People in Brussels recently learned that their streets had been hiding hundreds of human skeletons for years, some as old as 800 years. The discovery was made when work started to build tram tracks. Excavators dug up the area and found human remains. The archaeological department was then alerted, and they found at least 30 skeletons.&nbsp;
Officials say that there might be many more skeletons deep inside the streets. The mass grave is said to be from the old Saint-Jean Hospital, established in 1195.
Ans Persoons, secretary of state for Brussels, informed about the discovery in a Facebook post on April 9. She confirmed that the skeletons belonged to humans who were treated at the ancient hospital and died. "Thanks to preventive excavations, 30 skeletons have already been cleared," the translated post, originally in French and Dutch, read.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alaska-volcano-summit-crater-has-not-blown-in-5000-years-and-can-happen-now-8953766" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Explosive eruption': Alaska volcano summit crater has not blown in 5,000 years. This can change within weeks</a>
"During the work of the MIVB and urban.brussels archaeologists from VIVAQUA discovered remains of the cemetery of the former Sint-Jan clinic. Thanks to the yard, 30 skeletons could already be excavated," she wrote.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9dwcal3-f73k4mag-yo2ct7ag">
Excavation of former hospital graveyard sheds new light on Brussels' social history <a href="https://t.co/YSjNRPpE8t">https://t.co/YSjNRPpE8t</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belga</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Archaeology?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Archaeology</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Heritage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Heritage</a> <a href="https://t.co/oBOKzCsQKW">pic.twitter.com/oBOKzCsQKW</a>
&mdash; Belga News Agency_English (@Belga_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/Belga_English/status/1910284752348709354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
<h2>'Centuries-old cemetery' found on tram site</h2>
&nbsp;Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (MVIB) and workers from the city&rsquo;s public water operator VIVAQUA are working on the excavation. MVIB posted a video and said the &ldquo;centuries-old cemetery&rdquo; was discovered in the Regentstraat, in central Brussels. It added that the workers on site for tram tracks found the pile of bones.
Archaeologists say that the cemetery was used by people in the region "between the 14th and 18th centuries." They think the mass grave will offer an insight into the life of people in Brussels during that time.
Europe is filled with ancient cemeteries, many of which have come to the surface in the past few years. In 2024, the largest mass grave ever excavated in Europe was found in southern Germany. Around 1,000 skeletons of plague victims were found in the city of Nuremberg. The discovery was made when the survey was being done to build new buildings.&nbsp;
The same year, 50 Viking skeletons were discovered in Denmark.

Piles of human skeletons have been found under the streets of Brussels, some as old as 800 years. Officials say the mass grave is from a hospital. World Trending

People in Brussels recently learned that their streets had been hiding hundreds of human skeletons for years, some as old as 800 years. The discovery was made when work started to build tram tracks. Excavators dug up the area and found human remains. The archaeological department was then alerted, and they found at least 30 skeletons. Officials say that there might be many more skeletons deep inside the streets. The mass grave is said to be from the old Saint-Jean Hospital, established in 1195. Ans Persoons, secretary of state for Brussels, informed about the discovery in a Facebook post on April 9. She confirmed that the skeletons belonged to humans who were treated at the ancient hospital and died. "Thanks to preventive excavations, 30 skeletons have already been cleared," the translated post, originally in French and Dutch, read. Also Read: 'Explosive eruption': Alaska volcano summit crater has not blown in 5,000 years. This can change within weeks "During the work of the MIVB and urban.brussels archaeologists from VIVAQUA discovered remains of the cemetery of the former Sint-Jan clinic. Thanks to the yard, 30 skeletons could already be excavated," she wrote. Excavation of former hospital graveyard sheds new light on Brussels' social history https://t.co/YSjNRPpE8t#Belga #Archaeology #Heritage pic.twitter.com/oBOKzCsQKW — Belga News Agency_English (@Belga_English) April 10, 2025 'Centuries-old cemetery' found on tram site Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (MVIB) and workers from the city’s public water operator VIVAQUA are working on the excavation. MVIB posted a video and said the “centuries-old cemetery” was discovered in the Regentstraat, in central Brussels. It added that the workers on site for tram tracks found the pile of bones. Archaeologists say that the cemetery was used by people in the region "between the 14th and 18th centuries." They think the mass grave will offer an insight into the life of people in Brussels during that time. Europe is filled with ancient cemeteries, many of which have come to the surface in the past few years. In 2024, the largest mass grave ever excavated in Europe was found in southern Germany. Around 1,000 skeletons of plague victims were found in the city of Nuremberg. The discovery was made when the survey was being done to build new buildings. The same year, 50 Viking skeletons were discovered in Denmark.

Over 800-year-old human skeletons discovered under busy Brussels street

A new law implemented in Belgium on Tuesday prevents cigarettes or any tobacco products from being put on display in shops. Watch to know more!

Belgium bans display of tobacco products in shops; health plan to rid Belgium of tobacco by 2040

Indian authorities have reportedly urged Belgium to initiate fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi's extradition to India. This after reports surfaced that he, along with his wife Priti Choksi was residing in Antwerp. Watch in for more details!

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, says reports

Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, wanted in the $2 billion PNB fraud case, is reportedly living in Belgium. India had earlier sought his extradition from Antigua, but authorities now claim he is no longer on the island. Antigua and Barbuda have pledged to assist India in the legal process, while reports suggest Choksi may be planning to move to Switzerland.

Fugitive Mehul Choksi reportedly living in Belgium amid extradition battle

Keen to firm up defence ties with India, Belgium is seeking to conclude a cooperation agreement with Delhi. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the visiting Belgium Defence Minister Theo Francken said, "We will try to make a defence cooperation agreement this year. We will make a task force in New Delhi, one task force in Brussels, and we will put a military attach&eacute;, high ranked officer in the embassy here as soon as possible".&nbsp;
The minister is part of an ongoing visit of Belgium economic mission to India, led by Princess Astrid. The mission has over 300 delegates including many Belgium businesses who concluded several MoUs with the Indian side.
On Zorawar tank, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Larsen &amp; Toubro (L&amp;T), the Belgium side assured cooperation. The minister said, "we're working together, and we will make this tank together...It's a big batch, 700 tanks, so it's very important for the protection of the border of India". The Zorawar&rsquo;s armament includes a 105 mm gun from John Cockerill of Belgium.
WION: How is Belgium supporting Ukraine? Theo Francken: We are supporting Ukraine, 100%. Military, humanitarian aid, diplomatically we will stand with Ukraine, we will stand with Ukraine in this brutal war of aggression of the state of Russia. We will defend Ukraine, we will stand with Ukraine, and we will help as we have been doing for years, diplomatically, militarily, and humanitarian.&nbsp;
WION: How do you plan to firm up defence relationship with India? Theo Francken: I had a really good, fruitful meeting with your Prime Minister, also with the minister of defence. We will try to make a defense cooperation agreement this year. We will make a task force in New Delhi, one task force in Brussels, and we will put a military attach&eacute;, high ranked officer in the embassy here as soon as possible. &nbsp; WION: Any update on the cooperation on tanks? Theo Francken: The Zorawar is a very important tank. It's a high-altitude tank, so it has to work in extreme conditions, minus 15 to above 50 degrees. So it's very important to have really robust equipment. We have experience with John Cockerill defence and a really, really big and important company who's been working with the Indian defence industry for long, long years. We're working together, and we will make this tank together. Hopefully the contract is not really finally passed, but it's looking very good, and we emphasize that also with your Prime Minister, also with the Minister of defense. He knows John Cockerill defence well. Experience is very good, so I hope that it comes to an end. It's a big batch, 700 tanks, so it's very important for the protection of the border of India.
WION: And you plan to invite the Indian defence minister, Indian Navy ships to Belgium? Theo Francken: So, I invite the Navy ships to come to the Navy days in Belgium. It's a really important event, an annual event, for hundreds of thousands of people in Belgium, they love our defence, they love our Navy. And I hope to see an Indian Navy ship coming. We will have a port call, and Belgian frigates can visit Indian ports, in a signal of collaboration, military collaboration, it is very important. I invited the minister of defence to sign the cooperation agreement in Brussels, hopefully before the end of the year, and otherwise I will come. I will, it will be lovely to come again to New Delhi.&nbsp;
WION: Summing up, how important is this economic mission? Theo Francken: Indo-Pacific is the future, and Indo-Pacific is a very important region, also for Europe and the Atlantic region. So, we will collaborate. It's really important. It was very good. You're a warm welcoming people. &nbsp;You're beautiful people. And I will be pleased to come again to New Delhi, to your beautiful country.
WION: What do you mean by Indo-Pacific? Are you talking about the concerns about the Indo-Pacific? What is the pivot of Belgium towards the Indo-Pacific? Theo Francken: I think there's a lot of threats. We are living in a geopolitical, very dangerous situation in Europe, but also here. And I think it's important that we collaborate. You're the biggest democracy in the world. We have a democracy, a very old democracy. We have the oldest constitution of the world. So I hope that we can work together.

India News: Keen to firm up defence ties with India, Belgium is seeking to conclude a cooperation agreement with Delhi, said visiting Belgium Defence Minister Theo Francken in an interview with WION

Keen to firm up defence ties with India, Belgium is seeking to conclude a cooperation agreement with Delhi. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the visiting Belgium Defence Minister Theo Francken said, "We will try to make a defence cooperation agreement this year. We will make a task force in New Delhi, one task force in Brussels, and we will put a military attaché, high ranked officer in the embassy here as soon as possible". The minister is part of an ongoing visit of Belgium economic mission to India, led by Princess Astrid. The mission has over 300 delegates including many Belgium businesses who concluded several MoUs with the Indian side. On Zorawar tank, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the Belgium side assured cooperation. The minister said, "we're working together, and we will make this tank together...It's a big batch, 700 tanks, so it's very important for the protection of the border of India". The Zorawar’s armament includes a 105 mm gun from John Cockerill of Belgium. WION: How is Belgium supporting Ukraine? Theo Francken: We are supporting Ukraine, 100%. Military, humanitarian aid, diplomatically we will stand with Ukraine, we will stand with Ukraine in this brutal war of aggression of the state of Russia. We will defend Ukraine, we will stand with Ukraine, and we will help as we have been doing for years, diplomatically, militarily, and humanitarian. WION: How do you plan to firm up defence relationship with India? Theo Francken: I had a really good, fruitful meeting with your Prime Minister, also with the minister of defence. We will try to make a defense cooperation agreement this year. We will make a task force in New Delhi, one task force in Brussels, and we will put a military attaché, high ranked officer in the embassy here as soon as possible. WION: Any update on the cooperation on tanks? Theo Francken: The Zorawar is a very important tank. It's a high-altitude tank, so it has to work in extreme conditions, minus 15 to above 50 degrees. So it's very important to have really robust equipment. We have experience with John Cockerill defence and a really, really big and important company who's been working with the Indian defence industry for long, long years. We're working together, and we will make this tank together. Hopefully the contract is not really finally passed, but it's looking very good, and we emphasize that also with your Prime Minister, also with the Minister of defense. He knows John Cockerill defence well. Experience is very good, so I hope that it comes to an end. It's a big batch, 700 tanks, so it's very important for the protection of the border of India. WION: And you plan to invite the Indian defence minister, Indian Navy ships to Belgium? Theo Francken: So, I invite the Navy ships to come to the Navy days in Belgium. It's a really important event, an annual event, for hundreds of thousands of people in Belgium, they love our defence, they love our Navy. And I hope to see an Indian Navy ship coming. We will have a port call, and Belgian frigates can visit Indian ports, in a signal of collaboration, military collaboration, it is very important. I invited the minister of defence to sign the cooperation agreement in Brussels, hopefully before the end of the year, and otherwise I will come. I will, it will be lovely to come again to New Delhi. WION: Summing up, how important is this economic mission? Theo Francken: Indo-Pacific is the future, and Indo-Pacific is a very important region, also for Europe and the Atlantic region. So, we will collaborate. It's really important. It was very good. You're a warm welcoming people. You're beautiful people. And I will be pleased to come again to New Delhi, to your beautiful country. WION: What do you mean by Indo-Pacific? Are you talking about the concerns about the Indo-Pacific? What is the pivot of Belgium towards the Indo-Pacific? Theo Francken: I think there's a lot of threats. We are living in a geopolitical, very dangerous situation in Europe, but also here. And I think it's important that we collaborate. You're the biggest democracy in the world. We have a democracy, a very old democracy. We have the oldest constitution of the world. So I hope that we can work together.

Tanks, defence attaché, agreements: Belgium keen to firm up defence ties with India

Belgium foreign minister Maxime Prévot, who is on a visit to Delhi has termed India as a big 'opportunity' for businesses from his country. The foreign minister is part of an Economic mission from Belgium led by Princess Astrid to India.

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal he said, "India is an amazing country. It is not just the biggest democracy, but is country for large opportunity."

Belgium is one of the largest trade partners of India in the European Union. During the visit over 20 MoUs were signed. 

The foreign minister also spoke about war in Ukraine. He said that his country will "stand with Ukraine"

Belgium Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot: India is an opportunity | WION exclusive interview

Belgium defence minister Theo Francken has said that his country will firm up defence ties with India, including appointing of a Defence Attache at the Belgium embassy in Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to his country's role for Zorawar light tank, developed for the Indian Army by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Belgium’s role in the Zorawar tank is tied to the supply of its 105 mm gun turret, a critical component for its combat capabilities. The minister also spoke about the war in Ukraine.

India, Belgium to collaborate on Indo-Pacific defense | Belgian Defence Minister speaks to WION

Belgium defence minister Theo Francken has said that his country will firm up defence ties with India, including appointing of a Defence Attache at the Belgium embassy in Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to his country's role for the Zorawar light tank, developed for the Indian Army by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Belgium’s role in the Zorawar tank is tied to the supply of its 105 mm gun turret, a critical component for its combat capabilities. The minister also spoke about the war in Ukraine.

Belgium defence minister Francken says will firm up ties with India

Belgium's football association on Friday announced the sacking of national team coach Domenico Tedesco after disappointing performances at Euro 2024 and in the Nations League.
<h2>Tedesco sacked</h2>
"Unfortunately, the Red Devils did not perform as we hoped at Euro 2024, just as they did in the next Nations League campaign," the football association (RBFA) said on their website.
Tedesco was appointed in February 2023 to replace Roberto Martinez and rebuild the squad as the country's "golden generation" departed.
Tedesco's team qualified for Euro 2024 but were eliminated in the last 16 by France, who then beat Belgium twice more in the Nations League as the Red Devils finished third in their group.
They face a relegation play-off against Ukraine in March.
"I was always proud to be the coach of the Red Devils, we achieved great things together," Tedesco said.
"This team is still at the beginning of its development and will cause a sensation in the coming years. I wish the players, the great employees of the federation and the fans all the best from the bottom of my heart."
The dismissal had been expected for several weeks, but the negotiations took time because of the complicated financial situation of the RBFA.
The 39-year-old Tedesco was under contract until 2026 at an estimated annual salary of 1.7 million euros ($1.75 million).
Five members of Tedesco's support staff and coaching team were also fired.
"Domenico made an excellent start as national coach and proved that there are still great things possible, even after the send-off of the previous generation," said RBFA CEO Peter Willems.
"He has integrated a number of young players into the team, and his successor can build on this. We would like to thank him and his team for the pleasant cooperation, their hard work and dedication, and wish them all the best for the future."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/nathan-lyon-donates-kohli-bumrah-signed-bats-to-support-disabled-cricketers-8630473" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Lyon donates Kohli, Bumrah-signed bats to support disabled cricketers</a>
The RBFA did not announce a timetable for appointing a successor.&nbsp;
Belgian media have reported that the RBFA technical director Vincent Mannaert had approached Sergio Conceicao, who instead accepted the AC Milan job, as well as former Barcelona great Xavi and sacked Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, who were not interested.
Local news reports named Frenchmen Rudi Garcia and Thierry Henry and Dutchman Mark van Bommel as leading candidates.
Belgium kick off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to North Macedonia in June.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Domenico Tedesco was appointed in February 2023 to replace Roberto Martinez and rebuild the squad as the country's "golden generation" departed.

Belgium's football association on Friday announced the sacking of national team coach Domenico Tedesco after disappointing performances at Euro 2024 and in the Nations League. Tedesco sacked "Unfortunately, the Red Devils did not perform as we hoped at Euro 2024, just as they did in the next Nations League campaign," the football association (RBFA) said on their website. Tedesco was appointed in February 2023 to replace Roberto Martinez and rebuild the squad as the country's "golden generation" departed. Tedesco's team qualified for Euro 2024 but were eliminated in the last 16 by France, who then beat Belgium twice more in the Nations League as the Red Devils finished third in their group. They face a relegation play-off against Ukraine in March. "I was always proud to be the coach of the Red Devils, we achieved great things together," Tedesco said. "This team is still at the beginning of its development and will cause a sensation in the coming years. I wish the players, the great employees of the federation and the fans all the best from the bottom of my heart." The dismissal had been expected for several weeks, but the negotiations took time because of the complicated financial situation of the RBFA. The 39-year-old Tedesco was under contract until 2026 at an estimated annual salary of 1.7 million euros ($1.75 million). Five members of Tedesco's support staff and coaching team were also fired. "Domenico made an excellent start as national coach and proved that there are still great things possible, even after the send-off of the previous generation," said RBFA CEO Peter Willems. "He has integrated a number of young players into the team, and his successor can build on this. We would like to thank him and his team for the pleasant cooperation, their hard work and dedication, and wish them all the best for the future." ALSO READ | Lyon donates Kohli, Bumrah-signed bats to support disabled cricketers The RBFA did not announce a timetable for appointing a successor. Belgian media have reported that the RBFA technical director Vincent Mannaert had approached Sergio Conceicao, who instead accepted the AC Milan job, as well as former Barcelona great Xavi and sacked Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, who were not interested. Local news reports named Frenchmen Rudi Garcia and Thierry Henry and Dutchman Mark van Bommel as leading candidates. Belgium kick off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to North Macedonia in June. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Belgium sack national team coach Domenico Tedesco after poor Euro 2024, Nations League campaign

Belgium has become the first European Union country to ban disposable e-cigarettes, with the ban taking effect from the 1st of January. Part of a national anti-tobacco plan, the ban targets the health risks and environmental damage caused by single-use vapes, which are popular among teens. Disposable vapes, filled with high nicotine levels, contribute to pollution through plastic and lithium batteries. Watch in for more details!

Belgium First EU Country To Ban Disposable E-Cigarettes

European Space Agency (ESA) teams at Redu, Belgium are trying to perform a software tweak to fix the ongoing issue with their Proba-3 satellite, the launch of which has been put on hold at the Indian spaceport in Sriharikota. Barely 50 minutes before the planned liftoff at IST 4:08 pm, Wednesday (Dec 4), aboard the ISRO PSLV rocket, the launch mission was put on hold due to an anomaly with the European-made satellite. 
 
ISRO says that the launch has been rescheduled to 16:04 hrs Indian time, Thursday, as per a request from the European Space Agency.&nbsp;Subject to the resolution of the issue, ISRO and ESA are now looking at 4:04 pm IST, Thursday (Dec 5), as the backup launch date.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Proba3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Proba3</a> launch has been postponed due to an issue with the propulsion system that ensures that the Coronagraph satellite points in the right direction..<a href="https://twitter.com/esa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@esa</a> teams at Redu, Belgium are working on a software fix: ESA 
Wishing them the best <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/science?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#science</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tech?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> <a href="https://t.co/hy89R7MqBN">pic.twitter.com/hy89R7MqBN</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1864296265481376086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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According to ESA, during Proba3’s pre-launch preparations at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, an anomaly occurred in the redundant propulsion system of the Coronagraph Spacecraft. Proba-3 comprises two crafts – the Occulter and the Coronagraph.&nbsp;

This redundant propulsion system (in which an anomaly is observed), is responsible for ensuring that the satellite points in the right direction while in space and can remain in the desired orientation (which side faces which way).&nbsp;

For example, an earth-imaging satellite must point its cameras and sensors toward the Earth. In the case of Proba-3, the twin satellites must face the sun.&nbsp;

According to ESA, the anomaly is currently under detailed investigation. The use of a software solution by the mission control team at ESA’s ESEC centre at Redu, Belgium is being evaluated to allow a launch on Thursday (Dec 5).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-postpones-pslv-xl-proba-3-mission-launch-to-thursday-due-to-anomaly-781487">Also read:&nbsp;ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly</a>

<h2>What is Proba-3?&nbsp;</h2>

Proba-3 belongs to the European Space Agency, which represents 22 European nations. The twin Proba-3 satellites were built by a host of European firms, and the satellites were tested in Europe before being flown to India.&nbsp;

Proba-3 is a project more than 10&nbsp;years in the making, which has been implemented with the industrial support of more than 40 companies across Europe, under the leadership of a core team of companies in Spain and Belgium, such as Sener Aerospace (System Prime), Redwire Space (avionics, satellite assembly and testing, satellite operations), Airbus Defence and Space (satellite thermo-mechanical and propulsion, satellite environmental testing), GMV (formation flying algorithm and software, on-ground flight dynamics system), Spacebel (on-board, ground system and simulation software), and Centre Spatial de Liège (Coronagraph scientific instrument).&nbsp;

After arriving at the ISRO spaceport, the satellites were tested, integrated, and fuelled at the Indian spaceport by European teams.&nbsp;

The anomaly with the satellite was observed during the countdown to the launch when crucial health checks of the rocket systems and satellite systems were conducted.&nbsp;

For this mission, ISRO is the launch service provider (responsible for the rocket and its launch), while the European Space Agency is responsible for the satellite, its functioning, and tracking.&nbsp;

This is a commercial mission where the European Space Agency is paying the launch cost of approximately $30 million to NewSpace India Ltd., the commercial arm of ISRO.&nbsp;

European Space Agency (ESA) teams at Redu, Belgium are trying to perform a software tweak to fix the ongoing issue with their Proba-3 satellite, the launch of which has been put on hold at the Indian spaceport in Sriharikota.

European Space Agency (ESA) teams at Redu, Belgium are trying to perform a software tweak to fix the ongoing issue with their Proba-3 satellite, the launch of which has been put on hold at the Indian spaceport in Sriharikota. Barely 50 minutes before the planned liftoff at IST 4:08 pm, Wednesday (Dec 4), aboard the ISRO PSLV rocket, the launch mission was put on hold due to an anomaly with the European-made satellite. ISRO says that the launch has been rescheduled to 16:04 hrs Indian time, Thursday, as per a request from the European Space Agency. Subject to the resolution of the issue, ISRO and ESA are now looking at 4:04 pm IST, Thursday (Dec 5), as the backup launch date. The #Proba3 launch has been postponed due to an issue with the propulsion system that ensures that the Coronagraph satellite points in the right direction..@esa teams at Redu, Belgium are working on a software fix: ESA Wishing them the best #space #science #tech #india #isro pic.twitter.com/hy89R7MqBN — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 4, 2024 × According to ESA, during Proba3’s pre-launch preparations at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, an anomaly occurred in the redundant propulsion system of the Coronagraph Spacecraft. Proba-3 comprises two crafts – the Occulter and the Coronagraph. This redundant propulsion system (in which an anomaly is observed), is responsible for ensuring that the satellite points in the right direction while in space and can remain in the desired orientation (which side faces which way). For example, an earth-imaging satellite must point its cameras and sensors toward the Earth. In the case of Proba-3, the twin satellites must face the sun. According to ESA, the anomaly is currently under detailed investigation. The use of a software solution by the mission control team at ESA’s ESEC centre at Redu, Belgium is being evaluated to allow a launch on Thursday (Dec 5). Also read: ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly What is Proba-3? Proba-3 belongs to the European Space Agency, which represents 22 European nations. The twin Proba-3 satellites were built by a host of European firms, and the satellites were tested in Europe before being flown to India. Proba-3 is a project more than 10 years in the making, which has been implemented with the industrial support of more than 40 companies across Europe, under the leadership of a core team of companies in Spain and Belgium, such as Sener Aerospace (System Prime), Redwire Space (avionics, satellite assembly and testing, satellite operations), Airbus Defence and Space (satellite thermo-mechanical and propulsion, satellite environmental testing), GMV (formation flying algorithm and software, on-ground flight dynamics system), Spacebel (on-board, ground system and simulation software), and Centre Spatial de Liège (Coronagraph scientific instrument). After arriving at the ISRO spaceport, the satellites were tested, integrated, and fuelled at the Indian spaceport by European teams. The anomaly with the satellite was observed during the countdown to the launch when crucial health checks of the rocket systems and satellite systems were conducted. For this mission, ISRO is the launch service provider (responsible for the rocket and its launch), while the European Space Agency is responsible for the satellite, its functioning, and tracking. This is a commercial mission where the European Space Agency is paying the launch cost of approximately $30 million to NewSpace India Ltd., the commercial arm of ISRO.

Proba-3 faced propulsion issue; ESA trying software fix to launch on Thursday

More than 300 Pumpkin lovers enjoy the annual boat race hosted by Belgium. Watch the story to know more.

Belgium Hosts Annual Pumpkin Boat Race

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium. Greek striker Pavlidis netted a brace, either side of a late Jude Bellingham goal, to send Greece top of Group B2.

Greece's first-ever victory against England came in an emotionally-charged evening at Wembley, which started with a minute's silence prior to kick-off for Baldock, an English-born Greece international who drowned in his swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday.

"It was a really special day for us because of George. We are people and it's a special night because of him," Pavlidis told ITV. "A difficult moment for us because George was part of the team. Special guy. We have to play for him and it doesn't matter the score today. We gave everything for him."

The Greeks took a deserved lead in the 49th minute when Pavlidis danced through flimsy defending in the England box, before driving the ball past Jordan Pickford.

The visitors had three disallowed goals in the match -- the last of which came just minutes before Real Madrid's Bellingham hammered in an 87th-minute equaliser for England.

However, Greece were not to be denied a third win in three Nations League matches as England failed to clear the danger in their area and Pavlidis took full advantage and drilled home a late winner.

In Group A2, Italy and Belgium played out an eventful 2-2 draw in Rome. The Italians raced into the lead inside 60 seconds when Andrea Cambiaso got his first international goal by bundling home from close range.

Mateo Retegui doubled the hosts' lead on 24 minutes, sweeping home with his left foot after a spilled save.

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<h2>- Pellegrini sees red -</h2>

Italy looked comfortable and were dominating the encounter until they suffered a double blow inside the final 10 minutes of the first half. Lorenzo Pellegrini initially picked up a yellow card for his late lunge on Arthur Theate in the 38th minute but, after a VAR review, the Italy playmaker was instead shown a straight red.&nbsp;

Belgium then duly halved the deficit from the resulting free-kick, with Maxim De Cuyper finishing emphatically from 25 yards following a clever set-piece move. Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard completed the Belgian comeback on 61 minutes.

A deep corner was nodded back across goal and Trossard ghosted past the static defence to prod the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma from close range.

"There are episodes that can change a game, like their goal immediately after we went down to ten men," said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. "A result doesn't always depend on the football you play and your tactics. Certainly, we could have played better in the second half after a very good first half."

Italy remain top of their group with France sitting second after they beat Israel 4-1 in Budapest. Eduardo Camavinga gave France a seventh-minute lead when the goalkeeper fumbled his tame effort, allowing the ball to bounce over the line.

Omri Gandelman levelled on 24 minutes, before Christopher Nkunku restored France's advantage four minutes later with a sharp finish.

As the clock wound down, the visitors added two more goals to their tally via Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola. Erling Haaland scored a brace as Norway eased past Slovenia 3-0 in Oslo to sit top of Group B3, three points ahead of Austria who beat Kazakhstan 4-0.

Republic of Ireland came from behind in Helsinki to beat Finland 2-1, they sit third in Group B2 behind England. On Friday, Germany visit Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary host the Netherlands in Group A3, while Iceland take on Wales in Group B4.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium.

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium. Greek striker Pavlidis netted a brace, either side of a late Jude Bellingham goal, to send Greece top of Group B2. Greece's first-ever victory against England came in an emotionally-charged evening at Wembley, which started with a minute's silence prior to kick-off for Baldock, an English-born Greece international who drowned in his swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday. "It was a really special day for us because of George. We are people and it's a special night because of him," Pavlidis told ITV. "A difficult moment for us because George was part of the team. Special guy. We have to play for him and it doesn't matter the score today. We gave everything for him." The Greeks took a deserved lead in the 49th minute when Pavlidis danced through flimsy defending in the England box, before driving the ball past Jordan Pickford. The visitors had three disallowed goals in the match -- the last of which came just minutes before Real Madrid's Bellingham hammered in an 87th-minute equaliser for England. However, Greece were not to be denied a third win in three Nations League matches as England failed to clear the danger in their area and Pavlidis took full advantage and drilled home a late winner. In Group A2, Italy and Belgium played out an eventful 2-2 draw in Rome. The Italians raced into the lead inside 60 seconds when Andrea Cambiaso got his first international goal by bundling home from close range. Mateo Retegui doubled the hosts' lead on 24 minutes, sweeping home with his left foot after a spilled save. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo pens heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal, says 'it has been an honour to witness your journey' - Pellegrini sees red - Italy looked comfortable and were dominating the encounter until they suffered a double blow inside the final 10 minutes of the first half. Lorenzo Pellegrini initially picked up a yellow card for his late lunge on Arthur Theate in the 38th minute but, after a VAR review, the Italy playmaker was instead shown a straight red. Belgium then duly halved the deficit from the resulting free-kick, with Maxim De Cuyper finishing emphatically from 25 yards following a clever set-piece move. Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard completed the Belgian comeback on 61 minutes. A deep corner was nodded back across goal and Trossard ghosted past the static defence to prod the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma from close range. "There are episodes that can change a game, like their goal immediately after we went down to ten men," said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. "A result doesn't always depend on the football you play and your tactics. Certainly, we could have played better in the second half after a very good first half." Italy remain top of their group with France sitting second after they beat Israel 4-1 in Budapest. Eduardo Camavinga gave France a seventh-minute lead when the goalkeeper fumbled his tame effort, allowing the ball to bounce over the line. Omri Gandelman levelled on 24 minutes, before Christopher Nkunku restored France's advantage four minutes later with a sharp finish. As the clock wound down, the visitors added two more goals to their tally via Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola. Erling Haaland scored a brace as Norway eased past Slovenia 3-0 in Oslo to sit top of Group B3, three points ahead of Austria who beat Kazakhstan 4-0. Republic of Ireland came from behind in Helsinki to beat Finland 2-1, they sit third in Group B2 behind England. On Friday, Germany visit Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary host the Netherlands in Group A3, while Iceland take on Wales in Group B4. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Greece stun England in Nations League, Italy vs Belgium ends in 2-2 stalemate

Belgium&nbsp;qualified for the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday after a 0-0 draw with Ukraine, who exited the tournament despite all four teams in Group E finishing level on four points.

Romania took top spot ahead of Belgium after scoring more goals in the group following their 1-1 draw with Slovakia, who also go through as one of the four best third-placed sides.

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Belgium supporters reacted furiously at the final whistle in Stuttgart, with captain Kevin De Bruyne appearing to tell his team-mates not to go over to acknowledge them as the whistles and jeers grew louder.

They will play France in the next round and have landed themselves on the tougher side of the draw which also features hosts Germany, Spain and Portugal.

Ukraine's brave run came to an agonising end as they became the first team since the tournament increased to 24 teams not to progress with four points.

It had been the first time ever at the European Championship all four teams in the same group had gone into the final round of games locked on the same number of points.

Leandro Trossard replaced the suspended Dodi Lukebakio for Belgium, wearing their kit which pays to the comic book hero Tintin, with pale blue shirts, brown shirts and white socks.

Ukraine were without wingers Mykhailo Mudryk and Viktor Tsygankov because of injury, switching to three at the back with Oleksandr Zinchenko dropping out and Roman Yaremchuk starting after scoring the winner as a substitute against Slovakia.

<h2>- Ukraine fans honour fallen comrades -</h2>

Ukrainian fans unveiled a banner displaying the portrait of a 21-year-old soldier who died in battle last month, an image generated by artificial intelligence using the photos of 182 football fans also killed in combat.&nbsp;

"Peace has a price. Thousands of football fans have been killed in the war since February 2022," read an accompanying message, referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine that started two years ago.

Romelu Lukaku, who had three goals ruled out in his team's first two games of the tournament, scuffed straight at Anatoliy Trubin when well placed after a slick through ball from De Bruyne.

Yaremchuk tested Koen Casteels and he might have given his team the lead if Artem Dovbyk had found him in the area after getting the better of Arthur Theate.

Twice De Bruyne was unhappy with a laser being pointed at his face as he took free-kicks, nearly catching Trubin out at the near post on one occasion.&nbsp;

He had another curling attempt held shortly after Yaremchuk fizzed a pass across the Belgium area while trying to pick out Dovbyk.&nbsp;

Lukaku saw a weak shot smothered by Trubin, who then beat away a much firmer strike from Yannick Carrasco as Belgium chased the goal that would have clinched first place in the group.

Ruslan Malinovskyi's corner left Casteels frantically scooping the ball to safety at his near post as a nervy finish ensued, Ukraine desperately needing a goal that Belgium knew would spell disaster for them.

Johan Bakayoko curled wide for Belgium and Malinovskyi's piledriver was blocked by Timothy Castagne, with Georgiy Sudakov unable to find a way past Casteels in stoppage time as Ukraine's adventure came to an emotional conclusion.

Belgium qualified for the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday after a 0-0 draw with Ukraine, who exited the tournament despite all four teams in Group E finishing level on four points.

Belgium qualified for the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday after a 0-0 draw with Ukraine, who exited the tournament despite all four teams in Group E finishing level on four points. Romania took top spot ahead of Belgium after scoring more goals in the group following their 1-1 draw with Slovakia, who also go through as one of the four best third-placed sides. Also Read: Phil Foden leaves England camp day after match vs Slovenia Belgium supporters reacted furiously at the final whistle in Stuttgart, with captain Kevin De Bruyne appearing to tell his team-mates not to go over to acknowledge them as the whistles and jeers grew louder. They will play France in the next round and have landed themselves on the tougher side of the draw which also features hosts Germany, Spain and Portugal. Ukraine's brave run came to an agonising end as they became the first team since the tournament increased to 24 teams not to progress with four points. It had been the first time ever at the European Championship all four teams in the same group had gone into the final round of games locked on the same number of points. Leandro Trossard replaced the suspended Dodi Lukebakio for Belgium, wearing their kit which pays to the comic book hero Tintin, with pale blue shirts, brown shirts and white socks. Ukraine were without wingers Mykhailo Mudryk and Viktor Tsygankov because of injury, switching to three at the back with Oleksandr Zinchenko dropping out and Roman Yaremchuk starting after scoring the winner as a substitute against Slovakia. - Ukraine fans honour fallen comrades - Ukrainian fans unveiled a banner displaying the portrait of a 21-year-old soldier who died in battle last month, an image generated by artificial intelligence using the photos of 182 football fans also killed in combat. "Peace has a price. Thousands of football fans have been killed in the war since February 2022," read an accompanying message, referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine that started two years ago. Romelu Lukaku, who had three goals ruled out in his team's first two games of the tournament, scuffed straight at Anatoliy Trubin when well placed after a slick through ball from De Bruyne. Yaremchuk tested Koen Casteels and he might have given his team the lead if Artem Dovbyk had found him in the area after getting the better of Arthur Theate. Twice De Bruyne was unhappy with a laser being pointed at his face as he took free-kicks, nearly catching Trubin out at the near post on one occasion. He had another curling attempt held shortly after Yaremchuk fizzed a pass across the Belgium area while trying to pick out Dovbyk. Lukaku saw a weak shot smothered by Trubin, who then beat away a much firmer strike from Yannick Carrasco as Belgium chased the goal that would have clinched first place in the group. Ruslan Malinovskyi's corner left Casteels frantically scooping the ball to safety at his near post as a nervy finish ensued, Ukraine desperately needing a goal that Belgium knew would spell disaster for them. Johan Bakayoko curled wide for Belgium and Malinovskyi's piledriver was blocked by Timothy Castagne, with Georgiy Sudakov unable to find a way past Casteels in stoppage time as Ukraine's adventure came to an emotional conclusion.

Euro 2024: Ukraine crash out after goalless draw against Belgium

Volvo Cars has begun transferring its electric vehicle (EV) production from China to Belgium in anticipation of the European Union's prospective taxes on Beijing-subsidised imports. This strategic move, reported by The Times on Saturday, comes as the EU tightens its examination of subsidies received by Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Majority-owned by Geely, Volvo prepares for EU crackdown<o:p></o:p></h2>

Volvo, which is majority-owned&nbsp;by China's Geely, has considered stopping sales of Chinese-built EVs to Europe if tariffs were imposed by the EU. According to company insiders, moving production of the EX30 and EX90 models to Belgium will eliminate the need for such dramatic steps. The report clarified that the corporation is no longer considering banning sales of Chinese-made EVs.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Impact on UK-bound Volvo models<o:p></o:p></h2>

In addition to the adjustments for European automobiles, certain Volvo models slated for the United Kingdom could be moved to Belgium. This step demonstrates Volvo's proactive approach to mitigating any disruptions from EU trade regulations.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">EU's anti-subsidy investigation and broader implications<o:p></o:p></h2>

The European Commission, which oversees trade policy inside the 27-nation EU, initiated an investigation in October last year to investigate if Chinese-made fully electric vehicles received unfair subsidies. This investigation, which can last up to 13 months, permits the implementation of temporary anti-subsidy duties within nine months of its inception.<o:p></o:p>

China-EU relations have become increasingly strained, in part because of China's growing relationship with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. The EU's probe is part of a larger campaign to reduce reliance on China, particularly for essential resources and products required for the EU's green transition.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Volvo Cars has begun transferring its electric vehicle (EV) production from China to Belgium in anticipation of the European Union's prospective taxes on Beijing-subsidised imports.

Volvo Cars has begun transferring its electric vehicle (EV) production from China to Belgium in anticipation of the European Union's prospective taxes on Beijing-subsidised imports. This strategic move, reported by The Times on Saturday, comes as the EU tightens its examination of subsidies received by Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles. Majority-owned by Geely, Volvo prepares for EU crackdown Volvo, which is majority-owned by China's Geely, has considered stopping sales of Chinese-built EVs to Europe if tariffs were imposed by the EU. According to company insiders, moving production of the EX30 and EX90 models to Belgium will eliminate the need for such dramatic steps. The report clarified that the corporation is no longer considering banning sales of Chinese-made EVs. Impact on UK-bound Volvo models In addition to the adjustments for European automobiles, certain Volvo models slated for the United Kingdom could be moved to Belgium. This step demonstrates Volvo's proactive approach to mitigating any disruptions from EU trade regulations. EU's anti-subsidy investigation and broader implications The European Commission, which oversees trade policy inside the 27-nation EU, initiated an investigation in October last year to investigate if Chinese-made fully electric vehicles received unfair subsidies. This investigation, which can last up to 13 months, permits the implementation of temporary anti-subsidy duties within nine months of its inception. China-EU relations have become increasingly strained, in part because of China's growing relationship with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. The EU's probe is part of a larger campaign to reduce reliance on China, particularly for essential resources and products required for the EU's green transition. (With inputs from Agencies)

Volvo shifts Chinese EV production to Belgium amid EU tariff concerns

Belgian investigators on Wednesday (May 29) searched the home and offices of a European Parliament staffer, who they suspect may have played a role in spreading Russian propaganda ahead of the election for the EU assembly.&nbsp;

<h2>Search and investigation</h2>

According to Reuters, investigators searched his residence as well as his office at the European Parliament in Brussels. French judicial authorities also&nbsp;searched his office at the European Union's assembly in Strasbourg.

The searches, as per prosecutors, were part of an investigation into possible Russian interference.&nbsp;

In a statement, the prosecutor's office said the "searches are part of an investigation into interference, passive corruption and membership in a criminal organisation".

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They "concern evidence of Russian interference, indicating that members of the European Parliament were approached and paid to promote Russian propaganda via the news site Voice of Europe," it added.

It also stated that "evidence suggests that the European Parliament staffer in question played an important role in this case."

<h2>Who is the staffer under investigation?</h2>

While the prosecutor's office did not disclose the name of the staffer under investigation, AFP citing sources has identified the source of the investigation as Guillaume Pradoura.

Pradoura, as per the report, is a former assistant to Maximilian Krah, embattled EU lawmaker of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and now works for Dutch far-right lawmaker Marcel de Graaff.

On social media platform X, de Graaff expressed his surprise and said that he has learned from media reports that the home and offices of an assistant had been searched.

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"For me, this all comes as a total surprise," he wrote, adding "By the way, I have no involvement whatsoever in any so-called Russian disinformation operation. I have my own political beliefs and I proclaim them. That is my job as a MEP."

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Vandaag vernam ik via de media dat de woning en kantoor van mijn medewerker dhr. Pradoura zijn doorzocht. 
 
Ik heb mijn medewerker gesproken en die bleek daar niet van op de hoogte. 
 
De autoriteiten hebben geen contact met mij noch met hem opgenomen. Voor mij komt dit alles als…
— Marcel de Graaff🇳🇱 (@MJRLdeGraaff) <a href="https://twitter.com/MJRLdeGraaff/status/1795770019227283674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The search comes under a probe opened by Belgian prosecutors last month, into meddling allegations after Czech intelligence exposed a network suspected of using EU lawmakers to spread Russian propaganda.&nbsp;

Belgium intelligence also found evidence that some lawmakers were paid to promote Kremlin propaganda.

(With inputs from agencies)

Belgian investigators on Wednesday (May 29) searched the home and offices of a European Parliament staffer, who they suspect may have played a role in spreading Russian propaganda ahead of the election for the EU assembly.

Belgian investigators on Wednesday (May 29) searched the home and offices of a European Parliament staffer, who they suspect may have played a role in spreading Russian propaganda ahead of the election for the EU assembly. Search and investigation According to Reuters, investigators searched his residence as well as his office at the European Parliament in Brussels. French judicial authorities also searched his office at the European Union's assembly in Strasbourg. The searches, as per prosecutors, were part of an investigation into possible Russian interference. In a statement, the prosecutor's office said the "searches are part of an investigation into interference, passive corruption and membership in a criminal organisation". Also read | 'Oh, my God': US man drives while appearing for suspended licence hearing; judge's reaction goes viral They "concern evidence of Russian interference, indicating that members of the European Parliament were approached and paid to promote Russian propaganda via the news site Voice of Europe," it added. It also stated that "evidence suggests that the European Parliament staffer in question played an important role in this case." Who is the staffer under investigation? While the prosecutor's office did not disclose the name of the staffer under investigation, AFP citing sources has identified the source of the investigation as Guillaume Pradoura. Pradoura, as per the report, is a former assistant to Maximilian Krah, embattled EU lawmaker of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and now works for Dutch far-right lawmaker Marcel de Graaff. On social media platform X, de Graaff expressed his surprise and said that he has learned from media reports that the home and offices of an assistant had been searched. Also read | Former intelligence chief Dick Schoof proposed as Dutch PM "For me, this all comes as a total surprise," he wrote, adding "By the way, I have no involvement whatsoever in any so-called Russian disinformation operation. I have my own political beliefs and I proclaim them. That is my job as a MEP." Vandaag vernam ik via de media dat de woning en kantoor van mijn medewerker dhr. Pradoura zijn doorzocht. Ik heb mijn medewerker gesproken en die bleek daar niet van op de hoogte. De autoriteiten hebben geen contact met mij noch met hem opgenomen. Voor mij komt dit alles als… — Marcel de Graaff🇳🇱 (@MJRLdeGraaff) May 29, 2024 × The search comes under a probe opened by Belgian prosecutors last month, into meddling allegations after Czech intelligence exposed a network suspected of using EU lawmakers to spread Russian propaganda. Belgium intelligence also found evidence that some lawmakers were paid to promote Kremlin propaganda. (With inputs from agencies)

Belgian police search office and residence of EU staffer on Russia propaganda suspicions

In a very strange incident, a Belgian court dismissed a drink-driving charge against a man after they found that he was suffering from a rare metabolic condition which led to the production of alcohol in his body.

In a very strange incident, a Belgian court dismissed a drink-driving charge against a man after they found that he was suffering from a rare metabolic condition which led to the production of alcohol in his body. In the court, the 40-year-old man was able to prove that he was suffering from auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), in which the carbohydrates get fermented in his stomach and increase ethanol levels in his blood which finally leads to signs of intoxication. The unusual case was confirmed to Agence France-Presse by the man's lawyer Anse Ghesquiere after it was reported in Belgian media. The lawyer said that as per the scientists, the number of ABS cases present in the entire world has remained underestimated. Till now, only around 20 people have been officially diagnosed with ABS condition. Also Read: Alcohol-induced blackouts linked to drinking patterns, not just quantity: Study The woman emphasised that her client, whose identity was not disclosed, provided evidence of his ABS after three doctors conducted tests on him. The factors which led to the scenario and were unforeseen by law in the man's case were recognised by the court and he was acquitted of the charge. How did the rare case unfold? The man knocked on the doors of the court after his vehicle was pulled over by the police in April 2022 and a drink-driving charge was registered against him after his breathalyser reading was 0.91 milligrams of alcohol per litre, and his breath was found containing 0.71 milligrams again a month later. In Belgium, the legal limit is 0.22 milligrams per litre of air exhaled which is similar to a blood-alcohol level remaining at 0.5 gram per litre. In 2019, the man had again landed in trouble. He was fined and his driving licence was suspended even though he had claimed that he had not drunk any alcohol. Watch: Decoding: 2024's latest travel trend: What is 'Gig-Tripping'? Apparently, the man was not aware of his syndrome till his recent run-in with the police. Ghesquiere stated that she and the accused man are waiting for his acquittal's formal notification. She emphasised that an appeal was to be lodged by the prosecution service a month ago if it wished to do so. Meanwhile, the man has now switched to a carbohydrate-light diet so that his stomach is not producing more alcohol. During his initial court appearance in March, he was requested by the prosecutor to avoid any alcoholic beverages, reported the Belgian state television channel VRT. (With inputs from agencies)

Belgium dismisses drink-driving charge against man because, wait for it... his body brews alcohol

The police and authorities in Brussels sparked a political firestorm, on Tuesday (Apr 16) after the officials in the Belgian capital city ordered the shutdown of a controversial gathering of hard-right European politicians which was also to be attended by Hungarian leader Viktor Orban and former British Home Secretary Suella Braverman.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened at the event?</h2>

The gathering of the hard-right nationalist European politicians called the National Conservatism (NatCon) Conference descended into chaos after the Brussels police tried to shut it down over safety concerns.&nbsp;

The controversial event was also to hear from UK politician Nigel Farage, French right-wing candidate Eric Zemmour and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki over the next two days, but as per Politico was shut down by the police just two hours after it began at the Claridge venue.&nbsp;

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However, the police said that they would only stop new arrivals from entering the venue, but not stop the conference or remove people already inside.

The police arrived at the venue when Farage was addressing the crowd, and as the drama unfolded outside, he continued his speech saying that the decision to cancel the conference was “absolutely outrageous”.&nbsp;

One of the police officers who arrived at the venue of the event that was being held in the capital’s Saint-Josse Ten Noode region told the organisers that the mayor had decided to shut it down and that he had a three-page document outlining the grounds for the closure.&nbsp;

“The authorities decided to shut the event due to possibility of public disorder,” a police officer heard by Politico told one of the organisers.&nbsp;

The law enforcement personnel were ordered by Emir Kir, the mayor of the Saint-Josse Ten Noode, who later took to X and confirmed media reports that he ordered a halt to the event to “guarantee public safety.” He added, “The far right is not welcome.”&nbsp;

According to media reports, NatCon had a hard time securing a venue and had been rejected by two other Brussels venues before they managed to secure Claridge venue. The organisers reportedly said that some 600 attendees were expected to attend the conference.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Unacceptable’</h2>

The move to halt the event garnered criticism from Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo who took to X and called it “unacceptable”.&nbsp;

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“Municipal autonomy is a cornerstone of our democracy but can never overrule the Belgian constitution guaranteeing the freedom of speech and peaceful assembly since 1830. Banning political meetings is unconstitutional. Full stop,” said De Croo.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson called reports of police action at NatCon “extremely disturbing,” adding that he is a “strong supporter and advocator for free speech”.&nbsp;

Sunak was “very clear that cancelling events or preventing attendance and no-platforming speakers is damaging to free speech and to democracy as a result,” said his spokesperson.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The police and authorities in Brussels sparked a political firestorm, on Tuesday (Apr 16) after the officials in the Belgian capital city ordered the shutdown of a controversial gathering of hard-right European politicians which was also to be attended by Hungarian leader Viktor Orban and former British Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

The police and authorities in Brussels sparked a political firestorm, on Tuesday (Apr 16) after the officials in the Belgian capital city ordered the shutdown of a controversial gathering of hard-right European politicians which was also to be attended by Hungarian leader Viktor Orban and former British Home Secretary Suella Braverman. What happened at the event? The gathering of the hard-right nationalist European politicians called the National Conservatism (NatCon) Conference descended into chaos after the Brussels police tried to shut it down over safety concerns. The controversial event was also to hear from UK politician Nigel Farage, French right-wing candidate Eric Zemmour and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki over the next two days, but as per Politico was shut down by the police just two hours after it began at the Claridge venue. Also Read | Iran willing to exercise restraint, has no intention of escalating situation, Tehran tells Beijing However, the police said that they would only stop new arrivals from entering the venue, but not stop the conference or remove people already inside. The police arrived at the venue when Farage was addressing the crowd, and as the drama unfolded outside, he continued his speech saying that the decision to cancel the conference was “absolutely outrageous”. One of the police officers who arrived at the venue of the event that was being held in the capital’s Saint-Josse Ten Noode region told the organisers that the mayor had decided to shut it down and that he had a three-page document outlining the grounds for the closure. “The authorities decided to shut the event due to possibility of public disorder,” a police officer heard by Politico told one of the organisers. The law enforcement personnel were ordered by Emir Kir, the mayor of the Saint-Josse Ten Noode, who later took to X and confirmed media reports that he ordered a halt to the event to “guarantee public safety.” He added, “The far right is not welcome.” According to media reports, NatCon had a hard time securing a venue and had been rejected by two other Brussels venues before they managed to secure Claridge venue. The organisers reportedly said that some 600 attendees were expected to attend the conference. ‘Unacceptable’ The move to halt the event garnered criticism from Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo who took to X and called it “unacceptable”. Also Read | Vladimir Putin will not be invited to French D-Day anniversary in June “Municipal autonomy is a cornerstone of our democracy but can never overrule the Belgian constitution guaranteeing the freedom of speech and peaceful assembly since 1830. Banning political meetings is unconstitutional. Full stop,” said De Croo. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson called reports of police action at NatCon “extremely disturbing,” adding that he is a “strong supporter and advocator for free speech”. Sunak was “very clear that cancelling events or preventing attendance and no-platforming speakers is damaging to free speech and to democracy as a result,” said his spokesperson. (With inputs from agencies)

Brussels police shut down right-wing event to be attended by Hungary’s Orban, UK’s Braverman

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to go to France and Belgium next week to try to build unity among allies in support of Ukraine in its war against Russia and of Israel in its war against Hamas. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken to visit France, Belgium next week

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc.

<h2>The single-use plastic ban</h2>

The European Union's 27 nations and lawmakers have agreed on a draft text which includes a target to reduce packaging waste by five per cent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. This reduction will further be increased to 10 per cent by 2035 and 15 per cent by 2040.

Unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, individual servings of condiments and sugar, as well as miniature toiletries and shrink-wrap used for suitcases in airports will also fall under the ban on single-use plastic packaging. Additionally, ultra-lightweight plastic bags will also be banned, with some exceptions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-earth-critters-may-be-colonising-the-moon-all-thanks-to-a-2019-crash-heres-all-you-need-to-know-696342">These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know</a>

The agreement also calls for establishments offering beverages and takeaway food to strive to provide 10 per cent of their products in reusable packaging by 2030.&nbsp;

Consumers should also have the option to use their own containers, said the EU parliament.

Additionally, lawmakers included a provision to ban "forever chemicals" in food packaging that come into contact with food to prevent adverse health effects, including various types of cancer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-silent-warning-microplastics-is-found-in-every-human-placenta-a-new-study-reveals-693332">A silent warning? Microplastics found in every human placenta, reveals new study</a>

The agreement, as per AFP, is a key element of the EU's environmental objectives outlined in the Green Deal, a series of regulations designed to help the bloc achieve its climate targets.

The agreement will become law following formal approval by member states and the parliament.

<h2>Belgium lauds the agreement&nbsp;</h2>

Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, took to X to announce: "This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🥡 Deal! <a href="https://twitter.com/EUCouncil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EUCouncil</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Europarl_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Europarl_EN</a> reach a provisional agreement on a proposal for a regulation on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/packaging?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#packaging</a> &amp; packaging waste. 
 
This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards. <a href="https://t.co/9yDA0ujeTS">pic.twitter.com/9yDA0ujeTS</a>
— Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU 2024 (@EU2024BE) <a href="https://twitter.com/EU2024BE/status/1764715924966216185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Frederique Ries, the Belgian EU lawmaker who championed the legislation, lauded the ban and said: "The ban on forever chemicals in food packaging is a great victory for the health of European consumers."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-great-white-shark-washes-up-on-australian-beach-heres-what-happened-next-696454">‘Shocking’: Great white shark washes up on Australian beach</a>

"For the first time in an environmental law, the EU is setting targets to reduce packaging consumption, regardless of the material used."

"We call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to play their part in the fight against excess packaging," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc.

EU negotiators on Monday (March 4) reached an agreement to ban the use of single-use plastics in cafes and restaurants, starting in 2030. This decision was taken as part of new regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc. The single-use plastic ban The European Union's 27 nations and lawmakers have agreed on a draft text which includes a target to reduce packaging waste by five per cent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. This reduction will further be increased to 10 per cent by 2035 and 15 per cent by 2040. Unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, individual servings of condiments and sugar, as well as miniature toiletries and shrink-wrap used for suitcases in airports will also fall under the ban on single-use plastic packaging. Additionally, ultra-lightweight plastic bags will also be banned, with some exceptions. Also read | These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know The agreement also calls for establishments offering beverages and takeaway food to strive to provide 10 per cent of their products in reusable packaging by 2030. Consumers should also have the option to use their own containers, said the EU parliament. Additionally, lawmakers included a provision to ban "forever chemicals" in food packaging that come into contact with food to prevent adverse health effects, including various types of cancer. Also read | A silent warning? Microplastics found in every human placenta, reveals new study The agreement, as per AFP, is a key element of the EU's environmental objectives outlined in the Green Deal, a series of regulations designed to help the bloc achieve its climate targets. The agreement will become law following formal approval by member states and the parliament. Belgium lauds the agreement Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, took to X to announce: "This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards." 🥡 Deal! @EUCouncil & @Europarl_EN reach a provisional agreement on a proposal for a regulation on #packaging & packaging waste. This regulation aims to reduce waste caused by packaging, making it more sustainable, while ensuring the highest waste management standards. pic.twitter.com/9yDA0ujeTS — Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU 2024 (@EU2024BE) March 4, 2024 × Frederique Ries, the Belgian EU lawmaker who championed the legislation, lauded the ban and said: "The ban on forever chemicals in food packaging is a great victory for the health of European consumers." Also read | ‘Shocking’: Great white shark washes up on Australian beach "For the first time in an environmental law, the EU is setting targets to reduce packaging consumption, regardless of the material used." "We call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to play their part in the fight against excess packaging," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030

In a significant move towards supporting Ukraine's recovery efforts, the European Union (EU) has enacted legislation aimed at allocating windfall profits from frozen Russian central bank assets for the reconstruction of Ukraine, the EU announced on Monday. <o:p></o:p>

This decision marks a pivotal moment in the EU's efforts to utilise funds accrued from sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.<o:p></o:p>

Since the invasion, both the EU and the Group of Seven nations (G7) have collectively frozen around 300 billion euros ($323 billion) of Russian central bank assets. <o:p></o:p>

Deliberations on the utilisation of these funds have persisted for over a year, with the United States proposing outright confiscation. <o:p></o:p>

However, EU officials have deemed this approach legally precarious.<o:p></o:p>

The majority of the frozen assets, approximately two-thirds, are held within the EU, with a significant portion managed by Belgium's Euroclear. <o:p></o:p>

Until now, only taxes on these assets in Belgium have been directed towards a dedicated fund for Ukraine, overseen by the Belgian government.<o:p></o:p>

Under the newly passed law, central securities depositaries (CSDs) like Euroclear will be mandated to segregate net profits and revenues from Russian assets, ensuring they are kept separate from other financial activities.<o:p></o:p>

This regulation applies to institutions holding over 1 million euros ($1.1 million) of the Central Bank of Russia’s assets, providing clarity on the legal framework surrounding the utilisation of these funds.<o:p></o:p>

The EU estimates that approximately 15 billion euros ($16.17 billion) in profits could be allocated for Ukraine's benefit over the next four years from these assets. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, the EU has committed to providing 50 billion euros ($53.89 billion) in aid to Kyiv.<o:p></o:p>

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed appreciation for the EU's decision.<o:p></o:p>

He urged ambitious and prompt actions in this regard.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has yet to respond to the EU's move. <o:p></o:p>

Moscow has previously stated that any attempt to use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine would be deemed illegal and subject to prolonged litigation, asserting that they would challenge such measures.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

In a significant move towards supporting Ukraine's recovery efforts, the European Union (EU) has enacted legislation aimed at allocating windfall profits from frozen Russian central bank assets for the reconstruction of Ukraine, the EU announced on Monday.

In a significant move towards supporting Ukraine's recovery efforts, the European Union (EU) has enacted legislation aimed at allocating windfall profits from frozen Russian central bank assets for the reconstruction of Ukraine, the EU announced on Monday. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the EU's efforts to utilise funds accrued from sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Since the invasion, both the EU and the Group of Seven nations (G7) have collectively frozen around 300 billion euros ($323 billion) of Russian central bank assets. Deliberations on the utilisation of these funds have persisted for over a year, with the United States proposing outright confiscation. However, EU officials have deemed this approach legally precarious. The majority of the frozen assets, approximately two-thirds, are held within the EU, with a significant portion managed by Belgium's Euroclear. Until now, only taxes on these assets in Belgium have been directed towards a dedicated fund for Ukraine, overseen by the Belgian government. Under the newly passed law, central securities depositaries (CSDs) like Euroclear will be mandated to segregate net profits and revenues from Russian assets, ensuring they are kept separate from other financial activities. This regulation applies to institutions holding over 1 million euros ($1.1 million) of the Central Bank of Russia’s assets, providing clarity on the legal framework surrounding the utilisation of these funds. The EU estimates that approximately 15 billion euros ($16.17 billion) in profits could be allocated for Ukraine's benefit over the next four years from these assets. Additionally, the EU has committed to providing 50 billion euros ($53.89 billion) in aid to Kyiv. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed appreciation for the EU's decision. He urged ambitious and prompt actions in this regard. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has yet to respond to the EU's move. Moscow has previously stated that any attempt to use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine would be deemed illegal and subject to prolonged litigation, asserting that they would challenge such measures. (With inputs from Reuters)

EU to channel frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction: Report

France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation.

FNSEA chief Arnaud Rousseau released a statement saying that the government was "listening" to their demands after Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced cash support and other measures for farmers.

"We have decided to suspend the roadblocks and move to a new form of mobilisation," JA president Arnaud Gaillot said at the same news conference.

<h2>Farmers clog roads with over 1,000 tractors around Brussels &nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the day, farmers protesting across Europe over better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape, blocked roads around an EU summit taking place in Brussels with around 1,300 tractors, said a Belgian police official.

"There are over 1,000 tractors or agricultural machinery" being kept away from the gathering of the European Union's 27 leaders, a police spokesman told news agency AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He further added that the farmers were mainly from Belgium.

The farmers were stopped from entering the European Council building where the EU leaders were holding a discussion over aid to Ukraine.

However, they converged in front of the nearby European Parliament.

Farmers, according to AFP said that their aim was to take the demonstration to Brussels as the European elections were approaching in four months' time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-in-france-685265">Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France?</a>

"We have the European elections and the Belgian elections then as well. So everybody is afraid they will be wiped off the map and we put other people in power," said one Belgian farmer, Dominique Houfflain, 51.

"We are taking advantage of the fact that there will be these two elections the same year to act," he added.

<h2>Orban meets with protesting farmers in Brussels</h2>

Ahead of the summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met with the protesting farmers in Brussels in a move to showcase his support for what he dubbed the "voice of the people".

"The voice of the people of the streets are not taken seriously by the leaders. It's a democratic deficit," said the nationalist leader in a video posted on his Facebook page.

"There's a European election in June. We need a new European Parliament. We have to find new leaders who really represent the people," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation.

France's leading farmers' union the FNSEA along with its close ally the Young Farmers (JA) on Thursday (Feb 1), called to end nationwide roadblocks over pay, tax and regulation. FNSEA chief Arnaud Rousseau released a statement saying that the government was "listening" to their demands after Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced cash support and other measures for farmers. "We have decided to suspend the roadblocks and move to a new form of mobilisation," JA president Arnaud Gaillot said at the same news conference. Farmers clog roads with over 1,000 tractors around Brussels Earlier in the day, farmers protesting across Europe over better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape, blocked roads around an EU summit taking place in Brussels with around 1,300 tractors, said a Belgian police official. "There are over 1,000 tractors or agricultural machinery" being kept away from the gathering of the European Union's 27 leaders, a police spokesman told news agency AFP. He further added that the farmers were mainly from Belgium. The farmers were stopped from entering the European Council building where the EU leaders were holding a discussion over aid to Ukraine. However, they converged in front of the nearby European Parliament. Farmers, according to AFP said that their aim was to take the demonstration to Brussels as the European elections were approaching in four months' time. Also read: Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France? "We have the European elections and the Belgian elections then as well. So everybody is afraid they will be wiped off the map and we put other people in power," said one Belgian farmer, Dominique Houfflain, 51. "We are taking advantage of the fact that there will be these two elections the same year to act," he added. Orban meets with protesting farmers in Brussels Ahead of the summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met with the protesting farmers in Brussels in a move to showcase his support for what he dubbed the "voice of the people". "The voice of the people of the streets are not taken seriously by the leaders. It's a democratic deficit," said the nationalist leader in a video posted on his Facebook page. "There's a European election in June. We need a new European Parliament. We have to find new leaders who really represent the people," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

France's top farmers' unions call for end to road blockades

French & Belgian farmers are angry about rising costs, EU environmental policies & cheap food imports. They have blocked highways & access roads to a major container port as the protests spread across Europe. Watch this video for all details.

Farmers' protests grip Europe, protest against green laws and cheap imports

A woman was killed and two people were injured by a large Christmas tree that fell over during stormy weather in the Belgian city of Oudenaarde, authorities said on Friday.

Security camera footage on Belgian news media showed a brightly lit 20-metre (66 ft) high Christmas tree slowly leaning over, then collapsing next to a Christmas market on Thursday as a merry-go-round turned in the historic town square.

A spokesman for the Oost-Vlaanderen province prosecutor said the victim was 63-year old woman from Oudenaarde. Two women from the same town were lightly injured in the incident.

"The investigation will focus on whether the tree had been properly secured and will also look at the impact of the weather," he said.

Storm Pia, which disrupted traffic in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands on Thursday, also hit western Belgium, where the weather service issued a yellow code warning for the coastal areas.

The storm also caused a death in the Netherlands where a woman died of her injuries on Friday after she was hit by a falling tree on Thursday, her employer healthcare organisation ZoZijn said.

A woman was killed and two people were injured by a large Christmas tree that fell over during stormy weather in the Belgian city of Oudenaarde, authorities said on Friday.

A woman was killed and two people were injured by a large Christmas tree that fell over during stormy weather in the Belgian city of Oudenaarde, authorities said on Friday. Security camera footage on Belgian news media showed a brightly lit 20-metre (66 ft) high Christmas tree slowly leaning over, then collapsing next to a Christmas market on Thursday as a merry-go-round turned in the historic town square. A spokesman for the Oost-Vlaanderen province prosecutor said the victim was 63-year old woman from Oudenaarde. Two women from the same town were lightly injured in the incident. "The investigation will focus on whether the tree had been properly secured and will also look at the impact of the weather," he said. Storm Pia, which disrupted traffic in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands on Thursday, also hit western Belgium, where the weather service issued a yellow code warning for the coastal areas. The storm also caused a death in the Netherlands where a woman died of her injuries on Friday after she was hit by a falling tree on Thursday, her employer healthcare organisation ZoZijn said.

Woman killed by falling Christmas tree on Belgian market square

A year after Qatargate, a corruption scandal that rocked the European Parliament, Belgium's probe seems far from resolution. The country's Chief Federal prosecutor insists that the investigation is moving ahead but has expressed concern over the constant leaks and enormous pressure in the case.

Qatargate: A year after a political scandal roiled EU, what has changed?

Formula&nbsp;One's&nbsp;Belgian&nbsp;Grand Prix has secured a&nbsp;one-year&nbsp;extension&nbsp;to its current deal, keeping it on the calendar through&nbsp;2025. Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;said in a statement that this&nbsp;year’s race at Spa-Francorchamps had seen an attendance of 380,000 across the weekend, an increase of 20,000 on 2022.

The circuit is the longest on the calendar and&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the fastest but has been in the spotlight for fatal accidents, with the death of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert in 2019 and Dutch teenager Dilano van 't Hoff last July.

"Spa is synonymous with Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;having been&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the circuits in our first ever season and is much loved by fans and drivers alike, so I am delighted to extend our relationship with them until&nbsp;2025," said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/italy-vs-spain-in-euro-2024-group-stage-england-handed-comfort-draw-665887">Italy vs Spain in Euro 2024 group stage, England handed comfort draw</a>

"The promoter has taken big strides in the last few&nbsp;years to improve the fan experience and infrastructure, and work is ongoing between all the stakeholders with a clear focus on delivering safe and exciting&nbsp;racing."

Willy Borsus, minister for the economy of the Wallonia region, said a 2021 study had shown the race generated positive spin-offs of 41.8 million euros ($44.11 million) for the region, after deduction of public funding.

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Formula One's Belgian Grand Prix has secured a one-year extension to its current deal, keeping it on the calendar through 2025. Formula One said in a statement that this year’s race at Spa-Francorchamps had seen an attendance of 380,000 across the weekend, an increase of 20,000 on 2022.

Formula One's Belgian Grand Prix has secured a one-year extension to its current deal, keeping it on the calendar through 2025. Formula One said in a statement that this year’s race at Spa-Francorchamps had seen an attendance of 380,000 across the weekend, an increase of 20,000 on 2022. The circuit is the longest on the calendar and one of the fastest but has been in the spotlight for fatal accidents, with the death of French F2 racer Anthoine Hubert in 2019 and Dutch teenager Dilano van 't Hoff last July. "Spa is synonymous with Formula One having been one of the circuits in our first ever season and is much loved by fans and drivers alike, so I am delighted to extend our relationship with them until 2025," said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. Read Also: Italy vs Spain in Euro 2024 group stage, England handed comfort draw "The promoter has taken big strides in the last few years to improve the fan experience and infrastructure, and work is ongoing between all the stakeholders with a clear focus on delivering safe and exciting racing." Willy Borsus, minister for the economy of the Wallonia region, said a 2021 study had shown the race generated positive spin-offs of 41.8 million euros ($44.11 million) for the region, after deduction of public funding. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Belgian GP secures extension to its current deal till 2025

As delegations of around 200 nations have gathered to discuss the issues surrounding climate. A lot of climate activists across nations are staging demonstrations against climate inaction - around 25,000 people gathered in Belgian capital, Brussels.

COP28: Thousands protest in Belgium, demand action against climate inaction; 'There is no planet B'

Worried, but relieved, spectators at the Belgium-Sweden Euro 2024 match left the Brussels stadium shortly before midnight after being held there for two-and-a-half hours following the killing of two Swedes in a nearby attack, with the gunman still at large.

"I was stressed, I wondered how we were going to get back, because we came by metro," Manon Antoine, 21, told AFP, accompanied by her brother.

The Swedish supporters were the last to leave the King Baudouin Stadium, where some 35,000 fans of the two teams had turned out for the Euro 2024 qualifier.

Manu Leroy, CEO of the Belgian football association, said police had escorted the Swedish fans and players to "go straight to the airport and leave" because the perpetrator, who was said to be inspired by the Islamic State group, was still on the run and being sought by police early Tuesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/al-hilal-defeat-cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-in-riyadh-derby-to-remain-to-top-665375">Al-Hilal defeat Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Riyadh derby to remain to top</a>

According to investigators, the Swedish nationality of the victims was a "probable motivation" of the attacker, according to his video claim. Several Belgian media outlets said the two individuals killed were wearing football shirts belonging to the Swedish national team.

The area around the stadium, located about five kilometres (three miles) from the scene of the attack, was being monitored by police, and traffic past the ground had been halted.

<h2>- 'The safest place' -</h2>

About 10 minutes before kickoff, match organisers learned that "something serious had happened", Leroy said on RTBF.

"At first it was decided that the match should go ahead because the stadium was the safest place for the fans, especially the Swedish fans so that they would be safe," he said. But at halftime, the match was halted with the score at 1-1 and did not restart.

UEFA said the decision to abandon the game was taken after consultation with both teams and the Belgian authorities. "I am terribly sad. We agreed 100 percent not to play the second half because of the conditions and out of respect for the victims and their families," said Sweden coach Janne Andersson, quoted by the Swedish news agency TT.

Held inside the stadium as a security precaution, the fans braved the cold and the anxiety by singing songs in honour of Sweden and chanting "All together, all together!". "I think that we all tried to keep our spirits up. We also sang little songs for the Sweden supporters because it is especially for them that it is a very sad evening," said football fan Jacques Decoq outside the stadium. "We tried to stay warm with a little bit of atmosphere."

Applause also punctuated the long wait. Finally, shortly before midnight, Red Devils fans began to leave the stadium, the authorities having chosen to evacuate the Belgian supporters stand by stand to avoid crowds.

"Everyone remained very calm, the supporters started singing, there was an atmosphere, even if we were a little worried," said Karen, who came from Limburg with her family.

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Worried, but relieved, spectators at the Belgium-Sweden Euro 2024 match left the Brussels stadium shortly before midnight after being held there for two-and-a-half hours following the killing of two Swedes in a nearby attack, with the gunman still at large.

Worried, but relieved, spectators at the Belgium-Sweden Euro 2024 match left the Brussels stadium shortly before midnight after being held there for two-and-a-half hours following the killing of two Swedes in a nearby attack, with the gunman still at large. "I was stressed, I wondered how we were going to get back, because we came by metro," Manon Antoine, 21, told AFP, accompanied by her brother. The Swedish supporters were the last to leave the King Baudouin Stadium, where some 35,000 fans of the two teams had turned out for the Euro 2024 qualifier. Manu Leroy, CEO of the Belgian football association, said police had escorted the Swedish fans and players to "go straight to the airport and leave" because the perpetrator, who was said to be inspired by the Islamic State group, was still on the run and being sought by police early Tuesday. Also Read: Al-Hilal defeat Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Riyadh derby to remain to top According to investigators, the Swedish nationality of the victims was a "probable motivation" of the attacker, according to his video claim. Several Belgian media outlets said the two individuals killed were wearing football shirts belonging to the Swedish national team. The area around the stadium, located about five kilometres (three miles) from the scene of the attack, was being monitored by police, and traffic past the ground had been halted. - 'The safest place' - About 10 minutes before kickoff, match organisers learned that "something serious had happened", Leroy said on RTBF. "At first it was decided that the match should go ahead because the stadium was the safest place for the fans, especially the Swedish fans so that they would be safe," he said. But at halftime, the match was halted with the score at 1-1 and did not restart. UEFA said the decision to abandon the game was taken after consultation with both teams and the Belgian authorities. "I am terribly sad. We agreed 100 percent not to play the second half because of the conditions and out of respect for the victims and their families," said Sweden coach Janne Andersson, quoted by the Swedish news agency TT. Held inside the stadium as a security precaution, the fans braved the cold and the anxiety by singing songs in honour of Sweden and chanting "All together, all together!". "I think that we all tried to keep our spirits up. We also sang little songs for the Sweden supporters because it is especially for them that it is a very sad evening," said football fan Jacques Decoq outside the stadium. "We tried to stay warm with a little bit of atmosphere." Applause also punctuated the long wait. Finally, shortly before midnight, Red Devils fans began to leave the stadium, the authorities having chosen to evacuate the Belgian supporters stand by stand to avoid crowds. "Everyone remained very calm, the supporters started singing, there was an atmosphere, even if we were a little worried," said Karen, who came from Limburg with her family. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brussels shooting: Long wait for fans held in stadium after Belgium-Sweden Euro qualifier suspended

The flooded streets battered homes and severed communication lines storm Ciaran is smashed into Northwestern Europe. Unleashing some strong winds and heavy rains the storm was driven by the powerful jet stream that swept in from the Atlantic it had already caused heavy flooding in Northern Ireland and parts of Britain. Now Ciaran hit northern and western France uprooting trees and also blowing out windows.

Reports: Storm Ciaran kills two in Belgium

Two Swedish Nationals have been shot tent and a third person injured in Brussels in an attack which prosecutors are treating as terrorism. Brussels is on its highest Terror alert as the gunman who appeared to have an assault rifle remains at large in Europe. Belgium's Euro 2024 qualifier against Sweden was suspended at half-time and subsequently abandoned.

Brussels shooting: Sweden match abandoned after terror attack in Brussels

Two people were killed during a shooting incident in Brussels on Monday (Oct 17) evening and the suspect was on the run, the Belgian capital's prosecutor's office said. The alleged gunman in a fluorescent orange jacket fled the scene after using an automatic rifle, according to a video shared by the Flemish newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deceased individuals have been identified as two Swedish nationals and the incident occurred right before Belgium was set to host Sweden in a Euro 2023 qualifying match on Monday (Oct 17) evening.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgium-vs-sweden-euro-qualifier-suspended-after-shooting-incident-in-brussels-647732">Belgium-Sweden Euro qualifier suspended after shooting incident in Brussels</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Who is the suspect?&nbsp;</h2>

A video which surfaced on social media shortly after the incident showed a man in an orange motorbike outfit speaking in Arabic and claiming he carried out the attack in the name of God.&nbsp;

The man described his allegiance to the Islamic State terrorist group. He said in the video that he was targeting Swedes because of their disrespect for the Quran.&nbsp;

The suspect can also be heard saying that he was motivated by the killing of a six-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois. The boy was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly because of his religion. The 71-year-old Joseph M. Czuba was arrested and charged with murder and hate crimes.

Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws claimed that the victims were likely two football supporters. &nbsp;

<img alt="Swedish supporters react as they wait in the stand during the Euro 2024 qualifying football match between Belgium and Sweden at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels on October 16, 2023, after an 'attack' that targeted Swedish citizens in a street of Brussels | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e12995a6-967a-4af4-aa59-b36bb0546e4b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-10-17T015842.374.png" />

Swedish supporters react as they wait in the stand during the Euro 2024 qualifying football match between Belgium and Sweden at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels after an 'attack' that targeted Swedish citizens in a street of Brussels | AFP&nbsp;

Reacting to the shooting incident, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo described it as a "harrowing attack".&nbsp;

"I have just offered my sincere condolences to the Swedish PM following tonight's harrowing attack on Swedish citizens in Brussels," De Croo said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones. As close partners, the fight against terrorism is a joint one."&nbsp;

European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen also slammed the 'despicable' Brussels attack.&nbsp;

"Tonight, my thoughts are with the families of the two victims of the despicable attack in Brussels. I extend my heartfelt support to the Belgian police, so they swiftly apprehend the suspect. Together, we stand united against terror," Von der Leyen wrote on X.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron said: "Europe has been shaken."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two people were killed during a shooting incident in Brussels on Monday (Oct 17) evening and the suspect was on the run, the Belgian capital's prosecutor's office said.

Two people were killed during a shooting incident in Brussels on Monday (Oct 17) evening and the suspect was on the run, the Belgian capital's prosecutor's office said. The alleged gunman in a fluorescent orange jacket fled the scene after using an automatic rifle, according to a video shared by the Flemish newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws. The deceased individuals have been identified as two Swedish nationals and the incident occurred right before Belgium was set to host Sweden in a Euro 2023 qualifying match on Monday (Oct 17) evening. Also read | Belgium-Sweden Euro qualifier suspended after shooting incident in Brussels Who is the suspect? A video which surfaced on social media shortly after the incident showed a man in an orange motorbike outfit speaking in Arabic and claiming he carried out the attack in the name of God. The man described his allegiance to the Islamic State terrorist group. He said in the video that he was targeting Swedes because of their disrespect for the Quran. The suspect can also be heard saying that he was motivated by the killing of a six-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois. The boy was stabbed to death by his landlord, allegedly because of his religion. The 71-year-old Joseph M. Czuba was arrested and charged with murder and hate crimes. Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws claimed that the victims were likely two football supporters. Swedish supporters react as they wait in the stand during the Euro 2024 qualifying football match between Belgium and Sweden at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels after an 'attack' that targeted Swedish citizens in a street of Brussels | AFP Reacting to the shooting incident, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo described it as a "harrowing attack". "I have just offered my sincere condolences to the Swedish PM following tonight's harrowing attack on Swedish citizens in Brussels," De Croo said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones. As close partners, the fight against terrorism is a joint one." European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen also slammed the 'despicable' Brussels attack. "Tonight, my thoughts are with the families of the two victims of the despicable attack in Brussels. I extend my heartfelt support to the Belgian police, so they swiftly apprehend the suspect. Together, we stand united against terror," Von der Leyen wrote on X. French President Emmanuel Macron said: "Europe has been shaken." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ISIS terrorist kills 2 in Brussels to 'avenge' murder of 6-year-old Illinois boy

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