The global coronavirus pandemic has inflicted an economic crisis unlike any in the past century and will require a massive response to ensure recovery, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said Thursday.

The warnings about the damage inflicted by the virus already were stark, but Georgieva said the world should brace for "the worst economic fallout since the Great Depression." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cautiously-optimistic-as-coronavirus-curve-appears-to-flatten-291657">Also read |&nbsp;US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten</a>

With nearly 89,000 deaths in 192 countries and territories and the number of cases now surpassing 1.5 million worldwide, much of the global economy has been shut down to contain the spread of the virus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-covid-meet-ends-with-no-concrete-outcomes-291658">Also read |&nbsp;UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes</a>

The International Monetary Fund expects "global growth will turn sharply negative in 2020," with 170 of the fund's 180 members experiencing a decline in per capita income, Georgieva said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655">Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

Just a few months ago, the fund was expecting 160 countries to see rising per capita income, she said in a speech previewing next week's spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank, which will be held virtually due to the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19.

'It could get worse'

Even in the best-case scenario, the IMF expects only a "partial recovery" next year, assuming the virus fades later in 2020, allowing the normal business to resume as the lockdowns imposed to contain its spread are lifted.

But she added this ominous caution: "It could get worse."

There is "tremendous uncertainty around the outlook" and the duration of the pandemic, Georgieva said.

The IMF will release its latest World Economic Outlook on Tuesday, with grim forecasts for its members this year and next. In January, the IMF projected global growth of 3.3 per cent this year and 3.4 per cent in 2021.&nbsp;

But that was a different world.

The US economy has purged 17 million jobs since mid-March, with the latest weekly data issued Thursday showing 6.6 million workers filed for unemployment benefits, and economists projecting a double-digit jobless rate this month.

The World Bank said Thursday the pandemic might cause the first recession in Africa in 25 years.

Researchers at the Institute for International Finance (IIF), a global banking association, expect a 2.8 per cent plunge in global GDP, compared to a decline of 2.1 per cent in 2009 during the global financial crisis.&nbsp;

That is a sharp reversal from October when the IIF predicted 2.6 per cent growth.

Recovery depends on decisive actions now, Georgieva said. The IMF has $1 trillion in lending capacity and is responding to unprecedented calls from 90 countries for emergency financing.

Send more lifelines

Countries already have taken steps worth a combined $8 trillion, but Georgieva urged governments to do more.

"Lifelines for households and businesses are imperative" to "avoid scarring of the economy that would make the recovery so much more difficult."

The IMF board approved a doubling of emergency lending facilities that will provide about $100 billion, and is moving ahead with debt relief for the poorest countries and also help for countries with unsustainable debt levels.

"The bleak outlook applies to advanced and developing economies alike. This crisis knows no boundaries. Everybody hurts," Georgieva said.

She noted that about $100 billion in investments already had fled emerging markets -- more than three times the capital exodus seen in the 2008 global financial crisis.

US officials have scrambled to apply a tourniquet to stem the bleeding of jobs in the world's largest economy and keep the financial system from freezing up.&nbsp;

The Federal Reserve rolled out another series of lending programs Thursday totalling $2.3 trillion to help small and medium businesses as well as state and local governments facing cash shortages.

The US is moving "with alarming speed" from unemployment near a 50-year low, to a "very high" rate, Fed chair Jerome Powell said in a speech Thursday.

And like Georgieva, he indicated the US government will have to provide more direct support since the Fed is limited to lending to solvent entities.

"All of us are affected, but the burdens are falling most heavily on those least able to carry them," Powell said.

But he also tried to offer some reassurance, saying the US economic rebound could be "robust."&nbsp;

The global coronavirus pandemic has inflicted an economic crisis unlike any in the past century and will require a massive response to ensure recovery, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said Thursday.

The global coronavirus pandemic has inflicted an economic crisis unlike any in the past century and will require a massive response to ensure recovery, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said Thursday. The warnings about the damage inflicted by the virus already were stark, but Georgieva said the world should brace for "the worst economic fallout since the Great Depression." Also read | US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten With nearly 89,000 deaths in 192 countries and territories and the number of cases now surpassing 1.5 million worldwide, much of the global economy has been shut down to contain the spread of the virus. Also read | UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes The International Monetary Fund expects "global growth will turn sharply negative in 2020," with 170 of the fund's 180 members experiencing a decline in per capita income, Georgieva said. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide Just a few months ago, the fund was expecting 160 countries to see rising per capita income, she said in a speech previewing next week's spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank, which will be held virtually due to the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19. 'It could get worse' Even in the best-case scenario, the IMF expects only a "partial recovery" next year, assuming the virus fades later in 2020, allowing the normal business to resume as the lockdowns imposed to contain its spread are lifted. But she added this ominous caution: "It could get worse." There is "tremendous uncertainty around the outlook" and the duration of the pandemic, Georgieva said. The IMF will release its latest World Economic Outlook on Tuesday, with grim forecasts for its members this year and next. In January, the IMF projected global growth of 3.3 per cent this year and 3.4 per cent in 2021. But that was a different world. The US economy has purged 17 million jobs since mid-March, with the latest weekly data issued Thursday showing 6.6 million workers filed for unemployment benefits, and economists projecting a double-digit jobless rate this month. The World Bank said Thursday the pandemic might cause the first recession in Africa in 25 years. Researchers at the Institute for International Finance (IIF), a global banking association, expect a 2.8 per cent plunge in global GDP, compared to a decline of 2.1 per cent in 2009 during the global financial crisis. That is a sharp reversal from October when the IIF predicted 2.6 per cent growth. Recovery depends on decisive actions now, Georgieva said. The IMF has $1 trillion in lending capacity and is responding to unprecedented calls from 90 countries for emergency financing. Send more lifelines Countries already have taken steps worth a combined $8 trillion, but Georgieva urged governments to do more. "Lifelines for households and businesses are imperative" to "avoid scarring of the economy that would make the recovery so much more difficult." The IMF board approved a doubling of emergency lending facilities that will provide about $100 billion, and is moving ahead with debt relief for the poorest countries and also help for countries with unsustainable debt levels. "The bleak outlook applies to advanced and developing economies alike. This crisis knows no boundaries. Everybody hurts," Georgieva said. She noted that about $100 billion in investments already had fled emerging markets -- more than three times the capital exodus seen in the 2008 global financial crisis. US officials have scrambled to apply a tourniquet to stem the bleeding of jobs in the world's largest economy and keep the financial system from freezing up. The Federal Reserve rolled out another series of lending programs Thursday totalling $2.3 trillion to help small and medium businesses as well as state and local governments facing cash shortages. The US is moving "with alarming speed" from unemployment near a 50-year low, to a "very high" rate, Fed chair Jerome Powell said in a speech Thursday. And like Georgieva, he indicated the US government will have to provide more direct support since the Fed is limited to lending to solvent entities. "All of us are affected, but the burdens are falling most heavily on those least able to carry them," Powell said. But he also tried to offer some reassurance, saying the US economic rebound could be "robust."

World faces the worst crisis since 'Great depression': IMF chief

United Nations: The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a "window" into how a bio-terrorist attack might unfold across the world, UN chief Antonio Guterres said, issuing a strong warning that non-state groups could gain access to "virulent strains" that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe.

The Secretary-General listed pressing risks to the world due to the pandemic as he addressed the powerful UN Security Council, which for the first time discussed the coronavirus crisis in a closed video-conference session on Thursday under the Presidency of the Dominican Republic.

Antonio Guterres described the battle against COVID-19 as the "fight of a generation -- and the raison detre of the United Nations itself."

"While the COVID-19 pandemic is first and foremost a health crisis, its implications are much more far-reaching. The pandemic also poses a significant threat to the maintenance of international peace and security -- potentially leading to an increase in social unrest and violence that would greatly undermine our ability to fight the disease," Antonio Guterres said in his briefing to the UNSC.

"The weaknesses and lack of preparedness exposed by this pandemic provide a window onto how a bio-terrorist attack might unfold - and may increase its risks. Non-state groups could gain access to virulent strains that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe," he said.

Voicing strong concern that the threat of terrorism remains alive, Antonio Guterres said, "terrorist groups may see a window of opportunity to strike while the attention of most governments is turned towards the pandemic."

Further, in some conflict settings, the uncertainty created by the pandemic may create incentives for some actors to promote further division and turmoil.

"This could lead to an escalation of violence and possibly devastating miscalculations, which could further entrench ongoing wars and complicate efforts to fight the pandemic," Antonio Guterres said.

According to estimates from Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Resource Centre, there are more than 1.6 million confirmed coronavirus cases across the world and over 95,000 people have died so far from the disease.

The UN chief stressed that the crisis has hindered international, regional and national conflict resolution efforts, exactly when they are needed most.

Another significant risk posed by the pandemic is that it is triggering or exacerbating various human rights challenges and refugees and internally displaced persons are particularly vulnerable.

"We are seeing stigma, hate speech, and white supremacists and other extremists seeking to exploit the situation. We are witnessing discrimination in accessing health services... And there are growing manifestations of authoritarianism, including limits on the media, civic space and freedom of expression" he said.

The coronavirus crisis has unleashed ruinous social and economic impacts, as governments around the world struggle to find the most effective responses to rising unemployment and the economic downturn.

Last month, Antonio Guterres had called for an immediate global ceasefire, urging all warring parties to silence the guns in order to help create conditions for the delivery of aid, open up space for diplomacy and bring hope to places among the most vulnerable to the pandemic.

He said he is encouraged by the support his call for a global ceasefire has received from Heads of State and Government to regional partners, civil society activists, and religious leaders.

"From South America to Africa and from the Middle East to Asia we have seen conflict parties take some initial steps to end violence and fight the pandemic," he said.

Two weeks ago, the UN chief also launched the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, focusing on needs in countries already facing a humanitarian crisis. The Central Emergency Response Fund has allocated USD 75 million and so far the Plan had received USD 396.5 million.

United Nations: The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a "window" into how a bio-terrorist attack might unfold across the world, UN chief Antonio Guterres said, issuing a strong warning that non-state groups could gain access to "virulent strains" that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe.

United Nations: The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a "window" into how a bio-terrorist attack might unfold across the world, UN chief Antonio Guterres said, issuing a strong warning that non-state groups could gain access to "virulent strains" that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe. The Secretary-General listed pressing risks to the world due to the pandemic as he addressed the powerful UN Security Council, which for the first time discussed the coronavirus crisis in a closed video-conference session on Thursday under the Presidency of the Dominican Republic. Antonio Guterres described the battle against COVID-19 as the "fight of a generation -- and the raison detre of the United Nations itself." "While the COVID-19 pandemic is first and foremost a health crisis, its implications are much more far-reaching. The pandemic also poses a significant threat to the maintenance of international peace and security -- potentially leading to an increase in social unrest and violence that would greatly undermine our ability to fight the disease," Antonio Guterres said in his briefing to the UNSC. "The weaknesses and lack of preparedness exposed by this pandemic provide a window onto how a bio-terrorist attack might unfold - and may increase its risks. Non-state groups could gain access to virulent strains that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe," he said. Voicing strong concern that the threat of terrorism remains alive, Antonio Guterres said, "terrorist groups may see a window of opportunity to strike while the attention of most governments is turned towards the pandemic." Further, in some conflict settings, the uncertainty created by the pandemic may create incentives for some actors to promote further division and turmoil. "This could lead to an escalation of violence and possibly devastating miscalculations, which could further entrench ongoing wars and complicate efforts to fight the pandemic," Antonio Guterres said. According to estimates from Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Resource Centre, there are more than 1.6 million confirmed coronavirus cases across the world and over 95,000 people have died so far from the disease. The UN chief stressed that the crisis has hindered international, regional and national conflict resolution efforts, exactly when they are needed most. Another significant risk posed by the pandemic is that it is triggering or exacerbating various human rights challenges and refugees and internally displaced persons are particularly vulnerable. "We are seeing stigma, hate speech, and white supremacists and other extremists seeking to exploit the situation. We are witnessing discrimination in accessing health services... And there are growing manifestations of authoritarianism, including limits on the media, civic space and freedom of expression" he said. The coronavirus crisis has unleashed ruinous social and economic impacts, as governments around the world struggle to find the most effective responses to rising unemployment and the economic downturn. Last month, Antonio Guterres had called for an immediate global ceasefire, urging all warring parties to silence the guns in order to help create conditions for the delivery of aid, open up space for diplomacy and bring hope to places among the most vulnerable to the pandemic. He said he is encouraged by the support his call for a global ceasefire has received from Heads of State and Government to regional partners, civil society activists, and religious leaders. "From South America to Africa and from the Middle East to Asia we have seen conflict parties take some initial steps to end violence and fight the pandemic," he said. Two weeks ago, the UN chief also launched the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, focusing on needs in countries already facing a humanitarian crisis. The Central Emergency Response Fund has allocated USD 75 million and so far the Plan had received USD 396.5 million.

Terrorists may use COVID-19 'Window' to strike: UN security council

Pakistan on Thursday pledged to contribute $3 million to the SAARC Coronavirus Emergency Fund proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an initial offer of $10 million from India to help combat the fast-spreading Covid-19 pandemic in the region.

The Foreign Office in a statement said Pakistan's perspective on the utilisation of fund was conveyed during a telephone conversation between Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood and SAARC Secretary General Esala Ruwan Weerakoon.

"While communicating Pakistan's decision to the SAARC Secretariat, it has been conveyed that all proceeds of the fund should be administered by the SAARC Secretariat and that the modalities for the fund's utilisation should be finalised through consultations with the Member States as per the SAARC Charter," it said.

In a video conference on forming a joint strategy to fight Covid-19 in the SAARC region, Prime Minister Modi on March 15 proposed the emergency fund with an initial offer of $10 million from India and asserted that the best way to deal with the coronavirus pandemic was by coming together, and not growing apart.

Subsequently, Nepal and Afghanistan pledged $1 million each, Maldives committed $ 200,000, Bhutan $100,000, Bangladesh $1.5 million and Sri Lanka pledged $5 million to the fund.

Founded in 1985, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Apart from Modi, Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister Oli, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and Special Assistant to Pakistani Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza, had participated in the video conference.

The Foreign Office in the statement said being a founding member, Pakistan considers SAARC an important platform for regional cooperation.

"Pakistan remains committed to the SAARC process and will continue working with the Member States to strengthen regional cooperation," it said.

Pakistan on Thursday pledged to contribute $3 million to the SAARC Coronavirus Emergency Fund proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an initial offer of $10 million from India to help combat the fast-spreading Covid-19 pandemic in the region.

Pakistan on Thursday pledged to contribute $3 million to the SAARC Coronavirus Emergency Fund proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an initial offer of $10 million from India to help combat the fast-spreading Covid-19 pandemic in the region. The Foreign Office in a statement said Pakistan's perspective on the utilisation of fund was conveyed during a telephone conversation between Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood and SAARC Secretary General Esala Ruwan Weerakoon. "While communicating Pakistan's decision to the SAARC Secretariat, it has been conveyed that all proceeds of the fund should be administered by the SAARC Secretariat and that the modalities for the fund's utilisation should be finalised through consultations with the Member States as per the SAARC Charter," it said. In a video conference on forming a joint strategy to fight Covid-19 in the SAARC region, Prime Minister Modi on March 15 proposed the emergency fund with an initial offer of $10 million from India and asserted that the best way to deal with the coronavirus pandemic was by coming together, and not growing apart. Subsequently, Nepal and Afghanistan pledged $1 million each, Maldives committed $ 200,000, Bhutan $100,000, Bangladesh $1.5 million and Sri Lanka pledged $5 million to the fund. Founded in 1985, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Apart from Modi, Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister Oli, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and Special Assistant to Pakistani Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza, had participated in the video conference. The Foreign Office in the statement said being a founding member, Pakistan considers SAARC an important platform for regional cooperation. "Pakistan remains committed to the SAARC process and will continue working with the Member States to strengthen regional cooperation," it said.

Pakistan pledges $3 million to SAARC Covid-19 emergency Fund

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health.&nbsp;

Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Because of a continuing surge in infections, Odisha on Thursday became the first state to extend the ongoing 21-day lockdown by another two weeks to April 30. It is being said that other states might also follow suit.

Meanwhile, Railways have deployed more than 2,500 doctors &amp; 35,000 paramedics staff. Their chain of 586 health units,45 sub-divisional hospitals,56 divisional hospitals,8 production unit hospitals and 16 zonal hospitals are dedicating their significant facilities to fight COVID-19.

Globally, the death toll has reached 95,718 and the number of infections stands at 1,601,018, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health. Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health. Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours. Because of a continuing surge in infections, Odisha on Thursday became the first state to extend the ongoing 21-day lockdown by another two weeks to April 30. It is being said that other states might also follow suit. Meanwhile, Railways have deployed more than 2,500 doctors & 35,000 paramedics staff. Their chain of 586 health units,45 sub-divisional hospitals,56 divisional hospitals,8 production unit hospitals and 16 zonal hospitals are dedicating their significant facilities to fight COVID-19. Globally, the death toll has reached 95,718 and the number of infections stands at 1,601,018, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday left intensive care, where he had spent the three previous days for treatment against coronavirus, his Downing Street office said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655">Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

"The Prime Minister has been moved this evening from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery," said the statement. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-doctors-succumb-to-covid-19-as-italy-death-toll-crosses-over-17600-291601">Also Read: Over 100 doctors succumb to COVID-19 as Italy death toll crosses over 17,600</a>

Meanwhile, Britain announced another 881 deaths of people testing positive for coronavirus in Thursday's daily update, bringing the country's total toll to 7,978.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, in charge as Prime Minister Boris Johnson, remains in intensive care battling COVID-19, announced the figures as he warned that the country hadn't "yet reached the peak of the virus".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday left intensive care, where he had spent the three previous days for treatment against coronavirus, his Downing Street office said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday left intensive care, where he had spent the three previous days for treatment against coronavirus, his Downing Street office said. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide "The Prime Minister has been moved this evening from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery," said the statement. Also Read: Over 100 doctors succumb to COVID-19 as Italy death toll crosses over 17,600 Meanwhile, Britain announced another 881 deaths of people testing positive for coronavirus in Thursday's daily update, bringing the country's total toll to 7,978. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, in charge as Prime Minister Boris Johnson, remains in intensive care battling COVID-19, announced the figures as he warned that the country hadn't "yet reached the peak of the virus".

Boris Johnson, who tested positive for Coronavirus, leaves intensive care

After months of delay, The United Nations Security Council met on Thursday via video conference to discuss the COVID crisis but the meet resulted in no concrete outcomes.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655">Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

The only thing UNSC could agree was on press elements post the meet. The statement said, UNSC "expressed their support for all efforts of the Secretary-General concerning the potential impact of COVID pandemic to conflict-affected countries" &nbsp;and "recalled the need for unity and solidarity with all those affected."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-doctors-succumb-to-covid-19-as-italy-death-toll-crosses-over-17600-291601">Also Read: Over 100 doctors succumb to COVID-19 as Italy death toll crosses over 17,600</a>

No support was seen for SG Antonio Guterres global call for a ceasefire and no word came on any resolution being adopted or a joint solution to the crisis also.

The meet saw China saying no one should be made a scapegoat while calling for global solidarity. This comes even as the country come under increased criticism for hiding information on the coronavirus, whose first case was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019.

Chinese envoy to UN Ambassador Zhang Jun said, "To overcome this global challenge, solidarity, cooperation, mutual support and assistance is what we need, while beggar-thy-neighbour or scapegoating will lead us nowhere. Any acts of stigmatization and politicization must be rejected."&nbsp;

The US called for an analysis of the origins and timely sharing of health data, a point that China surely will note given how it has been keen to say while the first case might be from the country but origins might be different.&nbsp;

Ambassador Kelly Craft, Permanent Representative of US to UN said, "The United States reiterates today the need for complete transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information within the international community."

Adding, "The most effective way to contain this pandemic is through accurate, science-based data collection and analysis of the origins, characteristics, and spread of the virus. We cannot stress enough how important these methods are."

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Permanent Representative of Russia to the UN Vassily Nebenzia called on "everybody to lift all non-UN multilateral or unilateral coercive measures and sanctions against developing countries", a remark for Washington for its sanctions against Iran and Venezuela. Iran, which is the hardest hit by COVID, has been writing to global capitals for removal of US Sanctions as it is impacting its measures to contain the pandemic.

United Nation Secretary-General briefed the council regarding the current situation saying that "this is the fight of a generation -- and the 'raison d’être of the United Nations itself."

He highlighted 8 risks emerging out of the crisis, which includes, the "threat of terrorism" which "remains alive" and "Terrorist groups may see a window of opportunity to strike while the attention of most governments is turned towards the pandemic."

Guterres highlighted the "weaknesses and lack of preparedness" exposed by the pandemic which may "provide a window onto how a bioterrorist attack might unfold – and may increase its risks" and fears that "Non-state groups could gain access to virulent strains that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe."

Other things he highlighted as the impact of COVID, include erosion of public trust, stalling of conflict resolution efforts, increase in racism etc

The financial situation of the United Nations was also talked by UNSG who called it "perilous" and the body has "only enough cash to fund peacekeeping operations through the end of June and limited capacity to pay troop- and police-contributing countries."&nbsp;

This may impact India given that it is the largest contributor to the troop for UN peacekeeping.

After months of delay, The United Nations Security Council met on Thursday via video conference to discuss the COVID crisis but the meet resulted in no concrete outcomes.

After months of delay, The United Nations Security Council met on Thursday via video conference to discuss the COVID crisis but the meet resulted in no concrete outcomes. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide The only thing UNSC could agree was on press elements post the meet. The statement said, UNSC "expressed their support for all efforts of the Secretary-General concerning the potential impact of COVID pandemic to conflict-affected countries" and "recalled the need for unity and solidarity with all those affected." Also Read: Over 100 doctors succumb to COVID-19 as Italy death toll crosses over 17,600 No support was seen for SG Antonio Guterres global call for a ceasefire and no word came on any resolution being adopted or a joint solution to the crisis also. The meet saw China saying no one should be made a scapegoat while calling for global solidarity. This comes even as the country come under increased criticism for hiding information on the coronavirus, whose first case was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Chinese envoy to UN Ambassador Zhang Jun said, "To overcome this global challenge, solidarity, cooperation, mutual support and assistance is what we need, while beggar-thy-neighbour or scapegoating will lead us nowhere. Any acts of stigmatization and politicization must be rejected." The US called for an analysis of the origins and timely sharing of health data, a point that China surely will note given how it has been keen to say while the first case might be from the country but origins might be different. Ambassador Kelly Craft, Permanent Representative of US to UN said, "The United States reiterates today the need for complete transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information within the international community." Adding, "The most effective way to contain this pandemic is through accurate, science-based data collection and analysis of the origins, characteristics, and spread of the virus. We cannot stress enough how important these methods are." Meanwhile, Permanent Representative of Russia to the UN Vassily Nebenzia called on "everybody to lift all non-UN multilateral or unilateral coercive measures and sanctions against developing countries", a remark for Washington for its sanctions against Iran and Venezuela. Iran, which is the hardest hit by COVID, has been writing to global capitals for removal of US Sanctions as it is impacting its measures to contain the pandemic. United Nation Secretary-General briefed the council regarding the current situation saying that "this is the fight of a generation -- and the 'raison d’être of the United Nations itself." He highlighted 8 risks emerging out of the crisis, which includes, the "threat of terrorism" which "remains alive" and "Terrorist groups may see a window of opportunity to strike while the attention of most governments is turned towards the pandemic." Guterres highlighted the "weaknesses and lack of preparedness" exposed by the pandemic which may "provide a window onto how a bioterrorist attack might unfold – and may increase its risks" and fears that "Non-state groups could gain access to virulent strains that could pose similar devastation to societies around the globe." Other things he highlighted as the impact of COVID, include erosion of public trust, stalling of conflict resolution efforts, increase in racism etc The financial situation of the United Nations was also talked by UNSG who called it "perilous" and the body has "only enough cash to fund peacekeeping operations through the end of June and limited capacity to pay troop- and police-contributing countries." This may impact India given that it is the largest contributor to the troop for UN peacekeeping.

UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas.

The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low. In March 2016 there was a total of 6 cities with good air quality index but now it has reached to 30 after the last month, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.

India is currently under the biggest lockdown with around 130 crore people asked to stay home in view of the coronavirus outbreak, which has claimed 199 lives and infected over 6,000 people in the country.

Since the lockdown was imposed, the air quality all around the country has shown drastic improvement due to eradication of local pollutants generated due to construction activities and vehicular traffic among others. &nbsp;

Indo Gangetic cities showed significant improvement in AQI values with levels moving from higher to the lower end of the category and 17 cities moving in 'satisfactory' category and seven cities in the 'good' category.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas. The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low.

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas. The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low. In March 2016 there was a total of 6 cities with good air quality index but now it has reached to 30 after the last month, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. India is currently under the biggest lockdown with around 130 crore people asked to stay home in view of the coronavirus outbreak, which has claimed 199 lives and infected over 6,000 people in the country. Since the lockdown was imposed, the air quality all around the country has shown drastic improvement due to eradication of local pollutants generated due to construction activities and vehicular traffic among others. Indo Gangetic cities showed significant improvement in AQI values with levels moving from higher to the lower end of the category and 17 cities moving in 'satisfactory' category and seven cities in the 'good' category. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution in Delhi the lowest in the last 5 years

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, a bipartisan group of top US lawmakers have urged China to urgently shut down all of its operating wet markets as that has the potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoonotic disease.

A wet market sells fresh meat, fish, produce, and other perishable goods as distinguished from "dry markets". It gets its name from the floors being constantly wet from the spraying of fresh produce and cleaning of meat and seafood stalls.

"We write to urgently request that China immediately close all operating wet markets that have a potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoonotic disease into the human population," wrote the senators, in a letter to Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai.

A zoonotic disease is an illness that can be passed from an animal to a human.

Gao Fu, the director of China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, has acknowledged that "the origin of the new coronavirus is the wildlife sold illegally in a Wuhan (China) seafood market," they said.

A wet market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan is believed to be the source of the coronavirus pandemic that began in December last year, crossing from animals to humans.

"It is well documented that wet markets in China have been the source of a number of worldwide health problems, and their operation should cease immediately so as to protect the Chinese people and the international community from additional health risks," the senators wrote.

"Therefore, we are urging China to shut down all wet markets that allow for interactions between humans and wild animals that pose public health risks," the lawmakers concluded.

Prominent among the group of 11 Senators were Republican Mitt Romney, Republican Lindsey Graham, and Democratic Chris Coons.

"We understand and respect that wet markets are an important component to Chinese society and way of life, but we believe the current moment, which has disrupted everyday life around the world, calls for extreme precautions."

Last week, China published an official timeline that said that the novel coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan in late December where it was listed as "pneumonia of unknown cause".

The letter of the Senators comes after Dr. Anthony Fauci, the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the National Institutes of Health, called for the closing of these markets.

"They should shut down (wet markets) right away. I mean it boggles my mind when we have so many diseases that emanate out of that unusual human-animal interface that we don't just shut it down. I don't know what else has to happen to get us to appreciate that," he said.

"And I think that there are certain countries in which this is very commonplace. I would like to see the rest of the world really lean with a lot of pressure on those countries that have that because what we are going through right now is a direct result of that," Fauci said.

In the October 2006 issue of Current Opinions in Infectious Diseases, it was found that "in Chinese wet-markets, unique epicentres for transmission of potential viral pathogens, new genes may be acquired or existing genes modified through various mechanisms such as genetic reassortment, recombination, and mutation. The wet-markets, at closer proximity to humans, with high viral burden or strains of higher transmission efficiency, facilitate the transmission of the viruses to humans."

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, a bipartisan group of top US lawmakers have urged China to urgently shut down all of its operating wet markets as that has the potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoonotic disease.

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, a bipartisan group of top US lawmakers have urged China to urgently shut down all of its operating wet markets as that has the potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoonotic disease. A wet market sells fresh meat, fish, produce, and other perishable goods as distinguished from "dry markets". It gets its name from the floors being constantly wet from the spraying of fresh produce and cleaning of meat and seafood stalls. "We write to urgently request that China immediately close all operating wet markets that have a potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoonotic disease into the human population," wrote the senators, in a letter to Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai. A zoonotic disease is an illness that can be passed from an animal to a human. Gao Fu, the director of China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, has acknowledged that "the origin of the new coronavirus is the wildlife sold illegally in a Wuhan (China) seafood market," they said. A wet market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan is believed to be the source of the coronavirus pandemic that began in December last year, crossing from animals to humans. "It is well documented that wet markets in China have been the source of a number of worldwide health problems, and their operation should cease immediately so as to protect the Chinese people and the international community from additional health risks," the senators wrote. "Therefore, we are urging China to shut down all wet markets that allow for interactions between humans and wild animals that pose public health risks," the lawmakers concluded. Prominent among the group of 11 Senators were Republican Mitt Romney, Republican Lindsey Graham, and Democratic Chris Coons. "We understand and respect that wet markets are an important component to Chinese society and way of life, but we believe the current moment, which has disrupted everyday life around the world, calls for extreme precautions." Last week, China published an official timeline that said that the novel coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan in late December where it was listed as "pneumonia of unknown cause". The letter of the Senators comes after Dr. Anthony Fauci, the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the National Institutes of Health, called for the closing of these markets. "They should shut down (wet markets) right away. I mean it boggles my mind when we have so many diseases that emanate out of that unusual human-animal interface that we don't just shut it down. I don't know what else has to happen to get us to appreciate that," he said. "And I think that there are certain countries in which this is very commonplace. I would like to see the rest of the world really lean with a lot of pressure on those countries that have that because what we are going through right now is a direct result of that," Fauci said. In the October 2006 issue of Current Opinions in Infectious Diseases, it was found that "in Chinese wet-markets, unique epicentres for transmission of potential viral pathogens, new genes may be acquired or existing genes modified through various mechanisms such as genetic reassortment, recombination, and mutation. The wet-markets, at closer proximity to humans, with high viral burden or strains of higher transmission efficiency, facilitate the transmission of the viruses to humans."

Shut down wet markets immediately, US lawmakers urge china over COVID-19

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today.

Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan. 
 
&nbsp;

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100 Days of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> | Kerala Story 
 
It's been 100 days since the first case was reported. 
 
258 active cases 
97 recovered 
Total confirmed: 357 
Deaths: 2 
12710 samples tested 
 
Special COVID Hospital 
1251 Community Kitchens 
2808650 Individuals Served 
3676 Destitutes Rehabilitated
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi/status/1248449051890077702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The first patient was a student studying at Wuhan University, China and had recently returned to India.

Kerala had also reported the first case in the country where a child had been infected.

The 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) pandemic that has concerned health experts world over started in China's Wuhan city early December last year and has claimed 95,766 lives.

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today. Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan.

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today. Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan. 100 Days of #COVID19 | Kerala Story It's been 100 days since the first case was reported. 258 active cases 97 recovered Total confirmed: 357 Deaths: 2 12710 samples tested Special COVID Hospital 1251 Community Kitchens 2808650 Individuals Served 3676 Destitutes Rehabilitated — Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) April 10, 2020 × The first patient was a student studying at Wuhan University, China and had recently returned to India. Kerala had also reported the first case in the country where a child had been infected. The 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) pandemic that has concerned health experts world over started in China's Wuhan city early December last year and has claimed 95,766 lives.

It's been 100 days since the first coronavirus case was reported:  Pinarayi Vijayan

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday.

“Day after tomorrow we have a VC (videoconference) with the Prime Minister,” Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K, who is in-charge of all matters related to COVID-19, noted when asked about the States strategy.

He said a task force of specialist doctors on Wednesday submitted its report to the government, giving its recommendations. “We are meeting lot of stakeholders of the society taking their views,” the Minister said, adding, the Cabinet would also hold discussions.

“Finally, day after tomorrow, after discussing with the Prime Minister during the VC, the government will take a view on this by April 13 or so. As of now, we have not taken any view on it. We are studying all the reports,” Sudhakar told PTI.

The Minister observed that the COVID-19 cases were slowly spiking in India but not multiplying the way they have in some other countries like Italy, Spain and the United States as the government had declared 21-day national lockdown early and taken other strict measures. “Let’s see for one week and see.”

“We need to fight this out collectively and by strictly following the quarantine methods and social distancing,” Sudhakar stressed. The Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had on Wednesday said 
his government was in favour of lifting lock-down in districts which remained free from COVID-19 after April 14 subject to approval from the Centre.

“If the Prime Minister suggests to States to take decision (on lock-down) based on the situation in their respective States, my position is to take a call (on roll-back) in districts free from COVID-19,” he had said. “This is to allow people to go about their business and move about within the district and not from one district to another, after April 14, after taking the approval of the Prime Minister.”

According to State officials, as many as 12 districts continue to remain free from COVID-19. The task force has recommended continuation of lockdown at “hot spots” beyond April 14. It has suggested that schools and colleges be shut till May 31, while non-air-conditioned shops can be opened.

Also, IT/BT companies, government offices providing essential services and factories can function with 50 per cent staff, the task force said in its recommendations for 15-day period after April 14.

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday.

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday. “Day after tomorrow we have a VC (videoconference) with the Prime Minister,” Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K, who is in-charge of all matters related to COVID-19, noted when asked about the States strategy. He said a task force of specialist doctors on Wednesday submitted its report to the government, giving its recommendations. “We are meeting lot of stakeholders of the society taking their views,” the Minister said, adding, the Cabinet would also hold discussions. “Finally, day after tomorrow, after discussing with the Prime Minister during the VC, the government will take a view on this by April 13 or so. As of now, we have not taken any view on it. We are studying all the reports,” Sudhakar told PTI. The Minister observed that the COVID-19 cases were slowly spiking in India but not multiplying the way they have in some other countries like Italy, Spain and the United States as the government had declared 21-day national lockdown early and taken other strict measures. “Let’s see for one week and see.” “We need to fight this out collectively and by strictly following the quarantine methods and social distancing,” Sudhakar stressed. The Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had on Wednesday said his government was in favour of lifting lock-down in districts which remained free from COVID-19 after April 14 subject to approval from the Centre. “If the Prime Minister suggests to States to take decision (on lock-down) based on the situation in their respective States, my position is to take a call (on roll-back) in districts free from COVID-19,” he had said. “This is to allow people to go about their business and move about within the district and not from one district to another, after April 14, after taking the approval of the Prime Minister.” According to State officials, as many as 12 districts continue to remain free from COVID-19. The task force has recommended continuation of lockdown at “hot spots” beyond April 14. It has suggested that schools and colleges be shut till May 31, while non-air-conditioned shops can be opened. Also, IT/BT companies, government offices providing essential services and factories can function with 50 per cent staff, the task force said in its recommendations for 15-day period after April 14.

Karnataka to finalise lockdown exit strategy by April 13

Eleven Indian nationals living in the United States have died of the coronavirus infection and 16 others tested positive with deadly COVID-19 virus.

Four of the victims are taxi drivers in New York and all Indians who have succumbed to the deadly infection in the US are male.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-4-lakh-infected-with-coronavirus-in-us-report-291455">Also read — Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report</a>

A total of 14,800 people have died due to coronavirus in the US and more than 4 lacs people are afflicted with it. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-coronavirus-outbreak-chinese-companies-eye-european-businesses-291401" hreflang="en">After coronavirus outbreak, Chinese companies eye European businesses</a>

New York City has emerged as the US epicentre for COVID-19 spurt, accounting for more than 6,000 deaths and over 1,38,000 cases of infections. New Jersey accounts for 1,500 fatalities and nearly 48,000 infections. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bernie-sanders-drops-out-of-us-presidential-race-biden-to-take-on-trump-in-2020-polls-291394" hreflang="en">Bernie Sanders drops out of US presidential race, Biden to take on Trump in 2020 polls</a>

The US death toll is approaching those of hard-hit Italy with more than 17,000 and Spain with more than 14,500.

President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he accused the World Health Organization of reacting slowly.

He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China.

"They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said.

Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

(With inputs from AFP)

Eleven Indian nationals living in the United States have died of the coronavirus infection and 16 others tested positive with deadly COVID-19 virus. Four of the victims are taxi drivers in New York and all Indians who have succumbed to the deadly infection in the US are male.

Eleven Indian nationals living in the United States have died of the coronavirus infection and 16 others tested positive with deadly COVID-19 virus. Four of the victims are taxi drivers in New York and all Indians who have succumbed to the deadly infection in the US are male. Also read — Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report A total of 14,800 people have died due to coronavirus in the US and more than 4 lacs people are afflicted with it. Also read: After coronavirus outbreak, Chinese companies eye European businesses New York City has emerged as the US epicentre for COVID-19 spurt, accounting for more than 6,000 deaths and over 1,38,000 cases of infections. New Jersey accounts for 1,500 fatalities and nearly 48,000 infections. Also read: Bernie Sanders drops out of US presidential race, Biden to take on Trump in 2020 polls The US death toll is approaching those of hard-hit Italy with more than 17,000 and Spain with more than 14,500. President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he accused the World Health Organization of reacting slowly. He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China. "They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said. Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency. (With inputs from AFP)

Eleven Indian-Americans die of coronavirus in US, 16 others test positive

Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting.

Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night.

“Whether it was the NSA’s job or that of the Delhi Police Commissioner to reach out to the Jamaat members?” he asked.

The senior NCP leader raised eight questions while accusing the Central government of giving the Jamaat the permission to hold the prayer meeting, and charged it with having relations with the community. He said despite the Nizamuddin police station located near Markaz, yet the congregation was not stopped (in view of the COVID19 threat).

“Why did the Union Home Ministry give permission for organising the Tablighi Jamaat’s Ijtema at Nizamuddin in Delhi?” Deshmukh asked.

“Isn’t the Union Home Ministry responsible for the gathering on such a scale at the Markaz and subsequent spread of coronavirus to all other states?” he questioned.

The religious congregation held at the Nizamuddin Markaz had emerged as a prime catalyst for the spread of coronavirus infection across the country.

“Who sent NSA Doval to Markaz at 2 am and why? Is this the job of NSA or Delhi Police Commissioner?” Deshmukh asked and wondered about the “secret dialogue” the NSA had with Maulana Saad.

He also sought to know why Doval and Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava have not spoken on the issue.

“Where did Maulana Saad abscond the next day after meeting Doval? Where is he (Maulana) now? Who is related to them (Jamaat members)?” Deshmukh asked.

Charging the Centre with having relation with Tablighis, Deshmukh asked who will answer the questions he has raised.

Notably, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Monday asked who gave permission for the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat at Nizamuddin in New Delhi, which has emerged as one of the major Covid-19 hotspots in the country.

Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting.

Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting. Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night. “Whether it was the NSA’s job or that of the Delhi Police Commissioner to reach out to the Jamaat members?” he asked. The senior NCP leader raised eight questions while accusing the Central government of giving the Jamaat the permission to hold the prayer meeting, and charged it with having relations with the community. He said despite the Nizamuddin police station located near Markaz, yet the congregation was not stopped (in view of the COVID19 threat). “Why did the Union Home Ministry give permission for organising the Tablighi Jamaat’s Ijtema at Nizamuddin in Delhi?” Deshmukh asked. “Isn’t the Union Home Ministry responsible for the gathering on such a scale at the Markaz and subsequent spread of coronavirus to all other states?” he questioned. The religious congregation held at the Nizamuddin Markaz had emerged as a prime catalyst for the spread of coronavirus infection across the country. “Who sent NSA Doval to Markaz at 2 am and why? Is this the job of NSA or Delhi Police Commissioner?” Deshmukh asked and wondered about the “secret dialogue” the NSA had with Maulana Saad. He also sought to know why Doval and Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava have not spoken on the issue. “Where did Maulana Saad abscond the next day after meeting Doval? Where is he (Maulana) now? Who is related to them (Jamaat members)?” Deshmukh asked. Charging the Centre with having relation with Tablighis, Deshmukh asked who will answer the questions he has raised. Notably, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Monday asked who gave permission for the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat at Nizamuddin in New Delhi, which has emerged as one of the major Covid-19 hotspots in the country.

Nizamuddin Markaz case: Maharashtra govt lays blame on MHA for allowing Tablighi Jamaat meet in Delhi

After months of delay, The United Nations security council will meet today via video conference 3 pm New York time or 12.30 am IST on Friday to discuss the COVID Crisis.

On the table will be two drafts, the French draft which has been discussed among the Permanent five members of UNSC and a Tunisian draft resolution put in place by elected members.

On April 2, under the new President of UNSC--the Dominican Republic for April, 9 elected members of the top UN body had requested for the meet. These members are Belgium, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Germany, Indonesia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam.

&nbsp;UN Secretary-General António Guterres will also join the meet via video conference and talk about his appeal for a global ceasefire, the COVID's impact on the UN including peacekeeping operations and humanitarian responses.&nbsp;

UNSG had in March issued an appeal for an immediate global ceasefire and had described the COVID pandemic as “the greatest test the world has faced since the formation of the United Nations”.

The meet could not happen last month under the presidency of China since the country was not very enthusiastic about the meet. UNSC sources told WION, that China believes that it can lead to the politicization of matter.&nbsp;

COVID's first case was reported in Wuhan China and since then it has spread across the world killing thousands of people and infecting lakhs. Bejing has been accused of hiding information and initial goof-ups that led to situation worsening.

After months of delay, The United Nations security council will meet today via video conference 3 pm New York time or 12.30 am IST on Friday to discuss the COVID Crisis.

After months of delay, The United Nations security council will meet today via video conference 3 pm New York time or 12.30 am IST on Friday to discuss the COVID Crisis. On the table will be two drafts, the French draft which has been discussed among the Permanent five members of UNSC and a Tunisian draft resolution put in place by elected members. On April 2, under the new President of UNSC--the Dominican Republic for April, 9 elected members of the top UN body had requested for the meet. These members are Belgium, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Germany, Indonesia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam. UN Secretary-General António Guterres will also join the meet via video conference and talk about his appeal for a global ceasefire, the COVID's impact on the UN including peacekeeping operations and humanitarian responses. UNSG had in March issued an appeal for an immediate global ceasefire and had described the COVID pandemic as “the greatest test the world has faced since the formation of the United Nations”. The meet could not happen last month under the presidency of China since the country was not very enthusiastic about the meet. UNSC sources told WION, that China believes that it can lead to the politicization of matter. COVID's first case was reported in Wuhan China and since then it has spread across the world killing thousands of people and infecting lakhs. Bejing has been accused of hiding information and initial goof-ups that led to situation worsening.

UNSC to meet today on COVID-19; French, Tunisian drafts on the table

Cats can become infected with the new coronavirus but dogs appear not to be vulnerable, according to a study published on Wednesday, prompting the WHO to say it will take a closer look at the transmission of the virus between humans and pets.

The study, published on the website of the journal Science, found that ferrets can also become infected with SARS-CoV-2, the scientific term for the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease.

Dogs, chickens, pigs and ducks are not likely to catch the virus, however, the researchers found.

The study was aimed at identifying which animals are vulnerable to the virus so they can be used to test experimental vaccines to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 83,000 people worldwide since it emerged in China in December.

SARS-CoV-2 is believed to have spread from bats to humans. Except for a few reported infections in cats and dogs, there has not been strong evidence that pets can be carriers.

A tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York City who developed a dry cough and loss of appetite after contact with an infected zookeeper tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday.

The study, based on research conducted in China in January and February, found cats and ferrets highly susceptible to the virus when researchers attempted to infect the animals by introducing viral particles via the nose.

They also found cats can infect each other via respiratory droplets. Infected cats had a virus in the mouth, nose and small intestine. Kittens exposed to the virus had massive lesions in their lungs, nose and throat.

"Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in cats should be considered as an adjunct to the elimination of COVID-19 in humans," the authors wrote.

In ferrets, the virus was found in the upper respiratory tract but did not cause severe disease.

Antibody tests showed dogs were less likely to catch the virus, while inoculated pigs, chickens, and ducks were not found to have any strain of the virus.

"It's both interesting and not terribly surprising in the sense that with the original SARS epidemic, civet cats were implicated as one of the vectors that may have transmitted virus to humans," said Daniel Kuritzkes, head of infectious diseases at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital.

"What these data do provide is support for the recommendation that people who are with COVID-19 should be distancing themselves, not only from other household members but also from their household pets, so as not to transmit the virus to their pets, particularly to cats or other felines," he said.

The World Health Organization said on Wednesday it is working with its partners to look more closely at the role of pets in the health crisis.

Based on the evidence so far, WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove told a news conference: "We don't believe that they are playing a role in transmission but we think that they may be able to be infected from an infected person."

The WHO's top emergencies expert Mike Ryan asked people not to retaliate against animals over the outbreak.

"They're beings in their own right and they deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. They are victims like the rest of us," he said.

Cats can become infected with the new coronavirus but dogs appear not to be vulnerable, according to a study published on Wednesday, prompting the WHO to say it will take a closer look at the transmission of the virus between humans and pets.

Cats can become infected with the new coronavirus but dogs appear not to be vulnerable, according to a study published on Wednesday, prompting the WHO to say it will take a closer look at the transmission of the virus between humans and pets. The study, published on the website of the journal Science, found that ferrets can also become infected with SARS-CoV-2, the scientific term for the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease. Dogs, chickens, pigs and ducks are not likely to catch the virus, however, the researchers found. The study was aimed at identifying which animals are vulnerable to the virus so they can be used to test experimental vaccines to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 83,000 people worldwide since it emerged in China in December. SARS-CoV-2 is believed to have spread from bats to humans. Except for a few reported infections in cats and dogs, there has not been strong evidence that pets can be carriers. A tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York City who developed a dry cough and loss of appetite after contact with an infected zookeeper tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday. The study, based on research conducted in China in January and February, found cats and ferrets highly susceptible to the virus when researchers attempted to infect the animals by introducing viral particles via the nose. They also found cats can infect each other via respiratory droplets. Infected cats had a virus in the mouth, nose and small intestine. Kittens exposed to the virus had massive lesions in their lungs, nose and throat. "Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in cats should be considered as an adjunct to the elimination of COVID-19 in humans," the authors wrote. In ferrets, the virus was found in the upper respiratory tract but did not cause severe disease. Antibody tests showed dogs were less likely to catch the virus, while inoculated pigs, chickens, and ducks were not found to have any strain of the virus. "It's both interesting and not terribly surprising in the sense that with the original SARS epidemic, civet cats were implicated as one of the vectors that may have transmitted virus to humans," said Daniel Kuritzkes, head of infectious diseases at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "What these data do provide is support for the recommendation that people who are with COVID-19 should be distancing themselves, not only from other household members but also from their household pets, so as not to transmit the virus to their pets, particularly to cats or other felines," he said. The World Health Organization said on Wednesday it is working with its partners to look more closely at the role of pets in the health crisis. Based on the evidence so far, WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove told a news conference: "We don't believe that they are playing a role in transmission but we think that they may be able to be infected from an infected person." The WHO's top emergencies expert Mike Ryan asked people not to retaliate against animals over the outbreak. "They're beings in their own right and they deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. They are victims like the rest of us," he said.

Cats can catch coronavirus, study finds, prompting WHO investigation

The United States on Wednesday surpassed 400,000 novel coronavirus cases, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University.

The pandemic has now claimed the lives of at least 12,936 people in the United States, which leads the world in the number of confirmed infections with 401,116, by the Baltimore-based school's count.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-coronavirus-outbreak-chinese-companies-eye-european-businesses-291401" hreflang="en">After coronavirus outbreak, Chinese companies eye European businesses</a>

The 300,000-case milestone was passed on Saturday.

The US death toll is approaching those of hard-hit Italy with more than 17,000 and Spain with more than 14,500. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bernie-sanders-drops-out-of-us-presidential-race-biden-to-take-on-trump-in-2020-polls-291394" hreflang="en">Bernie Sanders drops out of US presidential race, Biden to take on Trump in 2020 polls</a>

President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he accused the World Health Organization of reacting slowly.

He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China.

"They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said.

Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to an ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

The United States on Wednesday surpassed 400,000 novel coronavirus cases, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University. The pandemic has now claimed the lives of at least 12,936 people in the United States, which leads the world in the number of confirmed infections with 401,116, by the Baltimore-based school's count.

The United States on Wednesday surpassed 400,000 novel coronavirus cases, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University. The pandemic has now claimed the lives of at least 12,936 people in the United States, which leads the world in the number of confirmed infections with 401,116, by the Baltimore-based school's count. Also read: After coronavirus outbreak, Chinese companies eye European businesses The 300,000-case milestone was passed on Saturday. The US death toll is approaching those of hard-hit Italy with more than 17,000 and Spain with more than 14,500. Also read: Bernie Sanders drops out of US presidential race, Biden to take on Trump in 2020 polls President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he accused the World Health Organization of reacting slowly. He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China. "They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said. Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to an ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report

India has given the go-ahead to order for hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)from 3 countries. These 3 countries are the US, Spain and Australia which had placed an order earlier.

US administration terms hydroxychloroquine as a game-changer drug to deal with the COVID crisis though there is still no consensus in the medical community on its use. India is the largest producer of Hydroxychloroquine.

US President has reacted to India giving a go-ahead to US Order for HCQ. In a tweet, he said, "Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends." Thanking "India and the Indian people" for the decision on HCQ he said, the action "will not be forgotten!" Lauding PM Modi, he said, "Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!"

Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump had spoken on 4th April and discussed the issue. It was followed by conversations between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Pompeo on 6th April and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun on 8 April.

Both sides discussed ways to increase counter COVID cooperation and ensuring the availability of essential medicines &amp; medical equipment and sharing of best practices/information.

EAM Jaishankar spoke to the foreign minister of Australia Marise Payne and Spanish foreign minister Arancha González on Wednesday on the COVID crisis including on HCQ. Spain had placed an order 2 months ago from India.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, India had announced that it will give licensed HCQ to neighbouring countries and nations badly impacted by the pandemic. On the export commitments that have been contracted, Ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "stock position could allow our" companies to meet them.

India has got requests from 30 countries for HCQ from every part of the globe including from Gulf and Malaysia.&nbsp;

India has given the go-ahead to order for hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)from 3 countries. These 3 countries are the US, Spain and Australia which had placed an order earlier.

India has given the go-ahead to order for hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)from 3 countries. These 3 countries are the US, Spain and Australia which had placed an order earlier. US administration terms hydroxychloroquine as a game-changer drug to deal with the COVID crisis though there is still no consensus in the medical community on its use. India is the largest producer of Hydroxychloroquine. US President has reacted to India giving a go-ahead to US Order for HCQ. In a tweet, he said, "Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends." Thanking "India and the Indian people" for the decision on HCQ he said, the action "will not be forgotten!" Lauding PM Modi, he said, "Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!" Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump had spoken on 4th April and discussed the issue. It was followed by conversations between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Pompeo on 6th April and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun on 8 April. Both sides discussed ways to increase counter COVID cooperation and ensuring the availability of essential medicines & medical equipment and sharing of best practices/information. EAM Jaishankar spoke to the foreign minister of Australia Marise Payne and Spanish foreign minister Arancha González on Wednesday on the COVID crisis including on HCQ. Spain had placed an order 2 months ago from India. Earlier this week, India had announced that it will give licensed HCQ to neighbouring countries and nations badly impacted by the pandemic. On the export commitments that have been contracted, Ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "stock position could allow our" companies to meet them. India has got requests from 30 countries for HCQ from every part of the globe including from Gulf and Malaysia.

COVID-19: India approves hydroxychloroquine orders from 3 countries

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state.

"108 of those who were at the event (at Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi) from various countries, we have kept them in quarantine, and 69 people who had attended it from Bengal, they are also in quarantine. The state health ministry is directly monitoring the situation," the Chief Minister said.

The foreigners are from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. Along with the foreigners in quarantine are 69 people from the State who had gone for the Tablighi Jamaat.&nbsp;

“More than 200 people have been put in quarantine here in connection with the Nizamuddin gathering,” said Mamata.

Banerjee said people gathered at Nizamuddin because they were allowed and noted that foreigners were given a visa, and their passports got immigration clearance from the Centre.

Meanwhile, Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting.

Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state. "108 of those who were at the event (at Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi) from various countries, we have kept them in quarantine, and 69 people who had attended it from Bengal, they are also in quarantine. The state health ministry is directly monitoring the situation," the Chief Minister said. The foreigners are from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. Along with the foreigners in quarantine are 69 people from the State who had gone for the Tablighi Jamaat. “More than 200 people have been put in quarantine here in connection with the Nizamuddin gathering,” said Mamata. Banerjee said people gathered at Nizamuddin because they were allowed and noted that foreigners were given a visa, and their passports got immigration clearance from the Centre. Meanwhile, Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting. Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night. (With inputs from agencies)

Tablighi Jamaat case: 108 foreigners, 69 other attendees quarantined in West Bengal

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha.

The lockdown in the state has been extended until April 30. 
 
"Coronavirus is the biggest threat that the human race has faced in more than a century. Life will not be the same ever. All of us must understand this and face it boldly together. With our sacrifice and with the blessing of Lord Jagannath, this too shall pass," Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said in the statement.

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Odisha Cabinet headed by CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naveen_Odisha</a> decided to extend the state lockdown till April 30th &amp; recommended Union Government to extend the national lockdown till then. CM requested the GoI not to start train &amp; air services during the lockdown. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/2hjTGqR0y6">pic.twitter.com/2hjTGqR0y6</a>
— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMO_Odisha/status/1248148154161061889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Several other states are yet to take a call on the extension of the lockdown. The decision was taken following a Cabinet meeting. Following the meeting, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik addressed the people of the state.

A total number of COVID-19 cases in Odisha increased at 42 with one death reported in the state on Wednesday, Sanjay Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary I &amp;PR department, Odisha said.

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha.

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha. The lockdown in the state has been extended until April 30. "Coronavirus is the biggest threat that the human race has faced in more than a century. Life will not be the same ever. All of us must understand this and face it boldly together. With our sacrifice and with the blessing of Lord Jagannath, this too shall pass," Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said in the statement. Odisha Cabinet headed by CM @Naveen_Odisha decided to extend the state lockdown till April 30th & recommended Union Government to extend the national lockdown till then. CM requested the GoI not to start train & air services during the lockdown. #OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/2hjTGqR0y6 — CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 9, 2020 × Several other states are yet to take a call on the extension of the lockdown. The decision was taken following a Cabinet meeting. Following the meeting, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik addressed the people of the state. A total number of COVID-19 cases in Odisha increased at 42 with one death reported in the state on Wednesday, Sanjay Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary I &PR department, Odisha said.

Life will not be the same ever, says CM Patnaik as Odisha extends lockdown till April 30

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally.

Around 1:20 pm, Sensex was trading at 31,074.98, higher by 1,171.67 points or 3.92% from the previous close of 29,893.96 and Nifty was trading 343.85 points higher at 9,092.60.

Good buying in auto, healthcare and finance stocks also supported the indices. 
 
Among the Sensex stocks, the top gainers were Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki India and Bajaj Auto, while Hindustan Unilever, Tech Mahindra and IndusInd Bank were the only losers so far.

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally.

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally. Around 1:20 pm, Sensex was trading at 31,074.98, higher by 1,171.67 points or 3.92% from the previous close of 29,893.96 and Nifty was trading 343.85 points higher at 9,092.60. Good buying in auto, healthcare and finance stocks also supported the indices. Among the Sensex stocks, the top gainers were Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki India and Bajaj Auto, while Hindustan Unilever, Tech Mahindra and IndusInd Bank were the only losers so far.

Sensex stays above 31,000 points, Nifty at 9,070

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200.

"He stayed at work for you... now, pray at home for him," The Sun tabloid splashed across its front page Wednesday while the Daily Express said: "Boris 'will pull through'."

Deputising for Johnson, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he was "confident he'll pull through, because if there's one thing I know about this prime minister, he's a fighter and he'll be back, leading us through this crisis in short order".

In an update Tuesday evening, the prime minister's spokesman said his "condition is stable and he remains in intensive care for close monitoring."

He earlier said the 55-year-old Conservative leader was receiving "standard oxygen treatment and breathing without any other assistance" and had not required a ventilator.

Johnson is the most high-profile government leader to become infected with COVID-19 and messages of support flooded in from across Britain and the world.

He was admitted to intensive care on Monday evening after spending Sunday night in hospital following concerns he still had a cough and high temperature 10 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

His transfer to intensive care is unprecedented for a prime minister during a national emergency.

For many people, it brought home the seriousness of the disease that has so far seen 6,159 deaths in Britain, with a record 786 more reported in a daily update on Tuesday.

'Work goes on'

Despite the record daily death toll, there was more encouraging news with the number of new daily cases remaining at a roughly stable 3,643.

In a round of broadcast interviews, senior minister Michael Gove insisted the "work of government goes on".

He later said he was now staying at home after a family member displayed mild coronavirus symptoms.

Raab chaired the daily coronavirus meeting in the prime minister's place on Tuesday.

"There is a clear plan... the government and the cabinet are working together to implement that plan," Johnson's spokesman said when asked if there was a power vacuum in Britain.

The country does not have a formal constitutional role of deputy prime minister, and experts said Raab would need the support of the rest of the cabinet to make any big decisions.

The most pressing issue is a review expected next week on whether to continue the nationwide lockdown introduced on March 23 to try to stem the spread of COVID-19.

'Enormous shock'

Johnson announced on March 27 that he had coronavirus and went into self-isolation in a flat above his Downing Street office.

But on Monday evening he was moved to intensive care in London's St Thomas' hospital after his condition worsened.

The prime minister has received messages of support from around the world, with US President Donald Trump sending best wishes to his "very good friend" while Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Johnson's "energy, optimism and sense of humour" would see him through.

For some, Johnson's larger-than-life personality has made his hospitalisation all the more shocking.

His biographer Andrew Gimson said Johnson always made him feel upbeat, and "now here he is the stricken one".

"This is an enormous shock, completely unfamiliar territory for all those who know him," he told BBC radio.

Experts said it was not uncommon for coronavirus patients to move to intensive care, but said it showed Johnson's condition was serious.

"There is no doubt this turn of events means Boris Johnson is extremely sick," said Derek Hill, professor of medical imaging at University College London.

Still shaking hands

The British government was criticised for initially refusing to follow other European countries in requiring people to stay home as the virus spread rapidly across the globe.

Johnson himself said in early March that he was still shaking hands with people.

Two weeks ago, he ordered a nationwide lockdown, but parliament continued to sit for several days after and Westminster became a hotspot for the virus.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock and the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, have both been infected, although they have since recovered.

Johnson, who has been prime minister only since July last year, is not known to have any underlying health issues, although he has struggled with his weight.

Johnson's pregnant partner, Carrie Symonds, moved out of Downing Street after some staff fell ill.

But she said on Saturday she had just spent a week in bed with symptoms, although she has not been tested.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200. "He stayed at work for you... now, pray at home for him," The Sun tabloid splashed across its front page Wednesday while the Daily Express said: "Boris 'will pull through'." Deputising for Johnson, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he was "confident he'll pull through, because if there's one thing I know about this prime minister, he's a fighter and he'll be back, leading us through this crisis in short order". In an update Tuesday evening, the prime minister's spokesman said his "condition is stable and he remains in intensive care for close monitoring." He earlier said the 55-year-old Conservative leader was receiving "standard oxygen treatment and breathing without any other assistance" and had not required a ventilator. Johnson is the most high-profile government leader to become infected with COVID-19 and messages of support flooded in from across Britain and the world. He was admitted to intensive care on Monday evening after spending Sunday night in hospital following concerns he still had a cough and high temperature 10 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19. His transfer to intensive care is unprecedented for a prime minister during a national emergency. For many people, it brought home the seriousness of the disease that has so far seen 6,159 deaths in Britain, with a record 786 more reported in a daily update on Tuesday. 'Work goes on' Despite the record daily death toll, there was more encouraging news with the number of new daily cases remaining at a roughly stable 3,643. In a round of broadcast interviews, senior minister Michael Gove insisted the "work of government goes on". He later said he was now staying at home after a family member displayed mild coronavirus symptoms. Raab chaired the daily coronavirus meeting in the prime minister's place on Tuesday. "There is a clear plan... the government and the cabinet are working together to implement that plan," Johnson's spokesman said when asked if there was a power vacuum in Britain. The country does not have a formal constitutional role of deputy prime minister, and experts said Raab would need the support of the rest of the cabinet to make any big decisions. The most pressing issue is a review expected next week on whether to continue the nationwide lockdown introduced on March 23 to try to stem the spread of COVID-19. 'Enormous shock' Johnson announced on March 27 that he had coronavirus and went into self-isolation in a flat above his Downing Street office. But on Monday evening he was moved to intensive care in London's St Thomas' hospital after his condition worsened. The prime minister has received messages of support from around the world, with US President Donald Trump sending best wishes to his "very good friend" while Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Johnson's "energy, optimism and sense of humour" would see him through. For some, Johnson's larger-than-life personality has made his hospitalisation all the more shocking. His biographer Andrew Gimson said Johnson always made him feel upbeat, and "now here he is the stricken one". "This is an enormous shock, completely unfamiliar territory for all those who know him," he told BBC radio. Experts said it was not uncommon for coronavirus patients to move to intensive care, but said it showed Johnson's condition was serious. "There is no doubt this turn of events means Boris Johnson is extremely sick," said Derek Hill, professor of medical imaging at University College London. Still shaking hands The British government was criticised for initially refusing to follow other European countries in requiring people to stay home as the virus spread rapidly across the globe. Johnson himself said in early March that he was still shaking hands with people. Two weeks ago, he ordered a nationwide lockdown, but parliament continued to sit for several days after and Westminster became a hotspot for the virus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, have both been infected, although they have since recovered. Johnson, who has been prime minister only since July last year, is not known to have any underlying health issues, although he has struggled with his weight. Johnson's pregnant partner, Carrie Symonds, moved out of Downing Street after some staff fell ill. But she said on Saturday she had just spent a week in bed with symptoms, although she has not been tested.

Boris Johnson's 'condition is stable', spends second night in ICU

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149.

Over the last 24 hours, 773 new cases and 10 deaths were reported.

Meanwhile, Indian Railways has prepared 40,000 isolation beds in 2,500 coaches.&nbsp;

"They are making 375 isolation beds daily and this is going on across 133 locations across the country," the health ministry official said.

Meanwhile, the home ministry said that the status of essential goods and services is largely satisfactory with Amit Shah reviewing the situation.

The government is ensuring an adequate supply of medical equipment, it said.

The Home Ministry has given direction to take appropriate measures and ensure hoarding and black marketing is not done.

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149.

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149. Over the last 24 hours, 773 new cases and 10 deaths were reported. Meanwhile, Indian Railways has prepared 40,000 isolation beds in 2,500 coaches. "They are making 375 isolation beds daily and this is going on across 133 locations across the country," the health ministry official said. Meanwhile, the home ministry said that the status of essential goods and services is largely satisfactory with Amit Shah reviewing the situation. The government is ensuring an adequate supply of medical equipment, it said. The Home Ministry has given direction to take appropriate measures and ensure hoarding and black marketing is not done.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Death toll in India rises to 149, confirmed cases at 5,194

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-accuses-who-of-bias-toward-china-threatened-to-put-hold-on-us-funding-291237">Also read: Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding</a> 
 
The record daily figure of 1,939 brings the total number of deaths in the US to 12,722, which is approaching tolls in the worst-hit countries so far -- Italy with 17,127 dead and Spain with 13,798. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157" hreflang="en">'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump</a>

President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he blamed the World Health Organization for reacting slowly.

He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China.

"They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said.

Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday).

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday). Also read: Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding The record daily figure of 1,939 brings the total number of deaths in the US to 12,722, which is approaching tolls in the worst-hit countries so far -- Italy with 17,127 dead and Spain with 13,798. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he blamed the World Health Organization for reacting slowly. He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China. "They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said. Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

Nearly 2,000 coronavirus deaths in US in the last 24 hours: Report

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157" hreflang="en">'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-exploit-coronavirus-pandemic-for-sea-disputes-us-warns-china-291057" hreflang="en">Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China</a>

Around &nbsp;301,649 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-equip-is-healthcare-systems-in-worlds-most-affected-covid-19-nations-291315/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to a standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read: Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China Around 301,649 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to a standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,400,000; death toll rises to 82,195

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy.

Lt Gen BS Jaswal former Army Cdr Northern Command said, "They also have the intention, which is part of the DNA, instrument of state policy to undermine India in whatever manner it can and as such is trying to infiltrate people. We have had encounters in the last couple of day, maybe an intention, to infiltrate people who carry coronavirus into our country."

Explaining, "Within Pakistan also, if you see the kind of people who are being infused into POK, they are the ones, who are within the spectrum of the pandemic, so Pakistan is not behaving very rationally. The advantage which Pakistan is trying to take is, cry baby, cry wolf to the world, we are country of a small economy, the pandemic has hit us, give us. In the same breath, I would like to say, it is high time Pakistan should follow, the Indian model to deal with the pandemic"

Over the weekend, Four soldiers under the command of a Junior Commissioned Officer from one of the most professional Para SF Units were airdropped near the LoC after information on the infiltrators was received. An intense hand to hand battle ensued and all five terrorists were eliminated. In the battle, however, Army lost five of its soldiers, three on the site and two more succumbed while they were airlifted to a nearby military hospital.

Lt Gen Vinod Bhatia, retd Director CENJOWS and former (DGMO) Director General of Military Operations highlighting the how India and Pakistan dealing with the COVID crisis said, "The world is combating COVID, India has played a major role while our neighbour Pakistan has continued the policy of terrorism, the policy of infiltrating terrorist into our territories, to perpetuate terrorism."

Adding, "We have summers coming and Pakistan has realised post 5th August Kashmir has seen relative peace, nothing has happened, and a terrorist has been eliminated and Pakistan tried infiltration. Maybe there is COVID carrier, they could be, hopefully not, but it will be a possibility. Pakistan has to look inwards, fight COVID. It is Pakistan's interest to look after its people." 
 
Former Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff, Satish Dua said "What was peculiar in the encounter is that when they were intercepted, the movement was detected, special forces landed and movement intercepted. In close contact battle, we lost 3 soldiers and 2 succumbed later. What I want to highlight, in these times, when the world is coming to fight the COVID crisis, India also offered help to Pakistan among other SAARC nations, to assist them in the fight against COVID, yet Pakistan continues to push in terrorist. May be Pakistan army has compulsion because this is the first summer after the revocation of article 370 but our counter-infiltration grid is robust and strong."

Several COVID positive cases in Pakistan have crossed 3750 with over 50 deaths even as reports have emerged over the difference in opinion between Pak Federal and Provincial admin concerning lockdown. Reports have also emerged of a number of COVID cases being shifted to Pakistan occupied Kashmir. This is in sharp contrast to what India has been doing, at global front calling a coordinate policy in SAARC and G20. India army has also led the national efforts, with quartine camps being set up in Manesar, Jaislamer, Jodhpur to sending teams of doctor to the Maldives for 14 days.

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy.

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy. Lt Gen BS Jaswal former Army Cdr Northern Command said, "They also have the intention, which is part of the DNA, instrument of state policy to undermine India in whatever manner it can and as such is trying to infiltrate people. We have had encounters in the last couple of day, maybe an intention, to infiltrate people who carry coronavirus into our country." Explaining, "Within Pakistan also, if you see the kind of people who are being infused into POK, they are the ones, who are within the spectrum of the pandemic, so Pakistan is not behaving very rationally. The advantage which Pakistan is trying to take is, cry baby, cry wolf to the world, we are country of a small economy, the pandemic has hit us, give us. In the same breath, I would like to say, it is high time Pakistan should follow, the Indian model to deal with the pandemic" Over the weekend, Four soldiers under the command of a Junior Commissioned Officer from one of the most professional Para SF Units were airdropped near the LoC after information on the infiltrators was received. An intense hand to hand battle ensued and all five terrorists were eliminated. In the battle, however, Army lost five of its soldiers, three on the site and two more succumbed while they were airlifted to a nearby military hospital. Lt Gen Vinod Bhatia, retd Director CENJOWS and former (DGMO) Director General of Military Operations highlighting the how India and Pakistan dealing with the COVID crisis said, "The world is combating COVID, India has played a major role while our neighbour Pakistan has continued the policy of terrorism, the policy of infiltrating terrorist into our territories, to perpetuate terrorism." Adding, "We have summers coming and Pakistan has realised post 5th August Kashmir has seen relative peace, nothing has happened, and a terrorist has been eliminated and Pakistan tried infiltration. Maybe there is COVID carrier, they could be, hopefully not, but it will be a possibility. Pakistan has to look inwards, fight COVID. It is Pakistan's interest to look after its people." Former Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff, Satish Dua said "What was peculiar in the encounter is that when they were intercepted, the movement was detected, special forces landed and movement intercepted. In close contact battle, we lost 3 soldiers and 2 succumbed later. What I want to highlight, in these times, when the world is coming to fight the COVID crisis, India also offered help to Pakistan among other SAARC nations, to assist them in the fight against COVID, yet Pakistan continues to push in terrorist. May be Pakistan army has compulsion because this is the first summer after the revocation of article 370 but our counter-infiltration grid is robust and strong." Several COVID positive cases in Pakistan have crossed 3750 with over 50 deaths even as reports have emerged over the difference in opinion between Pak Federal and Provincial admin concerning lockdown. Reports have also emerged of a number of COVID cases being shifted to Pakistan occupied Kashmir. This is in sharp contrast to what India has been doing, at global front calling a coordinate policy in SAARC and G20. India army has also led the national efforts, with quartine camps being set up in Manesar, Jaislamer, Jodhpur to sending teams of doctor to the Maldives for 14 days.

Pakistan diverting attention from COVID-19 with old policy of terrorism says former top Indian army brass

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president.&nbsp;

Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared"

The Department of pharma and &nbsp;MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country.&nbsp;

On Monday sources told India that, "On basis of domestic supply and taking in consideration importance of diplomatic relations a call will be taken. Its a function of demand and supply. If a scope is present.. but country requirement first"

In an order issued on April 4, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade had announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine &amp; formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception".India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19.

Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him.

From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places. Meanwhile, US President said that he may retaliate if India doesn't send HCQ.&nbsp;

He Said, "I know that he(PM Modi) stopped it for other countries...I spoke to him Sunday morning, called him. I said, we appreciate you allowing our supply to come out. If he doesn't allow it to come out, that would be ok. But of course, there may be retaliation. Why would not be there?"

India has also got requests from Gulf countries regarding it.

Late yesterday night, Govt amended Export Policy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations made from these APIs by removing them from restricted to free category.

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president. Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared" The Department of pharma and MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country.

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president. Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared" The Department of pharma and MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country. On Monday sources told India that, "On basis of domestic supply and taking in consideration importance of diplomatic relations a call will be taken. Its a function of demand and supply. If a scope is present.. but country requirement first" In an order issued on April 4, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade had announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine & formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception".India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19. Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him. From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places. Meanwhile, US President said that he may retaliate if India doesn't send HCQ. He Said, "I know that he(PM Modi) stopped it for other countries...I spoke to him Sunday morning, called him. I said, we appreciate you allowing our supply to come out. If he doesn't allow it to come out, that would be ok. But of course, there may be retaliation. Why would not be there?" India has also got requests from Gulf countries regarding it. Late yesterday night, Govt amended Export Policy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations made from these APIs by removing them from restricted to free category.

COVID-19 crisis: India partially lifts export ban on hydroxychloroquine; MEA & pharma department to take the final call

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities.&nbsp;

"In view of the humanitarian aspects of #COVID19 pandemic, it has been decided that India would licence paracetamol &amp; Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

The Foreign Ministry said that We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would, therefore, discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter.

The Foreign Ministry said given the enormity of the COVID-19 pandemic, India has always maintained that the international community "must display strong solidarity and cooperation".

Earlier in the day, the Indian government lifted restrictions on 24 key active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and formulations made from them. The list didn't mention paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in it.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible retaliation if India does not lift its hold on the export of Hydroxychloroquine, the anti-malarial drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus patients.

Trump added he saw no reason why India would not lift the hold on the US order of the medicine.

"I didn't hear that that was his (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) decision. I know that he stopped it for other countries. I spoke to him yesterday. [It was a] very very good talk, and we'll see whether or not that stays I wouldn't be surprised if he would you know because India does very well with the United States," Trump said at a press briefing from the White House, on Monday.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities. "In view of the humanitarian aspects of #COVID19 pandemic, it has been decided that India would licence paracetamol & Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. The Foreign Ministry said that We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would, therefore, discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter. The Foreign Ministry said given the enormity of the COVID-19 pandemic, India has always maintained that the international community "must display strong solidarity and cooperation". Earlier in the day, the Indian government lifted restrictions on 24 key active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and formulations made from them. The list didn't mention paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in it. Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible retaliation if India does not lift its hold on the export of Hydroxychloroquine, the anti-malarial drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus patients. Trump added he saw no reason why India would not lift the hold on the US order of the medicine. "I didn't hear that that was his (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) decision. I know that he stopped it for other countries. I spoke to him yesterday. [It was a] very very good talk, and we'll see whether or not that stays I wouldn't be surprised if he would you know because India does very well with the United States," Trump said at a press briefing from the White House, on Monday.

Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-wouldnt-there-be-trump-hints-at-retaliation-if-india-doesnt-send-anti-malarial-drug-291003">Also&nbsp;read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug</a> 
 
Amid the global focus on fighting COVID-19, China has ramped up self-described research stations and landed special military aircraft in the dispute-rife sea, according to the State Department.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modern-piracy-did-united-states-reroute-a-shipment-of-face-masks-headed-to-germany-291024">'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany?</a> 
 
"We call on the PRC to remain focused on supporting international efforts to combat the global pandemic, and to stop exploiting the distraction or vulnerability of other states to expand its unlawful claims in the South China Sea," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-solitude-fear-stories-of-surviving-covid-19-291005" hreflang="en">Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19</a>

Vietnam said last week that it lodged a protest with Beijing after the Chinese Coast Guard "hindered, rammed and sunk" a Vietnamese boat with eight fishermen on board near the Paracel Islands. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/are-animals-next-see-how-many-have-tested-positive-for-covid-19-so-far-290812">Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far!</a>

Vietnam - which, like China and Taiwan, claims sovereignty over the Paracel Islands - called in a foreign ministry statement for Beijing to compensate the fishermen, "strictly discipline" the officers responsible and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The United States said it was "seriously concerned" about the episode.

"This incident is the latest in a long string of PRC actions to assert unlawful maritime claims and disadvantage its Southeast Asian neighbours in the South China Sea," Ortagus said.

The United States, which has a growing relationship with Vietnam, has challenged China's claims in the South China Sea - one of the world's busiest waterways and also home to bountiful energy reserves.

China last month accused the United States of a "provocative" act after saying that the USS McCampbell missile destroyer sailed near the Paracel Islands without Beijing's permission.

Tensions have risen sharply in recent years between China and the United States, which has also alleged that Beijing has not promptly controlled SARS-CoV-2, the virus that has now infected more than one million people around the world.

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler.

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler. Also read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug Amid the global focus on fighting COVID-19, China has ramped up self-described research stations and landed special military aircraft in the dispute-rife sea, according to the State Department. 'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany? "We call on the PRC to remain focused on supporting international efforts to combat the global pandemic, and to stop exploiting the distraction or vulnerability of other states to expand its unlawful claims in the South China Sea," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. Also read: Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19 Vietnam said last week that it lodged a protest with Beijing after the Chinese Coast Guard "hindered, rammed and sunk" a Vietnamese boat with eight fishermen on board near the Paracel Islands. Also read: Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far! Vietnam - which, like China and Taiwan, claims sovereignty over the Paracel Islands - called in a foreign ministry statement for Beijing to compensate the fishermen, "strictly discipline" the officers responsible and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The United States said it was "seriously concerned" about the episode. "This incident is the latest in a long string of PRC actions to assert unlawful maritime claims and disadvantage its Southeast Asian neighbours in the South China Sea," Ortagus said. The United States, which has a growing relationship with Vietnam, has challenged China's claims in the South China Sea - one of the world's busiest waterways and also home to bountiful energy reserves. China last month accused the United States of a "provocative" act after saying that the USS McCampbell missile destroyer sailed near the Paracel Islands without Beijing's permission. Tensions have risen sharply in recent years between China and the United States, which has also alleged that Beijing has not promptly controlled SARS-CoV-2, the virus that has now infected more than one million people around the world.

Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus:

- A painful 'roller coaster' &nbsp;-&nbsp;

With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan.

It had started with a dry cough and sore throat, he said, followed a few days later by shortness of breath so severe he fainted while waiting for a hospital coronavirus test.

It came back positive and he was admitted to hospital where his condition fluctuated wildly every day and several times he thought he would die.&nbsp;

"It was like a roller coaster," he said. "I was feeling like there is a thick plate pressuring my chest and also needles poking my chest."

Some of his symptoms may have been the side effects of his treatment, he believes.&nbsp;

But after eight days and two negative tests, he was discharged.

"I had a very bad situation," Park said. Whenever his condition was slightly better "I was thinking that might be my last time where I can write something in my life," he added.&nbsp;

"So I tried to write something short on Facebook to share with friends."

- 'Death prowls' the ward -

Cardiologist Fabio Biferali spent eight days "isolated from the world" at Rome's Policlinico Umberto I hospital in an orthodontics department that had been converted into an intensive care unit.

Describing the pain he felt as "strange", the 65-year-old said it almost resembled having a little monkey on his back, just like one of his patients had described it to him.

Oxygen therapy is painful and finding a radial artery is difficult, he said. "They would do it up to twice a day. Being a doctor helped me bear the pain. Other patients would desperately shout 'enough' 'enough'."

The hardest part were the nights, alone with his fears.

"I couldn't sleep, anxiety invaded the room... nightmares came, death prowled," he said.&nbsp;

"I was afraid of dying without being able to cling on to the hands of my family and friends, despair overcame me."

While medical staff were covered head to toe in protective gear, Biferali said he found some solace in being able to see their "affectionate" eyes behind the glass masks and hear their voices.&nbsp;

"Many were young, doctors on the front line. It was a moment of hope."

- Going to 'gate of hell and back' -&nbsp;

Wan Chunhui, 44, said he was "terrified" at first but that going to the "gate of hell" and coming back to survive the virus had transformed his outlook on life.

"I think the biggest change for me is that my way of looking at things is different now," said Wan, who spent 17 days at the makeshift Huoshenshan Hospital in the Chinese city of Wuhan, in central Hubei province, where the outbreak began.

"I feel really calm about everything, really calm... I went to the gate of hell and came back. I saw with my own eyes that others failed to recover and died, which has had a big impact on me."

He had initially isolated himself to protect his family after getting a temperature, but, still feverish a couple of days later, he walked an hour to hospital.

Tests were not available but he was prescribed antibiotics and flu medication and asked to quarantine himself at home due to a hospital bed shortage.

"I was terrified at first," he said. "But I went back home, switched to a positive mood, and braced myself for the situation. Anyway it’s pointless to panic," Wan told AFP.

The 44-year-old investor and married father of a nine-year-old daughter already suffered from high blood pressure before the virus.

At home, he began recording his illness in an online diary, but a bad cough set in and he was admitted to hospital.

Hormone therapy helped lower his temperature, although he remained short of breath, but medical supplies were scarce, Wan said, and healthcare workers wore poor-quality protective suits and rubbish bags as shoe covers.

Wan was transferred to one of the two field hospitals built for virus sufferers in Wuhan, a well-supplied centre, he said, where he was treated mostly with Western medicines.

- Keeping the faith -

Song Myung-hee, 72, was afraid of dying alone after being infected during a service at the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in the southern city of Daegu, a secretive religious group at the centre of South Korea's coronavirus outbreak.

She was at the same event as the woman known as Patient 31, a 61-year-old who attended four services before being diagnosed with the virus.

Song was quarantined at home as a precaution but remained asymptomatic for several days before the virus struck suddenly with a severe cough.&nbsp;

"I could not sleep at all," she told AFP. "It lasted for two days. I had to hold a plastic bag at all times because I kept on coughing up phlegm.

"Then my face started swelling. I was scared I might die alone."

Facing an influx, no hospital beds were available at the time in Daegu, so she was taken to Seongnam, 220 kilometres (137 miles) away.

"I was relieved when I entered the hospital room -- because at least there, I knew I wouldn't have died alone," she said.

The Shincheonji Church leader has apologised over its role in the spread of the disease but, despite her family's pleas, Song is resolute about staying a member.

"I'm never leaving my church, it doesn't matter what other people say."

- Comes and goes in waves -&nbsp;

"The best way to describe it is: when you are at a high altitude, you struggle to breathe," said Christine, 28, from South Africa, who suffers from syringomyelia, a disorder affecting the spinal cord.

Two days after being in contact with a sick work colleague, the analyst said she felt the first symptoms and COVID-19 was confirmed.

Her partner, lawyer Dawie, 30, could not take the test because "the system was already under a lot of pressure" but within a few days had the same symptoms.

Self-isolated, the couple who did not wish for their full names to be published, continue to work from home.

Sometimes they wondered if they were overreacting because some days they felt fine, Dawie said.

"Within days, it fluctuates. You get chilled and later on you feel better...The worst for me was last week... I was really short of breath... I called my doctor. She told me to look at the signs showing that I am not getting enough oxygen.&nbsp;

"You should look at your fingernails if they turn blue," he said.

- Despairing at home -&nbsp;

French housewife and mother-of-three Djemila Kerrouche said the worst part was the challenge her three children faced continuing their schoolwork while confined at home.

After developing symptoms, she wore gloves and a mask at home and didn't touch food, she said, but two of the children -- who are aged six, 11 and 19 -- were already coughing.

"My children put themselves under great pressure, they want to succeed at school," said the 47-year-old from Mulhouse in eastern France, which has been badly hit by the pandemic.

"Their teachers give them work as if the situation were normal," she said.

"The big one is preparing for her bac (end of secondary school exam) and I see her cry when she can't manage and I can't hold her in my arms, console her, help her."

"My morale is rock bottom. &nbsp;I can't stop crying..." &nbsp;

- Shock and solitude -&nbsp;

Marisol San Roman, a sociologist and student from Argentina, said she was shocked to find she had the virus and described the "total solitude" of being infected.

She is thought to have caught COVID-19 at a farewell dinner in Madrid after the closure of the Instituto de Empresa business school where she was studying, before returning home to Argentina.

"I'm 25, I'm young, I'm in good health -- it's mad," she said, expressing her shock.

Her 65-year-old father with whom she lives avoided her, leaving her food at the door of her room.&nbsp;

On her own, she treated a lung infection and gauged the oxygen saturation rate in her blood. "Coronavirus is an illness which is lived in solitude, in total solitude," she said.&nbsp;

Her case went viral after she gave Skype interviews to the media, and she said she received several insults via social media for having returned to the country when she was carrying the virus.

She has tried to stop the stigmatisation associated with having it, she said.&nbsp;

On her Instagram account she writes of wanting to be a kind of social conscience, warning people to be aware, that "this isn't a joke, being young doesn't immunise you against anything and that the coronavirus isn't flu".

- Sharing our experience with others -&nbsp;

Entrepreneurs Julia, 27, and Megan, 35, wanted to share what they went through to help others after being among the 50 first cases recorded in South Africa.

They caught the virus, with three other family members, on a ski trip to Switzerland, probably in a bar.

The two women, who didn't want their full names published, are behind the @livingcoronapositive Instagram account, which documents their recovery, responds to questions and aims to "bring some light and positivity to this dark time".

They all experienced different versions of the symptoms; some mild, others lasted a week, they said.

On testing, they said, "having a large earbud stuck down the back of your nose is not pleasant but it's quick".

And their advice, said Megan, is to remember that "stress, anxiety and panic are normal human reactions to something as massive and unknown as this pandemic! So please be kind to your loved ones who feel out-of-control. They need your love and reassurance."

- Anger -&nbsp;

Frenchman Charlie Barres, 29, works in hospitals in his job as a physical educator and worries about the added strain the pandemic is putting on the health system.

"Warnings about the state of the system don't date from yesterday. Not so long ago, the caregivers were on strike... And now, it's blowing up. At the same time, we're on a disaster footing in hospitals," he said.

Married and with a two-year-old son, he was confined at his Paris home after the disease began with chills and a sore throat.

A doctor diagnosed him. "The tests are expensive and they keep them for the complex cases," he said.

After two days of feeling bad, he began to improve gradually. His son has been ill and his wife suffered headaches and a bad throat, he said.

- Patient zero -&nbsp;

Thirty-three-year-old Lorena's aunt was Ecuador's "patient zero", who had returned from holiday in Spain to a family welcome home party with about 30 people in late February in the southwestern city of Babahoyo.

"Already on her arrival, she wasn't well... She told us she had felt feverish during the trip and that a lot of people were coughing" on the plane, Lorena, a teacher, said.

Her 71-year-old aunt was hospitalised in Guayaquil, the epicentre of Ecuador's outbreak, and the virus was confirmed a week later.

When the family, themselves isolated and tested, then saw now-former health minister Catalina Andramuno announce five coronavirus cases during a press conference on TV, they realised "it was us!', Lorena said.

Her aunt later died, and a dozen family members were infected, including Lorena, who has now recovered.

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus: - A painful 'roller coaster' - With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan.

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus: - A painful 'roller coaster' - With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan. It had started with a dry cough and sore throat, he said, followed a few days later by shortness of breath so severe he fainted while waiting for a hospital coronavirus test. It came back positive and he was admitted to hospital where his condition fluctuated wildly every day and several times he thought he would die. "It was like a roller coaster," he said. "I was feeling like there is a thick plate pressuring my chest and also needles poking my chest." Some of his symptoms may have been the side effects of his treatment, he believes. But after eight days and two negative tests, he was discharged. "I had a very bad situation," Park said. Whenever his condition was slightly better "I was thinking that might be my last time where I can write something in my life," he added. "So I tried to write something short on Facebook to share with friends." - 'Death prowls' the ward - Cardiologist Fabio Biferali spent eight days "isolated from the world" at Rome's Policlinico Umberto I hospital in an orthodontics department that had been converted into an intensive care unit. Describing the pain he felt as "strange", the 65-year-old said it almost resembled having a little monkey on his back, just like one of his patients had described it to him. Oxygen therapy is painful and finding a radial artery is difficult, he said. "They would do it up to twice a day. Being a doctor helped me bear the pain. Other patients would desperately shout 'enough' 'enough'." The hardest part were the nights, alone with his fears. "I couldn't sleep, anxiety invaded the room... nightmares came, death prowled," he said. "I was afraid of dying without being able to cling on to the hands of my family and friends, despair overcame me." While medical staff were covered head to toe in protective gear, Biferali said he found some solace in being able to see their "affectionate" eyes behind the glass masks and hear their voices. "Many were young, doctors on the front line. It was a moment of hope." - Going to 'gate of hell and back' - Wan Chunhui, 44, said he was "terrified" at first but that going to the "gate of hell" and coming back to survive the virus had transformed his outlook on life. "I think the biggest change for me is that my way of looking at things is different now," said Wan, who spent 17 days at the makeshift Huoshenshan Hospital in the Chinese city of Wuhan, in central Hubei province, where the outbreak began. "I feel really calm about everything, really calm... I went to the gate of hell and came back. I saw with my own eyes that others failed to recover and died, which has had a big impact on me." He had initially isolated himself to protect his family after getting a temperature, but, still feverish a couple of days later, he walked an hour to hospital. Tests were not available but he was prescribed antibiotics and flu medication and asked to quarantine himself at home due to a hospital bed shortage. "I was terrified at first," he said. "But I went back home, switched to a positive mood, and braced myself for the situation. Anyway it’s pointless to panic," Wan told AFP. The 44-year-old investor and married father of a nine-year-old daughter already suffered from high blood pressure before the virus. At home, he began recording his illness in an online diary, but a bad cough set in and he was admitted to hospital. Hormone therapy helped lower his temperature, although he remained short of breath, but medical supplies were scarce, Wan said, and healthcare workers wore poor-quality protective suits and rubbish bags as shoe covers. Wan was transferred to one of the two field hospitals built for virus sufferers in Wuhan, a well-supplied centre, he said, where he was treated mostly with Western medicines. - Keeping the faith - Song Myung-hee, 72, was afraid of dying alone after being infected during a service at the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in the southern city of Daegu, a secretive religious group at the centre of South Korea's coronavirus outbreak. She was at the same event as the woman known as Patient 31, a 61-year-old who attended four services before being diagnosed with the virus. Song was quarantined at home as a precaution but remained asymptomatic for several days before the virus struck suddenly with a severe cough. "I could not sleep at all," she told AFP. "It lasted for two days. I had to hold a plastic bag at all times because I kept on coughing up phlegm. "Then my face started swelling. I was scared I might die alone." Facing an influx, no hospital beds were available at the time in Daegu, so she was taken to Seongnam, 220 kilometres (137 miles) away. "I was relieved when I entered the hospital room -- because at least there, I knew I wouldn't have died alone," she said. The Shincheonji Church leader has apologised over its role in the spread of the disease but, despite her family's pleas, Song is resolute about staying a member. "I'm never leaving my church, it doesn't matter what other people say." - Comes and goes in waves - "The best way to describe it is: when you are at a high altitude, you struggle to breathe," said Christine, 28, from South Africa, who suffers from syringomyelia, a disorder affecting the spinal cord. Two days after being in contact with a sick work colleague, the analyst said she felt the first symptoms and COVID-19 was confirmed. Her partner, lawyer Dawie, 30, could not take the test because "the system was already under a lot of pressure" but within a few days had the same symptoms. Self-isolated, the couple who did not wish for their full names to be published, continue to work from home. Sometimes they wondered if they were overreacting because some days they felt fine, Dawie said. "Within days, it fluctuates. You get chilled and later on you feel better...The worst for me was last week... I was really short of breath... I called my doctor. She told me to look at the signs showing that I am not getting enough oxygen. "You should look at your fingernails if they turn blue," he said. - Despairing at home - French housewife and mother-of-three Djemila Kerrouche said the worst part was the challenge her three children faced continuing their schoolwork while confined at home. After developing symptoms, she wore gloves and a mask at home and didn't touch food, she said, but two of the children -- who are aged six, 11 and 19 -- were already coughing. "My children put themselves under great pressure, they want to succeed at school," said the 47-year-old from Mulhouse in eastern France, which has been badly hit by the pandemic. "Their teachers give them work as if the situation were normal," she said. "The big one is preparing for her bac (end of secondary school exam) and I see her cry when she can't manage and I can't hold her in my arms, console her, help her." "My morale is rock bottom. I can't stop crying..." - Shock and solitude - Marisol San Roman, a sociologist and student from Argentina, said she was shocked to find she had the virus and described the "total solitude" of being infected. She is thought to have caught COVID-19 at a farewell dinner in Madrid after the closure of the Instituto de Empresa business school where she was studying, before returning home to Argentina. "I'm 25, I'm young, I'm in good health -- it's mad," she said, expressing her shock. Her 65-year-old father with whom she lives avoided her, leaving her food at the door of her room. On her own, she treated a lung infection and gauged the oxygen saturation rate in her blood. "Coronavirus is an illness which is lived in solitude, in total solitude," she said. Her case went viral after she gave Skype interviews to the media, and she said she received several insults via social media for having returned to the country when she was carrying the virus. She has tried to stop the stigmatisation associated with having it, she said. On her Instagram account she writes of wanting to be a kind of social conscience, warning people to be aware, that "this isn't a joke, being young doesn't immunise you against anything and that the coronavirus isn't flu". - Sharing our experience with others - Entrepreneurs Julia, 27, and Megan, 35, wanted to share what they went through to help others after being among the 50 first cases recorded in South Africa. They caught the virus, with three other family members, on a ski trip to Switzerland, probably in a bar. The two women, who didn't want their full names published, are behind the @livingcoronapositive Instagram account, which documents their recovery, responds to questions and aims to "bring some light and positivity to this dark time". They all experienced different versions of the symptoms; some mild, others lasted a week, they said. On testing, they said, "having a large earbud stuck down the back of your nose is not pleasant but it's quick". And their advice, said Megan, is to remember that "stress, anxiety and panic are normal human reactions to something as massive and unknown as this pandemic! So please be kind to your loved ones who feel out-of-control. They need your love and reassurance." - Anger - Frenchman Charlie Barres, 29, works in hospitals in his job as a physical educator and worries about the added strain the pandemic is putting on the health system. "Warnings about the state of the system don't date from yesterday. Not so long ago, the caregivers were on strike... And now, it's blowing up. At the same time, we're on a disaster footing in hospitals," he said. Married and with a two-year-old son, he was confined at his Paris home after the disease began with chills and a sore throat. A doctor diagnosed him. "The tests are expensive and they keep them for the complex cases," he said. After two days of feeling bad, he began to improve gradually. His son has been ill and his wife suffered headaches and a bad throat, he said. - Patient zero - Thirty-three-year-old Lorena's aunt was Ecuador's "patient zero", who had returned from holiday in Spain to a family welcome home party with about 30 people in late February in the southwestern city of Babahoyo. "Already on her arrival, she wasn't well... She told us she had felt feverish during the trip and that a lot of people were coughing" on the plane, Lorena, a teacher, said. Her 71-year-old aunt was hospitalised in Guayaquil, the epicentre of Ecuador's outbreak, and the virus was confirmed a week later. When the family, themselves isolated and tested, then saw now-former health minister Catalina Andramuno announce five coronavirus cases during a press conference on TV, they realised "it was us!', Lorena said. Her aunt later died, and a dozen family members were infected, including Lorena, who has now recovered.

Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 285,437 people of that tally have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

A total of 368,449 citizens are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 285,437 people of that tally have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. A total of 368,449 citizens are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Global death toll from coronavirus tops 75,000

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. 
 
As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-wouldnt-there-be-trump-hints-at-retaliation-if-india-doesnt-send-anti-malarial-drug-291003">Also&nbsp;read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,523 people worldwide and 74,834 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modern-piracy-did-united-states-reroute-a-shipment-of-face-masks-headed-to-germany-291024">'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany?</a>

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-india-to-supply-hydroxychloroquine-paracetamol-to-other-badly-affected-nations-291076">Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations</a> 
 
A total of 368,449 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. 
 
Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/total-infected-cases-leap-to-4421-in-india-coronavirus-news-covid-19-291084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In India, a total of 326 coronavirus patients have been recovered as of now and while 114 people have lost their lives. The total number of infected coronavirus patients in India is 4421.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease. Also read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,523 people worldwide and 74,834 people have been killed due to this pandemic. 'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany? Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections. Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations A total of 368,449 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. In India, a total of 326 coronavirus patients have been recovered as of now and while 114 people have lost their lives. The total number of infected coronavirus patients in India is 4421.

Around 3 lakh coronavirus patients recovered worldwide; 326 cured in India

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? 
 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour.

WION: How is the situation in Europe? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment.

WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action.

WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. &nbsp;

WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20. WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour. WION: How is the situation in Europe? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment. WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action. WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

Indian measures in line with global lessons says European Union; lauds PM Modi's initiative at G20

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