President Donald Trump gave a farewell address to the nation just a few hours before president-elect Joe Biden takes over as the 46th president of the United States even as Trump refused to address <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-crosses-400000-covid-19-fatalities-as-biden-pays-tribute-to-victims-357836">Biden</a> by name.

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"Now, as I prepare to hand power over to a new administration at noon on Wednesday, I want you to know that the movement we started is only just beginning, there's never been anything like it. The belief that a nation must serve its citizens will not dwindle, but instead only grow stronger by the day," the US president said.

"As long as the American people hold in their hearts deep and devoted love of country, then there is nothing that this nation cannot achieve. Our communities will flourish. Our people will be prosperous. Our traditions will be cherished. Our faith will be strong, and our future will be brighter than ever before," the President said.

"I go from this majestic place with a loyal and joyful heart and optimistic spirit and supreme confidence that for our country and for our children, the best is yet to come. Thank you and farewell. God bless you. God bless the United States of America."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-tradition-trump-plans-self-farewell-before-bidens-inauguration-ceremony-357814">Trump</a> touted his administration's accomplishments stating that his main focus was on the federal vaccine program and his handling of the pandemic.

"When our nation was hit with the terrible pandemic, we produced not one, but two vaccines with record-breaking speed, and more will quickly follow. They said it couldn't be done but we did it. They call it a "medical miracle," and that's what they're calling it right now: a "medical miracle," Trump said.&nbsp;

"For years, the American people pleaded with Washington to finally secure the nation's borders. I am pleased to say we answered that plea and achieved the most secure border in US history," the US President asserted.

"The world respects us again. Please don't lose that respect," he said.

Donald Trump hasn't publicly conceded to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-believes-china-will-overtake-us-as-superpower-during-bidens-presidency-poll-357754"> Biden</a>. The US president had spent the weeks after the election blaming his loss on widespread voter fraud without any evidence

Trump's efforts to overturn the will of the voters peaked on January 6 when a violent mob of his most staunch and heavily-armed supporters overran Capitol Hill as Congress met to certify Biden's victory. The violence had left five people dead.

"All Americans were horrified by the assault on our Capitol. Political violence is an attack on everything we cherish as Americans. It can never be tolerated. Now more than ever, we must unify around our shared values and rise above the partisan rancour, and forge our common destiny," Trump said in his outgoing message to the nation.

President Donald Trump gave a farewell address to the nation just a few hours before president-elect Joe Biden takes over as the 46th president of the United States even as Trump refused to address Biden by name.

President Donald Trump gave a farewell address to the nation just a few hours before president-elect Joe Biden takes over as the 46th president of the United States even as Trump refused to address Biden by name. Watch: "Now, as I prepare to hand power over to a new administration at noon on Wednesday, I want you to know that the movement we started is only just beginning, there's never been anything like it. The belief that a nation must serve its citizens will not dwindle, but instead only grow stronger by the day," the US president said. "As long as the American people hold in their hearts deep and devoted love of country, then there is nothing that this nation cannot achieve. Our communities will flourish. Our people will be prosperous. Our traditions will be cherished. Our faith will be strong, and our future will be brighter than ever before," the President said. "I go from this majestic place with a loyal and joyful heart and optimistic spirit and supreme confidence that for our country and for our children, the best is yet to come. Thank you and farewell. God bless you. God bless the United States of America." Trump touted his administration's accomplishments stating that his main focus was on the federal vaccine program and his handling of the pandemic. "When our nation was hit with the terrible pandemic, we produced not one, but two vaccines with record-breaking speed, and more will quickly follow. They said it couldn't be done but we did it. They call it a "medical miracle," and that's what they're calling it right now: a "medical miracle," Trump said. "For years, the American people pleaded with Washington to finally secure the nation's borders. I am pleased to say we answered that plea and achieved the most secure border in US history," the US President asserted. "The world respects us again. Please don't lose that respect," he said. Donald Trump hasn't publicly conceded to Biden. The US president had spent the weeks after the election blaming his loss on widespread voter fraud without any evidence Trump's efforts to overturn the will of the voters peaked on January 6 when a violent mob of his most staunch and heavily-armed supporters overran Capitol Hill as Congress met to certify Biden's victory. The violence had left five people dead. "All Americans were horrified by the assault on our Capitol. Political violence is an attack on everything we cherish as Americans. It can never be tolerated. Now more than ever, we must unify around our shared values and rise above the partisan rancour, and forge our common destiny," Trump said in his outgoing message to the nation.

In farewell address, Trump touts new beginning for 'Make America Great Again'

The United States on Wednesday crossed 400,000 fatalities due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-pandemic-could-be-whos-chernobyl-moment-says-review-panel-357799">coronavirus</a> even as president-elect led a moving tribute Tuesday for US coronavirus victims.

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The US which is the worst-hit country due to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epidemics-livelihood-crises-worlds-biggest-risks-over-next-2-years-world-economic-forum-357714"> virus</a> has over 24 million infected cases.&nbsp;

"It's hard sometimes to remember, but that's how we heal. It's important to do that as a nation," Biden said while paying tribute to those who died due to the virus.

"Let us shine the lights in the darkness along with the sacred pool of reflection and remember all who we lost," the US president-elect added.

The US had recorded 300,000th deaths just over a month ago. The US had recorded its first COVID-19 in February last year. The country had crossed the 100,000 death toll in May as New York became the epicentre of the virus.

According to reports, 120,000 patients are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19. Amid the surge in deaths, the US began its vaccination campaign with over 10.5 million vaccinated so far with 1.6 million people having received two doses. &nbsp;

Biden promised 100 million doses injected during his first 100 days as US president and has said he will seek billions from Congress to fund the mass vaccination centers.&nbsp;

Biden has proposed a $1.9 trillion rescue package, dubbed the American Rescue Plan, to revitalise the economy battling the COVID-19 crisis and economic downturn not seen since the Depression in 1931.

The United States on Wednesday crossed 400,000 fatalities due to coronavirus even as president-elect led a moving tribute Tuesday for US coronavirus victims. Watch: The US which is the worst-hit country due to the virus has over 24 million infected cases.

The United States on Wednesday crossed 400,000 fatalities due to coronavirus even as president-elect led a moving tribute Tuesday for US coronavirus victims. Watch: The US which is the worst-hit country due to the virus has over 24 million infected cases. "It's hard sometimes to remember, but that's how we heal. It's important to do that as a nation," Biden said while paying tribute to those who died due to the virus. "Let us shine the lights in the darkness along with the sacred pool of reflection and remember all who we lost," the US president-elect added. The US had recorded 300,000th deaths just over a month ago. The US had recorded its first COVID-19 in February last year. The country had crossed the 100,000 death toll in May as New York became the epicentre of the virus. According to reports, 120,000 patients are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19. Amid the surge in deaths, the US began its vaccination campaign with over 10.5 million vaccinated so far with 1.6 million people having received two doses. Biden promised 100 million doses injected during his first 100 days as US president and has said he will seek billions from Congress to fund the mass vaccination centers. Biden has proposed a $1.9 trillion rescue package, dubbed the American Rescue Plan, to revitalise the economy battling the COVID-19 crisis and economic downturn not seen since the Depression in 1931.

US crosses 400,000 COVID-19 fatalities as Biden pays tribute to victims

Alibaba founder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-pressure-from-china-jack-mas-alibaba-group-to-shut-down-its-music-streaming-app-354834">Jack Ma</a> made his first public appearance after disappearing from public view a few months ago after criticising Chinese banking rules in a speech in Shanghai on October 24.

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China's state-run Global Times tweeted a video informing that Jack Ma showed up at a rural teacher-themed social welfare event via video link on Wednesday. The ceremony is an annual event launched by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jack-mas-disappearance-may-hit-indian-firms-in-long-run-354568">Jack Ma </a>Foundation in 2015, Global Times informed.

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Jack Ma Yun, the English teacher turned entrepreneur and former executive chairman of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Alibaba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Alibaba</a>, showed up at a rural teacher-themed social welfare event via video link on Wed, his first public appearance since Alibaba came under tougher regulatory scrutiny.<a href="https://t.co/VXywPHEeyv">https://t.co/VXywPHEeyv</a> <a href="https://t.co/DKCXhASIhu">pic.twitter.com/DKCXhASIhu</a>
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/globaltimesnews/status/1351751456827719681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ma's disappearance had fuelled speculation over his safety, however, the Alibaba Group claimed it was "schedule conflict". "Ma could no longer be part of the finale judge panel of Africa’s Business Heroes earlier this year (2020)," it said.&nbsp;

Ma, the actual controller of Alibaba fintech offshoot Ant Group, and Ant management were summoned for talks by the country's top financial regulatory authorities on November 2, just before Ant's planned dual listing in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

The regulatory interview preluded a series of toughening moves that have seen the regulators call a halt to what was expected to be a record-smashing IPO, Global Time said.

Ant Group has established a rectification working team and is formulating a timeframe for overhaul its services, according to Global Times.

Alibaba founder Jack Ma made his first public appearance after disappearing from public view a few months ago after criticising Chinese banking rules in a speech in Shanghai on October 24.

Alibaba founder Jack Ma made his first public appearance after disappearing from public view a few months ago after criticising Chinese banking rules in a speech in Shanghai on October 24. Watch: China's state-run Global Times tweeted a video informing that Jack Ma showed up at a rural teacher-themed social welfare event via video link on Wednesday. The ceremony is an annual event launched by the Jack Ma Foundation in 2015, Global Times informed. Jack Ma Yun, the English teacher turned entrepreneur and former executive chairman of #Alibaba, showed up at a rural teacher-themed social welfare event via video link on Wed, his first public appearance since Alibaba came under tougher regulatory scrutiny.https://t.co/VXywPHEeyv pic.twitter.com/DKCXhASIhu — Global Times (@globaltimesnews) January 20, 2021 × Ma's disappearance had fuelled speculation over his safety, however, the Alibaba Group claimed it was "schedule conflict". "Ma could no longer be part of the finale judge panel of Africa’s Business Heroes earlier this year (2020)," it said. Ma, the actual controller of Alibaba fintech offshoot Ant Group, and Ant management were summoned for talks by the country's top financial regulatory authorities on November 2, just before Ant's planned dual listing in Shanghai and Hong Kong. The regulatory interview preluded a series of toughening moves that have seen the regulators call a halt to what was expected to be a record-smashing IPO, Global Time said. Ant Group has established a rectification working team and is formulating a timeframe for overhaul its services, according to Global Times.

Alibaba's Jack Ma makes first public appearance after months via video link

According to reports, outgoing US President Donald <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-pardons-73-people-including-ex-aide-steve-bannon-357880">Trump</a> contemplated the possibility of launching a new political party called the "Patriot Party" after he leaves the White House on January 20.

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Trump has repeatedly said Biden's victory during the US elections in November 3 was due to vote fraud without citing any evidence. The US president reluctantly allowed transition of power to the incoming Biden administration but did not concede defeat.

During his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-farewell-address-trump-touts-new-beginning-for-make-america-great-again-357839">farewell</a> message, the US president touted new beginning for his 'Make America Great Again' campaign which brought him to power in 2016. The president's&nbsp;relations with the Republican Party soured after violence erupted in the Capital Hill by largely Trump's supporters.

Senate Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell who has been a Trump supporter openly declared that the "mob was fed lies" as America reacted angrily to the violence at the Capitol.

"They were provoked by the president and other powerful people," McConnell said, adding,"they tried to use fear and violence to stop."

"But we pressed on. We stood together and said an angry mob would not get veto power over the rule of law in our nation, not even for one night," McConnell asserted.

At least five people had died during the violence. Trump was further sidelined in his own party after the House Democrats moved an impeachment motion against the US president over the Capitol violence.

McConnell hasn't ruled out voting for the conviction. Democrat Chuck Schumer who is expected to take over as Senate Majority Leader had also lashed out at Trump for his alleged role in riots.

"Rioters, insurrectionists, white supremacists, and domestic terrorists tried to prevent the transfer of power," Schumer said, adding," "They were incited by none other than the president of the United States." 
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According to reports, outgoing US President Donald Trump contemplated the possibility of launching a new political party called the "Patriot Party" after he leaves the White House on January 20.

According to reports, outgoing US President Donald Trump contemplated the possibility of launching a new political party called the "Patriot Party" after he leaves the White House on January 20. Watch: Trump has repeatedly said Biden's victory during the US elections in November 3 was due to vote fraud without citing any evidence. The US president reluctantly allowed transition of power to the incoming Biden administration but did not concede defeat. During his farewell message, the US president touted new beginning for his 'Make America Great Again' campaign which brought him to power in 2016. The president's relations with the Republican Party soured after violence erupted in the Capital Hill by largely Trump's supporters. Senate Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell who has been a Trump supporter openly declared that the "mob was fed lies" as America reacted angrily to the violence at the Capitol. "They were provoked by the president and other powerful people," McConnell said, adding,"they tried to use fear and violence to stop." "But we pressed on. We stood together and said an angry mob would not get veto power over the rule of law in our nation, not even for one night," McConnell asserted. At least five people had died during the violence. Trump was further sidelined in his own party after the House Democrats moved an impeachment motion against the US president over the Capitol violence. McConnell hasn't ruled out voting for the conviction. Democrat Chuck Schumer who is expected to take over as Senate Majority Leader had also lashed out at Trump for his alleged role in riots. "Rioters, insurrectionists, white supremacists, and domestic terrorists tried to prevent the transfer of power," Schumer said, adding," "They were incited by none other than the president of the United States."

Now, Trump mulls floating 'Patriot Party' after White House exit: Report

According to South African epidemiologist professor Salim Abdool Karim, co-chair of the health ministry's scientific committee, the new<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-travel-bans-says-bidens-team-after-trumps-order-357591"> coronavirus </a>variant identified in the country is more contagious than earlier versions.

However, Karim said there is no evidence to suggest it is "more severe".

Watch:

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"The current data suggest the new variant is not more severe and the published convalescent serum studies suggest that natural antibodies are less effective," Karim said.

However, Alex Sigal, virologist at the Africa health research institute, said: "In general we have reasons to be concerned because it seems the virus has found a way to escape from previous antibodies."

"The world has underestimated this virus. This virus can evolve it can adapt," Sigal added.

The new variant was identified in late December last year since then it has the been the main cause of surge across various countries in Europe, Asia and South America.

According to reports, the new strain is now spreading around 50 per cent quicker than the original one. South Africa has recorded over 1.3 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hotels-quarantined-schools-shut-down-in-swiss-ski-resort-to-contain-covid-19-variant-357526">coronavirus</a> cases along with 37,105 deaths.

Karim added that it was still unknown whether the current vaccines would be effective against the new variant of the virus

In Europe, 25 countries, including Russia, have recorded cases of the strain first discovered in the UK dubbed "VOC 202012/01".

According to South African epidemiologist professor Salim Abdool Karim, co-chair of the health ministry's scientific committee, the new coronavirus variant identified in the country is more contagious than earlier versions.

According to South African epidemiologist professor Salim Abdool Karim, co-chair of the health ministry's scientific committee, the new coronavirus variant identified in the country is more contagious than earlier versions. However, Karim said there is no evidence to suggest it is "more severe". Watch: "The current data suggest the new variant is not more severe and the published convalescent serum studies suggest that natural antibodies are less effective," Karim said. However, Alex Sigal, virologist at the Africa health research institute, said: "In general we have reasons to be concerned because it seems the virus has found a way to escape from previous antibodies." "The world has underestimated this virus. This virus can evolve it can adapt," Sigal added. The new variant was identified in late December last year since then it has the been the main cause of surge across various countries in Europe, Asia and South America. According to reports, the new strain is now spreading around 50 per cent quicker than the original one. South Africa has recorded over 1.3 million coronavirus cases along with 37,105 deaths. Karim added that it was still unknown whether the current vaccines would be effective against the new variant of the virus In Europe, 25 countries, including Russia, have recorded cases of the strain first discovered in the UK dubbed "VOC 202012/01".

South African virus strain more contagious, says expert

As president-elect Joe Biden gets set to take over the US presidency, outgoing President Donald <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-trump-faces-criticism-for-breaking-tradition-on-giving-official-walkthrough-to-next-first-lady-357589">Trump's</a> Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach has been witnessing trucks arriving since Monday amid speculation that the US president may be moving in south Florida.

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Trump has said he wouldn't be attending Biden's inauguration becoming the first US president in 152 years not to join his successor at the inauguration ceremony.

Reports said security has been tightened around Trump's Mar-a-Lago complex with road closure to come into effect from Tuesday at 8pm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/questions-about-trumps-fate-new-dynamics-in-washington-remain-as-inauguration-week-begins-357569">Trump</a> hasn't yet reveled his plans of taking up a residence post-January 20 as Biden take over the White House. The Mar-a-Lago golf club in Florida is Trump's official residence.

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ROAD CLOSURES AROUND MARALAGO TO BEGIN JANUARY 19: The roadway around Maralago will be closed down to traffic starting Tuesday, January 19 at 8:00PM. Traffic will be restricted in the north and south directions on S Ocean Blvd. Please use caution… <a href="https://t.co/Za9xGSpOSB">https://t.co/Za9xGSpOSB</a>
— Town of Palm Beach (@townpalmbeach) <a href="https://twitter.com/townpalmbeach/status/1351257559525588992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Reports claim Trump is set to leave Washington early on Wednesday before<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-travel-bans-says-bidens-team-after-trumps-order-357591"> Biden's</a> inauguration as all eyes will be on the White House as Trump takes the helicopter for the last time.

Trump has still not congratulated Biden or invited him for the traditional tea visit in the Oval Office which has been a US tradition as part of the handover.

Reports say Marine One will take Trump from the White House to Joint Base Andrews to catch Air Force One to head to Mar-a-Lago golf club residence.

Trump will therefore enjoy full benefit of presidential travel privileges up to the last minute. After Biden takes over around noon on January 20, Air Force One privileges will no longer be part of Trump's benefit.

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-indian-americans-who-are-chosen-by-biden-administration-to-rebuild-america-357567">Biden's</a> inauguration ceremony just hours away, US National Guard troops have poured into Washington as the United States prepares to welcome Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to head the nation.

According to reports, Trump is organizing a military sendoff for himself at Andrews with a crowd of invitees.

As president-elect Joe Biden gets set to take over the US presidency, outgoing President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach has been witnessing trucks arriving since Monday amid speculation that the US president may be moving in south Florida.

As president-elect Joe Biden gets set to take over the US presidency, outgoing President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach has been witnessing trucks arriving since Monday amid speculation that the US president may be moving in south Florida. Watch: Trump has said he wouldn't be attending Biden's inauguration becoming the first US president in 152 years not to join his successor at the inauguration ceremony. Reports said security has been tightened around Trump's Mar-a-Lago complex with road closure to come into effect from Tuesday at 8pm. Trump hasn't yet reveled his plans of taking up a residence post-January 20 as Biden take over the White House. The Mar-a-Lago golf club in Florida is Trump's official residence. ROAD CLOSURES AROUND MARALAGO TO BEGIN JANUARY 19: The roadway around Maralago will be closed down to traffic starting Tuesday, January 19 at 8:00PM. Traffic will be restricted in the north and south directions on S Ocean Blvd. Please use caution… https://t.co/Za9xGSpOSB — Town of Palm Beach (@townpalmbeach) January 18, 2021 × Reports claim Trump is set to leave Washington early on Wednesday before Biden's inauguration as all eyes will be on the White House as Trump takes the helicopter for the last time. Trump has still not congratulated Biden or invited him for the traditional tea visit in the Oval Office which has been a US tradition as part of the handover. Reports say Marine One will take Trump from the White House to Joint Base Andrews to catch Air Force One to head to Mar-a-Lago golf club residence. Trump will therefore enjoy full benefit of presidential travel privileges up to the last minute. After Biden takes over around noon on January 20, Air Force One privileges will no longer be part of Trump's benefit. With Biden's inauguration ceremony just hours away, US National Guard troops have poured into Washington as the United States prepares to welcome Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to head the nation. According to reports, Trump is organizing a military sendoff for himself at Andrews with a crowd of invitees.

Exit plan: Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida takes centerstage

China's northeastern province continued to witness a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-cases-surge-in-spain-portugal-amid-vaccination-in-europe-357602">COVID-19</a> cases as the country reported over 100 new coronavirus cases for the seventh consecutive&nbsp;day on Tuesday.

Watch:

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The country recorded 118 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-link-between-covid-19-vaccine-and-post-inoculation-deaths-norway-357580">COVID-19</a> cases rising from 109 a day earlier as the country continues to grapple with the virus.

China's National Health Commission said there were 106 local infections with 43 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hotels-quarantined-schools-shut-down-in-swiss-ski-resort-to-contain-covid-19-variant-357526">COVID-19</a> cases reported in the country's northeastern province of Jilin and 35 in Hebei province located near Beijing.

Heilongjiang in the north reported 27 new infections with the country's capital Beijing reporting one coronavirus case.

China will enter the Lunar holiday season next month as authorities have appealed to citizens not to travel and stay away from mass gatherings such as weddings.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in China is officially put at 89,454 with the death toll remaining unchanged at 4,635.

Amid the rising number of cases, the outgoing Trump administration said Chines officials should allow WHO experts to interview "caregivers, former patients and lab workers" in Wuhan and allow access to medical data and samples.

The WHO team has been in Wuhan since January 14 to investigate the origins of the virus. The team is currently conducting teleconferences from hotel rooms during their two-week quarantine before starting work on the ground.

"The team which finally arrived last week will be, will only be successful if it is provided with the following information, currently in possession of Chinese authorities," Garrett Grigsby of the US Department of Health and Human Services, said, adding,"all studies produced in China on the presence of SARS-COVID-2 related genetic sequences and animal testing results in and around Hubei province, environmental samples from the markets and comparative analyses of genetic data and samples."

Sun Yang, director-general of China health emergency response office, said: "The virus origin studies are of a scientific nature. It needs coordination, cooperation. We must stop any political pressure."

China's northeastern province continued to witness a surge in COVID-19 cases as the country reported over 100 new coronavirus cases for the seventh consecutive day on Tuesday.

China's northeastern province continued to witness a surge in COVID-19 cases as the country reported over 100 new coronavirus cases for the seventh consecutive day on Tuesday. Watch: The country recorded 118 new COVID-19 cases rising from 109 a day earlier as the country continues to grapple with the virus. China's National Health Commission said there were 106 local infections with 43 COVID-19 cases reported in the country's northeastern province of Jilin and 35 in Hebei province located near Beijing. Heilongjiang in the north reported 27 new infections with the country's capital Beijing reporting one coronavirus case. China will enter the Lunar holiday season next month as authorities have appealed to citizens not to travel and stay away from mass gatherings such as weddings. The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in China is officially put at 89,454 with the death toll remaining unchanged at 4,635. Amid the rising number of cases, the outgoing Trump administration said Chines officials should allow WHO experts to interview "caregivers, former patients and lab workers" in Wuhan and allow access to medical data and samples. The WHO team has been in Wuhan since January 14 to investigate the origins of the virus. The team is currently conducting teleconferences from hotel rooms during their two-week quarantine before starting work on the ground. "The team which finally arrived last week will be, will only be successful if it is provided with the following information, currently in possession of Chinese authorities," Garrett Grigsby of the US Department of Health and Human Services, said, adding,"all studies produced in China on the presence of SARS-COVID-2 related genetic sequences and animal testing results in and around Hubei province, environmental samples from the markets and comparative analyses of genetic data and samples." Sun Yang, director-general of China health emergency response office, said: "The virus origin studies are of a scientific nature. It needs coordination, cooperation. We must stop any political pressure."

China reports over 100 coronavirus cases for seventh consecutive day

Just hours after US President Trump lifted the travel ban for those arriving from Europe and Brazil from January 26, the incoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-set-to-talk-about-unity-in-his-inaugural-speech-amid-backdrop-of-riots-357548">Biden</a> administration dismissed the idea declaring that "this is not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel".

Watch:

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Trump while announcing the new guideline, the US president said: "This action is the best way to continue protecting Americans from COVID-19 while enabling travel to resume safely." The White House declared that the ban will be in place for China and Iran.

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With the pandemic worsening, and more contagious variants emerging around the world, this is not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel.
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Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had earlier said that air passengers arriving in the US would have to show negative COVID-19 test. The CDC had said that travellers should get tested again three to five days after arrival and stay home for at least seven days.

Jen Psaki, Biden's press secretary issued a statement saying: "On the advice of our medical team, the Administration does not intend to lift these restrictions on 1/26, in fact, we plan to strengthen public health measures around international travel in order to further mitigate the spread of COVID-19."

President-elect Joe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-indian-americans-who-are-chosen-by-biden-administration-to-rebuild-america-357567">Biden </a>is set to take the oath on January 20 as the next president of America. Trump has said he will not attend the inauguration becoming the first outgoing president in 152 years not to join his successor at the inauguration ceremony.

Trump had refused to accept Biden's victory and had not conceded defeat accusing the Democrats of voter fraud without basis.&nbsp;

Just hours after US President Trump lifted the travel ban for those arriving from Europe and Brazil from January 26, the incoming Biden administration dismissed the idea declaring that "this is not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel".

Just hours after US President Trump lifted the travel ban for those arriving from Europe and Brazil from January 26, the incoming Biden administration dismissed the idea declaring that "this is not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel". Watch: Trump while announcing the new guideline, the US president said: "This action is the best way to continue protecting Americans from COVID-19 while enabling travel to resume safely." The White House declared that the ban will be in place for China and Iran. With the pandemic worsening, and more contagious variants emerging around the world, this is not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel. — Jen Psaki (@jrpsaki) January 19, 2021 × Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had earlier said that air passengers arriving in the US would have to show negative COVID-19 test. The CDC had said that travellers should get tested again three to five days after arrival and stay home for at least seven days. Jen Psaki, Biden's press secretary issued a statement saying: "On the advice of our medical team, the Administration does not intend to lift these restrictions on 1/26, in fact, we plan to strengthen public health measures around international travel in order to further mitigate the spread of COVID-19." President-elect Joe Biden is set to take the oath on January 20 as the next president of America. Trump has said he will not attend the inauguration becoming the first outgoing president in 152 years not to join his successor at the inauguration ceremony. Trump had refused to accept Biden's victory and had not conceded defeat accusing the Democrats of voter fraud without basis.

US will not lift travel bans, says Biden's team after Trump's order

Amid the vaccination campaign in Europe, Spain reported a record 40,197 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-link-between-covid-19-vaccine-and-post-inoculation-deaths-norway-357580">COVID-19</a> cases on Monday adding to the pressure on hospitals and health services.

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The incidence of the disease measured over the past 14 days hit a new high of 575 cases per hundred thousand people, climbing from 522 cases the previous day.

Health officials have blamed lax adherence to restrictions on travel and socialising over the Christmas holidays for the surge which has prompted several regions to tighten measures over the past week.

Madrid which has some of the loosest restrictions in the country, authorities brought forward a night curfew by one hour to 11 pm and urged residents not to socialise in other peoples' houses

In Portugal, the government announced stricter lockdown restrictions as surging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-108-year-old-woman-receives-coronavirus-vaccine-357575">COVID-19</a> pandemic set grim records and pushed hospitals to the limit of their capacity.

Prime Minister António Costa said that too many people had taken advantage of exceptions included in the lockdown that began last Friday, with authorities reporting 70 per cent of normal movement over the weekend.

Costa said: "We are going through the most serious phase of the pandemic" as he urged people to comply with the rules. The Portugal prime minister announced that January sales at stores are banned, as are gatherings of any number of people in public areas.&nbsp;

The country has decided to deploy more police outside schools which remain open to prevent students from forming groups.

Europe is the hardest-hit continent due to the virus with as Pfizer declared that deliveries of the vaccine would be back to the original schedule to the EU from January 25 amid criticism over slow rollout of vaccines.

Several European countries including Italy and Switzerland tightened curbs amid a surge in cases as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-coronavirus-patient-getting-admitted-in-hospitals-every-30-seconds-nhs-357312">Britain</a> declared all air passengers will be tested on arrival.&nbsp;

Amid the vaccination campaign in Europe, Spain reported a record 40,197 new COVID-19 cases on Monday adding to the pressure on hospitals and health services. Watch: The incidence of the disease measured over the past 14 days hit a new high of 575 cases per hundred thousand people, climbing from 522 cases the previous day.

Amid the vaccination campaign in Europe, Spain reported a record 40,197 new COVID-19 cases on Monday adding to the pressure on hospitals and health services. Watch: The incidence of the disease measured over the past 14 days hit a new high of 575 cases per hundred thousand people, climbing from 522 cases the previous day. Health officials have blamed lax adherence to restrictions on travel and socialising over the Christmas holidays for the surge which has prompted several regions to tighten measures over the past week. Madrid which has some of the loosest restrictions in the country, authorities brought forward a night curfew by one hour to 11 pm and urged residents not to socialise in other peoples' houses In Portugal, the government announced stricter lockdown restrictions as surging COVID-19 pandemic set grim records and pushed hospitals to the limit of their capacity. Prime Minister António Costa said that too many people had taken advantage of exceptions included in the lockdown that began last Friday, with authorities reporting 70 per cent of normal movement over the weekend. Costa said: "We are going through the most serious phase of the pandemic" as he urged people to comply with the rules. The Portugal prime minister announced that January sales at stores are banned, as are gatherings of any number of people in public areas. The country has decided to deploy more police outside schools which remain open to prevent students from forming groups. Europe is the hardest-hit continent due to the virus with as Pfizer declared that deliveries of the vaccine would be back to the original schedule to the EU from January 25 amid criticism over slow rollout of vaccines. Several European countries including Italy and Switzerland tightened curbs amid a surge in cases as Britain declared all air passengers will be tested on arrival.

Virus cases surge in Spain, Portugal amid vaccination in Europe

According to reports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-india-releases-chinese-soldier-apprehended-along-lac-355931">China</a> has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff"> India-China standoff</a> along the LAC.

The village is reportedly located on the banks of Tsari Chu river in upper Subansiri district, an area along the LAC.&nbsp;The area where the village is built has been long been disputed by both sides.

US-based imaging company Planet Labs has satellite images and claimed that around 100 houses have been built. There was no construction at the particular place in 2019.

The satellite images from November 2020 shows the village constructed in the eastern range of the Himalayas compared with the satellite image from August 2019, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-navys-marcos-can-change-the-game-along-pangong-lake-in-eastern-ladakh-346930">Chinese </a>have made substantial gains.

India's external affairs ministry acknowledged the satellite images and said that the Indian government has also stepped up border infrastructure including construction roads and bridges.

The MEA said that India keeps a constant watch on all developments. The ministry added that India is taking all the necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, India's ruling party BJP lawmaker from the state of Arunachal Pradesh expressed concerns and spoke about the issue.

"Since the 80s till today, they (China) are occupying this area and construction of villages is not a new thing. They have already constructed military base between Bisa and Maza which is inside McMahon Line, under Indian territory," Tapir Gao, BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh, said.&nbsp;

The development comes after Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-galwan-bravehearts-wont-go-in-vain-indian-army-chief-naravane-356868">Galwan </a>Valley in June last year in which 20 Indian had died in action, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

The stand-off in the region continues through this winter with thousands of troops from both sides deployed on the frontline along the LAC at extreme altitudes in sub-zero temperatures.

According to reports, China has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the India-China standoff along the LAC.

According to reports, China has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the India-China standoff along the LAC. The village is reportedly located on the banks of Tsari Chu river in upper Subansiri district, an area along the LAC. The area where the village is built has been long been disputed by both sides. US-based imaging company Planet Labs has satellite images and claimed that around 100 houses have been built. There was no construction at the particular place in 2019. The satellite images from November 2020 shows the village constructed in the eastern range of the Himalayas compared with the satellite image from August 2019, the Chinese have made substantial gains. India's external affairs ministry acknowledged the satellite images and said that the Indian government has also stepped up border infrastructure including construction roads and bridges. The MEA said that India keeps a constant watch on all developments. The ministry added that India is taking all the necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Meanwhile, India's ruling party BJP lawmaker from the state of Arunachal Pradesh expressed concerns and spoke about the issue. "Since the 80s till today, they (China) are occupying this area and construction of villages is not a new thing. They have already constructed military base between Bisa and Maza which is inside McMahon Line, under Indian territory," Tapir Gao, BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh, said. The development comes after Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed at Galwan Valley in June last year in which 20 Indian had died in action, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures. The stand-off in the region continues through this winter with thousands of troops from both sides deployed on the frontline along the LAC at extreme altitudes in sub-zero temperatures.

China builds village in India's Arunachal Pradesh: Report

How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba

According to a study, around 30 per cent of those hospitalized with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-virus-strain-more-contagious-says-expert-357649">coronavirus</a> in England were readmitted for treatment within five months of their first release.

The study found &nbsp;"COVID-19 hospitalisation was associated with increased risk of readmission and death following discharge" as nearly 
a third of people post COVID-19 hospital discharge were re-admitted and more than 1 in 10 died.

The research concluded that there was an absolute risk of post-discharge adverse events was greater for individuals aged over 70 years.

The study said the longterm burden of COVID-related morbidity on hospitals and broader healthcare systems is likely to be&nbsp;substantial due to increased number of infected cases.

"Individuals discharged from hospital following acute COVID-19 face elevated rates of mortality, readmission and multi-organ dysfunction," the study found.

"Of 47,780 individuals in hospital with COVID-19 over the study period, 29.4 per cent were readmitted and 12.3 per cent died following discharge,” the researchers concluded.

There are over 3.4 million coronavirus cases in the UK which has been the hardest-hit country due to the virus. The number of fatalities due to the virus in the UK has climbed to over 90,000.

Large parts of England has been on a virtual lockdown even as the vaccination drive has been expanded. Britain extended its coronavirus vaccination campaign to people over the age of 70.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said some four million people across the country had been vaccinated.

Britain has set itself the goal of vaccinating 15 million people by mid-February, and the entire adult population by this autumn.&nbsp;

According to a study, around 30 per cent of those hospitalized with coronavirus in England were readmitted for treatment within five months of their first release.

According to a study, around 30 per cent of those hospitalized with coronavirus in England were readmitted for treatment within five months of their first release. The study found "COVID-19 hospitalisation was associated with increased risk of readmission and death following discharge" as nearly a third of people post COVID-19 hospital discharge were re-admitted and more than 1 in 10 died. The research concluded that there was an absolute risk of post-discharge adverse events was greater for individuals aged over 70 years. The study said the longterm burden of COVID-related morbidity on hospitals and broader healthcare systems is likely to be substantial due to increased number of infected cases. "Individuals discharged from hospital following acute COVID-19 face elevated rates of mortality, readmission and multi-organ dysfunction," the study found. "Of 47,780 individuals in hospital with COVID-19 over the study period, 29.4 per cent were readmitted and 12.3 per cent died following discharge,” the researchers concluded. There are over 3.4 million coronavirus cases in the UK which has been the hardest-hit country due to the virus. The number of fatalities due to the virus in the UK has climbed to over 90,000. Large parts of England has been on a virtual lockdown even as the vaccination drive has been expanded. Britain extended its coronavirus vaccination campaign to people over the age of 70. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said some four million people across the country had been vaccinated. Britain has set itself the goal of vaccinating 15 million people by mid-February, and the entire adult population by this autumn.

30% hospitalized in England with virus were readmitted within five months: Study

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