<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Western countries and others imposed limited sanctions on Moscow. The West expected to cripple Russia's economy but the country's state media claims that the economy is flourishing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Foreign analysts predicted us a depression and a decline in the consumer sector, they promised empty store shelves, a massive shortage of goods, and the failure of the service sector," Putin said while addressing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pentagon-releases-video-of-moment-russian-fighter-jet-hit-us-drone-over-black-sea-572630">Pentagon releases video of moment when Russian fighter jet hit US drone over Black Sea&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The remark appeared to be in reference to comments by British minister Therese Coffey, who last month urged to prefer seasonal, home-grown turnips as Britons are facing issues getting imported tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in supermarkets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said, "Turnip is a good product, but they would also probably have to go for turnips to Russia, because our level of the harvest, after all, significantly exceeds those figures of our neighbours in Europe."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Here's America's 'Plan B' for Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Putin also urged Russia's billionaires to invest in new technology, production facilities and enterprises to help it overcome what he said were Western attempts to destroy its economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He claimed that "there are even more opportunities for business development and expansion, and Russian business should&nbsp;not&nbsp;miss&nbsp;this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (March 16) mocked the United Kingdom with turnip-related snide remarks as he suggested to the West that they should go to Russia for vegetables amid a massive food security crisis. In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Western countries and others imposed limited sanctions on Moscow. The West expected to cripple Russia's economy but the country's state media claims that the economy is flourishing. "Foreign analysts predicted us a depression and a decline in the consumer sector, they promised empty store shelves, a massive shortage of goods, and the failure of the service sector," Putin said while addressing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. ALSO READ | Pentagon releases video of moment when Russian fighter jet hit US drone over Black Sea The remark appeared to be in reference to comments by British minister Therese Coffey, who last month urged to prefer seasonal, home-grown turnips as Britons are facing issues getting imported tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in supermarkets. Putin said, "Turnip is a good product, but they would also probably have to go for turnips to Russia, because our level of the harvest, after all, significantly exceeds those figures of our neighbours in Europe." WATCH | Gravitas: Here's America's 'Plan B' for Ukraine × Putin also urged Russia's billionaires to invest in new technology, production facilities and enterprises to help it overcome what he said were Western attempts to destroy its economy. He claimed that "there are even more opportunities for business development and expansion, and Russian business should not miss this." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Vladimir Putin mocks West with turnip reference amid food crisis

<p>The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somnath told Hindustan Times that "work is in progress" around India's very own space tourism module, in a report published on Thursday. As quoted, Somnath further said that the module is both "safe and reusable".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Space tourism means spaceflights that are sub-orbital, orbital, and sometimes beyond Earth orbit. It is quite fascinating and refers to the activity of travelling into space, mostly for recreational purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several companies including Virgin Galactic and SpaceX have already taken steps and floated plans for commercial spaceflight soon. But such flights have been costly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-chandrayaan-3-spacecraft-successfully-completes-vibration-and-acoustic-tests-572654">ISRO: Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft successfully completes vibration and acoustic tests</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted, the ISRO chairman said that the enthusiasts will be able to take a trip to space by 2030 as he put a timeline to the space travel module. As per the report, the estimated cost of the trip would be Rs 6 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Somnath said, "The per ticket price is likely to be around Rs 6 crore. People who take the trip will also be able to call themselves astronauts."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Jitendra Singh, who is Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology, Atomic Energy and Space, said earlier this year in February that ISRO is working on India's sub-orbital space tourism mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Singh said: "Through Gaganyaan — India's maiden human spaceflight programme — Isro is engaged in the development of various technologies, which are essential building blocks for human space missions."&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somnath told Hindustan Times that "work is in progress" around India's very own space tourism module, in a report published on Thursday.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somnath told Hindustan Times that "work is in progress" around India's very own space tourism module, in a report published on Thursday. As quoted, Somnath further said that the module is both "safe and reusable". Space tourism means spaceflights that are sub-orbital, orbital, and sometimes beyond Earth orbit. It is quite fascinating and refers to the activity of travelling into space, mostly for recreational purposes. Several companies including Virgin Galactic and SpaceX have already taken steps and floated plans for commercial spaceflight soon. But such flights have been costly. ALSO READ | ISRO: Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft successfully completes vibration and acoustic tests As quoted, the ISRO chairman said that the enthusiasts will be able to take a trip to space by 2030 as he put a timeline to the space travel module. As per the report, the estimated cost of the trip would be Rs 6 crore. Somnath said, "The per ticket price is likely to be around Rs 6 crore. People who take the trip will also be able to call themselves astronauts." Watch this report: × Jitendra Singh, who is Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology, Atomic Energy and Space, said earlier this year in February that ISRO is working on India's sub-orbital space tourism mission. In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Singh said: "Through Gaganyaan — India's maiden human spaceflight programme — Isro is engaged in the development of various technologies, which are essential building blocks for human space missions." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Work is in progress' around India's very own space tourism module. Read details about ticket price, and more

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<p>At least 11 people were reportedly killed and more than 3,500 were injured during celebrations for Iran's traditional fire festival, news agencies reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing state media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chaharshanbeh Suri or Charshanbeh Suri is an Iranian festival of fire dance. It is celebrated on the eve of the last Tuesday of the Iranian calendar year—ahead of the Persian New Year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by reports, emergency services chief Jafar Miadfar told state television that "since February 20, 26 people have died in incidents related to Chaharchanbe Suri," including at least 11 on the day of the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People celebrate it by jumping over bonfires to purify themselves and ward off evil spirits. They chant "I give you my yellow colour" (an indicator of disease) and "I take your red colour" (symbol of life).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel: Anti-government protesters to clog airport access as Netanyahu leaves for Germany&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Protests during the festival&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's alleged custodial death, mass protests began last year in Iran and went on to grip the Islamic Republic for months, with protesters marching through the streets of multiple cities and confronting authorities. Reports said that Amini died following her arrest for an alleged violation of Iran's mandatory dress code for women.</p>

<p>The recent reports mentioned citing monitors that fresh protests took place overnight alongside celebrations for a traditional festival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Groups of Iranians chanting anti-regime slogans, throwing headscarves into fires and burning images of the clerical leadership were seen in video footage posted on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idi-amin-car-reaches-airport-to-disrupt-netanyahus-germany-visit-572358">Israel: 'Idi Amin car’ reaches airport to disrupt Netanyahu's Germany visit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The 1500tasvir social media channel posted footage of dozens of people marching in the Tehran district of Ekbatan chanting: "We are back, the uprising continues."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by the news agency AFP, the channel which basically monitors protest activity, also posted footage of a large crowd chanting anti-regime slogans in the city of Rasht close to the Caspian Sea coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video also showed fireworks being thrown at police vehicles in Tehran and women were seen dancing around bonfires and jubilantly throwing their mandatory headscarves into the flames.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">March 14, 2023, Tehran.<br />
From a different angle: Homemade grenades thrown at the motorcycles of the forces of the Islamic Republic.<a href="https://t.co/E9pex4QOnh">pic.twitter.com/E9pex4QOnh</a></p>
— 1500tasvir_en (@1500tasvir_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/1500tasvir_en/status/1635748005646069761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">March 14, 2023, Tehran.<br />
“For Woman, Life, Freedom…”<a href="https://t.co/lV9YstGE84">pic.twitter.com/lV9YstGE84</a></p>
— 1500tasvir_en (@1500tasvir_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/1500tasvir_en/status/1635744868923330564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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At least 11 people were reportedly killed and more than 3,500 were injured during celebrations for Iran's traditional fire festival, news agencies reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing state media.

At least 11 people were reportedly killed and more than 3,500 were injured during celebrations for Iran's traditional fire festival, news agencies reported on Wednesday (March 15) citing state media. The Chaharshanbeh Suri or Charshanbeh Suri is an Iranian festival of fire dance. It is celebrated on the eve of the last Tuesday of the Iranian calendar year—ahead of the Persian New Year. As quoted by reports, emergency services chief Jafar Miadfar told state television that "since February 20, 26 people have died in incidents related to Chaharchanbe Suri," including at least 11 on the day of the event. People celebrate it by jumping over bonfires to purify themselves and ward off evil spirits. They chant "I give you my yellow colour" (an indicator of disease) and "I take your red colour" (symbol of life). WATCH | Israel: Anti-government protesters to clog airport access as Netanyahu leaves for Germany × Protests during the festival After 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's alleged custodial death, mass protests began last year in Iran and went on to grip the Islamic Republic for months, with protesters marching through the streets of multiple cities and confronting authorities. Reports said that Amini died following her arrest for an alleged violation of Iran's mandatory dress code for women. The recent reports mentioned citing monitors that fresh protests took place overnight alongside celebrations for a traditional festival. Groups of Iranians chanting anti-regime slogans, throwing headscarves into fires and burning images of the clerical leadership were seen in video footage posted on social media. ALSO READ | Israel: 'Idi Amin car’ reaches airport to disrupt Netanyahu's Germany visit The 1500tasvir social media channel posted footage of dozens of people marching in the Tehran district of Ekbatan chanting: "We are back, the uprising continues." As reported by the news agency AFP, the channel which basically monitors protest activity, also posted footage of a large crowd chanting anti-regime slogans in the city of Rasht close to the Caspian Sea coast. The video also showed fireworks being thrown at police vehicles in Tehran and women were seen dancing around bonfires and jubilantly throwing their mandatory headscarves into the flames. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. March 14, 2023, Tehran. From a different angle: Homemade grenades thrown at the motorcycles of the forces of the Islamic Republic.pic.twitter.com/E9pex4QOnh — 1500tasvir_en (@1500tasvir_en) March 14, 2023 × March 14, 2023, Tehran. “For Woman, Life, Freedom…”pic.twitter.com/lV9YstGE84 — 1500tasvir_en (@1500tasvir_en) March 14, 2023 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran: At least 11 killed, thousands injured during fire festival marked by anti-govt protests

<p>Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend non-bailable arrest warrants against him in the Toshakhana case has been rejected by a district court judge on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dismissal has renewed fears of a fresh confrontation between his supporters and security forces. Earlier this week, hundreds of the armed supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief had surrounded his home in Lahore. They reportedly scuffled with security forces attempting to arrest him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thursday's decision came hours after a higher court had ordered police to postpone the operation to arrest Khan until Friday. The order obtained by WION showed the Pakistani court's fury towards the former prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additional District and Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal issued non-bailable arrest orders against the ex-cricket star in the Toshakhana case on February 28 about the concealment of the proceeds from the sale of state gifts. The judge directed the capital city police to bring him to court by March 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-greets-supporters-as-police-halts-efforts-to-arrest-him-following-court-orders-572490">Imran Khan greets supporters as police halt efforts to arrest him following court orders</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Khan, who denies charges, failed to appear before the court over charges that he unlawfully sold state gifts given to him by foreign dignitaries when he was prime minister from 2018 to 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court order noted that keeping in view the law and order situation created by the applicant (Imran Khan), he has lost normal rights granted by procedural as well as substantive laws. It added that he has to actually surrender before the court due to his defiance of the court process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that&nbsp;many people had been injured and vehicles had been damaged in executing the arrest warrant and Khan had "challenged the dignity and writ of the state".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Decoding former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana troubles&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The court order said it was "quite obvious from the record that the applicant has never appeared in the court on any date of hearing and his personal appearance has been exempted on four occasions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The order stated that the "law is equal for powerful and weak segments of society and it is not a fun to tender such an undertaking after causing great loss to the public exchequer as well as damage to the persons and properties".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Islamabad court's order said that a "poor nation"&nbsp;had spent millions on executing the warrant and it ended by concluding&nbsp;that the "application is not justified by law as well as fact, which is hereby rejected."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend non-bailable arrest warrants against him in the Toshakhana case has been rejected by a district court judge on Thursday.

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend non-bailable arrest warrants against him in the Toshakhana case has been rejected by a district court judge on Thursday. The dismissal has renewed fears of a fresh confrontation between his supporters and security forces. Earlier this week, hundreds of the armed supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief had surrounded his home in Lahore. They reportedly scuffled with security forces attempting to arrest him. Thursday's decision came hours after a higher court had ordered police to postpone the operation to arrest Khan until Friday. The order obtained by WION showed the Pakistani court's fury towards the former prime minister. Additional District and Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal issued non-bailable arrest orders against the ex-cricket star in the Toshakhana case on February 28 about the concealment of the proceeds from the sale of state gifts. The judge directed the capital city police to bring him to court by March 18. ALSO READ | Imran Khan greets supporters as police halt efforts to arrest him following court orders Khan, who denies charges, failed to appear before the court over charges that he unlawfully sold state gifts given to him by foreign dignitaries when he was prime minister from 2018 to 2022. The court order noted that keeping in view the law and order situation created by the applicant (Imran Khan), he has lost normal rights granted by procedural as well as substantive laws. It added that he has to actually surrender before the court due to his defiance of the court process. It said that many people had been injured and vehicles had been damaged in executing the arrest warrant and Khan had "challenged the dignity and writ of the state". WATCH | Decoding former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana troubles × The court order said it was "quite obvious from the record that the applicant has never appeared in the court on any date of hearing and his personal appearance has been exempted on four occasions". The order stated that the "law is equal for powerful and weak segments of society and it is not a fun to tender such an undertaking after causing great loss to the public exchequer as well as damage to the persons and properties". The Islamabad court's order said that a "poor nation" had spent millions on executing the warrant and it ended by concluding that the "application is not justified by law as well as fact, which is hereby rejected." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan's plea to suspend arrest warrant rejected by Pakistani court: 'Application is not justified by law'

<p>The US government has received a recommendation from a presidential advisory sub-committee to extend the grace period for H1-B workers, who have lost their jobs recently. If it is implemented, it would allow laid off workers on H1-B visas to find new jobs without the fear of having to return to their home countries too soon. Indians account for the majority of H1-B visa holders.</p>

<p>The extension proposed to be given from the existing 60 days to 180 days in order to provide the workers with enough opportunities to find a new job or other alternatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development comes amid mass layoffs of&nbsp;employees, especially Indians, at big companies like Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon, Twitter, etc. The firing emerged as a massive concern for many regarding job security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency PTI, Ajay Jain Bhutoria, who is a member of the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, said on Tuesday: "The immigration subcommittee recommends the Department of Homeland Security and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend the grace period for H1-B workers, who have lost their jobs, from 60 days to 180 days."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said in his presentation that the significant challenges faced by H1-B workers laid off from their jobs. The current 60-day grace period presents numerous hurdles, including finding a new job within a tight timeframe, complex paperwork for transferring H1-B status, and delays in processing at USCIS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhutoria also told members of the advisory committee that as a result, many H1-B workers are forced to leave the country which could result in a loss of skilled labour for the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the extension would also provide affected employees with more time to navigate the complex and time-consuming process of finding new employment opportunities and transferring their H1-B status.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The US government has received a recommendation from a presidential advisory sub-committee to extend the grace period for H1-B workers, who have lost their jobs recently.

The US government has received a recommendation from a presidential advisory sub-committee to extend the grace period for H1-B workers, who have lost their jobs recently. If it is implemented, it would allow laid off workers on H1-B visas to find new jobs without the fear of having to return to their home countries too soon. Indians account for the majority of H1-B visa holders. The extension proposed to be given from the existing 60 days to 180 days in order to provide the workers with enough opportunities to find a new job or other alternatives. The development comes amid mass layoffs of employees, especially Indians, at big companies like Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon, Twitter, etc. The firing emerged as a massive concern for many regarding job security. As quoted by the news agency PTI, Ajay Jain Bhutoria, who is a member of the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, said on Tuesday: "The immigration subcommittee recommends the Department of Homeland Security and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend the grace period for H1-B workers, who have lost their jobs, from 60 days to 180 days." He said in his presentation that the significant challenges faced by H1-B workers laid off from their jobs. The current 60-day grace period presents numerous hurdles, including finding a new job within a tight timeframe, complex paperwork for transferring H1-B status, and delays in processing at USCIS. Bhutoria also told members of the advisory committee that as a result, many H1-B workers are forced to leave the country which could result in a loss of skilled labour for the United States. He said that the extension would also provide affected employees with more time to navigate the complex and time-consuming process of finding new employment opportunities and transferring their H1-B status. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US advisory panel recommends extension of grace period for H1B visa holders amid mass layoffs

<p>British finance minister Jeremy Hunt on Wednesday unveiled the spring budget as the United Kingdom said that the cost-of-living support for this year and next will total $114 billion. As per the government, the forecast is that the economy would avoid recession this year as inflation slows sharply.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hunt hopes that he will speed up the nation's stagnating economy with the budget plans, including extra support for energy bills, childcare and pension reforms. He expects more people to work and corporate tax breaks to boost weak business investment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chancellor of the Exchequer Hunt told parliament that high inflation is the root cause of the strikes we have seen in recent months and the government will continue to work hard to settle those disputes. He mentioned that government policies will focus on not fueling inflation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK inflation remains above 10 per cent but should cool to 2.9 per cent by year-end, Hunt said. "The UK will not... enter a technical recession this year," he added after the economy narrowly avoided two successive quarters of contraction in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British finance minister announced 12 new investment zones. Citing Canary Wharf's example, he said that there will be in: the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, the north-east, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Midlands, Teesside, and Liverpool. There will also be at least one in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Investment on defence&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The British finance minister said that the government will add a total of £11bn to the defence budget over the next five years and it will be nearly 2.25% of GDP by 2025. He said, "We were the first large European country to commit to 2% of GDP for defence and will raise that to 2.5% as soon as fiscal and economic circumstances allow."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pension reforms</strong></h2>

<p>The government announced reforming the pensions lifetime allowance, annual allowance and money purchase annual allowance to encourage highly-skilled workers, such as senior NHS doctors, to remain in the labour market, and help tackle NHS waiting lists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So today I will increase the pensions annual tax free allowance by 50%, from 40,000 to 60,000 (pounds). Some have also asked me to increase the lifetime allowance from its £1 million limit, but I've decide not to do that. Instead, I will go further and abolish the lifetime allowance altogether. It is a pension tax reform that will stop over 80% of NHS doctors from receiving a tax charge," Hunt said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Voice of opposition leader&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Uk's opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer argued this was a "permanent tax cut... for the richest one percent" as many did not have enough income to benefit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"According to the IMF, the worst performing country in the G7 this year. A prediction today confirmed by the OBR and growth downgraded in years to come," Starmer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British finance minister Jeremy Hunt on Wednesday unveiled the spring budget as the United Kingdom said that the cost-of-living support for this year and next will total $114 billion.

British finance minister Jeremy Hunt on Wednesday unveiled the spring budget as the United Kingdom said that the cost-of-living support for this year and next will total $114 billion. As per the government, the forecast is that the economy would avoid recession this year as inflation slows sharply. Hunt hopes that he will speed up the nation's stagnating economy with the budget plans, including extra support for energy bills, childcare and pension reforms. He expects more people to work and corporate tax breaks to boost weak business investment. Chancellor of the Exchequer Hunt told parliament that high inflation is the root cause of the strikes we have seen in recent months and the government will continue to work hard to settle those disputes. He mentioned that government policies will focus on not fueling inflation. UK inflation remains above 10 per cent but should cool to 2.9 per cent by year-end, Hunt said. "The UK will not... enter a technical recession this year," he added after the economy narrowly avoided two successive quarters of contraction in 2022. The British finance minister announced 12 new investment zones. Citing Canary Wharf's example, he said that there will be in: the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, the north-east, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Midlands, Teesside, and Liverpool. There will also be at least one in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Investment on defence The British finance minister said that the government will add a total of £11bn to the defence budget over the next five years and it will be nearly 2.25% of GDP by 2025. He said, "We were the first large European country to commit to 2% of GDP for defence and will raise that to 2.5% as soon as fiscal and economic circumstances allow." Pension reforms The government announced reforming the pensions lifetime allowance, annual allowance and money purchase annual allowance to encourage highly-skilled workers, such as senior NHS doctors, to remain in the labour market, and help tackle NHS waiting lists. "So today I will increase the pensions annual tax free allowance by 50%, from 40,000 to 60,000 (pounds). Some have also asked me to increase the lifetime allowance from its £1 million limit, but I've decide not to do that. Instead, I will go further and abolish the lifetime allowance altogether. It is a pension tax reform that will stop over 80% of NHS doctors from receiving a tax charge," Hunt said. Voice of opposition leader Uk's opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer argued this was a "permanent tax cut... for the richest one percent" as many did not have enough income to benefit. "According to the IMF, the worst performing country in the G7 this year. A prediction today confirmed by the OBR and growth downgraded in years to come," Starmer said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK unveils cost-of-living budget with focus on childcare, pensions and welfare

<p>Microsoft has told its customers that the hackers linked to the Russian military targeted some European military networks, energy and transportation organisations in an apparent spying attempt, CNN reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In some cases, the hackers were able to infiltrate targeted organisations successfully. The spying was even missed for months amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH&nbsp;| Gravitas: Russian Su-27 downs US MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Black Sea</strong></p>

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<p>During the ongoing Ukraine war, the Western governments and tech firms were on high alert over concerns over breaches of sensitive data. However, the report highlights that there's the possibility that Russian hacking can slip under the radar despite taking necessary steps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Microsoft said that the probe began after the company received a tip-off from Ukrainian officials. The investigation of cyber activity led to the discovery that the Russian hackers used a loophole, basically an exploitation of a previously unknown flaw in Microsoft's email software, between April and December 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Microsoft says in a security advisory: "The attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted email which triggers automatically when it is retrieved and processed by the Outlook client. This could lead to exploitation BEFORE the email is viewed in the Preview Pane."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media outlets reported that Microsoft apparently fixed an Outlook zero-day vulnerability which was exploited by a hacking group linked to Russia's military intelligence service GRU.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

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<p>v</p>


Microsoft has told its customers that the hackers linked to the Russian military targeted some European military networks, energy and transportation organisations in an apparent spying attempt, CNN reported.

Microsoft has told its customers that the hackers linked to the Russian military targeted some European military networks, energy and transportation organisations in an apparent spying attempt, CNN reported. In some cases, the hackers were able to infiltrate targeted organisations successfully. The spying was even missed for months amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine war. WATCH | Gravitas: Russian Su-27 downs US MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Black Sea × During the ongoing Ukraine war, the Western governments and tech firms were on high alert over concerns over breaches of sensitive data. However, the report highlights that there's the possibility that Russian hacking can slip under the radar despite taking necessary steps. Microsoft said that the probe began after the company received a tip-off from Ukrainian officials. The investigation of cyber activity led to the discovery that the Russian hackers used a loophole, basically an exploitation of a previously unknown flaw in Microsoft's email software, between April and December 2022. Microsoft says in a security advisory: "The attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted email which triggers automatically when it is retrieved and processed by the Outlook client. This could lead to exploitation BEFORE the email is viewed in the Preview Pane." Media outlets reported that Microsoft apparently fixed an Outlook zero-day vulnerability which was exploited by a hacking group linked to Russia's military intelligence service GRU. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. v

Russian military-linked hackers spied on European military, energy firms: Microsoft

<p>Online sales of antiviral flu medicines reportedly skyrocketed in China&nbsp;over 100-fold from a year ago as reports emerged that citizens hoarded antiviral flu drugs, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (March 15).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the analytics tracking site Liandanlu showed that the sales volume of the medicine, which is sold under the generic name oseltamivir, surged to about 533,100 units in the first 13 days of March on the China-based e-commerce platforms Taobao and Tmall. Bloomberg also reported that the daily average volume jumped 129-fold from a year ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang Ruizhe, who is a Shanghai-based healthcare analyst, told Bloomberg: "People are more likely to panic following the massive Covid outbreak earlier. That combined with a relatively low stock of the antiviral led to a temporary supply-demand mismatch and price hikes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ruizhe added: "It seems some people are hoarding the antiviral this time. The spread of flu among children is fanning anxiety among parents. The impact of the earlier Covid wave may have also fueled concern."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH&nbsp;| Gravitas: India is building a naval base on Great Nicobar Island&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Such news about the stockpiling of medicines is not new, as when the COVID-19 cases were spreading in China, people hunted for fever medicines and virus test kits to save to contingencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People rushed to buy ibuprofen, cold medicines and Covid testing kits amid reports of shortages when China relaxed its most severe pandemic policies last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have mentioned that the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said the flu cases in China have been rising with the positivity rate being 42 per cent in the week beginning March 5, up from 25 per cent a week earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, China reopened its borders to foreign tourists for the first time since the pandemic. News agencies mentioned that businesses in Shanghai said they are looking forward to welcoming tourists back after the three-year absence.</p>

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Online sales of antiviral flu medicines reportedly skyrocketed in China over 100-fold from a year ago as reports emerged that citizens hoarded antiviral flu drugs, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (March 15).

Online sales of antiviral flu medicines reportedly skyrocketed in China over 100-fold from a year ago as reports emerged that citizens hoarded antiviral flu drugs, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday (March 15). The report mentioned that the analytics tracking site Liandanlu showed that the sales volume of the medicine, which is sold under the generic name oseltamivir, surged to about 533,100 units in the first 13 days of March on the China-based e-commerce platforms Taobao and Tmall. Bloomberg also reported that the daily average volume jumped 129-fold from a year ago. Wang Ruizhe, who is a Shanghai-based healthcare analyst, told Bloomberg: "People are more likely to panic following the massive Covid outbreak earlier. That combined with a relatively low stock of the antiviral led to a temporary supply-demand mismatch and price hikes." Ruizhe added: "It seems some people are hoarding the antiviral this time. The spread of flu among children is fanning anxiety among parents. The impact of the earlier Covid wave may have also fueled concern." WATCH | Gravitas: India is building a naval base on Great Nicobar Island × Such news about the stockpiling of medicines is not new, as when the COVID-19 cases were spreading in China, people hunted for fever medicines and virus test kits to save to contingencies. People rushed to buy ibuprofen, cold medicines and Covid testing kits amid reports of shortages when China relaxed its most severe pandemic policies last year. Reports have mentioned that the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said the flu cases in China have been rising with the positivity rate being 42 per cent in the week beginning March 5, up from 25 per cent a week earlier. Meanwhile, China reopened its borders to foreign tourists for the first time since the pandemic. News agencies mentioned that businesses in Shanghai said they are looking forward to welcoming tourists back after the three-year absence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Online sales of antiviral flu medicines skyrocketed in China

<p>At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid. He was tortured and held captive for six days. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports said that the victim, who has been identified as Peter Vuong, was abducted by a group of kidnappers, who apparently threatened that Vuong would end up "in pieces".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports shared gruesome details which said that Vuong's teeth were forcibly removed at a home in Sydney's southwest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-american-man-freed-after-35-years-for-a-crime-he-did-not-commit-572557">Black American man was jailed since 1988 for a crime he did not commit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Vuong was kidnapped when he was reportedly in bed with a prominent influencer Angel Bowyer at her family's home in Smithfield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The New South Wales Police said that the kidnapping began in the early hours of last Thursday when six men stormed the home and kidnapped Vuong at 5.20am (local time). The kidnappers had their faces covered and were wielding sledgehammers and guns allegedly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK bans TikTok from government mobile phones&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As quoted by BBC, officers said that he was forced into a vehicle and driven away before being "repeatedly assaulted and tortured over a six-day period" and Detective Supt Joe Doueihi said that the group were "part of a criminal enterprise to extort a large sum of money".&nbsp;</p>

<p>9News reported that the kidnappers had&nbsp;sent a chilling text, which read: "We set a price 5mil ($5 million) ... if you cant meet up 2 our requirements we cut ur boy up bit by bit until you give us what we want," one of the accused sent on an encrypted device."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Want his body in pieces? Get the 5mil ready. You have 24h to cough up something nice. We waiting, times ticking," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officer further noted that Vuong was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to the hospital, where he is now in stable condition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the suspects have been identified as Lolo Liavaa and Viliami Siasau (both 19 years old), Valali Tonga, Sunia Siasau and John Totau Fahamokioa (all 20 years old), and Kiteau Tatafu, 21.&nbsp;</p>

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At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid.

At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid. He was tortured and held captive for six days. Media reports said that the victim, who has been identified as Peter Vuong, was abducted by a group of kidnappers, who apparently threatened that Vuong would end up "in pieces". Reports shared gruesome details which said that Vuong's teeth were forcibly removed at a home in Sydney's southwest. ALSO READ | Black American man was jailed since 1988 for a crime he did not commit Vuong was kidnapped when he was reportedly in bed with a prominent influencer Angel Bowyer at her family's home in Smithfield. The New South Wales Police said that the kidnapping began in the early hours of last Thursday when six men stormed the home and kidnapped Vuong at 5.20am (local time). The kidnappers had their faces covered and were wielding sledgehammers and guns allegedly. WATCH | UK bans TikTok from government mobile phones × As quoted by BBC, officers said that he was forced into a vehicle and driven away before being "repeatedly assaulted and tortured over a six-day period" and Detective Supt Joe Doueihi said that the group were "part of a criminal enterprise to extort a large sum of money". 9News reported that the kidnappers had sent a chilling text, which read: "We set a price 5mil ($5 million) ... if you cant meet up 2 our requirements we cut ur boy up bit by bit until you give us what we want," one of the accused sent on an encrypted device." "Want his body in pieces? Get the 5mil ready. You have 24h to cough up something nice. We waiting, times ticking," it added. The officer further noted that Vuong was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to the hospital, where he is now in stable condition. According to reports, the suspects have been identified as Lolo Liavaa and Viliami Siasau (both 19 years old), Valali Tonga, Sunia Siasau and John Totau Fahamokioa (all 20 years old), and Kiteau Tatafu, 21. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: With teeth forcibly pulled, man tortured to near-death before rescue

<p>Microsoft has sacked its entire ethics and society team in the fresh round of layoffs&nbsp;which affected 10,000 employees, Platformer reported. The ethics and society team within the artificial intelligence organisation looked after ensuring whether or not AI principles were being implemented during product design.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Microsoft has doubled down on the implementation of AI innovation. The tech company also invested billions into its partnership with OpenAI, which is an American AI research and deployment company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Microsoft has even teased a Thursday event about how it is "reinventing productivity with AI," which is expected to showcase its competing Word processor.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/toxic-forever-chemicals-found-in-toilet-paper-is-a-significant-source-of-water-pollution-study-571701">Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found in toilet paper is a significant source of water pollution: Study</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The ethics and society team appeared to be a vital cog as the company is aiming to make controversial AI tools available to the mainstream. But concerns were raised when reports emerged that the entire ethics team was sacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Microsoft still maintains an active Office of Responsible AI, which is tasked with creating rules and principles to govern the company’s AI initiatives. Microsoft states: "We are committed to making sure AI systems are developed responsibly and in ways that warrant people's trust".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Platformer, the company said in a statement: "Microsoft is committed to developing AI products and experiences safely and responsibly, and does so by investing in people, processes, and partnerships that prioritise this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US bank failures impact mutual fund portfolios&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>It added, "Over the past six years, we have increased the number of people across our product teams and within the Office of Responsible AI who, along with all of us at Microsoft, are accountable for ensuring we put our AI principles into practice. […] We appreciate the trailblazing work the ethics and society team did to help us on our ongoing responsible AI journey."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Platformer reported that employees told the outlet that the ethics and society team played a critical role. As quoted, one former employee said: "People would look at the principles coming out of the office of responsible AI and say, 'I don’t know how this applies'. Our job was to show them and to create rules in areas where there were none."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Microsoft has sacked its entire ethics and society team in the fresh round of layoffs which affected 10,000 employees, Platformer reported. The ethics and society team within the artificial intelligence organisation looked after ensuring whether or not AI principles were being implemented during product design.

Microsoft has sacked its entire ethics and society team in the fresh round of layoffs which affected 10,000 employees, Platformer reported. The ethics and society team within the artificial intelligence organisation looked after ensuring whether or not AI principles were being implemented during product design. Microsoft has doubled down on the implementation of AI innovation. The tech company also invested billions into its partnership with OpenAI, which is an American AI research and deployment company. Microsoft has even teased a Thursday event about how it is "reinventing productivity with AI," which is expected to showcase its competing Word processor. ALSO READ | Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found in toilet paper is a significant source of water pollution: Study The ethics and society team appeared to be a vital cog as the company is aiming to make controversial AI tools available to the mainstream. But concerns were raised when reports emerged that the entire ethics team was sacked. However, Microsoft still maintains an active Office of Responsible AI, which is tasked with creating rules and principles to govern the company’s AI initiatives. Microsoft states: "We are committed to making sure AI systems are developed responsibly and in ways that warrant people's trust". As quoted by Platformer, the company said in a statement: "Microsoft is committed to developing AI products and experiences safely and responsibly, and does so by investing in people, processes, and partnerships that prioritise this." WATCH | US bank failures impact mutual fund portfolios × It added, "Over the past six years, we have increased the number of people across our product teams and within the Office of Responsible AI who, along with all of us at Microsoft, are accountable for ensuring we put our AI principles into practice. […] We appreciate the trailblazing work the ethics and society team did to help us on our ongoing responsible AI journey." Meanwhile, Platformer reported that employees told the outlet that the ethics and society team played a critical role. As quoted, one former employee said: "People would look at the principles coming out of the office of responsible AI and say, 'I don’t know how this applies'. Our job was to show them and to create rules in areas where there were none." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No ethics needed for AI? Microsoft sacks entire ethics and society team that ensures AI principles

<p>Colombian Navy announced on Sunday (March 12) that a semi-submersible vessel with two dead bodies and nearly three tonnes of cocaine on board was seized in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Colombian Navy mentioned that they also found two surviving crew members, who are "in poor health". They were given medical attention to save their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Navy informed that "apparently there was an accident inside the semi-submersible vessel due to the generation of toxic gases from fuel".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indiana-yellow-chemical-plume-disperses-in-new-albany-investigation-underway-572065">Indiana: Yellow chemical plume disperses in New Albany, investigation underway</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Captain Cristian Andres Guzman Echeverry said in a video released by the navy: "These people's poor health state is presumably due to the inhalation of toxic fumes caused by fuel problems inside the boat."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Navy added in its statement: "With this operational deployment that had foreign support, more than $87 million dollars were prevented from entering the financial structures of drug trafficking organisations that commit crimes in the Colombian Pacific and more than six million doses from circulating in the international illegal market."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>It mentioned: "The Colombian Navy will continue deploying all its capabilities to counter the scourge of drug trafficking structures that commit crimes in the Colombian Pacific."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The submersible vessel, the rescued people, the bodies, and the shipment were escorted by the navy to a port at Tumaco in southwestern Colombia, near the border with Ecuador. Navy officials said the shipment of drugs was headed to Central America.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Colombian Navy announced on Sunday (March 12) that a semi-submersible vessel with two dead bodies and nearly three tonnes of cocaine on board was seized in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the country.

Colombian Navy announced on Sunday (March 12) that a semi-submersible vessel with two dead bodies and nearly three tonnes of cocaine on board was seized in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the country. In a statement, the Colombian Navy mentioned that they also found two surviving crew members, who are "in poor health". They were given medical attention to save their lives. The Navy informed that "apparently there was an accident inside the semi-submersible vessel due to the generation of toxic gases from fuel". ALSO READ | Indiana: Yellow chemical plume disperses in New Albany, investigation underway Captain Cristian Andres Guzman Echeverry said in a video released by the navy: "These people's poor health state is presumably due to the inhalation of toxic fumes caused by fuel problems inside the boat." The Navy added in its statement: "With this operational deployment that had foreign support, more than $87 million dollars were prevented from entering the financial structures of drug trafficking organisations that commit crimes in the Colombian Pacific and more than six million doses from circulating in the international illegal market." × It mentioned: "The Colombian Navy will continue deploying all its capabilities to counter the scourge of drug trafficking structures that commit crimes in the Colombian Pacific." The submersible vessel, the rescued people, the bodies, and the shipment were escorted by the navy to a port at Tumaco in southwestern Colombia, near the border with Ecuador. Navy officials said the shipment of drugs was headed to Central America. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Colombian navy seizes semi-submersible craft carrying tonnes of cocaine, finds two bodies

<p>Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim&nbsp;came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to&nbsp;news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other official said that the way Finland&nbsp;tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent." "We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters. ALSO READ | Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden. The other official said that the way Finland tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard. Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden. Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made." WATCH | Former Australian PM slams Three-Nation Nuclear Submarine Deal × After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland claims Turkey has reached decision on its NATO membership bid

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Zee News Rajasthan

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