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

At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude&nbsp;struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors.&nbsp;

The quake, which rattled homes and frightened locals to flee for safety, struck about 100 miles (160 kilometres) west of Port-au-Prince, the country's densely populated capital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-turmoil-haiti-gets-hit-with-deadly-quake-killing-over-300-405544">After turmoil, Haiti gets hit with deadly quake killing over 300</a>&nbsp;

The country's civil protection agency said hundreds of people were trapped under rubble and at least 1,800 were injured in the quake that damaged churches, businesses, schools and homes.

Rescuers raced against the clock to find survivors, with the agency tweeting that efforts by "both professional rescuers and members of the public have led to many people being pulled from the rubble," adding that already overburdened hospitals continued to receive injured.

Personnel and medicine were dispatched by Haiti's health ministry to the southwestern peninsula as quickly as possible.

After the first report of 29 fatalities, the death toll climbed steadily throughout the day until it topped 304 hours after the quake.

According to the head of the civil protection agency, Jerry Chandler, hospitals in the worst-hit areas are already struggling to provide emergency care. At least three hospitals were already full.

Several countries quickly pledged support, with the Dominican Republic shipping 10,000 food rations and medical equipment to Haiti, as well as Joe Biden approving "immediate" assistance efforts.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was "following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti."

"The UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts," he tweeted.

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I am following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti. 
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&nbsp; 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> is working to support rescue and relief efforts.
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According to Cuban television, a medical brigade of 253 Cubans has been deployed to Haiti to treat the injured and to adapt a Port-au-Prince hospital previously used for Covid patients.

In Ecuador, Quito's Fire Department reported that it is preparing to send a team of 34 team members to help with urban search and rescue efforts.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/72-magnitude-earthquake-hits-haiti-at-least-304-people-killed-405523/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru and Venezuela also offered help while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Haitians "can count on the support of Spain to come through this terrible event."

As Ariel Henry, the prime minister, surveyed the disaster via helicopter, he declared a month-long state of emergency, urging those in the country to not panic.

Tropical Storm Grace could hinder relief efforts in Haiti as of late Monday, according to the National Weather Service. It's expected to bring heavy rainfall and flash floods.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-wife-injured-world-leaders-pay-tribute-396479">Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute</a>

Merely a&nbsp;month after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7th, this latest earthquake has shaken the nation already plagued with poverty, spiralling gang violence and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors.

At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors. The quake, which rattled homes and frightened locals to flee for safety, struck about 100 miles (160 kilometres) west of Port-au-Prince, the country's densely populated capital. Also read | After turmoil, Haiti gets hit with deadly quake killing over 300 The country's civil protection agency said hundreds of people were trapped under rubble and at least 1,800 were injured in the quake that damaged churches, businesses, schools and homes. Rescuers raced against the clock to find survivors, with the agency tweeting that efforts by "both professional rescuers and members of the public have led to many people being pulled from the rubble," adding that already overburdened hospitals continued to receive injured. Personnel and medicine were dispatched by Haiti's health ministry to the southwestern peninsula as quickly as possible. After the first report of 29 fatalities, the death toll climbed steadily throughout the day until it topped 304 hours after the quake. According to the head of the civil protection agency, Jerry Chandler, hospitals in the worst-hit areas are already struggling to provide emergency care. At least three hospitals were already full. Several countries quickly pledged support, with the Dominican Republic shipping 10,000 food rations and medical equipment to Haiti, as well as Joe Biden approving "immediate" assistance efforts. UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was "following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti." "The UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts," he tweeted. I am following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti. My heart goes out to all affected by the earthquake. My deepest condolences to all who have lost family and friends. The @UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 14, 2021 × According to Cuban television, a medical brigade of 253 Cubans has been deployed to Haiti to treat the injured and to adapt a Port-au-Prince hospital previously used for Covid patients. In Ecuador, Quito's Fire Department reported that it is preparing to send a team of 34 team members to help with urban search and rescue efforts. Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru and Venezuela also offered help while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Haitians "can count on the support of Spain to come through this terrible event." As Ariel Henry, the prime minister, surveyed the disaster via helicopter, he declared a month-long state of emergency, urging those in the country to not panic. Tropical Storm Grace could hinder relief efforts in Haiti as of late Monday, according to the National Weather Service. It's expected to bring heavy rainfall and flash floods. Also read | Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute Merely a month after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7th, this latest earthquake has shaken the nation already plagued with poverty, spiralling gang violence and COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti Earthquake: Nation searches for survivors, rescue efforts underway as at least 304 killed

A journalist confronted the&nbsp;Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby&nbsp;about the 'irony' of&nbsp;bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan.

"There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick. And on top of that, another 3,500 in Kuwait...I mean, isn't this ironic?," a journalist asked Kirby on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kirby said the influx of fresh troops does not mean the US&nbsp;is reentering combat with the Taliban.

“This is a temporary mission with a narrow focus,” he told reporters at the Pentagon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-advances-in-afghanistan-us-and-britain-to-evacuate-embassies-405040">Taliban advances in Afghanistan, US and Britain to evacuate embassies</a>

In addition to sending three infantry battalions, two from the Marine Corps and one from the Army,&nbsp;to the airport, the Pentagon will dispatch 3,500 to 4,000 troops from a combat brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division to Kuwait to act as a reserve force.

Kirby said they will be on standby “in case we need even more” than the 3,000 going to Kabul.

Also, about 1,000 Army and Air Force troops, including military police and medical personnel, will be sent to Qatar in coming days to support a State Department effort to accelerate its processing of Special Immigrant Visa applications from Afghans who once worked for the US&nbsp;government and feel threatened by the Taliban, Kirby said.

The 3,000 troops who are to arrive at the Kabul airport in the next day or two, Kirby said, are to assist with security at the airport and to help process the departure of embassy personnel,&nbsp;not to get involved in the Afghan government’s war with the Taliban.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;decision has cast new doubt on Washington's strategy to influence Afghanistan's peace process by maintaining aid and diplomatic personnel even after the troop withdrawal.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-turmoil-taliban-claims-13th-provincial-capital-405086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

About 3,500 additional US&nbsp;troops would be sent to the region from Fort Bragg in North Carolina to be on standby if the situation worsened, as well as 1,000 personnel to help process Afghans going through a special immigration process.

It is common for the US&nbsp;military to send in troops to evacuate personnel in combat zones.

The United States has ordered&nbsp;the deployment of thousands of troops to Afghanistan to evacuate their nationals, as the Taliban overran more key regional cities in an offensive that has left the capital dangerously exposed.

The orders came as the Taliban took control of Kandahar, the nation's second biggest city in the insurgency's heartland, leaving only Kabul and pockets of other territory in government hands.

The State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday and told him the United States "remains invested in the security and stability of Afghanistan" in the face of Taliban violence.

They said Washington was reducing its "civilian footprint" in Kabul given the "evolving security situation" and would increase the tempo of Special Immigration Visa flights for Afghans who helped the US&nbsp;effort in the country, a State Department statement said.

'Not abandonment'&nbsp;

Biden has insisted he has no regrets with his decision, but the speed and ease of the Taliban's urban victories in recent days has been a surprise and forced new calculations.

The Afghan government has now effectively lost control of most of the country, following an eight-day blitz into urban centres by the Taliban that has also stunned Kabul's American backers.

The offensive was launched in early May after the United States and its allies all but withdrew its forces from Afghanistan, with President Joe Biden determined to end two decades of war by September 11.

(With inputs from agencies)

A journalist confronted the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby about the 'irony' of bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan. "There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick.

A journalist confronted the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby about the 'irony' of bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan. "There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick. And on top of that, another 3,500 in Kuwait...I mean, isn't this ironic?," a journalist asked Kirby on Thursday. Kirby said the influx of fresh troops does not mean the US is reentering combat with the Taliban. “This is a temporary mission with a narrow focus,” he told reporters at the Pentagon. Also read| Taliban advances in Afghanistan, US and Britain to evacuate embassies In addition to sending three infantry battalions, two from the Marine Corps and one from the Army, to the airport, the Pentagon will dispatch 3,500 to 4,000 troops from a combat brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division to Kuwait to act as a reserve force. Kirby said they will be on standby “in case we need even more” than the 3,000 going to Kabul. Also, about 1,000 Army and Air Force troops, including military police and medical personnel, will be sent to Qatar in coming days to support a State Department effort to accelerate its processing of Special Immigrant Visa applications from Afghans who once worked for the US government and feel threatened by the Taliban, Kirby said. The 3,000 troops who are to arrive at the Kabul airport in the next day or two, Kirby said, are to assist with security at the airport and to help process the departure of embassy personnel, not to get involved in the Afghan government’s war with the Taliban. The decision has cast new doubt on Washington's strategy to influence Afghanistan's peace process by maintaining aid and diplomatic personnel even after the troop withdrawal. About 3,500 additional US troops would be sent to the region from Fort Bragg in North Carolina to be on standby if the situation worsened, as well as 1,000 personnel to help process Afghans going through a special immigration process. It is common for the US military to send in troops to evacuate personnel in combat zones. The United States has ordered the deployment of thousands of troops to Afghanistan to evacuate their nationals, as the Taliban overran more key regional cities in an offensive that has left the capital dangerously exposed. The orders came as the Taliban took control of Kandahar, the nation's second biggest city in the insurgency's heartland, leaving only Kabul and pockets of other territory in government hands. The State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday and told him the United States "remains invested in the security and stability of Afghanistan" in the face of Taliban violence. They said Washington was reducing its "civilian footprint" in Kabul given the "evolving security situation" and would increase the tempo of Special Immigration Visa flights for Afghans who helped the US effort in the country, a State Department statement said. 'Not abandonment' Biden has insisted he has no regrets with his decision, but the speed and ease of the Taliban's urban victories in recent days has been a surprise and forced new calculations. The Afghan government has now effectively lost control of most of the country, following an eight-day blitz into urban centres by the Taliban that has also stunned Kabul's American backers. The offensive was launched in early May after the United States and its allies all but withdrew its forces from Afghanistan, with President Joe Biden determined to end two decades of war by September 11. (With inputs from agencies)

US is sending 3,000 troops to Kabul as 2,500 leave, journalist confronts Pentagon about the irony

Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA)&nbsp;76th session,&nbsp; has announced a programme&nbsp;to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

The first of its kind programme aims to give opportunity to young diplomats,&nbsp;previously only given to countries that could “second” diplomats to the&nbsp;Office of the President of the General Assembly (PGA).

The announcement was made by Abdulla Shahid on International Youth Day that was celebrated on 12th August.&nbsp;

In a tweet he said, "I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”.

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I am a firm believer in the importance of youth participation, especially in shaping decisions that affect their tomorrow. 
 
On this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalYouthDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalYouthDay</a> I am pleased to announce that, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA76?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA76</a> President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”.
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1425958122015924228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Giving details he said, "The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS" who will be brought to New York for a period of one year to give them "exposure to the UN system and making them strong advocates for multilateralism".&nbsp;

LLDCS are Landlocked Developing Countries while SIDS are Small Islands Developing States.

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The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS, by bringing them to New York for a year and giving them exposure to the UN system, and making them strong advocates for multilateralism.
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1425958302685478919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

While the number of young diplomats who will be chosen is yet to be determined, the PGA-elect has requested for political and financial support from member states.&nbsp;

Shahid is the first Maldivian national to hold the office of President of UNGA.&nbsp;

During the UNGA elections earlier this year, he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193-member body.&nbsp;97 votes are the threshold for winning the elections.

The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.

Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) 76th session, has announced a programme to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) 76th session, has announced a programme to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The first of its kind programme aims to give opportunity to young diplomats, previously only given to countries that could “second” diplomats to the Office of the President of the General Assembly (PGA). The announcement was made by Abdulla Shahid on International Youth Day that was celebrated on 12th August. In a tweet he said, "I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”. I am a firm believer in the importance of youth participation, especially in shaping decisions that affect their tomorrow. On this #InternationalYouthDay I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”. — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 12, 2021 × Giving details he said, "The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS" who will be brought to New York for a period of one year to give them "exposure to the UN system and making them strong advocates for multilateralism". LLDCS are Landlocked Developing Countries while SIDS are Small Islands Developing States. The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS, by bringing them to New York for a year and giving them exposure to the UN system, and making them strong advocates for multilateralism. — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 12, 2021 × While the number of young diplomats who will be chosen is yet to be determined, the PGA-elect has requested for political and financial support from member states. Shahid is the first Maldivian national to hold the office of President of UNGA. During the UNGA elections earlier this year, he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193-member body. 97 votes are the threshold for winning the elections. The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.

UNGA president-elect Abdulla Shahid announces programme to train diplomats from least developed countries

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot.

The injury kept the 20-time Grand Slam champion out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics this year and played a role in his shock third-round exit at the Washington Open last week.

"I have had this issue for a couple of months, as people know," said Nadal, a five-time winner of the event which was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-western-southern-open-404346" hreflang="en">Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western &amp; Southern Open</a>

"Of course, it is not a happy situation after all the success that I had here in Canada, not being able to play this year after missing a year."

He said the decision was a tough one but added that the most important thing was getting better so he could go back to appreciate his time on the court.

"Today, with this pain, I am not able to enjoy it, and I really don't believe that I have the chance to fight for the things that I really need to fight for," he said.

Nadal has said he has been dealing with a recurring foot issue since 2005, which returned at this year's Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events.

Nadal will now turn his attention to getting fit ahead of the U.S. Open in New York.

"I really wanted to play here a lot, but now is the moment to make a decision, and this is, unfortunately, the decision that I have taken, and probably in the next couple of days we are going to know more," he said.

Second seed Nadal will be replaced by the lucky loser and fellow Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in the main draw.

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot.

World number four Rafa Nadal on Tuesday said he had withdrawn from the Masters 1000 hardcourt event underway in Toronto due to persistent pain in his injured left foot. The injury kept the 20-time Grand Slam champion out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics this year and played a role in his shock third-round exit at the Washington Open last week. "I have had this issue for a couple of months, as people know," said Nadal, a five-time winner of the event which was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open "Of course, it is not a happy situation after all the success that I had here in Canada, not being able to play this year after missing a year." He said the decision was a tough one but added that the most important thing was getting better so he could go back to appreciate his time on the court. "Today, with this pain, I am not able to enjoy it, and I really don't believe that I have the chance to fight for the things that I really need to fight for," he said. Nadal has said he has been dealing with a recurring foot issue since 2005, which returned at this year's Roland Garros, where he fell to eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before deciding to sit out two of the year's biggest events. Nadal will now turn his attention to getting fit ahead of the U.S. Open in New York. "I really wanted to play here a lot, but now is the moment to make a decision, and this is, unfortunately, the decision that I have taken, and probably in the next couple of days we are going to know more," he said. Second seed Nadal will be replaced by the lucky loser and fellow Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in the main draw.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal withdraws from Toronto Masters with persistent foot injury

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious&nbsp;global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from&nbsp;China.

The South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-world-coming-together-against-china-in-south-china-sea-374136">Is World coming together against China in South China Sea?</a>

"Conflict in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious&nbsp;global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere."

China&nbsp;claims vast swaths of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields.

"We have seen dangerous&nbsp;encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-at-stake-for-india-in-south-china-sea-372397">What is at stake for India in South China Sea?</a>

China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries."

"This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea," Dai said.

Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China. The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters. Also read | Is World coming together against China in South China Sea? "Conflict in the South China Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere." China claims vast swaths of the South China Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields. "We have seen dangerous encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources." Also read | What is at stake for India in South China Sea? China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South China Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries." "This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea," Dai said. Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South China Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

US, China trade barbs at UN over South China Sea

Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title. He was also part of the England team that finished runners-up to Italy in the European Championship.

Stones' contract with the club was due to expire next summer, but he will now remain at the Etihad Stadium until 2026.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-jack-grealish-says-he-cried-like-lionel-messi-over-leaving-aston-villa-404390" hreflang="en">Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa</a>

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"I love being part of this squad. There are so many quality players here and I know we can continue winning trophies, which is my main focus," Stones told the club's website.

"The success we've had in the last four years has been incredible. To be a part of it has been a dream come true and I just want to continue winning."

Stones has made 168 appearances for City and won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups since joining from Everton in 2016.

He was an integral part of manager Pep Guardiola's squad last season as they reclaimed the league title, forming a strong partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of the defence.

City will begin their title defence with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Aug. 15.

Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday. The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title.

Manchester City centre back John Stones has signed a new five-year contract with the club, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday. The 27-year-old made 22 league appearances last season as City won the title. He was also part of the England team that finished runners-up to Italy in the European Championship. Stones' contract with the club was due to expire next summer, but he will now remain at the Etihad Stadium until 2026. ALSO READ: Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. "I love being part of this squad. There are so many quality players here and I know we can continue winning trophies, which is my main focus," Stones told the club's website. "The success we've had in the last four years has been incredible. To be a part of it has been a dream come true and I just want to continue winning." Stones has made 168 appearances for City and won three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups since joining from Everton in 2016. He was an integral part of manager Pep Guardiola's squad last season as they reclaimed the league title, forming a strong partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of the defence. City will begin their title defence with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Aug. 15.

Football: Manchester City defender John Stones pens new deal until 2026

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