, Masala Dosa, Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Butter Masala, Chicken Biryani, Butter Naan and Veg Biryani.<br />
<br />
Swiggy also revealed that Indians were experimental in their choices and ordered dishes like - Mexican Bowl, Sushi, Italian Pasta, Spicy Ramen and Pizza, along with authentic Indian food. A lot of foreign food like Bibimbap (Korean) and Ravioli (Italian) also emerged as India's popular choices.<br />
<br />
This year, Samosa remained at the top of the 10 most ordered snacks, as it received 4 million orders.<br />
<br />
“The top 10 most ordered snacks on Swiggy are Samosa, Popcorn, Pav Bhaji, French Fries, Garlic Breadsticks, Hot wings, Taco, Classic Stuffed Garlic Bread, and Mingles Bucket,” Swiggy stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar hits out at Pakistan, says 'It's an epicentre of terrorism'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-hits-out-at-pakistan-says-its-an-epicentre-of-terrorism-543637/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
The online food delivery service stated the top three most ordered desserts were Gulab Jamun with 2.7 million orders, Rasmalai with 1.6 million orders, and Choco Lava Cake with 1 million orders.<br />
<br />
“Top 5 cuisines sold by Cloud Kitchens: North Indian, Chinese/Pan Asian, Biryani, Desserts/Ice cream, Burgers/American, South Indian," it further added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Following a similar practice every year, online food delivery app Swiggy announced which food or snack was ordered the most by Indians in 2022. As per Swiggy's report, Biryani emerged as the most-ordered dish in the year 2022.

Following a similar practice every year, online food delivery app Swiggy announced which food or snack was ordered the most by Indians in 2022. As per Swiggy's report, Biryani emerged as the most-ordered dish in the year 2022. For the seventh time in a row, Biryani has topped the list. It was also revealed that a new record of 2.28 orders per second was set by Biryani. It was also noted by the food delivery application that 137 orders for biryani were delivered by the application every minute this year. ALSO READ| India's 'Namami Gange' among world's 10 most groundbreaking conservation efforts According to the report, the dishes that were most ordered on Swiggy this year are Chicken Fried Rice, Veg Fried Rice, Masala Dosa, Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Butter Masala, Chicken Biryani, Butter Naan and Veg Biryani. Swiggy also revealed that Indians were experimental in their choices and ordered dishes like - Mexican Bowl, Sushi, Italian Pasta, Spicy Ramen and Pizza, along with authentic Indian food. A lot of foreign food like Bibimbap (Korean) and Ravioli (Italian) also emerged as India's popular choices. This year, Samosa remained at the top of the 10 most ordered snacks, as it received 4 million orders. “The top 10 most ordered snacks on Swiggy are Samosa, Popcorn, Pav Bhaji, French Fries, Garlic Breadsticks, Hot wings, Taco, Classic Stuffed Garlic Bread, and Mingles Bucket,” Swiggy stated. WATCH| India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar hits out at Pakistan, says 'It's an epicentre of terrorism' The online food delivery service stated the top three most ordered desserts were Gulab Jamun with 2.7 million orders, Rasmalai with 1.6 million orders, and Choco Lava Cake with 1 million orders. “Top 5 cuisines sold by Cloud Kitchens: North Indian, Chinese/Pan Asian, Biryani, Desserts/Ice cream, Burgers/American, South Indian," it further added. (With inputs from agencies)

Swiggy says Biryani India's favourite dish in 2022, Samosa takes spot of favourite snack

<p>A notice was sent to the chief executive officers of Flipkart and Amazon by the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) over the ‘easy availability of acid’ after a teenage girl recently faced an acid attack in the national capital.&nbsp;In its letter, the DCW highlighted, “The accused bought acid through Flipkart.” Expressing its concern over the availability of acid on the e-commerce platform, it said that "acid is easily available on Amazon and Flipkart, which is illegal". &nbsp;</p>

<p>The panel further appealed to the organisations to take urgent steps in this regard.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-set-to-fire-20000-employees-including-top-managers-540087">Amazon set to fire 20,000 employees, including top managers</a></p>

<p>The DCW, in its letter, stated, "Please inform the reason for the availability of acid on the e-shopping platform. Please provide complete details of the sellers who have placed acid as a 'product' on your platform." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The women’s panel also asked the e-commerce giants to submit a copy of the licence permitting the sale of acid online, along with a copy of the policy which was adopted by firms on the sale of products which are government regulated. The panel further inquired whether the e-commerce platform had collected the photo IDs of those who had bought acid.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DCW writes to CEOs of Amazon &amp; Flipkart about the acid attack on a 17-yr-old girl in Dwarka.<br />
<br />
"DCW has learnt that accused bought acid through 'Flipkart' &amp; that acid is easily available on 'Amazon' &amp; 'Flipkart' which is illegal," the letter reads as DCW seeks details on the same <a href="https://t.co/XZ0Ey39hLt">pic.twitter.com/XZ0Ey39hLt</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1603292307616595968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the morning of Wednesday, a 17-year-old teenage girl was on her way to school accompanied by her sister when acid was thrown on her by two men on a bike in the Mohan Garden area of West Delhi. The acid attack was caught on CCTV and stirred a huge outrage.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-amazon-to-freeze-corporate-hiring-531111/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Hours after the incident, three men were arrested by police while the teen was admitted to the Safdarjung Hospital, where the doctors confirmed that she suffered 8% burn injuries.</p>

<p>The main accused, Sachin, resides in the same locality as the victim. Special Commissioner of Police Sagar Preet Hooda said that the accused started stalking the victim three months ago after the latter rebuffed the former’s advances.</p>

<p>“Sachin ordered the acid on the e-commerce website Flipkart and was with his friend (Harshit Aggrawal) while attacking the girl. The bike used in commission of crime and a phone have been recovered,” the police stated in the report.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A notice was sent to the chief executive officers of Flipkart and Amazon by the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) over the ‘easy availability of acid’ after a teenage girl recently faced an acid attack in the national capital.

A notice was sent to the chief executive officers of Flipkart and Amazon by the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) over the ‘easy availability of acid’ after a teenage girl recently faced an acid attack in the national capital. In its letter, the DCW highlighted, “The accused bought acid through Flipkart.” Expressing its concern over the availability of acid on the e-commerce platform, it said that "acid is easily available on Amazon and Flipkart, which is illegal". The panel further appealed to the organisations to take urgent steps in this regard. ALSO READ| Amazon set to fire 20,000 employees, including top managers The DCW, in its letter, stated, "Please inform the reason for the availability of acid on the e-shopping platform. Please provide complete details of the sellers who have placed acid as a 'product' on your platform." The women’s panel also asked the e-commerce giants to submit a copy of the licence permitting the sale of acid online, along with a copy of the policy which was adopted by firms on the sale of products which are government regulated. The panel further inquired whether the e-commerce platform had collected the photo IDs of those who had bought acid. DCW writes to CEOs of Amazon & Flipkart about the acid attack on a 17-yr-old girl in Dwarka. "DCW has learnt that accused bought acid through 'Flipkart' & that acid is easily available on 'Amazon' & 'Flipkart' which is illegal," the letter reads as DCW seeks details on the same pic.twitter.com/XZ0Ey39hLt — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2022 × On the morning of Wednesday, a 17-year-old teenage girl was on her way to school accompanied by her sister when acid was thrown on her by two men on a bike in the Mohan Garden area of West Delhi. The acid attack was caught on CCTV and stirred a huge outrage. WATCH| WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring Hours after the incident, three men were arrested by police while the teen was admitted to the Safdarjung Hospital, where the doctors confirmed that she suffered 8% burn injuries. The main accused, Sachin, resides in the same locality as the victim. Special Commissioner of Police Sagar Preet Hooda said that the accused started stalking the victim three months ago after the latter rebuffed the former’s advances. “Sachin ordered the acid on the e-commerce website Flipkart and was with his friend (Harshit Aggrawal) while attacking the girl. The bike used in commission of crime and a phone have been recovered,” the police stated in the report. (With inputs from agencies)

Attack on teen girl: Flipkart, Amazon face Delhi women's panel action for selling acid online

<p>Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The nation recently witnessed widespread protests because of a shortage of fuel and food&nbsp; and high inflation as it battled its worst economic crisis in more than seven decades. The protests resulted in the ouster of Sri Lanka’s then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July.</p>

<p>Additional funds are important for the Sri Lankan government which is burdened with a public external debt amounting to $40.6 billion, 22% of which it owes to Chinese creditors. An agreement was reached between Sri Lanka and the IMF in September for a loan of $2.9 billion, which may get approval for disbursal next year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-2023-budget-gets-parliamentary-nod-amidst-unprecedented-economic-crisis-541497">Sri Lanka’s 2023 budget gets parliamentary nod amidst unprecedented economic crisis</a></p>

<p>"Apart from what we get from the IMF, we are looking at all others, the multilaterals put together another $4-$5 billion," said the foreign minister in an interview.</p>

<p>"The president is interested in restructuring some of the (state) institutions, so through that if we can raise $2-$3 billion, then what happens is that our treasury and reserves become strengthened,” he added. The minister stated that Sri Lanka was looking forward to getting approval from the IMF board for the loan in December; however, it has been likely postponed to January.</p>

<p>The government is working towards finalising financing assurances from nations like India, China and Japan, along with private creditors. The foreign minister said that the government is yet to receive "letters of assurance” for restructuring of debt from India as well as China, which is its largest bilateral creditor.</p>

<p>The minister added that the restructuring efforts have been supported by the two nations and that the required data and documents have been shared by Sri Lanka.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Exclusive: Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry speaks to WION</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-sri-lankas-foreign-minister-ali-sabry-speaks-to-wion-536570/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"We are very, very clear, both to the IMF and to our multilateral partners and to our bilateral friends that patience is running out and it is urgent for the sake of Sri Lankans and the good health of the world economy," said Sabry.</p>

<p>He stated that there has been improvement in the economy of Sri Lanka overall due to regular imports of essentials like food and fuel. The country’s inflation had increased above 70% earlier this year, however, it eased to 61% by November end and it is expected that the economy will contract by about 8.7% by the year's end.</p>

<p>"Some stability is taking place. Then the growth can return. So that should start in the next quarter of next year with the IMF loan coming in, other multilateral agencies coming in. But the growth to take place, it is going to be 2024 if everything goes according to plan,” said Sabry.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday. The nation recently witnessed widespread protests because of a shortage of fuel and food and high inflation as it battled its worst economic crisis in more than seven decades. The protests resulted in the ouster of Sri Lanka’s then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July. Additional funds are important for the Sri Lankan government which is burdened with a public external debt amounting to $40.6 billion, 22% of which it owes to Chinese creditors. An agreement was reached between Sri Lanka and the IMF in September for a loan of $2.9 billion, which may get approval for disbursal next year. ALSO READ| Sri Lanka’s 2023 budget gets parliamentary nod amidst unprecedented economic crisis "Apart from what we get from the IMF, we are looking at all others, the multilaterals put together another $4-$5 billion," said the foreign minister in an interview. "The president is interested in restructuring some of the (state) institutions, so through that if we can raise $2-$3 billion, then what happens is that our treasury and reserves become strengthened,” he added. The minister stated that Sri Lanka was looking forward to getting approval from the IMF board for the loan in December; however, it has been likely postponed to January. The government is working towards finalising financing assurances from nations like India, China and Japan, along with private creditors. The foreign minister said that the government is yet to receive "letters of assurance” for restructuring of debt from India as well as China, which is its largest bilateral creditor. The minister added that the restructuring efforts have been supported by the two nations and that the required data and documents have been shared by Sri Lanka. WATCH| Exclusive: Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry speaks to WION "We are very, very clear, both to the IMF and to our multilateral partners and to our bilateral friends that patience is running out and it is urgent for the sake of Sri Lankans and the good health of the world economy," said Sabry. He stated that there has been improvement in the economy of Sri Lanka overall due to regular imports of essentials like food and fuel. The country’s inflation had increased above 70% earlier this year, however, it eased to 61% by November end and it is expected that the economy will contract by about 8.7% by the year's end. "Some stability is taking place. Then the growth can return. So that should start in the next quarter of next year with the IMF loan coming in, other multilateral agencies coming in. But the growth to take place, it is going to be 2024 if everything goes according to plan,” said Sabry. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Growth can return’, says Sri Lankan FM, as govt aims to raise $8 billion in loans

<p>Tesla’s Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk sold 22 million shares worth $3.6 billion, as the total valuation of the shares sold by him this year touched $40 billion and the shares of the company touched a two-year low.&nbsp;According to a US securities filing, 22 million shares were unloaded by Musk in the most valuable car-making company in the world in a span of three days between Monday to Wednesday.</p>

<p>This is the second time since stocks in huge number have been sold by Musk after he made the Twitter purchase worth $44 billion in October.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-no-longer-worlds-richest-man-check-who-is-542818">Elon Musk no longer world's richest man. Check who is</a></p>

<p>Although, it’s unclear if the sale of shares is related to the acquisition of Twitter, however, the investors are annoyed by the perception that Musk’s focus as well as resources are getting diverted from Tesla to Twitter.</p>

<p>Brokerage IG Markets’ analyst Tony Sycamore said, "It doesn't put a lot of confidence in the business, or speak volumes for where his attention is at.”</p>

<p>"It's not a good situation. I've spoken to a lot of investors who have Tesla shares and they're absolutely furious at Elon,” he added.</p>

<p>This year, the stock price of Tesla has decreased by 50%, as it has continuously underperformed at both broader tech-heavy Nasdaq and automakers.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Twitter grounds account tracking Elon Musk's jet; Musk earlier promised the account was safe</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/twitter-grounds-account-tracking-elon-musks-jet-musk-earlier-promised-the-account-was-safe-543200/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Maybank Securities’ head of prime brokerage Tareck Horchani said, “It will start to be tiring for investors.”</p>

<p>The fortune of Musk, which is mostly related to Tesla shares, has seen a significant decrease in prices this year and has resulted in him losing the tag of the richest person in the world last week to Louis Vuitton boss Bernard Arnault, as per Forbes.</p>

<p>A month before, shares worth $4 billion were sold by Musk days after the Twitter deal was closed. Musk’s supporter and Tesla investor Ross Gerber tweeted that an announcement of buyback should be made by Tesla "to take advantage to (sic) the low share price Elon has created”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tesla’s Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk sold 22 million shares worth $3.6 billion, as the total valuation of the shares sold by him this year touched $40 billion and the shares of the company touched a two-year low.

Tesla’s Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk sold 22 million shares worth $3.6 billion, as the total valuation of the shares sold by him this year touched $40 billion and the shares of the company touched a two-year low. According to a US securities filing, 22 million shares were unloaded by Musk in the most valuable car-making company in the world in a span of three days between Monday to Wednesday. This is the second time since stocks in huge number have been sold by Musk after he made the Twitter purchase worth $44 billion in October. ALSO READ| Elon Musk no longer world's richest man. Check who is Although, it’s unclear if the sale of shares is related to the acquisition of Twitter, however, the investors are annoyed by the perception that Musk’s focus as well as resources are getting diverted from Tesla to Twitter. Brokerage IG Markets’ analyst Tony Sycamore said, "It doesn't put a lot of confidence in the business, or speak volumes for where his attention is at.” "It's not a good situation. I've spoken to a lot of investors who have Tesla shares and they're absolutely furious at Elon,” he added. This year, the stock price of Tesla has decreased by 50%, as it has continuously underperformed at both broader tech-heavy Nasdaq and automakers. WATCH| Twitter grounds account tracking Elon Musk's jet; Musk earlier promised the account was safe Maybank Securities’ head of prime brokerage Tareck Horchani said, “It will start to be tiring for investors.” The fortune of Musk, which is mostly related to Tesla shares, has seen a significant decrease in prices this year and has resulted in him losing the tag of the richest person in the world last week to Louis Vuitton boss Bernard Arnault, as per Forbes. A month before, shares worth $4 billion were sold by Musk days after the Twitter deal was closed. Musk’s supporter and Tesla investor Ross Gerber tweeted that an announcement of buyback should be made by Tesla "to take advantage to (sic) the low share price Elon has created”. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk sells Tesla’s 22 million shares worth $3.6 billion in three days

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