The damage caused by devastating floods in&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;last week is likely to cost the insurance industry up to five billion euros ($5.9 billion), the GDV insurance industry association said on Wednesday.

"We are currently expecting insured losses of four to five billion euros," Joerg Asmussen, chief executive of the GDV, said in a statement, calling the disaster "one of the most devastating storms in recent history".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-germany-witnesses-once-in-a-millenium-floods-399117/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Damage in the states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate is likely to exceed the 4.65 billion euros recorded after a deluge in August 2002, it said.

However, the real cost is likely to be much higher as less than half of Germans in the affected states are insured against heavy rain and floods, the association said.

Chancellor Angela Merkel had vowed on a visit to the badly hit medieval town of Bad Muenstereifel on Tuesday that Berlin would come through to help in the short and long term.

The estimate does not include losses from the southern German state of Bavaria and in Saxony in the east last weekend.

Only around 45 per cent&nbsp;of homeowners in&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;have insurance that covers flood damage, according to the GDV, triggering a discussion about the need for compulsory insurance.

More than 170 people died in last week's flooding,&nbsp;Germany's worst natural disaster in more than half a century, and thousands went missing.

For immediate relief, the federal government will initially provide up to 200 million euros ($235.5 million) in emergency aid, and Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said more funds can be made available if needed.

That will come on top of at least 250 million euros provided by the affected states to repair buildings and damaged local infrastructure and to help people in crisis situations.

The floods have dominated the political agenda before a national election in September and raised uncomfortable questions about why Europe's richest economy was caught flat-footed.

Two-thirds of Germans believe that federal and regional policymakers should have done more to protect communities from flooding, a survey by the INSA institute for German mass-circulation paper Bild showed on Wednesday.

Interior minister Horst Seehofer, who faced calls from opposition politicians to resign over the high death toll, said there would be no shortage of money for reconstruction.

"That is why people pay taxes, so that they can receive help in situations like this. Not everything can be insured," he told a news conference.

"As the time interval between heavy natural disasters gets shorter and shorter, one needs a debate about a protection scheme and how it could be designed," Seehofer said.

Economy Minister Peter Altmaier told Deutschlandfunk radio aid would include funds to help businesses such as restaurants or hair salons make up for lost revenue.

(With inputs from agencies)

The damage caused by devastating floods in Germany last week is likely to cost the insurance industry up to five billion euros ($5.9 billion), the GDV insurance industry association said on Wednesday.

The damage caused by devastating floods in Germany last week is likely to cost the insurance industry up to five billion euros ($5.9 billion), the GDV insurance industry association said on Wednesday. "We are currently expecting insured losses of four to five billion euros," Joerg Asmussen, chief executive of the GDV, said in a statement, calling the disaster "one of the most devastating storms in recent history". Damage in the states of North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate is likely to exceed the 4.65 billion euros recorded after a deluge in August 2002, it said. However, the real cost is likely to be much higher as less than half of Germans in the affected states are insured against heavy rain and floods, the association said. Chancellor Angela Merkel had vowed on a visit to the badly hit medieval town of Bad Muenstereifel on Tuesday that Berlin would come through to help in the short and long term. The estimate does not include losses from the southern German state of Bavaria and in Saxony in the east last weekend. Only around 45 per cent of homeowners in Germany have insurance that covers flood damage, according to the GDV, triggering a discussion about the need for compulsory insurance. More than 170 people died in last week's flooding, Germany's worst natural disaster in more than half a century, and thousands went missing. For immediate relief, the federal government will initially provide up to 200 million euros ($235.5 million) in emergency aid, and Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said more funds can be made available if needed. That will come on top of at least 250 million euros provided by the affected states to repair buildings and damaged local infrastructure and to help people in crisis situations. The floods have dominated the political agenda before a national election in September and raised uncomfortable questions about why Europe's richest economy was caught flat-footed. Two-thirds of Germans believe that federal and regional policymakers should have done more to protect communities from flooding, a survey by the INSA institute for German mass-circulation paper Bild showed on Wednesday. Interior minister Horst Seehofer, who faced calls from opposition politicians to resign over the high death toll, said there would be no shortage of money for reconstruction. "That is why people pay taxes, so that they can receive help in situations like this. Not everything can be insured," he told a news conference. "As the time interval between heavy natural disasters gets shorter and shorter, one needs a debate about a protection scheme and how it could be designed," Seehofer said. Economy Minister Peter Altmaier told Deutschlandfunk radio aid would include funds to help businesses such as restaurants or hair salons make up for lost revenue. (With inputs from agencies)

Floods in Germany likely caused damages worth almost $6 billion to insurance industry

German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with the Cabinet in Berlin on Wednesday in order to approve an enormous emergency relief package to rebuild Germany's flood-ravaged regions.

Germany: Government announces financial aid for victims

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors.

Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens.

As soon as the rains stopped a bit, Merkel rushed to the village of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. She was spotted wearing hiking boots while fist-bumping rescue volunteers. She spent hours listening to the stories of the survivors and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fatal-flooding-ravage-western-europe-over-100-dead-and-hundreds-missing-398841">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fatal-flooding-ravage-western-europe-over-100-dead-and-hundreds-missing-398841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is a surreal, eerie situation," she said. "It is shocking — I can almost say that the German language doesn't have words for the destruction that's been wreaked."

The Rhineland-Palatinate state alone has reported at least 100 dead bodies and 670 injured individuals after days of floods, which are being labelled as the worst floods in the recent past.

While some people were happy to see the leader come personally to check the damage, many people decided to instead volunteer in the search and rescue mission rather than following Merkel in her walkabout.

Meanwhile, as the death toll crossed 180, Germany’s insurance industry has urged the government to rethink its plans and policies related to climate change. "In many places, adaptation to the consequences of climate change is being neglected," Joerg Asmussen, managing director of the German Insurance Association (GDV) told local media. "We have to change course here, otherwise a spiral of further catastrophes and increasing damage will be set in motion, which will first become expensive and then at some point unaffordable."

Merkel, too, urged fellow leaders to "hurry" in its fight against global warming as experts warned extreme weather conditions will become more frequent in near future. "We have to be faster in the fight against climate change," Merkel said.

Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, has also offered support to Germany to express "our friendship and support of the German people in this time of destruction and loss."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors. Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors. Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens. As soon as the rains stopped a bit, Merkel rushed to the village of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. She was spotted wearing hiking boots while fist-bumping rescue volunteers. She spent hours listening to the stories of the survivors and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. WATCH | It is a surreal, eerie situation," she said. "It is shocking — I can almost say that the German language doesn't have words for the destruction that's been wreaked." The Rhineland-Palatinate state alone has reported at least 100 dead bodies and 670 injured individuals after days of floods, which are being labelled as the worst floods in the recent past. While some people were happy to see the leader come personally to check the damage, many people decided to instead volunteer in the search and rescue mission rather than following Merkel in her walkabout. Meanwhile, as the death toll crossed 180, Germany’s insurance industry has urged the government to rethink its plans and policies related to climate change. "In many places, adaptation to the consequences of climate change is being neglected," Joerg Asmussen, managing director of the German Insurance Association (GDV) told local media. "We have to change course here, otherwise a spiral of further catastrophes and increasing damage will be set in motion, which will first become expensive and then at some point unaffordable." Merkel, too, urged fellow leaders to "hurry" in its fight against global warming as experts warned extreme weather conditions will become more frequent in near future. "We have to be faster in the fight against climate change," Merkel said. Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, has also offered support to Germany to express "our friendship and support of the German people in this time of destruction and loss."

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel visits flood-affected area

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials.

AFP quoted a spokeswoman for regional interior ministry to say that Merkel will travel to the hard-hit town of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state.

The visit is set to take place in the afternoon, the spokeswoman said.

Merkel has already termed the flooding a national "tragedy" and has promised support from federal government.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier toured the town of Erftstadt in the western state of North-Rhine Westphalia on Saturday, to survey the damage from a massive landslide caused by the extreme weather.

The main candidates in the race to succeed Merkel at September's general election have all travelled to the stricken areas in recent days.

Merkel's visit has been delayed because she only returned on Friday from a high-profile trip to Washington, her last official visit as chancellor.

Speaking alongside US President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, Merkel said her "heart goes out to all of those who in this catastrophe lost their loved ones".

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials. AFP quoted a spokeswoman for regional interior ministry to say that Merkel will travel to the hard-hit town of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. The visit is set to take place in the afternoon, the spokeswoman said. Merkel has already termed the flooding a national "tragedy" and has promised support from federal government. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier toured the town of Erftstadt in the western state of North-Rhine Westphalia on Saturday, to survey the damage from a massive landslide caused by the extreme weather. The main candidates in the race to succeed Merkel at September's general election have all travelled to the stricken areas in recent days. Merkel's visit has been delayed because she only returned on Friday from a high-profile trip to Washington, her last official visit as chancellor. Speaking alongside US President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, Merkel said her "heart goes out to all of those who in this catastrophe lost their loved ones". (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel to visit flood-hit western Germany on Sunday

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China.

During meetings at the White House, Biden’s agenda included several of his most pressing geopolitical priorities, such as restraining Chinese influence, curbing Russian aggression and waiving intellectual property restrictions on coronavirus vaccine manufacturers.

While there were no apparent breakthroughs, the visit was a way to show a unified front after President Donald Trump’s hostile exchanges with Merkel over NATO contributions, trade and multilateralism badly frayed relations. The meeting also comes before the chancellor’s term ends and a new German government will be sworn in after elections on Sept. 26.

“Good friends can disagree,” said Biden, who appeared alongside Merkel at a news conference in the East Room after the meeting.

For the most part, the trip appeared to be a triumph of the personal over policy. Biden joked that Merkel, who has worked with four U.S. presidents, “knows the Oval Office as well as I do.” The chancellor referred to the president as “dear Joe” several times as she extolled their friendly relationship, which has endured since his time in the Senate.

But the warmth could not cloak the fact that neither leader had shifted from their most substantive areas of disagreement.

Biden said he broached the contentious issue of the $11 billion Nord Stream 2 pipeline, a natural gas conduit being built between Germany and Russia that is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The president and his predecessors have assailed the project as little more than a coercive tool against Ukraine and other allies.

“We’ve come to different assessments,” Merkel said of the project.

Biden said the two had agreed that they were “united in our conviction that Russia should not be able to use energy as a weapon.”

The president waived congressional sanctions this year on the Russian company building the pipeline and its German chief executive, effectively conceding that an effort to halt the project was not worth the expected cost to U.S.-German relations.

Merkel kept her comments nonspecific on countering China, whose influence Biden believes poses an existential threat to American democracy.

“There is a lot of common understanding that China in many areas is our competitor,” the chancellor said, careful not to run afoul of Germany’s largest trading partner. She added that “trade with China needs to rest on the assumption that we have a level playing field.”

The two leaders also signaled that they remained apart on their approach to containing the pandemic. Merkel did not commit to the lifting of patents for coronavirus vaccines, and Biden did not raise the issue in front of reporters. Merkel said she had asked the president if his administration would end a travel ban against Europeans, but he did not commit to ending it.

“I did raise the issue,” the chancellor said, “and got the same answer that the president gave you: The COVID team is evaluating the matter.”

Still, the leaders repeatedly emphasized their one-on-one relationship in their public appearances, a sharp divergence from Merkel’s chilly and stilted interactions with Trump, who maligned her as “captive to Russia.” When asked to compare Biden’s leadership style with his predecessor’s, the chancellor was characteristically restrained, emphasizing that she and Biden had a “very friendly exchange.”

“We are not only partners and allies,” Merkel said, “but we are very close friends.”

The president began the event by offering his condolences to Germans for the loss of life and property caused by recent floods. He went on to thank the chancellor for “an exemplary life of groundbreaking service to Germany.”

Biden was asked to confront cases of diplomatic turmoil closer to home, including protests in Cuba and unrest after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse of Haiti. He told a reporter that beyond dispatching Marines to guard the U.S. Embassy there, he was not considering sending U.S. troops.

Addressing a wave of demonstrations across Cuba, Biden accused its government of being a “failed state” that was “repressing their citizens” and said he would not end rules against payments Americans can make to their Cuban relatives because he could not be sure that the government would not take them.

“I would not do that now,” he said, “because the fact is, it is highly likely that the regime would confiscate those remittances, or big chunks.”

The president grew testy when he was asked about his top domestic economic priorities. When asked if he was confident that a $3.5 trillion budget framework drawn up by Democrats would be enough to pass with every Democratic senator on board, Biden chastised the news media as preemptively suggesting that the plan, along with negotiations over an infrastructure deal, was headed for failure.

“I am supremely confident that everything is going to work out perfectly,” he said dryly. “I have watched and listened to the press declare my initiative dead at least 10 times so far. I don’t think it is dead. I think it is still alive.”

Aside from more thorny policy issues, Merkel’s visit was a diplomatic victory lap of sorts before her term expires. She started her day with a cheese soufflé breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Later in the day, the chancellor received an honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, adding to her collection of degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Once she arrived at the White House, Merkel and the president exchanged compliments in the Oval Office.

Though the exchange was not overly warm, it was leagues more collegial than Merkel’s past meetings in the Oval Office. When she asked Trump in 2017, “Do you want to have a handshake?” Trump apparently did not.

Just as Merkel spent years responding mildly to Trump, she has not always been overeager to accept Biden’s entreaties that the U.S.-German relationship had been restored to a sense of normalcy. During the virtual Munich Security Conference held this year, she said of the U.S. relationship that “our interests will not always converge.”

By the time of the news conference on Thursday, Biden and Merkel seemed more interested in continuing her farewell party than discussing what divided them.

After the news conference, they attended dinner with longtime allies, including Hillary Clinton. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, the House minority leader, was also scheduled to attend after a trip earlier in the day to see Trump at his golf club in New Jersey.

After the two leaders fielded questions, Biden steered Merkel away from reporters.

“If we don’t leave right now,” he told her, “we are going to miss dinner.”

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China.

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China. During meetings at the White House, Biden’s agenda included several of his most pressing geopolitical priorities, such as restraining Chinese influence, curbing Russian aggression and waiving intellectual property restrictions on coronavirus vaccine manufacturers. While there were no apparent breakthroughs, the visit was a way to show a unified front after President Donald Trump’s hostile exchanges with Merkel over NATO contributions, trade and multilateralism badly frayed relations. The meeting also comes before the chancellor’s term ends and a new German government will be sworn in after elections on Sept. 26. “Good friends can disagree,” said Biden, who appeared alongside Merkel at a news conference in the East Room after the meeting. For the most part, the trip appeared to be a triumph of the personal over policy. Biden joked that Merkel, who has worked with four U.S. presidents, “knows the Oval Office as well as I do.” The chancellor referred to the president as “dear Joe” several times as she extolled their friendly relationship, which has endured since his time in the Senate. But the warmth could not cloak the fact that neither leader had shifted from their most substantive areas of disagreement. Biden said he broached the contentious issue of the $11 billion Nord Stream 2 pipeline, a natural gas conduit being built between Germany and Russia that is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The president and his predecessors have assailed the project as little more than a coercive tool against Ukraine and other allies. “We’ve come to different assessments,” Merkel said of the project. Biden said the two had agreed that they were “united in our conviction that Russia should not be able to use energy as a weapon.” The president waived congressional sanctions this year on the Russian company building the pipeline and its German chief executive, effectively conceding that an effort to halt the project was not worth the expected cost to U.S.-German relations. Merkel kept her comments nonspecific on countering China, whose influence Biden believes poses an existential threat to American democracy. “There is a lot of common understanding that China in many areas is our competitor,” the chancellor said, careful not to run afoul of Germany’s largest trading partner. She added that “trade with China needs to rest on the assumption that we have a level playing field.” The two leaders also signaled that they remained apart on their approach to containing the pandemic. Merkel did not commit to the lifting of patents for coronavirus vaccines, and Biden did not raise the issue in front of reporters. Merkel said she had asked the president if his administration would end a travel ban against Europeans, but he did not commit to ending it. “I did raise the issue,” the chancellor said, “and got the same answer that the president gave you: The COVID team is evaluating the matter.” Still, the leaders repeatedly emphasized their one-on-one relationship in their public appearances, a sharp divergence from Merkel’s chilly and stilted interactions with Trump, who maligned her as “captive to Russia.” When asked to compare Biden’s leadership style with his predecessor’s, the chancellor was characteristically restrained, emphasizing that she and Biden had a “very friendly exchange.” “We are not only partners and allies,” Merkel said, “but we are very close friends.” The president began the event by offering his condolences to Germans for the loss of life and property caused by recent floods. He went on to thank the chancellor for “an exemplary life of groundbreaking service to Germany.” Biden was asked to confront cases of diplomatic turmoil closer to home, including protests in Cuba and unrest after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse of Haiti. He told a reporter that beyond dispatching Marines to guard the U.S. Embassy there, he was not considering sending U.S. troops. Addressing a wave of demonstrations across Cuba, Biden accused its government of being a “failed state” that was “repressing their citizens” and said he would not end rules against payments Americans can make to their Cuban relatives because he could not be sure that the government would not take them. “I would not do that now,” he said, “because the fact is, it is highly likely that the regime would confiscate those remittances, or big chunks.” The president grew testy when he was asked about his top domestic economic priorities. When asked if he was confident that a $3.5 trillion budget framework drawn up by Democrats would be enough to pass with every Democratic senator on board, Biden chastised the news media as preemptively suggesting that the plan, along with negotiations over an infrastructure deal, was headed for failure. “I am supremely confident that everything is going to work out perfectly,” he said dryly. “I have watched and listened to the press declare my initiative dead at least 10 times so far. I don’t think it is dead. I think it is still alive.” Aside from more thorny policy issues, Merkel’s visit was a diplomatic victory lap of sorts before her term expires. She started her day with a cheese soufflé breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris. Later in the day, the chancellor received an honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, adding to her collection of degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Once she arrived at the White House, Merkel and the president exchanged compliments in the Oval Office. Though the exchange was not overly warm, it was leagues more collegial than Merkel’s past meetings in the Oval Office. When she asked Trump in 2017, “Do you want to have a handshake?” Trump apparently did not. Just as Merkel spent years responding mildly to Trump, she has not always been overeager to accept Biden’s entreaties that the U.S.-German relationship had been restored to a sense of normalcy. During the virtual Munich Security Conference held this year, she said of the U.S. relationship that “our interests will not always converge.” By the time of the news conference on Thursday, Biden and Merkel seemed more interested in continuing her farewell party than discussing what divided them. After the news conference, they attended dinner with longtime allies, including Hillary Clinton. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, the House minority leader, was also scheduled to attend after a trip earlier in the day to see Trump at his golf club in New Jersey. After the two leaders fielded questions, Biden steered Merkel away from reporters. “If we don’t leave right now,” he told her, “we are going to miss dinner.”

Acknowledging disagreements, Biden and Merkel signal warmer US-German ties

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is in the United States for probably the last time before she leaves office. A number of topics were under discussion during talks at the White House, such as the Nord Stream 2 project, COVID-19 travel restrictions and ongoing concerns over Russia and China.

Biden welcomes 'great friend' Merkel to the White House

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccinations</a> will not be made compulsory in the country.

"We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-embarking-on-dangerous-and-unethical-experiment-says-lancet-on-july-19-reopening-plans-397870">UK embarking on unethical experiment, says Lancet on reopening plans</a>

The German leader’s announcement came a day after France’s leader, Emmanuel Macron, announced that people who do not get vaccinated will face some restrictions in key areas. Talking about the same, Merkel has assured that Germany will not be following France and other countries.

However, she also urged locals to get vaccinated on their own as soon as possible. "The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-scientist-warns-against-mixing-and-matching-different-covid-vaccines-397774" hreflang="en">WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines</a>

Her statement has come a few months after the country started the vaccination programme earlier this year. The campaign saw a slow start but authorities managed to fully vaccinate 42.6 per cent of adults and 58.5 per cent of locals have been vaccinated at least with one dose.

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that coronavirus vaccinations will not be made compulsory in the country.

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that coronavirus vaccinations will not be made compulsory in the country. "We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination." Also read | UK embarking on unethical experiment, says Lancet on reopening plans The German leader’s announcement came a day after France’s leader, Emmanuel Macron, announced that people who do not get vaccinated will face some restrictions in key areas. Talking about the same, Merkel has assured that Germany will not be following France and other countries. However, she also urged locals to get vaccinated on their own as soon as possible. "The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated." Also read | WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines Her statement has come a few months after the country started the vaccination programme earlier this year. The campaign saw a slow start but authorities managed to fully vaccinate 42.6 per cent of adults and 58.5 per cent of locals have been vaccinated at least with one dose.

'Not going down this road': Merkel says vaccines not compulsory in Germany

Repeatedly questioned about how she will juggle motherhood with work, the only woman with a chance of succeeding Angela Merkel as&nbsp;German Chancellor&nbsp;says many&nbsp;Germans don't seem ready for a mother with young children to take over.

Merkel was&nbsp;Germany's first woman&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;but she never had children. Now the Greens believe 40-year-old Annalena Baerbock faces a lingering stereotype that the incumbent never had to deal with: mothers should be running families, not countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-greens-election-hopeful-targeted-by-fake-news-381474">German Greens' election hopeful targeted by fake news</a>

Three months before&nbsp;Germans go to the polls, the media has questioned whether a mother could successfully lead&nbsp;Germany, prompting a heated debate about prevalent sexist attitudes.

On the campaign trail, Baerbock has been asked often about her children. An editor of mass-circulation newspaper Bild asked in an interview: "You are&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;and are in the middle of negotiations, and you suddenly get a call from your children, would you&nbsp;answer? Did your children find it ok that you want to be&nbsp;chancellor?"

The host of a popular political TV talk show, Anne Will, pressed Baerbock on whether she won the Greens' nomination for&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;because she is a woman, even though the party's backing was almost unanimous.

"It's been the elephant in the room for some time now that you only got it because you are a woman," Will said.

Baerbock responded: "I'm not going to have a sex change in the next six months. Of course the question of emancipation played a role but it wasn't the only reason."

The Greens, the only party in the Bundestag national parliament with more female than male lawmakers, briefly surged in the polls to overtake Merkel's conservative bloc after Baerbock's nomination but is now polling some 10 points behind at around 20 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-greens-make-first-bid-for-chancellery-promise-change-378640">Germany's Greens make first bid for chancellery, promise change</a>

Pollsters say this is a sign that&nbsp;German&nbsp;voters want them to be in the next coalition government but not in the driver's seat.

The ecologist party says the relentless questioning of Baerbock's suitability for top office is unjustified and that the media have not scrutinised her male rivals as vigorously.

It also points to a fake news campaign that appeared online soon after her nomination. This has included false claims that she was paid for a nude photoshoot - the pictures of which turned out to be of a Russian adult entertainment model that bears a striking resemblance to Baerbock - fake quotes that she wants to ban owning pets, and another false report that she does not have a university degree.

"The hate campaign against Baerbock is unprecedented in&nbsp;German&nbsp;election history and far exceeds anything we have seen against Merkel," Michael Butter of the University of Tuebingen said. "It shows that people took it seriously that a Greens&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;could end up leading&nbsp;Germany."

To be sure, missteps by Baerbock like an unreported party bonus and inaccurate details in her curriculum vitae have invited media scrutiny, and her lack of experience in government has been picked on by critics, often with sexist undertones.

"Character Assassination"

Late last month, the Greens hired a prominent libel lawyer to fight allegations that Baerbock had in her new book lifted phrases from other texts without proper citation, accusations rejected by the party as "character assassination".

She has denied any wrongdoing.

Baerbock has shaken up the election campaign with vows to scrap a controversial pipeline project to bring Russian gas to&nbsp;Germany, confront China on its human rights record and permanently abolish strict constitutional limits on new debt to finance a transition to a carbon-neutral economy.

Pollsters say her style and focus on the environment are particularly appealing to young voters, especially women.

Trousers Vs Skirts

Merkel also faced media scrutiny ahead of the 2005 election, in which she won her first term.

Commentators, economists and members of Merkel's own conservative bloc cast doubt on her ability to make sound decisions on the economy. Photographers snapped pictures of sweat stains beneath her armpit as she waved to journalists on the red carpet outside an opera house, which made it to newspapers' front pages.

"Baerbock looks more feminine than Merkel: she is younger, has longer hair, wears dresses and skirts," Katharina Wrohlich of the&nbsp;German&nbsp;Institute for Economic Research DIW said.

"Merkel is older, has shorter hair, and wears trousers and jackets. So this makes her (Baerbock) an easier and more obvious target of gender bias and sexism than Merkel," she said.

Baerbock's male rivals jumped to her defence after the plagiarism accusations surfaced.

Armin Laschet, the conservative&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;candidate most likely to succeed Merkel, said the media's questioning of whether Baerbock could juggle motherhood and the chancellery was inappropriate. Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, a chancellor&nbsp;candidate of the Social Democrats, said she was being treated unfairly.

Baerbock summed up how she feels about media coverage of her flagging campaign in an interview with women's magazine Brigitte: "I&nbsp;sense, or am often told, that it is an imposition that I, as a 40-year-old woman with young children, am standing as&nbsp;chancellor&nbsp;candidate. This is where I say women must be able to everything."

Repeatedly questioned about how she will juggle motherhood with work, the only woman with a chance of succeeding Angela Merkel as German Chancellor says many Germans don't seem ready for a mother with young children to take over.

Repeatedly questioned about how she will juggle motherhood with work, the only woman with a chance of succeeding Angela Merkel as German Chancellor says many Germans don't seem ready for a mother with young children to take over. Merkel was Germany's first woman chancellor but she never had children. Now the Greens believe 40-year-old Annalena Baerbock faces a lingering stereotype that the incumbent never had to deal with: mothers should be running families, not countries. Also read | German Greens' election hopeful targeted by fake news Three months before Germans go to the polls, the media has questioned whether a mother could successfully lead Germany, prompting a heated debate about prevalent sexist attitudes. On the campaign trail, Baerbock has been asked often about her children. An editor of mass-circulation newspaper Bild asked in an interview: "You are chancellor and are in the middle of negotiations, and you suddenly get a call from your children, would you answer? Did your children find it ok that you want to be chancellor?" The host of a popular political TV talk show, Anne Will, pressed Baerbock on whether she won the Greens' nomination for chancellor because she is a woman, even though the party's backing was almost unanimous. "It's been the elephant in the room for some time now that you only got it because you are a woman," Will said. Baerbock responded: "I'm not going to have a sex change in the next six months. Of course the question of emancipation played a role but it wasn't the only reason." The Greens, the only party in the Bundestag national parliament with more female than male lawmakers, briefly surged in the polls to overtake Merkel's conservative bloc after Baerbock's nomination but is now polling some 10 points behind at around 20 per cent. Also read | Germany's Greens make first bid for chancellery, promise change Pollsters say this is a sign that German voters want them to be in the next coalition government but not in the driver's seat. The ecologist party says the relentless questioning of Baerbock's suitability for top office is unjustified and that the media have not scrutinised her male rivals as vigorously. It also points to a fake news campaign that appeared online soon after her nomination. This has included false claims that she was paid for a nude photoshoot - the pictures of which turned out to be of a Russian adult entertainment model that bears a striking resemblance to Baerbock - fake quotes that she wants to ban owning pets, and another false report that she does not have a university degree. "The hate campaign against Baerbock is unprecedented in German election history and far exceeds anything we have seen against Merkel," Michael Butter of the University of Tuebingen said. "It shows that people took it seriously that a Greens chancellor could end up leading Germany." To be sure, missteps by Baerbock like an unreported party bonus and inaccurate details in her curriculum vitae have invited media scrutiny, and her lack of experience in government has been picked on by critics, often with sexist undertones. "Character Assassination" Late last month, the Greens hired a prominent libel lawyer to fight allegations that Baerbock had in her new book lifted phrases from other texts without proper citation, accusations rejected by the party as "character assassination". She has denied any wrongdoing. Baerbock has shaken up the election campaign with vows to scrap a controversial pipeline project to bring Russian gas to Germany, confront China on its human rights record and permanently abolish strict constitutional limits on new debt to finance a transition to a carbon-neutral economy. Pollsters say her style and focus on the environment are particularly appealing to young voters, especially women. Trousers Vs Skirts Merkel also faced media scrutiny ahead of the 2005 election, in which she won her first term. Commentators, economists and members of Merkel's own conservative bloc cast doubt on her ability to make sound decisions on the economy. Photographers snapped pictures of sweat stains beneath her armpit as she waved to journalists on the red carpet outside an opera house, which made it to newspapers' front pages. "Baerbock looks more feminine than Merkel: she is younger, has longer hair, wears dresses and skirts," Katharina Wrohlich of the German Institute for Economic Research DIW said. "Merkel is older, has shorter hair, and wears trousers and jackets. So this makes her (Baerbock) an easier and more obvious target of gender bias and sexism than Merkel," she said. Baerbock's male rivals jumped to her defence after the plagiarism accusations surfaced. Armin Laschet, the conservative chancellor candidate most likely to succeed Merkel, said the media's questioning of whether Baerbock could juggle motherhood and the chancellery was inappropriate. Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, a chancellor candidate of the Social Democrats, said she was being treated unfairly. Baerbock summed up how she feels about media coverage of her flagging campaign in an interview with women's magazine Brigitte: "I sense, or am often told, that it is an imposition that I, as a 40-year-old woman with young children, am standing as chancellor candidate. This is where I say women must be able to everything."

Greens candidate for German Chancellor says sexist scrutiny holding her back

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a virtual meeting to discuss the status of relations between the European Union (EU) and China.

Xi Jinping holds virtual meeting with French and German leaders

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

"I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds.

Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week.

Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme.

The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant.

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said on Friday (July 2) that she was worried over UEFA decision to allow big crowds at ongoing Euro 2020 football tournament during Covid spike due to coronavirus caused by Delta variant. "I am worried and sceptical about whether this is good," Merkel told a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Johnson however said that he didn't plan to order reduction in crowds. Crowd capacity at Wembley stadium will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week. Johnson also said Britain had built up a "considerable wall of immunity" against COVID-19 with its vaccination programme. The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that crowds at Euro 2020 stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities were driving the current rise in coronavirus infections in Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel concerned about big Euro 2020 crowds

As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-eases-coronavirus-restrictions-amid-nationwide-vaccination-388778">Also read | Israel eases coronavirus restrictions amid nationwide vaccination</a> 
 
"Even though the numbers are low, the fact that this is reaching vaccinated people means ... that we are still checking how many vaccinated people have also been infected," Levy said, according to Haaretz.

On June 23, Israel gave health officials the authority to quarantine anyone who has been exposed to an extremely infectious variant of Covid-19, even if they have been vaccinated or have recovered from the sickness with supposed immunity.&nbsp;

The decision came after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a warning on Tuesday about fresh Delta-related outbreaks, with daily infections rising following weeks of low levels because to Israel's unprecedented mass vaccination campaign.

If authorities feel they may have been in "close contact with a carrier of a severe virus strain," authorities can force vaccinated or previously infected people to self-isolate for up to 14 days under the amended health ministry regulations.&nbsp;

The number of new cases recorded every day in Israel has risen to above 100, the highest level since May.

According to Levy, the Delta variety is responsible for almost 70% of the cases.

As daily cases remained in the single digits, Israel began to relax its viral restrictions, terminating indoor masking last week.

As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated. Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry.

As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated. Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry. Also read | Israel eases coronavirus restrictions amid nationwide vaccination "Even though the numbers are low, the fact that this is reaching vaccinated people means ... that we are still checking how many vaccinated people have also been infected," Levy said, according to Haaretz. On June 23, Israel gave health officials the authority to quarantine anyone who has been exposed to an extremely infectious variant of Covid-19, even if they have been vaccinated or have recovered from the sickness with supposed immunity. The decision came after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a warning on Tuesday about fresh Delta-related outbreaks, with daily infections rising following weeks of low levels because to Israel's unprecedented mass vaccination campaign. If authorities feel they may have been in "close contact with a carrier of a severe virus strain," authorities can force vaccinated or previously infected people to self-isolate for up to 14 days under the amended health ministry regulations. The number of new cases recorded every day in Israel has risen to above 100, the highest level since May. According to Levy, the Delta variety is responsible for almost 70% of the cases. As daily cases remained in the single digits, Israel began to relax its viral restrictions, terminating indoor masking last week.

COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel

The issue of LGBTQ rights has divided European Union. Hungary is pushing a law that allegedly discriminates against LGBTQ. The Vatican is pushing Italy to drop a new law on gay rights. Even football has become embroiled in the debate. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: In Europe, a fight for LGBTQ rights

German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised a new law in Hungary banning LGBTQ educational content for children as 'wrong'. The German leader said she saw it as a contradiction that single-sex partnerships are allowed in Hungary but education about them is restricted.

Angela Merkel condemns Hungary's new LGBTQ law as 'wrong'

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-merkel-takes-moderna-vaccine-as-second-jab-after-astrazeneca-393194">Merkel </a>told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany.

“In our country, if you come from Great Britain, you have to go into quarantine - and that’s not the case in every European country, and that’s what I would like to see,” the German Chancellor told Parliament on Wednesday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/angela-merkel-administered-with-moderna-jab-during-second-dose-after-having-astrazeneca-as-first-393414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As concern grows about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">Delta variant</a> in Europe, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said it is "likely that the Delta variant will circulate extensively during the summer".

The ECDC warned that younger individuals were particularly at risk since they were slow to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-vaccine-effective-against-covid-19-variants-identified-in-india-393331">vaccinated</a>.

"The Delta variant is more transmissible than other circulating variants and we estimate that by the end of August it will represent 90 per cent" of new cases in the EU," the health agency said.

The agency said vaccination should be carried out at a "very high pace" in order to combat the spread of the Delta variant which experts say is 40 to 60 per cent more contagious than the Alpha variant (Β.1.1.7).

Andrea Ammon the director at ECDC called for speeding up of the second dose especially for vulnerable groups while revealing that those over 80 and over 60 still haven't been fully vaccinated in Europe.

The ECDC further said that any relaxation over the summer may lead to increased "hospitalisations and deaths" and may reach the same level as autumn last year if stringent measures are not applied by authorities.

Meanwhile, Ukraine reported the first two cases of the Delta variant(B.1.617.2), officials confirmed even as Portugal feared a fourth wave of virus attack due to the B.1.617.2 variant.

Lisbon has been hit hard with the Delta variant with 60 per cent cases reported. The capital city has banned travel with more restrictions on the anvil.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany.

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany. “In our country, if you come from Great Britain, you have to go into quarantine - and that’s not the case in every European country, and that’s what I would like to see,” the German Chancellor told Parliament on Wednesday. Watch: As concern grows about the Delta variant in Europe, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said it is "likely that the Delta variant will circulate extensively during the summer". The ECDC warned that younger individuals were particularly at risk since they were slow to get vaccinated. "The Delta variant is more transmissible than other circulating variants and we estimate that by the end of August it will represent 90 per cent" of new cases in the EU," the health agency said. The agency said vaccination should be carried out at a "very high pace" in order to combat the spread of the Delta variant which experts say is 40 to 60 per cent more contagious than the Alpha variant (Β.1.1.7). Andrea Ammon the director at ECDC called for speeding up of the second dose especially for vulnerable groups while revealing that those over 80 and over 60 still haven't been fully vaccinated in Europe. The ECDC further said that any relaxation over the summer may lead to increased "hospitalisations and deaths" and may reach the same level as autumn last year if stringent measures are not applied by authorities. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported the first two cases of the Delta variant(B.1.617.2), officials confirmed even as Portugal feared a fourth wave of virus attack due to the B.1.617.2 variant. Lisbon has been hit hard with the Delta variant with 60 per cent cases reported. The capital city has banned travel with more restrictions on the anvil. (With inputs from Agencies)

Europe health agency warns Delta variant rise; Portugal fears fourth wave

German chancellor Angela Merkel has received Moderna shot as her second dose of Coronavirus vaccine. Merkel was administered with AstraZeneca jab for her first dose. The 66-year-old took her first dose in April, more than two weeks after German authorities recommended the use of AstraZeneca jab only for people aged 60 and above.

Angela Merkel administered with Moderna jab during second dose after having AstraZeneca as first

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she&nbsp;received the Moderna coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/windmill-dance-medical-experts-laugh-at-silly-post-vaccine-hack-393140">vaccine </a>after taking the AstraZeneca&nbsp;first dose in April.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective.

However, the health body added that&nbsp;it lacks sufficient evidence on coronavirus shots to come to a successful conclusion.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-president-threatens-to-jail-those-who-refuse-covid-19-vaccine-393163/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Marco Cavaleri, head of Biological Health Threats and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-set-up-vaccine-tech-transfer-hub-in-south-africa-393132">Vaccines</a> Strategy at the EMA had said the organisation was closely monitoring the situation while adding that full trial data was necessary in order to make a complete&nbsp;assessment.

According to German authorities, at least 51 per cent of the population has received one jab of the vaccine.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;as Europe continues to reopen, the German Chancellor expressed concern over travel guidelines in the European Union warning that it might "come back to haunt us".

Portugal was earlier forced to delay its post-lockdown reopening after a surge in virus cases which was cited by the German Chancellor.

"We have made some good progress in recent months but aren't where I'd like the European Union to be," Merkel said.

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday that it was concerned over Europe easing virus restrictions due to Euro 2020 as the UK announced that thousands of spectators will be allowed for the semi-finals and final of the tournament to be played at Wembley stadium in London.

The British authorities said more than 60,000 spectators could fill the stadiums even as it battles the virus. The UK government had earlier delayed easing restrictions due to the surge in Delta variant across the country.

Denmark also witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the Euro football games in Copenhagen, reports claimed.

(With inputs from Agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she received the Moderna coronavirus vaccine after taking the AstraZeneca first dose in April. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she received the Moderna coronavirus vaccine after taking the AstraZeneca first dose in April. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective. However, the health body added that it lacks sufficient evidence on coronavirus shots to come to a successful conclusion. Watch: Marco Cavaleri, head of Biological Health Threats and Vaccines Strategy at the EMA had said the organisation was closely monitoring the situation while adding that full trial data was necessary in order to make a complete assessment. According to German authorities, at least 51 per cent of the population has received one jab of the vaccine. Meanwhile, as Europe continues to reopen, the German Chancellor expressed concern over travel guidelines in the European Union warning that it might "come back to haunt us". Portugal was earlier forced to delay its post-lockdown reopening after a surge in virus cases which was cited by the German Chancellor. "We have made some good progress in recent months but aren't where I'd like the European Union to be," Merkel said. The World Health Organization said on Tuesday that it was concerned over Europe easing virus restrictions due to Euro 2020 as the UK announced that thousands of spectators will be allowed for the semi-finals and final of the tournament to be played at Wembley stadium in London. The British authorities said more than 60,000 spectators could fill the stadiums even as it battles the virus. The UK government had earlier delayed easing restrictions due to the surge in Delta variant across the country. Denmark also witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the Euro football games in Copenhagen, reports claimed. (With inputs from Agencies)

German Chancellor Merkel takes Moderna vaccine as second jab after AstraZeneca

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday quoted Russia as one the of biggest challenge for NATO. 'We must not overrate China and just need to find the right balance', She added. Chancellor Merkel is expected to meet US President Joe Biden in July to discuss China and Russia.

'Russia poses one of the biggest challenges for NATO': Angela Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU).

The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit.

"I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said.

Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe.

Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington.

The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045]

Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available.

"Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland. PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU). The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit. "I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said. Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea. The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe. Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington. The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045] Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available. "Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel urges 'pragmatic' approach to solve Northern Ireland issue

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's CDU scored a convincing win in the final regional vote before the first general election without her at the helm of the party. The CDU won around 37%of the vote, well ahead of the second-place far-right party AfD on 21%.

Merkel's party wins last state poll before general election

The Danish Public Broadcaster has reported that Denmark's secret service helped the US spy on Angela Merkel and top European leaders. This revelation could create fresh troubles for US President Joe Biden.

Gravitas: Did Denmark help the US spy on Angela Merkel?

Denmark hosts several key landing stations for subsea internet cables to and from Sweden, Norway, Germany, Holland and Britain.

US used Danish cables to spy on Merkel, European countries

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

The 2-billion-euro ($2.4 billion) project, called Nordlink, will allow Germany to export excess electricity from its wind parks to Norway, where it can be stored in the Nordic nation's vast hydropower reservoirs.

During periods of little wind, electricity can be released from Norwegian reservoirs again to meet German demand.

''We're setting a milestone for the modern energy supply in Europe,''&nbsp;German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a virtual ceremony to officially switch on the power link.

The 623-kilometer cable runs from Germany's northern state of Schleswig-Holstein under the North Sea to Tonstad in southern Norway. Operators say it can carry enough electricity to supply 3.6 million households at once.

The new system should help lower the price of electricity in Germany, which is relatively high compared to other European countries, said Claudia Kemfert, a senior energy expert at the German Institute for Economic Research.

Oil-rich Norway meets almost all of its electricity needs using renewable sources, and electricity from its hydropower facilities is comparatively cheap. By tapping into the Norwegian network, Germany can avoid building costly stand-by power plants of its own, Kemfert said.

''Nordlink is no replacement for the expansion of renewable energy here in Germany, but it can significantly help balance out fluctuations,''&nbsp;she said.

The German government recently announced that it aims to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions to net zero' by 2045. A massive expansion of wind and solar power generation will be required to meet the demands of its 83 million inhabitants and industry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The 2-billion-euro ($2.4 billion) project, called Nordlink, will allow Germany to export excess electricity from its wind parks to Norway, where it can be stored in the Nordic nation's vast hydropower reservoirs. During periods of little wind, electricity can be released from Norwegian reservoirs again to meet German demand. ''We're setting a milestone for the modern energy supply in Europe,'' German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a virtual ceremony to officially switch on the power link. The 623-kilometer cable runs from Germany's northern state of Schleswig-Holstein under the North Sea to Tonstad in southern Norway. Operators say it can carry enough electricity to supply 3.6 million households at once. The new system should help lower the price of electricity in Germany, which is relatively high compared to other European countries, said Claudia Kemfert, a senior energy expert at the German Institute for Economic Research. Oil-rich Norway meets almost all of its electricity needs using renewable sources, and electricity from its hydropower facilities is comparatively cheap. By tapping into the Norwegian network, Germany can avoid building costly stand-by power plants of its own, Kemfert said. ''Nordlink is no replacement for the expansion of renewable energy here in Germany, but it can significantly help balance out fluctuations,'' she said. The German government recently announced that it aims to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions to net zero' by 2045. A massive expansion of wind and solar power generation will be required to meet the demands of its 83 million inhabitants and industry. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany and Norway inaugurate undersea energy link worth $2 billion

EU&nbsp;leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> pass that they hope will&nbsp;unlock&nbsp;a tourist surge this summer.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

The 27 member states want the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Digital&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-passport-the-european-covid-certificate-a-users-guide-386729">Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide</a></o:p>

Coupled with a separate plan to let in fully vaccinated travellers from countries outside the&nbsp;EU, to be defined by the middle of June, Europe believes its vital tourist industry could claw back some of the losses racked up since the start of the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told a media conference after the&nbsp;summit&nbsp;that more than 300 million&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> doses will have been delivered by the end of this week, rising to 400 million next month.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-lines-up-covid-travel-pass-eiffel-tower-to-reopen-386873">EU lines up Covid travel pass, Eiffel Tower to reopen</a></o:p>

"If we continue like this, we have confidence that we will be able to safely reopen our societies," she said, adding the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;was on track to meet its goal of fully inoculating 70 per cent of adults by late July.<o:p></o:p>

"Progressively, we should return to the ability to move freely throughout the European Union," European Council President Charles Michel said.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coming-soon-the-vaccine-passport-362262">Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’</a></o:p>

EU&nbsp;countries and the European Parliament struck an agreement last week on the legislation to come into force in mid-June for the&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;certificate. Von der Leyen said all the technological infrastructure would be ready by June 1.<o:p></o:p>

The leaders of Greece, Spain and Croatia, whose economies strongly rely on tourist spending, were particularly effusive about the common document.&nbsp;

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-mulls-vaccination-passports-to-bring-back-tourists-366038">European Union mulls 'vaccination passports' to bring back tourists</a></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

They all had wipe-out summer seasons last year, but are already starting to welcome back foreign travellers, ignoring Brussels' plea to coordinate at an&nbsp;EU&nbsp;level.<o:p></o:p>

QR code verification<o:p></o:p>

Luxembourg's prime minister, Xavier Bettel, pointed out that a scannable QR code on the certificates will stymie the "hugely copied" PDF files of test results or vaccinations that some people were using to cross borders.<o:p></o:p>

The&nbsp;EU's&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;certificate&nbsp;will show the bearer's vaccination status, or whether they have immunity from a&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;infection they have recovered from or the result of a&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;test.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-plans-to-open-up-countries-to-more-foreign-tourists-this-summer-382579">EU plans to open up countries to more foreign tourists this summer</a></o:p>

Conscious that the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;has procured up to 4.4 billion vaccine doses over the next two years, far more than it needs for its population of 450 million, leaders have rallied to a pledge made at a&nbsp;G20&nbsp;summit&nbsp;in Rome last Friday to share 100 million doses to countries in need by the end of this year.<o:p></o:p>

Denmark and Sweden each promised three million doses from their stocks at the&nbsp;summit. Germany, Italy and France had already pledged higher amounts.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-let-vaccinated-us-tourists-visit-this-summer-380444">EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer</a></o:p>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she also pushed leaders to agree to a mechanism to "react quickly and cohesively" if worrying new coronavirus variants popped up.<o:p></o:p>

The Brussels gathering of&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders on Tuesday also looked at ways to share out the burden on battling climate change, to meet the target of cutting emissions by 55 per cent over the rest of this decade.<o:p></o:p>

Von der Leyen's commission has been tasked with mapping out the next steps, including potentially unpopular ones such as slapping carbon taxes on cars and buildings.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-faces-new-sanctions-from-west-over-forced-landing-of-plane-arrest-of-journalist-387190">Belarus faces new sanctions from West over forced landing of plane, arrest of journalist</a>&nbsp;</o:p>

The first day of the&nbsp;summit&nbsp;on Monday was overshadowed by Belarus, which sits just outside the&nbsp;EU's eastern borders, forcing down a Ryanair passenger plane the day before to arrest an opposition journalist and his companion who were on board.

<o:p>Also Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-call-for-sanctions-against-belarus-over-ryanair-plane-hijacking-arrest-of-journalist-387120">EU leaders call for sanctions against Belarus over Ryanair plane 'hijacking', arrest of journalist</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-call-for-sanctions-against-belarus-over-ryanair-plane-hijacking-arrest-of-journalist-387120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

EU&nbsp;leaders unanimously blasted the action and moved to cut Belarus out of European airspace as part of a package of sanctions that will be developed further.&nbsp;

EU leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide COVID-19 pass that they hope will unlock a tourist surge this summer. The 27 member states want the EU Digital Covid Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on coronavirus restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement.

EU leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide COVID-19 pass that they hope will unlock a tourist surge this summer. The 27 member states want the EU Digital Covid Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on coronavirus restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement. Also Read | Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide Coupled with a separate plan to let in fully vaccinated travellers from countries outside the EU, to be defined by the middle of June, Europe believes its vital tourist industry could claw back some of the losses racked up since the start of the pandemic. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told a media conference after the summit that more than 300 million COVID-19 vaccine doses will have been delivered by the end of this week, rising to 400 million next month. Also Read | EU lines up Covid travel pass, Eiffel Tower to reopen "If we continue like this, we have confidence that we will be able to safely reopen our societies," she said, adding the EU was on track to meet its goal of fully inoculating 70 per cent of adults by late July. "Progressively, we should return to the ability to move freely throughout the European Union," European Council President Charles Michel said. Also Read | Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’ EU countries and the European Parliament struck an agreement last week on the legislation to come into force in mid-June for the Covid certificate. Von der Leyen said all the technological infrastructure would be ready by June 1. The leaders of Greece, Spain and Croatia, whose economies strongly rely on tourist spending, were particularly effusive about the common document. Also Read | European Union mulls 'vaccination passports' to bring back tourists They all had wipe-out summer seasons last year, but are already starting to welcome back foreign travellers, ignoring Brussels' plea to coordinate at an EU level. QR code verification Luxembourg's prime minister, Xavier Bettel, pointed out that a scannable QR code on the certificates will stymie the "hugely copied" PDF files of test results or vaccinations that some people were using to cross borders. The EU's Covid certificate will show the bearer's vaccination status, or whether they have immunity from a Covid infection they have recovered from or the result of a Covid test. Also Read | EU plans to open up countries to more foreign tourists this summer Conscious that the EU has procured up to 4.4 billion vaccine doses over the next two years, far more than it needs for its population of 450 million, leaders have rallied to a pledge made at a G20 summit in Rome last Friday to share 100 million doses to countries in need by the end of this year. Denmark and Sweden each promised three million doses from their stocks at the summit. Germany, Italy and France had already pledged higher amounts. Also Read | EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she also pushed leaders to agree to a mechanism to "react quickly and cohesively" if worrying new coronavirus variants popped up. The Brussels gathering of EU leaders on Tuesday also looked at ways to share out the burden on battling climate change, to meet the target of cutting emissions by 55 per cent over the rest of this decade. Von der Leyen's commission has been tasked with mapping out the next steps, including potentially unpopular ones such as slapping carbon taxes on cars and buildings. Also Read | Belarus faces new sanctions from West over forced landing of plane, arrest of journalist The first day of the summit on Monday was overshadowed by Belarus, which sits just outside the EU's eastern borders, forcing down a Ryanair passenger plane the day before to arrest an opposition journalist and his companion who were on board. Also Watch | EU leaders call for sanctions against Belarus over Ryanair plane 'hijacking', arrest of journalist EU leaders unanimously blasted the action and moved to cut Belarus out of European airspace as part of a package of sanctions that will be developed further.

EU summit welcomes Covid certificate to unlock travel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians.

"Those who bear hatred towards Jews in the street, those who incite racial hatred put themselves outside our Basic Law," Merkel declared in her weekly podcast.

"Such acts must be punished severely," she insisted.

German police made about 60 arrests last Saturday. Around 100 officers were hurt during the pro-Palestinian rallies in Berlin.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-between-israel-and-gaza-holds-as-egyptian-mediators-eye-long-term-peace-386713">Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace</a>

Some participants at marches in towns across Germany shouted anti-Semitic slogans, which Merkel blasted as "unacceptable". Others burned Israeli flags and in one case stoned the entrance to a synagogue.

Merkel noted that Germany's constitution "guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.&nbsp; 
But it offers no place for attacks on people of a different confession, no place for violence, racism or denigration" of others and their beliefs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians. "Those who bear hatred towards Jews in the street, those who incite racial hatred put themselves outside our Basic Law," Merkel declared in her weekly podcast. "Such acts must be punished severely," she insisted. German police made about 60 arrests last Saturday. Around 100 officers were hurt during the pro-Palestinian rallies in Berlin. Also Read | Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace Some participants at marches in towns across Germany shouted anti-Semitic slogans, which Merkel blasted as "unacceptable". Others burned Israeli flags and in one case stoned the entrance to a synagogue. Merkel noted that Germany's constitution "guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. But it offers no place for attacks on people of a different confession, no place for violence, racism or denigration" of others and their beliefs. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of pro-Palestinian protests, Merkel warns on anti-Semitism

Germany is pushing back against waivers for Wuhan virus vaccines. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has rejected the idea of a waiver. Does India have a Plan B? How can India unlock vaccine patents? WION’s Palki Sharma tells you about the three available options.

Gravitas: Angela Merkel rejects vaccine patent waivers

Germany&nbsp;must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office.

"The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030."

Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week.

Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance.

"We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late."

The law commits&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050.

The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

"The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy."

The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs.

"The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights."

The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government.

Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace.

"Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue.

In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed&nbsp;tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm. The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office. "The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030." Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week. Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance. "We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late." The law commits Germany to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050. The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. "The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy." The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs. "The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights." The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government. Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace. "Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue. In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must tighten climate law to protect young people's future, court rules

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals.

The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent.

Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use.

But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a>

Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well.

Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany.

Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods.

She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer".

"India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said.&nbsp;

The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first.

In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany.

When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies.

And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first.

It is a perfect example of Western entitlement.

But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus.

Today, the Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states.

The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press.

Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media.

When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object.

Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly.

The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get.&nbsp;

And there have been some offers of help.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi.

"I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said.

China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help".

The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response.

They should think twice before accepting this offer.

Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment.

We can't afford mistakes this time.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals. Watch | Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent. Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down. Also read | As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well. Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany. Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods. She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". "India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said. The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first. In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany. When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies. And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first. It is a perfect example of Western entitlement. But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus. Today, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states. The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press. Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media. When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object. Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly. The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get. And there have been some offers of help. French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi. "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said. China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help". The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response. They should think twice before accepting this offer. Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment. We can't afford mistakes this time.

Some partners disappoint, others show solidarity when India gasps for oxygen

As India struggles with the second wave, Angela Merkel is worried about what will happen to exports of pharmaceutical products to Europe. The German Chancellor has said Europe allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". WION’s Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Angela Merkel says Europe "Allowed India" to become a pharma hub

Germany: Police clash with protesters as thousands demonstrate against new amendment

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter.

"I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying.

"Vaccinations are the key to overcoming the pandemic," she added in the quote.

AstraZeneca vaccine has been in news all over due to many cases of blood clot formation after administering vaccine dose

Questions over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine as well as another viral vector one made by Johnson &amp; Johnson threaten to undermine public confidence in the low-cost shots, which authorities had been counting on in the fight against a pandemic that has claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide.

Finance Minister Olaf Scholz also received a first shot of AstraZeneca's vaccine earlier on Friday.

Earlier on Friday, Merkel urged lawmakers at the German Parliament to approve new powers that would allow her to force coronavirus lockdowns and curfews on areas with high infection rates, saying a majority of Germans were in favour of stricter measures.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter. "I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter. "I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying. "Vaccinations are the key to overcoming the pandemic," she added in the quote. AstraZeneca vaccine has been in news all over due to many cases of blood clot formation after administering vaccine dose Questions over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine as well as another viral vector one made by Johnson & Johnson threaten to undermine public confidence in the low-cost shots, which authorities had been counting on in the fight against a pandemic that has claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide. Finance Minister Olaf Scholz also received a first shot of AstraZeneca's vaccine earlier on Friday. Earlier on Friday, Merkel urged lawmakers at the German Parliament to approve new powers that would allow her to force coronavirus lockdowns and curfews on areas with high infection rates, saying a majority of Germans were in favour of stricter measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel receives first dose of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support.

Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine.

The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country.

The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted.&nbsp;

But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation".

Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow.

The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists.

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support. Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine. The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country. The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted. But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation". Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow. The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel

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