A striped feline leaps from a rock under the shade of a tree on a late October morning.&nbsp;

As its front paws touch the ground, the whiskered creature looks up, eyes darting left. A wildlife camera clicks and captures the scene.

It's a cat — and the location isn't a remote rainforest, but the capital of the United States.

The photo is part of the DC Cat Count, a first of its kind, three-year effort by animal welfare advocates, conservationists and scientists to enumerate every Felis catus in Washington.

The team behind the study says it provides an accurate estimate of the size of the city's indoor, outdoor and shelter population.

It found there are about 200,000 cats in the District of Columbia, with about half of them living indoors only, said Tyler Flockhart, a conservation biologist and science lead on the DC Cat Count.

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>

The other half is a group that includes owned cats with limited or unlimited access outdoors, stray cats, and roughly 3,000 to 4,000 feral cats who avoid interactions with humans, Flockhart said.

"I don't think that you can find another wild mammal — another wild carnivore — that occurs at that density anywhere in the world," he said, of cats and urban environments.&nbsp;

"I think that this is really sort of an interesting idea that we can have so many cats in such a small location."

Consensus for a cat census&nbsp;

The study brought together groups that are often at odds over the impact that outdoor cats have on wildlife and landscape.

While conservationists worry that outdoor cats can decimate bird populations, animal advocates seek to ensure the welfare and safety of cats seeking to survive outside.

"What was really groundbreaking with the DC Cat Count was these organizations coming together," said Stephanie Shain, the chief operating officer of the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA), which took part in the study.

They were driven by a common purpose "to really focus not on who is right or who has been right, but really focus on getting it right — &nbsp;finding out the information, analyzing the data," she added.&nbsp;

Shain said HRA recommends that cat owners keep their feline friends indoors only in order to keep them safe and avoid damaging wildlife.

"I was pleased to see how many people actually follow that advice," she said.

To count all the cats who call the seat of American power home, researchers surveyed more than 2,600 residents, analyzed animal shelter records, walked along specific routes in search of cats and set up wildlife cameras in more than 1,500 spots.

"This is probably the most thorough analysis of cats of any city in the world," Flockhart said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-nih-admits-to-us-funding-of-gain-of-function-research-in-wuhan-lab-423010">Coronavirus: NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab</a>

He and other researchers continue to analyse the data collected since 2018 and the research has already led to several peer-reviewed scientific papers.

The DC Cat Count team also made an extensive toolkit available online with protocols and guidelines for organisations wishing to carry out their own cat census. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Besides cats, the camera traps also snapped pictures of numerous animals including squirrels, raccoons, foxes, deer — and even a bobcat.

"There's a huge diversity of wildlife in our cities," Flockhart said.

"We tend to think of it as humans-only, and it could be anything but the case. There are all types of wildlife, from rodents all the way up to large predators."

A striped feline leaps from a rock under the shade of a tree on a late October morning. As its front paws touch the ground, the whiskered creature looks up, eyes darting left.

A striped feline leaps from a rock under the shade of a tree on a late October morning. As its front paws touch the ground, the whiskered creature looks up, eyes darting left. A wildlife camera clicks and captures the scene. It's a cat — and the location isn't a remote rainforest, but the capital of the United States. The photo is part of the DC Cat Count, a first of its kind, three-year effort by animal welfare advocates, conservationists and scientists to enumerate every Felis catus in Washington. The team behind the study says it provides an accurate estimate of the size of the city's indoor, outdoor and shelter population. It found there are about 200,000 cats in the District of Columbia, with about half of them living indoors only, said Tyler Flockhart, a conservation biologist and science lead on the DC Cat Count. Also Read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system The other half is a group that includes owned cats with limited or unlimited access outdoors, stray cats, and roughly 3,000 to 4,000 feral cats who avoid interactions with humans, Flockhart said. "I don't think that you can find another wild mammal — another wild carnivore — that occurs at that density anywhere in the world," he said, of cats and urban environments. "I think that this is really sort of an interesting idea that we can have so many cats in such a small location." Consensus for a cat census The study brought together groups that are often at odds over the impact that outdoor cats have on wildlife and landscape. While conservationists worry that outdoor cats can decimate bird populations, animal advocates seek to ensure the welfare and safety of cats seeking to survive outside. "What was really groundbreaking with the DC Cat Count was these organizations coming together," said Stephanie Shain, the chief operating officer of the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA), which took part in the study. They were driven by a common purpose "to really focus not on who is right or who has been right, but really focus on getting it right — finding out the information, analyzing the data," she added. Shain said HRA recommends that cat owners keep their feline friends indoors only in order to keep them safe and avoid damaging wildlife. "I was pleased to see how many people actually follow that advice," she said. To count all the cats who call the seat of American power home, researchers surveyed more than 2,600 residents, analyzed animal shelter records, walked along specific routes in search of cats and set up wildlife cameras in more than 1,500 spots. "This is probably the most thorough analysis of cats of any city in the world," Flockhart said. Also Read | Coronavirus: NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab He and other researchers continue to analyse the data collected since 2018 and the research has already led to several peer-reviewed scientific papers. The DC Cat Count team also made an extensive toolkit available online with protocols and guidelines for organisations wishing to carry out their own cat census. Besides cats, the camera traps also snapped pictures of numerous animals including squirrels, raccoons, foxes, deer — and even a bobcat. "There's a huge diversity of wildlife in our cities," Flockhart said. "We tend to think of it as humans-only, and it could be anything but the case. There are all types of wildlife, from rodents all the way up to large predators."

Washington, District of Cats: US capital first city to count its felines

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.

Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.&nbsp;

Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India

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The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. &nbsp;

"Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added.

In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi.&nbsp;

"Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole."&nbsp;

Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla</a>

Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups".

“She&nbsp;asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.”

Watch:&nbsp;India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris

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For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan.

Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.”

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Shared w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7">https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7</a>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1441110737414332417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan. Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India × The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. "Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added. In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi. "Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole." Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.” Also read: US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups". “She asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.” Watch: India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris × For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan. Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.” Shared w/ @SecBlinken importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with #Afghanistan https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7 — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) September 23, 2021 × “The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.

Double standards? While Kamala Harris talks of Pak terror role, Blinken 'appreciates' it over Afghanistan

Punit&nbsp;Goenka will remain the&nbsp;Managing&nbsp;Director and Chief Executive&nbsp;Officer&nbsp;of&nbsp;the new entity created by the mega merger of&nbsp;Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and&nbsp;Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), it has been announced.

 
In fact, SPNI insisted on appointing Goenka as the CEO and MD of the merged entity. “It&nbsp;&nbsp;is &nbsp;an &nbsp;integral &nbsp;part&nbsp;of &nbsp;the &nbsp;proposed merger that Mr Punit&nbsp;Goenka continues to be the Managing Director and CEO of the merged&nbsp;entity,” the companies said in a press release.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-board-gives-go-ahead-for-merger-with-sony-pictures-networks-india-414797">ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India</a>

 
According to the term sheet, the promoter family is free&nbsp;&nbsp;to increase its shareholding from the current ~4% to up to 20%, in the &nbsp;normal course&nbsp;of business, the release said.&nbsp;

"The management of ZEEL, ably led by Mr Punit Goenka, continues to steadily work towards achieving higher profitability in line with its set goals for the future. With this corporate development, the merged entity will result into an accelerated growth and a significant opportunity to create tremendous value for all its stakeholders," it said.&nbsp;

Sony Pictures Entertainment, the parent company of SPNI, will infuse $1.575 billion in&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;the merged entity.

&nbsp;

Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group

Punit Goenka will remain the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the new entity created by the mega merger of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), it has been announced.

Punit Goenka will remain the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the new entity created by the mega merger of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), it has been announced. In fact, SPNI insisted on appointing Goenka as the CEO and MD of the merged entity. “It is an integral part of the proposed merger that Mr Punit Goenka continues to be the Managing Director and CEO of the merged entity,” the companies said in a press release. Also read: ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India According to the term sheet, the promoter family is free to increase its shareholding from the current ~4% to up to 20%, in the normal course of business, the release said. "The management of ZEEL, ably led by Mr Punit Goenka, continues to steadily work towards achieving higher profitability in line with its set goals for the future. With this corporate development, the merged entity will result into an accelerated growth and a significant opportunity to create tremendous value for all its stakeholders," it said. Sony Pictures Entertainment, the parent company of SPNI, will infuse $1.575 billion in the merged entity. Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group

Mega Merger: Punit Goenka to remain CEO and MD of ZEEL-Sony Pictures Networks India merged entity

The mega merger of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and&nbsp;Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), will not only create the largest entity in Indian entertainment industry, but also be a boon for shareholders.&nbsp;

The combined entity will operate a network of 75 channels, which will account for around 26% viewership share. The parent company of SPNI is also infusing $1.57 billion into the merged group.

After evaluating financial parameters and strategic value that&nbsp;the partner bring to the table, the board of ZEEL concluded that the merger will be "in the best interest 
of all the shareholders and stakeholders," ZEEL said in a release.

&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-board-gives-go-ahead-for-merger-with-sony-pictures-networks-india-414797">ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India</a>

"The merger is in line with ZEEL's strategy of achieving&nbsp;higher growth and profitability as a leading media &amp; entertainment company across South Asia," it said.

The indicative merger ratio would&nbsp;have been 61.25% in favour of ZEEL. However, with the proposed infusion of growth capital into&nbsp;SPNI, the resultant merger ratio is expected to result in 47.07% of the merged entity to be held&nbsp;by ZEEL shareholders and the balance 52.93% of the merged entity to be held by SPNI&nbsp;shareholders.&nbsp;

The merged entity will be a publicly listed company in India. ZEEL's Punit Goenka will remain the CEO and MD of the combined group.

&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mega-merger-punit-goenka-to-remain-ceo-and-md-of-zeel-sony-pictures-networks-india-merged-entity-414803">Punit Goenka to remain CEO and MD of ZEEL-Sony Pictures Networks India merged entity</a>

ZEEL's strong expertise in content creation and its deep consumer connect established over the&nbsp;last 3 decades, coupled with SPNI's success across entertainment genres (including gaming and&nbsp;sports) will add significant value to the merged entity and its management team, thereby&nbsp;increasing shareholder value multifold, the companies said.&nbsp;

"The value of the merged entity and the immense synergies drawn 
between both the conglomerates will not only boost business growth but will also enable 
shareholders to benefit from its future successes."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation which is a different group

The mega merger of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), will not only create the largest entity in Indian entertainment industry, but also be a boon for shareholders.

The mega merger of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), will not only create the largest entity in Indian entertainment industry, but also be a boon for shareholders. The combined entity will operate a network of 75 channels, which will account for around 26% viewership share. The parent company of SPNI is also infusing $1.57 billion into the merged group. After evaluating financial parameters and strategic value that the partner bring to the table, the board of ZEEL concluded that the merger will be "in the best interest of all the shareholders and stakeholders," ZEEL said in a release. ALSO READ: ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India "The merger is in line with ZEEL's strategy of achieving higher growth and profitability as a leading media & entertainment company across South Asia," it said. The indicative merger ratio would have been 61.25% in favour of ZEEL. However, with the proposed infusion of growth capital into SPNI, the resultant merger ratio is expected to result in 47.07% of the merged entity to be held by ZEEL shareholders and the balance 52.93% of the merged entity to be held by SPNI shareholders. The merged entity will be a publicly listed company in India. ZEEL's Punit Goenka will remain the CEO and MD of the combined group. ALSO READ: Punit Goenka to remain CEO and MD of ZEEL-Sony Pictures Networks India merged entity ZEEL's strong expertise in content creation and its deep consumer connect established over the last 3 decades, coupled with SPNI's success across entertainment genres (including gaming and sports) will add significant value to the merged entity and its management team, thereby increasing shareholder value multifold, the companies said. "The value of the merged entity and the immense synergies drawn between both the conglomerates will not only boost business growth but will also enable shareholders to benefit from its future successes." Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation which is a different group

ZEEL-Sony Pictures: Mega merger to create India's biggest entertainment entity is a win-win for shareholders

In his first-ever interview since his massive victory for the post of President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly or UNGA, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has listed dealing with the COVID crisis, UN reforms among his 5 key priorities. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from New York, Abdulla Shahid speaking on the COVID crisis said, "We need to make sure we provide vaccines to all". Shahid received 143 votes at the general assembly during Monday's votes, far higher than the 96 votes that are required with his one-year tenure all set to begin from September of this year.

WION Exclusive: First interview of President-elect of 76th session of UNGA Abdulla Shahid

Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is the odd man out in Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people this year, a rare instance of someone considered by much of the world as a terrorist finding space in the list.

 
Baradar shares space in the American magazine’s list with the likes of US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, former US president Donald Trump, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 
The 20 leaders among the 100 most influential people also include US Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, Israel Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Iran President Ebrahim Raisi and the Indian politician, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;

Afghan journalist and women’s rights advocate Mahbouba Seraj also found a place in the list.

&nbsp;

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See every member of the 2021 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TIME100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TIME100</a> in under 60 seconds <a href="https://t.co/GRPOnKGOUt">https://t.co/GRPOnKGOUt</a> <a href="https://t.co/asfsVBPTHJ">pic.twitter.com/asfsVBPTHJ</a>
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&nbsp;

In the write-up about Baradar, Time said he is “revered among the Taliban as a founding member of the movement in 1994, a charismatic military leader and a deeply pious figure.”

“When the Taliban swept to victory in August in Afghanistan, it was on the terms Baradar negotiated. He was said to be making all the major decisions, including the amnesty offered to members of the former regime, the lack of bloodshed when the Taliban entered Kabul and the regime’s contacts and visits with neighboring states, especially China and Pakistan,” it wrote.

Describing him as a “quiet, secretive man who rarely gives public statements or interviews,” it said, "Baradar nonetheless represents a more moderate current within the Taliban, the one that will be thrust into the limelight to win Western support and desperately needed financial aid."

&nbsp; 
“The question is whether the man who coaxed the Americans out of Afghanistan can sway his own movement.”

Interestingly, the magazine’s listing came amid speculations about his whereabouts after reports that he was injured, or dead, after clashes at the Afghan presidential palace with the Haqqani network. Baradar himself came out with audio and video messages to dismiss the rumours.

Also read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-baradar-appears-in-video-refutes-reports-of-him-getting-hurt-413396">Taliban's Baradar appears in video, refutes reports of him getting hurt</a>

Baradar was jailed in Pakistan between 2010 to 2018, before being released following mediation by the US.

He was part of the Taliban team that negotiated a peace deal with the US in Doha, the capital of Qatar.

It was reported that he was unhappy with being named the deputy prime minister instead of prime minister. On this aspect, the Time Magazine write-up said: "In the interim Taliban government, he was made a Deputy Prime Minister, the top role given to another leader more acceptable to the younger, more hard-line generation of Taliban commanders."

 
&nbsp;

Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is the odd man out in Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people this year, a rare instance of someone considered by much of the world as a terrorist finding space in the list.

Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is the odd man out in Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people this year, a rare instance of someone considered by much of the world as a terrorist finding space in the list. Baradar shares space in the American magazine’s list with the likes of US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, former US president Donald Trump, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 20 leaders among the 100 most influential people also include US Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, Israel Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Iran President Ebrahim Raisi and the Indian politician, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Afghan journalist and women’s rights advocate Mahbouba Seraj also found a place in the list. See every member of the 2021 #TIME100 in under 60 seconds https://t.co/GRPOnKGOUt pic.twitter.com/asfsVBPTHJ — TIME (@TIME) September 15, 2021 × In the write-up about Baradar, Time said he is “revered among the Taliban as a founding member of the movement in 1994, a charismatic military leader and a deeply pious figure.” “When the Taliban swept to victory in August in Afghanistan, it was on the terms Baradar negotiated. He was said to be making all the major decisions, including the amnesty offered to members of the former regime, the lack of bloodshed when the Taliban entered Kabul and the regime’s contacts and visits with neighboring states, especially China and Pakistan,” it wrote. Describing him as a “quiet, secretive man who rarely gives public statements or interviews,” it said, "Baradar nonetheless represents a more moderate current within the Taliban, the one that will be thrust into the limelight to win Western support and desperately needed financial aid." “The question is whether the man who coaxed the Americans out of Afghanistan can sway his own movement.” Interestingly, the magazine’s listing came amid speculations about his whereabouts after reports that he was injured, or dead, after clashes at the Afghan presidential palace with the Haqqani network. Baradar himself came out with audio and video messages to dismiss the rumours. Also read : Taliban's Baradar appears in video, refutes reports of him getting hurt Baradar was jailed in Pakistan between 2010 to 2018, before being released following mediation by the US. He was part of the Taliban team that negotiated a peace deal with the US in Doha, the capital of Qatar. It was reported that he was unhappy with being named the deputy prime minister instead of prime minister. On this aspect, the Time Magazine write-up said: "In the interim Taliban government, he was made a Deputy Prime Minister, the top role given to another leader more acceptable to the younger, more hard-line generation of Taliban commanders."

Odd man out: Taliban's Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is in Time’s 100 most influential list

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen received her first dose, which was made by Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp, at a gymnasium at National Taiwan University in Taipei.

The whole process was broadcast&nbsp;live on the President’s Facebook page where she was seen chatting with medical workers as they prepared the shot.

When asked by one of the reporters whether she was nervous taking the first jab, Tsai replied “no”.

“It doesn't hurt, I’m in good spirits, and I'm going to continue working for the day,” she later wrote on Facebook.

Last month, the health ministry approved the emergency use of Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp’s (6547.TWO)&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine, after delays in vaccine deliveries from global drug companies.

The recombinant protein vaccine has been developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health in the United States, and the government has ordered 5 million doses for now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-extend-covid-19-curbs-into-next-month-393463">Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan to extend COVID-19 curbs into next month</a>

The medical fraternity has been apprehensive about the vaccine rollout as it has yet to finish clinical trials and no efficacy data is available, reports Reuters.

However, the government, citing a study, has claimed that the antibodies created by the indigenously made shot are “no worse than” those created by AstraZeneca's vaccine.

Meanwhile, China’s health officials on Monday said there were no new locally transmitted COVID&nbsp;cases for the first time since July, days after it reported a cluster of local outbreaks among airport cleaning staff in the eastern city of Nanjing.

The country has reported 21 imported cases and zero locally transmitted symptomatic infections, the first time since July 16. It has also reported 16 asymptomatic cases, all of which were imported too, China’s National Health Commission said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily.

Taiwan on Monday rolled out its first domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine amid criticisms from the medical fraternity that the jab was given emergency approval hastily. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen received her first dose, which was made by Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp, at a gymnasium at National Taiwan University in Taipei. The whole process was broadcast live on the President’s Facebook page where she was seen chatting with medical workers as they prepared the shot. When asked by one of the reporters whether she was nervous taking the first jab, Tsai replied “no”. “It doesn't hurt, I’m in good spirits, and I'm going to continue working for the day,” she later wrote on Facebook. Last month, the health ministry approved the emergency use of Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp’s (6547.TWO) COVID-19 vaccine, after delays in vaccine deliveries from global drug companies. The recombinant protein vaccine has been developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health in the United States, and the government has ordered 5 million doses for now. Also read | Taiwan to extend COVID-19 curbs into next month The medical fraternity has been apprehensive about the vaccine rollout as it has yet to finish clinical trials and no efficacy data is available, reports Reuters. However, the government, citing a study, has claimed that the antibodies created by the indigenously made shot are “no worse than” those created by AstraZeneca's vaccine. Meanwhile, China’s health officials on Monday said there were no new locally transmitted COVID cases for the first time since July, days after it reported a cluster of local outbreaks among airport cleaning staff in the eastern city of Nanjing. The country has reported 21 imported cases and zero locally transmitted symptomatic infections, the first time since July 16. It has also reported 16 asymptomatic cases, all of which were imported too, China’s National Health Commission said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan rolls out its first indigenously made COVID-19 vaccine

As the hunt for a new Prime Minister begins, Malaysia's king on Tuesday urged&nbsp;rival politicians to unite in the battle against coronavirus.

Following the resignation of Muhyiddin Yassin on Monday, analysts say the monarch is trying to nudge the country's political parties toward forming a unity government.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-prime-minister-quits-to-take-up-caretaker-role-405981">Malaysia's prime minister quits, to take up caretaker role</a>

As a result of the outbreak, the king, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has ruled out elections, which means he will likely choose the next premier himself based on who commands the greatest support.

However, no party has majority support in parliament, making it impossible to choose a successor to Muhyiddin.

Muhyiddin's&nbsp;turbulent 17 months in office finally ended with resignation when he lost his parliamentary majority amid mounting public anger over the way his government handled the worst <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> wave in Malaysia.

The long-time opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said he and other party leaders met at the palace and the king told them "the country is a facing political and constitutional crisis".

"So we should unite to fight the coronavirus and help bolster the economy."

"By the look of it, all the parties seem to have come to a consensus -- that is to end 'old politics'... and focus on the development of the country," he added.

In addition to some opposition groups supporting Anwar, remnants of Muhyiddin's collapsed government may work together to put together a coalition government, while others have called for a unity government until the outbreak has been controlled.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/malaysias-king-to-meet-party-leaders-as-search-for-new-pm-begins-406282/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

To be a premier, an individual must have the support of at least 111 out of 222 lawmakers in the lower house.

In addition to the monarch, the influential deputy king attended the meeting.&nbsp;

This indicated agreement among&nbsp;Malaysia's revered Islamic royal families "with regards to the proposal for a unity government", said Oh Ei Sun, an analyst at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs.

MPs have also been asked to submit the name of their choice for the prime minister to the palace by Wednesday afternoon, and the drama is expected to take several days to play out.

There has been disarray in Malaysia's political landscape since the elections in 2018, which saw a scandal-plagued coalition ejected from power after 60 years in power, and replaced by a reformist alliance.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/malaysian-pm-muhyiddin-resigns-after-losing-majority-406061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, that alliance collapsed in March last year, and Muhyiddin went on to become prime minister without an election.&nbsp;

It was, nevertheless, an unstable government, with a razor-thin majority in parliament, and under constant scrutiny for its legitimacy.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the hunt for a new Prime Minister begins, Malaysia's king on Tuesday urged rival politicians to unite in the battle against coronavirus. Following the resignation of Muhyiddin Yassin on Monday, analysts say the monarch is trying to nudge the country's political parties toward forming a unity government.

As the hunt for a new Prime Minister begins, Malaysia's king on Tuesday urged rival politicians to unite in the battle against coronavirus. Following the resignation of Muhyiddin Yassin on Monday, analysts say the monarch is trying to nudge the country's political parties toward forming a unity government. Also read | Malaysia's prime minister quits, to take up caretaker role As a result of the outbreak, the king, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has ruled out elections, which means he will likely choose the next premier himself based on who commands the greatest support. However, no party has majority support in parliament, making it impossible to choose a successor to Muhyiddin. Muhyiddin's turbulent 17 months in office finally ended with resignation when he lost his parliamentary majority amid mounting public anger over the way his government handled the worst COVID-19 wave in Malaysia. The long-time opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said he and other party leaders met at the palace and the king told them "the country is a facing political and constitutional crisis". "So we should unite to fight the coronavirus and help bolster the economy." "By the look of it, all the parties seem to have come to a consensus -- that is to end 'old politics'... and focus on the development of the country," he added. In addition to some opposition groups supporting Anwar, remnants of Muhyiddin's collapsed government may work together to put together a coalition government, while others have called for a unity government until the outbreak has been controlled. To be a premier, an individual must have the support of at least 111 out of 222 lawmakers in the lower house. In addition to the monarch, the influential deputy king attended the meeting. This indicated agreement among Malaysia's revered Islamic royal families "with regards to the proposal for a unity government", said Oh Ei Sun, an analyst at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs. MPs have also been asked to submit the name of their choice for the prime minister to the palace by Wednesday afternoon, and the drama is expected to take several days to play out. There has been disarray in Malaysia's political landscape since the elections in 2018, which saw a scandal-plagued coalition ejected from power after 60 years in power, and replaced by a reformist alliance. However, that alliance collapsed in March last year, and Muhyiddin went on to become prime minister without an election. It was, nevertheless, an unstable government, with a razor-thin majority in parliament, and under constant scrutiny for its legitimacy. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia PM hunt: King urges rival politicians to unite, to name leader who has most support

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees.

This is especially the case right now as both countries are battling the coronavirus pandemic and facing economic difficulties.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul</a></h2>

Analysts say everything depends on the unknown factor -- whether the Taliban present a more moderate stance that allows for international cooperation or they return to the unbridled extremism that led to their overthrow in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

"The situation is a huge risk for Turkey, there is no doubt.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;will also stand to lose if the Taliban returns to its old ways and provides a safe haven" for Islamist extremists, Asli Aydintasbas, a senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), told AFP.

Iran&nbsp;and Turkey both risk seeing substantial inflows of refugees, many of whom cross from&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;into Turkey in the hope of reaching Europe.&nbsp;

Both already host large refugee populations -- 3.6 million Syrians in Turkey and 3.5 million Afghans in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;-- and tolerance at home is running out.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a> has hit&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;hard, pushing the sanctions-battered country further into crisis, while in Turkey the economic growth that was always the bulwark of Erdogan's popularity has faded away.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/guantanamo-ex-inmates-emerge-as-key-players-in-talibans-victory-in-afghanistan-406238" hreflang="en">Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>

Turkish President Recept Tayyip Erdogan said last week that he was prepared to meet the Taliban leadership in a bid to secure peace while&nbsp;Iran's new hardline President Ebrahim Rasi said the US military "defeat" in Afghanistan was a chance to bring peace to the country.

On Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu talked of "positive messages" coming from the Taliban on protection for civilians and foreigners, expressing hope they would follow through with positive actions.

'Ticking bomb'&nbsp;

But analysts say the Taliban takeover has robbed Erdogan of a strategic card he was eager to play -- an offer to provide military security at Kabul airport that might have improved relations with US President Joe Biden.

"The whole Turkish mission is in jeopardy as well as the idea of using Kabul airport as leverage in relaunching Turkey’s relationship with Washington," Aydintasbas said, adding it was "hard to imagine" the Taliban letting Turkey control the airport.

"A few days ago this looked like a golden opportunity for Turkey. Now it is a huge ticking bomb."

Meanwhile, "the most pressing issue" for Erdogan is the possible influx of refugees from Afghanistan at a time of growing unrest in Turkey over the long-term presence of Syrians in the country, she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fun-amid-chaos-taliban-fighters-ride-in-bumper-cars-with-guns-ride-horses-in-merry-go-around-in-kabul-watch-406201" hreflang="en">Fun amid chaos: Taliban fighters ride in bumper cars with guns; ride horses in merry-go-around in Kabul- Watch</a>

Aydintasbas said neighbouring countries "have no idea what Taliban 2.0 will look like".

"If the Taliban has become more moderate then Turkey could engage with it," she said.

The International Crisis Group argued in a research note that the Taliban's diplomatic engagement "has shifted to a regionally focused approach", emphasising dialogue with&nbsp;Iran, Russia, Central Asian states and China.

US-led stability&nbsp;

Rouzbeh Parsi of the Swedish Institute of International Affairs, said US forces leaving the region was&nbsp;Iran's stated goal, but their departure was far from entirely welcome for Tehran.

"US support for the governments in Afghanistan and Iraq has also been helpful for&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;in that it ensured a certain stability and US did the heavy lifting," he said.

Overwhelmingly Shiite&nbsp;Iran, which shares a more than 900-kilometre (550-mile) border with Afghanistan, appeared keen to achieve peaceful coexistence with the Sunni Taliban, he said.

"Iran&nbsp;has for some time, pragmatic as always, accepted that the Taliban are not going to disappear and that no outsider will be able to militarily defeat them," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-unidentified-man-shoots-at-a-civilian-trying-to-enter-kabul-airport-406227" hreflang="en">Watch: Unidentified man shoots at a civilian trying to enter Kabul airport</a>

"Iran&nbsp;is a country heavily beset by Covid, corruption, and a faltering economy. The ability and willingness to take on more Afghan refugees is probably not great."

Parsi added that&nbsp;Iran's future relationship with the new rulers in Kabul "hinges on the pragmatism of the Taliban", noting that Tehran would pay particular attention to the wellbeing of the mainly Shiite, Persian-speaking Hazara minority.

Marc Pierini, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe and a former EU ambassador to Turkey, said Europe was anxiously watching the potential migrant flows after a million people reached its shores mainly through Turkey in 2015 when the Syrian conflict was at its peak.&nbsp;

"Handling this emergency will require a degree of confident humanitarian cooperation between the EU and&nbsp;Iran-Turkey, which will be difficult to achieve," he told AFP.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights Iran and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights Iran and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees. This is especially the case right now as both countries are battling the coronavirus pandemic and facing economic difficulties. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul Analysts say everything depends on the unknown factor -- whether the Taliban present a more moderate stance that allows for international cooperation or they return to the unbridled extremism that led to their overthrow in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. "The situation is a huge risk for Turkey, there is no doubt. Iran will also stand to lose if the Taliban returns to its old ways and provides a safe haven" for Islamist extremists, Asli Aydintasbas, a senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), told AFP. Iran and Turkey both risk seeing substantial inflows of refugees, many of whom cross from Iran into Turkey in the hope of reaching Europe. Both already host large refugee populations -- 3.6 million Syrians in Turkey and 3.5 million Afghans in Iran -- and tolerance at home is running out. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit Iran hard, pushing the sanctions-battered country further into crisis, while in Turkey the economic growth that was always the bulwark of Erdogan's popularity has faded away. Also read | Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan Turkish President Recept Tayyip Erdogan said last week that he was prepared to meet the Taliban leadership in a bid to secure peace while Iran's new hardline President Ebrahim Rasi said the US military "defeat" in Afghanistan was a chance to bring peace to the country. On Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu talked of "positive messages" coming from the Taliban on protection for civilians and foreigners, expressing hope they would follow through with positive actions. 'Ticking bomb' But analysts say the Taliban takeover has robbed Erdogan of a strategic card he was eager to play -- an offer to provide military security at Kabul airport that might have improved relations with US President Joe Biden. "The whole Turkish mission is in jeopardy as well as the idea of using Kabul airport as leverage in relaunching Turkey’s relationship with Washington," Aydintasbas said, adding it was "hard to imagine" the Taliban letting Turkey control the airport. "A few days ago this looked like a golden opportunity for Turkey. Now it is a huge ticking bomb." Meanwhile, "the most pressing issue" for Erdogan is the possible influx of refugees from Afghanistan at a time of growing unrest in Turkey over the long-term presence of Syrians in the country, she said. Also read | Fun amid chaos: Taliban fighters ride in bumper cars with guns; ride horses in merry-go-around in Kabul- Watch Aydintasbas said neighbouring countries "have no idea what Taliban 2.0 will look like". "If the Taliban has become more moderate then Turkey could engage with it," she said. The International Crisis Group argued in a research note that the Taliban's diplomatic engagement "has shifted to a regionally focused approach", emphasising dialogue with Iran, Russia, Central Asian states and China. US-led stability Rouzbeh Parsi of the Swedish Institute of International Affairs, said US forces leaving the region was Iran's stated goal, but their departure was far from entirely welcome for Tehran. "US support for the governments in Afghanistan and Iraq has also been helpful for Iran in that it ensured a certain stability and US did the heavy lifting," he said. Overwhelmingly Shiite Iran, which shares a more than 900-kilometre (550-mile) border with Afghanistan, appeared keen to achieve peaceful coexistence with the Sunni Taliban, he said. "Iran has for some time, pragmatic as always, accepted that the Taliban are not going to disappear and that no outsider will be able to militarily defeat them," he said. Also read | Watch: Unidentified man shoots at a civilian trying to enter Kabul airport "Iran is a country heavily beset by Covid, corruption, and a faltering economy. The ability and willingness to take on more Afghan refugees is probably not great." Parsi added that Iran's future relationship with the new rulers in Kabul "hinges on the pragmatism of the Taliban", noting that Tehran would pay particular attention to the wellbeing of the mainly Shiite, Persian-speaking Hazara minority. Marc Pierini, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe and a former EU ambassador to Turkey, said Europe was anxiously watching the potential migrant flows after a million people reached its shores mainly through Turkey in 2015 when the Syrian conflict was at its peak. "Handling this emergency will require a degree of confident humanitarian cooperation between the EU and Iran-Turkey, which will be difficult to achieve," he told AFP.

Taliban takeover leaves Iran and Turkey fearing refugee influx

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul</a></h2>

Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha."

Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone".

Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries.

According to&nbsp;Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in&nbsp;the south of the country&nbsp;by neighbouring Tajikistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258" hreflang="en">Taliban say they want women to join their government</a>

In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban.&nbsp;

Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti.&nbsp;

Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas."&nbsp;

A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country. The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha." Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone". Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries. According to Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in the south of the country by neighbouring Tajikistan. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban. Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti. Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas." A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Uzbekistan says in contact with Taliban, warns over border violations

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul</a></h2>

On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport.

Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport.

During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister&nbsp;Mevlut Cavusoglu&nbsp;said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach&nbsp;about its offer to protect the airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258" hreflang="en">Taliban say they want women to join their government</a>

Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging.

"We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks.

Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out.

"We continue a dialogue with all parties in&nbsp;Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/waiting-for-taliban-to-kill-me-and-others-like-me-says-afghanistans-first-woman-mayor-406254" hreflang="en">'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor</a>

"Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan. During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport. Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging. "We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks. Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out. "We continue a dialogue with all parties in Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said. Also read | 'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor "Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this." (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey welcomes 'positive messages' from Taliban, says in talks with the group

Climate change is demonstrated most dramatically by the disappearance and dwindling of glaciers throughout the world.

Before it shrank and split into much-diminished glacierets, Italy's Calderone ice formation claimed to be the southernmost glacier in Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-vital-signs-are-worsening-due-to-climate-change-scientists-warn-401135">Earth's 'vital signs' are worsening due to climate change, scientists warn</a>

Following the melting of the Corral del Veleta in Spain in the early 20th century, it became Europe's southernmost glacier.

The Calderone glacier, which lies in the Gran Sasso d'Italia, an expanse in the Apennine Mountains, first split two decades ago.&nbsp;

However, due to climate change, global temperatures are rising at a faster rate than ever before, which is increasing the glacier's risk of melting away into the geological record books, a mere relic of the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Glaciology, since its split twenty years ago, the glacier has been in a headlong retreat: its volume decreased by around 90 per cent between 1916 and 1990.

"This was the southernmost glacier in Europe and that's why it was an icon and a symbol, but now it is shrinking more and more," says glaciologist Massimo Frezzotti while talking to AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/steps-enough-for-two-rounds-of-earth-scientists-discover-woolly-mammoths-massive-lifetime-mileage-405081">Steps enough for two rounds of Earth: Scientists discover woolly mammoth's massive lifetime mileage</a>

According to Frezzotti, president of the Italian Glaciological Committee, the glacier could disappear completely within 10-20 years.

A period during which glaciers lose more mass than they gain known as the ablation season had effectively "disappeared" because the temperatures were too high.

"The duration of the ablation seasons became longer, the rainfall remained constant but there is a reduction in the snowfall and of course the mass balance of the glacier has shrunk more and more," he said.

The Calderone glacier in Italy has been the subject of research by Massimo Pecci, another member of the group for the past 25 years.

He says that "Since 2000 we have been witnessing a gradual reduction of the thickness, of the area and a further fragmentation into smaller glacierets,".

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In the last century, human activity, mainly caused by the burning of fossil fuels, has contributed to global warming by 1.1 degrees Celsius (2.0 degrees Fahrenheit) over mid-19th century levels.&nbsp;The temperature has risen most dramatically over the last fifty years.&nbsp;

"We don't know yet how the story is going to end... let's hope it's not going to end," Pecci said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Climate change is demonstrated most dramatically by the disappearance and dwindling of glaciers throughout the world. Before it shrank and split into much-diminished glacierets, Italy's Calderone ice formation claimed to be the southernmost glacier in Europe.

Climate change is demonstrated most dramatically by the disappearance and dwindling of glaciers throughout the world. Before it shrank and split into much-diminished glacierets, Italy's Calderone ice formation claimed to be the southernmost glacier in Europe. Also read | Earth's 'vital signs' are worsening due to climate change, scientists warn Following the melting of the Corral del Veleta in Spain in the early 20th century, it became Europe's southernmost glacier. The Calderone glacier, which lies in the Gran Sasso d'Italia, an expanse in the Apennine Mountains, first split two decades ago. However, due to climate change, global temperatures are rising at a faster rate than ever before, which is increasing the glacier's risk of melting away into the geological record books, a mere relic of the past. According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Glaciology, since its split twenty years ago, the glacier has been in a headlong retreat: its volume decreased by around 90 per cent between 1916 and 1990. "This was the southernmost glacier in Europe and that's why it was an icon and a symbol, but now it is shrinking more and more," says glaciologist Massimo Frezzotti while talking to AFP. Also read | Steps enough for two rounds of Earth: Scientists discover woolly mammoth's massive lifetime mileage According to Frezzotti, president of the Italian Glaciological Committee, the glacier could disappear completely within 10-20 years. A period during which glaciers lose more mass than they gain known as the ablation season had effectively "disappeared" because the temperatures were too high. "The duration of the ablation seasons became longer, the rainfall remained constant but there is a reduction in the snowfall and of course the mass balance of the glacier has shrunk more and more," he said. The Calderone glacier in Italy has been the subject of research by Massimo Pecci, another member of the group for the past 25 years. He says that "Since 2000 we have been witnessing a gradual reduction of the thickness, of the area and a further fragmentation into smaller glacierets,". × In the last century, human activity, mainly caused by the burning of fossil fuels, has contributed to global warming by 1.1 degrees Celsius (2.0 degrees Fahrenheit) over mid-19th century levels. The temperature has risen most dramatically over the last fifty years. "We don't know yet how the story is going to end... let's hope it's not going to end," Pecci said. (With inputs from agencies)

'We don't know how the story is going to end': Melting glaciers, climate change alarm scientists

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.