A demographic time bomb has become the latest worry of the Chinese regime with the elderly population in China increasing rapidly.

China's national pension fund is rapidly depleting and the fertility rates are at an all-time low as the country encourages couples to have more babies.

However, the Chinese workforce is getting smaller by the day. The Communist Party is mulling increasing the retirement age as a one-shot solution for all the problems but the idea has triggered outrage even before its implemented.

For more than four decades China's retirement age has remained unchanged - 60 years for men and 55 years for women civil servants &amp; white-collar workers but the Chinese regime is facing what experts call a "demographic time-bomb".

China's elderly population is increasing while its workforce is getting smaller by the day due to the now scrapped one-child policy. In 2018, nearly China's 250 million among 1.4 billion people were aged 60 or above. The figure is expected to increase to 300 million by 2025 and to 400 million by 2035.

The Chinese population is greying fast and postponing retirement is being seen as the only solution. The Communist Party has unveiled its plan to do it in a gradual manner, however, no specifics have been given but observers expect the retirement age to increase in at least the next 5 years.

The plan has already sparked outrage on Chinese social media. Chinese citizens say the decision will only adversely impact the health of the elderly and will not lead to any economic development but the fact is China is desperate.

There is another reason why it wants to postpone retirement. The national pension fund of China is running out of money. Businesses have either reduced their contribution or stopped contributing to provincial pension funds during the Wuhan virus pandemic.&nbsp;

Reports say the state pension fund could run dry by 2035. Those born in the 1980s could become the first generation in modern china to get no pension when they retire adding to the worries is the rapidly declining fertility rate in China.

In 2019, the number of newborns in China fell to 14.6 million - a decrease of 580,000 from 2018 and this year China's birth-rate dropped to the lowest level since 1949. The number of births per 1,000 people declined to 10 which is the lowest level on record.

The options before the Chinese regime is limited with the demographic time bomb ticking making the elderly work for longer seems to be the only way out.

A demographic time bomb has become the latest worry of the Chinese regime with the elderly population in China increasing rapidly. China's national pension fund is rapidly depleting and the fertility rates are at an all-time low as the country encourages couples to have more babies.

A demographic time bomb has become the latest worry of the Chinese regime with the elderly population in China increasing rapidly. China's national pension fund is rapidly depleting and the fertility rates are at an all-time low as the country encourages couples to have more babies. However, the Chinese workforce is getting smaller by the day. The Communist Party is mulling increasing the retirement age as a one-shot solution for all the problems but the idea has triggered outrage even before its implemented. For more than four decades China's retirement age has remained unchanged - 60 years for men and 55 years for women civil servants & white-collar workers but the Chinese regime is facing what experts call a "demographic time-bomb". China's elderly population is increasing while its workforce is getting smaller by the day due to the now scrapped one-child policy. In 2018, nearly China's 250 million among 1.4 billion people were aged 60 or above. The figure is expected to increase to 300 million by 2025 and to 400 million by 2035. The Chinese population is greying fast and postponing retirement is being seen as the only solution. The Communist Party has unveiled its plan to do it in a gradual manner, however, no specifics have been given but observers expect the retirement age to increase in at least the next 5 years. The plan has already sparked outrage on Chinese social media. Chinese citizens say the decision will only adversely impact the health of the elderly and will not lead to any economic development but the fact is China is desperate. There is another reason why it wants to postpone retirement. The national pension fund of China is running out of money. Businesses have either reduced their contribution or stopped contributing to provincial pension funds during the Wuhan virus pandemic. Reports say the state pension fund could run dry by 2035. Those born in the 1980s could become the first generation in modern china to get no pension when they retire adding to the worries is the rapidly declining fertility rate in China. In 2019, the number of newborns in China fell to 14.6 million - a decrease of 580,000 from 2018 and this year China's birth-rate dropped to the lowest level since 1949. The number of births per 1,000 people declined to 10 which is the lowest level on record. The options before the Chinese regime is limited with the demographic time bomb ticking making the elderly work for longer seems to be the only way out.

China mulls increasing retirement age as demographic time bomb ticks

The Wuhan virus crisis is far from nearing its end as it continues to kill people across the world.

In Indonesia's capital, a burial ground is being expanded to accommodate the rising numbers of Wuhan virus victims. The expanse is a haunting reminder of the number of people the virus has killed, how it has separated so many families from their loved ones and how it has brought the world to a standstill.

Over 16,000 people have succumbed to the Wuhan virus in Indonesia. Nearly 6,000 thousand kilometres from Jakarta, Pakistan too is struggling to cope with the crisis as hospitals have got inundated with cases rising.

On November 25, Pakistan recorded its highest daily spike in four months as over 3,000 people tested positive. So far, the country has lost over 5,000 people to the virus. At least 356,000 have fallen ill with the virus.&nbsp;

The situation is grim in India too. On November 24, India saw its highest single-day increase in active cases since October 1. The fresh infections outnumbered the recoveries. So far, over 130,000 people have succumbed to the Wuhan virus in India with the total number of cases crossing 9 million as orders for reopening schools have been reversed.

As India enters the wedding season, authorities have imposed caps on the guest list. In South Asia, after the Wuhan virus brought life to a standstill, the fear of a second wave is looming large.

The Wuhan virus crisis is far from nearing its end as it continues to kill people across the world. In Indonesia's capital, a burial ground is being expanded to accommodate the rising numbers of Wuhan virus victims.

The Wuhan virus crisis is far from nearing its end as it continues to kill people across the world. In Indonesia's capital, a burial ground is being expanded to accommodate the rising numbers of Wuhan virus victims. The expanse is a haunting reminder of the number of people the virus has killed, how it has separated so many families from their loved ones and how it has brought the world to a standstill. Over 16,000 people have succumbed to the Wuhan virus in Indonesia. Nearly 6,000 thousand kilometres from Jakarta, Pakistan too is struggling to cope with the crisis as hospitals have got inundated with cases rising. On November 25, Pakistan recorded its highest daily spike in four months as over 3,000 people tested positive. So far, the country has lost over 5,000 people to the virus. At least 356,000 have fallen ill with the virus. The situation is grim in India too. On November 24, India saw its highest single-day increase in active cases since October 1. The fresh infections outnumbered the recoveries. So far, over 130,000 people have succumbed to the Wuhan virus in India with the total number of cases crossing 9 million as orders for reopening schools have been reversed. As India enters the wedding season, authorities have imposed caps on the guest list. In South Asia, after the Wuhan virus brought life to a standstill, the fear of a second wave is looming large.

Coronavirus continues to ravage Pakistan & South Asia

The United States reported 2,284 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of cases jumping to 182,537 as Americans make plans over Thanksgiving. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-puts-major-cities-on-stringent-tier-3-restrictions-after-lockdown-345609">Also Read |&nbsp;England puts major cities on stringent tier 3 restrictions</a>

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-biden-will-discuss-corona-vaccine-distribution-plan-with-task-force-345567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-could-arrive-before-christmas-german-chancellor-merkel-to-parliament-345552">COVID-19</a> related hospitalisation on Thursday rose to over 89,000 as California witnessed a surge in virus cases and hospitalizations.

California recorded over 18,000 COVID-19 infection cases which is a 17 per cent jump in 24 hours, according to authorities with hospitalizations rising to over five per cent.

The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus recording over 12 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-efficacy-of-oxfords-coronavirus-vaccine-came-from-younger-group-345535">coronavirus </a>infections and over 262,280 deaths so far. The number of infections due to the virus has now reached over 60 million and over 1.4 million fatalities.

Amid a surge in virus cases, the United Stated suffered the highest daily death toll in six months on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday as the US health protection agency called on citizens not to travel during the busy holiday season.

US President-elect Joe Biden urged citizens to "hang on" and not "surrender to the fatigue". "You will get your lives back. Life is going to return to normal. That will happen. This will not last forever," president-elect Joe Biden told the nation during his Thanksgiving address.

According to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre, the US recorded nearly 200,000 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile, President Trump who had travelled to Afghanistan last year on thanksgiving, in a statement said: "I encourage all Americans to gather, in homes and places of worship, to offer a prayer of thanks to God for our many blessings."

Trump will be spending his Thanksgiving holiday inside the White House amid a surge in coronavirus cases.

&nbsp;

The United States reported 2,284 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of cases jumping to 182,537 as Americans make plans over Thanksgiving. Also Read | England puts major cities on stringent tier 3 restrictions Watch: The number of COVID-19 related hospitalisation on Thursday rose to over 89,000 as California witnessed a surge in virus cases and hospitalizations.

The United States reported 2,284 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of cases jumping to 182,537 as Americans make plans over Thanksgiving. Also Read | England puts major cities on stringent tier 3 restrictions Watch: The number of COVID-19 related hospitalisation on Thursday rose to over 89,000 as California witnessed a surge in virus cases and hospitalizations. California recorded over 18,000 COVID-19 infection cases which is a 17 per cent jump in 24 hours, according to authorities with hospitalizations rising to over five per cent. The United States is the worst-hit country with the virus recording over 12 million coronavirus infections and over 262,280 deaths so far. The number of infections due to the virus has now reached over 60 million and over 1.4 million fatalities. Amid a surge in virus cases, the United Stated suffered the highest daily death toll in six months on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday as the US health protection agency called on citizens not to travel during the busy holiday season. US President-elect Joe Biden urged citizens to "hang on" and not "surrender to the fatigue". "You will get your lives back. Life is going to return to normal. That will happen. This will not last forever," president-elect Joe Biden told the nation during his Thanksgiving address. According to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre, the US recorded nearly 200,000 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, President Trump who had travelled to Afghanistan last year on thanksgiving, in a statement said: "I encourage all Americans to gather, in homes and places of worship, to offer a prayer of thanks to God for our many blessings." Trump will be spending his Thanksgiving holiday inside the White House amid a surge in coronavirus cases.

US coronavirus deaths reach six-month high in 24 hours amid Thanksgiving holiday

The UK government announced on Thursday that England will return to the regional tiered based system after the lockdown ends on December as the nation battles <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-backs-religious-groups-over-new-york-coronavirus-curbs-345472">coronavirus</a> infections ahead of Christmas celebrations.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/astrazeneca-defends-dosing-error-in-covid-19-vaccine-trial-345595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Boris Johnson government has put Birmingham, Kent, Greater Manchester, Newscastle on the stringent tier 3 system, along with Leeds, Sheffield and Bristol.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-could-arrive-before-christmas-german-chancellor-merkel-to-parliament-345552">Also Read: COVID-19 vaccine could arrive before Christmas, says German chancellor Merkel</a>

"I understand the impact these measures will have but they are necessary," Health secretary Matt Hancock told parliament.

In the tier 3 system restaurants and other outdoor businesses are placed on lockdown with residents asked not to travel to other parts of the country. According to the British government, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-efficacy-of-oxfords-coronavirus-vaccine-came-from-younger-group-345535">coronavirus</a> cases have 19 per cent and hospital admissions down seven per cent in the past week amid the lockdown.

The measures also include employees to work from home and social distancing to be maintained with anyone not in the household or support bubble. There is also restrictions in meeting people in a group of up to six people.

Although hospitality venues are to be closed however beauty and hair salons are allowed to stay open.

As Leicester was placed in tier 3, Labour MPs, Liz Kendall, Jonathan Ashworth and Claudia Webbe in a joint statement said: "This has already been an unbelievably tough year, and the news that Leicester will go into tier 3 – on top of the 150 days of our extra lockdown – is extremely difficult to hear."

Health secretary Hancock said that the tier system would be reviewed regularly as the opposition demanded the tiers to be reviewed every week, not every fortnight.

Britain is one of the hardest-hit due to the virus with over 1.5 million cases and over 56,600 fatalities recorded so far as an infections survey revealed that virus cases have been declining in England.

The UK government announced on Thursday that England will return to the regional tiered based system after the lockdown ends on December as the nation battles coronavirus infections ahead of Christmas celebrations.

The UK government announced on Thursday that England will return to the regional tiered based system after the lockdown ends on December as the nation battles coronavirus infections ahead of Christmas celebrations. Watch: The Boris Johnson government has put Birmingham, Kent, Greater Manchester, Newscastle on the stringent tier 3 system, along with Leeds, Sheffield and Bristol. Also Read: COVID-19 vaccine could arrive before Christmas, says German chancellor Merkel "I understand the impact these measures will have but they are necessary," Health secretary Matt Hancock told parliament. In the tier 3 system restaurants and other outdoor businesses are placed on lockdown with residents asked not to travel to other parts of the country. According to the British government, coronavirus cases have 19 per cent and hospital admissions down seven per cent in the past week amid the lockdown. The measures also include employees to work from home and social distancing to be maintained with anyone not in the household or support bubble. There is also restrictions in meeting people in a group of up to six people. Although hospitality venues are to be closed however beauty and hair salons are allowed to stay open. As Leicester was placed in tier 3, Labour MPs, Liz Kendall, Jonathan Ashworth and Claudia Webbe in a joint statement said: "This has already been an unbelievably tough year, and the news that Leicester will go into tier 3 – on top of the 150 days of our extra lockdown – is extremely difficult to hear." Health secretary Hancock said that the tier system would be reviewed regularly as the opposition demanded the tiers to be reviewed every week, not every fortnight. Britain is one of the hardest-hit due to the virus with over 1.5 million cases and over 56,600 fatalities recorded so far as an infections survey revealed that virus cases have been declining in England.

England puts major cities on stringent tier 3 restrictions after lockdown

Amid rising cases of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-could-arrive-before-christmas-german-chancellor-merkel-to-parliament-345552">coronavirus</a> cases in the country, drone footage of the Indonesian capital Jakarta has shown burial grounds have been rapidly expanding as fatalities increase due to the virus.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazilian-researchers-introduce-quick-action-spray-to-eliminate-coronavirus-344373/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There have been &nbsp;16,000 deaths in Indonesia due to COVID-19 with 500,000 infections as the country grapples with the virus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-efficacy-of-oxfords-coronavirus-vaccine-came-from-younger-group-345535">Also Read:&nbsp;90% efficacy of Oxford's coronavirus vaccine came from younger group</a>

The country has also been plunged into a recession due to the coronavirus crisis with the economy slumping 3.49 per cent on-year in July-September which is the worst since the Asian financial crisis over 20 years ago.

Indonesia is among the worst-hit south-east Asian countries with the virus with reportedly the world's lowest testing rates. The country reported a rapid rise in cases in November with daily rising to 5,534 as the country grapples with the virus.

Health experts have repeatedly focussed on shortfalls in testing and contact tracing as the country struggles to contain the virus which has been spreading since March.

According to reports, patient occupancy at referral hospitals is at an all-time high even as the country's COVID-19 task force called for more action to ensure hospital occupancy does not rise further.

As the number of cases continues to rise, Indonesia's foreign minister Retno Marsudi said developing countries must have "equal access" to future coronavirus vaccines as he met representatives of UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca to cement a vaccine deal for the country.

Indonesia had earlier allowed human trials of China's Sinovac Biotech with nearly 1,600 volunteers taking part in the six-month study.

In September, authorities had reimposed a partial lockdown as virus cases spiked as Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan imposed social restrictions for two weeks.

Jakarta had first introduced restrictions in early April but had begun relaxing it in June, however, just weeks later coronavirus cases began to rise as authorities deployed soldiers and police to enforce the restrictions.

Amid rising cases of coronavirus cases in the country, drone footage of the Indonesian capital Jakarta has shown burial grounds have been rapidly expanding as fatalities increase due to the virus.

Amid rising cases of coronavirus cases in the country, drone footage of the Indonesian capital Jakarta has shown burial grounds have been rapidly expanding as fatalities increase due to the virus. Watch: There have been 16,000 deaths in Indonesia due to COVID-19 with 500,000 infections as the country grapples with the virus. Also Read: 90% efficacy of Oxford's coronavirus vaccine came from younger group The country has also been plunged into a recession due to the coronavirus crisis with the economy slumping 3.49 per cent on-year in July-September which is the worst since the Asian financial crisis over 20 years ago. Indonesia is among the worst-hit south-east Asian countries with the virus with reportedly the world's lowest testing rates. The country reported a rapid rise in cases in November with daily rising to 5,534 as the country grapples with the virus. Health experts have repeatedly focussed on shortfalls in testing and contact tracing as the country struggles to contain the virus which has been spreading since March. According to reports, patient occupancy at referral hospitals is at an all-time high even as the country's COVID-19 task force called for more action to ensure hospital occupancy does not rise further. As the number of cases continues to rise, Indonesia's foreign minister Retno Marsudi said developing countries must have "equal access" to future coronavirus vaccines as he met representatives of UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca to cement a vaccine deal for the country. Indonesia had earlier allowed human trials of China's Sinovac Biotech with nearly 1,600 volunteers taking part in the six-month study. In September, authorities had reimposed a partial lockdown as virus cases spiked as Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan imposed social restrictions for two weeks. Jakarta had first introduced restrictions in early April but had begun relaxing it in June, however, just weeks later coronavirus cases began to rise as authorities deployed soldiers and police to enforce the restrictions.

Drone pictures show COVID-19 cemetery expanding in Indonesia's Jakarta

German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament today that coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca-acknowledges-manufacturing-error-study-results-affected-345425">vaccine</a> could arrive before Christmas with health workers to be vaccinated first.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-glassmaker-schott-sees-unprecented-surge-in-demand-of-vials-345495/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The German government along with the states have imposed strict COVID-19 measures with authorities said to extend the measures until December 20 even as businesses take a hit in the Christmas holiday season.

Merkel insisted that the government can't promise any softening of restrictions for Christmas and New Year.

"Just the day before yesterday saw a sad record number of people who died from or with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-backs-religious-groups-over-new-york-coronavirus-curbs-345472">COVID-19</a>. This is reason for concern," the German Chancellor said.

The country had said earlier that it will push Europe to ban ski holidays to curb the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-xinfadi-seafood-market-linked-to-coronavirus-outbreak-suspends-sales-345423"> virus</a>. The German government is seeking ski slopes to be closed until January 10.&nbsp;

Chancellor Angela Merkel had said that coronavirus restrictions will be extended till to early January at least with limits on private gatherings and shutting down of cultural facilities, restaurants and pubs despite a busy holiday season.

"No one should pretend that we can protect vulnerable groups by removing these people from public life, given that number is 27 million people. We will not accept that and I believe it would be unethical, let me make that very clear," Merkel said.

Amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases, Germany had announced a limit on private gatherings to five people from two households.

The country has also banned the use of fireworks for New Year celebrations in an attempt to combat the virus.

Germany has registered 961,320 COVID-19 cases and 14,771 fatalities so far.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament today that coronavirus vaccine could arrive before Christmas with health workers to be vaccinated first. Watch: The German government along with the states have imposed strict COVID-19 measures with authorities said to extend the measures until December 20 even as businesses take a hit in the Christmas holiday season.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament today that coronavirus vaccine could arrive before Christmas with health workers to be vaccinated first. Watch: The German government along with the states have imposed strict COVID-19 measures with authorities said to extend the measures until December 20 even as businesses take a hit in the Christmas holiday season. Merkel insisted that the government can't promise any softening of restrictions for Christmas and New Year. "Just the day before yesterday saw a sad record number of people who died from or with COVID-19. This is reason for concern," the German Chancellor said. The country had said earlier that it will push Europe to ban ski holidays to curb the virus. The German government is seeking ski slopes to be closed until January 10. Chancellor Angela Merkel had said that coronavirus restrictions will be extended till to early January at least with limits on private gatherings and shutting down of cultural facilities, restaurants and pubs despite a busy holiday season. "No one should pretend that we can protect vulnerable groups by removing these people from public life, given that number is 27 million people. We will not accept that and I believe it would be unethical, let me make that very clear," Merkel said. Amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases, Germany had announced a limit on private gatherings to five people from two households. The country has also banned the use of fireworks for New Year celebrations in an attempt to combat the virus. Germany has registered 961,320 COVID-19 cases and 14,771 fatalities so far.

COVID-19 vaccine could arrive before Christmas: German chancellor Merkel to Parliament

Pennsylvania on Tuesday certified Democrat President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-results-2020-joe-biden-wins-georgia-after-recount-says-state-election-official-344393">Joe Biden's</a> victory in the US election 2020.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/antony-blinken-joe-bidens-pick-for-us-secretary-of-state-345124/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Governor Tom Wolf said that Pennsylvania had "certified" the results of the November 3 vote.

"As required by federal law, I've signed the Certificate of Ascertainment for the slate of electors for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris," Tom Wolf said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today <a href="https://twitter.com/PAStateDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PAStateDept</a> certified the results of the November 3 election in Pennsylvania for president and vice president of the United States. 
 
As required by federal law, I’ve signed the Certificate of Ascertainment for the slate of electors for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
— Governor Tom Wolf (@GovernorTomWolf) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernorTomWolf/status/1331263684681867266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2020</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>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-donald-trump-liked-about-being-president-345060">Trump </a>had earlier won the state during the 2016 presidential elections when he defeated Hillary Clinton. According to reports, Biden won Pennsylvania by 81,000 votes out of nearly 6.9 million votes cast.&nbsp;

Earlier, Michigan had declared Biden as the winner in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-biden-faces-pressure-to-stand-up-to-china-by-embracing-taiwan-345058">Trump</a> had earlier claimed that was defeated due to fraudulent voting, however, Michigan secretary of state Jocelyn Benson said it "confirms the truth: the election was fair and secure, and the results accurately reflect the will of the voters."

A Pennsylvania judge had earlier rejected a legal challenge by Trump's election campaign which sought to nullify votes.

President Trump had earlier authorised a transition amid growing pressure to concede, although the US president hasn't officially conceded the November 3 elections.&nbsp;

The green signal given by Trump would allow president-elect Biden to have access to office space and to meet with federal officials to ensure a smooth transition.

Meanwhile, the Dow surged past 30,000 points for the first time over Trump's decision on transition and hopes for coronavirus vaccines.

Pennsylvania on Tuesday certified Democrat President-elect Joe Biden's victory in the US election 2020. Watch: Governor Tom Wolf said that Pennsylvania had "certified" the results of the November 3 vote.

Pennsylvania on Tuesday certified Democrat President-elect Joe Biden's victory in the US election 2020. Watch: Governor Tom Wolf said that Pennsylvania had "certified" the results of the November 3 vote. "As required by federal law, I've signed the Certificate of Ascertainment for the slate of electors for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris," Tom Wolf said on Twitter. Today @PAStateDept certified the results of the November 3 election in Pennsylvania for president and vice president of the United States. As required by federal law, I’ve signed the Certificate of Ascertainment for the slate of electors for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. — Governor Tom Wolf (@GovernorTomWolf) November 24, 2020 × Trump had earlier won the state during the 2016 presidential elections when he defeated Hillary Clinton. According to reports, Biden won Pennsylvania by 81,000 votes out of nearly 6.9 million votes cast. Earlier, Michigan had declared Biden as the winner in the state. Trump had earlier claimed that was defeated due to fraudulent voting, however, Michigan secretary of state Jocelyn Benson said it "confirms the truth: the election was fair and secure, and the results accurately reflect the will of the voters." A Pennsylvania judge had earlier rejected a legal challenge by Trump's election campaign which sought to nullify votes. President Trump had earlier authorised a transition amid growing pressure to concede, although the US president hasn't officially conceded the November 3 elections. The green signal given by Trump would allow president-elect Biden to have access to office space and to meet with federal officials to ensure a smooth transition. Meanwhile, the Dow surged past 30,000 points for the first time over Trump's decision on transition and hopes for coronavirus vaccines.

Pennsylvania certifies Joe Biden's victory in US elections as stocks surge

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar kicked off his West Asia tour today. It is a six-day long visit to West Asia. The timing is right for New Delhi to make an outreach and to expand its relationship with the Gulf.

The region is a key strategic partner for India. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar began his tour with Bahrain today. He had several engagements, Jaishankar met with his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid al Zayani.

Jaishankar also met Prime minister Prince Salman bin Hamad al Khalifa. He conveyed condolences on the demise of Prince Khalifa bin Salman al Khalifa, the late prime minister of Bahrain. The external affairs minister also thanked Bahrain for "taking special care" of the Indian diaspora in Bahrain during the pandemic.

S Jaishankar also paid a visit to Lord Sri Krishna Temple in Manama, the capital of Bahrain.

Last year, Prime Minister Modi had launched a redevelopment project for this 200-year-old temple worth $4.2 million. Jaishankar also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora via a video call.

All through his engagements, the external affairs minister emphasised the strong bond India shares with Bahrain a country where the Indian diaspora represents a third of Bahrain's population.

S. Jaishankar travels to the UAE next, followed by Seychelles that are central to India's strategy in the region.

India no longer wants to look at the Gulf just as a source of oil, it considers Gulf nations as key strategic partners. Jaishankar's decision to undertake this tour during a pandemic could be an attempt to achieve key goals that are both short and long term in nature and build on the personal outreach of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The key goals include protecting India's interests in the Gulf. The pandemic has triggered a lot of turbulence in this region while new alliances are being built. Gulf nations are looking within too. They are tightening their belts.&nbsp;

According to one estimate, Arab states of the Gulf could have a deficit of about $490 billion between 2020 and 2023.

Their government debt could surge by a record $100 billion this year with proposals being floated around that could limit the entry of foreign workers. Close to eight million Indians work within the Gulf. India would want their interests protected.

Second, the Gulf is diversifying. They are making big-ticket investments to open up other sectors of the economy to generate income in an attempt to shift away from oil. India can offer many investment opportunities to the Gulf

The UAE and Bahrain both have normalised ties with Israel which is another ally for India. There is now an opening for all four countries - India, Israel, UAE and Bahrain to work together on areas of mutual interest.

Allies in the Gulf can help India protect its security interests. The UAE can be an ally for India in the Afghanistan conflict. Abu Dhabi has been the meeting ground for the peace dialogue.&nbsp;

The city has hosted all stakeholders including the Taliban leadership and just before Jaishankar's visit the UAE stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Turkey and Pakistan - two countries that have tried to push an anti-India agenda at global forums.

There is an opportunity for India to forge a partnership with allies like the UAE especially on issues of national security and finally the fifth possibility: India can be an ally for the Gulf nations as they undertake serious reforms that reduce the role of religion in daily life, give more rights to women and make way for a more open society.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar kicked off his West Asia tour today. It is a six-day long visit to West Asia. The timing is right for New Delhi to make an outreach and to expand its relationship with the Gulf.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar kicked off his West Asia tour today. It is a six-day long visit to West Asia. The timing is right for New Delhi to make an outreach and to expand its relationship with the Gulf. The region is a key strategic partner for India. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar began his tour with Bahrain today. He had several engagements, Jaishankar met with his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid al Zayani. Jaishankar also met Prime minister Prince Salman bin Hamad al Khalifa. He conveyed condolences on the demise of Prince Khalifa bin Salman al Khalifa, the late prime minister of Bahrain. The external affairs minister also thanked Bahrain for "taking special care" of the Indian diaspora in Bahrain during the pandemic. S Jaishankar also paid a visit to Lord Sri Krishna Temple in Manama, the capital of Bahrain. Last year, Prime Minister Modi had launched a redevelopment project for this 200-year-old temple worth $4.2 million. Jaishankar also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora via a video call. All through his engagements, the external affairs minister emphasised the strong bond India shares with Bahrain a country where the Indian diaspora represents a third of Bahrain's population. S. Jaishankar travels to the UAE next, followed by Seychelles that are central to India's strategy in the region. India no longer wants to look at the Gulf just as a source of oil, it considers Gulf nations as key strategic partners. Jaishankar's decision to undertake this tour during a pandemic could be an attempt to achieve key goals that are both short and long term in nature and build on the personal outreach of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The key goals include protecting India's interests in the Gulf. The pandemic has triggered a lot of turbulence in this region while new alliances are being built. Gulf nations are looking within too. They are tightening their belts. According to one estimate, Arab states of the Gulf could have a deficit of about $490 billion between 2020 and 2023. Their government debt could surge by a record $100 billion this year with proposals being floated around that could limit the entry of foreign workers. Close to eight million Indians work within the Gulf. India would want their interests protected. Second, the Gulf is diversifying. They are making big-ticket investments to open up other sectors of the economy to generate income in an attempt to shift away from oil. India can offer many investment opportunities to the Gulf The UAE and Bahrain both have normalised ties with Israel which is another ally for India. There is now an opening for all four countries - India, Israel, UAE and Bahrain to work together on areas of mutual interest. Allies in the Gulf can help India protect its security interests. The UAE can be an ally for India in the Afghanistan conflict. Abu Dhabi has been the meeting ground for the peace dialogue. The city has hosted all stakeholders including the Taliban leadership and just before Jaishankar's visit the UAE stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Turkey and Pakistan - two countries that have tried to push an anti-India agenda at global forums. There is an opportunity for India to forge a partnership with allies like the UAE especially on issues of national security and finally the fifth possibility: India can be an ally for the Gulf nations as they undertake serious reforms that reduce the role of religion in daily life, give more rights to women and make way for a more open society.

India eyes larger role in West Asia as Jaishankar kicks off Gulf tour

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk mostly makes news for all the wrong reason, he once wiped off $14 billion from Tesla's value by tweeting that the stock price is too high. He was slapped with a $20 million lawsuit for cracking cannabis jokes.

Musk went on to say that his joke was worth it and that he was right before he called a British cave diver a pedo. The billionaire also got into controversy by protesting Wuhan virus lockdowns.

Elon Musk is making headlines again, but it has nothing to do with his controversies. Elon musk has become the world's second-richest person&nbsp;with a net worth of $128 billion.

However, not too long ago, the SpaceX and Tesla CEO was being written off and his ideas were called "outrageous". There is a fine line between being genius and insane, they said and that Musk tends to lean towards the latter.

Today, the 49-year-old has silenced his critics. He was not born with a silver spoon, if anything he was born in a broken family in Pretoria, South Africa and was severely bullied during his childhood but financial hardships did not keep Musk from taking career risks.

Many describe Elon Musk's journey as one defined by bold moves and one leap of faith after another.&nbsp;

The first one was at age 17, when Musk moved to the United States against his father's wishes. He studied economics and physics at the University of Pennsylvania then enrolled himself at Standford for a PHD after spending just two days on campus, Musk decided to put everything at stake, again. He started his first company zip2 corporation. It was later sold to Compaq for $307 million and from the money he made Musk co-founded the first online payment company- x.com.

Within a year, that company merged with Paypal which then was sold to eBay for $1.5 billion. Musk used his sale money to fund Spacex in 2002 and Tesla in 2003. Both companies have been revolutionary in their own ways and have seen several ups and downs along with their CEO.

Musk has been broke, lived off loans from friends, mortgaged his properties and also seen days when his company's stocks shot through the roof but this story is not all rainbows and butterflies.

Elon Musk once called a British diver a "paedo guy". He also downplayed the Wuhan virus, threatened the state of California and even got a legislator to abuse him in public but you need to give credit where it's due while many of Musk's predictions may have failed, the ones that have come true have changed the world.

Tesla's electric cars have forced more automakers to switch to sustainable energy. Musk's ambitious hyperloop will be slashing travel time like never before. His solar city project is promising a greener future.&nbsp;

SpaceX recently became the first private company to ferry NASA astronauts to the international space station(ISS).

On November 16, four NASA astronauts got on a Tesla car, &nbsp;drove to the launch pad of Florida's Kennedy space station and then boarded the one-of-a-kind SpaceX Dragon capsule.&nbsp;

As Musk's Falcon-9 rocket blasted off the message was loud and clear: no matter how outrageous your dreams are, you can always make them come true.

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk mostly makes news for all the wrong reason, he once wiped off $14 billion from Tesla's value by tweeting that the stock price is too high.

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk mostly makes news for all the wrong reason, he once wiped off $14 billion from Tesla's value by tweeting that the stock price is too high. He was slapped with a $20 million lawsuit for cracking cannabis jokes. Musk went on to say that his joke was worth it and that he was right before he called a British cave diver a pedo. The billionaire also got into controversy by protesting Wuhan virus lockdowns. Elon Musk is making headlines again, but it has nothing to do with his controversies. Elon musk has become the world's second-richest person with a net worth of $128 billion. However, not too long ago, the SpaceX and Tesla CEO was being written off and his ideas were called "outrageous". There is a fine line between being genius and insane, they said and that Musk tends to lean towards the latter. Today, the 49-year-old has silenced his critics. He was not born with a silver spoon, if anything he was born in a broken family in Pretoria, South Africa and was severely bullied during his childhood but financial hardships did not keep Musk from taking career risks. Many describe Elon Musk's journey as one defined by bold moves and one leap of faith after another. The first one was at age 17, when Musk moved to the United States against his father's wishes. He studied economics and physics at the University of Pennsylvania then enrolled himself at Standford for a PHD after spending just two days on campus, Musk decided to put everything at stake, again. He started his first company zip2 corporation. It was later sold to Compaq for $307 million and from the money he made Musk co-founded the first online payment company- x.com. Within a year, that company merged with Paypal which then was sold to eBay for $1.5 billion. Musk used his sale money to fund Spacex in 2002 and Tesla in 2003. Both companies have been revolutionary in their own ways and have seen several ups and downs along with their CEO. Musk has been broke, lived off loans from friends, mortgaged his properties and also seen days when his company's stocks shot through the roof but this story is not all rainbows and butterflies. Elon Musk once called a British diver a "paedo guy". He also downplayed the Wuhan virus, threatened the state of California and even got a legislator to abuse him in public but you need to give credit where it's due while many of Musk's predictions may have failed, the ones that have come true have changed the world. Tesla's electric cars have forced more automakers to switch to sustainable energy. Musk's ambitious hyperloop will be slashing travel time like never before. His solar city project is promising a greener future. SpaceX recently became the first private company to ferry NASA astronauts to the international space station(ISS). On November 16, four NASA astronauts got on a Tesla car, drove to the launch pad of Florida's Kennedy space station and then boarded the one-of-a-kind SpaceX Dragon capsule. As Musk's Falcon-9 rocket blasted off the message was loud and clear: no matter how outrageous your dreams are, you can always make them come true.

Elon Musk: The extraordinary life of world's second-richest person

As Europe battles the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-european-commission-president-ursula-von-der-leyen-says-first-european-citizen-might-be-vaccinated-before-end-december-345336">coronavirus</a> second wave, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was considering limiting Christmas celebrations to six people in an attempt to combat the virus.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-coronavirus-uk-to-move-into-tougher-regional-covid-19-restrictions-344930/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"This is not a number we have pulled out of nowhere," PM Sanchez said even as health officials asked ten people for holiday gatherings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-say-they-found-virus-in-imported-beef-and-seafood-345293">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese authorities say they found virus in imported beef and seafood</a>

The death toll due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-how-price-plays-an-extremely-crucial-role-345165">COVID-19</a> in Spain rose to 537 to 43,668. Spain is one of the worst-hit country in Europe which was severely hit in the early months of the lockdown in March.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another European country Lithuania extended its coronavirus lockdown until December 17. Gyms, restaurants and secondary schools have been ordered to remain shut during the lockdown period.

Amid a surge in virus, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had warned against lifting restrictions too early. "We must learn from the summer and not repeat the same mistakes," the European Commission chief said, adding,"Relaxing too fast and too much is a risk for a third wave after Christmas."&nbsp;

Germany reported 410 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours as the country as Britain and France seek to ease coronavirus restrictions ahead of Christmas holidays with the virus cases subsiding.

Germany has registered 942,687 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-production-to-distribution-comprehensive-guide-to-coronavirus-vaccine-345157">coronavirus</a> cases with 14,361 fatalities as local governments seek to limit social contact during Christmas.

"We will be able to travel without authorisation, including between regions, and spend Christmas with our families," President Macron said. France has imposed a night curfew till December 15 with bars and restaurants ordered to remain shut till January.

Poland reported a new daily record of 674 COVID-19-related deaths as Europe continues to grapple with the virus.

As Europe battles the coronavirus second wave, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was considering limiting Christmas celebrations to six people in an attempt to combat the virus.

As Europe battles the coronavirus second wave, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was considering limiting Christmas celebrations to six people in an attempt to combat the virus. Watch: "This is not a number we have pulled out of nowhere," PM Sanchez said even as health officials asked ten people for holiday gatherings. Also Read: Chinese authorities say they found virus in imported beef and seafood The death toll due to COVID-19 in Spain rose to 537 to 43,668. Spain is one of the worst-hit country in Europe which was severely hit in the early months of the lockdown in March. Meanwhile, another European country Lithuania extended its coronavirus lockdown until December 17. Gyms, restaurants and secondary schools have been ordered to remain shut during the lockdown period. Amid a surge in virus, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had warned against lifting restrictions too early. "We must learn from the summer and not repeat the same mistakes," the European Commission chief said, adding,"Relaxing too fast and too much is a risk for a third wave after Christmas." Germany reported 410 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours as the country as Britain and France seek to ease coronavirus restrictions ahead of Christmas holidays with the virus cases subsiding. Germany has registered 942,687 coronavirus cases with 14,361 fatalities as local governments seek to limit social contact during Christmas. "We will be able to travel without authorisation, including between regions, and spend Christmas with our families," President Macron said. France has imposed a night curfew till December 15 with bars and restaurants ordered to remain shut till January. Poland reported a new daily record of 674 COVID-19-related deaths as Europe continues to grapple with the virus.

COVID-19 in Europe: Spain seeks to limit Christmas celebrations; Lithuania extends lockdown

At least &nbsp;37 people were killed and 15 injured after a bus and a truck collided in a state highway in Brazil's Sao Paulo.

The bus was reportedly carrying workers at a textile factory when the crash occurred.&nbsp;

Police is investigating the cause of the accident.&nbsp;

The crash occurred in Taguai which is west of Sao Paulo, Brazil's economic capital.

Reports said there were 53 people on the bus. The truck driver reportedly survived the crash.

At least 37 people were killed and 15 injured after a bus and a truck collided in a state highway in Brazil's Sao Paulo. The bus was reportedly carrying workers at a textile factory when the crash occurred.

At least 37 people were killed and 15 injured after a bus and a truck collided in a state highway in Brazil's Sao Paulo. The bus was reportedly carrying workers at a textile factory when the crash occurred. Police is investigating the cause of the accident. The crash occurred in Taguai which is west of Sao Paulo, Brazil's economic capital. Reports said there were 53 people on the bus. The truck driver reportedly survived the crash.

At least 37 killed as bus, truck collide in Brazil

President Xi Jinping today "congratulated" president-elect Joe Biden for winning US elections on November 3, Chinese state media reported. Watch: Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said: “We respect the choice of the American people.

President Xi Jinping today "congratulated" president-elect Joe Biden for winning US elections on November 3, Chinese state media reported. Watch: Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said: “We respect the choice of the American people. We extend congratulations to Mr Biden and Ms Harris,” adding, "We understand the results of the US election will be determined according to US laws and procedures.” Also Read: 'America is back': Biden introduces his foreign policy and national security team However, President Xi hadn't sent any congratulatory message to Joe Biden since November 3, and after even as the US president-elect began to officially win in various states. In the message, Xi said: "Stick to no conflict or confrontation, mutual respect, (and) the spirit of win-win cooperation" in order to promote the "noble cause" of world peace and development. President Xi added that the "healthy and stable development of US-China relations accords with the fundamental interests of both peoples". Chinese vice-president Wang Qishan also sent a congratulatory message to Kamala Harris on her becoming the next US vice president, Xinhua news agency reported. US and China trade relations have been going through a tumultuous time for the last two years even as US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said the Trump administration wasn't finished yet.

President Xi congratulates president-elect Joe Biden on US election victory

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Rustam

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.