It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-coercing-countries-to-plant-covid-19-accusations-against-it-297110">Also Read: China&nbsp;lambasts US for coercing countries to plant COVID-19 accusations</a>&nbsp;

Even those who consider China a friend are being targeted, namely the European Union(EU). A union of 27 European nations,&nbsp;a body that is said to represent over 447 million Europeans but off late it has been representing and mirroring Chinese propaganda.

Firstly, the European Union watered down the coronavirus report critical of the Chinese regime and then some of its member nations hailed China as a brother for its "donation diplomacy".

Now, this body seems to be dealing with China on China's terms. The European Union recently released an opinion piece on the coronavirus. It was co-authored and co-signed by all European Union ambassadors to Beijing.

It was meant to celebrate the body's 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China. The European Union called it a friendship letter. &nbsp;

"The outbreak of the coronavirus in China and its subsequent spread to the rest of the world over the past three months, has meant that our pre-existing plans have been temporarily side-tracked," it said, a paragraph which pointed to China as the origin of this pandemic.

China's daily - a state-run newspaper published a letter &nbsp;on Wednesday, with part of the letter mentioned being removed. China censored the so called "friendship letter" and apparently the European Union didn't protest.

As per reports, it was the EU which allowed China to publish the censored version. According to Battu Henriksson, an EU spokeswoman on foreign affairs, "EU diplomats decided to proceed with the publication with considerable reluctance."

It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative.

It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative. Also Read: China lambasts US for coercing countries to plant COVID-19 accusations Even those who consider China a friend are being targeted, namely the European Union(EU). A union of 27 European nations, a body that is said to represent over 447 million Europeans but off late it has been representing and mirroring Chinese propaganda. Firstly, the European Union watered down the coronavirus report critical of the Chinese regime and then some of its member nations hailed China as a brother for its "donation diplomacy". Now, this body seems to be dealing with China on China's terms. The European Union recently released an opinion piece on the coronavirus. It was co-authored and co-signed by all European Union ambassadors to Beijing. It was meant to celebrate the body's 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China. The European Union called it a friendship letter. "The outbreak of the coronavirus in China and its subsequent spread to the rest of the world over the past three months, has meant that our pre-existing plans have been temporarily side-tracked," it said, a paragraph which pointed to China as the origin of this pandemic. China's daily - a state-run newspaper published a letter on Wednesday, with part of the letter mentioned being removed. China censored the so called "friendship letter" and apparently the European Union didn't protest. As per reports, it was the EU which allowed China to publish the censored version. According to Battu Henriksson, an EU spokeswoman on foreign affairs, "EU diplomats decided to proceed with the publication with considerable reluctance."

Now, China censors European Union's 'friendship letter'

Amid reports of differences between Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and the military, Pakistan minister said Sheikh Rasheed said that "if anyone thinks that the Army is not backing Imran Khan, then they can try and form the government, they can try whatever they can but when it will end, it will always be Imran Khan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-pakistan-to-lift-shutdown-in-phases-from-saturday-297240">Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan to lift shutdown in phases from Saturday</a>

Rasheed while terming the alleged differences as a "misconception", said: "I have never seen such an excellent coalition between a government and army. Such a great combination this is, a face was needed on TV, you got the face, you also needed a man who was doing things, you got Bajwa in that space."

"Even&nbsp;I never thought of such an amazing idea when I use to think. But there were some other people who thought of this idea and came out with this amazing formula," the minister added.

There have been repeated reports of differences between the Pakistan army led by General Bajwa and PM Imran Khan on several issues including handling of the economy, the recent lockdown measures, and the countries all-powerful army officials influence in state matters.

Rasheed while speaking to reporters, emphatically declared: "I want to remove everyone’s misconceptions that there are any differences between PM Imran and Pakistan military. The prime minister agrees to whatever the army says and the army is standing behind Imran Khan. I can't be as direct as this."

Imran Khan's PTI which swept to power promising a "Naya Pakistan" has faced public ire over high inflation and repeated failure to tackle the economic situation in the country which has led the Pakistan prime minister to ask for loans worldwide amid speculation that the Army has been&nbsp;playing a powerful role behind the scenes.

Amid reports of differences between Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and the military, Pakistan minister said Sheikh Rasheed said that "if anyone thinks that the Army is not backing Imran Khan, then they can try and form the government, they can try whatever they can but when it will end, it will always be Imran Khan.

Amid reports of differences between Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and the military, Pakistan minister said Sheikh Rasheed said that "if anyone thinks that the Army is not backing Imran Khan, then they can try and form the government, they can try whatever they can but when it will end, it will always be Imran Khan." Also Read: Pakistan to lift shutdown in phases from Saturday Rasheed while terming the alleged differences as a "misconception", said: "I have never seen such an excellent coalition between a government and army. Such a great combination this is, a face was needed on TV, you got the face, you also needed a man who was doing things, you got Bajwa in that space." "Even I never thought of such an amazing idea when I use to think. But there were some other people who thought of this idea and came out with this amazing formula," the minister added. There have been repeated reports of differences between the Pakistan army led by General Bajwa and PM Imran Khan on several issues including handling of the economy, the recent lockdown measures, and the countries all-powerful army officials influence in state matters. Rasheed while speaking to reporters, emphatically declared: "I want to remove everyone’s misconceptions that there are any differences between PM Imran and Pakistan military. The prime minister agrees to whatever the army says and the army is standing behind Imran Khan. I can't be as direct as this." Imran Khan's PTI which swept to power promising a "Naya Pakistan" has faced public ire over high inflation and repeated failure to tackle the economic situation in the country which has led the Pakistan prime minister to ask for loans worldwide amid speculation that the Army has been playing a powerful role behind the scenes.

PM agrees to whatever the Army says, and the army stands behind Imran: Pak minister Sheikh Rasheed

Russia on Thursday reported over 11,000 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-discover-coronavirus-mutation-that-can-make-it-more-infectious-297160">coronavirus</a> cases in the last 24 hours as the country imposed new restrictions in its capital city Moscow which has been worst affected due to the epidemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-37-million-death-toll-at-263843-297148">Also Read:&nbsp;Global coronavirus cases surge to 3.7 million, death toll at 263,843</a>

The total number of coronavirus cases shot up to 177,160 with 11, 231 new infections as Russia struggles to contain the virus.

Moscow has emerged as is the epicenter of the virus with over 85,000 cases and over 860 deaths even as Mayor Sergei Sobyanin asserted that stay-at-home order won't be taken off anytime soon but added that industry and constuction workers would be gradually allowed to start work.

Russian health officials said they have ramped up testing with 4.8 million tests. However, the coronavirus death rate in the country is far better than other European countries with just 1,625 fatalities.

Meanwhile, culture minister Olga Lyubimova became the latest top official to test positive, after Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin was detected with the virus.

Amid the crisis, Russian President Putin asked governors to come up with a plan to gradually lift the lockdown but cautioned against a new wave of infections if things go out of control. The country has imposed the lockdown period till May 11.

"We should be moving forward gradually," the Russian president said, adding," "We should not run ahead of ourselves, The price of even the smallest mistake is the safety, lives and health of our people."

Russia on Thursday reported over 11,000 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours as the country imposed new restrictions in its capital city Moscow which has been worst affected due to the epidemic.

Russia on Thursday reported over 11,000 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours as the country imposed new restrictions in its capital city Moscow which has been worst affected due to the epidemic. Also Read: Global coronavirus cases surge to 3.7 million, death toll at 263,843 The total number of coronavirus cases shot up to 177,160 with 11, 231 new infections as Russia struggles to contain the virus. Moscow has emerged as is the epicenter of the virus with over 85,000 cases and over 860 deaths even as Mayor Sergei Sobyanin asserted that stay-at-home order won't be taken off anytime soon but added that industry and constuction workers would be gradually allowed to start work. Russian health officials said they have ramped up testing with 4.8 million tests. However, the coronavirus death rate in the country is far better than other European countries with just 1,625 fatalities. Meanwhile, culture minister Olga Lyubimova became the latest top official to test positive, after Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin was detected with the virus. Amid the crisis, Russian President Putin asked governors to come up with a plan to gradually lift the lockdown but cautioned against a new wave of infections if things go out of control. The country has imposed the lockdown period till May 11. "We should be moving forward gradually," the Russian president said, adding," "We should not run ahead of ourselves, The price of even the smallest mistake is the safety, lives and health of our people."

Russia reports record high coronavirus cases; infections rise in Moscow

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-coercing-countries-to-plant-covid-19-accusations-against-it-297110">coronavirus </a>with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-ppe-consignment-fails-to-meet-uk-standards-government-ask-for-refund-297208">Also Read:&nbsp;Turkey’s PPE consignment fails to meet UK standards, government ask for refund</a>

State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell had&nbsp;earlier described&nbsp;3,000 fatalities as "horrifying" as the country approached the figure with virus cases on the rise.

"The curves show that we have, to a large extent, been successful in keeping the outbreak&nbsp;within the limits of what the healthcare system can manage," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell

Sweden hasn't imposed lockdown measures like Italy, Spain or Germany where thousands of died to the virus with authorities preferring to allow social distancing based on "principle of responsibility" with schools for under 16s, bars, and restaurants allowed to stay open.

Authorities have however said they would close restaurants and bars in the capital which do not comply with the guidelines since Stockholm&nbsp;has&nbsp;recorded over 1,000 fatalities due to COVID-19 even as authorities sought to increase checks to ensure that rules were being followed.

Per Follin, the head of infectious disease control in Stockholm said that, "The healthcare system is under great pressure, adding, "we need to keep going with the measures we have so this ends quickly."

Last month the country had reported a big scramble for ventilators to treat COVID-19 patients with Swedish Getinge, one of the world's biggest makers of medical ventilators declaring that it would boost production by 160 per cent to 26,000 units to meet demand from health workers.

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to coronavirus with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries.

Sweden on Thursday reported over 3,000 deaths due to coronavirus with over 24,000 confirmed cases after its lockdown measures were seen to be too soft compared to other European countries. Also Read: Turkey’s PPE consignment fails to meet UK standards, government ask for refund State epidemiologist Anders Tegnell had earlier described 3,000 fatalities as "horrifying" as the country approached the figure with virus cases on the rise. "The curves show that we have, to a large extent, been successful in keeping the outbreak within the limits of what the healthcare system can manage," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell Sweden hasn't imposed lockdown measures like Italy, Spain or Germany where thousands of died to the virus with authorities preferring to allow social distancing based on "principle of responsibility" with schools for under 16s, bars, and restaurants allowed to stay open. Authorities have however said they would close restaurants and bars in the capital which do not comply with the guidelines since Stockholm has recorded over 1,000 fatalities due to COVID-19 even as authorities sought to increase checks to ensure that rules were being followed. Per Follin, the head of infectious disease control in Stockholm said that, "The healthcare system is under great pressure, adding, "we need to keep going with the measures we have so this ends quickly." Last month the country had reported a big scramble for ventilators to treat COVID-19 patients with Swedish Getinge, one of the world's biggest makers of medical ventilators declaring that it would boost production by 160 per cent to 26,000 units to meet demand from health workers.

Amid relaxed rules, coronavirus death toll crosses 3,000 in Sweden

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a meeting of the National Coordination Committee said on Thursday that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-reports-record-40-deaths-in-single-day-coronavirus-cases-jump-to-22413-296981">coronavirus</a> lockdown in the country will be lifted in phases from Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/190-pakistanis-stranded-in-india-for-over-two-months-due-to-coronavirus-lockdown-return-home-296839">Also Read:&nbsp;190 Pakistanis stranded in India return home</a>

Imran Khan cautioned the people that the success of the post-lockdown period depended on how people followed the social distancing norms in the country, however, he warned that authorities would once again clampdown if people failed to follow the guidelines set by the government.

Amid the Pakistan prime minister's announcement,&nbsp;education minister Shafqat Mehmood said that all schools and universities will remain shut till July 15.

The virus has continued to spread in the country with Sindh recording the highest single death toll of 14 in the last 24 hours with the total number of deaths climbing to 171. The province now has over 9,000 cases of the virus.

Pakistan's Punjab recorded 502 new cases in the last 24 hours&nbsp;with the total number of cases climbing to 9,195

The total number of confirmed cases has risen over 24,000 in Pakistan with Sindh and Punjab accounting for over 18,000 cases. The virus has also spread to Balochistan where over 1,600 people have been affected.

The country has lost 585 people due to the virus.

According to the government over 6,400 patients have recovered from the virus.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a meeting of the National Coordination Committee said on Thursday that the coronavirus lockdown in the country will be lifted in phases from Saturday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a meeting of the National Coordination Committee said on Thursday that the coronavirus lockdown in the country will be lifted in phases from Saturday. Also Read: 190 Pakistanis stranded in India return home Imran Khan cautioned the people that the success of the post-lockdown period depended on how people followed the social distancing norms in the country, however, he warned that authorities would once again clampdown if people failed to follow the guidelines set by the government. Amid the Pakistan prime minister's announcement, education minister Shafqat Mehmood said that all schools and universities will remain shut till July 15. The virus has continued to spread in the country with Sindh recording the highest single death toll of 14 in the last 24 hours with the total number of deaths climbing to 171. The province now has over 9,000 cases of the virus. Pakistan's Punjab recorded 502 new cases in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases climbing to 9,195 The total number of confirmed cases has risen over 24,000 in Pakistan with Sindh and Punjab accounting for over 18,000 cases. The virus has also spread to Balochistan where over 1,600 people have been affected. The country has lost 585 people due to the virus. According to the government over 6,400 patients have recovered from the virus.

COVID-19: Pakistan to lift shutdown in phases from Saturday

Indian ambassador to UAE&nbsp;Pavan Kapoor&nbsp;said today that the process of repatriation of overseas Indians will be beginning amid&nbsp;the coronavirus crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-bharat-india-kicks-off-biggest-repatriation-mission-amid-covid-19-crisis-297087">Also Read:&nbsp;Vande Bharat: India kicks off biggest repatriation mission amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

UAE has the largest diaspora of Indians, the ambassador said.

The evacuation process to repatriate Indians in Maldives will commence from Friday&nbsp;with INS Jalashwa carrying 750 citizens to Kochi in Kerala as part of the first phase of the operation called "Samudra Setu".

"Evacuation operation will be conducted in two phases - first to Kochi in Kerala and second to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. It will be a big relief for Indians," Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said.

"For Maldives, we will witness evacuation operation in next few days, the largest ever evacuation in our history," the Indian envoy to Maldives added.

India's ministry of defence said that evacuees will undergo mandatory quarantine as per SOPs in the quarantine facilities run by Army, Navy and Air Force in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

"Armed Forces have kept in readiness six quarantine facilities that can accommodate up to 2,100 Indians being evacuated from several countries," the ministry of defence said.

The defence ministry said that it had dispatched Naval ships with medical teams and aid supplies to several countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) in an effort to bring back the stranded Indians.

(With ANI inputs)

Indian ambassador to UAE Pavan Kapoor said today that the process of repatriation of overseas Indians will be beginning amid the coronavirus crisis. Also Read: Vande Bharat: India kicks off biggest repatriation mission amid COVID-19 crisis UAE has the largest diaspora of Indians, the ambassador said.

Indian ambassador to UAE Pavan Kapoor said today that the process of repatriation of overseas Indians will be beginning amid the coronavirus crisis. Also Read: Vande Bharat: India kicks off biggest repatriation mission amid COVID-19 crisis UAE has the largest diaspora of Indians, the ambassador said. The evacuation process to repatriate Indians in Maldives will commence from Friday with INS Jalashwa carrying 750 citizens to Kochi in Kerala as part of the first phase of the operation called "Samudra Setu". "Evacuation operation will be conducted in two phases - first to Kochi in Kerala and second to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. It will be a big relief for Indians," Indian envoy to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said. "For Maldives, we will witness evacuation operation in next few days, the largest ever evacuation in our history," the Indian envoy to Maldives added. India's ministry of defence said that evacuees will undergo mandatory quarantine as per SOPs in the quarantine facilities run by Army, Navy and Air Force in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. "Armed Forces have kept in readiness six quarantine facilities that can accommodate up to 2,100 Indians being evacuated from several countries," the ministry of defence said. The defence ministry said that it had dispatched Naval ships with medical teams and aid supplies to several countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) in an effort to bring back the stranded Indians. (With ANI inputs)

Operation Samudra Setu: INS Jalashwa set to evacuate stranded Indians from Maldives

Testing times call for bold ideas, almost two million citizens are stranded around the world due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-crisis-ensured-essential-supplies-to-bhutan-during-lockdown-says-indian-envoy-ruchira-kamboj-297068">coronavirus</a> crisis. The Indian government is set to kick-off the biggest evacuation mission in the world an effort that has never been seen before in peace time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-at-over-49000-126-new-deaths-recorded-297022">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19 cases in India at over 49,000; 126 new deaths recorded</a>

It is called the biggest ever evacuation in history. India has deployed commercial jets, military transport planes and naval warships to bring back stranded citizens from around the world.

The first phase of the mission has already kicked off. At least four Navy ships sailed on Tuesday. Three were sent to the Gulf. One ship has gone to the Maldives.

The Indian Air Force will have a major role to play as well. It has deployed 30 aircraft for repatriation. It includes the C-17 Globemaster and the C-130 Super Hercules.

Air India will operate 64 flights in the first week. The mission called "Vande Bharat" will be the world's largest evacuation exercise. The first phase is expected to help 1.8 million Indian citizens which is far more than the airlift from Kuwait in 1990 when one lakh seventy thousand&nbsp;citizens were brought back before the Persian Gulf War.

That rescue mission had found a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Now, India could set a new record, however, this evacuation is different. Those who want to come back will have to pay for their journey and all passengers will be screened.

Only, Asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to board. On arrival, they will be placed in quarantine for 14 days but, this is by far the most expansive evacuation that India has ever undertaken.

Indian planes will travel to as many as 12 countries covering all major continents around the world. India is not the only country to repatriate its citizens. As of the May, 4 - the United States has brought back 78,000 citizens. European countries have evacuated more than 65,000 citizens. Several Indians are applying to come back.

Almost two lakh Indians have already registered with the Indian missions in the UAE but officials have been asked to give priority to pregnant women, medical emergencies, and the elderly.

Testing times call for bold ideas, almost two million citizens are stranded around the world due to the coronavirus crisis. The Indian government is set to kick-off the biggest evacuation mission in the world an effort that has never been seen before in peace time.

Testing times call for bold ideas, almost two million citizens are stranded around the world due to the coronavirus crisis. The Indian government is set to kick-off the biggest evacuation mission in the world an effort that has never been seen before in peace time. Also Read: COVID-19 cases in India at over 49,000; 126 new deaths recorded It is called the biggest ever evacuation in history. India has deployed commercial jets, military transport planes and naval warships to bring back stranded citizens from around the world. The first phase of the mission has already kicked off. At least four Navy ships sailed on Tuesday. Three were sent to the Gulf. One ship has gone to the Maldives. The Indian Air Force will have a major role to play as well. It has deployed 30 aircraft for repatriation. It includes the C-17 Globemaster and the C-130 Super Hercules. Air India will operate 64 flights in the first week. The mission called "Vande Bharat" will be the world's largest evacuation exercise. The first phase is expected to help 1.8 million Indian citizens which is far more than the airlift from Kuwait in 1990 when one lakh seventy thousand citizens were brought back before the Persian Gulf War. That rescue mission had found a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Now, India could set a new record, however, this evacuation is different. Those who want to come back will have to pay for their journey and all passengers will be screened. Only, Asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to board. On arrival, they will be placed in quarantine for 14 days but, this is by far the most expansive evacuation that India has ever undertaken. Indian planes will travel to as many as 12 countries covering all major continents around the world. India is not the only country to repatriate its citizens. As of the May, 4 - the United States has brought back 78,000 citizens. European countries have evacuated more than 65,000 citizens. Several Indians are applying to come back. Almost two lakh Indians have already registered with the Indian missions in the UAE but officials have been asked to give priority to pregnant women, medical emergencies, and the elderly.

Vande Bharat: India kicks off biggest repatriation mission amid COVID-19 crisis

China has been pushing its borders far out into international waters. The speed and scale of this military aggression is unprecedented.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-allergic-to-any-investigation-but-top-priority-to-fight-win-against-covid-19-china-297005">Also Read:&nbsp;Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight &amp; win against COVID-19, says&nbsp;China</a>

There have been ten instances of how the Chinese regime is using the pandemic to wage a silent war. Encroachment of Indonesian fisheries is still happening with the first instance that was reported in January. An incursion by a Chinese coast guard vessel near the north Natuna islands. Indonesia had to beef up its naval defences.

The area is internationally recognised as part of Indonesia but China is infamous for violating the sovereignty of others. The result is Chinese incursions in Indonesian waters haven't stopped.

Also, the ramming a Taiwanese coast guard vessel which happened on March 16. At least ten Chinese speed boats entered Taiwan's territorial waters.

They attacked a patrol vessel which was clearing illegal Chinese fishing nets then targeting a Japanese naval ship that occurred in the East China Sea on March 30.

A Chinese fishing vessel collided and badly damaged a Japanese maritime destroyer. China said this was vessel was sailing in its waters and endangered its safety.&nbsp;

The sinking of a Vietnamese fishing boat near the Paracel Islands on April 2 was another example. The fishing boat sank after being hit by a Chinese coast guard vessel. A crew of eight on board the boat was captured and detained. China's excuse was the same - threat to its interests in the South China Sea.

Then the unwarranted drills in the Taiwan Strait. On April 11, Chinese fighter jets conducted drills just miles away from Taiwan. The reason was America's support for Taiwan's sovereignty. A US destroyer was transiting through Taiwan on this day. China deployed an aircraft carrier in the Miyako Strait which happened just two days later on April 13.

Miyako Strait is a strategic international waterway nobody can lay claim to this Strait. China deployed an aircraft carrier, two guided missile destroyers, two multi-role warships, and a fast combat support ship near the Strait.

China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia. On Apri 16, China sent a "survey ship" to the Malaysian exclusive economic zone. A "survey" activity inside Malaysian waters.&nbsp;

It also stablished new districts in the South China Sea. It was first reported on April 19. China announced new administrative districts in the contested waterway which the Global Times said was for better management.

Expelling a US vessel conducting routine operations that happened last week. Beijing had accused Washington of taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic by aggressively intervening in the South China Sea.

And finally, it gave official names to islands in South China Sea. Chinese authorities released standard names for 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea in April. The Global Times said that the standardization of names reflected China's sovereignty over these islands.&nbsp;

China has been pushing its borders far out into international waters. The speed and scale of this military aggression is unprecedented. Also Read: Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight & win against COVID-19, says China There have been ten instances of how the Chinese regime is using the pandemic to wage a silent war.

China has been pushing its borders far out into international waters. The speed and scale of this military aggression is unprecedented. Also Read: Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight & win against COVID-19, says China There have been ten instances of how the Chinese regime is using the pandemic to wage a silent war. Encroachment of Indonesian fisheries is still happening with the first instance that was reported in January. An incursion by a Chinese coast guard vessel near the north Natuna islands. Indonesia had to beef up its naval defences. The area is internationally recognised as part of Indonesia but China is infamous for violating the sovereignty of others. The result is Chinese incursions in Indonesian waters haven't stopped. Also, the ramming a Taiwanese coast guard vessel which happened on March 16. At least ten Chinese speed boats entered Taiwan's territorial waters. They attacked a patrol vessel which was clearing illegal Chinese fishing nets then targeting a Japanese naval ship that occurred in the East China Sea on March 30. A Chinese fishing vessel collided and badly damaged a Japanese maritime destroyer. China said this was vessel was sailing in its waters and endangered its safety. The sinking of a Vietnamese fishing boat near the Paracel Islands on April 2 was another example. The fishing boat sank after being hit by a Chinese coast guard vessel. A crew of eight on board the boat was captured and detained. China's excuse was the same - threat to its interests in the South China Sea. Then the unwarranted drills in the Taiwan Strait. On April 11, Chinese fighter jets conducted drills just miles away from Taiwan. The reason was America's support for Taiwan's sovereignty. A US destroyer was transiting through Taiwan on this day. China deployed an aircraft carrier in the Miyako Strait which happened just two days later on April 13. Miyako Strait is a strategic international waterway nobody can lay claim to this Strait. China deployed an aircraft carrier, two guided missile destroyers, two multi-role warships, and a fast combat support ship near the Strait. China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia. On Apri 16, China sent a "survey ship" to the Malaysian exclusive economic zone. A "survey" activity inside Malaysian waters. It also stablished new districts in the South China Sea. It was first reported on April 19. China announced new administrative districts in the contested waterway which the Global Times said was for better management. Expelling a US vessel conducting routine operations that happened last week. Beijing had accused Washington of taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic by aggressively intervening in the South China Sea. And finally, it gave official names to islands in South China Sea. Chinese authorities released standard names for 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea in April. The Global Times said that the standardization of names reflected China's sovereignty over these islands.

Amid COVID-19 pandemic, China wages 'silent war' in international waters

In the absence of a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-allergic-to-any-investigation-but-top-priority-to-fight-win-against-covid-19-china-297005"> COVID-19 </a>vaccine, antibody drugs are being touted as the next best thing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-americans-would-take-coronavirus-vaccine-if-deemed-safe-reuters-poll-296938">Also Read:&nbsp;Most Americans would take coronavirus vaccine if deemed safe</a>

Antibodies are created by our body's immune system. Scientists can harvest and then isolate them from a recovered patient's body. Israel and the Netherlands have had success in doing it.

Once antibodies are isolated, their genetic formula can be studied and replicated on a mass scale. The human body creates hundreds of antibodies - each specific to different pathogens.

It defeats the foreign cells by latching on to their surface and disables it. The physical shape and size of antibodies are quite crucial if the proportions are off, the antibodies will not be effective.

However, they are different from vaccines, antibody drugs are a cure, they cannot offer immunity to a population that has not been infected.

Vaccines on the other hand are preventive in nature. Antibody drugs bind themselves to infected cells upon injection.&nbsp;

While vaccines involve infecting the population with weak or inactivated virus samples, antibody drugs stimulate the immune system to attack the infected cells.

In the case of vaccines, the body creates antibodies by itself to fight the inactivated virus samples. They essentially work as a dress rehearsal, so that the body is ready for a full-blown infection.

Vaccines also take a longer time to develop, by conservative estimates it takes at least one year for a fool-proof vaccine to be deploid. However, antibody drugs can be developed in a matter of months as proven by institutes in Israel and the Netherlands.

And finally, vaccines generally have universal deployability. Most people can get vaccinated unless they are allergic to the formula but antibody treatments are advised only for infected patients and high-risk population groups.

In the absence of a COVID-19 vaccine, antibody drugs are being touted as the next best thing. Also Read: Most Americans would take coronavirus vaccine if deemed safe Antibodies are created by our body's immune system.

In the absence of a COVID-19 vaccine, antibody drugs are being touted as the next best thing. Also Read: Most Americans would take coronavirus vaccine if deemed safe Antibodies are created by our body's immune system. Scientists can harvest and then isolate them from a recovered patient's body. Israel and the Netherlands have had success in doing it. Once antibodies are isolated, their genetic formula can be studied and replicated on a mass scale. The human body creates hundreds of antibodies - each specific to different pathogens. It defeats the foreign cells by latching on to their surface and disables it. The physical shape and size of antibodies are quite crucial if the proportions are off, the antibodies will not be effective. However, they are different from vaccines, antibody drugs are a cure, they cannot offer immunity to a population that has not been infected. Vaccines on the other hand are preventive in nature. Antibody drugs bind themselves to infected cells upon injection. While vaccines involve infecting the population with weak or inactivated virus samples, antibody drugs stimulate the immune system to attack the infected cells. In the case of vaccines, the body creates antibodies by itself to fight the inactivated virus samples. They essentially work as a dress rehearsal, so that the body is ready for a full-blown infection. Vaccines also take a longer time to develop, by conservative estimates it takes at least one year for a fool-proof vaccine to be deploid. However, antibody drugs can be developed in a matter of months as proven by institutes in Israel and the Netherlands. And finally, vaccines generally have universal deployability. Most people can get vaccinated unless they are allergic to the formula but antibody treatments are advised only for infected patients and high-risk population groups.

How antibody drugs are different from vaccines

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-prevention-and-control-still-faces-great-uncertainty-president-xi-297023" hreflang="en">Coronavirus prevention and control still faces great uncertainty: President Xi</a>

Xi's remarks came even as the cabinet plans more measures to alleviate firms' tax burdens and boost credit support.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/behind-closed-doors-frances-covid-19-death-toll-likely-to-jump-297016" hreflang="en">Behind closed doors, France's COVID-19 death toll likely to jump</a>

But data from the INSEE statistics office shows a nationwide increase in deaths at home. The rise is particularly pronounced in some of the low-income suburbs ringing central Paris.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-and-let-die-blasts-as-trump-tours-mask-factory-without-wearing-one-297011" hreflang="en">'Live and Let Die' blasts as Trump tours mask factory, without wearing one</a>

It still is unclear whether the music was the choice of the White House or Honeywell, but it wasn't liked by many -- as they called it insensitive, given the magnitude of the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-recovery-plan-to-be-ready-in-weeks-to-be-approved-in-june-top-official-297007" hreflang="en">EU recovery plan to be ready in weeks, to be approved in June: Top official</a>

Gentiloni told a news conference the plan would include a mix of grants and long-term loans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-allergic-to-any-investigation-but-top-priority-to-fight-win-against-covid-19-china-297005" hreflang="en">Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight &amp; win against COVID-19: China</a>

Several nations including the Trump administration, Germany, Australia have called for a probe into the origins of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-pm-pedro-sanchez-garners-basque-party-votes-for-lockdown-extension-297009" hreflang="en">Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez garners Basque party votes for lockdown extension</a>

This will be the&nbsp;fourth two-week extension of the lockdown in Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rearms-to-nullify-chinas-missile-supremacy-296992" hreflang="en">US rearms to nullify China's missile supremacy</a>

The United States has largely stood by in recent decades as China dramatically expanded its military firepower.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/recession-of-historic-proportions-eurozone-economy-predicted-to-contract-77-296990" hreflang="en">'Recession of historic proportions': Eurozone economy predicted to contract 7.7%</a>

German automaker BMW reported that its net profit was down in the first quarter due to the effect of the virus with most countries in Europe on lockdown.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-issues-new-social-behaviour-guidelines-inviting-wrath-of-its-people-296985" hreflang="en">Japan issues new social behaviour guidelines inviting wrath of its people</a>

One new recommendation made on Monday for people eating in restaurants is to sit outside, side-by-side while keeping conversation to a minimum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-plans-thousands-of-new-homes-for-west-bank-settlement-297031" hreflang="en">Israel announces plans thousands of new homes for West Bank settlement</a>

The move comes after Washington voiced readiness to back de facto Israeli annexations there.

Coronavirus prevention and control still faces great uncertainty: President Xi Xi's remarks came even as the cabinet plans more measures to alleviate firms' tax burdens and boost credit support.

Coronavirus prevention and control still faces great uncertainty: President Xi Xi's remarks came even as the cabinet plans more measures to alleviate firms' tax burdens and boost credit support. Behind closed doors, France's COVID-19 death toll likely to jump But data from the INSEE statistics office shows a nationwide increase in deaths at home. The rise is particularly pronounced in some of the low-income suburbs ringing central Paris. 'Live and Let Die' blasts as Trump tours mask factory, without wearing one It still is unclear whether the music was the choice of the White House or Honeywell, but it wasn't liked by many -- as they called it insensitive, given the magnitude of the coronavirus pandemic. EU recovery plan to be ready in weeks, to be approved in June: Top official Gentiloni told a news conference the plan would include a mix of grants and long-term loans. Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight & win against COVID-19: China Several nations including the Trump administration, Germany, Australia have called for a probe into the origins of the virus. Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez garners Basque party votes for lockdown extension This will be the fourth two-week extension of the lockdown in Spain. US rearms to nullify China's missile supremacy The United States has largely stood by in recent decades as China dramatically expanded its military firepower. 'Recession of historic proportions': Eurozone economy predicted to contract 7.7% German automaker BMW reported that its net profit was down in the first quarter due to the effect of the virus with most countries in Europe on lockdown. Japan issues new social behaviour guidelines inviting wrath of its people One new recommendation made on Monday for people eating in restaurants is to sit outside, side-by-side while keeping conversation to a minimum. Israel announces plans thousands of new homes for West Bank settlement The move comes after Washington voiced readiness to back de facto Israeli annexations there.

Top 10 world news today: Xi Jinping on COVID-19, France likely to witness jump in death toll and more

China said on Wednesday said that "Mr Pompeo repeatedly spoke up but he cannot present any evidence"&nbsp;after the US secretary of state asserted that the Trump administration had "enormous evidence" to show that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-claims-worlds-first-coronavirus-vaccine-human-trials-soon-296954">coronavirus</a> originated in a Chinese lab.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-allergic-to-any-investigation-but-top-priority-to-fight-win-against-covid-19-china-297005">Also Read:&nbsp;Not allergic to any investigation, says&nbsp;China</a>

"Mr Pompeo repeatedly spoke up but he cannot present any evidence. How can he? Because he doesn't have any," China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

"I think this matter should be handed to scientists and medical professionals, and not politicians who lie for their own domestic political ends," Chunying added.

"We urge the US to stop shifting the focus to China," Hua said adding,"it should handle its domestic affairs properly first. The most important thing now is to control the US' domestic pandemic spread and think of ways to save lives."

China and the US have been at loggerheads over the origin of the virus with the Chinese government even suggesting that it was spread by the US military in Wuhan. President Trump has repeatedly termed coronavirus as the "Wuhan virus" and said that he had evidence that it originated from a lab in China but refused to divulge details.

Several experts including the US intelligence community had earlier said that it "concurs with the wide scientific consensus that COVID-19 virus was not manmade or genetically modified"

"The intelligence community will continue to rigorously examine emerging information and intelligence to determine whether the outbreak began through contact with infected animals or if it was a result of an accident at a laboratory in Wuhan," it had said.

China said on Wednesday said that "Mr Pompeo repeatedly spoke up but he cannot present any evidence" after the US secretary of state asserted that the Trump administration had "enormous evidence" to show that the coronavirus originated in a Chinese lab.

China said on Wednesday said that "Mr Pompeo repeatedly spoke up but he cannot present any evidence" after the US secretary of state asserted that the Trump administration had "enormous evidence" to show that the coronavirus originated in a Chinese lab. Also Read: Not allergic to any investigation, says China "Mr Pompeo repeatedly spoke up but he cannot present any evidence. How can he? Because he doesn't have any," China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said. "I think this matter should be handed to scientists and medical professionals, and not politicians who lie for their own domestic political ends," Chunying added. "We urge the US to stop shifting the focus to China," Hua said adding,"it should handle its domestic affairs properly first. The most important thing now is to control the US' domestic pandemic spread and think of ways to save lives." China and the US have been at loggerheads over the origin of the virus with the Chinese government even suggesting that it was spread by the US military in Wuhan. President Trump has repeatedly termed coronavirus as the "Wuhan virus" and said that he had evidence that it originated from a lab in China but refused to divulge details. Several experts including the US intelligence community had earlier said that it "concurs with the wide scientific consensus that COVID-19 virus was not manmade or genetically modified" "The intelligence community will continue to rigorously examine emerging information and intelligence to determine whether the outbreak began through contact with infected animals or if it was a result of an accident at a laboratory in Wuhan," it had said.

Pompeo has no evidence, says China on coronavirus origin in lab

After the WHO said it was ready to work with countries on the invitation of China to investigate the source of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-wuhan-laboratory-at-the-heart-of-the-washington-beijing-virus-spat-296948">coronavirus</a>, Beijing's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said that "the top priority, for the time being, is to focus on the fight against the pandemic until we win the final victory."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-claims-worlds-first-coronavirus-vaccine-human-trials-soon-296954">Also Read:&nbsp;Italy claims world's first coronavirus vaccine; human trials soon</a>

"For whether or how the invitation will take place, we need to have the right priority setting at this moment, and on the other hand, we need the right atmosphere."

Several nations including the Trump administration, Germany, Australia, the UK have called for a probe into the origins of the virus.

"It's not that we are allergic to any kind of investigations, inquiries or evaluations," Chen said, adding,"we need to race with time to save lives as much as we can."

In fact, the World Health Organization(WHO) has urged nations to investigate the cases of the virus before December last year with several experts speculating that the virus had started spreading much before China officially announced it on December 31, 2019.

Recently, a French hospital during retesting of the old samples had discovered that it had treated a man with coronavirus in December much before the government confirmed its first case.

According to Reuters/Ipsos poll, three-quarters of Americans would take a coronavirus vaccine after receiving certain assurances that it was safe.

Meanwhile, the global cases for the virus surged to over 3.6 million with the death climbing to 257,337. The United States is the worst-hit country with over 70,000 deaths, ahead of Britain which has over 32,000 fatalities.

&nbsp;

After the WHO said it was ready to work with countries on the invitation of China to investigate the source of coronavirus, Beijing's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said that "the top priority, for the time being, is to focus on the fight against the pandemic until we win the final victory.

After the WHO said it was ready to work with countries on the invitation of China to investigate the source of coronavirus, Beijing's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said that "the top priority, for the time being, is to focus on the fight against the pandemic until we win the final victory." Also Read: Italy claims world's first coronavirus vaccine; human trials soon "For whether or how the invitation will take place, we need to have the right priority setting at this moment, and on the other hand, we need the right atmosphere." Several nations including the Trump administration, Germany, Australia, the UK have called for a probe into the origins of the virus. "It's not that we are allergic to any kind of investigations, inquiries or evaluations," Chen said, adding,"we need to race with time to save lives as much as we can." In fact, the World Health Organization(WHO) has urged nations to investigate the cases of the virus before December last year with several experts speculating that the virus had started spreading much before China officially announced it on December 31, 2019. Recently, a French hospital during retesting of the old samples had discovered that it had treated a man with coronavirus in December much before the government confirmed its first case. According to Reuters/Ipsos poll, three-quarters of Americans would take a coronavirus vaccine after receiving certain assurances that it was safe. Meanwhile, the global cases for the virus surged to over 3.6 million with the death climbing to 257,337. The United States is the worst-hit country with over 70,000 deaths, ahead of Britain which has over 32,000 fatalities.

Not allergic to any investigation but top priority to fight & win against COVID-19: China

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Rustam

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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