Chinese citizen can finally heave a sigh of relief slowly but surely China appear to be progressing towards easing its Covid curbs. A small departure from Beijing's strict Covid policy, something which had frustrated the Chinese citizens over a long period of time. But should China end its zero-Covid policy?

WION Wideangle: Should China end its zero-Covid policy? | WION Shorts

The authorities in the Chinese city of Guangzhou have decided to abruptly put an end to COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of a scuffle between the police and protesters who&nbsp; have been holding demonstrations against the lockdowns imposed as part of the Zero-Covid policy and even the top security body of China has called for a crackdown on the “hostile forces”.

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The lifting of restrictions was not carried out in all districts as the authorities said that they are still trying to keep the Covid cases in control. In the official statement, local leaders made it clear that the restrictions will continue till the cases go down and the risk of infection is within control.

The districts of Haizhu, Baiyun, Fanyu, Tianhe, Conghua, Huadu and Liwan saw the end of temporary lockdowns. The district of Conghua also announced that it will allow the reopening of schools and people in most areas will be able to visit restaurants and other commercial locations.

The southwestern city of Chongqing will allow close contacts of people with COVID-19, who fulfil certain conditions, to quarantine at home, a city official said.

Guangzhou is an important city for the Chinese economy due to the presence of several manufacturing centers. With the rise of COVID-19 cases, the manufacturing units have faced closure in the recent past and that has left a number of people around the city unemployed.

Both the US and Canada have criticised China for using force against the Zero-Covid protestors and the government was urged to preserve the citizens’ right to peaceful protest. The statements were issued after the clashes in Guangzhou which resulted in multiple arrests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The authorities in the Chinese city of Guangzhou have decided to abruptly put an end to COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of a scuffle between the police and protesters who have been holding demonstrations against the lockdowns imposed as part of the Zero-Covid policy and even the top security body of China has called for a crackdown on the “hostile forces”.

The authorities in the Chinese city of Guangzhou have decided to abruptly put an end to COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of a scuffle between the police and protesters who have been holding demonstrations against the lockdowns imposed as part of the Zero-Covid policy and even the top security body of China has called for a crackdown on the “hostile forces”. Also read | Eurozone inflation slows to 10 per cent in November but rate rises expected The lifting of restrictions was not carried out in all districts as the authorities said that they are still trying to keep the Covid cases in control. In the official statement, local leaders made it clear that the restrictions will continue till the cases go down and the risk of infection is within control. The districts of Haizhu, Baiyun, Fanyu, Tianhe, Conghua, Huadu and Liwan saw the end of temporary lockdowns. The district of Conghua also announced that it will allow the reopening of schools and people in most areas will be able to visit restaurants and other commercial locations. The southwestern city of Chongqing will allow close contacts of people with COVID-19, who fulfil certain conditions, to quarantine at home, a city official said. Guangzhou is an important city for the Chinese economy due to the presence of several manufacturing centers. With the rise of COVID-19 cases, the manufacturing units have faced closure in the recent past and that has left a number of people around the city unemployed. Both the US and Canada have criticised China for using force against the Zero-Covid protestors and the government was urged to preserve the citizens’ right to peaceful protest. The statements were issued after the clashes in Guangzhou which resulted in multiple arrests. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts of Guangzhou

The Chinese government has decided to ease COVID-19 restrictions as part of the Zero-Covid initiative as Beijing will allow some infected people to isolate at home. The Chaoyang district – one of the most densely populated districts – will be the first place where the concessions will be tested and according to a report on Bloomberg, the infected individuals will not have to travel to government quarantine sites. This will be a massive step for the authorities after the cities of Guangzhou and Chongqing announced an easing of restrictions in the aftermath of widespread protests.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-reports-5006-covid-cases-as-china-stumbles-through-worst-outbreak-538948">Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak</a>

In the past few days, several cities saw protests in opposition to the fresh set of restrictions and some of them even turned violent in Guangzhou as the police clashed with protesters on the streets. It has also promoted responses from the United States and Canada who urged China to not use any kind of force against the protesters.&nbsp;

The new rules reportedly will allow people to quarantine at home after signing a letter committing to not going outside during the period and having a sensor fitted on their doors. However, there will be some respite for the elderly or pregnant women who will find it difficult to travel to a facility.&nbsp;

While the announcement will come as good news for the citizens, the number of COVID-19 cases in the Chinese capital continue to rise. On Wednesday, Beijing recorded 5006 cases – most in recent times.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-asks-elon-musk-to-visit-ukraine-before-making-peace-overtures-538990">Zelensky urges Elon Musk to visit Ukraine before proposing peace</a>

Outgoing Vice Premier Sun Chunlan met national health officials and said that the country is “new stage and mission” as the government may look to alter its course slightly on the Covid issue&nbsp;

“As the omicron variant becomes less pathogenic, more people get vaccinated and our experience in Covid prevention accumulates, our fight against the pandemic is at a new stage and it comes with new tasks,” she said during the meeting, according to state media outlet Xinhua.&nbsp;

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The Chinese government has decided to ease COVID-19 restrictions as part of the Zero-Covid initiative as Beijing will allow some infected people to isolate at home.

The Chinese government has decided to ease COVID-19 restrictions as part of the Zero-Covid initiative as Beijing will allow some infected people to isolate at home. The Chaoyang district – one of the most densely populated districts – will be the first place where the concessions will be tested and according to a report on Bloomberg, the infected individuals will not have to travel to government quarantine sites. This will be a massive step for the authorities after the cities of Guangzhou and Chongqing announced an easing of restrictions in the aftermath of widespread protests. Also read | Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak In the past few days, several cities saw protests in opposition to the fresh set of restrictions and some of them even turned violent in Guangzhou as the police clashed with protesters on the streets. It has also promoted responses from the United States and Canada who urged China to not use any kind of force against the protesters. The new rules reportedly will allow people to quarantine at home after signing a letter committing to not going outside during the period and having a sensor fitted on their doors. However, there will be some respite for the elderly or pregnant women who will find it difficult to travel to a facility. While the announcement will come as good news for the citizens, the number of COVID-19 cases in the Chinese capital continue to rise. On Wednesday, Beijing recorded 5006 cases – most in recent times. Also read | Zelensky urges Elon Musk to visit Ukraine before proposing peace Outgoing Vice Premier Sun Chunlan met national health officials and said that the country is “new stage and mission” as the government may look to alter its course slightly on the Covid issue “As the omicron variant becomes less pathogenic, more people get vaccinated and our experience in Covid prevention accumulates, our fight against the pandemic is at a new stage and it comes with new tasks,” she said during the meeting, according to state media outlet Xinhua.

China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance: Report

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said everyone in China should be allowed to protest and express themselves amid Beijing’s crackdown on COVID-19.

Canada's Trudeau expresses support for lockdown protesters in China

A day after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country's 'golden era' with China was over, the latter has been removed from the construction of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station.

A day after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the country's 'golden era' with China was over, the latter has been removed from the construction of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station. China General Nuclear (CGN), a state-owned energy corporation has been booted out of the project and will be replaced by French partner EDF, the British government announced. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) added that Britain's energy sovereignty was at the heart of the issue when deciding to allow CGN to exit the project. After the announcement, the Chinese embassy released a statement saying, "As a principle, we oppose any discriminatory practices against Chinese businesses. It is hoped that the UK side will provide a fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese firms in the UK." WATCH | Britain's 'golden era' with China is over, says PM Rishi Sunak × The plant is currently under development along the Suffolk coast in eastern England. Once completed with two European Pressurised Reactors, it will power approximately six million UK homes. The operation of the plant is also expected to create 10,000 jobs in the country, Notably, the decision comes after Sunak's remarks and the assault of a BBC journalist covering the Covid protests in Shanghai. In reference to former finance minister George Osborne's stance on Sino-British ties in 2015, Sunak said, "Let’s be clear, the so-called 'golden era' is over, along with the naive idea that trade would lead to social and political reform." Read more: Beijing poses 'systemic challenge' to UK and Britain's 'golden era' with China is over: Rishi Sunak We cannot simply ignore China's significance in world affairs - to global economic stability or issues like climate change. The US, Canada, Australia, Japan and many others understand this too." Earlier, London condemned Beijing after a BBC journalist said he was beaten while covering Shanghai Covid protests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China removed from UK nuclear project, a day after Sunak's 'golden era over' statement

The Chinese economy is suffering increasing damage from tightened virus controls as Covid infections are spreading in almost every province. Watch full video to know more.

China's economic activity falls as Covid-19 cases surge to record

Dozens of people gathered in central Hong Kong and at a major university campus on Monday to protests against China's strict Covid-19 restrictions. The supporters also mourned the victims of a deadly fire in the mainland's northwest.

Protests spread in China as anger mounts over ‘zero-COVID’; other countries join in solidarity

China has reached a new record number on the fourth day after it recorded one death and 39,791 new Covid infections. China now has 307,802 confirmed cases as of November 26, despite the zero-Covid policy. The country is facing the rise in Covid cases.

China Covid: Country reports 39,791 new infections; rise despite zero-Covid policy

China's National Health Commission said on Sunday (November 27) that the country has recorded record high of 39,791 new Covid cases on november 26. Out of the detected cases, 3709 were symptomatic while 36,082 were asymptomatic. This is a fourth straight day of record Covid cases.

Just a day earlier, 35,183 new cases had been detected. Out of these 3474 were symptomatic while 31,709 were asymptomatic.

Excluding imported infections, China reported 39,506 new local cases, of which 3,648 were symptomatic and 35,858 were asymptomatic, up from 34,909 a day earlier.

There was one new death, versus none a day earlier, raising the total number of fatalities to 5,233.

As of Nov. 26, mainland China had confirmed 307,802 cases with symptoms.

China has been implementing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which has involved strict lockdowns even if one case was detected in an area. China is among last of the major economies still to be grappling with large number of Covid infections.

There is public anger against the strict lockdown. There have been demonstrations in various cities and people have even clashed with authorities and medical workers.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's National Health Commission said on Sunday (November 27) that the country has recorded record high of 39,791 new Covid cases on november 26. Out of the detected cases, 3709 were symptomatic while 36,082 were asymptomatic.

China's National Health Commission said on Sunday (November 27) that the country has recorded record high of 39,791 new Covid cases on november 26. Out of the detected cases, 3709 were symptomatic while 36,082 were asymptomatic. This is a fourth straight day of record Covid cases. Just a day earlier, 35,183 new cases had been detected. Out of these 3474 were symptomatic while 31,709 were asymptomatic. Excluding imported infections, China reported 39,506 new local cases, of which 3,648 were symptomatic and 35,858 were asymptomatic, up from 34,909 a day earlier. There was one new death, versus none a day earlier, raising the total number of fatalities to 5,233. As of Nov. 26, mainland China had confirmed 307,802 cases with symptoms. China has been implementing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which has involved strict lockdowns even if one case was detected in an area. China is among last of the major economies still to be grappling with large number of Covid infections. There is public anger against the strict lockdown. There have been demonstrations in various cities and people have even clashed with authorities and medical workers. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China sees fourth straight day of record number of Covid cases

Following mass protests at the Foxconn iPhone factory in Zhengzhou, over 20,000 employees, mostly new hires, have left, a Foxconn source told Reuters on Friday. Production at the plant had already been hit due to the Covid outbreak, and now the departures from the world's largest iPhone factory deal a fresh blow to the Taiwanese company.&nbsp;

Apple had earlier announced that production at the plant has come down and people might have to wait longer for their devices. Ahead of the busy holiday period, worker unrest at the Zhengzhou plant, which produces the popular iPhone 14 models, has put a question mark over the company's ability to deliver the items on time.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-clamps-lockdown-in-zhengzhou-following-violent-protests-at-iphone-factory-536945">China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring</a>

The departures will complicate Foxconn's target of resuming full production by the end of November, the source said.&nbsp;

Fresh unrest had taken over the factory this week, with violent protests being reported. The workers complained about sharing dormitories with colleagues who tested positive for COVID. They also claimed they were misled over compensation benefits at the factory. Notably, the company had earlier offered four times the bonus to workers willing to work amid the Covid outbreak at the plant.

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Foxconn had on Thursday apologised to the workers and offered monetary compensation to new employees to resign citing a pay-related "technical error". It promised to pay each newly-hired worker 10,000 yuan (US$1,400) to leave the campus immediately in an attempt to quell the protests. The offer was made on Wednesday and the report published by Chinese online media outlet Cailianshe.

Videos posted on Chinese social media on Friday showed crowds and long lines of luggage-laden workers queuing for buses. "It's time to go home," one person posted.

Meanwhile, China reported 32,943 new COVID-19 infections for Thursday, up from 31,444 total cases a day earlier. No new deaths were reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Following mass protests at the Foxconn iPhone factory in Zhengzhou, over 20,000 employees, mostly new hires, have left, a Foxconn source told Reuters on Friday. Production at the plant had already been hit due to the Covid outbreak, and now the departures from the world's largest iPhone factory deal a fresh blow to the Taiwanese company.

Following mass protests at the Foxconn iPhone factory in Zhengzhou, over 20,000 employees, mostly new hires, have left, a Foxconn source told Reuters on Friday. Production at the plant had already been hit due to the Covid outbreak, and now the departures from the world's largest iPhone factory deal a fresh blow to the Taiwanese company. Apple had earlier announced that production at the plant has come down and people might have to wait longer for their devices. Ahead of the busy holiday period, worker unrest at the Zhengzhou plant, which produces the popular iPhone 14 models, has put a question mark over the company's ability to deliver the items on time. Also Read | China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring The departures will complicate Foxconn's target of resuming full production by the end of November, the source said. Fresh unrest had taken over the factory this week, with violent protests being reported. The workers complained about sharing dormitories with colleagues who tested positive for COVID. They also claimed they were misled over compensation benefits at the factory. Notably, the company had earlier offered four times the bonus to workers willing to work amid the Covid outbreak at the plant. × Foxconn had on Thursday apologised to the workers and offered monetary compensation to new employees to resign citing a pay-related "technical error". It promised to pay each newly-hired worker 10,000 yuan (US$1,400) to leave the campus immediately in an attempt to quell the protests. The offer was made on Wednesday and the report published by Chinese online media outlet Cailianshe. Videos posted on Chinese social media on Friday showed crowds and long lines of luggage-laden workers queuing for buses. "It's time to go home," one person posted. Meanwhile, China reported 32,943 new COVID-19 infections for Thursday, up from 31,444 total cases a day earlier. No new deaths were reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of busy holiday season, over 20,000 workers leave Zhengzhou iPhone plant

Several Chinese cities have been put under a strict lockdown as Beijing is struggling to contain the latest spark in the number of new Covid-19 infections. The region - Zhengzhou city - has been in headlines in the last week after hundreds of workers at a Foxconn factory clashed with the police. Moreover, China on Wednesday reported its highest infection tally since the pandemic.

China Covid: New cases spike despite Zero-Covid policy; highest infection tally since pandemic began

The COVID-19 situation is easing around the world but not in China. Chaoyang, the largest district of China’s capital Beijing, urged people to stay home for the weekend and restricted intra-city travel as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in the city. Watch the full video to know more

China's COVID cases rise, Beijing under semi-lockdown

China confirmed its first COVID-19 death in six months on Sunday (Nov 20) as the country battles the outbreak.&nbsp;The country recently reported over 20,000 cases straight for two days, the highest in six months. As per media reports, the death toll remained around 5,000 for six months. The country reported 24,000 positive cases on Saturday (November 19).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-covid-19-authorities-face-anger-after-an-infant-dies-due-to-delay-in-treatment-amid-restrictions-535230">Also read |&nbsp;China COVID-19: Authorities face anger after an infant dies due to delay in treatment amid restrictions</a>

On Sunday (November 20), local officials reported that an 87-year-old man died in Beijing. On November 11, the city hastily announced its most abrupt loosening of coronavirus rules, including a shortening of the quarantine period for international visitors.&nbsp;

The capital city has ordered some citizens to remain in their homes while sending some to quarantine facilities and telling others to remain in their homes, where 621 cases were reported on Saturday (November 19).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-strict-curbs-in-place-china-covid-cases-touch-a-6-month-high-531804">Also read |&nbsp;Despite strict curbs in place, China Covid cases touch a 6-month high</a>

The Asian country is struggling to deal with the virus despite its zero-Covid policy.

One of the hotspots of the latest outbreak is Guangzhou, where last week, angry demonstrators and police engaged in physical altercations over a fresh curfew. The city on Sunday (November 20) reported nearly 8,000 cases.&nbsp;

According to an email received by AFP, a French school in Beijing has ordered remote learning.&nbsp;

Although the number of cases&nbsp;is minor as compared to other nations, the recent increase in China is notable following months of new instances being reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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China confirmed its first COVID-19 death in six months on Sunday (Nov 20) as the country battles the outbreak. The country recently reported over 20,000 cases straight for two days, the highest in six months.

China confirmed its first COVID-19 death in six months on Sunday (Nov 20) as the country battles the outbreak. The country recently reported over 20,000 cases straight for two days, the highest in six months. As per media reports, the death toll remained around 5,000 for six months. The country reported 24,000 positive cases on Saturday (November 19). Also read | China COVID-19: Authorities face anger after an infant dies due to delay in treatment amid restrictions On Sunday (November 20), local officials reported that an 87-year-old man died in Beijing. On November 11, the city hastily announced its most abrupt loosening of coronavirus rules, including a shortening of the quarantine period for international visitors. The capital city has ordered some citizens to remain in their homes while sending some to quarantine facilities and telling others to remain in their homes, where 621 cases were reported on Saturday (November 19). Also read | Despite strict curbs in place, China Covid cases touch a 6-month high The Asian country is struggling to deal with the virus despite its zero-Covid policy. One of the hotspots of the latest outbreak is Guangzhou, where last week, angry demonstrators and police engaged in physical altercations over a fresh curfew. The city on Sunday (November 20) reported nearly 8,000 cases. According to an email received by AFP, a French school in Beijing has ordered remote learning. Although the number of cases is minor as compared to other nations, the recent increase in China is notable following months of new instances being reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: China reports first fatality in six months, 87-year-old man dies in Beijing

COVID-19 infections are on a rise in China as the country's top health officials begin easing some pandemic measures in a bit to provide some economic relief to the people

Chinese cities record new surge in COVID-19 cases

China is witnessing yet another Covid surge, the country reported 14,878 cases in the last 24 hours. China also witnessed record number of daily cases in Beijing, Guangzhou and Zhengzhou. Beijing recported a record 235 cases, this is up from 116 the day prior.

China's Covid woes continue, country reports 14,878 cases in 24 hours

The US midterm elections remain the top focus of the day with president Biden&nbsp;calling it "a good day for democracy." On the COVID-19 front, China's major industrial hub,&nbsp;Guangzhou is under lockdown after a major spike in daily Covid cases. In other news, Microsoft co-founder&nbsp;Paul Allen's art collection was sold for more than $1 billion at a Christie's auction in New York, making it the most expensive sale ever of a private collection. Furthermore, Hurricane Nicole has devastated the Bahamas and is now heading for Florida.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-wave-didnt-happen-president-biden-hails-midterm-poll-results-calls-it-good-day-for-democracy-532758">'Red wave didn’t happen': President Biden hails midterm poll results, calls it ‘good day for democracy’</a>

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US President Joe Biden welcomed the outcome of the midterm elections, calling it "a good day for democracy" and pointed out how Democrats denied Republicans the sweeping victory they expected. According to CNN projections, Democrats now have 188 out of 218 seats needed to control the House of Representatives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-china-says-it-contribute-to-compensating-poorer-countries-for-climate-change-532732">COP27: China ready to back mechanism to compensate poor countries for climate change</a>

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China's climate envoy Xie Zhenhua on Wednesday said that China would be willing to support a mechanism for compensating poorer countries for losses and damage brought on by climate change. Speaking at the COP27 climate summit in Egypt, he further said that his country is under no obligation to participate, but is willing to make a contribution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-hub-guangzhou-under-lockdown-2500-new-cases-reported-over-24-hours-532750">China's economic hub Guangzhou under lockdown; 2,500 new cases reported over 24 hours</a>

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A spike in COVID-19 cases has led to lockdowns in South China's Guangzhou, a major industrial base, adding to the financial woes that have disarrayed global supply chains and drastically impeded growth in the second-largest economy in the world.&nbsp;Residents in affected districts consisting of almost five million people have been ordered to stay indoors&nbsp;at least through Sunday, with one member from each family allowed to venture out once per day to purchase essentials, as per local authorities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-microsoft-co-founders-art-collection-creates-history-sold-for-record-15-billion-at-auction-532759">Microsoft co-founder's art collection creates history, sold for record $1.5 billion at auction</a>

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The art collection of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen was sold for more than $1 billion at a Christie's New York auction on Wednesday. It broke the record for the most expensive auction sale ever. The collection broke the record previously set by the Macklowe collection, owned by a divorced couple, which was sold for $922 million at Sotheby’s just six months ago. The proceeds from the sale will be donated to charity as per Allen's will. The collection consists of 150 masterpieces from artists such as Van Gogh, Alberto Giacometti, Claude Monet, Paul Gauguin, and Jasper Johns. As per Forbes, the collection fetched $1.5 billion.

WATCH: US: Florida braces for Hurricane Nicole; flights grounded, schools shut

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The US midterm elections remain the top focus of the day with president Biden calling it "a good day for democracy." On the COVID-19 front, China's major industrial hub, Guangzhou is under lockdown after a major spike in daily Covid cases.

The US midterm elections remain the top focus of the day with president Biden calling it "a good day for democracy." On the COVID-19 front, China's major industrial hub, Guangzhou is under lockdown after a major spike in daily Covid cases. In other news, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen's art collection was sold for more than $1 billion at a Christie's auction in New York, making it the most expensive sale ever of a private collection. Furthermore, Hurricane Nicole has devastated the Bahamas and is now heading for Florida. Click on the headlines for more: 'Red wave didn’t happen': President Biden hails midterm poll results, calls it ‘good day for democracy’ US President Joe Biden welcomed the outcome of the midterm elections, calling it "a good day for democracy" and pointed out how Democrats denied Republicans the sweeping victory they expected. According to CNN projections, Democrats now have 188 out of 218 seats needed to control the House of Representatives. COP27: China ready to back mechanism to compensate poor countries for climate change China's climate envoy Xie Zhenhua on Wednesday said that China would be willing to support a mechanism for compensating poorer countries for losses and damage brought on by climate change. Speaking at the COP27 climate summit in Egypt, he further said that his country is under no obligation to participate, but is willing to make a contribution. China's economic hub Guangzhou under lockdown; 2,500 new cases reported over 24 hours A spike in COVID-19 cases has led to lockdowns in South China's Guangzhou, a major industrial base, adding to the financial woes that have disarrayed global supply chains and drastically impeded growth in the second-largest economy in the world. Residents in affected districts consisting of almost five million people have been ordered to stay indoors at least through Sunday, with one member from each family allowed to venture out once per day to purchase essentials, as per local authorities. Microsoft co-founder's art collection creates history, sold for record $1.5 billion at auction The art collection of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen was sold for more than $1 billion at a Christie's New York auction on Wednesday. It broke the record for the most expensive auction sale ever. The collection broke the record previously set by the Macklowe collection, owned by a divorced couple, which was sold for $922 million at Sotheby’s just six months ago. The proceeds from the sale will be donated to charity as per Allen's will. The collection consists of 150 masterpieces from artists such as Van Gogh, Alberto Giacometti, Claude Monet, Paul Gauguin, and Jasper Johns. As per Forbes, the collection fetched $1.5 billion. WATCH: US: Florida braces for Hurricane Nicole; flights grounded, schools shut WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Morning news brief: US midterm elections, Hurricane Nicole and more

China's health authority reported a jump in COVID-19 infections, climbing to 7,475 on November 7 from 5,496 the day before and the highest since May 1.

New COVID-19 cases climb to 7,000 in China

China reported its highest number of new COVID-19 infections in six months Sunday, recording 4,420 new locally transmitted infections. Just a day earlier, health officials had said the country was sticking to strict zero-Covid rules, thwarting hopes of the economy reopening. The National Health Commission reported that the number was the highest since May 6. A day earlier, 3,659 new local cases had been recorded.

The southern city of Guangzhou reported 66 new locally transmitted symptomatic and 1,259 asymptomatic cases, compared with 111 symptomatic and 635 asymptomatic cases a day before, authorities said. Beijing reported 43 symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases, compared with 37 symptomatic and five asymptomatic cases the previous day.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-curbs-in-china-will-likely-hit-iphone-14-shipments-wait-time-to-increase-apple-says-531730">Covid curbs in China will likely hit iPhone 14 shipments, wait time to increase, Apple says</a>

Even as the rest of the world has reopened, lockdowns, quarantines and frequent testing still are the norm in China. Businesses have suffered with Apple saying Sunday that the curbs will affect the iPhone 14 shipments and people will have to wait for longer to get their devices.

At a news conference on Saturday, health officials had once again stressed on their "dynamic-clearing" approach to COVID cases as soon as they emerge.

China's anti-COVID measures are "completely correct, as well as the most economical and effective", said disease control official Hu Xiang. "We should adhere to the principle of putting people and lives first, and the broader strategy of preventing imports from outside and internal rebounds."

Chinese stocks saw an uptick last week after reports of a possible easing of the COVID curbs emerged. The local media had also reported that some tweaks to policy might happen. But none of it happened.

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Several experts believe that they do not expect significant easing to begin until after China's annual parliamentary session in March.

Goldman Sachs analysts said Saturday's announcement showed "the government still needs to keep its zero-COVID policy until all preparations are done. This may take a few months, in our view," they wrote. Their current "baseline" expectation was for a reopening in the April-June quarter.

Meanwhile, the Beijing marathon took place on Sunday morning under strict protocols, after being cancelled the previous two years.

Around 26,000 participants registered for the event that was held in central Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Runners were required to take PCR tests for the three days leading up to the race and not to leave Beijing for seven days.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China reported its highest number of new COVID-19 infections in six months Sunday, recording 4,420 new locally transmitted infections. Just a day earlier, health officials had said the country was sticking to strict zero-Covid rules, thwarting hopes of the economy reopening.

China reported its highest number of new COVID-19 infections in six months Sunday, recording 4,420 new locally transmitted infections. Just a day earlier, health officials had said the country was sticking to strict zero-Covid rules, thwarting hopes of the economy reopening. The National Health Commission reported that the number was the highest since May 6. A day earlier, 3,659 new local cases had been recorded. The southern city of Guangzhou reported 66 new locally transmitted symptomatic and 1,259 asymptomatic cases, compared with 111 symptomatic and 635 asymptomatic cases a day before, authorities said. Beijing reported 43 symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases, compared with 37 symptomatic and five asymptomatic cases the previous day. Also Read | Covid curbs in China will likely hit iPhone 14 shipments, wait time to increase, Apple says Even as the rest of the world has reopened, lockdowns, quarantines and frequent testing still are the norm in China. Businesses have suffered with Apple saying Sunday that the curbs will affect the iPhone 14 shipments and people will have to wait for longer to get their devices. At a news conference on Saturday, health officials had once again stressed on their "dynamic-clearing" approach to COVID cases as soon as they emerge. China's anti-COVID measures are "completely correct, as well as the most economical and effective", said disease control official Hu Xiang. "We should adhere to the principle of putting people and lives first, and the broader strategy of preventing imports from outside and internal rebounds." Chinese stocks saw an uptick last week after reports of a possible easing of the COVID curbs emerged. The local media had also reported that some tweaks to policy might happen. But none of it happened. × Several experts believe that they do not expect significant easing to begin until after China's annual parliamentary session in March. Goldman Sachs analysts said Saturday's announcement showed "the government still needs to keep its zero-COVID policy until all preparations are done. This may take a few months, in our view," they wrote. Their current "baseline" expectation was for a reopening in the April-June quarter. Meanwhile, the Beijing marathon took place on Sunday morning under strict protocols, after being cancelled the previous two years. Around 26,000 participants registered for the event that was held in central Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Runners were required to take PCR tests for the three days leading up to the race and not to leave Beijing for seven days. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite strict curbs in place, China Covid cases touch a 6-month high

China's 'zero Covid' regime has saved many lives but has also slowed the country's economy. It has exacerbated the supply chain disruptions and kept millions under lockdown for months.

China Covid: Country reports 4,610 new infections; officials pledge to avoid excessive disruptions

Undeterred by protests and slowing economy, Beijing continues to stick to zero-Covid policy. The latest to join the dissenters club against strict Covid rules are the Tibetans who are up in arms against the Chinese government. Watch the video to know more about it.

Video: China | Lhasa under lockdown for over three months due to rise in Covid cases

Large-scale Covid restrictions following sporadic outbreaks in China hampered business operations Wednesday. Businesses had to shut down and disruption of operations was reported from the world's largest&nbsp;iPhone&nbsp;factory. The country reported just 1,241 new local cases on Wednesday, according to the National Health Commission.

However, a lot of them were reported from a factory in the central city of Zhengzhou that employs around 300,000 people and is known as the largest producer of iPhones in the world.

Foxconn Technology Group, which runs the facility, acknowledged the flare-up but said "operation and production... is relatively stable”.

"Health and safety measures for employees (are) being maintained," the Taiwanese electronics maker said. It also said that it was "providing the necessary guarantees for livelihoods, including material supplies, psychological comfort and responsive feedback".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cities-in-china-tighten-measures-to-combat-growing-covid-19-outbreaks-528777">Cities in China tighten measures to combat growing COVID-19 outbreaks</a>

There was no information about how many of the staff were affected, although the company did say that it was a”small number”. It also quashed online rumours that tens of thousands of infections were reported at the factory.

“At present, the epidemic prevention work in Zhengzhou is progressing steadily, and the impact... is controllable," the statement said.

"The operating outlook for this quarter remains unchanged," it added.

Beijing has been continuing with its zero-Covid strategy even as fast-spreading variants are becoming dominant, challenging the country’s approach. Snap lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines in a bid to keep infections to a minimum still persist.

The country is facing large-scale restrictions, with Wuhan once again being under lockdown. The Universal Resort theme park in Beijing has also been "closed temporarily... to implement epidemic control requirements".

"We will continue to evaluate the impact on operations and work hard to restore them as soon as possible", the resort said on its official Weibo social media account, without giving a timeline for reopening.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Large-scale Covid restrictions following sporadic outbreaks in China hampered business operations Wednesday. Businesses had to shut down and disruption of operations was reported from the world's largest iPhone factory.

Large-scale Covid restrictions following sporadic outbreaks in China hampered business operations Wednesday. Businesses had to shut down and disruption of operations was reported from the world's largest iPhone factory. The country reported just 1,241 new local cases on Wednesday, according to the National Health Commission. However, a lot of them were reported from a factory in the central city of Zhengzhou that employs around 300,000 people and is known as the largest producer of iPhones in the world. Foxconn Technology Group, which runs the facility, acknowledged the flare-up but said "operation and production... is relatively stable”. "Health and safety measures for employees (are) being maintained," the Taiwanese electronics maker said. It also said that it was "providing the necessary guarantees for livelihoods, including material supplies, psychological comfort and responsive feedback". Also Read | Cities in China tighten measures to combat growing COVID-19 outbreaks There was no information about how many of the staff were affected, although the company did say that it was a”small number”. It also quashed online rumours that tens of thousands of infections were reported at the factory. “At present, the epidemic prevention work in Zhengzhou is progressing steadily, and the impact... is controllable," the statement said. "The operating outlook for this quarter remains unchanged," it added. Beijing has been continuing with its zero-Covid strategy even as fast-spreading variants are becoming dominant, challenging the country’s approach. Snap lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines in a bid to keep infections to a minimum still persist. The country is facing large-scale restrictions, with Wuhan once again being under lockdown. The Universal Resort theme park in Beijing has also been "closed temporarily... to implement epidemic control requirements". "We will continue to evaluate the impact on operations and work hard to restore them as soon as possible", the resort said on its official Weibo social media account, without giving a timeline for reopening. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid flare-up at world's largest iPhone factory in China affects operations

China has locked down parts of its Central Metropolis, this has confined some of the city's 13 million people to their homes for at least a week, this has once again bought China's zero-Covid policy back into focus.

China: Covid restrictions back in Xi'an, Hefei, Zhengzhou; zero-Covid policy takes toll on economy

Why is China struggling with Covid? Curbs back in some Chinese cities

Family members of a&nbsp;14-year-old girl in China, who died after being put in a Covid quarantine centre, say that they asked for help but no one paid heed to their calls. Two days after she was taken to the centre in Ruzhou, Henan province last Friday, Guo Jingjing developed a fever.&nbsp;Videos showing her shaking and convulsing on a bed led to an outcry in China.&nbsp;

Jingjing's father, Guo Lele, in a video uploaded to Douyin, China's local version of TikTok, said that the&nbsp;workers at the centre did not do anything to treat her as her condition worsened. On Sunday, she had begun to "convulse, dehydrated and shaking", his father says in the video.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/27-dead-in-china-after-bus-taking-people-to-covid-19-quarantine-facility-crashes-517528">27 dead in China after bus taking people to COVID-19 quarantine facility crashes</a>

"Health workers at the centre took no care of her, no one even inquired." The video was widely shared before being taken down by the censors in some places. The family is now appealing for justice and accountability.&nbsp;

"I'm requesting the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and Discipline Inspection Commission come down to investigate the Ruzhou government's neglect... and give my daughter's life back!," he can be seen saying in the video which shows him next to his daughter's body.

The cause of her death hasn't been made clear yet by officials, who haven't commented on the matter yet. Jingjing's aunt also called for justice in another video, both of which have been increasingly censored in the past 48 hours.

BBC confirmed the circumstances surrounding the ninth-grader's condition with her family, saying that her condition deteriorated on Monday afternoon and she was taken to Ruzhou No. 4 Hospital that evening. However, by then it was too late and could not be saved.

China's strict COVID-19 policies have become a thorn in the flesh for the citizens who have been registering their anger against them online and on other platforms.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Family members of a 14-year-old girl in China, who died after being put in a Covid quarantine centre, say that they asked for help but no one paid heed to their calls.

Family members of a 14-year-old girl in China, who died after being put in a Covid quarantine centre, say that they asked for help but no one paid heed to their calls. Two days after she was taken to the centre in Ruzhou, Henan province last Friday, Guo Jingjing developed a fever. Videos showing her shaking and convulsing on a bed led to an outcry in China. Jingjing's father, Guo Lele, in a video uploaded to Douyin, China's local version of TikTok, said that the workers at the centre did not do anything to treat her as her condition worsened. On Sunday, she had begun to "convulse, dehydrated and shaking", his father says in the video. Also Read | 27 dead in China after bus taking people to COVID-19 quarantine facility crashes "Health workers at the centre took no care of her, no one even inquired." The video was widely shared before being taken down by the censors in some places. The family is now appealing for justice and accountability. "I'm requesting the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and Discipline Inspection Commission come down to investigate the Ruzhou government's neglect... and give my daughter's life back!," he can be seen saying in the video which shows him next to his daughter's body. The cause of her death hasn't been made clear yet by officials, who haven't commented on the matter yet. Jingjing's aunt also called for justice in another video, both of which have been increasingly censored in the past 48 hours. BBC confirmed the circumstances surrounding the ninth-grader's condition with her family, saying that her condition deteriorated on Monday afternoon and she was taken to Ruzhou No. 4 Hospital that evening. However, by then it was too late and could not be saved. China's strict COVID-19 policies have become a thorn in the flesh for the citizens who have been registering their anger against them online and on other platforms. (With inputs from agencies)

China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to Covid quarantine facility

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