Afghanistan's Taliban regime scrambles to get funds to revive its shrinking economy. World Bank has now decided to finalise a proposal to deliver up to 500 million dollars from a frozen Afghanistan aid fund to humanitarian agencies.

World Bank works to redirect frozen funds to Afghanistan for humanitarian aid only

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has thanked Saudi Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Wednesday for sending $3 billion in financial aid to cash-strapped country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seeking-justice-pak-woman-attempts-suicide-at-court-in-lahore-after-husband-rapes-daughter-424343" hreflang="en">Seeking justice, Pak woman attempts suicide after husband 'rapes' daughter</a>

It may become crucial for the country for surviving the ongoing economic crisis. The leader thanked Saudi Arabia for extending the helpful gesture in these “difficult times”. &nbsp;

The PM also noted that Saudi Arabia “has always been there” for Pakistan in its difficult phases. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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I want to thank HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman for supporting Pak with $3 bn as deposit in Pak's central bank &amp; financing refined petroleum product with $1.2 bn. KSA has always been there for Pak in our difficult times incl now when world confronts rising commodity prices.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1453225771884060676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Expressing his gratitude on Twitter, Khan said, “I want to thank HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman for supporting Pak with $3 bn as deposit in Pak's central bank &amp; financing refined petroleum product with $1.2 bn. KSA has always been there for Pak in our difficult times incl now when world confronts rising commodity prices.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-approves-appointment-of-new-isi-chief-ending-fallout-with-army-424311" hreflang="en">Pak PM Imran Khan names new ISI chief, ending fallout with army</a>

On Monday, Imran Khan had met Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on the sidelines of the Middle East Green Initiative (MGI) summit in Riyadh, which he was invited to attend at the royalty's invitation. &nbsp;

Later, the Saudi prince announced that he was depositing $3 billion in Pakistan's central bank to help the country with the foreign reserves. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has thanked Saudi Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Wednesday for sending $3 billion in financial aid to cash-strapped country. Also Read: Seeking justice, Pak woman attempts suicide after husband 'rapes' daughter It may become crucial for the country for surviving the ongoing economic crisis.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has thanked Saudi Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Wednesday for sending $3 billion in financial aid to cash-strapped country. Also Read: Seeking justice, Pak woman attempts suicide after husband 'rapes' daughter It may become crucial for the country for surviving the ongoing economic crisis. The leader thanked Saudi Arabia for extending the helpful gesture in these “difficult times”. The PM also noted that Saudi Arabia “has always been there” for Pakistan in its difficult phases. I want to thank HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman for supporting Pak with $3 bn as deposit in Pak's central bank & financing refined petroleum product with $1.2 bn. KSA has always been there for Pak in our difficult times incl now when world confronts rising commodity prices. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 27, 2021 × Expressing his gratitude on Twitter, Khan said, “I want to thank HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman for supporting Pak with $3 bn as deposit in Pak's central bank & financing refined petroleum product with $1.2 bn. KSA has always been there for Pak in our difficult times incl now when world confronts rising commodity prices.” Also Read: Pak PM Imran Khan names new ISI chief, ending fallout with army On Monday, Imran Khan had met Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on the sidelines of the Middle East Green Initiative (MGI) summit in Riyadh, which he was invited to attend at the royalty's invitation. Later, the Saudi prince announced that he was depositing $3 billion in Pakistan's central bank to help the country with the foreign reserves. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Imran Khan thanks Saudi Arabia for $3 billion aid to cash-strapped Pakistan

The World Health Organization (WHO) says it is sending COVID-19 aid for North Korea through China's border port of Dalian, despite few signs North Korea has eased strict border lockdowns to keep the virus out.

In its latest weekly report for South and East Asia, which covers the period to the end of September, the WHO said it had begun shipments through Dalian port in China, which is near the border with North Korea.

"To support DPR Korea with essential COVID-19 medical supplies, WHO started the shipment through Dalian port, China for strategic stockpiling and further dispatch to DPR Korea," the agency said, referring to North Korea by the initials of its official name.

The WHO did not elaborate on whether the aid had actually reached North Korea, and a spokesperson for the agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

North Korea imposed tough restrictions when the coronavirus pandemic began last year, sealing its borders and other measures in what it saw as a matter of national survival.

It had tested at least 40,700 people for the coronavirus with no positive results as of Sept. 23, the WHO reported.

Officials in South Korea and the United States have cast doubts on North Korea`s claim to have never had a coronavirus case but no signs of major outbreaks have been confirmed.

An official for South Korea's unification ministry, which handles relations with the North, told the Yonhap news agency that while Chinese customs data showed that maritime shipping routes between North Korea and China appeared to be opening, signs of movement of goods through land routes between the two countries had not been detected.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says it is sending COVID-19 aid for North Korea through China's border port of Dalian, despite few signs North Korea has eased strict border lockdowns to keep the virus out.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says it is sending COVID-19 aid for North Korea through China's border port of Dalian, despite few signs North Korea has eased strict border lockdowns to keep the virus out. In its latest weekly report for South and East Asia, which covers the period to the end of September, the WHO said it had begun shipments through Dalian port in China, which is near the border with North Korea. "To support DPR Korea with essential COVID-19 medical supplies, WHO started the shipment through Dalian port, China for strategic stockpiling and further dispatch to DPR Korea," the agency said, referring to North Korea by the initials of its official name. The WHO did not elaborate on whether the aid had actually reached North Korea, and a spokesperson for the agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment. North Korea imposed tough restrictions when the coronavirus pandemic began last year, sealing its borders and other measures in what it saw as a matter of national survival. It had tested at least 40,700 people for the coronavirus with no positive results as of Sept. 23, the WHO reported. Officials in South Korea and the United States have cast doubts on North Korea`s claim to have never had a coronavirus case but no signs of major outbreaks have been confirmed. An official for South Korea's unification ministry, which handles relations with the North, told the Yonhap news agency that while Chinese customs data showed that maritime shipping routes between North Korea and China appeared to be opening, signs of movement of goods through land routes between the two countries had not been detected.

WHO is sending COVID-19 aid for North Korea

A video has been doing the rounds on the social media reportedly showing Taliban fighters removing a Pakistani flag that was attached to a truck carrying aid materials to Afghanistan.

In the clip 30-second-clip, people are purportedly heard asking the Taliban militants to “rip” off the flag amid cheers, while another fighter says&nbsp;that it should be “burned”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saarc-foreign-ministers-meet-cancelled-over-pak-row-on-afghan-empty-seat-414768">SAARC foreign ministers' meet cancelled over Pak row on Afghan 'empty' seat</a>

WION couldn’t independently verify the authenticity of the video nor the exact place from where the incident was reported.

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Afghan Taliban fighters at the Toorkham Af-Pak border rush to take down the Pakistan flag from a truck carrying Pakistani aid to Afghanistan. Taliban fighters are chanting “God is great” slogans after tearing apart the Pakistani flag 🇵🇰 and saying that it should be burned. <a href="https://t.co/4juEWXHWE5">pic.twitter.com/4juEWXHWE5</a>
— Ab. Sayed ترمذی سادات (@abdsayedd) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdsayedd/status/1440255619563286543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The video had gone viral after Pakistan on September 19 sent 17 container trucks carrying relief items on humanitarian grounds to the newly formed Taliban government in Afghanistan.

However, according to Pakistan daily Dawn, four members involved in the incident have been arrested after the top leadership was apprised of the matter.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/threat-came-from-india-pakistans-information-minister-blames-india-after-new-zealand-abandoned-cricket-tour-414906">'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour</a>

“Surely, this incident must have hurt the sentiments of our neighbouring country for which we apologise,” Dawn quoted a statement issued by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid.

He reportedly stated that the entire cabinet of the Islamic Emirate, the official name of Afghanistan, was “saddened” by the incident.

He said the fighters were arrested and their weapons had been seized. He said that they will be dealt with according to the law.

According to Pakistan media reports, the 17 trucks sent by Pakistan carried 278 tonnes of edible items, including 65 tonnes of sugar, three tonnes of pulses, 190 tonnes of flour, 11 tonnes of cooking oil and 31 tonnes of rice.

According to Pakistan-based Geo News, of the 17 trucks, 13 were received by Consul General of Pakistan at Jalalabad Abidullah and Regional Head Ministry of Industries and Private Sectors Maulvi Mubariz

(With inputs from agencies)

A video has been doing the rounds on the social media reportedly showing Taliban fighters removing a Pakistani flag that was attached to a truck carrying aid materials to Afghanistan.

A video has been doing the rounds on the social media reportedly showing Taliban fighters removing a Pakistani flag that was attached to a truck carrying aid materials to Afghanistan. In the clip 30-second-clip, people are purportedly heard asking the Taliban militants to “rip” off the flag amid cheers, while another fighter says that it should be “burned”. Also read | SAARC foreign ministers' meet cancelled over Pak row on Afghan 'empty' seat WION couldn’t independently verify the authenticity of the video nor the exact place from where the incident was reported. Afghan Taliban fighters at the Toorkham Af-Pak border rush to take down the Pakistan flag from a truck carrying Pakistani aid to Afghanistan. Taliban fighters are chanting “God is great” slogans after tearing apart the Pakistani flag 🇵🇰 and saying that it should be burned. pic.twitter.com/4juEWXHWE5 — Ab. Sayed ترمذی سادات (@abdsayedd) September 21, 2021 × The video had gone viral after Pakistan on September 19 sent 17 container trucks carrying relief items on humanitarian grounds to the newly formed Taliban government in Afghanistan. However, according to Pakistan daily Dawn, four members involved in the incident have been arrested after the top leadership was apprised of the matter. Also read | 'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour “Surely, this incident must have hurt the sentiments of our neighbouring country for which we apologise,” Dawn quoted a statement issued by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid. He reportedly stated that the entire cabinet of the Islamic Emirate, the official name of Afghanistan, was “saddened” by the incident. He said the fighters were arrested and their weapons had been seized. He said that they will be dealt with according to the law. According to Pakistan media reports, the 17 trucks sent by Pakistan carried 278 tonnes of edible items, including 65 tonnes of sugar, three tonnes of pulses, 190 tonnes of flour, 11 tonnes of cooking oil and 31 tonnes of rice. According to Pakistan-based Geo News, of the 17 trucks, 13 were received by Consul General of Pakistan at Jalalabad Abidullah and Regional Head Ministry of Industries and Private Sectors Maulvi Mubariz (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban fighters rip off Pakistani flag from truck carrying aid, 4 arrested

United Kingdom's cut to its aid budget comes to about £4 billion a year. 
Such a massive reduction is a blow to many. However, the most affected will be the local organisations who perpetually find themselves last in line for funding.

A new research by the Vodafone Foundation has revealed that too often, only a small proportion of philanthropic funding earmarked for African development reaches local, African-led civil society organisations. This is because most development funding favours intermediaries in the global north and international organisations.

Fundings that make it to Africa are distributed among locally registered international NGO counterparts. After that, they are allocated to African-led organisations on a project basis.&nbsp;

This limits the scope and flexibility of activities on the ground and promotes aid reliance, instead of durable, transformative change.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-eu-pledge-30-per-cent-cut-in-methane-emissions-413907">Also read |&nbsp;US and EU pledge 30 per cent cut in methane emissions</a>

In a Guardian report by Kennedy Odede, he said that a year after Geoge Floyd's death, the report on funding is a reminder that the racial bias and microaggressions experienced as an African leader and CEO are deeper, more pernicious and prevalent.

He highlights that racial bias needs to be replaced with trust, redistribution of power, acknowledgement of a global anti-black bias, and flexible funding.

The report talks about how during COVID-19, the power of local actors to effectively respond to the pandemic and protect marginalised communities have failed.

This means, in some ways, COVID-19 has erased the boundaries between humanitarian aid, as it is traditionally known, and long-term development work.

United Kingdom's cut to its aid budget comes to about £4 billion a year. Such a massive reduction is a blow to many. However, the most affected will be the local organisations who perpetually find themselves last in line for funding.

United Kingdom's cut to its aid budget comes to about £4 billion a year. Such a massive reduction is a blow to many. However, the most affected will be the local organisations who perpetually find themselves last in line for funding. A new research by the Vodafone Foundation has revealed that too often, only a small proportion of philanthropic funding earmarked for African development reaches local, African-led civil society organisations. This is because most development funding favours intermediaries in the global north and international organisations. Fundings that make it to Africa are distributed among locally registered international NGO counterparts. After that, they are allocated to African-led organisations on a project basis. This limits the scope and flexibility of activities on the ground and promotes aid reliance, instead of durable, transformative change. Also read | US and EU pledge 30 per cent cut in methane emissions In a Guardian report by Kennedy Odede, he said that a year after Geoge Floyd's death, the report on funding is a reminder that the racial bias and microaggressions experienced as an African leader and CEO are deeper, more pernicious and prevalent. He highlights that racial bias needs to be replaced with trust, redistribution of power, acknowledgement of a global anti-black bias, and flexible funding. The report talks about how during COVID-19, the power of local actors to effectively respond to the pandemic and protect marginalised communities have failed. This means, in some ways, COVID-19 has erased the boundaries between humanitarian aid, as it is traditionally known, and long-term development work.

UK aid cuts make it important to address anti-black bias in funding

Spending less on food. Drawing down on retirement savings. Dropping out of the workforce altogether.

Last year, the United States massively expanded unemployment aid as Covid-19 broke out. But in the coming days those benefits will end, forcing millions of jobless Americans, some of whom haven't worked for the entire pandemic&nbsp; to make hard choices about how they will get by in an economy newly menaced by the Delta variant.

"I have no idea how we would survive, just on my daughter's income," said Deborah Lee, an unemployed phlebotomist in Arizona who is recovering from a Covid outbreak that affected her daughter and two of her three granddaughters.

The government-funded programs that increased weekly payments and gave aid to the long-term unemployed and freelancers were credited with keeping the United States from an even worse economic collapse last year.

In recent months they have become controversial, with some states ending them early and arguing they encouraged people not to return to jobs that Covid-19 vaccines made safe, though studies have disputed that contention.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auckland-knife-attacker-was-on-deportation-notice-reveals-new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-410772">Also read | Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern</a>

From September 6 they will end nationwide, and while economists don't expect them to meaningfully dent the US economy's recovery from its 2020 debacle, they'll undoubtedly up the pressure on the unemployed.

"I think it's going to be an under appreciated event in the economy," said Andrew Stettner of progressive think tank The Century Foundation, predicting that 7.5 million people will be relying on the programs when they end.&nbsp;

"It'll be kind of a silent crisis."

'Screwed over'

The expansion of the unemployment safety net occurred in March 2020, when Congress rushed to blunt the emerging pandemic with $2.2 trillion in spending through the CARES Act rescue package.

While never meant to be permanent, the benefits were reauthorised twice, most recently in the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan enacted by President Joe Biden and his Democratic allies in Congress last March.

While many in the Republican Party at first backed the programs, by this year their lawmakers were arguing against them, and 26 states, most with Republican governors, moved to end them early in whole or in part.

A study published last month by researchers from American and Canadian universities found only modest improvements in hiring and earnings in some of those states that ended the aid early, while spending fell 20 percent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile the economy is far from healed, with 5.3 million jobs lost to the pandemic yet to be restored and employers adding a mere 235,000 positions in August, according to government data released Friday.

In Delaware, Ohio, Karen Coldwell says she sends out about 10 job applications weekly but has yet to be hired. All other openings she sees are for low-wage work, the kind of jobs she held when she was younger.

At age 64 she is not yet ready to retire, but worries she'll have to start dipping into her retirement savings once the long-term unemployment program ends.

"There's just nothing out there. There's jobs, but the money's not there anymore," Coldwell said.

Others can't return to the workforce, even though they know the benefits that make up their only income are ending. Brooke Ganieany of The Dalles, Oregon, said she has no one to care for her toddler son if she were to find employment.

"I feel kind of screwed over," the 21-year-old told AFP. "I feel like they're doing this to make us have a plan and get back to reality, which is not exactly the slogan they should be using."

Unequal damage

Those eligible will continue to receive benefits under states' regular unemployment programs -- but the end of a $300 extra weekly supplement means their checks are about to shrink.

"It's going to affect it so much. I'm going to have to cut back on food," said 58-year-old Karen Williams, an unemployed graphic designer in Pennsylvania.

Gregory Daco of Oxford Economics predicted the cut off in benefits would lower household income by $4.2 billion per week in September, or about $210 billion annualised for the month.

"It's not going to be the type of shock that puts the US economy into reverse," he said in an interview, but predicted that "lower-income families and minorities are more likely to be negatively impacted."

Fearful of further coronavirus variants and with her daughter missing badly needed pay from the family's battle with Covid-19, Lee said she is waiting to hear whether the government will grant her disability aid for a hand injury, conceding her days of employment are likely behind her, at least for now.

"I don't even know what the answer is," she said.

Spending less on food. Drawing down on retirement savings. Dropping out of the workforce altogether. Last year, the United States massively expanded unemployment aid as Covid-19 broke out.

Spending less on food. Drawing down on retirement savings. Dropping out of the workforce altogether. Last year, the United States massively expanded unemployment aid as Covid-19 broke out. But in the coming days those benefits will end, forcing millions of jobless Americans, some of whom haven't worked for the entire pandemic to make hard choices about how they will get by in an economy newly menaced by the Delta variant. "I have no idea how we would survive, just on my daughter's income," said Deborah Lee, an unemployed phlebotomist in Arizona who is recovering from a Covid outbreak that affected her daughter and two of her three granddaughters. The government-funded programs that increased weekly payments and gave aid to the long-term unemployed and freelancers were credited with keeping the United States from an even worse economic collapse last year. In recent months they have become controversial, with some states ending them early and arguing they encouraged people not to return to jobs that Covid-19 vaccines made safe, though studies have disputed that contention. Also read | Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern From September 6 they will end nationwide, and while economists don't expect them to meaningfully dent the US economy's recovery from its 2020 debacle, they'll undoubtedly up the pressure on the unemployed. "I think it's going to be an under appreciated event in the economy," said Andrew Stettner of progressive think tank The Century Foundation, predicting that 7.5 million people will be relying on the programs when they end. "It'll be kind of a silent crisis." 'Screwed over' The expansion of the unemployment safety net occurred in March 2020, when Congress rushed to blunt the emerging pandemic with $2.2 trillion in spending through the CARES Act rescue package. While never meant to be permanent, the benefits were reauthorised twice, most recently in the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan enacted by President Joe Biden and his Democratic allies in Congress last March. While many in the Republican Party at first backed the programs, by this year their lawmakers were arguing against them, and 26 states, most with Republican governors, moved to end them early in whole or in part. A study published last month by researchers from American and Canadian universities found only modest improvements in hiring and earnings in some of those states that ended the aid early, while spending fell 20 percent. Meanwhile the economy is far from healed, with 5.3 million jobs lost to the pandemic yet to be restored and employers adding a mere 235,000 positions in August, according to government data released Friday. In Delaware, Ohio, Karen Coldwell says she sends out about 10 job applications weekly but has yet to be hired. All other openings she sees are for low-wage work, the kind of jobs she held when she was younger. At age 64 she is not yet ready to retire, but worries she'll have to start dipping into her retirement savings once the long-term unemployment program ends. "There's just nothing out there. There's jobs, but the money's not there anymore," Coldwell said. Others can't return to the workforce, even though they know the benefits that make up their only income are ending. Brooke Ganieany of The Dalles, Oregon, said she has no one to care for her toddler son if she were to find employment. "I feel kind of screwed over," the 21-year-old told AFP. "I feel like they're doing this to make us have a plan and get back to reality, which is not exactly the slogan they should be using." Unequal damage Those eligible will continue to receive benefits under states' regular unemployment programs -- but the end of a $300 extra weekly supplement means their checks are about to shrink. "It's going to affect it so much. I'm going to have to cut back on food," said 58-year-old Karen Williams, an unemployed graphic designer in Pennsylvania. Gregory Daco of Oxford Economics predicted the cut off in benefits would lower household income by $4.2 billion per week in September, or about $210 billion annualised for the month. "It's not going to be the type of shock that puts the US economy into reverse," he said in an interview, but predicted that "lower-income families and minorities are more likely to be negatively impacted." Fearful of further coronavirus variants and with her daughter missing badly needed pay from the family's battle with Covid-19, Lee said she is waiting to hear whether the government will grant her disability aid for a hand injury, conceding her days of employment are likely behind her, at least for now. "I don't even know what the answer is," she said.

'Silent crisis' looms as US to end Covid aid for millions of jobless

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month.

Qatar has emerged as a key interlocutor between western nations and the Taliban, after developing close ties with the militant group through hosting its political office since 2013.

A Qatari aid flight carrying medical supplies and food products arrived in Kabul on Saturday and Qatar Ambassador to Afghanistan Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayareen was at the airport for its arrival, the Gulf State`s foreign ministry said.

Qatar has helped reopen the airport, which closed for several days after the United States-led airlift of its citizens, Afghans and other nationals ended last month.

Half of Afghanistan`s 40 million people, including 10 million children, required humanitarian assistance as of the start of this year, the International Organization for Migration said late last month, adding that needs were expected to rise.

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month.

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month. Qatar has emerged as a key interlocutor between western nations and the Taliban, after developing close ties with the militant group through hosting its political office since 2013. A Qatari aid flight carrying medical supplies and food products arrived in Kabul on Saturday and Qatar Ambassador to Afghanistan Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayareen was at the airport for its arrival, the Gulf State`s foreign ministry said. Qatar has helped reopen the airport, which closed for several days after the United States-led airlift of its citizens, Afghans and other nationals ended last month. Half of Afghanistan`s 40 million people, including 10 million children, required humanitarian assistance as of the start of this year, the International Organization for Migration said late last month, adding that needs were expected to rise.

Qatar to operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan

The preliminary death toll from the major earthquake that struck southwestern Haiti last weekend surged to 1,941 on Tuesday as the search for survivors resumed after a tropical storm passed and quake-hit Haitians clamored for food, shelter and medical aid. 
 
Hospitals struggled to tend to all those injured, the official tally of which rose to 9,915, with many people still missing or under the rubble, the Civil Protection Service said on Tuesday afternoon. 
 
"There weren't enough doctors and now she's dead," said Lanette Nuel, sitting listlessly next to her daughter's corpse outside the main hospital of Les Cayes, one of the towns worst hit by both the tremor and the storm's heavy rains and winds. 
 
The 26-year-old deceased woman, herself a mother of two, had been crushed by debris during the magnitude 7.2 quake. Now, she lay under a white sheet on the floor. 
 
"We came in yesterday afternoon, she died this morning. I can't do anything," her mother said. 
 
The quake on Saturday brought down tens of thousands of buildings in the poorest country in the Americas, which is still recovering from a temblor 11 years ago that killed over 200,000 people. 
 
Relief efforts were already complicated due to a weak state and difficult road access from the capital to the south due to gang control of key points. Flash flooding and landslides in the wake of Tropical Storm Grace, which by Thursday afternoon had continued on past Jamaica, further complicated matters. 
 
"Countless Haitian families who have lost everything due to the earthquake are now living literally with their feet in the water due to the flooding," said Bruno Maes, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) representative in Haiti. 
 
"Right now, about half a million Haitian children have limited or no access to shelter, safe water, healthcare and nutrition." 
 
The United Nations said it had allocated $8 million in emergency funds to provide essential healthcare, clean water, emergency shelter and sanitation for all affected people. 
 
"We will continue to scale up our response to the hardest-hit areas," UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. 
 
The hospital in Les Cayes, about 150 km (90 miles) west of the capital Port-au-Prince, was even more overwhelmed on Tuesday than before as patients who had been camping outside moved indoors overnight to escape the tropical storm. 
 
Director Peterson Gede said medics were doing the best they could, but it was not enough. 
 
"We couldn't handle all the patients," he said. "And we have been receiving supplies, but it's not enough." 
 
At a tent city in Les Cayes containing many children and babies, over a hundred people scrambled to repair makeshift coverings made of wooden poles and tarps that were destroyed by Grace overnight. Some took cover under plastic sheets. 
 
Mathieu Jameson, deputy head of the committee formed by the tent city residents, said hundreds of people there were in urgent need of food shelter and medical care. 
 
"We don't have a doctor. We don't have food. Every morning more people are arriving. We have no bathroom, no place to sleep. We need food, we need more umbrellas," said Jameson, adding the tent city was still waiting for government aid.

The preliminary death toll from the major earthquake that struck southwestern Haiti last weekend surged to 1,941 on Tuesday as the search for survivors resumed after a tropical storm passed and quake-hit Haitians clamored for food, shelter and medical aid.

The preliminary death toll from the major earthquake that struck southwestern Haiti last weekend surged to 1,941 on Tuesday as the search for survivors resumed after a tropical storm passed and quake-hit Haitians clamored for food, shelter and medical aid. Hospitals struggled to tend to all those injured, the official tally of which rose to 9,915, with many people still missing or under the rubble, the Civil Protection Service said on Tuesday afternoon. "There weren't enough doctors and now she's dead," said Lanette Nuel, sitting listlessly next to her daughter's corpse outside the main hospital of Les Cayes, one of the towns worst hit by both the tremor and the storm's heavy rains and winds. The 26-year-old deceased woman, herself a mother of two, had been crushed by debris during the magnitude 7.2 quake. Now, she lay under a white sheet on the floor. "We came in yesterday afternoon, she died this morning. I can't do anything," her mother said. The quake on Saturday brought down tens of thousands of buildings in the poorest country in the Americas, which is still recovering from a temblor 11 years ago that killed over 200,000 people. Relief efforts were already complicated due to a weak state and difficult road access from the capital to the south due to gang control of key points. Flash flooding and landslides in the wake of Tropical Storm Grace, which by Thursday afternoon had continued on past Jamaica, further complicated matters. "Countless Haitian families who have lost everything due to the earthquake are now living literally with their feet in the water due to the flooding," said Bruno Maes, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) representative in Haiti. "Right now, about half a million Haitian children have limited or no access to shelter, safe water, healthcare and nutrition." The United Nations said it had allocated $8 million in emergency funds to provide essential healthcare, clean water, emergency shelter and sanitation for all affected people. "We will continue to scale up our response to the hardest-hit areas," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. The hospital in Les Cayes, about 150 km (90 miles) west of the capital Port-au-Prince, was even more overwhelmed on Tuesday than before as patients who had been camping outside moved indoors overnight to escape the tropical storm. Director Peterson Gede said medics were doing the best they could, but it was not enough. "We couldn't handle all the patients," he said. "And we have been receiving supplies, but it's not enough." At a tent city in Les Cayes containing many children and babies, over a hundred people scrambled to repair makeshift coverings made of wooden poles and tarps that were destroyed by Grace overnight. Some took cover under plastic sheets. Mathieu Jameson, deputy head of the committee formed by the tent city residents, said hundreds of people there were in urgent need of food shelter and medical care. "We don't have a doctor. We don't have food. Every morning more people are arriving. We have no bathroom, no place to sleep. We need food, we need more umbrellas," said Jameson, adding the tent city was still waiting for government aid.

Haiti quake death toll surges to nearly 2,000, survivors clamour for aid

Russian defence ministry said that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades. Russian defence ministry said that the aid was dispatched after Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct order.

COVID-19: Russia sends aid to Cuba

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades. Russian defence ministry said that the aid was dispatched after Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct order.

Two An-124 cargo planes carrying more than 88 tonnes of humanitarian support took off from a military airport near Moscow, a statement said.

The cargo included "food, personal protective equipment and more than one million medical masks," it said.

The US this week imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister for quashing peaceful protests. Sanctions have also been slapped against a special forces unit.

President Joe Biden warned the measure was "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana.

On July 11 and 12, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in 40 cities shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship," and "We're hungry."

One person has died and more than 100 have been arrested since the protests broke out.

Russia earlier this month warned against any "outside interference" in Cuba, an important Cold War ally.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades.

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades. Russian defence ministry said that the aid was dispatched after Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct order. Two An-124 cargo planes carrying more than 88 tonnes of humanitarian support took off from a military airport near Moscow, a statement said. The cargo included "food, personal protective equipment and more than one million medical masks," it said. The US this week imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister for quashing peaceful protests. Sanctions have also been slapped against a special forces unit. President Joe Biden warned the measure was "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana. On July 11 and 12, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in 40 cities shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship," and "We're hungry." One person has died and more than 100 have been arrested since the protests broke out. Russia earlier this month warned against any "outside interference" in Cuba, an important Cold War ally. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuba: Russia sends help to Communist nation after protests

US President Joe Biden on Friday authorised the use of up to $100 million to address migration emergencies related to the situation in Afghanistan, the White House said.

The statement said the money would come from the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund "for the purpose of meeting unexpected urgent refugee and migration needs, victims of conflict, and&nbsp;other persons at risk as a result of the situation in Afghanistan."

The funds will also support those applying to the State Department program of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), under which some 20,000 Afghans who worked as interpreters for the United States during its war in the country and now fear retribution from Taliban insurgents have applied for evacuation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-dont-have-such-a-picture-in-our-history-afghan-vp-amrullah-saleh-slams-pakistani-trolls-with-an-image-of-1971-pak-army-surrender-399582">Also read |&nbsp;'We don’t have such a picture in our history': Afghan VP Amrullah Saleh slams Pakistani trolls with an image of 1971 Pak Army surrender</a>

The funds could be distributed on both a bilateral and multilateral basis through contributions or funding to international organisations, non-governmental groups, governments and US bodies, the statement added.

The Taliban has pressed a sweeping offensive across Afghanistan in recent months, capitalising on the last stages of the US troop withdrawal, due to be completed by the end of August, and raising fears of a potential humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations recently estimated half of Afghanistan's 39 million people are in need of aid, and called on the international community to maintain financial support for the country.

US President Joe Biden on Friday authorised the use of up to $100 million to address migration emergencies related to the situation in Afghanistan, the White House said.

US President Joe Biden on Friday authorised the use of up to $100 million to address migration emergencies related to the situation in Afghanistan, the White House said. The statement said the money would come from the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund "for the purpose of meeting unexpected urgent refugee and migration needs, victims of conflict, and other persons at risk as a result of the situation in Afghanistan." The funds will also support those applying to the State Department program of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), under which some 20,000 Afghans who worked as interpreters for the United States during its war in the country and now fear retribution from Taliban insurgents have applied for evacuation. Also read | 'We don’t have such a picture in our history': Afghan VP Amrullah Saleh slams Pakistani trolls with an image of 1971 Pak Army surrender The funds could be distributed on both a bilateral and multilateral basis through contributions or funding to international organisations, non-governmental groups, governments and US bodies, the statement added. The Taliban has pressed a sweeping offensive across Afghanistan in recent months, capitalising on the last stages of the US troop withdrawal, due to be completed by the end of August, and raising fears of a potential humanitarian crisis. The United Nations recently estimated half of Afghanistan's 39 million people are in need of aid, and called on the international community to maintain financial support for the country.

Washington authorises $100 million for Afghan migration aid

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary. He was speaking at his Sunday blessing in St Peter's Square.

Pope Francis said that he wanted to "add" his "voice" to appeal made by Myanmar's Catholic bishops last week.

The Pope spoke of "heartbreaking experience of thousands of people in that country who are displaced and are dying of hunger"

He backed Myanmar Bishops' appeal for a humanitarian corridor in order to get aid to displaced people and to respect churches, pagodas, monasteries, mosques, temples, schools and hospitals, as neutral places of refuge.

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday called for a stop to the flow of arms to Myanmar and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup.

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary. He was speaking at his Sunday blessing in St Peter's Square. Pope Francis said that he wanted to "add" his "voice" to appeal made by Myanmar's Catholic bishops last week. The Pope spoke of "heartbreaking experience of thousands of people in that country who are displaced and are dying of hunger" He backed Myanmar Bishops' appeal for a humanitarian corridor in order to get aid to displaced people and to respect churches, pagodas, monasteries, mosques, temples, schools and hospitals, as neutral places of refuge. The United Nations General Assembly on Friday called for a stop to the flow of arms to Myanmar and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope backs Myanmar bishops' appeal for humanitarian corridor

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.”

Speaking to reporters on June 15,&nbsp;in New York, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward said, “ the UK is confident in the reliability of the data that has been presented by the UN. It is clear that food, agricultural tools, and life stocks are being destroyed.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-researchers-identify-1900-people-killed-in-tigray-375006">Also Read |&nbsp;Ethiopia: Researchers identify 1,900 people killed in Tigray</a>

She added, “as a result, 350,000 people in&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;are facing hunger on a scale not seen since the famine in Somalia, and many more millions more face food insecurity, exacerbated by disrupted plunting.”

Also Watch |&nbsp;People face horrific situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/people-face-horrific-situation-in-ethiopias-tigray-389967/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The further 16.7 million pounds in aid, brings to a total of 47.7 million pounds since the conflict begin eight months ago.

The UK Ambassador also said, “without a ceasefire, this can be a manmade famine. It is not drought or locust that is causing this hunger, but the decisions of those in power. That means those in power could also end the suffering.”

She continued, “we were told in March that the Eritrean forces will be withdrawing, it is now June, there can be no further delay.

Farmers have been not able to plant for next year’s corps due to the violence, the window for them to do so is about to close, and while the violence continues, it is not only condemning the people of&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;to desperate hunger this year but next year too.

The UK Ambassador reiterated, “the solution is clear – a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and political dialogue.”

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.

The UK announced a further 16.7 million pounds in aid for Ethiopia, and called on “the Council’s members to come together and to urge with one voice for immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid.” Speaking to reporters on June 15, in New York, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward said, “ the UK is confident in the reliability of the data that has been presented by the UN. It is clear that food, agricultural tools, and life stocks are being destroyed.” Also Read | Ethiopia: Researchers identify 1,900 people killed in Tigray She added, “as a result, 350,000 people in Tigray are facing hunger on a scale not seen since the famine in Somalia, and many more millions more face food insecurity, exacerbated by disrupted plunting.” Also Watch | People face horrific situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray The further 16.7 million pounds in aid, brings to a total of 47.7 million pounds since the conflict begin eight months ago. The UK Ambassador also said, “without a ceasefire, this can be a manmade famine. It is not drought or locust that is causing this hunger, but the decisions of those in power. That means those in power could also end the suffering.” She continued, “we were told in March that the Eritrean forces will be withdrawing, it is now June, there can be no further delay. Farmers have been not able to plant for next year’s corps due to the violence, the window for them to do so is about to close, and while the violence continues, it is not only condemning the people of Tigray to desperate hunger this year but next year too. The UK Ambassador reiterated, “the solution is clear – a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and political dialogue.”

UK announces further aid for Ethiopia

Outgoing UN&nbsp;aid chief Mark Lowcock slammed the Group of Seven wealthy nations on Monday for failing to come up with a plan to vaccinate the world against COVID-19, describing the G7 pledge to provide one billion doses over the next year as a 'small step'. 
 
"These sporadic, small-scale, charitable handouts from rich countries to poor countries is not a serious plan and it will not bring the pandemic to an end," Lowcock, who steps down on Friday, said. "The G7, essentially, completely failed to show the necessary urgency." 
 
The leaders of the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Canada met in Cornwall, England over the weekend and also agreed to work with the private sector, the Group of 20 industrialised nations and other countries to increase the vaccine contribution over months to come. 
 
"They took a small step - at that very, very nice resort in Cornwall - but they shouldn't kid themselves it's more than a small step and they have still have a lot to do," Lowcock said. 
 
"What the world needed from the G7 was a plan to vaccinate the world. And what we got was a plan to vaccinate about 10% of the population of low and middle income countries, maybe by a year from now or the second half of next year," he said. 
 
In May, the International Monetary Fund unveiled a $50 billion proposal to end the COVID-19 pandemic by vaccinating at least 40% of the population in all countries by the end of 2021 and at least 60% by the first half of 2022. 
 
"That is the deal of the century," said Lowcock, adding that the G7 could also have done a lot more to provide vital supplies, such as oxygen ventilators, testing kits and protective equipment, to countries, who are going to have to wait longer for vaccines. 
 
UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday urged world leaders to act with more urgency, warning that if developing countries were not vaccinated quickly, the virus would continue to mutate and could become immune to inoculation. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Outgoing UN aid chief Mark Lowcock slammed the Group of Seven wealthy nations on Monday for failing to come up with a plan to vaccinate the world against COVID-19, describing the G7 pledge to provide one billion doses over the next year as a 'small step'.

Outgoing UN aid chief Mark Lowcock slammed the Group of Seven wealthy nations on Monday for failing to come up with a plan to vaccinate the world against COVID-19, describing the G7 pledge to provide one billion doses over the next year as a 'small step'. "These sporadic, small-scale, charitable handouts from rich countries to poor countries is not a serious plan and it will not bring the pandemic to an end," Lowcock, who steps down on Friday, said. "The G7, essentially, completely failed to show the necessary urgency." The leaders of the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Canada met in Cornwall, England over the weekend and also agreed to work with the private sector, the Group of 20 industrialised nations and other countries to increase the vaccine contribution over months to come. "They took a small step - at that very, very nice resort in Cornwall - but they shouldn't kid themselves it's more than a small step and they have still have a lot to do," Lowcock said. "What the world needed from the G7 was a plan to vaccinate the world. And what we got was a plan to vaccinate about 10% of the population of low and middle income countries, maybe by a year from now or the second half of next year," he said. In May, the International Monetary Fund unveiled a $50 billion proposal to end the COVID-19 pandemic by vaccinating at least 40% of the population in all countries by the end of 2021 and at least 60% by the first half of 2022. "That is the deal of the century," said Lowcock, adding that the G7 could also have done a lot more to provide vital supplies, such as oxygen ventilators, testing kits and protective equipment, to countries, who are going to have to wait longer for vaccines. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday urged world leaders to act with more urgency, warning that if developing countries were not vaccinated quickly, the virus would continue to mutate and could become immune to inoculation. (With inputs from agencies)

Outgoing UN aid chief slams G7 for failing on vaccine plan

The United States will grant $115 million in cooperation aid to El Salvador to slow migration from the Central American country, Samantha Power, administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), said on Monday. 
 
"We can work with local partners in Central America to expand opportunities for youth and help them get away from violence," Power said at a conference on migration at the Central American University, where she announced the aid initiative. 
 
The money will include $50 million for security, $35 million for programmes to counter violence against women and $30 million in job training, Power said. 
 
USAID says it will also contribute $12 million for small and medium-sized businesses in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador that were affected by coronavirus-related lockdowns. 
 
The Biden administration has pledged to invest $4 billion to address the root causes of migration from Central America. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The United States will grant $115 million in cooperation aid to El Salvador to slow migration from the Central American country, Samantha Power, administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), said on Monday.

The United States will grant $115 million in cooperation aid to El Salvador to slow migration from the Central American country, Samantha Power, administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), said on Monday. "We can work with local partners in Central America to expand opportunities for youth and help them get away from violence," Power said at a conference on migration at the Central American University, where she announced the aid initiative. The money will include $50 million for security, $35 million for programmes to counter violence against women and $30 million in job training, Power said. USAID says it will also contribute $12 million for small and medium-sized businesses in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador that were affected by coronavirus-related lockdowns. The Biden administration has pledged to invest $4 billion to address the root causes of migration from Central America. (With inputs from agencies)

USAID to grant $115 million in aid to El Salvador to stem migration

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup.

Japan is a top donor to Myanmar, and has already suspended new aid after the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

But Toshimitsu Motegi, speaking to the Nikkei newspaper, said the freeze could be expanded.

"We don't want to do that at all, but we have to state firmly that it will be difficult to continue under these circumstances," he told the newspaper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-myanmars-military-moved-in-on-the-telecoms-sector-to-spy-on-citizens-386071" hreflang="en">How Myanmar's military moved in on the telecoms sector to spy on citizens</a>

"As a country that supported Myanmar's democratisation in various ways, and as a friend, we must represent the international community and convey that clearly."

Japan announced in March it was halting all new aid to impoverished Myanmar in response to the coup, though it has not imposed the individual sanctions on military and police commanders implemented by some other countries.

Motegi has said Japan is Myanmar's largest provider of economic assistance, and Tokyo has long-standing relations with the country's military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-vote-on-call-to-stop-arms-supply-to-myanmar-postponed-385757" hreflang="en">UN vote on call to stop arms supply to Myanmar postponed&nbsp;</a>

According to the Nikkei, Japan provided $1.74 billion in development aid to Myanmar in fiscal 2019, more than any other country with disclosed figures. China's aid figures are not public.

More than 800 people have been killed in Myanmar in unrest since the military ousted Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup.

A Japanese journalist arrested covering the aftermath of the coup was released last week and returned to Tokyo.

His release came as Japan said it had offered Myanmar $4 million in emergency aid through the World Food Programme.

Speaking in Tokyo on Friday, the journalist Yuki Kitazumi called on Japan's government to have the "courage" to use its leverage with Myanmar's military.

"People in Myanmar expect and hope that the Japanese government will take concrete action," he told a press conference.

Kitazumi described meeting political prisoners who told him they and others were being tortured in custody, including beatings, and being kept awake around the clock.

"I hope the power of the Japanese government that got me released will be used for people in Myanmar," he said.

Tokyo has called for Suu Kyi's release and the restoration of democracy, and Motegi told the Nikkei that Tokyo was continuing to hold dialogue with the junta.

"We have a greater variety of channels in Myanmar, including with the military, than Europe and the US," he said.

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup.

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup. Japan is a top donor to Myanmar, and has already suspended new aid after the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. But Toshimitsu Motegi, speaking to the Nikkei newspaper, said the freeze could be expanded. "We don't want to do that at all, but we have to state firmly that it will be difficult to continue under these circumstances," he told the newspaper. Also read | How Myanmar's military moved in on the telecoms sector to spy on citizens "As a country that supported Myanmar's democratisation in various ways, and as a friend, we must represent the international community and convey that clearly." Japan announced in March it was halting all new aid to impoverished Myanmar in response to the coup, though it has not imposed the individual sanctions on military and police commanders implemented by some other countries. Motegi has said Japan is Myanmar's largest provider of economic assistance, and Tokyo has long-standing relations with the country's military. Also read | UN vote on call to stop arms supply to Myanmar postponed According to the Nikkei, Japan provided $1.74 billion in development aid to Myanmar in fiscal 2019, more than any other country with disclosed figures. China's aid figures are not public. More than 800 people have been killed in Myanmar in unrest since the military ousted Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup. A Japanese journalist arrested covering the aftermath of the coup was released last week and returned to Tokyo. His release came as Japan said it had offered Myanmar $4 million in emergency aid through the World Food Programme. Speaking in Tokyo on Friday, the journalist Yuki Kitazumi called on Japan's government to have the "courage" to use its leverage with Myanmar's military. "People in Myanmar expect and hope that the Japanese government will take concrete action," he told a press conference. Kitazumi described meeting political prisoners who told him they and others were being tortured in custody, including beatings, and being kept awake around the clock. "I hope the power of the Japanese government that got me released will be used for people in Myanmar," he said. Tokyo has called for Suu Kyi's release and the restoration of democracy, and Motegi told the Nikkei that Tokyo was continuing to hold dialogue with the junta. "We have a greater variety of channels in Myanmar, including with the military, than Europe and the US," he said.

Japan could freeze all aid to Myanmar, foreign minister warns

A man in the United States was arrested on Friday after federal authorities say he fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in coronavirus relief to buy luxurious cars, take lavish vacations and cover personal expenses.

Mustafa Qadiri, 38, obtained about $5 million in Paycheck Protection Program money after claiming to own four businesses, none of which are in business, according to a federal indictment.

The Southern California man has pleaded not guilty to charges he obtained USD 5 million in federal coronavirus-relief loans for phoney businesses. 
 
On May 7 the Official account of the US Attorney's Office for the Central District of California tweeted that "Federal agents have seized three luxury sports cars allegedly purchased by Mustafa Qadiri, 38, of Irvine, with fraudulently obtained COVID-19 Payment Protection Program (PPP) loans."

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Federal agents have seized three luxury sports cars allegedly purchased by Mustafa Qadiri, 38, of Irvine, with fraudulently obtained COVID-19 Payment Protection Program (PPP) loans. <a href="https://t.co/MIdkjFeZx2">pic.twitter.com/MIdkjFeZx2</a>
— US Attorney L.A. (@USAO_LosAngeles) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAO_LosAngeles/status/1390731502707744770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Qadiri, of Irvine, pleaded not guilty on Friday to multiple charges including bank fraud, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering, according to the US Attorney’s Office.

Qadiri's lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Prosecutors said Qadiri listed one of four mortgage companies in multiple applications for PPP loans, and three banks awarded him a total of more than $5 million. The companies he listed do not exist now, prosecutors said.

He received US$5 million in loans that investigators said he used to pay for trips, sports cars and personal expenses.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man in the United States was arrested on Friday after federal authorities say he fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in coronavirus relief to buy luxurious cars, take lavish vacations and cover personal expenses.

A man in the United States was arrested on Friday after federal authorities say he fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in coronavirus relief to buy luxurious cars, take lavish vacations and cover personal expenses. Mustafa Qadiri, 38, obtained about $5 million in Paycheck Protection Program money after claiming to own four businesses, none of which are in business, according to a federal indictment. The Southern California man has pleaded not guilty to charges he obtained USD 5 million in federal coronavirus-relief loans for phoney businesses. On May 7 the Official account of the US Attorney's Office for the Central District of California tweeted that "Federal agents have seized three luxury sports cars allegedly purchased by Mustafa Qadiri, 38, of Irvine, with fraudulently obtained COVID-19 Payment Protection Program (PPP) loans." Federal agents have seized three luxury sports cars allegedly purchased by Mustafa Qadiri, 38, of Irvine, with fraudulently obtained COVID-19 Payment Protection Program (PPP) loans. pic.twitter.com/MIdkjFeZx2 — US Attorney L.A. (@USAO_LosAngeles) May 7, 2021 × Qadiri, of Irvine, pleaded not guilty on Friday to multiple charges including bank fraud, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering, according to the US Attorney’s Office. Qadiri's lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Prosecutors said Qadiri listed one of four mortgage companies in multiple applications for PPP loans, and three banks awarded him a total of more than $5 million. The companies he listed do not exist now, prosecutors said. He received US$5 million in loans that investigators said he used to pay for trips, sports cars and personal expenses. (With inputs from agencies)

US man buys Ferrari, Lamborghini using $5 million COVID-19 aid

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus.

International aid has poured in for India, where record infection rates have overwhelmed hospitals, depleting medicines, oxygen tanks and other supplies.

Earlier this month, Qatar Airways also airlifted 300 tonnes of aid free of charge from Doha to India.

Emirates will provide free spare capacity to transport supplies from charities based in Dubai, divisional senior vice president Nabil Sultan told reporters, saying the mechanism could later be extended to bring aid from other parts.

"We are absolutely committed to helping India," he said.

The supplies will be organised through Dubai's International Humanitarian City, a hub used by many non-governmental organisations to transport aid globally. Supplies would be flown for free until further notice, Sultan said.

The first flight under the new "airbridge" is scheduled to depart for New Delhi on May 13 carrying 12.6 tonnes of multi-purpose tents from the World Health Organization (WHO).

India reported 4,092 new deaths from the virus on Sunday, bringing the total to 242,362. Infections in the last 24 hours rose to 403,738, a near-record, increasing the total since the pandemic started to 22.3 million.

Emirates operates 95 weekly flights to nine Indian cities: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Trivandrum. Those flights offer about 5,000 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus.

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus. International aid has poured in for India, where record infection rates have overwhelmed hospitals, depleting medicines, oxygen tanks and other supplies. Earlier this month, Qatar Airways also airlifted 300 tonnes of aid free of charge from Doha to India. Emirates will provide free spare capacity to transport supplies from charities based in Dubai, divisional senior vice president Nabil Sultan told reporters, saying the mechanism could later be extended to bring aid from other parts. "We are absolutely committed to helping India," he said. The supplies will be organised through Dubai's International Humanitarian City, a hub used by many non-governmental organisations to transport aid globally. Supplies would be flown for free until further notice, Sultan said. The first flight under the new "airbridge" is scheduled to depart for New Delhi on May 13 carrying 12.6 tonnes of multi-purpose tents from the World Health Organization (WHO). India reported 4,092 new deaths from the virus on Sunday, bringing the total to 242,362. Infections in the last 24 hours rose to 403,738, a near-record, increasing the total since the pandemic started to 22.3 million. Emirates operates 95 weekly flights to nine Indian cities: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Trivandrum. Those flights offer about 5,000 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Emirates to fly medical aid to India for free

Part two&nbsp;of the France solidarity mission to India of sending anti-Covid assistance will begin at the end of May. Under this, a&nbsp;second air shipment of medical equipment and oxygen generator plants will be sent to New Delhi.

France is also going to send liquid oxygen from French company Air Liquide's plants in the region to India via sea including with help of&nbsp;Indian armed forces.&nbsp;The first shipment of liquid O2 will arrive in the coming days.

Informed sources told WION that the Indian Airforce might also be involved in getting supplies from France.&nbsp;Indian Air force is already playing a key role and in the last few days airlifted 900 empty Oxygen cylinders from the UK, four&nbsp;cryogenic oxygen containers from Perth, Australia.

As a part of its&nbsp;solidarity mission, France had&nbsp;sent eight&nbsp;medical oxygen generators last week. Each generator can make an Indian hospital autonomous in oxygen supply for approximately 10 years. The country also sent specialised medical equipment&nbsp;including 28 ventilators as well as 200 electric syringe pumps.

France is supporting India&nbsp;under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (MPCU). Under the mechanism, more than 15&nbsp;members of the European Union are sending assistance to New Delhi.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the European Commission has announced that it will allocate an initial €2.2 million in emergency funding to respond to the ongoing Covid crisis in India.

"We are providing additional EU support towards the fight against COVID-19 in India. This comes on top of the generous and swift assistance from the EU Member States that stepped up as part of Team Europe to offer critical supplies of oxygen, ventilators, and medicines over the last few days", said European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič.

EU member states that have already mobilised supplies of urgently needed oxygen, ventilators, and medicines are Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Sweden.

Part two of the France solidarity mission to India of sending anti-Covid assistance will begin at the end of May. Under this, a second air shipment of medical equipment and oxygen generator plants will be sent to New Delhi.

Part two of the France solidarity mission to India of sending anti-Covid assistance will begin at the end of May. Under this, a second air shipment of medical equipment and oxygen generator plants will be sent to New Delhi. France is also going to send liquid oxygen from French company Air Liquide's plants in the region to India via sea including with help of Indian armed forces. The first shipment of liquid O2 will arrive in the coming days. Informed sources told WION that the Indian Airforce might also be involved in getting supplies from France. Indian Air force is already playing a key role and in the last few days airlifted 900 empty Oxygen cylinders from the UK, four cryogenic oxygen containers from Perth, Australia. As a part of its solidarity mission, France had sent eight medical oxygen generators last week. Each generator can make an Indian hospital autonomous in oxygen supply for approximately 10 years. The country also sent specialised medical equipment including 28 ventilators as well as 200 electric syringe pumps. France is supporting India under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (MPCU). Under the mechanism, more than 15 members of the European Union are sending assistance to New Delhi. Meanwhile, the European Commission has announced that it will allocate an initial €2.2 million in emergency funding to respond to the ongoing Covid crisis in India. "We are providing additional EU support towards the fight against COVID-19 in India. This comes on top of the generous and swift assistance from the EU Member States that stepped up as part of Team Europe to offer critical supplies of oxygen, ventilators, and medicines over the last few days", said European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič. EU member states that have already mobilised supplies of urgently needed oxygen, ventilators, and medicines are Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Sweden.

Covid crisis: France to begin phase two of solidarity mission; EU announces €2.2m support

Taiwan's first batch of aid to India to help it fight a surging increase in COVID-19 infections left for New Delhi on Sunday, consisting of 150 oxygen concentrators and 500 oxygen cylinders, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said.&nbsp;

Countries around the world have been rushing to help India alleviate the crisis. India recorded more than 400,000 new COVID-19 cases for the first time on Saturday as it battles a devastating second wave.&nbsp;

Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said the aid consignment left on a China Airlines freighter on Sunday morning and would be received by India's Red Cross.&nbsp;

Taiwan will continue to provide aid as needed, it added.&nbsp;

"These oxygen concentrators and cylinders are love from Taiwan. More help for our friends in India is on the way. #IndiaStayStrong!" Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted. &nbsp;

An oxygen concentrator reduces nitrogen from an air supply to produce an oxygen-enriched air supply to a patient.&nbsp;

While India, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed Taiwan, the two have drawn closer in recent years thanks to their shared antipathy of Beijing.&nbsp;

Taiwan sees India as an important like-minded democracy and friend, and there are close cultural and economic links too.&nbsp;

Last year, Taiwan accused Beijing of trying to impose censorship in India after China's embassy in New Delhi advised local journalists to observe the ‘one-China' principle following advertisements in newspapers that marked Taiwan's national day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Taiwan's first batch of aid to India to help it fight a surging increase in COVID-19 infections left for New Delhi on Sunday, consisting of 150 oxygen concentrators and 500 oxygen cylinders, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said.

Taiwan's first batch of aid to India to help it fight a surging increase in COVID-19 infections left for New Delhi on Sunday, consisting of 150 oxygen concentrators and 500 oxygen cylinders, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said. Countries around the world have been rushing to help India alleviate the crisis. India recorded more than 400,000 new COVID-19 cases for the first time on Saturday as it battles a devastating second wave. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said the aid consignment left on a China Airlines freighter on Sunday morning and would be received by India's Red Cross. Taiwan will continue to provide aid as needed, it added. "These oxygen concentrators and cylinders are love from Taiwan. More help for our friends in India is on the way. #IndiaStayStrong!" Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted. An oxygen concentrator reduces nitrogen from an air supply to produce an oxygen-enriched air supply to a patient. While India, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed Taiwan, the two have drawn closer in recent years thanks to their shared antipathy of Beijing. Taiwan sees India as an important like-minded democracy and friend, and there are close cultural and economic links too. Last year, Taiwan accused Beijing of trying to impose censorship in India after China's embassy in New Delhi advised local journalists to observe the ‘one-China' principle following advertisements in newspapers that marked Taiwan's national day. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's first batch of COVID-19 aid leaves for India 

A leading charity has criticised the government's plan to reduce funding for overseas water and sanitation projects during the coronavirus pandemic after a leaked memo reveals details of cuts in the foreign aid budget.&nbsp;

If a leaked memo is to be believed, the funding for water, sanitation and hygiene bilateral projects will be cut by more than 80%.&nbsp;

According to a BBC report, WaterAid's Tim Wainwright has criticised the timing of ‘savage cuts'.&nbsp;

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office said COVID-19 had 'forced us to take tough' decisions.&nbsp;

The government had also announced last year it would cut UK aid spending from 0.7% of national income to just 0.5%, which amounts to a reduction of more than £4bn - but it is yet to confirm which programmes will be affected.&nbsp;

The 'temporary measure' was also being defended at this time as supported by voters, with some MPs saying domestic spending should come first during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the UK is currently moving through its domestic priority lists for COVID-19 vaccines and therefore, has no surplus doses to share with countries in need such as India at this stage, Downing Street said recently. &nbsp;

In reference to India's devastating second wave of the pandemic, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson said the process is kept under constant review, while the country sends an assistance package made up of 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators to India to meet the supply shortages over the course of the week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The first tranche of 100 ventilators and 95 oxygen concentrators arrived in New Delhi early on Tuesday. &nbsp;

"We committed in February to sending excess doses from the UK's supply to the COVAX procurement pool and to countries in need, once they are available," the UK PM's spokesperson said. &nbsp;

"Right now, we are moving through the UK prioritisation list for our domestic rollout and don't have surplus doses, but we keep this under constant review. We recognise that no one is safe until we're all safe in this pandemic which is why the UK has contributed GBP 548 million to COVAX and sent vital medical supplies to India," the spokesperson said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A leading charity has criticised the government's plan to reduce funding for overseas water and sanitation projects during the coronavirus pandemic after a leaked memo reveals details of cuts in the foreign aid budget.

A leading charity has criticised the government's plan to reduce funding for overseas water and sanitation projects during the coronavirus pandemic after a leaked memo reveals details of cuts in the foreign aid budget. If a leaked memo is to be believed, the funding for water, sanitation and hygiene bilateral projects will be cut by more than 80%. According to a BBC report, WaterAid's Tim Wainwright has criticised the timing of ‘savage cuts'. The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office said COVID-19 had 'forced us to take tough' decisions. The government had also announced last year it would cut UK aid spending from 0.7% of national income to just 0.5%, which amounts to a reduction of more than £4bn - but it is yet to confirm which programmes will be affected. The 'temporary measure' was also being defended at this time as supported by voters, with some MPs saying domestic spending should come first during the pandemic. Meanwhile, the UK is currently moving through its domestic priority lists for COVID-19 vaccines and therefore, has no surplus doses to share with countries in need such as India at this stage, Downing Street said recently. In reference to India's devastating second wave of the pandemic, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson said the process is kept under constant review, while the country sends an assistance package made up of 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators to India to meet the supply shortages over the course of the week. The first tranche of 100 ventilators and 95 oxygen concentrators arrived in New Delhi early on Tuesday. "We committed in February to sending excess doses from the UK's supply to the COVAX procurement pool and to countries in need, once they are available," the UK PM's spokesperson said. "Right now, we are moving through the UK prioritisation list for our domestic rollout and don't have surplus doses, but we keep this under constant review. We recognise that no one is safe until we're all safe in this pandemic which is why the UK has contributed GBP 548 million to COVAX and sent vital medical supplies to India," the spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK’s aid cuts for clean water projects overseas criticised 

Considering a hard year that Kenya has had due to the existing financial constraints and the added pressure of the coronavirus pandemic, the IMF has approved a $2.34 billion aid package for the country.

The IMF believes this aid package “address the urgent need to reduce debt vulnerabilities”. The funds will be divided over a period of 38 months, starting with an immediate disbursement of nearly $307.5 million “usable for budget support”.

“Kenya was hit hard at the onset by the Covid-19 pandemic,” the IMF said. However, it also highlighted the country’s “forceful policy response” that helped it reach an economic recovery in 2021 after a small contraction in GDP in 2020.

The crisis, however, has also worsened “pre-existing fiscal vulnerabilities”.

“Kenya's debt remains sustainable, but it is at high risk of debt distress,” IMF’s statement read, adding that “fiscal and balance-of-payments financing needs remain sizable over the medium term.”

This aid package has been praised as “a strong signal of support and confidence” by the institute’s deputy managing director, Antoinette Sayeh, who also stressed that the package is “subject to notable risks, including from uncertainty about the path of the pandemic.”

Considering a hard year that Kenya has had due to the existing financial constraints and the added pressure of the coronavirus pandemic, the IMF has approved a $2.

Considering a hard year that Kenya has had due to the existing financial constraints and the added pressure of the coronavirus pandemic, the IMF has approved a $2.34 billion aid package for the country. The IMF believes this aid package “address the urgent need to reduce debt vulnerabilities”. The funds will be divided over a period of 38 months, starting with an immediate disbursement of nearly $307.5 million “usable for budget support”. “Kenya was hit hard at the onset by the Covid-19 pandemic,” the IMF said. However, it also highlighted the country’s “forceful policy response” that helped it reach an economic recovery in 2021 after a small contraction in GDP in 2020. The crisis, however, has also worsened “pre-existing fiscal vulnerabilities”. “Kenya's debt remains sustainable, but it is at high risk of debt distress,” IMF’s statement read, adding that “fiscal and balance-of-payments financing needs remain sizable over the medium term.” This aid package has been praised as “a strong signal of support and confidence” by the institute’s deputy managing director, Antoinette Sayeh, who also stressed that the package is “subject to notable risks, including from uncertainty about the path of the pandemic.”

IMF approves $2.3 billion aid package for Kenya amid coronavirus crisis

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well.

Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue.

Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy.

"Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference.

Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi.

Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties.

(With Reuters inputs)

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country.

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well. Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue. Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy. "Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference. Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi. Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties. (With Reuters inputs)

Japan finalising plans to halt fresh aid to Myanmar, says report

Over the last year, 277 major attacks against aid workers took place, a new research has found.

Humanitarian Outcomes, an independent humanitarian research organisation on Monday claimed that a major spike was witnessed in violent attacks against aid workers.

Killed, abducted, or wounded

At least 483 workers were killed, abducted, or wounded in 2019, marking the highest number since 1997, when the organisation started recording numbers.

"The ability to help vulnerable civilians in their hour of greatest need is a sign of civilisation; it's a right under international law," Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said while responding to the numbers.

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"But we are seeing an increasing number of colleagues killed, abducted, wounded ... If aid workers are not protected, lifelines will falter”, Egeland added.

The total number of casualties spiked, but the number of workers killed dropped from 131 in 2018 to 125 in 2019.

The organisation gathers data from public reports, aid groups, and security organisations.

Health workers at risk

A whopping 40 per cent of the fatalities were among health workers, which is the highest percentage ever recorded, as per the “Aid Worker Security Report” due to be released later this month.

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Syria has been named the most violent country for aid workers, with 47 attacks recorded last year. At least 36 aid workers were killed in the war-torn country.

The Democratic Republic of Congo also recorded an increase in the number of attacks on humanitarian workers. Over 50 per cent of the 27 violent attacks were against health workers, partly in response to the Ebola outbreak, asserted Humanitarian Outcomes.

Most violence against aid workers was committed by armed groups, with attacks potentially crippling the access to resources for those who need it.

Over the last year, 277 major attacks against aid workers took place, a new research has found. Humanitarian Outcomes, an independent humanitarian research organisation on Monday claimed that a major spike was witnessed in violent attacks against aid workers.

Over the last year, 277 major attacks against aid workers took place, a new research has found. Humanitarian Outcomes, an independent humanitarian research organisation on Monday claimed that a major spike was witnessed in violent attacks against aid workers. Killed, abducted, or wounded At least 483 workers were killed, abducted, or wounded in 2019, marking the highest number since 1997, when the organisation started recording numbers. "The ability to help vulnerable civilians in their hour of greatest need is a sign of civilisation; it's a right under international law," Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said while responding to the numbers. Also read: Four environmental activists were killed every week in 2019 across the globe "But we are seeing an increasing number of colleagues killed, abducted, wounded ... If aid workers are not protected, lifelines will falter”, Egeland added. The total number of casualties spiked, but the number of workers killed dropped from 131 in 2018 to 125 in 2019. The organisation gathers data from public reports, aid groups, and security organisations. Health workers at risk A whopping 40 per cent of the fatalities were among health workers, which is the highest percentage ever recorded, as per the “Aid Worker Security Report” due to be released later this month. Also see: Poland: Warsaw witnesses pro and anti-LGBT supporters face off Syria has been named the most violent country for aid workers, with 47 attacks recorded last year. At least 36 aid workers were killed in the war-torn country. The Democratic Republic of Congo also recorded an increase in the number of attacks on humanitarian workers. Over 50 per cent of the 27 violent attacks were against health workers, partly in response to the Ebola outbreak, asserted Humanitarian Outcomes. Most violence against aid workers was committed by armed groups, with attacks potentially crippling the access to resources for those who need it.

A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe

The European Commission added 30 million euros on Sunday to their aid to help Lebanon after last week's deadly explosion in Beirut. The total aid to Lebanon by the Commission now stands at 63 million euros.

The European Commission added 30 million euros on Sunday to their aid to help Lebanon after last week's deadly explosion in Beirut. The total aid to Lebanon by the Commission now stands at 63 million euros. The latest funding was to "help address the immediate needs of those affected by the deadly explosion in Beirut on 4 August", said a Commission statement "As needs rise we are providing humanitarian support to hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable people," commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic said in the statement. Also read: 'Lebanon's future at stake': Macron tells donor nations during UN-backed meet On Thursday, Commission President von der Leyen put up 33 million euros funding in a phone call with the Lebanese President Michel Aoun. In a statement by the commission, the new funding will be channelled to UN agencies, NGOs and international and will be strictly monitored. Also read: Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion Lenarcic, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, thanked the EU member states who had already made individual contributions to Lebanon -- in the form of money, aid, or teams of specialists to help on the ground. The announcement by the Commission came as French President Emmanuel Macron hosted an emergency aid conference for Lebanon following last Tuesday's devastating blast in Beirut. According to the UN, 117 million euros will be needed over the next three months for the emergency response. (Inputs from AFP)

European Commission doubles its Lebanon aid to 63 million euros

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

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Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year.

The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said.

Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia.

With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021.

This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control.

For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria.&nbsp;

European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points.

"Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

"The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP.

The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line."

UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission.

But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities.

Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime.

Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need."

"Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said.

The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points.

In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year.

This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue.

Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time."

But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country. Also read: French court sentences prison terms for ex-spies for 'sharing intelligence' with China Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year. The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said. Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia. With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021. This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control. For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria. European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points. "Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank. "The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP. The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line." UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission. But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities. Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime. Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need." "Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said. The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points. In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year. This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue. Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011. Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time." But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

UN restarts cross-border aid to Syria but shuts access point

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount.&nbsp; 
 
The economy is set for a sharp contraction this year, and President Vladimir Putin is eager to get growth back on track in a bid to boost approval ratings.&nbsp; 
 
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin unveiled a raft of measures Tuesday worth $72 billion aimed at reviving the sputtering economy after weeks of lockdowns that have kept much of the population home from work and shut key industries.&nbsp;

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Aimed at boosting employment, incomes and economic growth, the programme "contains over 500 measures, its cost over two years will be about five trillion rubles," Mishustin told Putin in a televised meeting. 
 
Putin described the plan as a "foundation" for repairing the economy and implementing "long-term structural change". 
 
"It is a matter of crucial importance for us to solve today's acute problems, as well as ensure confident movement forward in the long-term," he said. 
 
Putin said the epidemic had "seriously impacted all spheres of life" and added that he expected to launch the recovery plan next month. 
 
The prime minister said the plan would be rolled out over three separate stages. 
 
Stage one would stabilise the economy and will be delivered in the current quarter. The next steps aimed to rebuild the economy and put it on a "trajectory for stable economic growth," the prime minister added.

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Russia has introduced targeted tax cuts and provided some emergency aid for families and people newly unemployed since introducing the lockdown at the end of March. 
 
Yet observers have said that Russia's rescue package falls short of aid provided to populations by other countries with similar economies.

Companies like 'wildflowers' 
Russia has the third highest number of coronavirus cases globally, with more than 423,000 infections, and its death toll topped 5,000 on Tuesday.&nbsp; 
 
Under strict lockdown measures imposed in March, large swathes of the economy were inactive for weeks, with some regions only recently beginning to ease anti-virus measures. 
 
Industries were delivered a double blow as Putin ordered companies to stop work activities but continue paying salaries. 
 
The lockdown compounded existing problems for the Russian economy, ranging from effects of sanctions following the 2014 Crimea annexation, to the oil price crash this year. 
 
The government's forecast is that the economy will shrink by 9.5 percent in the second quarter and up to six percent for the current year. 
 
Some said the newly unveiled plan would not be enough to aid struggling businesses.&nbsp; 
 
It would only offer "quite modest" support and looks like a symbolic project introduced while the government waits for second quarter data, said Sergei Khestanov, an economist at the Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. 
 
The government is unlikely to blanket aid across the sectors, and instead only help select companies deemed to be crucial, he added. 
 
The remaining companies will be treated like "wildflowers" he told AFP, explaining that "if they are there, that's nice, but if they die, it's okay, since new ones will grow". 
 
A draft of the plan cited by TASS news agency included measures ranging from creating a national reserve of medication to developing domestic tourism and spending one trillion rubles on infrastructural projects. 
 
Labour Minister Anton Kotyakov said this week that over two million people in the country were registered as unemployed. 
 
Analysts at the Boston Consulting Group last week predicted unemployment could triple from the pre-crisis figure of 4.6 percent, based on its projections for the worst-case scenario.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount.

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount. The economy is set for a sharp contraction this year, and President Vladimir Putin is eager to get growth back on track in a bid to boost approval ratings. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin unveiled a raft of measures Tuesday worth $72 billion aimed at reviving the sputtering economy after weeks of lockdowns that have kept much of the population home from work and shut key industries. Also read: 'Blood-sucking' mutant ticks storm Russia: Hospitals already overburdened by coronavirus feel the sting Aimed at boosting employment, incomes and economic growth, the programme "contains over 500 measures, its cost over two years will be about five trillion rubles," Mishustin told Putin in a televised meeting. Putin described the plan as a "foundation" for repairing the economy and implementing "long-term structural change". "It is a matter of crucial importance for us to solve today's acute problems, as well as ensure confident movement forward in the long-term," he said. Putin said the epidemic had "seriously impacted all spheres of life" and added that he expected to launch the recovery plan next month. The prime minister said the plan would be rolled out over three separate stages. Stage one would stabilise the economy and will be delivered in the current quarter. The next steps aimed to rebuild the economy and put it on a "trajectory for stable economic growth," the prime minister added. Also read: COVID-19: Russia death toll crosses 5,000 as lockdown eases Russia has introduced targeted tax cuts and provided some emergency aid for families and people newly unemployed since introducing the lockdown at the end of March. Yet observers have said that Russia's rescue package falls short of aid provided to populations by other countries with similar economies. Companies like 'wildflowers' Russia has the third highest number of coronavirus cases globally, with more than 423,000 infections, and its death toll topped 5,000 on Tuesday. Under strict lockdown measures imposed in March, large swathes of the economy were inactive for weeks, with some regions only recently beginning to ease anti-virus measures. Industries were delivered a double blow as Putin ordered companies to stop work activities but continue paying salaries. The lockdown compounded existing problems for the Russian economy, ranging from effects of sanctions following the 2014 Crimea annexation, to the oil price crash this year. The government's forecast is that the economy will shrink by 9.5 percent in the second quarter and up to six percent for the current year. Some said the newly unveiled plan would not be enough to aid struggling businesses. It would only offer "quite modest" support and looks like a symbolic project introduced while the government waits for second quarter data, said Sergei Khestanov, an economist at the Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. The government is unlikely to blanket aid across the sectors, and instead only help select companies deemed to be crucial, he added. The remaining companies will be treated like "wildflowers" he told AFP, explaining that "if they are there, that's nice, but if they die, it's okay, since new ones will grow". A draft of the plan cited by TASS news agency included measures ranging from creating a national reserve of medication to developing domestic tourism and spending one trillion rubles on infrastructural projects. Labour Minister Anton Kotyakov said this week that over two million people in the country were registered as unemployed. Analysts at the Boston Consulting Group last week predicted unemployment could triple from the pre-crisis figure of 4.6 percent, based on its projections for the worst-case scenario.

Russia unveils $72-billion virus recovery plan 

Consequences of the Coronavirus - Air travel is restricted, international business close down

President Donald Trump's administration said Monday it has released $100&nbsp;million&nbsp;in military <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-hariri-says-he-does-not-want-be-pm-264904">assistance to&nbsp;Lebanon</a>&nbsp;that had been quietly frozen for months amid US complaints about the clout of Hezbollah.

A State Department official and a congressional aide, both speaking&nbsp;on&nbsp;condition of anonymity, said that the assistance has been unblocked by the White House's Office of Management and Budget.

"The money is good to go," the State Department official said.

The Trump administration has been tight-lipped&nbsp;on&nbsp;the reason for the hold-up in support for&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;but has been pressing the government to distance itself from Hezbollah, the Shiite militant movement close to Iran.

Prime Minister Saad Hariri, who included Hezbollah members in his cabinet, resigned a month ago in the face of major street protests.

The State Department official said there had been "some disagreements about the efficacy of US&nbsp;aid" to the Lebanese Armed Forces.

But the official defended the military as a "national institution" in a country long divided&nbsp;on&nbsp;confessional lines, and praised its "high level of capability" in fighting extremists such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State movement.

"It defends&nbsp;Lebanon's borders; it is an excellent partner to the United States in counterterrorism and fighting Sunni jihadi Islamists," the official said.

"They have responded in recent weeks,&nbsp;I think in impressive fashion,&nbsp;in terms of protecting demonstrators from violence, demonstrating, I think, the fact that they are a national institution," he said.

Watch: Hezbollah accuses the US of interference in Lebanon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-protest-hezbollah-accuses-the-us-of-interference-in-lebanon-264155/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Criticism of Hezbollah

But the official said that detractors pointed to "isolated incidents" in which the military has kept its distance from Hezbollah, considered a terrorist group by the United States.

The militant group has fought Israel for decades, including through a guerrilla campaign to end the Jewish state's occupation of southern&nbsp;Lebanon.

Hezbollah still maintains a formidable arms stockpile with support of Iran and by some experts' measures is more powerful than the Lebanese army.

David Hale, the number-three official of the State Department, last month confirmed the delay in the&nbsp;aid&nbsp;when he was questioned under oath by Congress in the impeachment inquiry into Trump.

Asked about the&nbsp;freeze&nbsp;in&nbsp;aid&nbsp;to Ukraine, a key element of the impeachment question, Hale said that he learned in June that assistance was&nbsp;on&nbsp;hold to both Ukraine and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-protesters-continue-in-defiance-despite-hezbollah-attack-264509">Lebanon&nbsp;"without any explanation"</a>.

Two senior Democrats, in a recent letter to the White House, said that hold affected $105&nbsp;million&nbsp;in&nbsp;aid&nbsp;to&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;including military vehicles, weapons and ammunition.

Eliot Engel, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Ted Deutch, head of its Middle East subcommittee, wrote that&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;needed support to face "imminent threats."

"I'm pleased to see this critical&nbsp;aid&nbsp;finally resuming. Our assistance is crucial to help&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;counter Iran-backed Hezbollah and other groups threatening the region," Deutch wrote&nbsp;on&nbsp;Twitter.

There has been no allegation that Trump stopped the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-see-real-independence-coming-as-lebanon-turns-76-263919">Lebanon&nbsp;assistance</a> for personal political gain, the central allegation in his delay of $400&nbsp;million&nbsp;in military&nbsp;aid&nbsp;to Ukraine.

President Donald Trump's administration said Monday it has released $100 million in military assistance to Lebanon that had been quietly frozen for months amid US complaints about the clout of Hezbollah.

President Donald Trump's administration said Monday it has released $100 million in military assistance to Lebanon that had been quietly frozen for months amid US complaints about the clout of Hezbollah. A State Department official and a congressional aide, both speaking on condition of anonymity, said that the assistance has been unblocked by the White House's Office of Management and Budget. "The money is good to go," the State Department official said. The Trump administration has been tight-lipped on the reason for the hold-up in support for Lebanon but has been pressing the government to distance itself from Hezbollah, the Shiite militant movement close to Iran. Prime Minister Saad Hariri, who included Hezbollah members in his cabinet, resigned a month ago in the face of major street protests. The State Department official said there had been "some disagreements about the efficacy of US aid" to the Lebanese Armed Forces. But the official defended the military as a "national institution" in a country long divided on confessional lines, and praised its "high level of capability" in fighting extremists such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State movement. "It defends Lebanon's borders; it is an excellent partner to the United States in counterterrorism and fighting Sunni jihadi Islamists," the official said. "They have responded in recent weeks, I think in impressive fashion, in terms of protecting demonstrators from violence, demonstrating, I think, the fact that they are a national institution," he said. Watch: Hezbollah accuses the US of interference in Lebanon Criticism of Hezbollah But the official said that detractors pointed to "isolated incidents" in which the military has kept its distance from Hezbollah, considered a terrorist group by the United States. The militant group has fought Israel for decades, including through a guerrilla campaign to end the Jewish state's occupation of southern Lebanon. Hezbollah still maintains a formidable arms stockpile with support of Iran and by some experts' measures is more powerful than the Lebanese army. David Hale, the number-three official of the State Department, last month confirmed the delay in the aid when he was questioned under oath by Congress in the impeachment inquiry into Trump. Asked about the freeze in aid to Ukraine, a key element of the impeachment question, Hale said that he learned in June that assistance was on hold to both Ukraine and Lebanon "without any explanation". Two senior Democrats, in a recent letter to the White House, said that hold affected $105 million in aid to Lebanon including military vehicles, weapons and ammunition. Eliot Engel, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Ted Deutch, head of its Middle East subcommittee, wrote that Lebanon needed support to face "imminent threats." "I'm pleased to see this critical aid finally resuming. Our assistance is crucial to help Lebanon counter Iran-backed Hezbollah and other groups threatening the region," Deutch wrote on Twitter. There has been no allegation that Trump stopped the Lebanon assistance for personal political gain, the central allegation in his delay of $400 million in military aid to Ukraine.

United States ends freeze on Lebanon aid worth $100 million

The U.N. refugee agency is among the possible contenders for this year's Nobel Peace Prize.

UNHCR is a possible contender for the 2019 peace prize

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dorian-kills-five-in-bahamas-us-evacuates-coast-247227">Bahamas</a> on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-dorian-skirts-us-carolinas-coast-with-high-winds-and-rain-248039">Hurricane Dorian</a>.

Bahama leaders believe hundreds and perhaps thousands remained missing in the archipelago nation of about 400,000 people, even as the official death toll rose only to 43 as of late on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-continues-to-defend-incorrect-map-of-hurricane-dorian-path-247743">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a>'s&nbsp;administration requested airlift and logistical support from the Defense Department on Friday to support relief efforts for the Bahamas, the Miami Herald and other media reported.

The US&nbsp;Coast Guard and other agencies have already provided help with US Northern Command chief General Terrance O'Shaughnessy arriving in Nassau on Friday to assess the needs.

"We'll continue to beef up, we'll continue to collaborate with the government of the Bahamas," he told news reporters.

Hurricane Dorian, the most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas, parked itself over part of the archipelago for almost two days earlier this week, pummeling it with Category 5 winds, with some gusts topping 200 mph.

The most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas levelled some neighbourhoods, swallowed others with storm surges and caused what one official described as a "staggering" number of deaths.

Dorian also devastated parts of the Outer Banks Islands in North Carolina, on Friday and it continued to push northward along the US&nbsp;Atlantic coast early on Saturday.

It brought tropical-storm-force winds to southeastern Massachusetts and Nantucket Island and Martha's Vineyard on Saturday morning, according to an advisory from the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.

"Dorian's rain is just grazing New England," said Alex Lamers, a forecaster with the National Weather Service.

It is expected to make landfall in Canada's Nova Scotia province on Saturday night with winds of about 90 mph (150 kph) and leave up to 7 inches of rain before pushing further east as a weakened post-tropical storm by Sunday, the NHC said.

The Bahamas hade only a slight, 10 per cent, chance of rain Saturday that was not expected to hamper relief efforts as Bahamas Health Minister Duane Sands spoke of "a tremendous loss of life."

'Staggering number of dead feared'

The medical chief of staff at Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau said two refrigerated, 40-foot trucks would be needed to hold the "staggering" number of bodies likely to be found.

"We've ordered lots of body bags," said Dr Caroline Burnett-Garraway.

The United Nations estimated 70,000 people were in "immediate need of life-saving assistance" such as food, water and shelter. The UN&nbsp;World Food Programme was airlifting storage units, generators, prefab offices, and satellite equipment as well as 8 metric tonnes of ready-to-eat meals.

The American Red Cross said it had committed an initial $2 million help the Bahamas recover from the hurricane, with food, water and shelter and other necessities.

"Our relief operation is growing, but we are also facing serious challenges in terms of delivering aid," Red Cross spokeswoman Jennifer Eli said. "Even search-and-rescue choppers haven't been able to reach some people because there's no place to land. These challenges are affecting everyone."

Near an area called The Mudd in Marsh Harbour, a commercial hub, a Reuters witness reported most houses levelled, the body of a man lying near the main street and dead dogs floating in the water. Some residents were leaving the area with meagre possessions, while others were determined to remain.

The US Coast Guard has rescued 295 people since Dorian began, the US Embassy in Nassau tweeted.

Relief groups were focusing on getting doctors, nurses and medical supplies into the hardest-hit areas and helping survivors get food and safe drinking water.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. committed $1 million for hurricane relief and its ship Norwegian Breakaway left Miami on Thursday with supplies donated by the company and its employees, in addition to items collected by the City of Miami and various charities.

Celebrity chef José Andrés and members of his nonprofit, World Central Kitchen, we're on the ground in the Bahamas to aid hurricane survivors by preparing thousands of meals.

The risk of outbreaks of diarrhoea and waterborne diseases is high as drinking water may be tainted with sewage, according to the Pan American Health Organization, which described the situation for some people on Abaco island as "desperate."

Claudin Lauriston, 39, a Haitian carpenter, said he and his three young children were among the "lucky ones" to get on a plane out of Abaco. He said he had no documents with him but would try to get a job to support his family.

"There are too many dead bodies there. The government needs to remove everyone from the island, the smell is everywhere, it's in the water."

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged Bahamas on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged Bahamas on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. Bahama leaders believe hundreds and perhaps thousands remained missing in the archipelago nation of about 400,000 people, even as the official death toll rose only to 43 as of late on Friday. US President Donald Trump's administration requested airlift and logistical support from the Defense Department on Friday to support relief efforts for the Bahamas, the Miami Herald and other media reported. The US Coast Guard and other agencies have already provided help with US Northern Command chief General Terrance O'Shaughnessy arriving in Nassau on Friday to assess the needs. "We'll continue to beef up, we'll continue to collaborate with the government of the Bahamas," he told news reporters. Hurricane Dorian, the most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas, parked itself over part of the archipelago for almost two days earlier this week, pummeling it with Category 5 winds, with some gusts topping 200 mph. The most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas levelled some neighbourhoods, swallowed others with storm surges and caused what one official described as a "staggering" number of deaths. Dorian also devastated parts of the Outer Banks Islands in North Carolina, on Friday and it continued to push northward along the US Atlantic coast early on Saturday. It brought tropical-storm-force winds to southeastern Massachusetts and Nantucket Island and Martha's Vineyard on Saturday morning, according to an advisory from the Miami-based National Hurricane Center. "Dorian's rain is just grazing New England," said Alex Lamers, a forecaster with the National Weather Service. It is expected to make landfall in Canada's Nova Scotia province on Saturday night with winds of about 90 mph (150 kph) and leave up to 7 inches of rain before pushing further east as a weakened post-tropical storm by Sunday, the NHC said. The Bahamas hade only a slight, 10 per cent, chance of rain Saturday that was not expected to hamper relief efforts as Bahamas Health Minister Duane Sands spoke of "a tremendous loss of life." 'Staggering number of dead feared' The medical chief of staff at Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau said two refrigerated, 40-foot trucks would be needed to hold the "staggering" number of bodies likely to be found. "We've ordered lots of body bags," said Dr Caroline Burnett-Garraway. The United Nations estimated 70,000 people were in "immediate need of life-saving assistance" such as food, water and shelter. The UN World Food Programme was airlifting storage units, generators, prefab offices, and satellite equipment as well as 8 metric tonnes of ready-to-eat meals. The American Red Cross said it had committed an initial $2 million help the Bahamas recover from the hurricane, with food, water and shelter and other necessities. "Our relief operation is growing, but we are also facing serious challenges in terms of delivering aid," Red Cross spokeswoman Jennifer Eli said. "Even search-and-rescue choppers haven't been able to reach some people because there's no place to land. These challenges are affecting everyone." Near an area called The Mudd in Marsh Harbour, a commercial hub, a Reuters witness reported most houses levelled, the body of a man lying near the main street and dead dogs floating in the water. Some residents were leaving the area with meagre possessions, while others were determined to remain. The US Coast Guard has rescued 295 people since Dorian began, the US Embassy in Nassau tweeted. Relief groups were focusing on getting doctors, nurses and medical supplies into the hardest-hit areas and helping survivors get food and safe drinking water. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. committed $1 million for hurricane relief and its ship Norwegian Breakaway left Miami on Thursday with supplies donated by the company and its employees, in addition to items collected by the City of Miami and various charities. Celebrity chef José Andrés and members of his nonprofit, World Central Kitchen, we're on the ground in the Bahamas to aid hurricane survivors by preparing thousands of meals. The risk of outbreaks of diarrhoea and waterborne diseases is high as drinking water may be tainted with sewage, according to the Pan American Health Organization, which described the situation for some people on Abaco island as "desperate." Claudin Lauriston, 39, a Haitian carpenter, said he and his three young children were among the "lucky ones" to get on a plane out of Abaco. He said he had no documents with him but would try to get a job to support his family. "There are too many dead bodies there. The government needs to remove everyone from the island, the smell is everywhere, it's in the water."

Relief efforts ramp up amid fear of 'staggering' death toll in storm ravaged Bahamas

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