Nestlé SA, one of the world's largest food processors, believes population growth will require human diets to adapt, reducing consumption of sugar, salt and meat products, an executive said on Wednesday.

"We have 7.5 billion people and the population continues to grow, so there is a need to eat more vegetables, cereals, and less sugar, meat products," said Laurent Freixe, Executive Vice President and head of operations in the Americas.

Limited natural resources on the planet and the growing public health problem of obesity are behind the changes Freixe sees as necessary. He also cited growing public awareness of the food production process as well as issues such as child labour and deforestation, which is especially pertinent in Brazil.

Meat production, particularly beef, is a significant contributor to carbon emissions that scientists blame for global warming.

"We work constantly in the reformulation of our products," the executive told reporters ahead of an event in Sao Paulo with university students from the four countries in the Mercosur trade bloc: Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. It is part of a career training program sponsored by the company.

Freixe also said public awareness is growing around the world regarding raw materials used to produce food. This poses a challenge for every large food processor.

"There is a lot more sensitivity on the matter everywhere, not only in Europe or the US&nbsp;We are in a connected world, people have access to information, consumers want to know where raw materials come from if they were produced ethically," he said.

Nestlé is a major buyer worldwide of coffee, sugar, cocoa and milk, among other commodities. It is a significant buyer of Brazilian coffee and sugar.

The company says it clearly states to suppliers that it does not buy raw materials that were produced in recently deforested areas or where child labour has been reported.

"The question mark is how to make that happen? Because there are millions of farmers in so many countries," the executive said. "When there is an indication of a problem, we investigate. If confirmed, we cut the supplier," he added.

Forest fires and deforestation in the Amazon, the world's largest rainforest, jumped sharply this year, causing a wave of worldwide criticism regarding how the local government is managing the situation.

Global food companies were also pressed by consumers and activists to avoid sourcing commodities from places where forests were recently cleared.

Nestlé SA, one of the world's largest food processors, believes population growth will require human diets to adapt, reducing consumption of sugar, salt and meat products, an executive said on Wednesday.

Nestlé SA, one of the world's largest food processors, believes population growth will require human diets to adapt, reducing consumption of sugar, salt and meat products, an executive said on Wednesday. "We have 7.5 billion people and the population continues to grow, so there is a need to eat more vegetables, cereals, and less sugar, meat products," said Laurent Freixe, Executive Vice President and head of operations in the Americas. Limited natural resources on the planet and the growing public health problem of obesity are behind the changes Freixe sees as necessary. He also cited growing public awareness of the food production process as well as issues such as child labour and deforestation, which is especially pertinent in Brazil. Meat production, particularly beef, is a significant contributor to carbon emissions that scientists blame for global warming. "We work constantly in the reformulation of our products," the executive told reporters ahead of an event in Sao Paulo with university students from the four countries in the Mercosur trade bloc: Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. It is part of a career training program sponsored by the company. Freixe also said public awareness is growing around the world regarding raw materials used to produce food. This poses a challenge for every large food processor. "There is a lot more sensitivity on the matter everywhere, not only in Europe or the US We are in a connected world, people have access to information, consumers want to know where raw materials come from if they were produced ethically," he said. Nestlé is a major buyer worldwide of coffee, sugar, cocoa and milk, among other commodities. It is a significant buyer of Brazilian coffee and sugar. The company says it clearly states to suppliers that it does not buy raw materials that were produced in recently deforested areas or where child labour has been reported. "The question mark is how to make that happen? Because there are millions of farmers in so many countries," the executive said. "When there is an indication of a problem, we investigate. If confirmed, we cut the supplier," he added. Forest fires and deforestation in the Amazon, the world's largest rainforest, jumped sharply this year, causing a wave of worldwide criticism regarding how the local government is managing the situation. Global food companies were also pressed by consumers and activists to avoid sourcing commodities from places where forests were recently cleared.

As population grows, human diet must cut down on meat, sugar, salt: Nestlé executive

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct".

The claims, made in two filings to the Tokyo District Court, allege prosecutors colluded with Nissan and effectively subcontracted out their investigation to employees of the automaker who were trying to oust Ghosn.

"The court filings demonstrate that the prosecutors' case, which was politically motivated and poisoned from the start, is fundamentally flawed and contradicted by the evidentiary record," Ghosn's lawyers said in a statement.

Ghosn is out on bail in Tokyo, awaiting trial on four charges of financial misconduct. He denies any wrongdoing and laid out his defence again Thursday.

But he and his lawyers argue the entire case against him is "fundamentally flawed".

The filings allege the creation of a "secret task force" at Nissan created to "drum up allegations of wrongdoing by Mr Ghosn as a pretext to remove him".

They formalise claims Ghosn has made previously -- that the allegations against him stem from resentment within Nissan over his plans to more closely integrate the firm with its alliance partner, French automaker Renault.

Along with Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan and Renault form a leading auto alliance, but relations inside the partnership have been tense at times.

Ghosn's legal team claim the opposition to further integration of the car firms drew in even government officials from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

"The prosecution against him resulted from unlawful collusion between the prosecutors, government officials at METI and executives at Nissan," Ghosn's legal team said in a statement.

"Their goal: to oust Mr Ghosn in order to prevent him from further integrating Nissan and Renault, which threatened the autonomy of one of Japan's industry flagships."

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct".

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct". The claims, made in two filings to the Tokyo District Court, allege prosecutors colluded with Nissan and effectively subcontracted out their investigation to employees of the automaker who were trying to oust Ghosn. "The court filings demonstrate that the prosecutors' case, which was politically motivated and poisoned from the start, is fundamentally flawed and contradicted by the evidentiary record," Ghosn's lawyers said in a statement. Ghosn is out on bail in Tokyo, awaiting trial on four charges of financial misconduct. He denies any wrongdoing and laid out his defence again Thursday. But he and his lawyers argue the entire case against him is "fundamentally flawed". The filings allege the creation of a "secret task force" at Nissan created to "drum up allegations of wrongdoing by Mr Ghosn as a pretext to remove him". They formalise claims Ghosn has made previously -- that the allegations against him stem from resentment within Nissan over his plans to more closely integrate the firm with its alliance partner, French automaker Renault. Along with Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan and Renault form a leading auto alliance, but relations inside the partnership have been tense at times. Ghosn's legal team claim the opposition to further integration of the car firms drew in even government officials from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). "The prosecution against him resulted from unlawful collusion between the prosecutors, government officials at METI and executives at Nissan," Ghosn's legal team said in a statement. "Their goal: to oust Mr Ghosn in order to prevent him from further integrating Nissan and Renault, which threatened the autonomy of one of Japan's industry flagships."

Ghosn wants case dismissed over 'prosecutor misconduct'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-leader-kim-vows-to-clear-south-korea-relics-from-kumgang-resort-257625">North Korean leader Kim Jong-un</a> and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump continue to have close relations and trust, with Kim calling the relationship "special," North Korea's state news agency KCNA said on Thursday.

The statement comes after North Korea earlier this month broke off working-level talks with the <a href="http://wionews.om/world/united-states-wins-ownership-of-seized-north-korean-vessel-257411">United States</a> in Sweden, pushing denuclearisation negotiations back into limbo after what had been months of stalemate.

North Korea had cast the blame on the US, saying the other side's negotiators would not "give up their old viewpoint and attitude."

Kim Jong-un "said that the relationship between him and President Trump is special" a few days ago, according to the KCNA statement.

"I sincerely hope that a motive force to overcome all the obstacles between the DPRK and the US&nbsp;and to advance the bilateral relations in the better direction will be provided on the basis of the close relationship," the KCNA statement, under the name of Foreign Ministry adviser Kim Kye Gwan, said.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is North Korea's official name.

However, contrary to Trump, "Washington political circles and DPRK policymakers of the US&nbsp;administration are hostile to the DPRK for no reason, preoccupied with the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudice." the statement said.

The statement said North Korea will see "how wisely the US&nbsp;will pass the end of the year."

North Korea's Kim Jong-un had earlier set an end-of-the-year deadline for denuclearisation talks with Washington.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump continue to have close relations and trust, with Kim calling the relationship "special," North Korea's state news agency KCNA said on Thursday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump continue to have close relations and trust, with Kim calling the relationship "special," North Korea's state news agency KCNA said on Thursday. The statement comes after North Korea earlier this month broke off working-level talks with the United States in Sweden, pushing denuclearisation negotiations back into limbo after what had been months of stalemate. North Korea had cast the blame on the US, saying the other side's negotiators would not "give up their old viewpoint and attitude." Kim Jong-un "said that the relationship between him and President Trump is special" a few days ago, according to the KCNA statement. "I sincerely hope that a motive force to overcome all the obstacles between the DPRK and the US and to advance the bilateral relations in the better direction will be provided on the basis of the close relationship," the KCNA statement, under the name of Foreign Ministry adviser Kim Kye Gwan, said. Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is North Korea's official name. However, contrary to Trump, "Washington political circles and DPRK policymakers of the US administration are hostile to the DPRK for no reason, preoccupied with the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudice." the statement said. The statement said North Korea will see "how wisely the US will pass the end of the year." North Korea's Kim Jong-un had earlier set an end-of-the-year deadline for denuclearisation talks with Washington.

North Korea's Kim Jong-un and Trump have 'special' relationship: State media

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-states-plan-google-antitrust-meeting-next-month-in-colorado-report-257621">Alphabet Inc's Google</a> said on Wednesday it had achieved a breakthrough in computing research by using a quantum computer to solve in minutes a complex problem that would take today's most powerful supercomputer thousands of years to crack.

Google researchers expect that quantum computers within a few years will fuel advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, materials science, and chemistry. The company is racing rivals including IBM Corp and Microsoft Corp to be the first to commercialize the technology and sell it through its cloud computing business.

"We're hoping that when people start using this and looking at performance stability and cloud interface, they'll get really excited about what we have to offer at Google," John Martinis, the company's chief scientist for quantum hardware, told reporters.

The breakthrough was described in a paper published in the science journal Nature. It followed weeks of controversy since a draft leaked over whether Google's claim of "quantum supremacy" was valid.

IBM said a supercomputer employing a different set-up could solve the same challenge in under three days, while chipmaker Intel said, "quantum practicality" remained years away.

Google defended its position but did not dispute rivals' contentions. It has manufactured a handful of chips with 54 'qubits', vastly more powerful than the standard 64-bit chip in many consumer devices. However, for the technology to be useful to customers, it would need to make chips with thousands of qubits.

Martinis said Google sees "a pathway" to a computer with 1,000 qubits and expressed confidence that it had a reliable process to make its new chip, dubbed Sycamore.

The US&nbsp;and Chinese governments have led in the burgeoning quantum technology field, pledging billions of dollars in funding to corporate and state researchers to fast-track quantum development and mitigate possible issues, including the tech's expected ability to break digital encryption.

Google has been among the beneficiaries of American support. "The United States has taken a great leap forward in quantum computing," said US&nbsp;chief technology officer Michael Kratsios on Wednesday.

Long-held dream

For decades, computer scientists have sought to harness quantum physics, laws governing the behaviour of particles that are smaller than atoms and can simultaneously exist in different states.

Quantum bits, or qubits, can be set to one and zero at the same time, unlike today's computer bits that are either ones or zeros. This superposition property multiplies exponentially as qubits become entangled with each other, meaning the more qubits connected, the vastly more powerful a quantum computer becomes.

But there is a catch: Quantum researchers need to cool qubits to about absolute zero (-273 degrees Celsius or -460 degrees Fahrenheit) to limit vibration - or "noise" - that causes errors in calculations. It is in this challenging task that Google, which has designed much of its own electronics and used liquid helium for cooling, has made significant progress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-plans-to-relaunch-in-china-without-right-conditions-ceo-sundar-pichai-228341">CEO Sundar Pichai</a> compared the achievement to building the first rocket to leave Earth's atmosphere and touch the edge of space, an advance that brought interplanetary travel into the realm of the possible.

"For those of us working in science and technology, it's the 'hello world' moment we've been waiting for - the most meaningful milestone to date in the quest to make quantum computing a reality," Pichai wrote in a blog https://blog.google/perspectives/sundar-pichai/what-our-quantum-computing-milestone-means.

Sycamore, measuring about 10 mm (0.39 inch) across, is made using aluminium and indium parts sandwiched between two silicon wafers. In their experiment this year, the researchers were able to get 53 of Sycamore's qubits to interact in a quantum state.

They then had the quantum computer detect patterns in a series of seemingly random numbers, and it succeeded in 3 minutes and 20 seconds. They estimated that the same problem would take 10,000 years for a Summit supercomputer - the most powerful in the world today - to solve.

Hold on a qubit

While the peer-reviewed research has drawn plaudits, with MIT's William D. Oliver comparing it to the Wright brothers' first flights, sceptics say Google is over-selling its achievement.

IBM said a supercomputer with additional disk storage can solve the random number problem in at most 2-1/2 days and with greater accuracy. It also said Google risked misleading the public by implying the new-style computers would replace existing ones.

"Quantum computers will never reign 'supreme' over classical computers, but will rather work in concert with them, since each has their unique strengths," Dario Gil, director of research at IBM, wrote in a blog.

Torsten Siebert, manager of the quantum computing research program at Germany's Fraunhofer Society, agreed that "progress was likely to be achieved through such hybrid combinations."

Researchers also have expressed concern about quantum computers being used, for example, to unseal secure data and passwords or enable new forms of surveillance.

But before quantum computers can break codes, security experts have plenty of time to adapt, Martinis said.

"We're pretty confident we'll all stay safe and secure in the future," he said.

Alphabet Inc's Google said on Wednesday it had achieved a breakthrough in computing research by using a quantum computer to solve in minutes a complex problem that would take today's most powerful supercomputer thousands of years to crack.

Alphabet Inc's Google said on Wednesday it had achieved a breakthrough in computing research by using a quantum computer to solve in minutes a complex problem that would take today's most powerful supercomputer thousands of years to crack. Google researchers expect that quantum computers within a few years will fuel advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, materials science, and chemistry. The company is racing rivals including IBM Corp and Microsoft Corp to be the first to commercialize the technology and sell it through its cloud computing business. "We're hoping that when people start using this and looking at performance stability and cloud interface, they'll get really excited about what we have to offer at Google," John Martinis, the company's chief scientist for quantum hardware, told reporters. The breakthrough was described in a paper published in the science journal Nature. It followed weeks of controversy since a draft leaked over whether Google's claim of "quantum supremacy" was valid. IBM said a supercomputer employing a different set-up could solve the same challenge in under three days, while chipmaker Intel said, "quantum practicality" remained years away. Google defended its position but did not dispute rivals' contentions. It has manufactured a handful of chips with 54 'qubits', vastly more powerful than the standard 64-bit chip in many consumer devices. However, for the technology to be useful to customers, it would need to make chips with thousands of qubits. Martinis said Google sees "a pathway" to a computer with 1,000 qubits and expressed confidence that it had a reliable process to make its new chip, dubbed Sycamore. The US and Chinese governments have led in the burgeoning quantum technology field, pledging billions of dollars in funding to corporate and state researchers to fast-track quantum development and mitigate possible issues, including the tech's expected ability to break digital encryption. Google has been among the beneficiaries of American support. "The United States has taken a great leap forward in quantum computing," said US chief technology officer Michael Kratsios on Wednesday. Long-held dream For decades, computer scientists have sought to harness quantum physics, laws governing the behaviour of particles that are smaller than atoms and can simultaneously exist in different states. Quantum bits, or qubits, can be set to one and zero at the same time, unlike today's computer bits that are either ones or zeros. This superposition property multiplies exponentially as qubits become entangled with each other, meaning the more qubits connected, the vastly more powerful a quantum computer becomes. But there is a catch: Quantum researchers need to cool qubits to about absolute zero (-273 degrees Celsius or -460 degrees Fahrenheit) to limit vibration - or "noise" - that causes errors in calculations. It is in this challenging task that Google, which has designed much of its own electronics and used liquid helium for cooling, has made significant progress. CEO Sundar Pichai compared the achievement to building the first rocket to leave Earth's atmosphere and touch the edge of space, an advance that brought interplanetary travel into the realm of the possible. "For those of us working in science and technology, it's the 'hello world' moment we've been waiting for - the most meaningful milestone to date in the quest to make quantum computing a reality," Pichai wrote in a blog https://blog.google/perspectives/sundar-pichai/what-our-quantum-computing-milestone-means. Sycamore, measuring about 10 mm (0.39 inch) across, is made using aluminium and indium parts sandwiched between two silicon wafers. In their experiment this year, the researchers were able to get 53 of Sycamore's qubits to interact in a quantum state. They then had the quantum computer detect patterns in a series of seemingly random numbers, and it succeeded in 3 minutes and 20 seconds. They estimated that the same problem would take 10,000 years for a Summit supercomputer - the most powerful in the world today - to solve. Hold on a qubit While the peer-reviewed research has drawn plaudits, with MIT's William D. Oliver comparing it to the Wright brothers' first flights, sceptics say Google is over-selling its achievement. IBM said a supercomputer with additional disk storage can solve the random number problem in at most 2-1/2 days and with greater accuracy. It also said Google risked misleading the public by implying the new-style computers would replace existing ones. "Quantum computers will never reign 'supreme' over classical computers, but will rather work in concert with them, since each has their unique strengths," Dario Gil, director of research at IBM, wrote in a blog. Torsten Siebert, manager of the quantum computing research program at Germany's Fraunhofer Society, agreed that "progress was likely to be achieved through such hybrid combinations." Researchers also have expressed concern about quantum computers being used, for example, to unseal secure data and passwords or enable new forms of surveillance. But before quantum computers can break codes, security experts have plenty of time to adapt, Martinis said. "We're pretty confident we'll all stay safe and secure in the future," he said.

Google unveils quantum computer breakthrough; critics say wait a qubit

A chastened <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadians-voted-for-progressive-agenda-and-strong-action-on-climate-change-trudeau-257587">Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau</a>, whose grip on power was weakened after an election this week, said on Wednesday he would reach out to his opponents but ruled out any kind of coalition government.

The ruling Liberals lost their parliamentary majority in Monday's vote and must now rely on other parties to govern. A top Trudeau ally lost his seat and the Liberals were wiped out in two western provinces, putting more strain on national unity.

"Canadians gave me a lot to think about on Monday night. ... I am going to take the time necessary to really reflect on how best to serve Canadians," Trudeau told a news conference.

His tone was notably more muted than it had been on Monday when he triumphantly told supporters he had been given a new mandate to pursue priorities such as climate change.

Liberal officials say Trudeau will seek support in parliament on a case-by-case basis, most likely from the left-leaning New Democrats, and should easily survive for two years.

"I can tell you it is not in our plans at all to form any sort of formal or informal coalition," said Trudeau, adding he would reach out to all party leaders in the coming weeks.

The Liberals, despite losing the popular vote to Andrew Scheer's Conservatives, ended up with more seats than any other party. The New Democrats, their most likely partners, are likely to demand action on a list of priorities such as increased social spending.

Trudeau, speaking to reporters for the first time since the election, said he would present his new Cabinet on Nov. 20 and promised that a middle-class tax cut would be the first order of business. He did not say when he might convene parliament.

Pledges pipeline expansion

Trudeau promised to address the concerns of the country's western oil patch, in particular, the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. The Liberals lost every single legislator in both provinces, including Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, one of the top performers in Trudeau's Cabinet.

Critics say new tougher environmental rules are hurting the energy industry.

In a bid to assuage western anger, Ottawa last year bought the Trans Mountain crude pipeline that runs from Alberta to the Pacific province of British Columbia and promised to push through a planned expansion.

Environmentalists and indigenous groups have launched repeated legal challenges against the project.

"We will be continuing with the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion," said Trudeau.

Global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings said on Wednesday a deal between the Liberals and New Democrats "raises risks that power-sharing pressures could lead to a more expansionary federal government fiscal policy."

Next year's budget "will be a key signal for whether the new parliamentary makeup will lead to greater spending pressures and an increased federal deficit," it added.

A chastened Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose grip on power was weakened after an election this week, said on Wednesday he would reach out to his opponents but ruled out any kind of coalition government.

A chastened Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose grip on power was weakened after an election this week, said on Wednesday he would reach out to his opponents but ruled out any kind of coalition government. The ruling Liberals lost their parliamentary majority in Monday's vote and must now rely on other parties to govern. A top Trudeau ally lost his seat and the Liberals were wiped out in two western provinces, putting more strain on national unity. "Canadians gave me a lot to think about on Monday night. ... I am going to take the time necessary to really reflect on how best to serve Canadians," Trudeau told a news conference. His tone was notably more muted than it had been on Monday when he triumphantly told supporters he had been given a new mandate to pursue priorities such as climate change. Liberal officials say Trudeau will seek support in parliament on a case-by-case basis, most likely from the left-leaning New Democrats, and should easily survive for two years. "I can tell you it is not in our plans at all to form any sort of formal or informal coalition," said Trudeau, adding he would reach out to all party leaders in the coming weeks. The Liberals, despite losing the popular vote to Andrew Scheer's Conservatives, ended up with more seats than any other party. The New Democrats, their most likely partners, are likely to demand action on a list of priorities such as increased social spending. Trudeau, speaking to reporters for the first time since the election, said he would present his new Cabinet on Nov. 20 and promised that a middle-class tax cut would be the first order of business. He did not say when he might convene parliament. Pledges pipeline expansion Trudeau promised to address the concerns of the country's western oil patch, in particular, the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. The Liberals lost every single legislator in both provinces, including Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, one of the top performers in Trudeau's Cabinet. Critics say new tougher environmental rules are hurting the energy industry. In a bid to assuage western anger, Ottawa last year bought the Trans Mountain crude pipeline that runs from Alberta to the Pacific province of British Columbia and promised to push through a planned expansion. Environmentalists and indigenous groups have launched repeated legal challenges against the project. "We will be continuing with the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion," said Trudeau. Global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings said on Wednesday a deal between the Liberals and New Democrats "raises risks that power-sharing pressures could lead to a more expansionary federal government fiscal policy." Next year's budget "will be a key signal for whether the new parliamentary makeup will lead to greater spending pressures and an increased federal deficit," it added.

Chastened Trudeau to reach out to opponents after Canada election blow, rules out coalition

China and India made the top 10 list of governments that have done the most in the past year to improve the ease of doing business in their countries, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-bank-slashes-indias-growth-forecast-to-6-for-this-fiscal-year-255626">World Bank</a> said Wednesday.

Despite bitter trade war, in which the United States is demanding reforms from Beijing to protect intellectual property and open its economy further to American businesses, China made the top 10 list for the second year in a row.

With those improvements, China leapfrogged France to take the 31st spot in the "ease of doing business" ranking, moving up 15 places, &nbsp;according to the World Bank report.

And despite US complaints, the report credited China with improving protections for minority investors, strengthening procedures for enforcing contracts and making trade easier with changes to customs administration and port infrastructure.

"Removing barriers facing entrepreneurs generates better jobs, more tax revenues and higher incomes, all of which are necessary to reduce poverty and raise living standards," World Bank Group President David Malpass said in a statement.

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India landed on the most-improved list for the third year in a row, making it easier to start a business by abolishing filing fees, lowering the time and cost of seeking construction permits and making trade easier with port improvements and an improved electronic platform for submitting documents.

The country jumped 14 places to number 63 in the global rankings.

The other eight economies where business climates improved the most were Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Togo, Bahrain, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Kuwait, China, India, and Nigeria, the study found.

New Zealand continues to top the global rankings, with Singapore, Hong Kong right behind, with Korea in fifth place, and the United States sixth.

The World Bank studies reforms in 10 areas of business activity in 190 economies, including issues like construction permits, getting electricity and paying taxes.

China and India made the top 10 list of governments that have done the most in the past year to improve the ease of doing business in their countries, the World Bank said Wednesday.

China and India made the top 10 list of governments that have done the most in the past year to improve the ease of doing business in their countries, the World Bank said Wednesday. Despite bitter trade war, in which the United States is demanding reforms from Beijing to protect intellectual property and open its economy further to American businesses, China made the top 10 list for the second year in a row. With those improvements, China leapfrogged France to take the 31st spot in the "ease of doing business" ranking, moving up 15 places, according to the World Bank report. And despite US complaints, the report credited China with improving protections for minority investors, strengthening procedures for enforcing contracts and making trade easier with changes to customs administration and port infrastructure. "Removing barriers facing entrepreneurs generates better jobs, more tax revenues and higher incomes, all of which are necessary to reduce poverty and raise living standards," World Bank Group President David Malpass said in a statement. × India landed on the most-improved list for the third year in a row, making it easier to start a business by abolishing filing fees, lowering the time and cost of seeking construction permits and making trade easier with port improvements and an improved electronic platform for submitting documents. The country jumped 14 places to number 63 in the global rankings. The other eight economies where business climates improved the most were Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Togo, Bahrain, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Kuwait, China, India, and Nigeria, the study found. New Zealand continues to top the global rankings, with Singapore, Hong Kong right behind, with Korea in fifth place, and the United States sixth. The World Bank studies reforms in 10 areas of business activity in 190 economies, including issues like construction permits, getting electricity and paying taxes.

World Bank rates China, India as 'most improved' for doing business

Will Google's quantum computers finish traditional PCs?

Tesla Inc&nbsp;on Wednesday surprised investors with a quarterly profit that sent its shares soaring, as Chief Executive Elon Musk promised a 2020 rollout of a cheaper SUV and more self-driving technology to stay ahead of larger rivals rushing into the premium electric vehicle market he created.

Shares rose nearly 21 per cent&nbsp;to $307.12 after hours on the unexpected news, crossing $300 for the first time since March 1 after record deliveries and cost cuts ensured a profitable third quarter.

Tesla on Wednesday posted a cash balance increase to $5.3 billion and reported a profit of $1.86 per share, shattering analyst expectations for a loss of 42 cents per share.

The third-quarter results are an important milestone for Tesla and redemption for Musk who had to step down as chairman after a series of scandals and investor doubts about Tesla's ability to withstand competition from larger, better capitalized global rivals.

Tesla's gross margins, an important profit indicator for investors, surpassed expectations and Tesla said it was "highly confident" in exceeding the low end of its yearly global vehicle delivery goal.

But Tesla has yet to prove that it can be consistently profitable while managing the start of production for Model 3 sedans at its new factory in Shanghai and for Model Y sport utilities next year.

"Given the breakneck speed of expansion, Tesla will face significant demands on its cash pile," said Nicholas Hyett, an analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown.

The company on Wednesday said production in Shanghai and for Model&nbsp;Y is ahead of schedule, with the latter expected to launch by the summer of 2020.

Tesla also has to contain costs as it develops a gigafactory in Europe, a Semi truck, an electric pickup truck, a new generation of the Tesla Roadster and automated driving features.

The carmaker said it had cut costs 16 per cent&nbsp;on a yearly basis, citing improvements in operating efficiency and a reduction in manufacturing and material costs. Musk said on a conference call that operating costs were the lowest since Model 3 production started.

Margin expectations are higher for Model Y than Model 3, while productions costs are roughly the same as Model 3, said Zach Kirkhorn, Tesla chief financial officer.

Model 3 vehicles made in the Shanghai factory will have roughly the same margins as those made in Fremont, California, he said.

Tesla also expects to generally be cash-flow positive as it has grown to the point of being self-funding.&nbsp;

That will allow the company to invest in divisions focusing on sustainable energy, including launching the third version of its solar roof tile this week.

"For about a year and a half we stripped Tesla energy of resources," Musk said. "Now that Model 3 production is in a good place and headed to a great place we have restored resources to Tesla storage and solar. That's going to be really crazy growth."

Musk also said Tesla is open to supplying batteries and other components to other automakers.

With Wednesday's after-hours surge, Tesla's stock has reduced its loss year-to-date to 8 per cent&nbsp;and added about $9 billion to its market capitalization.

But Tesla rallies have been short-lived before.

A year ago, Tesla gave a quarterly report that similarly smashed investors' expectations, igniting a rally that sent its shares 31 per cent&nbsp;higher over the next two months, only to see the stock decline through much of 2019 over worries about corporate governance, profitability and demand for the Model 3.&nbsp;

Investors in the past have shown impatience with the company's serial failures to meet financial and production targets. Earlier this month, Tesla shares slumped after the company reported delivering 97,000 vehicles for the third quarter, only 2 per cent&nbsp;ahead of the previous quarter.

But Tesla on Wednesday exceeded promises by billionaire Musk, who in July said Tesla would break even in the third quarter and turn a profit by the end of 2019.

The company has said it plans to deliver 360,000 to 400,000 vehicles for all of 2019, and on Wednesday said it was "highly confident in exceeding 360,000 deliveries this year."

Analysts have questioned how rapidly Tesla's vehicle sales will grow as government subsidies for electric vehicle purchases dwindle in the United States, China and other markets.

Kirkhorn on Wednesday said Tesla saw growing order rates in all markets, with current quarter orders exceeding those of the past three months.

Tesla has said it aims to produce at least 1,000 Model 3 cars a week at the new Chinese factory by the end of this year, but it is unclear when it will meet year-end production targets due to uncertainties around orders, labour and suppliers.

Revenue fell nearly 8 per cent&nbsp;to $6.30 billion in the quarter ended September&nbsp;30. Analysts had expected revenue of $6.33 billion, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

Tesla on Wednesday said it would gradually release nearly $500 million of accumulated revenue tied to its "full self-driving capabilities", which customers can buy for $6,000 even though fully automated driving is not available.

Kirkhorn on Wednesday said deferred revenue would also be released as Tesla expands its "Smart Summon" feature, which allows customers to operate a Tesla from 200 feet&nbsp;away using a smartphone app.

Federal safety regulators are looking into the feature after videos began appearing online showing driverless Teslas hitting obstacles or nearly hitting other vehicles.

Musk on Wednesday said software updates over the coming weeks would improve Summon.

Tesla Inc on Wednesday surprised investors with a quarterly profit that sent its shares soaring, as Chief Executive Elon Musk promised a 2020 rollout of a cheaper SUV and more self-driving technology to stay ahead of larger rivals rushing into the premium electric vehicle market he created.

Tesla Inc on Wednesday surprised investors with a quarterly profit that sent its shares soaring, as Chief Executive Elon Musk promised a 2020 rollout of a cheaper SUV and more self-driving technology to stay ahead of larger rivals rushing into the premium electric vehicle market he created. Shares rose nearly 21 per cent to $307.12 after hours on the unexpected news, crossing $300 for the first time since March 1 after record deliveries and cost cuts ensured a profitable third quarter. Tesla on Wednesday posted a cash balance increase to $5.3 billion and reported a profit of $1.86 per share, shattering analyst expectations for a loss of 42 cents per share. The third-quarter results are an important milestone for Tesla and redemption for Musk who had to step down as chairman after a series of scandals and investor doubts about Tesla's ability to withstand competition from larger, better capitalized global rivals. Tesla's gross margins, an important profit indicator for investors, surpassed expectations and Tesla said it was "highly confident" in exceeding the low end of its yearly global vehicle delivery goal. But Tesla has yet to prove that it can be consistently profitable while managing the start of production for Model 3 sedans at its new factory in Shanghai and for Model Y sport utilities next year. "Given the breakneck speed of expansion, Tesla will face significant demands on its cash pile," said Nicholas Hyett, an analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown. The company on Wednesday said production in Shanghai and for Model Y is ahead of schedule, with the latter expected to launch by the summer of 2020. Tesla also has to contain costs as it develops a gigafactory in Europe, a Semi truck, an electric pickup truck, a new generation of the Tesla Roadster and automated driving features. The carmaker said it had cut costs 16 per cent on a yearly basis, citing improvements in operating efficiency and a reduction in manufacturing and material costs. Musk said on a conference call that operating costs were the lowest since Model 3 production started. Margin expectations are higher for Model Y than Model 3, while productions costs are roughly the same as Model 3, said Zach Kirkhorn, Tesla chief financial officer. Model 3 vehicles made in the Shanghai factory will have roughly the same margins as those made in Fremont, California, he said. Tesla also expects to generally be cash-flow positive as it has grown to the point of being self-funding. That will allow the company to invest in divisions focusing on sustainable energy, including launching the third version of its solar roof tile this week. "For about a year and a half we stripped Tesla energy of resources," Musk said. "Now that Model 3 production is in a good place and headed to a great place we have restored resources to Tesla storage and solar. That's going to be really crazy growth." Musk also said Tesla is open to supplying batteries and other components to other automakers. With Wednesday's after-hours surge, Tesla's stock has reduced its loss year-to-date to 8 per cent and added about $9 billion to its market capitalization. But Tesla rallies have been short-lived before. A year ago, Tesla gave a quarterly report that similarly smashed investors' expectations, igniting a rally that sent its shares 31 per cent higher over the next two months, only to see the stock decline through much of 2019 over worries about corporate governance, profitability and demand for the Model 3. Investors in the past have shown impatience with the company's serial failures to meet financial and production targets. Earlier this month, Tesla shares slumped after the company reported delivering 97,000 vehicles for the third quarter, only 2 per cent ahead of the previous quarter. But Tesla on Wednesday exceeded promises by billionaire Musk, who in July said Tesla would break even in the third quarter and turn a profit by the end of 2019. The company has said it plans to deliver 360,000 to 400,000 vehicles for all of 2019, and on Wednesday said it was "highly confident in exceeding 360,000 deliveries this year." Analysts have questioned how rapidly Tesla's vehicle sales will grow as government subsidies for electric vehicle purchases dwindle in the United States, China and other markets. Kirkhorn on Wednesday said Tesla saw growing order rates in all markets, with current quarter orders exceeding those of the past three months. Tesla has said it aims to produce at least 1,000 Model 3 cars a week at the new Chinese factory by the end of this year, but it is unclear when it will meet year-end production targets due to uncertainties around orders, labour and suppliers. Revenue fell nearly 8 per cent to $6.30 billion in the quarter ended September 30. Analysts had expected revenue of $6.33 billion, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. Tesla on Wednesday said it would gradually release nearly $500 million of accumulated revenue tied to its "full self-driving capabilities", which customers can buy for $6,000 even though fully automated driving is not available. Kirkhorn on Wednesday said deferred revenue would also be released as Tesla expands its "Smart Summon" feature, which allows customers to operate a Tesla from 200 feet away using a smartphone app. Federal safety regulators are looking into the feature after videos began appearing online showing driverless Teslas hitting obstacles or nearly hitting other vehicles. Musk on Wednesday said software updates over the coming weeks would improve Summon.

Tesla shares soar 21% as surprise profit answers sceptics

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade.

But there was a scant sign of real progress and Abe reiterated that&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;would need to keep its promises for ties between the two Asian allies of Washington to improve.

Relations between Tokyo and Seoul have deteriorated to their lowest in decades since&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's top court last October ordered some Japanese firms to compensate&nbsp;Koreans forced to work in their wartime mines and factories.

Japan, which says the matter was settled by a 1965 treaty, calls the decision a violation of international law, and the feud has spilt over into trade and security matters.

About 100 journalists were present at the start of talks in Tokyo, the highest-level meeting between the two sides since the row flared. The meeting began with a handshake but no smiles.

Abe urged Seoul to keep its promises - a reference to the 1965 treaty - in order to restore relations, according to the statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry.

"Our two nations are important neighbours for each other, and keeping in contact over North&nbsp;Korea, bilateral relations and our ties with the United States are quite important," Abe was quoted as telling Lee.

"Relations are currently in quite a severe state but should not be left that way. If&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;can keep bilateral promises, that could be a chance to return to a healthy relationship," Abe added.

The statement also quoted Lee as saying he shared the view that dialogue was important, while a parallel statement from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's foreign ministry said Lee agreed relations should not be left in their current difficult state.

Abe also repeated Tokyo's stance that the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean court ruling overturned the basis of two-way ties.

“Abe said the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean top court ruling is in clear violation of international law and ... fundamentally breaks down the legal framework for Japan-South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;relations," Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada told reporters.

In a sign that gaps remain wide, Lee told Abe: "South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has also respected and complied with the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations and Claims, and will continue to do so," according to Seoul's statement.

Lee, who was in Tokyo to attend Japanese Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony this week, delivered to Abe a personal letter from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean President Moon Jae-in in which Moon called for attempts to resolve the pending bilateral issues,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.

Moon and Abe have not held a summit in more than a year and the statements made no mention of any meeting planned between the two.

A Japanese government official questioned whether Thursday's meeting would lead to a breakthrough. "It depends on their (South&nbsp;Korea's) deeds, not words," the official told Reuters.

The animosity between Japan and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is linked to the history of Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the&nbsp;Korean peninsula, the mobilisation of forced labour at companies and women in wartime military brothels, and a row over the ownership of islets in the sea between the two nations.

Earlier this year, the dispute escalated when Japan tightened export controls on materials vital for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean chipmakers. It then dropped Seoul from a list of countries eligible for fast-track exports, steps angrily denounced by&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea.

The spat has prompted protests in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, where Japanese companies and products have been boycotted, and trade between the two countries has slowed sharply.

In August,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;announced it would scrap a military intelligence-sharing pact with Japan when it expires next month, just as the allies face rising tensions over North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear weapons programme and increased competition from China and Russia.

Further potential flashpoints loom.

Thousands of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean students and activists are expected to gather on Friday to celebrate "Dokdo Day". Dokdo is the&nbsp;Korean name for islets claimed by&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and by Japan, which calls them Takeshima.

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is also planning to order asset sales of the Japanese companies found liable for damages under last year's forced labour rulings as early as December, which could further sour bilateral relations, analysts said.

"Precautions must be taken to prevent that," said Yang Kee-ho, professor of Japanese Studies at Sungkonghoe University.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North Korea and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North Korea and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade. But there was a scant sign of real progress and Abe reiterated that South Korea would need to keep its promises for ties between the two Asian allies of Washington to improve. Relations between Tokyo and Seoul have deteriorated to their lowest in decades since South Korea's top court last October ordered some Japanese firms to compensate Koreans forced to work in their wartime mines and factories. Japan, which says the matter was settled by a 1965 treaty, calls the decision a violation of international law, and the feud has spilt over into trade and security matters. About 100 journalists were present at the start of talks in Tokyo, the highest-level meeting between the two sides since the row flared. The meeting began with a handshake but no smiles. Abe urged Seoul to keep its promises - a reference to the 1965 treaty - in order to restore relations, according to the statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry. "Our two nations are important neighbours for each other, and keeping in contact over North Korea, bilateral relations and our ties with the United States are quite important," Abe was quoted as telling Lee. "Relations are currently in quite a severe state but should not be left that way. If South Korea can keep bilateral promises, that could be a chance to return to a healthy relationship," Abe added. The statement also quoted Lee as saying he shared the view that dialogue was important, while a parallel statement from South Korea's foreign ministry said Lee agreed relations should not be left in their current difficult state. Abe also repeated Tokyo's stance that the South Korean court ruling overturned the basis of two-way ties. “Abe said the South Korean top court ruling is in clear violation of international law and ... fundamentally breaks down the legal framework for Japan-South Korea relations," Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada told reporters. In a sign that gaps remain wide, Lee told Abe: "South Korea has also respected and complied with the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations and Claims, and will continue to do so," according to Seoul's statement. Lee, who was in Tokyo to attend Japanese Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony this week, delivered to Abe a personal letter from South Korean President Moon Jae-in in which Moon called for attempts to resolve the pending bilateral issues, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. Moon and Abe have not held a summit in more than a year and the statements made no mention of any meeting planned between the two. A Japanese government official questioned whether Thursday's meeting would lead to a breakthrough. "It depends on their (South Korea's) deeds, not words," the official told Reuters. The animosity between Japan and South Korea is linked to the history of Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the Korean peninsula, the mobilisation of forced labour at companies and women in wartime military brothels, and a row over the ownership of islets in the sea between the two nations. Earlier this year, the dispute escalated when Japan tightened export controls on materials vital for South Korean chipmakers. It then dropped Seoul from a list of countries eligible for fast-track exports, steps angrily denounced by South Korea. The spat has prompted protests in South Korea, where Japanese companies and products have been boycotted, and trade between the two countries has slowed sharply. In August, South Korea announced it would scrap a military intelligence-sharing pact with Japan when it expires next month, just as the allies face rising tensions over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and increased competition from China and Russia. Further potential flashpoints loom. Thousands of South Korean students and activists are expected to gather on Friday to celebrate "Dokdo Day". Dokdo is the Korean name for islets claimed by South Korea and by Japan, which calls them Takeshima. South Korea is also planning to order asset sales of the Japanese companies found liable for damages under last year's forced labour rulings as early as December, which could further sour bilateral relations, analysts said. "Precautions must be taken to prevent that," said Yang Kee-ho, professor of Japanese Studies at Sungkonghoe University.

Japan's Shinzo Abe renews call on South Korea to keep promises to mend ties

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case.

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait directed the agency to file a reply in seven days and fixed November 4 as the next date of hearing in the matter.

Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that there is no evidence of tampering, influencing witness and flight risk.

"This was the observation by the top court. When 60 days in CBI were getting over and there was a chance of my bail they (ED) wanted to arrest me. Today seven-day police custody is getting over today. I would like to press for bail after the 15-day custody period is over. The ED has interrogated him only on four occasions," Singhvi said.

Chidambaram on Wednesday moved a bail petition in the INX media case and asserted that all the other accused in the matter have been granted bail.

The ED which is probing the money laundering charges against the leader had arrested him on October 16, following which he was remanded in custody by a special court till October 24, which is also getting expired today.

"All other accused have been enlarged on bail. The petitioner has deep roots in the society and has been in the public life for 40 years," the bail plea said, alleging that the arrest was malafide and done with an intention to harm his reputation.

Chidambaram said he does not have the propensity to evade the law.

"The petitioner has throughout been available during the period of the investigation. Investigation agency did not recover or elicit any incriminating from the possession of Chidambaram during the searches," the plea stated.

The Supreme Court recently granted him bail in the money laundering case which is being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 by the CBI in connection with the graft case after which the court initially remanded him to custody and later sent to Tihar Jail.

The agency has recently charge-sheeted him and others, including his son Karti and a handful of bureaucrats, for causing loss to the exchequer by allegedly committing offences under the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15, 2017, alleging irregularities in a Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the INX Media group for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during Chidambaram`s tenure as finance minister.

Thereafter, the ED lodged a money laundering case in this regard in 2017.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait directed the agency to file a reply in seven days and fixed November 4 as the next date of hearing in the matter. Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that there is no evidence of tampering, influencing witness and flight risk. "This was the observation by the top court. When 60 days in CBI were getting over and there was a chance of my bail they (ED) wanted to arrest me. Today seven-day police custody is getting over today. I would like to press for bail after the 15-day custody period is over. The ED has interrogated him only on four occasions," Singhvi said. Chidambaram on Wednesday moved a bail petition in the INX media case and asserted that all the other accused in the matter have been granted bail. The ED which is probing the money laundering charges against the leader had arrested him on October 16, following which he was remanded in custody by a special court till October 24, which is also getting expired today. "All other accused have been enlarged on bail. The petitioner has deep roots in the society and has been in the public life for 40 years," the bail plea said, alleging that the arrest was malafide and done with an intention to harm his reputation. Chidambaram said he does not have the propensity to evade the law. "The petitioner has throughout been available during the period of the investigation. Investigation agency did not recover or elicit any incriminating from the possession of Chidambaram during the searches," the plea stated. The Supreme Court recently granted him bail in the money laundering case which is being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 by the CBI in connection with the graft case after which the court initially remanded him to custody and later sent to Tihar Jail. The agency has recently charge-sheeted him and others, including his son Karti and a handful of bureaucrats, for causing loss to the exchequer by allegedly committing offences under the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15, 2017, alleging irregularities in a Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the INX Media group for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during Chidambaram`s tenure as finance minister. Thereafter, the ED lodged a money laundering case in this regard in 2017.

INX media case: Delhi High Court issues notice to ED on Chidambaram's bail plea

Renault were&nbsp;stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer.

The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal.

Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal.

"Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said.

Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race.

The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations.

They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged.

The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations.

"The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said.

"The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added.

"Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes."

Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details.

The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth.

Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th.

Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids. Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer. The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal. Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal. "Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said. Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race. The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations. They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged. The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations. "The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said. "The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added. "Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes." Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details. The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth. Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th. Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault stripped of Japanese Grand Prix points

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment.

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India has jumped from 77th to 63rd rank in the Ease of Doing Business Rankings released just now by the World Bank. 
 
Congratulations to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji for the path breaking improvements in India's business environment for nation's prosperity and job creation. <a href="https://t.co/67TwARmssS">pic.twitter.com/67TwARmssS</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1187196279085862912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has remarkably improved in ease of doing business, reported World Bank in its ease of doing business 2020 survey. The country is placed in 63rd position among 190 countries.

According to the report issued by World Bank on Thursday, India appeared among the top 10 improvers for the third time in a row. The Bank lauded New Delhi for a "remarkable reform effort".

"In economies on the list of 10 top improvers, leaders of India and China adopted the Doing Business indicators as a core component of their reform strategies," said the World Bank.

It also praised Modi's 'Make in India' campaign which focused on attracting foreign investment, boosting the private sector, manufacturing in particular, and enhancing the country's overall competitiveness.

In India, the report said, the importing and exporting also became easier for companies with the creation of a single electronic platform for trade stakeholders, upgrades to port infrastructure and improvements to electronic submission of documents.

Last year, India was ranked 77th. In six years of the Modi government, India's ranking improved 79 places from 142nd in 2014 to 63th in 2019, a record for a major economy.

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment.

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment. India has jumped from 77th to 63rd rank in the Ease of Doing Business Rankings released just now by the World Bank. Congratulations to PM @NarendraModi ji for the path breaking improvements in India's business environment for nation's prosperity and job creation. pic.twitter.com/67TwARmssS — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) October 24, 2019 × India has remarkably improved in ease of doing business, reported World Bank in its ease of doing business 2020 survey. The country is placed in 63rd position among 190 countries. According to the report issued by World Bank on Thursday, India appeared among the top 10 improvers for the third time in a row. The Bank lauded New Delhi for a "remarkable reform effort". "In economies on the list of 10 top improvers, leaders of India and China adopted the Doing Business indicators as a core component of their reform strategies," said the World Bank. It also praised Modi's 'Make in India' campaign which focused on attracting foreign investment, boosting the private sector, manufacturing in particular, and enhancing the country's overall competitiveness. In India, the report said, the importing and exporting also became easier for companies with the creation of a single electronic platform for trade stakeholders, upgrades to port infrastructure and improvements to electronic submission of documents. Last year, India was ranked 77th. In six years of the Modi government, India's ranking improved 79 places from 142nd in 2014 to 63th in 2019, a record for a major economy.

Piyush Goyal lauds PM for path breaking improvements in India's business environment

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