China is determined to win over India's neighbourhood and it has already bought the loyalty of a neighbour in the west. Now the Dragon wishes to make a neighbour in the east and change its axis of equations with India.

The country is Nepal which is home to the world's highest peak - Mt Everest, it is called the national pride of Nepal. On May 2, the Chinese state media CGTN claimed that national pride was on its side, it gave the&nbsp;national pride a Chinese name - Mt Qomolangma - and claimed that it was located in China's Tibet autonomous region.

The Nepal government did not object, but when it comes to any minor border dispute&nbsp;with India, the Nepal government doesn't waste any time in picking up a fight.

Nepal has approved a new political map showing disputed land as Nepalese territory. Upto 335 kilometres of land area has been included as Nepalese territory in its new political map which includes Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani.

The valley of Kalapani along with the Lipulekh pass forms the Indian route to the Kailash-Mansarovar which is an ancient pilgrimage site. It is joined by the Limpiyadhura pass five miles south-west. India considers these areas to be part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district.

The country has managed and developed these areas for decades and these territories have never been used for military activities.

Earlier, Nepal never complained but all of a sudden Nepal says that Indian presence in these areas undermines its sovereignty, in fact, it did not even choose a diplomatic way to settle the issue.

Nepal has already resolved the so called border dispute by declaring these territories its own. The Nepal Communist party has tabled a special resolution in the Parliament which aims to&nbsp;seek&nbsp;control of these territories.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has given his consent and has asserted that Nepal is only claiming its own land.

The Nepal PM says his government has not taken the decision under anyone's behest but not everyone is on board. Senior members of Nepal's ruling party want the government to hold their horses.

Ganesh Shah, a member of the standing committee of the Nepal Communist party says this new map will escalate unnecessary tension between Nepal and India when both countries are fighting the coronavirus.

Shah says that the Nepal government should start a dialogue with India to resolve the matter through diplomatic moves. India and Nepal have enjoyed excellent bilateral ties with open borders between the two countries. Nepal must not lose one friend in trying to please another.

China is determined to win over India's neighbourhood and it has already bought the loyalty of a neighbour in the west. Now the Dragon wishes to make a neighbour in the east and change its axis of equations with India.

China is determined to win over India's neighbourhood and it has already bought the loyalty of a neighbour in the west. Now the Dragon wishes to make a neighbour in the east and change its axis of equations with India. The country is Nepal which is home to the world's highest peak - Mt Everest, it is called the national pride of Nepal. On May 2, the Chinese state media CGTN claimed that national pride was on its side, it gave the national pride a Chinese name - Mt Qomolangma - and claimed that it was located in China's Tibet autonomous region. The Nepal government did not object, but when it comes to any minor border dispute with India, the Nepal government doesn't waste any time in picking up a fight. Nepal has approved a new political map showing disputed land as Nepalese territory. Upto 335 kilometres of land area has been included as Nepalese territory in its new political map which includes Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani. The valley of Kalapani along with the Lipulekh pass forms the Indian route to the Kailash-Mansarovar which is an ancient pilgrimage site. It is joined by the Limpiyadhura pass five miles south-west. India considers these areas to be part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district. The country has managed and developed these areas for decades and these territories have never been used for military activities. Earlier, Nepal never complained but all of a sudden Nepal says that Indian presence in these areas undermines its sovereignty, in fact, it did not even choose a diplomatic way to settle the issue. Nepal has already resolved the so called border dispute by declaring these territories its own. The Nepal Communist party has tabled a special resolution in the Parliament which aims to seek control of these territories. Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has given his consent and has asserted that Nepal is only claiming its own land. The Nepal PM says his government has not taken the decision under anyone's behest but not everyone is on board. Senior members of Nepal's ruling party want the government to hold their horses. Ganesh Shah, a member of the standing committee of the Nepal Communist party says this new map will escalate unnecessary tension between Nepal and India when both countries are fighting the coronavirus. Shah says that the Nepal government should start a dialogue with India to resolve the matter through diplomatic moves. India and Nepal have enjoyed excellent bilateral ties with open borders between the two countries. Nepal must not lose one friend in trying to please another.

Amid row with India, Nepal PM Oli defends new political map

WION has always chosen to speak truth to power. We relentlessly exposed China's cover-up despite threats and were blocked by Chinese diplomats even targeted by Chinese embassy officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-shirk-responsibility-smearing-our-anti-virus-effort-china-on-trumps-attack-on-who-299644">Also Read:&nbsp;US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump</a>

But now an admission by the Chinese regime vindicates our reportage. Beijing has admitted to destroying early samples of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-threatens-to-permanently-pull-funding-from-who-299568"> coronavirus</a>. It's a rare acknowledgment by China's own national health commission.&nbsp;

Liu Dengfeng an official at the science and education department has confessed that Beijing ordered "unauthorized labs"&nbsp;to destroy samples of the coronavirus in the early stages of the outbreak.&nbsp;

Liu Dengfeng said that China not only imposed restrictions on sample experiments but it also prohibited labs from collecting or transporting coronavirus samples.

The health official, however, tried to defend his government's actions saying that the decision was in line with China's standard practice for handling highly pathogenic samples and that it was done for bio-safety reasons and to prevent secondary disasters which is a standard practice to prevent secondary disasters.

The World Health Organization too followed such standard practices, according to Li Mingzhu, an official at the international co-operation department of the&nbsp;health commission.

The World Health Organization did not make any request whatsoever to visit the Wuhan lab during their two trips to the virus epicenter. He says that WHO delegations visited Wuhan in January and February but did not even seek permission to visit the Wuhan institute of virology.

The timing of these revelations is significant. The world is getting closer to an independent probe into China's handling of the outbreak. Beijing is trying hard to twist every fact to hide its culpability and it won't hesitate in sacrificing its accomplices to save face. The World Health Organization must watch out and the world must keep up the pressure.

WION has always chosen to speak truth to power. We relentlessly exposed China's cover-up despite threats and were blocked by Chinese diplomats even targeted by Chinese embassy officials.

WION has always chosen to speak truth to power. We relentlessly exposed China's cover-up despite threats and were blocked by Chinese diplomats even targeted by Chinese embassy officials. Also Read: US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump But now an admission by the Chinese regime vindicates our reportage. Beijing has admitted to destroying early samples of the coronavirus. It's a rare acknowledgment by China's own national health commission. Liu Dengfeng an official at the science and education department has confessed that Beijing ordered "unauthorized labs" to destroy samples of the coronavirus in the early stages of the outbreak. Liu Dengfeng said that China not only imposed restrictions on sample experiments but it also prohibited labs from collecting or transporting coronavirus samples. The health official, however, tried to defend his government's actions saying that the decision was in line with China's standard practice for handling highly pathogenic samples and that it was done for bio-safety reasons and to prevent secondary disasters which is a standard practice to prevent secondary disasters. The World Health Organization too followed such standard practices, according to Li Mingzhu, an official at the international co-operation department of the health commission. The World Health Organization did not make any request whatsoever to visit the Wuhan lab during their two trips to the virus epicenter. He says that WHO delegations visited Wuhan in January and February but did not even seek permission to visit the Wuhan institute of virology. The timing of these revelations is significant. The world is getting closer to an independent probe into China's handling of the outbreak. Beijing is trying hard to twist every fact to hide its culpability and it won't hesitate in sacrificing its accomplices to save face. The World Health Organization must watch out and the world must keep up the pressure.

Chinese official says early coronavirus samples destroyed in 'unauthorised labs'

Masks are in vogue due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-shirk-responsibility-smearing-our-anti-virus-effort-china-on-trumps-attack-on-who-299644">coronavirus </a>pandemic and its possession is non-negotiable. Now, a Chinese designer is combining fashion with function.

Zhou Li is making masks embroidered with orchids and camellias. There are also masks with Chinese characters symbolizing good luck.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-drug-can-halt-pandemic-without-vaccine-claim-scientists-299640">Also Read:&nbsp;New drug can halt pandemic 'without vaccine', claim scientists&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

"The fabric is all customized because the functionality of the masks is very important. You can see it is made of silk both inside and outside. We use 16 mm thick silk in summer and 22 mm thick silk in winter," Zhou li, design director of Shandong Sunbird garment company, said.

Zhou's company produces as many as 600 masks a day, and yet, she complains that she is not being able to meet the demand as people want more.

"In the future, masks will definitely become a normal product, combining fashion with tradition, featuring human health and protection so designers should be more creative," Zhou adds.

Masks are already inseparable parts of our lives since now you need to wear it&nbsp;when you go to the office, you need a mask when you go to a grocery store, masks are a must even when hitting the beach.

An Italian designer posted a photo of a Trikini which is a bikini with a matching mask meant to be a joke but the designer was soon flooded with orders. Experts warned us against not wearing a mask but they never said a thing about not to make them interesting and fun.&nbsp;

Brands across the world now are lapping up the opportunity with Gucci and Louis Vuitton wasting no time in adding their motif to motive. In India, brands are producing masks to compliment Indian wear with Ikat, Khadi, Kalamkari, Jamdani &nbsp;or&nbsp;Sanganeri, just name the print and weave and you have the mask.

There are also masks to match formal wear or your tops even masks with quirky texts but fashion aside, are these masks any good is the big question, and do they compromise with the quality of protection?

Mostly not, it goes unsaid they are no match for the N95 masks but most of these masks come with medically advised three-layered filtration systems. The virus, they say, is here to stay and survival of the fittest is not about letting your fashion game slip away.

Masks are in vogue due to the coronavirus pandemic and its possession is non-negotiable. Now, a Chinese designer is combining fashion with function. Zhou Li is making masks embroidered with orchids and camellias.

Masks are in vogue due to the coronavirus pandemic and its possession is non-negotiable. Now, a Chinese designer is combining fashion with function. Zhou Li is making masks embroidered with orchids and camellias. There are also masks with Chinese characters symbolizing good luck. Also Read: New drug can halt pandemic 'without vaccine', claim scientists "The fabric is all customized because the functionality of the masks is very important. You can see it is made of silk both inside and outside. We use 16 mm thick silk in summer and 22 mm thick silk in winter," Zhou li, design director of Shandong Sunbird garment company, said. Zhou's company produces as many as 600 masks a day, and yet, she complains that she is not being able to meet the demand as people want more. "In the future, masks will definitely become a normal product, combining fashion with tradition, featuring human health and protection so designers should be more creative," Zhou adds. Masks are already inseparable parts of our lives since now you need to wear it when you go to the office, you need a mask when you go to a grocery store, masks are a must even when hitting the beach. An Italian designer posted a photo of a Trikini which is a bikini with a matching mask meant to be a joke but the designer was soon flooded with orders. Experts warned us against not wearing a mask but they never said a thing about not to make them interesting and fun. Brands across the world now are lapping up the opportunity with Gucci and Louis Vuitton wasting no time in adding their motif to motive. In India, brands are producing masks to compliment Indian wear with Ikat, Khadi, Kalamkari, Jamdani or Sanganeri, just name the print and weave and you have the mask. There are also masks to match formal wear or your tops even masks with quirky texts but fashion aside, are these masks any good is the big question, and do they compromise with the quality of protection? Mostly not, it goes unsaid they are no match for the N95 masks but most of these masks come with medically advised three-layered filtration systems. The virus, they say, is here to stay and survival of the fittest is not about letting your fashion game slip away.

Now, designer masks make a fashion statement

Rain and strong winds hit Digha in West Bengal ahead of&nbsp;cyclone <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amphan-biggest-cyclone-in-twenty-years-spurs-india-to-evacuate-tens-of-thousands-299614">Amphan</a>&nbsp;which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-will-face-wind-speed-of-110-120-kmph-imd-on-super-cyclone-amphan-299676">Also Read:&nbsp;Kolkata will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph</a>

The state's capital Kolkata was also hit with rainfall. Authorities have deployed the National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) in West Bengal and Odisha with super cyclonic storm 'Amphan' approaching from Bay of Bengal.

The Indian Air Force is also on standby to deploy more teams. Authorities say this is the second super cyclone over the Bay of Bengal in two decades with the cyclone expected to make landfall on the West Bengal coast on Wednesday afternoon between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya island in Bangladesh.

Indian forecasters are tracking the cyclone through the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) at Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Light rain also fell over Puri, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur and Khurda districts in Odisha. All fishermen in the area&nbsp;have been advised by authorities not to venture into the sea till May 21.

Odisha was earlier hit by cyclone 'Fani' on May 3 last year in which at least 64 people had died with extensive damage to the state's infrastructure.

As the cyclone approaches, the West Bengal forest department formed rapid response teams to ensure that tigers from Sundarbans in South 24 Parganas district do not stray into nearby human settlements after the landfall.

Rain and strong winds hit Digha in West Bengal ahead of cyclone Amphan which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon. Also Read: Kolkata will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph The state's capital Kolkata was also hit with rainfall.

Rain and strong winds hit Digha in West Bengal ahead of cyclone Amphan which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon. Also Read: Kolkata will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph The state's capital Kolkata was also hit with rainfall. Authorities have deployed the National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) in West Bengal and Odisha with super cyclonic storm 'Amphan' approaching from Bay of Bengal. The Indian Air Force is also on standby to deploy more teams. Authorities say this is the second super cyclone over the Bay of Bengal in two decades with the cyclone expected to make landfall on the West Bengal coast on Wednesday afternoon between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya island in Bangladesh. Indian forecasters are tracking the cyclone through the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) at Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. Light rain also fell over Puri, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur and Khurda districts in Odisha. All fishermen in the area have been advised by authorities not to venture into the sea till May 21. Odisha was earlier hit by cyclone 'Fani' on May 3 last year in which at least 64 people had died with extensive damage to the state's infrastructure. As the cyclone approaches, the West Bengal forest department formed rapid response teams to ensure that tigers from Sundarbans in South 24 Parganas district do not stray into nearby human settlements after the landfall.

Ahead of cyclone Amphan, rain, strong winds hit Digha in West Bengal

Iran authorities said today that there were over 2,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-nears-300000-coronavirus-cases-reports-115-deaths-in-24-hours-299643">coronavirus</a> cases in the last 24 hours with no deaths in ten provinces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-may-lead-to-mental-health-issues-says-study-299680">Also Read: Coronavirus infection may lead to mental health issues, says study</a>

"Ten provinces have reported zero deaths in the past 24 hours and six others only one," health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said.

Iran has 7,199 fatalities due to COVID-19 with 124,603 virus cases.

The health ministry said that over 97,170 patients hospitalized have recovered, however, several provinces including Kermanshah, north Khorasan, Baluchistan, Kerman are still under the close watch of authorities even as health officials said that the situation was largely stable in the country.

Health ministry official Kianoush Jahanpour had said last week that the "Khuzestan province is still in a critical situation" which is labeled "red" in coronavirus risk index in the country.

Authorities in Khuzestan province reimposed the shutdown after relaxation last month as the cases spiraled.

Iran had reported its first COVID-19 casualty in February in the pilgrimage city of Qom. In a report last month, Iranian officials had said that there is a "rising trend or the beginning of a peak" in eight provinces, including Khuzestan.&nbsp;

Amid relaxation measures, President Rouhani announced that from May 24 restaurants will be allowed to reopen and pilgrims allowed to visit the outdoor areas of shrines but only for six hours during the day. Universities will also be allowed to hold final exams on June 6.

Iran authorities said today that there were over 2,000 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with no deaths in ten provinces. Also Read: Coronavirus infection may lead to mental health issues, says study "Ten provinces have reported zero deaths in the past 24 hours and six others only one," health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said.

Iran authorities said today that there were over 2,000 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with no deaths in ten provinces. Also Read: Coronavirus infection may lead to mental health issues, says study "Ten provinces have reported zero deaths in the past 24 hours and six others only one," health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said. Iran has 7,199 fatalities due to COVID-19 with 124,603 virus cases. The health ministry said that over 97,170 patients hospitalized have recovered, however, several provinces including Kermanshah, north Khorasan, Baluchistan, Kerman are still under the close watch of authorities even as health officials said that the situation was largely stable in the country. Health ministry official Kianoush Jahanpour had said last week that the "Khuzestan province is still in a critical situation" which is labeled "red" in coronavirus risk index in the country. Authorities in Khuzestan province reimposed the shutdown after relaxation last month as the cases spiraled. Iran had reported its first COVID-19 casualty in February in the pilgrimage city of Qom. In a report last month, Iranian officials had said that there is a "rising trend or the beginning of a peak" in eight provinces, including Khuzestan. Amid relaxation measures, President Rouhani announced that from May 24 restaurants will be allowed to reopen and pilgrims allowed to visit the outdoor areas of shrines but only for six hours during the day. Universities will also be allowed to hold final exams on June 6.

Iran reports over 2,000 coronavirus cases in 24 hours as fatalities cross 7,000

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today that super cyclonic storm Amphan has moved with a speed of 17 kmph during the past six hours and lay centred as an "extremely severe cyclonic storm" over the Bay of Bengal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/super-cyclone-amphan-heads-for-bay-of-bengal-amid-pandemic-299635">In Pics: Super cyclone Amphan heads for Bay of Bengal amid pandemic</a>

"It is very likely to move north-northeastwards across the northwest Bay of Bengal and cross West Bengal and Bangladesh coast between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya Islands in Bangladesh close to Sundarbans during afternoon to evening on Wednesday," India's weather forecaster said.

<img alt="District administration of Bhola shows residents from Dhalchar village being evacuated in a fishing trawler on the island of Bhola as cyclone Amphan barrels towards Bangladesh coast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4331c96-8b4a-40ba-9e48-5244b9e3625b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bhola.jpg" />

The IMD said the super cyclone could affect north and south 24 Parganas and east Midnapore districts in West Bengal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amphan-biggest-cyclone-in-twenty-years-spurs-india-to-evacuate-tens-of-thousands-299614">Also Read:&nbsp;Biggest cyclone in twenty years spurs India to evacuate tens of thousands</a>

"Kolkata, Hooghly, Howrah and West Midnapore districts will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting up to 135 kmph," the IMD informed.

It is the second super cyclone to have been formed in Bay of Bengal after 1999. The IMD said the wind speed of the super cyclone right now is 200-240 kmph and it is moving towards north-northwestward direction.

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today that super cyclonic storm Amphan has moved with a speed of 17 kmph during the past six hours and lay centred as an "extremely severe cyclonic storm" over the Bay of Bengal.

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today that super cyclonic storm Amphan has moved with a speed of 17 kmph during the past six hours and lay centred as an "extremely severe cyclonic storm" over the Bay of Bengal. In Pics: Super cyclone Amphan heads for Bay of Bengal amid pandemic "It is very likely to move north-northeastwards across the northwest Bay of Bengal and cross West Bengal and Bangladesh coast between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya Islands in Bangladesh close to Sundarbans during afternoon to evening on Wednesday," India's weather forecaster said. The IMD said the super cyclone could affect north and south 24 Parganas and east Midnapore districts in West Bengal. Also Read: Biggest cyclone in twenty years spurs India to evacuate tens of thousands "Kolkata, Hooghly, Howrah and West Midnapore districts will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting up to 135 kmph," the IMD informed. It is the second super cyclone to have been formed in Bay of Bengal after 1999. The IMD said the wind speed of the super cyclone right now is 200-240 kmph and it is moving towards north-northwestward direction.

Kolkata will face wind speed of 110-120 kmph: IMD on super cyclone Amphan

Just hours after US President shot a letter to the World Health Organization accusing it of praising China's efforts to contain the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-worldwide-cases-near-49-million-death-toll-at-318465-299544">virus</a>, the Chinese foreign ministry said the "open letter is full of hints, 'perhaps', and 'maybes', and tries to use specious methods to mislead the public."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-threatens-to-permanently-pull-funding-from-who-299568">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump threatens to permanently pull funding from WHO</a>

"The US tries to use China as an issue to shirk responsibility and bargain over its international obligations to the WHO. This is a miscalculation and the US has picked the wrong target," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

The United States has become the epicenter of the virus with over 90,000 deaths and over 1.4 million infections. US President had earlier accused the WHO of having a "China bias" even as he had stopped funding to the UN health body.

In the letter, Trump told the WHO that it was "curiously insistent" on praising China for its alleged "transparency" while adding that "notwithstanding that China has been anything but transparent".

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This is the letter sent to Dr. Tedros of the World Health Organization. It is self-explanatory! <a href="https://t.co/pF2kzPUpDv">pic.twitter.com/pF2kzPUpDv</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1262577580718395393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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China's foreign ministry said the Trump administration was trying to "achieve the goals of smearing China’s anti-virus efforts, and shirk responsibility for the United States' own insufficient response."

Trump called the WHO a &nbsp;"puppet of China" as he sent the letter to chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus threatening to permanently freeze funding to the WHO.

The US president in the letter said that WHO has "failed to publicly call on China to allow for an independent investigation into the origins of the virus, despite the recent endorsement for doing so by its own emergency committee."

"The only way forward for the WHO is if it can actually demonstrate independence from China," the US President said, while concluding that "my administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization, but action is needed quickly, we do not have time to waste."

Just hours after US President shot a letter to the World Health Organization accusing it of praising China's efforts to contain the virus, the Chinese foreign ministry said the "open letter is full of hints, 'perhaps', and 'maybes', and tries to use specious methods to mislead the public.

Just hours after US President shot a letter to the World Health Organization accusing it of praising China's efforts to contain the virus, the Chinese foreign ministry said the "open letter is full of hints, 'perhaps', and 'maybes', and tries to use specious methods to mislead the public." Also Read: Trump threatens to permanently pull funding from WHO "The US tries to use China as an issue to shirk responsibility and bargain over its international obligations to the WHO. This is a miscalculation and the US has picked the wrong target," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. The United States has become the epicenter of the virus with over 90,000 deaths and over 1.4 million infections. US President had earlier accused the WHO of having a "China bias" even as he had stopped funding to the UN health body. In the letter, Trump told the WHO that it was "curiously insistent" on praising China for its alleged "transparency" while adding that "notwithstanding that China has been anything but transparent". This is the letter sent to Dr. Tedros of the World Health Organization. It is self-explanatory! pic.twitter.com/pF2kzPUpDv — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2020 × China's foreign ministry said the Trump administration was trying to "achieve the goals of smearing China’s anti-virus efforts, and shirk responsibility for the United States' own insufficient response." Trump called the WHO a "puppet of China" as he sent the letter to chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus threatening to permanently freeze funding to the WHO. The US president in the letter said that WHO has "failed to publicly call on China to allow for an independent investigation into the origins of the virus, despite the recent endorsement for doing so by its own emergency committee." "The only way forward for the WHO is if it can actually demonstrate independence from China," the US President said, while concluding that "my administration has already started discussions with you on how to reform the organization, but action is needed quickly, we do not have time to waste."

US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort: China on Trump's attack on WHO

Karnataka on Tuesday recorded 127 more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/total-covid-19-cases-in-india-near-100000-over-36000-cured-299552">coronavirus</a> cases which is the highest number of cases in a single day in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-500-new-coronavirus-cases-as-tally-reaches-10554-299609">Also Read: Delhi records 500 new coronavirus cases as tally reaches 10,554</a>

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state has risen to 1,373 which includes 802 active cases, Karnataka's health department said, while adding that 41 people have died due to the virus.

In Rajasthan, 128 new coronavirus cases were reported including one death taking the total number of cases to 5,757. One hundred and thirty-nine people have died due to the virus in the state with 2,386 active cases.

Uttarakhand reported eight new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 104 in the state. According to the state health department, one person has died due to the virus in the state.

Meanwhile, several states relaxed lockdown restrictions in the fourth phase with the Maharashtra government declaring it has allowed e-commerce activity for essential and non-essential items in Red Zones including work in construction and industrial sites in the Red Zones.

As a result of the relaxation of rules, shops opened in Ludhiana in Punjab with the state government allowing shops in "main markets" in urban and rural areas to open between 7am to 6 pm.

Karnataka on Tuesday recorded 127 more coronavirus cases which is the highest number of cases in a single day in the state. Also Read: Delhi records 500 new coronavirus cases as tally reaches 10,554 The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state has risen to 1,373 which includes 802 active cases, Karnataka's health department said, while adding that 41 people have died due to the virus.

Karnataka on Tuesday recorded 127 more coronavirus cases which is the highest number of cases in a single day in the state. Also Read: Delhi records 500 new coronavirus cases as tally reaches 10,554 The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state has risen to 1,373 which includes 802 active cases, Karnataka's health department said, while adding that 41 people have died due to the virus. In Rajasthan, 128 new coronavirus cases were reported including one death taking the total number of cases to 5,757. One hundred and thirty-nine people have died due to the virus in the state with 2,386 active cases. Uttarakhand reported eight new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 104 in the state. According to the state health department, one person has died due to the virus in the state. Meanwhile, several states relaxed lockdown restrictions in the fourth phase with the Maharashtra government declaring it has allowed e-commerce activity for essential and non-essential items in Red Zones including work in construction and industrial sites in the Red Zones. As a result of the relaxation of rules, shops opened in Ludhiana in Punjab with the state government allowing shops in "main markets" in urban and rural areas to open between 7am to 6 pm.

COVID-19: Karnataka records highest number of cases in a single day

South Korean President Moon Jae-in speaking at the World Health Assembly through a video linik said on Monday&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-initiate-independent-evaluation-at-earliest-appropriate-moment-who-chief-on-coronavirus-pandemic-299468">vaccines</a> and treatments are "public goods" that must be "distributed equitably to the whole world".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-in-medical-arms-race-over-coronavirus-vaccine-299503">Also Read: US, China in 'medical arms race' over coronavirus vaccine</a>

"South Korea fully supports the efforts of the WHO to develop vaccines and treatments," the president added while addressing the UN health body through video conferencing.

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Such vaccines and treatments are public goods that must be distributed equitably to the whole world. 
The Republic of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Korea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Korea</a> fully supports the efforts of the WHO to develop vaccines and treatments. 
 
-🇰🇷 President <a href="https://twitter.com/moonriver365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moonriver365</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHA73?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHA73</a><a href="https://t.co/pXl4iQyqdz">pic.twitter.com/pXl4iQyqdz</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1262424787776872455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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French President Emmanuel Macron speaking at the World Health Assembly through a video link said that "only if we join forces will we beat this pandemic," adding, "we need a strong WHO."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-coronavirus-pandemic-india-backs-probe-demand-299511">Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, India backs probe demand</a>

"The coronavirus pandemic has of course turned our lives and our societies upside down. It's reminded us how valuable human health is, and how valuable those who work to protect i," the French president added.

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Together with WHO, we achieved 📈 life expectancy, reduced child mortality, eradicated fatal diseases e.g. smallpox, waging against TB, malaria &amp; HIV, 📈 access to medical treatment, vaccination, strengthen health systems 
- 🇫🇷 <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHA73?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHA73</a><a href="https://t.co/z7nimKRvRF">pic.twitter.com/z7nimKRvRF</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1262397927282094081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This is one of the most important assemblies in the history of the WHO. It must be a moment for unity, solidarity, clear thought and action in the face of what is an unprecedented global crisis affecting all of us," Macron asserted.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that his country will work with the UN to set up a global humanitarian response depot and hub in China to ensure the operation of COVID-19 pandemic response supply chains.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in speaking at the World Health Assembly through a video linik said on Monday that vaccines and treatments are "public goods" that must be "distributed equitably to the whole world".

South Korean President Moon Jae-in speaking at the World Health Assembly through a video linik said on Monday that vaccines and treatments are "public goods" that must be "distributed equitably to the whole world". Also Read: US, China in 'medical arms race' over coronavirus vaccine "South Korea fully supports the efforts of the WHO to develop vaccines and treatments," the president added while addressing the UN health body through video conferencing. Such vaccines and treatments are public goods that must be distributed equitably to the whole world. The Republic of #Korea fully supports the efforts of the WHO to develop vaccines and treatments. -🇰🇷 President @moonriver365 at #WHA73pic.twitter.com/pXl4iQyqdz — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 18, 2020 × French President Emmanuel Macron speaking at the World Health Assembly through a video link said that "only if we join forces will we beat this pandemic," adding, "we need a strong WHO." Also Read: Amid coronavirus pandemic, India backs probe demand "The coronavirus pandemic has of course turned our lives and our societies upside down. It's reminded us how valuable human health is, and how valuable those who work to protect i," the French president added. Together with WHO, we achieved 📈 life expectancy, reduced child mortality, eradicated fatal diseases e.g. smallpox, waging against TB, malaria & HIV, 📈 access to medical treatment, vaccination, strengthen health systems - 🇫🇷 @EmmanuelMacron #WHA73pic.twitter.com/z7nimKRvRF — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 18, 2020 × "This is one of the most important assemblies in the history of the WHO. It must be a moment for unity, solidarity, clear thought and action in the face of what is an unprecedented global crisis affecting all of us," Macron asserted. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that his country will work with the UN to set up a global humanitarian response depot and hub in China to ensure the operation of COVID-19 pandemic response supply chains.

Vaccine must be distributed equitably to the whole world: South Korea President Moon Jae-in at World Health Assembly

When China went through the worst phase during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-in-medical-arms-race-over-coronavirus-vaccine-299503">coronavirus</a> outbreak, President Xi Jinping had gone into hiding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-always-transparent-about-coronavirus-says-president-xi-during-world-health-assembly-video-conference-299439">Also Read:&nbsp;China always transparent about coronavirus, says President Xi</a>

The Chinese president was silent for four months, now when the world is battling the coronavirus epidemic, Xi Jinping is being served as a "savior". China is now trying to spin a new narrative around its coronavirus response.

The decision making body of the WHO - the World Health Assembly kicked off a two-day event today, however, for the Chinese president, it was a three-part act designed to repair the damage to China's reputation.

President Xi was on a video conference during the World Health Assembly which is an annual affair with health ministers from member states attending&nbsp;the meeting. This time it is different since&nbsp;the coronavirus epidemic has become a global pandemic.&nbsp;

Usually, the 194 member states of the WHO gather in Geneva but for the first time&nbsp;the event is happening online and it is the most important assembly in the history of the WHO with the world fighting a pandemic with more than 47 lakh people being infected by the Wuhan virus.

The virus has killed over 3 lakh people globally. The world wants answers from China and the World Health Organisation(WHO) for its failures to protect the world from the pandemic. The&nbsp;resolution connected with it was the first thing to come out of the World Health Assembly.

The&nbsp;resolution demanded an investigation into the international response to the outbreak with 60 countries backing it initially including India.

Now more than hundred countries are behind it. The resolution does not name China but, it is bound to raise some serious questions about China's response.

When China went through the worst phase during the coronavirus outbreak, President Xi Jinping had gone into hiding. Also Read: China always transparent about coronavirus, says President Xi The Chinese president was silent for four months, now when the world is battling the coronavirus epidemic, Xi Jinping is being served as a "savior".

When China went through the worst phase during the coronavirus outbreak, President Xi Jinping had gone into hiding. Also Read: China always transparent about coronavirus, says President Xi The Chinese president was silent for four months, now when the world is battling the coronavirus epidemic, Xi Jinping is being served as a "savior". China is now trying to spin a new narrative around its coronavirus response. The decision making body of the WHO - the World Health Assembly kicked off a two-day event today, however, for the Chinese president, it was a three-part act designed to repair the damage to China's reputation. President Xi was on a video conference during the World Health Assembly which is an annual affair with health ministers from member states attending the meeting. This time it is different since the coronavirus epidemic has become a global pandemic. Usually, the 194 member states of the WHO gather in Geneva but for the first time the event is happening online and it is the most important assembly in the history of the WHO with the world fighting a pandemic with more than 47 lakh people being infected by the Wuhan virus. The virus has killed over 3 lakh people globally. The world wants answers from China and the World Health Organisation(WHO) for its failures to protect the world from the pandemic. The resolution connected with it was the first thing to come out of the World Health Assembly. The resolution demanded an investigation into the international response to the outbreak with 60 countries backing it initially including India. Now more than hundred countries are behind it. The resolution does not name China but, it is bound to raise some serious questions about China's response.

China's new spin: President Xi presents himself as 'savior' at World Health Assembly

A strong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-always-transparent-about-coronavirus-says-president-xi-during-world-health-assembly-video-conference-299439">anti-China</a> sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment -&nbsp;it is based on cold calculations and national interest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-cabinet-approves-controversial-map-claiming-indian-territory-299508">Also Read:&nbsp;Nepal cabinet approves controversial map claiming Indian territory</a>

The government has not spoken on record, however, India has sent a signal. It has supported the call for an investigation into the handling of the coronavirus outbreak. It is significant but this may not be enough. India should back Taiwan and join the global effort to corner China.&nbsp;

India needs to be tough on China, and the reason is China's mouthpiece&nbsp;the Global Times ran a report today. It says Chinese troops have "enhanced control measures" in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh around the disputed border.

Last week Chinese choppers were spotted close to the Indian border amid reports of Chinese troops setting up tents close to the Galwan river. Time after time, China has violated India's sovereignty, breached the country's borders and undermined territorial integrity.

China's state-run Global Times claimed that its India which is violating border agreements. China's unwarranted military aggression must be answered. In response, India must support Taiwan's return to the WHO as an observer.

There was a proposal to allow Taiwan to participate in the World Health Assembly which was turned down. The United States issued a statement slamming the WHO for not allowing Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. Now, India has the chance to push for Taiwan's bid by voting in support of the observer status when the opportunity presents itself.

A vote on Taiwan's status was supposed to be taken up but so far, there is no clarity over it. China has denied Taiwan a seat at the table by imposing its view of "One-China" on the world even as&nbsp;the "One-China"&nbsp;view remains the political position of the Communist Party of China.

India should stop accommodating Beijing's views as China still violates India's territorial integrity with impunity. Beijing has done little to show that its a friend, and not an adversary. On repeated occasions, it has worked against India's interests on the world stage.&nbsp;

China's list of infractions is a long one. It opposes India's membership to the Security Council as well as the nuclear suppliers' group(NSG). It openly bats for Pakistan by bringing up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and violates India's sovereignty by building infrastructure in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK).

The most recent violation by Beijing was the deal to build a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan, if India does not raise its voice against China now, it will be a missed opportunity. Leading countries of the world are putting pressure on China with the United States leading the front.

New Delhi should not make concessions to the stumbling Dragon by letting go the repeated territorial violations. It's time to take advantage of the situation, the best way forward would be to back Taiwan.

A strong anti-China sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment - it is based on cold calculations and national interest.

A strong anti-China sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment - it is based on cold calculations and national interest. Also Read: Nepal cabinet approves controversial map claiming Indian territory The government has not spoken on record, however, India has sent a signal. It has supported the call for an investigation into the handling of the coronavirus outbreak. It is significant but this may not be enough. India should back Taiwan and join the global effort to corner China. India needs to be tough on China, and the reason is China's mouthpiece the Global Times ran a report today. It says Chinese troops have "enhanced control measures" in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh around the disputed border. Last week Chinese choppers were spotted close to the Indian border amid reports of Chinese troops setting up tents close to the Galwan river. Time after time, China has violated India's sovereignty, breached the country's borders and undermined territorial integrity. China's state-run Global Times claimed that its India which is violating border agreements. China's unwarranted military aggression must be answered. In response, India must support Taiwan's return to the WHO as an observer. There was a proposal to allow Taiwan to participate in the World Health Assembly which was turned down. The United States issued a statement slamming the WHO for not allowing Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. Now, India has the chance to push for Taiwan's bid by voting in support of the observer status when the opportunity presents itself. A vote on Taiwan's status was supposed to be taken up but so far, there is no clarity over it. China has denied Taiwan a seat at the table by imposing its view of "One-China" on the world even as the "One-China" view remains the political position of the Communist Party of China. India should stop accommodating Beijing's views as China still violates India's territorial integrity with impunity. Beijing has done little to show that its a friend, and not an adversary. On repeated occasions, it has worked against India's interests on the world stage. China's list of infractions is a long one. It opposes India's membership to the Security Council as well as the nuclear suppliers' group(NSG). It openly bats for Pakistan by bringing up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and violates India's sovereignty by building infrastructure in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK). The most recent violation by Beijing was the deal to build a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan, if India does not raise its voice against China now, it will be a missed opportunity. Leading countries of the world are putting pressure on China with the United States leading the front. New Delhi should not make concessions to the stumbling Dragon by letting go the repeated territorial violations. It's time to take advantage of the situation, the best way forward would be to back Taiwan.

Amid coronavirus pandemic, India backs probe demand

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-initiate-independent-evaluation-at-earliest-appropriate-moment-who-chief-on-coronavirus-pandemic-299468">coronavirus</a> vaccine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-biotech-firm-moderna-reports-positive-interim-phase-1-results-for-coronavirus-vaccine-299481">Also Read:&nbsp;US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine</a>

With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines.

In their quest for power these two countries could end up deciding who would get it first. US President Trump announced&nbsp;recently that by January America will have the vaccine and he has a "big and fast" plan to get the vaccine to those who need it.

"Today I want to update you on the next stage of this momentous medical initiative. it's called operation warp speed, that means big and it means fast," the US president announced, adding, "a massive scientific, industrial and logistical endeavor, unlike anything our country has seen since the Manhattan Project."

"You really could say that nobody's seen anything like we're doing, whether it's ventilators or testing. Nobody's seen anything like we're doing now within our country since the World War-II."

"Incredible. It's objective is to finish developing and then to manufacture and distribute a proven coronavirus vaccine as fast as possible, again, we'd love to see if we could do it prior to the end of the year. We think we're going to have some very good results coming out very quickly," Trump said.

The US presient is fighting the pandemic in a way that he knows best by writing cheques and its virtually a bank cheque. The US biomedical advanced research and development authority(BARDA) is spending big. The government agency has announced nearly $1 billion in support for coronavirus vaccine development.

In March, the American lawmakers had approved more than $8 billion dollars for coronavirus response wit over $ 3 billion set side for research and development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

The United States started its vaccine hunt with around 100 candidates, its now down to 14 and, if there is something that works better - anywhere in the world &nbsp;- America will find a way to create room in the budget and buy its way in.

Already, the United States is funding one project in France. The money is going to Sanof - a private vaccine company. One of their vaccine projects is being partly funded by BARDA. Sanofi's CEO had triggered a row saying that America would be first in line to get the vaccine supplies. The company has now backtracked on that promise.

China is writing blank cheques too. It has five candidates in human trials and it wants to test more. China wants to get there first. It sees the race as a matter of national pride. A commentator in the state-run Global Times said it is a matter of life and death.

"We must be aware that the development of a vaccine is a battle that China cannot afford to lose," the Global Times piece said. Beijing agrees even after creating the crisis, it is funding the vaccine. However, China's approach is a little different its military is involved in developing the vaccine. The scientists are working overtime as Presient Xi Jinping made a commitment to the world today that China will give the world a vaccine.

Clearly, the Dragon wants to play savior. China wants to emerge stronger out of the COVID-19 crisis. So, its accelerating its research and positioning itself into the role of a "rescuer" while using the state media to pan the American efforts for the vaccine.

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the coronavirus vaccine. Also Read: US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines.

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the coronavirus vaccine. Also Read: US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines. In their quest for power these two countries could end up deciding who would get it first. US President Trump announced recently that by January America will have the vaccine and he has a "big and fast" plan to get the vaccine to those who need it. "Today I want to update you on the next stage of this momentous medical initiative. it's called operation warp speed, that means big and it means fast," the US president announced, adding, "a massive scientific, industrial and logistical endeavor, unlike anything our country has seen since the Manhattan Project." "You really could say that nobody's seen anything like we're doing, whether it's ventilators or testing. Nobody's seen anything like we're doing now within our country since the World War-II." "Incredible. It's objective is to finish developing and then to manufacture and distribute a proven coronavirus vaccine as fast as possible, again, we'd love to see if we could do it prior to the end of the year. We think we're going to have some very good results coming out very quickly," Trump said. The US presient is fighting the pandemic in a way that he knows best by writing cheques and its virtually a bank cheque. The US biomedical advanced research and development authority(BARDA) is spending big. The government agency has announced nearly $1 billion in support for coronavirus vaccine development. In March, the American lawmakers had approved more than $8 billion dollars for coronavirus response wit over $ 3 billion set side for research and development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. The United States started its vaccine hunt with around 100 candidates, its now down to 14 and, if there is something that works better - anywhere in the world - America will find a way to create room in the budget and buy its way in. Already, the United States is funding one project in France. The money is going to Sanof - a private vaccine company. One of their vaccine projects is being partly funded by BARDA. Sanofi's CEO had triggered a row saying that America would be first in line to get the vaccine supplies. The company has now backtracked on that promise. China is writing blank cheques too. It has five candidates in human trials and it wants to test more. China wants to get there first. It sees the race as a matter of national pride. A commentator in the state-run Global Times said it is a matter of life and death. "We must be aware that the development of a vaccine is a battle that China cannot afford to lose," the Global Times piece said. Beijing agrees even after creating the crisis, it is funding the vaccine. However, China's approach is a little different its military is involved in developing the vaccine. The scientists are working overtime as Presient Xi Jinping made a commitment to the world today that China will give the world a vaccine. Clearly, the Dragon wants to play savior. China wants to emerge stronger out of the COVID-19 crisis. So, its accelerating its research and positioning itself into the role of a "rescuer" while using the state media to pan the American efforts for the vaccine.

US, China in 'medical arms race' over coronavirus vaccine

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