Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates called for COVID-19 drugs and an eventual vaccine to be made available to countries and people that need them most, not to the "highest bidder," saying relying on market forces would prolong the deadly pandemic.

"If we just let drugs and vaccines go to the highest bidder, instead of to the people and the places where they are most needed, we'll have a longer, more unjust, deadlier pandemic," Gates, a founder of Microsoft, said in a video released on Saturday during a virtual COVID-19 conference organized by the International AIDS Society.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-us-reports-record-single-day-spike-of-nearly-69000-new-cases-312437">COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly&nbsp;69,000 new cases</a>

"We need leaders to make these hard decisions about distributing based on equity, not just on market-driven factors."

With hundreds of vaccine projects under way and governments in Europe and the United States investing billions of dollars in research, trials and manufacturing, there is concern that richer nations could scoop up promising medicines against the new coronavirus, leaving developing countries empty-handed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gilead-analysis-shows-remdesivir-reduced-coronavirus-death-risk-more-studies-needed-312473" hreflang="en">Gilead analysis shows remdesivir reduced coronavirus death risk, more studies needed</a>

The European Commission and the World Health Organization have warned of an unhealthy competition in the scramble for a medicine seen as key to saving lives and resolving economic chaos sowed by virus, while some officials in Washington have indicated they would seek to prioritize US residents.

Gates said efforts begun two decades ago to battle the global HIV/AIDS crisis, when countries came together to eventually make medicines available in most of the world including Africa, can serve as a model for making COVID-19 medicines widely accessible.

As examples he pointed to the 2002-created Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and the US-based President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief to get medicines to people to combat some of the world's deadliest diseases as examples.

"One of the best lessons in the fight against HIV/AIDS is the importance of building this large, fair global distribution system to get the drugs out to everyone," Gates said

Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates called for COVID-19 drugs and an eventual vaccine to be made available to countries and people that need them most, not to the "highest bidder," saying relying on market forces would prolong the deadly pandemic.

Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates called for COVID-19 drugs and an eventual vaccine to be made available to countries and people that need them most, not to the "highest bidder," saying relying on market forces would prolong the deadly pandemic. "If we just let drugs and vaccines go to the highest bidder, instead of to the people and the places where they are most needed, we'll have a longer, more unjust, deadlier pandemic," Gates, a founder of Microsoft, said in a video released on Saturday during a virtual COVID-19 conference organized by the International AIDS Society. Also read| COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases "We need leaders to make these hard decisions about distributing based on equity, not just on market-driven factors." With hundreds of vaccine projects under way and governments in Europe and the United States investing billions of dollars in research, trials and manufacturing, there is concern that richer nations could scoop up promising medicines against the new coronavirus, leaving developing countries empty-handed. Also read: Gilead analysis shows remdesivir reduced coronavirus death risk, more studies needed The European Commission and the World Health Organization have warned of an unhealthy competition in the scramble for a medicine seen as key to saving lives and resolving economic chaos sowed by virus, while some officials in Washington have indicated they would seek to prioritize US residents. Gates said efforts begun two decades ago to battle the global HIV/AIDS crisis, when countries came together to eventually make medicines available in most of the world including Africa, can serve as a model for making COVID-19 medicines widely accessible. As examples he pointed to the 2002-created Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and the US-based President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief to get medicines to people to combat some of the world's deadliest diseases as examples. "One of the best lessons in the fight against HIV/AIDS is the importance of building this large, fair global distribution system to get the drugs out to everyone," Gates said

Bill Gates calls for COVID-19 meds to go to people who need them, not 'highest bidder'

North Korea denounced Britain on Saturday for announcing sanctions against two organisations that the British government has said are involved in forced labour, torture and murder in North Korean prison camps.

The move against the two organisations, named as the Ministry of State Security Bureau 7 and Ministry of People's Security Correctional Bureau, is part of the first sanctions under Britain's new global human rights regime. Sanctions on 25 Russians and 20 Saudis were also announced.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-imposes-sanctions-against-saudis-russians-for-human-rights-violation-311204">UK imposes sanctions against Saudis, Russians for human rights violation</a>

"Britain's latest move is a flagrant political plot to jump on the bandwagon of the United States' inimical policy," a North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a statement carried on state media KCNA.

"We strongly condemn and reject the UK's daring to impose sanctions on the institutions responsible for our country's security as violent interference in domestic affairs."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-unveil-sanctions-against-human-rights-violators-311071">UK to unveil sanctions against human rights violators</a>

Earlier, Dominic Raab had&nbsp;unveiled long-awaited UK government sanctions against human rights abusers in Saudi Arabia, Russia, Myanmar and North Korea.

The measures, announced by the foreign secretary on Monday, include asset freezes and travel bans and represent the first time the UK will alone name and penalise individuals and organisations accused of human rights abuses

North Korea and the United States have failed to find a compromise over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme or international sanctions imposed on Pyongyang.

Recent North Korean statements, including one by Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, have reiterated Pyongyang's objections to what it sees as hostile and self-serving policies of the United States.

North Korea denounced Britain on Saturday for announcing sanctions against two organisations that the British government has said are involved in forced labour, torture and murder in North Korean prison camps.

North Korea denounced Britain on Saturday for announcing sanctions against two organisations that the British government has said are involved in forced labour, torture and murder in North Korean prison camps. The move against the two organisations, named as the Ministry of State Security Bureau 7 and Ministry of People's Security Correctional Bureau, is part of the first sanctions under Britain's new global human rights regime. Sanctions on 25 Russians and 20 Saudis were also announced. Also read: UK imposes sanctions against Saudis, Russians for human rights violation "Britain's latest move is a flagrant political plot to jump on the bandwagon of the United States' inimical policy," a North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a statement carried on state media KCNA. "We strongly condemn and reject the UK's daring to impose sanctions on the institutions responsible for our country's security as violent interference in domestic affairs." Also read: UK to unveil sanctions against human rights violators Earlier, Dominic Raab had unveiled long-awaited UK government sanctions against human rights abusers in Saudi Arabia, Russia, Myanmar and North Korea. The measures, announced by the foreign secretary on Monday, include asset freezes and travel bans and represent the first time the UK will alone name and penalise individuals and organisations accused of human rights abuses North Korea and the United States have failed to find a compromise over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme or international sanctions imposed on Pyongyang. Recent North Korean statements, including one by Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, have reiterated Pyongyang's objections to what it sees as hostile and self-serving policies of the United States.

North Korea denounces UK for sanctions against human rights abusers

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came under pressure on Friday from opposition parties he depends on for support in parliament amid heightening controversy over his family's ties to a charity at the heart of his conflict-of-interest probe.

For the third time in as many years, Canadian Prime Minister Justin&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;on Friday found himself at the center of a political firestorm this time over the awarding of a lucrative government contract to a charity that also paid hefty sums to his family members.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-prime-minister-justin-trudeau-faces-third-ethics-probe-over-charity-grant-program-310616">Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces third ethics probe over charity grant program</a>

Canada's Conservative opposition has demanded a police investigation to uncover whether fraud was committed in the granting of the nearly billion-dollar contract to WE Charity.

The organization has admitted paying nearly CAN $300,000&nbsp;to&nbsp;Trudeau's mother, brother and wife for speaking engagements.

And&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;himself admitted to taking part in negotiations with the charity over the contract.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-handled-the-coronavirus-outbreak-better-than-us-trudeau-311893">Canada handled the coronavirus outbreak better than US: Trudeau</a>

The charity backed out about a week after the contract was announced. Trudeau and his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, have regularly participated in WE Charity events, and Gregoire Trudeau hosts a podcast on the charity's website for which she is not paid.

But Trudeau's rivals went into attack mode on Thursday when WE Charity disclosed it paid honoraria to Trudeau's mother, Margaret, amounting to C$250,000 ($184,000) for speaking at some 28 events, while his brother, Alexandre, received about C$32,000 ($23,540). The payments were handed out between 2016-2020, during Trudeau's first mandate.

The Bloc Quebecois said he should temporarily yield his post to his deputy, Chrystia Freeland, until the investigation is over. The left-leaning New Democrats said the situation was "more than disturbing".

The Liberal leader lost his majority in parliament in October and depends on opposition parties for support, but none has said it wants to topple the government, and it would take a concerted effort by all of them to do so.

"For a few months, I think the prime minister must step aside and leave ... the responsibilities to the deputy prime minister," Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet said in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC).

"This is a pattern of behavior with Trudeau," New Democrat leader Jagmeet Singh said in a statement. "Canadians deserve to know the truth and need to know this won't happen again."

There was no immediate comment from Trudeau's office on Friday, but he has said he never accepted any payment from the charity.

The ethics commissioner has already released two reports concluding that&nbsp;Trudeau&nbsp;violated the Conflict of Interest Act: in 2017, for taking a vacation on the Aga Khan's private island, and last year for trying to influence legal proceedings in the SNC-Lavalin case, in which a subsidiary of the engineering company was accused of paying bribes to secure contracts in Libya.

Trudeau has proven to be resilient in the past, including after decades-old blackface images surfaced during last year's re-election campaign. Furthermore, the prime minister's approval rating doubled to about 70% on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Ekos Research polling.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came under pressure on Friday from opposition parties he depends on for support in parliament amid heightening controversy over his family's ties to a charity at the heart of his conflict-of-interest probe.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came under pressure on Friday from opposition parties he depends on for support in parliament amid heightening controversy over his family's ties to a charity at the heart of his conflict-of-interest probe. For the third time in as many years, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday found himself at the center of a political firestorm this time over the awarding of a lucrative government contract to a charity that also paid hefty sums to his family members. Also read: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces third ethics probe over charity grant program Canada's Conservative opposition has demanded a police investigation to uncover whether fraud was committed in the granting of the nearly billion-dollar contract to WE Charity. The organization has admitted paying nearly CAN $300,000 to Trudeau's mother, brother and wife for speaking engagements. And Trudeau himself admitted to taking part in negotiations with the charity over the contract. Also read| Canada handled the coronavirus outbreak better than US: Trudeau The charity backed out about a week after the contract was announced. Trudeau and his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, have regularly participated in WE Charity events, and Gregoire Trudeau hosts a podcast on the charity's website for which she is not paid. But Trudeau's rivals went into attack mode on Thursday when WE Charity disclosed it paid honoraria to Trudeau's mother, Margaret, amounting to C$250,000 ($184,000) for speaking at some 28 events, while his brother, Alexandre, received about C$32,000 ($23,540). The payments were handed out between 2016-2020, during Trudeau's first mandate. The Bloc Quebecois said he should temporarily yield his post to his deputy, Chrystia Freeland, until the investigation is over. The left-leaning New Democrats said the situation was "more than disturbing". The Liberal leader lost his majority in parliament in October and depends on opposition parties for support, but none has said it wants to topple the government, and it would take a concerted effort by all of them to do so. "For a few months, I think the prime minister must step aside and leave ... the responsibilities to the deputy prime minister," Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet said in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC). "This is a pattern of behavior with Trudeau," New Democrat leader Jagmeet Singh said in a statement. "Canadians deserve to know the truth and need to know this won't happen again." There was no immediate comment from Trudeau's office on Friday, but he has said he never accepted any payment from the charity. The ethics commissioner has already released two reports concluding that Trudeau violated the Conflict of Interest Act: in 2017, for taking a vacation on the Aga Khan's private island, and last year for trying to influence legal proceedings in the SNC-Lavalin case, in which a subsidiary of the engineering company was accused of paying bribes to secure contracts in Libya. Trudeau has proven to be resilient in the past, including after decades-old blackface images surfaced during last year's re-election campaign. Furthermore, the prime minister's approval rating doubled to about 70% on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Ekos Research polling.

Canada: Trudeau under political firestorm as parliamentary rivals seize on charity controversy

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders.

A court in Moscow on Friday ruled to hold 50-year-old Sergei Furgal for two months pending trial for the murders of several businessmen 15 years ago, as he vehemently denied any involvement.

Furgal's nationalist Liberal-Democratic Party has thrown its weight behind the governor, and on Saturday said some "35,000 people came out to the streets" in Khabarovsk to protest his arrest.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-regional-governor-sergei-frugal-arrested-on-murder-charges-311914">Russia: Regional governor Sergei Frugal arrested on murder charges</a>

The local branch of supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said the protest attracted up to 40 thousand people, calling it an "absolute record for our region."

Smaller rallies were held in other cities in Khabarovsk region, reports said.

Popularly elected in 2018, Furgal embarrassed the ruling United Russia party, securing 70 percent of the vote.

His sudden arrest came just days after President Vladimir Putin,&nbsp;who has been in power for two decades,&nbsp;won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036.

Over 40,000 people have now signed a petition demanding Furgal's release.

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders.

Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the eastern Russian city of Khabarovsk on Saturday in support of a popular local governor arrested this week for allegedly ordering several murders. A court in Moscow on Friday ruled to hold 50-year-old Sergei Furgal for two months pending trial for the murders of several businessmen 15 years ago, as he vehemently denied any involvement. Furgal's nationalist Liberal-Democratic Party has thrown its weight behind the governor, and on Saturday said some "35,000 people came out to the streets" in Khabarovsk to protest his arrest. Also read| Russia: Regional governor Sergei Frugal arrested on murder charges The local branch of supporters of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said the protest attracted up to 40 thousand people, calling it an "absolute record for our region." Smaller rallies were held in other cities in Khabarovsk region, reports said. Popularly elected in 2018, Furgal embarrassed the ruling United Russia party, securing 70 percent of the vote. His sudden arrest came just days after President Vladimir Putin, who has been in power for two decades, won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036. Over 40,000 people have now signed a petition demanding Furgal's release.

Massive protests in Russia after famous governor's arrest

Chinese telecom company Huawei believes it can still supply 5G kit to the United Kingdom&nbsp;despite the sanctions imposed on it by the United States.

Fearing a wider ban the firm has stockpiled&nbsp;500,000 kits after&nbsp;Britain's health minister said it&nbsp;has to clear certains conditions for Britain to continue to allow its involvement in the development of 5G telecoms infrastructure.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who in January allowed&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;a limited role in Britain's 5G network, has faced intense pressure from the United States and some British lawmakers to ban the telecommunications equipment maker on security grounds.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/can-nokias-new-ceo-pekka-lundmark-beat-huawei-ericsson-in-5g-race-312373">Can Nokia's new CEO Pekka Lundmark beat Huawei, Ericsson in 5G race?</a>

On Thursday he toughened his rhetoric on&nbsp;Huawei, warning China he would protect critical infrastructure from "hostile state vendors".

The company had urged Britain on not to rush into taking any costly decision to phase out its equipment from the UK's 5G network because of US sanctions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/huawei-urges-britain-not-to-rush-into-5g-decision-grant-stay-of-execution-311925">Huawei urges Britain not to rush into 5G decision; grant stay of execution</a>

The US ban prevents Huawei from using American microchips or any chips designed with American software. The NCSC is expected to conclude that Huawei kit will no longer be secure because it will have to rely on untested chips.

But Johnson also pledged last year to bring broadband access to all Britons by 2025. Huawei&nbsp;equipment is already ubiquitous in Britain's older-generation 3G and 4G networks.

British telecoms companies have warned that stripping out all existing&nbsp;Huawei&nbsp;equipment could cost them billions and take years to implement.

The Chinese company argues that 5G will become even more important as the world switches to home working because of the new coronavirus.

Chinese telecom company Huawei believes it can still supply 5G kit to the United Kingdom despite the sanctions imposed on it by the United States. Fearing a wider ban the firm has stockpiled 500,000 kits after Britain's health minister said it has to clear certains conditions for Britain to continue to allow its involvement in the development of 5G telecoms infrastructure.

Chinese telecom company Huawei believes it can still supply 5G kit to the United Kingdom despite the sanctions imposed on it by the United States. Fearing a wider ban the firm has stockpiled 500,000 kits after Britain's health minister said it has to clear certains conditions for Britain to continue to allow its involvement in the development of 5G telecoms infrastructure. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who in January allowed Huawei a limited role in Britain's 5G network, has faced intense pressure from the United States and some British lawmakers to ban the telecommunications equipment maker on security grounds. Also read: Can Nokia's new CEO Pekka Lundmark beat Huawei, Ericsson in 5G race? On Thursday he toughened his rhetoric on Huawei, warning China he would protect critical infrastructure from "hostile state vendors". The company had urged Britain on not to rush into taking any costly decision to phase out its equipment from the UK's 5G network because of US sanctions. Also read: Huawei urges Britain not to rush into 5G decision; grant stay of execution The US ban prevents Huawei from using American microchips or any chips designed with American software. The NCSC is expected to conclude that Huawei kit will no longer be secure because it will have to rely on untested chips. But Johnson also pledged last year to bring broadband access to all Britons by 2025. Huawei equipment is already ubiquitous in Britain's older-generation 3G and 4G networks. British telecoms companies have warned that stripping out all existing Huawei equipment could cost them billions and take years to implement. The Chinese company argues that 5G will become even more important as the world switches to home working because of the new coronavirus.

Huawei believes it can supply 5G kit to UK despite US sanctions

Indian conglomerate&nbsp;Tata&nbsp;Sons&nbsp;is in talks to buy out AirAsia Group Bhd's stake in their airline joint venture in India at a steep discount, according to a report.

Tata&nbsp;Sons&nbsp;will likely tie up with other financial investors to acquire AirAsia's 49 per cent&nbsp;stake in the venture.

The Tatas own 51 per cent in the airline and have the right of first refusal in acquiring shares of its partner.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airasias-future-in-doubt-due-to-virus-share-price-tumbles-311765">AirAsia's future in doubt due to virus; share price tumbles</a>

Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia had said earlier in the day that it was in talks to raise more than 1 billion ringgit ($234.52 million) in funds, a day after its auditor cast doubt on its ability to continue as a going concern.

The losses from the pandemic have left no cash in the coffers and it is seeking a fund of over 500 million dollars.

AirAsia reported a loss of&nbsp; $187 billion&nbsp;in the first quarter, the biggest loss since listing on stock exchanges in 2004.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-the-global-aviation-industry-survive-coronavirus-related-slowdown-286815">Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown?</a>

There are plans to cut the workforce by 30 per cent and the remaining employees may have to take a pay cut of up to 75 per cent. AirAsia is unable to pay suppliers and lenders as well.

It has refused all deliveries of airbus jets this year.&nbsp;The pandemic has only hastened a development that was a long time coming...

The Tatas flew India's first airline in 1938. However, they lost it to nationalisation after independence. Now, 80 years later, the Tatas could have their own airline in India.

The Tata group has had a difficult partnership with Air Asia which&nbsp;began operations in 2013. But, a few years later, Air Asia's CEO&nbsp;Tony Fernandes was pulled up for money laundering in India.

The Central Bureau of Investigation began to probe the airline. Investigating agencies said the company used corrupt means to acquire a license for international operations.

Soon top Air Asia executives were replaced by trusted Tata group veterans. Acquiring the AirAsia stake can be beneficial in another way.

If the deal goes through, the Tatas will be&nbsp;bidding for Air India, India's national carrier. The government is looking to sell 100 per cent stake as part of the plan to limit its role in many state-run companies.

A non-compete clause restricted both Tatas and AirAsia&nbsp;from investing in a rival airline.

However, this hurdle has been removed as the Tata group is the sole contender to take over Air India. It is the same airline that was founded by JRD&nbsp;Tata in 1938. That year Tata airlines carried its first passengers from Bombay to Trivandrum in a six-seater aircraft.

The Tata group also owns 51 per cent in Vistara airlines which is a&nbsp;joint venture with the Singapore airlines.

So, the Tatas have three routes to take to the air independently. The crucial question is that of timing if it concerns acquiring other airlines&nbsp;it is the perfect time most airlines are in deep trouble due to the pandemic.

Although AirAsia is going off the runway but&nbsp;is it the right time to enter the aviation market with an airline of one's&nbsp;own company.

Indian conglomerate Tata Sons is in talks to buy out AirAsia Group Bhd's stake in their airline joint venture in India at a steep discount, according to a report.

Indian conglomerate Tata Sons is in talks to buy out AirAsia Group Bhd's stake in their airline joint venture in India at a steep discount, according to a report. Tata Sons will likely tie up with other financial investors to acquire AirAsia's 49 per cent stake in the venture. The Tatas own 51 per cent in the airline and have the right of first refusal in acquiring shares of its partner. Also read: AirAsia's future in doubt due to virus; share price tumbles Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia had said earlier in the day that it was in talks to raise more than 1 billion ringgit ($234.52 million) in funds, a day after its auditor cast doubt on its ability to continue as a going concern. The losses from the pandemic have left no cash in the coffers and it is seeking a fund of over 500 million dollars. AirAsia reported a loss of $187 billion in the first quarter, the biggest loss since listing on stock exchanges in 2004. Also read: Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown? There are plans to cut the workforce by 30 per cent and the remaining employees may have to take a pay cut of up to 75 per cent. AirAsia is unable to pay suppliers and lenders as well. It has refused all deliveries of airbus jets this year. The pandemic has only hastened a development that was a long time coming... The Tatas flew India's first airline in 1938. However, they lost it to nationalisation after independence. Now, 80 years later, the Tatas could have their own airline in India. The Tata group has had a difficult partnership with Air Asia which began operations in 2013. But, a few years later, Air Asia's CEO Tony Fernandes was pulled up for money laundering in India. The Central Bureau of Investigation began to probe the airline. Investigating agencies said the company used corrupt means to acquire a license for international operations. Soon top Air Asia executives were replaced by trusted Tata group veterans. Acquiring the AirAsia stake can be beneficial in another way. If the deal goes through, the Tatas will be bidding for Air India, India's national carrier. The government is looking to sell 100 per cent stake as part of the plan to limit its role in many state-run companies. A non-compete clause restricted both Tatas and AirAsia from investing in a rival airline. However, this hurdle has been removed as the Tata group is the sole contender to take over Air India. It is the same airline that was founded by JRD Tata in 1938. That year Tata airlines carried its first passengers from Bombay to Trivandrum in a six-seater aircraft. The Tata group also owns 51 per cent in Vistara airlines which is a joint venture with the Singapore airlines. So, the Tatas have three routes to take to the air independently. The crucial question is that of timing if it concerns acquiring other airlines it is the perfect time most airlines are in deep trouble due to the pandemic. Although AirAsia is going off the runway but is it the right time to enter the aviation market with an airline of one's own company.

Tata Sons in talks to acquire AirAsia's India stake at steep discount

A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports.

The Council of State, which was debating a case brought by a Turkish NGO, cancelled a 1934 cabinet decision and ruled the UNESCO World Heritage site would be reopened to Muslim worshipping.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unesco-warns-turkey-against-hagia-sophia-mosque-conversion-312305" hreflang="en">UNESCO warns Turkey against Hagia Sophia mosque conversion</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who has in the past repeatedly called for the stunning building to be renamed as a mosque, signed a presidential decree on Friday, handing over Hagia Sophia to Turkey's religious affairs directorate for reopening to Muslim worship.&nbsp;

Erdogan's statement comes shortly after the Turkish court revoked Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogans-bid-to-turn-hagia-sophia-museum-into-a-mosque-sparks-political-row-311431">Erdogan's bid to turn Hagia Sophia museum into a mosque sparks political row</a>

The UN's cultural agency UNESCO Friday said it deeply regretted Turkey's decision to turn the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul from a museum into a mosque, lamenting there had been no prior dialogue on the status of the former Byzantine cathedral.

UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay "deeply regrets the decision of the Turkish authorities, taken without prior dialogue, to modify the status of the Hagia Sophia," the UN agency said in a statement, adding that she had expressed her concern to the Turkish ambassador to the body.

The Hagia Sophia, which was first a cathedral then a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of an area designated as "Historic Areas of Istanbul."

Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453.Turning it into a museum was a key reform of the post-Ottoman authorities under the modern republic's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

The World Heritage site was at the centre of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires and is today one of Turkey's most visited monuments.

The prospect of a change in the museum's status back to a mosque had&nbsp;raised alarm among US, French, Russian and Greek officials, as well as Christian church leaders.

A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports.

A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports. The Council of State, which was debating a case brought by a Turkish NGO, cancelled a 1934 cabinet decision and ruled the UNESCO World Heritage site would be reopened to Muslim worshipping. Also read: UNESCO warns Turkey against Hagia Sophia mosque conversion Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who has in the past repeatedly called for the stunning building to be renamed as a mosque, signed a presidential decree on Friday, handing over Hagia Sophia to Turkey's religious affairs directorate for reopening to Muslim worship. Erdogan's statement comes shortly after the Turkish court revoked Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque. Also read: Erdogan's bid to turn Hagia Sophia museum into a mosque sparks political row The UN's cultural agency UNESCO Friday said it deeply regretted Turkey's decision to turn the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul from a museum into a mosque, lamenting there had been no prior dialogue on the status of the former Byzantine cathedral. UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay "deeply regrets the decision of the Turkish authorities, taken without prior dialogue, to modify the status of the Hagia Sophia," the UN agency said in a statement, adding that she had expressed her concern to the Turkish ambassador to the body. The Hagia Sophia, which was first a cathedral then a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of an area designated as "Historic Areas of Istanbul." Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453.Turning it into a museum was a key reform of the post-Ottoman authorities under the modern republic's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The World Heritage site was at the centre of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires and is today one of Turkey's most visited monuments. The prospect of a change in the museum's status back to a mosque had raised alarm among US, French, Russian and Greek officials, as well as Christian church leaders.

Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque

Sri Lanka has turned a quarantine centre into a 500-bed field hospital for coronavirus patients after a sharp increase in the number of new infections, the military said Friday.

Army chief Shavendra Silva said the military-run Kandakadu facility in the east of the island was made a hospital after a record number of people there tested positive for the virus since Thursday.

"The quarantine centre was made a field hospital that can treat up to 500 patients," Silva said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-says-sri-lanka-and-maldives-eliminate-measles-rubella-311616" hreflang="en">WHO says Sri Lanka and Maldives eliminate measles, rubella</a>

He said a record 253 inmates at a drug rehabilitation centre in the Kandakadu neighbourhood were moved to the field hospital on Thursday.

Another 97 people tested positive for the virus on Friday raising fears of a second wave of infections, health officials said, adding that 87 of them were also from the rehab centre.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-sri-lanka-hold-talks-on-colombos-debt-repayment-309753" hreflang="en">Covid-19: India, Sri Lanka hold talks on Colombo's debt repayment</a>

The spike in cases came even as the authorities had eased lockdown measures as the number of new infections showed a decline in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Mass testing was carried out at the drug rehabilitation centre after an inmate transferred to the main prison in the capital was found to be infected with COVID-19 on Tuesday.

The information department said the authorities have begun tracing inmates released from the rehabilitation centre at Kandakadu, 252 kilometres (157 miles) north-east of the capital, after the latest outbreak.

The government earlier last month began easing a 24-hour nation-wide curfew and started reopening schools after health authorities said there had been no community spread of the virus since the end of April.

The new cases reported in the country till Thursday had been among those returning from abroad and within a navy camp that is still under lockdown.

The country has reported 2,450 cases with 11 fatalities since the first patient, a Chinese woman tourist, was found on January 27.

Sri Lanka has turned a quarantine centre into a 500-bed field hospital for coronavirus patients after a sharp increase in the number of new infections, the military said Friday.

Sri Lanka has turned a quarantine centre into a 500-bed field hospital for coronavirus patients after a sharp increase in the number of new infections, the military said Friday. Army chief Shavendra Silva said the military-run Kandakadu facility in the east of the island was made a hospital after a record number of people there tested positive for the virus since Thursday. "The quarantine centre was made a field hospital that can treat up to 500 patients," Silva said in a statement. Also read: WHO says Sri Lanka and Maldives eliminate measles, rubella He said a record 253 inmates at a drug rehabilitation centre in the Kandakadu neighbourhood were moved to the field hospital on Thursday. Another 97 people tested positive for the virus on Friday raising fears of a second wave of infections, health officials said, adding that 87 of them were also from the rehab centre. Also read| Covid-19: India, Sri Lanka hold talks on Colombo's debt repayment The spike in cases came even as the authorities had eased lockdown measures as the number of new infections showed a decline in recent weeks. Mass testing was carried out at the drug rehabilitation centre after an inmate transferred to the main prison in the capital was found to be infected with COVID-19 on Tuesday. The information department said the authorities have begun tracing inmates released from the rehabilitation centre at Kandakadu, 252 kilometres (157 miles) north-east of the capital, after the latest outbreak. The government earlier last month began easing a 24-hour nation-wide curfew and started reopening schools after health authorities said there had been no community spread of the virus since the end of April. The new cases reported in the country till Thursday had been among those returning from abroad and within a navy camp that is still under lockdown. The country has reported 2,450 cases with 11 fatalities since the first patient, a Chinese woman tourist, was found on January 27.

Sri Lanka turns quarantine centre into hospital as virus spikes

The Mizoram government on Friday urged the Centre to extend assistance and send seismologists to the state to study the "ground situation" as a series of earthquakes have hit parts of the state over the past few weeks.

In a letter addressed to Union Minister for Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said Champhai district in the eastern part of the state has been affected multiple times due to seismic activities, ranging from 4.2 to 5.5 magnitude, since June 21.

Aftershocks were recorded in the area on more than fifty occasions, he said, adding that the tremors have caused damage to several houses, community halls and religious places.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-mizoram-extends-total-lockdown-in-cities-towns-till-june-30-307536">Covid-19: Mizoram extends total lockdown in cities, towns till June 30</a>

"In this connection, it is my request to you to kindly extend assistance to this state... Expert seismologists or geo-physicists from the Geological Survey of India may kindly be sent to Mizoram to study and assess the ground situation at the earliest," Zoramthanga wrote in his letter to Joshi.

The chief minister said the frequent earthquakes have added to psychological pressure of people at a time when they are already affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

People in several areas have erected makeshift tents, where they could spend the night, as many are sceptical about sleeping indoors.

Zoramthanga also asked the Union minister to expedite the study to determine the feasibility of installing more earthquake observation centres in the eastern part of Mizoram with real time seismic telemetry for disaster preparedness.

According to the chief minister, the extent of damages caused by the recent earthquakes is being assessed by departments of geology and mineral resources, and commerce and industry with the help of geologists from the GSI-Mizoram unit.

Eight earthquakes have rocked Mizoram since June 18, with Champhai district bordering Myanmar being hit the hardest.

The Mizoram government on Friday urged the Centre to extend assistance and send seismologists to the state to study the "ground situation" as a series of earthquakes have hit parts of the state over the past few weeks.

The Mizoram government on Friday urged the Centre to extend assistance and send seismologists to the state to study the "ground situation" as a series of earthquakes have hit parts of the state over the past few weeks. In a letter addressed to Union Minister for Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said Champhai district in the eastern part of the state has been affected multiple times due to seismic activities, ranging from 4.2 to 5.5 magnitude, since June 21. Aftershocks were recorded in the area on more than fifty occasions, he said, adding that the tremors have caused damage to several houses, community halls and religious places. Also read| Covid-19: Mizoram extends total lockdown in cities, towns till June 30 "In this connection, it is my request to you to kindly extend assistance to this state... Expert seismologists or geo-physicists from the Geological Survey of India may kindly be sent to Mizoram to study and assess the ground situation at the earliest," Zoramthanga wrote in his letter to Joshi. The chief minister said the frequent earthquakes have added to psychological pressure of people at a time when they are already affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. People in several areas have erected makeshift tents, where they could spend the night, as many are sceptical about sleeping indoors. Zoramthanga also asked the Union minister to expedite the study to determine the feasibility of installing more earthquake observation centres in the eastern part of Mizoram with real time seismic telemetry for disaster preparedness. According to the chief minister, the extent of damages caused by the recent earthquakes is being assessed by departments of geology and mineral resources, and commerce and industry with the help of geologists from the GSI-Mizoram unit. Eight earthquakes have rocked Mizoram since June 18, with Champhai district bordering Myanmar being hit the hardest.

Mizoram government urges Centre to facilitate study by seismologists on series of quakes

Every nation and government likes to spin myths about itself. But there are nations like Nepal&nbsp;where myth-making is an established form of art.

Some of the myths plaguing this Himalayan republic&nbsp;include India being&nbsp;a threat to its territorial sovereignty and China being its guardian angel which will safeguard its territories.

Nepal believes New Delhi is conspiring with its opposition to dethrone its Prime Minister KP&nbsp;Sharma Oli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-bans-indian-news-channels-only-doordarshan-remains-on-air-312024" hreflang="en">Nepal bans Indian news channels; only Doordarshan remains on-air</a>

Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except DD News, for alleged propaganda against the country. 
 
Reports say that Nepal cable operators have stopped getting signals of Indian news channels.

Nepal government spokesperson Yuvaraj Khatiwada said: "We request all not to disseminate news that infringes sovereignty and self-respect of Nepalis. This includes the media of neighbouring countries. We might seek both political and legal remedies."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-kp-sharma-oli-mulls-health-emergency-amid-political-crisis-312039" hreflang="en">Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli mulls health emergency amid political crisis</a>

However, it is highly hypocritical of the Oli government to claim righteousness as his intention behind&nbsp;the&nbsp;step when he himself made fun of India's&nbsp;motto&nbsp;'Satyamev Jayate' when he said he would ask the country if it&nbsp;believes in the principle of 'truth prevails' or the 'lion prevails'.

While Oli has raised questions on the Indian media he has very conveniently forgotten the&nbsp;objectionable content Nepal propogated against India through various sources of communication.

Nepal's FM&nbsp;channels have been beaming propaganda along India's border and anti-india speeches are being slipped in between Nepali songs&nbsp;to brainwash Indians.

Nepal says the Indian media has ''crossed all limits'' when its forces&nbsp;opened fire at the Bihar-Nepal border on June 12 and killed an Indian citizen.

Experts believe the step to be distraction amid the rising protests against Oli who thanks to stint and China's help has&nbsp;managed to keep his seat for another week.

The standing committee of the Nepal Communist Party was supposed to meet today and&nbsp;was expected to pass a resolution on Oli's political future.

Oli would have been asked to resign from one of the two posts he currently holds, that is, the prime minister of Nepal and the co-chairman of the NCP. But for now&nbsp;he will hold onto both these positions because this meeting has again been posptponed.

It is believed that Chinese forces were behind this postponement. Chinese ambassador met&nbsp;with Hou Yaqni,&nbsp;the co-chairman of the Nepal Communist Party on July 9, the same day the ban on Indian media was imposed in Nepal.

Earlier, Nepal amended the Indian&nbsp;map showing Indian territory as a part of Nepal. 
 
Nepal's parliament on June 13 adopted unanimously the Constitution Amendment Bill, paving the way for accommodating the updated political-administrative map, which includes Indian areas of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura, in its symbol.

Every nation and government likes to spin myths about itself. But there are nations like Nepal where myth-making is an established form of art. Some of the myths plaguing this Himalayan republic include India being a threat to its territorial sovereignty and China being its guardian angel which will safeguard its territories.

Every nation and government likes to spin myths about itself. But there are nations like Nepal where myth-making is an established form of art. Some of the myths plaguing this Himalayan republic include India being a threat to its territorial sovereignty and China being its guardian angel which will safeguard its territories. Nepal believes New Delhi is conspiring with its opposition to dethrone its Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Also read: Nepal bans Indian news channels; only Doordarshan remains on-air Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except DD News, for alleged propaganda against the country. Reports say that Nepal cable operators have stopped getting signals of Indian news channels. Nepal government spokesperson Yuvaraj Khatiwada said: "We request all not to disseminate news that infringes sovereignty and self-respect of Nepalis. This includes the media of neighbouring countries. We might seek both political and legal remedies." Also read: Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli mulls health emergency amid political crisis However, it is highly hypocritical of the Oli government to claim righteousness as his intention behind the step when he himself made fun of India's motto 'Satyamev Jayate' when he said he would ask the country if it believes in the principle of 'truth prevails' or the 'lion prevails'. While Oli has raised questions on the Indian media he has very conveniently forgotten the objectionable content Nepal propogated against India through various sources of communication. Nepal's FM channels have been beaming propaganda along India's border and anti-india speeches are being slipped in between Nepali songs to brainwash Indians. Nepal says the Indian media has ''crossed all limits'' when its forces opened fire at the Bihar-Nepal border on June 12 and killed an Indian citizen. Experts believe the step to be distraction amid the rising protests against Oli who thanks to stint and China's help has managed to keep his seat for another week. The standing committee of the Nepal Communist Party was supposed to meet today and was expected to pass a resolution on Oli's political future. Oli would have been asked to resign from one of the two posts he currently holds, that is, the prime minister of Nepal and the co-chairman of the NCP. But for now he will hold onto both these positions because this meeting has again been posptponed. It is believed that Chinese forces were behind this postponement. Chinese ambassador met with Hou Yaqni, the co-chairman of the Nepal Communist Party on July 9, the same day the ban on Indian media was imposed in Nepal. Earlier, Nepal amended the Indian map showing Indian territory as a part of Nepal. Nepal's parliament on June 13 adopted unanimously the Constitution Amendment Bill, paving the way for accommodating the updated political-administrative map, which includes Indian areas of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura, in its symbol.

Land of myths and hypocrisy: Nepal turns blind eye towards own mistakes

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17,&nbsp;killing nearly 300 people&nbsp;over eastern Ukraine six years ago.

The Dutch government's move is designed to support cases brought by the relatives of dozens of victims to the Strasbourg-based court, Foreign Minister Stef Blok said.

The Boeing 777 travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was blown out of the sky by a surface-to-air missile fired from rebel-held eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-questions-about-the-mh17-trial-284521">Five key questions about the MH17 trial</a>

"Achieving justice for the 298 victims of the downing of flight MH17 is and will remain the government's highest priority," Blok said in a statement.

"By taking this step today, bringing a case before the ECHR and thus supporting the applications by the next of kin as much as we can, we are moving closer to this goal."&nbsp;

There was no immediate reaction from Moscow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-meddling-casts-dark-shadow-over-mh17-trial-says-prosecutors-285536">Russian meddling casts 'dark shadow' over MH17 trial, says prosecutors</a>

The Netherlands, home to roughly two-thirds of the 298 victims, holds&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;responsible for the crash.The Kremlin has consistently denied involvement in the matter.

After years of collecting evidence, a Dutch-led international Joint Investigation team (JIT) last year said the missile launcher used to hit the jet came from a&nbsp;Russian army base just across the border.

The JIT subsequently issued arrest warrants for four suspects, who were put on trial in the Netherlands in absentia earlier this year.

The four suspects, three&nbsp;Russian men and one Ukrainian, are said to have arranged the missile system. They remain at large and are believed to be in&nbsp;Russia.

Despite the new court case, the Dutch government said it wanted to continue the talks with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;on MH17 that it started together with Australia over a year ago.

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17, killing nearly 300 people over eastern Ukraine six years ago.

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17, killing nearly 300 people over eastern Ukraine six years ago. The Dutch government's move is designed to support cases brought by the relatives of dozens of victims to the Strasbourg-based court, Foreign Minister Stef Blok said. The Boeing 777 travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was blown out of the sky by a surface-to-air missile fired from rebel-held eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014. Also see: Five key questions about the MH17 trial "Achieving justice for the 298 victims of the downing of flight MH17 is and will remain the government's highest priority," Blok said in a statement. "By taking this step today, bringing a case before the ECHR and thus supporting the applications by the next of kin as much as we can, we are moving closer to this goal." There was no immediate reaction from Moscow. Also read: Russian meddling casts 'dark shadow' over MH17 trial, says prosecutors The Netherlands, home to roughly two-thirds of the 298 victims, holds Russia responsible for the crash.The Kremlin has consistently denied involvement in the matter. After years of collecting evidence, a Dutch-led international Joint Investigation team (JIT) last year said the missile launcher used to hit the jet came from a Russian army base just across the border. The JIT subsequently issued arrest warrants for four suspects, who were put on trial in the Netherlands in absentia earlier this year. The four suspects, three Russian men and one Ukrainian, are said to have arranged the missile system. They remain at large and are believed to be in Russia. Despite the new court case, the Dutch government said it wanted to continue the talks with Russia on MH17 that it started together with Australia over a year ago.

Dutch government takes Russia to European court over downing of MH17

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-turkey-court-revokes-hagia-sophias-museum-status-paving-way-for-mosque-312332">Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque</a>

<img alt="Hagia Sophia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c030dbba-07fe-4d71-9138-c1a33bea67e9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-07-10T185312.311.jpg" />

A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-turkey-court-revokes-hagia-sophias-museum-status-paving-way-for-mosque-312332">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-hit-us-with-reciprocal-measures-over-xinjiang-sanctions-312234" hreflang="en">China to hit US with 'reciprocal measures' over Xinjiang sanctions</a>

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02342797-fa3b-48ee-bcfc-89175bb70998" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/large_vMJ9OEAeC2T0hifSuhTvk5cfuxFToksuyG6HPS3wrlk.jpg" />

China said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who "behave badly" on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-hit-us-with-reciprocal-measures-over-xinjiang-sanctions-312234">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-hints-at-extending-coronavirus-emergency-as-travellers-from-13-countries-banned-312284">Coronavirus: Italian PM hints at extending state of emergency</a>

<img alt="Italy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be742880-a1a0-430e-a831-73062fdb96ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/http___com.ft_.imagepublish.upp-prod-us.s3.amazonaws.jpg" />

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said on Friday that the country will likely extend the July 31 deadline of the state of emergency imposed due to coronavirus pandemic. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-hints-at-extending-coronavirus-emergency-as-travellers-from-13-countries-banned-312284">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bounties-top-us-general-vows-response-if-intel-confirmed-312273">Russian bounties: Top US general vows 'response' if intel confirmed</a>

<img alt="Mark Milley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50917d0c-8f85-46ce-9463-9a470fc61cd6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AP_20064737269963.jpg" />

Top United States General Mark Milley&nbsp;pledged Thursday to "take action" if the US military could corroborate intelligence suggesting Moscow paid militants linked to the Taliban to kill US soldiers in Afghanistan. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bounties-top-us-general-vows-response-if-intel-confirmed-312273">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-620-million-missile-upgrade-package-for-taiwan-312188" hreflang="en">US approves $620 million missile upgrade package for Taiwan</a>

<img alt="Taiwan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21fa6e6f-91f2-476c-a803-265833203951" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taiwan-US-flags-800x450.jpg" />

The United States has approved a possible $620 million upgrade package for Patriot surface-to-air missiles to Taiwan, the State Department said, the latest purchase from the United States to deal with a rising threat from China. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-620-million-missile-upgrade-package-for-taiwan-312188">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-mayor-died-by-suicide-a-day-after-he-was-accused-of-sexual-harassment-312185" hreflang="en">Seoul mayor died by suicide a day after he was accused of sexual harassment</a>

<img alt="Seoul" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9691b009-a513-4e9f-8cfb-cc94fbd866b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/unnamed%20%283%29_0.jpg" />

The mayor of Seoul, a contender to be South Korea's next president and a former human rights lawyer, died by suicide a day after he was accused of sexual harassment. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seoul-mayor-died-by-suicide-a-day-after-he-was-accused-of-sexual-harassment-312185">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-says-he-feels-very-well-praises-hydroxycholoroquine-312161" hreflang="en">Bolsonaro says he feels 'very well', praises hydroxycholoroquine</a>

<img alt="Brazil" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e75ada87-b0f8-4714-9bbf-339853994d95" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bolsonaro-mask_0.jpg" />

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has tested positive for COVID-19, said on Facebook Thursday that he was "very well" and again advocated the use of the controversial drug hydroxychloroquine.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-says-he-feels-very-well-praises-hydroxycholoroquine-312161">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-says-no-need-for-another-us-n-korea-summit-312159" hreflang="en">Kim Jong-un's sister says 'no need' for another US-N Korea summit</a>

<img alt="Kim Yo Jong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e0a76b7-dff1-475e-bea3-ef7f90c9b677" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kim-Yo-Jong-sued-over-destruction-of-inter-Korean-liaison-office.jpg" />

The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said there was "no need" for another summit with the United States unless Washington offered a "decisive change" in approach. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-says-no-need-for-another-us-n-korea-summit-312159">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-denies-chinese-reports-of-pneumonia-deadlier-than-covid-19-312174" hreflang="en">Kazakhstan denies Chinese reports of pneumonia deadlier than COVID-19</a>

Kazakhstan has dismissed the warning by China's embassy for its citizens that advised to guard themselves against an outbreak of pneumonia in the central Asian nation. China described the pneumonia as being more lethal than COVID-19, the disease caused due to the novel coronavirus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-denies-chinese-reports-of-pneumonia-deadlier-than-covid-19-312174">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-exceed-12-million-death-toll-at-554924-312142" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus cases exceed 12 million; death toll at 554,924</a>

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16b54a6a-1b7c-4e3e-984e-3e8cf6f92207" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/corona-1-1_0.jpg" />

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 12 million people, with 5.54 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-exceed-12-million-death-toll-at-554924-312142">Read more</a>

Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports.

Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports. Read more China to hit US with 'reciprocal measures' over Xinjiang sanctions China said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who "behave badly" on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region. Read more Coronavirus: Italian PM hints at extending state of emergency Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said on Friday that the country will likely extend the July 31 deadline of the state of emergency imposed due to coronavirus pandemic. Read more Russian bounties: Top US general vows 'response' if intel confirmed Top United States General Mark Milley pledged Thursday to "take action" if the US military could corroborate intelligence suggesting Moscow paid militants linked to the Taliban to kill US soldiers in Afghanistan. Read more US approves $620 million missile upgrade package for Taiwan The United States has approved a possible $620 million upgrade package for Patriot surface-to-air missiles to Taiwan, the State Department said, the latest purchase from the United States to deal with a rising threat from China. Read more Seoul mayor died by suicide a day after he was accused of sexual harassment The mayor of Seoul, a contender to be South Korea's next president and a former human rights lawyer, died by suicide a day after he was accused of sexual harassment. Read more Bolsonaro says he feels 'very well', praises hydroxycholoroquine Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has tested positive for COVID-19, said on Facebook Thursday that he was "very well" and again advocated the use of the controversial drug hydroxychloroquine. Read more Kim Jong-un's sister says 'no need' for another US-N Korea summit The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said there was "no need" for another summit with the United States unless Washington offered a "decisive change" in approach. Read more Kazakhstan denies Chinese reports of pneumonia deadlier than COVID-19 Kazakhstan has dismissed the warning by China's embassy for its citizens that advised to guard themselves against an outbreak of pneumonia in the central Asian nation. China described the pneumonia as being more lethal than COVID-19, the disease caused due to the novel coronavirus. Read more Global coronavirus cases exceed 12 million; death toll at 554,924 The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 12 million people, with 5.54 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Hagia Sophia's musuem status revoked, China to hit US with 'reciprocal measures' and more

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