Globalization, roughly defined as ‘the freer movement and flows of capital, good(trade), people and perhaps even culture’ is in retreat. It is suggested by some that the world is in the midst of ‘deglobalization’ where countries are retrenching and retreating from the processes of globalization, imposing the proverbial walls on these.

Globalization, roughly defined as ‘the freer movement and flows of capital, good(trade), people and perhaps even culture’ is in retreat. It is suggested by some that the world is in the midst of ‘deglobalization’ where countries are retrenching and retreating from the processes of globalization, imposing the proverbial walls on these. In this schema, the cooling off relations between the United States and China, presaging Cold War 2.0, is held to be emblematic of the new trend, hastened by the Covid-19 pandemic. While it amounts to stating the obvious that historically, globalization has moved in waves, with the latest wave emanating in the culminating decades of the 20th century, its seeds were sown soon after the end of the Second Great War. The multilateral institutional firmament, of the twin sisters-the World Bank and the IMF, the United Nations and its allied bodies, the rebuilding of Europe through and by the Marshall Plan and the formation of the European Union, among other factors and thematic issues, laid the foundations of the third wave of globalization. In this initial period of the ‘golden years’, much trade and capital flows happened and took place between what was called the ‘triad’- Western Europe, Japan and North America. Globalization was, in essence, a ‘triad’ phenomenon till the opening up of China in 1978, which not only led to stupendous economic growth and development in the country but made, along with the entry of India, in the early 1990s’, and its zig zagged denouement in parts of Africa, globalization global, so to speak. The trad became one aspect of the processes and form of globalization. But, with the benefit of hindsight, the 2008 financial crisis, became the catalyst for issues brewing under the surface patina of globalization. The declining flows of trade and capital, plus cultural changes in much of the Western world, largely through immigration, created a brew whose outcome was populist politics led by the bellwether of globalization, the United States. In this sense, if a sensationalist twist is accorded to the phenomenon, 2016 was the year that changed everything. In this year, Donald Trump, with a message that resonated with many Americans, assumed the highest office of the United States and became its president. With his pithy mantra and slogan, ‘Make America Great Again(MAGA), Trump set out to dismantle globalization. While Trump’s success in the attempt to roll back globalization has been mixed but because globalization or a retreat from it has become a valence issue in the United States and other parts of the Western world and a power-political one with security issues latched on to it, with China, globalization is in retreat. But this retreat appears to be partial with the potential of trade and capital flows re-emerging in the triad of North America, Western Europe and Japan. The thrust, intensity and nature of these trade flow, given a whole host of factors, are unlikely to be the same as it was in the post-war period. At the same time, in and within the virtual networks created by globalization, the phenomenon remains as intense as ever, perhaps even exacerbated by the trends induced by COVID 19- online shopping, working from home and so on. If then deglobalization has gained momentum, globalization has not died. Its form and shape have changed. In the world of technology networks of a virtual nature, it appears to be as intense as ever but in the trade, capital, people and technology flow it appears to be assuming a different form and shape. From the perspective of economic development and poverty alleviation, this change might not be too sanguine for developing countries and the poor ones, especially ones that stood to gain from globalization. But, this is how it is, at the moment. Will globalization become prominent again? The answer to this question cannot be definitely answered but if history is any guide, it will, at some point in time. But for globalization to work, it has to be made to work for all and not a narrow section or upper crust of societies. Admittedly, this assertion is a cliché but there is no other alternative if the phenomenon is to be workable. All in all, in the coming decades, the world will both globalize and deglobalize and the directive impetus for either will lie in politics and not the other way round. That is, if politics followed globalization in the concluding decades of the 20th century, this time around globalization will follow politics. Whether this will be sanguine of not, time will tell. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Is globalization assuming a ‘new old’ form?

China on Wednesday said that the French claims about the imprisonment of ethnic and religious minorities in China's Xinjiang region were unacceptable. China's response came a day after Paris demanded it let independent human rights observers visit the northwestern region, where rights groups and experts estimate over one million Uighurs and other Turkic-speaking minorities have been rounded up into a network of internment camps.

China on Wednesday said that the French claims about the imprisonment of ethnic and religious minorities in China's Xinjiang region were unacceptable. China's response came a day after Paris demanded it let independent human rights observers visit the northwestern region, where rights groups and experts estimate over one million Uighurs and other Turkic-speaking minorities have been rounded up into a network of internment camps. France's foreign affairs minister Jean-Yves le Drian said China's actions were "unacceptable" and said they "condemn them firmly". Beijing has defended its strategy in Xinjiang as necessary to avoid extremism. Also read: 'Nothing but rumours and slander': China to UK on Uighurs abuse Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular press briefing on Wednesday that "China has repeatedly responded to and clarified false reports and accusations on Xinjiang-related issues". "About so-called lies that Xinjiang restricts religious freedom and suppresses Muslims... the truth is that recently, some politicians and media in the US and the west have stigmatised Xinjiang's lawful fight against terrorism and extremism," Wang said. "We firmly oppose the politicisation of religious issues and the use of religious issues to interfere in China's internal affairs," he added. Meanwhile, a prominent group of British lawyers suggested nations use sanctions, corporate accountability mechanisms, and international treaties preventing racial discrimination to pressure Beijing. Also read: Uighur community suffering in China, says United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab The international community is legally obliged to take action on China’s alleged abuse of Uighur and other Turkic minorities, the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales (BHRC) said in a report released on Wednesday. China’s refusal to be held legally accountable for the widespread and documented allegations did not absolve the global community of responsibility, BHRC) said in a report released on Wednesday. “All states, including China, have unequivocally accepted that slavery and racial discrimination, torture and genocide are prohibited,” it said. “They have committed to not carry out those proscribed acts; they have committed to their prevention; and they have committed to punishment of perpetrators where they have found individuals to have committed those proscribed acts. There can be no derogation from those commitments.” (With inputs from AFP)

French claims on imprisonment of Uighur are 'lies', says China

Britain on Monday suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong "immediately and indefinitely" in response to China's introduction of a controversial new security law in the territory, according to AFP.

Britain on Monday suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong "immediately and indefinitely" in response to China's introduction of a controversial new security law in the territory, according to AFP. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab confirmed the widely expected move in parliament, and also said London would extend its arms embargo on "potentially lethal weapons" to the financial hub, the report added. "We've got to have a calibrated response and we're going to be tough on some things, but also are going to continue to engage," the British PM told reporters earlier. As per the extradition treaty which is in place for more than 30 years, a Hong Kong crime suspect in Britain would be handed over to Hong Kong and vice versa. However, Britian fears that China will take advantage of this treaty after bringing the security law, which means a Hong Kong suspect could be sent to China. Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin asked Britain to "stop going further down the wrong path", when asked about the suspension of the treaty. London says the security law compromises with the guarantees of freedoms, including an independent judiciary that are a part of much democratic Hong Kong.

UK suspends extradition treaty with Hong Kong after controversial security law

The United Kingdom's publicly-funded healthcare systems National Health Service (NHS) was deprived of large amounts of protective gear at the height of the coronavirus pandemic after a French firm contracted to supply millions of masks allegedly prioritised more lucrative deals with deep-pocketed clients including a Chinese state-owned energy company, according to a report in The Guardian.

The United Kingdom's publicly-funded healthcare systems National Health Service (NHS) was deprived of large amounts of protective gear at the height of the coronavirus pandemic after a French firm contracted to supply millions of masks allegedly prioritised more lucrative deals with deep-pocketed clients including a Chinese state-owned energy company, according to a report in The Guardian. According to the report, the French company Valmy failed to fulfil the terms of a £1.2m contract with the NHS to supply about 7 million masks in the event of a pandemic. According to the contract, Valmy was required to respond rapidly to the NHS order and begin deliveries within weeks. However, according to the report, instead of prioritising the NHS the company increased production for other customers as mask prices soared. The report quoting two senior NHS procurement officials stated that the PPE contracts encountered significant difficulties in the early days of the Covid-19 outbreak. “All of the comfort blankets we thought we had basically went up in flames,” one of the officials was quoted as saying.

Britain denied protective gear at peak of Covid-19 as supplier prioritised China: Report

The recent border skirmishes between India and China have been widely reported across the globe with assumptions, analysis and implications of various hues. These range from word of cautions by mature sections of the media to exaggerated assumptions of Chinese dominance by state-controlled Chinese media.

The recent border skirmishes between India and China have been widely reported across the globe with assumptions, analysis and implications of various hues. These range from word of cautions by mature sections of the media to exaggerated assumptions of Chinese dominance by state-controlled Chinese media. Although the Galwan incident has many historic undercurrents and may result in long-term strategic implications, one aspect which has been largely ignored is the manner in which the assault was conducted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). India termed the incident as "premeditated", one that was orchestrated by Beijing to project India as the aggressor who had breached the agreement and interfered in peaceful disengagement. The CCP is however still hiding the exact details of its casualties, while the Prime Minister of India has already visited his soldiers in Ladakh. No honourable army fails to recognize the sacrifice of its soldiers. But the People’s Liberation Army or PLA has to worry about the impact of the casualties it has suffered on the political future of the CCP. It is dishonourable to carry out a premeditated ambush after an agreement to disengage has been reached. The disengagement consensus was agreed on 6th June, at the first India-China military talks. And it looks like such tactics have however become CCP’s standard procedure for its expansionist agenda. CCP has also been increasingly using similar modus operandi in the South China Sea to assert its misplaced maritime boundary claims. CCP assumes that provocative tactics based on its convenient and one-sided interpretation of history and fuelled by its focussed propaganda would enable it to achieve its expansionist aims. However, the CCP and its Army miscalculated this time around by provoking the professional and battle-hardened Indian Armed Forces. Despite Indian forces being outnumbered, Chinese forces suffered casualty for the first time in decades. 20 Indian soldiers were martyred, something New Delhi will never forget. For minor gains, China looks to have lost India forever, and ties have gone back decades. By normal standards of recognised attributes of professional armed forces of a modern Westphalian nation-state, CCP’s PLA doesn't fits the bill for "professional army" term. The epithet of ‘People’, ‘Liberation’ and ‘Army’ do not suit PLA, but are rather oxymoronic. PLA seems to represent the will of CCP and not the Chinese people. PLA has also never been involved in any "liberation" but has on the contrary been employed for the ethnic cleansing of Uighurs in Xinjiang and Tibetans in their homeland, according to reports from dissenters & many locals who fled the area. PLA’s conduct in conflict over the years including the recent Galwan incident also does not befit a modern army. Rather, at best, PLA can be described as a uniformed cabal which serves the interest of rulling CCP. PLA relies heavily on sneakiness, propaganda, deniability and provocation for achieving the expansionist plans of the CCP. Despite propagandistic media coverage, recent conflicts over land as well as sea have exposed PLA’s unprofessional attitude, character and tactical flaws. PLA’s lack of professionalism was on display in a widely reported incident in South Sudan in 2016. PLA soldiers guarding a UN camp fled, leaving behind even their weapons and equipment, when armed militias and soldiers of the South Sudan army attacked them. As a result, many female aid workers were molested and civilians were also killed. The incident tarnished the image of UN peacekeeping forces. PLA barely managed to save face during conflicts in the Korean peninsula or with Russia and Vietnam. Lacking operational and strategic-level maturity that comes from combat experience, PLA is hawkish even at the tactical level. It is precisely this lack of military experience that makes it dangerous to its neighbours. To make up for its lack of professionalism and experience, PLA invests heavily in unconventional and asymmetric warfare and weapons such as those seen during the Galwan incident. PLA is also heavily dependent on propaganda through likes of WeChat and Global Times, to create a false narrative of being one of the most professional armed forces in the world. There is also substantial political interference in the PLA. The Chairman of the Military Commission is also the leader of CPC.All important decisions in the PLA are made by Communist Party committees that are dominated by politically aligned officers rather than merit-based military officers. Since CCP is unopposed in the political landscape, it enjoys control over the PLA unlike a mature democracy such as India where the armed forces are free from political interference. All career officers in the PLA are also members of the CCP and even a local commissar holds a much stronger position than the military commander. Such an arrangement ensures that interests of CCP leaders and military officers are merged, for mutual benefit. A Chinese soldier being enrolled into the PLA swears allegiance to the CCP and not to the PRC’s constitution. A recent article published in the PLA Daily by the General Political Department of PLA states that the PLA would step up vigilance whilst deciding on promotions and placement of personnel. The General Political Department, which is responsible for disciplinary affairs and human resources, added that the officers would be evaluated based on their “Implementation of Xi Jinping’s directives”, “stances on major issues of principles” and “attitude towards wealth and fame”. It is sufficiently evident that PLA is not a professional fighting force. Rather, it would be more appropriate to define PLA as the armed wing of the CCP. There is substantial historical lineage associated with PLA to earn that title and its conduct in recent years have only reaffirmed this epithet. This recognition and understanding of the nature of PLA would enable its aggrieved neighbours to evolve successful strategies to counter CCP’s aggression on land and in the maritime domain. The PLA or Party Leaning Accomplices, therefore, need to renamed to reflect their true nature as CCP’s Army, CCP’s Navy and CCP’s Air Force.

PLA : People's Liberation Army or party leaning accomplices?

Urumqi, the capital of China's far western region of Xinjiang, has gone into "wartime mode" and launched an emergency response plan after the city reported 16 new coronavirus cases on Friday, according to Reuters.

Urumqi, the capital of China's far western region of Xinjiang, has gone into "wartime mode" and launched an emergency response plan after the city reported 16 new coronavirus cases on Friday, according to Reuters. State broadcaster CCTV cited unnamed officials as telling a press conference on Saturday that the city had suspended gatherings and ordered communities to restrict visits to other households. It urged people not to make unnecessary trips outside the city and ordered infection tests for anyone who needed to leave Urumqi, aiming to prevent the spread of the virus. It has also carried out city-wide free infection tests, officials told the press conference as part of what the officials termed a "wartime" response. On its official Weibo account on Saturday the regional government said all recent new infections and asymptomatic cases reported in the autonomous region were in Urumqi. Rui Baoling, director of the disease control and prevention centre in Urumqi, told the news conference that recent cases in the city were associated with a cluster of activities, with all confirmed cases and asymptomatic infections reported in Tianshan District, CCTV said. She didn't say what activities were involved. Also read: Why China may have manufactured COVID-19 "The epidemic has developed rapidly," Rui was quoted saying. Xinjiang, home to most of China's Uighur ethnic minority, has so far mostly avoided the worst of the coronavirus pandemic which erupted in the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year. As of July 17, the region reported a total of 17 coronavirus cases, plus 11 asymptomatic cases. Another 269 people were under medical observation, according to the regional health commission. It reported another 12 asymptomatic cases as of noon on Saturday.

COVID-19: China's western city Urumqi enters 'wartime mode' after reporting 16 cases

Xi Jinping, the president of the world's second-largest economy was so threatened by his resemblance to Winnie the Pooh that the fictional bear was kicked out of China with his&nbsp;movies, TV series and stuffed toys banned in the country.

Pooh became a common nickname for Xi Jinping around 2013 when the Chinese president&nbsp;had gone to the United States for an official visit and&nbsp;he came back with a twin named&nbsp;Pooh.

The meme took the internet by storm and in&nbsp;the next year, a photo of Xi Jinping and Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe gave the internet a field day.&nbsp;The following year the toy car comparison had the world laughing out loud.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-chinas-censors-banned-winnie-the-pooh-313858/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It also went on to become the most censored picture of the year. The memes were harmless but leaders&nbsp;often tolerate such jokes but Xi is not one of them. He cannot be trolled,&nbsp;questioned and no quirks either and Pooh was violating his great wall of sham.

Hence, the fictional bear was banned in all kinds.&nbsp;

These trivial censorships are a grim reminder of&nbsp;Xi Jinping's insecurities. Noboady is allowed to&nbsp;talk about Winnie the Pooh in China. In 2019, the Taiwanese game 'devotion' was taken down as it drew parallels between Xi and Pooh.

Try searching for 'Winnie' on Chinese microblog Sina Weibo, it&nbsp;says some results have been omitted,&nbsp;too bad for Xi&nbsp;despite all the censorship, he has not been able to get rid of his nickname.

Every time the Chinese president is in the news,&nbsp;Winnie the Pooh starts trending on Twitter.

Xi Jinping, the president of the world's second-largest economy was so threatened by his resemblance to Winnie the Pooh that the fictional bear was kicked out of China with his movies, TV series and stuffed toys banned in the country.

Xi Jinping, the president of the world's second-largest economy was so threatened by his resemblance to Winnie the Pooh that the fictional bear was kicked out of China with his movies, TV series and stuffed toys banned in the country. Pooh became a common nickname for Xi Jinping around 2013 when the Chinese president had gone to the United States for an official visit and he came back with a twin named Pooh. The meme took the internet by storm and in the next year, a photo of Xi Jinping and Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe gave the internet a field day. The following year the toy car comparison had the world laughing out loud. It also went on to become the most censored picture of the year. The memes were harmless but leaders often tolerate such jokes but Xi is not one of them. He cannot be trolled, questioned and no quirks either and Pooh was violating his great wall of sham. Hence, the fictional bear was banned in all kinds. These trivial censorships are a grim reminder of Xi Jinping's insecurities. Noboady is allowed to talk about Winnie the Pooh in China. In 2019, the Taiwanese game 'devotion' was taken down as it drew parallels between Xi and Pooh. Try searching for 'Winnie' on Chinese microblog Sina Weibo, it says some results have been omitted, too bad for Xi despite all the censorship, he has not been able to get rid of his nickname. Every time the Chinese president is in the news, Winnie the Pooh starts trending on Twitter.

Why China's President Xi Jinping fears 'Winnie the Pooh'

China is suppressing&nbsp;the voices of criticism both at home and abroad. But with so many voices now speaking out against the communist party, it is getting harder for Xi Jinping to hide them all.

Dong wuyuan, a Chinese activist who lives in Australia,&nbsp;claims she is being hunted by China.&nbsp; Her Twitter account has become a headache for Beijing after she criticized and mocked Xi.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-volcano-of-social-unrest-two-videos-that-show-fate-of-critics-313545/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dong wuyan uses a pseudonym to tweet and she hasn’t revealed her real identity. But, the Chinese authorities identified her and managed to track her parents down.

The a policeman made a video call to Wuyuan and&nbsp;threatened her while sitting right next to her parents. The idea was to show her that the Chinese state has reached her parents and if the criticism continues, they will suffer..

Dissidents are hunted and threatened over video calls. Wuyuan recorded this video call and the clip was aired on an Australian news network.

The communist party of china is paranoid about internal stability. A protest means a challenge to their grip on power. However, there are growing number of protests in the country but the press doesn't report them.

According to one report, there were 30, 000 events of social unrest in 2015. Another group of researchers identified some 1, 36, 000 protests from 2010 to 2017.

China Labour Bulletin is a Hong Kong based NGO&nbsp;that tracks strikes by workers in china and hey have found 340 incidents of protests in the last six months.&nbsp;China Labour Bulletin says worker protests are on the rise and June was the worst month of the year as 89 strikes were recorded.&nbsp;

This is what China is trying to hide. The communist party is anxious about social unrest. It downplays the protests and goes after the critics just to hide its own failings.

China is suppressing the voices of criticism both at home and abroad. But with so many voices now speaking out against the communist party, it is getting harder for Xi Jinping to hide them all.

China is suppressing the voices of criticism both at home and abroad. But with so many voices now speaking out against the communist party, it is getting harder for Xi Jinping to hide them all. Dong wuyuan, a Chinese activist who lives in Australia, claims she is being hunted by China. Her Twitter account has become a headache for Beijing after she criticized and mocked Xi. Dong wuyan uses a pseudonym to tweet and she hasn’t revealed her real identity. But, the Chinese authorities identified her and managed to track her parents down. The a policeman made a video call to Wuyuan and threatened her while sitting right next to her parents. The idea was to show her that the Chinese state has reached her parents and if the criticism continues, they will suffer.. Dissidents are hunted and threatened over video calls. Wuyuan recorded this video call and the clip was aired on an Australian news network. The communist party of china is paranoid about internal stability. A protest means a challenge to their grip on power. However, there are growing number of protests in the country but the press doesn't report them. According to one report, there were 30, 000 events of social unrest in 2015. Another group of researchers identified some 1, 36, 000 protests from 2010 to 2017. China Labour Bulletin is a Hong Kong based NGO that tracks strikes by workers in china and hey have found 340 incidents of protests in the last six months. China Labour Bulletin says worker protests are on the rise and June was the worst month of the year as 89 strikes were recorded. This is what China is trying to hide. The communist party is anxious about social unrest. It downplays the protests and goes after the critics just to hide its own failings.

How China is suppressing voices of criticism both at home and abroad

Hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong citizens queued to cast ballots over the weekend in what the Chinese-ruled city's opposition camp says is a symbolic protest vote against tough national security laws directly imposed by Beijing.

Hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong citizens queued to cast ballots over the weekend in what the Chinese-ruled city's opposition camp says is a symbolic protest vote against tough national security laws directly imposed by Beijing. The unofficial poll will decide the strongest pro-democracy candidates to contest Legislative Council elections in September, when they aim to ride a wave of anti-China sentiment stirred by the law to seize control for the first time from pro-Beijing rivals. While the primaries are only for the opposition camp, observers are watching closely as they say the turnout will serve as a test of broader opposition to the law, which critics say will gravely undermine the city's freedoms. "A high turnout will send a very strong signal to the international community, that we Hong Kongers never give up," said Sunny Cheung, 24, one of a batch of aspiring young democrats out lobbying and giving stump speeches. "And that we still stand with the democratic camp, we still support democracy and freedom." Also read | Hong Kong democracts hold primary despite security law warning Defying warnings from a senior Hong Kong official that the vote might fall foul of the national security law, residents young and old flocked to over 250 polling stations across the city, manned by thousands of volunteers. Long queues formed down streets, in residential estates and at businesses-turned-polling stations, with people casting an online ballot on their mobile phones after having their identities verified. Organisers said 500,000 people had voted by late afternoon on Sunday, in the city of 7.5 million. The full turnout is expected to be announced on Monday morning after two full days of voting this weekend. Also read | Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law The law punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison and allows mainland security agents to operate officially in Hong Kong for the first time. Despite this tactical vote to maximise their chances, some pro-democracy activists fear authorities will try to stop some candidates from running in September's election. "They can arrest or disqualify any candidate they don't like under the national security law without a proper reason," said Owen Chow, a young democratic "localist" candidate. At a time when Hong Kong authorities have barred public marches and rallies for months on end amid coronavirus social restrictions, and arrested individuals for shouting slogans and holding up blank sheets of paper, the vote is being seen as a crucial and rare window for populist expression. "It's a proxy referendum against the national security law," said Democratic lawmaker Eddie Chu outside a metro station.

500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws

After reports emerged that Chinese government was forcibly sterilizing Uighur women and giving them unwanted abortions in a mission to purge the Muslim minority, the Chinese authorities are now considering to sue the researchers and think tanks who are behind these revelations.

After reports emerged that Chinese government was forcibly sterilizing Uighur women and giving them unwanted abortions in a mission to purge the Muslim minority, the Chinese authorities are now considering to sue the researchers and think tanks who are behind these revelations. The Global Times has reported that German researcher Adrian Zenz and a think tank -- Australian Strategic Policy Institute -- will be sued for spreading "disinformation about China". Recently, Zenz had revealed in his research that the sudden decline in the birth rate among the ethnic minority communities in Xinjiang might be an indication of the fact that the targeted birth prevention strategy is being conducted. Also read: Mike Pompeo tears into China over 'forced population controls' against Uighur Muslims US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned the coercive family planning against Uyghurs and said that continuous repression of minorities in Xinjiang reflects that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has no respect for human life and basic human rights. "The United States condemns the use of forced population controls against Uyghur and other minority women and calls on the CCP to cease its campaign of repression. History will judge how we act today," he tweeted. "German researcher Adrian Zenz`s shocking revelations are sadly consistent with decades of the CCP practices that demonstrate an utter disregard for the sanctity of human life and basic human dignity," he said while adding "We call on the CCP to immediately end these horrific practices and ask all nations to join the United States in demanding an end to these dehumanising abuses."

China threatens to sue think tanks and researchers for alleged leaks

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday completed withdrawal of its troops from two more face-off sites in Gogra and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh in line with a mutually agreed disengagement process with India even as the two countries are set to hold a fresh round of diplomatic talks on Friday to further de-escalate the situation.

As the first phase of the disengagement neared completion, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava, at a media briefing, once again rejected China's claim over Galwan Valley, but reiterated that India remained convinced of the need for maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas and resolution of differences through dialogue.

At the same time, he asserted that India is committed to ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity and that the Line of Actual Control (LAC) must be strictly respected and observed, saying it is the basis for peace and tranquility in border areas.

Government sources said the two sides are also expected to hold a fourth round of Corps commander level dialogue by early next week to finalise modalities for de-induction of troops by both sides at their rear bases in the high-altitude region.

Both sides have completed creation of a buffer zone of three kilometres in the three friction points of Galwan Valley, Gogra and Hot Springs as part of a temporary measure, the sources said, adding there has been a thinning out of troops from Finger 4 area in Pangong Tso as well.

China has already pulled back troops from the friction points in Galwan Valley.

The disengagement of troops from the friction points formally kicked off on Monday following a eight-week eyeball-to-eyeball confrontation between the two armies at multiple locations in eastern Ladakh.

In the meantime, people familiar with the development said the two sides will hold another round of online meeting on Friday on the border row under the framework of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China border affairs.

Naveen Srivastava, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the External Affairs Ministry, will hold talks with Wu Jianghao, Director General in the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

At his briefing, the MEA Spokesperson said National Security Advisor Ajit Doval categorically conveyed to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday about India's position on the recent developments along the LAC including in the Galwan Valley area.

Doval and Wang, the Special Representatives for border talks, held a telephonic conversation on Sunday following which armies of the two countries began disengagement of troops from friction points in eastern Ladakh.

"The NSA emphasised in this context that the Indian troops had always taken a very responsible approach towards border management and at the same time, our forces were deeply committed to ensuring India's sovereignty and security," Srivastava said.

Srivastava said Doval and Wang agreed that peace and tranquillity in border areas were essential for the overall development of bilateral relations.

He also reiterated that the recent Chinese claims to the Galwan Valley area are "exaggerated and untenable".

"We remain convinced of the need for maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and the resolution of differences through dialogue, at the same time, we are also strongly committed to ensuring India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said.

Galwan Valley was the site of violent clashes between Indian and Chinese armies on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed.

The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details.

According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

Srivastava also said the diplomatic and military officials of both sides will continue their meetings to take forward the process of disengagement and de-escalation as agreed to by the Special Representatives.

"The next meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China border affairs (WMCC) is expected to take place soon," he said.

The Chinese military on Thursday completed moving back its troops from the face-off sites in Gogra and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh in line with the understanding reached with the Indian Army, government sources said.

The Indian and Chinese armies are locked in the bitter standoff in multiple locations in eastern Ladakh for the last eight weeks.

The tension escalated manifold after the Galwan Valley clashes.

China, meanwhile, said Chinese and Indian troops have taken "effective measures" to disengage at the Galwan Valley and other areas along the LAC in eastern Ladakh and the situation is "stable and improving," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a media briefing in Beijing that following the consensus reached at the commander-level talks, China, India border troops have taken effective measures to disengage at the front-line at the Galwan Valley and other areas.

"The situation along the border is stable and improving," he said.

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday completed withdrawal of its troops from two more face-off sites in Gogra and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh in line with a mutually agreed disengagement process with India even as the two countries are set to hold a fresh round of diplomatic talks on Friday to further de-escalate the situation.

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday completed withdrawal of its troops from two more face-off sites in Gogra and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh in line with a mutually agreed disengagement process with India even as the two countries are set to hold a fresh round of diplomatic talks on Friday to further de-escalate the situation. As the first phase of the disengagement neared completion, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava, at a media briefing, once again rejected China's claim over Galwan Valley, but reiterated that India remained convinced of the need for maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas and resolution of differences through dialogue. At the same time, he asserted that India is committed to ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity and that the Line of Actual Control (LAC) must be strictly respected and observed, saying it is the basis for peace and tranquility in border areas. Government sources said the two sides are also expected to hold a fourth round of Corps commander level dialogue by early next week to finalise modalities for de-induction of troops by both sides at their rear bases in the high-altitude region. Both sides have completed creation of a buffer zone of three kilometres in the three friction points of Galwan Valley, Gogra and Hot Springs as part of a temporary measure, the sources said, adding there has been a thinning out of troops from Finger 4 area in Pangong Tso as well. China has already pulled back troops from the friction points in Galwan Valley. The disengagement of troops from the friction points formally kicked off on Monday following a eight-week eyeball-to-eyeball confrontation between the two armies at multiple locations in eastern Ladakh. In the meantime, people familiar with the development said the two sides will hold another round of online meeting on Friday on the border row under the framework of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China border affairs. Naveen Srivastava, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the External Affairs Ministry, will hold talks with Wu Jianghao, Director General in the Chinese Foreign Ministry. At his briefing, the MEA Spokesperson said National Security Advisor Ajit Doval categorically conveyed to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday about India's position on the recent developments along the LAC including in the Galwan Valley area. Doval and Wang, the Special Representatives for border talks, held a telephonic conversation on Sunday following which armies of the two countries began disengagement of troops from friction points in eastern Ladakh. "The NSA emphasised in this context that the Indian troops had always taken a very responsible approach towards border management and at the same time, our forces were deeply committed to ensuring India's sovereignty and security," Srivastava said. Srivastava said Doval and Wang agreed that peace and tranquillity in border areas were essential for the overall development of bilateral relations. He also reiterated that the recent Chinese claims to the Galwan Valley area are "exaggerated and untenable". "We remain convinced of the need for maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and the resolution of differences through dialogue, at the same time, we are also strongly committed to ensuring India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said. Galwan Valley was the site of violent clashes between Indian and Chinese armies on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35. Srivastava also said the diplomatic and military officials of both sides will continue their meetings to take forward the process of disengagement and de-escalation as agreed to by the Special Representatives. "The next meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China border affairs (WMCC) is expected to take place soon," he said. The Chinese military on Thursday completed moving back its troops from the face-off sites in Gogra and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh in line with the understanding reached with the Indian Army, government sources said. The Indian and Chinese armies are locked in the bitter standoff in multiple locations in eastern Ladakh for the last eight weeks. The tension escalated manifold after the Galwan Valley clashes. China, meanwhile, said Chinese and Indian troops have taken "effective measures" to disengage at the Galwan Valley and other areas along the LAC in eastern Ladakh and the situation is "stable and improving," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a media briefing in Beijing that following the consensus reached at the commander-level talks, China, India border troops have taken effective measures to disengage at the front-line at the Galwan Valley and other areas. "The situation along the border is stable and improving," he said.

Ladakh standoff: China completes withdrawal of troops from three areas; another round of talks expected Friday

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced.

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced. The sweeping legislation punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison. It came into force at the same time it was made public just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting about 10 people for related offences the next day. Speaking at her regular weekly news conference, Lam said she knew some details of the legislation before it was made public, but she had not seen the complete draft. She said the law would restore Hong Kong's status as one of the safest cities in the world after sometimes violent pro-democracy protests last year. "Compared with the national security laws of other countries, it is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," Lam said, without naming the countries. The legislation has been criticised by nations such as Britain and the United States, and rights groups, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" agreed as part of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997, and for giving mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in Hong Kong for the first time. Its final power of interpretation lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship. Both Hong Kong and Chinese government officials have said the law was vital to plug gaping holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such laws by itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Lam said cases involving the new mainland agency in Hong Kong will be "rare" and that national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed. If reporters in Hong Kong could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely in the city, Lam said. Late on Monday, Hong Kong released additional details of the law, saying security forces had overriding authority to enter and search properties for evidence and stop people from leaving the city.

Hong Kong security law is not 'doom and gloom,' city leader says

In yet another grim&nbsp;development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated&nbsp;in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

Mumbai presently&nbsp;has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer.

China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone.

In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1.

The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer.

On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer.

Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK.

Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37.

In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday. Mumbai presently has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer. China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone. In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1. The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer. On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer. Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK. Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37. In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

Now, Mumbai overtakes China in COVID-19 deaths and cases

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through&nbsp;Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island.

China and&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;split in 1949 after nationalist forces lost a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, fleeing to the island which Beijing has since vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary.

"The law makes me dislike China even more," 18-year-old student Sylvia Chang told AFP, walking through National&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;University in Taipei.

"They had promised 50 years unchanged for Hong Kong but they are getting all the more heavy-handed... I am worried Hong Kong today could be&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;tomorrow."

Over the years China has used a mixture of threats and inducements, including a promise&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;could have the "One Country, Two Systems" model that governs Hong Kong, supposedly guaranteeing key civil liberties and a degree of autonomy for 50 years after the city's 1997 handover.

Both&nbsp;Taiwan's two largest political parties long ago rejected the offer, and the new security law has incinerated what little remaining faith many Taiwanese may have had in Beijing's outreach.

Some now fear even transiting through Hong Kong, worried that their social media profiles could see them open to prosecution under the legislation.

The law "makes China look so bad, distancing themselves even further from Hong Kongers, not to mention people across the strait in&nbsp;Taiwan", Alexander Huang, a political analyst at Tamkang University in Taipei, told AFP.

'Hong Kong today,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;tomorrow'&nbsp;

Beijing has taken an especially hard line towards&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), ramping up military, economic and diplomatic pressure.

Tsai views&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as a de facto independent nation and not part of "one China".

But the pressure campaign has done little to endear China to&nbsp;Taiwan's 23 million people.

In January, Tsai won a second term with a historic landslide and polls consistently show a growing distrust of China.

A record 67 percent now self-identify as "Taiwanese" instead of either Taiwanese-Chinese or Chinese -- a ten percent increase on the year before -- according to a routine poll conducted by the National Chengchi University.&nbsp;

In 1992, that figure was just 18 percent.

In recent decades&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has morphed from a brutal autocracy into one of Asia's most progressive democracies.

Younger Taiwanese tend to be especially wary of its huge authoritarian neighbour.&nbsp;

Social media is filled with messages of support for Hong Kong's democracy movement. Some back Taiwanese independence, or highlight China's rights abuses in regions such as Tibet and Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Wendy Peng, a 26-year-old magazine editor who said she often shared pro-Hong Kong democracy messages on social media, said she would now avoid visiting the city.&nbsp;

"The national security law makes me wonder how far would China go. Right now I don't see a bottom line and there's probably none. I think it's possible they will target&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;next," she said.

Universal jurisdiction&nbsp;

Peng's fears are not unfounded.&nbsp;

As well as allowing China's security apparatus to set up shop openly in Hong Kong for the first time, Beijing's security law claims universal jurisdiction.&nbsp;

Article 38 says security crimes can be committed anywhere in the world by people of any nationality.

Hong Kong police have made clear that support for Hong Kong,&nbsp;Taiwan, Tibet or Xinjiang independence is now illegal.&nbsp;

University employee Patrick Wu, 31, said he would now avoid even transiting through Hong Kong.&nbsp;

"It's like a blanket law, whatever China wants to define and interpret," he told AFP. "I don't know if the 'Likes' or messages I have left on social media will be prosecutable."

Last week Chen Ming-tong, the minister for&nbsp;Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, accused Beijing of aiming to become a supremely powerful "heavenly empire" by ordering "subjects all over the world" to obey its law.

Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of the ruling DPP, warned that "regular Taiwanese people" might now face arrest in "manufactured cases" if they went to Hong Kong.&nbsp;

He cited China's jailing of Taiwanese NGO worker Lee Ming-che under the mainland's own subversion laws.&nbsp;

Lee was arrested in 2017 during a trip to the mainland and held incommunicado for months before his eventual fate was made public.

Sung Chen-en, a political commentator and columnist in Taipei, said Beijing's new security law "creates a great uncertainty about what can be said" far beyond Hong Kong's borders.

"If everyone is watching his own expression of opinions, it creates a chilling effect on democracy," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"If everybody is exercising constraint, there is no freedom at all."

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island.

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island. China and Taiwan split in 1949 after nationalist forces lost a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, fleeing to the island which Beijing has since vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary. "The law makes me dislike China even more," 18-year-old student Sylvia Chang told AFP, walking through National Taiwan University in Taipei. "They had promised 50 years unchanged for Hong Kong but they are getting all the more heavy-handed... I am worried Hong Kong today could be Taiwan tomorrow." Over the years China has used a mixture of threats and inducements, including a promise Taiwan could have the "One Country, Two Systems" model that governs Hong Kong, supposedly guaranteeing key civil liberties and a degree of autonomy for 50 years after the city's 1997 handover. Both Taiwan's two largest political parties long ago rejected the offer, and the new security law has incinerated what little remaining faith many Taiwanese may have had in Beijing's outreach. Some now fear even transiting through Hong Kong, worried that their social media profiles could see them open to prosecution under the legislation. The law "makes China look so bad, distancing themselves even further from Hong Kongers, not to mention people across the strait in Taiwan", Alexander Huang, a political analyst at Tamkang University in Taipei, told AFP. 'Hong Kong today, Taiwan tomorrow' Beijing has taken an especially hard line towards Taiwan since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), ramping up military, economic and diplomatic pressure. Tsai views Taiwan as a de facto independent nation and not part of "one China". But the pressure campaign has done little to endear China to Taiwan's 23 million people. In January, Tsai won a second term with a historic landslide and polls consistently show a growing distrust of China. A record 67 percent now self-identify as "Taiwanese" instead of either Taiwanese-Chinese or Chinese -- a ten percent increase on the year before -- according to a routine poll conducted by the National Chengchi University. In 1992, that figure was just 18 percent. In recent decades Taiwan has morphed from a brutal autocracy into one of Asia's most progressive democracies. Younger Taiwanese tend to be especially wary of its huge authoritarian neighbour. Social media is filled with messages of support for Hong Kong's democracy movement. Some back Taiwanese independence, or highlight China's rights abuses in regions such as Tibet and Xinjiang. Wendy Peng, a 26-year-old magazine editor who said she often shared pro-Hong Kong democracy messages on social media, said she would now avoid visiting the city. "The national security law makes me wonder how far would China go. Right now I don't see a bottom line and there's probably none. I think it's possible they will target Taiwan next," she said. Universal jurisdiction Peng's fears are not unfounded. As well as allowing China's security apparatus to set up shop openly in Hong Kong for the first time, Beijing's security law claims universal jurisdiction. Article 38 says security crimes can be committed anywhere in the world by people of any nationality. Hong Kong police have made clear that support for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Tibet or Xinjiang independence is now illegal. University employee Patrick Wu, 31, said he would now avoid even transiting through Hong Kong. "It's like a blanket law, whatever China wants to define and interpret," he told AFP. "I don't know if the 'Likes' or messages I have left on social media will be prosecutable." Last week Chen Ming-tong, the minister for Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, accused Beijing of aiming to become a supremely powerful "heavenly empire" by ordering "subjects all over the world" to obey its law. Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of the ruling DPP, warned that "regular Taiwanese people" might now face arrest in "manufactured cases" if they went to Hong Kong. He cited China's jailing of Taiwanese NGO worker Lee Ming-che under the mainland's own subversion laws. Lee was arrested in 2017 during a trip to the mainland and held incommunicado for months before his eventual fate was made public. Sung Chen-en, a political commentator and columnist in Taipei, said Beijing's new security law "creates a great uncertainty about what can be said" far beyond Hong Kong's borders. "If everyone is watching his own expression of opinions, it creates a chilling effect on democracy," he told AFP. "If everybody is exercising constraint, there is no freedom at all."

'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan

US President Donald Trump on Saturday once again accused China of spreading coronavirus across the world, calling for it to be held ‘fully accountable’. Addressing the media from the White House lawns on the occasion of 244th Independence Day, Trump said, “We’re producing gowns, masks and surgical equipment…It was almost exclusively made in foreign lands, in particular, China, where ironically this virus and others came from”.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday once again accused China of spreading coronavirus across the world, calling for it to be held ‘fully accountable’. Addressing the media from the White House lawns on the occasion of 244th Independence Day, Trump said, “We’re producing gowns, masks and surgical equipment…It was almost exclusively made in foreign lands, in particular, China, where ironically this virus and others came from”. Also read: Coronavirus: US reports over 43,000 cases, 252 deaths in last 24 hours “China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed it to spread all over the world and China must be held fully accountable”, he added. Trump's remarks came even as World Health Organisation (WHO) is preparing to send a team to China next week to investigate if SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, actually originated from the country. We're producing gowns,masks&surgical equipment...It was almost exclusively made in foreign lands,in particular,China where ironically this virus&others came from. China's secrecy, deception&cover-up allowed it to spread all over world&China must be held fully accountable: US Pres pic.twitter.com/Q3Fei4USbW — ANI (@ANI) July 4, 2020 × Trump has been among those who have time and again alleged that the virus originated from a laboratory in China and called for it to be acted against. China has rejected all the allegations to this effect. The United States is the worst-hit country in the world due to coronavirus. It has thus far recorded 2,789,678 coronavirus cases, 129,305 deaths.

China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed coronavirus to spread all over world: Trump

A team from WHO (World Health Organisation) will visit China next week to investigate the origins of the virus and its spread to human beings. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke in January about an agreement with China for sending a team of international experts "as soon as possible" to work on increasing the understanding of the outbreak.

A team from WHO (World Health Organisation) will visit China next week to investigate the origins of the virus and its spread to human beings. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke in January about an agreement with China for sending a team of international experts "as soon as possible" to work on increasing the understanding of the outbreak. The novel coronavirus has killed over 500,000 people in the world and cases and deaths are increasing by the day. Dr Soumya Swaminathan, Chief Scientist, WHO told news agency ANI that a "thorough investigation" needs to be done into the origins of the virus. She said that the WHO has been working with the Chinese government for the visit. "A team is going to China next week to investigate the origins of the virus," Swaminathan told ANI. "What is needed now is a good investigation going back before December to find out where and how it jumped from animal to human. Was there any intermediate animal or not or it directly jumped from bat to humans which are also possible? Bats have been implicated in other viral diseases -- Nipah for example. It is possible it came directly. It is also possible that there was an intermediate animal-like in the case of SARS. That thorough investigation still needs to be done," she said. Dr Swaminathan said that the Chinese government had reported an outbreak of "typical pneumonia cases" from Wuhan on December 31. "Our WHO country office in China picked it up and on January 1, WHO activated its international mechanisms which we do as part of international health regulations whenever there's any new signal gets reported. It is conveyed to everyone so that the whole world knows about it," she said. Dr Swaminathan said that sequences show that the virus causing COVID-19 is very similar to bat viruses. "We do not know more than that in the sense where and how it originated. We know from the virus sequences that it is very similar to bat viruses. A lot of studies have been done in South-East Asia to show that bats have lots of coronaviruses. There are over 500 types of coronaviruses. There are also previous studies showing that populations living in southern China and even in other countries of South-East Asia have antibodies to coronaviruses," she said. The pandemic has grown to more than 10 million cases and has caused over 500,000 deaths across the world. (With inputs from ANI)

WHO team to visit China next week to probe origins of coronavirus

China must reconsider its sweeping national security law imposed on Hong Kong which "undermines" the city's freedoms, 27 countries said in a joint statement Tuesday.

China must reconsider its sweeping national security law imposed on Hong Kong which "undermines" the city's freedoms, 27 countries said in a joint statement Tuesday. Beijing must also allow the United Nations rights chief meaningful access to its western Xinjiang province, said the states -- including Britain, France, Germany and Japan -- in a rare oral rebuke of China at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Julian Braithwaite, Britain's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, read the statement at the council, on behalf of all the signatories. The 27 countries have "deep and growing concerns" over the new security law, which has clear implications on the human rights of people in Hong Kong, the statement said. Imposing the law without the direct participation of Hong Kong's people, legislature or judiciary "undermines" the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle guaranteeing Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy, rights and freedoms, the signatories said. "We urge the Chinese and Hong Kong governments to reconsider the imposition of this legislation and to engage Hong Kong's people, institutions and judiciary to prevent further erosion of the rights and freedoms that the people of Hong Kong have enjoyed for many years," the statement said. Signatories included Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland and 15 European Union states including the Netherlands and Sweden. "A number of the signatories to this statement submitted a letter last year to express concern about arbitrary detention, widespread surveillance and restrictions, particularly targeting Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang," the statement pointed out. "These deep concerns have been reinforced by additional information now in the public domain." A study by a German researcher said Monday that Chinese authorities were carrying out forced sterilisations of Uighur and other ethnic minority women in an apparent campaign to curb the population. The countries urged China to allow Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, "meaningful access to Xinjiang at the earliest opportunity". The countries urged China to allow Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, "meaningful access to Xinjiang at the earliest opportunity". The signatories urged Bachelet to provide regular information on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, "in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms which are guaranteed under international law".

China must reconsider Hong Kong security law, 27 countries tell UN

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law.

The security legislation imposed on Hong Kong sets the stage for the most radical changes to the former British colony's way of life since it returned to Chinese rule 23 years ago.

The new law would "severely impact" freedom, democracy and human rights in Hong Kong, Taiwan's cabinet said in a statement, adding that the democratic island would continue to offer help to Hong Kong people.

"The move severely impacts Hong Kong society's freedom, human rights and stability. The government strongly condemns it and reiterates its support for the people of Hong Kong as they strive for democracy and freedom," cabinet spokesman Evian Ting said.

Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few "troublemakers" in Hong Kong and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investor interests.

Nevertheless, Ting warned Taiwanese of "possible risks" when visiting Hong Kong in light of the legislation. He did not elaborate.

Months of anti-government, pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong last year won widespread sympathy in democratic and Chinese-claimed Taiwan, which has welcomed people from Hong Kong who have moved to the island and expects more to come.

President Tsai Ing-wen, who in May became the first government leader anywhere to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls, said she was "very disappointed" by China's imposition of the law.

"We hope Hong Kong people continue to adhere to the freedom, democracy and human rights that they cherish," she told reporters.

Taiwan is set to launch on Wednesday a dedicated office to help those thinking of fleeing Hong Kong. July 1 is also the anniversary of day the city returned to Chinese rule from Britain in 1997 with the promise of wide-ranging freedoms under a "one country, two systems" formula.

Tsai said the legislation proved that the formula "was not feasible" and that Taiwan would provide "concrete" humanitarian assistance to migrants from Hong Kong.

Beijing denies stifling Hong Kong's freedoms and has condemned Tsai's offer.

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law.

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law. The security legislation imposed on Hong Kong sets the stage for the most radical changes to the former British colony's way of life since it returned to Chinese rule 23 years ago. The new law would "severely impact" freedom, democracy and human rights in Hong Kong, Taiwan's cabinet said in a statement, adding that the democratic island would continue to offer help to Hong Kong people. "The move severely impacts Hong Kong society's freedom, human rights and stability. The government strongly condemns it and reiterates its support for the people of Hong Kong as they strive for democracy and freedom," cabinet spokesman Evian Ting said. Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few "troublemakers" in Hong Kong and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investor interests. Nevertheless, Ting warned Taiwanese of "possible risks" when visiting Hong Kong in light of the legislation. He did not elaborate. Months of anti-government, pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong last year won widespread sympathy in democratic and Chinese-claimed Taiwan, which has welcomed people from Hong Kong who have moved to the island and expects more to come. President Tsai Ing-wen, who in May became the first government leader anywhere to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls, said she was "very disappointed" by China's imposition of the law. "We hope Hong Kong people continue to adhere to the freedom, democracy and human rights that they cherish," she told reporters. Taiwan is set to launch on Wednesday a dedicated office to help those thinking of fleeing Hong Kong. July 1 is also the anniversary of day the city returned to Chinese rule from Britain in 1997 with the promise of wide-ranging freedoms under a "one country, two systems" formula. Tsai said the legislation proved that the formula "was not feasible" and that Taiwan would provide "concrete" humanitarian assistance to migrants from Hong Kong. Beijing denies stifling Hong Kong's freedoms and has condemned Tsai's offer.

Taiwan warns citizens of risk in Hong Kong visits after China passes law

Driven by a COVID-19 resurgence in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Mainland China reported the highest number of new coronavirus cases in four days on Saturday. The National Health Commission reported 21 new confirmed infections in mainland China on Friday, up from 13 a day earlier and the highest since Monday, according to Reuters.

Driven by a COVID-19 resurgence in the Chinese capital of Beijing, Mainland China reported the highest number of new coronavirus cases in four days on Saturday. The National Health Commission reported 21 new confirmed infections in mainland China on Friday, up from 13 a day earlier and the highest since Monday, according to Reuters. Also read: Beijing wholesale market temporarily shut after new coronavirus infections In Beijing, 17 new confirmed cases were reported, up from 11 a day earlier and the most since June 20, the report added. Since June 11 when Beijing reported its first case in the current outbreak, stemming from a sprawling wholesale food centre in the southwest of the capital, 297 people in the city of more than 20 million have contracted the virus. Mainland China reported four new so-called imported cases on Friday, infections linked to travellers arriving from abroad. That compares with two cases a day earlier. That took the cumulative number of confirmed cases in mainland China to 83,483. Also see: Beijing airports cancel 1,255 flights over coronavirus fears: Report Mainland China reported 12 new asymptomatic patients, who tested positive for COVID-19 but showed no clinical symptoms such as a fever, up from five a day earlier. The national health authority does not include asymptomatic patients in its tally of confirmed cases. The death toll stood at 4,634, unchanged since mid-May. (With inputs from Reuters)

China sees spike in new COVID-19 cases, including 17 in Beijing

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair".

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair". "We oppose any foreign interference in this matter," said Wang Lutong, director-general of European Affairs at China's foreign ministry, adding that China had made its position clear in an EU video summit Monday between President Xi Jinping and top EU officials. Also read: Hong Kong lawyers alarmed at plans for judges in national security trials The European Union on Monday warned China of "very negative consequences" if Beijing goes ahead with a new security law on Hong Kong that the West says will curtail basic rights. Speaking after video calls with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and President Xi Jinping, the EU's chief executive and chairman said the new legislation was a matter of 'grave concern' and could jeopardise the territory's semi-autonomous status and role as a global financial hub. Also read: US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the law did not conform with the Hong Kong Basic Law, in reference to the mini-constitution that was agreed between Britain and China ahead of the 1997 handover. The comments came after China's parliament reacted angrily on Saturday to a resolution by the EU assembly protesting against the security law. (With inputs from agencies)

China slams European Union criticism over Hong Kong law

Stating that detention of two men by China unjustified, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday called for their immediate release. Two Canadians are charged by China with espionage.

Stating that detention of two men by China unjustified, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday called for their immediate release. Two Canadians are charged by China with espionage. Pompeo said US was "extremely concerned" and that the two men's detention was unjustified. "These charges are politically motivated and completely groundless," the Secretary of State said in a statement. Chinese prosecutors announced the charges on Friday against former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, who were arrested in late 2018. Also read: Espionage cases against Canadians not linked to Huawei CFO, says China The two men were detained shortly after Canadian police detained Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, on a US warrant. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked Pompeo and nations which have recently denounced China's treatment of the two men. "Our allies around the world are very concerned by the fate of the Canadians because they know very well it could be their turn at some point and we must remain united to deplore these arbitrary arrests," he told a daily briefing in Ottawa. Also read: Trudeau 'very disappointed' after China charges two Canadians with suspected espionage Trudeau said the cases of the two men and Meng were clearly linked. Earlier in the day China said they were unrelated and repeated calls for Meng's release.

Mike Pompeo seeks immediate release of two Canadians detained by China on 'groundless' charges

Chinese foreign ministry on Monday said the espionage cases against two Canadian citizens in the country are unrelated to the ongoing extradition case in Canada against Huawei senior executive Meng Wanzhou and called for Meng's release.

Chinese foreign ministry on Monday said the espionage cases against two Canadian citizens in the country are unrelated to the ongoing extradition case in Canada against Huawei senior executive Meng Wanzhou and called for Meng's release. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian made the remarks during a daily briefing. "Meng Wanzhou's case is totally different from the case of Canadian citizens. Anyone without prejudice would know that clearly. The case of Meng Wanzhou is a very serious political issue," said Zhao. Asked about Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calling on China to end what he called "arbitrary detention" of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, who were arrested in 2018 on state security charges, Zhao said there is no such thing as arbitrary detention in China.

Espionage cases against Canadians not linked to Huawei CFO, says China

Mainland China reported 26 new confirmed coronavirus cases for June 20, down from 27 a day earlier. Of the new infections, 22 were in Beijing, the National Health Commission said in a statement, the same as a day earlier.

Mainland China reported 26 new confirmed coronavirus cases for June 20, down from 27 a day earlier. Of the new infections, 22 were in Beijing, the National Health Commission said in a statement, the same as a day earlier. The city of more than 20 million people reported its first case in the latest wave on June 11. The resurgence has been linked to a wholesale food centre in the southwest of Beijing, according to a Reuters report. So far, 227 people in the city have been infected in the latest outbreak. Mainland China reported six new asymptomatic cases, those who are infected with the coronavirus but show no symptoms, down from seven a day earlier. Beijing accounted for three of the new cases. China does not count asymptomatic patients as confirmed cases and as part of the official infection tally. To date, China has 83,378 confirmed cases. The first infections were traced to Huanan seafood market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December. No new deaths were reported in mainland China for June 20.

China reports 26 new COVID-19 cases including 22 in capital Beijing

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that the Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action in Galwan Valley that was directly responsible for the resulting violence between two armies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-soldiers-wont-go-in-vain-pm-modi-on-india-china-standoff-306495">Also read: Sacrifices of our soldiers won't go in vain, says PM Modi on India-China standoff</a> 
 
Foreign minister S Jaishankar had a telephonic conversation with his Chinese counterpart — a first since Monday’s violence at Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in which 20 Indian soldiers died, sources said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-20-indian-soldiers-martyred-in-a-violent-face-off-with-chinese-troops-306357">Also read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops</a>

The Chinese side also sustained losses, sources said, in the violence a first in nearly five decades.

Jaishanker had told the Chinese minister that the Chinese side “took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties”, the government said. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to China, said, “India wants peace but when provoked, it is capable of giving a fitting reply, be it any situation”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-violent-face-off-a-result-of-attempt-by-china-to-unilaterally-change-status-quo-says-mea-306334">Also read: Violent face-off a result of attempt by China to unilaterally change status quo,’ says MEA</a>

China has demanded punishment for those responsible for the conflict and said the troops should follow “important consensus reached by their leaders,” reports said.

(With inputs from agencies)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that the Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action in Galwan Valley that was directly responsible for the resulting violence between two armies.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that the Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action in Galwan Valley that was directly responsible for the resulting violence between two armies. Also read: Sacrifices of our soldiers won't go in vain, says PM Modi on India-China standoff Foreign minister S Jaishankar had a telephonic conversation with his Chinese counterpart — a first since Monday’s violence at Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in which 20 Indian soldiers died, sources said. Also read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops The Chinese side also sustained losses, sources said, in the violence a first in nearly five decades. Jaishanker had told the Chinese minister that the Chinese side “took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties”, the government said. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to China, said, “India wants peace but when provoked, it is capable of giving a fitting reply, be it any situation”. Also read: Violent face-off a result of attempt by China to unilaterally change status quo,’ says MEA China has demanded punishment for those responsible for the conflict and said the troops should follow “important consensus reached by their leaders,” reports said. (With inputs from agencies)

China took pre-meditated action in Galwan valley that led to violence, Indian Foreign Minister tells Beijing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in a violent face-off with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in Ladakh would not go to waste.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-20-indian-soldiers-martyred-in-a-violent-face-off-with-chinese-troops-306357">Also read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops</a>

He said that "I would like to assure the nation that the sacrifice of our jawans will not be in vain. For us, the sovereignty of the country is the most important. India wants peace but it is capable to give a befitting reply if instigated."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> India wants peace but when instigated, India is capable of giving a befitting reply, be it any kind of situation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/rJc0STCwBM">pic.twitter.com/rJc0STCwBM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1273189727705853952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-violent-face-off-a-result-of-attempt-by-china-to-unilaterally-change-status-quo-says-mea-306334">Also read: Violent face-off a result of attempt by China to unilaterally change status quo,’ says MEA</a>

PM Modi was addressing the second round of consultation meeting with chief ministers of various states, on the Covid-19 situation in the country.

PM Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the chief ministers of 15 states and union territories, who are present in the meeting via video-conferencing, observed a two-minute silence as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in Galwan Valley clash.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in a violent face-off with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in Ladakh would not go to waste.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in a violent face-off with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in Ladakh would not go to waste. Also read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops He said that "I would like to assure the nation that the sacrifice of our jawans will not be in vain. For us, the sovereignty of the country is the most important. India wants peace but it is capable to give a befitting reply if instigated." #WATCH India wants peace but when instigated, India is capable of giving a befitting reply, be it any kind of situation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/rJc0STCwBM — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2020 × Also read: Violent face-off a result of attempt by China to unilaterally change status quo,’ says MEA PM Modi was addressing the second round of consultation meeting with chief ministers of various states, on the Covid-19 situation in the country. PM Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the chief ministers of 15 states and union territories, who are present in the meeting via video-conferencing, observed a two-minute silence as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in Galwan Valley clash. (With inputs from ANI)

Sacrifices of our soldiers won't go in vain: PM Modi on India-China standoff

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called for an all-party meeting discuss the border tension with China.

''In order to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting at 5 PM on 19th June,'' Prime Minister Office said.

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In order to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> has called for an all-party meeting at 5 PM on 19th June. Presidents of various political parties would take part in this virtual meeting.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1273162315169439744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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''Presidents of various political parties would take part in this virtual meeting,'' the PMO added.&nbsp;

At least 20 Indian soldiers and 35 Chinese army men were reportedly killed in the face-between the troops of the two countries on late Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called for an all-party meeting discuss the border tension with China. ''In order to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting at 5 PM on 19th June,'' Prime Minister Office said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called for an all-party meeting discuss the border tension with China. ''In order to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting at 5 PM on 19th June,'' Prime Minister Office said. In order to discuss the situation in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister @narendramodi has called for an all-party meeting at 5 PM on 19th June. Presidents of various political parties would take part in this virtual meeting. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 17, 2020 × ''Presidents of various political parties would take part in this virtual meeting,'' the PMO added. At least 20 Indian soldiers and 35 Chinese army men were reportedly killed in the face-between the troops of the two countries on late Monday.

PM Modi calls for all-party meet to discuss border tension with China

Authorities in Beijing have temporarily shut a major wholesale agricultural market following a rise in locally transmitted novel coronavirus infections in China's capital city over the past two days.

The closure of the Xinfadi wholesale market at 3 a.m. local time on Saturday (1900 GMT on Friday), came after two men working at a meat research centre who had recently visited the market were reported on Friday as having been infected by the novel coronavirus. It was not immediately clear how the men had been infected.

Concern is growing of a second wave of the new virus, even in many countries that seemed to have curbed its spread. It was first reported at a seafood market in Wuhan, the capital of central China's Hubei province, in December.

Beijing authorities had earlier halted beef and mutton trading at the Xinfadi market, alongside closures at other wholesale markets around the city.

Reflecting concerns over the risk of further spread of the virus, major supermarkets in Beijing removed salmon from their shelves overnight after the virus causing COVID-19 was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon at the market, the state-owned Beijing Youth Daily reported.

Beijing authorities said more than 10,000 people at the market will take nucleic acid tests to detect coronavirus infections. The city government also said it had dropped plans to reopen schools on Monday for students in grades one through three because of the new cases.

Health authorities visited the home of a Reuters reporter in Beijing's Dongcheng district on Saturday to ask whether she had visited the Xinfadi market, which is 15 km (9 miles) away. They said the visit was part of patrols Dongcheng was conducting.

China reported 11 new COVID-19 cases and seven asymptomatic cases for Friday, the national health authority said on Saturday. And all six locally transmitted cases were confirmed in Beijing.

Authorities in Beijing have temporarily shut a major wholesale agricultural market following a rise in locally transmitted novel coronavirus infections in China's capital city over the past two days.

Authorities in Beijing have temporarily shut a major wholesale agricultural market following a rise in locally transmitted novel coronavirus infections in China's capital city over the past two days. The closure of the Xinfadi wholesale market at 3 a.m. local time on Saturday (1900 GMT on Friday), came after two men working at a meat research centre who had recently visited the market were reported on Friday as having been infected by the novel coronavirus. It was not immediately clear how the men had been infected. Concern is growing of a second wave of the new virus, even in many countries that seemed to have curbed its spread. It was first reported at a seafood market in Wuhan, the capital of central China's Hubei province, in December. Beijing authorities had earlier halted beef and mutton trading at the Xinfadi market, alongside closures at other wholesale markets around the city. Reflecting concerns over the risk of further spread of the virus, major supermarkets in Beijing removed salmon from their shelves overnight after the virus causing COVID-19 was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon at the market, the state-owned Beijing Youth Daily reported. Beijing authorities said more than 10,000 people at the market will take nucleic acid tests to detect coronavirus infections. The city government also said it had dropped plans to reopen schools on Monday for students in grades one through three because of the new cases. Health authorities visited the home of a Reuters reporter in Beijing's Dongcheng district on Saturday to ask whether she had visited the Xinfadi market, which is 15 km (9 miles) away. They said the visit was part of patrols Dongcheng was conducting. China reported 11 new COVID-19 cases and seven asymptomatic cases for Friday, the national health authority said on Saturday. And all six locally transmitted cases were confirmed in Beijing.

Beijing wholesale market temporarily shut after new coronavirus infections

Chinese president Xi Jinping is now ready to take the diplomatic ties with Philipines to next level but what's in it for China?

In February, Philipino President Duterte said he won't allow American troops to operate on his soil and&nbsp;scrapped a two-decade-old agreement. China surely likes such a friend. America's exit would mean china's entry, or so it is hoped. But America is also the main defence ally of the Philippines. Provider of military hardware and training. Duterte's generals do not want to lose that, not when China is trying to capture the south china sea.

Over the past three months, China has pointed a laser gun at a Philippine warship. A Chinese vessel even rammed into a philippine boat, causing it to sink in the disputed waters. China has turned seven reefs claimed by the Philippines into artificial islands and militarised them.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-duterte-playing-into-chinas-hands-304945/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Despite all of this, Duterte has made it clear that Beijing is a preferred economic partner. He learnt no lessons from his China-sceptic predecessor Benigno Aquino.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-a-terminated-agreement-with-the-us-could-push-the-philippines-closer-to-china-281378">Why a terminated agreement with the US could push the Philippines closer to China</a>

Aquino famously took China to international court over south china sea disputes. Without realising it, Duterte is now caught between China and the US. Now, there are plans to fix an airstrip on an island in the south china sea.

That may draw Beijing's fury. He is desperate to show that his pro-china stance will pay-off. For this, he has drawn the fury of the philippine public. In 2018,&nbsp;during Xi Jinping's visit to the Philippines, Duterte's citizens made it clear they do not want Chinese interference, and that they do not want Chinese money.

There is near-absence of any Chinese infrastructure investments. Only increased militarisation of the south china sea. So&nbsp;Duterte got cold-feet and took a u-turn and went back to tell the US that he won't scrap the visiting forces agreement. So, US troops will remain in the Philippines. By doing this,

Duterte has put the Philippines in the middle of the US-China political stalemate. The renewed push from China has come at a time when it lacks allies in the region. It is easy for China to bring Duterte to the table. There are many similarities between the leaders too.

Duterte wants the law to suit his needs While Xi is the law in China. For now, the Philippines has the US by its side. Another mistake and, Manila&nbsp;will have to deal with Beijing all by itself.

Duterte is slowly, but surely playing into the hands of Xi's China.&nbsp;

Chinese president Xi Jinping is now ready to take the diplomatic ties with Philipines to next level but what's in it for China? In February, Philipino President Duterte said he won't allow American troops to operate on his soil and scrapped a two-decade-old agreement.

Chinese president Xi Jinping is now ready to take the diplomatic ties with Philipines to next level but what's in it for China? In February, Philipino President Duterte said he won't allow American troops to operate on his soil and scrapped a two-decade-old agreement. China surely likes such a friend. America's exit would mean china's entry, or so it is hoped. But America is also the main defence ally of the Philippines. Provider of military hardware and training. Duterte's generals do not want to lose that, not when China is trying to capture the south china sea. Over the past three months, China has pointed a laser gun at a Philippine warship. A Chinese vessel even rammed into a philippine boat, causing it to sink in the disputed waters. China has turned seven reefs claimed by the Philippines into artificial islands and militarised them. Despite all of this, Duterte has made it clear that Beijing is a preferred economic partner. He learnt no lessons from his China-sceptic predecessor Benigno Aquino. Also read: Why a terminated agreement with the US could push the Philippines closer to China Aquino famously took China to international court over south china sea disputes. Without realising it, Duterte is now caught between China and the US. Now, there are plans to fix an airstrip on an island in the south china sea. That may draw Beijing's fury. He is desperate to show that his pro-china stance will pay-off. For this, he has drawn the fury of the philippine public. In 2018, during Xi Jinping's visit to the Philippines, Duterte's citizens made it clear they do not want Chinese interference, and that they do not want Chinese money. There is near-absence of any Chinese infrastructure investments. Only increased militarisation of the south china sea. So Duterte got cold-feet and took a u-turn and went back to tell the US that he won't scrap the visiting forces agreement. So, US troops will remain in the Philippines. By doing this, Duterte has put the Philippines in the middle of the US-China political stalemate. The renewed push from China has come at a time when it lacks allies in the region. It is easy for China to bring Duterte to the table. There are many similarities between the leaders too. Duterte wants the law to suit his needs While Xi is the law in China. For now, the Philippines has the US by its side. Another mistake and, Manila will have to deal with Beijing all by itself. Duterte is slowly, but surely playing into the hands of Xi's China.

How Philippines President Duterte is playing into the hands of Xi's China

More than 71 lakh infections. More than 4 lakh deaths. This is what the virus from Wuhan has done to the world. Here are the latest numbers. The US still leads in coronavirus cases with more than 19 lakh 61,000 and counting. The death toll is more than 1,01,100.

Following America is Brazil with more&nbsp;than 7 lakh 7000 cases and over 37,000 deaths.

Russia is at number three with more than 4 lakh 84,000 cases followed by the UK with over 2 lakh 88,000 cases and &nbsp;40,000 deaths. India remains on the fifth spot. More than 2 lakh 68,000 cases. Out of this, 1 lakh 29,000 are active cases. 1 lakh 29,000 people have recovered There have been more than 7,400 deaths.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a study claims virus first appeared in August 2019 contrary to earlier report of December 2019. This is a study by the Harvard Medical School. It is based on the hypothesis that the coronavirus was circulating in the community prior to being identified. Researchers say this hypothesis is backed by the fact that at least 14 of the first identified cases had no direct link to wet markets.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-coronavirus-hit-wuhan-in-august-2019-304662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In addition, the virological samples of wildlife at these markets could not be linked to the coronavirus. Now to further prove their claims, the researchers used two methods. First, they looked at high-resolution satellite images taken between 2018 and 2020. These were images of 6 speciality hospital parking lots in Wuhan. The researchers say these images show an increase in traffic outside five of these hospitals between august and December.

They also obtained daily data for symptom-related online searches. They focused on search volumes of two terms --cough and diarrhoea.

The traffic spike in august apparently coincided with a rise in online searches for information regarding these symptoms. Meaning, an inordinately high number of people were searching for these terms. Which leads to the conclusion that they, or someone they knew, was suffering from these things.

China has dismissed this report. It&nbsp;called it ridiculous. The rest of the world is reporting it.

More than 71 lakh infections. More than 4 lakh deaths. This is what the virus from Wuhan has done to the world. Here are the latest numbers. The US still leads in coronavirus cases with more than 19 lakh 61,000 and counting.

More than 71 lakh infections. More than 4 lakh deaths. This is what the virus from Wuhan has done to the world. Here are the latest numbers. The US still leads in coronavirus cases with more than 19 lakh 61,000 and counting. The death toll is more than 1,01,100. Following America is Brazil with more than 7 lakh 7000 cases and over 37,000 deaths. Russia is at number three with more than 4 lakh 84,000 cases followed by the UK with over 2 lakh 88,000 cases and 40,000 deaths. India remains on the fifth spot. More than 2 lakh 68,000 cases. Out of this, 1 lakh 29,000 are active cases. 1 lakh 29,000 people have recovered There have been more than 7,400 deaths. Meanwhile, a study claims virus first appeared in August 2019 contrary to earlier report of December 2019. This is a study by the Harvard Medical School. It is based on the hypothesis that the coronavirus was circulating in the community prior to being identified. Researchers say this hypothesis is backed by the fact that at least 14 of the first identified cases had no direct link to wet markets. In addition, the virological samples of wildlife at these markets could not be linked to the coronavirus. Now to further prove their claims, the researchers used two methods. First, they looked at high-resolution satellite images taken between 2018 and 2020. These were images of 6 speciality hospital parking lots in Wuhan. The researchers say these images show an increase in traffic outside five of these hospitals between august and December. They also obtained daily data for symptom-related online searches. They focused on search volumes of two terms --cough and diarrhoea. The traffic spike in august apparently coincided with a rise in online searches for information regarding these symptoms. Meaning, an inordinately high number of people were searching for these terms. Which leads to the conclusion that they, or someone they knew, was suffering from these things. China has dismissed this report. It called it ridiculous. The rest of the world is reporting it.

Harvard Medical School research says spread of virus started in August

China's internet regulator on Wednesday ordered the Sina Weibo social media platform to disable some of its features for a week, rare punishment for what it said was interference with online communication, among other things.

China's internet regulator on Wednesday ordered the Sina Weibo social media platform to disable some of its features for a week, rare punishment for what it said was interference with online communication, among other things. Top internet watchdog, the Cyberspace Administration of China, said in a post on its verified WeChat Account it had reprimanded Weibo for "interfering with online communication order, disseminating illegal information and other problems". Weibo will need to stop updating its lists showing the most popular search terms and topics being discussed on the platform for a week from Wednesday, the CAC said, adding it had asked its Beijing branch to fine Weibo. Weibo did not immediately respond when contacted by Reuters for comment. The CAC said that the violations related to a case involving a person with the surname Jiang, without going into further details. It was not clear whose communications Weibo is being punished for interfering with but it comes after a senior Alibaba Group executive's relationship with a prominent social media influencer came under scrutiny by Sina Weibo users in April, some of whom complained at the time that their posts were being censored. The executive, Jiang Fan, was later demoted after an internal investigation. Alibaba did not immediately reply when contacted by Reuters for comment. The government heavily regulates its cyberspace and often scrubs content like violence, pornography, or political sensitive speeches from social media. In 2018, Weibo temporarily took offline some of its portals like its hot search site and portal on celebrities and their personal lives after being reprimanded by the CAC for spreading what it said was obscene content.

China punishes microblog platform Weibo for interfering with communication

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday criticised British bank HSBC for supporting China's move to end Hong Kong's autonomy, saying such "corporate kowtows" got little in return from Beijing.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday criticised British bank HSBC for supporting China's move to end Hong Kong's autonomy, saying such "corporate kowtows" got little in return from Beijing. Pompeo said the United States was ready to assist Britain with alternatives after Beijing reportedly threatened to punish HSBC and break commitments to build nuclear power plants in the country unless the British government allowed China's Huawei Technologies to participate in building a 5G network. Also read: China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association "The United States stands with our allies and partners against the Chinese Communist Party’s coercive bullying tactics," Pompeo said in a statement, his latest swipe at China's ruling party. Pompeo referred to HSBC's Asia-Pacific CEO, Peter Wong, signing a petition supporting Beijing’s plans to impose new security legislation on Hong Kong. He said the "browbeating" of HSBC by China's communist leadership "should serve as a cautionary tale". "That show of fealty seems to have earned HSBC little respect in Beijing, which continues to use the bank’s business in China as political leverage against London," he said. Also read: 'Hong Kong rioters have infiltrated American states': China hits out at US over George Floyd protests Sino-US ties have deteriorated rapidly since the start of the year over the coronavirus pandemic and Hong Kong. Washington sees Huawei as an extension of the Chinese government and urges European allies to exclude it from mobile networks. Britain's Daily Telegraph newspaper reported on Saturday that HSBC Chairman Mark Tucker had warned Britain against a ban on networking equipment made by Huawei, claiming the bank could face reprisals in China. Senior British and US politicians criticized HSBC and Standard Chartered last week after they both backed the national security law for Hong Kong. (With inputs from Reuters)

Mike Pompeo criticises HSBC for 'corporate kowtow' to Beijing

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