Romelu Lukaku has suffered a new hamstring injury less than a week after making his return to action for Inter Milan, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement, Inter said that Belgium striker Lukaku had picked up a "strain in the hamstring of his left thigh", the same muscle which kept him out of action for two months.

Inter added that the 29-year-old would be "reassessed in the next few days", and Italian media report that he is not yet at risk of missing the World Cup.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erik-ten-hag-hopes-magnificent-de-gea-stays-on-at-man-united-as-spaniard-stars-in-win-over-west-ham-529889">Erik Ten Hag hopes 'magnificent' De Gea stays on at Man United as Spaniard stars in win over West Ham</a>

Lukaku made a stunning comeback on Wednesday when he scored in a 4-0 win over Viktoria Plzen which sent Inter through to the last 16 of the Champions League. He also featured from the bench in Saturday's 3-0 stroll past Sampdoria as Inter moved up to fifth in Serie A, eight points behind league leaders Napoli.

However,&nbsp;his latest injury blow means he will miss Inter's Group C trip to Bayern Munich on Tuesday and is almost certain to be absent for Sunday's clash at fierce rivals Juventus.

Romelu Lukaku has suffered a new hamstring injury less than a week after making his return to action for Inter Milan, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement, Inter said that Belgium striker Lukaku had picked up a "strain in the hamstring of his left thigh", the same muscle which kept him out of action for two months.

Romelu Lukaku has suffered a new hamstring injury less than a week after making his return to action for Inter Milan, the Serie A club said on Monday. In a statement, Inter said that Belgium striker Lukaku had picked up a "strain in the hamstring of his left thigh", the same muscle which kept him out of action for two months. Inter added that the 29-year-old would be "reassessed in the next few days", and Italian media report that he is not yet at risk of missing the World Cup. ALSO READ | Erik Ten Hag hopes 'magnificent' De Gea stays on at Man United as Spaniard stars in win over West Ham Lukaku made a stunning comeback on Wednesday when he scored in a 4-0 win over Viktoria Plzen which sent Inter through to the last 16 of the Champions League. He also featured from the bench in Saturday's 3-0 stroll past Sampdoria as Inter moved up to fifth in Serie A, eight points behind league leaders Napoli. However, his latest injury blow means he will miss Inter's Group C trip to Bayern Munich on Tuesday and is almost certain to be absent for Sunday's clash at fierce rivals Juventus.

Belgium star Romelu Lukaku picks up a hamstring injury before Qatar World Cup

Decathlon, a major retailer of athletic goods, has decided to reverse its name for one month in an effort to promote reverse shopping. Now, establishments in three Belgian cities will display a sign that reads "NOLHTACED"!&nbsp;

Outlets in three Belgian cities - Evere, Namur, and Ghent, have changed their names.

Decathlon is read&nbsp;"NOLHTACED" when written backwards, and the company hopes that this marketing strategy would inspire customers to engage in "reverse shopping."

Reverse shopping mainly entails buyers returning used or unwanted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-indonesian-football-body-setup-taskforce-post-fatal-stampede-525160">athletic</a> items to the retailer, who will then repair the item and resell it in some capacity while still under warranty. The action is intended to increase public awareness of environmentally beneficial activities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-faces-five-year-jail-term-request-in-corruption-and-fraud-trial-525217">Neymar faces five-year jail-term request in corruption and fraud trial</a>

The fact that Decathlon is taking all athletic equipment and not simply the items customers have purchased from them is another significant feature of this move.

With more than 1,600 locations worldwide, Decathlon is a French athletic goods retailer. The business entered the Indian markets in 2009 after being founded by Michel Leclercq in 1976.

Many international companies, mostly Western ones, abandoned Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February of this year.

Decathlon decided to carry on with business as normal, which prompted strong criticism and a boycott from customers. Decathlon said on March 29 that all of its operations had ended and that none of its stores remained open.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Decathlon, a major retailer of athletic goods, has decided to reverse its name for one month in an effort to promote reverse shopping. Now, establishments in three Belgian cities will display a sign that reads "NOLHTACED"!

Decathlon, a major retailer of athletic goods, has decided to reverse its name for one month in an effort to promote reverse shopping. Now, establishments in three Belgian cities will display a sign that reads "NOLHTACED"! Outlets in three Belgian cities - Evere, Namur, and Ghent, have changed their names. Decathlon is read "NOLHTACED" when written backwards, and the company hopes that this marketing strategy would inspire customers to engage in "reverse shopping." Reverse shopping mainly entails buyers returning used or unwanted athletic items to the retailer, who will then repair the item and resell it in some capacity while still under warranty. The action is intended to increase public awareness of environmentally beneficial activities. Also read | Neymar faces five-year jail-term request in corruption and fraud trial The fact that Decathlon is taking all athletic equipment and not simply the items customers have purchased from them is another significant feature of this move. With more than 1,600 locations worldwide, Decathlon is a French athletic goods retailer. The business entered the Indian markets in 2009 after being founded by Michel Leclercq in 1976. Many international companies, mostly Western ones, abandoned Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February of this year. Decathlon decided to carry on with business as normal, which prompted strong criticism and a boycott from customers. Decathlon said on March 29 that all of its operations had ended and that none of its stores remained open. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Decathlon reverses name in three Belgian cities to promote 'reverse shopping'

The world has seen its fair share of terror attacks. These terrible attacks result in huge losses of life and the devastation of property. People, who survive these are considered lucky, but are they?

A 23-year woman who had survived a terror attack when she was a teenager has died after she chose to be euthanised. Shanti De Corte was plagued by depression and PTSD due to the bomb detonation she witnessed back when she was 17 years old.

On March 22, 2016, as she and her schoolmates were making their way through the departures area of the Belgian airport in Zaventem in preparation for a vacation to Italy, an ISIS bomb went off.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: This 'Suicide Pod' ensures 'painless death' in a minute

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The explosion as per Daily Mail claimed 32 lives, additionally, more than 300 people were injured.

Though Shanti escaped the explosion physically unscathed, mentally she suffered every day since. The ordeal left her psychologically crippled, suffering through frequent panic attacks and bouts of depressive episodes.&nbsp;The troubled young woman is the terror attack's latest and the 33rd victim.

Shanti sought help from a psychiatric facility in her home town of Antwerp and was even put on anti-depressant medications. However, the psychological trauma was too heavy and she attempted suicide twice; once in 2018 and once in 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-court-allows-euthanasia-for-paraplegic-gunman-awaiting-trail-504289">Spanish court allows euthanasia for paraplegic gunman awaiting trail</a>

Finally, in May of this year, she opted to be euthanised.

Euthanasia is legal in Belgium for individuals in "a medically futile condition of constant and unbearable physical or mental suffering that cannot be alleviated, resulting from a serious and incurable disorder caused by illness or accident".

As per RTBF, two psychiatrists approved Shanti's formal request to be euthanised earlier this year.&nbsp;She died on May 7, 2022, however, her story only recently came to light after her mother Marielle spoke to VRT news.&nbsp;'That day really cracked her, she never felt safe after that,' said Shanti's mother.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-where-euthanasia-assisted-suicide-is-legal-281943">Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal</a>

Before she opted to die, Shanti frequently took to social media and recalled the horrors she witnessed. In one post she shared how at one point she was taking up to 11 antidepressants a day, "I couldn't live without it".

"With all the medications I take, I feel like a ghost that can't feel anything anymore. Maybe there were other solutions than medications," she wrote.

In a final post, she posted on the day she died, Shanti wrote "I was laughing and crying. Until the last day. I loved and was allowed to feel what true love is. Now I will go away in peace. Know that I miss you already."

(With inputs from agencies)

If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602

WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations.

&nbsp;

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The world has seen its fair share of terror attacks. These terrible attacks result in huge losses of life and the devastation of property. People, who survive these are considered lucky, but are they?

The world has seen its fair share of terror attacks. These terrible attacks result in huge losses of life and the devastation of property. People, who survive these are considered lucky, but are they? A 23-year woman who had survived a terror attack when she was a teenager has died after she chose to be euthanised. Shanti De Corte was plagued by depression and PTSD due to the bomb detonation she witnessed back when she was 17 years old. On March 22, 2016, as she and her schoolmates were making their way through the departures area of the Belgian airport in Zaventem in preparation for a vacation to Italy, an ISIS bomb went off. Watch | Gravitas: This 'Suicide Pod' ensures 'painless death' in a minute The explosion as per Daily Mail claimed 32 lives, additionally, more than 300 people were injured. Though Shanti escaped the explosion physically unscathed, mentally she suffered every day since. The ordeal left her psychologically crippled, suffering through frequent panic attacks and bouts of depressive episodes. The troubled young woman is the terror attack's latest and the 33rd victim. Shanti sought help from a psychiatric facility in her home town of Antwerp and was even put on anti-depressant medications. However, the psychological trauma was too heavy and she attempted suicide twice; once in 2018 and once in 2020. Also read | Spanish court allows euthanasia for paraplegic gunman awaiting trail Finally, in May of this year, she opted to be euthanised. Euthanasia is legal in Belgium for individuals in "a medically futile condition of constant and unbearable physical or mental suffering that cannot be alleviated, resulting from a serious and incurable disorder caused by illness or accident". As per RTBF, two psychiatrists approved Shanti's formal request to be euthanised earlier this year. She died on May 7, 2022, however, her story only recently came to light after her mother Marielle spoke to VRT news. 'That day really cracked her, she never felt safe after that,' said Shanti's mother. Also read | Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal Before she opted to die, Shanti frequently took to social media and recalled the horrors she witnessed. In one post she shared how at one point she was taking up to 11 antidepressants a day, "I couldn't live without it". "With all the medications I take, I feel like a ghost that can't feel anything anymore. Maybe there were other solutions than medications," she wrote. In a final post, she posted on the day she died, Shanti wrote "I was laughing and crying. Until the last day. I loved and was allowed to feel what true love is. Now I will go away in peace. Know that I miss you already." (With inputs from agencies) If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602 WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations. 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.

Belgium woman gets euthanised after battling post-terror attack mental trauma for six years

Kevin De Bruyne score one goal and made the other for&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;to secure a rare 2-1 win over Wales in Brussels and keep the Red Devils' slim chance of reaching the Nations League semi-finals alive. De Bruyne claimed before the game that he was "bored" of facing Wales on the international stage,&nbsp;but&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;had won just two of the previous eight meetings between the sides over the last 10 years.

That included a famous victory for the Welsh in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, but there was no repeat for the severely depleted visitors on Thursday. Gareth Bale was left on the bench by Rob Page with one eye on managing his fitness ahead of their World Cup, while Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies missed out through injury.

Belgium&nbsp;were also missing one of their key men in Romelu Lukaku, but Michy Batshuayi stepped up to replace the Inter Milan striker to continue his excellent goalscoring record at international level. Batshuayi played provider for the opening goal as his pass was superbly stroked into the bottom corner by De Bruyne on 10 minutes. The Manchester City midfielder then hit the post and Batshuayi passed up a great chance as Wales struggled to contain the waves of Belgian attacks.

The same two players combined for the second goal eight minutes before half-time as this time De Bruyne's teasing cross left&nbsp;Batshuayi with a tap-in for his 26th international goal in 46 appearances. To their credit, Wales did not give in and got back into the game thanks in large part to the impressive Brennan Johnson. The Nottingham Forest forward's surging run and cross teed up Kieffer Moore to halve the arrears five minutes into the second half.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pitch-invading-fans-face-from-premier-league-encounters-policy-comes-into-effect-immediately-518791">Pitch-invading fans face ban from Premier League encounters, policy comes into effect immediately</a>

Moore then gave way to Bale for the final 25 minutes, but the only impact the LA Galaxy star made was getting harshly booked for taking his protests towards an overturned&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;penalty too far. Turkish referee Ali Palabiyik wrongly pointed to the spot when Joe Morrell produced a perfectly timed tackle on De Bruyne inside the area.

That decision was overturned after a VAR review and Palabiyik made another extremely harsh call when&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;coach Roberto Martinez was sent off from the touchline late on for wasting time.But the side ranked second in the world comfortably held out to remain three points behind the Netherlands at the top of Group A4.

Martinez's men will need to win by at least three goals when the sides meet in Amsterdam on Sunday to progress to the last four. Wales need to beat Poland in Cardiff in their final game to avoid relegation into League B of the Nations League.

Kevin De Bruyne score one goal and made the other for Belgium to secure a rare 2-1 win over Wales in Brussels and keep the Red Devils' slim chance of reaching the Nations League semi-finals alive.

Kevin De Bruyne score one goal and made the other for Belgium to secure a rare 2-1 win over Wales in Brussels and keep the Red Devils' slim chance of reaching the Nations League semi-finals alive. De Bruyne claimed before the game that he was "bored" of facing Wales on the international stage, but Belgium had won just two of the previous eight meetings between the sides over the last 10 years. That included a famous victory for the Welsh in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, but there was no repeat for the severely depleted visitors on Thursday. Gareth Bale was left on the bench by Rob Page with one eye on managing his fitness ahead of their World Cup, while Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies missed out through injury. Belgium were also missing one of their key men in Romelu Lukaku, but Michy Batshuayi stepped up to replace the Inter Milan striker to continue his excellent goalscoring record at international level. Batshuayi played provider for the opening goal as his pass was superbly stroked into the bottom corner by De Bruyne on 10 minutes. The Manchester City midfielder then hit the post and Batshuayi passed up a great chance as Wales struggled to contain the waves of Belgian attacks. The same two players combined for the second goal eight minutes before half-time as this time De Bruyne's teasing cross left Batshuayi with a tap-in for his 26th international goal in 46 appearances. To their credit, Wales did not give in and got back into the game thanks in large part to the impressive Brennan Johnson. The Nottingham Forest forward's surging run and cross teed up Kieffer Moore to halve the arrears five minutes into the second half. ALSO READ | Pitch-invading fans face ban from Premier League encounters, policy comes into effect immediately Moore then gave way to Bale for the final 25 minutes, but the only impact the LA Galaxy star made was getting harshly booked for taking his protests towards an overturned Belgium penalty too far. Turkish referee Ali Palabiyik wrongly pointed to the spot when Joe Morrell produced a perfectly timed tackle on De Bruyne inside the area. That decision was overturned after a VAR review and Palabiyik made another extremely harsh call when Belgium coach Roberto Martinez was sent off from the touchline late on for wasting time.But the side ranked second in the world comfortably held out to remain three points behind the Netherlands at the top of Group A4. Martinez's men will need to win by at least three goals when the sides meet in Amsterdam on Sunday to progress to the last four. Wales need to beat Poland in Cardiff in their final game to avoid relegation into League B of the Nations League.

Kevin De Bruyne leads Belgium to victory over Wales at Nations League

Europe is reeling under a major energy crisis in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Now, Belgian Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten has shot off a warning that the continent faces terrible winters for the next 5-10 years if no cap is put on the gas prices.

Europe is reeling under a major energy crisis in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Now, Belgian Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten has shot off a warning that the continent faces terrible winters for the next 5-10 years if no cap is put on the gas prices. “The next 5 to 10 winters will be terrible if nothing is done, We must act at the source, at [the] European level, and work on freezing gas prices,” tweeted Van der Straeten. Les 5 à 10 prochains hivers seront terribles si on ne fait rien. Il faut agir à la source, au niveau européen et travailler sur un blocage des prix pour le gaz. On pourrait ainsi réduire la facture énergétique de 770 euros. — Tinne Van der Straeten (@TinneVdS) August 28, 2022 × The minister further stated that if the gas prices are capped, it could help reduce energy bills by $771 per year, per family. "There is an urgent need to introduce a European price cap. This can reduce the energy bill by 770 euros per year per family. At the EU level, the price cap has the greatest impact, but we can no longer rule out price blocks at the Belgian level either," The Belgian minister also asserted that her country had put the proposal in front of the EU with Germany backing it as well. “The European energy market is failing and urgently needs reform. This is no longer tenable for many families and companies. Electricity is produced as cheaply as last year but sold at record prices. By reforming, we are tackling exuberant excess profits.” added Van der Straeten. Read more: Electricity prices hit record highs in Europe, affect supply chains, spark fears of fertiliser shortage What is the crisis? As reported extensively by WION, the 27-nation bloc is majorly dependent on Russian energy for survival. However, ever since Moscow invaded Kyiv and the EU imposed sanctions, Putin has leveraged his position to turn the faucet off the 40 per cent gas quota of Europe. While most European nations are facing soaring prices, very few have capped the prices. Of the major countries, it is France that has put a four per cent cap on gas prices up until the end of the year. Read more: France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year Moreover, last week, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire remarked that the hike in electricity prices in 2023 will also be limited. "Increases that the President and Prime Minister have spoken about will be limited increases. The four per cent cap will be maintained to the end of the year." said Bruno Le Maire. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Terrible winters await Europe for the next 5-10 years, warns Belgian Energy Minister

Belgium's energy minister says the EU is looking at tough winters ahead if a gas price cap isn't put into place soon. The Belgian minister said gas prices in Europe need to be frozen urgently and added that the link between gas and electricity prices was artificial and needs reform.

EU nations call for energy price cap, Belgian minister warns of tough winters ahead

Max Verstappen clinched the Belgium Grand Prix on Sunday (August 28) but British driver Lewis Hamilton made heads turn following a crash with Fernando Alonso. Now, the Mercedes driver opened up on the crash and claimed that he was “grateful to still be alive” while admitting he was at fault after&nbsp;hitting Alonso during the opening lap.

The crash launched Hamilton’s car in&nbsp;the air, with the damage prompting him to retire from the race there itself. As per a report in The Guardian, the 37-year-old opined, "Looking back at the footage he was in my blind spot, I didn’t give him enough space. It is my fault. Just, so sorry to the team. I could not see him. I am sorry to the team and I need to recuperate and get back on the treadmill.”

On the other hand, Alonso wasn't impressed with Hamilton's tactics and called him “an idiot” on the team radio following the incident. This, in turn, has led to the seven-time champion Hamilton claiming that he&nbsp;would refuse to interact with the Spaniard with regard to the crash.

Having started the race on a good note before Hamilton's crash, Alonso slammed the former and said, "What an idiot closing the door from the outside. We had a mega start but this guy only knows how to drive and start in first."&nbsp;The Spaniard said added: "Why does he close the door? I just don’t understand."

To this, Hamilton hit back at Alonso and said, "No. I would have until I heard what he said. I know that’s how things feel in the heat of the moment, but it’s nice to know how he feels about me."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/max-verstappen-cruises-to-victory-after-starting-at-p14-at-the-belgian-grand-prix-as-lewis-hamilton-suffers-510979">Max Verstappen cruises to victory after starting at P14 at the Belgian Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton suffers</a>

While Hamilton retired from the race following the unfortunate turn of events, Alonso settled for the fifth slot. However, Hamilton chose to see the brighter side to have walked away injury-free.&nbsp;

“I remember looking at the ground, it was definitely high up. I’m grateful to be still alive and in shape,” he said.

Verstappen clinchs drama-filled Belgium GP

"It was quite a hectic first lap to try and stay out of trouble," said Verstappen in an official statement. "So many things were happening in front of me. But once we settled in after the Safety Car, the car was really on rails, we picked the right places to pass people and we could look after our tyres and that is how we made our way forward," the Red Bull racer opined.

"After that, once we were in the lead it was all about managing everything - but this whole weekend has been incredible. It`s been a weekend I couldn`t imagine before, but I think we want more of them, so keep working hard," he further added.

Max Verstappen clinched the Belgium Grand Prix on Sunday (August 28) but British driver Lewis Hamilton made heads turn following a crash with Fernando Alonso. Now, the Mercedes driver opened up on the crash and claimed that he was “grateful to still be alive” while admitting he was at fault after hitting Alonso during the opening lap.

Max Verstappen clinched the Belgium Grand Prix on Sunday (August 28) but British driver Lewis Hamilton made heads turn following a crash with Fernando Alonso. Now, the Mercedes driver opened up on the crash and claimed that he was “grateful to still be alive” while admitting he was at fault after hitting Alonso during the opening lap. The crash launched Hamilton’s car in the air, with the damage prompting him to retire from the race there itself. As per a report in The Guardian, the 37-year-old opined, "Looking back at the footage he was in my blind spot, I didn’t give him enough space. It is my fault. Just, so sorry to the team. I could not see him. I am sorry to the team and I need to recuperate and get back on the treadmill.” On the other hand, Alonso wasn't impressed with Hamilton's tactics and called him “an idiot” on the team radio following the incident. This, in turn, has led to the seven-time champion Hamilton claiming that he would refuse to interact with the Spaniard with regard to the crash. Having started the race on a good note before Hamilton's crash, Alonso slammed the former and said, "What an idiot closing the door from the outside. We had a mega start but this guy only knows how to drive and start in first." The Spaniard said added: "Why does he close the door? I just don’t understand." To this, Hamilton hit back at Alonso and said, "No. I would have until I heard what he said. I know that’s how things feel in the heat of the moment, but it’s nice to know how he feels about me." ALSO READ | Max Verstappen cruises to victory after starting at P14 at the Belgian Grand Prix as Lewis Hamilton suffers While Hamilton retired from the race following the unfortunate turn of events, Alonso settled for the fifth slot. However, Hamilton chose to see the brighter side to have walked away injury-free. “I remember looking at the ground, it was definitely high up. I’m grateful to be still alive and in shape,” he said. Verstappen clinchs drama-filled Belgium GP "It was quite a hectic first lap to try and stay out of trouble," said Verstappen in an official statement. "So many things were happening in front of me. But once we settled in after the Safety Car, the car was really on rails, we picked the right places to pass people and we could look after our tyres and that is how we made our way forward," the Red Bull racer opined. "After that, once we were in the lead it was all about managing everything - but this whole weekend has been incredible. It`s been a weekend I couldn`t imagine before, but I think we want more of them, so keep working hard," he further added.

Lewis Hamilton 'grateful to still be alive', admits his mistake for crash in Belgium Grand Prix

Belgium's famous flower carpet festival has opened up in Brussels. This year will mark the 50th anniversary of the festival. Watch this special report.

Flower carpet festival opens in Brussels: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the festival

After thousands of their birds went missing after being released into harsh weather during an inappropriate competition, Belgian pigeon fanciers are in an uproar. In southern France's Narbonne, the birds were released to begin their journey back to their lofts in northern Europe, but they soon encountered a summer storm. The Belgian Pigeon Federation called the results a catastrophe and accused the organisers of permitting the birds to take to the skies despite weather warnings.

Francine Lageot, the director of Liège Independent, apologised in writing on Belgian television, stating that "it is true that the competition did not go well for different reasons." However, Liège Independent responded to "unfortunate" claims regarding the way it handled the race's organisation in a statement. The organisers acknowledged one rule violation but claimed that the release of the birds was agreed upon by French, Dutch, and German officials and that the Belgian national sports president had been informed. The competition would have been considerably more challenging due to rising temperatures and strong headwinds, according to Liège Independent, because of the "climatic conditions" in the ensuing days.

The figure of 20,000 lost birds, which has been widely publicised, is "completely false," according to federation spokeswoman Didier Tison. Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 lost birds from Belgium, he continued, was an "exceptional" figure, but he was unable to confirm the total for other nations. Pigeon racing, in which birds have released hundreds of miles from home and try to return as quickly as possible, was invented in Belgium. Tracking devices are worn by racing pigeons, making it possible to determine which bird was the fastest.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-deadly-heatwaves-are-affecting-spains-green-gold-harvest-503518">Explained: How deadly heatwaves are affecting Spain's 'green gold' harvest</a>

It is believed that pigeons use their sense of smell and the magnetic field lines of the Earth to navigate. They flew into a storm that is suspected to have left them exhausted and disoriented last Friday, 18 miles (30 km) from the race's start, confusing their highly developed sense of direction. Losses hurt for die-hard pigeon enthusiasts. When growing a bird, amateurs can invest two to three years and thousands of euros in renowned breeders who will produce the next wave of winners.

(with inputs from agencies)

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After thousands of their birds went missing after being released into harsh weather during an inappropriate competition, Belgian pigeon fanciers are in an uproar.

After thousands of their birds went missing after being released into harsh weather during an inappropriate competition, Belgian pigeon fanciers are in an uproar. In southern France's Narbonne, the birds were released to begin their journey back to their lofts in northern Europe, but they soon encountered a summer storm. The Belgian Pigeon Federation called the results a catastrophe and accused the organisers of permitting the birds to take to the skies despite weather warnings. Francine Lageot, the director of Liège Independent, apologised in writing on Belgian television, stating that "it is true that the competition did not go well for different reasons." However, Liège Independent responded to "unfortunate" claims regarding the way it handled the race's organisation in a statement. The organisers acknowledged one rule violation but claimed that the release of the birds was agreed upon by French, Dutch, and German officials and that the Belgian national sports president had been informed. The competition would have been considerably more challenging due to rising temperatures and strong headwinds, according to Liège Independent, because of the "climatic conditions" in the ensuing days. The figure of 20,000 lost birds, which has been widely publicised, is "completely false," according to federation spokeswoman Didier Tison. Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 lost birds from Belgium, he continued, was an "exceptional" figure, but he was unable to confirm the total for other nations. Pigeon racing, in which birds have released hundreds of miles from home and try to return as quickly as possible, was invented in Belgium. Tracking devices are worn by racing pigeons, making it possible to determine which bird was the fastest. Also Read: Explained: How deadly heatwaves are affecting Spain's 'green gold' harvest It is believed that pigeons use their sense of smell and the magnetic field lines of the Earth to navigate. They flew into a storm that is suspected to have left them exhausted and disoriented last Friday, 18 miles (30 km) from the race's start, confusing their highly developed sense of direction. Losses hurt for die-hard pigeon enthusiasts. When growing a bird, amateurs can invest two to three years and thousands of euros in renowned breeders who will produce the next wave of winners. (with inputs from agencies)

Belgian pigeon fanciers are in uproar as thousands of racing pigeons vanish in French storm 

As part of efforts to relax marijuana prohibitions in NATO and EU regions, Brussels may soon have “cannabis coffee shops” on the lines of Amsterdam. Such cafes are very popular in Amsterdam&nbsp;that people often visit to enjoy. However, when selecting the perfect cannabis in Amsterdam, there are many factors an individual should take into account. Whether you prefer a relaxing high that can be perfect for binge-watching TV or a positive high that’s good for certain outside activities.

Philippe Close, the socialist mayor of Brussels, compares smoking marijuana to sipping a glass of whiskey. He has urged the creation of cannabis cafes where customers can legally buy and smoke the drug. The mayor of the city supports the idea of a proposal that would licence locations where cannabis could be purchased, as well as allow possession of up to three grammes of drugs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/parish-in-uk-village-removes-cannabis-plants-from-display-trolled-on-social-media-500495">Parish in UK village removes ‘cannabis’ plants from display, trolled on social media</a>

During a conversation with Dutch daily NRC Handelsblad, he said, “I see a joint like I see a glass of whisky.” He further added that he hopes that Brussels will soon have such coffee shops. In 2003, cannabis use for personal consumption became legal in Belgium. In an&nbsp;interview, Close reiterated his call for decriminalising marijuana use in Belgium as a first step towards legalisation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-move-to-legalise-cannabis-may-lead-to-cascading-effect-493649">Germany’s move to legalise cannabis may lead to cascading effect</a>

A few days prior to the interview with the Dutch publication, the mayor had proposed in the Belgian media to hold a serene debate about decriminalising and ultimately legalising marijuana through a ‘national drug plan’ — partially in imitation of the Netherlands.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As part of efforts to relax marijuana prohibitions in NATO and EU regions, Brussels may soon have “cannabis coffee shops” on the lines of Amsterdam. Such cafes are very popular in Amsterdam that people often visit to enjoy.

As part of efforts to relax marijuana prohibitions in NATO and EU regions, Brussels may soon have “cannabis coffee shops” on the lines of Amsterdam. Such cafes are very popular in Amsterdam that people often visit to enjoy. However, when selecting the perfect cannabis in Amsterdam, there are many factors an individual should take into account. Whether you prefer a relaxing high that can be perfect for binge-watching TV or a positive high that’s good for certain outside activities. Philippe Close, the socialist mayor of Brussels, compares smoking marijuana to sipping a glass of whiskey. He has urged the creation of cannabis cafes where customers can legally buy and smoke the drug. The mayor of the city supports the idea of a proposal that would licence locations where cannabis could be purchased, as well as allow possession of up to three grammes of drugs. Also read | Parish in UK village removes ‘cannabis’ plants from display, trolled on social media During a conversation with Dutch daily NRC Handelsblad, he said, “I see a joint like I see a glass of whisky.” He further added that he hopes that Brussels will soon have such coffee shops. In 2003, cannabis use for personal consumption became legal in Belgium. In an interview, Close reiterated his call for decriminalising marijuana use in Belgium as a first step towards legalisation. Also read | Germany’s move to legalise cannabis may lead to cascading effect A few days prior to the interview with the Dutch publication, the mayor had proposed in the Belgian media to hold a serene debate about decriminalising and ultimately legalising marijuana through a ‘national drug plan’ — partially in imitation of the Netherlands. (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.

Brussels mayor urges starting ‘cannabis cafes’ in Amsterdam style

Around 80 flights have been cancelled in Belgium after Ryanair employees go on a strike in a bid to demand a salary hike. Travel woes have continued in Europe.

Ryanair employees strike in Brussels, around 80 flights cancelled

30 green sea turtles were stabbed in Japan. Nearly half a million animals were killed during lab tests in Belgium. UN report says 1 million species could become extinct because. Palki Sharma tells you why you must act now.

Gravitas: UN Report: 1 Million species on track to extinction

It's party time in Belgium again as Tomorrowland is back. Fireworks and neon lights are shooting across the sky as people enjoy their weekends.

It's party time in Belgium again as Tomorrowland is back

France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday. France saw most of the ball in the match with 60 per cent possession on their side while also creating a lot of chances with a total of 7 shots on target of a total of 27 shots attempted. Belgium looked weak on the other side with only 2 shots in the whole game with one of them being on target.

Kadidiatou Diani gave France an early lead in the match with a headed effort that at the back post. The left-back of France, Sakina Karchaoui assisted the goal with a great lofted ball to the right winger who converted the effort from the six-yard box within 6 minutes of the starting of the match. Diani got the chance to score a brace in the 15th minute through a tap-in but the ball was parried out by Belgium Goalkeeper Nicky Evrard. The right-footed effort was yet again provided by Karchaoui who was looking dangerous on the left wing for France by constantly creating chances for the team.

In the 17th minute, the French number 9 Marie-Antoinette Katoto had to be taken off the ground as she suffered an injury. It was a major blow for the French team getting their main striker out of the game in the early minutes. She was replaced by striker Ouleymata Sarr. France was looking comfortable as the game hit the 30-minute mark. Though in the 36th minute Belgium bounced back with a goal from Janice Cayman. An amazing through ball came from Tessa Wullaert as Cayman stretched out to level the score for Belgium.

France was quick to gain the lead with a goal from Griedge Mbock Bathy who converted the goal from a short-range header in the 41st minute of the game. The French number 10, Clara Mateo assisted the goal from a cross which was followed from a corner taken by Mateo herself. The goal marked the end of the first half. It was a very dominating performance from France with numerous efforts created but after all that Belgium was still in the game thanks to the maiden effort from Belgium left winger Cayman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-to-not-be-make-a-bid-for-cristiano-ronaldo-from-manchester-united-report-497588">Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report</a>

The second half of the match was rather dry as France failed to convert a lot of chances while Belgian team was barely in the game. However, in the 86th minute France got a chance to double the lead from the spot courtesy of Amber Tysiak`s handball in the penalty area. Tysiak who already was on a yellow card conceded the penalty which resulted in her being sent off. French center-back Wendie Renard stepped up for the penalty but failed to convert as her weak effort to the right corner of the goal was parried away by Belgian Goalkeeper Evrard. Renard also choked the opportunity on the rebound but her effort went wide.

The match ended with a score of 2-1 with France winning the game. France was also able to maintain their first spot in Group D with the win as Matchday-2 came to end. Next Tuesday, France will face Iceland who is second in Group-D.&nbsp;

France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday.

France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday. France saw most of the ball in the match with 60 per cent possession on their side while also creating a lot of chances with a total of 7 shots on target of a total of 27 shots attempted. Belgium looked weak on the other side with only 2 shots in the whole game with one of them being on target. Kadidiatou Diani gave France an early lead in the match with a headed effort that at the back post. The left-back of France, Sakina Karchaoui assisted the goal with a great lofted ball to the right winger who converted the effort from the six-yard box within 6 minutes of the starting of the match. Diani got the chance to score a brace in the 15th minute through a tap-in but the ball was parried out by Belgium Goalkeeper Nicky Evrard. The right-footed effort was yet again provided by Karchaoui who was looking dangerous on the left wing for France by constantly creating chances for the team. In the 17th minute, the French number 9 Marie-Antoinette Katoto had to be taken off the ground as she suffered an injury. It was a major blow for the French team getting their main striker out of the game in the early minutes. She was replaced by striker Ouleymata Sarr. France was looking comfortable as the game hit the 30-minute mark. Though in the 36th minute Belgium bounced back with a goal from Janice Cayman. An amazing through ball came from Tessa Wullaert as Cayman stretched out to level the score for Belgium. France was quick to gain the lead with a goal from Griedge Mbock Bathy who converted the goal from a short-range header in the 41st minute of the game. The French number 10, Clara Mateo assisted the goal from a cross which was followed from a corner taken by Mateo herself. The goal marked the end of the first half. It was a very dominating performance from France with numerous efforts created but after all that Belgium was still in the game thanks to the maiden effort from Belgium left winger Cayman. ALSO READ | Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report The second half of the match was rather dry as France failed to convert a lot of chances while Belgian team was barely in the game. However, in the 86th minute France got a chance to double the lead from the spot courtesy of Amber Tysiak`s handball in the penalty area. Tysiak who already was on a yellow card conceded the penalty which resulted in her being sent off. French center-back Wendie Renard stepped up for the penalty but failed to convert as her weak effort to the right corner of the goal was parried away by Belgian Goalkeeper Evrard. Renard also choked the opportunity on the rebound but her effort went wide. The match ended with a score of 2-1 with France winning the game. France was also able to maintain their first spot in Group D with the win as Matchday-2 came to end. Next Tuesday, France will face Iceland who is second in Group-D.

Women's Euro 2022: France defeat Belgium 2-1 in an intense game, enter quarter-finals

In 2021 Europe witnessed floods like never before. Even the wealthy countries struggled to keep their residents safe; Belgium also battled devastating floods, a year later the Belgians are still traumatized, our next report tells you more.

A year after deadly floods in Belgium; images of devastation engraved in residents' heads

Belgium has brought in new rules to tackle some unique set of challenges arising because of these environment friendly vehicles. Tougher rules have entered into force regarding the use of e-scooters on the streets of Belgium.

Belgium brings E-Scooters' related law to curtail accidents

Belgium is preparing to tackle e-scooters, a new and frequently infuriating aspect of urban life, with rare clarity and speed.New regulations for e-scooter users go into effect on Friday in an effort to reduce injuries and keep the vehicles from encroaching on public places and becoming a nuisance to cars, bikers, and pedestrians alike.

E-scooters will be regarded by the regulations as essentially motorised vehicles.&nbsp;

They will generally be outlawed for anyone under the age of 16, along with restrictions on driving on the sidewalk and carrying additional passengers.&nbsp;

Parking will be restricted to designated "drop zones," sort of.&nbsp;

The rules received enough parliamentary approval in less than a year, suggesting a general frustration with the status quo.

However, because of their popularity among commuters and local travellers who must complete the final mile of their journeys, e-scooters have avoided a total prohibition. The updated traffic laws will apply countrywide, but they will mostly affect cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent where e-scooters are becoming more and more common as a mode of transportation. 
 
Watch | India: 4 electric scooters catch fire in 7 days

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E-scooters are practical, but they can also be dangerous. In Flanders, police reported 533 injuries from e-scooter accidents last year, more than twice as many as the year before (206). There were no figures available right away for all of Belgium in 2021.

New rules from July 1

As of today, anyone under the age of 16 will no longer be allowed to use an e-scooter. Pedestrianized zones, private residences, leisure spaces, and cycle pathways that are entirely separate from the roads—like the cycle superhighways in Flanders and the Ravel cycle/walking paths in Wallonia—are exceptions to this norm.

Additionally, it is now against the law for many people to ride an e-scooter at once as well as to use one on paved surfaces.

Additionally, signage marking prohibited e-scooter parking areas will be up starting today. E-scooter parking will be permitted in other locations, provided that it doesn't hinder pedestrians.

The rules apply to all motorised vehicles with one or more wheels and a top speed cap of 25 km/h, not just e-scooters. 
&nbsp;

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Belgium is preparing to tackle e-scooters, a new and frequently infuriating aspect of urban life, with rare clarity and speed.New regulations for e-scooter users go into effect on Friday in an effort to reduce injuries and keep the vehicles from encroaching on public places and becoming a nuisance to cars, bikers, and pedestrians alike.

Belgium is preparing to tackle e-scooters, a new and frequently infuriating aspect of urban life, with rare clarity and speed.New regulations for e-scooter users go into effect on Friday in an effort to reduce injuries and keep the vehicles from encroaching on public places and becoming a nuisance to cars, bikers, and pedestrians alike. E-scooters will be regarded by the regulations as essentially motorised vehicles. They will generally be outlawed for anyone under the age of 16, along with restrictions on driving on the sidewalk and carrying additional passengers. Parking will be restricted to designated "drop zones," sort of. The rules received enough parliamentary approval in less than a year, suggesting a general frustration with the status quo. However, because of their popularity among commuters and local travellers who must complete the final mile of their journeys, e-scooters have avoided a total prohibition. The updated traffic laws will apply countrywide, but they will mostly affect cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent where e-scooters are becoming more and more common as a mode of transportation. Watch | India: 4 electric scooters catch fire in 7 days E-scooters are practical, but they can also be dangerous. In Flanders, police reported 533 injuries from e-scooter accidents last year, more than twice as many as the year before (206). There were no figures available right away for all of Belgium in 2021. New rules from July 1 As of today, anyone under the age of 16 will no longer be allowed to use an e-scooter. Pedestrianized zones, private residences, leisure spaces, and cycle pathways that are entirely separate from the roads—like the cycle superhighways in Flanders and the Ravel cycle/walking paths in Wallonia—are exceptions to this norm. Additionally, it is now against the law for many people to ride an e-scooter at once as well as to use one on paved surfaces. Additionally, signage marking prohibited e-scooter parking areas will be up starting today. E-scooter parking will be permitted in other locations, provided that it doesn't hinder pedestrians. The rules apply to all motorised vehicles with one or more wheels and a top speed cap of 25 km/h, not just e-scooters. 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.

Electric scooters: Belgium introduces new rules to stanch rising numbers of injuries

Tens of thousands of people joined a protest outside the Gare Du Nord station in Brussels. Over 70,000 people are thought to have taken part in national demonstrations over the cost of living in Belgium; widespread disruption at brussels airport also halted all outbound flights.

Nationwide strikes in Belgium over cost of living, capital Brussels comes to a halt

Belgium on Monday handed over the last remains of slain Congolese leader&nbsp;Patrice&nbsp;Lumumba&nbsp;-- a tooth -- to his family, turning a page on a grim chapter in its colonial past.

Chief prosecutor Frederic Van Leeuw gave the relatives a small, bright blue box containing the tooth in a televised ceremony, and said legal action they had taken to receive the relic had delivered "justice".

The tooth was placed in a casket that was then draped in the flag of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which celebrates&nbsp;Lumumba, who was murdered by separatists and Belgian mercenaries in 1961, as an anti-colonial hero.

Lumumba's assassination -- and the brutal history of Belgian control of the Congo -- have been enduring sources of pain between the two countries.&nbsp;

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo reiterated that his country's authorities bore a "moral responsibility" over the killing.&nbsp;

"I would like, in the presence of his family, to present in my turn the apologies of the Belgian government," he said. &nbsp;

"A man was murdered for his political convictions, his words, his ideals."

Lumumba's son Francois told Belgium's RTBF broadcaster that his relatives had been waiting "more than 60 years" for this event.

"I think it will provide solace for the family and the Congolese people," he said.&nbsp;

"We are opening a new page in history."

A fiery critic of Belgium's rapacious rule,&nbsp;Lumumba&nbsp;became his country's first prime minister after it gained independence in 1960.&nbsp;

But he fell out with the former colonial power and the United States and was ousted in a coup a few months after&nbsp;taking office.&nbsp;

He was executed on January 17 1961, aged just 35, in the southern region of Katanga, with the support of Belgian mercenaries.&nbsp;

His body was dissolved in acid and never found.

But the tooth was kept as a trophy by one of those involved, a Belgian police officer.

The tooth was seized by Belgian authorities in 2016 from the daughter of the policeman, Gerard Soete, after&nbsp;Lumumba's family filed a complaint.&nbsp;

'National mourning'

The casket containing the tooth is set to be flown back to the DRC where it will be officially laid to rest at a memorial site.&nbsp;

The country is set to hold three days of "national mourning" from 27 to 30 June -- its 62nd anniversary of independence -- to mark the burial ceremony.

Lumumba's older son Francois filed a complaint in Belgium in 2011, pointing the finger of responsibility for his father's killing at a dozen Belgian officials and diplomats. &nbsp;

The investigation for "war crimes" is still ongoing but only two of the targeted officials are still alive.&nbsp;

A Belgian parliamentary commission of enquiry in 2001 concluded that Belgium had "moral responsibility" for the assassination and the government presented the country's "apologies" a year later.&nbsp;

De Croo said Belgian officials "chose not to see, chose not to act" to stop the killing, even if they had not directly intended it to happen.&nbsp;

Lumumba's children were also received Monday by Belgium's King Philippe, who this month travelled to DR Congo to express his "deepest regrets" over the colonial past.&nbsp;

Historians say that millions of people were killed, mutilated or died of disease as they were forced to collect rubber under Belgian rule.&nbsp;The land was also pillaged for its mineral wealth, timber and ivory.

Belgium on Monday handed over the last remains of slain Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba -- a tooth -- to his family, turning a page on a grim chapter in its colonial past.

Belgium on Monday handed over the last remains of slain Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba -- a tooth -- to his family, turning a page on a grim chapter in its colonial past. Chief prosecutor Frederic Van Leeuw gave the relatives a small, bright blue box containing the tooth in a televised ceremony, and said legal action they had taken to receive the relic had delivered "justice". The tooth was placed in a casket that was then draped in the flag of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which celebrates Lumumba, who was murdered by separatists and Belgian mercenaries in 1961, as an anti-colonial hero. Lumumba's assassination -- and the brutal history of Belgian control of the Congo -- have been enduring sources of pain between the two countries. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo reiterated that his country's authorities bore a "moral responsibility" over the killing. "I would like, in the presence of his family, to present in my turn the apologies of the Belgian government," he said. "A man was murdered for his political convictions, his words, his ideals." Lumumba's son Francois told Belgium's RTBF broadcaster that his relatives had been waiting "more than 60 years" for this event. "I think it will provide solace for the family and the Congolese people," he said. "We are opening a new page in history." A fiery critic of Belgium's rapacious rule, Lumumba became his country's first prime minister after it gained independence in 1960. But he fell out with the former colonial power and the United States and was ousted in a coup a few months after taking office. He was executed on January 17 1961, aged just 35, in the southern region of Katanga, with the support of Belgian mercenaries. His body was dissolved in acid and never found. But the tooth was kept as a trophy by one of those involved, a Belgian police officer. The tooth was seized by Belgian authorities in 2016 from the daughter of the policeman, Gerard Soete, after Lumumba's family filed a complaint. 'National mourning' The casket containing the tooth is set to be flown back to the DRC where it will be officially laid to rest at a memorial site. The country is set to hold three days of "national mourning" from 27 to 30 June -- its 62nd anniversary of independence -- to mark the burial ceremony. Lumumba's older son Francois filed a complaint in Belgium in 2011, pointing the finger of responsibility for his father's killing at a dozen Belgian officials and diplomats. The investigation for "war crimes" is still ongoing but only two of the targeted officials are still alive. A Belgian parliamentary commission of enquiry in 2001 concluded that Belgium had "moral responsibility" for the assassination and the government presented the country's "apologies" a year later. De Croo said Belgian officials "chose not to see, chose not to act" to stop the killing, even if they had not directly intended it to happen. Lumumba's children were also received Monday by Belgium's King Philippe, who this month travelled to DR Congo to express his "deepest regrets" over the colonial past. Historians say that millions of people were killed, mutilated or died of disease as they were forced to collect rubber under Belgian rule. The land was also pillaged for its mineral wealth, timber and ivory.

Belgium returns tooth of murdered Congo freedom fighter Lumumba to family

Demanding government action to tackle sharply rising living costs, approximately 70,000 Belgian workers marched through Brussels on Monday to push for higher salaries.

Setting off flares, protesters carried flags and banners reading "More respect, higher wages" and "End excise duty".

It comes after one-day strikes at Brussels Airport and on local transport networks nationwide brought public travel to a near-halt.

Due to the extension of the industrial action to security personnel, Brussels Airport said it could not allow passenger flights to depart. As a result, most arrivals were also cancelled.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-are-european-union-candidate-countries-and-whats-their-status-now-489347">Which are European Union candidate countries and what's their status now?</a>

Though some train lines were operating, partly to allow protesters to converge on the capital, local public transport operators were running skeleton services.

Mirroring sharp rises elsewhere driven primarily by the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on supply chains and energy and commodity prices, Belgian inflation hit 9 per cent in June.

As wages were indexed to inflation, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said Belgian workers were better protected than counterparts in most other European Union countries.

Until the end of the year, the government had extended sales tax breaks on gas, electricity and fuel, De Croo told public broadcaster RTBF.

With pilots and cabin crew of Brussels Airlines planning a June 23-25 strike over working conditions, further travel disruption is expected later this week.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Demanding government action to tackle sharply rising living costs, approximately 70,000 Belgian workers marched through Brussels on Monday to push for higher salaries.

Demanding government action to tackle sharply rising living costs, approximately 70,000 Belgian workers marched through Brussels on Monday to push for higher salaries. Setting off flares, protesters carried flags and banners reading "More respect, higher wages" and "End excise duty". It comes after one-day strikes at Brussels Airport and on local transport networks nationwide brought public travel to a near-halt. Due to the extension of the industrial action to security personnel, Brussels Airport said it could not allow passenger flights to depart. As a result, most arrivals were also cancelled. Also see | Which are European Union candidate countries and what's their status now? Though some train lines were operating, partly to allow protesters to converge on the capital, local public transport operators were running skeleton services. Mirroring sharp rises elsewhere driven primarily by the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on supply chains and energy and commodity prices, Belgian inflation hit 9 per cent in June. As wages were indexed to inflation, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said Belgian workers were better protected than counterparts in most other European Union countries. Until the end of the year, the government had extended sales tax breaks on gas, electricity and fuel, De Croo told public broadcaster RTBF. With pilots and cabin crew of Brussels Airlines planning a June 23-25 strike over working conditions, further travel disruption is expected later this week. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

70,000 Belgian workers march through Brussels against sharp rise in cost-of-living

Belgium's AFSCA food health safety agency on Friday has given conditional reopening permission to the Kinder chocolate factory that was behind the Salmonella contamination in Europe. The factory in Belgium can reopen conditionally after a clean-up by owner Ferrero.

The food health safety agency "has decided to give Ferrero conditional authorisation for its production factory in Arlon," in the country's southeast, it said in a statement. The permission was given for three months, during which all the products will be analysed before they can be distributed and sold, it added.

Ferrero was forced to withdraw more than 3,000 tonnes of Kinder products worth tens of millions of euros after the Salmonella cases were traced to Kinder chocolates made in its Arlon factory. AFSCA ordered the factory closed in early April, just before the Easter period that usually sees Kinder products fly off supermarket shelves. 
Nearly 400 Salmonella cases ended up being detected across the EU and Britain, many of them in children.

There were no deaths. &nbsp;Salmonella contamination symptoms can include severe diarrhoea and vomiting that are particularly dangerous for children under 10.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mariupol-horrors-inflicted-on-civilian-population-will-leave-indelible-mark-says-un-rights-chief-488824">Mariupol: Horrors inflicted on civilian population will leave ‘indelible mark’, says UN rights chief</a>

Ferrero, an Italian confectionery giant that also makes the Nutella chocolate spread in other sites, said it had started the process of reopening the Arlon plant and expected production to restart in a few weeks.

It stressed that it had carried out a "deep clean" of the factory, which has around 1,000 workers, and taken steps so that such contamination would never happen again. It said the contamination likely was from a filter in a dairy milk tank.

"We are truly sorry for what happened and want to apologise once more to all people who were affected," Ferrero CEO Lapo Civiletti said.

The company is under several probes by Belgian authorities, who are notably investigating whether it was slow to respond to a hygiene problem that might have come to its attention months earlier. Officials are seeing if Ferrero met obligations for tracing products in its food chain and if the Salmonella incident put human lives in danger.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Belgium's AFSCA food health safety agency on Friday has given conditional reopening permission to the Kinder chocolate factory that was behind the Salmonella contamination in Europe.

Belgium's AFSCA food health safety agency on Friday has given conditional reopening permission to the Kinder chocolate factory that was behind the Salmonella contamination in Europe. The factory in Belgium can reopen conditionally after a clean-up by owner Ferrero. The food health safety agency "has decided to give Ferrero conditional authorisation for its production factory in Arlon," in the country's southeast, it said in a statement. The permission was given for three months, during which all the products will be analysed before they can be distributed and sold, it added. Ferrero was forced to withdraw more than 3,000 tonnes of Kinder products worth tens of millions of euros after the Salmonella cases were traced to Kinder chocolates made in its Arlon factory. AFSCA ordered the factory closed in early April, just before the Easter period that usually sees Kinder products fly off supermarket shelves. Nearly 400 Salmonella cases ended up being detected across the EU and Britain, many of them in children. There were no deaths. Salmonella contamination symptoms can include severe diarrhoea and vomiting that are particularly dangerous for children under 10. Also Read: Mariupol: Horrors inflicted on civilian population will leave ‘indelible mark’, says UN rights chief Ferrero, an Italian confectionery giant that also makes the Nutella chocolate spread in other sites, said it had started the process of reopening the Arlon plant and expected production to restart in a few weeks. It stressed that it had carried out a "deep clean" of the factory, which has around 1,000 workers, and taken steps so that such contamination would never happen again. It said the contamination likely was from a filter in a dairy milk tank. "We are truly sorry for what happened and want to apologise once more to all people who were affected," Ferrero CEO Lapo Civiletti said. The company is under several probes by Belgian authorities, who are notably investigating whether it was slow to respond to a hygiene problem that might have come to its attention months earlier. Officials are seeing if Ferrero met obligations for tracing products in its food chain and if the Salmonella incident put human lives in danger. (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.

Kinder factory behind salmonella contamination in Europe reopening

Belgian king refused to apologise for his country's colonial atrocities in Congo. During the 1880s, Belgium had turned Congo into a labour camp where people's hands and feet were chopped and women were raped. Palki Sharma brings you the story.

Gravitas: Belgium refuses to apologise for colonial atrocities in Congo

Belgium responded to their opening UEFA Nations League defeat against the Netherlands with five second-half goals as they came back to beat Poland 6-1 on Wednesday. Belgium began brightly, Michy Batshuayi hitting the post then having a goal disallowed in the first five minutes. Poland`s response was a patient one, their strikers going closer and closer until Robert Lewandowski took one touch to control then got their opener with a half-volley after 28 minutes.

The home team were level shortly before half-time as Timothy Castagne`s smart stabbed pass was steered in by Axel Witsel to make it 1-1 at the break. From there, Belgium went on to dominate and took a merited lead when Eden Hazard broke to set up Kevin De Bruyne as he curled in from just inside the box. Substitute Leandro Trossard then scored twice - his second a deep curling effort - before a long-range drive from Leander Dendoncker and Lois Openda`s first goal for his country rounded off an ultimately emphatic win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-clubs-psv-feyenoord-and-pec-zwolleto-deploy-smart-technology-to-fight-fan-racism-486419">Dutch clubs PSV, Feyenoord and PEC Zwolleto deploy 'smart technology' to fight fan racism</a>

Roberto Martinez, Belgium coach, after the match said, "It brings extra emotion when you lose against your rivals so that was definitely a motivator tonight. Against The Netherlands, we were passive, waiting, insecure. Here, we were a team instead of a bunch of individuals." Yannick Carrasco, the winger of the winning team added: "We`ve reviewed the Netherlands match. We learned from our mistakes and today we just really wanted to show our fans why they should not lose faith. We all knew what we had to do and I`m just happy we could give this to our fans. Now we want to do even better in the next two matches."

Belgium have now scored in 46 consecutive international matches, as well as in their last 14 UEFA Nations League fixtures. While Poland conceded their highest number of goals in a game since losing 6-0 to Spain in a friendly in June 2010.

Belgium responded to their opening UEFA Nations League defeat against the Netherlands with five second-half goals as they came back to beat Poland 6-1 on Wednesday.

Belgium responded to their opening UEFA Nations League defeat against the Netherlands with five second-half goals as they came back to beat Poland 6-1 on Wednesday. Belgium began brightly, Michy Batshuayi hitting the post then having a goal disallowed in the first five minutes. Poland`s response was a patient one, their strikers going closer and closer until Robert Lewandowski took one touch to control then got their opener with a half-volley after 28 minutes. The home team were level shortly before half-time as Timothy Castagne`s smart stabbed pass was steered in by Axel Witsel to make it 1-1 at the break. From there, Belgium went on to dominate and took a merited lead when Eden Hazard broke to set up Kevin De Bruyne as he curled in from just inside the box. Substitute Leandro Trossard then scored twice - his second a deep curling effort - before a long-range drive from Leander Dendoncker and Lois Openda`s first goal for his country rounded off an ultimately emphatic win. ALSO READ | Dutch clubs PSV, Feyenoord and PEC Zwolleto deploy 'smart technology' to fight fan racism Roberto Martinez, Belgium coach, after the match said, "It brings extra emotion when you lose against your rivals so that was definitely a motivator tonight. Against The Netherlands, we were passive, waiting, insecure. Here, we were a team instead of a bunch of individuals." Yannick Carrasco, the winger of the winning team added: "We`ve reviewed the Netherlands match. We learned from our mistakes and today we just really wanted to show our fans why they should not lose faith. We all knew what we had to do and I`m just happy we could give this to our fans. Now we want to do even better in the next two matches." Belgium have now scored in 46 consecutive international matches, as well as in their last 14 UEFA Nations League fixtures. While Poland conceded their highest number of goals in a game since losing 6-0 to Spain in a friendly in June 2010.

UEFA Nations League: Belgium run riot against Poland with thumping 6-1 win

Bayard Steed, a historic parade that featured four children riding a giant horse, returned to the streets of Dendermonde as tens of thousands of people flocked to the Belgian town on Sunday (May 29).

Bayard Steed, a historic parade that featured four children riding a giant horse, returned to the streets of Dendermonde as tens of thousands of people flocked to the Belgian town on Sunday (May 29). As media reports mentioned, Dendermonde, the town of the Bayard Steed, is apparently the only place in the world where the heroic horse is the central theme of the colourful parade. It is a pageant with roots in medieval Europe. The unique parade is usually enacted every ten years but due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it was postponed twice. Known as the 'Bayard Steed', the 4.85-meter-tall wooden figure carried by 12 men had not been shown in public for 12 years. Its last appearance was on May 30, 2010. WATCH | Man disguised as old lady smears cake on Mona Lisa painting The director of the town museums of Dendermonde, Carolien Van Hecke explained that are twelve men who carry the horse and there are three teams of them. She mentioned that they change because the horse is quite heavy. With all the ornaments, the horse weighs 1,000 kilograms. The horse is 5.2 meters long and made out of wood, iron and other material. It arrived at the town's central square and pranced towards its assailants. According to a police count, some 86,000 thousand onlookers witnessed the one-tonne statue crossing the Flemish city. It was 'dancing' to the rhythm of a marching band, accompanied by giant figures, acrobats and some 2,000 actors in historical costumes. The kids dressed as medieval knights. WATCH | Dog follows road safety guidelines in travelling 2 km to deliver lunch box to owner, wins hearts "At certain moments the horse dances on the music of the band that is with it and and some moments it also greets (by staggering) certain people at certain places," Hecke said as quoted by news agency Reuters. The parade was enlisted in 2008 on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and will take place again in 2030. Watch the video here: × What is the story? The Saga of the Bayard Steed traces its origins to a medieval chanson de geste - or chivalrous tale - involving Frankish emperor Charlemagne asking for a local warlord’s prized war horse in exchange for a peace deal. (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.

Belgium: Giant 'dancing' horse, cute medieval knights as historic Bayard Steed parade returns after 12 years

Thousands of people flocked to the Belgian town of Dendermonde to witness a historic parade featuring a 'Dancing giant horse'.

'Dancing giant horse': Thousands gather in Belgium to witness a historic parade

Kinder, the&nbsp;beloved kids chocolate brand has announced a major recall of its products over salmonella fears.

More than 3,000 tonnes of Kinder products worth tens of millions of euros had to be withdrawn.&nbsp;

Chocolate products from a factory in Arlon, located in Southeast Belgium were found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Due to this, 150 cases have been reported in nine European countries.&nbsp;

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A majority of those, 81 cases, are children under ten years of age.&nbsp;

As per AFP while speaking to the Press, Nicolas Neykov, the head of Ferrero France, said that the source of contamination was a "filter located in a vat for dairy butter", at a factory in Arlon in Belgium.&nbsp;

He added that the contamination could have been caused by human error or from raw materials.

"This crisis is heartbreaking. It's the biggest removal of products in the last 20 years," Neykov said.

In the midst of the Easter holiday season when the chocolate was highly sought after, this recall was&nbsp;a huge blow for Ferrero, the Italian confectionery company which owns Kinder.

The Belgium factory where Salmonella was found has been shut since April.&nbsp;However, the business hopes to reopen the factory, with 50 per cent of future health and safety checks being conducted by an approved "external laboratory," rather than the prior method of purely internal assessments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-chile-the-home-to-the-oldest-tree-in-the-world-this-scientist-thinks-so-482472" hreflang="en">Is Chile the home to the oldest tree in the world? This scientist thinks so</a>

"We have asked for a reopening from June 13 to relaunch production as soon as possible," he continued.

Salmonella Typhimurium is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes deadly illnesses in young children, the elderly, and those who have weaker immune systems.

Fever, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are common symptoms of Salmonella infection in healthy people. In rare cases, Salmonella infection can lead to the organism entering the bloodstream and causing more serious ailments such as arterial infections (infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kinder, the beloved kids chocolate brand has announced a major recall of its products over salmonella fears. More than 3,000 tonnes of Kinder products worth tens of millions of euros had to be withdrawn.

Kinder, the beloved kids chocolate brand has announced a major recall of its products over salmonella fears. More than 3,000 tonnes of Kinder products worth tens of millions of euros had to be withdrawn. Chocolate products from a factory in Arlon, located in Southeast Belgium were found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Due to this, 150 cases have been reported in nine European countries. Also read | Man carrying gun near schools shot by Toronto police after Texas shooting A majority of those, 81 cases, are children under ten years of age. As per AFP while speaking to the Press, Nicolas Neykov, the head of Ferrero France, said that the source of contamination was a "filter located in a vat for dairy butter", at a factory in Arlon in Belgium. He added that the contamination could have been caused by human error or from raw materials. "This crisis is heartbreaking. It's the biggest removal of products in the last 20 years," Neykov said. In the midst of the Easter holiday season when the chocolate was highly sought after, this recall was a huge blow for Ferrero, the Italian confectionery company which owns Kinder. The Belgium factory where Salmonella was found has been shut since April. However, the business hopes to reopen the factory, with 50 per cent of future health and safety checks being conducted by an approved "external laboratory," rather than the prior method of purely internal assessments. Also read | Is Chile the home to the oldest tree in the world? This scientist thinks so "We have asked for a reopening from June 13 to relaunch production as soon as possible," he continued. Salmonella Typhimurium is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes deadly illnesses in young children, the elderly, and those who have weaker immune systems. Fever, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are common symptoms of Salmonella infection in healthy people. In rare cases, Salmonella infection can lead to the organism entering the bloodstream and causing more serious ailments such as arterial infections (infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis. (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.

Kinder recalls 3,000 tonnes of chocolate over Salmonella fears

Around 200 people from Belgium raced in what organisers say is the 'world's first pedalo championship'. Watch this report for all the details.

This leisure activity in Belgium has been turned into a world championship

Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal

The famous Bluebell flowers in Belgium are blossoming at this time of the year. The magical purple site is visible for a few hours every day attracting tourists from across the globe

The purple magic of Bluebells returns to Belgium's enchanted forest

The&nbsp;driver&nbsp;of a car that killed six people when it ploughed into a crowd of&nbsp;carnival-goers in Belgium has been&nbsp;charged&nbsp;with&nbsp;manslaughter, prosecutors said Tuesday. &nbsp;

The suspect named as Paolo F, 34, was remanded in custody by a judge at an overnight hearing, while his cousin who was the passenger in the car was&nbsp;charged&nbsp;with failing to assist people in danger and released on bail.

The pre-dawn collision on Sunday, which killed six and left 10 seriously wounded, happened as costumed residents gathered for the festivities in the village of Strepy-Bracquegnies.&nbsp;

The tragedy has shocked Belgium, where street parades are common during the season of Lent, a tradition that was making its return after being interrupted due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said the&nbsp;driver&nbsp;admitted travelling at 90 kilometres (55 miles) an hour in a 50-kilometre zone in his powerful BMW car as he returned with his cousin from a nightclub.

But they said indications were that he had tried to brake to avoid the impact.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;crash&nbsp;was so violent that one victim came through the windscreen and ended up in the car, &nbsp;prosecutors said. The&nbsp;driver, "in a state of shock", only stopped several hundred metres further on.&nbsp;

His lawyer said a judge accepted that the collision was an accident after the&nbsp;driver&nbsp;claimed he had been talking to his cousin just before careening into the "wall of humanity".&nbsp;

"In a few seconds, he was faced with a tragedy, the windscreen exploded, he himself was covered with blood. He could not see anything, heard screams, blows to his vehicle," lawyer Frank Discepoli told broadcaster RTBF.

"He totally recognises his recklessness" but "it was purely accidental".&nbsp;

The&nbsp;driver&nbsp;-- a deliveryman who lives in the local area -- has in the past had his licence revoked for speeding.&nbsp;

Prosecutors earlier said that the&nbsp;driver&nbsp;had been found to be slightly over the legal alcohol limit after taking a breathalyser test.&nbsp;

A saliva swab had not shown any traces of drugs, but results of a blood test were pending.&nbsp;

Manslaughter&nbsp;in Belgium is punishable by up to five years in prison. But the public prosecutor's office has not ruled out the possibility that the charge could change during the investigation.

The driver of a car that killed six people when it ploughed into a crowd of carnival-goers in Belgium has been charged with manslaughter, prosecutors said Tuesday.

The driver of a car that killed six people when it ploughed into a crowd of carnival-goers in Belgium has been charged with manslaughter, prosecutors said Tuesday. The suspect named as Paolo F, 34, was remanded in custody by a judge at an overnight hearing, while his cousin who was the passenger in the car was charged with failing to assist people in danger and released on bail. The pre-dawn collision on Sunday, which killed six and left 10 seriously wounded, happened as costumed residents gathered for the festivities in the village of Strepy-Bracquegnies. The tragedy has shocked Belgium, where street parades are common during the season of Lent, a tradition that was making its return after being interrupted due to the coronavirus pandemic. Prosecutors said the driver admitted travelling at 90 kilometres (55 miles) an hour in a 50-kilometre zone in his powerful BMW car as he returned with his cousin from a nightclub. But they said indications were that he had tried to brake to avoid the impact. The crash was so violent that one victim came through the windscreen and ended up in the car, prosecutors said. The driver, "in a state of shock", only stopped several hundred metres further on. His lawyer said a judge accepted that the collision was an accident after the driver claimed he had been talking to his cousin just before careening into the "wall of humanity". "In a few seconds, he was faced with a tragedy, the windscreen exploded, he himself was covered with blood. He could not see anything, heard screams, blows to his vehicle," lawyer Frank Discepoli told broadcaster RTBF. "He totally recognises his recklessness" but "it was purely accidental". The driver -- a deliveryman who lives in the local area -- has in the past had his licence revoked for speeding. Prosecutors earlier said that the driver had been found to be slightly over the legal alcohol limit after taking a breathalyser test. A saliva swab had not shown any traces of drugs, but results of a blood test were pending. Manslaughter in Belgium is punishable by up to five years in prison. But the public prosecutor's office has not ruled out the possibility that the charge could change during the investigation.

Driver in deadly Belgian carnival crash charged with manslaughter

After two years of painstaking efforts by the Art Recovery International &amp; the India Pride Project, a 3rd century artefact that was stolen from India has been handed over to the Indian mission in Brussels, Belgium.

The sculpture, which was part of the ruined stupas in Andhra Pradesh’s Nagarjunakonda, was handed over to the Indian envoy in Brussels, Santosh Jha, earlier this month.

The Indian mission in Belgium in a tweet said, "We are grateful for their efforts of Art Recovery International (ARI) and India Pride Project (IPP) &amp; working with ASI to arrange its return to India."

Earlier this year, India Pride Project co-founder S Vijay Kumar informed Art Recovery International Founder and lawyer, Christopher A Marinello, that the stolen limestone sculpture had been offered for sale in 2018 by the Belgian Asian Art Trade.

According to the ARI release, the purchaser had relied on a certificate of clearance from a UK based organisation that "regularly mints such documentation for the art trade as a substitute for proper due diligence without conducting provenance research on well documented and published antiquities."

The artefact was housed in an Indian museum until it was stolen in or around 1995.

It depicts the life of Buddha and shows a court scene from the stûpa 3 in Nagarjunakonda. It also shows a royal couple sitting on a throne attended by servants standing behind while a female servant and a child play with a ram in the foreground. &nbsp;

The development comes as Australia on Monday repatriated 29 antiquities to India. The antiquities range in six broad categories as per themes – Shiva and his disciples, Worshipping Shakti, Lord Vishnu and his forms, Jain tradition, Portraits and decorative objects.

These antiquities come from different time periods from 9th to 10th century CE.

After two years of painstaking efforts by the Art Recovery International & the India Pride Project, a 3rd century artefact that was stolen from India has been handed over to the Indian mission in Brussels, Belgium.

After two years of painstaking efforts by the Art Recovery International & the India Pride Project, a 3rd century artefact that was stolen from India has been handed over to the Indian mission in Brussels, Belgium. The sculpture, which was part of the ruined stupas in Andhra Pradesh’s Nagarjunakonda, was handed over to the Indian envoy in Brussels, Santosh Jha, earlier this month. The Indian mission in Belgium in a tweet said, "We are grateful for their efforts of Art Recovery International (ARI) and India Pride Project (IPP) & working with ASI to arrange its return to India." Earlier this year, India Pride Project co-founder S Vijay Kumar informed Art Recovery International Founder and lawyer, Christopher A Marinello, that the stolen limestone sculpture had been offered for sale in 2018 by the Belgian Asian Art Trade. According to the ARI release, the purchaser had relied on a certificate of clearance from a UK based organisation that "regularly mints such documentation for the art trade as a substitute for proper due diligence without conducting provenance research on well documented and published antiquities." The artefact was housed in an Indian museum until it was stolen in or around 1995. It depicts the life of Buddha and shows a court scene from the stûpa 3 in Nagarjunakonda. It also shows a royal couple sitting on a throne attended by servants standing behind while a female servant and a child play with a ram in the foreground. The development comes as Australia on Monday repatriated 29 antiquities to India. The antiquities range in six broad categories as per themes – Shiva and his disciples, Worshipping Shakti, Lord Vishnu and his forms, Jain tradition, Portraits and decorative objects. These antiquities come from different time periods from 9th to 10th century CE.

Third century Indian artefact to be repatriated from Belgium

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