Afghanistan's interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday (October 5) that a blast occurred at a mosque near the ministry in the nation's capital Kabul.&nbsp;

Abdul Nafi Takor, who is the ministry's spokesperson, said that the explosion took place "in a mosque which is at a distance from the ministry of interior".&nbsp;

He also mentioned that visitors and some of the employees used to offer prayers at the mosque. The ministry's spokesperson&nbsp;said that an investigation was ongoing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-juntas-leader-wont-be-allowed-to-attend-upcoming-asean-summit-combodia-522660">Myanmar Junta's leader won't be allowed to attend upcoming ASEAN summit: Cambodia</a>&nbsp;

He didn't reveal the casualty figures or the exact distance from ministry grounds, but local reports mentioned that at least four people were killed and over 20 were injured.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Pan Nalin in an exclusive conversation with WION speaks on 'Chhello Show' controversy&nbsp;

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Of late, such deadly attacks have ramped up in Afghanistan. On last Friday, a suicide bombing killed at least 53 people in a Kabul classroom, including 46 girls and women, according to a UN death toll.&nbsp;

As per the witnesses, the attacker blew himself up in the women's section of a gender-segregated classroom of a study hall in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood.&nbsp;

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for that attack, which Taliban authorities said claimed only 25 lives.&nbsp;

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Afghanistan's interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday (October 5) that a blast occurred at a mosque near the ministry in the nation's capital Kabul. Abdul Nafi Takor, who is the ministry's spokesperson, said that the explosion took place "in a mosque which is at a distance from the ministry of interior".

Afghanistan's interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday (October 5) that a blast occurred at a mosque near the ministry in the nation's capital Kabul. Abdul Nafi Takor, who is the ministry's spokesperson, said that the explosion took place "in a mosque which is at a distance from the ministry of interior". He also mentioned that visitors and some of the employees used to offer prayers at the mosque. The ministry's spokesperson said that an investigation was ongoing. ALSO READ | Myanmar Junta's leader won't be allowed to attend upcoming ASEAN summit: Cambodia He didn't reveal the casualty figures or the exact distance from ministry grounds, but local reports mentioned that at least four people were killed and over 20 were injured. WATCH | Pan Nalin in an exclusive conversation with WION speaks on 'Chhello Show' controversy × Of late, such deadly attacks have ramped up in Afghanistan. On last Friday, a suicide bombing killed at least 53 people in a Kabul classroom, including 46 girls and women, according to a UN death toll. As per the witnesses, the attacker blew himself up in the women's section of a gender-segregated classroom of a study hall in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for that attack, which Taliban authorities said claimed only 25 lives. 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.

Kabul: At least four killed, 20 injured in blast at mosque near Afghan interior ministry

Sydney recorded its wettest year in 164 years as authorities braced for major floods in Australia's east on Thursday, with more heavy downpours expected to fall over the next three days.

With almost three months of 2022 still to go, Australia's largest city has recorded 2,200 mm of rain in a year for the first time since records began in 1858.

By Thursday afternoon, Sydney had received about 2,213 mm (87 inches) of rainfall for the year, surpassing the previous record of 2,194 mm set in 1950, official data showed.

More than 58 mm fell over five hours since 9 a.m. local time (2200 GMT, Wednesday), the Bureau of Meteorology's (BoM) live data showed.

More downpours are forecast for the rest of 2022, as Australia's east coast remains in the grip of a rare third straight year of the La Nina weather phenomenon.

"Heading into late spring and summer, we're still in this active La Nina period so we can expect more and more rainfall and that does increase the risk of flooding," BoM forecaster Jonathan How told ABC television.

During the past two years, floods have struck Sydney's suburbs three times, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes.

With a wild weather system expected to dump heavy rains through the weekend across a wide swathe of Australia's east, authorities warned Sydney residents to watch out for flash flooding and stay away from flooded roads.

Many dams and rivers are already at full capacity. The New South Wales state government has committed to raising the height of the wall at Sydney's Warragamba Dam, which supplies 80% of the city's water, to help prevent future floods.

'MORE WATER COMING'

Some of the state's rural inland towns were already flooded, with television footage showing damaged roads and residents moving farm animals to higher ground.

New South Wales emergency crews said there were 47 flood warnings in place across the state, with moderate flooding expected in parts of Sydney on Saturday.

The situation will only get more dangerous over the next few weeks, emergency services spokesperson Scott McLennan said.

"Are we at the worst? We don't know, but we do know that there is more water coming," McLennan told the Australian Broadcasting Corp.

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Sydney recorded its wettest year in 164 years as authorities braced for major floods in Australia's east on Thursday, with more heavy downpours expected to fall over the next three days.

Sydney recorded its wettest year in 164 years as authorities braced for major floods in Australia's east on Thursday, with more heavy downpours expected to fall over the next three days. With almost three months of 2022 still to go, Australia's largest city has recorded 2,200 mm of rain in a year for the first time since records began in 1858. By Thursday afternoon, Sydney had received about 2,213 mm (87 inches) of rainfall for the year, surpassing the previous record of 2,194 mm set in 1950, official data showed. More than 58 mm fell over five hours since 9 a.m. local time (2200 GMT, Wednesday), the Bureau of Meteorology's (BoM) live data showed. More downpours are forecast for the rest of 2022, as Australia's east coast remains in the grip of a rare third straight year of the La Nina weather phenomenon. "Heading into late spring and summer, we're still in this active La Nina period so we can expect more and more rainfall and that does increase the risk of flooding," BoM forecaster Jonathan How told ABC television. During the past two years, floods have struck Sydney's suburbs three times, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes. With a wild weather system expected to dump heavy rains through the weekend across a wide swathe of Australia's east, authorities warned Sydney residents to watch out for flash flooding and stay away from flooded roads. Many dams and rivers are already at full capacity. The New South Wales state government has committed to raising the height of the wall at Sydney's Warragamba Dam, which supplies 80% of the city's water, to help prevent future floods. 'MORE WATER COMING' Some of the state's rural inland towns were already flooded, with television footage showing damaged roads and residents moving farm animals to higher ground. New South Wales emergency crews said there were 47 flood warnings in place across the state, with moderate flooding expected in parts of Sydney on Saturday. The situation will only get more dangerous over the next few weeks, emergency services spokesperson Scott McLennan said. "Are we at the worst? We don't know, but we do know that there is more water coming," McLennan told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. 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.

Sydney records wettest year since 1858 as Australia braces for more floods

India's Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani has said that the nation has registered a decline in female infant mortality rate, the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 live births.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Irani posted an article by the Indian media outlet Times of India to share related facts.&nbsp;

"Efforts towards #BetiBachaoBetiPadhao through an integrated approach encompassing advocacy, healthcare &amp; education is breaking the gender bias &amp; resulting in improved numbers across all parameters," the minister wrote in the caption.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-alleges-made-in-india-cough-syrup-linked-to-death-of-66-kids-in-gambia-probe-underway-522809">WHO alleges 'made in India' cough syrup linked to death of 66 kids in Gambia, probe underway</a>&nbsp;

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India registers decline in female infant mortality rate. 
 
Efforts towards <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BetiBachaoBetiPadhao?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BetiBachaoBetiPadhao</a> through an integrated approach encompassing advocacy, healthcare &amp; education is breaking the gender bias &amp; resulting in improved numbers across all parameters. <a href="https://t.co/zuCuUKEud9">https://t.co/zuCuUKEud9</a> <a href="https://t.co/hmJ8pgxUwI">pic.twitter.com/hmJ8pgxUwI</a>
— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1577303404363268098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The report mentioned that India saw its male and female infant mortality rate equalise in 2020.&nbsp;

The data is vital for the nation as it has had the poor reputation of being the only country in the world where a larger proportion of girls below the age of one died than boys.&nbsp;

After Smriti Irani's tweet, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the nation for its commitment to strengthening Nari Shakti (women empowerment).&nbsp;

Quoting her tweet, the Indian prime minister posted: "This is a great sign, reflective of the collective commitment of 130 crore [1.3 billion] Indians to strengthen our Nari Shakti."&nbsp;

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This is a great sign, reflective of the collective commitment of 130 crore Indians to strengthen our Nari Shakti. <a href="https://t.co/OV3rLFR9Wp">https://t.co/OV3rLFR9Wp</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1577507778108735488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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India's Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani has said that the nation has registered a decline in female infant mortality rate, the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 live births.

India's Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani has said that the nation has registered a decline in female infant mortality rate, the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 live births. In a tweet, Irani posted an article by the Indian media outlet Times of India to share related facts. "Efforts towards #BetiBachaoBetiPadhao through an integrated approach encompassing advocacy, healthcare & education is breaking the gender bias & resulting in improved numbers across all parameters," the minister wrote in the caption. ALSO READ | WHO alleges 'made in India' cough syrup linked to death of 66 kids in Gambia, probe underway India registers decline in female infant mortality rate. Efforts towards #BetiBachaoBetiPadhao through an integrated approach encompassing advocacy, healthcare & education is breaking the gender bias & resulting in improved numbers across all parameters. https://t.co/zuCuUKEud9 pic.twitter.com/hmJ8pgxUwI — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) October 4, 2022 × ALSO READ | Singapore makes biggest ever seizure of rhino horn worth US$830,000 The report mentioned that India saw its male and female infant mortality rate equalise in 2020. The data is vital for the nation as it has had the poor reputation of being the only country in the world where a larger proportion of girls below the age of one died than boys. After Smriti Irani's tweet, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the nation for its commitment to strengthening Nari Shakti (women empowerment). Quoting her tweet, the Indian prime minister posted: "This is a great sign, reflective of the collective commitment of 130 crore [1.3 billion] Indians to strengthen our Nari Shakti." This is a great sign, reflective of the collective commitment of 130 crore Indians to strengthen our Nari Shakti. https://t.co/OV3rLFR9Wp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 5, 2022 × 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.

India registers decline in female infant mortality rate: Minister Smriti Irani

India and Ukraine are among 11 countries that abstained as the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Thursday (October 6) voted against holding a debate on alleged widespread abuses in China's Xinjiang region.&nbsp;

This is a major setback for Western nations, which accused China of human rights violations. Some countries said that Beijing detained more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities, with the US even further accusing China of mass detention, torture, forced labour and genocide in Xinjiang.&nbsp;

The first draft decision was presented by the United States and its allies last month to target China at the UN's top rights body.&nbsp;

After the voting, US ambassador to the council Michele Taylor tweeted: "The United States condemns today's vote preventing a discussion about Xinjiang." Taylor said that inaction "shamefully suggests some countries are free from scrutiny and allowed to violate human rights with impunity".&nbsp;

The US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Turkey were among others to put forward the draft decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-criticises-us-for-repositioning-aircraft-carrier-near-korean-waters-calls-it-serious-threat-523032">North Korean warplanes conduct bombing drill, South scrambles fighter jets in response</a>&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HRC51?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HRC51</a> | Draft resolution A/HRC/51/L.6 on holding a debate on the situation of human rights in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>, was REJECTED. <a href="https://t.co/ITbWnqQaKe">pic.twitter.com/ITbWnqQaKe</a>
— UN Human Rights Council 📍 #HRC51 (@UN_HRC) <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_HRC/status/1578003299827171330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Apart from India and Ukraine, Argentina, Armenia, Benin, Brazil, Gambia, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, and Mexico also abstained.&nbsp;

Bolivia, Cameroon, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Gabon, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Namibia, Nepal, Pakistan, Qatar, Senegal, Sudan, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Venezuela are the nations that voted against the debate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-winner-2022-for-literature-who-is-french-author-annie-ernaux-523044">Nobel Prize winner 2022 for Literature: Who is French author Annie Ernaux?</a>&nbsp;

China's ambassador Chen Xu said the push to discuss the issue was "taking advantage" of the United Nations "to interfere in China's internal affairs".&nbsp;

"The draft decision is not pro-human rights but for political manipulation," he told the council.&nbsp;

"Today China is targeted; tomorrow any other developing country could be targeted."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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India and Ukraine are among 11 countries that abstained as the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Thursday (October 6) voted against holding a debate on alleged widespread abuses in China's Xinjiang region.

India and Ukraine are among 11 countries that abstained as the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Thursday (October 6) voted against holding a debate on alleged widespread abuses in China's Xinjiang region. This is a major setback for Western nations, which accused China of human rights violations. Some countries said that Beijing detained more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities, with the US even further accusing China of mass detention, torture, forced labour and genocide in Xinjiang. The first draft decision was presented by the United States and its allies last month to target China at the UN's top rights body. After the voting, US ambassador to the council Michele Taylor tweeted: "The United States condemns today's vote preventing a discussion about Xinjiang." Taylor said that inaction "shamefully suggests some countries are free from scrutiny and allowed to violate human rights with impunity". The US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Turkey were among others to put forward the draft decision. ALSO READ | North Korean warplanes conduct bombing drill, South scrambles fighter jets in response #HRC51 | Draft resolution A/HRC/51/L.6 on holding a debate on the situation of human rights in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of #China, was REJECTED. pic.twitter.com/ITbWnqQaKe — UN Human Rights Council 📍 #HRC51 (@UN_HRC) October 6, 2022 × Apart from India and Ukraine, Argentina, Armenia, Benin, Brazil, Gambia, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, and Mexico also abstained. Bolivia, Cameroon, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Gabon, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Namibia, Nepal, Pakistan, Qatar, Senegal, Sudan, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Venezuela are the nations that voted against the debate. ALSO READ | Nobel Prize winner 2022 for Literature: Who is French author Annie Ernaux? China's ambassador Chen Xu said the push to discuss the issue was "taking advantage" of the United Nations "to interfere in China's internal affairs". "The draft decision is not pro-human rights but for political manipulation," he told the council. "Today China is targeted; tomorrow any other developing country could be targeted." (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.

India, Ukraine among 11 nations to abstain as UNHRC rejects debate on Xinjiang

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion.

The palace said the two held a "routine" meeting to discuss government matters. Its statement did not mention dissolution. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's office did not have an immediate comment.

An election is not due until September 2023, but Ismail has been under pressure from some factions of his ruling coalition to hold the vote earlier for a stronger mandate and due to infighting.

If he dissolves parliament soon, the election would come just as the economy starts to feel the pinch of rising costs and a global slowdown. It would also coincide with the year-end monsoon season and floods, which could reduce voter turnout.

Ismail met King Al-Sultan Abdullah at the national palace at 4 p.m. (0800 GMT) and left about 45 minutes later.

Before the meeting, Ismail said he would mainly discuss cabinet matters with the king and that a date for dissolution of parliament would be submitted only if there was time, the Bernama news agency said.

"Still unsure whether it will be brought up. If it takes too long to discuss cabinet issues, it will be about cabinet only," Ismail said.

His government is set to present its 2023 budget in parliament on Friday, the finance ministry has said, putting to rest some speculation that a dissolution could be announced before that.

An election must be held within 60 days of dissolution.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy and the king typically acts on the prime minister's advice. But the king does wield certain discretionary powers, including withholding consent for the dissolution of parliament.

MIXED VIEWS IN RULING COALITION

Last week, Ismail's party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the biggest in the ruling coalition, said the premier would seek the king's consent to dissolve parliament this year, spurring speculation that Ismail could call polls any day.

However, Ismail's coalition is not unanimous on the timing of an election.

Many alliance partners have cited economic problems, such as the rising cost of living and the anticipated year-end floods, as reasons not to hold a vote this year.

Malaysia was hit late last year by unusually heavy rain and floods that caused damage of about 6 billion ringgit ($1.3 billion).

Some cabinet ministers wrote to the monarch this week asking him not to hold elections this year due to flood risks, according to domestic media.

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Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he could propose a date for the dissolution of parliament in a Thursday meeting with the country's monarch, though the palace played down the meeting as a regular weekly discussion. The palace said the two held a "routine" meeting to discuss government matters. Its statement did not mention dissolution. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob's office did not have an immediate comment. An election is not due until September 2023, but Ismail has been under pressure from some factions of his ruling coalition to hold the vote earlier for a stronger mandate and due to infighting. If he dissolves parliament soon, the election would come just as the economy starts to feel the pinch of rising costs and a global slowdown. It would also coincide with the year-end monsoon season and floods, which could reduce voter turnout. Ismail met King Al-Sultan Abdullah at the national palace at 4 p.m. (0800 GMT) and left about 45 minutes later. Before the meeting, Ismail said he would mainly discuss cabinet matters with the king and that a date for dissolution of parliament would be submitted only if there was time, the Bernama news agency said. "Still unsure whether it will be brought up. If it takes too long to discuss cabinet issues, it will be about cabinet only," Ismail said. His government is set to present its 2023 budget in parliament on Friday, the finance ministry has said, putting to rest some speculation that a dissolution could be announced before that. An election must be held within 60 days of dissolution. Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy and the king typically acts on the prime minister's advice. But the king does wield certain discretionary powers, including withholding consent for the dissolution of parliament. MIXED VIEWS IN RULING COALITION Last week, Ismail's party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the biggest in the ruling coalition, said the premier would seek the king's consent to dissolve parliament this year, spurring speculation that Ismail could call polls any day. However, Ismail's coalition is not unanimous on the timing of an election. Many alliance partners have cited economic problems, such as the rising cost of living and the anticipated year-end floods, as reasons not to hold a vote this year. Malaysia was hit late last year by unusually heavy rain and floods that caused damage of about 6 billion ringgit ($1.3 billion). Some cabinet ministers wrote to the monarch this week asking him not to hold elections this year due to flood risks, according to domestic media. 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.

Malaysia PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob raises prospect of early election

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva urged global policymakers on Thursday to take concerted action to avoid a dangerous 'new normal'&nbsp;as the risks of a worldwide recession are driven ever higher by repeated economic shocks.

In a speech ahead of the fund's annual meetings next week, the IMF's managing director said it was critical to "stabilize the global economy by addressing the most immediate challenges" -- including rampant inflation.

Policymakers need to act together to "prevent this period of heightened fragility from becoming a dangerous 'new normal'," Georgieva said.

But she warned the process will be painful -- and that if central banks move too aggressively to tamp down price pressures, it could trigger a "prolonged" economic downturn.

Finance ministers and central bank governors from more than 180 nations will gather next week in Washington for the first fully in-person meeting of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank since 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Faced with the "darkening global outlook ... the risks of recession are rising," Georgieva said -- announcing that the crisis lender plans to once again downgrade its 2023 forecast for the world economy, in the forecasts due to be published next week for the annual meeting.

One-third of countries are expected to see at least two quarters of contraction, and "even when growth is positive, it will feel like a recession" because of rising prices eroding incomes, she said.

The fund in July slashed its growth forecast for this year to 3.2 percent, and for next year to 2.9 percent -- the third consecutive downgrade.

'Shock, after shock'

The meetings come at a difficult time for the global economy, with the pandemic largely under control, but soaring inflation and rising interest rates now threatening to reverberate around the globe and choke off nascent recoveries.

"In less than three years, we lived through shock, after shock, after shock," Georgieva said in her speech at Georgetown University.

Global supply snarls already were a challenge as demand surged following the pandemic slowdown, fueling inflation worldwide, and strains worsened in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine -- which Georgieva called a "senseless war" -- sending food and food prices soaring.

"Far from being transitory, inflation has become more persistent," and acting before high prices become entrenched is a key challenge for policymakers, Georgieva said -- warning that "the cost of a policy misstep can be enormous".

"Not tightening enough would cause inflation to become de-anchored and entrenched," but moving "too much and too fast -- and doing so in a synchronized manner across countries -- could push many economies into prolonged recession," she said.

Despite the risks, central banks need to continue "act decisively."

"This is not easy, and it will not be without pain in the near term," she cautioned. "But the key is to avoid much greater and longer-lasting pain for everyone later on."

Debt distress

Georgieva stressed the need for fiscal policies to help the most vulnerable segments of society, but warned that efforts must be targeted "with a laser-sharp focus on lower-income households," to avoid acting against the current of monetary policy.

She cautioned against relying on price controls which are not affordable nor effective.

The pandemic forced many countries to take on more borrowing, and now many are already facing or at risk of debt distress amid rising interest rates. That "raises the risk of a widening debt crisis" which could further harm global growth.

To reduce the risk "large creditors such as China and private-sector creditors have a responsibility to act," she said, calling for "faster and more predictable" action on debt restructuring.

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IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva urged global policymakers on Thursday to take concerted action to avoid a dangerous 'new normal' as the risks of a worldwide recession are driven ever higher by repeated economic shocks.

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva urged global policymakers on Thursday to take concerted action to avoid a dangerous 'new normal' as the risks of a worldwide recession are driven ever higher by repeated economic shocks. In a speech ahead of the fund's annual meetings next week, the IMF's managing director said it was critical to "stabilize the global economy by addressing the most immediate challenges" -- including rampant inflation. Policymakers need to act together to "prevent this period of heightened fragility from becoming a dangerous 'new normal'," Georgieva said. But she warned the process will be painful -- and that if central banks move too aggressively to tamp down price pressures, it could trigger a "prolonged" economic downturn. Finance ministers and central bank governors from more than 180 nations will gather next week in Washington for the first fully in-person meeting of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank since 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. Faced with the "darkening global outlook ... the risks of recession are rising," Georgieva said -- announcing that the crisis lender plans to once again downgrade its 2023 forecast for the world economy, in the forecasts due to be published next week for the annual meeting. One-third of countries are expected to see at least two quarters of contraction, and "even when growth is positive, it will feel like a recession" because of rising prices eroding incomes, she said. The fund in July slashed its growth forecast for this year to 3.2 percent, and for next year to 2.9 percent -- the third consecutive downgrade. 'Shock, after shock' The meetings come at a difficult time for the global economy, with the pandemic largely under control, but soaring inflation and rising interest rates now threatening to reverberate around the globe and choke off nascent recoveries. "In less than three years, we lived through shock, after shock, after shock," Georgieva said in her speech at Georgetown University. Global supply snarls already were a challenge as demand surged following the pandemic slowdown, fueling inflation worldwide, and strains worsened in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine -- which Georgieva called a "senseless war" -- sending food and food prices soaring. "Far from being transitory, inflation has become more persistent," and acting before high prices become entrenched is a key challenge for policymakers, Georgieva said -- warning that "the cost of a policy misstep can be enormous". "Not tightening enough would cause inflation to become de-anchored and entrenched," but moving "too much and too fast -- and doing so in a synchronized manner across countries -- could push many economies into prolonged recession," she said. Despite the risks, central banks need to continue "act decisively." "This is not easy, and it will not be without pain in the near term," she cautioned. "But the key is to avoid much greater and longer-lasting pain for everyone later on." Debt distress Georgieva stressed the need for fiscal policies to help the most vulnerable segments of society, but warned that efforts must be targeted "with a laser-sharp focus on lower-income households," to avoid acting against the current of monetary policy. She cautioned against relying on price controls which are not affordable nor effective. The pandemic forced many countries to take on more borrowing, and now many are already facing or at risk of debt distress amid rising interest rates. That "raises the risk of a widening debt crisis" which could further harm global growth. To reduce the risk "large creditors such as China and private-sector creditors have a responsibility to act," she said, calling for "faster and more predictable" action on debt restructuring. 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.

IMF chief urges global policymakers for timely action as global recession risks rise

Abir Al-Sahlani, who is a Swedish member of the European Parliament, cut her hair during a speech in the European Union assembly to stand in solidarity with anti-government protests in Iran.&nbsp;

Violent demonstrations have been taking place in Iran over the custodial death of Mahsa Amini. The morality police in the nation had imprisoned the 22-year-old for allegedly wearing a headscarf in an "improper" way.&nbsp;

In the parliament in Strasbourg, France, the Iraqi-born Abir Al-Sahlani said on Tuesday evening: "Until Iran is free, our fury will be bigger than the oppressors. Until the women of Iran are free we are going to stand with you."&nbsp;

In the video, Abir is seen snipping off her ponytail with a pair of scissors. While cutting it, she said "Jin, Jiyan, Azadi" (Kurdish for "Woman, Life, Freedom")&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asia-pacific-may-lose-title-as-worlds-largest-travel-region-post-pandemic-523081">Asia Pacific may lose title as world's largest travel region post-pandemic</a>&nbsp;

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Traditionen att klippa av sig håret i protest är tusenårig. 
Den visar att ilskan är starkare än förtryckarens makt. 
Irans kvinnor har fått nog. 
EU borde visa samma mod och ge dem fullt stöd. <a href="https://t.co/0FdMB9XoXu">pic.twitter.com/0FdMB9XoXu</a>
— AbirAlsahlani (@AbirAlsahlani) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbirAlsahlani/status/1577368391437926422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first incident, leading French actresses including Juliette Binoche and Isabelle Huppert have also cut locks of hair. Residents in Iran, including young school girls, are protesting against the Islamist regime.&nbsp;

After Amini's death, Iran's clerical rulers faced the biggest nationwide unrest in years. Protests have spread abroad including London, Paris, Rome and Madrid.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twenty-year-old-indian-origin-university-student-killed-in-the-us-523042">Twenty-year-old Indian-origin university student killed in the US, cops suspect roommate</a>&nbsp;

Notably, Amnesty International said on Thursday that at least 82 people have been killed by Iranian security forces in the city of Zahedan in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province since protests erupted there on September 30.&nbsp;

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Abir Al-Sahlani, who is a Swedish member of the European Parliament, cut her hair during a speech in the European Union assembly to stand in solidarity with anti-government protests in Iran.

Abir Al-Sahlani, who is a Swedish member of the European Parliament, cut her hair during a speech in the European Union assembly to stand in solidarity with anti-government protests in Iran. Violent demonstrations have been taking place in Iran over the custodial death of Mahsa Amini. The morality police in the nation had imprisoned the 22-year-old for allegedly wearing a headscarf in an "improper" way. In the parliament in Strasbourg, France, the Iraqi-born Abir Al-Sahlani said on Tuesday evening: "Until Iran is free, our fury will be bigger than the oppressors. Until the women of Iran are free we are going to stand with you." In the video, Abir is seen snipping off her ponytail with a pair of scissors. While cutting it, she said "Jin, Jiyan, Azadi" (Kurdish for "Woman, Life, Freedom") ALSO READ | Asia Pacific may lose title as world's largest travel region post-pandemic Watch the video here: Traditionen att klippa av sig håret i protest är tusenårig. Den visar att ilskan är starkare än förtryckarens makt. Irans kvinnor har fått nog. EU borde visa samma mod och ge dem fullt stöd. pic.twitter.com/0FdMB9XoXu — AbirAlsahlani (@AbirAlsahlani) October 4, 2022 × This is not the first incident, leading French actresses including Juliette Binoche and Isabelle Huppert have also cut locks of hair. Residents in Iran, including young school girls, are protesting against the Islamist regime. After Amini's death, Iran's clerical rulers faced the biggest nationwide unrest in years. Protests have spread abroad including London, Paris, Rome and Madrid. ALSO READ | Twenty-year-old Indian-origin university student killed in the US, cops suspect roommate Notably, Amnesty International said on Thursday that at least 82 people have been killed by Iranian security forces in the city of Zahedan in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province since protests erupted there on September 30. 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.

WATCH: Swedish politician cuts hair during speech in solidarity with Iranian women

The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage. &nbsp;

Mats Ljungqvist, who is a public prosecutor, said in a statement: "We can conclude that there have been detonations at Nord Stream 1 and 2 in the Swedish exclusive economic zone that led to extensive damage to the gas pipelines."&nbsp;

Ljungqvist added that the "crime scene investigation had strengthened the suspicions of aggravated sabotage. Pieces of evidence have been gathered at the crime scene and these will now be examined."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-criticises-us-for-repositioning-aircraft-carrier-near-korean-waters-calls-it-serious-threat-523032">North Korea criticises US for repositioning aircraft carrier near Korean waters, calls it 'serious threat'</a>&nbsp;

But he did not reveal details as he mentioned the confidentiality of the investigation. He said that "the issue is very sensitive."&nbsp;

Notably, all four leaks are in the Baltic Sea off the Danish island of Bornholm. Two leaks were located in the Swedish exclusive economic zone, and the two others in the Danish one.&nbsp;

The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines, which link Russia to Europe, have been blamed on sabotage as many experts have also claimed that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation.&nbsp;

WATCH | Polish President Duda asks US leaders to consider sharing nuclear weapons&nbsp;

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Previously, Germany, Denmark and Sweden openly noted that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea.&nbsp;

Even Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility and launched an "international terrorism" probe by the FSB security service.&nbsp;

The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further.&nbsp;

Amid the controversy, claims and counterclaims have been&nbsp;made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage.

The Swedish investigating authorities said on Thursday (October 6) that an inspection of two of the leaks at the Nord Stream gas pipelines has supported the suspicions that they were acts of sabotage. Mats Ljungqvist, who is a public prosecutor, said in a statement: "We can conclude that there have been detonations at Nord Stream 1 and 2 in the Swedish exclusive economic zone that led to extensive damage to the gas pipelines." Ljungqvist added that the "crime scene investigation had strengthened the suspicions of aggravated sabotage. Pieces of evidence have been gathered at the crime scene and these will now be examined." ALSO READ | North Korea criticises US for repositioning aircraft carrier near Korean waters, calls it 'serious threat' But he did not reveal details as he mentioned the confidentiality of the investigation. He said that "the issue is very sensitive." Notably, all four leaks are in the Baltic Sea off the Danish island of Bornholm. Two leaks were located in the Swedish exclusive economic zone, and the two others in the Danish one. The leaks in Nord Stream gas pipelines, which link Russia to Europe, have been blamed on sabotage as many experts have also claimed that various armed forces in the region are capable of such an operation. WATCH | Polish President Duda asks US leaders to consider sharing nuclear weapons × ALSO READ | Impending doom? US stocks-up, Ukraine hands out anti-radiation drug amid risk of Russian nuclear attack Previously, Germany, Denmark and Sweden openly noted that they were attacks which caused gas from the two Russian-owned gas pipelines to pour into the sea. Even Russia has also said sabotage was a possibility and launched an "international terrorism" probe by the FSB security service. The leaks are at the centre of an energy standoff as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which caused an energy crisis in Europe, has escalated further. Amid the controversy, claims and counterclaims have been made as Moscow and Washington both denied involvement in the incident. 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.

Sweden says site inspection of four Nord Stream leaks points to 'sabotage'

In a fresh showdown after US Navy aircraft carrier entered the waters off the Korean Peninsula despite recent escalation of&nbsp;tensions, 12 North Korean warplanes, including eight fighter jets and four bombers, staged an apparent bombing drill on Thursday, following&nbsp; which South Korea also scrambled its fighter jets. 
 
South Korean security officials said that a US Navy aircraft carrier strike group entered into waters off the Korean Peninsula despite escalating tensions in between US allies (South Korea and Japan) and North Korea following multiple missile launches over the past two weeks.&nbsp;

The North criticised the move as in a statement on Thursday (October 6), the state's foreign ministry condemned said that it posed a "serious threat" to the situation's stability.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indication-of-the-times-us-stockpiles-amgen-drug-nplate-an-anti-radiation-sickness-medication-522917">Impending doom? US stocks-up, Ukraine hands out anti-radiation drug amid risk of Russian nuclear attack</a>&nbsp;

As translated by the news agency Reuters, the statement read: "We are watching the United States posing a serious threat to the stability of the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in its vicinity by redeploying the aircraft carrier in the waters off the Korean Peninsula."&nbsp;

After North Korea's IRBM launch over Japan, the USS Ronald Reagan and its strike group of accompanying warships were redeployed. The USS Ronald Reagan is a Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered supercarrier in the service of the United States Navy.&nbsp;

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On Thursday, 12 North Korean military planes flew in formation in an apparent drill, South&nbsp;Korea's military said. It further added that it had scrambled 30 fighter jets in response.&nbsp;

Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that North Korea's eight fighter jets and four bombers "staged the formation flight north of the inter-Korean air boundary [and] were thought to have conducted air-to-surface firing drills".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-give-away-500000-air-tickets-in-an-attempt-to-lure-tourists-523017">Hong Kong to give away 500,000 air tickets in an attempt to lure tourists</a>&nbsp;

The North also condemned the US for talking to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) about Pyongyang's "just counteraction measures of the Korean People's Army on south Korea-U.S. joint drills". It suggested that its missile tests are a reaction to the allied military moves.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, after a UN Security Council meeting in response to the North's recent launches, Pyongyang fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea in the direction of Japan on Thursday. &nbsp;

A report by POLITICO cited two defense department officials who stated that the US planned to send a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the waters near the Korean Peninsula after North Korea's missile tests on Tuesday.&nbsp;

As per the US Naval Institute’s fleet tracker, the Reagan is based in Japan and frequently spends its deployments hitting different parts of the Western Pacific. The ship was operating east of northern Japan before it returned to the Sea of Japan.&nbsp;

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In a fresh showdown after US Navy aircraft carrier entered the waters off the Korean Peninsula despite recent escalation of tensions, 12 North Korean warplanes, including eight fighter jets and four bombers, staged an apparent bombing drill on Thursday, following which South Korea also scrambled its fighter jets.

In a fresh showdown after US Navy aircraft carrier entered the waters off the Korean Peninsula despite recent escalation of tensions, 12 North Korean warplanes, including eight fighter jets and four bombers, staged an apparent bombing drill on Thursday, following which South Korea also scrambled its fighter jets. South Korean security officials said that a US Navy aircraft carrier strike group entered into waters off the Korean Peninsula despite escalating tensions in between US allies (South Korea and Japan) and North Korea following multiple missile launches over the past two weeks. The North criticised the move as in a statement on Thursday (October 6), the state's foreign ministry condemned said that it posed a "serious threat" to the situation's stability. ALSO READ | Impending doom? US stocks-up, Ukraine hands out anti-radiation drug amid risk of Russian nuclear attack As translated by the news agency Reuters, the statement read: "We are watching the United States posing a serious threat to the stability of the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in its vicinity by redeploying the aircraft carrier in the waters off the Korean Peninsula." After North Korea's IRBM launch over Japan, the USS Ronald Reagan and its strike group of accompanying warships were redeployed. The USS Ronald Reagan is a Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered supercarrier in the service of the United States Navy. Watch this report: × On Thursday, 12 North Korean military planes flew in formation in an apparent drill, South Korea's military said. It further added that it had scrambled 30 fighter jets in response. Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that North Korea's eight fighter jets and four bombers "staged the formation flight north of the inter-Korean air boundary [and] were thought to have conducted air-to-surface firing drills". ALSO READ | Hong Kong to give away 500,000 air tickets in an attempt to lure tourists The North also condemned the US for talking to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) about Pyongyang's "just counteraction measures of the Korean People's Army on south Korea-U.S. joint drills". It suggested that its missile tests are a reaction to the allied military moves. Meanwhile, after a UN Security Council meeting in response to the North's recent launches, Pyongyang fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea in the direction of Japan on Thursday. A report by POLITICO cited two defense department officials who stated that the US planned to send a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the waters near the Korean Peninsula after North Korea's missile tests on Tuesday. As per the US Naval Institute’s fleet tracker, the Reagan is based in Japan and frequently spends its deployments hitting different parts of the Western Pacific. The ship was operating east of northern Japan before it returned to the Sea of Japan. 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.

North Korean warplanes conduct bombing drill, South scrambles fighter jets in response

The 2022 Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded to the French author Annie Ernaux on Thursday (October 6) "for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory."&nbsp;

Ernaux is known for her deceptively simple novels drawing on personal experiences of class and gender. With great courage and clinical acuity, she reveals the agony of the experience of class, describing shame, humiliation, jealousy, or inability to see who you are, she has achieved something admirable and enduring.&nbsp;

She believes in the liberating force of writing. Her work is uncompromising and written in plain language, scraped clean.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trio-awarded-nobel-for-development-of-click-chemistry-522693">Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry'</a>&nbsp;

While responding, Ernaux told Swedish TV that the Nobel Prize is a "great honour" and also a "responsibility".&nbsp;

"I consider this to be a great honour for me and at the same time a great responsibility, a responsibility given to me," Ernaux told public broadcaster SVT.&nbsp;

At a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, Ernaux will receive the Nobel from King Carl XVI Gustaf.

The day will also mark the anniversary of the 1896 death of scientist Alfred Nobel who created the prizes in his last will and testament.&nbsp;

The Nobel Prize award&nbsp;comes with a medal and a prize sum of about $911,400.&nbsp;

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BREAKING NEWS: 
The 2022 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NobelPrize?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NobelPrize</a> in Literature is awarded to the French author Annie Ernaux “for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory.” <a href="https://t.co/D9yAvki1LL">pic.twitter.com/D9yAvki1LL</a>
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Last year,&nbsp;Nobel Prize in Literature was given to&nbsp;Tanzanian-born novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah. His work focuses on the plight of refugees and exile, colonialism and racism.&nbsp;

In recent years, the Swedish Academy has promised to make the prize more diverse, especially after the 2017-2018 #MeToo scandal.&nbsp;

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The 2022 Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded to the French author Annie Ernaux on Thursday (October 6) "for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory.

The 2022 Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded to the French author Annie Ernaux on Thursday (October 6) "for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory." Ernaux is known for her deceptively simple novels drawing on personal experiences of class and gender. With great courage and clinical acuity, she reveals the agony of the experience of class, describing shame, humiliation, jealousy, or inability to see who you are, she has achieved something admirable and enduring. She believes in the liberating force of writing. Her work is uncompromising and written in plain language, scraped clean. ALSO READ | Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry' While responding, Ernaux told Swedish TV that the Nobel Prize is a "great honour" and also a "responsibility". "I consider this to be a great honour for me and at the same time a great responsibility, a responsibility given to me," Ernaux told public broadcaster SVT. At a formal ceremony in Stockholm on December 10, Ernaux will receive the Nobel from King Carl XVI Gustaf. The day will also mark the anniversary of the 1896 death of scientist Alfred Nobel who created the prizes in his last will and testament. The Nobel Prize award comes with a medal and a prize sum of about $911,400. BREAKING NEWS: The 2022 #NobelPrize in Literature is awarded to the French author Annie Ernaux “for the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory.” pic.twitter.com/D9yAvki1LL — The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 6, 2022 × Last year, Nobel Prize in Literature was given to Tanzanian-born novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah. His work focuses on the plight of refugees and exile, colonialism and racism. In recent years, the Swedish Academy has promised to make the prize more diverse, especially after the 2017-2018 #MeToo scandal. 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.

French author Annie Ernaux wins Nobel Literature Prize

In California, four members of an Indian-origin family including an eight-month-old girl were found dead in a rural area. Officials have said that they were abducted in the city of Merced on October 3.&nbsp;

Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke said in a video statement late on Wednesday (October 5): "Tonight our worst fears have been confirmed. We found the four people from the kidnapping and they are in fact deceased."&nbsp;

The authorities also released chilling security camera footage of the moment when the members of the family were abducted. It footage is hours before they were found dead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-of-indian-origin-sikh-family-found-dead-in-california-522890">Four of Indian-origin Sikh family found dead in California day after kidnapper was held</a>&nbsp;

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Authorities revealed that the bodies of 27-year-old mother Jasleen Kaur, her husband Jasdeep Singh, 36, their eight-month-old Aroohi Dheri, and another family member Amandeep Singh, 39, were found at an orchard on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Authorities have released the video seeking help from the public to track the kidnappers down. In the video, Jasdeep and Amandeep are seen coming out of the house together. Their hands were zip-tied. After that, the armed kidnapper can be seen leading Jasleen and her baby out of the building into a truck.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/man-armed-with-gun-and-knife-kills-31-including-children-in-thailand-nursery-attack-522945">Thailand: Nursery shooting death toll rises to 35, PM orders 'urgent' probe</a>&nbsp;

Media reports mentioned that a person of interest is in custody. But the authorities said that the person in question, identified as 48-year-old Jesus Manuel Salgado, has been hospitalised in critical condition after he attempted to die by suicide.&nbsp;

What exactly happened is still unclear. Merced County Sheriff Vernon Warnke said he tried to take his own life before law enforcement arrived on the scene. "We're not leaving any stone unturned," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In California, four members of an Indian-origin family including an eight-month-old girl were found dead in a rural area. Officials have said that they were abducted in the city of Merced on October 3.

In California, four members of an Indian-origin family including an eight-month-old girl were found dead in a rural area. Officials have said that they were abducted in the city of Merced on October 3. Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke said in a video statement late on Wednesday (October 5): "Tonight our worst fears have been confirmed. We found the four people from the kidnapping and they are in fact deceased." The authorities also released chilling security camera footage of the moment when the members of the family were abducted. It footage is hours before they were found dead. ALSO READ | Four of Indian-origin Sikh family found dead in California day after kidnapper was held Watch the video here: × Authorities revealed that the bodies of 27-year-old mother Jasleen Kaur, her husband Jasdeep Singh, 36, their eight-month-old Aroohi Dheri, and another family member Amandeep Singh, 39, were found at an orchard on Wednesday. Authorities have released the video seeking help from the public to track the kidnappers down. In the video, Jasdeep and Amandeep are seen coming out of the house together. Their hands were zip-tied. After that, the armed kidnapper can be seen leading Jasleen and her baby out of the building into a truck. ALSO READ | Thailand: Nursery shooting death toll rises to 35, PM orders 'urgent' probe Media reports mentioned that a person of interest is in custody. But the authorities said that the person in question, identified as 48-year-old Jesus Manuel Salgado, has been hospitalised in critical condition after he attempted to die by suicide. What exactly happened is still unclear. Merced County Sheriff Vernon Warnke said he tried to take his own life before law enforcement arrived on the scene. "We're not leaving any stone unturned," he said. 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: Terrifying video shows the moment Indian-origin family was kidnapped. They were later found dead

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