<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-calls-for-resolute-and-concerted-action-in-belarus-to-end-crisis-321673" hreflang="en">EU calls for 'resolute and concerted' action in Belarus to end crisis</a>

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European Union leaders held an emergency video summit on Wednesday to discuss the crisis in Belarus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-expels-russian-diplomat-over-suspected-espionage-321684">Norway expels Russian diplomat over suspected espionage</a>

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The authorities didn't provide any information about the man while informing that he was suspected of "harming vital national interests".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-michelle-obama-to-bernie-sanders-top-speakers-at-us-democratic-national-convention-321424">In pics: Michelle Obama to Sanders - Top speakers at US Democratic Convention</a>

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The&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;Party presented a parade of passionate speakers&nbsp;making the case for electing Joe Biden president of the United States,&nbsp;a virtual&nbsp;convention&nbsp;to formally nominate him as the party's nominee to face President Donald Trump in November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lukashenko-orders-interior-ministry-to-end-unrest-in-minsk-sanctions-more-border-protection-321709" hreflang="en">Lukashenko orders interior ministry to end unrest in Minsk, sanctions more border protection</a>

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Protests across the country erupted after he won the presidential election, which the opponents believe is rigged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-to-double-number-of-flights-us-transportation-department-321697" hreflang="en">China, US to double number of flights, says&nbsp;US Transportation Department</a>

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The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-carriers-officers-arrested-in-mauritius-amid-oil-spillage-321683" hreflang="en">Japanese carrier&nbsp;officers arrested in Mauritius amid oil spill</a>

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The Japanese company issued a statement on Wednesday after two people were arrested overnight in Mauritius

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-calls-for-social-justice-and-vaccines-for-all-321710" hreflang="en">Pope calls for social justice and vaccines for all</a>

"It would be sad if this vaccine were to become the property of this nation or another, rather than universal and for all."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-top-sunni-cleric-urges-international-investigation-into-blast-321676" hreflang="en">Lebanon's top Sunni cleric urges international investigation into blast</a>

At least 179 people were killed and 300,000 left effectively homeless when massive amounts of highly explosive material stored unsafely for years detonated early this month

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-food-shortage-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-orders-citizens-to-give-up-dogs-for-meat-321671" hreflang="en">Amid food shortage, North Korea's Kim Jong Un orders citizens to give up dogs for meat</a>

The North Korean dictator has even ordered a ban on petting dogs as he thinks it is a symbol of "western decadence."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-soldiers-promise-elections-after-coup-condemned-abroad-321668" hreflang="en">Mali soldiers promise elections after coup condemned abroad</a>

President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita resigned and dissolved parliament late on Tuesday hours after the mutineers detained him at gunpoint

EU calls for 'resolute and concerted' action in Belarus to end crisis European Union leaders held an emergency video summit on Wednesday to discuss the crisis in Belarus.

EU calls for 'resolute and concerted' action in Belarus to end crisis European Union leaders held an emergency video summit on Wednesday to discuss the crisis in Belarus. Norway expels Russian diplomat over suspected espionage The authorities didn't provide any information about the man while informing that he was suspected of "harming vital national interests". In pics: Michelle Obama to Sanders - Top speakers at US Democratic Convention The Democratic Party presented a parade of passionate speakers making the case for electing Joe Biden president of the United States, a virtual convention to formally nominate him as the party's nominee to face President Donald Trump in November. Lukashenko orders interior ministry to end unrest in Minsk, sanctions more border protection Protests across the country erupted after he won the presidential election, which the opponents believe is rigged. China, US to double number of flights, says US Transportation Department The world’s two biggest economies had stopped flights and then slowly restarted operation due to the coronavirus pandemic Japanese carrier officers arrested in Mauritius amid oil spill The Japanese company issued a statement on Wednesday after two people were arrested overnight in Mauritius Pope calls for social justice and vaccines for all "It would be sad if this vaccine were to become the property of this nation or another, rather than universal and for all." Lebanon's top Sunni cleric urges international investigation into blast At least 179 people were killed and 300,000 left effectively homeless when massive amounts of highly explosive material stored unsafely for years detonated early this month Amid food shortage, North Korea's Kim Jong Un orders citizens to give up dogs for meat The North Korean dictator has even ordered a ban on petting dogs as he thinks it is a symbol of "western decadence." Mali soldiers promise elections after coup condemned abroad President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita resigned and dissolved parliament late on Tuesday hours after the mutineers detained him at gunpoint

Top 10 world news today: EU on Belarus crisis, Norway expels Russian diplomat, and more

The US Democratic National Convention is an event where the Democratic Party comes together to formally announce their presidential candidate. &nbsp;

It&nbsp;means that during the&nbsp;convention Joe Biden will be officially named as the Democratic candidate for the presidential elections to be held on November 3.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-michelle-obama-to-bernie-sanders-top-speeches-at-us-democratic-convention-321424" hreflang="en">From Michelle Obama to Bernie Sanders: Top speeches at US Democratic convention</a>

The party will also name Kamala Harris as Biden's vice-presidential pick.

It is being held at Wisconsin, however,&nbsp;there was barely anyone at the venue and those who were present were&nbsp;instrumental in conducting the event. It was due to the Wuhan virus or else the convention would have at least 50,000 people at the&nbsp;stadium.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-day-1-of-the-democratic-national-convention-321562/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

All attendees, including Biden and Harris joined&nbsp;in through video links.&nbsp;The Democratic National Convention is a three-day event.

Day-1 saw performances, political speeches and virtual roundtable conversations. The former first lady, Michelle Obama, was the keynote speaker for the evening. She told the gathering how Donald Trump is "the wrong president for our country".

Through the course of the two hours,&nbsp;the Democrats managed to keep the focus on Trump's failures, especially&nbsp;his handling of the Wuhan virus pandemic.

One of the most powerful speeches of the evening was delivered by Kristin Urquiza, the daughter of a man who lost his battle to the Wuhan virus. Urquiza said her father's only pre-existing condition was trusting Donald Trump.

Then there was New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. He has become one of the most prominent faces in the United States following his daily press briefings about New York's handling of COVID-19.

Ohio's Republican Governor&nbsp;John Kasich also addressed the Democratic convention.

Trump meanwhile&nbsp;put out a tweet which read: "Someone please explain Michelle Obama that Donald Trump would not be here, in this beautiful White House, if it were not for the job done by your husband, Barrack Obama".

Trump also criticised the Obamas for their delayed endorsement of Biden.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
....My Administration and I built the greatest economy in history, of any country, turned it off, saved millions of lives, and now am building an even greater economy than it was before. Jobs are flowing, NASDAQ is already at a record high, the rest to follow. Sit back &amp; watch!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1295677038301523968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The president signed off his response by saying his administration has built the "greatest economy" in history and now it will only get better.

Meanwhile, preparations for Day-2 of the Democratic convention are in full swing.&nbsp;The gathering is expected to hear voices from the education sector, gun law advocates and&nbsp;healthcare workers. The attendees have also been promised celebrity appearances.

Republicans too are expected to hold their convention in the coming days. However, suspense remains on&nbsp;Donald Trump's vice presidential pick.

The US Democratic National Convention is an event where the Democratic Party comes together to formally announce their presidential candidate. It means that during the convention Joe Biden will be officially named as the Democratic candidate for the presidential elections to be held on November 3.

The US Democratic National Convention is an event where the Democratic Party comes together to formally announce their presidential candidate. It means that during the convention Joe Biden will be officially named as the Democratic candidate for the presidential elections to be held on November 3. Also see: From Michelle Obama to Bernie Sanders: Top speeches at US Democratic convention The party will also name Kamala Harris as Biden's vice-presidential pick. It is being held at Wisconsin, however, there was barely anyone at the venue and those who were present were instrumental in conducting the event. It was due to the Wuhan virus or else the convention would have at least 50,000 people at the stadium. All attendees, including Biden and Harris joined in through video links. The Democratic National Convention is a three-day event. Day-1 saw performances, political speeches and virtual roundtable conversations. The former first lady, Michelle Obama, was the keynote speaker for the evening. She told the gathering how Donald Trump is "the wrong president for our country". Through the course of the two hours, the Democrats managed to keep the focus on Trump's failures, especially his handling of the Wuhan virus pandemic. One of the most powerful speeches of the evening was delivered by Kristin Urquiza, the daughter of a man who lost his battle to the Wuhan virus. Urquiza said her father's only pre-existing condition was trusting Donald Trump. Then there was New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. He has become one of the most prominent faces in the United States following his daily press briefings about New York's handling of COVID-19. Ohio's Republican Governor John Kasich also addressed the Democratic convention. Trump meanwhile put out a tweet which read: "Someone please explain Michelle Obama that Donald Trump would not be here, in this beautiful White House, if it were not for the job done by your husband, Barrack Obama". Trump also criticised the Obamas for their delayed endorsement of Biden. ....My Administration and I built the greatest economy in history, of any country, turned it off, saved millions of lives, and now am building an even greater economy than it was before. Jobs are flowing, NASDAQ is already at a record high, the rest to follow. Sit back & watch! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020 × The president signed off his response by saying his administration has built the "greatest economy" in history and now it will only get better. Meanwhile, preparations for Day-2 of the Democratic convention are in full swing. The gathering is expected to hear voices from the education sector, gun law advocates and healthcare workers. The attendees have also been promised celebrity appearances. Republicans too are expected to hold their convention in the coming days. However, suspense remains on Donald Trump's vice presidential pick.

Michelle Obama slams Trump at Democratic National Convention as US president hits back

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project.

Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, 
Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur.

At least 21 million people in Bangladesh are dependant on the Teesta river. Now, China is helping Bangladesh with the management project for the river with work expected to start in December.&nbsp;Reports say it was Bangladesh that asked China for $983 million loan.

The river, however, in no way concerns China. Beijing is concerned with just two things - it gets to debt-trap Bangladesh and it is an opportunity for China to control one of India's allies.

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Teesta originates in India in Tsolamo. The river flows through Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh. It is one of the 54 rivers that enter Bangladesh from India.

The Teesta has been a source of discord between the two countries with negotiations on water sharing dating back to 1951 when Bangladesh was East Pakistan.

Seven decades and a new country later, the negotiations have not quite reached a fruitful end. The negotiations were expedited in 2009 but the water-sharing deal is still pending. Now Bangladesh claims that because of a particular dam on the Indian side the flow of the river is reduced during winters which lead to two-month-long water crisis every year.

Bangladesh has painted India in a bad light and for China it spells an opportunity. It is the first time China is getting involved in a river management project in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The Teesta river crisis is China's opportunity to test waters and an opportunity to whip up an anti-India sentiment, it is almost Nepal deja vu and the bad news is that so far it appears to be working.

New Delhi has sent its foreign secretary to Bangladesh Harsh Vardhan Shringla on a day-long visit to Dhaka. India's foreign secretary is expected to call on Prime minister Sheikh Hasina and foreign minister Abdul Momen.

India will also be handing over around 10 broad gauge diesel locomotives to Dhaka.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, sources say the Teesta project is just one of the many projects that China is funding in Bangladesh. There are at least nine others with the total amount of loan reportedly at $6 billion. It is over and above the $22 billion Chinese loans that Bangladesh has already received, according to Bangladesh media.

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project. Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur.

China is giving Dhaka a loan of $1 billion for the Teesta river management project. Teesta is the fourth-largest trans-boundary river in Bangladesh and flows through five northern districts - Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari and Rangpur. At least 21 million people in Bangladesh are dependant on the Teesta river. Now, China is helping Bangladesh with the management project for the river with work expected to start in December. Reports say it was Bangladesh that asked China for $983 million loan. The river, however, in no way concerns China. Beijing is concerned with just two things - it gets to debt-trap Bangladesh and it is an opportunity for China to control one of India's allies. Teesta originates in India in Tsolamo. The river flows through Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh. It is one of the 54 rivers that enter Bangladesh from India. The Teesta has been a source of discord between the two countries with negotiations on water sharing dating back to 1951 when Bangladesh was East Pakistan. Seven decades and a new country later, the negotiations have not quite reached a fruitful end. The negotiations were expedited in 2009 but the water-sharing deal is still pending. Now Bangladesh claims that because of a particular dam on the Indian side the flow of the river is reduced during winters which lead to two-month-long water crisis every year. Bangladesh has painted India in a bad light and for China it spells an opportunity. It is the first time China is getting involved in a river management project in Bangladesh. The Teesta river crisis is China's opportunity to test waters and an opportunity to whip up an anti-India sentiment, it is almost Nepal deja vu and the bad news is that so far it appears to be working. New Delhi has sent its foreign secretary to Bangladesh Harsh Vardhan Shringla on a day-long visit to Dhaka. India's foreign secretary is expected to call on Prime minister Sheikh Hasina and foreign minister Abdul Momen. India will also be handing over around 10 broad gauge diesel locomotives to Dhaka. Meanwhile, sources say the Teesta project is just one of the many projects that China is funding in Bangladesh. There are at least nine others with the total amount of loan reportedly at $6 billion. It is over and above the $22 billion Chinese loans that Bangladesh has already received, according to Bangladesh media.

Now, China gives loan to Bangladesh for Teesta river project

China wants to invest further in the Indian market but in the aftermath of the border skirmish, Chinese products have been boycotted all over India.

After the border provocation, investment opportunities for China in India have become very limited.&nbsp;As part of new restrictions, all investments coming in from China will be watched, reported&nbsp;and scrutinised.&nbsp;A report from August 18 claimed that one of India’s most prominent banks ICICI has a new investor.

Who is the investor?

The&nbsp;investor is the People’s Bank of China, which is the central bank of the Chinese state.&nbsp;The same institution had invested in India’s HDFC limited in March.&nbsp;

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Recently, ICICI Bank raised Rs 15,000 crore from the market (over $2 billion). It is referred to as a Qualified Institutional Placement Exercise(QIP), which is a way for listed companies to raise capital without submitting legal paperwork or undergoing regulatory approvals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/business-economy/chinas-central-bank-buys-175-crore-shares-in-hdfc-raises-stake-to-over-1-292242" hreflang="en">China's central bank buys 1.75 crore shares in HDFC, raises stake to over 1%</a>

The People’s Bank of China (PBC), then invested Rs 15 crore (over $2 million) and over 300 investors participated in the&nbsp;exercise. According to one claim, the PBC’s stake in ICICI is 0.0006, which is rather minuscule and owing to the fresh curbs for Chinese companies in India, it may not go up at all.

In March, HDFC limited reported that the PBC owns a little more than one per cent of its shares.&nbsp;The PBC had bought these shares from the open market, which is why the Indian government introduced new rules.&nbsp;Any investor from India’s border nations now needs government approval for investment.

Simply put, China can no longer just buy shares from the market. All Chinese companies will need to go through a government approval process first.

Long underway

Even before the border standoff in Ladakh, the Indian government had taken a stand against Chinese investments.&nbsp;In May, India’s finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a chat with&nbsp;WION promised more safeguards against hostile takeovers.

Now, India is taking specific and targeted measures to curb the flow of Chinese cash in the Indian economy.&nbsp;Chinese companies have now been restricted from participating in public procurement bids.&nbsp;In June, India made it mandatory for sellers on the government e-marketplace portals to clarify the country of origin of their goods.&nbsp;Following that, restrictions were placed on colour TV imports from China.

India is now considering measures to prevent trade partners in Southeast Asia from re-rerouting Chinese goods to India.

China wants to invest further in the Indian market but in the aftermath of the border skirmish, Chinese products have been boycotted all over India. After the border provocation, investment opportunities for China in India have become very limited.

China wants to invest further in the Indian market but in the aftermath of the border skirmish, Chinese products have been boycotted all over India. After the border provocation, investment opportunities for China in India have become very limited. As part of new restrictions, all investments coming in from China will be watched, reported and scrutinised. A report from August 18 claimed that one of India’s most prominent banks ICICI has a new investor. Who is the investor? The investor is the People’s Bank of China, which is the central bank of the Chinese state. The same institution had invested in India’s HDFC limited in March. Recently, ICICI Bank raised Rs 15,000 crore from the market (over $2 billion). It is referred to as a Qualified Institutional Placement Exercise(QIP), which is a way for listed companies to raise capital without submitting legal paperwork or undergoing regulatory approvals. Also read: China's central bank buys 1.75 crore shares in HDFC, raises stake to over 1% The People’s Bank of China (PBC), then invested Rs 15 crore (over $2 million) and over 300 investors participated in the exercise. According to one claim, the PBC’s stake in ICICI is 0.0006, which is rather minuscule and owing to the fresh curbs for Chinese companies in India, it may not go up at all. In March, HDFC limited reported that the PBC owns a little more than one per cent of its shares. The PBC had bought these shares from the open market, which is why the Indian government introduced new rules. Any investor from India’s border nations now needs government approval for investment. Simply put, China can no longer just buy shares from the market. All Chinese companies will need to go through a government approval process first. Long underway Even before the border standoff in Ladakh, the Indian government had taken a stand against Chinese investments. In May, India’s finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a chat with WION promised more safeguards against hostile takeovers. Now, India is taking specific and targeted measures to curb the flow of Chinese cash in the Indian economy. Chinese companies have now been restricted from participating in public procurement bids. In June, India made it mandatory for sellers on the government e-marketplace portals to clarify the country of origin of their goods. Following that, restrictions were placed on colour TV imports from China. India is now considering measures to prevent trade partners in Southeast Asia from re-rerouting Chinese goods to India.

Now, People’s Bank of China eyes another Indian bank

Mortar shells hit Kabul's diplomatic area around 9:30 am local time on Tuesday. The attack left at least 10 people, including four people&nbsp;injured.&nbsp;Afghanistan's interior ministry said 14 rockets were fired from two&nbsp;vehicles in Kabul.

An eyewitness, Baryalai Jan, account confirms it. He said: "I saw a vehicle arrived in the area and fired four rockets, and one of the rockets hit a residential house."
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Eyewitnesses say some of the rockets fell near Afghanistan's defence ministry. The area also houses several embassies and the NATO office.&nbsp;The diplomatic area was cordoned off.&nbsp;

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. &nbsp;Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said he was not aware of the attack even as two people have been arrested.

One of Kabul's resident, Mohamad Zarif, said: "Today is the Independence Day of our country and on such a day, we cannot go out to celebrate our independence, walk out freely, there is no security in this country."

Mortar shells hit Kabul's diplomatic area around 9:30 am local time on Tuesday. The attack left at least 10 people, including four people injured. Afghanistan's interior ministry said 14 rockets were fired from two vehicles in Kabul.

Mortar shells hit Kabul's diplomatic area around 9:30 am local time on Tuesday. The attack left at least 10 people, including four people injured. Afghanistan's interior ministry said 14 rockets were fired from two vehicles in Kabul. An eyewitness, Baryalai Jan, account confirms it. He said: "I saw a vehicle arrived in the area and fired four rockets, and one of the rockets hit a residential house." Eyewitnesses say some of the rockets fell near Afghanistan's defence ministry. The area also houses several embassies and the NATO office. The diplomatic area was cordoned off. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said he was not aware of the attack even as two people have been arrested. One of Kabul's resident, Mohamad Zarif, said: "Today is the Independence Day of our country and on such a day, we cannot go out to celebrate our independence, walk out freely, there is no security in this country."

Rockets hit Afghan capital Kabul; no group claims responsibility

Taiwan got its highest-level visit by an American official since 1979 on August&nbsp;9 as US health secretary Alex Azar landed in Taipei.

"This visit represents an acknowledgement of the United States and Taiwan's deep friendship and partnership across security, economics, healthcare&nbsp;and democratic, open, transparent values," Alex Azar, US health and human services secretary, said.

However, a few nautical miles away from the coast of Taiwan, the message was met with distaste in China as Chinese fighter jets took flight and breached the Taiwanese airspace in retaliation. It was the third Chinese incursion since 2016 and a reminder to Washington of the "One-China" policy.

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Amid Alex Azar's visit, the activity of Chinese ships has increased in the South China Sea. The Chinese regime has been flaunting its naval might in disputed waters and adding new and lethal weapons to its arsenal with the 500 kg airborne missile system.

The Tianlei 500 or as the Chinese call it "Sky Thunder" is an effective tool for destroying multiple ground targets. It is designed and made by China's north industries group Norinco.&nbsp;

It can carry up to 240 sub-munitions, small air-dropped weapons that can spread to over 6,000 square meters when dispersed. It can also target entire runways with aircraft on the tarmac, power facilities and armed personnel in large numbers.

However, China insists the lethal weapon is only aimed at securing peace and stability.

"The US move to stir up trouble in the South China Sea has only made China all the more determined to ride the waves, safeguard its sovereignty and security more resolutely and safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea more firmly," Ren Guoqiang, Chinese ministry spokesman of national defence, said.

The power battle for control of the South China Sea has been heating up. On the one hand, there's China with its sweeping claims of sovereignty, on the other, America has begun militarising the disputed waters with Taiwan caught in the middle reeling under diplomatic and military threats from China.

Taiwan got its highest-level visit by an American official since 1979 on August 9 as US health secretary Alex Azar landed in Taipei. "This visit represents an acknowledgement of the United States and Taiwan's deep friendship and partnership across security, economics, healthcare and democratic, open, transparent values," Alex Azar, US health and human services secretary, said.

Taiwan got its highest-level visit by an American official since 1979 on August 9 as US health secretary Alex Azar landed in Taipei. "This visit represents an acknowledgement of the United States and Taiwan's deep friendship and partnership across security, economics, healthcare and democratic, open, transparent values," Alex Azar, US health and human services secretary, said. However, a few nautical miles away from the coast of Taiwan, the message was met with distaste in China as Chinese fighter jets took flight and breached the Taiwanese airspace in retaliation. It was the third Chinese incursion since 2016 and a reminder to Washington of the "One-China" policy. Amid Alex Azar's visit, the activity of Chinese ships has increased in the South China Sea. The Chinese regime has been flaunting its naval might in disputed waters and adding new and lethal weapons to its arsenal with the 500 kg airborne missile system. The Tianlei 500 or as the Chinese call it "Sky Thunder" is an effective tool for destroying multiple ground targets. It is designed and made by China's north industries group Norinco. It can carry up to 240 sub-munitions, small air-dropped weapons that can spread to over 6,000 square meters when dispersed. It can also target entire runways with aircraft on the tarmac, power facilities and armed personnel in large numbers. However, China insists the lethal weapon is only aimed at securing peace and stability. "The US move to stir up trouble in the South China Sea has only made China all the more determined to ride the waves, safeguard its sovereignty and security more resolutely and safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea more firmly," Ren Guoqiang, Chinese ministry spokesman of national defence, said. The power battle for control of the South China Sea has been heating up. On the one hand, there's China with its sweeping claims of sovereignty, on the other, America has begun militarising the disputed waters with Taiwan caught in the middle reeling under diplomatic and military threats from China.

China unveils Sky Thunder missile system amid tensions in South China Sea

Dissent against Xi Jinping in China's Communist Party has been rising with voices of opposition growing louder.

The party has turned against Cai&nbsp;Xia who was a loyal member of the Communist Party and worked in China’s elite central party school.

She was expelled on Monday for criticising Xi Jinping. She had given an interview to The Guardian in June revealing widespread opposition against Xi Jinping within the party and how the Chinese president has made China the enemy of the world.

It was a scathing account from an insider. Cai&nbsp;Xia doesn’t mince words, she asserted that Xi Jinping has singlehandedly “killed a party and a country”.

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On the question of the removal of presidential term limits in 2018, Cai&nbsp;Xia said the Communist Party has become a political zombie with no ability to correct the errors.

When she was asked why would Xi Jinping make China an enemy of the world, Cai&nbsp;Xia said it is about Xi Jinping himself. She listed several factors to back her argument. First, it was an effort by Xi Jinping to consolidate his own position and authority. Second, it’s a way to divert attention from domestic issues&nbsp;and then she mentioned China’s border standoff with India, also China's battles with America.

Cai&nbsp;Xia also held Xi Jinping responsible for the pandemic. She claims that even after receiving the information the Chinese president did not raise an alarm nor did he make the information public or mobilise resources.

Cai&nbsp;Xia added that China's Communist Party is not silent, stating&nbsp;that there is opposition against Xi Jinping but it remains below the radar for two reasons - the anti-corruption crackdown, that is those who are corrupt will not question the president and those who are clean&nbsp;fear that they will be implicated under false charges.

Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign has become a machine to target rivals. However, the reason why they remain silent is due to the disciplinary code of the Communist Party which was adopted under Xi Jinping. It has a rule which states that no member can “distort” the policies of the party. Cai&nbsp;Xia says if a member has a different opinion it will be considered a violation of party discipline.

Cai&nbsp;Xia expressed her opinion and was sacked from the party. She is not the only one to meet this fate. Two more party critics have faced retribution in recent times. Xu Zhangrun, a law professor who was dismissed from his post for criticising Xi Jinping. He was even detained for a few days and Ren Zhi Qiang who called Xi Jinping a clown. He was expelled from the Communist Party accused of corruption and put under investigation.

Three other senior members questioned the president and faced action in a matter of weeks. Xi Jinping has been ruthlessly crushing dissent but he cannot hide the fact that he has been facing opposition. 
&nbsp;

Dissent against Xi Jinping in China's Communist Party has been rising with voices of opposition growing louder. The party has turned against Cai Xia who was a loyal member of the Communist Party and worked in China’s elite central party school.

Dissent against Xi Jinping in China's Communist Party has been rising with voices of opposition growing louder. The party has turned against Cai Xia who was a loyal member of the Communist Party and worked in China’s elite central party school. She was expelled on Monday for criticising Xi Jinping. She had given an interview to The Guardian in June revealing widespread opposition against Xi Jinping within the party and how the Chinese president has made China the enemy of the world. It was a scathing account from an insider. Cai Xia doesn’t mince words, she asserted that Xi Jinping has singlehandedly “killed a party and a country”. On the question of the removal of presidential term limits in 2018, Cai Xia said the Communist Party has become a political zombie with no ability to correct the errors. When she was asked why would Xi Jinping make China an enemy of the world, Cai Xia said it is about Xi Jinping himself. She listed several factors to back her argument. First, it was an effort by Xi Jinping to consolidate his own position and authority. Second, it’s a way to divert attention from domestic issues and then she mentioned China’s border standoff with India, also China's battles with America. Cai Xia also held Xi Jinping responsible for the pandemic. She claims that even after receiving the information the Chinese president did not raise an alarm nor did he make the information public or mobilise resources. Cai Xia added that China's Communist Party is not silent, stating that there is opposition against Xi Jinping but it remains below the radar for two reasons - the anti-corruption crackdown, that is those who are corrupt will not question the president and those who are clean fear that they will be implicated under false charges. Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign has become a machine to target rivals. However, the reason why they remain silent is due to the disciplinary code of the Communist Party which was adopted under Xi Jinping. It has a rule which states that no member can “distort” the policies of the party. Cai Xia says if a member has a different opinion it will be considered a violation of party discipline. Cai Xia expressed her opinion and was sacked from the party. She is not the only one to meet this fate. Two more party critics have faced retribution in recent times. Xu Zhangrun, a law professor who was dismissed from his post for criticising Xi Jinping. He was even detained for a few days and Ren Zhi Qiang who called Xi Jinping a clown. He was expelled from the Communist Party accused of corruption and put under investigation. Three other senior members questioned the president and faced action in a matter of weeks. Xi Jinping has been ruthlessly crushing dissent but he cannot hide the fact that he has been facing opposition.

Xi Jinping expels party members as dissent grows in Chinese Communist Party

Former Prime Minister of Lebanon, Rafik Hariri was travelling in a motorcade on February 14, 2005 when a bomb concealed in a van near Beirut’s St George Hotel exploded. It&nbsp;killed Hariri and 21 others.

Fifteen years later, a special United Nations court has delivered the verdict. No evidence has been found against the militant group, Hezbollah.

“The trial chamber is of the view that Syria and Hezbollah may have had motives to eliminate Mr Hariri and some of his political allies, however, there is no evidence that the Hezbollah leadership had any involvement in Mr Hariri's murder and there is no direct evidence of Syrian involvement”, the verdict read.

Prominent voice in politics

Hariri was one of Lebanon's prominent Sunni politicians.

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Following his killing, thousands of people protested, claiming that Shia militant group Hezbollah and its backer Syria were the culprits.&nbsp;Syria had occupied parts of Lebanon since 1976, after civil war broke out in the country.

Hariri, at the time of his death had been urging Syria to withdraw its troops.&nbsp;The tribunal verdict has overturned long-standing suspicions on Hezbollah, but it still remains unclear who committed the crime.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/assassination-of-lebanons-rafik-hariri-a-political-act-syria-hezbollah-not-involved-icj-321459" hreflang="en">Assassination of Hariri a political act, Syria &amp; Hezbollah not involved: ICJ</a>

Hariri's assassination led to the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon but Hezbollah’s presence has since increased.

Hariri's son, Saad Hariri served two terms as the prime minister with Hezbollah's support.&nbsp;The verdict holds less importance today than it did at the time of Hariri's assassination.&nbsp;The pandemic, economic collapse and unemployment are bigger concerns for the country.&nbsp;In recent days, the blast in Beirut has become the focal point of politics.

The massive explosion on August 4 killed more than 150 people, with many rendered homeless in the aftermath.

The court said that the assassination was a political act. But it was a personal war for many, between the Sunnis and Shias.

Former Prime Minister of Lebanon, Rafik Hariri was travelling in a motorcade on February 14, 2005 when a bomb concealed in a van near Beirut’s St George Hotel exploded.

Former Prime Minister of Lebanon, Rafik Hariri was travelling in a motorcade on February 14, 2005 when a bomb concealed in a van near Beirut’s St George Hotel exploded. It killed Hariri and 21 others. Fifteen years later, a special United Nations court has delivered the verdict. No evidence has been found against the militant group, Hezbollah. “The trial chamber is of the view that Syria and Hezbollah may have had motives to eliminate Mr Hariri and some of his political allies, however, there is no evidence that the Hezbollah leadership had any involvement in Mr Hariri's murder and there is no direct evidence of Syrian involvement”, the verdict read. Prominent voice in politics Hariri was one of Lebanon's prominent Sunni politicians. Following his killing, thousands of people protested, claiming that Shia militant group Hezbollah and its backer Syria were the culprits. Syria had occupied parts of Lebanon since 1976, after civil war broke out in the country. Hariri, at the time of his death had been urging Syria to withdraw its troops. The tribunal verdict has overturned long-standing suspicions on Hezbollah, but it still remains unclear who committed the crime. Also read: Assassination of Hariri a political act, Syria & Hezbollah not involved: ICJ Hariri's assassination led to the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon but Hezbollah’s presence has since increased. Hariri's son, Saad Hariri served two terms as the prime minister with Hezbollah's support. The verdict holds less importance today than it did at the time of Hariri's assassination. The pandemic, economic collapse and unemployment are bigger concerns for the country. In recent days, the blast in Beirut has become the focal point of politics. The massive explosion on August 4 killed more than 150 people, with many rendered homeless in the aftermath. The court said that the assassination was a political act. But it was a personal war for many, between the Sunnis and Shias.

UN court finds no evidence against Hezbollah, Syria in Hariri's assassination

The Chinese dream seems to be edging closer to collapse with allegedly more than two million companies shutting shop and millions being forced to leave their homes due to floods.

Amid the chaos, China could be now running short of food.

Three companies - Huawei, ZTE and Tiktok have been banned in different corners of the world and Beijing has been fighting tooth and nail against the bans. Chinese diplomats protest every week in front of the global press but they make no mention of how businesses are shutting down in China.

A report went viral on China’s favourite messaging app WeChat which claims that more than two million companies have closed down in China this year.&nbsp;

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In Jiangsu province one out of every 10 companies has closed, similarly in Guangdong several thousand&nbsp;companies could have gone out of business. However, it is not the only problem that China has been&nbsp;trying to brush under the carpet. After the Wuhan virus, a series of environmental disasters is killing more jobs.

China is dealing with its worst flooding in decades. According to one estimate, 3.7 million people have either been displaced or have been evacuated from their homes. Northwest China is among the worst-hit regions. It is witnessing one disaster after another with floodwaters yet to recede in several parts.

A mudslide struck a village with the rain triggering landslides on freeways. The floods could lead to a food shortage, already Xi Jinping has announced a clean your plate campaign which is a frugality drive to avert a food crisis.

Restaurants in Beijing have been complying with the president’s orders. These are troubled times for China and there's another storm brewing typhoon ‘Higos’ which has been moving towards southern China even as President Xi Jinping is busy claiming foreign lands.

The Chinese dream seems to be edging closer to collapse with allegedly more than two million companies shutting shop and millions being forced to leave their homes due to floods.

The Chinese dream seems to be edging closer to collapse with allegedly more than two million companies shutting shop and millions being forced to leave their homes due to floods. Amid the chaos, China could be now running short of food. Three companies - Huawei, ZTE and Tiktok have been banned in different corners of the world and Beijing has been fighting tooth and nail against the bans. Chinese diplomats protest every week in front of the global press but they make no mention of how businesses are shutting down in China. A report went viral on China’s favourite messaging app WeChat which claims that more than two million companies have closed down in China this year. In Jiangsu province one out of every 10 companies has closed, similarly in Guangdong several thousand companies could have gone out of business. However, it is not the only problem that China has been trying to brush under the carpet. After the Wuhan virus, a series of environmental disasters is killing more jobs. China is dealing with its worst flooding in decades. According to one estimate, 3.7 million people have either been displaced or have been evacuated from their homes. Northwest China is among the worst-hit regions. It is witnessing one disaster after another with floodwaters yet to recede in several parts. A mudslide struck a village with the rain triggering landslides on freeways. The floods could lead to a food shortage, already Xi Jinping has announced a clean your plate campaign which is a frugality drive to avert a food crisis. Restaurants in Beijing have been complying with the president’s orders. These are troubled times for China and there's another storm brewing typhoon ‘Higos’ which has been moving towards southern China even as President Xi Jinping is busy claiming foreign lands.

China faces flood ruin as companies shut shop

The US on Wednesday handed over to India hundred&nbsp;ventilators as part of President Donald Trump's offer of assistance to New Delhi in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ventilators are manufactured in the US and are compact, easy to deploy and provide India with flexibility in treating patients affected by the virus, the US embassy said in a statement.

The US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in coordination with the Indian government and the Indian Red Cross Society, donated the second shipment of 100 new, state-of-the-art ventilators to assist India in its fight against COVID-19, the statement said.

US Ambassador Kenneth Juster said, "We are very pleased to hand over the final tranche of 100 ventilators to India, fulfilling President Trump's commitment to provide these critically needed supplies to support India's pandemic response."

In addition to the ventilators, USAID is funding a package of support that includes warranties and additional supplies required to operate these machines, such as tubes, filters and other necessary components, the statement said.

USAID is also working in close coordination with the Indian government to enhance the capacity of the health facilities using these ventilators by facilitating setup, orientations and clinical training for health care providers responsible for operating the machines, it said.

The first shipment of 100 ventilators arrived in India on June 14. Since then, the ventilators have been deployed to support the care of COVID-19 patients at the eight regional All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the statement said. "The total donation of 200 ventilators builds on the long history of US-India collaboration in the health sector and the assistance that USAID has committed to India in response to the COVID-19 pandemic," it added.&nbsp;

The US on Wednesday handed over to India hundred ventilators as part of President Donald Trump's offer of assistance to New Delhi in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The US on Wednesday handed over to India hundred ventilators as part of President Donald Trump's offer of assistance to New Delhi in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The ventilators are manufactured in the US and are compact, easy to deploy and provide India with flexibility in treating patients affected by the virus, the US embassy said in a statement. The US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in coordination with the Indian government and the Indian Red Cross Society, donated the second shipment of 100 new, state-of-the-art ventilators to assist India in its fight against COVID-19, the statement said. US Ambassador Kenneth Juster said, "We are very pleased to hand over the final tranche of 100 ventilators to India, fulfilling President Trump's commitment to provide these critically needed supplies to support India's pandemic response." In addition to the ventilators, USAID is funding a package of support that includes warranties and additional supplies required to operate these machines, such as tubes, filters and other necessary components, the statement said. USAID is also working in close coordination with the Indian government to enhance the capacity of the health facilities using these ventilators by facilitating setup, orientations and clinical training for health care providers responsible for operating the machines, it said. The first shipment of 100 ventilators arrived in India on June 14. Since then, the ventilators have been deployed to support the care of COVID-19 patients at the eight regional All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the statement said. "The total donation of 200 ventilators builds on the long history of US-India collaboration in the health sector and the assistance that USAID has committed to India in response to the COVID-19 pandemic," it added.

US hands over second shipment of 100 ventilators to India amid COVID-19 crisis

The Norwegian government said today that it was expelling a Russian diplomat.

Norway's PST security police service had earlier said it had arrested a citizen suspected of providing information to a foreign country, later confirming it was Russia.

The authorities didn't provide any information about the man while informing that he was suspected of "harming vital national interests".

According to officials, the person who was arrested had held meetings with a Russian&nbsp;officer.&nbsp;

The man reportedly worked in a company which provided certification for insurance in oil and gas, including maritime activities. The man was arrested in an Oslo restaurant after he met Russian official, the report said.&nbsp;A court ordered the man to be detained for four weeks.

The man was suspected of espionage. Norwegian foreign ministry spokeswoman Trude Maaseide said that the diplomat worked at the trade section of the Russian embassy in Oslo without naming the individual.

&nbsp;

The Norwegian government said today that it was expelling a Russian diplomat. Norway's PST security police service had earlier said it had arrested a citizen suspected of providing information to a foreign country, later confirming it was Russia.

The Norwegian government said today that it was expelling a Russian diplomat. Norway's PST security police service had earlier said it had arrested a citizen suspected of providing information to a foreign country, later confirming it was Russia. The authorities didn't provide any information about the man while informing that he was suspected of "harming vital national interests". According to officials, the person who was arrested had held meetings with a Russian officer. The man reportedly worked in a company which provided certification for insurance in oil and gas, including maritime activities. The man was arrested in an Oslo restaurant after he met Russian official, the report said. A court ordered the man to be detained for four weeks. The man was suspected of espionage. Norwegian foreign ministry spokeswoman Trude Maaseide said that the diplomat worked at the trade section of the Russian embassy in Oslo without naming the individual.

Norway expels Russian diplomat over suspected espionage

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft.

"I applaud the Indian Navy for their role in protecting maritime interests of the nation. I have full confidence in Navy’s preparedness to meet any challenge," India's defence minister said.

Rajnath Singh said, "The Indian Navy has effectively carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests by deploying naval ships and aircraft at sensitive locations," adding,"deployments have helped increase maritime domain awareness and provided rapid humanitarian aid."

India's Navy commanders met on Wednesday for a three-day conclave to review the security situation in the Indian Ocean region. India has strategically deployed warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean amid tensions with China after the Galwan Valley clash in June.

Last month the US Navy's USS Nimitz had joined Indian Navy's warships off the coast of Andaman &amp; Nicobar island for a naval drill. The US-India naval exercise came just after the Indian Navy conducted an exercise with the Japanese Naval forces termed "Passex" or passing exercise.

China already has a naval base in Djibouti in the horn of Africa connecting the Suez Canal, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian ocean.&nbsp;

India has in the past few weeks increased its naval exercise as disengagement talks got underway at Galwan amid increased Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean and the continued threat of Chinese ships in the South China Sea where US and Chinese naval forces have been at loggerheads with each other.

The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier came in from the South China Sea last month as the Indian navy warships conducted the drill together with the US forces.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh today attended the naval commanders’ conference as he reviewed Navy's challenges in proactive response in deploying ships and aircraft. "I applaud the Indian Navy for their role in protecting maritime interests of the nation. I have full confidence in Navy’s preparedness to meet any challenge," India's defence minister said. Rajnath Singh said, "The Indian Navy has effectively carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests by deploying naval ships and aircraft at sensitive locations," adding,"deployments have helped increase maritime domain awareness and provided rapid humanitarian aid." India's Navy commanders met on Wednesday for a three-day conclave to review the security situation in the Indian Ocean region. India has strategically deployed warships and submarines in the Indian Ocean amid tensions with China after the Galwan Valley clash in June. Last month the US Navy's USS Nimitz had joined Indian Navy's warships off the coast of Andaman & Nicobar island for a naval drill. The US-India naval exercise came just after the Indian Navy conducted an exercise with the Japanese Naval forces termed "Passex" or passing exercise. China already has a naval base in Djibouti in the horn of Africa connecting the Suez Canal, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian ocean. India has in the past few weeks increased its naval exercise as disengagement talks got underway at Galwan amid increased Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean and the continued threat of Chinese ships in the South China Sea where US and Chinese naval forces have been at loggerheads with each other. The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier came in from the South China Sea last month as the Indian navy warships conducted the drill together with the US forces.

Navy has carried out mission-based deployment to protect maritime interests: Rajnath Singh

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