Amid allegations of discrimination against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities in the Xinjiang region, International Labour Organization (ILO) &nbsp;members have decided Saturday to send a mission to China.&nbsp;

The ILO's main annual assembly adopted a committee finding to send a "technical advisory mission" to China to "assess the situation", stopping short of a higher-level investigation, as requested by the United States, Britain and other countries.

During the more than two-week International Labour Conference, the committee tasked with assessing China's compliance with global labour practices had heard allegations, vehemently denied by China, of systemic labour violations especially targeting Uyghur and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uyghur-genocide-un-team-arrives-in-china-ahead-of-visit-by-human-rights-chief-474000">Uyghur genocide: UN team arrives in China ahead of visit by human rights chief</a>

In its conclusions, adopted in full by the assembly Saturday, the committee "deplored the use of all repressive measures against the Uyghur people, which has a discriminatory effect on their employment opportunities and treatment as a religious and ethnic minority in China".

It issued a long line of recommendations to Beijing, including to "immediately cease any discriminatory practices against the Uyghur population and any other ethnic minority groups, including internment or imprisonment on ethnic and religious grounds for de-radicalisation purpose".

It urged Beijing to accept an ILO technical advisory mission and asked it to provide a report by September 1 with information on how it is applying the labour convention against discrimination in employment.

China reacted angrily to the findings, with government representative Qian Xiaoyan insisting that ILO committees should not be used as a "political instrument of some Western countries to smear and denigrate China".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-rights-activists-call-on-china-to-release-uyghur-scholar-416014">Human rights activists call on China to release Uyghur scholar</a>

The committee review came after a group of 20 UN labour experts in February voiced their "deep concern" after evaluating the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities in China.

They had assessed allegations by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in late 2020 that Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang were systematically being used for forced labour in agriculture.

Rights groups also say at least one million Uyghurs have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in the western region. Beijing flatly denies all such charges and maintains the camps are vocational training centres aimed at reducing the appeal of Islamic extremism.&nbsp;

Since China has not completed its ratification of conventions against forced labour, the committee review focused only on the country's adherence to Convention 111 against discrimination in employment, to which it is a party.

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Amid allegations of discrimination against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities in the Xinjiang region, International Labour Organization (ILO) members have decided Saturday to send a mission to China.

Amid allegations of discrimination against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities in the Xinjiang region, International Labour Organization (ILO) members have decided Saturday to send a mission to China. The ILO's main annual assembly adopted a committee finding to send a "technical advisory mission" to China to "assess the situation", stopping short of a higher-level investigation, as requested by the United States, Britain and other countries. During the more than two-week International Labour Conference, the committee tasked with assessing China's compliance with global labour practices had heard allegations, vehemently denied by China, of systemic labour violations especially targeting Uyghur and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang. Also Read: Uyghur genocide: UN team arrives in China ahead of visit by human rights chief In its conclusions, adopted in full by the assembly Saturday, the committee "deplored the use of all repressive measures against the Uyghur people, which has a discriminatory effect on their employment opportunities and treatment as a religious and ethnic minority in China". It issued a long line of recommendations to Beijing, including to "immediately cease any discriminatory practices against the Uyghur population and any other ethnic minority groups, including internment or imprisonment on ethnic and religious grounds for de-radicalisation purpose". It urged Beijing to accept an ILO technical advisory mission and asked it to provide a report by September 1 with information on how it is applying the labour convention against discrimination in employment. China reacted angrily to the findings, with government representative Qian Xiaoyan insisting that ILO committees should not be used as a "political instrument of some Western countries to smear and denigrate China". Also Read: Human rights activists call on China to release Uyghur scholar The committee review came after a group of 20 UN labour experts in February voiced their "deep concern" after evaluating the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities in China. They had assessed allegations by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in late 2020 that Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang were systematically being used for forced labour in agriculture. Rights groups also say at least one million Uyghurs have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in the western region. Beijing flatly denies all such charges and maintains the camps are vocational training centres aimed at reducing the appeal of Islamic extremism. Since China has not completed its ratification of conventions against forced labour, the committee review focused only on the country's adherence to Convention 111 against discrimination in employment, to which it is a party. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ILO sending mission to China to report on discrimination against Uyghurs in Xinjiang region

McDonald's iconic 'Golden Arches' have been taken down at sites in Moscow and St Petersburg on Sunday, where they will make way for a new logo comprising two fries and a hamburger patty against a green background, &nbsp;as former McDonald's Corp restaurants reopen under new branding and ownership, more than three decades after the arrival of the hugely popular Western fast-food chain.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mcdonalds-to-leave-russia-after-more-than-three-decades-over-ukraine-conflict-479623">McDonald's to leave Russia after more than three decades over Ukraine conflict</a>

The relaunch will begin on Russia Day, a patriotic holiday celebrating the country's independence, at the same flagship location in Moscow's Pushkin Square where McDonald's first opened in Russia in January 1990.&nbsp;

In the early 1990s, as the Soviet Union crumbled, McDonald's came to embody a thawing of Cold War tensions and was a vehicle for millions of Russians to sample American food and culture. The brand's exit is now a powerful symbol of how Russia and the West are once again turning their backs on each other.&nbsp;

McDonald's last month said it was selling its restaurants in Russia to one of its local licensees, Alexander Govor. The deal marked one of the most high-profile business departures since Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on February 24.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mcdonalds-food-being-sold-online-at-exorbitant-prices-in-russia-after-ceasing-operations-461561">McDonald’s food being sold online at exorbitant prices in Russia after ceasing operations</a>

The reopening will initially cover 15 locations in Moscow and the surrounding region.

The new chain's name remains a closely guarded secret. A change in the name of the McDonald’s app on Friday to 'My Burger' generated some online excitement, but the chain's press team said this was only temporary, the RBC daily reported.&nbsp;

A motto on the app's home page read: "Some things are changing, but stable work is here to stay."

Russian media, citing leaked images of the new menu, have reported the renaming of dishes such as the Filet-O-Fish to 'Fish Burger' and Chicken McNuggets to simply 'Nuggets'.

[with inputs from agencies] 
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McDonald's iconic 'Golden Arches' have been taken down at sites in Moscow and St Petersburg on Sunday, where they will make way for a new logo comprising two fries and a hamburger patty against a green background, as former McDonald's Corp restaurants reopen under new branding and ownership, more than three decades after the arrival of the hugely popular Western fast-food chain.

McDonald's iconic 'Golden Arches' have been taken down at sites in Moscow and St Petersburg on Sunday, where they will make way for a new logo comprising two fries and a hamburger patty against a green background, as former McDonald's Corp restaurants reopen under new branding and ownership, more than three decades after the arrival of the hugely popular Western fast-food chain. Also Read: McDonald's to leave Russia after more than three decades over Ukraine conflict The relaunch will begin on Russia Day, a patriotic holiday celebrating the country's independence, at the same flagship location in Moscow's Pushkin Square where McDonald's first opened in Russia in January 1990. In the early 1990s, as the Soviet Union crumbled, McDonald's came to embody a thawing of Cold War tensions and was a vehicle for millions of Russians to sample American food and culture. The brand's exit is now a powerful symbol of how Russia and the West are once again turning their backs on each other. McDonald's last month said it was selling its restaurants in Russia to one of its local licensees, Alexander Govor. The deal marked one of the most high-profile business departures since Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on February 24. Also Read: McDonald’s food being sold online at exorbitant prices in Russia after ceasing operations The reopening will initially cover 15 locations in Moscow and the surrounding region. The new chain's name remains a closely guarded secret. A change in the name of the McDonald’s app on Friday to 'My Burger' generated some online excitement, but the chain's press team said this was only temporary, the RBC daily reported. A motto on the app's home page read: "Some things are changing, but stable work is here to stay." Russian media, citing leaked images of the new menu, have reported the renaming of dishes such as the Filet-O-Fish to 'Fish Burger' and Chicken McNuggets to simply 'Nuggets'. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iconic golden arches taken down, rebranded McDonald’s to open in Russia

Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks.

Ukraine's military planted mines along the coast in case of a Russian amphibious assault after Moscow's February&nbsp;24 invasion, cordoning off beach entrances with red and white tape to ensure civilians don't get hurt.

Already reeling from the war, the local economy of the port city of Odesa in southwestern Ukraine will take a huge hit to its tourism industry this year. Long-time residents cannot imagine life in Odesa without the sand and sea.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-tensions-what-is-really-happening-heres-what-you-should-know-446848">Russia-Ukraine tensions: What is really happening? Here's what you should know</a>

"We can't live without the sea. If not for the sea, there would probably be no Odesa," said 82-year-old resident Viktor Holchenko.&nbsp;

In early May, Russian forces pounded the port with missiles, leaving buildings in Odesa in ruin. 
Signs posted by Ukraine's military warn residents to stay away from the beaches where mines have been buried. From a seaside restaurant, the view is now of a "Danger! mines" sign.

Residents laid out beach towels along boardwalks instead of on beaches to tan in their bathing suits. 
"They (the military) said not to go there (to the seaside)," said 18-year-old resident Kyrylo Zinchenko. "Why would you go there? This is the summer we will have."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/battle-analysis-russian-tank-armada-vs-ukraine-who-will-win-459067">Battle analysis: Russian tank armada vs Ukraine - who will win?</a>

Once a driver of the local economy, tourism in Odesa has dried up.

"We realize that the tourism business and recreational component is an important element ... but we also realize that if we don't hold the defence of our region, there will be no budget to fill," said Nataliia Humeniuk, a spokeswoman of the southern military command.&nbsp;

The local economy will take a broad hit, said tourism office owner Oleksandr Babich. "It is hotels, restaurants, souvenirs, all kinds of beach services. It is things related to the cultural sector ... I don't know how the city economy will do without them."

[with inputs from agencies]

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Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks.

Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks. Ukraine's military planted mines along the coast in case of a Russian amphibious assault after Moscow's February 24 invasion, cordoning off beach entrances with red and white tape to ensure civilians don't get hurt. Already reeling from the war, the local economy of the port city of Odesa in southwestern Ukraine will take a huge hit to its tourism industry this year. Long-time residents cannot imagine life in Odesa without the sand and sea. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine tensions: What is really happening? Here's what you should know "We can't live without the sea. If not for the sea, there would probably be no Odesa," said 82-year-old resident Viktor Holchenko. In early May, Russian forces pounded the port with missiles, leaving buildings in Odesa in ruin. Signs posted by Ukraine's military warn residents to stay away from the beaches where mines have been buried. From a seaside restaurant, the view is now of a "Danger! mines" sign. Residents laid out beach towels along boardwalks instead of on beaches to tan in their bathing suits. "They (the military) said not to go there (to the seaside)," said 18-year-old resident Kyrylo Zinchenko. "Why would you go there? This is the summer we will have." Also Read: Battle analysis: Russian tank armada vs Ukraine - who will win? Once a driver of the local economy, tourism in Odesa has dried up. "We realize that the tourism business and recreational component is an important element ... but we also realize that if we don't hold the defence of our region, there will be no budget to fill," said Nataliia Humeniuk, a spokeswoman of the southern military command. The local economy will take a broad hit, said tourism office owner Oleksandr Babich. "It is hotels, restaurants, souvenirs, all kinds of beach services. It is things related to the cultural sector ... I don't know how the city economy will do without them." [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Odesa's popular white sand beaches now off-limits due to planted mines

In pics: Russia-China inaugurate cross-border road bridge to boost trade

The commercial hub of Shanghai in China recently began a mass Covid testing for close to 25 million residents in 15 of Shanghai's 16 districts this Saturday. At the same time, Beijing reported an upsurge in cases.

The commercial hub of Shanghai in China recently began a mass Covid testing for close to 25 million residents in 15 of Shanghai's 16 districts this Saturday. At the same time, Beijing reported an upsurge in cases. Authorities are determined to contain an outbreak linked to a popular beauty salon and have barred residents from five districts in Shanghai from leaving their homes during the mass testing period, reported Reuters. This comes after the city lifted a strict two-month lockdown ten days back, aiming to eradicate the community spread of Covid. Also read | Shanghai to lock down and test 2.7 million as Covid fears linger Shanghai reported seven new local symptomatic cases on Saturday, most of which were detected outside of the quarantined area, along with nine new asymptomatic cases being reported, six more than the previous day. China's capital, Beijing, also reported a spike in cases on Saturday with 36 new local symptomatic cases, seven more than the previous day, and 25 new local asymptomatic cases. The authorities claim that China's zero-COVID policy is needed to protect the elderly and the medical system, Reuters reported citing the authorities. Watch | Residents stock up food supplies as Shanghai imposes new COVID lockdown curbs Bar Cluster On Thursday, the capital reinstated a few Covid curbs again, mainly in two districts that includes one of the most populated district, Chaoyang. Chaoyang district is known for its nightlife, shopping, and streets of embassies, which made the authorities shut down entertainment and related venues in the area after a crowd started flaring up in the busy neighbourhood. The cases in Beijing are being linked to an establishment called Heaven Supermarket Bar as close to 61 cases reported in the capital on Saturday had either visited the bar or had some sort of links to it. Also read | Covid restrictions return to Shanghai, Xi Jinping says ‘persistence is victory’ A total of 69 cases linked to the bar have been reported so far from 14 of Beijing's 16 districts. The capital had imposed widespread Covid curbs to fight a significant outbreak that began in the month of April, which was relaxed less than two weeks ago. Mainland China totally reported 210 new coronavirus cases as of June 10, of which 79 were symptomatic and 131 were asymptomatic cases, Reuters reported quoting the National Health Commission. No new deaths have been reported, leaving China's fatalities at 5,226. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shanghai kicks off new round of mass Covid testing, Beijing cases jump

A new set of measures were rolled out on Friday to confront the regional migration crisis by U.S. President Joe Biden and fellow leaders from the Western Hemisphere, seeking to salvage an Americas summit roiled by division.

Biden's aides had touted the migration declaration as a centrepiece of the United States-hosted Summit of the Americas, and 20 countries joined him for a ceremonial unveiling of the plan, though several others stayed away.

Capping the summit's final day, the White House promoted a series of migrant programs agreed upon by countries across the hemisphere and Spain, attending as an observer, which pledged a more cooperative approach. But analysts were sceptical that the pledges are meaningful enough to make a significant difference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-100-million-healthcare-training-plan-at-summit-of-americas-amid-partial-boycott-by-leaders-486243">US announces $100 million healthcare training plan at Summit of Americas amid partial boycott by leaders</a>

Those measures include the United States and Canada committing to taking more guests, providing pathways for people from poorer countries to work in richer ones, and other countries agreeing to greater protections for migrants. Mexico also will accept more Central American workers, according to a White House statement.

"We're transforming our approach to managing migration in the Americas," Biden said. "Each of us is signing up to commitments that recognise the challenges we all share."

The flags of 20 countries, several fewer than the number attending the summit, festooned the stage where Biden led the rollout. But that number was only achieved after days of U.S. pressure.

It was another sign of tensions that have marred the summit, undermining Biden's efforts to reassert U.S. leadership and counter China's growing economic footprint in the region.

That message was clouded by a boycott by several leaders, including Mexico's president, to protest Washington's exclusion of leftist U.S. antagonists Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua. The line-up was thinned to 21 visiting heads of state and government.

The administration, facing a record flow of illegal migrants at its southern border, pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in aid for Venezuelan migrants, renewed the processing of family-based visas for Cubans and Haitians and eased the hiring of Central American workers.

The announcements were part of the unveiling of the U.S.-led pact dubbed the "Los Angeles Declaration" and aimed at spreading responsibility across the region to contain the migration problem.

The plan culminates in a summit designed to re-establish U.S. influence among its southern neighbours after years of relative neglect under former President Donald Trump. Biden proposed an economic partnership to help the region's pandemic recovery - though it appears to be a work in progress.

Jorge Castaneda, a former Mexican foreign minister, said pledges from the Americas should allow Washington to argue it had secured major commitments, a domestic "political plus" forbidden. But he added: "On substance, there's nothing here."

Mexico, whose border with the United States is the main point of migration - backed the declaration, despite Lopez Obrador's no-show.

The absence from the summit of leaders of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador - the Northern Triangle from which many migrants come - has raised doubts about how effective the pledges will be. U.S. officials insisted the turnout did not prevent Washington from getting results.

The declaration encompasses commitments by an array of countries, including Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, Belize and Ecuador. There was no mention, however, of pledges by Brazil, Latin America's most populous nation.

The announcement did not include any U.S. pledges for additional work visas for Mexicans. That would form part of Lopez Obrador's visit with Biden next month, an official said.

Spain pledged to "double the number of labour pathways" for Hondurans, the White House said. Madrid's temporary work program enrols 250 Hondurans, suggesting only a small increase is envisioned.

Curbing irregular migration is a priority for Biden. Republicans, seeking to regain control of Congress in November elections, have pilloried the Democratic president for reversing Republican Trump's restrictive immigration policies.

But migration has had to compete with Biden's other major challenges, including high inflation, mass shootings and the war in Ukraine. 
&nbsp;

[with inputs from agencies]

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A new set of measures were rolled out on Friday to confront the regional migration crisis by U.S. President Joe Biden and fellow leaders from the Western Hemisphere, seeking to salvage an Americas summit roiled by division.

A new set of measures were rolled out on Friday to confront the regional migration crisis by U.S. President Joe Biden and fellow leaders from the Western Hemisphere, seeking to salvage an Americas summit roiled by division. Biden's aides had touted the migration declaration as a centrepiece of the United States-hosted Summit of the Americas, and 20 countries joined him for a ceremonial unveiling of the plan, though several others stayed away. Capping the summit's final day, the White House promoted a series of migrant programs agreed upon by countries across the hemisphere and Spain, attending as an observer, which pledged a more cooperative approach. But analysts were sceptical that the pledges are meaningful enough to make a significant difference. Also read: US announces $100 million healthcare training plan at Summit of Americas amid partial boycott by leaders Those measures include the United States and Canada committing to taking more guests, providing pathways for people from poorer countries to work in richer ones, and other countries agreeing to greater protections for migrants. Mexico also will accept more Central American workers, according to a White House statement. "We're transforming our approach to managing migration in the Americas," Biden said. "Each of us is signing up to commitments that recognise the challenges we all share." The flags of 20 countries, several fewer than the number attending the summit, festooned the stage where Biden led the rollout. But that number was only achieved after days of U.S. pressure. It was another sign of tensions that have marred the summit, undermining Biden's efforts to reassert U.S. leadership and counter China's growing economic footprint in the region. That message was clouded by a boycott by several leaders, including Mexico's president, to protest Washington's exclusion of leftist U.S. antagonists Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua. The line-up was thinned to 21 visiting heads of state and government. The administration, facing a record flow of illegal migrants at its southern border, pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in aid for Venezuelan migrants, renewed the processing of family-based visas for Cubans and Haitians and eased the hiring of Central American workers. The announcements were part of the unveiling of the U.S.-led pact dubbed the "Los Angeles Declaration" and aimed at spreading responsibility across the region to contain the migration problem. The plan culminates in a summit designed to re-establish U.S. influence among its southern neighbours after years of relative neglect under former President Donald Trump. Biden proposed an economic partnership to help the region's pandemic recovery - though it appears to be a work in progress. Jorge Castaneda, a former Mexican foreign minister, said pledges from the Americas should allow Washington to argue it had secured major commitments, a domestic "political plus" forbidden. But he added: "On substance, there's nothing here." Mexico, whose border with the United States is the main point of migration - backed the declaration, despite Lopez Obrador's no-show. The absence from the summit of leaders of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador - the Northern Triangle from which many migrants come - has raised doubts about how effective the pledges will be. U.S. officials insisted the turnout did not prevent Washington from getting results. The declaration encompasses commitments by an array of countries, including Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, Belize and Ecuador. There was no mention, however, of pledges by Brazil, Latin America's most populous nation. The announcement did not include any U.S. pledges for additional work visas for Mexicans. That would form part of Lopez Obrador's visit with Biden next month, an official said. Spain pledged to "double the number of labour pathways" for Hondurans, the White House said. Madrid's temporary work program enrols 250 Hondurans, suggesting only a small increase is envisioned. Curbing irregular migration is a priority for Biden. Republicans, seeking to regain control of Congress in November elections, have pilloried the Democratic president for reversing Republican Trump's restrictive immigration policies. But migration has had to compete with Biden's other major challenges, including high inflation, mass shootings and the war in Ukraine. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden unveils 'Los Angeles Declaration' to confront regional migration

To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.58 million)settlement, a move Canberra hopes will help repair the rift between the two countries.

Australia last year cancelled a multi-billion-dollar order for submarines with the French military shipyard Naval Group and opted instead for an alternative deal with the United States and Britain.

The move enraged Paris and triggered an unprecedented diplomatic crisis. It has also riled China, the major rising power in the Indo-Pacific region.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Saturday in a news conference in Sydney that his government had reached a "fair and equitable" settlement with the Naval Group.

The cancellation last year of Canberra's order for a new conventional submarine fleet with Naval Group - valued at $40 billion in 2016 and reckoned to cost much more today - came after the previous government signed a trilateral security partnership with the United States and Britain.&nbsp;

The trilateral deal was for a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. and British technology.&nbsp;

Albanese said the settlement would allow Australia to move forward in its relationship with France.

"Given the gravity of the challenges that we face both in the region and globally, it is essential that Australia and France once again unite to defend our shared principles and interests," Albanese said in a separate statement.&nbsp;

Australia, the United States, France and its partners have all expressed concern about China's growing influence in the Pacific, a region that has traditionally been under their sway. Their concerns increased after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security pact earlier in the year.

"We deeply respect France’s role and active engagement in the Indo-Pacific," Albanese said.&nbsp; 
He added he was looking forward to taking up French President Emmanuel Macron's invitation to visit Paris.

[with inputs from agencies]

 
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To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.

To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.58 million)settlement, a move Canberra hopes will help repair the rift between the two countries. Australia last year cancelled a multi-billion-dollar order for submarines with the French military shipyard Naval Group and opted instead for an alternative deal with the United States and Britain. The move enraged Paris and triggered an unprecedented diplomatic crisis. It has also riled China, the major rising power in the Indo-Pacific region. Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Saturday in a news conference in Sydney that his government had reached a "fair and equitable" settlement with the Naval Group. The cancellation last year of Canberra's order for a new conventional submarine fleet with Naval Group - valued at $40 billion in 2016 and reckoned to cost much more today - came after the previous government signed a trilateral security partnership with the United States and Britain. The trilateral deal was for a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. and British technology. Albanese said the settlement would allow Australia to move forward in its relationship with France. "Given the gravity of the challenges that we face both in the region and globally, it is essential that Australia and France once again unite to defend our shared principles and interests," Albanese said in a separate statement. Australia, the United States, France and its partners have all expressed concern about China's growing influence in the Pacific, a region that has traditionally been under their sway. Their concerns increased after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security pact earlier in the year. "We deeply respect France’s role and active engagement in the Indo-Pacific," Albanese said. He added he was looking forward to taking up French President Emmanuel Macron's invitation to visit Paris. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal

To ease the long wait times that travellers have encountered in recent weeks, Canada is suspending random Covid-19 testing at all its airports for the rest of June, a government statement said on Friday.

Random testing was blamed by some industry officials for lengthening already long wait times at airports. Toronto's Pearson airport has had planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines because of staffing shortages.

The random testing will be discontinued from Saturday and will resume "off-site" on July 1, the statement said.

The government "recognizes the impact that significant wait times at some Canadian airports are having on travellers," the statement said, adding that it would continue to "implement solutions to reduce delays as we approach the summer peak season."

The country's largest carrier Air Canada cancelled almost 10% of flights from Pearson during the first week of June, according to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company.

Suzanne Acton-Gervais, interim president of the National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC) which represents Air Canada and privately held WestJet Airlines, said the move "will improve conditions at Canada's airports and reduce complexity for travellers."

Airlines around the globe that faced a travel slump during the pandemic have been counting on a strong summer. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has hired 865 screening officers since April to help manage an increase in travellers.

Canada's opposition Conservative Party has said Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government has been slow to act to remedy airport congestion. 
&nbsp;

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To ease the long wait times that travellers have encountered in recent weeks, Canada is suspending random Covid-19 testing at all its airports for the rest of June, a government statement said on Friday.

To ease the long wait times that travellers have encountered in recent weeks, Canada is suspending random Covid-19 testing at all its airports for the rest of June, a government statement said on Friday. Random testing was blamed by some industry officials for lengthening already long wait times at airports. Toronto's Pearson airport has had planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines because of staffing shortages. The random testing will be discontinued from Saturday and will resume "off-site" on July 1, the statement said. The government "recognizes the impact that significant wait times at some Canadian airports are having on travellers," the statement said, adding that it would continue to "implement solutions to reduce delays as we approach the summer peak season." The country's largest carrier Air Canada cancelled almost 10% of flights from Pearson during the first week of June, according to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company. Suzanne Acton-Gervais, interim president of the National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC) which represents Air Canada and privately held WestJet Airlines, said the move "will improve conditions at Canada's airports and reduce complexity for travellers." Airlines around the globe that faced a travel slump during the pandemic have been counting on a strong summer. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has hired 865 screening officers since April to help manage an increase in travellers. Canada's opposition Conservative Party has said Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government has been slow to act to remedy airport congestion. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canada to ease Covid restrictions for rest of June

Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday.&nbsp;

"The trial of the foreigners raises the stakes in the Russian Federation's negotiation process. They are using them as hostages to put pressure on the world over the negotiation process," he told national television.

Two Britons and a Moroccan received the death sentence on Thursday from a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), one of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, Russian news agencies reported.

They were brought to trial after a Ukrainian court sentenced a Russian soldier to life in prison last month for killing an unarmed civilian in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Kyiv said Thursday's court ruling had no authority, that the fighters were members of the Ukrainian armed forces and that they were subject to Geneva Convention protections.

Vadym Denysenko, an Interior Ministry adviser, said on Friday Ukraine would coordinate its position on the sentences with Britain, the United States and the European Union.

Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are frozen. Russia has accused Ukraine of blocking talks, but Kyiv says Moscow is to blame.

Britain on Friday condemned Russian proxy authorities in Donbas for what it called an "egregious breach" of the Geneva convention in sentencing to death two British nationals captured in the separatist region while fighting for Ukraine.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said he was talking to Ukraine rather than Russia over the situation facing Aiden Aslin and Shaun Pinner, who were convicted of "mercenary activities" on Thursday by a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR).

Aslin's family said he and Pinner "are not, and never were mercenaries."

They had been living in Ukraine when the war broke out and "as members of Ukrainian armed forces, should be treated with respect just like any other prisoners of war," the family said in a statement.

[with inputs from agencies]

 
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Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday.

Three fighters who were captured while fighting for Ukraine and sentenced to death are being used as ‘hostages’ by Russia to put pressure on the West over peace negotiations, a senior Ukrainian official said on Friday. "The trial of the foreigners raises the stakes in the Russian Federation's negotiation process. They are using them as hostages to put pressure on the world over the negotiation process," he told national television. Two Britons and a Moroccan received the death sentence on Thursday from a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), one of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, Russian news agencies reported. They were brought to trial after a Ukrainian court sentenced a Russian soldier to life in prison last month for killing an unarmed civilian in Ukraine. Kyiv said Thursday's court ruling had no authority, that the fighters were members of the Ukrainian armed forces and that they were subject to Geneva Convention protections. Vadym Denysenko, an Interior Ministry adviser, said on Friday Ukraine would coordinate its position on the sentences with Britain, the United States and the European Union. Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are frozen. Russia has accused Ukraine of blocking talks, but Kyiv says Moscow is to blame. Britain on Friday condemned Russian proxy authorities in Donbas for what it called an "egregious breach" of the Geneva convention in sentencing to death two British nationals captured in the separatist region while fighting for Ukraine. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said he was talking to Ukraine rather than Russia over the situation facing Aiden Aslin and Shaun Pinner, who were convicted of "mercenary activities" on Thursday by a court in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). Aslin's family said he and Pinner "are not, and never were mercenaries." They had been living in Ukraine when the war broke out and "as members of Ukrainian armed forces, should be treated with respect just like any other prisoners of war," the family said in a statement. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian official says Russia wants to use captured fighters as ‘hostages’

Covid restrictions return to Shanghai as China decides to lock down millions of people for mass COVID-19 testing this weekend, &nbsp;just 10 days after lifting its gruelling two-month lockdown, unsettling residents and raising concerns about the business impact.

Racing to stop a wider outbreak after discovering a handful of community cases, including a cluster traced to a popular beauty salon, authorities have ordered PCR testing for all residents in 14 of Shanghai's 16 districts over the weekend.&nbsp;

Five of the districts said residents would not be allowed to leave their homes while the testing was carried out. A notice issued by Changning district described the stay-home requirement as "closed management" of the community being sampled.&nbsp;

The latest scare triggered a rush to grocery stores and online platforms to stock up on food, as users of China's Twitter-like Weibo expressed fear they could be locked down for longer, having only started going back to work after the last lockdown was lifted on June 1.

Some areas had remained sealed off or quickly returned to lockdown due to infections and their close contacts. "The residential compound next to mine has already been locked down," said Zhang Jian, a 34-year-old real estate agent.&nbsp;

"If there is mass testing and there is another positive case in the compound, it will have a serious impact on our lives." He added

While China's infection rate is low by global standards, President Xi Jinping has doubled down on a zero-Covid policy that authorities say is needed to protect the elderly and the medical system, even as other countries try to live with the virus.

The latest round of mass testing comes on top of already onerous testing requirements that Shanghai introduced for its 25 million residents after easing its earlier lockdown.&nbsp;

Residents must prove that they have been tested within the last 72 hours to enter areas like malls and offices - or even to use subways and buses. Many have become frustrated by the prospect of queuing for hours to be tested.

Meanwhile, Beijing on Thursday shut entertainment and internet venues in two of the capital's largest districts after tracing cases to a few bars.&nbsp;

Shanghai's earlier lockdown fuelled widespread frustration, anger and even rare protests among its residents, many of whom grappled with lost income, the loss of freedom, the death of friends and relatives, and even hunger.

It also battered China's economy, disrupting supply chains and slowing international trade. And the latest setback has hit sentiment in financial markets.

"We are at the mercy of mass testing. Factories will have to shut down even if only one positive case is detected," said Bettina Schoen-Behanzin, vice president of the European Chamber, adding that European companies were becoming more cautious and rethinking future investments in China.

[with inputs from agencies] 
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Covid restrictions return to Shanghai as China decides to lock down millions of people for mass COVID-19 testing this weekend, just 10 days after lifting its gruelling two-month lockdown, unsettling residents and raising concerns about the business impact.

Covid restrictions return to Shanghai as China decides to lock down millions of people for mass COVID-19 testing this weekend, just 10 days after lifting its gruelling two-month lockdown, unsettling residents and raising concerns about the business impact. Racing to stop a wider outbreak after discovering a handful of community cases, including a cluster traced to a popular beauty salon, authorities have ordered PCR testing for all residents in 14 of Shanghai's 16 districts over the weekend. Five of the districts said residents would not be allowed to leave their homes while the testing was carried out. A notice issued by Changning district described the stay-home requirement as "closed management" of the community being sampled. The latest scare triggered a rush to grocery stores and online platforms to stock up on food, as users of China's Twitter-like Weibo expressed fear they could be locked down for longer, having only started going back to work after the last lockdown was lifted on June 1. Some areas had remained sealed off or quickly returned to lockdown due to infections and their close contacts. "The residential compound next to mine has already been locked down," said Zhang Jian, a 34-year-old real estate agent. "If there is mass testing and there is another positive case in the compound, it will have a serious impact on our lives." He added While China's infection rate is low by global standards, President Xi Jinping has doubled down on a zero-Covid policy that authorities say is needed to protect the elderly and the medical system, even as other countries try to live with the virus. The latest round of mass testing comes on top of already onerous testing requirements that Shanghai introduced for its 25 million residents after easing its earlier lockdown. Residents must prove that they have been tested within the last 72 hours to enter areas like malls and offices - or even to use subways and buses. Many have become frustrated by the prospect of queuing for hours to be tested. Meanwhile, Beijing on Thursday shut entertainment and internet venues in two of the capital's largest districts after tracing cases to a few bars. Shanghai's earlier lockdown fuelled widespread frustration, anger and even rare protests among its residents, many of whom grappled with lost income, the loss of freedom, the death of friends and relatives, and even hunger. It also battered China's economy, disrupting supply chains and slowing international trade. And the latest setback has hit sentiment in financial markets. "We are at the mercy of mass testing. Factories will have to shut down even if only one positive case is detected," said Bettina Schoen-Behanzin, vice president of the European Chamber, adding that European companies were becoming more cautious and rethinking future investments in China. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Covid restrictions return to Shanghai, Xi Jinping says ‘persistence is victory’

Visa requirements for Russian critics of Vladimir Putin's government will be eased to allow them to live and work in Germany, a German&nbsp;interior ministry spokesperson&nbsp;said Monday.

Journalists, scientists and civil society activists who are facing pressure from Moscow will be able to benefit from the newly agreed rules.

Human rights activists, employees of NGOs and civil society groups with a connection to Germany and journalists and researchers who have taken a stance against the war in Ukraine are among those who qualify to stay in the longer term.&nbsp;

Employees of foreign organisations which have been classified as "undesirable" in Russia can also be granted residency under the sped-up procedures. Their immediate family members will likewise benefit, said the spokesman.

The move aims to remove some of the red tape involved in Germany's visa process and guarantee a longer stay than the 90 days allowed under the Schengen tourist visa.

He could not give any figures on how many people might benefit from the eased procedures but said applicants will have to present "credible" cases.

Germany has opened its doors to Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion. 
But in the last weeks, calls have grown for Europe's biggest economy to also offer protection to Kremlin critics.

Deputy Chancellor Robert Habeck said however that in the process of welcoming Russians, Germany has to ensure that "the wrong ones" do not "come to us, and we don't bring spies into our country".

[with inputs from agencies]

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Visa requirements for Russian critics of Vladimir Putin's government will be eased to allow them to live and work in Germany, a German interior ministry spokesperson said Monday.

Visa requirements for Russian critics of Vladimir Putin's government will be eased to allow them to live and work in Germany, a German interior ministry spokesperson said Monday. Journalists, scientists and civil society activists who are facing pressure from Moscow will be able to benefit from the newly agreed rules. Human rights activists, employees of NGOs and civil society groups with a connection to Germany and journalists and researchers who have taken a stance against the war in Ukraine are among those who qualify to stay in the longer term. Employees of foreign organisations which have been classified as "undesirable" in Russia can also be granted residency under the sped-up procedures. Their immediate family members will likewise benefit, said the spokesman. The move aims to remove some of the red tape involved in Germany's visa process and guarantee a longer stay than the 90 days allowed under the Schengen tourist visa. He could not give any figures on how many people might benefit from the eased procedures but said applicants will have to present "credible" cases. Germany has opened its doors to Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion. But in the last weeks, calls have grown for Europe's biggest economy to also offer protection to Kremlin critics. Deputy Chancellor Robert Habeck said however that in the process of welcoming Russians, Germany has to ensure that "the wrong ones" do not "come to us, and we don't bring spies into our country". [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany eases visa restrictions for Putin critics classified as 'undesirable' in Russia

A day after decriminalising marijuana growth for commercial purposes Thailand plans to give away 1 million free cannabis plants on Friday but discouraged people from getting high as that is still against the law.

Thailand legalised medicinal marijuana in 2018 for medical use but is now banking on developing it as a cash crop and building a lucrative local industry.&nbsp;

"Don't use it and sit smiling at home and not get any work done. Those things are not our policies," Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said at the launch in northeastern Buriram province, where the first 1,000 plants were being distributed.&nbsp;

"We have erased the stigma, it's being washed away like removing a tattoo. Don't let it come back," he said, adding that cannabis should be used to improve health.

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On Thursday, cannabis was de-listed from the country's narcotics list, allowing people to grow the plant if they register on a government app.&nbsp;

Authorities are however discouraging its recreational use, while smoking in public could lead to prison and fines.&nbsp; 
The psychoactive compound in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, is limited to 0.2% in cannabis extracts and products that can be sold in Thailand, which includes oils and candy.

Growing cannabis at home requires registration with the government's smartphone application, PlookGanja or "grow ganja".&nbsp;Anutin said more than 300,000 people had registered with the app, which had millions of downloads from people wanting to learn more about cannabis.&nbsp;

According to Thailand's corrections department, 3,000 people have been freed from prison after being held for cannabis-related crimes since the law changed this week.

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A day after decriminalising marijuana growth for commercial purposes Thailand plans to give away 1 million free cannabis plants on Friday but discouraged people from getting high as that is still against the law.

A day after decriminalising marijuana growth for commercial purposes Thailand plans to give away 1 million free cannabis plants on Friday but discouraged people from getting high as that is still against the law. Thailand legalised medicinal marijuana in 2018 for medical use but is now banking on developing it as a cash crop and building a lucrative local industry. "Don't use it and sit smiling at home and not get any work done. Those things are not our policies," Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said at the launch in northeastern Buriram province, where the first 1,000 plants were being distributed. "We have erased the stigma, it's being washed away like removing a tattoo. Don't let it come back," he said, adding that cannabis should be used to improve health. On Thursday, cannabis was de-listed from the country's narcotics list, allowing people to grow the plant if they register on a government app. Authorities are however discouraging its recreational use, while smoking in public could lead to prison and fines. The psychoactive compound in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, is limited to 0.2% in cannabis extracts and products that can be sold in Thailand, which includes oils and candy. Growing cannabis at home requires registration with the government's smartphone application, PlookGanja or "grow ganja". Anutin said more than 300,000 people had registered with the app, which had millions of downloads from people wanting to learn more about cannabis. According to Thailand's corrections department, 3,000 people have been freed from prison after being held for cannabis-related crimes since the law changed this week. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop

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