In a bitterly cold bedroom at the start of winter in Kabul, 22-year Maryam sat with her baby son bundled up in a red jumper as he coughed days after being discharged for the third time from a hospital ward for suspected pneumonia.&nbsp;Every time 10 months old Rahmat's parents bring him home from the crowded, but the warmer hospital, they say he gets sick again. The parents say they spend whatever they can from their shrinking income for heating the room as the temperature&nbsp;drops below freezing at night.

"I am scared, it is only the beginning of winter, what is going to happen," asked Maryam, saying the family could only buy coal in small quantities and had to cut back on food to afford even that after her husband lost his construction job.

The family is among many in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;unable to afford adequate heating, often having to choose between food and fuel as an economic crisis grips the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/multiple-blasts-rock-afghanistans-kabul-city-fatalities-feared-report-549496">Also read |&nbsp;Multiple blasts rock Afghanistan’s Kabul city, fatalities feared: Report</a>

Doctors and aid workers say thousands of children are being admitted to hospital with pneumonia and other respiratory diseases caused by the cold and malnutrition.

The crisis, aid agencies say, is likely to get worse. A ban on female NGO workers has led to over 180 international organisations suspending operations in the crucial winter months, saying they are unable to operate in the conservative country without female staff to reach out to women and children.

Even before that, more than half the population was reliant on humanitarian aid after the economic shock precipitated by the 2021 Taliban takeover caused&nbsp;Afghanistan's GDP to shrink by 20 per cent&nbsp;last year.

Afghanistan&nbsp;has been hit by a cut in development spending by foreign governments, an enforcement of Western sanctions and the freezing of the country's central bank assets that has severely hampered the banking system.

"Our patients have increased compared to the past, the main reason is the economy," said Mohammad Arif Hassanzai, head of internal medicine at Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital in Kabul.

Hospital figures showed more than 6,700 children were admitted in November for pneumonia, cough, asthma and other respiratory conditions, compared to around 3,700 the same month the previous year.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which supports several hospitals in&nbsp;Afghanistan, said even before the winter months, it had seen a 50 per cent&nbsp;increase of children under five admitted for pneumonia in 2022 compared to the previous year.

"People have been dying of pneumonia this year, including children," said Lucien Christen, ICRC's spokesperson in Kabul, adding that malnutrition was contributing to children's weakened immune systems.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan denies conducting airstrikes on TTP bases in Afghanistan

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Aid workers said pollution also worsened this year as more people burned garbage and plastic for heat.

In a ward dedicated to pneumonia patients at the hospital, two or three babies lay on a bed, with worried parents and a handful of stretched medical staff overseeing them. Some mothers held tiny oxygen masks to infants' faces, while fathers crammed the corridors outside.

Suddenly a clamour broke out. A one-month-old baby, Mohammad, stopped breathing and his lips were turning blue. His panic-stricken uncle, holding the child in a green blanket, was directed to a specialised emergency unit two floors below. He dashed downstairs, as the baby's mother ran behind in tears.

In the high-dependency unit, Mohammad was put on oxygen support. The doctor said he was in critical condition and would take five days to stabilise.

His mother remained at the baby's bedside. Her husband had lost his job and they could not afford heating, she said. Watching her son stop breathing, she said, "It felt like my own heart had stopped."

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In a bitterly cold bedroom at the start of winter in Kabul, 22-year Maryam sat with her baby son bundled up in a red jumper as he coughed days after being discharged for the third time from a hospital ward for suspected pneumonia.

In a bitterly cold bedroom at the start of winter in Kabul, 22-year Maryam sat with her baby son bundled up in a red jumper as he coughed days after being discharged for the third time from a hospital ward for suspected pneumonia. Every time 10 months old Rahmat's parents bring him home from the crowded, but the warmer hospital, they say he gets sick again. The parents say they spend whatever they can from their shrinking income for heating the room as the temperature drops below freezing at night. "I am scared, it is only the beginning of winter, what is going to happen," asked Maryam, saying the family could only buy coal in small quantities and had to cut back on food to afford even that after her husband lost his construction job. The family is among many in Afghanistan unable to afford adequate heating, often having to choose between food and fuel as an economic crisis grips the country. Also read | Multiple blasts rock Afghanistan’s Kabul city, fatalities feared: Report Doctors and aid workers say thousands of children are being admitted to hospital with pneumonia and other respiratory diseases caused by the cold and malnutrition. The crisis, aid agencies say, is likely to get worse. A ban on female NGO workers has led to over 180 international organisations suspending operations in the crucial winter months, saying they are unable to operate in the conservative country without female staff to reach out to women and children. Even before that, more than half the population was reliant on humanitarian aid after the economic shock precipitated by the 2021 Taliban takeover caused Afghanistan's GDP to shrink by 20 per cent last year. Afghanistan has been hit by a cut in development spending by foreign governments, an enforcement of Western sanctions and the freezing of the country's central bank assets that has severely hampered the banking system. "Our patients have increased compared to the past, the main reason is the economy," said Mohammad Arif Hassanzai, head of internal medicine at Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital in Kabul. Hospital figures showed more than 6,700 children were admitted in November for pneumonia, cough, asthma and other respiratory conditions, compared to around 3,700 the same month the previous year. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which supports several hospitals in Afghanistan, said even before the winter months, it had seen a 50 per cent increase of children under five admitted for pneumonia in 2022 compared to the previous year. "People have been dying of pneumonia this year, including children," said Lucien Christen, ICRC's spokesperson in Kabul, adding that malnutrition was contributing to children's weakened immune systems. Watch | Pakistan denies conducting airstrikes on TTP bases in Afghanistan Aid workers said pollution also worsened this year as more people burned garbage and plastic for heat. In a ward dedicated to pneumonia patients at the hospital, two or three babies lay on a bed, with worried parents and a handful of stretched medical staff overseeing them. Some mothers held tiny oxygen masks to infants' faces, while fathers crammed the corridors outside. Suddenly a clamour broke out. A one-month-old baby, Mohammad, stopped breathing and his lips were turning blue. His panic-stricken uncle, holding the child in a green blanket, was directed to a specialised emergency unit two floors below. He dashed downstairs, as the baby's mother ran behind in tears. In the high-dependency unit, Mohammad was put on oxygen support. The doctor said he was in critical condition and would take five days to stabilise. His mother remained at the baby's bedside. Her husband had lost his job and they could not afford heating, she said. Watching her son stop breathing, she said, "It felt like my own heart had stopped." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Afghan hospital wards full with children suffering from pneumonia

Crypto exchange Huobi adds its name to the list of companies that chose to lay off their staff as it announced to lay off 20% of its workforce for cost cutting as investor interest in digital assets has slumped sharply.&nbsp;The crypto exchange company told Reuters that&nbsp;it&nbsp;plans to lay off 20 per cent of its workforce.&nbsp;Huobi, in a statement, said, "The planned layoff ratio is about 20 per cent, but it is not implemented now. With the current state of the bear market, a very lean team will be maintained going forward."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-cut-over-18000-workers-says-ceo-andy-jassy-549539">Also read |&nbsp;Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, says CEO Andy Jassy; workers to know employment status by Jan 18</a>

The statement comes after a similar message earlier from the Tron founder Justin Sun, who said that the 'structural adjustment' in the company has&nbsp;not started, but is expected to complete by the first quarter.

The founder of the cryptocurrency exchange firm in an internal memo said that the company has been a 'fire'&nbsp;in the "(crypto) winter" despite the deteriorating macro environment.&nbsp;

When asked, he termed the shortage as "short-term pains" that can bring advantages for the firm.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tech-giant-salesforce-joins-the-layoff-bandwagon-fires-10-of-its-workforce-549485">Also read |&nbsp;Tech giant Salesforce joins the layoff bandwagon; fires 10% of its workforce</a>

Similarly, cryptocurrency firm Genesis recently in its second round of layoffs cut 30 per cent of its workforce in less than six months.&nbsp;

Globally, Huobi stood as the eighth largest crypto-exchange as of November, according to analysing website CoinGecko.&nbsp;

As per CoinMarketCap, the Huobi Token peaked in late October at $ 9.40 with a 24-hour volume then of $52.50 million.&nbsp;

However, as of Friday, the token price was $4.68, and volume was down to $20.53 million. 
 
&nbsp;

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Crypto exchange Huobi adds its name to the list of companies that chose to lay off their staff as it announced to lay off 20% of its workforce for cost cutting as investor interest in digital assets has slumped sharply.

Crypto exchange Huobi adds its name to the list of companies that chose to lay off their staff as it announced to lay off 20% of its workforce for cost cutting as investor interest in digital assets has slumped sharply. The crypto exchange company told Reuters that it plans to lay off 20 per cent of its workforce. Huobi, in a statement, said, "The planned layoff ratio is about 20 per cent, but it is not implemented now. With the current state of the bear market, a very lean team will be maintained going forward." Also read | Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, says CEO Andy Jassy; workers to know employment status by Jan 18 The statement comes after a similar message earlier from the Tron founder Justin Sun, who said that the 'structural adjustment' in the company has not started, but is expected to complete by the first quarter. The founder of the cryptocurrency exchange firm in an internal memo said that the company has been a 'fire' in the "(crypto) winter" despite the deteriorating macro environment. When asked, he termed the shortage as "short-term pains" that can bring advantages for the firm. Also read | Tech giant Salesforce joins the layoff bandwagon; fires 10% of its workforce Similarly, cryptocurrency firm Genesis recently in its second round of layoffs cut 30 per cent of its workforce in less than six months. Globally, Huobi stood as the eighth largest crypto-exchange as of November, according to analysing website CoinGecko. As per CoinMarketCap, the Huobi Token peaked in late October at $ 9.40 with a 24-hour volume then of $52.50 million. However, as of Friday, the token price was $4.68, and volume was down to $20.53 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Crypto exchange firm Huobi to lay off 20% of workforce amid industry slump

Agreeing to the Turkish government's request, the US State Department on Thursday has agreed to stop using the word 'Turkey' and will instead call the Eurasian country "Turkiye".&nbsp;US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said, "The Turkish embassy did request that we use this spelling in our communications."&nbsp;

He added, "The department will use the spelling that you saw today in most of our formal diplomatic and bilateral contexts, including in public communications."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-russia-defence-ministers-hold-constructive-talks-in-moscow-547648">Also read |&nbsp;Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow</a>

This was followed by an announcement of joint action between the US and Turkiye against the financers of the Islamic Group, the State Department wrote, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Price said that since "Turkey" is more widely understood by Americans, its use is not prohibited.&nbsp;

The call for changing the name from "Turkey to Turkiye" came in 2021, when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the use of the latter in languages even in Latin script.&nbsp;

The United States has been using the term since August 2022 on a call between the NATO allies' defence chiefs and the State Department has occasionally used social media.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-that-have-changed-their-names-as-turkey-becomes-turkiye-484695">Also read |&nbsp;Countries that have changed their names as Turkey becomes ‘Türkiye’</a>

Ever since the change in name, people worldwide have created memes, cartoons and jokes referring to the bird. Reacting to these, Turks have been upset believing them to be named because the British thought the species that came from the east.&nbsp;

A Turkish public broadcaster TRT World recently noted that "Turkey" can also be slang for a "stupid person."

Among other English-speaking countries, embassy websites in Australia, Ankara, India and New Zealand use Turkiye, while the UK, Irish and South African embassies use Turkey. However, as of Thursday, the US embassy website was inconsistent in the use of the country's spelling. and both were spotted.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Agreeing to the Turkish government's request, the US State Department on Thursday has agreed to stop using the word 'Turkey' and will instead call the Eurasian country "Turkiye".

Agreeing to the Turkish government's request, the US State Department on Thursday has agreed to stop using the word 'Turkey' and will instead call the Eurasian country "Turkiye". US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said, "The Turkish embassy did request that we use this spelling in our communications." He added, "The department will use the spelling that you saw today in most of our formal diplomatic and bilateral contexts, including in public communications." Also read | Türkiye, Syria, Russia defence ministers hold ‘constructive’ talks in Moscow This was followed by an announcement of joint action between the US and Turkiye against the financers of the Islamic Group, the State Department wrote, AFP reported. Price said that since "Turkey" is more widely understood by Americans, its use is not prohibited. The call for changing the name from "Turkey to Turkiye" came in 2021, when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the use of the latter in languages even in Latin script. The United States has been using the term since August 2022 on a call between the NATO allies' defence chiefs and the State Department has occasionally used social media. Also read | Countries that have changed their names as Turkey becomes ‘Türkiye’ Ever since the change in name, people worldwide have created memes, cartoons and jokes referring to the bird. Reacting to these, Turks have been upset believing them to be named because the British thought the species that came from the east. A Turkish public broadcaster TRT World recently noted that "Turkey" can also be slang for a "stupid person." Among other English-speaking countries, embassy websites in Australia, Ankara, India and New Zealand use Turkiye, while the UK, Irish and South African embassies use Turkey. However, as of Thursday, the US embassy website was inconsistent in the use of the country's spelling. and both were spotted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US State Dept agrees to officially change ‘Turkey’ spelling to desired ‘Turkiye’

Taiwan detained four military officials including a retired Air Force captain and three active military officers in the city of Kaohsiung on suspicion of spying for China, the Taiwanese Central News Agency reported on Thursday.&nbsp;A total of seven individuals were brought for questioning amongst which three were released on bail of 100,000 to 200,000 Taiwan dollars ($3,260).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-component-of-taiwans-anti-ship-missile-sent-to-china-for-repair-report-549611">Also read |&nbsp;Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report</a>

After the questioning, the prosecutor detained the retired Air Force captain Li, one commander Sun and two lieutenant commanders Liu and Kung, ANI reported.

As per reports, the prosecutor said that Liu began his business in China after retiring from the force in 2013 and then was recruited as a spy to recruit active military officers in the Air and Navy forces.&nbsp;

He was believed to have recruited at least six military officers for rewards of 200,000 to 7,000 Taiwan dollars from Beijing.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Swiss firm sends Taiwan's 'Carrier Killer' device to China for repair

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Citing Taiwan's National Defence Ministry, the media said that the case was exposed by the military personnel who investigated the espionage allegations.&nbsp;

The investigation is still going on as it is expected that more military personnel are involved in spying activities for China.&nbsp;

Similarly, in late 2022, two incidents of military officials were detained on&nbsp;allegations of spying for China. A former marine major was detained in November for using a fake ID to enter the Zuoying Naval Base.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan detained four military officials including a retired Air Force captain and three active military officers in the city of Kaohsiung on suspicion of spying for China, the Taiwanese Central News Agency reported on Thursday.

Taiwan detained four military officials including a retired Air Force captain and three active military officers in the city of Kaohsiung on suspicion of spying for China, the Taiwanese Central News Agency reported on Thursday. A total of seven individuals were brought for questioning amongst which three were released on bail of 100,000 to 200,000 Taiwan dollars ($3,260). Also read | Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report After the questioning, the prosecutor detained the retired Air Force captain Li, one commander Sun and two lieutenant commanders Liu and Kung, ANI reported. As per reports, the prosecutor said that Liu began his business in China after retiring from the force in 2013 and then was recruited as a spy to recruit active military officers in the Air and Navy forces. He was believed to have recruited at least six military officers for rewards of 200,000 to 7,000 Taiwan dollars from Beijing. Watch | Swiss firm sends Taiwan's 'Carrier Killer' device to China for repair Citing Taiwan's National Defence Ministry, the media said that the case was exposed by the military personnel who investigated the espionage allegations. The investigation is still going on as it is expected that more military personnel are involved in spying activities for China. Similarly, in late 2022, two incidents of military officials were detained on allegations of spying for China. A former marine major was detained in November for using a fake ID to enter the Zuoying Naval Base. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan detains four military officials suspected of spying for China; probe underway

The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 8 PM ET (0100 hours GMT) for the&nbsp;second consecutive day after six rounds of voting to elect the next speaker yielded no result. In other news, the United Nations Security Council will hold a private meeting with the Taliban next week.&nbsp;Meanwhile, e-commerce giant Amazon unveiled its plan to cut more than 18,000 jobs as it cuts costs, chief executive&nbsp;Andy Jassy said. Finally, check WION's live updates&nbsp;for live updates on the status of Covid-19 across the world.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-adjourned-as-republican-speaker-nominee-kevin-mccarthy-loses-sixth-ballot-549530">US House adjourned as Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy loses sixth ballot</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323007-copy-of-untitled-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

After the house reassembled, the Republicans brought in a motion to adjourn for the night. While all Democrats voted no, the Republicans managed to band together and voted 216-214, to have the House adjourned till noon tomorrow.&nbsp;

The House remained in a deadlock as a civil war within the Republican party meant that speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy could not reach the magical figure of 218.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-to-hold-closed-door-meeting-with-taliban-to-discuss-ban-on-women-ngo-workers-549545">UN to hold closed-door meeting with Taliban to discuss ban on women NGO workers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/05/323271-new-wion-100.png?imwidth=1920" />

The closed-door meeting as per Reuters was requested by the United Arab&nbsp;Emirates (UAE) and Japan, with the former floating their request via a tweet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-cut-over-18000-workers-says-ceo-andy-jassy-549539">Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, says CEO Andy Jassy; workers to know employment status by Jan 18</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/05/323265-2022-12-28t232712z3lynxmpeibr0aprtroptp4amazon-com-layoffs.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

In a note to his staff, Jassy said, "Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we're sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles."

He added that affected workers will be informed from January 18.&nbsp;These 18,000 workers stand for 6 per cent of the firm's nearly 300,000 corporate workforces, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-live-updates-hong-kong-residents-rush-to-get-vaccinated-as-borders-set-to-reopen-with-china-549537">COVID LIVE updates | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO</a>

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<h4>No new strains identified in China: WHO<img alt="" data-nimg="intrinsic" decoding="async" src="https://www.wionews.com/assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=64" srcset="/assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=32 1x, /assets/images/twitter.svg?imwidth=64 2x" /></h4>

The World Health Organization said on Wednesday that no new COVID-19 variants have been identified in data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, it reiterated, the data coming from China is still not complete and comprehensive.&nbsp;

A closed-door meeting of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution, in which the Chinese CDC shared data, showed that the variants circulating in China are the Omicron strains already out in the open and no new variants were reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Meta fined $412 mn for EU data breaches; Europe's data rules violated, says Irish regulator

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The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 8 PM ET (0100 hours GMT) for the second consecutive day after six rounds of voting to elect the next speaker yielded no result.

The US House of Representatives was adjourned till 8 PM ET (0100 hours GMT) for the second consecutive day after six rounds of voting to elect the next speaker yielded no result. In other news, the United Nations Security Council will hold a private meeting with the Taliban next week. Meanwhile, e-commerce giant Amazon unveiled its plan to cut more than 18,000 jobs as it cuts costs, chief executive Andy Jassy said. Finally, check WION's live updates for live updates on the status of Covid-19 across the world. Click on the headlines to read more: US House adjourned as Republican speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy loses sixth ballot After the house reassembled, the Republicans brought in a motion to adjourn for the night. While all Democrats voted no, the Republicans managed to band together and voted 216-214, to have the House adjourned till noon tomorrow. The House remained in a deadlock as a civil war within the Republican party meant that speaker nominee Kevin McCarthy could not reach the magical figure of 218. UN to hold closed-door meeting with Taliban to discuss ban on women NGO workers The closed-door meeting as per Reuters was requested by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Japan, with the former floating their request via a tweet. Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, says CEO Andy Jassy; workers to know employment status by Jan 18 In a note to his staff, Jassy said, "Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we're sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles." He added that affected workers will be informed from January 18. These 18,000 workers stand for 6 per cent of the firm's nearly 300,000 corporate workforces, AFP reported. COVID LIVE updates | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO No new strains identified in China: WHO The World Health Organization said on Wednesday that no new COVID-19 variants have been identified in data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, it reiterated, the data coming from China is still not complete and comprehensive. A closed-door meeting of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution, in which the Chinese CDC shared data, showed that the variants circulating in China are the Omicron strains already out in the open and no new variants were reported. Watch | Meta fined $412 mn for EU data breaches; Europe's data rules violated, says Irish regulator

Morning news brief: China Covid situation, Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, and more

E-commerce giant Amazon unveiled its plan to cut more than 18,000 jobs as it cuts costs, chief executive&nbsp;Andy Jassy said.&nbsp;

In a note to his staff, Jassy said, "Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we're sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles."

He added that affected workers will be informed from January 18.&nbsp;These 18,000 workers stand for 6 per cent of the firm's nearly 300,000 corporate workforces, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/online-retail-giant-amazon-reaches-settlement-with-eu-agrees-to-make-big-business-changes-skips-10-fine-544904">Also read |&nbsp;Online retail giant Amazon reaches settlement with EU, agrees to make big business changes, skips 10% fine</a>

Admitting layoffs to be a difficult decision for people, Jassy said&nbsp;that the company is working towards helping with that. He said, " We are working to support those who are affected and are providing packages that include a separation payment, transitional health insurance benefits, and external job placement support."

He added that Amazon has weathered uncertain and difficult economic times in the past and will continue to do so.&nbsp;

Not mentioning any specific region for layoffs, he&nbsp;indicated that some of the layoffs will be in Europe.&nbsp;

According to him, this sudden announcement was made as one of Amazon's teammates leaked this information externally.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/amazon-sued-and-accused-of-stealing-tips-given-to-delivery-drivers-541060">Also read |&nbsp;Amazon sued and accused of 'stealing' tips given to delivery drivers</a>

Two months ago, the e-commerce giant said that it will focus on cutting expenses in its annual business review operation. It had already introduced a hiring freeze and even halted some of its warehouse expansions.&nbsp;

It even closed some of its businesses and cancelled many projects.&nbsp;

In November, the company said that it will begin its layoffs but did not give a specific amount.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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E-commerce giant Amazon unveiled its plan to cut more than 18,000 jobs as it cuts costs, chief executive Andy Jassy said. In a note to his staff, Jassy said, "Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we're sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles.

E-commerce giant Amazon unveiled its plan to cut more than 18,000 jobs as it cuts costs, chief executive Andy Jassy said. In a note to his staff, Jassy said, "Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we're sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles." He added that affected workers will be informed from January 18. These 18,000 workers stand for 6 per cent of the firm's nearly 300,000 corporate workforces, AFP reported. Also read | Online retail giant Amazon reaches settlement with EU, agrees to make big business changes, skips 10% fine Admitting layoffs to be a difficult decision for people, Jassy said that the company is working towards helping with that. He said, " We are working to support those who are affected and are providing packages that include a separation payment, transitional health insurance benefits, and external job placement support." He added that Amazon has weathered uncertain and difficult economic times in the past and will continue to do so. Not mentioning any specific region for layoffs, he indicated that some of the layoffs will be in Europe. According to him, this sudden announcement was made as one of Amazon's teammates leaked this information externally. Also read | Amazon sued and accused of 'stealing' tips given to delivery drivers Two months ago, the e-commerce giant said that it will focus on cutting expenses in its annual business review operation. It had already introduced a hiring freeze and even halted some of its warehouse expansions. It even closed some of its businesses and cancelled many projects. In November, the company said that it will begin its layoffs but did not give a specific amount. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amazon to cut over 18,000 jobs, says CEO Andy Jassy; workers to know employment status by Jan 18

Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector.&nbsp;China has experienced a surge in infections and its hospitals and crematoriums have been inundated after Beijing last month wound back tight restrictions.

The United States, Canada, Japan and France are among the countries that have imposed new rules requiring travellers from China to provide negative Covid test reports&nbsp;as concerns grow over the spike in cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-live-updates-hong-kong-residents-rush-to-get-vaccinated-as-borders-set-to-reopen-with-china-549537">Also read |&nbsp;COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO</a>

But Thai authorities on Thursday said all countries should be treated the same.

"Thailand&nbsp;does not require Covid test results from tourists from any country," Public Health Minister Anutin&nbsp;Charnvirakul told reporters on Thursday following a meeting between health, tourism and transportation officials.

China was the largest source of foreign tourists for&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;before the pandemic, with almost 11 million arrivals in 2019, according to government data.

Tourism accounted for nearly 20 per cent of national income before the pandemic, and tough border restrictions at the height of the health crisis took a toll on hotels, restaurants and tour operators across the country.

"This is an opportunity to restore our economic situation and recover from losses we suffered for nearly three years," Anutin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-beijings-covid-spike-chinas-healthcare-system-worsens-forces-people-to-take-risks-in-black-market-549628">Also read |&nbsp;China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market</a>

Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of&nbsp;Thailand, said he expected about 60,000 Chinese nationals to enter&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;this month and the numbers to steadily rise further.&nbsp;

"We expect Chinese tourists to come to&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;after Chinese New Year," Tourism Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan said.

In December, Thailand&nbsp;clocked its 10 millionth international visitor for 2022 -- a major increase on the 430,000 seen in 2021 but still way off the 40 million arrivals of 2019.

Thai officials are forecasting some 20 million arrivals in 2023, though they believe Chinese tourists could push the figure up to around 25 million.

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Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector.

Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector. China has experienced a surge in infections and its hospitals and crematoriums have been inundated after Beijing last month wound back tight restrictions. The United States, Canada, Japan and France are among the countries that have imposed new rules requiring travellers from China to provide negative Covid test reports as concerns grow over the spike in cases. Also read | COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO But Thai authorities on Thursday said all countries should be treated the same. "Thailand does not require Covid test results from tourists from any country," Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters on Thursday following a meeting between health, tourism and transportation officials. China was the largest source of foreign tourists for Thailand before the pandemic, with almost 11 million arrivals in 2019, according to government data. Tourism accounted for nearly 20 per cent of national income before the pandemic, and tough border restrictions at the height of the health crisis took a toll on hotels, restaurants and tour operators across the country. "This is an opportunity to restore our economic situation and recover from losses we suffered for nearly three years," Anutin said. Also read | China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said he expected about 60,000 Chinese nationals to enter Thailand this month and the numbers to steadily rise further. "We expect Chinese tourists to come to Thailand after Chinese New Year," Tourism Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan said. In December, Thailand clocked its 10 millionth international visitor for 2022 -- a major increase on the 430,000 seen in 2021 but still way off the 40 million arrivals of 2019. Thai officials are forecasting some 20 million arrivals in 2023, though they believe Chinese tourists could push the figure up to around 25 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

No pre-departure Covid test needed for travellers from China, says Thailand

China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak.&nbsp;In a country where not even a mask mandate exists right now, thousands of people have died and many medical workers are walking out of their jobs.&nbsp;

Almost everything is open now, even schools, but kids are not going due to the fear of getting infected at a time when even medicines are not easily available.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-live-updates-hong-kong-residents-rush-to-get-vaccinated-as-borders-set-to-reopen-with-china-549537">Also read |&nbsp;COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO</a>

As per several media reports, China's manufacturing and service sectors were at their worst by the end of 2022.&nbsp;

The healthcare system is experiencing a huge shortage of COVID-19 medications. The current coronavirus wave saw drug stores stripped of supplies, promoting people to buy from online marketplaces with price gouging and online fraud.&nbsp;

China's public security ministry on Monday ordered a crackdown on illegal and criminal activity involving the production and sale of counterfeit epidemic-related medicines and related items.

Despite this, people were forced to turn towards the black market for their loved ones.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">Also read |&nbsp;WHO says data provided by China ‘under-represents’ true impact of Covid outbreak</a>

The&nbsp;black market and online frauds include tainted medicines, fabricated clinical trials and lax regulation in the industry.

A 22-year-old Qiu told AFP that she spent&nbsp;thousands on online Covid medicines that never arrived.

Authorities claimed that they have begun shipping&nbsp;paxvloid, a Beijing-approved Covid treatment medicine developed by US drug giant Pfizer, to many hospitals and communities but is difficult to obtain.&nbsp;

According to AFP, limited stocks have compelled citizens to buy medicines at a higher price. It said that an online seller told the news agency that they were charging 18,000 yuan ($2,610) for a single box of the medicine, almost nine times more than the original price.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak.

China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak. In a country where not even a mask mandate exists right now, thousands of people have died and many medical workers are walking out of their jobs. Almost everything is open now, even schools, but kids are not going due to the fear of getting infected at a time when even medicines are not easily available. Also read | COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO As per several media reports, China's manufacturing and service sectors were at their worst by the end of 2022. The healthcare system is experiencing a huge shortage of COVID-19 medications. The current coronavirus wave saw drug stores stripped of supplies, promoting people to buy from online marketplaces with price gouging and online fraud. China's public security ministry on Monday ordered a crackdown on illegal and criminal activity involving the production and sale of counterfeit epidemic-related medicines and related items. Despite this, people were forced to turn towards the black market for their loved ones. Also read | WHO says data provided by China ‘under-represents’ true impact of Covid outbreak The black market and online frauds include tainted medicines, fabricated clinical trials and lax regulation in the industry. A 22-year-old Qiu told AFP that she spent thousands on online Covid medicines that never arrived. Authorities claimed that they have begun shipping paxvloid, a Beijing-approved Covid treatment medicine developed by US drug giant Pfizer, to many hospitals and communities but is difficult to obtain. According to AFP, limited stocks have compelled citizens to buy medicines at a higher price. It said that an online seller told the news agency that they were charging 18,000 yuan ($2,610) for a single box of the medicine, almost nine times more than the original price. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China’s healthcare system crumbles amid Covid spike; people buying medicines from black market

Ex-Sri Lanka's president Gotabaya Rajapaska visits private zoo in Dubai. Have a look!

Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Luxshare was producing only a small number of the iPhone 14 pro-Max at its Kunshan plant to make up for the lost production of Foxconn's Zhengzhou factory, the Financial Times reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-has-lost-1-trillion-market-value-in-just-a-year-549233">Also read |&nbsp;Apple has lost $1 trillion market value in just a year</a>

The COVID-19 outbreak and the curbs to control it, prompted thousands of workers to leave the Foxconn plant.

In November, Apple warned of lower shipments of its premium iPhone 14 and models following production cuts.&nbsp;

Foxconn also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry and Pegatron Corp has been leading a dominant position in Apple's supply chain.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Apple to sign deal with Luxshare for iPhone production in China

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While a source told Reuters that the Foxconn plant is almost back to its originals position with almost 90 per cent of December's shipments reaching, some media reports believe that Apple's shipments are likely to slip in the holiday quarter.&nbsp;

For upcoming projects, TrendForce, an industry research firm on Saturday said that Apple has decided to employ Luxshare as one of the assemblers for its iPhone 15 Pro Max.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-tesla-stock-hit-major-lows-as-concerns-prevail-over-production-amid-covid-547428">Also read |&nbsp;Apple, Tesla stocks hit major lows as concerns prevail over production amid Covid</a>

The firm also added that only Luxshare's assembling plant is set up in China and has no plans on setting up its iPhone production line.&nbsp;

The tech giant this week on its website also&nbsp;said that the out-of-warranty iPhone owners will have to now spend $20 more to replace their batteries at an Apple store.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starting from March 01, all old iPhones before 2022 will see their battery replacements charge increased by $20.

These increased battery prices will also apply to not just iPhones but also MacBooks, some iPads and a few international markets.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said.

Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said. Earlier, Luxshare was producing only a small number of the iPhone 14 pro-Max at its Kunshan plant to make up for the lost production of Foxconn's Zhengzhou factory, the Financial Times reported. Also read | Apple has lost $1 trillion market value in just a year The COVID-19 outbreak and the curbs to control it, prompted thousands of workers to leave the Foxconn plant. In November, Apple warned of lower shipments of its premium iPhone 14 and models following production cuts. Foxconn also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry and Pegatron Corp has been leading a dominant position in Apple's supply chain. Watch | World Business Watch: Apple to sign deal with Luxshare for iPhone production in China While a source told Reuters that the Foxconn plant is almost back to its originals position with almost 90 per cent of December's shipments reaching, some media reports believe that Apple's shipments are likely to slip in the holiday quarter. For upcoming projects, TrendForce, an industry research firm on Saturday said that Apple has decided to employ Luxshare as one of the assemblers for its iPhone 15 Pro Max. Also read | Apple, Tesla stocks hit major lows as concerns prevail over production amid Covid The firm also added that only Luxshare's assembling plant is set up in China and has no plans on setting up its iPhone production line. The tech giant this week on its website also said that the out-of-warranty iPhone owners will have to now spend $20 more to replace their batteries at an Apple store. Starting from March 01, all old iPhones before 2022 will see their battery replacements charge increased by $20. These increased battery prices will also apply to not just iPhones but also MacBooks, some iPads and a few international markets. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Apple to sign Luxshare for iPhone production in China, says report; hikes battery replacement price by $20

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.&nbsp;

Kim Joo-young, a health official said that the Chinese passenger tested positive after his arrival at the Icheon International Airport near Seoul on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-makes-covid-negative-test-mandatory-for-arrivals-from-china-549103">Also read |&nbsp;UK makes Covid negative test mandatory for arrivals from China</a>

He added that the individual has not yet been identified and has been listed on a 'wanted list.' Kim said that the individual might be subjected to a year in prison or a 10 million won ($7,840) fine for violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act.

Amid Beijing's Covid spike, several countries have imposed travel restrictions. After the UK, South Korea also joined the list. It announced some mandatory coronavirus tests on arrivals from China on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read | '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-impressed-chinas-new-foreign-minister-heaps-praises-on-americans-549162">Deeply impressed': China's new foreign minister heaps praises on Americans</a>

It includes individuals arriving from China to undergo a PCR after arrival. &nbsp;Starting from Jan 05, passengers can also submit a PCR taken not more than 48 hours before their departure or a negative test not more than 24 hours old before departure.

Since Jan 02, a total of 2,189 people have arrived from China. South Korea's (KDCA) said that some 590 tests showed that around 136 people have tested positive for COVID-19.

The KDCA&nbsp;also said on Tuesday, 281 people tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility. Kim Joo-young, a health official said that the Chinese passenger tested positive after his arrival at the Icheon International Airport near Seoul on Tuesday. Also read | UK makes Covid negative test mandatory for arrivals from China He added that the individual has not yet been identified and has been listed on a 'wanted list.' Kim said that the individual might be subjected to a year in prison or a 10 million won ($7,840) fine for violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. Amid Beijing's Covid spike, several countries have imposed travel restrictions. After the UK, South Korea also joined the list. It announced some mandatory coronavirus tests on arrivals from China on Tuesday. Also read | 'Deeply impressed': China's new foreign minister heaps praises on Americans It includes individuals arriving from China to undergo a PCR after arrival. Starting from Jan 05, passengers can also submit a PCR taken not more than 48 hours before their departure or a negative test not more than 24 hours old before departure. Since Jan 02, a total of 2,189 people have arrived from China. South Korea's (KDCA) said that some 590 tests showed that around 136 people have tested positive for COVID-19. The KDCA also said on Tuesday, 281 people tested positive for coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea searches for 'wanted' Chinese national who escaped from Covid quarantine centre

Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka that killed 89 soldiers. In other news,&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to pay a visit to US President Joe Biden on January 13, the White House said in a statement. Finally,&nbsp;Twitter Inc has announced the reversal of a 2019 ban on political ads and said that it will expand, to allow them on the social media platform.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/02/322661-000was8906022.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

“It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” the ministry said in a statement. "This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-kishida-to-meet-biden-at-the-white-house-on-january-13-549217">Japan PM Kishida to meet Biden at the White House on January 13</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323016-untitled-design-2023-01-04t083039619.png?imwidth=1920" />

"President Biden looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan to the White House on Friday, January 13th to further deepen ties between our governments, economies, and our people," the statement said.

On top of the agenda will be security issues regarding North Korea, Ukraine and China, and a "free and open Indo-Pacific".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/from-reach-is-earned-not-bought-to-cause-based-advertising-twitter-to-lift-ban-on-political-advertising-549220">Shifting gears from reach is 'earned, not bought' to 'cause-based advt', Twitter lifts ban on political ads</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323017-new-wion-94.png?imwidth=1920" />

The company in a tweet announced the move and said "We believe that cause-based advertising can facilitate a public conversation around important topics. Today, we're relaxing our ads policy for cause-based ads in the US. We also plan to expand the political advertising we permit in the coming weeks."

Watch |&nbsp;Israel's ally US criticises minister Ben-Gvir's move to visit Al-Aqsa mosque | English News | WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-ally-us-criticises-minister-ben-gvirs-move-to-visit-al-aqsa-mosque-english-news-wion-549232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | US House adjourns without electing speaker; McCarthy loses 3rd US House speaker vote

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Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka that killed 89 soldiers. In other news, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to pay a visit to US President Joe Biden on January 13, the White House said in a statement.

Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka that killed 89 soldiers. In other news, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to pay a visit to US President Joe Biden on January 13, the White House said in a statement. Finally, Twitter Inc has announced the reversal of a 2019 ban on political ads and said that it will expand, to allow them on the social media platform. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 “It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” the ministry said in a statement. "This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike." Japan PM Kishida to meet Biden at the White House on January 13 "President Biden looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan to the White House on Friday, January 13th to further deepen ties between our governments, economies, and our people," the statement said. On top of the agenda will be security issues regarding North Korea, Ukraine and China, and a "free and open Indo-Pacific". Shifting gears from reach is 'earned, not bought' to 'cause-based advt', Twitter lifts ban on political ads The company in a tweet announced the move and said "We believe that cause-based advertising can facilitate a public conversation around important topics. Today, we're relaxing our ads policy for cause-based ads in the US. We also plan to expand the political advertising we permit in the coming weeks." Watch | Israel's ally US criticises minister Ben-Gvir's move to visit Al-Aqsa mosque | English News | WION Watch | US House adjourns without electing speaker; McCarthy loses 3rd US House speaker vote

Morning news brief: Japanese PM Kishida to meet Biden on Jan 13, Twitter lifts ban on political ads, and more

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