Belarus' border security agency has announced a severe tightening of already strict rules limiting citizens' ability to exit the country to curb the spread of the COVID-19.

The changes, which the agency said, were temporary and designed to stop the spread of the coronavirus, essentially block all land border crossings.

However, citizens have fled the former Soviet bloc country since Alexander Lukashenko was declared the winner of a disputed presidential election last August and mass protests over election rigging were met with a severe crackdown, reported DW News.

It further reported that 'fearing' the prospect of a mass exodus of medical and IT experts, the government in Minsk began making it more difficult for citizens to leave the country last December, by limiting departures to those Belarus citizens, who could present long-term residency permits from abroad.

The new rules now forbid the holders of such documents from leaving as well. Those who can prove that they have permanent resident status in another country will be permitted to travel abroad.

While Opposition slammed the Alexander Lukashenko-led government and termed the rules 'violation of the law.'

Valery Kavaleuski, a representative for Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, took to Twitter to express his outrage, calling the move an 'outright violation of the law'.&nbsp;

Air travel to and from the country has also come to a virtual standstill in the wake of last week's government-ordered diversion of a Ryanair flight en route from Greece to Lithuania.

The commercial jet was forced to land under false pretenses so that Belarus authorities could arrest blogger and Lukashenko critic Raman Pratasevich. The move outraged the world with the EU blocking most flights to and over Belarus.

Score of people across Europe has been demonstrating against the 'illegle' detention of the journalist.

Belarus' border security agency has announced a severe tightening of already strict rules limiting citizens' ability to exit the country to curb the spread of the COVID-19.

Belarus' border security agency has announced a severe tightening of already strict rules limiting citizens' ability to exit the country to curb the spread of the COVID-19. The changes, which the agency said, were temporary and designed to stop the spread of the coronavirus, essentially block all land border crossings. However, citizens have fled the former Soviet bloc country since Alexander Lukashenko was declared the winner of a disputed presidential election last August and mass protests over election rigging were met with a severe crackdown, reported DW News. It further reported that 'fearing' the prospect of a mass exodus of medical and IT experts, the government in Minsk began making it more difficult for citizens to leave the country last December, by limiting departures to those Belarus citizens, who could present long-term residency permits from abroad. The new rules now forbid the holders of such documents from leaving as well. Those who can prove that they have permanent resident status in another country will be permitted to travel abroad. While Opposition slammed the Alexander Lukashenko-led government and termed the rules 'violation of the law.' Valery Kavaleuski, a representative for Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, took to Twitter to express his outrage, calling the move an 'outright violation of the law'. Air travel to and from the country has also come to a virtual standstill in the wake of last week's government-ordered diversion of a Ryanair flight en route from Greece to Lithuania. The commercial jet was forced to land under false pretenses so that Belarus authorities could arrest blogger and Lukashenko critic Raman Pratasevich. The move outraged the world with the EU blocking most flights to and over Belarus. Score of people across Europe has been demonstrating against the 'illegle' detention of the journalist.

Belarus imposes new rules restricting citizens from leaving country

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;

The latest survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency on Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of virus infections.&nbsp;

The surge has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout.&nbsp;

The weekend survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement.&nbsp;

Those figures are up from 35 per cent, who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent, who wanted a further delay.&nbsp;

Only 14 per cent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 per cent, according to the poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls.&nbsp;

If the Games do go ahead, 59 per cent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 per cent backing lower fan numbers and three per cent a regular capacity Games.&nbsp;

For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer.&nbsp;

A separate poll by Kyodo News published on Sunday showed 59.7 per cent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option.&nbsp;

Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe.&nbsp;

But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus.&nbsp;

Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner".&nbsp;

"We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services.&nbsp;

Japan has seen a smaller virus outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for a comparatively slow vaccine rollout.&nbsp;

The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games. The latest survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency on Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of virus infections. The surge has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout. The weekend survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement. Those figures are up from 35 per cent, who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent, who wanted a further delay. Only 14 per cent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 per cent, according to the poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls. If the Games do go ahead, 59 per cent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 per cent backing lower fan numbers and three per cent a regular capacity Games. For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer. A separate poll by Kyodo News published on Sunday showed 59.7 per cent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option. Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe. But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus. Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner". "We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services. Japan has seen a smaller virus outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for a comparatively slow vaccine rollout. The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 80 per cent Japanese oppose Olympics this summer: Poll 

As a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic rips through the country, the government on Monday said it is time people start wearing masks inside their homes as well, and refrain from inviting guests.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul said if there is a COVID-positive person inside the house, he or she must wear the mask so as to prevent other family members from getting infected.&nbsp;

"Rather, I'll say that the time has come that we start wearing masks even otherwise inside our homes. We used to talk about wearing it outside homes, but the way, the infection has spread, it will be better if we wear mask inside our homes if we are sitting with someone," he said. &nbsp;

"But, definitely, if there is a COVID-19 positive person, that person must wear the mask and others inside the house also must wear a mask and the positive person should be kept in a different room," Paul underlined.&nbsp;

He added that people should also avoid stepping out of their home unnecessarily and not invite guests at home. &nbsp;

He also suggested if the house lacks such facilities for isolation, then people may go to isolation centres, known as corona care centres.&nbsp;

Getting admitted to a hospital is not the only option, Paul said. "Hospital beds are used for the needy people."&nbsp;

Highlighting the importance of vaccination, Paul said, "We cannot let the pace of COVID-19 vaccination decline or slacken in the face of the emerging situation. In fact, it should be escalated and with that intent the government of India brought a revised (vaccination) policy. We believe and are confident that will bring in more acceleration," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic rips through the country, the government on Monday said it is time people start wearing masks inside their homes as well, and refrain from inviting guests.

As a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic rips through the country, the government on Monday said it is time people start wearing masks inside their homes as well, and refrain from inviting guests. Addressing a press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul said if there is a COVID-positive person inside the house, he or she must wear the mask so as to prevent other family members from getting infected. "Rather, I'll say that the time has come that we start wearing masks even otherwise inside our homes. We used to talk about wearing it outside homes, but the way, the infection has spread, it will be better if we wear mask inside our homes if we are sitting with someone," he said. "But, definitely, if there is a COVID-19 positive person, that person must wear the mask and others inside the house also must wear a mask and the positive person should be kept in a different room," Paul underlined. He added that people should also avoid stepping out of their home unnecessarily and not invite guests at home. He also suggested if the house lacks such facilities for isolation, then people may go to isolation centres, known as corona care centres. Getting admitted to a hospital is not the only option, Paul said. "Hospital beds are used for the needy people." Highlighting the importance of vaccination, Paul said, "We cannot let the pace of COVID-19 vaccination decline or slacken in the face of the emerging situation. In fact, it should be escalated and with that intent the government of India brought a revised (vaccination) policy. We believe and are confident that will bring in more acceleration," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Mask up even inside homes: Govt tells citizens amid surge in COVID-19 cases

Multiple governments across the world have started evacuating their citizens from China. Around 16 countries have now reported case of the virus and pressure is mounting on the World Health Organization to declare this a global health emergency.

WHO under pressure to declare Health Emergency

From budgeting for rural weddings to dressing appropriately and avoiding online porn, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lodges-stern-representations-with-australia-over-human-rights-comment-258810">China's</a> Communist Party has issued new guidelines to improve the "moral quality" of its citizens.

Officials have released several sets of guidelines this week alongside a secretive conclave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-downplays-solomon-island-lease-debacle-tells-us-to-stay-out-258765">high-ranking officials in Beijing</a> which discusses the country's future direction.

On Sunday the government published its "Outline for the Implementation of Citizen Moral Construction in the New Era",&nbsp;which advises readers how to use the internet, raise children, celebrate public holidays and behave while travelling abroad.

The guidelines from the Central Commission for Guiding Cultural and Ethical Progress calls for building "Chinese spirit, Chinese values, and Chinese power".

The texts urge citizens to avoid pornography and vulgarity online and follow correct etiquette when raising the flag or singing the national anthem.

Public institutions like libraries and youth centres must carry out "targeted moral education" to improve people's ideological awareness and moral standards, according to the rules.

The guideline also stresses patriotism and loyalty to the motherland.

"People who have a servile attitude to foreign countries, damage national dignity and sell national interests must be disciplined according to the law," it says.

'Bad customs'

A separate set of behavioural guidelines published this week targeted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-members-split-on-chinas-uighur-rights-record-258772">China's rural areas</a>, and urged local governments to weed out "bad customs".

These included abuse of the elderly as well as the practice of extravagant weddings and funerals, according to Zhang Zhiyong, an official from the commission.

Zhang said the most important thing for "rural civility" is the construction and improvement of ideology and morality.

"We must strengthen marital education for young people, and put to full use the Communist Youth League, women's federations, and other group organisations," said Zhang.

State broadcaster CCTV said that the custom to spend a lot on&nbsp;weddings and provide a house and gifts for a new bride,&nbsp;often beyond the means or poorer rural families,&nbsp;was "putting pressure on unmarried males".

China's decades-long one-child policy has resulted in a massive gender gap, and Beijing is anxious about the potential social impact of millions of unmarried men in the countryside.

Zhang called for official organisations to be more closely involved in the lives of rural villagers.

The rules were published as Beijing holds The Fourth Plenum of the Party's Central Committee, a closed-door meeting of high-ranking officials where the country's roadmap and future direction is discussed.

Beijing produced a list of 58 national "moral models" who exemplify patriotism and "lofty morality" for the celebration of China's 70th national holiday on October 1.

The latest round of moral guidelines update an earlier set published in 2001.

"Money-worship, hedonism, and extreme individualism have grown," according to the 2001 guidelines.&nbsp;

Eighteen years later, the refreshed guidelines listed the same offences, and described them as "still outstanding".

From budgeting for rural weddings to dressing appropriately and avoiding online porn, China's Communist Party has issued new guidelines to improve the "moral quality" of its citizens.

From budgeting for rural weddings to dressing appropriately and avoiding online porn, China's Communist Party has issued new guidelines to improve the "moral quality" of its citizens. Officials have released several sets of guidelines this week alongside a secretive conclave of high-ranking officials in Beijing which discusses the country's future direction. On Sunday the government published its "Outline for the Implementation of Citizen Moral Construction in the New Era", which advises readers how to use the internet, raise children, celebrate public holidays and behave while travelling abroad. The guidelines from the Central Commission for Guiding Cultural and Ethical Progress calls for building "Chinese spirit, Chinese values, and Chinese power". The texts urge citizens to avoid pornography and vulgarity online and follow correct etiquette when raising the flag or singing the national anthem. Public institutions like libraries and youth centres must carry out "targeted moral education" to improve people's ideological awareness and moral standards, according to the rules. The guideline also stresses patriotism and loyalty to the motherland. "People who have a servile attitude to foreign countries, damage national dignity and sell national interests must be disciplined according to the law," it says. 'Bad customs' A separate set of behavioural guidelines published this week targeted China's rural areas, and urged local governments to weed out "bad customs". These included abuse of the elderly as well as the practice of extravagant weddings and funerals, according to Zhang Zhiyong, an official from the commission. Zhang said the most important thing for "rural civility" is the construction and improvement of ideology and morality. "We must strengthen marital education for young people, and put to full use the Communist Youth League, women's federations, and other group organisations," said Zhang. State broadcaster CCTV said that the custom to spend a lot on weddings and provide a house and gifts for a new bride, often beyond the means or poorer rural families, was "putting pressure on unmarried males". China's decades-long one-child policy has resulted in a massive gender gap, and Beijing is anxious about the potential social impact of millions of unmarried men in the countryside. Zhang called for official organisations to be more closely involved in the lives of rural villagers. The rules were published as Beijing holds The Fourth Plenum of the Party's Central Committee, a closed-door meeting of high-ranking officials where the country's roadmap and future direction is discussed. Beijing produced a list of 58 national "moral models" who exemplify patriotism and "lofty morality" for the celebration of China's 70th national holiday on October 1. The latest round of moral guidelines update an earlier set published in 2001. "Money-worship, hedonism, and extreme individualism have grown," according to the 2001 guidelines. Eighteen years later, the refreshed guidelines listed the same offences, and described them as "still outstanding".

Avoid porn, dress appropriately and be patriotic: China pushes for higher 'moral quality' in citizens

Bahrain's king, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reinstated nationality to 551 people stripped of their citizenship by courts in the Gulf Arab state, state news agency BNA said on Sunday.

Since a 2011 uprising, Bahrain, which hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, has prosecuted hundreds of protesters in mass trials, banned the main opposition groups and revoked citizenship from hundreds of nationals.

Most of the leading opposition figures and rights activists are imprisoned or have fled abroad.

The Britain-based activist group the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy has said Bahrain has stripped a total of 990 people of their citizenship since 2012.

A Bahraini court on Tuesday stripped 138 people of their nationality in connection with terrorism charges, in a move criticised by the United Nations.

The BNA statement did not specify which 551 people had their citizenship restored, or which trials they were involved in.

Bahrain's king, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reinstated nationality to 551 people stripped of their citizenship by courts in the Gulf Arab state, state news agency BNA said on Sunday.

Bahrain's king, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reinstated nationality to 551 people stripped of their citizenship by courts in the Gulf Arab state, state news agency BNA said on Sunday. Since a 2011 uprising, Bahrain, which hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, has prosecuted hundreds of protesters in mass trials, banned the main opposition groups and revoked citizenship from hundreds of nationals. Most of the leading opposition figures and rights activists are imprisoned or have fled abroad. The Britain-based activist group the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy has said Bahrain has stripped a total of 990 people of their citizenship since 2012. A Bahraini court on Tuesday stripped 138 people of their nationality in connection with terrorism charges, in a move criticised by the United Nations. The BNA statement did not specify which 551 people had their citizenship restored, or which trials they were involved in.

Bahrain king reinstates nationality to 551 citizens tried in courts

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pak-saudi-arabia-sri-lanka-in-european-commission-blacklist-for-terror-financing-money-laundering-197258">travel to Pakistan</a> mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country.

The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

"Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory.

It asked Americans not to travel to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-dissatisfied-over-pakistans-efforts-to-combat-terror-financing-report-172508"> Balochistan province and Khyber</a> Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities.

Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years.

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said.

Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area.

"The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.&nbsp;

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan. "Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory. It asked Americans not to travel to Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities. Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said. Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area. "The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.

US urges citizens to 'reconsider' travelling to Pakistan due to terrorism

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Tuesday signed a temporary decree making it easier for Brazilians to buy guns, delivering on a campaign promise to overturn strict regulations in a country suffering from a record wave of murders. 
&nbsp; 
Bolsonaro won the presidency by running on a far-right, law-and-order platform, and often delighted supporters at a campaign stop with his signature "guns up" hand gesture. His maverick presidential run energized a base of rural landowners, Christian conservatives and free-market hawks who yearned for a tougher response to years of rising violence and political graft.

The temporary decree, which will expire in 120 days unless ratified by Congress, is likely to thrill his supporters, but many others fear it will only worsen violence in Brazil. The country suffered a record 64,000 murders in 2017, the most in the world. Nearly 45,000 of those homicides involved firearms. 
&nbsp; 
A former paratrooper who took office on Jan. 1, Bolsonaro eventually wants to overturn a 2003 law that effectively banned the civilian purchase of guns.&nbsp;

"To guarantee citizens their legitimate right to defense, I, as president, will use this weapon," Bolsonaro said, holding up the pen he used to sign the decree. 
&nbsp; 
Onyx Lorenzoni, Bolsonaro`s chief of staff, said the government was considering lower taxes on guns and opening up Brazil`s small arms market to foreign firms. The thornier question of granting more permits for citizens to carry guns outside of their home or personal business is also under study.&nbsp;

Shares of domestic gunmaker Taurus Armas SA, which has a dominant share of the Brazilian market, dropped 16 per cent in late trading on Tuesday, as investors took profits.

&nbsp;The stock has more than tripled in the last 12 months as Bolsonaro was elected promising to loosen gun controls.

Gun laws toughened considerably under former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who in 2003 signed sweeping measures that prevented ordinary citizens from carrying guns. The law mandated background checks for gun purchases and gave federal police the right to reject applications for gun ownership for any reason.&nbsp;

However, Lula`s attempts to deepen gun control foundered in a 2005 referendum, when about 65 per cent of Brazilians voted against a proposal to completely ban gun sales.&nbsp;

ENDING POLICE DISCRETION

Bolsonaro`s executive order will remove the "discretionary" role that police have in approving civilians` requests to buy guns. He has said decisions about who can carry weapons are subjective.

The measure will apply to people living in the countryside, those residing in urban areas where the homicide rate is above 10 deaths per 100,000 people, and to "collectors and hunters."

Brazilians will be allowed to keep up to four guns in their homes or offices, though that number could rise on a case-by-case basis. Any home with a child, or someone suffering from certain mental illnesses, must store the weapons in a safe.&nbsp;

Federal Police data shows that just over 646,000 legally-purchased arms are in circulation in Brazil. About half of those weapons are registered to private citizens. The rest is held by security personnel.

Accurate data on how many illegal firearms are in Brazil is hard to come by, but previous studies from the Justice Ministry suggest nearly 8 million guns are in the country illegally.

Brazil`s heavily armed drug gangs and paramilitary militias easily get weapons smuggled over the country`s porous borders. Gangs in Rio de Janeiro almost exclusively carry Glock weapons and have obtained an array of AR rifles that come from US and European manufacturers. 
&nbsp; 
Lorenzoni said the decree restored the right of citizens to have a weapon for their legitimate defense.

"Studies show that the better armed the population is the less violence there will be," Lorenzoni told the GloboNews cable channel. He said armed robberies of homes had increased because thieves knew residents could not defend themselves.

Robert Muggah, director of research at the Rio-based Igarape Institute, a security and development think tank, said that was not true.&nbsp;

"There is no hard evidence that loosening access to firearms improves public safety or security," he said. "By contrast, there is considerable evidence that responsible regulations are associated with reductions in a gun-related homicide of civilians and police officers alike." 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Tuesday signed a temporary decree making it easier for Brazilians to buy guns, delivering on a campaign promise to overturn strict regulations in a country suffering from a record wave of murders.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Tuesday signed a temporary decree making it easier for Brazilians to buy guns, delivering on a campaign promise to overturn strict regulations in a country suffering from a record wave of murders. Bolsonaro won the presidency by running on a far-right, law-and-order platform, and often delighted supporters at a campaign stop with his signature "guns up" hand gesture. His maverick presidential run energized a base of rural landowners, Christian conservatives and free-market hawks who yearned for a tougher response to years of rising violence and political graft. The temporary decree, which will expire in 120 days unless ratified by Congress, is likely to thrill his supporters, but many others fear it will only worsen violence in Brazil. The country suffered a record 64,000 murders in 2017, the most in the world. Nearly 45,000 of those homicides involved firearms. A former paratrooper who took office on Jan. 1, Bolsonaro eventually wants to overturn a 2003 law that effectively banned the civilian purchase of guns. "To guarantee citizens their legitimate right to defense, I, as president, will use this weapon," Bolsonaro said, holding up the pen he used to sign the decree. Onyx Lorenzoni, Bolsonaro`s chief of staff, said the government was considering lower taxes on guns and opening up Brazil`s small arms market to foreign firms. The thornier question of granting more permits for citizens to carry guns outside of their home or personal business is also under study. Shares of domestic gunmaker Taurus Armas SA, which has a dominant share of the Brazilian market, dropped 16 per cent in late trading on Tuesday, as investors took profits. The stock has more than tripled in the last 12 months as Bolsonaro was elected promising to loosen gun controls. Gun laws toughened considerably under former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who in 2003 signed sweeping measures that prevented ordinary citizens from carrying guns. The law mandated background checks for gun purchases and gave federal police the right to reject applications for gun ownership for any reason. However, Lula`s attempts to deepen gun control foundered in a 2005 referendum, when about 65 per cent of Brazilians voted against a proposal to completely ban gun sales. ENDING POLICE DISCRETION Bolsonaro`s executive order will remove the "discretionary" role that police have in approving civilians` requests to buy guns. He has said decisions about who can carry weapons are subjective. The measure will apply to people living in the countryside, those residing in urban areas where the homicide rate is above 10 deaths per 100,000 people, and to "collectors and hunters." Brazilians will be allowed to keep up to four guns in their homes or offices, though that number could rise on a case-by-case basis. Any home with a child, or someone suffering from certain mental illnesses, must store the weapons in a safe. Federal Police data shows that just over 646,000 legally-purchased arms are in circulation in Brazil. About half of those weapons are registered to private citizens. The rest is held by security personnel. Accurate data on how many illegal firearms are in Brazil is hard to come by, but previous studies from the Justice Ministry suggest nearly 8 million guns are in the country illegally. Brazil`s heavily armed drug gangs and paramilitary militias easily get weapons smuggled over the country`s porous borders. Gangs in Rio de Janeiro almost exclusively carry Glock weapons and have obtained an array of AR rifles that come from US and European manufacturers. Lorenzoni said the decree restored the right of citizens to have a weapon for their legitimate defense. "Studies show that the better armed the population is the less violence there will be," Lorenzoni told the GloboNews cable channel. He said armed robberies of homes had increased because thieves knew residents could not defend themselves. Robert Muggah, director of research at the Rio-based Igarape Institute, a security and development think tank, said that was not true. "There is no hard evidence that loosening access to firearms improves public safety or security," he said. "By contrast, there is considerable evidence that responsible regulations are associated with reductions in a gun-related homicide of civilians and police officers alike."

Bolsonaro loosens gun laws in murder-ridden Brazil

&nbsp;Colombian authorities evacuated a camp that housed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/major-migration-flows-in-the-last-decade-182125">Venezuelan</a> immigrants in the capital of Bogota on Tuesday, dismantling a temporary shelter even as the flow of refugees from the crisis-stricken neighbouring nation is expected to continue unabated.

Yellow tents that once housed families were piled into a corner of the football pitch that in November was turned into a temporary shelter for some 600 Venezuelan migrants who had previously been sleeping outside the city`s main bus terminal.&nbsp;

Carmen Nunez, who turned 58 on Tuesday, cried in front of authorities because she had no idea where to go now.

"Should I go to the street?" she said, with her walking stick in hand. "I have no money, but I want to go back to Venezuela, at least there I will have a place to stay."

She was offered transportation to the city of Cucuta on the Venezuelan border&nbsp;but does not have money to return to her home on the Venezuelan coast. Other migrants stood outside the tightly policed camp entrance with their belongings.

From the outset, Jan. 15 had been set as the camp`s closure date, partly in response to pressure from Colombians over the growing presence of migrants.&nbsp;

The United Nations says some 3 million people have left Venezuela since 2015, seeking an escape from a hyperinflationary economic collapse that has put basic food and medicine beyond the reach of most citizens.&nbsp;

Another 2 million are likely to emigrate in 2019, it estimates. The vast majority travel by land to Colombia, some on foot, though many continue on to other parts of South America.&nbsp;

Cristina Velez, Bogota`s Secretary of Social Integration, said in a press conference that the city did not plan to open any more shelters unless there were extraordinary circumstances that warranted doing so.

"I have no idea what we`re going to do," said Junior Palacios, 23, from Caracas, who was sitting outside of the evacuated camp with four friends.&nbsp;

"I don`t want to go back (to Venezuela). It`s a question of moving forward and building a life here somehow."

Colombian authorities evacuated a camp that housed Venezuelan immigrants in the capital of Bogota on Tuesday, dismantling a temporary shelter even as the flow of refugees from the crisis-stricken neighbouring nation is expected to continue unabated.

Colombian authorities evacuated a camp that housed Venezuelan immigrants in the capital of Bogota on Tuesday, dismantling a temporary shelter even as the flow of refugees from the crisis-stricken neighbouring nation is expected to continue unabated. Yellow tents that once housed families were piled into a corner of the football pitch that in November was turned into a temporary shelter for some 600 Venezuelan migrants who had previously been sleeping outside the city`s main bus terminal. Carmen Nunez, who turned 58 on Tuesday, cried in front of authorities because she had no idea where to go now. "Should I go to the street?" she said, with her walking stick in hand. "I have no money, but I want to go back to Venezuela, at least there I will have a place to stay." She was offered transportation to the city of Cucuta on the Venezuelan border but does not have money to return to her home on the Venezuelan coast. Other migrants stood outside the tightly policed camp entrance with their belongings. From the outset, Jan. 15 had been set as the camp`s closure date, partly in response to pressure from Colombians over the growing presence of migrants. The United Nations says some 3 million people have left Venezuela since 2015, seeking an escape from a hyperinflationary economic collapse that has put basic food and medicine beyond the reach of most citizens. Another 2 million are likely to emigrate in 2019, it estimates. The vast majority travel by land to Colombia, some on foot, though many continue on to other parts of South America. Cristina Velez, Bogota`s Secretary of Social Integration, said in a press conference that the city did not plan to open any more shelters unless there were extraordinary circumstances that warranted doing so. "I have no idea what we`re going to do," said Junior Palacios, 23, from Caracas, who was sitting outside of the evacuated camp with four friends. "I don`t want to go back (to Venezuela). It`s a question of moving forward and building a life here somehow."

Colombia clears migrant camp as Venezuela exodus continues

A majority of localities in Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla are facing a water supply crisis, getting potable water only once a week.

Several localities of the town remained bereft of the water supply for the eight consecutive days. The residents, including children, spent the day standing in the queue for the water tankers to fill their buckets and empty containers for meeting their basic minimum household needs.

Reeling under severe water crisis, Shimla witnessed midnight protests of angry men and women marching towards Chief Minister’s residence even as the day was also marked by mass dharnas, street sloganeering and lawyers’ resorting to boycott of the courts' proceedings.

Planned by the British for a maximum of 16,000 populace, the 'Queen of Hills' now houses nearly 200,000, requiring 42 million litres per day (MLD) of water.

Officials say the city is getting 23 MLD on an average every day.

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Himachal: Parts of Shimla, including Bharari, Kanlog, Totu, 
Mehli, Sanjauli, Dhalli & Bhattakufer are facing water crisis. Locals say 'We're facing lot of problem. How will we send our children to school? We're getting water after 6 days. Where is all the water going?'(27.05.18) <a href="https://t.co/w60pPUrJtr">pic.twitter.com/w60pPUrJtr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1000836271118299136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The water scarcity has not only caused serious problems in the government and private hospitals. The hostels of local educational institutions and schools are still without water, though they were supplied water through tankers.

Planned by the British for a maximum of 16,000 populace, the 'Queen of Hills' now houses nearly 200,000, requiring 42 million litres per day (MLD) of water.

A majority of localities in Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla are facing a water supply crisis, getting potable water only once a week. Several localities of the town remained bereft of the water supply for the eight consecutive days. The residents, including children, spent the day standing in the queue for the water tankers to fill their buckets and empty containers for meeting their basic minimum household needs. Reeling under severe water crisis, Shimla witnessed midnight protests of angry men and women marching towards Chief Minister’s residence even as the day was also marked by mass dharnas, street sloganeering and lawyers’ resorting to boycott of the courts' proceedings. Planned by the British for a maximum of 16,000 populace, the 'Queen of Hills' now houses nearly 200,000, requiring 42 million litres per day (MLD) of water. Officials say the city is getting 23 MLD on an average every day. Himachal: Parts of Shimla, including Bharari, Kanlog, Totu, Mehli, Sanjauli, Dhalli & Bhattakufer are facing water crisis. Locals say 'We're facing lot of problem. How will we send our children to school? We're getting water after 6 days. Where is all the water going?'(27.05.18) pic.twitter.com/w60pPUrJtr — ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2018 × The water scarcity has not only caused serious problems in the government and private hospitals. The hostels of local educational institutions and schools are still without water, though they were supplied water through tankers.

Citizens left high and dry as water cut continues in Shimla 

In recent years, offering citizenship or permanent residencies has grown to become a lucrative business opportunity for countries. With more and more countries joining the list of those that offer immediate citizenship, people have a chance at moving beyond borders, more than a tourist.

Here is a list of countries that sell their citizenship, if you have the money to buy it:

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Countries and their citizenship program (Table) (WION)
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<ul>
	<li>Bulgaria</li>
</ul>

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A pedestrian walks past a puddle near a tree decorated with Christmas lights in Sofia, Bulgaria (AFP)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 153 countries 
The country ties up your cash for 5 years interest free. It will take two years to get the passport and you will be required to visit Bulgaria twice. Residence is granted only after a clean background check. Bulgaria is only one of two countries where the principal amount can be returned to you.

<ul>
	<li>Hungary</li>
</ul>

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Sz&eacute;chenyi Chain Bridge, Budapest, Hungary (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 152 countries 
It has one of the fastest application processes, which can be completed within 30 days. It is a guaranteed investment plan that can be returned after 5 years. The passport gives free movement throughout Europe&#39;s Schengen zone.

<ul>
	<li>St. Lucia</li>
</ul>

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St Lucia, Caribbean Island (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 121 countries and 180 days in the Schengen area 
Instead of paying the amount, you could also invest $550,000 and get a passport immediately. The capital will be returned in 5 years. &nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Cyprus</li>
</ul>

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Paphos castle at night in Cyprus (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 166 countries 
Cyprus is the third smallest nation in the European Union. It started its citizenship program after the country faced a severe economic recession in 2013.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Dominica</li>
</ul>

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Typical landscape near the sea along the eastern coast of Dominica (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 91 countries 
It is the least expensive of all the passports in this list.

<ul>
	<li>Antigua and Barbuda</li>
</ul>

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Antigua, Carlisle Bay, Caribbean (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 132 countries

<ul>
	<li>St. Kitts and Nevis</li>
</ul>

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View of St. Kitts from a ship on the coast (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 132 countries, which includes Brazil as the latest addition 
St. Kitts and Nevis recorded the highest number of passport sales in the last year. Just pay the money or invest in property and you will be given a passport without even a visit.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Grenada</li>
</ul>

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Grenada (Others)
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Allows: Visa-free travel to 110 countries 
It is the second passport on this list apart from St. Kitts that is not necessarily on everyone&rsquo;s radar and where transaction can be completed in private.

In many nations, foreigners can now purchase citizenship legitimately in return for an investment. There are, however, two forms of residency programs - one that is immediate and one that entails &ldquo;staying for a minimum period of time.&rdquo;&nbsp;The recent spurt&nbsp;in the number of applications&nbsp;for residency in&nbsp;these countries has&nbsp;proven that people are increasingly&nbsp;keen to move and experience a new life in places that might be far removed from their countries of birth. This works well for these host countries too, as the influx of foreign money helps build their infrastructure and economies.&nbsp;

(Contributed by: Zeba Khan)

Writing one cheque can give you a new identity and visa-free travel to more than 100 countries around the world

In recent years, offering citizenship or permanent residencies has grown to become a lucrative business opportunity for countries. With more and more countries joining the list of those that offer immediate citizenship, people have a chance at moving beyond borders, more than a tourist. Here is a list of countries that sell their citizenship, if you have the money to buy it: Countries and their citizenship program (Table) (WION) × Bulgaria A pedestrian walks past a puddle near a tree decorated with Christmas lights in Sofia, Bulgaria (AFP) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 153 countries The country ties up your cash for 5 years interest free. It will take two years to get the passport and you will be required to visit Bulgaria twice. Residence is granted only after a clean background check. Bulgaria is only one of two countries where the principal amount can be returned to you. Hungary Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Budapest, Hungary (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 152 countries It has one of the fastest application processes, which can be completed within 30 days. It is a guaranteed investment plan that can be returned after 5 years. The passport gives free movement throughout Europe's Schengen zone. St. Lucia St Lucia, Caribbean Island (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 121 countries and 180 days in the Schengen area Instead of paying the amount, you could also invest $550,000 and get a passport immediately. The capital will be returned in 5 years. Cyprus Paphos castle at night in Cyprus (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 166 countries Cyprus is the third smallest nation in the European Union. It started its citizenship program after the country faced a severe economic recession in 2013. Dominica Typical landscape near the sea along the eastern coast of Dominica (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 91 countries It is the least expensive of all the passports in this list. Antigua and Barbuda Antigua, Carlisle Bay, Caribbean (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 132 countries St. Kitts and Nevis View of St. Kitts from a ship on the coast (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 132 countries, which includes Brazil as the latest addition St. Kitts and Nevis recorded the highest number of passport sales in the last year. Just pay the money or invest in property and you will be given a passport without even a visit. Grenada Grenada (Others) × Allows: Visa-free travel to 110 countries It is the second passport on this list apart from St. Kitts that is not necessarily on everyone’s radar and where transaction can be completed in private. In many nations, foreigners can now purchase citizenship legitimately in return for an investment. There are, however, two forms of residency programs - one that is immediate and one that entails “staying for a minimum period of time.” The recent spurt in the number of applications for residency in these countries has proven that people are increasingly keen to move and experience a new life in places that might be far removed from their countries of birth. This works well for these host countries too, as the influx of foreign money helps build their infrastructure and economies. (Contributed by: Zeba Khan)

These 8 countries sell their citizenship. Any takers?

South African President Jacob Zuma on Sunday urged supporters to vote for the ruling African National Congress (ANC) ahead of fiercely competitive municipal polls that could see the party lose control of several major cities. 
 
Zuma&#39;s ANC, which now controls the majority of the country&#39;s 278 municipalities, has been weakened by graft scandals and growing public discontent since it led the fight against white-minority rule. 
 
At a massive final rally, the party made a last push for votes, stressing its anti-apartheid history and past accomplishments. 
 
&quot;Millions of our people must vote ANC and enable their movement to continue improving the lives of our people,&quot; Zuma told a packed Ellis Park Stadium in the Johannesburg city centre. 
 
&quot;Every vote counts.&quot; 
 
An estimated 55,000 supporters decked in the ANC&#39;s green, yellow and black filled the stands for the extravagant rally in a campaign the party said had cost it R1 billion ($72 million). 
 
&quot;We have walked the streets of this country, we have visited every town, every city. We have been to thousands of homes,&quot; said Zuma. 
 
The latest Ipsos opinion polls suggest that the ANC, which has ruled since the end of apartheid in 1994, could be under threat in three major cities -- Pretoria, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth -- in Wednesday&#39;s election. 
 
The main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), which rules in Cape Town, is hoping for a breakthrough result, citing the country&#39;s poor economic performance and a series of corruption scandals plaguing Zuma. 
 
Last week, South Africa&#39;s highest court ruled that the president pay back $500,000 of public funds spent upgrading his private Nkandla residence with facilities including a chicken coop and a swimming pool. 
 
&quot;A lot of money was wasted there that should have been spent on the people,&quot; Frieda Motlatla, 24, told AFP at Sunday&#39;s rally. 
 
But with her hair wrapped in an ANC turban, she said Zuma&#39;s troubles would not affect her support: &quot;I don&#39;t vote for a person, I for a party.&quot; 
 
&quot;Nkandla is not our business,&quot; agreed Simon Machaka, 42. &quot;Some people will always be dissatisfied. They don&#39;t focus on the good things.&quot; 
 
The radical leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party is also seeking to make a major impact in its first municipal elections. 
 
All three main parties held their final rallies this weekend. 
 
Zuma, 74, will have completed two terms in office in 2019 and is not eligible to run for president again, but the ANC could replace him ahead of the next general election if the party scores poorly in the local polls. 
 
(AFP)

President Jacob Zuma's ANC controls large parts of the country's municipalities, but graft scandals have made him unpopular

South African President Jacob Zuma on Sunday urged supporters to vote for the ruling African National Congress (ANC) ahead of fiercely competitive municipal polls that could see the party lose control of several major cities. Zuma's ANC, which now controls the majority of the country's 278 municipalities, has been weakened by graft scandals and growing public discontent since it led the fight against white-minority rule. At a massive final rally, the party made a last push for votes, stressing its anti-apartheid history and past accomplishments. "Millions of our people must vote ANC and enable their movement to continue improving the lives of our people," Zuma told a packed Ellis Park Stadium in the Johannesburg city centre. "Every vote counts." An estimated 55,000 supporters decked in the ANC's green, yellow and black filled the stands for the extravagant rally in a campaign the party said had cost it R1 billion ($72 million). "We have walked the streets of this country, we have visited every town, every city. We have been to thousands of homes," said Zuma. The latest Ipsos opinion polls suggest that the ANC, which has ruled since the end of apartheid in 1994, could be under threat in three major cities -- Pretoria, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth -- in Wednesday's election. The main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), which rules in Cape Town, is hoping for a breakthrough result, citing the country's poor economic performance and a series of corruption scandals plaguing Zuma. Last week, South Africa's highest court ruled that the president pay back $500,000 of public funds spent upgrading his private Nkandla residence with facilities including a chicken coop and a swimming pool. "A lot of money was wasted there that should have been spent on the people," Frieda Motlatla, 24, told AFP at Sunday's rally. But with her hair wrapped in an ANC turban, she said Zuma's troubles would not affect her support: "I don't vote for a person, I for a party." "Nkandla is not our business," agreed Simon Machaka, 42. "Some people will always be dissatisfied. They don't focus on the good things." The radical leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party is also seeking to make a major impact in its first municipal elections. All three main parties held their final rallies this weekend. Zuma, 74, will have completed two terms in office in 2019 and is not eligible to run for president again, but the ANC could replace him ahead of the next general election if the party scores poorly in the local polls. (AFP)

South African President urges citizens to vote for African National Congress

A protest by Zimbabwean taxi drivers against a police crackdown turned violent on Monday when residents joined in and hurled rocks at police, who fired teargas to disperse the rioters. 
 
In the last month, Zimbabwe has witnessed spontaneous protests against government corruption, shortages of money and government plans to circulate local bank notes as the southern African nation struggles with a drought and a slowing economy. 
 
Zimbabwean taxi drivers, along with owners of taxi firms, accuse police of seeking to raise money for their operations by imposing hefty fines on their vehicles, which they say impacts on their business. 
 
Police spokeswoman Charity Charamba told reporters that anti-riot police had deployed in two townships outside Harare and arrested 30 people in connection with the violence. 
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Police brutality in Harare. Door to door tactic has been adopted now <a href="https://t.co/oX2ho8st8a">pic.twitter.com/oX2ho8st8a</a>
&mdash; Itai Pfungwadzapera (@itaipfungwa1987) <a href="https://twitter.com/itaipfungwa1987/status/749952447444025344">July 4, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="~/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript"></script> 
 
Charamba said &quot;all those who are inciting and engaging in violence that such misconduct will be severely dealt with&quot;. 
 
A Reuters witness said taxi operators teamed up with residents in Epworth township, south of central Harare, to attack police with stones. Police fired teargas, beat up protesters and broke down doors at some houses, saying they were looking for organisers of the protest. 
 
In Mabvuku township, to the east of the capital, police fired teargas as taxi operators blocked roads with stones and burning tyres, taxi driver Aaron Mapani said. 
 
Monday&#39;s clashes come days after residents protested in the border town of Beitbridge, 600 kilometres south of the capital Harare, last Friday against restrictions on imports of basic goods from South Africa. 
 
(Reuters)

Police fired teargas, beat up protesters and broke down doors at some houses, saying they were looking for organisers of the protest

A protest by Zimbabwean taxi drivers against a police crackdown turned violent on Monday when residents joined in and hurled rocks at police, who fired teargas to disperse the rioters. In the last month, Zimbabwe has witnessed spontaneous protests against government corruption, shortages of money and government plans to circulate local bank notes as the southern African nation struggles with a drought and a slowing economy. Zimbabwean taxi drivers, along with owners of taxi firms, accuse police of seeking to raise money for their operations by imposing hefty fines on their vehicles, which they say impacts on their business. Police spokeswoman Charity Charamba told reporters that anti-riot police had deployed in two townships outside Harare and arrested 30 people in connection with the violence. Police brutality in Harare. Door to door tactic has been adopted now pic.twitter.com/oX2ho8st8a — Itai Pfungwadzapera (@itaipfungwa1987) July 4, 2016 Charamba said "all those who are inciting and engaging in violence that such misconduct will be severely dealt with". A Reuters witness said taxi operators teamed up with residents in Epworth township, south of central Harare, to attack police with stones. Police fired teargas, beat up protesters and broke down doors at some houses, saying they were looking for organisers of the protest. In Mabvuku township, to the east of the capital, police fired teargas as taxi operators blocked roads with stones and burning tyres, taxi driver Aaron Mapani said. Monday's clashes come days after residents protested in the border town of Beitbridge, 600 kilometres south of the capital Harare, last Friday against restrictions on imports of basic goods from South Africa. (Reuters)

Zimbabwe protests turn violent as taxi drivers and citizens face off against cops

Syrian refugees living in Turkey could eventually be granted Turkish citizenship, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has signalled, a plan that could spark controversy at home. 
 
&quot;I want to announce some good news,&quot; media quoted Erdogan as saying late Saturday at a dinner to break the Ramadan fast in Kilis province, on the Syrian border. 
 
&quot;We are going to help our Syrian friends in offering them the chance, if they want it, to acquire Turkish nationality.&quot; 
 
The interior ministry will shortly announce how the naturalisation procedure would work, Erdogan said, without giving further details. 
 
&quot;We regard you as our brothers and sisters -- you are not far from your homeland, but only from your homes and your land,&quot; Erdogan told a group of Syrian refugees in Kilis. 
 
&quot;Turkey is also your homeland.&quot; 
 
Turkey is hosting over 2.7-million refugees from the conflict in Syria -- but Ankara has refused to grant them refugee status, referring to them as &quot;guests&quot;. 
 
Only a select group of Syrians have been granted work permits and residency. 
 
Life is a struggle for most Syrians in Turkey who live mostly off odd jobs that are often insufficient to feed and house a family. 
 
Erdogan&#39;s announcement sparked debate on social media, with many Turkish web users questioning whether it was a good idea. 
 
&quot;Granting citizenship shouldn&#39;t depend on what one person wants. We need a referendum!&quot; wrote Mahomet Mahomet on Twitter. 
 
Other critics suggested the move might be a bid by Erdogan to register an army of thankful Syrian voters who might back his plans to boost his presidential powers. 
 
(AFP)

The Turkish president referred to Syrians as 'brothers and sisters' but Ankara, who hasn't granted them refugee status, calls them 'guests'

Syrian refugees living in Turkey could eventually be granted Turkish citizenship, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has signalled, a plan that could spark controversy at home. "I want to announce some good news," media quoted Erdogan as saying late Saturday at a dinner to break the Ramadan fast in Kilis province, on the Syrian border. "We are going to help our Syrian friends in offering them the chance, if they want it, to acquire Turkish nationality." The interior ministry will shortly announce how the naturalisation procedure would work, Erdogan said, without giving further details. "We regard you as our brothers and sisters -- you are not far from your homeland, but only from your homes and your land," Erdogan told a group of Syrian refugees in Kilis. "Turkey is also your homeland." Turkey is hosting over 2.7-million refugees from the conflict in Syria -- but Ankara has refused to grant them refugee status, referring to them as "guests". Only a select group of Syrians have been granted work permits and residency. Life is a struggle for most Syrians in Turkey who live mostly off odd jobs that are often insufficient to feed and house a family. Erdogan's announcement sparked debate on social media, with many Turkish web users questioning whether it was a good idea. "Granting citizenship shouldn't depend on what one person wants. We need a referendum!" wrote Mahomet Mahomet on Twitter. Other critics suggested the move might be a bid by Erdogan to register an army of thankful Syrian voters who might back his plans to boost his presidential powers. (AFP)

Syrian refugees could become Turkish citizens: Erdogan

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