Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-preacher-zakir-naik-not-to-return-to-india-soon-2289">controversial preacher Zakir Naik </a>over his intent to provoke a peace breach while making alleged and sensitive remarks on the Hindus and Chinese residing in the Muslim-majority nation.

"We have opened an investigation paper based on a report made in Gombak. Around 115 reports have been lodged on the matter so far," said Federal CID director Huzir Mohamed was quoted as saying by The Strait Times during a press conference last Thursday at the Selangor police headquarters here.

Zakir had asked the Malaysian Chinese to "go back" first, as they were the "old guests" of the country, during a religious talk titled "Executive Talk Bersama Dr Zakir Naik" in Kota Baru, Kelantan, in response to calls for his deportation.

His speech at the same venue was also condemned by many parties after he compared the Hindus in Malaysia to the Muslims in India, saying that the Hindus here enjoyed more than 100 per cent rights in Malaysia compared to Muslims in India.

In the wake of Naik`s remarks, the Malaysian Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has further decided to issue statements that Naik will no longer be allowed to stay in Malaysia.

"We have expressed our position which is that action must be taken and that Zakir Naik should no longer be allowed to remain in Malaysia," said Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Human Resources Minister M Kulasegaran in a joint statement cited by Al Jazeera.

"The Prime Minister has taken note of our concerns. We leave it to him to consider the position and to decide soonest possible what will be done to deal with the problem," the statement read.

Naik had earlier also alleged that the Hindus in Malaysia are more loyal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi than Mahathir Mohamad.

Naik, who was granted permanent residency in Malaysia by the previous government, has been living in the country for the last three years.

He is facing charges of inciting communal disharmony and committing unlawful activities in India.

He is also facing probe both in India and Bangladesh in connection with the terror attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka in July 2016.

The two suspects in the terror attack had claimed that they were inspired by Naik's radical preaching.

India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition.

However, Mohamad had recently said that his country has the right not to extradite Naik, for similar reasons that Australia had turned down his country's request to extradite Sirul Azhar Umar in 2015.&nbsp;

He also said that Naik believes that he would not be accorded justice in India.

Muslims make up about 60 per cent of its 32 million people. The rest are mostly ethnic Chinese and Indians, most of whom are Hindus.

Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against controversial preacher Zakir Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach while making alleged and sensitive remarks on the Hindus and Chinese residing in the Muslim-majority nation.

Malaysian authorities have initiated an investigation against controversial preacher Zakir Naik over his intent to provoke a peace breach while making alleged and sensitive remarks on the Hindus and Chinese residing in the Muslim-majority nation. "We have opened an investigation paper based on a report made in Gombak. Around 115 reports have been lodged on the matter so far," said Federal CID director Huzir Mohamed was quoted as saying by The Strait Times during a press conference last Thursday at the Selangor police headquarters here. Zakir had asked the Malaysian Chinese to "go back" first, as they were the "old guests" of the country, during a religious talk titled "Executive Talk Bersama Dr Zakir Naik" in Kota Baru, Kelantan, in response to calls for his deportation. His speech at the same venue was also condemned by many parties after he compared the Hindus in Malaysia to the Muslims in India, saying that the Hindus here enjoyed more than 100 per cent rights in Malaysia compared to Muslims in India. In the wake of Naik`s remarks, the Malaysian Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has further decided to issue statements that Naik will no longer be allowed to stay in Malaysia. "We have expressed our position which is that action must be taken and that Zakir Naik should no longer be allowed to remain in Malaysia," said Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Human Resources Minister M Kulasegaran in a joint statement cited by Al Jazeera. "The Prime Minister has taken note of our concerns. We leave it to him to consider the position and to decide soonest possible what will be done to deal with the problem," the statement read. Naik had earlier also alleged that the Hindus in Malaysia are more loyal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi than Mahathir Mohamad. Naik, who was granted permanent residency in Malaysia by the previous government, has been living in the country for the last three years. He is facing charges of inciting communal disharmony and committing unlawful activities in India. He is also facing probe both in India and Bangladesh in connection with the terror attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka in July 2016. The two suspects in the terror attack had claimed that they were inspired by Naik's radical preaching. India said it has made a formal request to Malaysia and will continue to pursue his extradition. However, Mohamad had recently said that his country has the right not to extradite Naik, for similar reasons that Australia had turned down his country's request to extradite Sirul Azhar Umar in 2015. He also said that Naik believes that he would not be accorded justice in India. Muslims make up about 60 per cent of its 32 million people. The rest are mostly ethnic Chinese and Indians, most of whom are Hindus.

Malaysia probes Zakir Naik over inflammatory speeches

By Caitlin Byrne

The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s efforts to bring calm to Hong Kong included an uncharacteristic about-face on her position over the weekend, a rare apology and the indefinite suspension of the proposed changes to the city’s extradition laws, which sparked the initial protest against the government last weekend.

But laden with qualifications and a subtle rebuke of the protesters, Lam’s repositioning of the issue has had limited impact, suggesting that she may have seriously underestimated the anger and determination of her constituency. The protesters are now calling for nothing less than her resignation, making her the “lightening rod” for public anger in the face of growing resentment towards Chinese influence in Hong Kong.

As the people of Hong Kong continue to take to the streets, one wonders whether the real struggle has only just begun.

How the fight over the extradition bill mushroomed

For many, Lam’s controversial extradition bill represented the “thin edge of the wedge” of Chinese control. If passed, the proposed law could have seen local and foreign criminal suspects sent to mainland China to stand trial in a judicial system that is opaque and vastly uncompromising.

But there’s much more at stake for the people, identity and prospects of Hong Kong. For those concerned about China’s rising influence in the city, the legislation represented a dangerous break in the firewall that has preserved civil liberties for the people of Hong Kong within the “one country, two systems” framework.

While its proponents claim the bill has a narrow application, many fear it would enable China’s leadership to target political opponents, entrepreneurs and activists as part of its wider strategy for exercising control over the region. The implications for Hong Kong’s reputation as a vibrant global financial, business and transit hub would be significant.

Of course, the latest demonstrations cannot be viewed in isolation – they are the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s longstanding tradition of public dissent. And there have been some notable successes in the past, including the indefinite suspension of plans to implement a national security law in 2003 and the reversal of a proposed comprehensive national curriculum in 2012.

Yet, as the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests revealed, the mood in Hong Kong appears to be taking on a more sombre tone. Much of this reflects the changing mood within China.

Under President Xi Jinping, civil protests — even those organised in the special autonomous region of Hong Kong — are increasingly fraught. Xi himself set the tone with a particularly hard-line speech during his 2017 visit to the city for Lam’s swearing-in.

Flagging new levels of intolerance for activities that might be interpreted as encouraging Hong Kong independence from China, Xi noted:

Any attempt to endanger China’s sovereignty and security, challenge the power of the central government … or use Hong Kong to carry out infiltration and sabotage activities against the mainland is an act that crosses the red line and is absolutely impermissible.

Despite the efforts of China’s state-run Global Times newspaper to lay blame for the “uncontrolled street politics” on “Western forces” and “malice from afar”, however, Chinese political authorities have remained relatively quiet on the Hong Kong protests this week.

This is unsurprising. Coming just a week after the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests, China was never likely to take an openly provocative stance against the protesters.

But it is clear Beijing is keeping a close eye on the situation, pushing back on criticisms from abroad and now possibly wavering in its support for Lam. Ever sensitive to external critiques that relate to questions of sovereignty, the Chinese government may decide to take a harder line should the protests continue to gather momentum.

Lack of foreign pressure

Thus far, the response to the protests has been relatively muted. The European Union has called for the rights of the Hong Kong people to be respected, noting its concern for the “potentially far-reaching consequences” of the extradition bill. UK Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, has called on authorities to ensure the extradition arrangements “are in line with the rights and freedoms” set forth in the joint declaration when the British handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997.

US President Donald Trump has remained ambivalent so far, saying only last week, “I’m sure they’ll be able to work it all out.” But according to his secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Trump is now expected to raise the issue when he meets Xi at the G20 Summit at the end of the month. This is only significant insofar as it reminds us of Trump’s transactional interest in the region.

As for Australia, Foreign Minister Marise Payne issued a fairly neutral statement in support of the Hong Kong people’s right to protest. It left many, including those in Sydney, Melbourne and elsewhere who protested in support of Hong Kong last week, somewhat underwhelmed.

Beyond the protests, how the current tensions unfold will have serious implications for Australia’s engagement in the region and our ongoing relationship with China. The 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper reinforces the core values underpinning our international engagement, including support for political, economic and religious freedoms, liberal democracy and the rule of law.

How and when we articulate our commitment to these values, and reinforce their place in our region, will be the key test of our diplomacy going forward.

Where do the protests go from here?

Lam’s decision to suspend consideration of the extradition bill offers a necessary moment for pause. But it hasn’t taken the heat out of the protests.

At this stage, Lam hasn’t backed away from her intent to revive the bill at a later stage. It’s also likely the Chinese government will continue to press towards that outcome, though perhaps in a different form and even under different leadership. Much hangs in the balance.

Hong Kong’s protesters appear galvanised by their cause. But whether they can sustain the necessary momentum for the long game — where crossing red lines may come at a cost — is another matter altogether.

 
(Caitlin Byrne is Director, Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/pressure-builds-with-more-protests-in-hong-kong-but-whats-the-end-game-118907">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Caitlin Byrne The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city.

By Caitlin Byrne The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city. Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s efforts to bring calm to Hong Kong included an uncharacteristic about-face on her position over the weekend, a rare apology and the indefinite suspension of the proposed changes to the city’s extradition laws, which sparked the initial protest against the government last weekend. But laden with qualifications and a subtle rebuke of the protesters, Lam’s repositioning of the issue has had limited impact, suggesting that she may have seriously underestimated the anger and determination of her constituency. The protesters are now calling for nothing less than her resignation, making her the “lightening rod” for public anger in the face of growing resentment towards Chinese influence in Hong Kong. As the people of Hong Kong continue to take to the streets, one wonders whether the real struggle has only just begun. How the fight over the extradition bill mushroomed For many, Lam’s controversial extradition bill represented the “thin edge of the wedge” of Chinese control. If passed, the proposed law could have seen local and foreign criminal suspects sent to mainland China to stand trial in a judicial system that is opaque and vastly uncompromising. But there’s much more at stake for the people, identity and prospects of Hong Kong. For those concerned about China’s rising influence in the city, the legislation represented a dangerous break in the firewall that has preserved civil liberties for the people of Hong Kong within the “one country, two systems” framework. While its proponents claim the bill has a narrow application, many fear it would enable China’s leadership to target political opponents, entrepreneurs and activists as part of its wider strategy for exercising control over the region. The implications for Hong Kong’s reputation as a vibrant global financial, business and transit hub would be significant. Of course, the latest demonstrations cannot be viewed in isolation – they are the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s longstanding tradition of public dissent. And there have been some notable successes in the past, including the indefinite suspension of plans to implement a national security law in 2003 and the reversal of a proposed comprehensive national curriculum in 2012. Yet, as the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests revealed, the mood in Hong Kong appears to be taking on a more sombre tone. Much of this reflects the changing mood within China. Under President Xi Jinping, civil protests — even those organised in the special autonomous region of Hong Kong — are increasingly fraught. Xi himself set the tone with a particularly hard-line speech during his 2017 visit to the city for Lam’s swearing-in. Flagging new levels of intolerance for activities that might be interpreted as encouraging Hong Kong independence from China, Xi noted: Any attempt to endanger China’s sovereignty and security, challenge the power of the central government … or use Hong Kong to carry out infiltration and sabotage activities against the mainland is an act that crosses the red line and is absolutely impermissible. Despite the efforts of China’s state-run Global Times newspaper to lay blame for the “uncontrolled street politics” on “Western forces” and “malice from afar”, however, Chinese political authorities have remained relatively quiet on the Hong Kong protests this week. This is unsurprising. Coming just a week after the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests, China was never likely to take an openly provocative stance against the protesters. But it is clear Beijing is keeping a close eye on the situation, pushing back on criticisms from abroad and now possibly wavering in its support for Lam. Ever sensitive to external critiques that relate to questions of sovereignty, the Chinese government may decide to take a harder line should the protests continue to gather momentum. Lack of foreign pressure Thus far, the response to the protests has been relatively muted. The European Union has called for the rights of the Hong Kong people to be respected, noting its concern for the “potentially far-reaching consequences” of the extradition bill. UK Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, has called on authorities to ensure the extradition arrangements “are in line with the rights and freedoms” set forth in the joint declaration when the British handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997. US President Donald Trump has remained ambivalent so far, saying only last week, “I’m sure they’ll be able to work it all out.” But according to his secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Trump is now expected to raise the issue when he meets Xi at the G20 Summit at the end of the month. This is only significant insofar as it reminds us of Trump’s transactional interest in the region. As for Australia, Foreign Minister Marise Payne issued a fairly neutral statement in support of the Hong Kong people’s right to protest. It left many, including those in Sydney, Melbourne and elsewhere who protested in support of Hong Kong last week, somewhat underwhelmed. Beyond the protests, how the current tensions unfold will have serious implications for Australia’s engagement in the region and our ongoing relationship with China. The 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper reinforces the core values underpinning our international engagement, including support for political, economic and religious freedoms, liberal democracy and the rule of law. How and when we articulate our commitment to these values, and reinforce their place in our region, will be the key test of our diplomacy going forward. Where do the protests go from here? Lam’s decision to suspend consideration of the extradition bill offers a necessary moment for pause. But it hasn’t taken the heat out of the protests. At this stage, Lam hasn’t backed away from her intent to revive the bill at a later stage. It’s also likely the Chinese government will continue to press towards that outcome, though perhaps in a different form and even under different leadership. Much hangs in the balance. Hong Kong’s protesters appear galvanised by their cause. But whether they can sustain the necessary momentum for the long game — where crossing red lines may come at a cost — is another matter altogether. (Caitlin Byrne is Director, Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pressure mounts on Hong Kong leader with more protests against Chinese extradition bill

Many schools across the country have made it mandatory for students to learn Mandarin lured by the Chinese government`s offer to cover salaries of teachers who teach the language.

Principals and staff of at least 10 renowned private schools said Mandarin was a compulsory subject in their institutions, The Himalayan Times reported.

Many more private schools in Pokhara, Dhulikhel and other parts of the country have also made Mandarin language compulsory for students, according to Shiv Raj Pant, board of trustee, founder and chairman of LRI (Learning Realm International) School.

"Schools are allowed to teach foreign languages, but they cannot make those subjects mandatory for students," said Ganesh Prasad Bhattarai, information officer at the Curriculum Development Centre, a government body which designs school-level academic curriculum."

If a subject has to be made compulsory, it is us who take the decisions, not the schools," he added.

Schools that spoke to The Himalayan Times said they were aware of this provision, but they have simply overlooked it, as they are getting Mandarin teachers for free.

"We introduced Mandarin as a compulsory subject two years ago after the Chinese Embassy agreed to provide teachers free of cost," Kuldip Neupane, principal at United School, was quoted as saying.

Other schools also confirmed that salaries of Mandarin teachers were being paid by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

"We only need to provide a stipend to Chinese teachers to cover their accommodation and food costs," said Hari Dahal, principal of Apex Life School.

However, Chinese Embassy Spokesperson, Ji Guangli, is yet to comment on the issue.

"We know children should be allowed to make choices. So, if there are volunteers who wish to teach Japanese and German, we will always welcome them," Khyam Nath Timsina, principal of Shuvatara School said.

Many schools across the country have made it mandatory for students to learn Mandarin lured by the Chinese government`s offer to cover salaries of teachers who teach the language.

Many schools across the country have made it mandatory for students to learn Mandarin lured by the Chinese government`s offer to cover salaries of teachers who teach the language. Principals and staff of at least 10 renowned private schools said Mandarin was a compulsory subject in their institutions, The Himalayan Times reported. Many more private schools in Pokhara, Dhulikhel and other parts of the country have also made Mandarin language compulsory for students, according to Shiv Raj Pant, board of trustee, founder and chairman of LRI (Learning Realm International) School. "Schools are allowed to teach foreign languages, but they cannot make those subjects mandatory for students," said Ganesh Prasad Bhattarai, information officer at the Curriculum Development Centre, a government body which designs school-level academic curriculum." If a subject has to be made compulsory, it is us who take the decisions, not the schools," he added. Schools that spoke to The Himalayan Times said they were aware of this provision, but they have simply overlooked it, as they are getting Mandarin teachers for free. "We introduced Mandarin as a compulsory subject two years ago after the Chinese Embassy agreed to provide teachers free of cost," Kuldip Neupane, principal at United School, was quoted as saying. Other schools also confirmed that salaries of Mandarin teachers were being paid by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. "We only need to provide a stipend to Chinese teachers to cover their accommodation and food costs," said Hari Dahal, principal of Apex Life School. However, Chinese Embassy Spokesperson, Ji Guangli, is yet to comment on the issue. "We know children should be allowed to make choices. So, if there are volunteers who wish to teach Japanese and German, we will always welcome them," Khyam Nath Timsina, principal of Shuvatara School said.

Chinese language made mandatory in many schools in Nepal

Chinese Defence Minister indicated through his speech that China is now ready to improve relationship with India. Whereas Xi Jinping & Indian PM Modi both are working well to improve these relations.

China: Ready to improve relationship with India

In this segment, Watch WION speaks to Mr. Jayadev Ranade, A China analyst over the India-China trade.

Exclusive: WION speaks to Mr. Jayadev Ranade, A China analyst over the India-China trade

Amid escalating trade war between Beijing and Washington, China's ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui has called for relaxation in trade hours and increase in number of business days along the Nathu La corridor, giving an impetus to Sino-Indian economic ties.

Chinese envoy suggests relaxation in biz hours to boost trade along Nathu La

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday.

The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine.

Since then he had been missing. The cause of his death is yet to be known.

The body has been sent for postmortem.

The attack on Chinese who are living in Pakistan has lately become frequent.

Last year, the Embassy of China in Islamabad had warned Chinese citizens and Chinese organisations in Pakistan to be on alert for possible terror attacks on them.

According to an estimate, there are nearly 400,000 Chinese people living in Pakistan, with a large number of professionals involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp;

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday. The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine.

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday. The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine. Since then he had been missing. The cause of his death is yet to be known. The body has been sent for postmortem. The attack on Chinese who are living in Pakistan has lately become frequent. Last year, the Embassy of China in Islamabad had warned Chinese citizens and Chinese organisations in Pakistan to be on alert for possible terror attacks on them. According to an estimate, there are nearly 400,000 Chinese people living in Pakistan, with a large number of professionals involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Chinese national found dead in Pakistan

WION Gravitas: Chinese meddling in Indian elections?

Shanghai to become 1st Chinese city to have 5G network

Hundreds of Chinese citizens waving Spanish and Chinese flags took to the streets of Madrid on Friday to protest against BBVA, saying the bank had blocked their accounts.

The protesters said they had been told their bank accounts had been blocked because of money laundering regulations but insisted they had done nothing wrong.

"We gathered here to demand equality because we are ordinary citizens. I work in a consultancy office and I don't have suspicious transactions", said Yunajie Chen, a Chinese accountant who arrived in Spain as a child and has been a BBVA client for over six years.

BBVA, Spain's second-largest bank, declined to comment on any of these cases and said it does not discriminate against any clients based on nationality and treats all customers with the same criteria.

Spain beefed up its money laundering regulations last year. The law requires clients to give the bank a series of personal details and background information, regardless of their nationality, said a spokesman for the Spanish banking association AEB, Jose Luis Martinez Campuzano.

However, Dawein Ding, vice-president of a Chinese radio station in Madrid who also works for the Chinese Association in Spain (ACHE), said banks such as BBVA were demanding far more details and making the process more complicated for Chinese citizens than for Spanish nationals.

"For a Spaniard to open a bank account they just have to show their identification card, whereas Chinese citizens have to deliver much more paperwork such as evidence of their work life like payslips and contracts," Ding said.

BBVA declined to comment on this.

The protesters, gathered by a major BBVA branch, said increased scrutiny effectively cut them off from paying their utility bills or tuition costs for their children.

"What BBVA and some other banks have done has damaged the legal interests of thousands of ordinary Chinese, the lives of many people...have been affected," said Feng Mao, the head of the ACHE association.

ACHE says between 4,000 and 5,000 people have seen their accounts blocked by BBVA.

Both the Economy Ministry and the Bank of Spain declined to comment on Friday when asked about the complaints of Chinese citizens.

A Reuters investigation last year detailed the alleged money laundering scheme involving ICBC following the arrest of seven ICBC executives in Madrid in February 2016.

Hundreds of Chinese citizens waving Spanish and Chinese flags took to the streets of Madrid on Friday to protest against BBVA, saying the bank had blocked their accounts.

Hundreds of Chinese citizens waving Spanish and Chinese flags took to the streets of Madrid on Friday to protest against BBVA, saying the bank had blocked their accounts. The protesters said they had been told their bank accounts had been blocked because of money laundering regulations but insisted they had done nothing wrong. "We gathered here to demand equality because we are ordinary citizens. I work in a consultancy office and I don't have suspicious transactions", said Yunajie Chen, a Chinese accountant who arrived in Spain as a child and has been a BBVA client for over six years. BBVA, Spain's second-largest bank, declined to comment on any of these cases and said it does not discriminate against any clients based on nationality and treats all customers with the same criteria. Spain beefed up its money laundering regulations last year. The law requires clients to give the bank a series of personal details and background information, regardless of their nationality, said a spokesman for the Spanish banking association AEB, Jose Luis Martinez Campuzano. However, Dawein Ding, vice-president of a Chinese radio station in Madrid who also works for the Chinese Association in Spain (ACHE), said banks such as BBVA were demanding far more details and making the process more complicated for Chinese citizens than for Spanish nationals. "For a Spaniard to open a bank account they just have to show their identification card, whereas Chinese citizens have to deliver much more paperwork such as evidence of their work life like payslips and contracts," Ding said. BBVA declined to comment on this. The protesters, gathered by a major BBVA branch, said increased scrutiny effectively cut them off from paying their utility bills or tuition costs for their children. "What BBVA and some other banks have done has damaged the legal interests of thousands of ordinary Chinese, the lives of many people...have been affected," said Feng Mao, the head of the ACHE association. ACHE says between 4,000 and 5,000 people have seen their accounts blocked by BBVA. Both the Economy Ministry and the Bank of Spain declined to comment on Friday when asked about the complaints of Chinese citizens. A Reuters investigation last year detailed the alleged money laundering scheme involving ICBC following the arrest of seven ICBC executives in Madrid in February 2016.

Hundreds of Chinese protest against BBVA in Madrid, saying bank blocked their accounts

Australia has revoked the residence visa of a prominent Chinese businessman and political donor who has in the past been linked to a row about the promotion of Chinese interests, the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Huang Xiangmo is unable to return to his Sydney home after the government rejected his application for citizenship and revoked his visa while he was overseas, the newspaper reported, citing unidentified sources.

The newspaper did not report a reason for the decision but it cited the Ministry for Home Affairs, which oversees visa applications, as saying Huang was "unfit" for residency.

A ministry representative declined to comment. A spokeswoman for Minister for Immigration David Coleman also declined to comment.

The report comes as Australia and China seek to repair ties that have been strained since 2017 when Australia accused China of meddling in its domestic affairs. China denied doing so.

Huang, who founded the Chinese property developer Yuhu, was not available for comment. The newspaper said he went to Thailand last month and it was not clear where he was on Wednesday.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), citing unidentified sources, said Huang would not be allowed to re-enter Australia.

Huang has in recent years emerged as one of Australia's biggest political donors.

He rose to prominence after an influential opposition lawmaker was in 2017 forced to resign after allegations emerged that he was linked to Chinese-aligned interests.

The opposition member, Sam Dastyari, sought to encourage a senior politician not to meet a Chinese pro-democracy activist opposed to Beijing's rule in Hong Kong in 2015.

Dastyari was also recorded as warning Huang that his phone may be tapped.

Dastyari also appeared on a videotape, standing next to Huang, appearing to endorse China's contentious expansion in disputed areas of the South China Sea, against his party’s platform.

Australia, despite moving to repair its relationship with, China, has passed a series of tough new bills that are designed to limit offshore influence, legislation widely seen as aimed at China.

In 2018, Huang paid nearly A$1 billion ($715 million) for two Australian projects owned by Chinese conglomerate Dalian Wanda Group.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne, asked about the newspaper report, said she "understood that a high-profile individual" had had their visa cancelled.

"I don’t expect it to be the subject of a bilateral discussion," Payne told the ABC when asked if she feared the issue would have an impact on relations with China.

"We have a good relationship with mutual respect."

Australia has revoked the residence visa of a prominent Chinese businessman and political donor who has in the past been linked to a row about the promotion of Chinese interests, the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Australia has revoked the residence visa of a prominent Chinese businessman and political donor who has in the past been linked to a row about the promotion of Chinese interests, the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Wednesday. Huang Xiangmo is unable to return to his Sydney home after the government rejected his application for citizenship and revoked his visa while he was overseas, the newspaper reported, citing unidentified sources. The newspaper did not report a reason for the decision but it cited the Ministry for Home Affairs, which oversees visa applications, as saying Huang was "unfit" for residency. A ministry representative declined to comment. A spokeswoman for Minister for Immigration David Coleman also declined to comment. The report comes as Australia and China seek to repair ties that have been strained since 2017 when Australia accused China of meddling in its domestic affairs. China denied doing so. Huang, who founded the Chinese property developer Yuhu, was not available for comment. The newspaper said he went to Thailand last month and it was not clear where he was on Wednesday. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), citing unidentified sources, said Huang would not be allowed to re-enter Australia. Huang has in recent years emerged as one of Australia's biggest political donors. He rose to prominence after an influential opposition lawmaker was in 2017 forced to resign after allegations emerged that he was linked to Chinese-aligned interests. The opposition member, Sam Dastyari, sought to encourage a senior politician not to meet a Chinese pro-democracy activist opposed to Beijing's rule in Hong Kong in 2015. Dastyari was also recorded as warning Huang that his phone may be tapped. Dastyari also appeared on a videotape, standing next to Huang, appearing to endorse China's contentious expansion in disputed areas of the South China Sea, against his party’s platform. Australia, despite moving to repair its relationship with, China, has passed a series of tough new bills that are designed to limit offshore influence, legislation widely seen as aimed at China. In 2018, Huang paid nearly A$1 billion ($715 million) for two Australian projects owned by Chinese conglomerate Dalian Wanda Group. Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne, asked about the newspaper report, said she "understood that a high-profile individual" had had their visa cancelled. "I don’t expect it to be the subject of a bilateral discussion," Payne told the ABC when asked if she feared the issue would have an impact on relations with China. "We have a good relationship with mutual respect."

Australia cancels residency of politically connected Chinese billionaire

A Canadian man, who allegedly tried to swindle an entertainment company out of $284 million, has been arrested in the gambling hub of Macau, police said Monday.

The suspect, a 61-year-old retiree of Chinese descent, was arrested on Friday after allegedly trying to transfer the money from the firm's bank account using bogus documents earlier in the week.

In an emailed statement Macau's Judiciary Police told AFP the man, surnamed Liao, tried to use a "fake authorisation document and transfer slip to try to defraud the entertainment company and the bank".&nbsp;

Police did not identify the company or the bank involved.

The arrest comes as Beijing and Ottawa are locked in a diplomatic row following the December arrest in Canada of Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou on a US extradition request linked to Iran sanctions violations.

In a move observers see as retaliation over the Meng case, Chinese authorities detained two Canadians soon after, accusing them of activities that "endanger China's national security".

The phrase is often used by Beijing when alleging espionage, and few details have been given about their whereabouts or the cases against them.

In contrast, the arrest in Macau was announced by local police in a press conference over the weekend, and they outlined the allegations in some detail.

In its statement, the Judiciary Police said the man "tried to transfer 249,000,000 euros".

Staff at the bank grew suspicious when the man's signature did not match what they had on record for the account and they alerted police.&nbsp;

The man was then arrested at the border trying to leave Macau on Friday evening.

A spokesperson at Canada's consulate in Hong Kong, which oversees Macau, said officials were aware of the arrest in the former Portuguese colony.

"Consular officials are in contact with local authorities on the matter," the spokesperson said, declining to comment further because of Canada's privacy laws.

Macau is the world's largest gambling hub, raking in five times as much as Las Vegas in gaming revenue. The vast majority of gamblers who visit the semi-autonomous city are Chinese nationals.

A Canadian man, who allegedly tried to swindle an entertainment company out of $284 million, has been arrested in the gambling hub of Macau, police said Monday. The suspect, a 61-year-old retiree of Chinese descent, was arrested on Friday after allegedly trying to transfer the money from the firm's bank account using bogus documents earlier in the week.

A Canadian man, who allegedly tried to swindle an entertainment company out of $284 million, has been arrested in the gambling hub of Macau, police said Monday. The suspect, a 61-year-old retiree of Chinese descent, was arrested on Friday after allegedly trying to transfer the money from the firm's bank account using bogus documents earlier in the week. In an emailed statement Macau's Judiciary Police told AFP the man, surnamed Liao, tried to use a "fake authorisation document and transfer slip to try to defraud the entertainment company and the bank". Police did not identify the company or the bank involved. The arrest comes as Beijing and Ottawa are locked in a diplomatic row following the December arrest in Canada of Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou on a US extradition request linked to Iran sanctions violations. In a move observers see as retaliation over the Meng case, Chinese authorities detained two Canadians soon after, accusing them of activities that "endanger China's national security". The phrase is often used by Beijing when alleging espionage, and few details have been given about their whereabouts or the cases against them. In contrast, the arrest in Macau was announced by local police in a press conference over the weekend, and they outlined the allegations in some detail. In its statement, the Judiciary Police said the man "tried to transfer 249,000,000 euros". Staff at the bank grew suspicious when the man's signature did not match what they had on record for the account and they alerted police. The man was then arrested at the border trying to leave Macau on Friday evening. A spokesperson at Canada's consulate in Hong Kong, which oversees Macau, said officials were aware of the arrest in the former Portuguese colony. "Consular officials are in contact with local authorities on the matter," the spokesperson said, declining to comment further because of Canada's privacy laws. Macau is the world's largest gambling hub, raking in five times as much as Las Vegas in gaming revenue. The vast majority of gamblers who visit the semi-autonomous city are Chinese nationals.

Canadian arrested in Macau for $284 million fraud attempt

Huawei denies allegations of security threat

China on Wednesday said that trade negotiations are underway between Chinese and US work teams and China hopes that the two sides can work together to create the necessary conditions for achieving a good result.

Lu Kang, spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry, made the remarks when commenting on the ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries after Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump met in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

"According to the consensus reached by the two heads of state, work teams from both sides will step up consultations to resolve the differences between China and the US in the economic and trade field as soon as possible and achieve a result satisfactory to both sides. As far as I know, work teams of both sides are stepping up consultations now. We hope that the two sides can meet with each other halfway so as to create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for achieving a good result," said Lu.

Lu also mentioned that China's Vice Premier Liu He, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer had talked on the phone recently, and the two sides have drawn a roadmap and a timetable for further stepping up the consultations.

China on Wednesday said that trade negotiations are underway between Chinese and US work teams and China hopes that the two sides can work together to create the necessary conditions for achieving a good result.

China on Wednesday said that trade negotiations are underway between Chinese and US work teams and China hopes that the two sides can work together to create the necessary conditions for achieving a good result. Lu Kang, spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry, made the remarks when commenting on the ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries after Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump met in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on the sidelines of the G20 summit. "According to the consensus reached by the two heads of state, work teams from both sides will step up consultations to resolve the differences between China and the US in the economic and trade field as soon as possible and achieve a result satisfactory to both sides. As far as I know, work teams of both sides are stepping up consultations now. We hope that the two sides can meet with each other halfway so as to create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for achieving a good result," said Lu. Lu also mentioned that China's Vice Premier Liu He, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer had talked on the phone recently, and the two sides have drawn a roadmap and a timetable for further stepping up the consultations.

Trade negotiations underway between Chinese, US work teams: Chinese FM

A ceremony was held on Sunday to officially open Norway's second largest bridge which has been built by a Chinese company and its partners and is located some 220 kilometres inside the Arctic Circle.

With a total length of 1,533 meters and a free span of 1,145 meters, the Halogaland Bridge near Norway's northern port city of Narvik is the longest suspension bridge within the Arctic Circle.

China's Sichuan Road and Bridge Group (SRBG) delivered the steel constructions and was responsible for the mounting of the bridge, which contributes to a significant shortcut on the European route E6 -- the main north-south road through Norway and the west coast of Sweden.

Despite the extreme cold temperatures, local people came out in droves to witness the opening of the bridge.

"We have been waiting for this bridge for many years and now is the day. So we are very happy and very lucky to get this bridge," said Floda Nicolaisen, a local resident.

"I think it's been great to see Chinese participation in this project. When we see the bridge now, it really shows a beautiful bridge that is very important in the local community," Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg told reporters at the inauguration ceremony on the Halogaland Bridge over the Rombaken fjord.

The Chinese Ambassador to Norway Wang Min, who was also present at the ceremony, said the bridge has shown Chinese companies' efforts to carry out the Belt and Road Initiative.

"I say this bridge is a great event in the relationship between China and Norway, and an important practice of the two’s joint efforts to build the Belt and Road Initiative. It is an important result of the mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Norway and will set an important example of our bilateral economic and trade cooperation, especially when it comes to Chinese companies in Norway. It is of great importance for China and Norway to further the Belt and Road and share mutually beneficial cooperation in the future," he said.

In 2013, SRBG won the steel contract for the bridge in a tough competition with some of the world's other leading building firms.

The steel contract includes the preproduction of all the parts - cables and steel boxes and on-site construction. The production of the steel parts was carried out in four different factories in China.

A ceremony was held on Sunday to officially open Norway's second largest bridge which has been built by a Chinese company and its partners and is located some 220 kilometres inside the Arctic Circle.

A ceremony was held on Sunday to officially open Norway's second largest bridge which has been built by a Chinese company and its partners and is located some 220 kilometres inside the Arctic Circle. With a total length of 1,533 meters and a free span of 1,145 meters, the Halogaland Bridge near Norway's northern port city of Narvik is the longest suspension bridge within the Arctic Circle. China's Sichuan Road and Bridge Group (SRBG) delivered the steel constructions and was responsible for the mounting of the bridge, which contributes to a significant shortcut on the European route E6 -- the main north-south road through Norway and the west coast of Sweden. Despite the extreme cold temperatures, local people came out in droves to witness the opening of the bridge. "We have been waiting for this bridge for many years and now is the day. So we are very happy and very lucky to get this bridge," said Floda Nicolaisen, a local resident. "I think it's been great to see Chinese participation in this project. When we see the bridge now, it really shows a beautiful bridge that is very important in the local community," Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg told reporters at the inauguration ceremony on the Halogaland Bridge over the Rombaken fjord. The Chinese Ambassador to Norway Wang Min, who was also present at the ceremony, said the bridge has shown Chinese companies' efforts to carry out the Belt and Road Initiative. "I say this bridge is a great event in the relationship between China and Norway, and an important practice of the two’s joint efforts to build the Belt and Road Initiative. It is an important result of the mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Norway and will set an important example of our bilateral economic and trade cooperation, especially when it comes to Chinese companies in Norway. It is of great importance for China and Norway to further the Belt and Road and share mutually beneficial cooperation in the future," he said. In 2013, SRBG won the steel contract for the bridge in a tough competition with some of the world's other leading building firms. The steel contract includes the preproduction of all the parts - cables and steel boxes and on-site construction. The production of the steel parts was carried out in four different factories in China.

Watch: Norway's second largest bridge built by China to cement Belt and Road Initiative

Breaking News: Another blow to Chinese tech giant Huawei

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-no-preferential-treatment-being-given-to-anil-ambanis-rnel-navy-chief-admiral-sunil-lanba-181254">Indian Navy</a> Monday said that the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased in recent years and they were 'cautiously observing' it.

Flag Officer Commanding, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar N M stated this while addressing reporters to announce the celebrations for the Indian Navy Day observed on December 4 every year.

"The Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased over the recent years. The good part is that we are aware of it. We know their movements in the region and we are observing it cautiously, he said. 
They (Chinese) have the right to be in any part of the world like we have," Bhatnagar said.

Asked if the Navy was equipped to face any threat from the Chinese in the IOR, he said the capabilities of the Indian Navy are mission-based and not targeted against any country.

"Over the years, the Indian Navy has developed its force based on a mission. Our capabilities are mission-based and not targeted against any country. Whenever we are given a mission, we will be able to accomplish it," he said.

On the expansion of the naval base in Chennai, Bhatnagar said the talks with the Tamil Nadu government were in an advanced stage and hoped for complete support from them.

"...We are in the advanced stage of consultation. We are confident of complete support of the state government for allowing us the much-required land for infrastructure augmentation," he said.

On talks with the Sri Lankan Navy and Coast Guard that are likely to be held in May 2019, Bhatnagar said that these are centred around smuggling of contraband goods, counterfeit currency and other illegal activities.

"Besides, we will put forth before Sri Lanka, the concerns of the Indian fishermen and tell the island nation not to harm them when they cross maritime limits accidentally," he said.

The Navy Day is observed every year to commemorate its victory in the Indo-Pak war in 1971.

The theme for this year is 'Indian Navy, Mission-deployed and Combat-ready.'

As part of the celebration, medical and blood donation camps, wreath-laying ceremony, visits to ships, coastal clean- up activities, among others, are conducted during the month.

The Indian Navy Monday said that the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased in recent years and they were 'cautiously observing' it. Flag Officer Commanding, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar N M stated this while addressing reporters to announce the celebrations for the Indian Navy Day observed on December 4 every year.

The Indian Navy Monday said that the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased in recent years and they were 'cautiously observing' it. Flag Officer Commanding, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar N M stated this while addressing reporters to announce the celebrations for the Indian Navy Day observed on December 4 every year. "The Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased over the recent years. The good part is that we are aware of it. We know their movements in the region and we are observing it cautiously, he said. They (Chinese) have the right to be in any part of the world like we have," Bhatnagar said. Asked if the Navy was equipped to face any threat from the Chinese in the IOR, he said the capabilities of the Indian Navy are mission-based and not targeted against any country. "Over the years, the Indian Navy has developed its force based on a mission. Our capabilities are mission-based and not targeted against any country. Whenever we are given a mission, we will be able to accomplish it," he said. On the expansion of the naval base in Chennai, Bhatnagar said the talks with the Tamil Nadu government were in an advanced stage and hoped for complete support from them. "...We are in the advanced stage of consultation. We are confident of complete support of the state government for allowing us the much-required land for infrastructure augmentation," he said. On talks with the Sri Lankan Navy and Coast Guard that are likely to be held in May 2019, Bhatnagar said that these are centred around smuggling of contraband goods, counterfeit currency and other illegal activities. "Besides, we will put forth before Sri Lanka, the concerns of the Indian fishermen and tell the island nation not to harm them when they cross maritime limits accidentally," he said. The Navy Day is observed every year to commemorate its victory in the Indo-Pak war in 1971. The theme for this year is 'Indian Navy, Mission-deployed and Combat-ready.' As part of the celebration, medical and blood donation camps, wreath-laying ceremony, visits to ships, coastal clean- up activities, among others, are conducted during the month.

Chinese presence in Indian Ocean Region has increased and we are aware of it: Indian Navy

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals.

It has announced the revival of its `India First` policy without affecting its engagement with China.

Sputnik quoted Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid saying that the new government in the island nation is still accounting the volume of Chinese debt and that the uncertainty arose only because of the `secret` style of functioning of the former government led by Abdulla Yameen.

The Maldives is said to owe at least 70 per cent of its external debts to China.

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"The former president was shrouded in secrecy. He did not share details with the public accounts committee of the Parliament. We are not commenting on the exact amount of debt with China because we are yet to ascertain it. We are reconciling with accounts," Shahid was quoted as saying in a statement during his recent visit to New Delhi.

Three ministers of the new Maldivian government, including Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer, and Minister of Economic Development Fayaz Ismail, were in India on a two-day official visit as a precursor to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih`s visit on December 17.

This will be Solih`s first foreign visit as President of the island nation.

The island nation has hinted that it is looking to India for help in bridging any budgetary shortfall that may arise in the initial days of governance while announcing that it will pursue `India first policy`.

"India is a natural and time-tested friend. We have recommitted ourselves to reigniting India-Maldives friendship to explore newer horizons.We are immediately looking at budgetary constraints. We need help from India for helping and diversification of our economy. We wish to vigorously engage with the Indian business community in this process," the Maldivian Foreign Minister told the media in New Delhi.

The Maldivian foreign minister, however, asserted that the Maldives` India First policy would be pursued without constraining its engagement with China."Former President Abdulla Yaseen tried to play China against India and India against China. I must say he failed miserably. One must not try to play one country against other. We have a strong India first policy but will engage all countries in Maldives` development," Shahid added to his statement.

The visiting ministerial delegation also made it clear that restarting stalled projects would be the primary agenda for the president`s upcoming visit.

"The Advance Light Helicopters will continue its presence in the Maldives and apart from that we are ready to receive the Dornier gifted by India as soon as it is released," the Maldivian minister said while signaling greater defence cooperation between India and the strategically important Maldivian island located in the Indian Ocean.

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals.

Faced with an acute budgetary deficit due to mounting foreign debts, the new government in the Maldives, led by President Abdulla Solih, is looking to India for financial support to help the island nation achieve its development goals. It has announced the revival of its `India First` policy without affecting its engagement with China. Sputnik quoted Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid saying that the new government in the island nation is still accounting the volume of Chinese debt and that the uncertainty arose only because of the `secret` style of functioning of the former government led by Abdulla Yameen. The Maldives is said to owe at least 70 per cent of its external debts to China. × "The former president was shrouded in secrecy. He did not share details with the public accounts committee of the Parliament. We are not commenting on the exact amount of debt with China because we are yet to ascertain it. We are reconciling with accounts," Shahid was quoted as saying in a statement during his recent visit to New Delhi. Three ministers of the new Maldivian government, including Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer, and Minister of Economic Development Fayaz Ismail, were in India on a two-day official visit as a precursor to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih`s visit on December 17. This will be Solih`s first foreign visit as President of the island nation. The island nation has hinted that it is looking to India for help in bridging any budgetary shortfall that may arise in the initial days of governance while announcing that it will pursue `India first policy`. "India is a natural and time-tested friend. We have recommitted ourselves to reigniting India-Maldives friendship to explore newer horizons.We are immediately looking at budgetary constraints. We need help from India for helping and diversification of our economy. We wish to vigorously engage with the Indian business community in this process," the Maldivian Foreign Minister told the media in New Delhi. The Maldivian foreign minister, however, asserted that the Maldives` India First policy would be pursued without constraining its engagement with China."Former President Abdulla Yaseen tried to play China against India and India against China. I must say he failed miserably. One must not try to play one country against other. We have a strong India first policy but will engage all countries in Maldives` development," Shahid added to his statement. The visiting ministerial delegation also made it clear that restarting stalled projects would be the primary agenda for the president`s upcoming visit. "The Advance Light Helicopters will continue its presence in the Maldives and apart from that we are ready to receive the Dornier gifted by India as soon as it is released," the Maldivian minister said while signaling greater defence cooperation between India and the strategically important Maldivian island located in the Indian Ocean.

Maldives seeks India's assistance to pay off Chinese debt

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising".

Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said.

At least two police officers were killed in the attack, which was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist insurgent group that opposes Chinese projects in the resource-rich southwestern province of Baluchistan. All Chinese staff at the consulate were safe, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and China's Foreign Ministry said.

The assault was the most prominent attack in Pakistan against China, a neighbour and close ally which is pouring billions of dollars into Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road initiative. It was also the highest-profile operation in years by the BLA, which mostly wages a low-level insurgency in Baluchistan. The group also calls itself the Balochistan Liberation Army.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising". Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said the attack at a Chinese consulate in Karachi on Friday (November 23) was "not surprising". Three suicide attackers stormed the consulate amid a series of gunshots and an explosion, but were killed before they could get into the building in a car packed with explosives, police said. At least two police officers were killed in the attack, which was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist insurgent group that opposes Chinese projects in the resource-rich southwestern province of Baluchistan. All Chinese staff at the consulate were safe, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and China's Foreign Ministry said. The assault was the most prominent attack in Pakistan against China, a neighbour and close ally which is pouring billions of dollars into Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road initiative. It was also the highest-profile operation in years by the BLA, which mostly wages a low-level insurgency in Baluchistan. The group also calls itself the Balochistan Liberation Army.

Attack on Chinese consulate 'not surprising': Imran Khan

Workers at a Chinese home renovation company who failed to complete their tasks had to drink urine, eat cockroaches or get whipped by a belt.&nbsp;

Others had to shave their heads or drink water from a toilet bowl and had their salaries withheld by a month, according to images and videos on Chinese social media cited by state media.

The punishments were all publicly meted out in the presence of other staff, state media said, citing workers who had quit the company in the southwestern province of Guizhou.&nbsp;

Forgetful staff who did not wear leather shoes to work or failed to turn up in formal attire were given 50 yuan ($7.20) fines.&nbsp;

Their misdemeanours were duly recorded in little, white slips.&nbsp;

But most staff chose to stay despite the punishments, which started this year, state media said.

Three managers at the company were jailed from five to 10 days on the charge of humiliating others, according to a social media post by the local public security bureau.

&nbsp;Labour conditions in China have often been described by activists as harsh and unforgiving, with workers having to work excessive hours and live in cramped quarters on meagre wages.

At the Guizhou company, many of the punished showed little outward sign of unhappiness, according to state media, choosing instead to accept their fate.&nbsp;

Workers at a Chinese home renovation company who failed to complete their tasks had to drink urine, eat cockroaches or get whipped by a belt. Others had to shave their heads or drink water from a toilet bowl and had their salaries withheld by a month, according to images and videos on Chinese social media cited by state media.

Workers at a Chinese home renovation company who failed to complete their tasks had to drink urine, eat cockroaches or get whipped by a belt. Others had to shave their heads or drink water from a toilet bowl and had their salaries withheld by a month, according to images and videos on Chinese social media cited by state media. The punishments were all publicly meted out in the presence of other staff, state media said, citing workers who had quit the company in the southwestern province of Guizhou. Forgetful staff who did not wear leather shoes to work or failed to turn up in formal attire were given 50 yuan ($7.20) fines. Their misdemeanours were duly recorded in little, white slips. But most staff chose to stay despite the punishments, which started this year, state media said. Three managers at the company were jailed from five to 10 days on the charge of humiliating others, according to a social media post by the local public security bureau. Labour conditions in China have often been described by activists as harsh and unforgiving, with workers having to work excessive hours and live in cramped quarters on meagre wages. At the Guizhou company, many of the punished showed little outward sign of unhappiness, according to state media, choosing instead to accept their fate.

Underperforming Chinese workers made to drink urine, eat bugs

Chinese cricket team suffered a record defeat at the hands of Nepal after being bundled out for mere 26 runs in 14.5 overs in the ICC regional qualifier clash for the upcoming World T20 in 2020.

Put into bat, seven of the Chinese batsmen fell for ducks as Nepal's latest sensation, 18-year-old legspinner, Sandeep Lamichhane, recorded a stunning figure of three for four in four overs to take his tournament tally to 20 wickets.

His spin partner, Basant Regmi also finished with stunning figures, picking up three wickets for just five runs in his four overs.

Only one Chinese batsman, Hong Jiang Yan, reached double figures - making 11 from 27 balls, having made scores of 1, 0, 1 and 1 in his first four outings of the tournament.

Nepal openers didn't have to burn a sweat as they accomplished their winning target in just 11-balls with opener Binod Bhandari hammering 24 off eight deliveries with the help of three fours and a six.&nbsp;

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Nepal beat China facing just 11 balls! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/cnqRyIHFNA">pic.twitter.com/cnqRyIHFNA</a>
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The victory puts Nepal on top of Asia Region Qualifier Group B, having secured five wins out of five games, and this hammering puts them ahead of Singapore on net run-rate. Both sides have qualified for next year’s WT20 Asian Finals.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, China find themselves at the bottom having lost all their qualifier games, with their last game of the regional qualifiers against Malaysia on Friday.

Chinese cricket team suffered a record defeat at the hands of Nepal after being bundled out for mere 26 runs in 14.5 overs in the ICC regional qualifier clash for the upcoming World T20 in 2020.

Chinese cricket team suffered a record defeat at the hands of Nepal after being bundled out for mere 26 runs in 14.5 overs in the ICC regional qualifier clash for the upcoming World T20 in 2020. Put into bat, seven of the Chinese batsmen fell for ducks as Nepal's latest sensation, 18-year-old legspinner, Sandeep Lamichhane, recorded a stunning figure of three for four in four overs to take his tournament tally to 20 wickets. His spin partner, Basant Regmi also finished with stunning figures, picking up three wickets for just five runs in his four overs. Only one Chinese batsman, Hong Jiang Yan, reached double figures - making 11 from 27 balls, having made scores of 1, 0, 1 and 1 in his first four outings of the tournament. Nepal openers didn't have to burn a sweat as they accomplished their winning target in just 11-balls with opener Binod Bhandari hammering 24 off eight deliveries with the help of three fours and a six. Nepal beat China facing just 11 balls! #Cricket pic.twitter.com/cnqRyIHFNA — CricFit (@CricFit) October 10, 2018 × The victory puts Nepal on top of Asia Region Qualifier Group B, having secured five wins out of five games, and this hammering puts them ahead of Singapore on net run-rate. Both sides have qualified for next year’s WT20 Asian Finals. Meanwhile, China find themselves at the bottom having lost all their qualifier games, with their last game of the regional qualifiers against Malaysia on Friday.

WT20 Qualifier: Nepal bowl out China for 26, chase it down in 11 balls

The Trump administration may nip the length of visas issued to some Chinese citizens under a new policy. The move is seen as US President Donald Trump's attempt to crack down on 'theft of US intellectual property' by China.

The policy will come in to effect on June 11 under which US consular officers may limit the time visas are valid, rather than the usual practice of issuing them for the maximum possible period.

According to reports, Chinese graduate students would be limited to one-year visas if they are studying disciplines like robotics, aviation and high-tech manufacturing, areas Beijing has said are high-priority goals for its manufacturing sector.

Now, some Chinese citizens, working as researchers or managers for companies on a US Commerce Department list of entities, would need a special clearance from multiple US agencies in order to get a visa.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

The policy will come in to effect on June 11 under which US consular officers may limit the time visas are valid

The Trump administration may nip the length of visas issued to some Chinese citizens under a new policy. The move is seen as US President Donald Trump's attempt to crack down on 'theft of US intellectual property' by China. The policy will come in to effect on June 11 under which US consular officers may limit the time visas are valid, rather than the usual practice of issuing them for the maximum possible period. According to reports, Chinese graduate students would be limited to one-year visas if they are studying disciplines like robotics, aviation and high-tech manufacturing, areas Beijing has said are high-priority goals for its manufacturing sector. Now, some Chinese citizens, working as researchers or managers for companies on a US Commerce Department list of entities, would need a special clearance from multiple US agencies in order to get a visa. (With inputs from agencies)

US to limit Chinese graduate students to one-year visas

A double-amputee man from China successfully made to the summit of the Everest on Monday in his fifth attempt.

69-year-old, Xia Boyu, lost his legs almost four decades back to frostbite at the age of 25.&nbsp;

Boyu lived his long-cherished dream earlier on Monday around 8.30 am Nepal time. He summited the 8,848-metre peak from the Nepalese side.&nbsp;

According to reports, Boyu was guided by Mingma G&nbsp;Sherpa who has successfully summited 14 highest mountains in the world in his first attempt.&nbsp;

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⚡After four attempts including losing his legs, 70 year old Xia Boyu finally stepped onto the roof of the world. Never give up. Congratulations Xia!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Everest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Everest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Everest2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Everest2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/3mWyFNRXj1">pic.twitter.com/3mWyFNRXj1</a>
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Nepalese government, last year, issued a blanket ban on a group of people who seek to climb the Everest. The ban covers people with disability, solo climbers and those below the age of 16.&nbsp;

New Zealand's Mark Inglis was the first double amputee to summit the world's highest mountain. He successfully reached Mount Everest from the Tibetan side in the year 2006.

Boyu lived his long-cherished dream earlier on Monday around 8.30 am Nepal time

A double-amputee man from China successfully made to the summit of the Everest on Monday in his fifth attempt. 69-year-old, Xia Boyu, lost his legs almost four decades back to frostbite at the age of 25. Boyu lived his long-cherished dream earlier on Monday around 8.30 am Nepal time. He summited the 8,848-metre peak from the Nepalese side. According to reports, Boyu was guided by Mingma G Sherpa who has successfully summited 14 highest mountains in the world in his first attempt. ⚡After four attempts including losing his legs, 70 year old Xia Boyu finally stepped onto the roof of the world. Never give up. Congratulations Xia!!#Everest #Everest2018 pic.twitter.com/3mWyFNRXj1 — Dr Ash Routen (@AshRouten) May 14, 2018 × Nepalese government, last year, issued a blanket ban on a group of people who seek to climb the Everest. The ban covers people with disability, solo climbers and those below the age of 16. New Zealand's Mark Inglis was the first double amputee to summit the world's highest mountain. He successfully reached Mount Everest from the Tibetan side in the year 2006.

Chinese double amputee man successfully summits Everest 

China warned on Monday that trade talks with the United States were "impossible" under current conditions after President Donald Trump reassured markets by suggesting that the dispute could be resolved.

The two sides have announced tit-for-tat tariffs and threatened to hit each other with more duties, raising the prospect of a trade war that could rattle the global economy.

Asian markets rose on Monday after Trump tweeted that he saw an end to the escalating dispute before the higher tariffs threatened on hundreds of billions of goods would come into effect.

But China's foreign ministry was less sanguine.

"Up to now, Chinese and US officials have not held any negotiations on the trade dispute," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters during a regular press briefing.

"Under the current conditions, it is impossible for the two sides to have any negotiations on this issue," Geng added.

A few hours later, Trump returned to tougher talk with an early-morning tweet railing against China's duties on US cars.

"When a car is sent to the United States from China, there is a Tariff to be paid of 2 1/2%. When a car is sent to China from the United States, there is a Tariff to be paid of 25%," Trump tweeted.

"Does that sound like free or fair trade. No, it sounds like STUPID TRADE -- going on for years!"

Trump had sounded an optimistic tone on Sunday, playing up his personal relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"President Xi and I will always be friends," Trump tweeted.

"China will take down its trade barriers because it is the right thing to do."

Trump had tweeted Monday that he saw an end to the escalating dispute

China warned on Monday that trade talks with the United States were "impossible" under current conditions after President Donald Trump reassured markets by suggesting that the dispute could be resolved. The two sides have announced tit-for-tat tariffs and threatened to hit each other with more duties, raising the prospect of a trade war that could rattle the global economy. Asian markets rose on Monday after Trump tweeted that he saw an end to the escalating dispute before the higher tariffs threatened on hundreds of billions of goods would come into effect. But China's foreign ministry was less sanguine. "Up to now, Chinese and US officials have not held any negotiations on the trade dispute," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters during a regular press briefing. "Under the current conditions, it is impossible for the two sides to have any negotiations on this issue," Geng added. A few hours later, Trump returned to tougher talk with an early-morning tweet railing against China's duties on US cars. "When a car is sent to the United States from China, there is a Tariff to be paid of 2 1/2%. When a car is sent to China from the United States, there is a Tariff to be paid of 25%," Trump tweeted. "Does that sound like free or fair trade. No, it sounds like STUPID TRADE -- going on for years!" Trump had sounded an optimistic tone on Sunday, playing up his personal relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping. "President Xi and I will always be friends," Trump tweeted. "China will take down its trade barriers because it is the right thing to do."

China says US trade talks currently 'impossible'

Chinese state media on Monday attacked critics of ending presidential term limits, which effectively now allows President Xi Jinping to stay in office indefinitely, saying the key to China&#39;s path was following the Communist Party.

China&#39;s largely rubber-stamp parliament on Sunday overwhelmingly voted to amend the constitution, scrapping term limits and adding clauses to further strengthen the party&#39;s already dominating role in politics.

In the run-up to the vote, critics on Chinese social media attacked the move and drew parallels to North Korea or suggested a Mao Zedong-type cult of personality was forming. The party only announced the proposals last month.

In an editorial, widely-read tabloid the Global Times said Western political theories were of no use to China.

&quot;We are increasingly confident that the key to China&#39;s path lies in upholding strong Party leadership and firmly following the leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core,&quot; it said.

&quot;In these years we have seen the rise and decline of countries and particularly the harsh reality that the Western political system doesn&#39;t apply to developing countries and produces dreadful results.&quot;

The official China Daily reiterated a point previously made by the party&#39;s People&#39;s Daily that the amendment did not &quot;imply lifetime tenure for any leader&quot;.

&quot;Yet some people in the West insist otherwise, even though it is only through specious speculation that they claim to know better,&quot; the English-language paper said.

Such people - it did not name names - have a deep-rooted ideological bias against China and have made one failed prediction after another about China, it added.

&quot;Their erroneous judgements are only a litany of short-sighted calumnies against the party and the nation.&quot;

While social media accounts of major state media outlets either disabled their comments section or only made visible comments praising the party, some words of dissent did manage to make it past the censors.

&quot;How is it that socialism which is praised has become a monarchy making law?&quot; wrote one user on the Twitter-like Weibo micro-blogging site.

&quot;Why have they not released the voting tally?&quot; wrote another.

Only two &quot;no&quot; votes were cast, with three abstentions, from almost 3,000 delegates in parliament.

The US-based group Human Rights in China said there were huge risks in allowing such a concentration of power.

&quot;Ending the two-term limit ignores the painful lesson of the Mao era and exposes the Chinese people again to the massive human suffering, abuses and national catastrophe that could result from unaccountable power concentrated in the hands of one person,&quot; Sharon Hom, the group&#39;s executive director, said in a statement.

In an editorial, widely-read tabloid the Global Times said Western political theories were of no use to China

Chinese state media on Monday attacked critics of ending presidential term limits, which effectively now allows President Xi Jinping to stay in office indefinitely, saying the key to China's path was following the Communist Party. China's largely rubber-stamp parliament on Sunday overwhelmingly voted to amend the constitution, scrapping term limits and adding clauses to further strengthen the party's already dominating role in politics. In the run-up to the vote, critics on Chinese social media attacked the move and drew parallels to North Korea or suggested a Mao Zedong-type cult of personality was forming. The party only announced the proposals last month. In an editorial, widely-read tabloid the Global Times said Western political theories were of no use to China. "We are increasingly confident that the key to China's path lies in upholding strong Party leadership and firmly following the leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core," it said. "In these years we have seen the rise and decline of countries and particularly the harsh reality that the Western political system doesn't apply to developing countries and produces dreadful results." The official China Daily reiterated a point previously made by the party's People's Daily that the amendment did not "imply lifetime tenure for any leader". "Yet some people in the West insist otherwise, even though it is only through specious speculation that they claim to know better," the English-language paper said. Such people - it did not name names - have a deep-rooted ideological bias against China and have made one failed prediction after another about China, it added. "Their erroneous judgements are only a litany of short-sighted calumnies against the party and the nation." While social media accounts of major state media outlets either disabled their comments section or only made visible comments praising the party, some words of dissent did manage to make it past the censors. "How is it that socialism which is praised has become a monarchy making law?" wrote one user on the Twitter-like Weibo micro-blogging site. "Why have they not released the voting tally?" wrote another. Only two "no" votes were cast, with three abstentions, from almost 3,000 delegates in parliament. The US-based group Human Rights in China said there were huge risks in allowing such a concentration of power. "Ending the two-term limit ignores the painful lesson of the Mao era and exposes the Chinese people again to the massive human suffering, abuses and national catastrophe that could result from unaccountable power concentrated in the hands of one person," Sharon Hom, the group's executive director, said in a statement.

Chinese state media defends removing presidential term limits

A rice genetically modified (GMO) by Chinese researchers to resist pests has passed safety inspections by authorities in the United States, allowing for its sale there even though Beijing continues to prohibit the planting of any GMO food grain.

The rice, known as Huahui 1, was developed by a team at Huazhong University in central Hubei province to resist pests like the rice stem borer. While Chinese authorities granted the strain a safety certificate in 2009, it has never been approved for commercial production.

Beijing has spent billions of dollars researching GMO crops but has held back from commercial production of any food grains because of consumer concerns about their safety. Validation of the country`s GMO safety testing and products by US authorities could help persuade the government and consumers in China to accept the products at home.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified the research team at Huazhong last week that it agreed with university`s safety and nutritional assessments on the product, Huazhong said in a statement on Sunday on its website.

&quot;Genetically engineered Huahui No.1 rice grain does not raise issues that would require premarket review or approval by FDA,&quot; according to a letter posted on the FDA website that Huazhong highlighted in its statement.

The product had earlier passed a review by the Environmental Protection Agency on pesticide residue levels, Huazhong said, clearing the way for the export of Huahui 1 rice and rice products to the US market.

However, the university would need further approval from the US Department of Agriculture for planting the rice. The statement did not say if researchers would seek such approval.

But Huazhong said the approvals from the FDA and EPA further validated the test methods and evaluation carried out by Chinese institutes to assess safety and nutrient levels in the new rice.

China has said it aims to push forward the commercialization of GMO corn and soybeans by 2020 but has not made public any plans to approve the planting of GMO rice, the country`s most important staple food.

The rice, known as Huahui 1, was developed by a team at Huazhong University in central Hubei province to resist pests like the rice stem borer

A rice genetically modified (GMO) by Chinese researchers to resist pests has passed safety inspections by authorities in the United States, allowing for its sale there even though Beijing continues to prohibit the planting of any GMO food grain. The rice, known as Huahui 1, was developed by a team at Huazhong University in central Hubei province to resist pests like the rice stem borer. While Chinese authorities granted the strain a safety certificate in 2009, it has never been approved for commercial production. Beijing has spent billions of dollars researching GMO crops but has held back from commercial production of any food grains because of consumer concerns about their safety. Validation of the country`s GMO safety testing and products by US authorities could help persuade the government and consumers in China to accept the products at home. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified the research team at Huazhong last week that it agreed with university`s safety and nutritional assessments on the product, Huazhong said in a statement on Sunday on its website. "Genetically engineered Huahui No.1 rice grain does not raise issues that would require premarket review or approval by FDA," according to a letter posted on the FDA website that Huazhong highlighted in its statement. The product had earlier passed a review by the Environmental Protection Agency on pesticide residue levels, Huazhong said, clearing the way for the export of Huahui 1 rice and rice products to the US market. However, the university would need further approval from the US Department of Agriculture for planting the rice. The statement did not say if researchers would seek such approval. But Huazhong said the approvals from the FDA and EPA further validated the test methods and evaluation carried out by Chinese institutes to assess safety and nutrient levels in the new rice. China has said it aims to push forward the commercialization of GMO corn and soybeans by 2020 but has not made public any plans to approve the planting of GMO rice, the country`s most important staple food.

US gives safety approval to Chinese genetically modified rice strain

U.S. President Donald Trump landed in Vietnam on Friday for a summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) nations, the fourth leg of his 12-day Asia trip.

The White House has said Trump will set out a US vision for a &ldquo;free and open Indo-Pacific region&rdquo; in a speech in the beach resort of Danang.

Trump arrived from China, where he praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping as &ldquo;highly respected&rdquo; and Chinese media had declared the visit had set a &ldquo;new blueprint&rdquo; for handling US-China relations and differences.

The White House has said Trump will set out a US vision for a 'free and open Indo-Pacific region' in a speech in the beach resort of Danang

U.S. President Donald Trump landed in Vietnam on Friday for a summit of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) nations, the fourth leg of his 12-day Asia trip. The White House has said Trump will set out a US vision for a “free and open Indo-Pacific region” in a speech in the beach resort of Danang. Trump arrived from China, where he praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping as “highly respected” and Chinese media had declared the visit had set a “new blueprint” for handling US-China relations and differences.

Trump arrives in Vietnam for summit of Asia-Pacific leaders

Archaeologists exploring Peru&#39;s pre-Colombian past recently unearthed a glimpse of a less prominent chapter in the Andean country&#39;s history - the remains of 16 Chinese laborers who toiled in the country over 100 years ago.

The bodies, thought to be those of indentured workers brought to Peru to replace slave labor, were found buried at the top of an adobe&nbsp;pyramid&nbsp;first used by the&nbsp;ancient&nbsp;Ichma people, Roxana Gomez, the lead archaeologist of the site, said on Thursday.

Peru was one of the biggest destinations for Chinese labor in Latin America in the 19th century, a market that thrived after slavery was abolished in the country in 1854.

The Chinese found at the Bellavista&nbsp;pyramid&nbsp;in Lima were buried in the late 1800s and early 1900s and had likely picked cotton at a nearby plantation in &quot;very difficult&quot; conditions, said Gomez.

In a possible sign of how the Chinese gradually emerged from dire poverty in Peru, the first 11 bodies were shrouded in cloth and placed in the ground, while the last five wore blue-green jackets and were buried in wooden coffins, Gomez said.

&quot;In one Chinese coffin, an opium pipe and a small ceramic vessel were included in the funerary ensemble,&quot; said Gomez.

Chinese laborers were generally not allowed to be buried at Lima&#39;s Catholic cemeteries, forcing them to improvise burial sites, according to Peru&#39;s Culture Ministry.

The remains of Chinese laborers were previously found in Lima at other Adobe&nbsp;pyramids known as &quot;huacas.&quot; Built by the indigenous societies that once ruled much of Peru&#39;s Pacific coast, huacas were used as administrative and religious centers where members of the elite were often buried with gold objects, ceramics or human sacrifices.

Gomez said the huacas had a sacred association that might have made them attractive places for burial by Chinese laborers.

The Bellavista huaca was occupied by Ichma starting in about 1000 A.D. and was later annexed by the Incan empire until the arrival of Spanish conquerors who deemed huacas blasphemous.

Italian immigrants later kept vineyards at the base of the site, Gomez added.

&quot;The best way to understand our history is as a continuum of different cultures,&quot; said Gomez.

Peru was one of the biggest destinations for Chinese labor in Latin America in the 19th century

Archaeologists exploring Peru's pre-Colombian past recently unearthed a glimpse of a less prominent chapter in the Andean country's history - the remains of 16 Chinese laborers who toiled in the country over 100 years ago. The bodies, thought to be those of indentured workers brought to Peru to replace slave labor, were found buried at the top of an adobe pyramid first used by the ancient Ichma people, Roxana Gomez, the lead archaeologist of the site, said on Thursday. Peru was one of the biggest destinations for Chinese labor in Latin America in the 19th century, a market that thrived after slavery was abolished in the country in 1854. The Chinese found at the Bellavista pyramid in Lima were buried in the late 1800s and early 1900s and had likely picked cotton at a nearby plantation in "very difficult" conditions, said Gomez. In a possible sign of how the Chinese gradually emerged from dire poverty in Peru, the first 11 bodies were shrouded in cloth and placed in the ground, while the last five wore blue-green jackets and were buried in wooden coffins, Gomez said. "In one Chinese coffin, an opium pipe and a small ceramic vessel were included in the funerary ensemble," said Gomez. Chinese laborers were generally not allowed to be buried at Lima's Catholic cemeteries, forcing them to improvise burial sites, according to Peru's Culture Ministry. The remains of Chinese laborers were previously found in Lima at other Adobe pyramids known as "huacas." Built by the indigenous societies that once ruled much of Peru's Pacific coast, huacas were used as administrative and religious centers where members of the elite were often buried with gold objects, ceramics or human sacrifices. Gomez said the huacas had a sacred association that might have made them attractive places for burial by Chinese laborers. The Bellavista huaca was occupied by Ichma starting in about 1000 A.D. and was later annexed by the Incan empire until the arrival of Spanish conquerors who deemed huacas blasphemous. Italian immigrants later kept vineyards at the base of the site, Gomez added. "The best way to understand our history is as a continuum of different cultures," said Gomez.

Remains of 19th-century Chinese laborers found in Peru Pyramid

China leads the world in connecting everyday devices to the internet, but is creating huge hacking vulnerabilities for itself and others by doing so, renegade American software pioneer John McAfee warned today. 
 
Hackers had already been able to gain control of devices such as safes and heating controls, and take over the computer systems of automobiles and aeroplanes, he said. 
 
&ldquo;China is taking the lead in putting intelligence into devices, from refrigerators to smart thermostats, and this is our weakest link in cybersecurity,&rdquo; he said in Beijing. 
 
&quot;I am hoping that in the short time I am here I can raise a warning flag that we have to take security of these devices even more importantly than our large computers or our smart phones,&quot; he told a conference of internet security professionals. 
 
&quot;Because there are so many more of these devices, and the more that are connected, then the higher the risk of a potential hack becomes.&quot; 
 
McAfee, 70, is the colourful founder of an antivirus software company who once fled Belize after police sought to question him in a murder case. 
 
He has since returned to the United States, where he announced he was running for president. 
 
He amassed an estimated $100 million fortune during the early days of the internet in the 1990s, but lost most of it to bad investments and the financial crisis. 
 
He was living with a 17-year-old girl in Belize when police came looking for him to discuss the killing of his neighbour -- a crime of which he maintains his innocence. He was briefly incarcerated and fled the Central American country. 
 
McAfee&#39;s at times dire and alarming speech in Beijing came as his new company MGT Capital prepares to launch cybersecurity products later this year.&nbsp; 
 
&#39;Not an alarmist&#39;&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Our species has never before faced a threat of this magnitude. And we have not noticed it by and large,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;You may thinking I am exaggerating, that I am an alarmist. I am friends with many of the hackers who have the capability to do enormous damage if they so chose.&quot; 
 
Chinese companies such as Xiaomi have been praised for innovation in adding internet connectivity to a variety of devices including air purifiers and rice cookers, allowing users to switch them on from work or on their way home. 
 
Such connections create serious new weaknesses that could leave users&#39; networks especially vulnerable to hacking, McAfee said. 
 
But in a briefing with reporters, he also commended Beijing&#39;s protection of its domestic internet, which is heavily censored and blocks many foreign websites, for its seeming security against the large-scale breaches seen recently in the US. 
 
&ldquo;You may notice that last year America suffered hundreds of major hacks from all around the world,&rdquo; he said, and added that he had &ldquo;heard nothing&rdquo; of similar hacks on China. 
 
&ldquo;Now perhaps that&#39;s the government&#39;s control of the press, I don&#39;t know,&quot; he said. &quot;But I do know that within certain industries of China, the awareness of cybersecurity threats is far greater than our awareness in America.&rdquo; 
 
(AFP) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Hackers had already been able to gain control of safes and take over the computer systems of cars & planes, he said

China leads the world in connecting everyday devices to the internet, but is creating huge hacking vulnerabilities for itself and others by doing so, renegade American software pioneer John McAfee warned today. Hackers had already been able to gain control of devices such as safes and heating controls, and take over the computer systems of automobiles and aeroplanes, he said. “China is taking the lead in putting intelligence into devices, from refrigerators to smart thermostats, and this is our weakest link in cybersecurity,” he said in Beijing. "I am hoping that in the short time I am here I can raise a warning flag that we have to take security of these devices even more importantly than our large computers or our smart phones," he told a conference of internet security professionals. "Because there are so many more of these devices, and the more that are connected, then the higher the risk of a potential hack becomes." McAfee, 70, is the colourful founder of an antivirus software company who once fled Belize after police sought to question him in a murder case. He has since returned to the United States, where he announced he was running for president. He amassed an estimated $100 million fortune during the early days of the internet in the 1990s, but lost most of it to bad investments and the financial crisis. He was living with a 17-year-old girl in Belize when police came looking for him to discuss the killing of his neighbour -- a crime of which he maintains his innocence. He was briefly incarcerated and fled the Central American country. McAfee's at times dire and alarming speech in Beijing came as his new company MGT Capital prepares to launch cybersecurity products later this year. 'Not an alarmist' "Our species has never before faced a threat of this magnitude. And we have not noticed it by and large," he said. "You may thinking I am exaggerating, that I am an alarmist. I am friends with many of the hackers who have the capability to do enormous damage if they so chose." Chinese companies such as Xiaomi have been praised for innovation in adding internet connectivity to a variety of devices including air purifiers and rice cookers, allowing users to switch them on from work or on their way home. Such connections create serious new weaknesses that could leave users' networks especially vulnerable to hacking, McAfee said. But in a briefing with reporters, he also commended Beijing's protection of its domestic internet, which is heavily censored and blocks many foreign websites, for its seeming security against the large-scale breaches seen recently in the US. “You may notice that last year America suffered hundreds of major hacks from all around the world,” he said, and added that he had “heard nothing” of similar hacks on China. “Now perhaps that's the government's control of the press, I don't know," he said. "But I do know that within certain industries of China, the awareness of cybersecurity threats is far greater than our awareness in America.” (AFP)

Software maverick McAfee warns China of hacking weakness

A Chinese tour guide stabbed and killed a tourist who was visiting Kenya&#39;s famed Maasai Mara Game Reserve after an argument over the seating arrangement for dinner, police and a lodge manager said today. 
 
John Kiruti, manager of Keekorok Lodge, which is within the park, said the woman, also a Chinese citizen, sustained serious chest injuries in the incident late yesterday and died as she was being transferred to another tourist camp for treatment. Her husband sustained serious stomach injuries. 
 
&quot;The tour guide who had brought three clients from his country for two nights differed with the couple over the sitting arrangement at dinner time,&quot; Kiruti said. 
 
&quot;After a brief exchange of words, he drew a knife and stabbed the two, fatally injuring the woman and injuring her husband.&rdquo; 
 
Kiruti said the couple&#39;s two children, aged nine and 12 years old, watched as the incident took place. 
 
&quot;The hotel staff rushed to restrain the guide. The kids are still in shock. We making plans to take them to Nairobi,&quot; he said. 
 
Police later arrested the guide. 
 
&quot;We are holding him until investigations are over. It was a sad incident that is deeply regretted,&quot; Narok county police commander Abdi Galgalo said. 
 
(Reuters)

The tourist was also Chinese, had come with the guide. Her husband sustained serious stomach injuries

A Chinese tour guide stabbed and killed a tourist who was visiting Kenya's famed Maasai Mara Game Reserve after an argument over the seating arrangement for dinner, police and a lodge manager said today. John Kiruti, manager of Keekorok Lodge, which is within the park, said the woman, also a Chinese citizen, sustained serious chest injuries in the incident late yesterday and died as she was being transferred to another tourist camp for treatment. Her husband sustained serious stomach injuries. "The tour guide who had brought three clients from his country for two nights differed with the couple over the sitting arrangement at dinner time," Kiruti said. "After a brief exchange of words, he drew a knife and stabbed the two, fatally injuring the woman and injuring her husband.” Kiruti said the couple's two children, aged nine and 12 years old, watched as the incident took place. "The hotel staff rushed to restrain the guide. The kids are still in shock. We making plans to take them to Nairobi," he said. Police later arrested the guide. "We are holding him until investigations are over. It was a sad incident that is deeply regretted," Narok county police commander Abdi Galgalo said. (Reuters)

Chinese guide stabs, kills tourist in Kenya over dinner seating arrangement in Masai Mara

Inter Milan said on Monday its coach Roberto Mancini is leaving, citing a &quot;mutual agreement&quot; amid media reports the Serie A club&#39;s new Chinese owners decided fresh blood is needed to rejuvenate the team. 
 
&quot;FC Internazionale Milano confirms that it has parted company with head coach Roberto Mancini by mutual agreement,&quot; the club said in a statement 
 
Mancini is tipped in the media to be replaced by Dutch coach Frank de Boer. 
 
Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport reported there was a contract dispute with Mancini and that the Chinese owners, the Suning group, were furious after Inter lost 6-1 to Tottenham Hotspur in a friendly in Oslo on Thursday. 
 
Mancini had been a&nbsp;coach for two years and was under contract until 2017. He was given severance pay of 2.5 million Euros ($2.8 million) net, and will take his entire staff with him, Corriere dello Sport said. De Boer left Ajax Amsterdam at the end of last season. 
 
&quot;Inter would like to place on record its thanks to Roberto for the work carried out with the team since joining in November 2014,&quot; the club said. 
 
(AFP)

Media reports however said the Serie A club's new Chinese owners decided fresh blood was needed to rejuvenate the team

Inter Milan said on Monday its coach Roberto Mancini is leaving, citing a "mutual agreement" amid media reports the Serie A club's new Chinese owners decided fresh blood is needed to rejuvenate the team. "FC Internazionale Milano confirms that it has parted company with head coach Roberto Mancini by mutual agreement," the club said in a statement Mancini is tipped in the media to be replaced by Dutch coach Frank de Boer. Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport reported there was a contract dispute with Mancini and that the Chinese owners, the Suning group, were furious after Inter lost 6-1 to Tottenham Hotspur in a friendly in Oslo on Thursday. Mancini had been a coach for two years and was under contract until 2017. He was given severance pay of 2.5 million Euros ($2.8 million) net, and will take his entire staff with him, Corriere dello Sport said. De Boer left Ajax Amsterdam at the end of last season. "Inter would like to place on record its thanks to Roberto for the work carried out with the team since joining in November 2014," the club said. (AFP)

Inter Milan says coach Roberto Mancini is leaving by 'mutual agreement'

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