An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942">Vietnam</a> in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad.

The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire.

The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world.

Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country.

Not surprisingly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuela-france-wests-duplicity-196078">France</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ambassador-to-spain-hurt-in-barcelona-mugging-244352">Spain</a> were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa.

Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot.

The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine".

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire. The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world. Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. Not surprisingly France and Spain were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa. Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot. The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

Portugal best country to retire; Malaysia, Vietnam top in Asia: Study

The US Department of Defence said on Friday that US President Donald Trump ordered the killing of Iran Revolutionary Guards commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deputy-head-of-group-irans-quds-force-head-qasem-soleimani-killed-hashed-al-shaabi-271762">Qasem Soleimani</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-general-qassem-soleimani-271786">In Pictures: Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people</a>

"At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization," the US Department of defence said in a statement.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-air-strike-on-baghdad-airport-8-killed-including-iranian-major-general-soleimani-271758/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"General Soleimani was actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region. General Soleimani and his Quds Force were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American and coalition service members and the wounding of thousands more," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-military-strikes-in-iraq-stir-regional-hornets-nest-271866">Read Opinion:&nbsp;US military strikes in Iraq stir regional hornet’s nest</a>

The Baghdad international airport was hit by at least three rockets just after midnight on Friday.

<img alt="Burning debris are seen on a road near Baghdad International Airport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06db0b17-b9ac-4728-bae6-c4b118d40740" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_5.jpg" />

As soon as the reports of the attack became public, US President Trump tweeted an image of the US flag.

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<a href="https://t.co/VXeKiVzpTf">pic.twitter.com/VXeKiVzpTf</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1212924762827046918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Shiite Hashed network blamed the US for the attack while declaring that the deputy head of the Hashed, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and head of the Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, were killed in the US strike.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-bears-responsibility-for-consequences-of-its-rogue-adventurism-iran-foreign-minister-zarif-on-soleimani-killing-271806">Also Read:&nbsp;US bears responsibility for consequences of rogue adventurism, says Iran</a>

"He had orchestrated attacks on coalition bases in Iraq over the last several months – including the attack on December 27 – culminating in the death and wounding of additional American and Iraqi personnel. General Soleimani also approved the attacks on the US Embassy in Baghdad that took place this week," the US Defence Department said.&nbsp;

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Another footage shows the vehicles which were attacked, convoy carrying powerful head of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>’s Quds Force <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IRGC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IRGC</a> Qassem <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Soleimani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Soleimani</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraqi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraqi</a> militia commander Abu Mahdi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AlMuhandis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlMuhandis</a> around <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/baghdadairport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#baghdadairport</a>. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a> <a href="https://t.co/hprFwKI2A2">pic.twitter.com/hprFwKI2A2</a>
— Ehab Al Obaidy (@Ehab8Alobaidy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ehab8Alobaidy/status/1212936328645677058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans. The United States will continue to take all necessary action to protect our people and our interests wherever they are around the world," the US department of defence said.

Iran's foreign minister Javed Zarif said it was "an extremely dangerous and foolish escalation."

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The US' act of international terrorism, targeting &amp; assassinating General Soleimani—THE most effective force fighting Daesh (ISIS), Al Nusrah, Al Qaeda et al—is extremely dangerous &amp; a foolish escalation. 
 
The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1212946202280579073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism," foreign minister Zarif said in a Twitter post. The country declared three days of national mourning after&nbsp;Soleimani's death.

Meanwhile, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi summoned an official from the Swiss embassy which represents the US to condemn the killing of Soleimani.

"Following the assassination of General Soleimani by US forces, the Swiss charge d'affaires was summoned and Iran's serious condemnation was conveyed to him," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said.

"He was told that this is a clear instance of America's state terrorism and America's regime will be fully responsible for its consequences," Mousavi added.

The US Department of Defence said on Friday that US President Donald Trump ordered the killing of Iran Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani. In Pictures: Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people "At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization," the US Department of defence said in a statement.

The US Department of Defence said on Friday that US President Donald Trump ordered the killing of Iran Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani. In Pictures: Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people "At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization," the US Department of defence said in a statement. Watch Video: "General Soleimani was actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region. General Soleimani and his Quds Force were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American and coalition service members and the wounding of thousands more," it said. Read Opinion: US military strikes in Iraq stir regional hornet’s nest The Baghdad international airport was hit by at least three rockets just after midnight on Friday. As soon as the reports of the attack became public, US President Trump tweeted an image of the US flag. pic.twitter.com/VXeKiVzpTf — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2020 × The Shiite Hashed network blamed the US for the attack while declaring that the deputy head of the Hashed, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and head of the Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, were killed in the US strike. Also Read: US bears responsibility for consequences of rogue adventurism, says Iran "He had orchestrated attacks on coalition bases in Iraq over the last several months – including the attack on December 27 – culminating in the death and wounding of additional American and Iraqi personnel. General Soleimani also approved the attacks on the US Embassy in Baghdad that took place this week," the US Defence Department said. Another footage shows the vehicles which were attacked, convoy carrying powerful head of #Iran’s Quds Force #IRGC Qassem #Soleimani and #Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi #AlMuhandis around #baghdadairport. #Iraq pic.twitter.com/hprFwKI2A2 — Ehab Al Obaidy (@Ehab8Alobaidy) January 3, 2020 × "This strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans. The United States will continue to take all necessary action to protect our people and our interests wherever they are around the world," the US department of defence said. Iran's foreign minister Javed Zarif said it was "an extremely dangerous and foolish escalation." The US' act of international terrorism, targeting & assassinating General Soleimani—THE most effective force fighting Daesh (ISIS), Al Nusrah, Al Qaeda et al—is extremely dangerous & a foolish escalation. The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 3, 2020 × "The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism," foreign minister Zarif said in a Twitter post. The country declared three days of national mourning after Soleimani's death. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi summoned an official from the Swiss embassy which represents the US to condemn the killing of Soleimani. "Following the assassination of General Soleimani by US forces, the Swiss charge d'affaires was summoned and Iran's serious condemnation was conveyed to him," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said. "He was told that this is a clear instance of America's state terrorism and America's regime will be fully responsible for its consequences," Mousavi added.

Trump ordered killing of top Iranian general Soleimani in Iraq: US department of defence

The Indian Rupee weakened and shares slipped on Friday as oil prices surged after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-ordered-action-against-irans-quds-force-commander-soleimani-us-department-of-defence-271773">US&nbsp;airstrikes</a> killed a top Iranian commander, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Other Asian markets also tumbled following news of the airstrikes, in which the head of Iran's elite Quds Force and a top Iraqi militia leader were killed early on Friday at Baghdad airport.

Oil prices surged, reflecting concerns that escalating Middle East tensions may disrupt oil supplies. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-surge-after-us-strike-kills-iranian-general-271775">Brent crude</a> futures jumped to their highest since September&nbsp;17 and were last up 2.88 per cent at $68.16 a barrel.

The Rupee weakened by 0.26 per cent to 71.5525 against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dollar-snaps-six-day-losing-streak-a-flat-start-for-2020-271653">dollar</a>. India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer, imports about 80 per cent of its oil needs, making it highly susceptible to crude price swings.

"Iran will certainly retaliate ... Oil is likely to be on boil. Bad for large oil-importing countries, especially those with large trade and current account deficit like India," said Ajay Bodke, chief executive of portfolio management services at Prabhudas Lilladher Pvt Ltd in Mumbai.

"Risk aversion would spike sharply. Investors may again find comfort in mega-caps and shun 'risky' small- and mid-cap equities."

India's NSE <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-gains-by-321-points-as-nifty-closes-on-high-record-tata-motors-on-top-winner-271672">Nifty 50</a> index, which tracks blue-chip equities, was down 0.35 per cent to 12,239.50 by 0425 GMT, while the benchmark S&amp;P BSE&nbsp;Sensex&nbsp;fell 0.28 per cent to 41,512.38.

Shares in oil refining, retail and telecoms group Reliance Industries Ltd, India's largest company by market value, fell 0.7 per cent, on concerns of falling margins due to the rise in oil prices.

State-run oil producer Oil and Natural Gas Corp and gas suppliers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-edge-higher-in-rangebound-trade-gail-power-grid-rise-270934">GAIL</a> gained roughly 2.4 per cent each.

Shares in India's top two airlines also slumped due to the surge in oil prices. InterGlobe Aviation Ltd fell 1.8 per cent, while SpiceJet Ltd shed 4.4 per cent.

Asian Paints Ltd, a Nifty 50 component, fell 1.4 per cent.

Shares in IT services companies, which receive a bulk of their revenue from overseas and benefit from a weaker Rupee, gained. Infosys Ltd and Wipro Ltd climbed 1.5 per cent each, while <a href="wionews.com/india-news/tata-sons-moves-supreme-court-over-nclat-order-to-reinstate-cyrus-mistry-as-chairman-271594">Tata</a> Consultancy Services rose 2.3 per cent.

Meanwhile, India's central bank on Thursday announced another simultaneous purchase and sale of government bonds, the third such operation in recent weeks, moves seen as an attempt to bring longer-term yields lower.

The Indian Rupee weakened and shares slipped on Friday as oil prices surged after US airstrikes killed a top Iranian commander, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The Indian Rupee weakened and shares slipped on Friday as oil prices surged after US airstrikes killed a top Iranian commander, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Other Asian markets also tumbled following news of the airstrikes, in which the head of Iran's elite Quds Force and a top Iraqi militia leader were killed early on Friday at Baghdad airport. Oil prices surged, reflecting concerns that escalating Middle East tensions may disrupt oil supplies. Brent crude futures jumped to their highest since September 17 and were last up 2.88 per cent at $68.16 a barrel. The Rupee weakened by 0.26 per cent to 71.5525 against the dollar. India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer, imports about 80 per cent of its oil needs, making it highly susceptible to crude price swings. "Iran will certainly retaliate ... Oil is likely to be on boil. Bad for large oil-importing countries, especially those with large trade and current account deficit like India," said Ajay Bodke, chief executive of portfolio management services at Prabhudas Lilladher Pvt Ltd in Mumbai. "Risk aversion would spike sharply. Investors may again find comfort in mega-caps and shun 'risky' small- and mid-cap equities." India's NSE Nifty 50 index, which tracks blue-chip equities, was down 0.35 per cent to 12,239.50 by 0425 GMT, while the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex fell 0.28 per cent to 41,512.38. Shares in oil refining, retail and telecoms group Reliance Industries Ltd, India's largest company by market value, fell 0.7 per cent, on concerns of falling margins due to the rise in oil prices. State-run oil producer Oil and Natural Gas Corp and gas suppliers GAIL gained roughly 2.4 per cent each. Shares in India's top two airlines also slumped due to the surge in oil prices. InterGlobe Aviation Ltd fell 1.8 per cent, while SpiceJet Ltd shed 4.4 per cent. Asian Paints Ltd, a Nifty 50 component, fell 1.4 per cent. Shares in IT services companies, which receive a bulk of their revenue from overseas and benefit from a weaker Rupee, gained. Infosys Ltd and Wipro Ltd climbed 1.5 per cent each, while Tata Consultancy Services rose 2.3 per cent. Meanwhile, India's central bank on Thursday announced another simultaneous purchase and sale of government bonds, the third such operation in recent weeks, moves seen as an attempt to bring longer-term yields lower.

Shares slip, rupee weakens as oil jumps after US airstrikes in Iraq

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-steady-on-track-for-biggest-yearly-rise-since-2016-271227">Oil prices</a> soared more than four per cent Friday and equities reversed early gains following news that the US had killed a top Iranian general, fanning fresh fears of a conflict in the crude-rich region.

The head of Iran's Quds Force, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deputy-head-of-group-irans-quds-force-head-qasem-soleimani-killed-hashed-al-shaabi-271762">Qasem Soleimani</a>, was hit in an attack on Baghdad's international airport early Friday, according to Hashed, a powerful Iraqi paramilitary force linked to Tehran.

The Indian Rupee weakened and shares slipped as oil prices surged after US airstrikes killed a top Iranian commander, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Other Asian markets also tumbled following news of the airstrikes, in which the head of Iran's elite Quds Force and a top Iraqi militia leader were killed early on Friday at Baghdad airport.

The Rupee weakened by 0.26 per cent to 71.5525 against the dollar. India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer, imports about 80 per cent of its oil needs, making it highly susceptible to crude price swings.

Brent surged 4.4 per cent to $69.16 and WTI jumped 4.3 per cent to $63.84 as investors grow increasingly worried about a possible flare-up in the tinderbox Middle East.

"This is more than just bloodying Iran's nose," said AxiTrader's Stephen Innes. "This is an aggressive show of force and an outright provocation that could trigger another Middle East war."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-attack-on-baghdad-airport-top-iran-commander-killed-271756">killing of Soleimani</a> is a dramatic escalation of tensions between the US and Iran and comes after a pro-Iran mob this week laid siege to the US embassy in Iraq following deadly American airstrikes on the hardline Hashed faction.

The attack on the embassy highlighted new strains in the US-Iraqi relationship, which officials from both countries have described to sources as the "coldest" in years.

It also comes as tensions between the US and North Korea worsen, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-skips-set-piece-new-years-speech-271374">Kim Jong Un</a> declaring a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests had ended, with talks with the US going nowhere.

"We are waking up to a less safe world than it was only hours ago, especially if we combine this with simmering tension in the Korean peninsula," Innes added.

The drama sent investors rushing for the hills and safe-haven units rallied with the yen up 0.7 per cent against the dollar and gold climbing more than one per cent.

High-risk currencies retreated against the greenback, with South Korea's won down 0.6 per cent, Australia's dollar down 0.4 per cent and the South African rand down more than one per cent.

Equities sank into the red, having been enjoying the second day of the year rallying on trade optimism.

Hong Kong fell 0.2 per cent, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-halts-british-stock-link-over-political-tensions-sources-271591">Shanghai</a> shed 0.1 per cent. Singapore retreated 0.2 per cent, Seoul lost 0.1 per cent and Taipei eased 0.3 per cent. However, Sydney, Wellington, and Manila held in positive territory.

Markets had all been well up before news of the strike, thanks to ongoing optimism fuelled by the China-US trade agreement, looser central bank monetary policies and easing Brexit worries.

Oil prices soared more than four per cent Friday and equities reversed early gains following news that the US had killed a top Iranian general, fanning fresh fears of a conflict in the crude-rich region.

Oil prices soared more than four per cent Friday and equities reversed early gains following news that the US had killed a top Iranian general, fanning fresh fears of a conflict in the crude-rich region. The head of Iran's Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, was hit in an attack on Baghdad's international airport early Friday, according to Hashed, a powerful Iraqi paramilitary force linked to Tehran. The Indian Rupee weakened and shares slipped as oil prices surged after US airstrikes killed a top Iranian commander, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Other Asian markets also tumbled following news of the airstrikes, in which the head of Iran's elite Quds Force and a top Iraqi militia leader were killed early on Friday at Baghdad airport. The Rupee weakened by 0.26 per cent to 71.5525 against the dollar. India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer, imports about 80 per cent of its oil needs, making it highly susceptible to crude price swings. Brent surged 4.4 per cent to $69.16 and WTI jumped 4.3 per cent to $63.84 as investors grow increasingly worried about a possible flare-up in the tinderbox Middle East. "This is more than just bloodying Iran's nose," said AxiTrader's Stephen Innes. "This is an aggressive show of force and an outright provocation that could trigger another Middle East war." The killing of Soleimani is a dramatic escalation of tensions between the US and Iran and comes after a pro-Iran mob this week laid siege to the US embassy in Iraq following deadly American airstrikes on the hardline Hashed faction. The attack on the embassy highlighted new strains in the US-Iraqi relationship, which officials from both countries have described to sources as the "coldest" in years. It also comes as tensions between the US and North Korea worsen, with Kim Jong Un declaring a self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests had ended, with talks with the US going nowhere. "We are waking up to a less safe world than it was only hours ago, especially if we combine this with simmering tension in the Korean peninsula," Innes added. The drama sent investors rushing for the hills and safe-haven units rallied with the yen up 0.7 per cent against the dollar and gold climbing more than one per cent. High-risk currencies retreated against the greenback, with South Korea's won down 0.6 per cent, Australia's dollar down 0.4 per cent and the South African rand down more than one per cent. Equities sank into the red, having been enjoying the second day of the year rallying on trade optimism. Hong Kong fell 0.2 per cent, while Shanghai shed 0.1 per cent. Singapore retreated 0.2 per cent, Seoul lost 0.1 per cent and Taipei eased 0.3 per cent. However, Sydney, Wellington, and Manila held in positive territory. Markets had all been well up before news of the strike, thanks to ongoing optimism fuelled by the China-US trade agreement, looser central bank monetary policies and easing Brexit worries.

Oil prices surge after US strike kills Iranian general Soleimani

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), each passenger produced 1.37 kilograms of waste aboard an aircraft in 2018 with an estimated amount of 6.7 million tons annually causing huge health hazard across the globe.

IATA in its survey said flight meals accounted for thirty-three per cent of waste, followed by paper products which contributed 28 per cent. Plastics led to 12 per cent of waste inflight, it observed.

The study categorised waste in two parts - cleaning waste and catering waste.

The international transport body warned that waste could double in the next ten years due to a booming tourist industry worldwide leading to an increase in budget airlines with the number of passengers growing each year.

IATA said the waste produced by airlines was a whopping 29 per cent jump compared to 2016 which was reportedly 5.2 million tons.

Interestingly, according to a survey by Swiss bank UBS in the&nbsp;US, Germany, France and UK, one in five people had cut down on the number of flights over environmental concerns. Several airlines worldwide have been seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. British Airways, Australia's &nbsp;Qantas, Air France and other international airlines have announced plans to reduce CO2&nbsp;levels.

The report also noted the number of passengers has been growing each year at the rate of four to five per cent.

In its report, IATA called for cooperation between nations to address the problem of waste produced by airlines while pressing for regulations to fight the environmental hazard.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), each passenger produced 1.37 kilograms of waste aboard an aircraft in 2018 with an estimated amount of 6.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), each passenger produced 1.37 kilograms of waste aboard an aircraft in 2018 with an estimated amount of 6.7 million tons annually causing huge health hazard across the globe. IATA in its survey said flight meals accounted for thirty-three per cent of waste, followed by paper products which contributed 28 per cent. Plastics led to 12 per cent of waste inflight, it observed. The study categorised waste in two parts - cleaning waste and catering waste. The international transport body warned that waste could double in the next ten years due to a booming tourist industry worldwide leading to an increase in budget airlines with the number of passengers growing each year. IATA said the waste produced by airlines was a whopping 29 per cent jump compared to 2016 which was reportedly 5.2 million tons. Interestingly, according to a survey by Swiss bank UBS in the US, Germany, France and UK, one in five people had cut down on the number of flights over environmental concerns. Several airlines worldwide have been seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. British Airways, Australia's Qantas, Air France and other international airlines have announced plans to reduce CO2 levels. The report also noted the number of passengers has been growing each year at the rate of four to five per cent. In its report, IATA called for cooperation between nations to address the problem of waste produced by airlines while pressing for regulations to fight the environmental hazard.

Airlines globally produced 6.7 million tons of waste each year: IATA study

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US&nbsp;farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market. Many don't know yet what crops they'll plant next season among a host of dicey options.

In Texas, Kansas and Colorado, farmers are weighing whether they should plant fewer acres of corn and more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-imposes-anti-dumping-measures-against-us-sorghum-131047">sorghum</a>, even though China has all but stopped buying it. That's because sorghum costs about half as much as corn to plant, which appeals to farmers wary of investing too much for an uncertain return.

As the US&nbsp;farm economy reels from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-1-million-acres-of-us-cropland-ravaged-by-floods-206858">worst harvest</a> in decades after nearly two years of the trade war, US&nbsp;grain growers are struggling to decide what crops might keep them in business.

President Donald Trump announced last month that China had agreed to double its pre-trade war purchases of US&nbsp;agricultural products over the next two years as part of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-to-be-signed-january-15-trump-271308">Phase 1 trade deal</a>. That brought little comfort to US&nbsp;farmers because China still has not confirmed the commitment or signed any deal.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phase-one-trade-deal-with-china-would-be-signed-very-shortly-donald-trump-269576">President Trump</a> said that we're all going to need to go buy bigger tractors," said North Dakota farmer Justin Sherlock. "I don't think many farmers are going to invest much money until we see that this is a done deal and a long-term deal."

Trump administration officials say the Phase 1 trade deal with China will be signed in January, though many tariffs will remain in place during further negotiation. Commodity market analysts and agricultural economists warn an agreement won't be an immediate fix for the US&nbsp;farm economy because the conflict has spurred China to develop new supply chains.

China has, for instance, deepened ties with rival exporters such as Brazil and Argentina. Brazilian soy cultivation is expanding after record exports to China in the past year and China is investing in South American ports.

Making matters worse, China's need for soy and sorghum to feed livestock is waning because of a deadly pig disease that experts estimate has killed off about half the world's largest hog herd. China's hog industry has also worked to reformulate pig rations to include less soy and more alternative feeds that don't have to be imported from the United States.

"We won't go immediately back to where we were 18 months ago - maybe not for a long time," Jay Debertin, chief executive officer of CHS Inc, the largest US&nbsp;farmer cooperative, told grain producers at a recent conference in North Dakota.

&nbsp;

'We're done' withouth more trade aid

Many US&nbsp;farmers have tried shifting crops to dodge the economic fallout from losing such a crucial export market. They planted 76.5 million acres of soybeans in 2019, 14.3 per cent&nbsp;fewer than the previous year, according to the latest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-moves-to-remove-700000-people-from-food-stamps-266299">US&nbsp;Department of Agriculture</a> data. US&nbsp;plantings of sorghum - used in livestock feed and the fiery Chinese liquor baijiu - dipped about 7.5 per cent in 2019, to 5.3 million acres. Plantings of cotton have dropped, too, as China pulled back on purchases.

Plantings of such China-dependent crops likely would have fallen much further were it not for the Trump administration's allocation of $24.5 billion in aid to compensate farmers for trade-war losses. The bailouts gave many farmers an incentive to keep planting crops such as soybeans that they knew would be difficult to sell at any profitable price. Government handouts are expected to account for nearly a third of 2019 net farm income, according to federal government and bank regulatory data.

Trump administration officials have not said if farmers will get more payments in 2020. Robert Johansson, chief economist at USDA, told Reuters he expected the interim trade deal would solve the issues that the aid program had addressed.

USDA Deputy Press Secretary Alec Varsamis said the agency would decide in January on future payments. White House spokesman Judd Deere declined to comment and referred to previous statements by US&nbsp;Trade Representative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-probably-sign-trade-deal-with-china-next-week-white-house-trade-adviser-271142">Robert Lighthizer</a>, who has said China committed to "massive" US&nbsp;agriculture purchases.

Farmers in export-dependent regions say they can't continue to sell their crops for below the cost of production without a third round of subsidies to cover the losses.

"If the government doesn't pay us, we're done," said Sherlock, who did not vote for Trump in 2016 and remains undecided for 2020.

Most farmers have backed the president as he seeks re-election, according to polls by Reuters and farm media outlets. In 2016, they were drawn to Trump's promise to shake up Washington bureaucracy and hoped the trade war, although it might bring short-term losses, would eventually improve the size and scope of China's US&nbsp;agricultural purchases.

&nbsp;

Damaged corn

Farmers last season intended to use more of their land for corn – a crop aimed at markets outside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-says-will-start-delivering-china-made-model-3s-to-public-on-january-7-271722">China</a> - but that backfired for many growers when extreme weather prevented planting on millions of acres. Early seed orders for 2020 suggest farmers will again turn to corn to replace soybeans, China's largest agricultural import. Scott Beck - president of Beck's Hybrids, the largest family-owned US&nbsp;retail seed company - told Reuters that sales of corn seed for 2020 planting are already up about 40 per cent&nbsp;from 2019.

Sherlock and many of his neighbors last spring sowed one of North Dakota's largest-ever corn crops by acreage. They were enticed by rising springtime prices and the promise of trade aid as long as they planted something. They figured their corn would find buyers among domestic livestock or ethanol producers or in established export markets such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-naruhito-hopes-for-a-year-without-natural-disasters-271532">Japan</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-south-korean-mps-charged-over-parliamentary-stand-off-271713">South Korea</a> or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expands-scope-of-program-to-return-migrants-to-mexico-271770">Mexico</a>. But bad weather left almost 60 per cent of the state's corn - about 2 million acres - unfit for harvest at winter's onset, according to USDA.

Many growers are caught in limbo. Their fields are not bad enough to trigger crop insurance payouts but not good enough to recoup costs. And trade-aid payments for North Dakota are not robust enough to cover losses, with larger per-acre aid payments flowing to southern states.

Sherlock says he might contract to grow more soybeans for a local seed company, a niche crop that costs more to grow but could reap higher prices. Field peas, used in grain-free pet foods, are another option.

Iowa corn and soybean farmer Mitchell Hora is also seeking alternatives. He sowed winter wheat and rye in fall of 2018 and sold the cleaned seed to fellow producers, and has more recently contracted to sell rye to a start-up malting company.

"The agricultural system is completely broken” because of the trade war, severe weather and mounting farm debt, Hora said. "We have to farm smarter."

Best of bad options

Farmers in the High Plains of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/egypt-signs-430-million-gas-deal-with-texas-noble-energy-264199">Texas</a>, the second-largest sorghum-producing state, also face hard choices. China's imports of US&nbsp;sorghum in 2019 were less than one-tenth of the volume purchased four years earlier, according to the most recent government data.

Still, the production cost for an acre of sorghum in this heavily irrigated region will be about half the cost of planting corn, according to Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension data. Farmer Robert Boozer of Dimmitt, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooter-among-one-dead-in-texas-church-attack-270896">Texas </a>– who grows cotton, corn and sorghum – said he and his neighbours pray for a time when the trade war no longer factors into planting decisions.

He's agonizing over the per-acre costs of different crops and the break-even selling prices he'll need to stay afloat. For now, he'll plant more sorghum - "the best option in a field of terrible options."

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market.

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market. Many don't know yet what crops they'll plant next season among a host of dicey options. In Texas, Kansas and Colorado, farmers are weighing whether they should plant fewer acres of corn and more sorghum, even though China has all but stopped buying it. That's because sorghum costs about half as much as corn to plant, which appeals to farmers wary of investing too much for an uncertain return. As the US farm economy reels from the worst harvest in decades after nearly two years of the trade war, US grain growers are struggling to decide what crops might keep them in business. President Donald Trump announced last month that China had agreed to double its pre-trade war purchases of US agricultural products over the next two years as part of a Phase 1 trade deal. That brought little comfort to US farmers because China still has not confirmed the commitment or signed any deal. "President Trump said that we're all going to need to go buy bigger tractors," said North Dakota farmer Justin Sherlock. "I don't think many farmers are going to invest much money until we see that this is a done deal and a long-term deal." Trump administration officials say the Phase 1 trade deal with China will be signed in January, though many tariffs will remain in place during further negotiation. Commodity market analysts and agricultural economists warn an agreement won't be an immediate fix for the US farm economy because the conflict has spurred China to develop new supply chains. China has, for instance, deepened ties with rival exporters such as Brazil and Argentina. Brazilian soy cultivation is expanding after record exports to China in the past year and China is investing in South American ports. Making matters worse, China's need for soy and sorghum to feed livestock is waning because of a deadly pig disease that experts estimate has killed off about half the world's largest hog herd. China's hog industry has also worked to reformulate pig rations to include less soy and more alternative feeds that don't have to be imported from the United States. "We won't go immediately back to where we were 18 months ago - maybe not for a long time," Jay Debertin, chief executive officer of CHS Inc, the largest US farmer cooperative, told grain producers at a recent conference in North Dakota. 'We're done' withouth more trade aid Many US farmers have tried shifting crops to dodge the economic fallout from losing such a crucial export market. They planted 76.5 million acres of soybeans in 2019, 14.3 per cent fewer than the previous year, according to the latest US Department of Agriculture data. US plantings of sorghum - used in livestock feed and the fiery Chinese liquor baijiu - dipped about 7.5 per cent in 2019, to 5.3 million acres. Plantings of cotton have dropped, too, as China pulled back on purchases. Plantings of such China-dependent crops likely would have fallen much further were it not for the Trump administration's allocation of $24.5 billion in aid to compensate farmers for trade-war losses. The bailouts gave many farmers an incentive to keep planting crops such as soybeans that they knew would be difficult to sell at any profitable price. Government handouts are expected to account for nearly a third of 2019 net farm income, according to federal government and bank regulatory data. Trump administration officials have not said if farmers will get more payments in 2020. Robert Johansson, chief economist at USDA, told Reuters he expected the interim trade deal would solve the issues that the aid program had addressed. USDA Deputy Press Secretary Alec Varsamis said the agency would decide in January on future payments. White House spokesman Judd Deere declined to comment and referred to previous statements by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who has said China committed to "massive" US agriculture purchases. Farmers in export-dependent regions say they can't continue to sell their crops for below the cost of production without a third round of subsidies to cover the losses. "If the government doesn't pay us, we're done," said Sherlock, who did not vote for Trump in 2016 and remains undecided for 2020. Most farmers have backed the president as he seeks re-election, according to polls by Reuters and farm media outlets. In 2016, they were drawn to Trump's promise to shake up Washington bureaucracy and hoped the trade war, although it might bring short-term losses, would eventually improve the size and scope of China's US agricultural purchases. Damaged corn Farmers last season intended to use more of their land for corn – a crop aimed at markets outside China - but that backfired for many growers when extreme weather prevented planting on millions of acres. Early seed orders for 2020 suggest farmers will again turn to corn to replace soybeans, China's largest agricultural import. Scott Beck - president of Beck's Hybrids, the largest family-owned US retail seed company - told Reuters that sales of corn seed for 2020 planting are already up about 40 per cent from 2019. Sherlock and many of his neighbors last spring sowed one of North Dakota's largest-ever corn crops by acreage. They were enticed by rising springtime prices and the promise of trade aid as long as they planted something. They figured their corn would find buyers among domestic livestock or ethanol producers or in established export markets such as Japan, South Korea or Mexico. But bad weather left almost 60 per cent of the state's corn - about 2 million acres - unfit for harvest at winter's onset, according to USDA. Many growers are caught in limbo. Their fields are not bad enough to trigger crop insurance payouts but not good enough to recoup costs. And trade-aid payments for North Dakota are not robust enough to cover losses, with larger per-acre aid payments flowing to southern states. Sherlock says he might contract to grow more soybeans for a local seed company, a niche crop that costs more to grow but could reap higher prices. Field peas, used in grain-free pet foods, are another option. Iowa corn and soybean farmer Mitchell Hora is also seeking alternatives. He sowed winter wheat and rye in fall of 2018 and sold the cleaned seed to fellow producers, and has more recently contracted to sell rye to a start-up malting company. "The agricultural system is completely broken” because of the trade war, severe weather and mounting farm debt, Hora said. "We have to farm smarter." Best of bad options Farmers in the High Plains of Texas, the second-largest sorghum-producing state, also face hard choices. China's imports of US sorghum in 2019 were less than one-tenth of the volume purchased four years earlier, according to the most recent government data. Still, the production cost for an acre of sorghum in this heavily irrigated region will be about half the cost of planting corn, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension data. Farmer Robert Boozer of Dimmitt, Texas – who grows cotton, corn and sorghum – said he and his neighbours pray for a time when the trade war no longer factors into planting decisions. He's agonizing over the per-acre costs of different crops and the break-even selling prices he'll need to stay afloat. For now, he'll plant more sorghum - "the best option in a field of terrible options."

US farmers see another bleak year despite Phase 1 trade deal with China

New South Wales police declared "tourist leave zone" ahead of dangerous fire conditions in the region as the death toll in the Australia bushfires rose to eighteen.

"Widespread extreme fire danger is forecast for the South Coast on Saturday," the advisory said, adding, "these will be dangerous conditions, the same or worse than New Year's Eve." The message exhorted tourists not to visit the south coast over the weekend as it wasn't safe, sternly warning: "do not be in this area on Saturday".

According to Antti Lipponen, physicist and research scientist at the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the thick smoke observed on January 1 was "about 5,490, 000 km" which he said was "larger than the area of EU and more than 14 times the area of Japan."

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Huge <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/smoke?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#smoke</a> plume from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australia</a> 🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bushfires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bushfires</a> observed today (1 Jan 2020). The area of thick smoke is about 5 490 000 km² (≈2 119 700 sq. miles). For comparison, that is larger than the area of EU and more than 14 times the area of Japan! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSWFires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSWFires</a> 
🎞: <a href="https://t.co/Ng6VBIiWXm">https://t.co/Ng6VBIiWXm</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZwmPbsIQCx">pic.twitter.com/ZwmPbsIQCx</a>
— Antti Lipponen (@anttilip) <a href="https://twitter.com/anttilip/status/1212379313498132480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tourists have been given 48 hours to evacuate as the government called in the military to help in rescue operations.

The Australian defence force said five military helicopters and two naval ships were on the way to the south coast to ensure supply of essentials materials.

The weather forecasters have warned the heatwave conditions would bring gusting winds with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius.

In Mallacoota in Victoria, at least &nbsp;4,000 people have been stranded on the beach even as massive fire rage with roads in and out of the town blocked leaving only the sea route as a way out for those stuck on the beachfront.

The police advised police not to make plans to holiday in the south coast, "particularly in the general area from Batemans Bay to the Victorian border."

"It is vital, critical," New South Wales transport minister Andrew Constance said, adding, "We need everybody to leave. We are going to face a worse day on Saturday than what we have been through."Huge bushfires have been burning for weeks across Australia, with new blazes sparked into life almost daily by extremely hot and windy conditions in bushland left tinder dry after a three-year drought."

New South Wales police declared "tourist leave zone" ahead of dangerous fire conditions in the region as the death toll in the Australia bushfires rose to eighteen.

New South Wales police declared "tourist leave zone" ahead of dangerous fire conditions in the region as the death toll in the Australia bushfires rose to eighteen. "Widespread extreme fire danger is forecast for the South Coast on Saturday," the advisory said, adding, "these will be dangerous conditions, the same or worse than New Year's Eve." The message exhorted tourists not to visit the south coast over the weekend as it wasn't safe, sternly warning: "do not be in this area on Saturday". According to Antti Lipponen, physicist and research scientist at the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the thick smoke observed on January 1 was "about 5,490, 000 km" which he said was "larger than the area of EU and more than 14 times the area of Japan." Huge #smoke plume from #Australia 🇦🇺 #bushfires observed today (1 Jan 2020). The area of thick smoke is about 5 490 000 km² (≈2 119 700 sq. miles). For comparison, that is larger than the area of EU and more than 14 times the area of Japan! #NSWFires 🎞: https://t.co/Ng6VBIiWXm pic.twitter.com/ZwmPbsIQCx — Antti Lipponen (@anttilip) January 1, 2020 × Tourists have been given 48 hours to evacuate as the government called in the military to help in rescue operations. The Australian defence force said five military helicopters and two naval ships were on the way to the south coast to ensure supply of essentials materials. The weather forecasters have warned the heatwave conditions would bring gusting winds with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. In Mallacoota in Victoria, at least 4,000 people have been stranded on the beach even as massive fire rage with roads in and out of the town blocked leaving only the sea route as a way out for those stuck on the beachfront. The police advised police not to make plans to holiday in the south coast, "particularly in the general area from Batemans Bay to the Victorian border." "It is vital, critical," New South Wales transport minister Andrew Constance said, adding, "We need everybody to leave. We are going to face a worse day on Saturday than what we have been through."Huge bushfires have been burning for weeks across Australia, with new blazes sparked into life almost daily by extremely hot and windy conditions in bushland left tinder dry after a three-year drought."

Smoke in Australia bushfire 'larger than area of EU', says scientist

Former&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/sports-has-emerged-as-battlefield-for-freedom-of-expression-270322">National Basketball Association</a>&nbsp;Commissioner&nbsp;David&nbsp;Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of&nbsp;77, the&nbsp;league&nbsp;said.

Stern, the NBA's longest-serving&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;before being succeeded by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/punishment-awaits-national-basketball-associations-commissioner-for-defaming-china-state-media-257121">Adam Silver</a> on February 1, 2014, had been in serious condition after emergency surgery on December&nbsp;12 in New York following a sudden brain haemorrhage.

"Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David’s vision, generosity and inspiration," Silver, who worked with&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;for 22 years, said in a statement.

"Because of David, the NBA is a truly&nbsp;global&nbsp;brand."

Under&nbsp;Stern, the NBA experienced extraordinary growth, with seven new franchises, including expansion to Canada in 1995,&nbsp;a more than 30-fold increase in revenue, a dramatic gain in national TV exposure and the launch of the Women's National Basketball Association and NBA Development&nbsp;League.

He also had a role in many other initiatives that helped shape the&nbsp;league, including a drug policy, salary-cap system and dress code.

"Without David&nbsp;Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today,"&nbsp;former&nbsp;Chicago Bulls superstar and current Charlotte Hornets owner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peles-last-number-10-brazil-jersey-sold-for-30000-euros-in-italy-266670">Michael Jordan</a> said in a statement.&nbsp;

"He guided the&nbsp;league&nbsp;through turbulent times and grew the&nbsp;league&nbsp;into an international phenomenon."

National Football&nbsp;League&nbsp;Commissioner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/alex-rodriguez-jokes-about-considering-jennifer-lopez-as-boss-of-house-260716">Roger Goodell</a> remembered&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;as "a driving force in sports for decades."

Stern's greatest accomplishment as&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;is widely considered to be the way he transformed the NBA, once largely an unknown commodity outside the United States, into a&nbsp;globally televised powerhouse.

Under&nbsp;Stern's leadership, the&nbsp;league&nbsp;opened 13&nbsp;global&nbsp;NBA offices and became in 1990 the first US&nbsp;professional sports&nbsp;league&nbsp;to stage a regular-season game outside North America, when the Phoenix Suns played the Utah Jazz in Japan.

"David&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close," Bill Simmons, broadcaster and author of "The Book of Basketball: The NBA," said on Twitter.

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David Stern was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close. Out of everyone he probably loved the league the most. It’s a sad day. RiP.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillSimmons/status/1212492269971918849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"David&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;earned and deserved inclusion in our land of giants," the National Basketball Players Association added in a statement.

Current Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James, a three-time NBA champion, praised&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;for changing the lives of so many young adults, and "more importantly your vision to make our game become worldwide, a vision only you could make happen."

Bill Russell, who won 11 championships in 13 years with the Boston Celtics long before&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;became&nbsp;commissioner, said in a tweet: "He changed so many lives. David was a great innovator and&nbsp;made&nbsp;the game we love what it is today. This is a horrible loss."

Another retired NBA star, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adidas-promises-revival-after-sluggish-quarter-241513">Shaquille O'Neal</a>, called&nbsp;Stern: "The best&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;to ever do it."

"We lost a legend," said Germany's Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time all-star with the Dallas Mavericks.

Asked to name his most cherished courtside moment,&nbsp;Stern, in a 2014 interview with the New York Times, pointed to a photograph of him presenting Magic Johnson with the most valuable player trophy at the 1992 All-Star Game, months after Johnson retired from the Los Angeles Lakers on disclosing he had contracted the virus that causes AIDS.

The 1992 "Dream Team"&nbsp;the first US Olympic men's basketball squad to include active players from the NBA - was another special moment.

"This much-maligned group of players and sport, on the march to the gold medal stand, being feted like a combination of the Bolshoi, the Philharmonic and the Beatles,"&nbsp;Stern&nbsp;said.

Johnson remembered that journey on Wednesday: "When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world," he said on Twitter.

Stern&nbsp;also presided over four NBA lockouts, including two that resulted in shortened seasons in 1998-99 and 2011.

Stern, who had remained affiliated with the NBA and held the title of&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;emeritus, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2016.

Former National Basketball Association Commissioner David Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of 77, the league said.

Former National Basketball Association Commissioner David Stern, who oversaw explosive growth in the popularity of the game during his 30-year tenure, died on Wednesday at the age of 77, the league said. Stern, the NBA's longest-serving commissioner before being succeeded by Adam Silver on February 1, 2014, had been in serious condition after emergency surgery on December 12 in New York following a sudden brain haemorrhage. "Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David’s vision, generosity and inspiration," Silver, who worked with Stern for 22 years, said in a statement. "Because of David, the NBA is a truly global brand." Under Stern, the NBA experienced extraordinary growth, with seven new franchises, including expansion to Canada in 1995, a more than 30-fold increase in revenue, a dramatic gain in national TV exposure and the launch of the Women's National Basketball Association and NBA Development League. He also had a role in many other initiatives that helped shape the league, including a drug policy, salary-cap system and dress code. "Without David Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today," former Chicago Bulls superstar and current Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan said in a statement. "He guided the league through turbulent times and grew the league into an international phenomenon." National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell remembered Stern as "a driving force in sports for decades." Stern's greatest accomplishment as commissioner is widely considered to be the way he transformed the NBA, once largely an unknown commodity outside the United States, into a globally televised powerhouse. Under Stern's leadership, the league opened 13 global NBA offices and became in 1990 the first US professional sports league to stage a regular-season game outside North America, when the Phoenix Suns played the Utah Jazz in Japan. "David Stern was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close," Bill Simmons, broadcaster and author of "The Book of Basketball: The NBA," said on Twitter. David Stern was the most important non-player/non-coach who ever passed through the NBA and it’s not really close. Out of everyone he probably loved the league the most. It’s a sad day. RiP. — Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) January 1, 2020 × "David Stern earned and deserved inclusion in our land of giants," the National Basketball Players Association added in a statement. Current Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James, a three-time NBA champion, praised Stern for changing the lives of so many young adults, and "more importantly your vision to make our game become worldwide, a vision only you could make happen." Bill Russell, who won 11 championships in 13 years with the Boston Celtics long before Stern became commissioner, said in a tweet: "He changed so many lives. David was a great innovator and made the game we love what it is today. This is a horrible loss." Another retired NBA star, Shaquille O'Neal, called Stern: "The best commissioner to ever do it." "We lost a legend," said Germany's Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time all-star with the Dallas Mavericks. Asked to name his most cherished courtside moment, Stern, in a 2014 interview with the New York Times, pointed to a photograph of him presenting Magic Johnson with the most valuable player trophy at the 1992 All-Star Game, months after Johnson retired from the Los Angeles Lakers on disclosing he had contracted the virus that causes AIDS. The 1992 "Dream Team" the first US Olympic men's basketball squad to include active players from the NBA - was another special moment. "This much-maligned group of players and sport, on the march to the gold medal stand, being feted like a combination of the Bolshoi, the Philharmonic and the Beatles," Stern said. Johnson remembered that journey on Wednesday: "When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world," he said on Twitter. Stern also presided over four NBA lockouts, including two that resulted in shortened seasons in 1998-99 and 2011. Stern, who had remained affiliated with the NBA and held the title of commissioner emeritus, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2016.

Former NBA Commissioner David Stern dies at 77

A French citizen and native of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-to-visit-angola-de-mining-project-in-dianas-footsteps-252301">Angola</a> has died in the custody of US immigration agents, they said on Wednesday, the latest in a number of deaths during a US crackdown on illegal immigrants.&nbsp;

A statement from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-largest-immigration-raid-us-authorities-arrest-680-workers-at-mississippi-241598">Immigration and Customs Enforcement</a> (ICE) identified the person only as "a 40-year-old native of Angola and citizen of France."

Also Watch: Fineprint: Angolan court freezes assets of Africa's richest woman

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They said the person died on Sunday at a hospital in Albuquerque, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-mexico-opens-state-migrant-shelter-criticizes-federal-inaction-215057">New Mexico</a>.

"An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death," ICE said, adding that French consular officials have been notified and "are attempting to locate the next of kin."

A French embassy spokeswoman said she could not elaborate "at this stage," beyond what is in the ICE statement

The death follows that of Nebane Abienwi, 37, of Cameroon, who ICE said died in its custody in San Diego, California in October after a brain haemorrhage.

Later that month a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cuba-manuel-merrero-becomes-prime-minister-40-years-after-fidel-castro-269513">Cuban</a>, Roylan Hernandez-Diaz, 53, died of an apparent suicide while in ICE custody in Louisiana, the agency said.

Between December 2018 and May 2019, five children from Guatemala died in detention after their apprehension by US border officers.

Clamping down on both legal and illegal immigration has been a central platform of US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-a-man-of-his-word-on-denuclearization-donald-trump-271377">President Donald Trump</a>'s administration.

He has implemented numerous measures to curb a sharp increase in people crossing over the southern US border which overwhelmed the immigration system, but several of his&nbsp;policies on migrants have been blocked in court and sparked controversy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-end-year-with-multiple-protests-kick-off-2020-with-big-march-271045">Human Rights Watch</a> said the death of Hernandez-Diaz raised "disturbing questions about a system we know has failed to protect asylum seekers and other immigrants in its care over and over again."

A French citizen and native of Angola has died in the custody of US immigration agents, they said on Wednesday, the latest in a number of deaths during a US crackdown on illegal immigrants.

A French citizen and native of Angola has died in the custody of US immigration agents, they said on Wednesday, the latest in a number of deaths during a US crackdown on illegal immigrants. A statement from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identified the person only as "a 40-year-old native of Angola and citizen of France." Also Watch: Fineprint: Angolan court freezes assets of Africa's richest woman × They said the person died on Sunday at a hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. "An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death," ICE said, adding that French consular officials have been notified and "are attempting to locate the next of kin." A French embassy spokeswoman said she could not elaborate "at this stage," beyond what is in the ICE statement The death follows that of Nebane Abienwi, 37, of Cameroon, who ICE said died in its custody in San Diego, California in October after a brain haemorrhage. Later that month a Cuban, Roylan Hernandez-Diaz, 53, died of an apparent suicide while in ICE custody in Louisiana, the agency said. Between December 2018 and May 2019, five children from Guatemala died in detention after their apprehension by US border officers. Clamping down on both legal and illegal immigration has been a central platform of US President Donald Trump's administration. He has implemented numerous measures to curb a sharp increase in people crossing over the southern US border which overwhelmed the immigration system, but several of his policies on migrants have been blocked in court and sparked controversy. Human Rights Watch said the death of Hernandez-Diaz raised "disturbing questions about a system we know has failed to protect asylum seekers and other immigrants in its care over and over again."

French citizen from Angola dies in US immigration custody

While the world welcomed 2020 with gaiety, Himalayan nation <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-two-chinese-national-arrested-for-being-involved-in-illegal-activities-271039">Nepal</a> chose to welcome it in its own way, announcing the end of the decade to be celebrated as "Visit Nepal Year 2020". 
 
The tourism campaign aims at bringing two million tourists by the end of decade kick-started in all seven provinces of Nepal. 
 
Nepal's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-likely-to-appoint-new-governors-at-cabinet-meeting-on-november-4-259745">Bidhya Devi Bhandari</a> torched up Unity Lamp at Dasaratha Stadium formally inaugurating the campaign which will run on for a year. 
 
"I firmly believe that this campaign which started from today (Wednesday) would take the form of a great campaign through support and participation of all. Nepal is one of the World's fascinating tourist destination; we not only have been consoling our resources and possibilities but also working hard to tap them up," said Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, while addressing the inauguration ceremony in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/for-students-in-nepal-solar-eclipse-was-hands-on-experience-270389">Kathmandu</a>. 
 
The Government has claimed that the latest ploy is essential to make tourism one of the supporting pedestals of the economy. 
 
"Tourism has a key role in Nepal's economic development. Nepal was opened for foreign tourists only after 1951. In the last six decades, big changes have taken place in Nepal's tourism sector. As the country is moving forward towards permanent peace, stability and prosperity, the government has a goal of making tourism one of the key pillars of the Nepali economy. This is the reason the Government of Nepal has declared 2020 as Visit Nepal Year," Yogesh Bhattarai, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of the Himalayan Nation. 
 
Mythical creature Yeti has been selected as mascot of the yearlong campaign as well as stickers targeting ambitious drive also was launched over the Viber. 
 
Tourism Sector has been contributing around 3 per cent of the total of Nepal's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). With the 15th Five-year plan marching towards completion, the Government has aimed to increase the figure to 10 per cent. 
 
Apart from increasing GDP contribution, Nepal government also is aiming to increase the daily expenditure of foreign tourists on a daily basis. 
Currently, foreign nationals on a visit to Nepal has been expending 44 Dollars each day and the government has planned to increase it to 80 Dollars each day and host 3.5 million tourists each year. For which the government has claimed this tourism action to pave the way to mark 2020-2030 a tourism decade. 
 
Tourists from India always have been topping the list of Foreigners on a visit to the Himalayan Nation. As per data till October of 2019, a total of 169,952 Indian tourists visited Nepal followed by 134, 28 Chinese Tourists. 
 
A total of 77,798 tourists came into Nepal from the USA in early 10 months of 2019 while Sri Lanka trailed behind with 57, 240 tourists in the same period. 
 
Indian Tourism Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-to-launch-e-portal-youtube-channel-to-promote-indian-culture-257130">Prahlad Singh Patel</a>, who was also present during the launch of VNY 2020 said, "A large number of people will come during Visit (Nepal) 2020. I think model work of Janakpur would start very soon which would further boost the interest of people as there is Ramayan Circuit, Buddhist Circuit. Another thing I must say is that Nepal's people have own heart of Indians; reliability which is towards them (Nepali) is unmatchable along with I think the cultural relation which we have should be more profound and the flow should always be there, India wants that," Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of Tourism, India told media.

While the world welcomed 2020 with gaiety, Himalayan nation Nepal chose to welcome it in its own way, announcing the end of the decade to be celebrated as "Visit Nepal Year 2020".

While the world welcomed 2020 with gaiety, Himalayan nation Nepal chose to welcome it in its own way, announcing the end of the decade to be celebrated as "Visit Nepal Year 2020". The tourism campaign aims at bringing two million tourists by the end of decade kick-started in all seven provinces of Nepal. Nepal's President Bidhya Devi Bhandari torched up Unity Lamp at Dasaratha Stadium formally inaugurating the campaign which will run on for a year. "I firmly believe that this campaign which started from today (Wednesday) would take the form of a great campaign through support and participation of all. Nepal is one of the World's fascinating tourist destination; we not only have been consoling our resources and possibilities but also working hard to tap them up," said Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, while addressing the inauguration ceremony in Kathmandu. The Government has claimed that the latest ploy is essential to make tourism one of the supporting pedestals of the economy. "Tourism has a key role in Nepal's economic development. Nepal was opened for foreign tourists only after 1951. In the last six decades, big changes have taken place in Nepal's tourism sector. As the country is moving forward towards permanent peace, stability and prosperity, the government has a goal of making tourism one of the key pillars of the Nepali economy. This is the reason the Government of Nepal has declared 2020 as Visit Nepal Year," Yogesh Bhattarai, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of the Himalayan Nation. Mythical creature Yeti has been selected as mascot of the yearlong campaign as well as stickers targeting ambitious drive also was launched over the Viber. Tourism Sector has been contributing around 3 per cent of the total of Nepal's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). With the 15th Five-year plan marching towards completion, the Government has aimed to increase the figure to 10 per cent. Apart from increasing GDP contribution, Nepal government also is aiming to increase the daily expenditure of foreign tourists on a daily basis. Currently, foreign nationals on a visit to Nepal has been expending 44 Dollars each day and the government has planned to increase it to 80 Dollars each day and host 3.5 million tourists each year. For which the government has claimed this tourism action to pave the way to mark 2020-2030 a tourism decade. Tourists from India always have been topping the list of Foreigners on a visit to the Himalayan Nation. As per data till October of 2019, a total of 169,952 Indian tourists visited Nepal followed by 134, 28 Chinese Tourists. A total of 77,798 tourists came into Nepal from the USA in early 10 months of 2019 while Sri Lanka trailed behind with 57, 240 tourists in the same period. Indian Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel, who was also present during the launch of VNY 2020 said, "A large number of people will come during Visit (Nepal) 2020. I think model work of Janakpur would start very soon which would further boost the interest of people as there is Ramayan Circuit, Buddhist Circuit. Another thing I must say is that Nepal's people have own heart of Indians; reliability which is towards them (Nepali) is unmatchable along with I think the cultural relation which we have should be more profound and the flow should always be there, India wants that," Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of Tourism, India told media.

Tourism campaign 'Visit Nepal Year 2020' kicks off

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito said Thursday he hoped for a year without natural disasters, delivering his first New Year speech since ascending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-new-emperor-naruhito-officially-takes-up-post-214938">the Chrysanthemum Throne</a> to tens of thousands of well-wishers.

"I'm glad to celebrate the New Year together with you," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/japanese-emperor-naruhito-formally-proclaims-his-enthronement-in-sokui-no-rei-257452">Naruhito</a> told the crowd, many waving Japanese flags and shouting "Banzai", meaning "long life".

"On the other hand, I'm worried about many people still living difficult lives because of typhoons and heavy rain last year," said the 59-year-old emperor, accompanied by Empress <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-imperial-couple-rides-through-tokyo-in-grand-enthronement-parade-261155">Masako</a>.

"I hope this year will be a good and peaceful year without any natural disasters," he said.

Last month the royal couple visited people in Japan's northeastern region hit by powerful typhoon Hagibis in October, which killed more than 80 people and caused huge damage to local infrastructure.

Also attending the traditional New year celebration was Naruhito's father <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-an-era-as-japans-emperor-akihito-abdicates-214724">Akihito</a>, who became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in around two centuries when he stepped down from the throne on April 30, ending his three-decade reign.

The central Tokyo palace, surrounded by stone walls and moats, is opened to the public twice a year, on the emperor's birthday and the second day of New Year,&nbsp;for the royal family to greet well-wishers.

The emperor will appear four more times at the balcony later in the day.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito said Thursday he hoped for a year without natural disasters, delivering his first New Year speech since ascending the Chrysanthemum Throne to tens of thousands of well-wishers.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito said Thursday he hoped for a year without natural disasters, delivering his first New Year speech since ascending the Chrysanthemum Throne to tens of thousands of well-wishers. "I'm glad to celebrate the New Year together with you," Naruhito told the crowd, many waving Japanese flags and shouting "Banzai", meaning "long life". "On the other hand, I'm worried about many people still living difficult lives because of typhoons and heavy rain last year," said the 59-year-old emperor, accompanied by Empress Masako. "I hope this year will be a good and peaceful year without any natural disasters," he said. Last month the royal couple visited people in Japan's northeastern region hit by powerful typhoon Hagibis in October, which killed more than 80 people and caused huge damage to local infrastructure. Also attending the traditional New year celebration was Naruhito's father Akihito, who became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in around two centuries when he stepped down from the throne on April 30, ending his three-decade reign. The central Tokyo palace, surrounded by stone walls and moats, is opened to the public twice a year, on the emperor's birthday and the second day of New Year, for the royal family to greet well-wishers. The emperor will appear four more times at the balcony later in the day.

Hope this year will be peaceful without natural disasters: Japan emperor Naruhito

According to a Dutch firm, the number of people killed due to crashes by commercial planes in 2019 fell by over fifty per cent despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-the-fall-of-brand-boeing-268899">Boeing</a> 737 MAX crash in Ethiopia.&nbsp;

Dutch aviation consulting firm To70 said that there were eighty-six accidents which involved large commerical planes in 2019 which resulted in 257 people being killed. It said that there were eight fatal accidents last year. The study found in 2018, 160 accidents occurred with 13 described as being fatal in which 534 people were reportedly killed.&nbsp;

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-beats-goal-with-863-jet-deliveries-in-2019-ousts-boeing-from-top-spot-271445">Boeing Lion Air </a>737 MAX airliner had crashed in Indonesia in October killing all 189 people on board. Indonesian investigators in a report said the crash occurred due to design flaws in the software.

The Dutch research included crew members, flight attendants, passengers among those killed along with people who were killed on the ground.

In March, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane crashed with &nbsp;157 people on board. Ethiopian Airlines grounded its Boeing Co 737 MAX 8 fleet after the devastating crash which was followed by China and several other countries.

As a result of the crashes, Boeing temporarily halted production of its grounded 737 Max for the first time in more than 20 years.

In October, Boeing CEO Muilenburg stepped down amid the crashes as the company appointed David Calhoun as the new CEO. Calhoun will take over the duties of CEO and the President from January 13, 2020. The company fired Kevin McAllister, a top executive linked to the MAX air disaster.

The company named veteran executive Stan Deal to the top job at commercial planes.&nbsp;

Boeing's profits fell in the third quarter after the crashes as the company cut production of its flagship Dreamliner and delayed the arrival of a successor to its 777 mini-jumbo.

According to a Dutch firm, the number of people killed due to crashes by commercial planes in 2019 fell by over fifty per cent despite Boeing 737 MAX crash in Ethiopia.

According to a Dutch firm, the number of people killed due to crashes by commercial planes in 2019 fell by over fifty per cent despite Boeing 737 MAX crash in Ethiopia. Dutch aviation consulting firm To70 said that there were eighty-six accidents which involved large commerical planes in 2019 which resulted in 257 people being killed. It said that there were eight fatal accidents last year. The study found in 2018, 160 accidents occurred with 13 described as being fatal in which 534 people were reportedly killed. A Boeing Lion Air 737 MAX airliner had crashed in Indonesia in October killing all 189 people on board. Indonesian investigators in a report said the crash occurred due to design flaws in the software. The Dutch research included crew members, flight attendants, passengers among those killed along with people who were killed on the ground. In March, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane crashed with 157 people on board. Ethiopian Airlines grounded its Boeing Co 737 MAX 8 fleet after the devastating crash which was followed by China and several other countries. As a result of the crashes, Boeing temporarily halted production of its grounded 737 Max for the first time in more than 20 years. In October, Boeing CEO Muilenburg stepped down amid the crashes as the company appointed David Calhoun as the new CEO. Calhoun will take over the duties of CEO and the President from January 13, 2020. The company fired Kevin McAllister, a top executive linked to the MAX air disaster. The company named veteran executive Stan Deal to the top job at commercial planes. Boeing's profits fell in the third quarter after the crashes as the company cut production of its flagship Dreamliner and delayed the arrival of a successor to its 777 mini-jumbo.

Major commercial plane crash deaths down over 50% in 2019: Study

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