China has been more transparent about the coronavirus than it has been in previous crises but Beijing has not yet accepted a US&nbsp;offer of help to contain the epidemic, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday.

"So far the Chinese have been more transparent certainly than in past crises and we appreciate that," O'Brien said in an interview with CBS' "Face the Nation."

However, Beijing has still not responded to US&nbsp;offers of help from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health professionals to help contain the fast-moving, flu-like virus that has killed more than 300 people in China.

"We have not heard back yet from the Chinese on those offers but we are prepared to continue to cooperate with them," O'Brien said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-temporarily-suspends-e-visa-facility-for-chinese-and-foreigners-residing-in-china-278144">Coronavirus - India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China</a><div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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"We've got tremendous expertise. This is a worldwide concern. We want to help our Chinese colleagues if we can and we've made the offer and we'll see if they accept the offer."

While they have not been invited into China, CDC officials are in neighboring Kazakhstan to help guard against spread of the virus, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday during a visit there.

"You’ve got a long border with China which is where this disease has emanated from," Pompeo said in an interview with a Kazakh journalist. "And we’ve got our people from the Center for Disease Control right here on the ground, helping Kazakhstan deal with this so that you don’t have an enormous outbreak."

China's National Health Commission said on Sunday the coronavirus has killed 304 people in China and infections jumped to 14,380 as of Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-doctors-say-cocktail-of-flu-hiv-drugs-appears-to-help-fight-coronavirus-278168">Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus</a>

At least 171 cases have been reported in more than two dozen other countries and regions, including the United States, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong and Britain.

So far, eight cases of the fast-spreading virus have been confirmed in the United States, health officials said. The Pentagon is providing housing for people arriving from overseas who might need to be quarantined.

Concerns about the virus spurred the United States to declare a public health emergency and bar entry to foreign nationals who have recently visited China.

The latest US&nbsp;patient, in Massachusetts, recently returned from Hubei province in central China, the CDC said. The coronavirus is believed to have originated in a market that traded illegally in wildlife in Hubei's provincial capital, Wuhan.

China has been more transparent about the coronavirus than it has been in previous crises but Beijing has not yet accepted a US offer of help to contain the epidemic, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday.

China has been more transparent about the coronavirus than it has been in previous crises but Beijing has not yet accepted a US offer of help to contain the epidemic, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday. "So far the Chinese have been more transparent certainly than in past crises and we appreciate that," O'Brien said in an interview with CBS' "Face the Nation." However, Beijing has still not responded to US offers of help from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health professionals to help contain the fast-moving, flu-like virus that has killed more than 300 people in China. "We have not heard back yet from the Chinese on those offers but we are prepared to continue to cooperate with them," O'Brien said. Also read: Coronavirus - India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China "We've got tremendous expertise. This is a worldwide concern. We want to help our Chinese colleagues if we can and we've made the offer and we'll see if they accept the offer." While they have not been invited into China, CDC officials are in neighboring Kazakhstan to help guard against spread of the virus, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday during a visit there. "You’ve got a long border with China which is where this disease has emanated from," Pompeo said in an interview with a Kazakh journalist. "And we’ve got our people from the Center for Disease Control right here on the ground, helping Kazakhstan deal with this so that you don’t have an enormous outbreak." China's National Health Commission said on Sunday the coronavirus has killed 304 people in China and infections jumped to 14,380 as of Saturday. Also read: Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus At least 171 cases have been reported in more than two dozen other countries and regions, including the United States, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong and Britain. So far, eight cases of the fast-spreading virus have been confirmed in the United States, health officials said. The Pentagon is providing housing for people arriving from overseas who might need to be quarantined. Concerns about the virus spurred the United States to declare a public health emergency and bar entry to foreign nationals who have recently visited China. The latest US patient, in Massachusetts, recently returned from Hubei province in central China, the CDC said. The coronavirus is believed to have originated in a market that traded illegally in wildlife in Hubei's provincial capital, Wuhan.

China has not yet accepted US help with coronavirus: White House adviser

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop.

Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent. The Kunri region in Sindh is the famed red chilli capital of Asia.

Last year, the production of chillies fell by 40 per cent in Pakistan due to climate change.&nbsp;

Heatwaves and warmer climatic conditions had an adverse impact on red chilli crops in the country.&nbsp;

Chillies are a mainstay of Pakistan's economy and less production translates into big losses for the region and the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-annual-inflation-rate-rises-to-1456-in-january-278074">Pakistan annual inflation rate rises to 14.56% in January</a>

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Pakistan produces over 120,000 tonnes of chillies which roughly accounts for 5 per cent of global production.&nbsp;

The country ranks third in the Asian belt after India and China and stands as the world's fourth-largest producer.

Chillies contribute 1.5 per cent to Pakistan's GDP. Faced with a grim situation, chilli farmers in Pakistan are staring at a bleak future.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-spurs-greening-in-barren-frozen-arctic-278178">Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic&nbsp;</a>

According to reports, Pakistan could produce over 120,000 tons of red chilli crops in 2018 which dropped to around 70-80,000 tons in the following year.&nbsp;

If the heat spell and drier conditions continue, it will only spell bad news for the chilli market in Pakistan. Lesser output translates into higher prices for the crop and nobody is willing to import expensive chillies. Unsold stock will only add to farmers' woes and burden the economy which is already in the doldrums.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, it is found that climate change is spurring growth of green cover in the Arctic as warmer temperatures create a conducive environment for foliage to thrive.&nbsp;

The phenomenon, 'Arctic greening' is being studied by a host of experts to analyse how climate change spurs shift in temperatures, prompting vegetation in parts of the Arctic.&nbsp;

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop. Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent.

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop. Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent. The Kunri region in Sindh is the famed red chilli capital of Asia. Last year, the production of chillies fell by 40 per cent in Pakistan due to climate change. Heatwaves and warmer climatic conditions had an adverse impact on red chilli crops in the country. Chillies are a mainstay of Pakistan's economy and less production translates into big losses for the region and the country. Also read: Pakistan annual inflation rate rises to 14.56% in January × Pakistan produces over 120,000 tonnes of chillies which roughly accounts for 5 per cent of global production. The country ranks third in the Asian belt after India and China and stands as the world's fourth-largest producer. Chillies contribute 1.5 per cent to Pakistan's GDP. Faced with a grim situation, chilli farmers in Pakistan are staring at a bleak future. Also read: Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic According to reports, Pakistan could produce over 120,000 tons of red chilli crops in 2018 which dropped to around 70-80,000 tons in the following year. If the heat spell and drier conditions continue, it will only spell bad news for the chilli market in Pakistan. Lesser output translates into higher prices for the crop and nobody is willing to import expensive chillies. Unsold stock will only add to farmers' woes and burden the economy which is already in the doldrums. Meanwhile, it is found that climate change is spurring growth of green cover in the Arctic as warmer temperatures create a conducive environment for foliage to thrive. The phenomenon, 'Arctic greening' is being studied by a host of experts to analyse how climate change spurs shift in temperatures, prompting vegetation in parts of the Arctic.

Pakistan: Chilli cultivation in Sindh takes a hit due to climate change 

Pakistan police on Monday claimed to have thwarted a terror attack on a building of an intelligence agency in Punjab province and arrested three Taliban terrorists.

According to a statement by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), an intelligence-based operation was carried out in Gat Wala Bridge in Faisalabad city, 150-km from Lahore, after receiving information that three terrorists were hiding there and planning to target the intelligence office.

It said the CTD along with police raided their hideout and arrested three Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan terrorists - identified as Abdul Salam, Maodood Chisiti and Ali Muhammad Khan.

Explosive material including fuse, detonators, two pistols and bullets have been recovered from them, the CTD said.

The arrested terrorists have made important disclosures regarding activities of their outfit in the region, it added.

A case has been registered against them. PTI MZ

Pakistan police on Monday claimed to have thwarted a terror attack on a building of an intelligence agency in Punjab province and arrested three Taliban terrorists.

Pakistan police on Monday claimed to have thwarted a terror attack on a building of an intelligence agency in Punjab province and arrested three Taliban terrorists. According to a statement by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), an intelligence-based operation was carried out in Gat Wala Bridge in Faisalabad city, 150-km from Lahore, after receiving information that three terrorists were hiding there and planning to target the intelligence office. It said the CTD along with police raided their hideout and arrested three Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan terrorists - identified as Abdul Salam, Maodood Chisiti and Ali Muhammad Khan. Explosive material including fuse, detonators, two pistols and bullets have been recovered from them, the CTD said. The arrested terrorists have made important disclosures regarding activities of their outfit in the region, it added. A case has been registered against them. PTI MZ

Pak police foils terror plot, arrests three Taliban terrorists

Hundreds of stranded Pakistani students in the coronavirus-hit Wuhan city have made desperate pleas to the Imran Khan government to evacuate them from China's worst-affected Hubei province, urging his administration to take a leaf out of India's book.

India airlifted 654 people, including seven Maldivians, on Saturday and Sunday from Wuhan. The evacuated Indians would be monitored for any signs of infection for two weeks by a qualified team of doctors and staff members. India also temporarily suspended e-visa facility for Chinese travellers and foreigners residing in China in view of the rapid spread of the virus.

Pakistan's Ambassador to China Naghmana Hashmi on Sunday said that the Pakistani students should not be evacuated from Wuhan as medical facilities back home did not meet the standards required to treat a patient diagnosed with coronavirus.

Hashmi's remarks came a day after Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said the government will not bring its citizens back despite multiple requests from the students and their families for immediate evacuation.

Stranded Pakistani students on social media from Wuhan and Hubei province made desperate pleas to the government to change its decision of not to evacuate them due to fears that they may spread the virus in Pakistan.

Watching the Indian students leave, the Pakistani students posted videos on social media asking their government to do the same.

In one of the videos, a Pakistani student while showing the Indian students boarding the bus to go to the airport, said while India was evacuating its citizens, the Pakistan government says "you live or die we will not evacuate or facilitate" their journey home.

"Shame on you Pakistan government. Learn from India how it takes care of its people," he said in the video that went viral.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battling-shortage-china-urgently-needs-masks-and-medical-equipment-to-tackle-coronavirus-278365">Battling shortage, China 'urgently needs' masks and medical equipment to tackle Coronavirus</a>

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Pressure is also mounting on Nepal from hundreds of its students studying in China to evacuate them. One Nepali citizen is reported to have tested positive for coronavirus. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have evacuated their citizens from Wuhan.

Pakistan has more than 28,000 students in China, including 500 in the worst-hit city of Wuhan.

Meanwhile, China has praised Pakistan for resuming flights to the country, a day after it received special medical kits from Beijing to detect the deadly virus cases.

Pakistan joined other world airlines on Friday in suspending flights to China over virus fears, raising eyebrows here considering Islamabad's all-weather ties with Beijing.

Pakistan, however, resumed the flights from Monday even as the death toll jumped to 361 with confirmed cases soaring to over 17200 all over China.

Four Pakistani students from Wuhan have reportedly contracted the virus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-traditional-chinese-medicine-provide-clues-to-treating-and-preventing-coronavirus-278413">Can traditional Chinese medicine provide clues to treating and preventing coronavirus?&nbsp;</a>

Asked about Pakistan resuming flights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told reporters here on Monday that Pakistan Prime Minister Khan highly commended China and firmly supported its efforts to fight against the coronavirus.

"They also appreciate China's assistance for Pakistani citizens in China and express confidence in China winning this battle with the strength of its system. The Pakistani people are standing firmly with their Chinese brethren," she said.

The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the central Hubei province in December, has killed 361 with 57 deaths reported on Sunday while the number of confirmed cases has climbed to 17,205.

The Philippines on Sunday reported the first death outside China from the epidemic that has spread to 25 countries, including India, the US, the UK and Russia.

In China, almost all the deaths have been reported in Hubei Province - the epicentre of the virus outbreak. The virus was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on January 31.

Hundreds of stranded Pakistani students in the coronavirus-hit Wuhan city have made desperate pleas to the Imran Khan government to evacuate them from China's worst-affected Hubei province, urging his administration to take a leaf out of India's book.

Hundreds of stranded Pakistani students in the coronavirus-hit Wuhan city have made desperate pleas to the Imran Khan government to evacuate them from China's worst-affected Hubei province, urging his administration to take a leaf out of India's book. India airlifted 654 people, including seven Maldivians, on Saturday and Sunday from Wuhan. The evacuated Indians would be monitored for any signs of infection for two weeks by a qualified team of doctors and staff members. India also temporarily suspended e-visa facility for Chinese travellers and foreigners residing in China in view of the rapid spread of the virus. Pakistan's Ambassador to China Naghmana Hashmi on Sunday said that the Pakistani students should not be evacuated from Wuhan as medical facilities back home did not meet the standards required to treat a patient diagnosed with coronavirus. Hashmi's remarks came a day after Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said the government will not bring its citizens back despite multiple requests from the students and their families for immediate evacuation. Stranded Pakistani students on social media from Wuhan and Hubei province made desperate pleas to the government to change its decision of not to evacuate them due to fears that they may spread the virus in Pakistan. Watching the Indian students leave, the Pakistani students posted videos on social media asking their government to do the same. In one of the videos, a Pakistani student while showing the Indian students boarding the bus to go to the airport, said while India was evacuating its citizens, the Pakistan government says "you live or die we will not evacuate or facilitate" their journey home. "Shame on you Pakistan government. Learn from India how it takes care of its people," he said in the video that went viral. Also read: Battling shortage, China 'urgently needs' masks and medical equipment to tackle Coronavirus × Pressure is also mounting on Nepal from hundreds of its students studying in China to evacuate them. One Nepali citizen is reported to have tested positive for coronavirus. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have evacuated their citizens from Wuhan. Pakistan has more than 28,000 students in China, including 500 in the worst-hit city of Wuhan. Meanwhile, China has praised Pakistan for resuming flights to the country, a day after it received special medical kits from Beijing to detect the deadly virus cases. Pakistan joined other world airlines on Friday in suspending flights to China over virus fears, raising eyebrows here considering Islamabad's all-weather ties with Beijing. Pakistan, however, resumed the flights from Monday even as the death toll jumped to 361 with confirmed cases soaring to over 17200 all over China. Four Pakistani students from Wuhan have reportedly contracted the virus. Also read: Can traditional Chinese medicine provide clues to treating and preventing coronavirus? Asked about Pakistan resuming flights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told reporters here on Monday that Pakistan Prime Minister Khan highly commended China and firmly supported its efforts to fight against the coronavirus. "They also appreciate China's assistance for Pakistani citizens in China and express confidence in China winning this battle with the strength of its system. The Pakistani people are standing firmly with their Chinese brethren," she said. The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the central Hubei province in December, has killed 361 with 57 deaths reported on Sunday while the number of confirmed cases has climbed to 17,205. The Philippines on Sunday reported the first death outside China from the epidemic that has spread to 25 countries, including India, the US, the UK and Russia. In China, almost all the deaths have been reported in Hubei Province - the epicentre of the virus outbreak. The virus was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on January 31.

Frantic Pak students in virus-hit Wuhan ask their government to follow India's example to evacuate them

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-on-two-day-visit-to-malaysia-after-missing-muslim-nations-summit-278187">a two-day visit to Malaysia</a> to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia.

Prime Minister Khan's visit will contribute to further strengthening the historic Pakistan-Malaysia ties and taking bilateral cooperation to a higher level, the Prime Minister's Office tweeted.

Khan's visit to Malaysia at the invitation of his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad comes after he skipped the Kuala Lumpur summit of some 20 Muslim countries in December attended by leaders from countries like Iran, Turkey and Qatar.

Khan did not attend the summit, reportedly due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia, which had extended liberal financial assistance to Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government to stave off the looming economic crisis, Dawn newspaper reported.

The Express Tribune, quoting sources, reported that the visit of prime minister Khan is aimed at removing misgivings Malaysia may have about Pakistan for skipping the Kuala Lumpur summit.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Imran-khan-news-pak-pm-imran-khan-to-give-indian-airspace-a-miss-during-malaysia-visit-fly-over-china-278209">Pak PM Imran Khan to give Indian airspace a miss during Malaysia visit; fly over China</a>

Pakistan initially confirmed its participation at the summit but changed its mind after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced concerns over it. Riyadh is reported to have viewed the summit as an attempt to create a new Islamic bloc, the reports said.

During his visit to Malaysia, Prime Minister Khan will also highlight the human rights and humanitarian situation in Jammu and Kashmir, his office tweeted on Sunday.

He would also emphasise the importance of "averting risks to regional peace &amp; stability posed by India" and underscore the importance of peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir, it said.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir has already angered India with his provocative comments on Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, prompting New Delhi to impose restrictions on the import of refined palm oil from Malaysia, the top supplier of the commodity to the country.

Khan's two-day working visit is set to further enhance and solidify long-standing brotherly relations between the two nations, Malaysia's official news agency Bernama reported on Monday.

Khan's second visit to Kuala Lumpur since becoming prime minister in August 2018 would include a high-level Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other senior ministers.

The former cricketer-turned prime minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mahathir in Putrajaya on Tuesday morning, the report said.

The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September last.

Khan is also scheduled to address scholars at the Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) on regional peace and security.

The two leaders share great camaraderie as both have similar views in many areas, such as on combatting corruption and issues concerning Muslim ummah like Islamophobia, Palestine and the Rohingya's plight, the report said, avoiding any mention of Kashmir.

Their meeting is expected to discuss on matters of mutual interest and a follow up on Mahathir's March 2019 official visit to Islamabad where both leaders had agreed to elevate Malaysia-Pakistan relations to a strategic partnership that will mark a new level of bilateral cooperation, it said.

The two countries are expected to step up cooperation in the trade of palm oil, agricultural products, retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment, the Bernama report said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on a two-day visit to Malaysia to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on a two-day visit to Malaysia to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia. Prime Minister Khan's visit will contribute to further strengthening the historic Pakistan-Malaysia ties and taking bilateral cooperation to a higher level, the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. Khan's visit to Malaysia at the invitation of his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad comes after he skipped the Kuala Lumpur summit of some 20 Muslim countries in December attended by leaders from countries like Iran, Turkey and Qatar. Khan did not attend the summit, reportedly due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia, which had extended liberal financial assistance to Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government to stave off the looming economic crisis, Dawn newspaper reported. The Express Tribune, quoting sources, reported that the visit of prime minister Khan is aimed at removing misgivings Malaysia may have about Pakistan for skipping the Kuala Lumpur summit. Also read: Pak PM Imran Khan to give Indian airspace a miss during Malaysia visit; fly over China Pakistan initially confirmed its participation at the summit but changed its mind after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced concerns over it. Riyadh is reported to have viewed the summit as an attempt to create a new Islamic bloc, the reports said. During his visit to Malaysia, Prime Minister Khan will also highlight the human rights and humanitarian situation in Jammu and Kashmir, his office tweeted on Sunday. He would also emphasise the importance of "averting risks to regional peace & stability posed by India" and underscore the importance of peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir, it said. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir has already angered India with his provocative comments on Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, prompting New Delhi to impose restrictions on the import of refined palm oil from Malaysia, the top supplier of the commodity to the country. Khan's two-day working visit is set to further enhance and solidify long-standing brotherly relations between the two nations, Malaysia's official news agency Bernama reported on Monday. Khan's second visit to Kuala Lumpur since becoming prime minister in August 2018 would include a high-level Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other senior ministers. The former cricketer-turned prime minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mahathir in Putrajaya on Tuesday morning, the report said. The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September last. Khan is also scheduled to address scholars at the Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) on regional peace and security. The two leaders share great camaraderie as both have similar views in many areas, such as on combatting corruption and issues concerning Muslim ummah like Islamophobia, Palestine and the Rohingya's plight, the report said, avoiding any mention of Kashmir. Their meeting is expected to discuss on matters of mutual interest and a follow up on Mahathir's March 2019 official visit to Islamabad where both leaders had agreed to elevate Malaysia-Pakistan relations to a strategic partnership that will mark a new level of bilateral cooperation, it said. The two countries are expected to step up cooperation in the trade of palm oil, agricultural products, retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment, the Bernama report said.

Imran Khan leaves for Malaysia to placate PM Mahathir for skipping key Islamic summit

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday announced coronavirus as a state calamity.&nbsp;

This comes shortly after Kerala confirmed third positive case of coronavirus earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The second sample of coronavirus patient in Isolation Ward of Thrissur Medical College also turned positive. The health of the patient is satisfactory.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the first GoM (Group of Ministers) meeting was convened on Monday to review and monitor the preparedness to tackle and contain the coronavirus infection in the country.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor</a>

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The meeting saw the presence of Union Ministers like S Jaishankar, Harsh Vardhan, Hardeep Puri, among others.&nbsp;

So far, five individuals showing at Army's quarantine facility in Manesar have shown symptoms of cough and cold and have been moved to the base hospital, Delhi Cantt for better treatment.&nbsp;

Their samples have been sent to AIIMS for testing, one result has tested negative while others are awaited.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/latest-coronavirus-news-update-India-confirms-third-coronavirus-case-in-Kerala">India confirms third coronavirus case in Kerala</a>

The deadly outbreak, having epicentre in Wuhan, China, has claimed at least 360 lives in China and one in the Philippines.&nbsp;

While an over 14,000 are estimated to have been infected by the virus across the globe, a study by Hong Kong University estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday announced coronavirus as a state calamity. This comes shortly after Kerala confirmed third positive case of coronavirus earlier in the day.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday announced coronavirus as a state calamity. This comes shortly after Kerala confirmed third positive case of coronavirus earlier in the day. The second sample of coronavirus patient in Isolation Ward of Thrissur Medical College also turned positive. The health of the patient is satisfactory. Meanwhile, the first GoM (Group of Ministers) meeting was convened on Monday to review and monitor the preparedness to tackle and contain the coronavirus infection in the country. Also read: Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor × The meeting saw the presence of Union Ministers like S Jaishankar, Harsh Vardhan, Hardeep Puri, among others. So far, five individuals showing at Army's quarantine facility in Manesar have shown symptoms of cough and cold and have been moved to the base hospital, Delhi Cantt for better treatment. Their samples have been sent to AIIMS for testing, one result has tested negative while others are awaited. Also read: India confirms third coronavirus case in Kerala The deadly outbreak, having epicentre in Wuhan, China, has claimed at least 360 lives in China and one in the Philippines. While an over 14,000 are estimated to have been infected by the virus across the globe, a study by Hong Kong University estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone. (With inputs from ANI)

Coronavirus a state disaster: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijyan

Things might not look up for the Indian economy at the moment but according to a study, India is likely to bounce back in the long run.&nbsp;

According to a Japan-based think tank, India's bolstered GDP, together with neighbouring China's, is expected to account for 35 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product in the year 2060.&nbsp;

Japan Center for Economic Research (JCER) has found that India and China's combined share in the world's GDP will near America's and European countries' combined share.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nominal-gdp-growth-for-2020-21-estimated-at-10-per-cent-says-fm-sitharaman-277995">Nominal GDP growth for 2020-21 estimated at 10 per cent, says FM Sitharaman</a> &nbsp;

In the next four decades, the JCER found that India's share of the world economy will be over 15 per cent while China's is expected to be around 20 per cent.&nbsp;

China is predicted to surpass the United States as the world's largest economy around 2030, adding that Washington will be quick to retain its spot in the following decades.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gdp-growth-rate-for-2018-19-revised-downwards-to-61-from-68-277825">GDP growth rate for 2018-19 revised downwards to 6.1% from 6.8%</a>&nbsp;

The research also points to the falling share of US and Economies economies on the global platform in the years to come.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Things might not look up for the Indian economy at the moment but according to a study, India is likely to bounce back in the long run. According to a Japan-based think tank, India's bolstered GDP, together with neighbouring China's, is expected to account for 35 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product in the year 2060.

Things might not look up for the Indian economy at the moment but according to a study, India is likely to bounce back in the long run. According to a Japan-based think tank, India's bolstered GDP, together with neighbouring China's, is expected to account for 35 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product in the year 2060. Japan Center for Economic Research (JCER) has found that India and China's combined share in the world's GDP will near America's and European countries' combined share. Also read: Nominal GDP growth for 2020-21 estimated at 10 per cent, says FM Sitharaman In the next four decades, the JCER found that India's share of the world economy will be over 15 per cent while China's is expected to be around 20 per cent. China is predicted to surpass the United States as the world's largest economy around 2030, adding that Washington will be quick to retain its spot in the following decades. Also read: GDP growth rate for 2018-19 revised downwards to 6.1% from 6.8% The research also points to the falling share of US and Economies economies on the global platform in the years to come.

India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060: Study

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Turkish and&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;troops traded&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;fire in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-military-force-against-syria-277818">Syria</a>'s northwest on Monday.

Here are the top ten stories of the day.

Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines

The death toll from China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 361 on Monday as authorities continued to grapple with the virus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-coronavirus-rises-to-361-as-man-dies-in-philippines-278197">Read more</a>

Turkey and Syrian regime engage in deadly flare-up

Turkish and&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;troops traded&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;fire in&nbsp;Syria's northwest on Monday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-and-syrian-regime-in-deadly-flare-up-278351">Read more</a>

Social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus

Social media platforms such as&nbsp;Facebook,&nbsp;Twitter, Youtube and&nbsp;Tiktok are taking steps to address false information about the deadly coronavirus on them. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-social-media-applications-tackling-false-claims-against-coronavirus-278258">Read more</a>

Bushfire smoke blows into Australia's capital as fire threat eases

Bushfires eased near&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;capital, Canberra, on Monday, as temperatures dipped, but officials warned heavy&nbsp;smoke&nbsp;was set to blow into the city with a shift in the wind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfire-smoke-blows-into-australias-capital-as-fire-threat-eases-278276">Read more</a>

Spray planes can counter worst locust outbreak in eastern Africa: United Nations

Small planes that can spray pesticides are the only effective way to combat the worst locusts outbreak in 70 years in&nbsp;Kenya,&nbsp;according to the&nbsp;United Nations. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-spray-planes-can-counter-worst-locust-outbreak-in-eastern-africa-united-nations-278328">Read more</a>

Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor: Report

A Chinese doctor named&nbsp;had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Read more</a>

'Britain will prosper': Prime Minister Johnson sets out tough terms for EU talks

Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will lay&nbsp;out&nbsp;his negotiating&nbsp;terms&nbsp;for&nbsp;talks&nbsp;with the&nbsp;European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-will-prosper-prime-minister-johnson-sets-out-tough-terms-for-eu-talks-278292">Read more</a>

Palestinians should come to the table and negotiate: Kushner on Middle East peace plan

Jared Kushner,&nbsp;said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then&nbsp;the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-should-come-to-the-table-and-negotiate-kushner-on-middle-east-peace-plan-278319">Read more</a>

NFL Super Bowl: After leading Chiefs to Super Bowl win, the future belongs to Mahomes

The Kansas City Chiefs ended a 50-year Super Bowl drought with its win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in the NFL's 100th season. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-super-bowl-after-leading-chiefs-to-super-bowl-win-the-future-belongs-to-mahomes-278338">Read more</a>

Today is National Sickie Day: 8.6 million claimed sick days last year due to 'painful' jobs

A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful''. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-is-national-sickie-day-86-million-claimed-sick-days-last-year-due-to-painful-jobs-278223">Read more&nbsp;</a>

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile, Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday.

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile, Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday. Here are the top ten stories of the day. Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines The death toll from China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 361 on Monday as authorities continued to grapple with the virus. Read more Turkey and Syrian regime engage in deadly flare-up Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday. Read more Social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Tiktok are taking steps to address false information about the deadly coronavirus on them. Read more Bushfire smoke blows into Australia's capital as fire threat eases Bushfires eased near Australia's capital, Canberra, on Monday, as temperatures dipped, but officials warned heavy smoke was set to blow into the city with a shift in the wind. Read more Spray planes can counter worst locust outbreak in eastern Africa: United Nations Small planes that can spray pesticides are the only effective way to combat the worst locusts outbreak in 70 years in Kenya, according to the United Nations. Read more Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor: Report A Chinese doctor named had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019. Read more 'Britain will prosper': Prime Minister Johnson sets out tough terms for EU talks Prime Minister Boris Johnson will lay out his negotiating terms for talks with the European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal. Read more Palestinians should come to the table and negotiate: Kushner on Middle East peace plan Jared Kushner, said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." Read more NFL Super Bowl: After leading Chiefs to Super Bowl win, the future belongs to Mahomes The Kansas City Chiefs ended a 50-year Super Bowl drought with its win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in the NFL's 100th season. Read more Today is National Sickie Day: 8.6 million claimed sick days last year due to 'painful' jobs A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful''. Read more

Top 10 world news: Coronavirus outbreak, deadly flare-up between Turkey and Syria, NFL Superbowl and more

Two persons, who returned from coronavirus-hit China two weeks ago, have been admitted to the isolation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital here for symptoms of cough and cold, government officials said here on Monday.

Health workers who reached the house of the two for a routine check-up for the virus found them with the symptoms and took them to the hospital, the officials said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/latest-coronavirus-news-update-India-confirms-third-coronavirus-case-in-Kerala">India confirms third coronavirus case in Kerala</a>

Samples taken from the patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Alappuzha, for testing, they added.

India has so far reported three cases of the novel coronavirus, all of them from Kerala.

Two persons, who returned from coronavirus-hit China two weeks ago, have been admitted to the isolation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital here for symptoms of cough and cold, government officials said here on Monday.

Two persons, who returned from coronavirus-hit China two weeks ago, have been admitted to the isolation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital here for symptoms of cough and cold, government officials said here on Monday. Health workers who reached the house of the two for a routine check-up for the virus found them with the symptoms and took them to the hospital, the officials said. Also read: India confirms third coronavirus case in Kerala Samples taken from the patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Alappuzha, for testing, they added. India has so far reported three cases of the novel coronavirus, all of them from Kerala.

Two hospitalised for symptoms of coronavirus in Kottayam

India’s manufacturing activity has expanded at its quickest pace in nearly eight years in January with robust growth in new orders and output, indicating an initial recovery in the demand in the Indian economy.

This comes at a time when there has been widespread concern over the economic slowdown.

The manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index or PMI for India shot up to 55.3 in January from 52.7 in December. This is the highest reading since February 2012.

The recovery also suggests the economy may be getting back on firmer footing as initial growth has been registered in the new business sector.

According to a private survey by data analytics firm IHS Markit, hiring activity has also improved in January, with firms increasing employment at the fastest rate in close to seven-and-a-half years.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-economy-experienced-abrupt-slowdown-in-2019-but-its-not-in-a-recession-imf-md-277892">Indian economy experienced abrupt slowdown in 2019, but it’s not in a recession - IMF MD</a>

A figure above 50 indicates expansion, however, anything lower signals contraction.

The survey tracked new orders, output, jobs, suppliers’ delivery time, and stocks of purchases at around 400 manufacturers.

The modest growth in manufacturing indicator comes in the backdrop of improvements in several leading indicators, including goods and services tax (GST) collection and core sector industries.

In response to the jump in sales, factories also hired new workers at the fastest rate in more than seven years.

Meanwhile, both input costs and output prices rose at a slower pace, indicating overall inflation may have eased after hitting a more than five year high of 7.35 per cent in December.

This might keep the central bank, which cut its key interest rate by a cumulative 135 basis points last year, on the sidelines over the coming months.

India’s manufacturing activity has expanded at its quickest pace in nearly eight years in January with robust growth in new orders and output, indicating an initial recovery in the demand in the Indian economy.

India’s manufacturing activity has expanded at its quickest pace in nearly eight years in January with robust growth in new orders and output, indicating an initial recovery in the demand in the Indian economy. This comes at a time when there has been widespread concern over the economic slowdown. The manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index or PMI for India shot up to 55.3 in January from 52.7 in December. This is the highest reading since February 2012. The recovery also suggests the economy may be getting back on firmer footing as initial growth has been registered in the new business sector. According to a private survey by data analytics firm IHS Markit, hiring activity has also improved in January, with firms increasing employment at the fastest rate in close to seven-and-a-half years. Also read: Indian economy experienced abrupt slowdown in 2019, but it’s not in a recession - IMF MD A figure above 50 indicates expansion, however, anything lower signals contraction. The survey tracked new orders, output, jobs, suppliers’ delivery time, and stocks of purchases at around 400 manufacturers. The modest growth in manufacturing indicator comes in the backdrop of improvements in several leading indicators, including goods and services tax (GST) collection and core sector industries. In response to the jump in sales, factories also hired new workers at the fastest rate in more than seven years. Meanwhile, both input costs and output prices rose at a slower pace, indicating overall inflation may have eased after hitting a more than five year high of 7.35 per cent in December. This might keep the central bank, which cut its key interest rate by a cumulative 135 basis points last year, on the sidelines over the coming months.

India's January manufacturing activity hits nearly 8-year high 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a rally for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls in national capital's Karkardooma. &nbsp;

Addressing the rally, the prime minister said that the vote of the people of Delhi will change and modernise Delhi.&nbsp;

"It will make it safe, make the lives of the people living here easier," he said.&nbsp;

Slamming Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the prime minister said that his government is not letting Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to be implemented.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2020-is-a-progressive-one-focuses-on-skill-development-of-indias-youth-pm-modi-278017">Budget will bolster income and investment; bring vitality in financial system - PM Modi</a>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi: People of the country got a Lokpal, but the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal. There was such a big movement, such tall claims, what happened to them all? <a href="https://t.co/oTsypne45T">pic.twitter.com/oTsypne45T</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1224296043329638400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Till this government is in power in Delhi they will continue to put obstacles in welfare work. They don't know anything except playing politics," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal.&nbsp;

"People of the country got a Lokpal, but the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal. There was such a big movement, such tall claims, what happened to them all?" he said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The union budget that has come is going to give direction not only for this year but for this entire decade. The benefit of this budget will be for the youth of Delhi, traders of Delhi, the middle class, poor and women <a href="https://t.co/w3wpLfpBLq">pic.twitter.com/w3wpLfpBLq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1224296588694052864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He said that the Central government made possible many things that have had been pending for 70 years.&nbsp;

"Article 370 was abrogated after 70 years, Ramjanambhoomi verdict came after 70 years, Kartarpur Sahab corridor was made after 70 years, India-Bangladesh border issue solved after 70 years, CAA came after 70 years, War memorial and Police memorial were made after 50-60 years," he said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-opposers-refuse-to-see-persecution-of-religious-minorities-in-pakistan-pm-modi-277068">CAA opposers refuse to see persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan - PM Modi</a>

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PM: There was a complaint from traders of country, including Delhi, that they face pressure from tax authorities. So we started Indirect Tax Settlement Scheme last year.After this, there was demand that such a scheme be started for Direct Taxes. In this budget, we fulfilled this <a href="https://t.co/EmSM28Tb8W">pic.twitter.com/EmSM28Tb8W</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1224298083825020929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the recently tabled Budget, the prime minister said that it will give direction to the country, "not only for this year but for this entire decade".

"The benefit of this budget will be for the youth of Delhi, traders of Delhi, the middle class, poor and women," he said.&nbsp;

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PM Modi: In this budget, it has also been taken care that middle-class taxpayers have more money to save. The government has now given the option of a new slab of tax. This slab is also simple and there is no pressure to invest in certain schemes only to save tax <a href="https://t.co/rj85I3h1IG">pic.twitter.com/rj85I3h1IG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1224299115573497856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In this budget, it has also been taken care that middle-class taxpayers have more money to save. The government has now given the option of a new slab of tax. This slab is also simple and there is no pressure to invest in certain schemes only to save tax," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a rally for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls in national capital's Karkardooma. Addressing the rally, the prime minister said that the vote of the people of Delhi will change and modernise Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a rally for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls in national capital's Karkardooma. Addressing the rally, the prime minister said that the vote of the people of Delhi will change and modernise Delhi. "It will make it safe, make the lives of the people living here easier," he said. Slamming Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the prime minister said that his government is not letting Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to be implemented. Also read: Budget will bolster income and investment; bring vitality in financial system - PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi: People of the country got a Lokpal, but the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal. There was such a big movement, such tall claims, what happened to them all? pic.twitter.com/oTsypne45T — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2020 × "Till this government is in power in Delhi they will continue to put obstacles in welfare work. They don't know anything except playing politics," PM Modi said. The prime minister said that the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal. "People of the country got a Lokpal, but the people of Delhi are still waiting for a Lokpal. There was such a big movement, such tall claims, what happened to them all?" he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The union budget that has come is going to give direction not only for this year but for this entire decade. The benefit of this budget will be for the youth of Delhi, traders of Delhi, the middle class, poor and women pic.twitter.com/w3wpLfpBLq — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2020 × He said that the Central government made possible many things that have had been pending for 70 years. "Article 370 was abrogated after 70 years, Ramjanambhoomi verdict came after 70 years, Kartarpur Sahab corridor was made after 70 years, India-Bangladesh border issue solved after 70 years, CAA came after 70 years, War memorial and Police memorial were made after 50-60 years," he said. Also read: CAA opposers refuse to see persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan - PM Modi PM: There was a complaint from traders of country, including Delhi, that they face pressure from tax authorities. So we started Indirect Tax Settlement Scheme last year.After this, there was demand that such a scheme be started for Direct Taxes. In this budget, we fulfilled this pic.twitter.com/EmSM28Tb8W — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2020 × Talking about the recently tabled Budget, the prime minister said that it will give direction to the country, "not only for this year but for this entire decade". "The benefit of this budget will be for the youth of Delhi, traders of Delhi, the middle class, poor and women," he said. PM Modi: In this budget, it has also been taken care that middle-class taxpayers have more money to save. The government has now given the option of a new slab of tax. This slab is also simple and there is no pressure to invest in certain schemes only to save tax pic.twitter.com/rj85I3h1IG — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2020 × In this budget, it has also been taken care that middle-class taxpayers have more money to save. The government has now given the option of a new slab of tax. This slab is also simple and there is no pressure to invest in certain schemes only to save tax," he added. (With inputs from ANI)

Current Delhi government will continue to put obstacles in welfare work: PM Modi sounds bugle for Delhi polls

Indian nationals were among the over 1,400 fighters of a blacklisted faction of the Islamic State terror group who surrendered to Afghan authorities last year, according to a UN report.

The UN Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee in May last year blacklisted Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant-Khorasan (ISIL-K), which is also known as ISIL's South Asia Branch, ISIL Khorasan, Islamic State's Khorasan Province and South Asian Chapter of ISIL.

The 25th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIL (Da'esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said Afghan security forces and Taliban fighters were able to inflict "severe damage" on the ISIL-K, displacing it from large areas of the Nangarhar province.

"More than 1,400 people surrendered to the Afghan authorities, including dependants of ISIL-K fighters. Most males were Afghan nationals, but there were also foreign nationals from Azerbaijan, Canada, France, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey and Uzbekistan," the January 2020 report said, without giving a breakup of their numbers.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/despite-defeats-the-islamic-state-remains-unbroken-and-defiant-around-the-world-277491">Despite defeats, the Islamic State remains unbroken and defiant around the world</a>

The impact on ISIL-K numbers may be significant. The group is "now assessed to have approximately 2,500 fighters in Afghanistan, with about 2,100 of them concentrated in the Kunar province", it said.

"There is a covert ISIL-K presence of up to 25 persons in Faryab province, led by former Taliban member Qari Salahuddin," the report said.

The ISIL-K is a branch of the militant Islamist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), active in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

According to the UN report, ISIL-K continues recruitment via the Internet. It also conducts propaganda activities in madrasas and universities in Afghanistan, including in Kabul.

"Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant-Khorasan suffered severe losses and was largely expelled from its Afghan heartland of Nangarhar Province in November 2019, but it has proved resilient in the past and is still assessed to pose a serious threat," it said.

The report said ISIL-K has established informal contact with other terrorist groups, including Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan and Lashkar-eIslam.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-resurgence-possible-if-america-leaves-iraq-us-general-276003">Islamic State resurgence possible if America leaves Iraq - US General</a>

Beyond the ISIL core conflict zone, threats from Al-Qaida and ISIL affiliates persist globally, especially in Afghanistan and its "immediate neighbourhood" as well as in parts of Africa and South-East Asia, it said.

Afghanistan continues to be the conflict zone of greatest concern to the UN member states outside the ISIL core area and suffers by some measures the heaviest toll from terrorism of any country in the world.

"Al-Qaida and foreign terrorist fighters aligned with it, under the protection and influence of the Taliban, pose a long-term global threat," the report said.

Al-Qaida remains resilient and increasingly threatening despite the confirmation last September of the death at an unspecified earlier date of its leadership figure Hamza Usama Muhammad Bin Laden, the report said.

It said Al-Qaida is "concerned" about the current focus of the Taliban leadership on peace talks. "Al-Qaida representatives undertook shuttle diplomacy, persuading various factions of the Taliban and field commanders not to support negotiations with the Government of Afghanistan and promising to increase financial support," the report said. 
"If a peace agreement is reached, Al-Qaida intends to develop a new narrative to justify continuing the armed conflict in Afghanistan.

"Relations with the Taliban continue to be close and mutually beneficial, with Al-Qaida supplying resources and training in exchange for protection," it said, adding that this is evidenced by the operation in the Musa Qal'ah district of Helmand province in September in which some members of Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent were killed.

The report said there are an estimated 400 to 600 Al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan, mainly in the provinces of Khost, Kunar, Nuristan, Paktiya and Zabul.

The Monitoring Team noted that not all foreign terrorist fighters have been included in the available databases and watch lists.

Some Al-Qaida and ISIL fighters, facilitators and new recruits may not have any adverse record or be listed and they, therefore, will not be detected or deterred from travelling during the screening process.

Separately, some Member States assert that in many instances they learned that their nationals had travelled to join the ISIL or Al-Qaida affiliates long after these citizens had left their territory, been arrested or died in combat. In such instances, it is challenging to implement travel restrictions.

The Monitoring Team recommended that the UN member states intensify and accelerate the timely exchange of relevant operational information regarding actions, movements and patterns of movements of terrorists to include foreign militants who are not listed on the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List.

Indian nationals were among the over 1,400 fighters of a blacklisted faction of the Islamic State terror group who surrendered to Afghan authorities last year, according to a UN report.

Indian nationals were among the over 1,400 fighters of a blacklisted faction of the Islamic State terror group who surrendered to Afghan authorities last year, according to a UN report. The UN Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee in May last year blacklisted Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant-Khorasan (ISIL-K), which is also known as ISIL's South Asia Branch, ISIL Khorasan, Islamic State's Khorasan Province and South Asian Chapter of ISIL. The 25th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIL (Da'esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said Afghan security forces and Taliban fighters were able to inflict "severe damage" on the ISIL-K, displacing it from large areas of the Nangarhar province. "More than 1,400 people surrendered to the Afghan authorities, including dependants of ISIL-K fighters. Most males were Afghan nationals, but there were also foreign nationals from Azerbaijan, Canada, France, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey and Uzbekistan," the January 2020 report said, without giving a breakup of their numbers. Also read: Despite defeats, the Islamic State remains unbroken and defiant around the world The impact on ISIL-K numbers may be significant. The group is "now assessed to have approximately 2,500 fighters in Afghanistan, with about 2,100 of them concentrated in the Kunar province", it said. "There is a covert ISIL-K presence of up to 25 persons in Faryab province, led by former Taliban member Qari Salahuddin," the report said. The ISIL-K is a branch of the militant Islamist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), active in Afghanistan and Pakistan. According to the UN report, ISIL-K continues recruitment via the Internet. It also conducts propaganda activities in madrasas and universities in Afghanistan, including in Kabul. "Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant-Khorasan suffered severe losses and was largely expelled from its Afghan heartland of Nangarhar Province in November 2019, but it has proved resilient in the past and is still assessed to pose a serious threat," it said. The report said ISIL-K has established informal contact with other terrorist groups, including Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan and Lashkar-eIslam. Also read: Islamic State resurgence possible if America leaves Iraq - US General Beyond the ISIL core conflict zone, threats from Al-Qaida and ISIL affiliates persist globally, especially in Afghanistan and its "immediate neighbourhood" as well as in parts of Africa and South-East Asia, it said. Afghanistan continues to be the conflict zone of greatest concern to the UN member states outside the ISIL core area and suffers by some measures the heaviest toll from terrorism of any country in the world. "Al-Qaida and foreign terrorist fighters aligned with it, under the protection and influence of the Taliban, pose a long-term global threat," the report said. Al-Qaida remains resilient and increasingly threatening despite the confirmation last September of the death at an unspecified earlier date of its leadership figure Hamza Usama Muhammad Bin Laden, the report said. It said Al-Qaida is "concerned" about the current focus of the Taliban leadership on peace talks. "Al-Qaida representatives undertook shuttle diplomacy, persuading various factions of the Taliban and field commanders not to support negotiations with the Government of Afghanistan and promising to increase financial support," the report said. "If a peace agreement is reached, Al-Qaida intends to develop a new narrative to justify continuing the armed conflict in Afghanistan. "Relations with the Taliban continue to be close and mutually beneficial, with Al-Qaida supplying resources and training in exchange for protection," it said, adding that this is evidenced by the operation in the Musa Qal'ah district of Helmand province in September in which some members of Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent were killed. The report said there are an estimated 400 to 600 Al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan, mainly in the provinces of Khost, Kunar, Nuristan, Paktiya and Zabul. The Monitoring Team noted that not all foreign terrorist fighters have been included in the available databases and watch lists. Some Al-Qaida and ISIL fighters, facilitators and new recruits may not have any adverse record or be listed and they, therefore, will not be detected or deterred from travelling during the screening process. Separately, some Member States assert that in many instances they learned that their nationals had travelled to join the ISIL or Al-Qaida affiliates long after these citizens had left their territory, been arrested or died in combat. In such instances, it is challenging to implement travel restrictions. The Monitoring Team recommended that the UN member states intensify and accelerate the timely exchange of relevant operational information regarding actions, movements and patterns of movements of terrorists to include foreign militants who are not listed on the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List.

Indians among ISIS-K foreign fighters who surrendered to Afghan authorities: UN report 

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