Fabien Galthie, the coach of France`s national rugby union team, has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is therefore unlikely to be present pitch-side for France`s opening Six Nations match against Italy on Sunday, Galthie said.

"This morning, I tested positive COVID-19. I am doing well and I have light symptoms," wrote Galthie on his Twitter account (@FGalthie) on Friday. "As a result, I am going to self-isolate and will be working remotely this week. Raphaël Ibañez and the rest of my staff, in whom I have full confidence, will be acting as my go-betweens on the pitch," added Galthie.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-2022-czech-republic-ice-hockey-player-david-krejci-isolating-after-positive-covid-test-450227">Beijing 2022: Czech Republic Ice hockey player David Krejci isolating after positive COVID test</a>

France start their Six Nations campaign on Feb. 6 against Italy at the Stade de France, but the team - known "Les Bleus" - have been hit by COVID-19 cases within their squad.

Fabien Galthie, the coach of France`s national rugby union team, has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is therefore unlikely to be present pitch-side for France`s opening Six Nations match against Italy on Sunday, Galthie said.

Fabien Galthie, the coach of France`s national rugby union team, has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is therefore unlikely to be present pitch-side for France`s opening Six Nations match against Italy on Sunday, Galthie said. "This morning, I tested positive COVID-19. I am doing well and I have light symptoms," wrote Galthie on his Twitter account (@FGalthie) on Friday. "As a result, I am going to self-isolate and will be working remotely this week. Raphaël Ibañez and the rest of my staff, in whom I have full confidence, will be acting as my go-betweens on the pitch," added Galthie. ALSO READ | Beijing 2022: Czech Republic Ice hockey player David Krejci isolating after positive COVID test France start their Six Nations campaign on Feb. 6 against Italy at the Stade de France, but the team - known "Les Bleus" - have been hit by COVID-19 cases within their squad.

Beijing Winter Olympics: French national rugby union coach Fabien Galthie tests positive for COVID-19

A total of 55 new COVID-19 infections have been found among Beijing Winter Olympic games related personnel on February 2, the highest daily tally so far.

55 new COVID-19 cases reported at Beijing Winter Olympics

India has announced that its envoys in Beijing won't attend the opening and closing ceremony of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022. The decision comes after China PLA soldier who fought in Ladakh's Galwan Valley against Indian troops in 2020, as a torchbearer of the event.

India announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics after Galwan soldier became torchbearer

India has announced that its top diplomats in the Beijing embassy will not attend the opening or closing ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics in the Chinese capital.

India's top diplomats in China to not attend the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics

After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to&nbsp;officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20.

The more than fortnight-long Beijing Games will see a record 109 events over 15 disciplines, spanning across seven sports, with around 2600-plus athletes fighting hard and competing for top laurels. For the unversed, the sports of&nbsp;disciplines&nbsp;include Biathlon, Bobsledding, Curling, Ice hockey, Luge, Skating, Skiing. Among the various athletes, from different parts of the world, India have only one representative in the form of Kashmir's Arif Khan.

The 31-year-old&nbsp;Arif&nbsp;is the only Indian featuring in&nbsp;the Winter Olympics, contrary to the Tokyo Games where India sent its largest-ever contingent. The&nbsp;skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir entered the record books after&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;the first from the country to qualify for two events at the Winter Olympics in January, 2022&nbsp;when he&nbsp;confirmed his place&nbsp;for the alpine skiing slalom and the giant slalom event consecutively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-31-year-old-indian-skier-arif-khan-who-heads-to-beijing-with-hopes-to-bag-medal-at-winter-olympics-448670">Meet 31-year-old Indian skier Arif Khan who heads to Beijing with hopes to bag medal at Winter Olympics</a>

'It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' Arif had earlier said to WION.

He added, ''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-eleven-personnel-in-hospital-with-covid-19-virus-none-serious-449794">Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious</a>

Broadcasting details of Beijing 2022 events

For the sports fanatics, Sony has the broadcast rights for India for Beijing 2022 events. Online updates, on the other hand, will be available at the Winter Olympics website. Alpine skier Arif's event will take place on February 13 and 16.

After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20.

After the stupendous success of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, held last year amid the Covid-19 virus threat, the action now shifts to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics is set to officially get underway on February 4 and will last till February 20. The more than fortnight-long Beijing Games will see a record 109 events over 15 disciplines, spanning across seven sports, with around 2600-plus athletes fighting hard and competing for top laurels. For the unversed, the sports of disciplines include Biathlon, Bobsledding, Curling, Ice hockey, Luge, Skating, Skiing. Among the various athletes, from different parts of the world, India have only one representative in the form of Kashmir's Arif Khan. The 31-year-old Arif is the only Indian featuring in the Winter Olympics, contrary to the Tokyo Games where India sent its largest-ever contingent. The skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir entered the record books after becoming the first from the country to qualify for two events at the Winter Olympics in January, 2022 when he confirmed his place for the alpine skiing slalom and the giant slalom event consecutively. ALSO READ | Meet 31-year-old Indian skier Arif Khan who heads to Beijing with hopes to bag medal at Winter Olympics 'It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' Arif had earlier said to WION. He added, ''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes." ALSO READ | Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious Broadcasting details of Beijing 2022 events For the sports fanatics, Sony has the broadcast rights for India for Beijing 2022 events. Online updates, on the other hand, will be available at the Winter Olympics website. Alpine skier Arif's event will take place on February 13 and 16.

Beijing Olympics 2022: Who is Arif Khan? India's sole representative in marquee event

From Beijing Olympics to Indo-Pak series: When politics and sports collided

Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday. Organisers recorded 32 cases in the past 24 hours, 15 of them new airport arrivals.

McCloskey said none of those hospitalised were in serious condition and the overall daily figure would start to drop once the number of participants arriving begins to decrease.

"Since Jan. 23 there have been 232 cases, 163 from the airport and 69 from the closed loop," McCloskey said. About 3,000 athletes, along with coaches, officials, federation delegates and media are expected for the Feb. 4-20 Games.

They will stay in a "closed loop" to prevent contact with the general public, moving between accommodation and Olympic venues on official transport. They are also tested on a daily basis in an effort to identify any infections within the loop quickly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-asks-us-athletes-to-use-burner-phones-during-bejing-olympics-2022-citing-malicious-cyber-activities-449723">FBI asks US athletes to use burner phones during Bejing Olympics 2022 citing 'malicious' cyber activities</a>

Among the cases announced on Wednesday was an unidentified German team member who has been moved to isolation without any symptoms, the second case from Germany`s Olympic team in recent days. "We expected that but overall, I have to say that the track record with many arriving and being tested negative and then remaining negative for one, two, three days is very encouraging as they have a huge chance to stay negative in the loop," German team chief Dirk Schimmelpfennig told a news conference. 
Team members wanting to return to training and competition will need to be without symptoms and provide two negative tests 24 hours apart before being released from quarantine.

In contrast to many countries seeking to live with COVID-19, China has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, which has involved strict border controls and cancelling nearly all international flights. All participants are arriving on charter flights. "At the moment we have seen no significant spread within the loop. We are not particularly worried," McCloskey said. More than 540,000 tests have been conducted since Jan 23. 
"They won`t go down immediately but when we get to a stable number of people, then we expect it to go down," McCloskey said of positive cases. "The reality is every country in the world has a higher level of COVID-19 than China does."

Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday.

Eleven Beijing Olympics-related personnel have been hospitalised with COVID-19 in the Chinese capital since Jan. 23 out of a total of 232 positive cases, Brian McCloskey, chair of the Beijing 2022 medical expert panel, said on Wednesday. Organisers recorded 32 cases in the past 24 hours, 15 of them new airport arrivals. McCloskey said none of those hospitalised were in serious condition and the overall daily figure would start to drop once the number of participants arriving begins to decrease. "Since Jan. 23 there have been 232 cases, 163 from the airport and 69 from the closed loop," McCloskey said. About 3,000 athletes, along with coaches, officials, federation delegates and media are expected for the Feb. 4-20 Games. They will stay in a "closed loop" to prevent contact with the general public, moving between accommodation and Olympic venues on official transport. They are also tested on a daily basis in an effort to identify any infections within the loop quickly. ALSO READ | FBI asks US athletes to use burner phones during Bejing Olympics 2022 citing 'malicious' cyber activities Among the cases announced on Wednesday was an unidentified German team member who has been moved to isolation without any symptoms, the second case from Germany`s Olympic team in recent days. "We expected that but overall, I have to say that the track record with many arriving and being tested negative and then remaining negative for one, two, three days is very encouraging as they have a huge chance to stay negative in the loop," German team chief Dirk Schimmelpfennig told a news conference. Team members wanting to return to training and competition will need to be without symptoms and provide two negative tests 24 hours apart before being released from quarantine. In contrast to many countries seeking to live with COVID-19, China has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, which has involved strict border controls and cancelling nearly all international flights. All participants are arriving on charter flights. "At the moment we have seen no significant spread within the loop. We are not particularly worried," McCloskey said. More than 540,000 tests have been conducted since Jan 23. "They won`t go down immediately but when we get to a stable number of people, then we expect it to go down," McCloskey said of positive cases. "The reality is every country in the world has a higher level of COVID-19 than China does."

Beijing Olympics: Eleven personnel in hospital with COVID-19 virus, none serious

Will the Winter Olympics be a superspreader event? Beijing has reported its highest number of Wuhan virus cases in 18 months. Out of 8,000 people that have come for the games - 211 have tested positive. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Covid-19 breaches Beijing Olympics bubble

The COVID-19 situation at the Beijing Winter Olympics is within the "expected controllable range", despite increasing positive cases being detected, a senior official at China`s Olympics Pandemic Prevention and Control Office said on Tuesday.

The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Organizing Committee has reported 200 COVID cases since Jan. 23 among airport arrivals and those in the Games "closed loop" bubble that separates all event personnel, including athletes, from the public.

"As more people are entering China the imported COVID-19 cases are increasing," said Huang Chun, deputy director general of the committee`s Pandemic Prevention and Control Office at a press briefing.

Huang said rising cases were also a result of more effective and accurate COVID detection techniques by customs. 
Games organisers reported a total of 24 new COVID cases among Games-related personnel on Jan. 31, of which 16 were athletes.

Many athletes have been shut out from the Games, which will run Feb. 4-20, after testing positive on arrival at the airport. While many more are put in isolation after testing COVID but are asymptomatic.

"Getting to the Olympics is never easy, and this time, as a new mom, it has been the most challenging," Elana Meyers Taylor, a three times Olympic medalist in bobsled, wrote on social media from her isolation hotel.

China credits the strict COVID control measures, including frequent nucleic acid testings, for helping prevent clustered cases inside the closed loop.

"(The COVID-19 situation) is generally within our expected controllable range. So the Games participants, including athletes, and Chinese public do not have to worry," said Huang.

He said Olympics organisers were not considering any major changes to COVID control policies at the Games.

The COVID-19 situation at the Beijing Winter Olympics is within the "expected controllable range", despite increasing positive cases being detected, a senior official at China`s Olympics Pandemic Prevention and Control Office said on Tuesday.

The COVID-19 situation at the Beijing Winter Olympics is within the "expected controllable range", despite increasing positive cases being detected, a senior official at China`s Olympics Pandemic Prevention and Control Office said on Tuesday. The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Organizing Committee has reported 200 COVID cases since Jan. 23 among airport arrivals and those in the Games "closed loop" bubble that separates all event personnel, including athletes, from the public. "As more people are entering China the imported COVID-19 cases are increasing," said Huang Chun, deputy director general of the committee`s Pandemic Prevention and Control Office at a press briefing. Huang said rising cases were also a result of more effective and accurate COVID detection techniques by customs. Games organisers reported a total of 24 new COVID cases among Games-related personnel on Jan. 31, of which 16 were athletes. Many athletes have been shut out from the Games, which will run Feb. 4-20, after testing positive on arrival at the airport. While many more are put in isolation after testing COVID but are asymptomatic. "Getting to the Olympics is never easy, and this time, as a new mom, it has been the most challenging," Elana Meyers Taylor, a three times Olympic medalist in bobsled, wrote on social media from her isolation hotel. China credits the strict COVID control measures, including frequent nucleic acid testings, for helping prevent clustered cases inside the closed loop. "(The COVID-19 situation) is generally within our expected controllable range. So the Games participants, including athletes, and Chinese public do not have to worry," said Huang. He said Olympics organisers were not considering any major changes to COVID control policies at the Games.

Beijing Olympics organisers say growing COVID-19 cases are 'within controllable range'

From skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg to becoming the only Indian so far to qualify for the Beijing Winter Olympics this year, 31-year-old Arif Khan surely has great potential and may help India win a medal at the games. &nbsp;

The skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir will head to Beijing, China in February 2022 for taking part in the games.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Arif Khan was selected for the games at the entry league event held at Dubai. Arif has already become an inspiration for the millions of Indians, who want to take up winter sports as their career.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Arif has already taken a flight to Delhi from Srinagar and he will be flying to Beijing from the national capital. After participating in more than 127 International championships, Arif now has a dream of winning a gold at the Beijing Winter Olympics.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-drop-in-coronavirus-cases-871-deaths-in-24-hours-448668" hreflang="en">India reports drop in coronavirus cases; 871 deaths in 24 hours</a>

''It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' said Khan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Arif has been skiing since his childhood and his father Yaseen Khan has been his main inspiration. His father used to ski on the slopes of Apharwat and that's when Arif took interest in the sport. Arif was a quick learner and had already participating at national level events at the age of 12.&nbsp; &nbsp;

''The first inspiration was my father. I started skiing because of him. I was born in these mountains, and it came natural to me. And this is how, I now introduce these mountains to the world,'' said Arif Khan, skier.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-budget-2022-important-terms-you-should-know-448628" hreflang="en">India's Budget 2022: Important terms you should know</a>

The government of India has provided Arif all the support that he required. From training to providing facilities, they have shown immense support towards Arif for last one year. And millions of youngsters are already inspired by Arif's journey.&nbsp; &nbsp;

''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes, '' added Khan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government is also hopeful that Arif's entry into the Olympics would put Gulmarg on the map of world sports. And it will also help the government to host international level sports events at Gulmarg. &nbsp;

''I want to congratulate Arif for the entry into Winter Olympics, it's a moment of pride for the whole country and for Kashmir Valley. Reaching the Olympics is extraordinary. Whether it's in his personal capacity or representing the youth of the country. He will become an icon for the youngsters in the nation. He has trained in Gulmarg, and Arif and Gulmarg are synonyms now. We are praying that he wins a gold at the games. I have been told that he has always promoted Gulmarg,'' said G N Itoo, Director, Tourism. &nbsp;

The whole country is now pinning their hopes on Arif Khan and wish he wins a medal at the Winter Olympics.&nbsp;

From skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg to becoming the only Indian so far to qualify for the Beijing Winter Olympics this year, 31-year-old Arif Khan surely has great potential and may help India win a medal at the games.

From skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg to becoming the only Indian so far to qualify for the Beijing Winter Olympics this year, 31-year-old Arif Khan surely has great potential and may help India win a medal at the games. The skier from Gulmarg, Kashmir will head to Beijing, China in February 2022 for taking part in the games. Arif Khan was selected for the games at the entry league event held at Dubai. Arif has already become an inspiration for the millions of Indians, who want to take up winter sports as their career. Arif has already taken a flight to Delhi from Srinagar and he will be flying to Beijing from the national capital. After participating in more than 127 International championships, Arif now has a dream of winning a gold at the Beijing Winter Olympics. Also Read: India reports drop in coronavirus cases; 871 deaths in 24 hours ''It's a very inspiring and motivational moment for me. I will be going for the Olympics and representing 1.4 billion people. I started skiing back in 1994 and since then, I have never looked back. I continued my training across Europe and since 2008, I have been professionally into this sport and have been also training for the Olympic games. I have participated in world championships and international level games, Asian games and other continental championships. After more than 127 international participations, I have realised that I could be one of the best athletes in the world, '' said Khan. Arif has been skiing since his childhood and his father Yaseen Khan has been his main inspiration. His father used to ski on the slopes of Apharwat and that's when Arif took interest in the sport. Arif was a quick learner and had already participating at national level events at the age of 12. ''The first inspiration was my father. I started skiing because of him. I was born in these mountains, and it came natural to me. And this is how, I now introduce these mountains to the world,'' said Arif Khan, skier. Also Read: India's Budget 2022: Important terms you should know The government of India has provided Arif all the support that he required. From training to providing facilities, they have shown immense support towards Arif for last one year. And millions of youngsters are already inspired by Arif's journey. ''I am very happy with the support that the government has provided me. For a year, I have been provided with whatever requirements I have had from them. Training, travel and other facilities have been provided to me. I always thought we needed someone to create the path to achieve something big and I feel very good to be one of them and I would give my best performance. I have a dream to win a medal and would try my best to perform on the slopes, '' added Khan. The Jammu and Kashmir government is also hopeful that Arif's entry into the Olympics would put Gulmarg on the map of world sports. And it will also help the government to host international level sports events at Gulmarg. ''I want to congratulate Arif for the entry into Winter Olympics, it's a moment of pride for the whole country and for Kashmir Valley. Reaching the Olympics is extraordinary. Whether it's in his personal capacity or representing the youth of the country. He will become an icon for the youngsters in the nation. He has trained in Gulmarg, and Arif and Gulmarg are synonyms now. We are praying that he wins a gold at the games. I have been told that he has always promoted Gulmarg,'' said G N Itoo, Director, Tourism. The whole country is now pinning their hopes on Arif Khan and wish he wins a medal at the Winter Olympics.

Meet 31-year-old Indian skier Arif Khan who heads to Beijing with hopes to bag medal at Winter Olympics

Taiwan's winter Olympics contingent will not be attending either the opening or the closing ceremony of the Olympics being held in Beijing next month.

Amid tensions, Taiwan to skip Beijing winter Olympics opening & closing ceremonies

China has agreed that it will allow the visit of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Xinjiang this year but after the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Games are concluded, South China Morning Post reported citing unnamed sources.&nbsp;

The Winter Olympics will be held between February 4 to February 20 but the upcoming event has been overshadowed by a range of issues.&nbsp;

Some of the Western countries have accused China of 'egregious' human rights violations in the Xinjiang region against the Uyghurs Muslims, which China has repeatedly denied.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-provocations-ahead-of-winter-olympics-pla-conducts-drills-in-south-china-sea-448299">'US provocations': Ahead of Winter Olympics, PLA conducts drills in South China Sea</a>&nbsp;

After the United States announced a diplomatic boycott of the event, other countries like Australia, the UK and Canada also confirmed that they will not send government officials to the Games. The athletes from the mentioned countries will participate.&nbsp;

The US has accused China of mass detention, torture, forced labour and genocide in&nbsp;Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Apart from the Xinjiang issue, the current coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country and the safety of Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai also remained a hot topic for China.&nbsp;

UN human rights commissioner Michelle Bachelet has been pursuing negotiations with China on a visit since September 2018.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-restricts-social-media-access-of-dissidents-activists-ahead-of-winter-olympics-2022-447927">China restricts social media access of dissidents, activists ahead of Winter Olympics 2022</a>&nbsp;

In the latest development, the South China Morning Post report on Thursday (January 27) cited sources saying that the approval for a visit after the conclusion of the Beijing Winter Games was granted on the condition the trip should be "friendly" and not framed as an investigation.&nbsp;

"No one, especially the world's leading human rights diplomat, should be fooled by the Chinese government's efforts to distract attention away from its crimes against humanity targeting Uyghurs and other Turkic communities," Sophie Richardson, China Director at Human Rights Watch, told Reuters in an emailed statement on Friday.&nbsp;

China's foreign ministry, China's mission to the United Nations in New York, and the United Nations did not immediately respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;From Genocide to Omicron: The story of China's controversial Olympics

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(With inputs from agencies)

China has agreed that it will allow the visit of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Xinjiang this year but after the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Games are concluded, South China Morning Post reported citing unnamed sources.

China has agreed that it will allow the visit of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Xinjiang this year but after the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Games are concluded, South China Morning Post reported citing unnamed sources. The Winter Olympics will be held between February 4 to February 20 but the upcoming event has been overshadowed by a range of issues. Some of the Western countries have accused China of 'egregious' human rights violations in the Xinjiang region against the Uyghurs Muslims, which China has repeatedly denied. ALSO READ | 'US provocations': Ahead of Winter Olympics, PLA conducts drills in South China Sea After the United States announced a diplomatic boycott of the event, other countries like Australia, the UK and Canada also confirmed that they will not send government officials to the Games. The athletes from the mentioned countries will participate. The US has accused China of mass detention, torture, forced labour and genocide in Xinjiang. Apart from the Xinjiang issue, the current coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country and the safety of Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai also remained a hot topic for China. UN human rights commissioner Michelle Bachelet has been pursuing negotiations with China on a visit since September 2018. ALSO READ | China restricts social media access of dissidents, activists ahead of Winter Olympics 2022 In the latest development, the South China Morning Post report on Thursday (January 27) cited sources saying that the approval for a visit after the conclusion of the Beijing Winter Games was granted on the condition the trip should be "friendly" and not framed as an investigation. "No one, especially the world's leading human rights diplomat, should be fooled by the Chinese government's efforts to distract attention away from its crimes against humanity targeting Uyghurs and other Turkic communities," Sophie Richardson, China Director at Human Rights Watch, told Reuters in an emailed statement on Friday. China's foreign ministry, China's mission to the United Nations in New York, and the United Nations did not immediately respond to requests for comment. WATCH | From Genocide to Omicron: The story of China's controversial Olympics × (With inputs from agencies)

China allows UN rights chief visit to Xinjiang but after Winter Olympics 2022: Report

Reports indicate that the State Department is preparing to approve the departure of American diplomats and their families from China. Apparently, this is due to the inability of the US government to prevent Chinese authorities from enacting intrusive pandemic control measures, subjecting the Americans to them.

In a report by Reuters, two sources confirmed the US Embassy sent the formal request to Washington on Monday as China stepped up COVID-19 containment protocols ahead of the start of the Beijing Winter Olympics that begin in less than two weeks from now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-what-it-is-how-it-functions-and-does-it-work-442865">Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work?</a>

The report also mentions that some embassy staff is unhappy that the US government has not protected American officials from strict quarantine measures. Among the rules is the possibility of forcing admission to COVID fever clinics and separation from children.

There is no word from the State Department on whether it approved the embassy's request.

One staff member said approximately 25% of staff and family members of the US Embassy in Beijing plan on leaving China as soon as possible. This is reportedly according to an internal survey conducted by the embassy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vs-biden-gun-violence-in-joe-bidens-us-sees-a-sharp-escalation-447054" hreflang="en">Trump vs Biden: Gun violence in Joe Biden's US sees a sharp escalation</a>

Diplomats could be subject to home quarantine as a baseline requirement and be able to seek treatment at Chinese fever clinics and hospitals on a voluntary basis, this person added, adding that USA should have taken retaliatory measures for such requirements.

According to a second source, US embassy leadership failed to get adequate assurances from China in relation to the treatment of diplomats throughout the pandemic.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China wants to "purify" the internet

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The US government evacuated some 1,300 diplomats and family members from China in the early months of the pandemic. The two governments remained at odds for months over testing and quarantine procedures.

In general, China has required that foreign diplomats adhere to pandemic control rules like regular citizens do. This includes weeks of quarantine in government facilities where individuals don't have freedom of movement.

As the opening of the Beijing Winter Olympics approaches on Feb 4, China has stepped up its efforts to stop the spread of COVID, despite flare-ups of the virus still occurring throughout the city.

Two million residents in one Beijing district were set to take part in a new round of tests on Tuesday.

Global Times, China's nationalist tabloid, called the State Department's consideration of the policy a "dirty trick" to sabotage China's hosting of the Olympics.

The United States has led several allied and partner countries in promoting a diplomatic boycott of the Olympics due to what it says is China's ongoing genocide against Uyghurs and other Muslim communities in Xinjiang, its western region.

(With inputs from agencies)

Reports indicate that the State Department is preparing to approve the departure of American diplomats and their families from China. Apparently, this is due to the inability of the US government to prevent Chinese authorities from enacting intrusive pandemic control measures, subjecting the Americans to them.

Reports indicate that the State Department is preparing to approve the departure of American diplomats and their families from China. Apparently, this is due to the inability of the US government to prevent Chinese authorities from enacting intrusive pandemic control measures, subjecting the Americans to them. In a report by Reuters, two sources confirmed the US Embassy sent the formal request to Washington on Monday as China stepped up COVID-19 containment protocols ahead of the start of the Beijing Winter Olympics that begin in less than two weeks from now. Also read | Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work? The report also mentions that some embassy staff is unhappy that the US government has not protected American officials from strict quarantine measures. Among the rules is the possibility of forcing admission to COVID fever clinics and separation from children. There is no word from the State Department on whether it approved the embassy's request. One staff member said approximately 25% of staff and family members of the US Embassy in Beijing plan on leaving China as soon as possible. This is reportedly according to an internal survey conducted by the embassy. Also read | Trump vs Biden: Gun violence in Joe Biden's US sees a sharp escalation Diplomats could be subject to home quarantine as a baseline requirement and be able to seek treatment at Chinese fever clinics and hospitals on a voluntary basis, this person added, adding that USA should have taken retaliatory measures for such requirements. According to a second source, US embassy leadership failed to get adequate assurances from China in relation to the treatment of diplomats throughout the pandemic. Watch | Gravitas: China wants to "purify" the internet The US government evacuated some 1,300 diplomats and family members from China in the early months of the pandemic. The two governments remained at odds for months over testing and quarantine procedures. In general, China has required that foreign diplomats adhere to pandemic control rules like regular citizens do. This includes weeks of quarantine in government facilities where individuals don't have freedom of movement. As the opening of the Beijing Winter Olympics approaches on Feb 4, China has stepped up its efforts to stop the spread of COVID, despite flare-ups of the virus still occurring throughout the city. Two million residents in one Beijing district were set to take part in a new round of tests on Tuesday. Global Times, China's nationalist tabloid, called the State Department's consideration of the policy a "dirty trick" to sabotage China's hosting of the Olympics. The United States has led several allied and partner countries in promoting a diplomatic boycott of the Olympics due to what it says is China's ongoing genocide against Uyghurs and other Muslim communities in Xinjiang, its western region. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Winter Olympics, over 25% of US diplomats may leave China. Find out why

The Winter Olympics begin in less than 3 weeks. A group of activists is giving the Olympians some advice. They say athletes should stay silent on the issue of human rights in Beijing. IOC might not be able to protect them. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Winter Olympics: Athletes could pay a heavy price for speaking out

With the Winter Olympics just around the corner, speculations are running high on which countries will finally send their athletes and diplomats to the Chinese capital to take part in the winter games. Now according to the latest reports that have come in, no high-level political representation from India is expected during the Winter Olympics. However, India will send Arif Khan, the only entry from India this time.

Kashmir's Arif Khan will represent India in Beijing Winter Olympics

Chinese officials have increased travel restrictions in Tibet ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, and have placed a strong police presence in Lhasa, the regional capital.

According to a source quoted by Radio Free Asia, Beijing is imposing limits on Tibetans' movements in the area by beefing up security in the area.

Last Monday, China's Information Service announced that during the Olympic Games, visitors to the nation will be closely monitored. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-trying-to-show-everything-is-good-in-tibet-says-tibetan-government-in-exile-400233">Also read | China trying to show everything is good in Tibet, says Tibetan government in exile</a>

"In just a few days, tighter security and limitations have been imposed in the Tibetan areas of Lhasa, Shigatse, Chamdo, Draggo, Ngaba, and Rebkong," according to a source reported by RFA. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exiled-tibetans-in-india-protest-the-demolition-of-buddha-statue-in-tibet-440882">Also read | Exiled Tibetans in India protest the demolition of Buddha statue in Tibet</a>

The presence of police and armed security officers in Lhasa is tremendous.

Visitors to the regional capital are being interrogated extensively, according to the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Officials are also investigating restaurants and shops, he added.

According to RFA, a former resident of Draggo, Sichuan province, reported that Chinese authorities have initiated household inspections in these locations, citing his local contacts.

China is deploying large security forces and conducting extensive security checks in the run-up to the Beijing Winter Olympics.

The United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Lithuania have all indicated that they will boycott the games diplomatically.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese officials have increased travel restrictions in Tibet ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, and have placed a strong police presence in Lhasa, the regional capital.

Chinese officials have increased travel restrictions in Tibet ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, and have placed a strong police presence in Lhasa, the regional capital. According to a source quoted by Radio Free Asia, Beijing is imposing limits on Tibetans' movements in the area by beefing up security in the area. Last Monday, China's Information Service announced that during the Olympic Games, visitors to the nation will be closely monitored. Also read | China trying to show everything is good in Tibet, says Tibetan government in exile "In just a few days, tighter security and limitations have been imposed in the Tibetan areas of Lhasa, Shigatse, Chamdo, Draggo, Ngaba, and Rebkong," according to a source reported by RFA. Also read | Exiled Tibetans in India protest the demolition of Buddha statue in Tibet The presence of police and armed security officers in Lhasa is tremendous. Visitors to the regional capital are being interrogated extensively, according to the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Officials are also investigating restaurants and shops, he added. According to RFA, a former resident of Draggo, Sichuan province, reported that Chinese authorities have initiated household inspections in these locations, citing his local contacts. China is deploying large security forces and conducting extensive security checks in the run-up to the Beijing Winter Olympics. The United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Lithuania have all indicated that they will boycott the games diplomatically. (With inputs from agencies)

Heavy travel restrictions imposed in Tibet ahead of Beijing Winter Olympics: Report

Amid the ongoing diplomatic bandwagon, Japan says it won't send a government delegation to China for Beijing Winter Olympics

Japan says it would not send govt officials to upcoming winter games

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development.

Washington will not prevent China's emergence as a global competitor by dragging politics into sports, Putin said in reply to a question at his annual news conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nhl-says-wont-send-players-for-beijing-games-after-regular-season-disrupted-due-to-surge-in-covid-19-cases-439109">NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

Canada and the United Kingdom have said they will join the United States in a diplomatic boycott of the games, a move which Beijing has condemned as a betrayal of the Olympic principles. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States and its allies a mistake driven by a desire to restrain China's development. Washington will not prevent China's emergence as a global competitor by dragging politics into sports, Putin said in reply to a question at his annual news conference. ALSO READ: NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases Canada and the United Kingdom have said they will join the United States in a diplomatic boycott of the games, a move which Beijing has condemned as a betrayal of the Olympic principles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin says Western diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics is a mistake

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

"Unfortunately, given the profound disruption to the NHL's regular-season schedule caused by recent COVID-related events -- 50 games already have been postponed through Dec. 23 -- Olympic participation is no longer feasible," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said.

The NHL agreed last September to pause its regular season so the world's top players could compete in Beijing but could withdraw from the agreement if COVID-19 disruptions forced games to be rescheduled during the Olympics window.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/most-countries-wont-join-diplomatic-boycott-of-beijing-winter-olympics-says-ioc-president-thomas-bach-437195">Most countries won't join diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics, says IOC President Thomas Bach</a>

With COVID-19 spreading through team locker rooms, the NHL, in an attempt to combat the outbreak, brought its Christmas break forward to shut down operations from Wednesday through to Dec. 27.

The NHL had until Jan. 10 to withdraw from the Feb. 4-20 Olympics without financial penalty.

The decision comes as a huge disappointment for players, who had negotiated a return to the Olympics into the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

"Since the CBA extension was reached 17 months ago, NHL players have looked forward with great anticipation to once again participating in the Winter Olympics," said NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) Executive Director Don Fehr in a statement.

"Until very recently, we seemed to be on a clear path to go to Beijing.

"COVID-19 has unfortunately intervened, forcing dozens of games to be postponed this month alone. No matter how much we wish it were not the case, we need to utilize the Olympic period to reschedule these games."

The NHL, unhappy over the prospect of interrupting a regular season to send their most valuable assets overseas where they could get hurt, ended a run of participation in five consecutive Winter Olympics when it decided not to go to Pyeongchang in 2018.

The presence of NHL players at the Olympics made the men`s ice hockey tournament one of the marquee events of the global sporting showcase.

Countries will now have to quickly put a Plan B in place.

For Canada and the United States, which would have sent teams stocked completely with NHL players, that will mean a top to bottom overhaul cobbling together a roster from other leagues.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-olympics-china-warns-australia-uk-us-for-diplomatic-boycott-says-will-pay-price-for-wrong-acts-435445">Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'</a>

Other countries, such as Sweden, Finland, Russia, Germany and Czech Republic, will also have big holes to fill with many of their best players also in the NHL.

Sweden, home to one of the most competitive leagues outside the NHL, said it had been preparing for the possibility that NHL players would not be available.

"We are prepared for a situation where the NHL players don`t take part in the Olympics," Johan Hemline, head of hockey operations at the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), told Reuters in an interview. "It has been a possible scenario for some time, and we are prepared."

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

The National Hockey League said on Wednesday it will not send its players to compete in the men's ice hockey tournament at the Beijing Winter Olympics after the regular season schedule was disrupted due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. "Unfortunately, given the profound disruption to the NHL's regular-season schedule caused by recent COVID-related events -- 50 games already have been postponed through Dec. 23 -- Olympic participation is no longer feasible," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. The NHL agreed last September to pause its regular season so the world's top players could compete in Beijing but could withdraw from the agreement if COVID-19 disruptions forced games to be rescheduled during the Olympics window. ALSO READ: Most countries won't join diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics, says IOC President Thomas Bach With COVID-19 spreading through team locker rooms, the NHL, in an attempt to combat the outbreak, brought its Christmas break forward to shut down operations from Wednesday through to Dec. 27. The NHL had until Jan. 10 to withdraw from the Feb. 4-20 Olympics without financial penalty. The decision comes as a huge disappointment for players, who had negotiated a return to the Olympics into the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). "Since the CBA extension was reached 17 months ago, NHL players have looked forward with great anticipation to once again participating in the Winter Olympics," said NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) Executive Director Don Fehr in a statement. "Until very recently, we seemed to be on a clear path to go to Beijing. "COVID-19 has unfortunately intervened, forcing dozens of games to be postponed this month alone. No matter how much we wish it were not the case, we need to utilize the Olympic period to reschedule these games." The NHL, unhappy over the prospect of interrupting a regular season to send their most valuable assets overseas where they could get hurt, ended a run of participation in five consecutive Winter Olympics when it decided not to go to Pyeongchang in 2018. The presence of NHL players at the Olympics made the men`s ice hockey tournament one of the marquee events of the global sporting showcase. Countries will now have to quickly put a Plan B in place. For Canada and the United States, which would have sent teams stocked completely with NHL players, that will mean a top to bottom overhaul cobbling together a roster from other leagues. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' Other countries, such as Sweden, Finland, Russia, Germany and Czech Republic, will also have big holes to fill with many of their best players also in the NHL. Sweden, home to one of the most competitive leagues outside the NHL, said it had been preparing for the possibility that NHL players would not be available. "We are prepared for a situation where the NHL players don`t take part in the Olympics," Johan Hemline, head of hockey operations at the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), told Reuters in an interview. "It has been a possible scenario for some time, and we are prepared."

NHL says won't send players for Beijing Games after regular season disrupted due to surge in COVID-19 cases

China wants the upcoming Beijing Olympics to be one-of-a-kind event for many reasons. It aims to run the games on clean energy and for this it has been building large solar parks. But behind the scene is the dark reality of land grabbing and forced evictions.

Human cost of China's green energy rush ahead of Beijing Winter Olympics

China expects to hold the 2022 Winter Olympics "smoothly" and on schedule, despite challenges posed by the emergence of the new Omicron coronavirus variant.

China: Winter Olympics will proceed as planned despite Omicron challenge

A majority of governments from the 90 countries participating in the 2022 Beijing winter Olympics have not opted to join a diplomatic boycott of the Games, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach said.

The United States, Britain and Australia are among countries that recently announced a diplomatic boycott of the Feb. 4-20 Beijing Games over China's human rights record, a stand that China dismissed as "political posturing".

In the European Union, countries such as France have sought a common EU response but the bloc is torn over whether to join the diplomatic boycott, fearful of Chinese retaliation that would hurt trade.

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"There are countries like the United States, Britain and Australia who took that decision," Bach told German broadcaster ZDF late on Tuesday.

"Several other countries, and not only several, if we say there will be 90 National Olympic Committees (NOC) present at the Games, there are most likely more than 70 or even more than 80 NOCs whose governments have not made such statements."

"But they all have one thing in common and that is they support their Olympic teams ... so that their athletes can live their Olympic dreams," Bach said.

Rights groups have long criticised the IOC for awarding the Games to China for a second time, after human rights conditions following the 2008 Beijing summer Olympics failed to improve, according to the groups.

Last week, Tibetan students chained themselves to the Olympic rings outside the IOC's Swiss headquarters in Lausanne, calling for an international Games boycott.

Similar protests took place during the Beijing Games torch-lighting ceremony in Greece's ancient Olympia and Athens in October.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-olympics-china-warns-australia-uk-us-for-diplomatic-boycott-says-will-pay-price-for-wrong-acts-435445">Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'</a>

"What happened in between those years politically is not in our sphere of influence," said Bach, a German lawyer who won gold in fencing at the 1976 Olympics.

"You cannot blame the IOC and make it responsible for something a generation or two of politicians did not succeed in."

"We are responsible for the Olympic Games," Bach said. "Expectations that the Games can change the political system of a country are exaggerated."

A majority of governments from the 90 countries participating in the 2022 Beijing winter Olympics have not opted to join a diplomatic boycott of the Games, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach said.

A majority of governments from the 90 countries participating in the 2022 Beijing winter Olympics have not opted to join a diplomatic boycott of the Games, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach said. The United States, Britain and Australia are among countries that recently announced a diplomatic boycott of the Feb. 4-20 Beijing Games over China's human rights record, a stand that China dismissed as "political posturing". In the European Union, countries such as France have sought a common EU response but the bloc is torn over whether to join the diplomatic boycott, fearful of Chinese retaliation that would hurt trade. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024 opening ceremony to be held on the River Seine - WATCH "There are countries like the United States, Britain and Australia who took that decision," Bach told German broadcaster ZDF late on Tuesday. "Several other countries, and not only several, if we say there will be 90 National Olympic Committees (NOC) present at the Games, there are most likely more than 70 or even more than 80 NOCs whose governments have not made such statements." "But they all have one thing in common and that is they support their Olympic teams ... so that their athletes can live their Olympic dreams," Bach said. Rights groups have long criticised the IOC for awarding the Games to China for a second time, after human rights conditions following the 2008 Beijing summer Olympics failed to improve, according to the groups. Last week, Tibetan students chained themselves to the Olympic rings outside the IOC's Swiss headquarters in Lausanne, calling for an international Games boycott. Similar protests took place during the Beijing Games torch-lighting ceremony in Greece's ancient Olympia and Athens in October. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' "What happened in between those years politically is not in our sphere of influence," said Bach, a German lawyer who won gold in fencing at the 1976 Olympics. "You cannot blame the IOC and make it responsible for something a generation or two of politicians did not succeed in." "We are responsible for the Olympic Games," Bach said. "Expectations that the Games can change the political system of a country are exaggerated."

Most countries won't join diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics, says IOC President Thomas Bach

China is struggling with fulfilling its claim of making the country COVID free for the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022, scheduled to be held in February next year.

The Chinese authorities are willing and doing, everything that is required to keep the caseload to remain at zero. Despite strict protocols, some regions in China are reporting fresh cases daily.

China has implemented zero local transmissions, an official policy, at the cost of people's freedom and violation of rights.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tibetan-students-lock-themselves-to-olympic-rings-to-protest-beijing-winter-olympics-436100">Tibetan students lock themselves to Olympic rings to protest Beijing Winter Olympics</a>

Citing a CNN report, Hong Kong Post reported that despite the strict monitoring, "cases have been detected over the past week in the country's largest cities, from Beijing and Shanghai to Guangzhou".

However, China claims that Beijing is isolated from the rest of the country during the period of the Winter Games to ensure that the virus does not enter the capital city.

At the beginning of the week, at least 61 new cases of COVID-19 were reported from the Chinese mainland, as per local media.

The Winter Games are already controversial because several countries led by the United States announced a diplomatic boycott.

Canada is the latest country to join the diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, first initiated by the United States. The two other countries are Australia and the United Kingdom.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/senior-japanese-officials-to-skip-beijing-winter-olympics-in-a-diplomatic-boycott-report-436038">Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report</a>

Human rights activists have raised their voices against China`s detention of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang province and crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

In March, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union imposed sanctions on four Chinese officials and one entity for alleged human rights violations in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, according to Sputnik.&nbsp;

China is struggling with fulfilling its claim of making the country COVID free for the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022, scheduled to be held in February next year.

China is struggling with fulfilling its claim of making the country COVID free for the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022, scheduled to be held in February next year. The Chinese authorities are willing and doing, everything that is required to keep the caseload to remain at zero. Despite strict protocols, some regions in China are reporting fresh cases daily. China has implemented zero local transmissions, an official policy, at the cost of people's freedom and violation of rights. ALSO READ: Tibetan students lock themselves to Olympic rings to protest Beijing Winter Olympics Citing a CNN report, Hong Kong Post reported that despite the strict monitoring, "cases have been detected over the past week in the country's largest cities, from Beijing and Shanghai to Guangzhou". However, China claims that Beijing is isolated from the rest of the country during the period of the Winter Games to ensure that the virus does not enter the capital city. At the beginning of the week, at least 61 new cases of COVID-19 were reported from the Chinese mainland, as per local media. The Winter Games are already controversial because several countries led by the United States announced a diplomatic boycott. Canada is the latest country to join the diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, first initiated by the United States. The two other countries are Australia and the United Kingdom. ALSO READ: Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report Human rights activists have raised their voices against China`s detention of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang province and crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. In March, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union imposed sanctions on four Chinese officials and one entity for alleged human rights violations in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, according to Sputnik.

China worried about COVID-19 spoiling Beijing Winter Olympics 2022

Two Tibetan students chained themselves to the Olympic rings outside the Swiss headquarters of the International Olympic Committee on Saturday to call for an international boycott of next year's winter games.

The pair were part of the latest protest against the 2022 Olympic Games over Beijing's abuse of human rights and its treatment of minorities.

The United States will not send government officials to the 2022 Winter Olympics due to China's human rights "atrocities," it said earlier this month.

Members of the Tibetan Youth Association in Europe (TYAE) and Students for a Free Tibet held a sit-in at the IOC building in Lausanne as officials gathered for a meeting.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/senior-japanese-officials-to-skip-beijing-winter-olympics-in-a-diplomatic-boycott-report-436038">Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report</a>

The activists demanded countries withdraw from the event they have called the "Genocide Games", which they say are being used to burnish China's reputation.

China seized control of Tibet after its troops entered the region in 1950 in what it calls a "peaceful liberation". Tibet has since become one of the most restricted areas in the country. Critics, led by exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, say Beijing's rule amounts to "cultural genocide".

Two activists unfurled a banner over the entry to the building reading, "No Beijing 2022," while five students got inside the building and held a sit-in protest.

"Despite mounting international criticism of the IOC and China, the Chinese regime`s human rights abuses in Tibet, East Turkestan, and Hong Kong continue unabated," said Tenzing Dhokhar, Campaigns Director of TYAE, one of the protesters.

"By collaborating with China, the IOC is making itself an accomplice of the Chinese Communist Party`s crimes, which will be sports-washed by the Beijing Olympics."

Police started removing the campaigners after three hours of protests. Organisers and a Reuters eyewitness described the protest as peaceful, but the IOC said one of its security guards was injured.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-olympics-china-warns-australia-uk-us-for-diplomatic-boycott-says-will-pay-price-for-wrong-acts-435445">Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'</a>

"The IOC always listens to all concerns that are directly related to the Olympic Games. We have engaged multiple times with peaceful protesters and explained our position, but we will not engage with violent protesters who used force to enter the IOC building and injured a security guard by doing so," the IOC said in a statement.

The organisation has previously said it is a force for good and cannot have any influence over sovereign states.

Chinese authorities have been accused of facilitating forced labour by detaining around a million Uyghurs and other primarily Muslim minorities in camps since 2016.

China denies wrongdoing, saying it has set up vocational training centres to combat extremism.

Two Tibetan students chained themselves to the Olympic rings outside the Swiss headquarters of the International Olympic Committee on Saturday to call for an international boycott of next year's winter games.

Two Tibetan students chained themselves to the Olympic rings outside the Swiss headquarters of the International Olympic Committee on Saturday to call for an international boycott of next year's winter games. The pair were part of the latest protest against the 2022 Olympic Games over Beijing's abuse of human rights and its treatment of minorities. The United States will not send government officials to the 2022 Winter Olympics due to China's human rights "atrocities," it said earlier this month. Members of the Tibetan Youth Association in Europe (TYAE) and Students for a Free Tibet held a sit-in at the IOC building in Lausanne as officials gathered for a meeting. ALSO READ: Senior Japanese officials to skip Beijing Winter Olympics in a diplomatic boycott - Report The activists demanded countries withdraw from the event they have called the "Genocide Games", which they say are being used to burnish China's reputation. China seized control of Tibet after its troops entered the region in 1950 in what it calls a "peaceful liberation". Tibet has since become one of the most restricted areas in the country. Critics, led by exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, say Beijing's rule amounts to "cultural genocide". Two activists unfurled a banner over the entry to the building reading, "No Beijing 2022," while five students got inside the building and held a sit-in protest. "Despite mounting international criticism of the IOC and China, the Chinese regime`s human rights abuses in Tibet, East Turkestan, and Hong Kong continue unabated," said Tenzing Dhokhar, Campaigns Director of TYAE, one of the protesters. "By collaborating with China, the IOC is making itself an accomplice of the Chinese Communist Party`s crimes, which will be sports-washed by the Beijing Olympics." Police started removing the campaigners after three hours of protests. Organisers and a Reuters eyewitness described the protest as peaceful, but the IOC said one of its security guards was injured. ALSO READ: Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts' "The IOC always listens to all concerns that are directly related to the Olympic Games. We have engaged multiple times with peaceful protesters and explained our position, but we will not engage with violent protesters who used force to enter the IOC building and injured a security guard by doing so," the IOC said in a statement. The organisation has previously said it is a force for good and cannot have any influence over sovereign states. Chinese authorities have been accused of facilitating forced labour by detaining around a million Uyghurs and other primarily Muslim minorities in camps since 2016. China denies wrongdoing, saying it has set up vocational training centres to combat extremism.

Tibetan students lock themselves to Olympic rings to protest Beijing Winter Olympics

China has warned Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, saying that nations would "pay the price" for the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

China has warned Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, saying that nations would "pay the price" for the diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. On Monday (December 6), the US announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics citing reports of 'egregious' human rights violations, which China has denied repeatedly. Hours after the United States' announcement, Australia, the UK and Canada also confirmed that they will not send government officials to the Games, which will be held between February 4 to February 20 next year. ALSO READ | Canada announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics citing human rights violations by China However, the athletes of the mentioned countries will participate as scheduled. In the aftermath, Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson at the Chinese foreign ministry told a regular news conference: "The United States, Britain and Australia have used the Olympics platform for political manipulation. They will have to pay the price for their mistaken acts." Meanwhile, France on Thursday said it will not be boycotting the Games, adding that violations of human rights in China must be condemned. French Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told BFM TV: "As for a diplomatic boycott... France will not do it... Sports is a world in itself, which must be protected from political interference, otherwise... we can end up by killing the competition." It is important to note that International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach said Wednesday (December 8) that he was staying politically neutral on the matter. He insisted that the important point is the "participation of the athletes in the Olympic Games". ALSO READ | British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announces 'diplomatic boycott' of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 Chinese Embassy in Australia reacts to diplomatic boycott The Chinese Embassy in Australia issued a statement saying that 'mountains can not stop the river from flowing into the sea' afrer Australia's decision. In the statement, the embassy blamed Australia for the current predicament of China-Australia relations, stating that the onus lies "squarely on the Australian side". Wishing the Australian athletes "excellent performance" for the Winter Olympics, the embassy said that they believe athletes will witness a streamlined and safe Olympics in China. (With inputs from agencies)

Winter Olympics: China warns Australia, UK, US for diplomatic boycott, says 'will pay price for wrong acts'

After the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, Canada now announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, scheduled to be held between February 4 to February 20 next year.

After the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, Canada now announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, scheduled to be held between February 4 to February 20 next year. Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada said that the nation remains "deeply disturbed" by reports of human rights violations in China which is the reason why the country will not send any diplomatic representatives to the event. In a news conference, PM Trudeau said, "As many (of our) partners around the world, we are extremely concerned by the repeated human rights violations by the Chinese government." ALSO READ | Chinese Embassy in Australia reacts to diplomatic boycott of Winter Olympics: 'Mountains can't stop the river' "That is why we are announcing today that we will not be sending any diplomatic representation to the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games this winter," he added. However, just like the above-mentioned countries, Canada will also send athletes to the Games. "Regarding the safety of our athletes, I can assure you that everything will be done by Canada and our allies to ensure that our athletes can focus on one thing and one only […]: representing Canada well and winning. Their job is to do that," Trudeau said. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Canada needed to send a strong message to Beijing. In the conference, Joly said, "We have several countries in the world sending a clear message to China that human rights violations [are] unacceptable. That's why we work at the diplomatic level together. That's why we work in coalition." ALSO READ | British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announces 'diplomatic boycott' of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 In a press release, the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Committees (COC) said respected the Trudeau government's decision. "This announcement makes an important distinction between athlete participation and government officials' participation in the Games. History has shown that boycotting athletes only hurts athletes without creating significant changes," COC said. Canada-China ties Recently, Canada's relations with Western countries are worsening over a range of issues as China has been facing criticism over reported genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and other human rights abuses. If we talk about Canada-China ties, the relations deteriorated over Beijing's detention of two Canadian nationals in response to Canada's arrest on a US warrant of Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huawei's founder. All three were released and repatriated in September.

Canada announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics citing human rights violations by China

The US has announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in Beijing. The UK, France and Japan are still undecided. Palki Sharma tells you why such half-measures will do little to deter Beijing.

Gravitas: US announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter games

Russia on Tuesday slammed the US move for a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in Beijing asserting that it should be "free of politics".&nbsp;

China had earlier threatened "countermeasures" against the US move. The Biden administration decided not to send government officials or official representatives due to China's alleged human rights atrocities&nbsp;as tensions continue to simmer between the two nations over the plight of Uighurs in China's Xinjiang region.

However, the US government added that&nbsp;"athletes on Team USA have our full support."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-announces-diplomatic-boycott-of-beijing-winter-olympics-due-to-human-rights-abuses-in-china-434742">Also Read:&nbsp;US announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics</a>

The US went ahead with the boycott even as President Biden had spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping last month. Biden is now set to speak to Russian President Putin on Tuesday over a video link.

China also hit out against the US asserting that the "US will pay the price for its wrongdoing", however, the country's foreign ministry hasn't specified the measures it is likely to take against the US.

Watch:&nbsp;United States announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics

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China said the US move was a result of "ideological prejudice" while saying that the games are "not a stage for political shows and political manipulation" even as the US said it wasn't "business as usual".

Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said his country will weigh all options and consider diplomatic relations before making a decision based on its national interest.

The Canadian government said it was informed about the US government's decision earlier and it would discuss the matter further with its allies while asserting that it was "deeply disturbed".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia on Tuesday slammed the US move for a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in Beijing asserting that it should be "free of politics". China had earlier threatened "countermeasures" against the US move.

Russia on Tuesday slammed the US move for a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in Beijing asserting that it should be "free of politics". China had earlier threatened "countermeasures" against the US move. The Biden administration decided not to send government officials or official representatives due to China's alleged human rights atrocities as tensions continue to simmer between the two nations over the plight of Uighurs in China's Xinjiang region. However, the US government added that "athletes on Team USA have our full support." Also Read: US announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics The US went ahead with the boycott even as President Biden had spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping last month. Biden is now set to speak to Russian President Putin on Tuesday over a video link. China also hit out against the US asserting that the "US will pay the price for its wrongdoing", however, the country's foreign ministry hasn't specified the measures it is likely to take against the US. Watch: United States announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics China said the US move was a result of "ideological prejudice" while saying that the games are "not a stage for political shows and political manipulation" even as the US said it wasn't "business as usual". Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said his country will weigh all options and consider diplomatic relations before making a decision based on its national interest. The Canadian government said it was informed about the US government's decision earlier and it would discuss the matter further with its allies while asserting that it was "deeply disturbed". (With inputs from Agencies)

Ahead of Biden-Putin virtual summit, Russia slams US move to boycott Beijing Winter Olympics

The Biden administration has announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing winter Olympics. The white house said that no official delegation would be sent to the games because of concerns about China's human rights record.

No official US delegation would be sent to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, says White House

The United States on Monday (December 6) announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. During a press&nbsp;briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki informed that US government officials will not attend the upcoming Winter Games which are all set to take place in the Chinese capital next year.&nbsp;

Although the athletes from the United States will still be allowed to compete as the Biden administration has decided not to send any diplomats or officials to the Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games. The United States was mulling the decision for a while now to protest against reported instances of human rights abuses in China.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-modified-weather-to-create-clear-skies-ahead-of-ccps-centenary-celebrations-study-434654">China ‘modified’ weather to create clear skies ahead of CCP’s centenary celebrations: Study</a>

Psaki announced the decision while citing human rights abuses as the reason behind the strong move. She said, "The Biden administration will not send any diplomatic or official representation to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games given the PRC's (People's Republic of China) ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and other human rights abuses."

"The athletes on Team USA have our full support. We will be behind them 100 per cent as we cheer them on from home," she added. The West has repeatedly slammed China, accusing it of perpetrating "genocide" against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, northwest China.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-athletes-group-asks-ioc-for-evidence-of-peng-shuais-safety-calls-for-investigation-434689">German athletes' group asks IOC for evidence of Peng Shuai's safety, calls for investigation</a>

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Tune in for a briefing with Press Secretary Jen Psaki. <a href="https://t.co/Hyc6c3ipzN">https://t.co/Hyc6c3ipzN</a>
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Psaki said that sending official representation to the Winter Olympics, scheduled to be held between February 4 to February 20 in 2022, would signal that, despite China's "egregious human rights abuses and atrocities in Xinjiang," the Games were "business as usual".&nbsp;

The United States on Monday (December 6) announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki informed that US government officials will not attend the upcoming Winter Games which are all set to take place in the Chinese capital next year.

The United States on Monday (December 6) announced a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki informed that US government officials will not attend the upcoming Winter Games which are all set to take place in the Chinese capital next year. Although the athletes from the United States will still be allowed to compete as the Biden administration has decided not to send any diplomats or officials to the Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games. The United States was mulling the decision for a while now to protest against reported instances of human rights abuses in China. ALSO READ | China ‘modified’ weather to create clear skies ahead of CCP’s centenary celebrations: Study Psaki announced the decision while citing human rights abuses as the reason behind the strong move. She said, "The Biden administration will not send any diplomatic or official representation to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games given the PRC's (People's Republic of China) ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and other human rights abuses." "The athletes on Team USA have our full support. We will be behind them 100 per cent as we cheer them on from home," she added. The West has repeatedly slammed China, accusing it of perpetrating "genocide" against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, northwest China. ALSO READ | German athletes' group asks IOC for evidence of Peng Shuai's safety, calls for investigation Tune in for a briefing with Press Secretary Jen Psaki. https://t.co/Hyc6c3ipzN — The White House (@WhiteHouse) December 6, 2021 × Psaki said that sending official representation to the Winter Olympics, scheduled to be held between February 4 to February 20 in 2022, would signal that, despite China's "egregious human rights abuses and atrocities in Xinjiang," the Games were "business as usual".

US announces diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics due to human rights abuses in China

The United States is about to announce a diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies, CNN reports.

The decision not to send any US government officials to the games, which begin on February 4, will be revealed this week, according to the media site, which cited numerous anonymous sources.&nbsp;

A request for comment from media was not immediately returned by China's Foreign Ministry. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-mulling-diplomatic-boycott-of-beijing-2022-winter-olympics-431788">Also read | Australia mulling diplomatic boycott of Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics</a>

The White House did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/omicron-will-lead-to-challenges-for-the-winter-olympics-china-432950">Also read | Omicron will 'lead to challenges' for the winter Olympics: China</a> 
 
Last month, US President Joe Biden said he was considering a diplomatic boycott to protest China's human rights record, which includes what the US claims is genocide against minority Muslims.

Activists and members of Congress have pressured the government to skip the games.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the White House declined to comment on CNN's allegation.

News reports stated that four individuals familiar with the administration's thinking said there was a growing agreement within the White House to keep US officials out of the Beijing Olympics.&nbsp; 
 
According to the report, a complete boycott is unlikely, thus US athletes will be able to compete.The last time the United States boycotted the Olympics was in 1980, under the presidency of former President Jimmy Carter.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States is about to announce a diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies, CNN reports.

The United States is about to announce a diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies, CNN reports. The decision not to send any US government officials to the games, which begin on February 4, will be revealed this week, according to the media site, which cited numerous anonymous sources. A request for comment from media was not immediately returned by China's Foreign Ministry. Also read | Australia mulling diplomatic boycott of Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics The White House did not respond to a request for comment. Also read | Omicron will 'lead to challenges' for the winter Olympics: China Last month, US President Joe Biden said he was considering a diplomatic boycott to protest China's human rights record, which includes what the US claims is genocide against minority Muslims. Activists and members of Congress have pressured the government to skip the games. On Sunday, the White House declined to comment on CNN's allegation. News reports stated that four individuals familiar with the administration's thinking said there was a growing agreement within the White House to keep US officials out of the Beijing Olympics. According to the report, a complete boycott is unlikely, thus US athletes will be able to compete.The last time the United States boycotted the Olympics was in 1980, under the presidency of former President Jimmy Carter. (With inputs from agencies)

United States to declare diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics: Report