Taiwan&nbsp;has spent almost $900 million this year on scrambling its air force against Chinese incursions, the island's defence minister said on Wednesday, describing the pressure they are facing as "great".

China, which claims democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island, responding to what China calls "collusion" between&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the United States.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-military-under-pressure-from-china-as-missions-mount-332833" hreflang="en">Taiwan says military under pressure from China as missions mount</a>

China has been angered at increased US&nbsp;support for&nbsp;Taiwan, including visits by senior US&nbsp;government officials and ramped up arms sales.

In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid line of the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait, which normally serves as an unofficial buffer zone, and flown multiple missions into&nbsp;Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">&nbsp;'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

Speaking at parliament,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Defence Minister Yen De-fa said to the air force had scrambled 2,972 times against Chinese aircraft this year at a cost of T$25.5 billion ($886.49 million).

"Recently the pressure has been great. To say otherwise would be deceiving people," Yen said, without giving a comparison figure for last year.

He clarified that a figure of 4,132 air force missions this year, as provided in a ministry parliamentary briefing paper, included training and regular patrol missions.

Yen said that the armed forces would this month carry out their own drills off&nbsp;Taiwan's southwest coast, though they would not be live fire.

Taiwan's armed forces are well-trained and well-equipped but are dwarfed by those of China's, and&nbsp;Taiwan's Defence Ministry has previously acknowledged the strain the repeated Chinese drills were placing on them.

Taiwan&nbsp;is in the process of revamping its fighter fleet.

The United States last year approved an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to&nbsp;Taiwan, a deal that would bring the island's total number of the aircraft to more than 200, the largest F-16 fleet in Asia.

Taiwan has spent almost $900 million this year on scrambling its air force against Chinese incursions, the island's defence minister said on Wednesday, describing the pressure they are facing as "great".

Taiwan has spent almost $900 million this year on scrambling its air force against Chinese incursions, the island's defence minister said on Wednesday, describing the pressure they are facing as "great". China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island, responding to what China calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States. Also read| Taiwan says military under pressure from China as missions mount China has been angered at increased US support for Taiwan, including visits by senior US government officials and ramped up arms sales. In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an unofficial buffer zone, and flown multiple missions into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone. Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China Speaking at parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Yen De-fa said to the air force had scrambled 2,972 times against Chinese aircraft this year at a cost of T$25.5 billion ($886.49 million). "Recently the pressure has been great. To say otherwise would be deceiving people," Yen said, without giving a comparison figure for last year. He clarified that a figure of 4,132 air force missions this year, as provided in a ministry parliamentary briefing paper, included training and regular patrol missions. Yen said that the armed forces would this month carry out their own drills off Taiwan's southwest coast, though they would not be live fire. Taiwan's armed forces are well-trained and well-equipped but are dwarfed by those of China's, and Taiwan's Defence Ministry has previously acknowledged the strain the repeated Chinese drills were placing on them. Taiwan is in the process of revamping its fighter fleet. The United States last year approved an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, a deal that would bring the island's total number of the aircraft to more than 200, the largest F-16 fleet in Asia.

Taiwan says has spent almost $900 million scrambling against China this year

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met&nbsp;German Chancellor Angela Merkel&nbsp;for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman.

<img alt="F" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ddc91c3-c8f7-4dd3-85fc-652dc4149a68" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ejpw8igX0AM2orJ.jpg" />

In picture:&nbsp;German chancellor Angela Merkel meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya at the Chancellery in Berlin/Twitter

The meeting came after Tsikhanouskaya's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Vilnius last week, until then the highest-profile Western leader to meet the exiled opposition figure.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-macron-meets-belarus-opposition-leader-svetlana-tikhanovskaya-331222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After Tsikhanouskaya's closed door meeting with Merkel, with no cameras allowed, the Belarusian opposition leader met the German opposition Green Party's leadership inside parliament.

Tsikhanouskaya posed for cameras with the German parliament's vice president of the Greens, Claudia Roth and other senior women of the party before they met for talks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-denies-lukashenko-recognition-as-belarus-president-329683">Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president</a>

Drum up support

Tsikhanouskaya, who says she won Belarus's presidential election two months ago and accuses long-standing President Alexander&nbsp;Lukashenko&nbsp;of hanging on to power only via massive electoral fraud, is in Berlin to drum up support.

Merkel, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, has said Germany does not recognise&nbsp;Lukashenko&nbsp;as the winner of the vote and condemned the government's violence against protesters.

"This, our struggle, has not only united the Belarusians in our homeland but in the whole world," Tikhanovskaya told several dozen demonstrators waving red-and-white banners and placards in the German capital Monday evening.

"I learned today that the Belarusians in Berlin, but also in other German cities, hardly knew each other before," Tikhanovskaya told the crowd.

"But this summer, Belarus and Belarusians have united. We don't know how long this struggle will last but we need your help. The government has not heard us for 26 years and it does not hear us now," she added.

The United States and the EU hit Belarus officials with long-awaited sanctions on Friday, drawing an angry response from Minsk and its ally Moscow.

Tikhanovskaya only joined the political fray after her husband Sergei -- a popular blogger -- was barred from registering as a presidential candidate and arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government.

The 38-year-old has met with leaders in Poland and Lithuania, but her talks with Macron have been the most high profile to date.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met German Chancellor Angela Merkel for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met German Chancellor Angela Merkel for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman. In picture: German chancellor Angela Merkel meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya at the Chancellery in Berlin/Twitter The meeting came after Tsikhanouskaya's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Vilnius last week, until then the highest-profile Western leader to meet the exiled opposition figure. After Tsikhanouskaya's closed door meeting with Merkel, with no cameras allowed, the Belarusian opposition leader met the German opposition Green Party's leadership inside parliament. Tsikhanouskaya posed for cameras with the German parliament's vice president of the Greens, Claudia Roth and other senior women of the party before they met for talks. Also read: Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president Drum up support Tsikhanouskaya, who says she won Belarus's presidential election two months ago and accuses long-standing President Alexander Lukashenko of hanging on to power only via massive electoral fraud, is in Berlin to drum up support. Merkel, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, has said Germany does not recognise Lukashenko as the winner of the vote and condemned the government's violence against protesters. "This, our struggle, has not only united the Belarusians in our homeland but in the whole world," Tikhanovskaya told several dozen demonstrators waving red-and-white banners and placards in the German capital Monday evening. "I learned today that the Belarusians in Berlin, but also in other German cities, hardly knew each other before," Tikhanovskaya told the crowd. "But this summer, Belarus and Belarusians have united. We don't know how long this struggle will last but we need your help. The government has not heard us for 26 years and it does not hear us now," she added. The United States and the EU hit Belarus officials with long-awaited sanctions on Friday, drawing an angry response from Minsk and its ally Moscow. Tikhanovskaya only joined the political fray after her husband Sergei -- a popular blogger -- was barred from registering as a presidential candidate and arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government. The 38-year-old has met with leaders in Poland and Lithuania, but her talks with Macron have been the most high profile to date.

Belarus opposition leader meets Merkel to drum up support against Lukashenko

Kyrgyzstan's prime minister Kubatbek Boronov resigned Tuesday after widespread unrest pushed the country's electoral body to cancel the results of Sunday's parliament elections.&nbsp;

Boronov, an ally of pro-Russian President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, was replaced by a nationalist politician that protesters released from jail the day before.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/post-election-protests-put-kyrgyzstan-on-brink-of-revolt-332836">Post-election protests put Kyrgyzstan on brink of revolt</a>

Unrest over the vote left almost 700 hurt and one dead and appeared to be spreading Tuesday to other parts of the country, raising concerns from Russia which has a powerful influence in the ex-Soviet country wedged between China and Kazakhstan.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyrgyzstan-unrest-in-an-attempt-to-disperse-demonstrators-police-uses-tear-gas-333073/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kyrgyzstan's Central Electoral Commission said that it had "invalidated the election results" which saw parties close to Jeenbekov dominate results amid accusations of mass vote-buying.

The results sparked a tumultuous Monday night in the capital Bishkek, with protesters seizing government buildings and freeing high-profile politicians from prison, including former president Almazbek Atambayev.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-chinese-websites-claim-kyrgyzstan-kazakhstan-part-of-china-draws-ire-of-central-asia-298057">Now, Chinese websites claim Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan part of China; draws ire of Central Asia</a>

The new prime minister, Sadyr Japarov, was elected during an extraordinary meeting in a hotel after protesters seized the parliament building, the parliamentary press service said.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kremlin was "certainly concerned" over the unrest.

Russian military authorities said they had beefed up security at their base&nbsp;outside the capital.

The United States meanwhile called on all sides to "refrain from violence and resolve the election dispute through peaceful means".

Attempt to seize power

Bishkek was calmer on Tuesday, although the president's office remained under the control of protesters and there were some reports of crowds roaming the streets targeting businesses and other organisations.&nbsp;

Jeenbekov's office said the president had remained in the capital, despite not making any public appearances.&nbsp;

But reports indicated that unrest was spreading beyond the capital with several gold and coal mines -- critical to the threadbare state budget -- seized or damaged by marauders.

More than a dozen political parties said they had formed a "coordination council" to restore stability and "return to the rule of law", criticising the presidency for failing to ensure a fair election.&nbsp;

However, the new prime minister's party has refused to recognise the council.

President Jeenbekov has insisted the situation in the country is under his control, and accused "several political forces" of attempting to seize power Tuesday.&nbsp;

"I ordered law enforcement agencies not to open fire or shed blood, so as not to endanger the life of a single citizen," Jeenbekov said.&nbsp;

A court in Bishkek on Tuesday reversed incoming premier Japarov's 11.5-year conviction for hostage-taking and other crimes that he began serving in 2018. &nbsp;

Banks and many shops and restaurants were closed in central Bishkek, with storeowners removing their goods over looting fears.&nbsp;

Mines targeted

Weakened security after uprisings in 2005 and 2010 saw criminal gangs target mining enterprises that are typically in remote locations.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for Alliance Altyn, which operates&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan's second-largest gold mine, based in the western Talas region, told AFP that work at the mine had ceased work after a group of men broke into the premises and set fire to a processing unit.

"Our employees were not hurt, thank goodness. We cannot say yet when we will work again," said spokeswoman Kasiyet Karacholkova.

On the same day, an enterprise that controls a vast coal mine in Naryn region said that their mine had been seized and their offices robbed by a criminal gang.&nbsp;

Business associations called on political parties to ensure stability in order to help businesses facing "huge losses" over the coronavirus pandemic in a joint letter.&nbsp;

Opposition supporters had poured onto Bishkek's streets Monday to demand the president's resignation and a re-run of Sunday's poll that left three parties from the outgoing parliament out in the cold.

The peaceful demonstrations in Bishkek turned violent later after clashes with police. &nbsp;

Some protesters then marched to the State National Security Committee building where former president Atambayev was jailed.

Footage posted on social media showed the 64-year-old greeting supporters after he left jail, where he was serving an 11-year-sentence for his role in the illegal release from jail of a mob boss.

Atambayev was once close with his successor Jeenbekov, but the pair fell out shortly after the 61-year-old won 2017's presidential election.

Kyrgyzstan's prime minister Kubatbek Boronov resigned Tuesday after widespread unrest pushed the country's electoral body to cancel the results of Sunday's parliament elections.

Kyrgyzstan's prime minister Kubatbek Boronov resigned Tuesday after widespread unrest pushed the country's electoral body to cancel the results of Sunday's parliament elections. Boronov, an ally of pro-Russian President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, was replaced by a nationalist politician that protesters released from jail the day before. Also read: Post-election protests put Kyrgyzstan on brink of revolt Unrest over the vote left almost 700 hurt and one dead and appeared to be spreading Tuesday to other parts of the country, raising concerns from Russia which has a powerful influence in the ex-Soviet country wedged between China and Kazakhstan. Kyrgyzstan's Central Electoral Commission said that it had "invalidated the election results" which saw parties close to Jeenbekov dominate results amid accusations of mass vote-buying. The results sparked a tumultuous Monday night in the capital Bishkek, with protesters seizing government buildings and freeing high-profile politicians from prison, including former president Almazbek Atambayev. Also read: Now, Chinese websites claim Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan part of China; draws ire of Central Asia The new prime minister, Sadyr Japarov, was elected during an extraordinary meeting in a hotel after protesters seized the parliament building, the parliamentary press service said. Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the Kremlin was "certainly concerned" over the unrest. Russian military authorities said they had beefed up security at their base outside the capital. The United States meanwhile called on all sides to "refrain from violence and resolve the election dispute through peaceful means". Attempt to seize power Bishkek was calmer on Tuesday, although the president's office remained under the control of protesters and there were some reports of crowds roaming the streets targeting businesses and other organisations. Jeenbekov's office said the president had remained in the capital, despite not making any public appearances. But reports indicated that unrest was spreading beyond the capital with several gold and coal mines -- critical to the threadbare state budget -- seized or damaged by marauders. More than a dozen political parties said they had formed a "coordination council" to restore stability and "return to the rule of law", criticising the presidency for failing to ensure a fair election. However, the new prime minister's party has refused to recognise the council. President Jeenbekov has insisted the situation in the country is under his control, and accused "several political forces" of attempting to seize power Tuesday. "I ordered law enforcement agencies not to open fire or shed blood, so as not to endanger the life of a single citizen," Jeenbekov said. A court in Bishkek on Tuesday reversed incoming premier Japarov's 11.5-year conviction for hostage-taking and other crimes that he began serving in 2018. Banks and many shops and restaurants were closed in central Bishkek, with storeowners removing their goods over looting fears. Mines targeted Weakened security after uprisings in 2005 and 2010 saw criminal gangs target mining enterprises that are typically in remote locations. A spokeswoman for Alliance Altyn, which operates Kyrgyzstan's second-largest gold mine, based in the western Talas region, told AFP that work at the mine had ceased work after a group of men broke into the premises and set fire to a processing unit. "Our employees were not hurt, thank goodness. We cannot say yet when we will work again," said spokeswoman Kasiyet Karacholkova. On the same day, an enterprise that controls a vast coal mine in Naryn region said that their mine had been seized and their offices robbed by a criminal gang. Business associations called on political parties to ensure stability in order to help businesses facing "huge losses" over the coronavirus pandemic in a joint letter. Opposition supporters had poured onto Bishkek's streets Monday to demand the president's resignation and a re-run of Sunday's poll that left three parties from the outgoing parliament out in the cold. The peaceful demonstrations in Bishkek turned violent later after clashes with police. Some protesters then marched to the State National Security Committee building where former president Atambayev was jailed. Footage posted on social media showed the 64-year-old greeting supporters after he left jail, where he was serving an 11-year-sentence for his role in the illegal release from jail of a mob boss. Atambayev was once close with his successor Jeenbekov, but the pair fell out shortly after the 61-year-old won 2017's presidential election.

Kyrgyzstan prime minister resigns during post-vote chaos

A tug-of-war over $1 billion (£770.4 million) worth of Venezuelan gold stored at the Bank of England took a new turn on Monday as the English Court of Appeal overturned an earlier High Court ruling on who the UK recognised as Venezuela's president.

The Court of Appeal granted the Nicolas&nbsp;Maduro-backed Banco Central de Venezuela’s (BCV) appeal and set aside July's High Court judgement, which had found that Britain's recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaidó as "constitutional interim president of Venezuela" was conclusive.

The BCV sued the Bank of England in May to recover control of the gold, which it says it will sell to finance Venezuela's response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The BoE has refused to release the gold, however, after the British government in early 2019 joined dozens of nations in backing Guaido on the basis that&nbsp;Maduro's election win the previous year had been rigged.

Monday's decision means the case now goes back to the High Court for it to determine more definitively which of the two rival leaders is in charge.

Monday's judgment said it was necessary to determine whether "(1) the UK government recognises Mr Guaidó as President of Venezuela for all purposes and therefore does not recognise Mr&nbsp;Maduro&nbsp;as President for any purpose.

"Or (2) HMG (the UK government) recognises Mr Guaidó as entitled to be the President of Venezuela and thus entitled to exercise all the powers of the President but also recognises Mr&nbsp;Maduro&nbsp;as the person who does in fact exercise some or all of the powers of the President of Venezuela."

Vanessa Neumann, the ambassador designated by Guaidó for Britain and Ireland, told reporters that the court could issue a new pronouncement within a week or two, but added that the process could be delayed by other appeals.

The BCV has said the proceeds from the sale of the gold would be transferred directly to the United Nations Development Programme to procure humanitarian aid, medicine and equipment to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Central Bank of Venezuela reaffirms that it will continue carrying out all actions necessary to protect its sovereign international reserves and the sacred patrimony of the Republic," it wrote in a statement in response to the decision.

Venezuela's opposition has alleged that&nbsp;Maduro&nbsp;wants to use the money to pay off his foreign allies, which his lawyers deny.

Over the past two years,&nbsp;Maduro’s government has taken some 30 tonnes from its local gold reserves to sell abroad for much-needed hard currency, according to people familiar with the operations and the bank’s own data.

A tug-of-war over $1 billion (£770.4 million) worth of Venezuelan gold stored at the Bank of England took a new turn on Monday as the English Court of Appeal overturned an earlier High Court ruling on who the UK recognised as Venezuela's president.

A tug-of-war over $1 billion (£770.4 million) worth of Venezuelan gold stored at the Bank of England took a new turn on Monday as the English Court of Appeal overturned an earlier High Court ruling on who the UK recognised as Venezuela's president. The Court of Appeal granted the Nicolas Maduro-backed Banco Central de Venezuela’s (BCV) appeal and set aside July's High Court judgement, which had found that Britain's recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaidó as "constitutional interim president of Venezuela" was conclusive. The BCV sued the Bank of England in May to recover control of the gold, which it says it will sell to finance Venezuela's response to the coronavirus pandemic. The BoE has refused to release the gold, however, after the British government in early 2019 joined dozens of nations in backing Guaido on the basis that Maduro's election win the previous year had been rigged. Monday's decision means the case now goes back to the High Court for it to determine more definitively which of the two rival leaders is in charge. Monday's judgment said it was necessary to determine whether "(1) the UK government recognises Mr Guaidó as President of Venezuela for all purposes and therefore does not recognise Mr Maduro as President for any purpose. "Or (2) HMG (the UK government) recognises Mr Guaidó as entitled to be the President of Venezuela and thus entitled to exercise all the powers of the President but also recognises Mr Maduro as the person who does in fact exercise some or all of the powers of the President of Venezuela." Vanessa Neumann, the ambassador designated by Guaidó for Britain and Ireland, told reporters that the court could issue a new pronouncement within a week or two, but added that the process could be delayed by other appeals. The BCV has said the proceeds from the sale of the gold would be transferred directly to the United Nations Development Programme to procure humanitarian aid, medicine and equipment to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. "The Central Bank of Venezuela reaffirms that it will continue carrying out all actions necessary to protect its sovereign international reserves and the sacred patrimony of the Republic," it wrote in a statement in response to the decision. Venezuela's opposition has alleged that Maduro wants to use the money to pay off his foreign allies, which his lawyers deny. Over the past two years, Maduro’s government has taken some 30 tonnes from its local gold reserves to sell abroad for much-needed hard currency, according to people familiar with the operations and the bank’s own data.

UK court overturns Venezuela judgment in $1 billion gold tug-of-war

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16, four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government.

On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced formation of the PDM and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an 'action plan'&nbsp;starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a ''decisive long march''&nbsp;towards Islamabad in January 2021.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-pm-nawaz-sharif-daughter-face-sedition-charges-for-criticising-pakistani-military-332719" hreflang="en">Nawaz Sharif, daughter face sedition charges for criticising Pak military</a>

''Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16,''&nbsp;PDM leader Ahsan Iqbal said.

The Opposition leaders had announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and en mass resignations from the parliament to seek "the selected prime minister's resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terror-funding-watchdog-fatf-to-decide-on-paks-grey-list-status-this-month-report-332618" hreflang="en">Terror funding watchdog FATF to decide on Pak's grey list status this month</a>

They also issued a 26-point declaration in the form a resolution containing various demands, including "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law.''

As per the new schedule unveiled by Iqbal showed that the Gujranwala rally would be followed by a rally in Karachi on October 18, Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13, said Iqbal. 
The schedule announced earlier showed that the first rally would be held on Oct 18 in Quetta.

The change was made at the request of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which commemorates the day October 18 to pay homage to victims of Karsaz bombing in 2007 that killed scores of people attending a rally in Karachi to welcome Benazir Bhutto.

The PDM leaders also condemned the registration of an FIR against Nawaz Sharif for allegedly defaming the state institutions. 
Earlier on Monday, a case was filed against Sharif in Lahore.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16, four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government.

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16, four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government. On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced formation of the PDM and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an 'action plan' starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a ''decisive long march'' towards Islamabad in January 2021. Also read: Nawaz Sharif, daughter face sedition charges for criticising Pak military ''Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16,'' PDM leader Ahsan Iqbal said. The Opposition leaders had announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and en mass resignations from the parliament to seek "the selected prime minister's resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics." Also read: Terror funding watchdog FATF to decide on Pak's grey list status this month They also issued a 26-point declaration in the form a resolution containing various demands, including "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law.'' As per the new schedule unveiled by Iqbal showed that the Gujranwala rally would be followed by a rally in Karachi on October 18, Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13, said Iqbal. The schedule announced earlier showed that the first rally would be held on Oct 18 in Quetta. The change was made at the request of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which commemorates the day October 18 to pay homage to victims of Karsaz bombing in 2007 that killed scores of people attending a rally in Karachi to welcome Benazir Bhutto. The PDM leaders also condemned the registration of an FIR against Nawaz Sharif for allegedly defaming the state institutions. Earlier on Monday, a case was filed against Sharif in Lahore.

Pakistan's opposition parties alliance to hold first rally on October 16

People protesting the results of a parliamentary election in&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan&nbsp;broke into government and security headquarters early on Tuesday and freed a former president from custody, local news websites said.

President Sooronbai Jeenbekov described their actions as a bid by some political forces to seize power illegally, but said the authorities did not rule out holding another vote as public rallies started in several cities across the country.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyrgyzstan-hundreds-storm-parliament-over-vote-rigging-claims-332821/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The thousands-strong protests broke out after two establishment parties, one of which is close to Jeenbekov, swept Sunday's vote, according to preliminary results.

Protesters demanded that the vote results be cancelled and the Central Election Commission said on Tuesday it would consider their request, local news website 24.kg reported.

Police had dispersed the protest late on Monday, but protesters returned to the central square of capital Bishkek hours later and broke into the building that houses both the president and parliament, the local websites said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-chinese-websites-claim-kyrgyzstan-kazakhstan-part-of-china-draws-ire-of-central-asia-298057">Now, Chinese websites claim Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan part of China; draws ire of Central Asia</a>

The building known locally as the White House briefly caught fire on Tuesday morning, but the blaze was quickly put out.

Protesters then broke into the headquarters of State Committee on National Security and freed former president Almazbek Atambayev, who was sentenced to a lengthy prison term this year on corruption charges after falling out with Jeenbekov, his successor.

Opposition groups took over several more buildings, including the mayor's office, and appointed their own acting head of national security, acting prosecutor general and a commandant of Bishkek although it was unclear how much actual power they wielded.

Several provincial governors have resigned, according to local media reports.

One person has been killed and 590 wounded in the overnight clashes, the government said. Jeenbekov said on Tuesday he had ordered security forces not to use firearms and "not to shed blood".

Local media reported that public rallies began on Tuesday in several provincial centres, most of them anti-government, while Jeenbekov's supporters gathered in the southern city of Osh, where his brother Asylbek Jeenbekov called for unity and order.

The Central Asian country of 6.5 million, which is closely allied with Russia, has a history of political volatility. In the past 15 years, two of its presidents have been toppled by revolts.

People protesting the results of a parliamentary election in Kyrgyzstan broke into government and security headquarters early on Tuesday and freed a former president from custody, local news websites said.

People protesting the results of a parliamentary election in Kyrgyzstan broke into government and security headquarters early on Tuesday and freed a former president from custody, local news websites said. President Sooronbai Jeenbekov described their actions as a bid by some political forces to seize power illegally, but said the authorities did not rule out holding another vote as public rallies started in several cities across the country. The thousands-strong protests broke out after two establishment parties, one of which is close to Jeenbekov, swept Sunday's vote, according to preliminary results. Protesters demanded that the vote results be cancelled and the Central Election Commission said on Tuesday it would consider their request, local news website 24.kg reported. Police had dispersed the protest late on Monday, but protesters returned to the central square of capital Bishkek hours later and broke into the building that houses both the president and parliament, the local websites said. Also read: Now, Chinese websites claim Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan part of China; draws ire of Central Asia The building known locally as the White House briefly caught fire on Tuesday morning, but the blaze was quickly put out. Protesters then broke into the headquarters of State Committee on National Security and freed former president Almazbek Atambayev, who was sentenced to a lengthy prison term this year on corruption charges after falling out with Jeenbekov, his successor. Opposition groups took over several more buildings, including the mayor's office, and appointed their own acting head of national security, acting prosecutor general and a commandant of Bishkek although it was unclear how much actual power they wielded. Several provincial governors have resigned, according to local media reports. One person has been killed and 590 wounded in the overnight clashes, the government said. Jeenbekov said on Tuesday he had ordered security forces not to use firearms and "not to shed blood". Local media reported that public rallies began on Tuesday in several provincial centres, most of them anti-government, while Jeenbekov's supporters gathered in the southern city of Osh, where his brother Asylbek Jeenbekov called for unity and order. The Central Asian country of 6.5 million, which is closely allied with Russia, has a history of political volatility. In the past 15 years, two of its presidents have been toppled by revolts.

Post-election protests put Kyrgyzstan on brink of revolt

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour.

China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activities near the island, responding to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taipei and Washington.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-taiwan-china-relations-since-1949-188037">In pictures: Taiwan-China relations since 1949</a>

In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an official buffer between the island and the mainland, and have flown into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone.

In a report to parliament, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, Taiwan's Defence Ministry said so far this year the air force had scrambled 4,132 times, up 129 per cent&nbsp;compared to all of last year, according to Reuters calculations.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">&nbsp;'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

China "is trying to use unilateral military actions to change the security status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and at the same time is testing our response, increasing pressure on our air defences and shrinking our space for activity," it said.

The rapid development of China's military has been accompanied by "targeted" military actions against Taiwan, the ministry added.

China has been particularly angered by growing U.S. support for Taiwan, including senior US&nbsp;officials visiting the island, adding to broader Sino-U.S. tensions.

While Taiwan is unable to compete numerically with China's armed forces, President Tsai Ing-wen has been overseeing a military modernisation programme, aiming to make the island's armed forces more nimble and Taiwan more difficult to attack.

Addressing a Taiwan-US&nbsp;defence conference late Monday, Vice Defence Minister Chang Guan-chung said China has been ramping up what he called "realistic training against Taiwan".

"We are developing systems that are small, numerous, smart, stealthy, fast, mobile, low-cost, survivable, effective, easy to develop, maintain and preserve, and difficult to detect and counter," he said.

Chang called for enhanced cooperation with the United States that goes beyond weapons sales, saying that would further invigorate Taiwan's defence reform and military modernisation.

"We will also emphasise joint effort in training, operational concepts, capability assessment, intelligence sharing, and armament cooperation. These are equally important as the acquisition of hardware," he said.

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour.

Taiwan's military has launched aircraft to intercept Chinese planes more than twice as much as all of last year, the island's defence ministry said, describing Taiwan as facing severe security challenges from its huge neighbour. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activities near the island, responding to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taipei and Washington. Also see| In pictures: Taiwan-China relations since 1949 In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an official buffer between the island and the mainland, and have flown into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone. In a report to parliament, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, Taiwan's Defence Ministry said so far this year the air force had scrambled 4,132 times, up 129 per cent compared to all of last year, according to Reuters calculations. Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China China "is trying to use unilateral military actions to change the security status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and at the same time is testing our response, increasing pressure on our air defences and shrinking our space for activity," it said. The rapid development of China's military has been accompanied by "targeted" military actions against Taiwan, the ministry added. China has been particularly angered by growing U.S. support for Taiwan, including senior US officials visiting the island, adding to broader Sino-U.S. tensions. While Taiwan is unable to compete numerically with China's armed forces, President Tsai Ing-wen has been overseeing a military modernisation programme, aiming to make the island's armed forces more nimble and Taiwan more difficult to attack. Addressing a Taiwan-US defence conference late Monday, Vice Defence Minister Chang Guan-chung said China has been ramping up what he called "realistic training against Taiwan". "We are developing systems that are small, numerous, smart, stealthy, fast, mobile, low-cost, survivable, effective, easy to develop, maintain and preserve, and difficult to detect and counter," he said. Chang called for enhanced cooperation with the United States that goes beyond weapons sales, saying that would further invigorate Taiwan's defence reform and military modernisation. "We will also emphasise joint effort in training, operational concepts, capability assessment, intelligence sharing, and armament cooperation. These are equally important as the acquisition of hardware," he said.

Taiwan says military under pressure from China as missions mount

Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations.

The locations in these towns have been honored with&nbsp;banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series.

Written by J.K. Rowling and illustrated by Emily Gravett, "Quidditch&nbsp;Through The Ages Illustrated Edition" launches on Tuesday and features the UK towns of Holyhead, Falmouth, Ballycastle and Montrose among others, complete with their fictitious teams of the Holyhead Harpies, the Falmouth Falcons, Ballycastle Bats and the Montrose Magpies.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/harry-potter-flies-in-london-playing-quidditch-over-leicester-square-331934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The decorative&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;banners bearing the crest and team name were presented in mayoral ceremonies and social-distanced celebrations across the UK and Ireland at iconic landmarks, from ancient castles like Falmouth's Pendennis Castle to craggy headlands such as Holyhead's South Stack to mark their honorary&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Town status.

"I'm happy that Harry Potter has something connected to my town," said young fan and local resident, Riley McClymond of team Holyhead Harpies.

Further ceremonies will take place during this week - outdoors and within COVID-19 restrictions.

Two fictitious&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;towns are also being honoured, Chudley Cannons and Puddlemere United. Fans can pledge their virtual allegiance to any of the thirteen&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;teams by visiting the official Harry Potter fan club, <a href="https://www.wizardingworld.com/">Wizarding World</a>, to view the banners in-situ and uncover more information about each Honorary&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Town.

Quidditch&nbsp;is the sport that Harry Potter plays in the iconic boy wizard novels. It is played on a pitch with participants on broomsticks. To score points, players must throw the ball through hoops while chasing the elusive golden 'snitch'.

Real-life&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;was first adapted in 2005 by students at Middlebury College in Vermont, United States. A player with a tennis ball swinging from their trousers in a sock embodies the snitch. Teams from across the world battled it out at the annual International&nbsp;Quidditch&nbsp;Association World Cup, although the IQA World Cup 2020 has been postponed until next year and will be held in the U.S.

Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations. The locations in these towns have been honored with banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series.

Harry Potter fans can now visit eleven locations honoured as 'Quidditch towns' across the United Kingdom and Ireland for wonderful staycations. The locations in these towns have been honored with banners to mark the launch of a new sporting companion book to the Harry Potter series. Written by J.K. Rowling and illustrated by Emily Gravett, "Quidditch Through The Ages Illustrated Edition" launches on Tuesday and features the UK towns of Holyhead, Falmouth, Ballycastle and Montrose among others, complete with their fictitious teams of the Holyhead Harpies, the Falmouth Falcons, Ballycastle Bats and the Montrose Magpies. The decorative Quidditch banners bearing the crest and team name were presented in mayoral ceremonies and social-distanced celebrations across the UK and Ireland at iconic landmarks, from ancient castles like Falmouth's Pendennis Castle to craggy headlands such as Holyhead's South Stack to mark their honorary Quidditch Town status. "I'm happy that Harry Potter has something connected to my town," said young fan and local resident, Riley McClymond of team Holyhead Harpies. Further ceremonies will take place during this week - outdoors and within COVID-19 restrictions. Two fictitious Quidditch towns are also being honoured, Chudley Cannons and Puddlemere United. Fans can pledge their virtual allegiance to any of the thirteen Quidditch teams by visiting the official Harry Potter fan club, Wizarding World, to view the banners in-situ and uncover more information about each Honorary Quidditch Town. Quidditch is the sport that Harry Potter plays in the iconic boy wizard novels. It is played on a pitch with participants on broomsticks. To score points, players must throw the ball through hoops while chasing the elusive golden 'snitch'. Real-life Quidditch was first adapted in 2005 by students at Middlebury College in Vermont, United States. A player with a tennis ball swinging from their trousers in a sock embodies the snitch. Teams from across the world battled it out at the annual International Quidditch Association World Cup, although the IQA World Cup 2020 has been postponed until next year and will be held in the U.S.

Harry Potter fans can now visit 'Quidditch towns' across these locations

October 06 in history: Michael Jordan retires from basketball and more

Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden on Monday said that US President Donald Trump is&nbsp;"responsible" for catching coronavirus.

The statement came as&nbsp;his Republican rival Trump returned to the White House after a three-night hospital stay for treatment for COVID-19.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;criticised the president for flouting mask wearing and social distancing guidelines.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-still-infectious-returns-to-white-house-removes-mask-despite-having-covid-332785" hreflang="en">Don’t let coronavirus dominate you: Trump removes mask after leaving hospital</a>

Biden was questioned if he agrees with a recent poll says 65 percent of Americans think the president bears some responsibility for contracting this virus.&nbsp;To which he replied,&nbsp;"Look, anybody who contracts the virus by essentially saying masks don't matter, social distancing doesn't matter, I think is is is responsible."

Trump told Americans "to get out there" and not fear COVID-19 as he returned to the White House on Monday and removed his white surgical mask to pose for pictures.

"Look, anybody who contracts the virus by essentially saying masks don't matter, social distancing doesn't matter, I think is is is responsible,"&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;told an NBC town hall in Miami, Florida.

"I would hope that the president, having gone through what he went through and I'm glad he seems to be coming along pretty well, would communicate the right lesson to the American people. Mask's matter," he added.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-who-has-tested-positive-and-negative-in-trumps-circle-332571" hreflang="en">Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle</a>

Trump wore a mask as he left the helicopter that flew him back from a military hospital outside Washington and climbed the stairs of the White House South Portico, where he removed it and posed for pictures, waving, saluting and giving thumbs-up signs.

He then turned to walk into the White House, his mask still in his pocket, TV footage showed.

Trump has played down a disease has killed more than 1 million people worldwide and more than 209,000 in the United States alone, the highest death toll of any country.

The Republican president, running for re-election against Democrat Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;in the November&nbsp;3 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US&nbsp;election</a>, was admitted to the Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday after being diagnosed with the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

"Don't let it dominate you. Don't be afraid of it," Trump said in a recorded video message. "We're going back, we're going back to work. We're going to be out front. ... Don't let it dominate your lives. Get out there, be careful."

Shortly after his return, a video with thunderous orchestral music posted to his Twitter handle showed him arriving at the White House and saluting from the South Portico as Marine One flew off. The video was quickly viewed nearly a million times.

Trump has repeatedly flouted social-distancing guidelines meant to curb the virus' spread. He also mocked&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;at last Tuesday's presidential debate for wearing a mask at events, even when he is far from others.

Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden on Monday said that US President Donald Trump is "responsible" for catching coronavirus. The statement came as his Republican rival Trump returned to the White House after a three-night hospital stay for treatment for COVID-19.

Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden on Monday said that US President Donald Trump is "responsible" for catching coronavirus. The statement came as his Republican rival Trump returned to the White House after a three-night hospital stay for treatment for COVID-19. Biden criticised the president for flouting mask wearing and social distancing guidelines. Also read: Don’t let coronavirus dominate you: Trump removes mask after leaving hospital Biden was questioned if he agrees with a recent poll says 65 percent of Americans think the president bears some responsibility for contracting this virus. To which he replied, "Look, anybody who contracts the virus by essentially saying masks don't matter, social distancing doesn't matter, I think is is is responsible." Trump told Americans "to get out there" and not fear COVID-19 as he returned to the White House on Monday and removed his white surgical mask to pose for pictures. "Look, anybody who contracts the virus by essentially saying masks don't matter, social distancing doesn't matter, I think is is is responsible," Biden told an NBC town hall in Miami, Florida. "I would hope that the president, having gone through what he went through and I'm glad he seems to be coming along pretty well, would communicate the right lesson to the American people. Mask's matter," he added. Also see: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle Trump wore a mask as he left the helicopter that flew him back from a military hospital outside Washington and climbed the stairs of the White House South Portico, where he removed it and posed for pictures, waving, saluting and giving thumbs-up signs. He then turned to walk into the White House, his mask still in his pocket, TV footage showed. Trump has played down a disease has killed more than 1 million people worldwide and more than 209,000 in the United States alone, the highest death toll of any country. The Republican president, running for re-election against Democrat Joe Biden in the November 3 US election, was admitted to the Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday after being diagnosed with the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. "Don't let it dominate you. Don't be afraid of it," Trump said in a recorded video message. "We're going back, we're going back to work. We're going to be out front. ... Don't let it dominate your lives. Get out there, be careful." Shortly after his return, a video with thunderous orchestral music posted to his Twitter handle showed him arriving at the White House and saluting from the South Portico as Marine One flew off. The video was quickly viewed nearly a million times. Trump has repeatedly flouted social-distancing guidelines meant to curb the virus' spread. He also mocked Biden at last Tuesday's presidential debate for wearing a mask at events, even when he is far from others.

Joe Biden says Donald Trump 'responsible' for catching COVID-19

The&nbsp;Pentagon has&nbsp;awarded&nbsp;a $149 million (£114.8 million) contract to build missile-tracking satellites to Elon Musk's SpaceX.

This is the&nbsp;first government contract to build satellites for SpaceX which is&nbsp;an&nbsp;American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-to-destroy-rocket-in-mock-failure-before-manned-missions-with-nasa-275010">SpaceX to destroy rocket in 'mock-failure' before manned missions with NASA</a>

SpaceX is known for its reusable rockets and astronaut capsules, is ramping up satellite production for Starlink, a growing constellation of hundreds of internet-beaming satellites that chief executive Elon Musk hopes will generate enough revenue to help fund SpaceX’s interplanetary goals.

Under the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Space Development Agency (SDA)&nbsp;contract, SpaceX will use its Starlink assembly plant in Redmond, Washington, to build four satellites fitted with a wide-angle infrared missile-tracking sensor supplied by a subcontractor, an SDA official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-nasa-astronauts-on-spacexs-crew-dragon-will-vote-from-space-331336">NASA astronauts on SpaceX's Crew Dragon will vote from space</a>

Technology company L3 Harris Technologies Inc., formerly Harris Corporation, received $193 million to build another four satellites. Both companies are expected to deliver the satellites for launch by fall 2022.&nbsp;

The awards are part of the SDA’s first phase to procure satellites to detect and track missiles like intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), which can travel long distances and are challenging to track and intercept.&nbsp;

SpaceX in 2019 received $28 million from the Air Force to use the fledgling Starlink satellite network to test encrypted internet services with a number of military planes, though the Air Force has not ordered any Starlink satellites of its own.

The Pentagon has awarded a $149 million (£114.8 million) contract to build missile-tracking satellites to Elon Musk's SpaceX. This is the first government contract to build satellites for SpaceX which is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services.

The Pentagon has awarded a $149 million (£114.8 million) contract to build missile-tracking satellites to Elon Musk's SpaceX. This is the first government contract to build satellites for SpaceX which is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services. Also read: SpaceX to destroy rocket in 'mock-failure' before manned missions with NASA SpaceX is known for its reusable rockets and astronaut capsules, is ramping up satellite production for Starlink, a growing constellation of hundreds of internet-beaming satellites that chief executive Elon Musk hopes will generate enough revenue to help fund SpaceX’s interplanetary goals. Under the US Space Development Agency (SDA) contract, SpaceX will use its Starlink assembly plant in Redmond, Washington, to build four satellites fitted with a wide-angle infrared missile-tracking sensor supplied by a subcontractor, an SDA official said. Also read: NASA astronauts on SpaceX's Crew Dragon will vote from space Technology company L3 Harris Technologies Inc., formerly Harris Corporation, received $193 million to build another four satellites. Both companies are expected to deliver the satellites for launch by fall 2022. The awards are part of the SDA’s first phase to procure satellites to detect and track missiles like intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), which can travel long distances and are challenging to track and intercept. SpaceX in 2019 received $28 million from the Air Force to use the fledgling Starlink satellite network to test encrypted internet services with a number of military planes, though the Air Force has not ordered any Starlink satellites of its own.

Pentagon awards $149 million contract to Elon Musk's SpaceX for missile tracking satellites

Canada announced Monday the suspension of arms exports to NATO ally Turkey as Ottawa investigates the alleged use of its military technologies in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.

"In line with Canada's robust export control regime and due to the ongoing hostilities, I have suspended the relevant export permits to Turkey, so as to allow time to further assess the situation," Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said in a statement.

Project Ploughshares, a Canadian arms control group, says video of air strikes released by Baku indicates the drones had been equipped with imaging and targeting systems made by L3Harris Wescam, the&nbsp;Canada-based unit of L3Harris Technologies Inc.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/armenia-and-azerbaijan-a-decades-long-bloody-rivalry-330840">Armenia and Azerbaijan: A decades-long bloody rivalry</a>

The Globe and Mail said L3Harris Wescam had received permission this year to ship seven systems to Turkish drone maker Baykar. Turkey is a key ally of Azerbaijan, whose forces are fighting Armenians over the disputed enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Separately, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters he had asked Champagne to travel to Europe "to discuss with our allies the developments in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, particularly in Nagorno-Karabakh".

He did not give more details and an aide to Champagne said the exact itinerary had not yet been worked out.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-appeals-to-azerbaijan-ally-turkey-to-calm-tensions-amid-nagorno-karabakh-conflict-with-armenia-332659">NATO appeals to Azerbaijan ally Turkey to calm tensions amid Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Armenia</a>

Earlier,&nbsp;NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg&nbsp;said he expected Azerbaijan ally Turkey to use its "considerable" influence to calm tensions while adding that he was "deeply concerned" over the escalation of hostilities.

His statement came after&nbsp;Azerbaijan's ally Turkey accused Armenia of "targeting civilians" in Ganja and reiterated support for its fellow Turkic and Muslim country as "one nation, two states".

Turkey's Foreign Ministry had said: "The attacks of Armenia targeting the civilians in Ganja...are a new manifestation of Armenia's unlawful attitude. We condemn these attacks."

Canada announced Monday the suspension of arms exports to NATO ally Turkey as Ottawa investigates the alleged use of its military technologies in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.

Canada announced Monday the suspension of arms exports to NATO ally Turkey as Ottawa investigates the alleged use of its military technologies in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. "In line with Canada's robust export control regime and due to the ongoing hostilities, I have suspended the relevant export permits to Turkey, so as to allow time to further assess the situation," Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said in a statement. Project Ploughshares, a Canadian arms control group, says video of air strikes released by Baku indicates the drones had been equipped with imaging and targeting systems made by L3Harris Wescam, the Canada-based unit of L3Harris Technologies Inc. Also see: Armenia and Azerbaijan: A decades-long bloody rivalry The Globe and Mail said L3Harris Wescam had received permission this year to ship seven systems to Turkish drone maker Baykar. Turkey is a key ally of Azerbaijan, whose forces are fighting Armenians over the disputed enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh. Separately, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters he had asked Champagne to travel to Europe "to discuss with our allies the developments in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, particularly in Nagorno-Karabakh". He did not give more details and an aide to Champagne said the exact itinerary had not yet been worked out. Also read: NATO appeals to Azerbaijan ally Turkey to calm tensions amid Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Armenia Earlier, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said he expected Azerbaijan ally Turkey to use its "considerable" influence to calm tensions while adding that he was "deeply concerned" over the escalation of hostilities. His statement came after Azerbaijan's ally Turkey accused Armenia of "targeting civilians" in Ganja and reiterated support for its fellow Turkic and Muslim country as "one nation, two states". Turkey's Foreign Ministry had said: "The attacks of Armenia targeting the civilians in Ganja...are a new manifestation of Armenia's unlawful attitude. We condemn these attacks."

Canada suspends arms export to Turkey after alleged use of weapons in Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Vyomica Berry

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.