&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-seen-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-chinese-lab-295950">Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab</a>

United States President Donald Trump has contradicted a statement from his own intelligence community by claiming he had seen evidence that proved the novel coronavirus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. He, however, declined to provide details to validate his assertion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-emergency-in-japan-to-extended-by-one-month-pm-abe-on-covid-19-296123" hreflang="en">State of emergency in Japan to extended by one month: PM Abe on COVID-19</a>

As the country battles&nbsp;coronavirus, Japan PM &nbsp;Shinzo Abe said his government would be extending the&nbsp;"state of emergency by about one month as the base scenario for swiftly drafting plans that will fit the needs of the regions".

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/never-happened-democratic-presidential-candidate-joe-biden-denies-sexual-assault-accusations-296117" hreflang="en">Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden denies sexual assault accusations</a>

In first public remarks, US Presidential candidate Joe Biden on Friday denied any sexual assault allegations related to a former staffer in his US Senate office.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-rumours-of-kim-jong-uns-demise-intensify-un-denies-having-information-296010" hreflang="en">As rumours of Kim Jong-un's demise intensify, UN denies having information</a>

In a series of social media speculations, Kim Jong-un’s death has twittered across platforms over the last couple of weeks.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalist-jailed-for-15-years-as-chinese-government-intensifies-free-speech-clampdown-296111" hreflang="en">Journalist jailed for 15-years as Chinese government intensifies free-speech clampdown</a>

In one of the harshest sentence in China, the government arrested a journalist on Thursday for "attacking" the ruling party. The journalist has been sentenced for 15-years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infections-in-iran-rise-to-95646-death-toll-at-6091-health-ministry-296086" hreflang="en">Coronavirus infections in Iran rise to 95,646; death toll at 6,091: Health Ministry</a>

The death toll due to coronavirus in Iran jumped to 6,091 after health ministry reported 64 new deaths in the last 24 hours on Friday.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keen-to-work-with-international-partners-at-chinas-invitation-to-investigate-animal-origins-of-virus-who-296083" hreflang="en">Keen to work with international partners at China's invitation to investigate animal origins of virus: WHO</a>

WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told AFP in an email that the UN body hopes China would invite it to take part in its investigations into the "animal origins of the&nbsp;coronavirus."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-passes-230000-confirmed-recoveries-hit-1-million-295999" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll passes 230,000; confirmed recoveries hit 1 million</a>

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-eases-lockdown-amid-fear-of-second-wave-of-infections-295983" hreflang="en">Germany eases lockdown amid fear of second wave of infections</a>

Germany is set to reopen playgrounds, museums and churches from Monday to go with the small shops that reopened this week despite the risk of a new outbreak of the novel coronavirus. The country will decide within days about schools and sports events as it eases its way out of lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-might-impose-tariff-on-china-for-coronavirus-damages-likens-who-to-beijings-pr-agency-295948" hreflang="en">Trump might impose tariff on China for coronavirus damages, likens WHO to Beijing's PR agency</a>

United States President Donald Trump has hinted at imposing tariff on China as a punishment for the coronavirus outbreak. He, however, ruled out considering cancelling US debt obligations to the country.

Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab United States President Donald Trump has contradicted a statement from his own intelligence community by claiming he had seen evidence that proved the novel coronavirus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China.

Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab United States President Donald Trump has contradicted a statement from his own intelligence community by claiming he had seen evidence that proved the novel coronavirus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. He, however, declined to provide details to validate his assertion. State of emergency in Japan to extended by one month: PM Abe on COVID-19 As the country battles coronavirus, Japan PM Shinzo Abe said his government would be extending the "state of emergency by about one month as the base scenario for swiftly drafting plans that will fit the needs of the regions". Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden denies sexual assault accusations In first public remarks, US Presidential candidate Joe Biden on Friday denied any sexual assault allegations related to a former staffer in his US Senate office. As rumours of Kim Jong-un's demise intensify, UN denies having information In a series of social media speculations, Kim Jong-un’s death has twittered across platforms over the last couple of weeks. Journalist jailed for 15-years as Chinese government intensifies free-speech clampdown In one of the harshest sentence in China, the government arrested a journalist on Thursday for "attacking" the ruling party. The journalist has been sentenced for 15-years. Coronavirus infections in Iran rise to 95,646; death toll at 6,091: Health Ministry The death toll due to coronavirus in Iran jumped to 6,091 after health ministry reported 64 new deaths in the last 24 hours on Friday. Keen to work with international partners at China's invitation to investigate animal origins of virus: WHO WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told AFP in an email that the UN body hopes China would invite it to take part in its investigations into the "animal origins of the coronavirus." Coronavirus global death toll passes 230,000; confirmed recoveries hit 1 million Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Germany eases lockdown amid fear of second wave of infections Germany is set to reopen playgrounds, museums and churches from Monday to go with the small shops that reopened this week despite the risk of a new outbreak of the novel coronavirus. The country will decide within days about schools and sports events as it eases its way out of lockdown. Trump might impose tariff on China for coronavirus damages, likens WHO to Beijing's PR agency United States President Donald Trump has hinted at imposing tariff on China as a punishment for the coronavirus outbreak. He, however, ruled out considering cancelling US debt obligations to the country.

Top 10 world news today: Trump's proof against China, emergency in Japan and more

Robots will replace&nbsp;soldiers on the battlefield in Russia according to Vitaly Davydov, the deputy director of the country's Advanced Research Foundation.

Davydov said ''living fighters will gradually begin to be replaced by their robotic ‘'brothers’ who can act faster, more accurately and more selectively than people.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-to-provide-hybrid-defense-to-georgia-against-russia-296089" hreflang="en">NATO to provide 'hybrid defense' to Georgia against Russia</a>

Russia seeking to augment its existing military with new, autonomous capabilities.

The Russian Ministry of Defence is working on a new generation of combat machines for training and possible future use although some the country's robots have&nbsp;underperformed expectations in combat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sets-a-grim-record-reports-7933-coronavirus-cases-in-a-day-296066" hreflang="en">Russia sets a grim record, reports 7,933 coronavirus cases in a day</a>

At the center of this design is an uncrewed ground vehicle called the&nbsp;Marker UGV which resembles&nbsp;a miniature tank with treads and turrets.

According to Samuel Bendett, an adviser at the Center for Naval Analysis, ''there is a still-classified Russian&nbsp;military robotics road-map that sketches out various stages of Russian unnamed military developments, which undoubtedly has been influenced by Russian military actions and experience in Syria.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-prime-minister-mikhail-mishustin-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-295929" hreflang="en">Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tests positive for coronavirus</a>

''The Ministry of Defence is discussing the eventual use of robotic swarms in combat— and Marker is definitely the platform to test that out,'' he added.

Russia plans to test&nbsp;swarms of ground robots&nbsp;later in 2020. United States also has&nbsp;many robotic programs under way .

Robots will replace soldiers on the battlefield in Russia according to Vitaly Davydov, the deputy director of the country's Advanced Research Foundation. Davydov said ''living fighters will gradually begin to be replaced by their robotic ‘'brothers’ who can act faster, more accurately and more selectively than people.

Robots will replace soldiers on the battlefield in Russia according to Vitaly Davydov, the deputy director of the country's Advanced Research Foundation. Davydov said ''living fighters will gradually begin to be replaced by their robotic ‘'brothers’ who can act faster, more accurately and more selectively than people.'' Also read: NATO to provide 'hybrid defense' to Georgia against Russia Russia seeking to augment its existing military with new, autonomous capabilities. The Russian Ministry of Defence is working on a new generation of combat machines for training and possible future use although some the country's robots have underperformed expectations in combat. Also read: Russia sets a grim record, reports 7,933 coronavirus cases in a day At the center of this design is an uncrewed ground vehicle called the Marker UGV which resembles a miniature tank with treads and turrets. According to Samuel Bendett, an adviser at the Center for Naval Analysis, ''there is a still-classified Russian military robotics road-map that sketches out various stages of Russian unnamed military developments, which undoubtedly has been influenced by Russian military actions and experience in Syria.'' Also read: Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tests positive for coronavirus ''The Ministry of Defence is discussing the eventual use of robotic swarms in combat— and Marker is definitely the platform to test that out,'' he added. Russia plans to test swarms of ground robots later in 2020. United States also has many robotic programs under way .

Russia: Robotic swarms will replace soldiers in combat

NASA has selected three private space companies to develop human landers for Artemis moon missions.

The three companies include Amazon’s CEO, Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin, Elon Musk’s SpaceX; and Dynetics, based in Huntsville, Alabama.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dlHJAKIaALg" width="560"></iframe>

The contract of the three companies is collectively worth $967 million.&nbsp;Out of this $579 million has been allocated to Blue Origin, $135 million to&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;and $253 million to Dynetics respectively.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moon-rock-for-sale-one-of-the-largest-lunar-meteorite-to-be-auctioned-for-25-million-295819">Moon rock for sale!: One of the largest lunar meteorite to be auctioned for $2.5 million</a>

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SpaceX has been selected to develop a lunar optimized Starship to transport crew between lunar orbit and the surface of the Moon as part of <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a>’s Artemis program! <a href="https://t.co/FRmwWisKfH">https://t.co/FRmwWisKfH</a> <a href="https://t.co/z1bkUrQMK8">pic.twitter.com/z1bkUrQMK8</a>
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1255907211533901825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Two other companies that put in bids, Boeing and Vivace, were edged out.

The lunar landers will carry the astronauts from lunar orbit to the Moon’s surface and back again.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstone said&nbsp;"this is the first time since the Apollo era that NASA has direct funding for a human landing system, and now we have companies on contract to do the work for the Artemis program."

The three companies are now in competition with each other to see who can develop their proposals into workable landers.&nbsp;

With Artemis, NASA has promised that the first woman will step foot on the lunar surface and there's&nbsp;already speculation&nbsp;on which of the space agency's veteran female astronauts might be the one.

The landings will be the first time astronauts have walked on the moon since the Apollo moon landings of the late 60s and early 70s.

NASA has selected three private space companies to develop human landers for Artemis moon missions. The three companies include Amazon’s CEO, Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin, Elon Musk’s SpaceX; and Dynetics, based in Huntsville, Alabama.

NASA has selected three private space companies to develop human landers for Artemis moon missions. The three companies include Amazon’s CEO, Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin, Elon Musk’s SpaceX; and Dynetics, based in Huntsville, Alabama. The contract of the three companies is collectively worth $967 million. Out of this $579 million has been allocated to Blue Origin, $135 million to SpaceX and $253 million to Dynetics respectively. Also read: Moon rock for sale!: One of the largest lunar meteorite to be auctioned for $2.5 million SpaceX has been selected to develop a lunar optimized Starship to transport crew between lunar orbit and the surface of the Moon as part of @NASA’s Artemis program! https://t.co/FRmwWisKfH pic.twitter.com/z1bkUrQMK8 — SpaceX (@SpaceX) April 30, 2020 × Two other companies that put in bids, Boeing and Vivace, were edged out. The lunar landers will carry the astronauts from lunar orbit to the Moon’s surface and back again. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstone said "this is the first time since the Apollo era that NASA has direct funding for a human landing system, and now we have companies on contract to do the work for the Artemis program." The three companies are now in competition with each other to see who can develop their proposals into workable landers. With Artemis, NASA has promised that the first woman will step foot on the lunar surface and there's already speculation on which of the space agency's veteran female astronauts might be the one. The landings will be the first time astronauts have walked on the moon since the Apollo moon landings of the late 60s and early 70s.

Bezos's Blue Origin and Musk's SpaceX to collaborate in building NASA's lunar lander

Silicon Valley billionaires Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg offered duelling views on lockdown measures designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus on Wednesday, with Facebook’s Zuckerberg endorsing the measures while tesla’s musk condemned them as anti-democratic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-tweets-against-coronavirus-lockdown-295686" hreflang="en">Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweets against coronavirus lockdown</a>

Musk, who has often made outspoken and even inflammatory comments on conference calls and Twitter, said in comments to analysts on Tesla inc.’s earnings call that it was “fascist” to say people cannot leave their homes.

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FREE AMERICA NOW
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1255380013488189440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“This is not democratic, this is not freedom. Give people back their goddamn freedom,” Musk said.

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Give people their freedom back! <a href="https://t.co/iG8OYGaVZ0">https://t.co/iG8OYGaVZ0</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1255377239853719552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Zuckerberg, on the other hand, in comments on Facebook’s earnings calls, expressed concerns about easing lockdown measure and said the economic fallout from the pandemic would last longer than people are currently anticipating.

“I worry that reopening certain places too quickly before infection rates have been reduced to very minimal levels will almost guarantee future outbreaks and worse longer-term health and economic outcomes,” he said.

Both companies are based in the San Francisco bay area, which was out front in trying to slow the virus’ spread, with the region’s seven counties issuing a joint shelter-in-place order before California issued a statewide order.

Electric carmaker tesla and social media network Facebook have had different experiences under the lockdown. Tesla had initially resisted efforts by California authorities to shut its plant in the bay area under the lockdown, until agreeing on march 19 to suspend production. Even so, tesla on Wednesday reported its third profitable quarter in a row.

Facebook, the world’s largest social network, on Wednesday said usage rose during the first quarter amid the widespread lockdowns, although ad revenue plunged in March.

Musk did not mince words in criticizing the lockdowns.

“So the extension of the shelter-in-place or, frankly, I would call it, forcibly imprisoning people in their homes against all their constitutional rights, in my opinion, breaking people’s freedoms in ways that are horrible and wrong and not why people came to America or built this country,” Musk said, swearing to underscore his point.

“It will cause great harm, not just to Tesla, but to any companies. And while Tesla will weather the storm, there are many small companies that will not,” he said.

Zuckerberg and Musk, who is also chief executive of rocket company SpaceX, have had differences in the past. In 2017, a war of words broke out between the duo over whether robots will become smart enough to kill their human creators.

“I’ve talked to Mark about this. His understanding of the subject is limited.” Musk tweeted at the time about Zuckerberg, who downplayed Musk’s warnings about the danger of artificial intelligence.

In May 2018, Musk made waves on another earnings call when he refused to analysts’ questions, saying that “boring, bonehead questions are not cool.” he later apologized for his remarks.

Silicon Valley billionaires Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg offered duelling views on lockdown measures designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus on Wednesday, with Facebook’s Zuckerberg endorsing the measures while tesla’s musk condemned them as anti-democratic.

Silicon Valley billionaires Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg offered duelling views on lockdown measures designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus on Wednesday, with Facebook’s Zuckerberg endorsing the measures while tesla’s musk condemned them as anti-democratic. Also read: Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweets against coronavirus lockdown Musk, who has often made outspoken and even inflammatory comments on conference calls and Twitter, said in comments to analysts on Tesla inc.’s earnings call that it was “fascist” to say people cannot leave their homes. FREE AMERICA NOW — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 29, 2020 × “This is not democratic, this is not freedom. Give people back their goddamn freedom,” Musk said. Give people their freedom back! https://t.co/iG8OYGaVZ0 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 29, 2020 × Zuckerberg, on the other hand, in comments on Facebook’s earnings calls, expressed concerns about easing lockdown measure and said the economic fallout from the pandemic would last longer than people are currently anticipating. “I worry that reopening certain places too quickly before infection rates have been reduced to very minimal levels will almost guarantee future outbreaks and worse longer-term health and economic outcomes,” he said. Both companies are based in the San Francisco bay area, which was out front in trying to slow the virus’ spread, with the region’s seven counties issuing a joint shelter-in-place order before California issued a statewide order. Electric carmaker tesla and social media network Facebook have had different experiences under the lockdown. Tesla had initially resisted efforts by California authorities to shut its plant in the bay area under the lockdown, until agreeing on march 19 to suspend production. Even so, tesla on Wednesday reported its third profitable quarter in a row. Facebook, the world’s largest social network, on Wednesday said usage rose during the first quarter amid the widespread lockdowns, although ad revenue plunged in March. Musk did not mince words in criticizing the lockdowns. “So the extension of the shelter-in-place or, frankly, I would call it, forcibly imprisoning people in their homes against all their constitutional rights, in my opinion, breaking people’s freedoms in ways that are horrible and wrong and not why people came to America or built this country,” Musk said, swearing to underscore his point. “It will cause great harm, not just to Tesla, but to any companies. And while Tesla will weather the storm, there are many small companies that will not,” he said. Zuckerberg and Musk, who is also chief executive of rocket company SpaceX, have had differences in the past. In 2017, a war of words broke out between the duo over whether robots will become smart enough to kill their human creators. “I’ve talked to Mark about this. His understanding of the subject is limited.” Musk tweeted at the time about Zuckerberg, who downplayed Musk’s warnings about the danger of artificial intelligence. In May 2018, Musk made waves on another earnings call when he refused to analysts’ questions, saying that “boring, bonehead questions are not cool.” he later apologized for his remarks.

It is Elon Musk vs Mark Zuckerberg! Billionaires clash with different opinions on lockdown

April 30 in history: First US president, Vietnam war ends, and more

Guidelines by MHA for interstate movement of people stranded because of lockdown

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin revealed Thursday that&nbsp;he tested positive for coronavirus and will self-isolate to protect other cabinet members.

Speaking at a televised meeting to&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said "I have just learned that the test on the coronavirus I took was positive."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-is-remdesivir-actually-effective-in-treatment-295903" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment?</a>

"I have to observe self-isolation and follow orders of doctors. This is necessary to protect my colleagues," he said, promising to be in constant contact "on all the main issues."

First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov will temporarily perform Mishustin's duties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sees-records-rise-in-one-day-coronavirus-infections-total-number-tops-100000-295862" hreflang="en">Russia sees records rise in one-day coronavirus infections; total number tops 100,000</a>

Mishustin, 54, was named Russian Prime Minister in January this year.

During a video call, Vladimir Putin voiced hope that Mishustin would continue taking part in drafting policies to shore up the Russian economy, which has been hurt by the virus pandemic.

"What is happening to you now can happen to anyone," Putin reassured him in the televised meeting.&nbsp;

Wishing him a quick recovery, Putin also said to Mishustin that decisions will not be made&nbsp;without his&nbsp;opinions and participation.

In Russia, the prime minister oversees the economy and answers to the president.

Russia has so far recorded 106,498 cases and 1,073 coronavirus-related deaths. 
&nbsp;

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin revealed Thursday that he tested positive for coronavirus and will self-isolate to protect other cabinet members. Speaking at a televised meeting to President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said "I have just learned that the test on the coronavirus I took was positive.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin revealed Thursday that he tested positive for coronavirus and will self-isolate to protect other cabinet members. Speaking at a televised meeting to President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said "I have just learned that the test on the coronavirus I took was positive." Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment? "I have to observe self-isolation and follow orders of doctors. This is necessary to protect my colleagues," he said, promising to be in constant contact "on all the main issues." First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov will temporarily perform Mishustin's duties. Also read: Russia sees records rise in one-day coronavirus infections; total number tops 100,000 Mishustin, 54, was named Russian Prime Minister in January this year. During a video call, Vladimir Putin voiced hope that Mishustin would continue taking part in drafting policies to shore up the Russian economy, which has been hurt by the virus pandemic. "What is happening to you now can happen to anyone," Putin reassured him in the televised meeting. Wishing him a quick recovery, Putin also said to Mishustin that decisions will not be made without his opinions and participation. In Russia, the prime minister oversees the economy and answers to the president. Russia has so far recorded 106,498 cases and 1,073 coronavirus-related deaths.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tests positive for coronavirus

Nepal&nbsp;has cut its economic growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends in mid-July to the lowest in four years, saying on Thursday the country had taken a hit from a nationwide lockdown to control the coronavirus outbreak.

Nepal&nbsp;has ordered its 30 million people to stay home under a six-week lockdown due to end next week to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, a move that has virtually shut down all sectors of the impoverished economy.

Also read;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-is-remdesivir-actually-effective-in-treatment-295903" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment?</a>

The Himalayan nation, a buffer between China and India, has reported 57 cases of the virus and no deaths so far.

The government’s Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said the economy would grow by 2.27&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in the year to July 15, the lowest since 2015/16, because of disruptions. Last year, the economy grew by 6.75 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-pandemic-apple-google-to-release-developer-version-of-contact-tracing-app-this-week-295824" hreflang="en">Apple, Google to release early versions of contact tracing app this week</a>

The new projection compares with a target of 8.5 per cent&nbsp;set by the government last year.

CBS official Ishwari Prasad Bhandari said the outbreak of the coronavirus and subsequent lockdown had not spared any sector of the $32 billion economy.

A shutdown of the ground and air transport has meant no tourists, hotels and restaurants have closed down, farmers have failed to send their products to markets, he said.

"Sectors like construction, transports, manufacturing and hotels will have negative growth this year," Bhandari told Reuters. Some sectors like health, electricity and gas will nominally grow, he said without giving details.

In March, the government closed all its Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest for climbing because of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, a move that forced hotels, air and ground travel including trekking to come to a complete halt.

Trekking and mountain climbing are key adventure sports and a major source of income and employment in the cash-strapped nation.

Nepal has cut its economic growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends in mid-July to the lowest in four years, saying on Thursday the country had taken a hit from a nationwide lockdown to control the coronavirus outbreak.

Nepal has cut its economic growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends in mid-July to the lowest in four years, saying on Thursday the country had taken a hit from a nationwide lockdown to control the coronavirus outbreak. Nepal has ordered its 30 million people to stay home under a six-week lockdown due to end next week to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, a move that has virtually shut down all sectors of the impoverished economy. Also read; Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment? The Himalayan nation, a buffer between China and India, has reported 57 cases of the virus and no deaths so far. The government’s Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said the economy would grow by 2.27 per cent in the year to July 15, the lowest since 2015/16, because of disruptions. Last year, the economy grew by 6.75 per cent. Also read: Apple, Google to release early versions of contact tracing app this week The new projection compares with a target of 8.5 per cent set by the government last year. CBS official Ishwari Prasad Bhandari said the outbreak of the coronavirus and subsequent lockdown had not spared any sector of the $32 billion economy. A shutdown of the ground and air transport has meant no tourists, hotels and restaurants have closed down, farmers have failed to send their products to markets, he said. "Sectors like construction, transports, manufacturing and hotels will have negative growth this year," Bhandari told Reuters. Some sectors like health, electricity and gas will nominally grow, he said without giving details. In March, the government closed all its Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest for climbing because of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, a move that forced hotels, air and ground travel including trekking to come to a complete halt. Trekking and mountain climbing are key adventure sports and a major source of income and employment in the cash-strapped nation.

Hit by lockdown, Nepal cuts growth forecast to lowest in four years

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Thursday his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, was tormented by "dirty cops" as part of the probe into whether Russia helped Trump win the White House in 2016.

The president's comments in the Oval Office, latest in a string of remarks about Flynn, may suggest that the retired general could be in line for a presidential pardon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-us-china-cold-war-now-begun-295905" hreflang="en">Has the US-China cold war now begun?</a>

Flynn pleaded guilty to making false statements in a charge brought by then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller. He is now insisting he did not lie and wants to back out of the plea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-dogs-are-being-trained-to-sniff-out-covid-19-cases-295837" hreflang="en">US: Dogs are being trained to 'sniff out' COVID-19 cases</a>

Internal FBI documents turned over by the Justice Department on Wednesday showed FBI officials debated whether and when to warn Flynn that he could face criminal charges as they prepared for a January 2017 interview with him in the Russia probe.

Trump blamed Flynn's predicament on "dirty cops" and said the documents show Flynn is a victim.

“He’s in the process of being exonerated. If you look at those notes from yesterday, that was total exoneration," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, was tormented by "dirty cops" as part of the probe into whether Russia helped Trump win the White House in 2016.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, was tormented by "dirty cops" as part of the probe into whether Russia helped Trump win the White House in 2016. The president's comments in the Oval Office, latest in a string of remarks about Flynn, may suggest that the retired general could be in line for a presidential pardon. Also read: Has the US-China cold war now begun? Flynn pleaded guilty to making false statements in a charge brought by then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller. He is now insisting he did not lie and wants to back out of the plea. Also read: US: Dogs are being trained to 'sniff out' COVID-19 cases Internal FBI documents turned over by the Justice Department on Wednesday showed FBI officials debated whether and when to warn Flynn that he could face criminal charges as they prepared for a January 2017 interview with him in the Russia probe. Trump blamed Flynn's predicament on "dirty cops" and said the documents show Flynn is a victim. “He’s in the process of being exonerated. If you look at those notes from yesterday, that was total exoneration," Trump said.

Trump says his former national security adviser Flynn was tormented by dirty cops

One body has been recovered and five people are missing after a Canadian military helicopter crashed in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Greece on Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday.

The HMCS Fredericton, participating in NATO's Operation Reassurance meant to bolster security in Central and Eastern Europe, lost contact with a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-pandemic-apple-google-to-release-developer-version-of-contact-tracing-app-this-week-295824" hreflang="en">Apple, Google to release early versions of contact tracing app this week</a>

"They are all heroes," Trudeau said in a news conference.

"The cause of this accident is unknown at this time," Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan said, adding that the aircraft's data and voice recorders have been recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-is-remdesivir-actually-effective-in-treatment-295903" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment?</a>

Abbigail Cowbrough's body was recovered, said General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff.

Tanya Cowbrough, the mother of Abbigail, commented on Facebook: "Nothing can replace her."

"I am broken and gutted," Shane Cowbrough, Abbigail's father, wrote on Facebook. "There are no words. You made me forever proud. I will love you always, and miss you in every moment. You are the bright light in my life taken far too soon."

It could be the country's single deadliest military tragedy in 13 years. In July 2007, six soldiers were killed together by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.

After the crash, Canada's military has decided to temporarily ground its Cyclone helicopters, the CBC reported.

Approximately 2,100 Canadian Armed Forces members are deployed around the world. 
&nbsp;

One body has been recovered and five people are missing after a Canadian military helicopter crashed in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Greece on Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday.

One body has been recovered and five people are missing after a Canadian military helicopter crashed in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Greece on Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Thursday. The HMCS Fredericton, participating in NATO's Operation Reassurance meant to bolster security in Central and Eastern Europe, lost contact with a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter on Wednesday. Also read: Apple, Google to release early versions of contact tracing app this week "They are all heroes," Trudeau said in a news conference. "The cause of this accident is unknown at this time," Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan said, adding that the aircraft's data and voice recorders have been recovered. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment? Abbigail Cowbrough's body was recovered, said General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff. Tanya Cowbrough, the mother of Abbigail, commented on Facebook: "Nothing can replace her." "I am broken and gutted," Shane Cowbrough, Abbigail's father, wrote on Facebook. "There are no words. You made me forever proud. I will love you always, and miss you in every moment. You are the bright light in my life taken far too soon." It could be the country's single deadliest military tragedy in 13 years. In July 2007, six soldiers were killed together by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. After the crash, Canada's military has decided to temporarily ground its Cyclone helicopters, the CBC reported. Approximately 2,100 Canadian Armed Forces members are deployed around the world.

Canadian military helicopter crashes at sea near Greece; 1 body recovered, 5 missing

China is threatening to stop the medical aid to Netherlands after the country became a victim&nbsp;of the autocratic nation's ire.

Netherlands is in dire need of medical supplies as it has recorded approximately&nbsp;39,000 cases of the coronavirus&nbsp;virus and along with 4,811 deaths so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-not-man-made-or-genetically-modified-us-intelligence-community-295906" hreflang="en">Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community</a>

But China refuses to help it because Netherlands revised its embassy's name in Taiwan to 'Netherlands office Taipei'.

The country did so to express its gratitude towards Taiwan and its healthcare workers for donating face masks to their country. It has also&nbsp;flown in tulips and stroopwafels to Taiwan.

The decision was made by the Netherlands trade and investment office.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-is-remdesivir-actually-effective-in-treatment-295903" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment?</a>

Guy Wittich, the Dutch representative in Taipei called the new name ''a little bit less, but a lot more''.

However, China did not like the decision as it went against its 'one China' principle'.China and Taiwan have also been at loggerheads with each other with Taiwan claiming itself to be a seperate country and China denying it, its freedom.

For it, Taiwan is&nbsp;its inalienable part and a Chinese republic.The communist country was hellbent on making the brute decision despite giving sermons on its victimhood and&nbsp;lecturing other nations on fairness and responsibilty.

This further sheds light on the hypocritical disposition of the country.

However,&nbsp;the Netherlands embassy in Taiwan has taken down a video that announced the name change after claiming that its ''purpose has been served''.

Meanwhile, the Chinese media&nbsp;reported&nbsp;that the&nbsp;move&nbsp;was destructive to its regional stability and its citizens should avoid Dutch products. It also said to stop visiting the country.

Previously, similar warnings were issued to Australia after it wanted to investigate the origin of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Similarly, it tried to muzzle free press in Nepal back in February and&nbsp;targeted its local newspapers&nbsp;for questioning Chinese authoritarianism.

China's ambassaor Gui Congyou compared Swedish journalists who were&nbsp;critical of the Chinese regime, to lightweight boxers challenging &nbsp;heavyweight China.

The Chinese embassy has also been slamming Indian media for the past three months for raising its voice against China.

In all, China is threatening anybody who questions its response. However, it remains unclear for how long will it last. 
&nbsp;

China is threatening to stop the medical aid to Netherlands after the country became a victim of the autocratic nation's ire. Netherlands is in dire need of medical supplies as it has recorded approximately 39,000 cases of the coronavirus virus and along with 4,811 deaths so far.

China is threatening to stop the medical aid to Netherlands after the country became a victim of the autocratic nation's ire. Netherlands is in dire need of medical supplies as it has recorded approximately 39,000 cases of the coronavirus virus and along with 4,811 deaths so far. Also read: Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community But China refuses to help it because Netherlands revised its embassy's name in Taiwan to 'Netherlands office Taipei'. The country did so to express its gratitude towards Taiwan and its healthcare workers for donating face masks to their country. It has also flown in tulips and stroopwafels to Taiwan. The decision was made by the Netherlands trade and investment office. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Is remdesivir actually effective in treatment? Guy Wittich, the Dutch representative in Taipei called the new name ''a little bit less, but a lot more''. However, China did not like the decision as it went against its 'one China' principle'.China and Taiwan have also been at loggerheads with each other with Taiwan claiming itself to be a seperate country and China denying it, its freedom. For it, Taiwan is its inalienable part and a Chinese republic.The communist country was hellbent on making the brute decision despite giving sermons on its victimhood and lecturing other nations on fairness and responsibilty. This further sheds light on the hypocritical disposition of the country. However, the Netherlands embassy in Taiwan has taken down a video that announced the name change after claiming that its ''purpose has been served''. Meanwhile, the Chinese media reported that the move was destructive to its regional stability and its citizens should avoid Dutch products. It also said to stop visiting the country. Previously, similar warnings were issued to Australia after it wanted to investigate the origin of coronavirus. Similarly, it tried to muzzle free press in Nepal back in February and targeted its local newspapers for questioning Chinese authoritarianism. China's ambassaor Gui Congyou compared Swedish journalists who were critical of the Chinese regime, to lightweight boxers challenging heavyweight China. The Chinese embassy has also been slamming Indian media for the past three months for raising its voice against China. In all, China is threatening anybody who questions its response. However, it remains unclear for how long will it last.

Now, China threatens  to halt medical supplies to virus-hit Netherlands

The Union Home Ministry has said that new guidelines to fight coronavirus will be issued from May 4. These guidelines will give relaxations to many districts after the second phase of the lockdown ends.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-issues-guidelines-for-interstate-movement-of-persons-stranded-because-of-lockdown-295602">Govt issues guidelines for interstate movement of persons stranded because of lockdown</a>

Spokesperson of the Home Ministry tweeted regarding the comprehensive review meeting on the lockdown and has said that the details of the new guidelines will be communicated in days to come.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
New guidelines to fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> will come into effect from 4th May, which shall give considerable relaxations to many districts. Details regarding this shall be communicated in the days to come.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> update<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1255515096861868032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to PTI, several districts COVID-19 hotspots or "Red Zones" have come down from 170 to 129 whereas the "Green Zones" or infection-free districts have also decreased from 325 to 307. The orange zones (districts with few coronavirus cases but not a hotspot) have increased from 207 to 297.

Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday issued a set of guidelines for moving the migrant labourers, who do not have coronavirus symptoms. to their home states.&nbsp;

The guidelines were issued less than a week before the lockdown is set to end.

The order from the home ministry asked the states to appoint nodal bodies and draw up protocols for the migrants' movement.

"The moving person(s) would be screened and those found asymptomatic would be allowed to proceed," the order read.

The panel of ministers led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has recommended that lockdown should be extended till May 15. State governments of West Bengal, Punjab and Telangana have decided to extend the lockdown due to surge in coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take the last call on the lockdown extension.&nbsp;

The Union Home Ministry has said that new guidelines to fight coronavirus will be issued from May 4. These guidelines will give relaxations to many districts after the second phase of the lockdown ends.

The Union Home Ministry has said that new guidelines to fight coronavirus will be issued from May 4. These guidelines will give relaxations to many districts after the second phase of the lockdown ends. Also read: Govt issues guidelines for interstate movement of persons stranded because of lockdown Spokesperson of the Home Ministry tweeted regarding the comprehensive review meeting on the lockdown and has said that the details of the new guidelines will be communicated in days to come. New guidelines to fight #COVID19 will come into effect from 4th May, which shall give considerable relaxations to many districts. Details regarding this shall be communicated in the days to come.#coronavirus update#StayHomeStaySafe@PMOIndia @HMOIndia @MoHFW_INDIA — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) April 29, 2020 × According to PTI, several districts COVID-19 hotspots or "Red Zones" have come down from 170 to 129 whereas the "Green Zones" or infection-free districts have also decreased from 325 to 307. The orange zones (districts with few coronavirus cases but not a hotspot) have increased from 207 to 297. Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday issued a set of guidelines for moving the migrant labourers, who do not have coronavirus symptoms. to their home states. The guidelines were issued less than a week before the lockdown is set to end. The order from the home ministry asked the states to appoint nodal bodies and draw up protocols for the migrants' movement. "The moving person(s) would be screened and those found asymptomatic would be allowed to proceed," the order read. The panel of ministers led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has recommended that lockdown should be extended till May 15. State governments of West Bengal, Punjab and Telangana have decided to extend the lockdown due to surge in coronavirus cases. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take the last call on the lockdown extension.

Lockdown relaxation for many districts on May 4: Ministry of Home Affairs

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