Thousands of Hungarians on Saturday (July 16), protested against Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government this week since his right-wing Fidesz party enacted legislation dramatically hiking taxes on small businesses. The inflation rate is at its worst level in two decades, the forint is at record lows, and European Union funding is in limbo due to a dispute over democratic principles, posing the hardest challenge nationalist Orban has faced since sweeping into power in 2010. Peter Marki-Zay, the mayor of a small town and Orban’s independent opponent, organised the gathering after his opposition alliance was defeated in parliamentary elections in April, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

A 70-year-old demonstrator said, “I have an acquaintance who only heats with electricity. His monthly power bill has been 30,000 forints ($75) so far, which is not a lot, but from now on he will be paying 153,000.” He further added that the small-scale protests were hard to persuade the administration.&nbsp;

Also read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-budapest-hungarys-viktor-orban-tells-cpac-conservatives-to-have-own-media-to-retain-power-480836">|&nbsp;In Budapest, Hungary’s Viktor Orban tells CPAC conservatives to have own media to retain power</a>

Despite objections from some business groups and opposition parties, the blockade of a bridge in Budapest on Tuesday, it didn’t prevent the government from approving a resolution from approving to raise the tax rate for hundreds of thousands of small businesses.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-pm-orban-warns-of-era-of-recession-in-europe-479646">Hungary PM Orban warns of "era of recession" in Europe</a>

In response to a spike in power and gas costs brought on by the conflict in Ukraine, Orban’s administration reduced a restriction on utility bills for homes with higher utility usage. This was a reversal of the 59-year-old premier’s measures in recent years.

Inflation rose to 11.7 per cent year-over-year in June, which pushed the central bank into its sharpest rate-tightening cycle since the fall of the communist government, despite the Orban restricting the cost of fuel and other staple items. The forint is also approaching historic lows against the euro despite this, adding to the inflationary pressures.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thousands of Hungarians on Saturday (July 16), protested against Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government this week since his right-wing Fidesz party enacted legislation dramatically hiking taxes on small businesses.

Thousands of Hungarians on Saturday (July 16), protested against Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government this week since his right-wing Fidesz party enacted legislation dramatically hiking taxes on small businesses. The inflation rate is at its worst level in two decades, the forint is at record lows, and European Union funding is in limbo due to a dispute over democratic principles, posing the hardest challenge nationalist Orban has faced since sweeping into power in 2010. Peter Marki-Zay, the mayor of a small town and Orban’s independent opponent, organised the gathering after his opposition alliance was defeated in parliamentary elections in April, Reuters reported. A 70-year-old demonstrator said, “I have an acquaintance who only heats with electricity. His monthly power bill has been 30,000 forints ($75) so far, which is not a lot, but from now on he will be paying 153,000.” He further added that the small-scale protests were hard to persuade the administration. Also read | In Budapest, Hungary’s Viktor Orban tells CPAC conservatives to have own media to retain power Despite objections from some business groups and opposition parties, the blockade of a bridge in Budapest on Tuesday, it didn’t prevent the government from approving a resolution from approving to raise the tax rate for hundreds of thousands of small businesses. Also read | Hungary PM Orban warns of "era of recession" in Europe In response to a spike in power and gas costs brought on by the conflict in Ukraine, Orban’s administration reduced a restriction on utility bills for homes with higher utility usage. This was a reversal of the 59-year-old premier’s measures in recent years. Inflation rose to 11.7 per cent year-over-year in June, which pushed the central bank into its sharpest rate-tightening cycle since the fall of the communist government, despite the Orban restricting the cost of fuel and other staple items. The forint is also approaching historic lows against the euro despite this, adding to the inflationary pressures. (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.

Thousands of Hungarians protest against Viktor Orban’s reforms

Politicians throughout Europe are perspiring as their populations face a heatwave. Five countries in the continent are facing severely high temperatures. An urgent cabinet meeting was convened in the United Kingdom to handle the country’s first-ever ‘extreme red’ warning. A lawmaker in France called the oppressive heat ‘hell.’ The Portuguese prime minister is keeping an eye on threatening woodland fires. Similarly, Southern Europe is already battling the consequences of more scorching summer heat, which scientists say is a result of climate change. The temperatures in Western Europe are expected to reach more than 40 degrees Celsius next week, reported Politico.

The five countries in Europe feeling the effects of the heat are Spain, the UK, France, Italy and Portugal.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-to-life-rare-extreme-heat-issued-in-uk-as-temperatures-soar-496504">&nbsp;'Danger to life': Rare 'extreme heat' issued in UK as temperatures soar</a>

Starting with Spain, the country witnessed its worst fir ever recorded in its history has burned over almost half of the Sierra de la Culbera’s forested region with some portions near Figueruela de Arriba still on fire. A wildfire in Sierra de Mijas, forced nearly 2,300 people to abandon their homes. The country is a well-known tourist area. Spain’s reservoirs were at 44.4 per cent due to the heat and lack of rainfall.&nbsp;

The British government experts have issued a warning that Monday and Tuesday (July 18 &amp; 19) will be the hottest days in the country’s history. The weather department issued the first-ever red alert for exceptionally high temperatures, warning that everyone not only the ones weak, could get ill and even die.

Watch |&nbsp;Spain swelters under a heat wave; Second heat wave in less than a month

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As fires flare in the Gironde department, more than 10,000 people in France have been evacuated from the southwest of the nation. Three significant fires are still active and more than 5,000 hectares of land have been burned, as per the local media.

After months of little to no significant rainfall, the Po River, the longest in Italy, has reached record low water levels. The essential water source stretches from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea which is used for drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric generation. A fine of up to €500 may be imposed on anyone found utilising water for the water of public or private gardens, washing of courtyards, or car washing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-heat-wave-know-about-heat-wave-in-texas-and-other-areas-when-will-this-end-496396">US heatwave: Know about heatwave in Texas and other areas. When will this end?</a>

Since last week, there have been numerous fires and the majority of them were in northeast Porto. The temperature in Lous, in middle Portugal, reached a record of 46.3 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Politicians throughout Europe are perspiring as their populations face a heatwave. Five countries in the continent are facing severely high temperatures. An urgent cabinet meeting was convened in the United Kingdom to handle the country’s first-ever ‘extreme red’ warning.

Politicians throughout Europe are perspiring as their populations face a heatwave. Five countries in the continent are facing severely high temperatures. An urgent cabinet meeting was convened in the United Kingdom to handle the country’s first-ever ‘extreme red’ warning. A lawmaker in France called the oppressive heat ‘hell.’ The Portuguese prime minister is keeping an eye on threatening woodland fires. Similarly, Southern Europe is already battling the consequences of more scorching summer heat, which scientists say is a result of climate change. The temperatures in Western Europe are expected to reach more than 40 degrees Celsius next week, reported Politico. The five countries in Europe feeling the effects of the heat are Spain, the UK, France, Italy and Portugal. Also read | 'Danger to life': Rare 'extreme heat' issued in UK as temperatures soar Starting with Spain, the country witnessed its worst fir ever recorded in its history has burned over almost half of the Sierra de la Culbera’s forested region with some portions near Figueruela de Arriba still on fire. A wildfire in Sierra de Mijas, forced nearly 2,300 people to abandon their homes. The country is a well-known tourist area. Spain’s reservoirs were at 44.4 per cent due to the heat and lack of rainfall. The British government experts have issued a warning that Monday and Tuesday (July 18 & 19) will be the hottest days in the country’s history. The weather department issued the first-ever red alert for exceptionally high temperatures, warning that everyone not only the ones weak, could get ill and even die. Watch | Spain swelters under a heat wave; Second heat wave in less than a month As fires flare in the Gironde department, more than 10,000 people in France have been evacuated from the southwest of the nation. Three significant fires are still active and more than 5,000 hectares of land have been burned, as per the local media. After months of little to no significant rainfall, the Po River, the longest in Italy, has reached record low water levels. The essential water source stretches from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea which is used for drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric generation. A fine of up to €500 may be imposed on anyone found utilising water for the water of public or private gardens, washing of courtyards, or car washing. Also read | US heatwave: Know about heatwave in Texas and other areas. When will this end? Since last week, there have been numerous fires and the majority of them were in northeast Porto. The temperature in Lous, in middle Portugal, reached a record of 46.3 per cent. (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.

5 major countries dealing with ‘hell’ in Europe's heat

Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history. His son, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. takes government following a resounding victory in the May election, hence there is a rush to buy the books which give details of the disastrous 21-year rule of his father. According to the history, it underlines that Jr’s father’s reign had human rights violations, corruption, and thievery but Jr hasn’t admitted to this or apologised, rather said he would make an attempt to rewrite history as he now is in power, CNN reported.&nbsp;

As per the human rights organisations, between the years 1965 and 1986, during the Marcos era, tens and thousands of people were jailed, tortured, and even assassinated for government criticism. Both Marcos Sr. and his wife passed away in 1989 and were found accountable for massive wrongdoing including the theft of an estimated $10 billion tax dollars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hold-the-line-philippines-maria-ressa-fights-for-press-freedom-495654">'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria&nbsp;Ressa fights for press freedom</a>

Raissa Robels, a journalist and author of ‘Marcos Martial Law: Never Again,’ said that she received emails from readers all over the world asking her to reissue the book as a depth examination of the victims of the martial law imposed. Robels said, “The book price had nearly doubled and yet the people were buying the book by batches. They weren't just buying one or two. They were buying five or 10 at a time,” CNN reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-critics-fear-a-bleak-future-philippines-new-president-ferdinand-marcos-defends-dictator-fathers-regime-493323">As critics fear a 'bleak future,' Philippines new President Ferdinand Marcos defends dictator father's regime</a>

However, in 2020 Marcos Jr made desired to revise the textbook at the time when he was preparing for elections, which documented his parents as a corrupt and brutal regime. After coming into power, the leader asked the world to judge him by his actions and not by what his family did.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history.

Foreign living Filipinos are buying books about the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to acquire knowledge about it and in order to preserve his history. His son, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. takes government following a resounding victory in the May election, hence there is a rush to buy the books which give details of the disastrous 21-year rule of his father. According to the history, it underlines that Jr’s father’s reign had human rights violations, corruption, and thievery but Jr hasn’t admitted to this or apologised, rather said he would make an attempt to rewrite history as he now is in power, CNN reported. As per the human rights organisations, between the years 1965 and 1986, during the Marcos era, tens and thousands of people were jailed, tortured, and even assassinated for government criticism. Both Marcos Sr. and his wife passed away in 1989 and were found accountable for massive wrongdoing including the theft of an estimated $10 billion tax dollars. Also read | 'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom Raissa Robels, a journalist and author of ‘Marcos Martial Law: Never Again,’ said that she received emails from readers all over the world asking her to reissue the book as a depth examination of the victims of the martial law imposed. Robels said, “The book price had nearly doubled and yet the people were buying the book by batches. They weren't just buying one or two. They were buying five or 10 at a time,” CNN reported. Also read | As critics fear a 'bleak future,' Philippines new President Ferdinand Marcos defends dictator father's regime However, in 2020 Marcos Jr made desired to revise the textbook at the time when he was preparing for elections, which documented his parents as a corrupt and brutal regime. After coming into power, the leader asked the world to judge him by his actions and not by what his family did. (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.

Filipinos buying books about late Marcos dictator to preserve history

A 66-year-old activist, Alexandra Wong, popularly known as Grandma Wong was imprisoned in Hong Kong in connection with a pro-democracy protest that shook the city three years ago. The activist was found to have taken part in two illegal meetings, and principal magistrate Ada Yim emphasized her usage of flags and chants to invite others to do the same. A city court sentenced to eight months in prison for these two charges of unlawful assembly committed on August 11 during a protest and well-known for flying the union jack of the United Kingdom. The activist criticised the government as an ‘authoritarian regime,’ reported by The Guardian.

However, the activist is no stranger to Court, in spite of Hong Kong’s harsh national security law, she has persisted to hold one-woman demonstrations in front of the city’s courthouses in support of other pro-democracy activists throughout their hearings. The activist has previously been found guilty of a number of other protest-related offenses like on in January conviction for refusing to give her an ID, and pushing a court security guard led to a one-month term.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curious-case-of-seditious-sheep-trial-opens-in-hong-kong-over-controversial-content-of-kids-books-495026">Curious case of 'seditious' sheep: Trial opens in Hong Kong over controversial content of kids' books</a>

A similar instance happened a day earlier, when a different city magistrate handed down a nine-month prison term for “attempted sedition” to Koo Sze-plans yiu, 75 years old and terminally ill with late-stage colon cancer, to demonstrate against the Beijing Winter Olympics. This judgment was handed down the same week that a report by a US congressional panel monitoring China’s progress on human rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-attempts-to-erase-the-joint-declaration-from-hong-kongs-history-are-ludicrous-494634">China’s attempts to erase the joint declaration from Hong Kong’s history are ludicrous</a>

In connection with the protests three years ago, more than 10,500 people have been detained and more than 2,900 of them have been charged.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 66-year-old activist, Alexandra Wong, popularly known as Grandma Wong was imprisoned in Hong Kong in connection with a pro-democracy protest that shook the city three years ago.

A 66-year-old activist, Alexandra Wong, popularly known as Grandma Wong was imprisoned in Hong Kong in connection with a pro-democracy protest that shook the city three years ago. The activist was found to have taken part in two illegal meetings, and principal magistrate Ada Yim emphasized her usage of flags and chants to invite others to do the same. A city court sentenced to eight months in prison for these two charges of unlawful assembly committed on August 11 during a protest and well-known for flying the union jack of the United Kingdom. The activist criticised the government as an ‘authoritarian regime,’ reported by The Guardian. However, the activist is no stranger to Court, in spite of Hong Kong’s harsh national security law, she has persisted to hold one-woman demonstrations in front of the city’s courthouses in support of other pro-democracy activists throughout their hearings. The activist has previously been found guilty of a number of other protest-related offenses like on in January conviction for refusing to give her an ID, and pushing a court security guard led to a one-month term. Also read | Curious case of 'seditious' sheep: Trial opens in Hong Kong over controversial content of kids' books A similar instance happened a day earlier, when a different city magistrate handed down a nine-month prison term for “attempted sedition” to Koo Sze-plans yiu, 75 years old and terminally ill with late-stage colon cancer, to demonstrate against the Beijing Winter Olympics. This judgment was handed down the same week that a report by a US congressional panel monitoring China’s progress on human rights. Also read | China’s attempts to erase the joint declaration from Hong Kong’s history are ludicrous In connection with the protests three years ago, more than 10,500 people have been detained and more than 2,900 of them have been charged. (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.

Hong Kong jails ‘Grandma Wong’ for eight months over pro-democracy protest

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry. In the span of 24 hours, a total of 20,139 additional cases were recorded, bringing the overall number of cases to 4,36,89,989. The death toll reached 5,25,557 after 38 fatalities were reported. As per the ministry, the weekly positivity rate was 4.37 per cent and the daily positivity rate was 5.10 per cent. The number of people recovering from illness reached 4,30,28,356 and the case fatality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent, reported by PTI.

The surge in cases comes after the government encourages people to get a third dose or booster shots with free doses starting this Friday (July 15).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worrying-trend-new-covid-variant-ba275-shows-exponential-increase-in-cases-globally-496623">Worrying trend: New Covid variant BA.2.75 shows ‘exponential’ increase in cases globally</a>

However, of the 38 fatalities reported, 16 were from Kerala, 10 were from Maharashtra, four were in West Bengal, three were in Delhi and one each from Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, and Bihar.

As a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, the government declared that vaccine booster shots would be provided free to all adults at government-run facilities beginning from July 15 for next the 75 days.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-still-not-over-who-warns-as-new-cases-emerge-496937">‘Covid pandemic still not over’, WHO warns as new cases emerge</a>

The Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Twitter appreciated the decision made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the vaccination programme. Mandaviya on his Twitter tweeted for the same.&nbsp;

Narendra Modi on Twitter said that the virus can effectively be combated with vaccination and the cabinet’s motive of increasing vaccination coverage in the country.

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Vaccination is an effective means to fight COVID-19. Today’s Cabinet decision will further India’s vaccination coverage and create a healthier nation. <a href="https://t.co/LolQyWjK90">https://t.co/LolQyWjK90</a>
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(With inputs from agencies)

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry.

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry. In the span of 24 hours, a total of 20,139 additional cases were recorded, bringing the overall number of cases to 4,36,89,989. The death toll reached 5,25,557 after 38 fatalities were reported. As per the ministry, the weekly positivity rate was 4.37 per cent and the daily positivity rate was 5.10 per cent. The number of people recovering from illness reached 4,30,28,356 and the case fatality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent, reported by PTI. The surge in cases comes after the government encourages people to get a third dose or booster shots with free doses starting this Friday (July 15). Also read | Worrying trend: New Covid variant BA.2.75 shows ‘exponential’ increase in cases globally However, of the 38 fatalities reported, 16 were from Kerala, 10 were from Maharashtra, four were in West Bengal, three were in Delhi and one each from Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, and Bihar. As a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, the government declared that vaccine booster shots would be provided free to all adults at government-run facilities beginning from July 15 for next the 75 days. Also read | ‘Covid pandemic still not over’, WHO warns as new cases emerge The Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Twitter appreciated the decision made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the vaccination programme. Mandaviya on his Twitter tweeted for the same. Narendra Modi on Twitter said that the virus can effectively be combated with vaccination and the cabinet’s motive of increasing vaccination coverage in the country. Vaccination is an effective means to fight COVID-19. Today’s Cabinet decision will further India’s vaccination coverage and create a healthier nation. https://t.co/LolQyWjK90 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 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. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India reports over 20,000 cases for first time in 145 days, free booster shots on cards

A day after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives to avoid popular revolt against an economic crisis blamed on his government’s poor management, Sri Lankans await his resignation. Rajapaksa has frequently assured the Speaker of the House of his resignation on Wednesday, but as of early Thursday, his resignation letter had still not arrived, according to an aide to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena. The president was anticipated to travel to Singapore next, however, it’s unclear about his final destination. The leader along with his wife and two bodyguards departed from the primary international airport in a military plane, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The situation in Sri Lanka got worse as more protests began after Rajapaksa’s decision to name his ally Ranil Wickremesinghe, as interim president. The protesters stormed the premier’s office and demanded his resignation as well. The current acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe has declared a state of emergency and enforced it in the western province but was lifted early on Thursday (July 15). However, he also announced his desire to step down from his position amid the ongoing turmoil in the country.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-us-demands-peaceful-transfer-of-power-within-the-boundaries-497173">Sri Lanka crisis: US demands peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries</a>

As per Hospital sources, nearly 45 people were taken to hospital during a standoff on Wednesday (July 13) night near the parliament building between the police and protesters who were demanding the resignation of both Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe.&nbsp;A 26-year-old protester was hospitalized after being tear-gassed and died because of breathing problems.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-state-broadcaster-stops-live-telecast-as-protests-intensify-497154">Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify</a>

Hundreds and thousands of people occupied the government building in Colombo last weekend as a part of the protest over the worst economic crisis since its independence in 1948. The protesters are blaming the Rajapaksas and their allies for rampant inflation, shortages, and corruption.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A day after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives to avoid popular revolt against an economic crisis blamed on his government’s poor management, Sri Lankans await his resignation.

A day after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives to avoid popular revolt against an economic crisis blamed on his government’s poor management, Sri Lankans await his resignation. Rajapaksa has frequently assured the Speaker of the House of his resignation on Wednesday, but as of early Thursday, his resignation letter had still not arrived, according to an aide to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena. The president was anticipated to travel to Singapore next, however, it’s unclear about his final destination. The leader along with his wife and two bodyguards departed from the primary international airport in a military plane, Reuters reported. The situation in Sri Lanka got worse as more protests began after Rajapaksa’s decision to name his ally Ranil Wickremesinghe, as interim president. The protesters stormed the premier’s office and demanded his resignation as well. The current acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe has declared a state of emergency and enforced it in the western province but was lifted early on Thursday (July 15). However, he also announced his desire to step down from his position amid the ongoing turmoil in the country. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: US demands peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries As per Hospital sources, nearly 45 people were taken to hospital during a standoff on Wednesday (July 13) night near the parliament building between the police and protesters who were demanding the resignation of both Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe. A 26-year-old protester was hospitalized after being tear-gassed and died because of breathing problems. Also read | Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify Hundreds and thousands of people occupied the government building in Colombo last weekend as a part of the protest over the worst economic crisis since its independence in 1948. The protesters are blaming the Rajapaksas and their allies for rampant inflation, shortages, and corruption. (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.

Sri Lanka: Protesters await Rajapaksa’s resignation after fleeing

Singapore’s central bank tightened monetary policy on Thursday (July 14), claiming that this move would decrease inflation as the city-state joins other countries in attempting to combat rising price pressures. Following this news, the Singapore dollar increased significantly and was last up about 0.7 per cent to S$1.33963 per dollar, with economists anticipating more tightening in October. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) tightened the monetary policy for the fourth time in the previous nine months, Reuters reported.

The central bank also stated that the core inflation rate is now estimated between 3.0 - 4.0 per cent this year, a little up from an earlier forecast of 2.5 and 3.5 per cent. Singapore’s GDP is not expected to come in at the lower half of the 3-5 per cent forecast range for this year. The country’s GDP increased by 4.8 per cent in the second quarter, below expectations, as per the preliminary data released.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/major-economies-to-enter-recession-in-the-next-12-months-report-495159">Major economies to enter recession in the next 12 months: Report</a>

The central bank tightened monetary policy in April to combat the rising prices caused worse by the conflict in Ukraine and supply disruptions around the world. The bank schedules two meetings, one in April and the other in October, every year to discuss the monetary policy.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Singapore’s economy grew 4.8% in the second quarter, missing forecasts

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Since April, the city-state has loosened most of its Covid-19 local and travel restrictions in an effort to ais the financial and commercial hub for the economic revival.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eurozone-inflation-hits-record-as-gas-crunch-looms-493665">Eurozone inflation hits record, as gas crunch looms</a>

As the trade flows through its economy, the MAS controls the monetary policy through exchange rate settings rather than interest rates. In addition, there are three levers used to change the policy: the slope, mid-point, and width of the policy band. These three variables allow the Singapore dollar to rise or fall against the currencies of its primary trading partners.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Singapore’s central bank tightened monetary policy on Thursday (July 14), claiming that this move would decrease inflation as the city-state joins other countries in attempting to combat rising price pressures.

Singapore’s central bank tightened monetary policy on Thursday (July 14), claiming that this move would decrease inflation as the city-state joins other countries in attempting to combat rising price pressures. Following this news, the Singapore dollar increased significantly and was last up about 0.7 per cent to S$1.33963 per dollar, with economists anticipating more tightening in October. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) tightened the monetary policy for the fourth time in the previous nine months, Reuters reported. The central bank also stated that the core inflation rate is now estimated between 3.0 - 4.0 per cent this year, a little up from an earlier forecast of 2.5 and 3.5 per cent. Singapore’s GDP is not expected to come in at the lower half of the 3-5 per cent forecast range for this year. The country’s GDP increased by 4.8 per cent in the second quarter, below expectations, as per the preliminary data released. Also read | Major economies to enter recession in the next 12 months: Report The central bank tightened monetary policy in April to combat the rising prices caused worse by the conflict in Ukraine and supply disruptions around the world. The bank schedules two meetings, one in April and the other in October, every year to discuss the monetary policy. Watch | Singapore’s economy grew 4.8% in the second quarter, missing forecasts Since April, the city-state has loosened most of its Covid-19 local and travel restrictions in an effort to ais the financial and commercial hub for the economic revival. Also read | Eurozone inflation hits record, as gas crunch looms As the trade flows through its economy, the MAS controls the monetary policy through exchange rate settings rather than interest rates. In addition, there are three levers used to change the policy: the slope, mid-point, and width of the policy band. These three variables allow the Singapore dollar to rise or fall against the currencies of its primary trading partners. (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.

Singapore’s central bank tightens monetary policy to decrease inflation

US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet. Additionally, the US ambassador urged the political parties to cooperate in order to provide long-term political and economic stability to the country. "We urge all parties to approach this juncture with a commitment to the betterment of the nation and to work quickly to implement solutions that will bring long-term economic &amp; political stability,” Chung said in a tweet.&nbsp;

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Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on Wednesday (July 13), after an uprising sparked by the island nation’s economic collapse, and is currently waiting to fly further to Singapore amid the crisis. The Speaker of the House announced Rajapaksa’s resignation. The president was forced to evacuate with the navy and tender his resignation after Sri Lankan protesters stormed his house and wouldn’t leave.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-state-broadcaster-stops-live-telecast-as-protests-intensify-497154">Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify</a>

Ranil Wickremesinghe, the former prime minister of the country and current acting president, has announced a state of emergency and enforced it in the Western province. However, in the midst of Sri Lanka’s continuous unrest and crises, Wickremesinghe also declared his intention to resign from his position.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India denies helping Gotabaya escape

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Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has announced that he intends to run for the presidency after Rajapaksa’s resignation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-during-protests-a-picture-of-a-couple-kissing-goes-viral-497109">Sri Lanka crisis: During protests, a picture of a couple kissing goes viral</a>

Numerous stories of clashes between the Sri Lankans and police and armed forces at petrol stations have been reported, where thousands of desperate people lined up for hours and often for days, have surfaced as a result of the country’s deteriorating economic situation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet.

US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet. Additionally, the US ambassador urged the political parties to cooperate in order to provide long-term political and economic stability to the country. "We urge all parties to approach this juncture with a commitment to the betterment of the nation and to work quickly to implement solutions that will bring long-term economic & political stability,” Chung said in a tweet. (2/2) We condemn all violence & call for the rule of law to be upheld. A peaceful transfer of power within SL’s democratic & constitutional framework is essential so the people’s demands for accountability, transparency, democratic governance & a better future can be realized. — Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) July 13, 2022 × Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on Wednesday (July 13), after an uprising sparked by the island nation’s economic collapse, and is currently waiting to fly further to Singapore amid the crisis. The Speaker of the House announced Rajapaksa’s resignation. The president was forced to evacuate with the navy and tender his resignation after Sri Lankan protesters stormed his house and wouldn’t leave. Also read | Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify Ranil Wickremesinghe, the former prime minister of the country and current acting president, has announced a state of emergency and enforced it in the Western province. However, in the midst of Sri Lanka’s continuous unrest and crises, Wickremesinghe also declared his intention to resign from his position. Watch | Gravitas: India denies helping Gotabaya escape Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has announced that he intends to run for the presidency after Rajapaksa’s resignation. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: During protests, a picture of a couple kissing goes viral Numerous stories of clashes between the Sri Lankans and police and armed forces at petrol stations have been reported, where thousands of desperate people lined up for hours and often for days, have surfaced as a result of the country’s deteriorating economic situation. (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.

Sri Lanka crisis: US demands peaceful transfer of power as per constitution

Peru, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cocaine, has been negotiating a deal with the United States for “non-lethal” assistance in intercepting planes carrying illicit drugs. Peru’s anti-drug chief on Wednesday (July 14) said the country wants to reach an agreement with the US as soon as possible to assist it to combat the use of planes to smuggle cocaine at a time when coca planting has been expanding.&nbsp;The US discontinued its support to Peru when the Peruvian Air Force shot down a jet after mistaking it for one belonging to drug traffickers, killing two American citizens, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Ricardo Soberon, head of the national anti-drug organization DEVIDA in a conference stated that the efforts to destroy coca farms, the plants used to make cocaine, have been hampered by rising global demand for the drug. Soberon further said that “the concept of shared responsibility’ needs to be reviewed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peru-in-a-major-drug-haul-police-seize-1-tonne-of-cocaine-490951">Peru: In a major drug haul, police seize 1 tonne of cocaine</a>

Soberon said, production in Peru has primarily increased in the Ucayali area, which shares a border with Brazil. The cocoa plantation has nearly quadrupled in size in just the matter of two years, adding 10,229 hectares (25,276 acres) in 2021. However, the official number has not yet been declared, the chief continued by saying that the national growth of coca leaf crops is anticipated to have increased in the year 2021. The country anticipates coca leaf crops would cover 61,700 hectares in the year 2020.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-worth-86-million-gets-delivered-to-supermarkets-in-banana-shipment-488630">Cocaine worth $86 million gets delivered to supermarkets in banana shipment</a>

The anti-drug chief plans to visit Washington in late August or during the beginning of September to meet with the US State Department to discuss the situation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Peru, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cocaine, has been negotiating a deal with the United States for “non-lethal” assistance in intercepting planes carrying illicit drugs.

Peru, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cocaine, has been negotiating a deal with the United States for “non-lethal” assistance in intercepting planes carrying illicit drugs. Peru’s anti-drug chief on Wednesday (July 14) said the country wants to reach an agreement with the US as soon as possible to assist it to combat the use of planes to smuggle cocaine at a time when coca planting has been expanding. The US discontinued its support to Peru when the Peruvian Air Force shot down a jet after mistaking it for one belonging to drug traffickers, killing two American citizens, Reuters reported. Ricardo Soberon, head of the national anti-drug organization DEVIDA in a conference stated that the efforts to destroy coca farms, the plants used to make cocaine, have been hampered by rising global demand for the drug. Soberon further said that “the concept of shared responsibility’ needs to be reviewed. Also read | Peru: In a major drug haul, police seize 1 tonne of cocaine Soberon said, production in Peru has primarily increased in the Ucayali area, which shares a border with Brazil. The cocoa plantation has nearly quadrupled in size in just the matter of two years, adding 10,229 hectares (25,276 acres) in 2021. However, the official number has not yet been declared, the chief continued by saying that the national growth of coca leaf crops is anticipated to have increased in the year 2021. The country anticipates coca leaf crops would cover 61,700 hectares in the year 2020. Also read | Cocaine worth $86 million gets delivered to supermarkets in banana shipment The anti-drug chief plans to visit Washington in late August or during the beginning of September to meet with the US State Department to discuss the situation. (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.

Peru wants US ‘non-lethal’ assistance to stop cocaine trafficking planes

Sri Lanka: Civil war hero ‘Gotabaya Rajapaksa’ overthrown by the protesters amid crisis

Taliban’s atrocities in Afghanistan continue to worsen as the group continues to deny that there are displaced people and had blocked the entry of humanitarian aid into the Bamyan region. According to sources in Bamyan, there are so many displaced people living on the outskirts of the Yakawlang who are in severe need of aid. As per reports of Khaama Press, recent humanitarian aid supplies delivered to Balkhab by the World Food Programme (WFP) were also displaced. Additionally, the locals of the areas have either fled or were forced to depart, leaving the Taliban in place, ANI reported.

According to UNHCR, it is crucial and urgent to provide shelter and food for displaced people who reside at a height of 2,700 meters in the chilly regions of Bamyan province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-founder-mullah-omars-vehicle-that-he-used-to-flee-during-us-invasion-dug-up-from-ground-494717">Taliban founder Mullah Omar's vehicle that he used to flee during US invasion dug up from ground</a>

The local media said that nearly 27,000 people had been forced to flee from their homes in a matter of two weeks due to fighting in the Balkhab district of the Sar-e Pul province in the country’s north.

Watch |&nbsp;Report: UAE to run Kabul Airport | Taliban looks to make allies in Gulf

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The Khaama press reported that according to the United Nations Organisations for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aid (UNOCHA), more than 6,000 people from the Balkhab region have been displaced and are now being relocated to Bamyan, where the situation is similarly dire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-activists-denounce-illegitimate-taliban-rule-494159">Afghan women activists denounce 'illegitimate' Taliban rule</a>

The local media also said that Afghan women in the Balkhab region are being harassed by Taliban fighters in the region. &nbsp;

Ever since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, the situation of the country and its people continue too worse. The Taliban deliberately adopted actions and policies with the intent of utterly eliminating women and girls from all aspects of public life, reflecting the position of females in the South Asian country. All of this happened in just ten months after taking control of the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban’s atrocities in Afghanistan continue to worsen as the group continues to deny that there are displaced people and had blocked the entry of humanitarian aid into the Bamyan region.

Taliban’s atrocities in Afghanistan continue to worsen as the group continues to deny that there are displaced people and had blocked the entry of humanitarian aid into the Bamyan region. According to sources in Bamyan, there are so many displaced people living on the outskirts of the Yakawlang who are in severe need of aid. As per reports of Khaama Press, recent humanitarian aid supplies delivered to Balkhab by the World Food Programme (WFP) were also displaced. Additionally, the locals of the areas have either fled or were forced to depart, leaving the Taliban in place, ANI reported. According to UNHCR, it is crucial and urgent to provide shelter and food for displaced people who reside at a height of 2,700 meters in the chilly regions of Bamyan province. Also read | Taliban founder Mullah Omar's vehicle that he used to flee during US invasion dug up from ground The local media said that nearly 27,000 people had been forced to flee from their homes in a matter of two weeks due to fighting in the Balkhab district of the Sar-e Pul province in the country’s north. Watch | Report: UAE to run Kabul Airport | Taliban looks to make allies in Gulf The Khaama press reported that according to the United Nations Organisations for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aid (UNOCHA), more than 6,000 people from the Balkhab region have been displaced and are now being relocated to Bamyan, where the situation is similarly dire. Also read | Afghan women activists denounce 'illegitimate' Taliban rule The local media also said that Afghan women in the Balkhab region are being harassed by Taliban fighters in the region. Ever since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, the situation of the country and its people continue too worse. The Taliban deliberately adopted actions and policies with the intent of utterly eliminating women and girls from all aspects of public life, reflecting the position of females in the South Asian country. All of this happened in just ten months after taking control of the country. (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.

Taliban forbid entry of humanitarian aid into Afghanistan's Bamyan province

Eight&nbsp;Conservatives will fight it out to&nbsp;succeed&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;as party leader and British prime minister after winning enough nominations from their colleagues to go through to the first round of voting on Wednesday.

Only two hopefuls failed to secure the 20 necessary nominations, leaving a wide field of&nbsp;candidates&nbsp;seeking to win the backing of the party with promises of tax&nbsp;cuts, honesty and serious government - a contrast to&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;who was forced to announce he would resign after a series of scandals.

Former finance minister Rishi Sunak is the bookmakers' favourite, and among those he will be taking on are his successor Nadhim Zahawi and foreign minister Liz Truss in what is becoming an increasingly bitter and divisive contest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-labour-party-is-going-to-introduce-no-confidence-motion-against-johnsons-government-report-496719">UK's Labour Party is going to introduce no-confidence motion against Johnson's government: Report</a>

The next British leader faces a daunting in-tray while support for the Conservatives is also falling, polls show.

Britain's economy is facing rocketing inflation, high debt, and low growth as people grapple with the tightest squeeze on their finances in decades. All of this is set against a backdrop of an energy crunch exacerbated by the war in&nbsp;Ukraine which has sent fuel prices soaring.

As the contest intensifies, rival campaigns stepped up private criticism of each other and pointed to either financial or other questions hanging over their opponents.

Sunak kicked off his campaign by portraying himself as the serious candidate, promising "grown-up" honesty "not fairy tales", seeking to contrast himself with the extensive tax&nbsp;cuts pledged by most of the other&nbsp;candidates.

"It is not credible to promise lots more spending and lower taxes," Sunak said, saying tax&nbsp;cuts could only come after soaring inflation was tackled.

As finance minister, Sunak set Britain on course to have its biggest tax burden since the 1950s after he oversaw a huge rise in government spending during the coronavirus pandemic, and most of the other hopefuls have turned their fire on him by saying they would oversee&nbsp;cuts immediately.

Watch |&nbsp;United Kingdom: 8 leaders in race for the next UK PM and conservative leadership

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Dirty tricks

Sunak has the widest support among colleagues who have publicly expressed their view.

Penny Mordaunt, a junior trade minister who is also heavily tipped, topped a poll of Conservative party members and she too has tried to strike a more measured tone on tax, saying that now is not the time to&nbsp;cut&nbsp;government spending.

"The others will obviously try to secure votes, they will try to put up flares for particular caucuses," she told LBC radio. "This is not the time to be making radical tax policies and promises."

Attorney General Suella Braverman; the former health and foreign minister Jeremy Hunt; Tom Tugendhat, chair of parliament's foreign affairs committee; and Kemi Badenoch, a former junior minister who is scooping up support on the right wing of the party, are the other&nbsp;candidates&nbsp;to enter the first round of the contest.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps earlier became the first candidate to end his bid, throwing his support behind Sunak, while Home Secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel announced she would not be standing.

Foreign Secretary Truss received the backing of two ministers closest to&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;- Nadine Dorries and Jacob Rees-Mogg - who have both been critical of Sunak.

Dorries accused Sunak of using "dirty tricks" to manipulate the leadership contest, with votes being loaned to Hunt's campaign because they view him as easier to beat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-to-have-new-prime-minister-by-september-5-496491">United Kingdom to have new Prime Minister by September 5</a>

Sunak's team did not respond to a request for comment.

The 1922 Committee of Conservative members of parliament which is organising the contest says the field will soon be whittled down with repeated votes in the next few weeks, with the final two then selected by the fewer than 200,000 party members by July 21.

The winner, and Britain's new prime minister, will be announced on Sept. 5.

Meanwhile, the opposition Labour Party said the government was "running scared" after it blocked an attempt to call a confidence vote in&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;on Wednesday to force him from office immediately.

The government said Labour was trying to "play politics" and it would allow Labour to call a confidence vote if the wording of the motion was changed to remove reference to&nbsp;Johnson.

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Eight Conservatives will fight it out to succeed Boris Johnson as party leader and British prime minister after winning enough nominations from their colleagues to go through to the first round of voting on Wednesday.

Eight Conservatives will fight it out to succeed Boris Johnson as party leader and British prime minister after winning enough nominations from their colleagues to go through to the first round of voting on Wednesday. Only two hopefuls failed to secure the 20 necessary nominations, leaving a wide field of candidates seeking to win the backing of the party with promises of tax cuts, honesty and serious government - a contrast to Johnson who was forced to announce he would resign after a series of scandals. Former finance minister Rishi Sunak is the bookmakers' favourite, and among those he will be taking on are his successor Nadhim Zahawi and foreign minister Liz Truss in what is becoming an increasingly bitter and divisive contest. Also read | UK's Labour Party is going to introduce no-confidence motion against Johnson's government: Report The next British leader faces a daunting in-tray while support for the Conservatives is also falling, polls show. Britain's economy is facing rocketing inflation, high debt, and low growth as people grapple with the tightest squeeze on their finances in decades. All of this is set against a backdrop of an energy crunch exacerbated by the war in Ukraine which has sent fuel prices soaring. As the contest intensifies, rival campaigns stepped up private criticism of each other and pointed to either financial or other questions hanging over their opponents. Sunak kicked off his campaign by portraying himself as the serious candidate, promising "grown-up" honesty "not fairy tales", seeking to contrast himself with the extensive tax cuts pledged by most of the other candidates. "It is not credible to promise lots more spending and lower taxes," Sunak said, saying tax cuts could only come after soaring inflation was tackled. As finance minister, Sunak set Britain on course to have its biggest tax burden since the 1950s after he oversaw a huge rise in government spending during the coronavirus pandemic, and most of the other hopefuls have turned their fire on him by saying they would oversee cuts immediately. Watch | United Kingdom: 8 leaders in race for the next UK PM and conservative leadership Dirty tricks Sunak has the widest support among colleagues who have publicly expressed their view. Penny Mordaunt, a junior trade minister who is also heavily tipped, topped a poll of Conservative party members and she too has tried to strike a more measured tone on tax, saying that now is not the time to cut government spending. "The others will obviously try to secure votes, they will try to put up flares for particular caucuses," she told LBC radio. "This is not the time to be making radical tax policies and promises." Attorney General Suella Braverman; the former health and foreign minister Jeremy Hunt; Tom Tugendhat, chair of parliament's foreign affairs committee; and Kemi Badenoch, a former junior minister who is scooping up support on the right wing of the party, are the other candidates to enter the first round of the contest. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps earlier became the first candidate to end his bid, throwing his support behind Sunak, while Home Secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel announced she would not be standing. Foreign Secretary Truss received the backing of two ministers closest to Johnson - Nadine Dorries and Jacob Rees-Mogg - who have both been critical of Sunak. Dorries accused Sunak of using "dirty tricks" to manipulate the leadership contest, with votes being loaned to Hunt's campaign because they view him as easier to beat. Also read | United Kingdom to have new Prime Minister by September 5 Sunak's team did not respond to a request for comment. The 1922 Committee of Conservative members of parliament which is organising the contest says the field will soon be whittled down with repeated votes in the next few weeks, with the final two then selected by the fewer than 200,000 party members by July 21. The winner, and Britain's new prime minister, will be announced on Sept. 5. Meanwhile, the opposition Labour Party said the government was "running scared" after it blocked an attempt to call a confidence vote in Johnson on Wednesday to force him from office immediately. The government said Labour was trying to "play politics" and it would allow Labour to call a confidence vote if the wording of the motion was changed to remove reference to Johnson. 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.

Eight candidates make cut in race to succeed UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

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