Southern California was rocked by its largest earthquake in two decades on Thursday, but the 6.4-magnitude tremblor caused only "minor" injuries.

The shallow quake, which was followed by dozens of aftershocks, struck in a sparsely populated portion of the Mojave Desert, 10 kilometres from the city of Ridgecrest at 10:33 am.&nbsp;

It was felt 160 miles away in Los Angeles and even as far afield as Las Vegas in the neighbouring state of Nevada, as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salute-to-america-trump-praises-us-military-in-july-4-speech-233094">United States celebrated its July 4</a> Independence Day holiday.

Although the quake in the most populous US state of California revived fears of the "Big One" -- a powerful tremblor along the San Andreas Fault that could devastate major cities in Southern California -- President Trump was quick to reassure that this wasn't it.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Been fully briefed on earthquake in Southern California. All seems to be very much under control!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1146862295466819585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"All seems to be very much under control!" he tweeted two hours after the quake in the Searles Valley of San Bernardino County.

California Institute of Technology seismologist Lucy Jones told a press conference that residents "will continue having a lot of aftershocks," some may be as strong as magnitude five.

The quake was the largest in southern California since 1999 when a 7.1-magnitude quake struck the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps base, according to The Los Angeles Times.

David Witt, the fire chief in Kern County which includes Ridgecrest, reported "minor, minor injuries," stemming from broken glass and shelves falling down in supermarkets.&nbsp;

He was not able to provide an exact number of casualties.

Peggy Breeden, mayor of Ridgecrest which has a population of 28,000, said the local hospital had been evacuated as a precaution, and that she had received reports of a handful of house fires.

Some areas of the city had lost power, while gas had been cut due to ruptured lines, she said.

The San Bernardino County Fire Department, meanwhile, said that "buildings and roads have sustained varying degrees of damage."&nbsp;

This included "buildings with minor cracks, broken water mains, power lines down, rock slides on certain roads."

The quake struck at a depth of 10.7 kilometres in the vast desert region, lasting seconds.

Its epicentre was located in or on the edge of the US Navy's sprawling desert bomb testing range known as China Lake.&nbsp;

The Naval Air Weapons Station covers 1.1 million acres and strictly controls the airspace above it. Inside, the Navy develops and tests missiles, bombs, artillery shells and other war ordnance, and the aircraft used to deliver it.

An official at China Lake said there was "substantial damage" to their facilities, including fires, water leaks and spills of hazardous materials.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said there was no significant damage there, while the city's international airport said its runways were unharmed, with operations continuing as normal.

'Even bigger earthquake'

Jones said there is a small possibility this quake is the prelude to a larger one.

"There is about a one-in-20 chance that this location will be having an even bigger earthquake within the next few days, that we have not yet seen the biggest earthquake of the sequence," she said.

"There have been hundreds of earthquakes today," she said, including more than 100 that the United States Geological Survey measured at greater than magnitude 2.5.

For filmmaker Ava DuVernay, a lifelong resident of Los Angles, "That was the longest earthquake I've ever experienced. Not jerky. Smooth and rolling. But it was loooong."

Southern California was rocked by its largest earthquake in two decades on Thursday, but the 6.4-magnitude tremblor caused only "minor" injuries. The shallow quake, which was followed by dozens of aftershocks, struck in a sparsely populated portion of the Mojave Desert, 10 kilometres from the city of Ridgecrest at 10:33 am.

Southern California was rocked by its largest earthquake in two decades on Thursday, but the 6.4-magnitude tremblor caused only "minor" injuries. The shallow quake, which was followed by dozens of aftershocks, struck in a sparsely populated portion of the Mojave Desert, 10 kilometres from the city of Ridgecrest at 10:33 am. It was felt 160 miles away in Los Angeles and even as far afield as Las Vegas in the neighbouring state of Nevada, as the United States celebrated its July 4 Independence Day holiday. Although the quake in the most populous US state of California revived fears of the "Big One" -- a powerful tremblor along the San Andreas Fault that could devastate major cities in Southern California -- President Trump was quick to reassure that this wasn't it. Been fully briefed on earthquake in Southern California. All seems to be very much under control! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 4, 2019 × "All seems to be very much under control!" he tweeted two hours after the quake in the Searles Valley of San Bernardino County. California Institute of Technology seismologist Lucy Jones told a press conference that residents "will continue having a lot of aftershocks," some may be as strong as magnitude five. The quake was the largest in southern California since 1999 when a 7.1-magnitude quake struck the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps base, according to The Los Angeles Times. David Witt, the fire chief in Kern County which includes Ridgecrest, reported "minor, minor injuries," stemming from broken glass and shelves falling down in supermarkets. He was not able to provide an exact number of casualties. Peggy Breeden, mayor of Ridgecrest which has a population of 28,000, said the local hospital had been evacuated as a precaution, and that she had received reports of a handful of house fires. Some areas of the city had lost power, while gas had been cut due to ruptured lines, she said. The San Bernardino County Fire Department, meanwhile, said that "buildings and roads have sustained varying degrees of damage." This included "buildings with minor cracks, broken water mains, power lines down, rock slides on certain roads." The quake struck at a depth of 10.7 kilometres in the vast desert region, lasting seconds. Its epicentre was located in or on the edge of the US Navy's sprawling desert bomb testing range known as China Lake. The Naval Air Weapons Station covers 1.1 million acres and strictly controls the airspace above it. Inside, the Navy develops and tests missiles, bombs, artillery shells and other war ordnance, and the aircraft used to deliver it. An official at China Lake said there was "substantial damage" to their facilities, including fires, water leaks and spills of hazardous materials. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said there was no significant damage there, while the city's international airport said its runways were unharmed, with operations continuing as normal. 'Even bigger earthquake' Jones said there is a small possibility this quake is the prelude to a larger one. "There is about a one-in-20 chance that this location will be having an even bigger earthquake within the next few days, that we have not yet seen the biggest earthquake of the sequence," she said. "There have been hundreds of earthquakes today," she said, including more than 100 that the United States Geological Survey measured at greater than magnitude 2.5. For filmmaker Ava DuVernay, a lifelong resident of Los Angles, "That was the longest earthquake I've ever experienced. Not jerky. Smooth and rolling. But it was loooong."

6.4-magnitude earthquake hits southern California; no casualties

The Centre has rolled out a number of schemes for middle-class homebuyers that are expected to entail net gains worth Rs 7 lakh, in a big boost towards the goal of 'Housing for All'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-nirmala-sitharaman-to-launch-study-in-india-initiative-to-encourage-foreign-students-233240">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a>, while presenting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-finance-minister-sitharaman-proposes-opening-up-insurance-aviation-sectors-to-boost-growth-233235">Union Budget 2019-20 in Parliament </a>on Friday, proposed additional deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh for interest paid on loans borrowed up to March 31, 2020.

This move, Sitharaman said, will translate into a benefit of Rs 7 lakh for middle-class homebuyers over their loan period of 15 years.

Those purchasing homes valued up to Rs 45 lakh under the affordable housing scheme, Sitharaman said, can avail enhanced interest deduction up to Rs 3.5 lakh.

"For realisation of the goal of 'Housing for All' and affordable housing, a tax holiday has already been provided on the profits earned by developers of affordable housing. Also, interest paid on housing loans is allowed as a deduction to the extent of Rs. 2 lakh in respect of self-occupied property," she added.

Talking about rental tenancy laws, Sitharaman said the Centre would take substantial steps to promote rental housing for which government would make amendments in the existing rental laws.

"Current rental laws are archaic as they do not address lessor-lessee relationships fairly," she said, adding that the new tenancy rules would be shared with the states.

The Centre has rolled out a number of schemes for middle-class homebuyers that are expected to entail net gains worth Rs 7 lakh, in a big boost towards the goal of 'Housing for All'.

The Centre has rolled out a number of schemes for middle-class homebuyers that are expected to entail net gains worth Rs 7 lakh, in a big boost towards the goal of 'Housing for All'. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget 2019-20 in Parliament on Friday, proposed additional deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh for interest paid on loans borrowed up to March 31, 2020. This move, Sitharaman said, will translate into a benefit of Rs 7 lakh for middle-class homebuyers over their loan period of 15 years. Those purchasing homes valued up to Rs 45 lakh under the affordable housing scheme, Sitharaman said, can avail enhanced interest deduction up to Rs 3.5 lakh. "For realisation of the goal of 'Housing for All' and affordable housing, a tax holiday has already been provided on the profits earned by developers of affordable housing. Also, interest paid on housing loans is allowed as a deduction to the extent of Rs. 2 lakh in respect of self-occupied property," she added. Talking about rental tenancy laws, Sitharaman said the Centre would take substantial steps to promote rental housing for which government would make amendments in the existing rental laws. "Current rental laws are archaic as they do not address lessor-lessee relationships fairly," she said, adding that the new tenancy rules would be shared with the states.

Centre announces benefits worth Rs 7 lakh for middle-class homebuyers

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2019-this-budget-gives-hope-to-country-shows-we-are-on-right-track-pm-modi-233239">Union Budget 2019-20</a> on Friday proposed to extend the lower rate of 25 per cent corporate tax to all companies with annual turnover up to Rs 400 crore.

Currently, this rate is only applicable to companies having annual turnover up to Rs 250 crore. Presenting the Budget in Parliament, Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-finance-minister-sitharaman-proposes-opening-up-insurance-aviation-sectors-to-boost-growth-233235">Nirmala Sitharaman said</a>: "This will cover 99.3 per cent of the companies.&nbsp;Now only 0.7 per cent of companies will remain outside this rate."

The Budget also proposed to make PAN and Aadhaar interchangeable and allow those who do not have PAN to file income tax returns by simply quoting their Aadhaar number and also use it wherever they are required to quote PAN. Sitharaman said more than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhaar and the proposal aims at ease and convenience of taxpayers.

At the same time, pre-filed tax returns will be made available to taxpayers which will contain details of salary income, capital gains from securities, bank interests, dividends and tax deductions. "This will not only significantly reduce the time taken to file a tax return, but will also ensure accuracy of reporting of income and taxes," said Sitharaman.

Watch:&nbsp;India will become a $3-billion economy this year, says Nirmala Sitharaman

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/budget-2019-india-will-become-a-3-billion-economy-this-year-says-nirmala-sitharaman-233230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A scheme of faceless assessment in electronic mode involving no human interface will be launched in a phased manner. To start with, such e-assessments will be carried out in cases requiring verification of certain specified transactions or discrepancies, she added.

The Budget also proposed to levy tax deduction at source of two per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account.&nbsp;

This is in continuation of a number of initiatives taken in the recent past for the promotion of digital payments and less cash economy and to promote digital payments further, said the minister.

The Union Budget 2019-20 on Friday proposed to extend the lower rate of 25 per cent corporate tax to all companies with annual turnover up to Rs 400 crore. Currently, this rate is only applicable to companies having annual turnover up to Rs 250 crore.

The Union Budget 2019-20 on Friday proposed to extend the lower rate of 25 per cent corporate tax to all companies with annual turnover up to Rs 400 crore. Currently, this rate is only applicable to companies having annual turnover up to Rs 250 crore. Presenting the Budget in Parliament, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said: "This will cover 99.3 per cent of the companies. Now only 0.7 per cent of companies will remain outside this rate." The Budget also proposed to make PAN and Aadhaar interchangeable and allow those who do not have PAN to file income tax returns by simply quoting their Aadhaar number and also use it wherever they are required to quote PAN. Sitharaman said more than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhaar and the proposal aims at ease and convenience of taxpayers. At the same time, pre-filed tax returns will be made available to taxpayers which will contain details of salary income, capital gains from securities, bank interests, dividends and tax deductions. "This will not only significantly reduce the time taken to file a tax return, but will also ensure accuracy of reporting of income and taxes," said Sitharaman. Watch: India will become a $3-billion economy this year, says Nirmala Sitharaman A scheme of faceless assessment in electronic mode involving no human interface will be launched in a phased manner. To start with, such e-assessments will be carried out in cases requiring verification of certain specified transactions or discrepancies, she added. The Budget also proposed to levy tax deduction at source of two per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account. This is in continuation of a number of initiatives taken in the recent past for the promotion of digital payments and less cash economy and to promote digital payments further, said the minister.

Budget 2019: Sitharaman proposes interchangeable PAN, Aadhaar for filing income tax returns

The UN human rights chief lamented Friday the erosion of rule of law in Venezuela, pointing to attacks on political opponents and activists, including using torture and killings.

"Essential institutions and the rule of law in Venezuela have been eroded," Michelle Bachelet told the UN Human Rights Council.

She was presenting a damning report published late Thursday, following her visit to the troubled South American Country last month.

The report pointed out that, according to a count by Caracas, nearly 7,000 people have been killed during security operations in Venezuela in the past year and a half.

"Many could constitute extrajudicial killings, and should be fully investigated with accountability of perpetrators, and guarantees of non-recurrence," Bachelet told the council.

In her report, she especially pointed a finger at Venezuela's police special forces (FAES), and urged the authorities to "dissolve" the unit.&nbsp;

Overall, she said that attempts to exercise basic rights like freedom of opinion, expression, association and assembly "entails a risk of reprisals and repression".

"Our report notes attacks against actual or perceived political opponents and human rights defenders ranging from threats and smear campaigns to arbitrary detention, torture, ill-treatment, sexual violence, killings and enforced disappearance," Bachelet said.

She also warned that "excessive and lethal force has repeatedly been used against protestors."

The report also decried a wide range of other grave rights violations in Venezuela, which is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido.

The opposition leader, Guaido, declared himself interim president earlier this year, and has been recognised by the United States and more than 50 other countries.

The oil-rich country is also suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods from food to medicine, a crisis that has forced millions to flee.&nbsp;

The UN human rights chief lamented Friday the erosion of rule of law in Venezuela, pointing to attacks on political opponents and activists, including using torture and killings.

The UN human rights chief lamented Friday the erosion of rule of law in Venezuela, pointing to attacks on political opponents and activists, including using torture and killings. "Essential institutions and the rule of law in Venezuela have been eroded," Michelle Bachelet told the UN Human Rights Council. She was presenting a damning report published late Thursday, following her visit to the troubled South American Country last month. The report pointed out that, according to a count by Caracas, nearly 7,000 people have been killed during security operations in Venezuela in the past year and a half. "Many could constitute extrajudicial killings, and should be fully investigated with accountability of perpetrators, and guarantees of non-recurrence," Bachelet told the council. In her report, she especially pointed a finger at Venezuela's police special forces (FAES), and urged the authorities to "dissolve" the unit. Overall, she said that attempts to exercise basic rights like freedom of opinion, expression, association and assembly "entails a risk of reprisals and repression". "Our report notes attacks against actual or perceived political opponents and human rights defenders ranging from threats and smear campaigns to arbitrary detention, torture, ill-treatment, sexual violence, killings and enforced disappearance," Bachelet said. She also warned that "excessive and lethal force has repeatedly been used against protestors." The report also decried a wide range of other grave rights violations in Venezuela, which is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido. The opposition leader, Guaido, declared himself interim president earlier this year, and has been recognised by the United States and more than 50 other countries. The oil-rich country is also suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods from food to medicine, a crisis that has forced millions to flee.

Rule of law in Venezuela 'eroded': UN rights chief

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-finance-minister-sitharaman-proposes-opening-up-insurance-aviation-sectors-to-boost-growth-233235">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a> said on Friday that three Indian institutions - two IITs and IISc - now figure in top 200 institutions in world university rankings and the government will start a programme 'Study in India' to encourage foreign students to study in Indian universities.

Presenting the Union Budget, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-highlights-of-taxation-revenue-policy-announced-by-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-233200">Sitharaman said</a> that regulatory system in higher education will be reformed and a Higher Education Commission will be set up.

She said no Indian institute figured in top 200 of world university rankings five years back.

"Concerted efforts have been made to boost education standards. Three institutes - two IITs and IISc (Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru) are in top 200. We will continue making concerted efforts," she said.

She said Rs 400 crore has been earmarked for Rs 2019-2020 under the head 'World-class institutions'.

Watch:&nbsp;Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents Union Budget 2019-20 in Lok Sabha

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-presents-union-budget-2019-20-in-lok-sabha-233208/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It is more than three times the revised estimates," she said.

The minister said India has the potential to become the hub of education and the `Study in India' programme will focus on bringing foreign students to the country.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Friday that three Indian institutions - two IITs and IISc - now figure in top 200 institutions in world university rankings and the government will start a programme 'Study in India' to encourage foreign students to study in Indian universities.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Friday that three Indian institutions - two IITs and IISc - now figure in top 200 institutions in world university rankings and the government will start a programme 'Study in India' to encourage foreign students to study in Indian universities. Presenting the Union Budget, Sitharaman said that regulatory system in higher education will be reformed and a Higher Education Commission will be set up. She said no Indian institute figured in top 200 of world university rankings five years back. "Concerted efforts have been made to boost education standards. Three institutes - two IITs and IISc (Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru) are in top 200. We will continue making concerted efforts," she said. She said Rs 400 crore has been earmarked for Rs 2019-2020 under the head 'World-class institutions'. Watch: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents Union Budget 2019-20 in Lok Sabha "It is more than three times the revised estimates," she said. The minister said India has the potential to become the hub of education and the `Study in India' programme will focus on bringing foreign students to the country.

Budget 2019: Nirmala Sitharaman to launch 'Study in India' initiative to encourage foreign students

The African Union launches the "operational phase" this weekend of a long-awaited trade accord, but analysts say the continent faces an uphill task to transform the pact into reality.

The 55-nation AU, gathering for a summit in Niger, will give the formal push to a deal to phase out tariffs on trade from the Cape of Good Hope to Cairo.

By doing so, say supporters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), business between African nations will boom.

The economy of Africa, with a GDP of $2.5 trillion today, will reach takeoff just as its 1.2 billion population doubles over the next three decades, they predict.

"It's a remarkable achievement, and one that can even be described as historic," AU Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat said Thursday in the Niger capital Niamey.

Backers were given something to celebrate ahead of the summit: on Tuesday, Nigeria, the continent's largest and most populous economy, said it would sign after long holding back.&nbsp;

Talks on free trade began back in 2002, culminating in a deal that in late May crossed the threshold of ratification by at least 22 countries.

That tally is now 25 out of 55 AU members. Benin and Eritrea are the last countries yet to sign.

Major hurdles

The sunny mood may well sour when the AU is confronted with the realities of the task at hand, observers say.

"Negotiations on some very important points have not yet been completed," said Trudi Hartzenberg, director at Tralac, a specialist trade law organisation based in South Africa.

A timetable for lowering customs duties, rules for certifying "Made in Africa" products, and arbitration mechanisms to settle trade disputes are among the hurdles not even close to being resolved.

In its first phase, the zone will eliminate customs duties on 90 per cent of goods.

Tariffs will be scrapped over a longer period on seven per cent of "sensitive" goods -- a potential means for a country to protect national sectors from foreign imports, say analysts. Tariffs on the remaining three per cent of goods will remain in place.

At the Niamey meet, the AU is expected to choose the location of a secretariat, with Ghana and eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) among the names doing the rounds.

Critics say many economies are hugely dependent on agriculture or on primary resources such as minerals and forestry, and lack the diversity necessary for vibrant two-way trade.&nbsp;

The share of trade done by African nations with each other is very low -- just 16 per cent, compared to 65 per cent among European countries.

"Africa trades with the rest of the world, but it does not trade with itself," said Jakkie Cilliers from the Institute for Security Studies, a South African-based think tank.

'No magic bullet'

AfCFTA fans claim this slender intra-African trade could be boosted by 60 per cent within a few years.

But others caution that benefits on this scale will take far longer to achieve.

"The (free trade) agreement between Canada and the EU took seven years to negotiate and that was just between one country and a fairly economically integrated group of 28 states, not 55 countries, each at very different stages of economic development," said Elissa Jobson at the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank.

Cilliers said the AfCFTA would take "about a decade to produce its positive effects".

"This is not a magic bullet," he said.

The average tariffs on intra-African trade, of 6.1 per cent, are higher than on exports to non-African countries.

This discrepancy is cited as a reason why intra-African trade is so low.

But, say observers, import duties are not the only obstacles to freer business.

Corruption, decrepit infrastructure and lengthy waiting times at borders are also hefty barriers.

In a report published in April, the International Monetary Fund said "improving trade logistics, such as customs services, and addressing poor infrastructure could be up to four times more effective in boosting trade than tariff reductions".

The African Union launches the "operational phase" this weekend of a long-awaited trade accord, but analysts say the continent faces an uphill task to transform the pact into reality.

The African Union launches the "operational phase" this weekend of a long-awaited trade accord, but analysts say the continent faces an uphill task to transform the pact into reality. The 55-nation AU, gathering for a summit in Niger, will give the formal push to a deal to phase out tariffs on trade from the Cape of Good Hope to Cairo. By doing so, say supporters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), business between African nations will boom. The economy of Africa, with a GDP of $2.5 trillion today, will reach takeoff just as its 1.2 billion population doubles over the next three decades, they predict. "It's a remarkable achievement, and one that can even be described as historic," AU Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat said Thursday in the Niger capital Niamey. Backers were given something to celebrate ahead of the summit: on Tuesday, Nigeria, the continent's largest and most populous economy, said it would sign after long holding back. Talks on free trade began back in 2002, culminating in a deal that in late May crossed the threshold of ratification by at least 22 countries. That tally is now 25 out of 55 AU members. Benin and Eritrea are the last countries yet to sign. Major hurdles The sunny mood may well sour when the AU is confronted with the realities of the task at hand, observers say. "Negotiations on some very important points have not yet been completed," said Trudi Hartzenberg, director at Tralac, a specialist trade law organisation based in South Africa. A timetable for lowering customs duties, rules for certifying "Made in Africa" products, and arbitration mechanisms to settle trade disputes are among the hurdles not even close to being resolved. In its first phase, the zone will eliminate customs duties on 90 per cent of goods. Tariffs will be scrapped over a longer period on seven per cent of "sensitive" goods -- a potential means for a country to protect national sectors from foreign imports, say analysts. Tariffs on the remaining three per cent of goods will remain in place. At the Niamey meet, the AU is expected to choose the location of a secretariat, with Ghana and eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) among the names doing the rounds. Critics say many economies are hugely dependent on agriculture or on primary resources such as minerals and forestry, and lack the diversity necessary for vibrant two-way trade. The share of trade done by African nations with each other is very low -- just 16 per cent, compared to 65 per cent among European countries. "Africa trades with the rest of the world, but it does not trade with itself," said Jakkie Cilliers from the Institute for Security Studies, a South African-based think tank. 'No magic bullet' AfCFTA fans claim this slender intra-African trade could be boosted by 60 per cent within a few years. But others caution that benefits on this scale will take far longer to achieve. "The (free trade) agreement between Canada and the EU took seven years to negotiate and that was just between one country and a fairly economically integrated group of 28 states, not 55 countries, each at very different stages of economic development," said Elissa Jobson at the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank. Cilliers said the AfCFTA would take "about a decade to produce its positive effects". "This is not a magic bullet," he said. The average tariffs on intra-African trade, of 6.1 per cent, are higher than on exports to non-African countries. This discrepancy is cited as a reason why intra-African trade is so low. But, say observers, import duties are not the only obstacles to freer business. Corruption, decrepit infrastructure and lengthy waiting times at borders are also hefty barriers. In a report published in April, the International Monetary Fund said "improving trade logistics, such as customs services, and addressing poor infrastructure could be up to four times more effective in boosting trade than tariff reductions".

Step by step, Africa inches toward 'historic' free trade zone

Polish lawmakers have approved a measure that would exonerate most workers under the age of 26 from income taxes as the country seeks to stem the flow of its young people to other EU nations in search of better-paying jobs.

The lower house of parliament approved the measure introduced by the ruling conservatives in a vote late Thursday by an overwhelming majority.

The bill would exonerate workers under the age of 26 from Poland's 18 per cent personal income tax for those whose gross earnings don't surpass 85,500 zlotys (20,000 euros, $22,500) per year.

That level is higher than Poland's average income, estimated to be around 60,000 zlotys per year before tax.

The approval of the measure by the upper house of parliament and its signature by the president is widely expected.

Some two million people could benefit from the measure, according to supporters of the legislation, which should enter into force from August 1.

Poland has long been haemorrhaging skilled workers to other EU states where they can find better-paying jobs, posing both a long-term demographic risk and short-term problem finding enough labourers to continue the country's streak of economic growth since the fall of communism in 1989.

The measure was one of the campaign promises made by the ruling Law and Justice party ahead of the European parliamentary elections in May, which it won, and legislative elections scheduled for later this year.

Polish lawmakers have approved a measure that would exonerate most workers under the age of 26 from income taxes as the country seeks to stem the flow of its young people to other EU nations in search of better-paying jobs.

Polish lawmakers have approved a measure that would exonerate most workers under the age of 26 from income taxes as the country seeks to stem the flow of its young people to other EU nations in search of better-paying jobs. The lower house of parliament approved the measure introduced by the ruling conservatives in a vote late Thursday by an overwhelming majority. The bill would exonerate workers under the age of 26 from Poland's 18 per cent personal income tax for those whose gross earnings don't surpass 85,500 zlotys (20,000 euros, $22,500) per year. That level is higher than Poland's average income, estimated to be around 60,000 zlotys per year before tax. The approval of the measure by the upper house of parliament and its signature by the president is widely expected. Some two million people could benefit from the measure, according to supporters of the legislation, which should enter into force from August 1. Poland has long been haemorrhaging skilled workers to other EU states where they can find better-paying jobs, posing both a long-term demographic risk and short-term problem finding enough labourers to continue the country's streak of economic growth since the fall of communism in 1989. The measure was one of the campaign promises made by the ruling Law and Justice party ahead of the European parliamentary elections in May, which it won, and legislative elections scheduled for later this year.

Poland moves to exempt young workers from income tax

Iran demanded Friday that Britain immediately release an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-decision-excellent-supertanker-was-laden-with-iran-oil-bound-for-syria-us-233122">oil tanker it has detained in Gibraltar</a>, accusing it of acting at the bidding of the United States.

A senior foreign ministry official "described the UK move as unacceptable" in a meeting with British ambassador Rob Macaire, who had been summoned to hear a formal protest, the ministry said in a statement.

He "called for the immediate release of the oil tanker, given that it has been seized at the request of the US, based on the information currently available", the statement added.

Authorities in Gibraltar, a British overseas territory on Spain's southern tip at the western entrance to the Mediterranean, said they suspected the tanker was carrying crude to Syria in violation of EU sanctions.

The detention of the 330-metre Grace 1 vessel comes at a sensitive time in Iran-EU ties as the bloc mulls how to respond to Tehran announcing it is poised to breach the uranium enrichment limit it agreed to in a troubled 2015 nuclear deal.

The Grace 1 tanker was halted in the early hours of Thursday by police and customs agencies in Gibraltar, aided by a detachment of British Royal Marines.

The ship was detained four kilometres&nbsp;south of Gibraltar in what it considers British waters, although Spain, which lays claim to the territory, says they are Spanish.

It was boarded when it slowed down in a designated area used by shipping agencies to ferry goods to vessels.

"We have reason to believe that the Grace 1 was carrying its shipment of crude oil to the Banyas refinery in Syria," Gibraltar's Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said in a statement.

"That refinery is the property of an entity that is subject to European Union sanctions against Syria.

"We have detained the vessel and its cargo," Picardo said.

At US request

Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell told reporters the vessel was detained at the request of the United States.

In a statement, Britain's Foreign Office said "we welcome this firm action by the Gibraltarian authorities, acting to enforce the EU Syria Sanctions regime".

European Union sanctions against war-torn Syria have been in force since late 2011.

The 28-member bloc has imposed sanctions on Syrian officials including government ministers over their role in the "violent repression" of civilians.

It has frozen the assets of around 70 entities and introduced an embargo on Syrian oil, investment restrictions and a freeze on Syrian central bank assets within the EU.

The tanker's detention comes just days after Iran announced it would exceed the uranium enrichment limit set up as part of the 2015 deal to avoid it building up to the level required for a nuclear warhead.

Tehran took the action in response to Washington abandoning the nuclear deal last year and hitting Iran's crucial oil exports and financial transactions with biting sanctions.

The unilateral move has sent tensions in the Gulf soaring as the administration of President Donald Trump forges ahead with a policy of "maximum pressure" against Iran in coordination with its Middle East allies Israel and Saudi Arabia.

White House National Security Advisor John Bolton, a champion of the hawkish policy towards Tehran, applauded the interception of the supertanker.

"Excellent news: UK has detained the supertanker Grace I laden with Iranian oil bound for Syria in violation of EU sanctions," Bolton tweeted.&nbsp;

According to specialised shipping trade publication Lloyd's List, which analyses vessel-tracking data, the 1997-built ship is laden with Iranian oil.

It reported that the ship loaded oil off Iran in April and sailed around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

Iran demanded Friday that Britain immediately release an oil tanker it has detained in Gibraltar, accusing it of acting at the bidding of the United States. A senior foreign ministry official "described the UK move as unacceptable" in a meeting with British ambassador Rob Macaire, who had been summoned to hear a formal protest, the ministry said in a statement.

Iran demanded Friday that Britain immediately release an oil tanker it has detained in Gibraltar, accusing it of acting at the bidding of the United States. A senior foreign ministry official "described the UK move as unacceptable" in a meeting with British ambassador Rob Macaire, who had been summoned to hear a formal protest, the ministry said in a statement. He "called for the immediate release of the oil tanker, given that it has been seized at the request of the US, based on the information currently available", the statement added. Authorities in Gibraltar, a British overseas territory on Spain's southern tip at the western entrance to the Mediterranean, said they suspected the tanker was carrying crude to Syria in violation of EU sanctions. The detention of the 330-metre Grace 1 vessel comes at a sensitive time in Iran-EU ties as the bloc mulls how to respond to Tehran announcing it is poised to breach the uranium enrichment limit it agreed to in a troubled 2015 nuclear deal. The Grace 1 tanker was halted in the early hours of Thursday by police and customs agencies in Gibraltar, aided by a detachment of British Royal Marines. The ship was detained four kilometres south of Gibraltar in what it considers British waters, although Spain, which lays claim to the territory, says they are Spanish. It was boarded when it slowed down in a designated area used by shipping agencies to ferry goods to vessels. "We have reason to believe that the Grace 1 was carrying its shipment of crude oil to the Banyas refinery in Syria," Gibraltar's Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said in a statement. "That refinery is the property of an entity that is subject to European Union sanctions against Syria. "We have detained the vessel and its cargo," Picardo said. At US request Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell told reporters the vessel was detained at the request of the United States. In a statement, Britain's Foreign Office said "we welcome this firm action by the Gibraltarian authorities, acting to enforce the EU Syria Sanctions regime". European Union sanctions against war-torn Syria have been in force since late 2011. The 28-member bloc has imposed sanctions on Syrian officials including government ministers over their role in the "violent repression" of civilians. It has frozen the assets of around 70 entities and introduced an embargo on Syrian oil, investment restrictions and a freeze on Syrian central bank assets within the EU. The tanker's detention comes just days after Iran announced it would exceed the uranium enrichment limit set up as part of the 2015 deal to avoid it building up to the level required for a nuclear warhead. Tehran took the action in response to Washington abandoning the nuclear deal last year and hitting Iran's crucial oil exports and financial transactions with biting sanctions. The unilateral move has sent tensions in the Gulf soaring as the administration of President Donald Trump forges ahead with a policy of "maximum pressure" against Iran in coordination with its Middle East allies Israel and Saudi Arabia. White House National Security Advisor John Bolton, a champion of the hawkish policy towards Tehran, applauded the interception of the supertanker. "Excellent news: UK has detained the supertanker Grace I laden with Iranian oil bound for Syria in violation of EU sanctions," Bolton tweeted. According to specialised shipping trade publication Lloyd's List, which analyses vessel-tracking data, the 1997-built ship is laden with Iranian oil. It reported that the ship loaded oil off Iran in April and sailed around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

Iran demands Britain release oil tanker held in Gibraltar

Reilly Opelka blasted his way into the third round at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-victoria-azarenka-powers-into-third-round-232782">Wimbledon </a>on Wednesday as the giant 21-year-old American's serve eventually proved too hot to handle for triple grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka in a high-octane five set duel.

Opelka came through 7-5, 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 8-6 against the 22nd seeded Swiss for the biggest win of his career and there will be plenty of bigger names in the draw now scrabbling anxiously for a tape of this match.

"It's a huge win. More so the situation of the match being down two sets to one against him," Opelka told reporters.

"He got really comfortable, started hitting some really good returns. I had to adjust a lot. My mind was always thinking, especially after I lost the third set,"&nbsp;Opelka said.

At 6ft 11in (2.10 metres) the former Wimbledon junior champion is the joint-tallest-ever ATP-ranked player (with Ivo Karlovic) and, unsurprisingly, his biggest weapon is his serve. It reached 142mph (228kph) on Wednesday - the fastest of the Championship so far - and, combined with some surprisingly deft court movement, is the perfect Wimbledon weapon.

Wawrinka, who has never gone beyond the quarter-finals at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-serena-williams-form-wimbledon-mixed-doubles-dream-team-232624">Wimbledon </a>despite winning all three of the other slams and previously reaching number three in the world rankings, could not deal with it at all in the first set.

The 34-year-old eventually used all his experience to work things out and start getting it back and then treating the crowd to some of his sublime backhand winners en route to taking the second and third.

But, just as it seemed as if he would go through smoothly, Opelka found another gear to snatch the fourth.

From then on Wawrinka was having to work harder and harder to hold, while rarely threatening to break. The full match statistics showed the American successful with 73 per cent of first serves compared to the 64 per cent of Wawrinka and Opelka lifted that to a remarkable 91 per cent in the fifth set.

Those figures proved the difference eventually as Wawrinka, at full stretch to even reach, let alone return most of them, was eventually worn down.

"I started holding more easily, I'd had to save so many breakpoints before that," Opelka said of the turnaround. "I made some adjustments and was then able to spend more energy trying to break."

Opelka, who will next face 15th seed Milos Raonic, said that he had "always been a pretty good mover - underrated maybe. Some guys don't expect it when they play me for the first time."

In a period of declining fortunes for American men's tennis, the victory was warmly welcomed former world number four and highly respected coach Brad Gilbert. "Wow, what a clutch performance from big fella Opelka in winning 1st career 5 setter over Stanimal," he tweeted.

Wawrinka had few complaints. "Against those big servers you know you're not going to have a lot of chances and you get under pressure a little bit more," he said.

''At the end, he went for it. He went bigger than me, more aggressive, and he deserved to win," said Wawrinka.

Reilly Opelka blasted his way into the third round at Wimbledon on Wednesday as the giant 21-year-old American's serve eventually proved too hot to handle for triple grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka in a high-octane five set duel.

Reilly Opelka blasted his way into the third round at Wimbledon on Wednesday as the giant 21-year-old American's serve eventually proved too hot to handle for triple grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka in a high-octane five set duel. Opelka came through 7-5, 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 8-6 against the 22nd seeded Swiss for the biggest win of his career and there will be plenty of bigger names in the draw now scrabbling anxiously for a tape of this match. "It's a huge win. More so the situation of the match being down two sets to one against him," Opelka told reporters. "He got really comfortable, started hitting some really good returns. I had to adjust a lot. My mind was always thinking, especially after I lost the third set," Opelka said. At 6ft 11in (2.10 metres) the former Wimbledon junior champion is the joint-tallest-ever ATP-ranked player (with Ivo Karlovic) and, unsurprisingly, his biggest weapon is his serve. It reached 142mph (228kph) on Wednesday - the fastest of the Championship so far - and, combined with some surprisingly deft court movement, is the perfect Wimbledon weapon. Wawrinka, who has never gone beyond the quarter-finals at Wimbledon despite winning all three of the other slams and previously reaching number three in the world rankings, could not deal with it at all in the first set. The 34-year-old eventually used all his experience to work things out and start getting it back and then treating the crowd to some of his sublime backhand winners en route to taking the second and third. But, just as it seemed as if he would go through smoothly, Opelka found another gear to snatch the fourth. From then on Wawrinka was having to work harder and harder to hold, while rarely threatening to break. The full match statistics showed the American successful with 73 per cent of first serves compared to the 64 per cent of Wawrinka and Opelka lifted that to a remarkable 91 per cent in the fifth set. Those figures proved the difference eventually as Wawrinka, at full stretch to even reach, let alone return most of them, was eventually worn down. "I started holding more easily, I'd had to save so many breakpoints before that," Opelka said of the turnaround. "I made some adjustments and was then able to spend more energy trying to break." Opelka, who will next face 15th seed Milos Raonic, said that he had "always been a pretty good mover - underrated maybe. Some guys don't expect it when they play me for the first time." In a period of declining fortunes for American men's tennis, the victory was warmly welcomed former world number four and highly respected coach Brad Gilbert. "Wow, what a clutch performance from big fella Opelka in winning 1st career 5 setter over Stanimal," he tweeted. Wawrinka had few complaints. "Against those big servers you know you're not going to have a lot of chances and you get under pressure a little bit more," he said. ''At the end, he went for it. He went bigger than me, more aggressive, and he deserved to win," said Wawrinka.

Wimbledon: Reilly Opelka blasts past Stan Wawrinka into third round

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-announces-250-million-in-military-aid-to-ukraine-228506">Ukraine</a> on Tuesday announced it is withdrawing its invitation to monitors from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to observe elections later this month, in protest against Russia's reinstatement in the body.

Russian delegates had been stripped of their voting rights in the pan-European rights body in 2014 after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine, but last week were allowed to return over strong objections from Kiev.

Ukrainian parliament speaker Andriy Parubiy on Tuesday said he signed a letter to PACE president Liliane Maury-Pasquier saying its monitors were no longer welcome at the parliamentary elections to be held on July 21.

"Representatives of an aggressor country, Russia, cannot be among international observers; they will be agents of a hybrid war rather than observers," Parubiy wrote on his Facebook page.

"Any influence by Russia on Ukrainian elections, by any means, is not acceptable."

Ukraine, together with Georgia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia had unsuccessfully tried to block Russia's return to PACE, but it was approved by a vote of 116 in favour to 62 against.

Russia's comeback is the first relaxation of the international sanctions that were imposed on Moscow for seizing Crimea.

Ukraine's snap parliamentary polls were called by the country's recently-elected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-new-president-zelensky-says-ceasefire-first-priority-220138">President Volodymyr Zelensky</a> in a controversial move aimed at replacing lawmakers who he says no longer enjoy public support.

The legal status of Zelensky's move to dissolve parliament was initially disputed, but the Constitutional Court ruled that it is legitimate.

The Council of Europe on Tuesday confirmed to AFP that Russia paid its participant contribution of 33 million euros for the year 2019.

Ukraine on Tuesday announced it is withdrawing its invitation to monitors from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to observe elections later this month, in protest against Russia's reinstatement in the body.

Ukraine on Tuesday announced it is withdrawing its invitation to monitors from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to observe elections later this month, in protest against Russia's reinstatement in the body. Russian delegates had been stripped of their voting rights in the pan-European rights body in 2014 after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine, but last week were allowed to return over strong objections from Kiev. Ukrainian parliament speaker Andriy Parubiy on Tuesday said he signed a letter to PACE president Liliane Maury-Pasquier saying its monitors were no longer welcome at the parliamentary elections to be held on July 21. "Representatives of an aggressor country, Russia, cannot be among international observers; they will be agents of a hybrid war rather than observers," Parubiy wrote on his Facebook page. "Any influence by Russia on Ukrainian elections, by any means, is not acceptable." Ukraine, together with Georgia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia had unsuccessfully tried to block Russia's return to PACE, but it was approved by a vote of 116 in favour to 62 against. Russia's comeback is the first relaxation of the international sanctions that were imposed on Moscow for seizing Crimea. Ukraine's snap parliamentary polls were called by the country's recently-elected President Volodymyr Zelensky in a controversial move aimed at replacing lawmakers who he says no longer enjoy public support. The legal status of Zelensky's move to dissolve parliament was initially disputed, but the Constitutional Court ruled that it is legitimate. The Council of Europe on Tuesday confirmed to AFP that Russia paid its participant contribution of 33 million euros for the year 2019.

Ukraine says European observers not welcome at July polls

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology".

Gandhi has been released on Rs 15,000 surety amount. Ex-MP Eknath Gaikwad has given surety for him.

Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai on Thursday morning, accompanied by Mallikarjun Kharge and Milind Deora.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present at the local Mumbai court.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Swayam Sevak Dhrutiman Joshi had filed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) for defaming the RSS following the death of Gauri Lankesh.

In the complainant, Dhrutiman Joshi stated that Rahul Gandhi, within 24-hours of the murder of the journalist, criticised the RSS and alleged that "anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP, against the ideology of the RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed."

This is the second defamation case against Rahul Gandhi in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party.''

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology".

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology". Gandhi has been released on Rs 15,000 surety amount. Ex-MP Eknath Gaikwad has given surety for him. Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai on Thursday morning, accompanied by Mallikarjun Kharge and Milind Deora. Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present at the local Mumbai court. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Swayam Sevak Dhrutiman Joshi had filed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) for defaming the RSS following the death of Gauri Lankesh. In the complainant, Dhrutiman Joshi stated that Rahul Gandhi, within 24-hours of the murder of the journalist, criticised the RSS and alleged that "anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP, against the ideology of the RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed." This is the second defamation case against Rahul Gandhi in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party.''

RSS defamation case: Rahul Gandhi pleads not guilty

A prominent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-investigator-reports-possible-fresh-war-crimes-in-myanmar-232671">Myanmar</a> journalist accused of defaming a hardline nationalist monk dubbed the "Buddhist Bin Laden" has had the case against him dropped, his lawyer said.

Myanmar Now editor Swe Win had been on trial for two years after posting an article on Facebook criticising the preacher abbot Wirathu.

The monk is notorious for spewing Islamophobic vitriol, in particular against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asian-leaders-meet-expected-to-discuss-rohingyas-south-china-sea-229680">Rohingya minority</a>, and is now himself on-the-run from the law.

His supporters in 2017 pressed charges against the journalist under the country's telecommunications law, often used against reporters and activists.

But the court dismissed the case Tuesday, Swe Win's lawyer Ywut Nu Aung told AFP.

"All charges were completely dropped," she said, explaining that four prosecution witnesses had contravened court orders to turn up more than 20 times.

The article posted by Swe Win quoted an abbot calling for Wirathu to be expelled from monkhood for publicly praising the killers of a respected Muslim lawyer.

Ko Ni, a close confidant of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, was shot dead in January 2017 while cradling his grandson.

Swe Win told AFP Wednesday he was relieved his ordeal was over but said the court should never have accepted the case.

"Criticising someone for praising a murder is not a crime," he said.&nbsp;

Describing the emotional and financial burden on him and his family, Swe Win said he made the 16-hour return trip from Yangon to the Mandalay court 71 times in two years.

Wirathu's supporters have vowed to continue the legal fight against the reporter.

The abbot himself is currently facing charges for sedition but remains at large.

He recently gave several provocative speeches at nationalist rallies, making obscene remarks about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-rejects-international-criminal-court-bid-for-full-rohingya-probe-230916">Suu Kyi</a> and urging people to worship soldiers like "Buddha".

Facebook blacklisted him last year for his incendiary posts against the Rohingya.

Rights groups say the posts helped whip up animosity, laying foundations for a military crackdown in 2017 that forced some 740,000 to flee to Bangladesh.

The dismissal of the case against Swe Win was likely because of the government's "new, highly negative view" of Wirathu rather than any commitment to freedom of expression, Phil Robertson from Human Rights Watch said.

Myanmar is currently ranked 138th in the world for press freedom with the number of defamation cases dramatically rising since Suu Kyi's government came to power in 2016.

A prominent Myanmar journalist accused of defaming a hardline nationalist monk dubbed the "Buddhist Bin Laden" has had the case against him dropped, his lawyer said.

A prominent Myanmar journalist accused of defaming a hardline nationalist monk dubbed the "Buddhist Bin Laden" has had the case against him dropped, his lawyer said. Myanmar Now editor Swe Win had been on trial for two years after posting an article on Facebook criticising the preacher abbot Wirathu. The monk is notorious for spewing Islamophobic vitriol, in particular against the Rohingya minority, and is now himself on-the-run from the law. His supporters in 2017 pressed charges against the journalist under the country's telecommunications law, often used against reporters and activists. But the court dismissed the case Tuesday, Swe Win's lawyer Ywut Nu Aung told AFP. "All charges were completely dropped," she said, explaining that four prosecution witnesses had contravened court orders to turn up more than 20 times. The article posted by Swe Win quoted an abbot calling for Wirathu to be expelled from monkhood for publicly praising the killers of a respected Muslim lawyer. Ko Ni, a close confidant of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, was shot dead in January 2017 while cradling his grandson. Swe Win told AFP Wednesday he was relieved his ordeal was over but said the court should never have accepted the case. "Criticising someone for praising a murder is not a crime," he said. Describing the emotional and financial burden on him and his family, Swe Win said he made the 16-hour return trip from Yangon to the Mandalay court 71 times in two years. Wirathu's supporters have vowed to continue the legal fight against the reporter. The abbot himself is currently facing charges for sedition but remains at large. He recently gave several provocative speeches at nationalist rallies, making obscene remarks about Suu Kyi and urging people to worship soldiers like "Buddha". Facebook blacklisted him last year for his incendiary posts against the Rohingya. Rights groups say the posts helped whip up animosity, laying foundations for a military crackdown in 2017 that forced some 740,000 to flee to Bangladesh. The dismissal of the case against Swe Win was likely because of the government's "new, highly negative view" of Wirathu rather than any commitment to freedom of expression, Phil Robertson from Human Rights Watch said. Myanmar is currently ranked 138th in the world for press freedom with the number of defamation cases dramatically rising since Suu Kyi's government came to power in 2016.

Myanmar court drops case against journalist

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Riya Gupta

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.