Crowd surfing will not be permitted at concerts in Ireland and nightclub goers must form a socially distanced queue to buy drinks, under new guidelines issued by the government for recently reopened venues.

Irish nightclubs opened their doors for the first time since March 2020 last weekend, while theatres and concert venues also returned to full capacity as the government lifted most curbs that had made up one of Europe's toughest lockdown regimes.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-who-delays-approval-for-covaxin-jab-every-minute-is-an-eternity-for-this-indian-family-424897">As WHO delays approval for Covaxin jab, every minute is an eternity for this Indian family</a>

However with COVID-19 infection rates rising despite Ireland boasting one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, ministers scrambled to put some mitigation measures in place to minimise any further spread and keep the whole economy open.

These included telling performers they should not "partake in high-risk activities" such as crowd surfing, moving through the crowd or throwing personal items from the stage. Neither should they encourage fans to sing along, the guidelines said.

Nights out will also be less spontaneous, with anyone attending a nightclub required to buy a ticket online at least one hour in advance to assist with contact tracing, a measure club owners have been particularly critical of.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merck-strikes-deal-for-global-access-to-covid-drug-424507">Merck strikes deal for global access to Covid drug</a>

Once inside, facemasks should be worn at all times other than when people are dancing, drinking or eating, and clubgoers must also stay one metre apart in a supervised queue at the bar to order a drink.

The measures, which include the continued requirement for vaccine certificates to gain entry to pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and indoor live entertainment venues, are likely to last until at least February, the government has said.

Crowd surfing will not be permitted at concerts in Ireland and nightclub goers must form a socially distanced queue to buy drinks, under new guidelines issued by the government for recently reopened venues.

Crowd surfing will not be permitted at concerts in Ireland and nightclub goers must form a socially distanced queue to buy drinks, under new guidelines issued by the government for recently reopened venues. Irish nightclubs opened their doors for the first time since March 2020 last weekend, while theatres and concert venues also returned to full capacity as the government lifted most curbs that had made up one of Europe's toughest lockdown regimes. Also Read | As WHO delays approval for Covaxin jab, every minute is an eternity for this Indian family However with COVID-19 infection rates rising despite Ireland boasting one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, ministers scrambled to put some mitigation measures in place to minimise any further spread and keep the whole economy open. These included telling performers they should not "partake in high-risk activities" such as crowd surfing, moving through the crowd or throwing personal items from the stage. Neither should they encourage fans to sing along, the guidelines said. Nights out will also be less spontaneous, with anyone attending a nightclub required to buy a ticket online at least one hour in advance to assist with contact tracing, a measure club owners have been particularly critical of. Also Read | Merck strikes deal for global access to Covid drug Once inside, facemasks should be worn at all times other than when people are dancing, drinking or eating, and clubgoers must also stay one metre apart in a supervised queue at the bar to order a drink. The measures, which include the continued requirement for vaccine certificates to gain entry to pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and indoor live entertainment venues, are likely to last until at least February, the government has said.

No crowd surfing, orderly queues: Ireland lays down new COVID-19 rules

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday.

Sweden's early strategy, shunning lockdowns and measures such as face masks and only gradually tightening curbs, made the country an outlier in the first year of the pandemic when many countries across Europe chose to implement tougher restrictions.

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The commission said it would address Sweden's no-lockdown strategy in its final report, but that its preliminary findings showed that measures were introduced late both in relation to the country's Nordic neighbours and the spread of the virus in Sweden during the spring of 2020.

"Sweden's handling of the pandemic has been marked by a slowness of response," the commission said.

"The initial disease prevention and control measures were insufficient to stop or even substantially limit the spread of the virus in the country."

The commission, appointed by the government amid pressure from parliament, also noted that it had taken "far too long" to build sufficient testing capacity with initially only targeted groups, such as healthcare staff, being tested.

Authorities relied heavily on voluntary recommendations for people to socially distance and wash their hands, and public places such as schools, restaurants and businesses remained largely open, with the government leaving much of the responsibility for fighting the virus with the health agency and its chief epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell.

Sweden has recorded more than 15,000 deaths from coronavirus, many times the per capita level of its Nordic neighbours that implemented tougher restrictions, but still lower than many countries that locked down tightly, such as Britain.

Its pandemic strategy has been controversial at home and abroad. Critics have called it reckless and cruel but the approach has also earned praise for being more sustainable and business-friendly and as a model for living with the virus as it becomes endemic.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merck-strikes-deal-for-global-access-to-covid-drug-424507">Merck strikes deal for global access to Covid drug</a>

Restrictions were gradually tightened in later waves of the pandemic before Sweden, along with other Western countries, began abandoning curbs following the rollout of vaccines. Nearly all restrictions have now been lifted.

The commission investigating the coronavirus response has no legal power beyond making public its findings with the aim of improving Sweden's ability to handle pandemics and similar situations.

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday.

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday. Sweden's early strategy, shunning lockdowns and measures such as face masks and only gradually tightening curbs, made the country an outlier in the first year of the pandemic when many countries across Europe chose to implement tougher restrictions. Also Read | Antidepressant drug Fluvoxamine can help reduce Covid hospitalisations by 30%: Study The commission said it would address Sweden's no-lockdown strategy in its final report, but that its preliminary findings showed that measures were introduced late both in relation to the country's Nordic neighbours and the spread of the virus in Sweden during the spring of 2020. "Sweden's handling of the pandemic has been marked by a slowness of response," the commission said. "The initial disease prevention and control measures were insufficient to stop or even substantially limit the spread of the virus in the country." The commission, appointed by the government amid pressure from parliament, also noted that it had taken "far too long" to build sufficient testing capacity with initially only targeted groups, such as healthcare staff, being tested. Authorities relied heavily on voluntary recommendations for people to socially distance and wash their hands, and public places such as schools, restaurants and businesses remained largely open, with the government leaving much of the responsibility for fighting the virus with the health agency and its chief epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell. Sweden has recorded more than 15,000 deaths from coronavirus, many times the per capita level of its Nordic neighbours that implemented tougher restrictions, but still lower than many countries that locked down tightly, such as Britain. Its pandemic strategy has been controversial at home and abroad. Critics have called it reckless and cruel but the approach has also earned praise for being more sustainable and business-friendly and as a model for living with the virus as it becomes endemic. Also Read | Merck strikes deal for global access to Covid drug Restrictions were gradually tightened in later waves of the pandemic before Sweden, along with other Western countries, began abandoning curbs following the rollout of vaccines. Nearly all restrictions have now been lifted. The commission investigating the coronavirus response has no legal power beyond making public its findings with the aim of improving Sweden's ability to handle pandemics and similar situations.

Sweden acted too slowly as pandemic swept country, finds probe

At least 18 worshippers were killed In central Nigeria during early morning prayer in a mosque, a government official said Tuesday.

The attack took place on Monday in Maza-Kuka village in Mashegu district of Niger state, said Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, the secretary to the government.

Hundreds of motorcycle-borne gunmen stormed the village and opened fire, he said

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-iaea-warns-against-iran-2-killed-in-us-shooting-and-more-424022">Morning news brief: IAEA warns against Iran, 2 killed in US shooting, and more</a>

Three worshippers were injured in the attack, one of them critically, he said.

Matane said, "we are still investigating the motive of the attack."&nbsp;

He added the government had already dispatched military and police personnel for the securing the area.

A police spokesman confirmed the attack adding that&nbsp;security personnel shot dead one of the bandits.

Ransom gangs of thieves and kidnappers, locally known as bandits, have been terrorising communities in northwest and central Nigeria where they raid villages, killing and burning homes after looting them.

The gangs have increasingly been abducting students and schoolchildren to extort ransom from parents and authorities.

The latest attack is another example of the troubled security situation in most states in Nigeria's northwest and central regions. The northwest in particular has been witnessing a spike in deadly violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 18 worshippers were killed In central Nigeria during early morning prayer in a mosque, a government official said Tuesday. The attack took place on Monday in Maza-Kuka village in Mashegu district of Niger state, said Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, the secretary to the government.

At least 18 worshippers were killed In central Nigeria during early morning prayer in a mosque, a government official said Tuesday. The attack took place on Monday in Maza-Kuka village in Mashegu district of Niger state, said Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, the secretary to the government. Hundreds of motorcycle-borne gunmen stormed the village and opened fire, he said Also Read | Morning news brief: IAEA warns against Iran, 2 killed in US shooting, and more Three worshippers were injured in the attack, one of them critically, he said. Matane said, "we are still investigating the motive of the attack." He added the government had already dispatched military and police personnel for the securing the area. A police spokesman confirmed the attack adding that security personnel shot dead one of the bandits. Ransom gangs of thieves and kidnappers, locally known as bandits, have been terrorising communities in northwest and central Nigeria where they raid villages, killing and burning homes after looting them. The gangs have increasingly been abducting students and schoolchildren to extort ransom from parents and authorities. The latest attack is another example of the troubled security situation in most states in Nigeria's northwest and central regions. The northwest in particular has been witnessing a spike in deadly violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Gunmen kill 18 worshippers in Nigeria mosque attack

Iran opened a criminal investigation into an assault against East Azerbaijan province's new governor, a former brigadier in the Revolutionary Guards, during his inauguration ceremony, state media reported on Saturday.

Video of the assault circulated on social media, showing a man running on stage and slapping Governor Abedin Khoram just as he was about to deliver a speech in the presence of Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi.

Stewards then threw the attacker out of the meeting hall.

&nbsp;

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During the inauguration ceremony today of the new Governor of Eastern Azarbaijan Province in NW <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>, Governor Abedin Khoram, a former IRGC commander was attacked and slapped in the face by a lower-ranking member of the IRGC "for personal reasons" according to state-run media.😆 <a href="https://t.co/VXd2BeGHvx">pic.twitter.com/VXd2BeGHvx</a>
— Iran News Wire (@IranNW) <a href="https://twitter.com/IranNW/status/1451899527955423237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-women-bike-riders-will-be-definitively-dealt-with-says-traffic-chief-422655">Iran: Women bike riders will be 'definitively' dealt with, says traffic chief</a>

IRNA said it was the 55-year-old's first public appearance since his appointment as governor by ultraconservative President Ebrahim Raisi last Sunday.

"According to some sources, the attacker was an employee of the (Guards') Ashura Corps with personal motives," it said.

Iran opened a criminal investigation into an assault against East Azerbaijan province's new governor, a former brigadier in the Revolutionary Guards, during his inauguration ceremony, state media reported on Saturday.

Iran opened a criminal investigation into an assault against East Azerbaijan province's new governor, a former brigadier in the Revolutionary Guards, during his inauguration ceremony, state media reported on Saturday. Video of the assault circulated on social media, showing a man running on stage and slapping Governor Abedin Khoram just as he was about to deliver a speech in the presence of Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi. Stewards then threw the attacker out of the meeting hall. During the inauguration ceremony today of the new Governor of Eastern Azarbaijan Province in NW #Iran, Governor Abedin Khoram, a former IRGC commander was attacked and slapped in the face by a lower-ranking member of the IRGC "for personal reasons" according to state-run media.😆 pic.twitter.com/VXd2BeGHvx — Iran News Wire (@IranNW) October 23, 2021 × Also Read | Iran: Women bike riders will be 'definitively' dealt with, says traffic chief IRNA said it was the 55-year-old's first public appearance since his appointment as governor by ultraconservative President Ebrahim Raisi last Sunday. "According to some sources, the attacker was an employee of the (Guards') Ashura Corps with personal motives," it said.

Iran probes slapping of provincial governor

Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back.

Some people among the latest mass movement of migrants trying to pass north through Mexico said they hoped to eventually reach the US&nbsp;border, where the number of migrants trying to gain entry was already hitting new records.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-border-arrests-reach-record-highs-reveals-report-423367">US-Mexico border: Arrests reach record highs, reveals report</a>

Some 3,000 people, including families with young children, began trekking on foot on Saturday from the city of Tapachula near the Guatemala border toward Mexico's capital.

One of the caravan's organizers, Irineo Mujica, said he was leading the group to Mexico City in protest of the lack of government assistance in the south, where officials have attempted to contain thousands of migrants, and to demand legal documents that would let migrants move freely in the country.

A highway checkpoint in Tapachula with some 400 law enforcement officers aimed to block their path, but many migrants managed to break past. A Reuters video showed people carrying backpacks and with children on their shoulders pushing through a cluster of officers in anti-riot gear who attempted to contain the crowd.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-travel-blogger-killed-in-mexico-gang-shootout-423400">Indian travel blogger killed in Mexico gang shootout</a>

One family, including a woman and small children, were knocked to the ground in the crush of people, their belongings scattering.

Some migrants who attempted to leave Tapachula in September to head north were subject to brutal treatment by Mexican officials, and the government's National Migration Institute condemned incidents of violence captured on video.

US&nbsp;authorities arrested more than 1.7 million migrants at the US-Mexico border this fiscal year, the most ever recorded.

Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back.

Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back. Some people among the latest mass movement of migrants trying to pass north through Mexico said they hoped to eventually reach the US border, where the number of migrants trying to gain entry was already hitting new records. Also Read | US-Mexico border: Arrests reach record highs, reveals report Some 3,000 people, including families with young children, began trekking on foot on Saturday from the city of Tapachula near the Guatemala border toward Mexico's capital. One of the caravan's organizers, Irineo Mujica, said he was leading the group to Mexico City in protest of the lack of government assistance in the south, where officials have attempted to contain thousands of migrants, and to demand legal documents that would let migrants move freely in the country. A highway checkpoint in Tapachula with some 400 law enforcement officers aimed to block their path, but many migrants managed to break past. A Reuters video showed people carrying backpacks and with children on their shoulders pushing through a cluster of officers in anti-riot gear who attempted to contain the crowd. Also Read | Indian travel blogger killed in Mexico gang shootout One family, including a woman and small children, were knocked to the ground in the crush of people, their belongings scattering. Some migrants who attempted to leave Tapachula in September to head north were subject to brutal treatment by Mexican officials, and the government's National Migration Institute condemned incidents of violence captured on video. US authorities arrested more than 1.7 million migrants at the US-Mexico border this fiscal year, the most ever recorded.

New migrant caravan in Mexico pushes past blockade to head north

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that it will cut its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2030, as part of its commitment to tackling climate change.

The announcement was made by IOC President Thomas Bach during the General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), currently taking place in Greece. It comes ahead of the UN Climate Summit (COP26) due to be held at the end of October in Glasgow, Great Britain.

With this decision, the IOC increases its level of ambition from a previous commitment that set a 45 per cent reduction over the same time period, in line with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-voices-concern-over-fifas-plan-to-host-world-cup-every-two-years-421449">IOC voices concern over FIFA's plan to host World Cup every two years</a>

"The climate crisis is arguably the biggest challenge humanity is facing. It is affecting all areas of our lives, including sports," said President Bach.

"By further reducing our carbon emissions, we strengthen our contribution to the realisation of the Paris Agreement, follow the latest science on climate change, and contribute better to this global effort. We urge all other sports organisations to follow suit," he added.

In order to achieve the 50 per cent cut in emissions by 2030, the IOC has set an intermediate reduction target of 30 per cent, to be achieved by 2024. Its action plan to deliver on this commitment will now be updated with increased efforts to reduce emissions in the areas of travel, energy use and procurement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-in-talks-with-ioc-for-2036-olympics-motera-best-venue-ioa-chief-419483">We are in talks with IOC for 2036 Olympics, Motera best venue: IOA chief</a>

Notably, all upcoming Olympic Games have committed to carbon neutrality, with Paris 2024 aiming to become the first climate-positive Games even before the 2030 deadline.

All competition venues at the upcoming Beijing 2022 Games aim to use 100 per cent renewable energy. Natural and low carbon emission CO2 refrigeration systems will be used at most of the Beijing 2022 ice venues - the first time this low climate impact technology will be used in China and at the Olympic Winter Games.&nbsp;

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that it will cut its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2030, as part of its commitment to tackling climate change.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that it will cut its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2030, as part of its commitment to tackling climate change. The announcement was made by IOC President Thomas Bach during the General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), currently taking place in Greece. It comes ahead of the UN Climate Summit (COP26) due to be held at the end of October in Glasgow, Great Britain. With this decision, the IOC increases its level of ambition from a previous commitment that set a 45 per cent reduction over the same time period, in line with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. ALSO READ: IOC voices concern over FIFA's plan to host World Cup every two years "The climate crisis is arguably the biggest challenge humanity is facing. It is affecting all areas of our lives, including sports," said President Bach. "By further reducing our carbon emissions, we strengthen our contribution to the realisation of the Paris Agreement, follow the latest science on climate change, and contribute better to this global effort. We urge all other sports organisations to follow suit," he added. In order to achieve the 50 per cent cut in emissions by 2030, the IOC has set an intermediate reduction target of 30 per cent, to be achieved by 2024. Its action plan to deliver on this commitment will now be updated with increased efforts to reduce emissions in the areas of travel, energy use and procurement. ALSO READ: We are in talks with IOC for 2036 Olympics, Motera best venue: IOA chief Notably, all upcoming Olympic Games have committed to carbon neutrality, with Paris 2024 aiming to become the first climate-positive Games even before the 2030 deadline. All competition venues at the upcoming Beijing 2022 Games aim to use 100 per cent renewable energy. Natural and low carbon emission CO2 refrigeration systems will be used at most of the Beijing 2022 ice venues - the first time this low climate impact technology will be used in China and at the Olympic Winter Games.

International Olympic Committee to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030

Former Australia spinner Shane Warne on Sunday called the estimated viewership of more than 1 billion of T20 World Cup match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan as `insane`.

India and Pakistan will square off against each other on Sunday evening in the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup and it will be after a gap of two years that these two teams will meet on the cricket pitch, having last played in the 50-over World Cup in 2019.

"Is it true that over 1 billion eyeballs will watch India V Pakistan today at the #ICCT20WorldCup2021? I know cricket is now the 2nd biggest and most popular sport in the world but that seems insane," tweeted Warne.

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Is it true that over 1 billion eye balls will watch India V Pakistan today at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup2021</a> ? I know cricket is now the 2nd biggest and most popular sport in the world but that seems insane <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wasimakramlive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1452211500895154176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet, the former Australia spinner said: "Ps What is the most eyeballs that have ever watched a singular sporting event globally? Super bowl? Soccer World Cup? 100m sprint at the Olympics or India V Pakistan at a World Cup? Does anyone know - if so please share."

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Ps What is the most eye balls that have ever watched a singular sporting event globally ? Super bowl ? Soccer World Cup ? 100m sprint at the olympics or India V Pakistan at a World Cup ? Does anyone know - if so please share <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1452213076384702479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Excitement among the cricketing world is at an all-time high as arch-rivals India and Pakistan gear up for the clash in their opening game of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai on Sunday.

Both teams will open their campaigns in the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup with what is billed to be a mouth-watering clash. After almost over two years, Virat Kohli and Co. will face-off against Babar Azam-led Pakistan and rekindle the age-old rivalry. Pakistan is yet to get a one-up over India in World Cups as the head-to-head has been completely dominated by the Men in Blue.

Ahead of that match, Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary stated that the Pakistan side is looking a bit strong but hoping that India will win.

"India`s record against Pakistan is good. Our batting is good and since Bumrah came, India`s bowling performance has improved. Because he is the leader of the pack in bowling. I have a feeling that this time Pakistan side is looking a bit strong but hoping that India will win," he told ANI.

The stakes are at an all-time high with Kohli and Co. looking to continue their dominance against Pakistan in ICC World Cups. Both sides have a strong lineup and it will be about keeping calm and rising to the occasion when they set foot on the pitch on Sunday.&nbsp;

Former Australia spinner Shane Warne on Sunday called the estimated viewership of more than 1 billion of T20 World Cup match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan as `insane`.

Former Australia spinner Shane Warne on Sunday called the estimated viewership of more than 1 billion of T20 World Cup match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan as `insane`. India and Pakistan will square off against each other on Sunday evening in the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup and it will be after a gap of two years that these two teams will meet on the cricket pitch, having last played in the 50-over World Cup in 2019. "Is it true that over 1 billion eyeballs will watch India V Pakistan today at the #ICCT20WorldCup2021? I know cricket is now the 2nd biggest and most popular sport in the world but that seems insane," tweeted Warne. Is it true that over 1 billion eye balls will watch India V Pakistan today at the #ICCT20WorldCup2021 ? I know cricket is now the 2nd biggest and most popular sport in the world but that seems insane @FoxCricket @SkyCricket @StarSportsIndia @wasimakramlive @sachin_rt — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) October 24, 2021 × In another tweet, the former Australia spinner said: "Ps What is the most eyeballs that have ever watched a singular sporting event globally? Super bowl? Soccer World Cup? 100m sprint at the Olympics or India V Pakistan at a World Cup? Does anyone know - if so please share." Ps What is the most eye balls that have ever watched a singular sporting event globally ? Super bowl ? Soccer World Cup ? 100m sprint at the olympics or India V Pakistan at a World Cup ? Does anyone know - if so please share @FoxCricket @SkyCricket @StarSportsIndia — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) October 24, 2021 × Excitement among the cricketing world is at an all-time high as arch-rivals India and Pakistan gear up for the clash in their opening game of the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai on Sunday. Both teams will open their campaigns in the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup with what is billed to be a mouth-watering clash. After almost over two years, Virat Kohli and Co. will face-off against Babar Azam-led Pakistan and rekindle the age-old rivalry. Pakistan is yet to get a one-up over India in World Cups as the head-to-head has been completely dominated by the Men in Blue. Ahead of that match, Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary stated that the Pakistan side is looking a bit strong but hoping that India will win. "India`s record against Pakistan is good. Our batting is good and since Bumrah came, India`s bowling performance has improved. Because he is the leader of the pack in bowling. I have a feeling that this time Pakistan side is looking a bit strong but hoping that India will win," he told ANI. The stakes are at an all-time high with Kohli and Co. looking to continue their dominance against Pakistan in ICC World Cups. Both sides have a strong lineup and it will be about keeping calm and rising to the occasion when they set foot on the pitch on Sunday.

T20 World Cup: 'Insane' that over 1 billion people will watch India-Pakistan match, says Shane Warne

Taiwanese and US&nbsp;officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October&nbsp;25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island.

China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right.

In a statement late on Saturday, the US&nbsp;State Department said US&nbsp;and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN".

"US&nbsp;participants reiterated the US&nbsp;commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said.

Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support".

Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations

Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed.

China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body.

Taiwanese and US officials have discussed how Taiwan can "meaningfully" participate at the United Nations just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping will give a speech to mark his country's half decade since accession to the global body. Taiwan, using its formal name the Republic of China, held the Chinese seat at the United Nations until October 25, 1971, when it was voted out as representative of the country in favour of the People's Republic of China, which had won a civil war in 1949 and forced the republican government to flee to the island. China says that Taiwan is one of its provinces, and so it has the sole right to represent Taiwan internationally. The democratically-elected government in Taipei says only it has that right. In a statement late on Saturday, the US State Department said US and Taiwanese officials had met virtually on Friday for a "discussion focused on supporting Taiwan's ability to participate meaningfully at the UN". "US participants reiterated the US commitment to Taiwan's meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwan's ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues," it added. Also Read | US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense Participants included State Department Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Organizations Hugo Yon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Rick Waters, and Taiwan's deputy de facto ambassador in Washington, Wang Liang-yu, the State Department said. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry thanked the United States for its "firm support". Xi is due to speak on the 50th anniversary on Monday of what China calls the restoration of its lawful seat at the United Nations Taiwan has been particularly angered by its inability to fully access the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic, though both China and the WHO say the island has been given the help it has needed. China has ramped up political and military pressure to force Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty. Taiwan says it is an independent country and will defend itself if China attacks.

Taiwan, US discuss UN participation ahead of key anniversary in move likely to irk China

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

The Foreign Office (FO) issued a statement in response to media queries regarding the news report alluding to formalisation of an agreement between the two countries to conduct military and intelligence operations against Afghanistan. The FO statement read: No such understanding was in place.

However, it added: "Pakistan and the US have long-standing cooperation on regional security and counter-terrorism and the two sides remain engaged in regular consultations."

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fails-in-convincing-to-resume-6-billion-extended-loan-facility-423278">&nbsp;Pakistan fails in convincing to resume $6 billion extended loan facility</a>

CNN News had reported quoting three sources familiar with the details of a classified briefing with members of the US Congress that took place on Friday that the US was nearing an agreement with Pakistan for use of its airspace to conduct operations in Afghanistan.

The Pakistan Opposition parties had also demanded the government to give an explanation on the reports that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace.

Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview had categorically said that Pakistan would "absolutely not" allow any bases and use of its territory for any sort of action inside Afghanistan.

"Absolutely not. There is no way we are going to allow any bases, any sort of action from Pakistani territory into Afghanistan. Absolutely not," Khan had told 'Axios on HBO' in an interview in June.

The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, two weeks before the US&nbsp;complete troop withdrawal on August 31 after a costly two-decade war.

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

Pakistan on Saturday rejected reports about an agreement with the United States on the use of its airspace for intelligence operations in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The Foreign Office (FO) issued a statement in response to media queries regarding the news report alluding to formalisation of an agreement between the two countries to conduct military and intelligence operations against Afghanistan. The FO statement read: No such understanding was in place. However, it added: "Pakistan and the US have long-standing cooperation on regional security and counter-terrorism and the two sides remain engaged in regular consultations." Also Read | Pakistan fails in convincing to resume $6 billion extended loan facility CNN News had reported quoting three sources familiar with the details of a classified briefing with members of the US Congress that took place on Friday that the US was nearing an agreement with Pakistan for use of its airspace to conduct operations in Afghanistan. The Pakistan Opposition parties had also demanded the government to give an explanation on the reports that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace. Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview had categorically said that Pakistan would "absolutely not" allow any bases and use of its territory for any sort of action inside Afghanistan. "Absolutely not. There is no way we are going to allow any bases, any sort of action from Pakistani territory into Afghanistan. Absolutely not," Khan had told 'Axios on HBO' in an interview in June. The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, two weeks before the US complete troop withdrawal on August 31 after a costly two-decade war.

Pakistan rejects reports of agreement with US to conduct air operations in Afghanistan

Eleven Picasso paintings and other works that helped turn Las Vegas into an unlikely destination for art were sold at auction on Saturday for more than $100 million.

The Sotheby's auction was held at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas, where the works had been on display for years, and took place two days before the 140th birthday of the Spanish artist on October&nbsp;25.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-climate-poses-emerging-threat-to-financial-system-422957">US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system</a>

Five of the paintings had hung on the walls of the Bellagio's fine dining restaurant, Picasso. The restaurant will continue to display 12 other Picasso works.

The highest price was fetched by the 1938 painting "Femme au beret rouge-orange" of Picasso's lover and muse Marie-Therese Walter, which sold for $40.5 million, some $10 million over the high pre-sale estimate.

The large-scale portraits "Homme et Enfant" and "Buste d'homme" sold for $24.4 million and $9.5 million respectively, while smaller works on ceramic, like "Le Dejeuner sur l'herbe" which sold for $2.1 million, went for three or four times their pre-sale estimate.

The buyers&nbsp;names were not disclosed.

Saturday's sale was part of a bid by casino and hotel group MGM Resorts (MGM.N) to further diversify its vast collection to include more art from women, people of color and emerging nations as well as from LGBTQ artists and artists with disabilities.

American museums and art galleries have been working to broaden their collections in the wake of the widespread cultural reckoning in 2020 over racism at all levels of US&nbsp;society.

A 2019 Public Library of Science study of 18 leading U.S. museums found that 85 per cent&nbsp;of the artists on display are white and 87 per cent&nbsp;are men.

The MGM Resorts Fine Arts Collection boasts about 900 works by 200 artists, including modern pieces by Bob Dylan and David Hockney. It was started more than 20 years ago by Steve Wynn, former owner of the Bellagio and former chief executive of Wynn Resorts.

Eleven Picasso paintings and other works that helped turn Las Vegas into an unlikely destination for art were sold at auction on Saturday for more than $100 million.

Eleven Picasso paintings and other works that helped turn Las Vegas into an unlikely destination for art were sold at auction on Saturday for more than $100 million. The Sotheby's auction was held at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas, where the works had been on display for years, and took place two days before the 140th birthday of the Spanish artist on October 25. Also Read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system Five of the paintings had hung on the walls of the Bellagio's fine dining restaurant, Picasso. The restaurant will continue to display 12 other Picasso works. The highest price was fetched by the 1938 painting "Femme au beret rouge-orange" of Picasso's lover and muse Marie-Therese Walter, which sold for $40.5 million, some $10 million over the high pre-sale estimate. The large-scale portraits "Homme et Enfant" and "Buste d'homme" sold for $24.4 million and $9.5 million respectively, while smaller works on ceramic, like "Le Dejeuner sur l'herbe" which sold for $2.1 million, went for three or four times their pre-sale estimate. The buyers names were not disclosed. Saturday's sale was part of a bid by casino and hotel group MGM Resorts (MGM.N) to further diversify its vast collection to include more art from women, people of color and emerging nations as well as from LGBTQ artists and artists with disabilities. American museums and art galleries have been working to broaden their collections in the wake of the widespread cultural reckoning in 2020 over racism at all levels of US society. A 2019 Public Library of Science study of 18 leading U.S. museums found that 85 per cent of the artists on display are white and 87 per cent are men. The MGM Resorts Fine Arts Collection boasts about 900 works by 200 artists, including modern pieces by Bob Dylan and David Hockney. It was started more than 20 years ago by Steve Wynn, former owner of the Bellagio and former chief executive of Wynn Resorts.

Picasso artworks in Las Vegas fetch more than $100 million

In the wake of California wildfires, upwards of 10,000 trees weakened by fires, drought, disease or age must be removed, work that will keep a nearby highway closed to visitors who seek the world's two largest sequoia trees.

The hazard trees could potentially fall onto people and cars on the section of State Route 180 known as Generals Highway, or they could create barriers for emergency and fire response, the Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks said Friday.

The highway is closed due to the KNP Complex blaze, which was 60 per cent contained after burning 138 square miles (357 square kilometers) of forest, and will remain blocked off to visitors after the fire is out while saw crews cut down trees and trim branches. Cooler weather has helped slow the flames and the area was expected to see rain starting Sunday.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/californias-alisal-fire-continues-to-burn-14500-acres-420718">&nbsp;California's Alisal fire continues to burn 14,500-acres</a>

The highway connects Giant Forest, home to the General Sherman Tree, which is considered the world's largest by volume, and Grant Grove, home to the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world. The trees along the highway include sequoias, pine and conifer trees, said fire spokeswoman Kimberly Caschalk.

The KNP Complex has been burning since September 9, when lightning ignited two fires that later merged. 
Forest officials said earlier this month the fires may have killed hundreds of giant sequoias, but the full extent of the damage has not been determined.

The fire's impact on giant sequoia groves was mixed. Most saw low- to medium-intensity fire behaviour that the sequoias have evolved to survive, and the most notable trees survived.

Firefighters took extraordinary measures to protect the sequoias by wrapping fire-resistant material around the bases of some giants, raking and clearing vegetation around them, installing sprinklers and dousing some with water or fire retardant gel.

On Friday, forest staff unwrapped the base of the General Sherman tree after danger from the fire had passed.

"We're confident that tree is relatively safe," Caschalk said.

Drought in the West tied to climate change is making wildfires harder to fight. Scientists say climate change has made the West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years&nbsp;meaning the rain and snow that does fall is likely to evaporate or absorb into the soil &nbsp;and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

Recent storms have helped contain some of the nation's largest wildfires this year, including one that threatened the popular Lake Tahoe resort region this summer and is now 100 per cent contained after snow blanketed the western side of the blaze and rain dropped on the eastern side. But this week's storms won't end drought that's plaguing California and the western United States.

In the wake of California wildfires, upwards of 10,000 trees weakened by fires, drought, disease or age must be removed, work that will keep a nearby highway closed to visitors who seek the world's two largest sequoia trees.

In the wake of California wildfires, upwards of 10,000 trees weakened by fires, drought, disease or age must be removed, work that will keep a nearby highway closed to visitors who seek the world's two largest sequoia trees. The hazard trees could potentially fall onto people and cars on the section of State Route 180 known as Generals Highway, or they could create barriers for emergency and fire response, the Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks said Friday. The highway is closed due to the KNP Complex blaze, which was 60 per cent contained after burning 138 square miles (357 square kilometers) of forest, and will remain blocked off to visitors after the fire is out while saw crews cut down trees and trim branches. Cooler weather has helped slow the flames and the area was expected to see rain starting Sunday. Also Read | California's Alisal fire continues to burn 14,500-acres The highway connects Giant Forest, home to the General Sherman Tree, which is considered the world's largest by volume, and Grant Grove, home to the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world. The trees along the highway include sequoias, pine and conifer trees, said fire spokeswoman Kimberly Caschalk. The KNP Complex has been burning since September 9, when lightning ignited two fires that later merged. Forest officials said earlier this month the fires may have killed hundreds of giant sequoias, but the full extent of the damage has not been determined. The fire's impact on giant sequoia groves was mixed. Most saw low- to medium-intensity fire behaviour that the sequoias have evolved to survive, and the most notable trees survived. Firefighters took extraordinary measures to protect the sequoias by wrapping fire-resistant material around the bases of some giants, raking and clearing vegetation around them, installing sprinklers and dousing some with water or fire retardant gel. On Friday, forest staff unwrapped the base of the General Sherman tree after danger from the fire had passed. "We're confident that tree is relatively safe," Caschalk said. Drought in the West tied to climate change is making wildfires harder to fight. Scientists say climate change has made the West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years meaning the rain and snow that does fall is likely to evaporate or absorb into the soil and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive. Recent storms have helped contain some of the nation's largest wildfires this year, including one that threatened the popular Lake Tahoe resort region this summer and is now 100 per cent contained after snow blanketed the western side of the blaze and rain dropped on the eastern side. But this week's storms won't end drought that's plaguing California and the western United States.

After California wildfire, thousands of trees to be removed

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Moscow and Beijing, which staged naval cooperation drills in the Sea of Japan earlier in October, have cultivated closer military and diplomatic ties in recent years at a time when their relations with the West have soured.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">&nbsp;China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a>

The naval manoeuvres have been closely watched by Japan which said earlier this week that a group of 10 vessels from China and Russia sailed through the Tsugaru Strait separating Japan's main island and its northern island of Hokkaido.

"The group of ships passed through the Tsugaru Strait for the first time as part of the patrol," Russia's defence ministry said in the statement. The strait is regarded as international waters.

"The tasks of the patrols were the demonstration of the Russian and Chinese state flags, maintaining of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, and guardianship of the subjects of maritime economic activities of the two countries," the ministry added.

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday. Moscow and Beijing, which staged naval cooperation drills in the Sea of Japan earlier in October, have cultivated closer military and diplomatic ties in recent years at a time when their relations with the West have soured. Also Read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden The naval manoeuvres have been closely watched by Japan which said earlier this week that a group of 10 vessels from China and Russia sailed through the Tsugaru Strait separating Japan's main island and its northern island of Hokkaido. "The group of ships passed through the Tsugaru Strait for the first time as part of the patrol," Russia's defence ministry said in the statement. The strait is regarded as international waters. "The tasks of the patrols were the demonstration of the Russian and Chinese state flags, maintaining of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, and guardianship of the subjects of maritime economic activities of the two countries," the ministry added.

Russian, Chinese warships hold first joint patrols in the Pacific

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