Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-foreign-minister-meets-newly-elected-sri-lankan-president-in-colombo-visit-265764">Mahmood Qureshi</a> said that Pakistan will not allow its soil to be used in any kind of religious conflict.&nbsp; 
 
The Pakistan foreign minister's comments came after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">Qasem Soleimani</a>, 62, the head of Iran's al-Quds force was killed in a US drone strike in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-attack-on-baghdad-airport-top-iran-commander-killed-271756">Baghdad</a> on Friday amid heightened <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-iran-tensions-and-why-india-should-care-271967">US-Iran tensions</a>.

Pakistan's Foreign Office said that Qureshi had held telephonic conversations with the foreign ministers of Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey on Sunday while asserting that Pakistan was ready to continue to play a role in preventing further escalation and maintaining regional peace and stability.

"Highlighting Pakistan's deep concern over the recent developments, the foreign minister underscored the imperative of avoidance of conflict, the exercise of maximum restraint, and de-escalation of tensions," the Pakistan foreign office said in a statement.

According to the official statement by Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs, there was a wide-ranging exchange of views between Qureshi and the four foreign ministers on "the unfolding situation in the region".

Qureshi renewed call to all concerned parties to abide by the UN Charter and principles of international law to settle differences through peaceful means.

(Inputs: ANI)

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan will not allow its soil to be used in any kind of religious conflict. The Pakistan foreign minister's comments came after Qasem Soleimani, 62, the head of Iran's al-Quds force was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday amid heightened US-Iran tensions.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan will not allow its soil to be used in any kind of religious conflict. The Pakistan foreign minister's comments came after Qasem Soleimani, 62, the head of Iran's al-Quds force was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday amid heightened US-Iran tensions. Pakistan's Foreign Office said that Qureshi had held telephonic conversations with the foreign ministers of Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey on Sunday while asserting that Pakistan was ready to continue to play a role in preventing further escalation and maintaining regional peace and stability. "Highlighting Pakistan's deep concern over the recent developments, the foreign minister underscored the imperative of avoidance of conflict, the exercise of maximum restraint, and de-escalation of tensions," the Pakistan foreign office said in a statement. According to the official statement by Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs, there was a wide-ranging exchange of views between Qureshi and the four foreign ministers on "the unfolding situation in the region". Qureshi renewed call to all concerned parties to abide by the UN Charter and principles of international law to settle differences through peaceful means. (Inputs: ANI)

Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi calls for 'maximum restraint' amid West Asia tensions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-thomas-wins-bmw-championship-by-three-strokes-over-cantlay-244021">Justin Thomas</a> survived a "disaster" at the 72nd hole before beating Patrick Reed and Xander Schauffele in a three-way playoff at the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions in windswept <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures%3A-lava-fissures-in-hawaii-135117">Hawaii</a> on Sunday.

Thomas clinched victory with a three-foot birdie at the third extra hole, the par-five 18th, at the Kapalua Plantation course on Maui.

Schauffele was eliminated at the first hole of sudden death while Reed fell two holes later as the 26-year-old Thomas earned his 12th PGA Tour victory.

He had one hand on the trophy with a one-shot lead playing the final hole of regulation but hooked his three-wood second shot into a penalty area and could not find his ball in the waist-high tropical grass.

He made a bogey for a four-under-par 69, while Schauffele had a three-putt par, missing a seven-footer for the win, and carded 70.

They fell into a playoff with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-reed-moves-clear-as-woods-surges-in-bahamas-266577">Reed</a>, who earlier shot 66, at 14-under 278.

"For some reason I was supposed to win this week," Thomas said in a greenside interview after sinking his winning putt in semi-darkness.

"I got very, very lucky to even have that putt. I got very fortunate, but I also stuck to my process and tried to stay positive.

"Through 15 holes it was one of the best rounds I've ever played. I was in such control, tee to green, putting beautiful, my irons were awesome and then 18 was a disaster. It worked out so I can't complain."

Reed three-putted the second extra hole from the fringe and then missed an eight-foot birdie at the third playoff hole, his mood hardly helped when a spectator screamed "cheater" as his ball slid by the hole.

Reed has been in the spotlight since being hit with a two-stroke penalty for improving his lie in a waste bunker during last month's Hero World Challenge in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-dorian-pounds-bahamas-inches-towards-florida-coast-247403">Bahamas</a>.

Schauffele, who had been on the verge of successfully defending his title, said: "I should have won it.

"I know it, everyone knows it. I should have closed it out and didn't.

"I kind of did everything I was supposed to until the last moment.

"I know I'm good enough to hang with the best. I just need to be a little smarter when the time is right and I would have closed it out."

Justin Thomas survived a "disaster" at the 72nd hole before beating Patrick Reed and Xander Schauffele in a three-way playoff at the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions in windswept Hawaii on Sunday.

Justin Thomas survived a "disaster" at the 72nd hole before beating Patrick Reed and Xander Schauffele in a three-way playoff at the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions in windswept Hawaii on Sunday. Thomas clinched victory with a three-foot birdie at the third extra hole, the par-five 18th, at the Kapalua Plantation course on Maui. Schauffele was eliminated at the first hole of sudden death while Reed fell two holes later as the 26-year-old Thomas earned his 12th PGA Tour victory. He had one hand on the trophy with a one-shot lead playing the final hole of regulation but hooked his three-wood second shot into a penalty area and could not find his ball in the waist-high tropical grass. He made a bogey for a four-under-par 69, while Schauffele had a three-putt par, missing a seven-footer for the win, and carded 70. They fell into a playoff with Reed, who earlier shot 66, at 14-under 278. "For some reason I was supposed to win this week," Thomas said in a greenside interview after sinking his winning putt in semi-darkness. "I got very, very lucky to even have that putt. I got very fortunate, but I also stuck to my process and tried to stay positive. "Through 15 holes it was one of the best rounds I've ever played. I was in such control, tee to green, putting beautiful, my irons were awesome and then 18 was a disaster. It worked out so I can't complain." Reed three-putted the second extra hole from the fringe and then missed an eight-foot birdie at the third playoff hole, his mood hardly helped when a spectator screamed "cheater" as his ball slid by the hole. Reed has been in the spotlight since being hit with a two-stroke penalty for improving his lie in a waste bunker during last month's Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. Schauffele, who had been on the verge of successfully defending his title, said: "I should have won it. "I know it, everyone knows it. I should have closed it out and didn't. "I kind of did everything I was supposed to until the last moment. "I know I'm good enough to hang with the best. I just need to be a little smarter when the time is right and I would have closed it out."

Golf: Justin Thomas survives 'disaster' to win Tournament of Champions playoff

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-ancelottis-everton-win-again-pearson-works-watford-magic-270814">Everton</a> in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0.

Premier League Crystal Place were knocked out by Championship side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rooney-dons-captains-armband-on-derby-debut-in-win-over-barnsley-271897">Derby County</a> after suffering a 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">Juergen Klopp</a> made nine changes to his side, giving starts to three teenagers, while his Italian counterpart Carlo Ancelotti opted for a largely full-strength Everton lineup.

The gulf in experience between the two sides was barely evident, however, and will simply add to the pain for Everton, who are without a win at Anfield since September 1999.

For Liverpool, it was a performance which illustrated the talent coming through the production line at their Melwood training ground.

For local-born academy product Jones, it was a game he will never forget, delivering his first senior goal in a Merseyside derby.

"I can't sum up my emotions. For me, it’s huge just being around this team every day and learning from this group of players. There are world-class players all over this team but I think I went out and showed what I could do on the pitch," he said.

Everton should have gone into the break ahead, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpools-klopp-unhappy-with-var-delays-in-win-over-wolves-270911">Liverpool</a> keeper Adrian foiling goalbound efforts from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Mason Holgate and Richarlison in the first half.

Ancelotti will be disappointed that on each of those occasions his players aimed straight at the Spanish keeper but worse was to come.

Klopp was visibly appreciating the sight of his youngsters buzzing around the field playing enterprising football with the German raising his arms in applause as teenagers Neco Williams, Harvey Elliott and Jones showed they are well-drilled in the Liverpool method.

Jones delivered the killer blow in the 71st minute when after a swift exchange with Divock Origi he unleashed a superb curling effort into the top corner, leaving Everton without a win against their rivals since October 2010.

"They played brave football. Unbelievable individual performances from the kids and the adults as well," said Klopp.

"Sensational game and a sensational goal from a Scouser - who could ask for more?"

Eight-times FA Cup winners Spurs trailed to Ashley Fletcher's fine finish just after the break but Moura's header spared a Tottenham side who were without injured striker Harry Kane.

Tottenham dominated following Moura's equaliser but Boro keeper Tomas Mejias, making his first start of the season, frustrated them with several saves as his side earned a replay.

Chelsea made nine changes to their starting line-up but beat Championship promotion hopefuls Forest with goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ross Barkley.

Former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester United</a> and England striker Wayne Rooney, back in England after a spell in Major League&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;with DC United, helped Championship side Derby County to spring a surprise with a 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace.

It was Rooney's first appearance in the FA Cup since he played for Everton - exactly two years ago - in a 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield.

Palace skipper Luka Milivojevic became the first player in an English match to be sent off as a result of a referee reviewing an incident on a pitch-side monitor during the loss.

Derby striker Chris Martin decided the game with a close-range effort in the 32nd minute.

Top-flight Sheffield United were made to work hard by minor league outfit AFC Fylde, winning 2-1.

In an all-Championship clash, West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic make a combined 20 changes, with Albion winning 1-0 thanks to Kenneth Zohore's goal.

In another all-second tier encounter, Jordan Hugill, on loan from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-reappoint-moyes-in-bid-to-avoid-relegation-scrap-270956">West Ham United</a>, scored twice for Queens Park Rangers in their 5-1 win over Swansea City.

Premier League West Ham United beat third-tier Gillingham 2-0 with second-half goals from Pablo Zabaleta and Pablo Fornals.

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over Everton in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday. Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0.

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over Everton in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday. Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0. Premier League Crystal Place were knocked out by Championship side Derby County after suffering a 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp made nine changes to his side, giving starts to three teenagers, while his Italian counterpart Carlo Ancelotti opted for a largely full-strength Everton lineup. The gulf in experience between the two sides was barely evident, however, and will simply add to the pain for Everton, who are without a win at Anfield since September 1999. For Liverpool, it was a performance which illustrated the talent coming through the production line at their Melwood training ground. For local-born academy product Jones, it was a game he will never forget, delivering his first senior goal in a Merseyside derby. "I can't sum up my emotions. For me, it’s huge just being around this team every day and learning from this group of players. There are world-class players all over this team but I think I went out and showed what I could do on the pitch," he said. Everton should have gone into the break ahead, with Liverpool keeper Adrian foiling goalbound efforts from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Mason Holgate and Richarlison in the first half. Ancelotti will be disappointed that on each of those occasions his players aimed straight at the Spanish keeper but worse was to come. Klopp was visibly appreciating the sight of his youngsters buzzing around the field playing enterprising football with the German raising his arms in applause as teenagers Neco Williams, Harvey Elliott and Jones showed they are well-drilled in the Liverpool method. Jones delivered the killer blow in the 71st minute when after a swift exchange with Divock Origi he unleashed a superb curling effort into the top corner, leaving Everton without a win against their rivals since October 2010. "They played brave football. Unbelievable individual performances from the kids and the adults as well," said Klopp. "Sensational game and a sensational goal from a Scouser - who could ask for more?" Eight-times FA Cup winners Spurs trailed to Ashley Fletcher's fine finish just after the break but Moura's header spared a Tottenham side who were without injured striker Harry Kane. Tottenham dominated following Moura's equaliser but Boro keeper Tomas Mejias, making his first start of the season, frustrated them with several saves as his side earned a replay. Chelsea made nine changes to their starting line-up but beat Championship promotion hopefuls Forest with goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ross Barkley. Former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney, back in England after a spell in Major League Soccer with DC United, helped Championship side Derby County to spring a surprise with a 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace. It was Rooney's first appearance in the FA Cup since he played for Everton - exactly two years ago - in a 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield. Palace skipper Luka Milivojevic became the first player in an English match to be sent off as a result of a referee reviewing an incident on a pitch-side monitor during the loss. Derby striker Chris Martin decided the game with a close-range effort in the 32nd minute. Top-flight Sheffield United were made to work hard by minor league outfit AFC Fylde, winning 2-1. In an all-Championship clash, West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic make a combined 20 changes, with Albion winning 1-0 thanks to Kenneth Zohore's goal. In another all-second tier encounter, Jordan Hugill, on loan from West Ham United, scored twice for Queens Park Rangers in their 5-1 win over Swansea City. Premier League West Ham United beat third-tier Gillingham 2-0 with second-half goals from Pablo Zabaleta and Pablo Fornals.

Klopp's Liverpool knock Everton out of FA Cup

No one can escape Argentina's biggest economic crisis in almost two decades -- not even the dead.&nbsp;

The cost of buying, renting and maintaining graves and tombs is so high that many people opt to cremate their loved ones instead.

Juan Tapia runs the Cocheria Tacuari undertakers in Buenos Aires, which has been operating for 60 years.

"It's an economic problem. People don't have enough money to pay for a service. Family members help each other, ask for loans; some come and pay with US dollars that they've saved or kept under the mattress," he told AFP.

Undertakers are constantly forced to drop their prices "because unfortunately, people don't have the same spending power of a few years ago."

Paying for a funeral "means, for a family, that they might not eat this month," said Tapia.

The cheapest service offered by Cocheria Tacuari is a cremation without a wake, which costs 25,000 pesos ($415) -- almost 50 per cent more than the minimum wage of 16,875 pesos a month.

More expensive options can cost up to 180,000 pesos, but few are interested in those.

"Almost 90 per cent ask for cremation. Young people want nothing to do either with graves, niches (cubbies for storing remains urns) or tombs," said Tapia.

His estimations are not far off from official statistics.

In 2018, 78.5 per cent of corpses in Buenos Aires were cremated, according to an AFP count of public records. That's the highest proportion over the last decade.

No one can escape Argentina's biggest economic crisis in almost two decades -- not even the dead. The cost of buying, renting and maintaining graves and tombs is so high that many people opt to cremate their loved ones instead.

No one can escape Argentina's biggest economic crisis in almost two decades -- not even the dead. The cost of buying, renting and maintaining graves and tombs is so high that many people opt to cremate their loved ones instead. Juan Tapia runs the Cocheria Tacuari undertakers in Buenos Aires, which has been operating for 60 years. "It's an economic problem. People don't have enough money to pay for a service. Family members help each other, ask for loans; some come and pay with US dollars that they've saved or kept under the mattress," he told AFP. Undertakers are constantly forced to drop their prices "because unfortunately, people don't have the same spending power of a few years ago." Paying for a funeral "means, for a family, that they might not eat this month," said Tapia. The cheapest service offered by Cocheria Tacuari is a cremation without a wake, which costs 25,000 pesos ($415) -- almost 50 per cent more than the minimum wage of 16,875 pesos a month. More expensive options can cost up to 180,000 pesos, but few are interested in those. "Almost 90 per cent ask for cremation. Young people want nothing to do either with graves, niches (cubbies for storing remains urns) or tombs," said Tapia. His estimations are not far off from official statistics. In 2018, 78.5 per cent of corpses in Buenos Aires were cremated, according to an AFP count of public records. That's the highest proportion over the last decade.

Cost of maintaining graves hurts Argentinians amid economic downturn

China has confirmed that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-probes-mystery-pneumonia-outbreak-amid-sars-fears-271264">mysterious viral pneumonia</a> that has infected 59 people in the central part of the country, is not SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) had killed 349 in mainland China and 299 in Hong Kong in 2003. The virus had also infected more than 8,000 people. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organization-says-e-cigarettes-undoubtedly-harmful-238779">World Health Organization</a> (WHO)&nbsp;had announced that China was free from SARS in May 2004.

China's Wuhan city saw a mysterious viral infecting people which was widely reported referring to the contagious SARS virus.&nbsp;

China also ruled out the hypothesis of bird-flu and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and told reporters that investigation is still going on amid the health crisis.&nbsp;

"We have excluded several hypotheses, in particular, the fact that it is a flu, the avian flu, an adenovirus, SARS or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)," the Wuhan health commission said.

Wuhan Health Commission added that the seven patients were seriously ill and were being quarantined. &nbsp;

The health commission’s official website stated that 163 people who had contact with those who were infected were being examined under medical observation and the commission was making constant efforts to identify the virus and its source.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Wuhan police arrested eight civilians for “publishing and forwarding false information on the internet without authentication” on the viral outbreak.

The city office has closed the seafood market for disinfection where the infection was first seen and cases were reported. &nbsp;

"The symptoms reported among the patients are common to several respiratory diseases, and pneumonia is common in the winter season," WHO said, adding that the concentration of cases should be handled "prudently".

The international health body also stated that the reported link to a wholesale fish market and the live animal market could be an indication that the virus might have originated from animals.

(Inputs from Agencies)

China has confirmed that the mysterious viral pneumonia that has infected 59 people in the central part of the country, is not SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

China has confirmed that the mysterious viral pneumonia that has infected 59 people in the central part of the country, is not SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) had killed 349 in mainland China and 299 in Hong Kong in 2003. The virus had also infected more than 8,000 people. The World Health Organization (WHO) had announced that China was free from SARS in May 2004. China's Wuhan city saw a mysterious viral infecting people which was widely reported referring to the contagious SARS virus. China also ruled out the hypothesis of bird-flu and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and told reporters that investigation is still going on amid the health crisis. "We have excluded several hypotheses, in particular, the fact that it is a flu, the avian flu, an adenovirus, SARS or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)," the Wuhan health commission said. Wuhan Health Commission added that the seven patients were seriously ill and were being quarantined. The health commission’s official website stated that 163 people who had contact with those who were infected were being examined under medical observation and the commission was making constant efforts to identify the virus and its source. Meanwhile, Wuhan police arrested eight civilians for “publishing and forwarding false information on the internet without authentication” on the viral outbreak. The city office has closed the seafood market for disinfection where the infection was first seen and cases were reported. "The symptoms reported among the patients are common to several respiratory diseases, and pneumonia is common in the winter season," WHO said, adding that the concentration of cases should be handled "prudently". The international health body also stated that the reported link to a wholesale fish market and the live animal market could be an indication that the virus might have originated from animals. (Inputs from Agencies)

Mysterious viral pneumonia infects several in China

Former Prime Minister of Nepal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/merger-wave-in-nepal-where-is-it-heading-218790">Baburam Bhattarai</a> extended his solidarity with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jawaharlal-nehru-university-row-delhi-police-register-fir-over-defacement-of-public-property-262670">Jawaharlal Nehru University</a> (JNU), where violence broke out on Sunday and called for protecting the "holy temple of learning".

"My heartfelt solidarity with my alma mater JNU! Please save this holy temple of learning!," said Bhattarai, a PhD from JNU, while retweeting the tweet of actor Swara Bhaskar.

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My heart-felt solidarity with my alma mater JNU! Please save this holy temple of learning! <a href="https://t.co/Uedm0Rbh2t">https://t.co/Uedm0Rbh2t</a>
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At least 18 people sustained injuries after a group of masked men&nbsp;assaulted students in the campus with wooden sticks and rods. The injured were sent to AIIMS Trauma Centre with complaints of bleeding in the head, abrasions among others, an official said.

Several political leaders including Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220">Arvind Kejriwal</a>, external affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Congress General Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-vadra-to-celebrate-congress-135th-foundation-day-in-lucknow-270548">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> condemned the incident.

Meanwhile, home minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/amit-shah-indias-new-age-loh-purush-264443">Amit Shah</a> ordered an inquiry into the incident and asked for a report as soon as possible.

Former Prime Minister of Nepal Baburam Bhattarai extended his solidarity with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where violence broke out on Sunday and called for protecting the "holy temple of learning".

Former Prime Minister of Nepal Baburam Bhattarai extended his solidarity with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where violence broke out on Sunday and called for protecting the "holy temple of learning". "My heartfelt solidarity with my alma mater JNU! Please save this holy temple of learning!," said Bhattarai, a PhD from JNU, while retweeting the tweet of actor Swara Bhaskar. My heart-felt solidarity with my alma mater JNU! Please save this holy temple of learning! https://t.co/Uedm0Rbh2t — Baburam Bhattarai (@brb1954) January 5, 2020 × At least 18 people sustained injuries after a group of masked men assaulted students in the campus with wooden sticks and rods. The injured were sent to AIIMS Trauma Centre with complaints of bleeding in the head, abrasions among others, an official said. Several political leaders including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, external affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the incident. Meanwhile, home minister Amit Shah ordered an inquiry into the incident and asked for a report as soon as possible.

'Save the holy temple of learning': Nepal ex-PM Bhattarai on Jawaharlal Nehru University violence

The annual Harbin International Ice and Snow festival kicked off on Sunday (January 5) with bang of fireworks and with display of spectacular ice sculptures and structures in the China's one of the coldest cities near Siberia.

China: Harbin kicks off ice festival with firework and light show

Former British astronaut Helen Sharman has told a magazine that "aliens exist" while asserting that "we simply can't see them".

Sharman, 56, who became the first woman to visit the former Soviet space station Mir in 1991 made the admission in UK's Observer magazine.

Sharman told the magazine that "there are&nbsp;no two ways about it", adding that it is possible that "aliens are here right now".

She told the magazine that she heard the job for Britain's first astronaut on the radio while driving and gave it a try, clinching it&nbsp;later.

Sharman described her voyage during her first space mission saying it took her breath away while stating that "mountains" were her "true love". Sharman told the magazine that glorious deep seas which she witnessed from above "took her breath away".

The former astronaut said "self-belief" had changed her life, along with a "can-do attitude".

In a study a few years ago, Cornell University scientists had said that aliens may take another 1,500 years to contact Earth due to the planet's unique attributes.

According to Cornell researches, billions of Earth-like planets exist in our galaxy, however, no aliens have contacted or visited us.

Former British astronaut Helen Sharman has told a magazine that "aliens exist" while asserting that "we simply can't see them". Sharman, 56, who became the first woman to visit the former Soviet space station Mir in 1991 made the admission in UK's Observer magazine.

Former British astronaut Helen Sharman has told a magazine that "aliens exist" while asserting that "we simply can't see them". Sharman, 56, who became the first woman to visit the former Soviet space station Mir in 1991 made the admission in UK's Observer magazine. Sharman told the magazine that "there are no two ways about it", adding that it is possible that "aliens are here right now". She told the magazine that she heard the job for Britain's first astronaut on the radio while driving and gave it a try, clinching it later. Sharman described her voyage during her first space mission saying it took her breath away while stating that "mountains" were her "true love". Sharman told the magazine that glorious deep seas which she witnessed from above "took her breath away". The former astronaut said "self-belief" had changed her life, along with a "can-do attitude". In a study a few years ago, Cornell University scientists had said that aliens may take another 1,500 years to contact Earth due to the planet's unique attributes. According to Cornell researches, billions of Earth-like planets exist in our galaxy, however, no aliens have contacted or visited us.

Aliens exist, we simply can't see them, says former British astronaut Helen Sharman

Winners of their last 18 home league games,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-controversial-mane-goal-gets-liverpool-past-battling-wolves-270913">Liverpool</a>&nbsp;are&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017.

As if it wasn't hard enough to beat&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately.

This was their fifth consecutive top-flight clean-sheet -&nbsp;the first time they have managed that since 2007 - and they completed more passes than any team in one match in the Premier League era.

"The way we controlled Sheffield United was exceptional. In possession we were incredible, we were calm but lively as well. The goals we scored were exceptional," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpools-klopp-unhappy-with-var-delays-in-win-over-wolves-270911">Klopp</a> said.

<img alt="Liverpool celebrate" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a082003-79e3-4ee4-a755-0693fd66bba8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_0.jpg" />

"It's obviously good (to go&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;for a year) but the target was not to extend this, but to win the game," the coach added.

"We did not think about the one year (undefeated). We have season resolutions, not New Year resolutions!"

After a golden 2019 saw&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;crowned European and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Club World champions</a>, the next target is ending Manchester City's two-year spell as champions after narrowly missing out last season.

Their sights set on domestic bliss, the new year started just as the old one finished, with&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;setting standards of excellence that rival anything achieved by City's breath-taking team.

Premier League immortality is within touching distance as Klopp's men are already over halfway towards an&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;league season that would replicate the incredible feat of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">Arsenal</a>'s 2003-04 Invincibles.

Liverpool&nbsp;hadn't even kicked off when they suffered what could have been a distracting blow as Naby Keita was replaced by James Milner after being injured in the warm-up.

But the Reds are far too polished to lose focus and they were in front within four minutes.

Flushed with success

Their win at Bramall Lane in September had come thanks to a mistake from United keeper Dean Henderson and once again&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;benefitted from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-see-off-sheffield-united-but-var-questioned-again-270925">Blades</a> blunder.

When Virgil van Dijk played a long pass towards Andrew Robertson, it should have been easy for George Baldock to deal with.

But Baldock lost his footing and fell over, allowing Robertson to advance and cross low to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juergen-klopp-hails-salahs-sensational-finish-267582">Salah</a>, who got in front of Jack O'Connell to steer in a clinical close-range finish for his 14th goal of the season.

<img alt="Mo Salah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16d3faf3-aec9-49f3-92e3-d712e526c09f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2819%29.jpg" />

Ahead of their first visit to Anfield for 13 year, Chris Wilder's down-to-earth side took the unusual decision to train alongside the public on Stanley Park in the shadow of the famous stadium.

The session was interrupted when a dog decided to use one of the training cones as a toilet.

That unpromising omen proved apt as the visitors' hopes of a shock result were flushed away.

<a href="wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a>'s ability to press any opponent into submission and deliver the knockout blow with their lethal front three has made them virtually unplayable over the last 18 months. Running onto Robertson's pass, Mane broke into the area and took Salah's return pass before firing gleefully into the roof of the net after his initial shot was saved.

Winners of their last 18 home league games, Liverpool are unbeaten in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017. As if it wasn't hard enough to beat Liverpool already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately.

Winners of their last 18 home league games, Liverpool are unbeaten in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017. As if it wasn't hard enough to beat Liverpool already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately. This was their fifth consecutive top-flight clean-sheet - the first time they have managed that since 2007 - and they completed more passes than any team in one match in the Premier League era. "The way we controlled Sheffield United was exceptional. In possession we were incredible, we were calm but lively as well. The goals we scored were exceptional," Klopp said. "It's obviously good (to go unbeaten for a year) but the target was not to extend this, but to win the game," the coach added. "We did not think about the one year (undefeated). We have season resolutions, not New Year resolutions!" After a golden 2019 saw Liverpool crowned European and Club World champions, the next target is ending Manchester City's two-year spell as champions after narrowly missing out last season. Their sights set on domestic bliss, the new year started just as the old one finished, with Liverpool setting standards of excellence that rival anything achieved by City's breath-taking team. Premier League immortality is within touching distance as Klopp's men are already over halfway towards an unbeaten league season that would replicate the incredible feat of Arsenal's 2003-04 Invincibles. Liverpool hadn't even kicked off when they suffered what could have been a distracting blow as Naby Keita was replaced by James Milner after being injured in the warm-up. But the Reds are far too polished to lose focus and they were in front within four minutes. Flushed with success Their win at Bramall Lane in September had come thanks to a mistake from United keeper Dean Henderson and once again Liverpool benefitted from a Blades blunder. When Virgil van Dijk played a long pass towards Andrew Robertson, it should have been easy for George Baldock to deal with. But Baldock lost his footing and fell over, allowing Robertson to advance and cross low to Salah, who got in front of Jack O'Connell to steer in a clinical close-range finish for his 14th goal of the season. Ahead of their first visit to Anfield for 13 year, Chris Wilder's down-to-earth side took the unusual decision to train alongside the public on Stanley Park in the shadow of the famous stadium. The session was interrupted when a dog decided to use one of the training cones as a toilet. That unpromising omen proved apt as the visitors' hopes of a shock result were flushed away. Liverpool's ability to press any opponent into submission and deliver the knockout blow with their lethal front three has made them virtually unplayable over the last 18 months. Running onto Robertson's pass, Mane broke into the area and took Salah's return pass before firing gleefully into the roof of the net after his initial shot was saved.

Klopp's Liverpool: Premier League's unbeaten team stays hungry

Bushfires continued to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-flee-fires-in-australia-navy-helps-evacuate-the-stranded-271716">rage in Australia</a> on Friday showing no signs of abating leaving at least 18 people dead.&nbsp;

The authorities have declared a state of emergency in New South Wales with the wildfires raging even as Navy ships rescued hundreds of people from beaches in Australia.&nbsp;

The announcement comes after authorities ordered tourists from New South Wales south coast to Victoria's east Gippsland to leave the region within the next 24-hour period.

The navy evacuated hundreds from the Victorian coastal town of Mallacoota&nbsp;which has been cut off for days by wildfires, forcing as many as 4,000 residents and tourists to take shelter on beaches.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-military-brings-aid-to-fire-stricken-communities-in-victoria-state-271727/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Over 200 fires have been burning around Australia, and warnings of extreme danger has now been set in motion in one of the largest evacuations in Australian history.

The latest spate of fires, which raced towards the coast this week&nbsp;has already destroyed over 200 homes.

As the situation in Australia worsened, the government deployed military ships and helicopters to rescue thousands trapped in the blazes.

Navy ships brought water, food and fuel to Mallacoota town where supplies have been mostly depleted and roads cut off by the fires.

Meanwhile, the authorities have urged a mass exodus from several towns on Australia’s southeast coast, an area that is hugely popular in the &nbsp;holiday season with hundreds of &nbsp;holidaymakers seeking shelter on beaches&nbsp;while many stood in shallow water to escape the flames.

A tourist leave zone has also been generated along the south coast by the New South Wales rural fire service under widespread power and communications outages.

The fires in Australia continue to be fanned by soaring temperatures and winds as columns of fire and smoke have engulfed several towns.

Bushfires continued to rage in Australia on Friday showing no signs of abating leaving at least 18 people dead. The authorities have declared a state of emergency in New South Wales with the wildfires raging even as Navy ships rescued hundreds of people from beaches in Australia.

Bushfires continued to rage in Australia on Friday showing no signs of abating leaving at least 18 people dead. The authorities have declared a state of emergency in New South Wales with the wildfires raging even as Navy ships rescued hundreds of people from beaches in Australia. The announcement comes after authorities ordered tourists from New South Wales south coast to Victoria's east Gippsland to leave the region within the next 24-hour period. The navy evacuated hundreds from the Victorian coastal town of Mallacoota which has been cut off for days by wildfires, forcing as many as 4,000 residents and tourists to take shelter on beaches. Watch Video: Over 200 fires have been burning around Australia, and warnings of extreme danger has now been set in motion in one of the largest evacuations in Australian history. The latest spate of fires, which raced towards the coast this week has already destroyed over 200 homes. As the situation in Australia worsened, the government deployed military ships and helicopters to rescue thousands trapped in the blazes. Navy ships brought water, food and fuel to Mallacoota town where supplies have been mostly depleted and roads cut off by the fires. Meanwhile, the authorities have urged a mass exodus from several towns on Australia’s southeast coast, an area that is hugely popular in the holiday season with hundreds of holidaymakers seeking shelter on beaches while many stood in shallow water to escape the flames. A tourist leave zone has also been generated along the south coast by the New South Wales rural fire service under widespread power and communications outages. The fires in Australia continue to be fanned by soaring temperatures and winds as columns of fire and smoke have engulfed several towns.

Australian navy evacuates people trapped in Mallacoota as bushfires rage

The US on Thursday issued an advisory to all its air carriers and commercial operators to exercise caution when flying into, out of, within or over the territory and airspace of Pakistan.

The advisory has been issued due to extremist or militant activities.

"The US warns its own air carriers to avoid Pakistan airspace due to risk of possible threat to attacks on US airlines (commercial and US state carriers) by Pakistan extremist and militant groups," it said.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in a statement said the attacks may happen when flights may be on the ground and during take-off or landing.

It added that there continues to be a risk to the US civil aviation from attacks against airports and aircraft, particularly for aircraft on the ground and planes operating at low altitudes, including the arrival and departure phases of flights.

"The ongoing presence of extremist/militant elements operating in Pakistan poses a continued risk to the US civil aviation from small-arms fire and complex attacks against airports," the FAA warned.

According to the statement, there continues to be ongoing presence of extremist or militant elements operating in Pakistan which poses a continued risk from small fire, complex attacks, indirect weapons fire, any of which could occur with little or no warning.

"While, to date, there have been no reports of man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) being used against civil aviation in Pakistan, some extremist/militant groups operating in Pakistan are suspected of having access to MANPADS," it added.

As a result, the FAA said, there is a potential risk for extremists to "target civil aviation in Pakistan with MANPADS."

The justification for this advisory will be re-evaluated by 1st January 2021.

The US on Thursday issued an advisory to all its air carriers and commercial operators to exercise caution when flying into, out of, within or over the territory and airspace of Pakistan.

The US on Thursday issued an advisory to all its air carriers and commercial operators to exercise caution when flying into, out of, within or over the territory and airspace of Pakistan. The advisory has been issued due to extremist or militant activities. "The US warns its own air carriers to avoid Pakistan airspace due to risk of possible threat to attacks on US airlines (commercial and US state carriers) by Pakistan extremist and militant groups," it said. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in a statement said the attacks may happen when flights may be on the ground and during take-off or landing. It added that there continues to be a risk to the US civil aviation from attacks against airports and aircraft, particularly for aircraft on the ground and planes operating at low altitudes, including the arrival and departure phases of flights. "The ongoing presence of extremist/militant elements operating in Pakistan poses a continued risk to the US civil aviation from small-arms fire and complex attacks against airports," the FAA warned. According to the statement, there continues to be ongoing presence of extremist or militant elements operating in Pakistan which poses a continued risk from small fire, complex attacks, indirect weapons fire, any of which could occur with little or no warning. "While, to date, there have been no reports of man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) being used against civil aviation in Pakistan, some extremist/militant groups operating in Pakistan are suspected of having access to MANPADS," it added. As a result, the FAA said, there is a potential risk for extremists to "target civil aviation in Pakistan with MANPADS." The justification for this advisory will be re-evaluated by 1st January 2021.

US issues advisory to its carriers to avoid Pak airspace over extremist threat

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-present-amendment-bill-for-bajwas-extension-as-army-chief-271607">General Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for&nbsp;approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan&nbsp;would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification.

The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023.

The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter.

According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-led-government-challenges-supreme-courts-decision-on-bajwas-tenure-270355">extension in his term</a>, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years.

Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs.

A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill.

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The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief.

"We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment.

"It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act. If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification. The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023. The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of extension in his term, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years. Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs. A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill. × The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief. "We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment. "It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

Pak PM Imran Khan seeks powers to extend General Bajwa's tenure

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