Recently, global pop star Demi Lovato hosted Indian-origin mystic and spiritual leader Sadhguru on the latest episode of her podcast, ‘4D with Demi Lovato’, where they discussed about life in length: aliens, spirituality, mysticism and a sustainable plaent, among other topics.

Recently, global pop star Demi Lovato hosted Indian-origin mystic and spiritual leader Sadhguru on the latest episode of her podcast, ‘4D with Demi Lovato’, where they discussed about life in length: aliens, spirituality, mysticism and a sustainable plaent, among other topics. The Grammy-nominated singer took to Instagram to share her latest collaboration with the mystic, she captioned the post as, “@sadhguru: a Yogi, mystic and visionary whose words of wisdom can help us build a conscious planet. Join me this week on #4DwithDemi as we discuss expanding consciousness, his spiritual journey and much more! New episode available now wherever you listen to your podcasts (sic).” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) × Sadhguru, too, a scratch from their conversation on his Instagram account, writing, “Watch Sadhguru's conversation with singer-songwriter and actor Demi Lovato on 4D! They discuss many dimensions of life - motorcycles, working joyfully, the difference between mystics and mistakes, and the need for a Conscious Planet (sic).” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sadhguru (@sadhguru) × And, Indian fans are jumping with joy over this collaboration. “Omggg lot's of love from India,” an Instagram user wrote on Lovato's Instagram post. Others dropped heart emojis. Recently, Demi, who has come out as non-binary in May this year, had called out disgraced American rapper DaBaby over his homophobic comments at a music festival where he had performed. Demi Lovato shared a repost of a DaBaby-tagged Instagram post from Matt Bernstein, featuring “HIV is not a gay disease” written on a chest. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) × Last year, Will Smith and his daughter Willow met with the mystic, and shared their experience of interacting with him on the internet. Sharing the video, Will had written, “The only thing that stands between you and your well-being is a simple fact you have allowed your thoughts and emotions to take instruction from the outside rather than the inside.” - @sadhguru (Inner Engineering) Amazing dinner the other night! Thank you for your time, your energy and your wisdom. Enjoy your motorcycle ride across America (sic).”

In a first, Demi Lovato talks to Sadhguru about ‘mystics and mistakes’; spirituality

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

“All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview.

“Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.”

 
Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years.

The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans.

None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- &nbsp;should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said.

On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail.

“People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.”

Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said.

“If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said.

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.</o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday. “All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview. “Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.” Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years. The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans. None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said. On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail. “People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.” Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said. “If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said. Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.

Exclusive: Pakistan's support to Taliban will endanger security of Afghanistan, warns former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

Just a few weeks after Italy banned large cruise ships from entering the city centre, Venice narrowly avoided being named a world heritage site under threat on Thursday.&nbsp;

While Venice has been listed on the UNESCO world heritage list since 1987, the UN body recently stated it should be placed on the endangered list, and warned of a need for "sustainable tourism management.".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cruise-ships-banned-from-st-marks-square-in-venice-to-protect-historical-heritage-373456">Cruise ships banned from St Mark's Square in Venice to protect historical heritage</a>

Culture Minister Dario Franceschini hailed the decision as a victory while underscoring the need for, identification of a "sustainable development path," adding that the city of Venice must remain the focus of attention.

A meeting of the World Heritage Committee meeting in Fuzhou, China cited Italy's recent ban on the development and granted them further time to report back. Italian officials have been given until next December to report on efforts to protect the city's ecosystem and heritage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venice-exceptionally-low-tide-almost-dries-up-the-canals-366849">Venice: Exceptionally low tide almost dries up the canals</a>

Prime Minister Mario Draghi expressed "great satisfaction" with the decision.

Campaigners have long urged cruise ships to stop sailing past St Mark's Square, claiming that the city's foundations are weakened by the waves caused by the giant floating hotels, which also negatively impact the fragile lagoon's ecosystem.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cruise-ships-restart-in-venice-protesters-decry-their-risks-389638">Cruise ships restart in Venice; protesters decry their risks</a>

Beginning August 1, the government has banned the entry of the largest ships into the Basin of San Marco, the Canal of San Marco, and the Giudecca Canal.&nbsp;

The larger cruise ships will be diverted to the industrial port of Marghera, while smaller vessels with about 200 passengers can continue to reach the city centre.

Just a few weeks after Italy banned large cruise ships from entering the city centre, Venice narrowly avoided being named a world heritage site under threat on Thursday.

Just a few weeks after Italy banned large cruise ships from entering the city centre, Venice narrowly avoided being named a world heritage site under threat on Thursday. While Venice has been listed on the UNESCO world heritage list since 1987, the UN body recently stated it should be placed on the endangered list, and warned of a need for "sustainable tourism management.". Also read | Cruise ships banned from St Mark's Square in Venice to protect historical heritage Culture Minister Dario Franceschini hailed the decision as a victory while underscoring the need for, identification of a "sustainable development path," adding that the city of Venice must remain the focus of attention. A meeting of the World Heritage Committee meeting in Fuzhou, China cited Italy's recent ban on the development and granted them further time to report back. Italian officials have been given until next December to report on efforts to protect the city's ecosystem and heritage. Also read | Venice: Exceptionally low tide almost dries up the canals Prime Minister Mario Draghi expressed "great satisfaction" with the decision. Campaigners have long urged cruise ships to stop sailing past St Mark's Square, claiming that the city's foundations are weakened by the waves caused by the giant floating hotels, which also negatively impact the fragile lagoon's ecosystem. Also read | Cruise ships restart in Venice; protesters decry their risks Beginning August 1, the government has banned the entry of the largest ships into the Basin of San Marco, the Canal of San Marco, and the Giudecca Canal. The larger cruise ships will be diverted to the industrial port of Marghera, while smaller vessels with about 200 passengers can continue to reach the city centre.

Venice dodges UNESCO endangered listing after big ship ban

Undoubdetly, a&nbsp;mother's love is the greatest force in the world. A&nbsp;woman in China died&nbsp;while saving her&nbsp;baby from a mudslide as her home was flooded.

The child was flung by her mother to a higher level, a family member identified as Mr Zhao told Southern Metropolis Daily. Rescuers arrived at the spot and managed to save the child.

After being buried under rubble for more than 24 hours, the baby girl was rescued on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-are-climate-mysteries-puzzling-worlds-leading-scientists-400037">Why are climate 'mysteries' puzzling world's leading scientists?</a>

Chinese internet users went crazy over a video showing rescue workers saving the baby. The baby is believed to be between three and four months old.

Wangzongdian village in Henan province was devastated by a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall, according to some reports.

A record amount of rainfall has led to massive floods in the region, which have resulted in at least 51 deaths and nearly 400,000 evacuees.

The last week has seen flooding and heavy rain in all parts of the province. As a result, major roads are turning into rivers, sweeping cars, debris and people along with them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-real-life-jerry-mouse-interrupts-spanish-parliament-session-399804">Watch: Real life Jerry mouse interrupts Spanish parliament session</a>

On Thursday, the body of the baby's mother was discovered. Her body was&nbsp;frozen in place as if she had been lifting something up when rescuers reported to Beijing Youth Daily.

When the baby was taken to the hospital she was found to be without any injuries.

One rescue worker called Mr Yang said the baby girl lived because the woman lifted her child just at that crucial moment.

In the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, at least 12 people died when floodwaters inundated an underground subway line on Tuesday night.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beyond-cisgender-argentina-introduces-latin-americas-first-non-binary-id-options-399794">Beyond cisgender: Argentina introduces Latin America's first non-binary ID options</a>

Mr Zhao said rescue work had been difficult as the remote village's main access bridge had been swept away by floods. Many homes were destroyed by the floods and rain, leaving villagers vulnerable.

Rescuers have been working to find survivors throughout the region, which boasts more than 90 million inhabitants.

Undoubdetly, a mother's love is the greatest force in the world. A woman in China died while saving her baby from a mudslide as her home was flooded. The child was flung by her mother to a higher level, a family member identified as Mr Zhao told Southern Metropolis Daily.

Undoubdetly, a mother's love is the greatest force in the world. A woman in China died while saving her baby from a mudslide as her home was flooded. The child was flung by her mother to a higher level, a family member identified as Mr Zhao told Southern Metropolis Daily. Rescuers arrived at the spot and managed to save the child. After being buried under rubble for more than 24 hours, the baby girl was rescued on Wednesday. Also read | Why are climate 'mysteries' puzzling world's leading scientists? Chinese internet users went crazy over a video showing rescue workers saving the baby. The baby is believed to be between three and four months old. Wangzongdian village in Henan province was devastated by a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall, according to some reports. A record amount of rainfall has led to massive floods in the region, which have resulted in at least 51 deaths and nearly 400,000 evacuees. The last week has seen flooding and heavy rain in all parts of the province. As a result, major roads are turning into rivers, sweeping cars, debris and people along with them. Also read | Watch: Real life Jerry mouse interrupts Spanish parliament session On Thursday, the body of the baby's mother was discovered. Her body was frozen in place as if she had been lifting something up when rescuers reported to Beijing Youth Daily. When the baby was taken to the hospital she was found to be without any injuries. One rescue worker called Mr Yang said the baby girl lived because the woman lifted her child just at that crucial moment. In the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, at least 12 people died when floodwaters inundated an underground subway line on Tuesday night. Also read | Beyond cisgender: Argentina introduces Latin America's first non-binary ID options Mr Zhao said rescue work had been difficult as the remote village's main access bridge had been swept away by floods. Many homes were destroyed by the floods and rain, leaving villagers vulnerable. Rescuers have been working to find survivors throughout the region, which boasts more than 90 million inhabitants.

China floods: Mother dies saving baby from mudslide in Henan

Today, we bring you a bizarre news story about a man posing as a woman in order to board a plane.

With fake identification documents and a negative PCR test result, an Indonesian man infected with coronavirus disguised himself as his wife and boarded a domestic flight.

Wearing a niqab that covered his face, this man boarded the plane.

However, the cover did not last very long.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-rover-preparing-to-take-first-mars-rock-samples-399659">NASA rover preparing to take first Mars rock samples</a>

According to police, a flight attendant noticed the man change his clothes in the lavatory aboard the Citilink aircraft on Sunday while travelling from Jakarta to Ternate in North Maluku province.

His wife's name was on the plane ticket, the PCR test result, and the vaccination card. Aditya Laksimada, the chief of the Ternate police department, told reporters after arresting the man at the airport that all his documents are in his wife's name and that the only way to identify him was by his initials.

Following arrest, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> test was conducted on him, and it came back positive.

In the meantime, police are continuing their investigation, as the man has been kept in home isolation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-reporter-amin-hafeez-interviews-a-buffalo-on-eid-ul-zuha-and-even-gets-a-response-399668">Pakistan reporter Amin Hafeez interviews a buffalo on Eid-ul-Zuha and even gets a response</a>

With 33,772 new confirmed cases and 1,383 deaths in the last 24 hours, Indonesia is experiencing the worst coronavirus outbreak in Asia. Overall, there have been almost 2.9 million reported cases with 77,583 deaths.

As part of toughened precautions for this week's Eid al-Adha holiday, the government has implemented strict travel restrictions, including mandatory coronavirus tests.

Today, we bring you a bizarre news story about a man posing as a woman in order to board a plane. With fake identification documents and a negative PCR test result, an Indonesian man infected with coronavirus disguised himself as his wife and boarded a domestic flight.

Today, we bring you a bizarre news story about a man posing as a woman in order to board a plane. With fake identification documents and a negative PCR test result, an Indonesian man infected with coronavirus disguised himself as his wife and boarded a domestic flight. Wearing a niqab that covered his face, this man boarded the plane. However, the cover did not last very long. Also read | NASA rover preparing to take first Mars rock samples According to police, a flight attendant noticed the man change his clothes in the lavatory aboard the Citilink aircraft on Sunday while travelling from Jakarta to Ternate in North Maluku province. His wife's name was on the plane ticket, the PCR test result, and the vaccination card. Aditya Laksimada, the chief of the Ternate police department, told reporters after arresting the man at the airport that all his documents are in his wife's name and that the only way to identify him was by his initials. Following arrest, a COVID-19 test was conducted on him, and it came back positive. In the meantime, police are continuing their investigation, as the man has been kept in home isolation. Also read | Pakistan reporter Amin Hafeez interviews a buffalo on Eid-ul-Zuha and even gets a response With 33,772 new confirmed cases and 1,383 deaths in the last 24 hours, Indonesia is experiencing the worst coronavirus outbreak in Asia. Overall, there have been almost 2.9 million reported cases with 77,583 deaths. As part of toughened precautions for this week's Eid al-Adha holiday, the government has implemented strict travel restrictions, including mandatory coronavirus tests.

Indonesian man dresses up as wife to escape coronavirus detection

Australia's world number one Kaylee McKeown will pull out of the women's 200 meters medley at the Olympic Games over a scheduling conflict to focus on backstroke events, the national coach said on Thursday.

McKeown, 20, is ranked number one in three events coming into the Tokyo competition but the medley clashed with the 100m backstrokes, for which a tough competition is expected, head coach Rohan Taylor said.

McKeown's rivalry with Regan Smith is expected to figure prominently in Tokyo after the Australian snatched Smith's 100m backstroke world record at the Australian trials last month.

"You know, you got a rookie coming in and the&nbsp;Olympics, it's going to be a big experience for her, it's a big call," Taylor told reporters.

"They've gone for months talking about it and I respect that decision, they're going to focus on the backstrokes and medley relay."

The withdrawal could be a blow to Australia's hopes of taking on the United States in the pool, with the possible loss of a medal given McKeown's form.

The Queenslander was a highlight of the Olympic trials, setting a world record in the 100 meters backstroke and producing strong performances in both the 200m backstroke and 200m medley.

Taylor said McKeown was a newcomer but would be expected to tackle more events at future Games.

"So it's new to her, and I think emotionally, we need to respect that but if it's something she's not familiar with," he said.

"We need to make sure she's familiar with it because she is such a weapon in so many different facets."

Taylor said the team had had good preparations, with little interruption to training during the coronavirus pandemic.

"They just have that real, real competitive desire," he said.

"We've got a broader mix of depth and the types of athletes that I think can thrive in this environment, but they've got to prove it.

"So until they prove it. Yeah, we're very positive about how we're looking, but that's on paper."

Australia's world number one Kaylee McKeown will pull out of the women's 200 meters medley at the Olympic Games over a scheduling conflict to focus on backstroke events, the national coach said on Thursday.

Australia's world number one Kaylee McKeown will pull out of the women's 200 meters medley at the Olympic Games over a scheduling conflict to focus on backstroke events, the national coach said on Thursday. McKeown, 20, is ranked number one in three events coming into the Tokyo competition but the medley clashed with the 100m backstrokes, for which a tough competition is expected, head coach Rohan Taylor said. McKeown's rivalry with Regan Smith is expected to figure prominently in Tokyo after the Australian snatched Smith's 100m backstroke world record at the Australian trials last month. "You know, you got a rookie coming in and the Olympics, it's going to be a big experience for her, it's a big call," Taylor told reporters. "They've gone for months talking about it and I respect that decision, they're going to focus on the backstrokes and medley relay." The withdrawal could be a blow to Australia's hopes of taking on the United States in the pool, with the possible loss of a medal given McKeown's form. The Queenslander was a highlight of the Olympic trials, setting a world record in the 100 meters backstroke and producing strong performances in both the 200m backstroke and 200m medley. Taylor said McKeown was a newcomer but would be expected to tackle more events at future Games. "So it's new to her, and I think emotionally, we need to respect that but if it's something she's not familiar with," he said. "We need to make sure she's familiar with it because she is such a weapon in so many different facets." Taylor said the team had had good preparations, with little interruption to training during the coronavirus pandemic. "They just have that real, real competitive desire," he said. "We've got a broader mix of depth and the types of athletes that I think can thrive in this environment, but they've got to prove it. "So until they prove it. Yeah, we're very positive about how we're looking, but that's on paper."

Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Kaylee McKeown to withdraw from 200 medley

The tag of G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time) is given to those competitors who have come and ruled their game and set themselves in an alternate echelon contrasted with their competitors.&nbsp;

Gymnast Simone Biles brings out unadulterated bliss as she resists gravity on numerous occasions with beauty and balance.

Regardless of a defective beginning at the preliminaries, she is expected&nbsp;to burst through her opposition to one more gold medal, establishing her status as the best gymnast ever.&nbsp;

Biles&nbsp;has ruled her game like no other, starting when she was still an adolescent.

The 24-year-old US athlete has now been granted a specially designed G.O.A.T Twitter emoticon, which her fans can use during her Tokyo Olympics mission to root for her.&nbsp;

She joins commended stars like Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes to have her GOAT emoticon, while likewise being the first woman and Olympian to do so.

The emoji is generated by typing #SimoneBiles or #Simone in Tweets.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Witness greatness 
Tweet with greatness<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SimoneBiles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SimoneBiles</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Simone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Simone</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6RKzP3KB6">pic.twitter.com/M6RKzP3KB6</a>
— Twitter Sports (@TwitterSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterSports/status/1417850103428169730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Biles lately started contending in a leotard enriched with silver rhinestones looking like a goat's head.&nbsp;

"I just hope that kids growing up watching this don't or aren't ashamed of being good at whatever they do," she said.

"I want kids to learn that, yes, it's okay to acknowledge that you're good or even great at something," she added.

Biles, 24, has not lost a competition since 2013 and is aiming to become the first woman to win back-to-back Olympic all-around golds in over 50 years as well as improve on her Rio haul of five medals, four of them gold.

She made two attempts at the Yurchenko Double Pike vault, rolling her landing on the first one but performing the second almost flawlessly, surprising the handful of watching media and officials,&nbsp;including one of her coaches.

The tag of G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time) is given to those competitors who have come and ruled their game and set themselves in an alternate echelon contrasted with their competitors.

The tag of G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time) is given to those competitors who have come and ruled their game and set themselves in an alternate echelon contrasted with their competitors. Gymnast Simone Biles brings out unadulterated bliss as she resists gravity on numerous occasions with beauty and balance. Regardless of a defective beginning at the preliminaries, she is expected to burst through her opposition to one more gold medal, establishing her status as the best gymnast ever. Biles has ruled her game like no other, starting when she was still an adolescent. The 24-year-old US athlete has now been granted a specially designed G.O.A.T Twitter emoticon, which her fans can use during her Tokyo Olympics mission to root for her. She joins commended stars like Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes to have her GOAT emoticon, while likewise being the first woman and Olympian to do so. The emoji is generated by typing #SimoneBiles or #Simone in Tweets. Witness greatness Tweet with greatness#SimoneBiles#Simone pic.twitter.com/M6RKzP3KB6 — Twitter Sports (@TwitterSports) July 21, 2021 × Biles lately started contending in a leotard enriched with silver rhinestones looking like a goat's head. "I just hope that kids growing up watching this don't or aren't ashamed of being good at whatever they do," she said. "I want kids to learn that, yes, it's okay to acknowledge that you're good or even great at something," she added. Biles, 24, has not lost a competition since 2013 and is aiming to become the first woman to win back-to-back Olympic all-around golds in over 50 years as well as improve on her Rio haul of five medals, four of them gold. She made two attempts at the Yurchenko Double Pike vault, rolling her landing on the first one but performing the second almost flawlessly, surprising the handful of watching media and officials, including one of her coaches.

Tokyo Olympics: Simone Biles becomes the first woman athlete to get a G.O.A.T emoticon

Just months after a ban on "Monoply board-style" homes, Westminster city council has granted Chinese billionaire Cheung Chung-kiu permission to construct an eight-storey, 62,000 square feet private palace.&nbsp;

This private palace would overlook Hyde Park in central London and is expected to be worth up to £500 million when completed.

Chung-kiu's plan is to demolish and rebuild 2-8A Rutland Gate, in Knightsbridge, in order to build his new mansion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-rover-preparing-to-take-first-mars-rock-samples-399659">NASA rover preparing to take first Mars rock samples</a>

Despite its earlier order, the council was unable to stop the project from going ahead. As this used to be a single-family dwelling, the planning regulations didn't prohibit its replacement.&nbsp;

London's Westminster council announced plans to ban the construction of supersize properties for overseas billionaires as part of efforts to free up more space for affordable housing in 2018. However, redevelopments of existing houses are not subject to the ban, which came into force earlier this year.

The council also confirmed that Cheung would not be required to contribute to affordable housing in the borough, as is usually the case for large-scale private development projects.

Westminster council's spokesperson explained that this year the council introduced a policy that forbids projects larger than 200 sq metres from being constructed. However, the redevelopment of existing single-dwelling homes is not covered by this policy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-reporter-amin-hafeez-interviews-a-buffalo-on-eid-ul-zuha-and-even-gets-a-response-399668">Pakistan reporter Amin Hafeez interviews a buffalo on Eid-ul-Zuha and even gets a response</a>

Westminster has built over 725 affordable homes since 2017 as part of its commitment to providing the right type of housing for people.

Cheung's agent on his behalf described the building as "heavily dilapidated" in his proposed building application and expressed his desire to undertake appropriate repair, restoration, and alteration work to restore the building to a useful family home in London.

Prior to the sale, the property had been a 45-bedroom residence owned by Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz, who died in 2011.&nbsp;

<div>The house is located just south of Kensington Gardens, with 68 of its 116 windows overlooking the park. Alberto Pinto, a French designer, designed the interiors.
<div>
Prior to this development, the property had been granted planning permission to be converted to 13 flats.
</div>
</div>

Just months after a ban on "Monoply board-style" homes, Westminster city council has granted Chinese billionaire Cheung Chung-kiu permission to construct an eight-storey, 62,000 square feet private palace.

Just months after a ban on "Monoply board-style" homes, Westminster city council has granted Chinese billionaire Cheung Chung-kiu permission to construct an eight-storey, 62,000 square feet private palace. This private palace would overlook Hyde Park in central London and is expected to be worth up to £500 million when completed. Chung-kiu's plan is to demolish and rebuild 2-8A Rutland Gate, in Knightsbridge, in order to build his new mansion. Also read | NASA rover preparing to take first Mars rock samples Despite its earlier order, the council was unable to stop the project from going ahead. As this used to be a single-family dwelling, the planning regulations didn't prohibit its replacement. London's Westminster council announced plans to ban the construction of supersize properties for overseas billionaires as part of efforts to free up more space for affordable housing in 2018. However, redevelopments of existing houses are not subject to the ban, which came into force earlier this year. The council also confirmed that Cheung would not be required to contribute to affordable housing in the borough, as is usually the case for large-scale private development projects. Westminster council's spokesperson explained that this year the council introduced a policy that forbids projects larger than 200 sq metres from being constructed. However, the redevelopment of existing single-dwelling homes is not covered by this policy. Also read | Pakistan reporter Amin Hafeez interviews a buffalo on Eid-ul-Zuha and even gets a response Westminster has built over 725 affordable homes since 2017 as part of its commitment to providing the right type of housing for people. Cheung's agent on his behalf described the building as "heavily dilapidated" in his proposed building application and expressed his desire to undertake appropriate repair, restoration, and alteration work to restore the building to a useful family home in London. Prior to the sale, the property had been a 45-bedroom residence owned by Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz, who died in 2011. The house is located just south of Kensington Gardens, with 68 of its 116 windows overlooking the park. Alberto Pinto, a French designer, designed the interiors. Prior to this development, the property had been granted planning permission to be converted to 13 flats.

Chinese tycoon receives approval for massive central London palace

Irish-English cricketer Eoin Morgan believes The Hundred tournament starting today will give a splendid stage to English talent the same way the IPL had done to Indian cricket.

Morgan highlighted how adolescents like Rishabh Pant became easily recognised names after getting the stage in the IPL.&nbsp;

The Hundred, as the name suggests,&nbsp;is a&nbsp;100-ball cricket tournament in the UK.

The games involve eight men's and women's teams from major cities across England and Wales.

The men's version of The Hundred starts today.

Morgan said that a great show at The Hundred could be the ideal take-off platform for people to break into the worldwide circuit.&nbsp;

"I think the Hundred could create a platform that could springboard somebody right into international cricket. We could sit here all day and talk about the names that the IPL has produced say three-four years ago," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-haseeb-hameed-ollie-robinson-included-in-englands-17-member-squad-against-india-399530" hreflang="en">Cricket: Haseeb Hameed, Ollie Robinson included in England's 17-member squad against India</a>

"Rishabh Pant was a young kid coming through it's very exciting to watch. Looking at him now, he’s a prominent international star," said Morgan in a conversation with Eastern Eye.

He further clarified how tournaments like the IPL, the BBL, and the CPL test players' nerves in pressure circumstances. He feels this will assist them with adjusting worldwide cricket a lot faster.&nbsp;

"We’ve seen it at the IPL, in the Big Bash, and in the CPL. It makes superstars out of people as those platforms test them with pressure and how they deal with it and prepare them really well for international cricket," he added.

With different youngsters coming through, Morgan trusts England needs a rivalry like The Hundred where forthcoming talents can grandstand their abilities at a high level.&nbsp;

Morgan further called attention to how a second-string English side as of late crushed Pakistan 3-0 in an ODI series, displaying England's profundity and strength in their limited-overs series.&nbsp;

"We need it more than the format needs us, simply because of the quality of cricketers that we have now in the country," he said.

"It was unbelievable what we witnessed in the one-day series against Pakistan, where 15 of our squad members went into isolation and we almost had to pick a second-string team. We won 3-0 and all the performances were exceptional, which shows the real strength and depth in English cricket at the moment," he added.

Irish-English cricketer Eoin Morgan believes The Hundred tournament starting today will give a splendid stage to English talent the same way the IPL had done to Indian cricket.

Irish-English cricketer Eoin Morgan believes The Hundred tournament starting today will give a splendid stage to English talent the same way the IPL had done to Indian cricket. Morgan highlighted how adolescents like Rishabh Pant became easily recognised names after getting the stage in the IPL. The Hundred, as the name suggests, is a 100-ball cricket tournament in the UK. The games involve eight men's and women's teams from major cities across England and Wales. The men's version of The Hundred starts today. Morgan said that a great show at The Hundred could be the ideal take-off platform for people to break into the worldwide circuit. "I think the Hundred could create a platform that could springboard somebody right into international cricket. We could sit here all day and talk about the names that the IPL has produced say three-four years ago," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Haseeb Hameed, Ollie Robinson included in England's 17-member squad against India "Rishabh Pant was a young kid coming through it's very exciting to watch. Looking at him now, he’s a prominent international star," said Morgan in a conversation with Eastern Eye. He further clarified how tournaments like the IPL, the BBL, and the CPL test players' nerves in pressure circumstances. He feels this will assist them with adjusting worldwide cricket a lot faster. "We’ve seen it at the IPL, in the Big Bash, and in the CPL. It makes superstars out of people as those platforms test them with pressure and how they deal with it and prepare them really well for international cricket," he added. With different youngsters coming through, Morgan trusts England needs a rivalry like The Hundred where forthcoming talents can grandstand their abilities at a high level. Morgan further called attention to how a second-string English side as of late crushed Pakistan 3-0 in an ODI series, displaying England's profundity and strength in their limited-overs series. "We need it more than the format needs us, simply because of the quality of cricketers that we have now in the country," he said. "It was unbelievable what we witnessed in the one-day series against Pakistan, where 15 of our squad members went into isolation and we almost had to pick a second-string team. We won 3-0 and all the performances were exceptional, which shows the real strength and depth in English cricket at the moment," he added.

Cricket: We need 'The Hundred' more than the format needs us, says Eoin Morgan

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week.

The 26-year-old, who played in all four of the United States' recent exhibition matches in Las Vegas, averaging 10.8 points and 2.5 rebounds, was sidelined on Monday.

USA Basketball said at the time he did not travel with the three-time defending champions to Japan "out of an abundance of caution" after starting Covid-19 health and safety measures.

But it did not say if he contracted the virus or was being kept back for contact tracing.

"US Olympic men's basketball team member Zach LaVine has cleared USA Basketball's health and safety protocols and will join the USA team in Tokyo Thursday afternoon," USA Basketball said in a statement Wednesday, without giving further details.

The US squad has already lost Washington guard Bradley Beal after he was placed into Covid-19 protocols, and center Kevin Love to a calf injury.

The Americans added Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee and San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson to replace Beal and Love.

The US squad, which opens its Olympic campaign on Sunday against France, is set to add three more players in coming days following the conclusion of the NBA Finals -- Phoenix guard Devin Booker and Milwaukee's Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton.

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week.

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine was given the all-clear to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics on Wednesday after being placed into Covid-19 safety protocols this week. The 26-year-old, who played in all four of the United States' recent exhibition matches in Las Vegas, averaging 10.8 points and 2.5 rebounds, was sidelined on Monday. USA Basketball said at the time he did not travel with the three-time defending champions to Japan "out of an abundance of caution" after starting Covid-19 health and safety measures. But it did not say if he contracted the virus or was being kept back for contact tracing. "US Olympic men's basketball team member Zach LaVine has cleared USA Basketball's health and safety protocols and will join the USA team in Tokyo Thursday afternoon," USA Basketball said in a statement Wednesday, without giving further details. The US squad has already lost Washington guard Bradley Beal after he was placed into Covid-19 protocols, and center Kevin Love to a calf injury. The Americans added Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee and San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson to replace Beal and Love. The US squad, which opens its Olympic campaign on Sunday against France, is set to add three more players in coming days following the conclusion of the NBA Finals -- Phoenix guard Devin Booker and Milwaukee's Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton.

NBA star Zach LaVine gets Olympics all-clear after Covid-19 scare

Olympic virus rules mean spectators are banned, but one furry fan still tried to sneak into the Fukushima softball venue hosting the first sports event of the Tokyo Games: a bear.

The animals are common across Japan and regularly spark frantic hunts when they venture into towns, where they have been known to attack and even kill local residents.

A Fukushima police spokesman confirmed the ursine intruder was spotted last night and then again this morning, just hours before the opening pitch in a match pitting hosts Japan against Australia.

"A guard found a bear inside Azuma Sports Park early in the morning yesterday. We also received similar information this morning," the spokesman told AFP.

"We couldn't find or capture the bear, and while there won't be any spectators at the stadium, we are on alert and searching for the bear around the site."

Local media identified the animal as an Asian black bear, with the Sports Hochi daily saying the entire contingent of Olympic guards assigned to the venue spent the night searching for the creature.

They even blasted music and let off firecrackers in an effort to flush out the bear, the newspaper said.

But the softball match, which comes just two days before the opening ceremony, went off without a hitch despite the intruder with Japan recording an easy 8-1 victory.

Last month, a brown bear sparked a massive search involving police and local hunters after it rampaged through the northern city of Sapporo, which will host the Olympic marathon.

The bear mauled a soldier and a pedestrian who were hospitalized after the attack.

It was eventually shot dead after a dramatic chase, during which it bounded along a residential street, crossed a busy road, and clawed at the gate of a military barracks.

Asian black bears are native to large parts of Japan, including the country's main island, while brown bears roam Hokkaido further north.

Olympic virus rules mean spectators are banned, but one furry fan still tried to sneak into the Fukushima softball venue hosting the first sports event of the Tokyo Games: a bear.

Olympic virus rules mean spectators are banned, but one furry fan still tried to sneak into the Fukushima softball venue hosting the first sports event of the Tokyo Games: a bear. The animals are common across Japan and regularly spark frantic hunts when they venture into towns, where they have been known to attack and even kill local residents. A Fukushima police spokesman confirmed the ursine intruder was spotted last night and then again this morning, just hours before the opening pitch in a match pitting hosts Japan against Australia. "A guard found a bear inside Azuma Sports Park early in the morning yesterday. We also received similar information this morning," the spokesman told AFP. "We couldn't find or capture the bear, and while there won't be any spectators at the stadium, we are on alert and searching for the bear around the site." Local media identified the animal as an Asian black bear, with the Sports Hochi daily saying the entire contingent of Olympic guards assigned to the venue spent the night searching for the creature. They even blasted music and let off firecrackers in an effort to flush out the bear, the newspaper said. But the softball match, which comes just two days before the opening ceremony, went off without a hitch despite the intruder with Japan recording an easy 8-1 victory. Last month, a brown bear sparked a massive search involving police and local hunters after it rampaged through the northern city of Sapporo, which will host the Olympic marathon. The bear mauled a soldier and a pedestrian who were hospitalized after the attack. It was eventually shot dead after a dramatic chase, during which it bounded along a residential street, crossed a busy road, and clawed at the gate of a military barracks. Asian black bears are native to large parts of Japan, including the country's main island, while brown bears roam Hokkaido further north.

Bear alert hits softball at Olympic Games opener

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

"We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday.

"Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said.

The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo.

But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013.

The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency.

The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries.

The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia.

The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony. "We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday. "Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said. The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo. But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013. The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency. The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries. The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia. The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

Japan's cycling Saitama Criterium cancelled over pandemic

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Vinod Janardhanan

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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