Pakistan has declared former prime minister Nawaz Sharif an "absconder"&nbsp;saying that it will now request the British government to deport Sharif from London where he currently resides.

The Imran Khan government accused Sharif of faking his illness. It said that the former prime minister had gone to London to look after his family's business interests and not to seek medical treatment.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-critical-picture-in-restaurant-goes-viral-274259">Nawaz Sharif critical? Picture in London restaurant goes viral</a>

Sharif who had been jailed in several corruption cases and faces trials in others was allowed to leave Pakistan for the UK&nbsp;in November last year due to his deteriorating health.

The court had granted Sharif bail in two graft cases on medical grounds after a massive drop in his blood count.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ailing-nawaz-sharif-to-undergo-tests-scan-in-london-264009">Ailing Nawaz Sharif to undergo tests, scan in London</a>

However, the government has accused the three-time prime minister&nbsp;of falling to provide any medical records after he reached London.

Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif's party the&nbsp; PML-N has contested the government's claim saying that Sharif is scheduled to undergo heart surgery in London.

PML-N added that Sharif will challenge the government's decision in court.

Pakistan has declared former prime minister Nawaz Sharif an "absconder" saying that it will now request the British government to deport Sharif from London where he currently resides.

Pakistan has declared former prime minister Nawaz Sharif an "absconder" saying that it will now request the British government to deport Sharif from London where he currently resides. The Imran Khan government accused Sharif of faking his illness. It said that the former prime minister had gone to London to look after his family's business interests and not to seek medical treatment. Also Read: Nawaz Sharif critical? Picture in London restaurant goes viral Sharif who had been jailed in several corruption cases and faces trials in others was allowed to leave Pakistan for the UK in November last year due to his deteriorating health. The court had granted Sharif bail in two graft cases on medical grounds after a massive drop in his blood count. Also Read: Ailing Nawaz Sharif to undergo tests, scan in London However, the government has accused the three-time prime minister of falling to provide any medical records after he reached London. Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif's party the PML-N has contested the government's claim saying that Sharif is scheduled to undergo heart surgery in London. PML-N added that Sharif will challenge the government's decision in court.

Pakistan to request Britain to deport Nawaz Sharif from London

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports.

He is expected to exercise his constitutional power to sack the assembly when it completes four-and-a-half out of its five-year term.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-offers-tax-cuts-subsidies-to-revive-jinxed-airport-283402">Sri Lanka offers tax cuts, subsidies to revive jinxed airport</a>

"The Gazette Extraordinary will be issued announcing the dissolution of the present parliament at the end of the completion of four-and-a-half years in terms of the provisions of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution," media sources claimed.

Gotabaya has publicly declared that he wants a two-third majority in the parliament.

This would empower him to make sweeping changes to the country and the constitution.

Rajapaksa, 70, won a landslide at November presidential polls and appointed his older brother and former president Mahinda as prime minister in a move that saw the family consolidate their hold on power.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/france-asks-sri-lanka-to-honour-un-pledges-on-rights-283191">France asks Sri Lanka to honour UN pledges on rights</a>

A general election is most likely in the final week of April if the 225-member national assembly is dissolved by Monday as widely expected.

Gotabaya's brother Mahinda, who had been president twice and prime minister thrice, is expected to lead the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP, or People's Front) party to a comfortable victory as per experts.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa announced last month that the country was withdrawing from a UN resolution investigating alleged war crimes in 2009, a move that was seen as boosting his popularity with the Sinhalese majority.

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports.

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports. He is expected to exercise his constitutional power to sack the assembly when it completes four-and-a-half out of its five-year term. Also read: Sri Lanka offers tax cuts, subsidies to revive jinxed airport "The Gazette Extraordinary will be issued announcing the dissolution of the present parliament at the end of the completion of four-and-a-half years in terms of the provisions of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution," media sources claimed. Gotabaya has publicly declared that he wants a two-third majority in the parliament. This would empower him to make sweeping changes to the country and the constitution. Rajapaksa, 70, won a landslide at November presidential polls and appointed his older brother and former president Mahinda as prime minister in a move that saw the family consolidate their hold on power. Also read: France asks Sri Lanka to honour UN pledges on rights A general election is most likely in the final week of April if the 225-member national assembly is dissolved by Monday as widely expected. Gotabaya's brother Mahinda, who had been president twice and prime minister thrice, is expected to lead the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP, or People's Front) party to a comfortable victory as per experts. Prime Minister Rajapaksa announced last month that the country was withdrawing from a UN resolution investigating alleged war crimes in 2009, a move that was seen as boosting his popularity with the Sinhalese majority.

Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa to dissolve parliament soon: Reports

The Foreign Correspondents' Club of China (FCCC) in a report said that government was planning to send back more foreign journalists after row over three Wall Street Journal reporters in Beijing were sent back over a headline calling China the "real sick man of Asia".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-expelling-journalists-china-demands-apology-from-the-wall-street-journal-282443">Also Read: China demands apology from The Wall Street Journal</a> 
&nbsp;

"Since 2013, when Xi Jinping's ascension to power was completed, China has forced out nine foreign journalists, either through outright expulsion or by non-renewal of visas. The FCCC fears that China is preparing to expel more journalists," the group said.

The press body said that journalists were being threatened with the government intimidating the press fraternity by using it as a weapon&nbsp;"like never before".

"Chinese authorities are using visas as weapons against the foreign press like never before, expanding their deployment of a long-time intimidation tactic as working conditions for foreign journalists in China markedly deteriorated in 2019," it said.

However, China's foreign ministry said: "What happened to the Wall Street Journal journalists was just an independent case."

"There are over 600 foreign journalists stationed in China and they don't need to worry about their reporting in China as long as they observe Chinese laws and regulations," China's foreign ministry spokesman said.

The FCCC said at least 82 per cent journalists had experienced interference, harassment or violence while reporting.

"As China reaches new heights of economic influence, it has shown a growing willingness to use its considerable state power to suppress factual reporting that does not fit with the global image it seeks to present," the report said.

"As scrutiny is intensifying toward China, it is more important than ever for foreign media to have freedom to report and cover the country," the report added.

The press body said the ability of foreign journalists based in China is crucial for the news coverage about the country while waring that &nbsp;"hostility toward foreign press is now so pervasive that the most basic elements of journalism are often frustrated in China".&nbsp;

The Foreign Correspondents' Club of China (FCCC) in a report said that government was planning to send back more foreign journalists after row over three Wall Street Journal reporters in Beijing were sent back over a headline calling China the "real sick man of Asia".

The Foreign Correspondents' Club of China (FCCC) in a report said that government was planning to send back more foreign journalists after row over three Wall Street Journal reporters in Beijing were sent back over a headline calling China the "real sick man of Asia". Also Read: China demands apology from The Wall Street Journal "Since 2013, when Xi Jinping's ascension to power was completed, China has forced out nine foreign journalists, either through outright expulsion or by non-renewal of visas. The FCCC fears that China is preparing to expel more journalists," the group said. The press body said that journalists were being threatened with the government intimidating the press fraternity by using it as a weapon "like never before". "Chinese authorities are using visas as weapons against the foreign press like never before, expanding their deployment of a long-time intimidation tactic as working conditions for foreign journalists in China markedly deteriorated in 2019," it said. However, China's foreign ministry said: "What happened to the Wall Street Journal journalists was just an independent case." "There are over 600 foreign journalists stationed in China and they don't need to worry about their reporting in China as long as they observe Chinese laws and regulations," China's foreign ministry spokesman said. The FCCC said at least 82 per cent journalists had experienced interference, harassment or violence while reporting. "As China reaches new heights of economic influence, it has shown a growing willingness to use its considerable state power to suppress factual reporting that does not fit with the global image it seeks to present," the report said. "As scrutiny is intensifying toward China, it is more important than ever for foreign media to have freedom to report and cover the country," the report added. The press body said the ability of foreign journalists based in China is crucial for the news coverage about the country while waring that "hostility toward foreign press is now so pervasive that the most basic elements of journalism are often frustrated in China".

Chinese authorities using visas as weapons against foreign press: Report

After rebounding in early trade, the Sensex crashed 939 points down on Monday as two fresh cases of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-passengers-undergoing-screening-at-21-airports-12-seaports-says-harsh-vardhan-283747">coronavirus </a>were reported in Delhi and Telangana.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-crash-as-global-markets-dive-over-spread-of-coronavirus-283314">Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus</a> 
 
The markets ended lower for the seventh consecutive session as the coronavirus cases dragged down the Sensex. 
 
The BSE Sensex closed&nbsp;153.27 points lower to close at&nbsp;&nbsp;38,144.02 with the Nifty falling&nbsp;69 points or 0.62 per cent down to end at 11,132.75. 
 
Hindalco, GAIL, SBI, Tata Steel and Yes Bank recorded major loses with just the IT sector being spared. 
 
The Sensex lost 700 points as soon as the government declared two new cases of the virus. The Sensex dived rapidly thereafter by over 200 points after touching an inter-day high of 39,083.17 earlier.

After rebounding in early trade, the Sensex crashed 939 points down on Monday as two fresh cases of coronavirus were reported in Delhi and Telangana. Also Read: Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus The markets ended lower for the seventh consecutive session as the coronavirus cases dragged down the Sensex.

After rebounding in early trade, the Sensex crashed 939 points down on Monday as two fresh cases of coronavirus were reported in Delhi and Telangana. Also Read: Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus The markets ended lower for the seventh consecutive session as the coronavirus cases dragged down the Sensex. The BSE Sensex closed 153.27 points lower to close at 38,144.02 with the Nifty falling 69 points or 0.62 per cent down to end at 11,132.75. Hindalco, GAIL, SBI, Tata Steel and Yes Bank recorded major loses with just the IT sector being spared. The Sensex lost 700 points as soon as the government declared two new cases of the virus. The Sensex dived rapidly thereafter by over 200 points after touching an inter-day high of 39,083.17 earlier.

Sensex crashes 939 points over coronavirus fears

Pawan Kumar Gupta, the convict in the Nirbhaya gangrape case filed a mercy plea before the President of India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-day-before-scheduled-hanging-supreme-court-dismisses-curative-petition-filed-by-pawan-gupta-283648https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-day-before-scheduled-hanging-supreme-court-dismisses-curative-petition-filed-by-pawan-gupta-283648">Also Read: Day before scheduled hanging, SC&nbsp;dismisses curative petition filed by Pawan Gupta</a> 
 
You are playing with fire, you should be cautious, the judge told Pawan Gupta's lawyer A P Singh. 
 
One wrong move by anybody, and you know the consequences, the judge told the lawyer. 
 
Tihar jail official said the President will seek status report from the jail on Pawan Gupta's mercy plea. 
 
Tihar jail said the ball is in government's court, judge has no role for now.&nbsp;The Delhi court reserved its order on&nbsp;petition filed by Pawan Gupta seeking a stay on the execution as his mercy petition is pending before the President. 
 
Earlier, &nbsp;the Supreme Court had rejected the curative petition filed by Pawan Kumar Gupta, seeking commutation of his death penalty to life imprisonment in the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape and murder case. &nbsp;

The President has earlier rejected the mercy petitions of Mukesh, Vinay and Akshay.&nbsp; 
 
The court had issued death penalty against four death row convicts -&nbsp;Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh Singh and had set the date of hanging on March 3 at 6am.

Pawan Kumar Gupta, the convict in the Nirbhaya gangrape case filed a mercy plea before the President of India. Also Read: Day before scheduled hanging, SC dismisses curative petition filed by Pawan Gupta You are playing with fire, you should be cautious, the judge told Pawan Gupta's lawyer A P Singh.

Pawan Kumar Gupta, the convict in the Nirbhaya gangrape case filed a mercy plea before the President of India. Also Read: Day before scheduled hanging, SC dismisses curative petition filed by Pawan Gupta You are playing with fire, you should be cautious, the judge told Pawan Gupta's lawyer A P Singh. One wrong move by anybody, and you know the consequences, the judge told the lawyer. Tihar jail official said the President will seek status report from the jail on Pawan Gupta's mercy plea. Tihar jail said the ball is in government's court, judge has no role for now. The Delhi court reserved its order on petition filed by Pawan Gupta seeking a stay on the execution as his mercy petition is pending before the President. Earlier, the Supreme Court had rejected the curative petition filed by Pawan Kumar Gupta, seeking commutation of his death penalty to life imprisonment in the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape and murder case. The President has earlier rejected the mercy petitions of Mukesh, Vinay and Akshay. The court had issued death penalty against four death row convicts - Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh Singh and had set the date of hanging on March 3 at 6am.

Nirbhaya case: You are playing with fire, says judge after Pawan Kumar Gupta moves mercy petition to President

Wall Street stocks crashed for a second day on Friday down nearly 1,000 points, diving 3.8 per cent in early trade sinking 11 per cent in the last two days as the coronavirus affected world <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-crash-as-global-markets-dive-over-spread-of-coronavirus-283314">markets</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-crash-4-over-spread-of-coronavirus-on-track-for-biggest-weekly-drop-in-over-4-years-283318">Also Read: Oil prices crash 4% over spread of coronavirus</a>

Global stocks slumped to a new low on Friday to mark the largest weekly drop since the 2008 global financial crisis.&nbsp;

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-markets-crash-283412/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Iran on Friday reported eight new deaths from the coronavirus taking the death toll in the country to 34 with 143 cases detected in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan suspended all flights to Iran and closed land borders with its neighbour after coronavirus was confirmed in two cases.

In Italy, at least four people died of the virus taking the death toll to 21 in the country as the disease continued to spread worldwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-raises-global-risk-of-coronavirus-from-high-to-very-high-283411">WHO</a> chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "Our epidemiologists have been monitoring these developments continuously. We have now increased our assessment of the risk of spread and the risk of impact of COVID-19 to 'very high' at the global level."

In Germany, at least 1,000 people were in quarantine in the district of Heinsberg in North Rhine-Westphalia with schools shut and people asked to stay at home.

Health Minister Jens Spahn warned that Germany was "at the beginning of a coronavirus epidemic".

The Mexican government said it had detected the first cases of coronavirus infection in two men who had recently travelled to Italy, making it the second country in Latin America after Brazil.

As a result, Mexico's main stock index suffered one of its biggest falls in months, tumbling more than 4% in morning trading, and the currency peso fell by more than 1 per cent against the dollar.

In China where the virus originated 329 new cases were reported on Friday. The virus has now killed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide.

Wall Street stocks crashed for a second day on Friday down nearly 1,000 points, diving 3.8 per cent in early trade sinking 11 per cent in the last two days as the coronavirus affected world markets.

Wall Street stocks crashed for a second day on Friday down nearly 1,000 points, diving 3.8 per cent in early trade sinking 11 per cent in the last two days as the coronavirus affected world markets. Also Read: Oil prices crash 4% over spread of coronavirus Global stocks slumped to a new low on Friday to mark the largest weekly drop since the 2008 global financial crisis. Watch Video: Iran on Friday reported eight new deaths from the coronavirus taking the death toll in the country to 34 with 143 cases detected in the last 24 hours. Pakistan suspended all flights to Iran and closed land borders with its neighbour after coronavirus was confirmed in two cases. In Italy, at least four people died of the virus taking the death toll to 21 in the country as the disease continued to spread worldwide. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "Our epidemiologists have been monitoring these developments continuously. We have now increased our assessment of the risk of spread and the risk of impact of COVID-19 to 'very high' at the global level." In Germany, at least 1,000 people were in quarantine in the district of Heinsberg in North Rhine-Westphalia with schools shut and people asked to stay at home. Health Minister Jens Spahn warned that Germany was "at the beginning of a coronavirus epidemic". The Mexican government said it had detected the first cases of coronavirus infection in two men who had recently travelled to Italy, making it the second country in Latin America after Brazil. As a result, Mexico's main stock index suffered one of its biggest falls in months, tumbling more than 4% in morning trading, and the currency peso fell by more than 1 per cent against the dollar. In China where the virus originated 329 new cases were reported on Friday. The virus has now killed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide.

Global stocks record worst drop since 2008 recession as coronavirus spreads worldwide

According to a Chinese newspaper, the country will be sending an "army" of 100,000 ducks to help Pakistan combat<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-locust-crisis-how-are-nations-tackling-the-growing-menace-282092"> locust </a>attacks.

China's Ningbo Evening News said the ducks would be dispatched from the eastern province of Zhejiang as Chinese experts arrive in Pakistan to advise the country on ways to tackle the locust menace.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-pakistan-may-seek-chinas-help-to-fight-locust-attack-281536">Also Read: Now, Pakistan may seek China's help to fight locust attack</a>

The paper said employing ducks to work on locusts is not only environmentally friendly, it is also less expensive than using pesticides. The experiment was reportedly used with considerable success to fight&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-consider-importing-insecticides-from-india-to-fight-locusts-281375">locust</a> attack in China's north-western Xinjiang region two decades ago.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-next-global-enemy-locusts-282109/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The newspaper quoted China's agricultural researcher who said ducks are more suited to take on the task than other poultry. The ducks can also reportedly eat at least 200 locusts a day, according to the Chinese researcher with greater "combat capability" than chickens.

There were reports earlier that Pakistan would be importing insecticides from India to fight the locust swam but authorities showed inclination towards buying to from China. Pakistan is facing the worst locust attack in over two decades.

According to reports, India and Pakistan authorities had met to review the situation with India too preparing to take on the locusts with drone monitoring system and specialist equipment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-kenya-ethiopia-locusts-enter-uganda-279768">After Kenya &amp; Ethiopia, locusts enter Uganda&nbsp;</a>

Desert locusts, large herbivores have reportedly arrived in Pakistan from Iran. Pakistan declared a national emergency over the locust swarms and has been preparing a battle plan to face the insects&nbsp;which have already damaged large amount of crops.

Pakistan authorities fear a large attack in June- July and have been preparing in advance.

Locusts attacks have ravaged crops across eastern Africa Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya Eritrea and Djibouti. It also entered Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan.

According to a Chinese newspaper, the country will be sending an "army" of 100,000 ducks to help Pakistan combat locust attacks. China's Ningbo Evening News said the ducks would be dispatched from the eastern province of Zhejiang as Chinese experts arrive in Pakistan to advise the country on ways to tackle the locust menace.

According to a Chinese newspaper, the country will be sending an "army" of 100,000 ducks to help Pakistan combat locust attacks. China's Ningbo Evening News said the ducks would be dispatched from the eastern province of Zhejiang as Chinese experts arrive in Pakistan to advise the country on ways to tackle the locust menace. Also Read: Now, Pakistan may seek China's help to fight locust attack The paper said employing ducks to work on locusts is not only environmentally friendly, it is also less expensive than using pesticides. The experiment was reportedly used with considerable success to fight the locust attack in China's north-western Xinjiang region two decades ago. Watch Video: The newspaper quoted China's agricultural researcher who said ducks are more suited to take on the task than other poultry. The ducks can also reportedly eat at least 200 locusts a day, according to the Chinese researcher with greater "combat capability" than chickens. There were reports earlier that Pakistan would be importing insecticides from India to fight the locust swam but authorities showed inclination towards buying to from China. Pakistan is facing the worst locust attack in over two decades. According to reports, India and Pakistan authorities had met to review the situation with India too preparing to take on the locusts with drone monitoring system and specialist equipment. After Kenya & Ethiopia, locusts enter Uganda Desert locusts, large herbivores have reportedly arrived in Pakistan from Iran. Pakistan declared a national emergency over the locust swarms and has been preparing a battle plan to face the insects which have already damaged large amount of crops. Pakistan authorities fear a large attack in June- July and have been preparing in advance. Locusts attacks have ravaged crops across eastern Africa Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya Eritrea and Djibouti. It also entered Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan.

Now, China may send 'army' of ducks to Pakistan to combat locust menace

A new immigration war has begun between New Zealand and Australia. The two countries are said to have the closest bilateral relations but their relations may be turning bitter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-backed-by-australias-morrison-talks-tough-on-china-250920">Also Read: Trump, backed by Australia's Morrison, talks tough on China</a>

The prime minister of New Zealand slammed the Australian prime minister at a press conference on his home turf at Sydney. The flashpoint being the deportation of New Zealanders convicted for small crimes.

During the press conference, Jacinda Ardern said: "I have been absolutely clear, this is corrosive to our relationship&nbsp;and I've shared privately what I've shared publicly today with PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-prime-minister-under-pressure-as-bushfires-fuel-climate-debate-269899">Morrison</a>, we are not arguing that Australia should not have a deportation policy, they should, we do as well. What we are asking for is a reciprocal arrangement."&nbsp;

"New Zealand does not deport those that we consider for all intents and purposes to have established themselves as New Zealanders," PM Ardern added. &nbsp;

It is PM Ardern's strongest ever stance on the issue, she has been under pressure back home to address the rights of Kiwis living in Australia.

An uncomfortable Scott Morrison was quick to hit back with an explanation.

"But if you are a non-citizen, our very clear view and our government is well known for our clear views when it comes to issues of immigration and border security. if you have committed a crime, and you're not a citizen of Australia, then you have no right to stay," the Australian prime minister said.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said: "Australia is well within its rights to deport individuals who break your laws. New Zealand does the same but we have a simple request, send back Kiwis, genuine Kiwis. Do not deport your people and your problems."

Deportation has been a simmering tension between the two nations for years but it has heated up considerably in recent times.

For Ardern, it has become an election issue with polls just six months away.

The New Zeland police have repeatedly blamed Australia's policy for the rise in domestic crime in their country.

In fact, the opposition in New Zealand has threatened to send back Australia's criminals if it wins.

PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/next-step-is-for-him-to-return-home-says-australian-pm-scott-morrison-on-al-araibis-release-196704">Morrison</a>, however, was just as determined - time and again he has stood his ground saying Australia's policy is not country-specific and he added that coronavirus was to blame.

"And most importantly at the moment dealing with the coronavirus, sharing our borders and ensuring those borders are well maintained, together with New Zealand," the Australian PM said.

"New Zealand have got ahead of this issue and we are staying ahead of this issue, that means that we'll get through this issue together, Australia and New Zealand, and we'll be able to provide what we believe is the best level of preparedness anywhere in the world," he said adding a level of caution to the heated conversation.

In the last five years, Australia is said to have deported over 2,600 people to New Zealand.

The policy is part of PM Morrison government's larger immigration crackdown that can also strip dual nationals of their Australian citizenship.

Reports say visa holders who are sentenced to at least 12 months' jail time in Australia face mandatory deportation. New Zealanders say this is unfair. They have long been considered near-citizens of Australia.

Roughly 650,000 thousand New Zealand citizens - more than a tenth of the smaller country's population call Australia their home.

Most of them have lived in the country for most of their lives and don't want to leave their families behind for petty crimes.

A new immigration war has begun between New Zealand and Australia. The two countries are said to have the closest bilateral relations but their relations may be turning bitter.

A new immigration war has begun between New Zealand and Australia. The two countries are said to have the closest bilateral relations but their relations may be turning bitter. Also Read: Trump, backed by Australia's Morrison, talks tough on China The prime minister of New Zealand slammed the Australian prime minister at a press conference on his home turf at Sydney. The flashpoint being the deportation of New Zealanders convicted for small crimes. During the press conference, Jacinda Ardern said: "I have been absolutely clear, this is corrosive to our relationship and I've shared privately what I've shared publicly today with PM Morrison, we are not arguing that Australia should not have a deportation policy, they should, we do as well. What we are asking for is a reciprocal arrangement." "New Zealand does not deport those that we consider for all intents and purposes to have established themselves as New Zealanders," PM Ardern added. It is PM Ardern's strongest ever stance on the issue, she has been under pressure back home to address the rights of Kiwis living in Australia. An uncomfortable Scott Morrison was quick to hit back with an explanation. "But if you are a non-citizen, our very clear view and our government is well known for our clear views when it comes to issues of immigration and border security. if you have committed a crime, and you're not a citizen of Australia, then you have no right to stay," the Australian prime minister said. New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said: "Australia is well within its rights to deport individuals who break your laws. New Zealand does the same but we have a simple request, send back Kiwis, genuine Kiwis. Do not deport your people and your problems." Deportation has been a simmering tension between the two nations for years but it has heated up considerably in recent times. For Ardern, it has become an election issue with polls just six months away. The New Zeland police have repeatedly blamed Australia's policy for the rise in domestic crime in their country. In fact, the opposition in New Zealand has threatened to send back Australia's criminals if it wins. PM Morrison, however, was just as determined - time and again he has stood his ground saying Australia's policy is not country-specific and he added that coronavirus was to blame. "And most importantly at the moment dealing with the coronavirus, sharing our borders and ensuring those borders are well maintained, together with New Zealand," the Australian PM said. "New Zealand have got ahead of this issue and we are staying ahead of this issue, that means that we'll get through this issue together, Australia and New Zealand, and we'll be able to provide what we believe is the best level of preparedness anywhere in the world," he said adding a level of caution to the heated conversation. In the last five years, Australia is said to have deported over 2,600 people to New Zealand. The policy is part of PM Morrison government's larger immigration crackdown that can also strip dual nationals of their Australian citizenship. Reports say visa holders who are sentenced to at least 12 months' jail time in Australia face mandatory deportation. New Zealanders say this is unfair. They have long been considered near-citizens of Australia. Roughly 650,000 thousand New Zealand citizens - more than a tenth of the smaller country's population call Australia their home. Most of them have lived in the country for most of their lives and don't want to leave their families behind for petty crimes.

New Zealand PM Ardern, Australia PM Scott Morrison in deportation row

How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan

India exercised its right of reply against Pakistan’s statement over Kashmir at the 43rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-global-hub-of-terrorism-says-india-at-unhrc-282888">Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan global hub of terrorism, says India at UNHRC</a>

India slammed Pakistan for its attempts to derail the positive developments in Kashmir by actively supporting terrorist groups and related entities.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kashmir-will-remain-an-integral-part-of-india-indias-statement-at-unhrc-in-geneva-282884/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is fast returning to normalcy despite serious attempts by Pakistan to derail the positive developments through its active support to terrorist groups and related entities," first secretary in India's Permanent Mission Vimarsh Aryan said.

"The international community cannot be misled by Pakistani hysterical reactions at all international fora to malign India. The world knows about the dismal human rights records of Pakistan and tight control cannot hide it all," the Indian diplomat told the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-made-up-the-numbers-india-on-islamabad-claiming-support-of-58-countries-at-unhrc-253777">UN </a>body.

"Let us advise Pakistan for its own good and for the peace and prosperity of the South Asian region," India added.

India then listed out ten points of recommendations for Pakistan to undo the damage it has done in regard to its bilateral relationship with India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sindh-baloch-and-pashtuns-protest-against-pakistan-army-atrocities-outside-unhrc-282766">Also Read:&nbsp;Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC</a>

Firstly, end the illegal and forcible occupation and reverse the demographic changes in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK).&nbsp;Secondly, stop terror funding and dismantle terrorist camps operating in Pakistan and territories under its control.

India asked Pakistan to stop public advocacy and support for terrorists by Pakistani leadership at the highest level and to make structural reforms to develop a semblance of democracy in Pakistan.

It also advised the Imran Khan government to end harassment and execution of minorities through misuse of blasphemy law and end forced conversions and marriages of women and girls from Hindu, Sikh and Christian religions.

The India diplomat said Pakistan should stop killing and targeting political dissidents and allow legitimate criticism in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

India said Pakistan should prevent enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings of journalists and human rights activists by its security agencies and stop religious persecution against Shias, Ahmadiyas, Ismailia and Hazaras.

And lastly, stop recruitment of children for terror activities including suicide bombing in other countries.

India asserted that Pakistan's regressive blasphemy laws has led to the persecution of many innocent civilians while maintaining that Pakistan has no right to comment on the internal affairs of India.

India exercised its right of reply against Pakistan’s statement over Kashmir at the 43rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. Also Read: Pakistan global hub of terrorism, says India at UNHRC India slammed Pakistan for its attempts to derail the positive developments in Kashmir by actively supporting terrorist groups and related entities.

India exercised its right of reply against Pakistan’s statement over Kashmir at the 43rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. Also Read: Pakistan global hub of terrorism, says India at UNHRC India slammed Pakistan for its attempts to derail the positive developments in Kashmir by actively supporting terrorist groups and related entities. Watch Video: "The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is fast returning to normalcy despite serious attempts by Pakistan to derail the positive developments through its active support to terrorist groups and related entities," first secretary in India's Permanent Mission Vimarsh Aryan said. "The international community cannot be misled by Pakistani hysterical reactions at all international fora to malign India. The world knows about the dismal human rights records of Pakistan and tight control cannot hide it all," the Indian diplomat told the UN body. "Let us advise Pakistan for its own good and for the peace and prosperity of the South Asian region," India added. India then listed out ten points of recommendations for Pakistan to undo the damage it has done in regard to its bilateral relationship with India. Also Read: Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC Firstly, end the illegal and forcible occupation and reverse the demographic changes in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK). Secondly, stop terror funding and dismantle terrorist camps operating in Pakistan and territories under its control. India asked Pakistan to stop public advocacy and support for terrorists by Pakistani leadership at the highest level and to make structural reforms to develop a semblance of democracy in Pakistan. It also advised the Imran Khan government to end harassment and execution of minorities through misuse of blasphemy law and end forced conversions and marriages of women and girls from Hindu, Sikh and Christian religions. The India diplomat said Pakistan should stop killing and targeting political dissidents and allow legitimate criticism in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. India said Pakistan should prevent enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings of journalists and human rights activists by its security agencies and stop religious persecution against Shias, Ahmadiyas, Ismailia and Hazaras. And lastly, stop recruitment of children for terror activities including suicide bombing in other countries. India asserted that Pakistan's regressive blasphemy laws has led to the persecution of many innocent civilians while maintaining that Pakistan has no right to comment on the internal affairs of India.

Pakistan has dismal human rights record, it should end illegal occupation of PoK, says India at UNHRC

According to a research, the latest cars on the road in the UK emit&nbsp;more carbon dioxide (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/co2-removal-no-silver-bullet-to-fighting-climate-change-scientists-31376">CO2</a>) than older vehicles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-2-rise-in-co2-giant-leap-backwards-for-humankind-24118">Also Read: Global 2 per cent rise in CO2 'giant leap backwards for humankind'</a>

The research carried out by watchdog Which?&nbsp;found &nbsp;petrol, diesel and hybrid cars have been producing seven per cent more CO2 at an average than older vehicles.

The study tested every car since 2017, found an average increase of CO2 of 10.5g/km which was seven times more across almost all car classes and fuel types in the country.

The category which performed the worse was petrol-hybrid cars namely BMW 3 Series size which recorded an average increase of 31.7 per cent after all cars were subjected to the same tests.

One of the reasons for the increase in CO2 was probably due to the weight of the car. The study said rise in fuel consumption due to added technical and software modifications has led to higher <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/co2-in-atmosphere-hit-record-high-in-2016-23154">CO2 emissions</a>.

In petrol cars, the level of carbon monoxide emissions has dropped by 40.6 per cent, the research found with emissions linked to harming human health was at an negligible level.

According to a research, the latest cars on the road in the UK emit more carbon dioxide (CO2) than older vehicles. Also Read: Global 2 per cent rise in CO2 'giant leap backwards for humankind' The research carried out by watchdog Which?

According to a research, the latest cars on the road in the UK emit more carbon dioxide (CO2) than older vehicles. Also Read: Global 2 per cent rise in CO2 'giant leap backwards for humankind' The research carried out by watchdog Which? found petrol, diesel and hybrid cars have been producing seven per cent more CO2 at an average than older vehicles. The study tested every car since 2017, found an average increase of CO2 of 10.5g/km which was seven times more across almost all car classes and fuel types in the country. The category which performed the worse was petrol-hybrid cars namely BMW 3 Series size which recorded an average increase of 31.7 per cent after all cars were subjected to the same tests. One of the reasons for the increase in CO2 was probably due to the weight of the car. The study said rise in fuel consumption due to added technical and software modifications has led to higher CO2 emissions. In petrol cars, the level of carbon monoxide emissions has dropped by 40.6 per cent, the research found with emissions linked to harming human health was at an negligible level.

Hybrid cars produce more CO2 than older vehicles in UK: Study

According to the National Statistical Office (NSO), India's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-gdp-seen-growing-at-47-in-december-quarter-283196"> Gross Domestic Product</a>(GDP) slipped to 4.7 per cent in October-December 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">Also Read: India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060</a>

India's GDP was 5.6 per cent in the corresponding quarter of 2018-19.

India's economy grew 5.1 per cent in the nine-month period between April-December 2019 as against 6.3 per cent in the same period a year ago, the NSO informed.

The NSO pegged economic growth at 5 per cent in 2019-20 on Friday. India's Reserve Bank had pegged India's GDP growth at 5 per cent for 2019-20.

The Controller General of Accounts (CGA) informed that India's fiscal deficit touched 128.5 per cent of the whole year budget target at January-end, the government had targeted to restrict the fiscal deficit at Rs 7,66,846 crore during the year ending March 31, 2020.

In the Budget, finance minister&nbsp;Nirmalal Sitharaman had raised fiscal deficit target to 3.8 per cent of the GDP from 3.3 per cent earlier for 2019-20.

According to the National Statistical Office (NSO), India's Gross Domestic Product(GDP) slipped to 4.7 per cent in October-December 2019. Also Read: India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060 India's GDP was 5.

According to the National Statistical Office (NSO), India's Gross Domestic Product(GDP) slipped to 4.7 per cent in October-December 2019. Also Read: India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060 India's GDP was 5.6 per cent in the corresponding quarter of 2018-19. India's economy grew 5.1 per cent in the nine-month period between April-December 2019 as against 6.3 per cent in the same period a year ago, the NSO informed. The NSO pegged economic growth at 5 per cent in 2019-20 on Friday. India's Reserve Bank had pegged India's GDP growth at 5 per cent for 2019-20. The Controller General of Accounts (CGA) informed that India's fiscal deficit touched 128.5 per cent of the whole year budget target at January-end, the government had targeted to restrict the fiscal deficit at Rs 7,66,846 crore during the year ending March 31, 2020. In the Budget, finance minister Nirmalal Sitharaman had raised fiscal deficit target to 3.8 per cent of the GDP from 3.3 per cent earlier for 2019-20.

India's GDP growth slips to 4.7% in December quarter

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