The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

As these talks resumed, the US also authorised the transfer of 2.5 billion euros (which is equivalent to $2.7 billion) by the Iraqi government for Iranian electricity and gas imports. The amount had been previously frozen due to American economic sanctions.

<h2>Iran's demands for prisoner release, access to trapped funds</h2>

In return for the release of prisoners and limitations on nuclear work, reports said Iran is seeking access to billions of dollars in Iranian energy revenue currently held abroad due to US sanctions.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lg-reviews-amarnath-yatra-arrangements-in-pahalgam-over-60k-troops-to-be-deployed-for-security-604339">India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security</a>

Iranian officials have consistently linked the potential release of prisoners to gaining access to $7 billion in Iranian funds held in South Korea. They have also demanded access to billions of dollars held in Iraq, intended for gas and oil deliveries.

<h2>Transfer of funds 'routine', unrelated to discussions: US officials&nbsp;</h2>

US officials stated that the fund transfer of 2.5 billion euros by the Iraqi government was a routine process and they are not connected to the ongoing discussions. According to reports, similar transfers have been made in the past. The only difference is that this time the funds were released in euros rather than local currencies.

It is pertinent to note that US President Joe Biden had previously promised to revive an international nuclear agreement that imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, in November, he declared that such a deal was no longer feasible.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-that-ate-russian-tourist-on-camera-to-be-mummified-put-on-display-604333">Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display</a>

Under former president Donald Trump, the Iran Nuclear Deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was&nbsp;revoked unilaterally by the US in May 2018. At the time, Trump termed the nuke deal with Iran as the “most horrible deal ever”.&nbsp;

<h2>Indirect contact between US, Iranian officials</h2>

The initial discussions were made between senior US officials and officials from Iran in New York in the month of December last year. Following those discussions, the White House representatives have made multiple trips to Oman for further indirect contacts, according to media reports quoting sources.

Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead

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WSJ report said that Omani officials have served as intermediaries often between US and Iran in order to facilitate communication between the two warring sides.

<h2>Balancing act for Biden administration</h2>

The current diplomatic effort aims to manage escalating tensions between Iran and US. This is especially crucial as Iran has allegedly ramped up its supply of drones to Russia to back Moscow in its war on Ukraine which has been waging on for over a year now. Other points of infliction are Iran's continued uranium enrichment activities along with the seizure of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf.

<h2>Political considerations, opposition to nuke deal&nbsp;</h2>

The discussions with Iran will also be keenly watched by American voters back home. Therefore, the Biden administration is cautious about thrusting negotiations with Iran into the spotlight as the presidential campaign approaches.

Any formal agreement or even an informal understanding, which seems more likely, could trigger a review in Congress. Both Republicans and some Democrats strongly oppose a nuclear deal with Iran.

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The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter.

The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter. As these talks resumed, the US also authorised the transfer of 2.5 billion euros (which is equivalent to $2.7 billion) by the Iraqi government for Iranian electricity and gas imports. The amount had been previously frozen due to American economic sanctions. Iran's demands for prisoner release, access to trapped funds In return for the release of prisoners and limitations on nuclear work, reports said Iran is seeking access to billions of dollars in Iranian energy revenue currently held abroad due to US sanctions. Also Read | India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security Iranian officials have consistently linked the potential release of prisoners to gaining access to $7 billion in Iranian funds held in South Korea. They have also demanded access to billions of dollars held in Iraq, intended for gas and oil deliveries. Transfer of funds 'routine', unrelated to discussions: US officials US officials stated that the fund transfer of 2.5 billion euros by the Iraqi government was a routine process and they are not connected to the ongoing discussions. According to reports, similar transfers have been made in the past. The only difference is that this time the funds were released in euros rather than local currencies. It is pertinent to note that US President Joe Biden had previously promised to revive an international nuclear agreement that imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, in November, he declared that such a deal was no longer feasible. Also Read | Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display Under former president Donald Trump, the Iran Nuclear Deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was revoked unilaterally by the US in May 2018. At the time, Trump termed the nuke deal with Iran as the “most horrible deal ever”. Indirect contact between US, Iranian officials The initial discussions were made between senior US officials and officials from Iran in New York in the month of December last year. Following those discussions, the White House representatives have made multiple trips to Oman for further indirect contacts, according to media reports quoting sources. Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead × WSJ report said that Omani officials have served as intermediaries often between US and Iran in order to facilitate communication between the two warring sides. Balancing act for Biden administration The current diplomatic effort aims to manage escalating tensions between Iran and US. This is especially crucial as Iran has allegedly ramped up its supply of drones to Russia to back Moscow in its war on Ukraine which has been waging on for over a year now. Other points of infliction are Iran's continued uranium enrichment activities along with the seizure of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf. Political considerations, opposition to nuke deal The discussions with Iran will also be keenly watched by American voters back home. Therefore, the Biden administration is cautious about thrusting negotiations with Iran into the spotlight as the presidential campaign approaches. Any formal agreement or even an informal understanding, which seems more likely, could trigger a review in Congress. Both Republicans and some Democrats strongly oppose a nuclear deal with Iran. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Biden administration holds quiet talks with Iran to free US prisoners, curb nuke programme

On Monday,&nbsp;South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North&nbsp;Korea.&nbsp;

This move tries to resolve the forced labour following years of disputes over World War II sex slaves, which soured Japan-South Korean ties, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-sweats-over-food-shortage-holds-rare-meeting-on-agricultural-practices-566697">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea's Kim Jong Un sweats over food shortage, holds rare meeting on agricultural practices</a>

Foreign Minister Park Jin said that Seoul's plan is to take money from major South Korean companies that benefited from the 1965 reparations deal with Tokyo and will use it to compensate victims.&nbsp;

Park added, "I believe that the vicious circle should be broken for the sake of the people at the national interest level."

The Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi also praised the plan and said that this initiative would help&nbsp;restore "healthy" ties between the two countries after years of tensions.&nbsp;

According to the statement issued by the White House, Washington hailed the decision and called it a "groundbreaking new chapter of cooperation and partnership between two of the United States' closest allies."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-holds-rare-meeting-on-agriculture-sounds-alarm-over-food-shortage-566908">Also read |&nbsp;North Korean leader Kim holds rare meeting on agriculture amid reports of food shortage in country</a>

While the announcement was welcomed by both Japan and the United States, the victims have criticised the proposal as it falls far short of their demand which is a full apology from Tokyo and direct compensation from the Japanese companies involved.

According to data from Seoul, around 780,000 Koreans were conscripted into forced labour by Tokyo during the 35-year occupation. This does not include women who were forced into sexual slavery by Japanese troops.

The move comes as Seoul and Tokyo already ramped up their security cooperation amid growing threats from North Korea, but the bilateral ties remained strained over Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula.&nbsp;

Tokyo has insisted on the 1965 treaty- which saw the two countries restore their diplomatic ties with a reparations package of about $800 million in grants and cheap loans and settled all loans between the two relating to the colonial period.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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On Monday, South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North Korea.

On Monday, South Korea announced plans to compensate victims of Japan's forced wartime labour, aiming to end a vicious cycle in the Asian country and to boost its ties to counter nuclear-armed North Korea. This move tries to resolve the forced labour following years of disputes over World War II sex slaves, which soured Japan-South Korean ties, AFP reported. Also read | North Korea's Kim Jong Un sweats over food shortage, holds rare meeting on agricultural practices Foreign Minister Park Jin said that Seoul's plan is to take money from major South Korean companies that benefited from the 1965 reparations deal with Tokyo and will use it to compensate victims. Park added, "I believe that the vicious circle should be broken for the sake of the people at the national interest level." The Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi also praised the plan and said that this initiative would help restore "healthy" ties between the two countries after years of tensions. According to the statement issued by the White House, Washington hailed the decision and called it a "groundbreaking new chapter of cooperation and partnership between two of the United States' closest allies." Also read | North Korean leader Kim holds rare meeting on agriculture amid reports of food shortage in country While the announcement was welcomed by both Japan and the United States, the victims have criticised the proposal as it falls far short of their demand which is a full apology from Tokyo and direct compensation from the Japanese companies involved. According to data from Seoul, around 780,000 Koreans were conscripted into forced labour by Tokyo during the 35-year occupation. This does not include women who were forced into sexual slavery by Japanese troops. The move comes as Seoul and Tokyo already ramped up their security cooperation amid growing threats from North Korea, but the bilateral ties remained strained over Tokyo's brutal 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula. Tokyo has insisted on the 1965 treaty- which saw the two countries restore their diplomatic ties with a reparations package of about $800 million in grants and cheap loans and settled all loans between the two relating to the colonial period. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea offers compensation for victims of Japan's wartime forced labour; US hails 'groundbreaking' plan

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed &nbsp;Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan.

Who is Sara Al Sayed?&nbsp;

The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confronts-china-with-evidence-of-state-owned-companies-aiding-russia-in-ukraine-war-555363">US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war</a>

While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-jeff-bezos-selling-washington-post-to-buy-nfl-team-555329">Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team?</a>

Sara Al Sayed education&nbsp;

Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years.

She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-defends-planned-military-drills-with-russia-and-china-555357">South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China</a>

Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

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Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap.

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Who is Sara Al Sayed? The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting. Also Read | US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News. Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh. Also Read | Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team? Sara Al Sayed education Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years. She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions. WATCH | South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Sara Al Sayed, Saudi Arabia's new deputy foreign minister for public diplomacy?

The tide of China’s so-called wolf-warrior diplomacy appears to be receding. As significant as the reversal of China’s policy on the containment of COVID-19, is President Xi Jinping’s policy of moving the combative diplomats away from the frontline. The relocation of these ‘wolf warriors’, as some have been demonised by the West, is a major policy shift on the foreign front by Chinese President Xi Jinping that is as consequential to the world as the ending of the zero-tolerance policy on Covid.&nbsp;

With these policy shifts, Beijing is out to win friends and influence people in the capitals of the developed world. China is now, demonstrably, projecting itself as a gentle and non-threatening power. Beijing is all too aware that the impact of the new policy for dealing with Covid has a bearing not only on China’s growth but also on global economic development in 2023; and, the advantage of any beneficial economic outcome cannot be capitalised upon unless it is matched by more sophisticated diplomacy.&nbsp;

It is not just a case of leading personalities of the wolf-warrior phase being moved out of the limelight and reassigned. Equally important is the conspicuous change in the style and language of Chinese diplomats in and towards the developed countries, be it the US and UK or Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These shifts come close on the heels of Xi’s meeting with US President Joe Biden at the G20 summit in Bali. Predictably enough, the meeting between the world’s Big 2 set the tone for leaders of other developed countries to make nice with Xi with an eye on reviving stalled commerce and economic cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prominent among those regarded as “wolf-warrior” diplomats is Zhao Lijian, who was the spokesman of China's foreign ministry since 2019. He has been reassigned as Deputy Director General of the ministry's Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs. In his new job, he would be handling matters related to China’s land and ocean boundaries, which should be noted by New Delhi.&nbsp;

Zhao’s transfer comes at the same time as China’s ambassador to the US, Qin Gang being appointed Foreign Minister in the place of Wang Yi who has been moved up. This is more a change of personality as Qin is more adept at presenting China as a gentle power given to being persuasive and not coercive. Besides, Qin is a close confidant of Xi and more acceptable to the US as an interlocutor. Wang, who is the State Councilor and Member of the Communist Party’s Politburo, remains China’s highest-ranking diplomat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even as US-led allies are preoccupied with decoding these moves, China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has attacked Japan and criticised the AUKUS security pact. While Xiao did not pull his punches in targeting Japan, he struck a conciliatory note while referring to the US, the UK and Australia.&nbsp;

The Chinese envoy said that it is “not very long, when you look at history, that Australia was under threat and being attacked and invaded” by Japan. “During the Second World War, Japan invaded Australia, bombed Darwin, killed Australians and treated Australian POWs in a way that is humanly unacceptable,” he said. “And the Japanese government has not apologised for that up to today”.&nbsp;

Doubtless, Japan has been a brutal militarist power and accused of enormous war crimes, especially in this part of the world. Between 1942 and 1943, Japan launched about 100 air raids on Australia, unleashed massive attacks on Darwin and Broome and invaded Australia-controlled New Guinea and Papua.&nbsp;

It is in this context that Xiao warned Australians against becoming too trusting of their former World War II adversary and painted Japan as a greater military threat than China.&nbsp;

However, for decades now, Japan and Australia have been security partners. They are together, along with India, in the US-led Quad, which is avowedly to check China’s rising power in the Asia-Pacific.&nbsp;

Xiao was more nuanced in his remarks on the AUKUS trinity. He said that “China’s not seeking to be an enemy of the United States, neither are we of the United Kingdom, nor are we of Australia so there’s no reason for the three countries to stand together to work on something that’s targeting China as a threat.”&nbsp;

Xiao’s attack on Japan provoked Tokyo’s top envoy to Canberra, Shingo Yamagami to describe China’s military activities around Taiwan as “shocking”, which the former perceives as an attempt to stir hostility between China and Australia.&nbsp;

Whether the change in policies, altered style and tone of diplomacy, along with China’s economy beating the current Covid surge to rebound and boost the global economy, succeed would be a critical test of President Xi’s leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The tide of China’s so-called wolf-warrior diplomacy appears to be receding. As significant as the reversal of China’s policy on the containment of COVID-19, is President Xi Jinping’s policy of moving the combative diplomats away from the frontline.

The tide of China’s so-called wolf-warrior diplomacy appears to be receding. As significant as the reversal of China’s policy on the containment of COVID-19, is President Xi Jinping’s policy of moving the combative diplomats away from the frontline. The relocation of these ‘wolf warriors’, as some have been demonised by the West, is a major policy shift on the foreign front by Chinese President Xi Jinping that is as consequential to the world as the ending of the zero-tolerance policy on Covid. With these policy shifts, Beijing is out to win friends and influence people in the capitals of the developed world. China is now, demonstrably, projecting itself as a gentle and non-threatening power. Beijing is all too aware that the impact of the new policy for dealing with Covid has a bearing not only on China’s growth but also on global economic development in 2023; and, the advantage of any beneficial economic outcome cannot be capitalised upon unless it is matched by more sophisticated diplomacy. It is not just a case of leading personalities of the wolf-warrior phase being moved out of the limelight and reassigned. Equally important is the conspicuous change in the style and language of Chinese diplomats in and towards the developed countries, be it the US and UK or Australia and New Zealand. These shifts come close on the heels of Xi’s meeting with US President Joe Biden at the G20 summit in Bali. Predictably enough, the meeting between the world’s Big 2 set the tone for leaders of other developed countries to make nice with Xi with an eye on reviving stalled commerce and economic cooperation. Prominent among those regarded as “wolf-warrior” diplomats is Zhao Lijian, who was the spokesman of China's foreign ministry since 2019. He has been reassigned as Deputy Director General of the ministry's Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs. In his new job, he would be handling matters related to China’s land and ocean boundaries, which should be noted by New Delhi. Zhao’s transfer comes at the same time as China’s ambassador to the US, Qin Gang being appointed Foreign Minister in the place of Wang Yi who has been moved up. This is more a change of personality as Qin is more adept at presenting China as a gentle power given to being persuasive and not coercive. Besides, Qin is a close confidant of Xi and more acceptable to the US as an interlocutor. Wang, who is the State Councilor and Member of the Communist Party’s Politburo, remains China’s highest-ranking diplomat. Even as US-led allies are preoccupied with decoding these moves, China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has attacked Japan and criticised the AUKUS security pact. While Xiao did not pull his punches in targeting Japan, he struck a conciliatory note while referring to the US, the UK and Australia. The Chinese envoy said that it is “not very long, when you look at history, that Australia was under threat and being attacked and invaded” by Japan. “During the Second World War, Japan invaded Australia, bombed Darwin, killed Australians and treated Australian POWs in a way that is humanly unacceptable,” he said. “And the Japanese government has not apologised for that up to today”. Doubtless, Japan has been a brutal militarist power and accused of enormous war crimes, especially in this part of the world. Between 1942 and 1943, Japan launched about 100 air raids on Australia, unleashed massive attacks on Darwin and Broome and invaded Australia-controlled New Guinea and Papua. It is in this context that Xiao warned Australians against becoming too trusting of their former World War II adversary and painted Japan as a greater military threat than China. However, for decades now, Japan and Australia have been security partners. They are together, along with India, in the US-led Quad, which is avowedly to check China’s rising power in the Asia-Pacific. Xiao was more nuanced in his remarks on the AUKUS trinity. He said that “China’s not seeking to be an enemy of the United States, neither are we of the United Kingdom, nor are we of Australia so there’s no reason for the three countries to stand together to work on something that’s targeting China as a threat.” Xiao’s attack on Japan provoked Tokyo’s top envoy to Canberra, Shingo Yamagami to describe China’s military activities around Taiwan as “shocking”, which the former perceives as an attempt to stir hostility between China and Australia. Whether the change in policies, altered style and tone of diplomacy, along with China’s economy beating the current Covid surge to rebound and boost the global economy, succeed would be a critical test of President Xi’s leadership. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Spotlight: Changing notes of China’s diplomacy     

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian, who is popular within China and has a more controversial reputation abroad has been posted as the second-ranked official in the country’s Border Affairs Department.

China posts 'Wolf Warrior' diplomat to border affairs

Food as an essential ingredient of human existence, has always played an important role in interstate relations and diplomatic practice.

What’s food diplomacy?

Chief Coordinator for India's G20 Presidency - Harsh Vardhan Shringla – said on Tuesday that "until and unless our legitimate issues are addressed, it cannot be diplomacy as usual" with China.&nbsp;

“China is a member of the G20. It is our neighbouring country and one of the largest economies in the world. But I must add that unless our legitimate issues are addressed by China, it cannot be diplomacy as usual. The bilateral relationship will not take its natural course and it is important that those important issues linked to peace and tranquility in the border areas are also addressed,” he told WION’s Molly Gambhir on the sidelines of the Global Technology Summit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-security-body-calls-for-crackdown-on-hostile-forces-amid-protests-538612">Chinese security body calls for 'crackdown' on 'hostile forces' amid protests</a>

This will be the first time that India will assume the presidency of G20. 
The Chief Coordinator called it “a historic moment for India", while adding that "it is also the most significant global event that we will host".

When asked about the criticism from Western countries regarding India's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, he said, "India will work for the benefit of the world at large. That has always been the focus of our foreign policy".

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Regarding India's positioning on the global stage that can see it emerge as a key mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, "there is a great deal of polarisation in the world as we take on the G20 presidency.

Those polarisations cut across the G20's membership. PM Modi has been a valued interlocutor at the global high table. India has the ability to bridge the gaps and provide answers to some of the most pressing global challenges of today".

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Chief Coordinator for India's G20 Presidency - Harsh Vardhan Shringla – said on Tuesday that "until and unless our legitimate issues are addressed, it cannot be diplomacy as usual" with China.

Chief Coordinator for India's G20 Presidency - Harsh Vardhan Shringla – said on Tuesday that "until and unless our legitimate issues are addressed, it cannot be diplomacy as usual" with China. “China is a member of the G20. It is our neighbouring country and one of the largest economies in the world. But I must add that unless our legitimate issues are addressed by China, it cannot be diplomacy as usual. The bilateral relationship will not take its natural course and it is important that those important issues linked to peace and tranquility in the border areas are also addressed,” he told WION’s Molly Gambhir on the sidelines of the Global Technology Summit. Also read | Chinese security body calls for 'crackdown' on 'hostile forces' amid protests This will be the first time that India will assume the presidency of G20. The Chief Coordinator called it “a historic moment for India", while adding that "it is also the most significant global event that we will host". When asked about the criticism from Western countries regarding India's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, he said, "India will work for the benefit of the world at large. That has always been the focus of our foreign policy". #GlobalTechSummit | This is a historic moment for India as #G20 is the largest most significant event the country will be hosting: India's #G20 Chief Coordinator @harshvshringla tells @MollyGambhir, on India hosting the #G20 Leader Summit 2023 pic.twitter.com/4xXWFpoXBC — WION (@WIONews) November 29, 2022 × Regarding India's positioning on the global stage that can see it emerge as a key mediator in the Russia-Ukraine war, Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, "there is a great deal of polarisation in the world as we take on the G20 presidency. Those polarisations cut across the G20's membership. PM Modi has been a valued interlocutor at the global high table. India has the ability to bridge the gaps and provide answers to some of the most pressing global challenges of today".

No diplomacy as usual with China until legitimate issues are addressed, Harsh Vardhan Shringla tells WION

A major fallout of china's stringent COVID policy has been President Xi Jinping's absence from the stage of diplomacy. But he is making up for it following the recent relaxation in the restrictions. The Chinese president has met 17 leaders in the last two weeks.

WION Fineprint | President Xi's post-pandemic diplomacy

Leaked emails & diplomatic cables from China have revealed how Beijing used Covid protocols to harass & monitor American diplomats. Scores of them were apparently imprisoned & spent weeks in locked rooms under squalid conditions. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Shocking revelations: How China 'abused' American Diplomats

Cooperation between Chinese and Indonesian research institutions is becoming a significant factor in helping Beijing’s "soft power" enhance its image.

It is significant to highlight that Indonesians have a rising mistrust of China due to its assertiveness in the South China Sea, its treatment of Uyghurs in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, and its expanding activity there.

Through the Network of ASEAN-China Think Tanks (NACT), which has 10 Southeast Asian think tanks among its members, China primarily interacts with Indonesian think tanks. The idea of NACT was first initiated in 2013 by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to promote the China-ASEAN strategic partnership.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-3-leader-in-chinese-government-to-visit-russia-512809">Also read |&nbsp;China's number 3 leader Li Zhanshu to visit Russia next week</a>

Regular meetings and seminars are held by the NACT with its ASEAN-based member think tanks to discuss the status of China-funded projects and to suggest potential future areas of cooperation.

According to researchers, the think tank has received financing from the Chinese government for staff participation, courses, and workshops. They think that with this, China aims to expand its educational, media, and Islamic diplomacy in Indonesia through sponsoring and coordinating events at Indonesian think tanks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-bidens-curbs-on-chips-to-china-is-part-of-broader-effort-512430">Also read |&nbsp;How Biden's curbs on chips to China is part of broader effort</a>

An Indonesian think tank that regularly collaborates with Chinese counterparts includes The Habibie Centre, the Centre for Chinese Studies, and the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, in addition to the ASEAN Studies Centre (CSIS).

China has also collaborated with the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPIC) and the Chinese embassy in Jakarta to host various Chinese events.

However, in Beijing’s opinion, these think tanks can be regarded as a crucial platform to influence Indonesians' opinions and narratives.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Cooperation between Chinese and Indonesian research institutions is becoming a significant factor in helping Beijing’s "soft power" enhance its image. It is significant to highlight that Indonesians have a rising mistrust of China due to its assertiveness in the South China Sea, its treatment of Uyghurs in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, and its expanding activity there.

Cooperation between Chinese and Indonesian research institutions is becoming a significant factor in helping Beijing’s "soft power" enhance its image. It is significant to highlight that Indonesians have a rising mistrust of China due to its assertiveness in the South China Sea, its treatment of Uyghurs in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, and its expanding activity there. Through the Network of ASEAN-China Think Tanks (NACT), which has 10 Southeast Asian think tanks among its members, China primarily interacts with Indonesian think tanks. The idea of NACT was first initiated in 2013 by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to promote the China-ASEAN strategic partnership. Also read | China's number 3 leader Li Zhanshu to visit Russia next week Regular meetings and seminars are held by the NACT with its ASEAN-based member think tanks to discuss the status of China-funded projects and to suggest potential future areas of cooperation. According to researchers, the think tank has received financing from the Chinese government for staff participation, courses, and workshops. They think that with this, China aims to expand its educational, media, and Islamic diplomacy in Indonesia through sponsoring and coordinating events at Indonesian think tanks. Also read | How Biden's curbs on chips to China is part of broader effort An Indonesian think tank that regularly collaborates with Chinese counterparts includes The Habibie Centre, the Centre for Chinese Studies, and the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, in addition to the ASEAN Studies Centre (CSIS). China has also collaborated with the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPIC) and the Chinese embassy in Jakarta to host various Chinese events. However, in Beijing’s opinion, these think tanks can be regarded as a crucial platform to influence Indonesians' opinions and narratives. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China aims to influence Indonesians through its ‘think tank diplomacy’

The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that its ambassador to Tehran would resume duties within days, six years after ties were downgraded in support of Saudi Arabia.

Ambassador Saif Mohammed al-Zaabi "will resume his duties at the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;embassy in the Islamic republic of Iran in the coming days to contribute to further advancing bilateral relations", the Emirati foreign ministry said in a statement.

The move seeks to "achieve the common interests of the two countries and the wider region", it added.

With Middle East political alignments shifting,&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;presidential adviser Anwar Gargash in mid-July called for an easing of regional tensions and signalled the ambassador's possible return.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-uae-cepa-encourages-trade-through-tariff-elimination-says-uaes-economy-minister-marri-507372">India, UAE CEPA encourages trade through tariff elimination, says UAE's Economy Minister Marri</a>

The&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;scaled back its ties with the Islamic republic in 2016, in solidarity with Saudi Arabia, after Iranian protesters attacked the kingdom's diplomatic missions in Iran following Riyadh's execution of Shiite Muslim cleric Nimr al-Nimr.

Other Arab Gulf countries including Kuwait made similar moves.

Iran said earlier this month that Kuwait had sent its first ambassador to Tehran since 2016.

In July, the Emirati and Iranian foreign ministers held a telephone conversation and discussed boosting ties,&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;state media reported at the time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icmr-detects-monkeypox-virus-strain-a2-among-uae-travellers-what-does-it-mean-504446">ICMR detects monkeypox virus strain A.2 among UAE travellers. What does it mean?</a>

The oil-rich&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;has previously said that Arab Gulf states should take part in "collective diplomacy" to reach an agreement with Iran, which has been in talks with Western powers on reviving a 2015 nuclear deal.

On Tuesday the European Union and United States said they were studying Iran's response to a "final" draft of such an agreement.

In 2020, the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;established diplomatic relations with Israel, a move which Tehran condemned.

But Abu Dhabi has been pursuing a policy of rapprochement with former regional rivals including Qatar and Turkey as well as Iran, with which it had maintained strong economic ties despite the diplomatic downgrade.&nbsp;

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The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that its ambassador to Tehran would resume duties within days, six years after ties were downgraded in support of Saudi Arabia.

The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that its ambassador to Tehran would resume duties within days, six years after ties were downgraded in support of Saudi Arabia. Ambassador Saif Mohammed al-Zaabi "will resume his duties at the UAE embassy in the Islamic republic of Iran in the coming days to contribute to further advancing bilateral relations", the Emirati foreign ministry said in a statement. The move seeks to "achieve the common interests of the two countries and the wider region", it added. With Middle East political alignments shifting, UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash in mid-July called for an easing of regional tensions and signalled the ambassador's possible return. Also read | India, UAE CEPA encourages trade through tariff elimination, says UAE's Economy Minister Marri The UAE scaled back its ties with the Islamic republic in 2016, in solidarity with Saudi Arabia, after Iranian protesters attacked the kingdom's diplomatic missions in Iran following Riyadh's execution of Shiite Muslim cleric Nimr al-Nimr. Other Arab Gulf countries including Kuwait made similar moves. Iran said earlier this month that Kuwait had sent its first ambassador to Tehran since 2016. In July, the Emirati and Iranian foreign ministers held a telephone conversation and discussed boosting ties, UAE state media reported at the time. Also read | ICMR detects monkeypox virus strain A.2 among UAE travellers. What does it mean? The oil-rich UAE has previously said that Arab Gulf states should take part in "collective diplomacy" to reach an agreement with Iran, which has been in talks with Western powers on reviving a 2015 nuclear deal. On Tuesday the European Union and United States said they were studying Iran's response to a "final" draft of such an agreement. In 2020, the UAE established diplomatic relations with Israel, a move which Tehran condemned. But Abu Dhabi has been pursuing a policy of rapprochement with former regional rivals including Qatar and Turkey as well as Iran, with which it had maintained strong economic ties despite the diplomatic downgrade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UAE ambassador to return to Iran after six-year absence

Major General Abdulla Shamaal, Chief of Maldives Defence Forces, lauded India by saying that there are great lessons to learn from the nation in areas of international relations, diplomacy, all-inclusive political and democratic evolution. He was addressing officer cadets of the Indian Army, while reviewing the passing out parade at the Indian Army Officers Training Academy, in the Southern Indian city of Chennai.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#video</a> : Swords and badges shine in golden light, as the passing-out officer-cadets march past the saluting dais at the Maj Parameswaran drill square, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/army?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#army</a> Officers training academy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/parade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#parade</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/drill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#drill</a> <a href="https://t.co/wvt7SFOcHr">pic.twitter.com/wvt7SFOcHr</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1553243175556288512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The military parade at the OTA&nbsp;marked the commissioning of 125 Gentlemen and 41 Women cadets into various Arms and Services of the Indian Army. In addition to this, 28 personnel from the Armed forces of Bhutan and two from Maldives also completed their training at the OTA. The Indian Armed forces have a long-standing tradition of offering training to defence forces personnel from friendly-foreign countries.

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Newly-Commissioned officers of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> singing ‘Kadam Kadam badhaye jaa’ , at the closure of the pipping ceremony… This song traces its roots back to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Azad Hind Fauj , amid India’s freedom struggle against the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/British?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#British</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://t.co/jdjbUmov26">https://t.co/jdjbUmov26</a> <a href="https://t.co/cKAWCG8bcj">pic.twitter.com/cKAWCG8bcj</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1553310224332730368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The parade was followed by the Pipping ceremony, where the newly commissioned Indian officers wear the shining star on their shoulders and swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, committing to 'Serve with Honour' to safeguard the honour of the country.

During his address to the cadets, in the presence of senior and retired officials of the Indian Armed Forces, Maj Gen Abdulla Shamaal appreciated the Indian Armed Forces for having personnel from all religions, states, castes, emphasizing on how they ate, lived, played, trained and fought together. He also extended his wishes to India, as it celebrates the 75th year of its Independence.&nbsp;

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Lt Rajat ranjan Keron is a 3rd gen officer.. his maternal &amp; paternal grandparents, mother served, dad still serving.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indianarmedforces?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indianarmedforces</a> 
 
Today he’s passed out of OTA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> ,which is also his mother Capt Smita’s (retd) alma mater(1995batch) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tamilnadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tamilnadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://t.co/jdjbUmov26">https://t.co/jdjbUmov26</a> <a href="https://t.co/DIh8HGf0PR">pic.twitter.com/DIh8HGf0PR</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1553313766325948416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Among the newly commissioned officers was Lieutenant Rajat Ranjan Keron, a third-generation officer, whose maternal and paternal families served the Army. "It is euphoric and emotional for me, I took the Antim Pag (final step) from this academy 27 years ago. It is amazing to see him go to the regiment, which his father commanded. Rajat was born immediately after the Kargil War, when we were mobilized as well. This child was destined to be here, he always wanted to be here and fulfilled our dreams and his own" Captain Smita Ranjan Keron (Retd), Lt Ranjan's mother, told WION. Notably, Lt Capt Smita Ranjan passed out of the OTA in 1995 as part of the sixth batch of&nbsp;women cadets.

Major General Abdulla Shamaal, Chief of Maldives Defence Forces, lauded India by saying that there are great lessons to learn from the nation in areas of international relations, diplomacy, all-inclusive political and democratic evolution.

Major General Abdulla Shamaal, Chief of Maldives Defence Forces, lauded India by saying that there are great lessons to learn from the nation in areas of international relations, diplomacy, all-inclusive political and democratic evolution. He was addressing officer cadets of the Indian Army, while reviewing the passing out parade at the Indian Army Officers Training Academy, in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. #video : Swords and badges shine in golden light, as the passing-out officer-cadets march past the saluting dais at the Maj Parameswaran drill square, #army Officers training academy #chennai #TamilNadu #IndianArmy #india #Indian #IndiaAt75 #parade #drill pic.twitter.com/wvt7SFOcHr — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 30, 2022 × The military parade at the OTA marked the commissioning of 125 Gentlemen and 41 Women cadets into various Arms and Services of the Indian Army. In addition to this, 28 personnel from the Armed forces of Bhutan and two from Maldives also completed their training at the OTA. The Indian Armed forces have a long-standing tradition of offering training to defence forces personnel from friendly-foreign countries. Newly-Commissioned officers of the #IndianArmy singing ‘Kadam Kadam badhaye jaa’ , at the closure of the pipping ceremony… This song traces its roots back to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Azad Hind Fauj , amid India’s freedom struggle against the #British #IndiaAt75 #india https://t.co/jdjbUmov26 pic.twitter.com/cKAWCG8bcj — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 30, 2022 × The parade was followed by the Pipping ceremony, where the newly commissioned Indian officers wear the shining star on their shoulders and swear allegiance to the Constitution of India, committing to 'Serve with Honour' to safeguard the honour of the country. During his address to the cadets, in the presence of senior and retired officials of the Indian Armed Forces, Maj Gen Abdulla Shamaal appreciated the Indian Armed Forces for having personnel from all religions, states, castes, emphasizing on how they ate, lived, played, trained and fought together. He also extended his wishes to India, as it celebrates the 75th year of its Independence. Lt Rajat ranjan Keron is a 3rd gen officer.. his maternal & paternal grandparents, mother served, dad still serving.. #indianarmedforces Today he’s passed out of OTA #chennai ,which is also his mother Capt Smita’s (retd) alma mater(1995batch) #IndianArmy #tamilnadu #india https://t.co/jdjbUmov26 pic.twitter.com/DIh8HGf0PR — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 30, 2022 × Among the newly commissioned officers was Lieutenant Rajat Ranjan Keron, a third-generation officer, whose maternal and paternal families served the Army. "It is euphoric and emotional for me, I took the Antim Pag (final step) from this academy 27 years ago. It is amazing to see him go to the regiment, which his father commanded. Rajat was born immediately after the Kargil War, when we were mobilized as well. This child was destined to be here, he always wanted to be here and fulfilled our dreams and his own" Captain Smita Ranjan Keron (Retd), Lt Ranjan's mother, told WION. Notably, Lt Capt Smita Ranjan passed out of the OTA in 1995 as part of the sixth batch of women cadets.

Many lessons to learn from India in diplomacy & inclusive evolution, says Maldives Defence Forces Chief

Japan&nbsp;said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine.

The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv.

"Russian troops have killed civilians and have attacked nuclear facilities, gravely violating international humanitarian law. These are war crimes that can never be forgiven," Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-strike-by-russians-on-station-in-ukraine-kills-30-injures-100-says-report-469355">Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report &nbsp;</a>

"We will ban imports of Russian coal," he added, pledging to find alternatives and asking Japanese citizens for their "understanding and cooperation."

Japan&nbsp;imports around 11 per cent of its coal from Russia, and the fuel remains a key plank of the country's power generation.

Kishida said&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;would, in line with other Group of Seven developed nations, work to decrease its reliance on other energy imports from Russia, which include oil and gas, but he gave no specific timeframe.

He also outlined fresh sanctions, including new asset freezes and a ban on imports from Russia, including machinery and vodka, and said Tokyo would back efforts to investigate Moscow's actions at the International Criminal Court.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-abstains-despite-russias-warning-469230">Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning</a>

Earlier,&nbsp;Japan's foreign ministry announced the expulsion of eight Russian diplomats from the embassy and trade office.

The decision does not affect Russia's ambassador Mikhail Yurievich Galuzin.

Japan&nbsp;has marched in lockstep with Western allies on sanctions against Russia, and has even welcomed several hundred Ukrainians fleeing the conflict despite generally accepting very few refugees.

Tokyo had complex relations with Moscow before the Ukrainian invasion and the two sides have yet to sign a post-World War II peace treaty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-verifies-103-attacks-on-ukrainian-health-care-facilities-and-ambulances-469345">WHO verifies 103 attacks on Ukrainian health care facilities and ambulances</a>

Attempts to do so have been hampered by a long-running dispute over islands controlled by Russia, which calls them the Kurils.

Japan&nbsp;calls the islands the Northern Territories and has long sought to have them under Tokyo's control.

Japan said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine. The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv.

Japan said on Friday it will end imports of Russian coal and announced the expulsion of eight of Moscow's diplomats over "war crimes" in Ukraine. The move comes as Ukraine's allies step up pressure on Moscow after allegations that Russian troops killed civilians in areas around Kyiv. "Russian troops have killed civilians and have attacked nuclear facilities, gravely violating international humanitarian law. These are war crimes that can never be forgiven," Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters. Also read | Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report "We will ban imports of Russian coal," he added, pledging to find alternatives and asking Japanese citizens for their "understanding and cooperation." Japan imports around 11 per cent of its coal from Russia, and the fuel remains a key plank of the country's power generation. Kishida said Japan would, in line with other Group of Seven developed nations, work to decrease its reliance on other energy imports from Russia, which include oil and gas, but he gave no specific timeframe. He also outlined fresh sanctions, including new asset freezes and a ban on imports from Russia, including machinery and vodka, and said Tokyo would back efforts to investigate Moscow's actions at the International Criminal Court. Watch | Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning Earlier, Japan's foreign ministry announced the expulsion of eight Russian diplomats from the embassy and trade office. The decision does not affect Russia's ambassador Mikhail Yurievich Galuzin. Japan has marched in lockstep with Western allies on sanctions against Russia, and has even welcomed several hundred Ukrainians fleeing the conflict despite generally accepting very few refugees. Tokyo had complex relations with Moscow before the Ukrainian invasion and the two sides have yet to sign a post-World War II peace treaty. Also read | WHO verifies 103 attacks on Ukrainian health care facilities and ambulances Attempts to do so have been hampered by a long-running dispute over islands controlled by Russia, which calls them the Kurils. Japan calls the islands the Northern Territories and has long sought to have them under Tokyo's control.

Ukraine war: Japan ends Russian coal imports, expels Moscow's diplomats

The UN rights chief said Tuesday she would make a long-delayed visit to China in May, including to Xinjiang, where Western lawmakers have accused Beijing of genocide.

"I am pleased to announce that we have recently reached an agreement with the government of China for a visit,"&nbsp;Michelle&nbsp;Bachelet&nbsp;told the UN Human Rights Council.

She said that the UN rights agency, OHCHR, and Beijing had "initiated concrete preparations for a visit that is foreseen to take place in May."

There have long been calls for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit Xinjiang.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-china-says-hong-kong-must-stick-to-dynamic-zero-covid-strategy-460251">COVID-19: China says Hong Kong must stick to 'dynamic zero' COVID strategy</a>

Rights groups say that at least one million mostly Muslim minorities have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in Xinjiang, a far-western region where China is accused of widespread human rights abuses including forced sterilisations of women and forced labour.

The US government and lawmakers in five other Western countries have declared China's treatment of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang a "genocide" -- a charge denied by Beijing.

China says it is running vocational training centres in the region designed to counter extremism.

Unfettered access

The Chinese government has for years said that&nbsp;Bachelet&nbsp;was welcome to visit Xinjiang, but an agreement on her demand for "meaningful and unfettered access" has until now appeared elusive.

On the sidelines of the Winter Olympics, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told leaders in Beijing last month that he expected them to allow&nbsp;Bachelet&nbsp;to make a "credible" visit to China, including to Xinjiang.

And on Tuesday, the UN rights chief said an agreement had been reached.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-should-help-each-other-not-drain-each-others-energies-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-459949">&nbsp;India, China should help each other, not drain each other's energies: Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi</a>

"Preparations will have to take into account Covid-19 regulations," she told the rights council.

"The government has also accepted the visit of an advanced OHCHR team to prepare my stay in China, including on-site visits to Xinjiang and other places," she said.

"This team will depart to China next month."&nbsp;&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Bachelet&nbsp;did not clearly specify that she herself would travel to Xinjiang, her spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell told reporters she would visit the region.

"I can confirm that both the advanced team and the High Commissioner will go or are due to go to Xinjiang, and obviously visit Beijing and other locations," she said.

"This was the product of negotiations."

Throssell said "an agreement on the parameters that respect our methodology," had been reached, including "unfettered access to a broad range of actors, including civil society."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-400-civilians-killed-in-afghanistan-since-taliban-takeover-un-460263">Nearly 400 civilians killed in Afghanistan since Taliban takeover: UN</a>

Neither she nor&nbsp;Bachelet&nbsp;provided an update on when a long-awaited report drafted by the UN rights office on the rights situation in Xinjiang would emerge.

Observers in Geneva suggest the report has been ready since last August, but that its publication has been put off as the rights office double checks data obtained remotely, without access to the ground.

An OHCHR spokesman had suggested in December that the report would be published within a few weeks, but it still remains unclear when it will be made public.

Throssell said Tuesday that she "did not have specific information" on when the report might be published.

The UN rights chief said Tuesday she would make a long-delayed visit to China in May, including to Xinjiang, where Western lawmakers have accused Beijing of genocide.

The UN rights chief said Tuesday she would make a long-delayed visit to China in May, including to Xinjiang, where Western lawmakers have accused Beijing of genocide. "I am pleased to announce that we have recently reached an agreement with the government of China for a visit," Michelle Bachelet told the UN Human Rights Council. She said that the UN rights agency, OHCHR, and Beijing had "initiated concrete preparations for a visit that is foreseen to take place in May." There have long been calls for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit Xinjiang. Also read | COVID-19: China says Hong Kong must stick to 'dynamic zero' COVID strategy Rights groups say that at least one million mostly Muslim minorities have been incarcerated in "re-education camps" in Xinjiang, a far-western region where China is accused of widespread human rights abuses including forced sterilisations of women and forced labour. The US government and lawmakers in five other Western countries have declared China's treatment of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang a "genocide" -- a charge denied by Beijing. China says it is running vocational training centres in the region designed to counter extremism. Unfettered access The Chinese government has for years said that Bachelet was welcome to visit Xinjiang, but an agreement on her demand for "meaningful and unfettered access" has until now appeared elusive. On the sidelines of the Winter Olympics, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told leaders in Beijing last month that he expected them to allow Bachelet to make a "credible" visit to China, including to Xinjiang. And on Tuesday, the UN rights chief said an agreement had been reached. Also read | India, China should help each other, not drain each other's energies: Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi "Preparations will have to take into account Covid-19 regulations," she told the rights council. "The government has also accepted the visit of an advanced OHCHR team to prepare my stay in China, including on-site visits to Xinjiang and other places," she said. "This team will depart to China next month." While Bachelet did not clearly specify that she herself would travel to Xinjiang, her spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell told reporters she would visit the region. "I can confirm that both the advanced team and the High Commissioner will go or are due to go to Xinjiang, and obviously visit Beijing and other locations," she said. "This was the product of negotiations." Throssell said "an agreement on the parameters that respect our methodology," had been reached, including "unfettered access to a broad range of actors, including civil society." Also read | Nearly 400 civilians killed in Afghanistan since Taliban takeover: UN Neither she nor Bachelet provided an update on when a long-awaited report drafted by the UN rights office on the rights situation in Xinjiang would emerge. Observers in Geneva suggest the report has been ready since last August, but that its publication has been put off as the rights office double checks data obtained remotely, without access to the ground. An OHCHR spokesman had suggested in December that the report would be published within a few weeks, but it still remains unclear when it will be made public. Throssell said Tuesday that she "did not have specific information" on when the report might be published.

UN rights chief to visit China's Xinjiang in May

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”.

A delegation led by Minister Khadka will participate in this year’s forum to be held from March 11 to 13 in Turkey.&nbsp;

At the invitation of Foreign Minister of Turkey H. E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Nepal Foreign Minister Khadka is scheduled to share panels with participating Foreign Ministers in two separate sessions entitled ‘Democratic Governance and Security’ and ‘Asia Anew: For a Sustained Regional Growth’.

Over 50 Foreign Ministers, together with a cross-section of policymakers and experts are attending the event.&nbsp;

Announcing the decision, the Ministry in a statement said, "On March 9, the minister will meet with officials of NRN-Turkey and Nepali entrepreneurs based in Istanbul to discuss business opportunities and challenges as well as problems faced by Nepali diaspora. He is holding interactive sessions with members of economic chambers in Istanbul and Antalya.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-500-nepalis-leave-ukraine-others-stranded-in-kyiv-await-rescue-459453">Also read |&nbsp;Over 500 Nepalis leave Ukraine, others stranded in Kyiv await rescue&nbsp;</a>

On the sidelines of the forum, Khadka will hold a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart. He will also meet with foreign ministers from different countries on the sidelines.

The visit is also expected to contribute to the growth of bilateral trade, investment, tourism, foreign employment and people-to-people contacts.

As per the ADF, diplomacy remains the core method of communication among leaders and states. “There is a whole set of other structural and systemic changes in the international environment that the diplomacy profession should respond to.”

Foreign Ministers of Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Taliban are also scheduled to participate in the ADF.&nbsp;

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”.

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”. A delegation led by Minister Khadka will participate in this year’s forum to be held from March 11 to 13 in Turkey. At the invitation of Foreign Minister of Turkey H. E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Nepal Foreign Minister Khadka is scheduled to share panels with participating Foreign Ministers in two separate sessions entitled ‘Democratic Governance and Security’ and ‘Asia Anew: For a Sustained Regional Growth’. Over 50 Foreign Ministers, together with a cross-section of policymakers and experts are attending the event. Announcing the decision, the Ministry in a statement said, "On March 9, the minister will meet with officials of NRN-Turkey and Nepali entrepreneurs based in Istanbul to discuss business opportunities and challenges as well as problems faced by Nepali diaspora. He is holding interactive sessions with members of economic chambers in Istanbul and Antalya.” Also read | Over 500 Nepalis leave Ukraine, others stranded in Kyiv await rescue On the sidelines of the forum, Khadka will hold a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart. He will also meet with foreign ministers from different countries on the sidelines. The visit is also expected to contribute to the growth of bilateral trade, investment, tourism, foreign employment and people-to-people contacts. As per the ADF, diplomacy remains the core method of communication among leaders and states. “There is a whole set of other structural and systemic changes in the international environment that the diplomacy profession should respond to.” Foreign Ministers of Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Taliban are also scheduled to participate in the ADF.

Nepal FM Narayan Khadka to participate in Turkey’s Antalya diplomacy forum

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers.

The visit by International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi is seen as critical to clinching a return to the&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;agreement, and comes parallel to negotiations in the Austrian capital.

"This is a critical time but a positive outcome for everyone is possible," Grossi tweeted Friday before leaving for Iran, where he is slated to meet with the head of the country's Atomic Energy Organisation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-south-koreas-polls-kim-jong-led-north-holds-2022s-ninth-missile-test-459144">Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s ninth missile test</a>

The 2015 deal was aimed at guaranteeing that Tehran could not develop a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon -- something it has always denied wanting to do.

The next few days are widely seen as a crunch point for negotiations.

"We are close. E3 negotiators leaving Vienna briefly to update ministers on state of play," head of the British delegation Stephanie Al-Qaq said Friday, referring to negotiators from Britain, France and Germany.

She added that they were "ready to return soon".

The three European countries, along with counterparts from China, Iran and Russia, have been taking part in the latest round of talks in the Austrian capital since late November, with the United States participating indirectly.

Grossi had vowed earlier this week that the IAEA would "never abandon" its attempts to get Iran to clarify the past presence of&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;material at several undeclared sites.

Iran has said the closure of the probe is necessary to clinch a deal.

Grossi is expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-says-iran-nuclear-deal-close-european-diplomats-to-consult-with-ministers-459036">UK says Iran nuclear deal 'close', European diplomats to consult with ministers</a>

Ready to go to Vienna

The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed in 2015, secured sanctions relief for Iran in return for strict curbs on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;program.

It began unravelling when then US president Donald Trump withdrew in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, prompting Iran to start disregarding the limits on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;activity.

The coming days are seen as so pivotal by the West because of the rate Iran is making&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;advances.

Its stockpile of enriched uranium has now reached more than 15 times the limit set out in the 2015 accord, the&nbsp;UN's IAEA&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;watchdog said earlier this week.

Several observers believe that the West could leave the negotiating table and chalk the deal up to a failure if a compromise is not reached by this weekend.

The EU has been chairing&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal negotiations and the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Friday he "hopes to have results this weekend" to "resurrect the agreement".&nbsp;

He stressed that there was "still work ongoing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-clears-law-against-fake-news-on-army-bbc-cnn-others-suspend-operations-459126">Putin clears law against ‘fake news’ on army; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations</a>

Earlier Friday, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he was prepared to travel to the Austrian capital if a deal is reached.

"I am ready to go to Vienna when the Western sides accept our remaining red lines," he said in a phone call with Borrell.

While Amir-Abdollahian did not define the "red lines", Iran has repeatedly demanded the right to verify the removal of sanctions and for guarantees the US will not repeat its withdrawal from the agreement.

Watch |&nbsp;The nuclear threat in Ukraine: UN atomic watchdog condemns Russia after fire incident

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-nuclear-threat-in-ukraine-un-atomic-watchdog-condemns-russia-after-fire-incident-458818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Thursday, US State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter said negotiators were "close to a possible deal", but that "a number of difficult issues" remained unresolved.

However, "if Iran shows seriousness, we can and should reach an understanding of mutual return to full implementation of the JCPOA within days", she added.

The UN nuclear watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers.

The UN nuclear watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers. The visit by International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi is seen as critical to clinching a return to the nuclear agreement, and comes parallel to negotiations in the Austrian capital. "This is a critical time but a positive outcome for everyone is possible," Grossi tweeted Friday before leaving for Iran, where he is slated to meet with the head of the country's Atomic Energy Organisation. Also read | Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s ninth missile test The 2015 deal was aimed at guaranteeing that Tehran could not develop a nuclear weapon -- something it has always denied wanting to do. The next few days are widely seen as a crunch point for negotiations. "We are close. E3 negotiators leaving Vienna briefly to update ministers on state of play," head of the British delegation Stephanie Al-Qaq said Friday, referring to negotiators from Britain, France and Germany. She added that they were "ready to return soon". The three European countries, along with counterparts from China, Iran and Russia, have been taking part in the latest round of talks in the Austrian capital since late November, with the United States participating indirectly. Grossi had vowed earlier this week that the IAEA would "never abandon" its attempts to get Iran to clarify the past presence of nuclear material at several undeclared sites. Iran has said the closure of the probe is necessary to clinch a deal. Grossi is expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna. Also read | UK says Iran nuclear deal 'close', European diplomats to consult with ministers Ready to go to Vienna The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed in 2015, secured sanctions relief for Iran in return for strict curbs on its nuclear program. It began unravelling when then US president Donald Trump withdrew in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, prompting Iran to start disregarding the limits on its nuclear activity. The coming days are seen as so pivotal by the West because of the rate Iran is making nuclear advances. Its stockpile of enriched uranium has now reached more than 15 times the limit set out in the 2015 accord, the UN's IAEA nuclear watchdog said earlier this week. Several observers believe that the West could leave the negotiating table and chalk the deal up to a failure if a compromise is not reached by this weekend. The EU has been chairing nuclear deal negotiations and the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Friday he "hopes to have results this weekend" to "resurrect the agreement". He stressed that there was "still work ongoing". Also read | Putin clears law against ‘fake news’ on army; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations Earlier Friday, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he was prepared to travel to the Austrian capital if a deal is reached. "I am ready to go to Vienna when the Western sides accept our remaining red lines," he said in a phone call with Borrell. While Amir-Abdollahian did not define the "red lines", Iran has repeatedly demanded the right to verify the removal of sanctions and for guarantees the US will not repeat its withdrawal from the agreement. Watch | The nuclear threat in Ukraine: UN atomic watchdog condemns Russia after fire incident On Thursday, US State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter said negotiators were "close to a possible deal", but that "a number of difficult issues" remained unresolved. However, "if Iran shows seriousness, we can and should reach an understanding of mutual return to full implementation of the JCPOA within days", she added.

UN nuclear watchdog chief in Tehran for talks as UK says deal 'close'

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;have clamped down on&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a&nbsp;massive&nbsp;security&nbsp;sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation".

The new travel&nbsp;ban&nbsp;was announced late Sunday by&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who packaged the restrictions as being aimed at preventing hardship for&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;abroad.

Evacuations organised by nations or non-governmental organisations have been banned, while even families attempting to leave the country by their own means now need "an excuse", or they will be stopped by immigration.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-to-hold-discussion-over-durand-line-457033">&nbsp;Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line</a>

"I have to say clearly that persons who leave the country along with their families and have no excuse... we are preventing them," Mujahid told a press conference late Sunday.

Women will also not be able to fly abroad unless accompanied by a male relative -- mirroring similar domestic restrictions introduced last year which bar solo travel between cities and towns.

"If they (women) want to travel abroad, they should have a chaperone," Mujahid said.&nbsp;

"This is the order of Islamic sharia law."

The announcement came the same weekend a search for "kidnappers, thieves and looters" kicked off in Kabul and other Afghan cities -- a so-called "clearing operation" separate&nbsp;from&nbsp;the travel measures.

The new travel restrictions will alarm tens of thousands of&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;who have been promised asylum abroad after working with US-led foreign forces or other Western organisations during the&nbsp;Taliban's 20-year insurgency.

More than 120,000&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;and dual nationals were evacuated up to August 31 when the last US-led troops withdrew, two weeks after the hardline Islamists seized Kabul.

Thousands with similar links are still in Afghanistan, however, desperate to leave and fearful they may be targeted by the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;as "collaborators".

The last official evacuation by air was on December 1, although organised road convoys to Pakistan have taken place as recently as last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-main-universities-reopen-after-six-months-few-women-return-456880">Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return</a>

Bad conditions

Mujahid said the decision to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;departures came because the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;had received reports of thousands of&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;"living in very bad conditions" abroad.

"The government has the responsibility to protect the people so this will be stopped until we get the assurance that their lives will not be endangered," he said, adding that they had never promised for evacuations to continue indefinitely.

"Initially we had said that the Americans... could take people whom they had any concerns about... But this is not a continuous promise."

Since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;took over Kabul in August, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis, pushing even those without links to the former regime to scramble for an exit.

Thousands of people daily try to cross into neighbouring Iran in search of work, or in a bid to reach Europe in the hope of asylum.

The United States has seized $7 billion in Afghan assets held abroad -- reserving half for humanitarian aid that bypasses the&nbsp;Taliban, and half for a fund to compensate families of those who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/since-taliban-takeover-86-afghan-radio-stations-have-closed-453210">Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed</a>

Not against the common people

Meanwhile, a&nbsp;massive&nbsp;security&nbsp;sweep&nbsp;of Kabul continued Monday with&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;fighters going house-to-house in search of weapons and criminals blamed for a recent spate of robberies and kidnappings.

The "clearing operation" has alarmed many who fear being targeted because of their association with the previous Western-backed regime or US-led foreign forces.

Irate residents have posted videos on social media showing homes they said had been trashed during&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;searches, but several people told AFP their encounters had been polite and cursory.

Mujahid said authorities had discovered two kidnapped victims during the operation so far, and also freed two teenage girls who they found chained in a basement.

He said light and heavy weapons, explosives, radio equipment and drones had been seized, as well as vehicles belonging to the military or government.

Watch | Taliban administration approves the first budget since the takeover of the Afghanistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-administration-approves-the-first-budget-since-the-takeover-of-the-afghanistan-444633/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Six people suspected of being members of the Islamic State group had been detained, he said, along with nine kidnappers and 53 "professional thieves".

"We want to assure the residents of Kabul that these operations are not against the common people," Mujahid said.

"The residents of the city should be confident the search is going on carefully."

The Taliban have clamped down on Afghans leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a massive security sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation".

The Taliban have clamped down on Afghans leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a massive security sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation". The new travel ban was announced late Sunday by Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who packaged the restrictions as being aimed at preventing hardship for Afghans abroad. Evacuations organised by nations or non-governmental organisations have been banned, while even families attempting to leave the country by their own means now need "an excuse", or they will be stopped by immigration. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line "I have to say clearly that persons who leave the country along with their families and have no excuse... we are preventing them," Mujahid told a press conference late Sunday. Women will also not be able to fly abroad unless accompanied by a male relative -- mirroring similar domestic restrictions introduced last year which bar solo travel between cities and towns. "If they (women) want to travel abroad, they should have a chaperone," Mujahid said. "This is the order of Islamic sharia law." The announcement came the same weekend a search for "kidnappers, thieves and looters" kicked off in Kabul and other Afghan cities -- a so-called "clearing operation" separate from the travel measures. The new travel restrictions will alarm tens of thousands of Afghans who have been promised asylum abroad after working with US-led foreign forces or other Western organisations during the Taliban's 20-year insurgency. More than 120,000 Afghans and dual nationals were evacuated up to August 31 when the last US-led troops withdrew, two weeks after the hardline Islamists seized Kabul. Thousands with similar links are still in Afghanistan, however, desperate to leave and fearful they may be targeted by the Taliban as "collaborators". The last official evacuation by air was on December 1, although organised road convoys to Pakistan have taken place as recently as last week. Also read | Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return Bad conditions Mujahid said the decision to ban departures came because the Taliban had received reports of thousands of Afghans "living in very bad conditions" abroad. "The government has the responsibility to protect the people so this will be stopped until we get the assurance that their lives will not be endangered," he said, adding that they had never promised for evacuations to continue indefinitely. "Initially we had said that the Americans... could take people whom they had any concerns about... But this is not a continuous promise." Since the Taliban took over Kabul in August, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis, pushing even those without links to the former regime to scramble for an exit. Thousands of people daily try to cross into neighbouring Iran in search of work, or in a bid to reach Europe in the hope of asylum. The United States has seized $7 billion in Afghan assets held abroad -- reserving half for humanitarian aid that bypasses the Taliban, and half for a fund to compensate families of those who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Also read | Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed Not against the common people Meanwhile, a massive security sweep of Kabul continued Monday with Taliban fighters going house-to-house in search of weapons and criminals blamed for a recent spate of robberies and kidnappings. The "clearing operation" has alarmed many who fear being targeted because of their association with the previous Western-backed regime or US-led foreign forces. Irate residents have posted videos on social media showing homes they said had been trashed during Taliban searches, but several people told AFP their encounters had been polite and cursory. Mujahid said authorities had discovered two kidnapped victims during the operation so far, and also freed two teenage girls who they found chained in a basement. He said light and heavy weapons, explosives, radio equipment and drones had been seized, as well as vehicles belonging to the military or government. Watch | Taliban administration approves the first budget since the takeover of the Afghanistan Six people suspected of being members of the Islamic State group had been detained, he said, along with nine kidnappers and 53 "professional thieves". "We want to assure the residents of Kabul that these operations are not against the common people," Mujahid said. "The residents of the city should be confident the search is going on carefully."

Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep

Twitter&nbsp;acknowledged Wednesday it suspended in error some&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;relaying information about&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;military movements as the threat builds for an attack on Ukraine.

The social network has begun restoring access to the users, which were taken down due to "our work to proactively address manipulated media," tweeted the platform's head of site integrity Yoel Roth.

A company spokesperson said earlier claims that the&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;were taken offline by a coordinated campaign or mass complaints were untrue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-along-russia-belarus-borders-report-455876">Ukraine under attack along Russia, Belarus borders: Report</a>

"We took enforcement action on a number of&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;in error," the spokesperson added. "We're expeditiously reviewing these actions and have already proactively reinstated access to a number of affected&nbsp;accounts."&nbsp;

Like Facebook and YouTube, the platform is regularly accused of not doing enough to fight misinformation.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;has fewer human and financial resources t5han its Silicon Valley neighbors to curb the harmful phenomenon.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;troops&nbsp;are massed near Ukraine's borders, with the West saying they could attack at any moment.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Kyiv severs ties with Moscow, Putin warms West against aggression

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-kyiv-severs-ties-with-moscow-putin-warms-west-against-aggression-456068/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine have asked Moscow for military help against Kyiv, the Kremlin said, in a move that opens the door for&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;troops&nbsp;to move in.

Washington and Britain say Russia's force is poised to strike Ukraine and trigger the most serious war in Europe for decades, but&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin says he is open to negotiation -- within limits.

Twitter acknowledged Wednesday it suspended in error some accounts relaying information about Russian military movements as the threat builds for an attack on Ukraine.

Twitter acknowledged Wednesday it suspended in error some accounts relaying information about Russian military movements as the threat builds for an attack on Ukraine. The social network has begun restoring access to the users, which were taken down due to "our work to proactively address manipulated media," tweeted the platform's head of site integrity Yoel Roth. A company spokesperson said earlier claims that the accounts were taken offline by a coordinated campaign or mass complaints were untrue. Also read | Ukraine under attack along Russia, Belarus borders: Report "We took enforcement action on a number of accounts in error," the spokesperson added. "We're expeditiously reviewing these actions and have already proactively reinstated access to a number of affected accounts." Like Facebook and YouTube, the platform is regularly accused of not doing enough to fight misinformation. But Twitter has fewer human and financial resources t5han its Silicon Valley neighbors to curb the harmful phenomenon. Tens of thousands of Russian troops are massed near Ukraine's borders, with the West saying they could attack at any moment. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Kyiv severs ties with Moscow, Putin warms West against aggression Rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine have asked Moscow for military help against Kyiv, the Kremlin said, in a move that opens the door for Russian troops to move in. Washington and Britain say Russia's force is poised to strike Ukraine and trigger the most serious war in Europe for decades, but Russian President Vladimir Putin says he is open to negotiation -- within limits.

Twitter mistakenly pulled accounts monitoring Russian troops

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy.

This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

According to the White House, President Joe Biden has agreed to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in principle if he refrains from attacking his neighbour, which US officials believe is becoming increasingly likely.&nbsp;

When the military drills in Belarus, which is located on Ukraine's northern border, were set to end on Sunday, Russian forces were scheduled to return home.

However, Moscow and Minsk have announced that Russian forces will remain in the country permanently.

The Russian forces' prolonged presence in Belarus has generated fears that they will be dispatched to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, a metropolis of 3 million people less than three hours' drive from the Belarus border.&nbsp;

According to US sources, more than 150,000 Russian troops are massed near Ukraine's borders.

Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's and the Kremlin's claims that some troops have started to evacuate, Biden informed reporters that more Russian military have moved in, contradicting Moscow's claims.&nbsp;

It's still unclear whether Putin intends to strike his former Soviet neighbour.

Russia has denied any invasion intentions and reaffirmed its insistence that the US and NATO refuse to admit Ukraine to the armed alliance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy. This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Pentagon has claimed that an attack on Ukraine may happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy. This development occurs at a time when world leaders are renewing diplomatic efforts in the hopes of averting a Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to the White House, President Joe Biden has agreed to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in principle if he refrains from attacking his neighbour, which US officials believe is becoming increasingly likely. When the military drills in Belarus, which is located on Ukraine's northern border, were set to end on Sunday, Russian forces were scheduled to return home. However, Moscow and Minsk have announced that Russian forces will remain in the country permanently. The Russian forces' prolonged presence in Belarus has generated fears that they will be dispatched to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, a metropolis of 3 million people less than three hours' drive from the Belarus border. According to US sources, more than 150,000 Russian troops are massed near Ukraine's borders. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's and the Kremlin's claims that some troops have started to evacuate, Biden informed reporters that more Russian military have moved in, contradicting Moscow's claims. It's still unclear whether Putin intends to strike his former Soviet neighbour. Russia has denied any invasion intentions and reaffirmed its insistence that the US and NATO refuse to admit Ukraine to the armed alliance. (With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon says attack on Ukraine could happen today, but there is still time for diplomacy

Germany&nbsp;accused&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;on Friday of endangering Europe's&nbsp;security&nbsp;with&nbsp;demands&nbsp;that recall the&nbsp;Cold&nbsp;War, as Western leaders arrived for a Munich&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Conference&nbsp;set to be dominated by the Ukraine crisis.

Fears are growing in the West that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is on the verge of invading its neighbour, with the United States warning of a possible attack in the "coming days".

Ahead of the annual, three-day&nbsp;conference's opening ceremony, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Moscow needed to show "serious steps towards de-escalation".

"With an unprecedented deployment of troops on the border with Ukraine and&nbsp;Cold&nbsp;War&nbsp;demands,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is challenging fundamental principles of the European peace order," Baerbock said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-to-begin-rolling-back-coronavirus-curbs-says-chancellor-scholz-453994">Germany to begin rolling back coronavirus curbs, says Chancellor Scholz</a>

Russian troops have all but encircled Ukraine during the Kremlin's stand-off with the West over NATO's expansion into eastern Europe.

Before&nbsp;travelling to Munich, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the United Nations to expect an offensive in the "coming days", likely preceded by a pretext to justify military action.

Some feared such a moment had arrived on Thursday, when a spike in shellings on the front line damaged an eastern Ukrainian kindergarten and Russian-backed separatists blamed Kyiv for escalating hostilities.

Russia&nbsp;has denied any invasion plans. But the Kremlin has also said it could be forced to respond militarily if Washington does not meet certain&nbsp;security&nbsp;demands.

Moscow has so far declined to attend the Munich gathering, but the United States said Blinken would meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov next week -- provided no invasion had occurred&nbsp;before&nbsp;then.

"It is a loss that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is not taking advantage of this opportunity," Baerbock said.

She added that the&nbsp;conference&nbsp;offered a chance "to discuss how we can still counter the logic of threats of violence and military escalation with the logic of dialogue".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-next-wonder-weapon-kedr-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-454013">Also read |&nbsp;Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile</a>

&nbsp;Evacuation plans

Also travelling to Munich are US Vice President Kamala Harris, UN chief Antonio Guterres, EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven club of rich nations -- including France, Britain, the US and Japan -- will discuss the Ukraine crisis on the&nbsp;conference&nbsp;sidelines Saturday.

The talks will be hosted by Baerbock, whose country currently holds the G7 presidency.

"Even tiny steps towards peace are better than big steps towards&nbsp;war. But we also need serious steps towards de-escalation from&nbsp;Russia," she said.

"Declarations of willingness to talk must be backed up by real offers to talk. Declarations of troop withdrawals must be backed up by verifiable troop withdrawals."

Moscow has made several announcements of troop withdrawals this week, but the United States, NATO and Ukraine all said they had seen no evidence of a pullback.

Instead, Washington says&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has moved 7,000 additional troops to near the Ukrainian border.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia, US spar at UNSC meeting on Ukraine crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-us-spar-at-unsc-meeting-on-ukraine-crisis-454183/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Citing "possible aggravation", Ukraine's armed forces announced late Thursday that evacuations were planned for some communities along the conflict-ridden border, particularly from the separatist-held city Donetsk.

Violence has ebbed and flowed along the eastern front line, where Kyiv has been locked in conflict with Moscow-backed rebels for almost eight years.

Following Thursday's artillery fire at the kindergarten, Ukrainian and Western leaders reiterated calls for&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;not to exploit the border tensions to launch its feared offensive.

President Vladimir Putin has made clear that the price for removing any threat would be Ukraine agreeing never to join NATO and for the Western alliance to pull back from a swath of eastern Europe, effectively splitting the continent into&nbsp;Cold&nbsp;War-style spheres of influence.

Ukraine is far from being ready to join NATO but has set this as part of a broader goal to integrate with the democracies of western Europe, making a historic break from&nbsp;Russia's orbit.

Germany accused Russia on Friday of endangering Europe's security with demands that recall the Cold War, as Western leaders arrived for a Munich Security Conference set to be dominated by the Ukraine crisis.

Germany accused Russia on Friday of endangering Europe's security with demands that recall the Cold War, as Western leaders arrived for a Munich Security Conference set to be dominated by the Ukraine crisis. Fears are growing in the West that Russia is on the verge of invading its neighbour, with the United States warning of a possible attack in the "coming days". Ahead of the annual, three-day conference's opening ceremony, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Moscow needed to show "serious steps towards de-escalation". "With an unprecedented deployment of troops on the border with Ukraine and Cold War demands, Russia is challenging fundamental principles of the European peace order," Baerbock said in a statement. Also read | Germany to begin rolling back coronavirus curbs, says Chancellor Scholz Russian troops have all but encircled Ukraine during the Kremlin's stand-off with the West over NATO's expansion into eastern Europe. Before travelling to Munich, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the United Nations to expect an offensive in the "coming days", likely preceded by a pretext to justify military action. Some feared such a moment had arrived on Thursday, when a spike in shellings on the front line damaged an eastern Ukrainian kindergarten and Russian-backed separatists blamed Kyiv for escalating hostilities. Russia has denied any invasion plans. But the Kremlin has also said it could be forced to respond militarily if Washington does not meet certain security demands. Moscow has so far declined to attend the Munich gathering, but the United States said Blinken would meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov next week -- provided no invasion had occurred before then. "It is a loss that Russia is not taking advantage of this opportunity," Baerbock said. She added that the conference offered a chance "to discuss how we can still counter the logic of threats of violence and military escalation with the logic of dialogue". Also read | Russia's next wonder weapon: Kedr intercontinental ballistic missile Evacuation plans Also travelling to Munich are US Vice President Kamala Harris, UN chief Antonio Guterres, EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven club of rich nations -- including France, Britain, the US and Japan -- will discuss the Ukraine crisis on the conference sidelines Saturday. The talks will be hosted by Baerbock, whose country currently holds the G7 presidency. "Even tiny steps towards peace are better than big steps towards war. But we also need serious steps towards de-escalation from Russia," she said. "Declarations of willingness to talk must be backed up by real offers to talk. Declarations of troop withdrawals must be backed up by verifiable troop withdrawals." Moscow has made several announcements of troop withdrawals this week, but the United States, NATO and Ukraine all said they had seen no evidence of a pullback. Instead, Washington says Russia has moved 7,000 additional troops to near the Ukrainian border. Watch | Russia, US spar at UNSC meeting on Ukraine crisis Citing "possible aggravation", Ukraine's armed forces announced late Thursday that evacuations were planned for some communities along the conflict-ridden border, particularly from the separatist-held city Donetsk. Violence has ebbed and flowed along the eastern front line, where Kyiv has been locked in conflict with Moscow-backed rebels for almost eight years. Following Thursday's artillery fire at the kindergarten, Ukrainian and Western leaders reiterated calls for Russia not to exploit the border tensions to launch its feared offensive. President Vladimir Putin has made clear that the price for removing any threat would be Ukraine agreeing never to join NATO and for the Western alliance to pull back from a swath of eastern Europe, effectively splitting the continent into Cold War-style spheres of influence. Ukraine is far from being ready to join NATO but has set this as part of a broader goal to integrate with the democracies of western Europe, making a historic break from Russia's orbit.

Germany accuses Russia of 'Cold War demands' before security conference

US believes that a small crucial window of diplomacy remains for Russia to de-escalate tensions at the Ukraine border as Western leaders engages in a flurry of talks to defuse the crisis. 'We are not saying that president Putin has made a final decision we have not communicated otherwise to our partners we believe that diplomacy continues to be viable we believe that there still remains a window to resolve crisis through dialogue and diplomacy.'

United States: Crucial window of diplomacy left | Russia-Ukraine border tensions

From Russia to North Korea to Zimbabwe, the impact of diplomatic&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;has long been questioned. But Bangladeshi&nbsp;activists&nbsp;have no doubts: extrajudicial&nbsp;killings&nbsp;have suddenly&nbsp;stopped&nbsp;since punitive US measures were imposed two months ago, they say.

Around 2,500 Bangladeshis have allegedly been killed by security forces since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to power in 2009, according to&nbsp;rights&nbsp;group Odhikar, which maintains detailed records, with hundreds more enforced disappearances.

It has tallied nearly 1,200 such deaths in the last four years, or an average of 25 per month.

But since Washington on December 10 imposed sweeping Magnitsky Act&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) elite security force including seven of its top officers,&nbsp;killings&nbsp;have totalled zero, it says.

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"I wish this sanction was slapped a lot earlier," said Afroza Islam Akhi, whose brother vanished eight years ago. "A lot of lives would have been saved."

Akhi is now a coordinator for Mayer Daak, which represents hundreds of families of victims of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial&nbsp;killings.

The RAB was set up in 2004 to tackle Marxist insurgents and Islamist extremism as well as curb human trafficking -- goals it pursued mercilessly and officials say effectively.

More recently its targets have largely been alleged criminals and drug dealers, with authorities insisting that deaths have only occurred during exchanges of fire in legitimate law enforcement operations.

But critics say political opponents have also died at the hands of security forces and that gunfights are staged to deny the victims due legal process.

Akhi's brother Sajedul Islam Suman was among at least 18&nbsp;activists&nbsp;with the main opposition&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;Nationalist Party (BNP) allegedly picked up by RAB officers in December 2013 in the run-up to national elections.

"My mother went to the RAB headquarters every day for more than a year as we heard RAB officers detained him," Akhi told AFP. "But he never returned."

&nbsp;'Every bone broken'&nbsp;

Nur Khan Liton, head of&nbsp;Bangladesh's top&nbsp;rights&nbsp;group Ain O Salish Kendra, said the US&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;have directly improved the country's&nbsp;rights&nbsp;situation.

"People are happy with it and many have started speaking out," he said.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;activists, almost all victims of extrajudicial&nbsp;killings&nbsp;are detained and then shot dead.

Rita Begum last saw her 14-year-old son Rakib Howlader handcuffed and detained at a police station in old Dhaka in 2018.&nbsp;

The next day her father told her the boy -- accused of peddling drugs -- had been beaten to death and then shot to make it appear he had died in an exchange of fire.

"Every bone in his body was broken and then he was shot," she told AFP. "I didn't get&nbsp;justice."

When she tried to file a complaint, she said, "police came to my house. They held a pistol to my head and made me sign a lot of papers. They even threatened to rape my daughter.&nbsp;

"I want the American&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;to prevail," she added.

"I don't want to see any more mothers losing their children. I don't want anybody else to suffer my fate. I lost my gem of a boy."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-rope-in-jamie-siddons-as-new-batting-coach-452017">Bangladesh rope in Jamie Siddons as new batting coach</a>

'Nervous about the future'&nbsp;

In some cases RAB officers have been prosecuted, with at least 26 people including an RAB commander sentenced to death for seven murders in the central city of Narayanganj in April 2014.

Dhaka and Washington normally have warm relations, co-operating on security issues and with&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;often voting alongside the United States at the United Nations.

The&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;include asset freezes and visa bans and were imposed on the RAB and current or former RAB officials, including its ex-head Benazir Ahmed, now the national chief of police.

The move -- at a time when China is pouring investment into one of Asia's poorest countries -- stunned Dhaka, with the foreign secretary summoning the US ambassador to convey "discontent".

But the&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;constitute a "tactical strike" on the understanding between the security forces and ruling party and "put the whole security establishment under renewed international scrutiny", said Sydney-based&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;researcher Mubashar Hasan.

They have also raised anxiety among Bangladeshi officials for whom the West is a popular retirement and training destination, he added.

He pointed out that the Biden administration has begun to target businesses connected to governments that it says suppress&nbsp;human rights, such as China.

"Many Bangladeshi businessmen tied with the ruling party are nervous about the future," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;The Rohingya in Bangladesh's Bhasan Char island get access to education

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rohingya-in-bangladeshs-bhasan-char-island-get-access-to-education-451353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There was no response to repeated requests by AFP to the RAB and the national police for comment.

Dhaka denies its officers are involved in extrajudicial&nbsp;killings&nbsp;or enforced disappearances.

But Shahab Enam Khan, a professor at Jahangirnagar University, said: "Sanction from the US on the law enforcement agencies or personnel is a lesson and perhaps nobody wants it to be repeated."

From Russia to North Korea to Zimbabwe, the impact of diplomatic sanctions has long been questioned. But Bangladeshi activists have no doubts: extrajudicial killings have suddenly stopped since punitive US measures were imposed two months ago, they say.

From Russia to North Korea to Zimbabwe, the impact of diplomatic sanctions has long been questioned. But Bangladeshi activists have no doubts: extrajudicial killings have suddenly stopped since punitive US measures were imposed two months ago, they say. Around 2,500 Bangladeshis have allegedly been killed by security forces since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to power in 2009, according to rights group Odhikar, which maintains detailed records, with hundreds more enforced disappearances. It has tallied nearly 1,200 such deaths in the last four years, or an average of 25 per month. But since Washington on December 10 imposed sweeping Magnitsky Act sanctions against the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) elite security force including seven of its top officers, killings have totalled zero, it says. Also read | Australia to open mission in Maldives; invest in Bangladesh "I wish this sanction was slapped a lot earlier," said Afroza Islam Akhi, whose brother vanished eight years ago. "A lot of lives would have been saved." Akhi is now a coordinator for Mayer Daak, which represents hundreds of families of victims of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The RAB was set up in 2004 to tackle Marxist insurgents and Islamist extremism as well as curb human trafficking -- goals it pursued mercilessly and officials say effectively. More recently its targets have largely been alleged criminals and drug dealers, with authorities insisting that deaths have only occurred during exchanges of fire in legitimate law enforcement operations. But critics say political opponents have also died at the hands of security forces and that gunfights are staged to deny the victims due legal process. Akhi's brother Sajedul Islam Suman was among at least 18 activists with the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) allegedly picked up by RAB officers in December 2013 in the run-up to national elections. "My mother went to the RAB headquarters every day for more than a year as we heard RAB officers detained him," Akhi told AFP. "But he never returned." 'Every bone broken' Nur Khan Liton, head of Bangladesh's top rights group Ain O Salish Kendra, said the US sanctions have directly improved the country's rights situation. "People are happy with it and many have started speaking out," he said. According to activists, almost all victims of extrajudicial killings are detained and then shot dead. Rita Begum last saw her 14-year-old son Rakib Howlader handcuffed and detained at a police station in old Dhaka in 2018. The next day her father told her the boy -- accused of peddling drugs -- had been beaten to death and then shot to make it appear he had died in an exchange of fire. "Every bone in his body was broken and then he was shot," she told AFP. "I didn't get justice." When she tried to file a complaint, she said, "police came to my house. They held a pistol to my head and made me sign a lot of papers. They even threatened to rape my daughter. "I want the American sanctions to prevail," she added. "I don't want to see any more mothers losing their children. I don't want anybody else to suffer my fate. I lost my gem of a boy." Also read | Bangladesh rope in Jamie Siddons as new batting coach 'Nervous about the future' In some cases RAB officers have been prosecuted, with at least 26 people including an RAB commander sentenced to death for seven murders in the central city of Narayanganj in April 2014. Dhaka and Washington normally have warm relations, co-operating on security issues and with Bangladesh often voting alongside the United States at the United Nations. The sanctions include asset freezes and visa bans and were imposed on the RAB and current or former RAB officials, including its ex-head Benazir Ahmed, now the national chief of police. The move -- at a time when China is pouring investment into one of Asia's poorest countries -- stunned Dhaka, with the foreign secretary summoning the US ambassador to convey "discontent". But the sanctions constitute a "tactical strike" on the understanding between the security forces and ruling party and "put the whole security establishment under renewed international scrutiny", said Sydney-based Bangladesh researcher Mubashar Hasan. They have also raised anxiety among Bangladeshi officials for whom the West is a popular retirement and training destination, he added. He pointed out that the Biden administration has begun to target businesses connected to governments that it says suppress human rights, such as China. "Many Bangladeshi businessmen tied with the ruling party are nervous about the future," he said. Watch | The Rohingya in Bangladesh's Bhasan Char island get access to education There was no response to repeated requests by AFP to the RAB and the national police for comment. Dhaka denies its officers are involved in extrajudicial killings or enforced disappearances. But Shahab Enam Khan, a professor at Jahangirnagar University, said: "Sanction from the US on the law enforcement agencies or personnel is a lesson and perhaps nobody wants it to be repeated."

US sanctions have stopped Bangladesh killings: Rights activists

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific.

The agreement was announced as Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto met his French counterpart Florence Parly in Jakarta.&nbsp;

"We agreed on the purchase of 42 Rafale. The contract signed today is for the first six, which will be followed by 36 others," said Subianto.

It is the latest sign of warming ties between Jakarta and Paris, as France rethinks its alliances in the region following the collapse in September of a multibillion-dollar Australian submarine deal.

Paris was left furious by the debacle, saying it had been given no warning that Canberra was negotiating a new defence pact with the United States and Britain.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/in-indonesia-brave-islanders-free-croc-caught-in-a-tyre-for-the-last-six-years-451631">In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years&nbsp;</a>

Australia is now obtaining nuclear-powered submarines as part of the new defence alliance, named AUKUS, with Washington and London to counter a rising China.

In November, France and Indonesia strengthened a strategic partnership agreement during a two-day visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to the vast Southeast Asian archipelago.

Indonesia's first order for French warplanes comes as Jakarta replaces an ageing fleet -- consisting mainly of American F-16s and Russian Sukhois --&nbsp;as concerns grow about rising US-China tensions in Asia.

'Technical excellence'&nbsp;

In Jakarta, Parly told reporters that Indonesia had chosen a warplane known for its "technical excellence", which had demonstrated its "operational capabilities on numerous occasions".

Indonesia is also reportedly&nbsp;in negotiations to buy about 30 American F-15s, and is participating in a South Korean programme to develop a warplane.

Since the Australian submarine deal collapsed, France has been bolstering ties with long-time partners including Japan and India, as well as turning to Southeast Asian nations such as Indonesia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-munich-paris-india-australia-france-fms-trilateral-on-anvil-452012">EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil</a>

Indonesia is one of several Asian countries that expressed concerns about the AUKUS pact, with Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi warning it could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region.&nbsp;

The Dassault Aviation Rafale aircraft, which entered service in 2004, has proved popular in the international market despite&nbsp;competition from American and other&nbsp;European manufacturers.&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates signed the biggest ever order for the jets in December, with a deal to buy 80 for 14 billion euros.&nbsp;

Other foreign clients include Qatar, India, Egypt, Greece and Croatia.

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific.

Indonesia signed a deal with France on Thursday to buy six Rafale warplanes as part of an anticipated total order of 42, as Paris bolsters military ties in the Asia-Pacific. The agreement was announced as Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto met his French counterpart Florence Parly in Jakarta. "We agreed on the purchase of 42 Rafale. The contract signed today is for the first six, which will be followed by 36 others," said Subianto. It is the latest sign of warming ties between Jakarta and Paris, as France rethinks its alliances in the region following the collapse in September of a multibillion-dollar Australian submarine deal. Paris was left furious by the debacle, saying it had been given no warning that Canberra was negotiating a new defence pact with the United States and Britain. Also read | In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years Australia is now obtaining nuclear-powered submarines as part of the new defence alliance, named AUKUS, with Washington and London to counter a rising China. In November, France and Indonesia strengthened a strategic partnership agreement during a two-day visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to the vast Southeast Asian archipelago. Indonesia's first order for French warplanes comes as Jakarta replaces an ageing fleet -- consisting mainly of American F-16s and Russian Sukhois -- as concerns grow about rising US-China tensions in Asia. 'Technical excellence' In Jakarta, Parly told reporters that Indonesia had chosen a warplane known for its "technical excellence", which had demonstrated its "operational capabilities on numerous occasions". Indonesia is also reportedly in negotiations to buy about 30 American F-15s, and is participating in a South Korean programme to develop a warplane. Since the Australian submarine deal collapsed, France has been bolstering ties with long-time partners including Japan and India, as well as turning to Southeast Asian nations such as Indonesia. Also read | EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil Indonesia is one of several Asian countries that expressed concerns about the AUKUS pact, with Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi warning it could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region. The Dassault Aviation Rafale aircraft, which entered service in 2004, has proved popular in the international market despite competition from American and other European manufacturers. The United Arab Emirates signed the biggest ever order for the jets in December, with a deal to buy 80 for 14 billion euros. Other foreign clients include Qatar, India, Egypt, Greece and Croatia.

Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances

US President Joe Biden's administration issues a strict warning and threatens to turn to other options if their diplomacy fails in Vienna in stopping Iran from reviving their nuclear deal.

US has backup plans if diplomacy fails in Vienna against Iran amid push for revival of nuclear deal

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that he had ordered expulsion of 10 foreign ambassadors including those from US, France, Germany and Denmark who called for the release of a jailed philanthropist Osman Kavala.

Turkey: Philanthropist Osman Kavala jailed in jail for 4 years

Myanmar's junta chief Monday announced the release of more than 5,000 people jailed for protesting against a February coup, days after a regional bloc delivered a major snub to the military regime.

There has been chaos in Myanmar since the coup, with more than 1,100 civilians killed in a bloody crackdown on dissent and more than 8,000 arrested, according to a local monitoring group.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-excludes-myanmar-junta-chief-from-attendance-at-summit-421295">ASEAN excludes Myanmar junta chief from attendance at summit</a>

More than 7,300 are currently behind bars, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Junta head Min Aung Hlaing said a total of 5,636 prisoners will be freed to mark the Thadingyut festival later in October.

The announcement comes on the heels of ASEAN's decision to exclude Min Aung Hlaing from an upcoming summit of the 10-country bloc over his administration's commitment to defusing the bloody crisis.

Min Aung Hlaing gave no details on who would be included in the list and prison authorities did not respond to AFP requests for comment.

Myanmar authorities released more than 2,000 anti-coup protesters from prisons across the country in June, including journalists critical of the military government.

Those still in custody include the American journalist Danny Fenster, who has been held since being arrested on May 24.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-aung-san-suu-kyis-lawyer-says-he-has-been-issued-a-gag-order-420842">Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi's lawyer says he has been issued a gag order</a>

More than 1,300 of those due to be released would be freed on the condition they sign agreements promising not to re-offend, Min Aung Hlaing said.

Such agreements were "basically a form of parole that entails constant menacing surveillance", David Mathieson, an analyst formerly based in Myanmar, told AFP.

"It doesn't absolve the SAC (State Administration Council, as the junta dubs itself) of nine months of extreme violence."

Junta shunned&nbsp;

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on Friday decided to exclude Min Aung Hlaing, instead choosing to invite a "non-political representative" for Myanmar to the October 26-28 summit.

The bloc, widely criticised as a toothless organisation, took a strong stand after the junta rebuffed requests for a special envoy to meet "all stakeholders" in Myanmar -- a phrase seen to include ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The ASEAN statement noted "insufficient progress" in the implementation of a five-point plan agreed by the bloc's leaders in April to end the post-coup turmoil.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-alarmed-by-myanmar-military-moves-419172">UN alarmed by Myanmar military moves</a>

The junta slammed the decision, accusing ASEAN of breaching its policy of non-interference in the domestic affairs of member states.

Myanmar, mostly ruled by the military since a 1962 coup, has been a thorn in ASEAN's side since it joined in 1997.

Min Aung Hlaing's administration has justified its power grab citing alleged vote rigging in last year's elections, which Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party won convincingly.

The coup snuffed out Myanmar's short-lived dalliance with democracy and the 76-year-old Suu Kyi now faces a raft of charges in a junta court that could see her jailed for decades.

Last week, her chief lawyer said he had been banned by the junta from speaking to journalists, diplomats or international organisations.

The other lawyers on her legal team also faced a similar ban -- effectively muzzling the key sources of information on court proceedings, from which journalists are barred.

Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, who has spent much of her life resisting Myanmar's generals, is scheduled to testify in court for the first time later this month.

Myanmar's junta chief Monday announced the release of more than 5,000 people jailed for protesting against a February coup, days after a regional bloc delivered a major snub to the military regime.

Myanmar's junta chief Monday announced the release of more than 5,000 people jailed for protesting against a February coup, days after a regional bloc delivered a major snub to the military regime. There has been chaos in Myanmar since the coup, with more than 1,100 civilians killed in a bloody crackdown on dissent and more than 8,000 arrested, according to a local monitoring group. Also Read | ASEAN excludes Myanmar junta chief from attendance at summit More than 7,300 are currently behind bars, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners. Junta head Min Aung Hlaing said a total of 5,636 prisoners will be freed to mark the Thadingyut festival later in October. The announcement comes on the heels of ASEAN's decision to exclude Min Aung Hlaing from an upcoming summit of the 10-country bloc over his administration's commitment to defusing the bloody crisis. Min Aung Hlaing gave no details on who would be included in the list and prison authorities did not respond to AFP requests for comment. Myanmar authorities released more than 2,000 anti-coup protesters from prisons across the country in June, including journalists critical of the military government. Those still in custody include the American journalist Danny Fenster, who has been held since being arrested on May 24. Also Read | Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi's lawyer says he has been issued a gag order More than 1,300 of those due to be released would be freed on the condition they sign agreements promising not to re-offend, Min Aung Hlaing said. Such agreements were "basically a form of parole that entails constant menacing surveillance", David Mathieson, an analyst formerly based in Myanmar, told AFP. "It doesn't absolve the SAC (State Administration Council, as the junta dubs itself) of nine months of extreme violence." Junta shunned Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on Friday decided to exclude Min Aung Hlaing, instead choosing to invite a "non-political representative" for Myanmar to the October 26-28 summit. The bloc, widely criticised as a toothless organisation, took a strong stand after the junta rebuffed requests for a special envoy to meet "all stakeholders" in Myanmar -- a phrase seen to include ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The ASEAN statement noted "insufficient progress" in the implementation of a five-point plan agreed by the bloc's leaders in April to end the post-coup turmoil. Also Read | UN alarmed by Myanmar military moves The junta slammed the decision, accusing ASEAN of breaching its policy of non-interference in the domestic affairs of member states. Myanmar, mostly ruled by the military since a 1962 coup, has been a thorn in ASEAN's side since it joined in 1997. Min Aung Hlaing's administration has justified its power grab citing alleged vote rigging in last year's elections, which Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party won convincingly. The coup snuffed out Myanmar's short-lived dalliance with democracy and the 76-year-old Suu Kyi now faces a raft of charges in a junta court that could see her jailed for decades. Last week, her chief lawyer said he had been banned by the junta from speaking to journalists, diplomats or international organisations. The other lawyers on her legal team also faced a similar ban -- effectively muzzling the key sources of information on court proceedings, from which journalists are barred. Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, who has spent much of her life resisting Myanmar's generals, is scheduled to testify in court for the first time later this month.

Myanmar to free more than 5,000 protesters after ASEAN snub

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers.

"My wish is for a calming down because I think it's better to talk and to make progress," Macron told the France Inter broadcaster, adding that his relations with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune were "truly cordial".

Algeria over the weekend recalled its ambassador from Paris and banned French military planes from its airspace, which France regularly uses to reach its forces battling jihadists in the Sahel region.

That came after a bitter row over visas, followed by media reports that Macron had told descendants of Algeria's war of independence that the North African country was ruled by a "political-military system" that had "totally re-written" its history.

Algeria said the reported remarks were an "interference" in its internal affairs.

Algiers was also angered last week after France said it would sharply reduce the number of visas it grants to citizens of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia.

Paris said the decision had been made necessary by the former colonies' failure to do enough to allow illegal migrants in France to be returned.

The latest row came two weeks after Macron apologised on behalf of his country for abandoning Algerians who fought alongside France in their country's war of independence, which was waged on both sides with extreme brutality, including widespread torture.

During his presidency, Macron has taken steps to defuse lingering tensions with Algeria linked to their colonial history, and face up to France's methods to retain control of its north African colony, which won independence in 1962.

In 2018, he admitted that France had created a "system" that facilitated torture during the war and acknowledged that French mathematician Maurice Audin, a Communist pro-independence activist, was murdered in Algiers.

In July last year, he tasked French historian Benjamin Stora with assessing how France has dealt with its colonial legacy in Algeria.

"We've said things that are not easy to hear. I have not sugarcoated our own history," Macron told France Inter.

More than 60 years since France started its nuclear tests in Algeria, their legacy also continues to poison relations between the North African nation and its former colonial ruler. &nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers. "My wish is for a calming down because I think it's better to talk and to make progress," Macron told the France Inter broadcaster, adding that his relations with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune were "truly cordial". Algeria over the weekend recalled its ambassador from Paris and banned French military planes from its airspace, which France regularly uses to reach its forces battling jihadists in the Sahel region. That came after a bitter row over visas, followed by media reports that Macron had told descendants of Algeria's war of independence that the North African country was ruled by a "political-military system" that had "totally re-written" its history. Algeria said the reported remarks were an "interference" in its internal affairs. Algiers was also angered last week after France said it would sharply reduce the number of visas it grants to citizens of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. Paris said the decision had been made necessary by the former colonies' failure to do enough to allow illegal migrants in France to be returned. The latest row came two weeks after Macron apologised on behalf of his country for abandoning Algerians who fought alongside France in their country's war of independence, which was waged on both sides with extreme brutality, including widespread torture. During his presidency, Macron has taken steps to defuse lingering tensions with Algeria linked to their colonial history, and face up to France's methods to retain control of its north African colony, which won independence in 1962. In 2018, he admitted that France had created a "system" that facilitated torture during the war and acknowledged that French mathematician Maurice Audin, a Communist pro-independence activist, was murdered in Algiers. In July last year, he tasked French historian Benjamin Stora with assessing how France has dealt with its colonial legacy in Algeria. "We've said things that are not easy to hear. I have not sugarcoated our own history," Macron told France Inter. More than 60 years since France started its nuclear tests in Algeria, their legacy also continues to poison relations between the North African nation and its former colonial ruler.

Macron wants 'calming down' in Algeria relations

The situation in Western Sahara has "significantly deteriorated" over the past year, the UN Secretary-General has said, citing the resumption of hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario independence movement in the disputed territory.

Morocco views Western Sahara as an integral part of its territory, but the Polisario -&nbsp;recognized internationally as the representative of the Sahrawi people - has long sought independence.

The "resumption of hostilities between Morocco and Frente POLISARIO is a major setback toward the achievement of a political solution," Antonio Guterres said in a report submitted to the Security Council.

"There remains a clear risk of escalation while hostilities persist," he added in the report, not yet published and obtained by AFP on Saturday.

"I therefore call on the parties to de-escalate the situation and immediately cease hostilities."

Guterres said the two sides must agree on the appointment of a UN envoy to restart political dialogue on Western Sahara.

The Polisario fought a war of independence with Morocco from 1975 until a UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991.

The conflict has continued to simmer, and has been without an emissary since May 2019, with all candidates proposed by Guterres rejected by one side or the other.

In his report, Guterres noted that in November 2020, the Polisario had announced -- after incidents with Morocco -- that it no longer felt committed to the ceasefire.

In December 2020, then-president Donald Trump broke with previous US positions and recognized Morocco's sovereignty over the whole of Western Sahara.

President Joe Biden has yet to comment on that move.

At the end of August, Algeria -- Morocco's neighbor and rival, and a key backer of the Polisario -- broke off diplomatic relations with Rabat, particularly over Western Sahara.

Polisario wants a UN referendum on self-determination, while Morocco -- which controls more than two-thirds of the former Spanish colony -- has proposed a plan for Polisario autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.

The situation in Western Sahara has "significantly deteriorated" over the past year, the UN Secretary-General has said, citing the resumption of hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario independence movement in the disputed territory.

The situation in Western Sahara has "significantly deteriorated" over the past year, the UN Secretary-General has said, citing the resumption of hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario independence movement in the disputed territory. Morocco views Western Sahara as an integral part of its territory, but the Polisario - recognized internationally as the representative of the Sahrawi people - has long sought independence. The "resumption of hostilities between Morocco and Frente POLISARIO is a major setback toward the achievement of a political solution," Antonio Guterres said in a report submitted to the Security Council. "There remains a clear risk of escalation while hostilities persist," he added in the report, not yet published and obtained by AFP on Saturday. "I therefore call on the parties to de-escalate the situation and immediately cease hostilities." Guterres said the two sides must agree on the appointment of a UN envoy to restart political dialogue on Western Sahara. The Polisario fought a war of independence with Morocco from 1975 until a UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991. The conflict has continued to simmer, and has been without an emissary since May 2019, with all candidates proposed by Guterres rejected by one side or the other. In his report, Guterres noted that in November 2020, the Polisario had announced -- after incidents with Morocco -- that it no longer felt committed to the ceasefire. In December 2020, then-president Donald Trump broke with previous US positions and recognized Morocco's sovereignty over the whole of Western Sahara. President Joe Biden has yet to comment on that move. At the end of August, Algeria -- Morocco's neighbor and rival, and a key backer of the Polisario -- broke off diplomatic relations with Rabat, particularly over Western Sahara. Polisario wants a UN referendum on self-determination, while Morocco -- which controls more than two-thirds of the former Spanish colony -- has proposed a plan for Polisario autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.

Western Sahara situation 'significantly deteriorated', UN chief says

A plane branded with the logo of national Egyptian carrier Egyptair landed in Israel for the first time Sunday, a flight described as "historic" by the Israel Airports Authority.

Egypt was the first Arab nation to establish ties with Israel in a 1979 peace deal, and direct flights between the countries followed that accord.&nbsp;

But the Egyptian flights to Israel had previously been operated by an Egyptair subsidiary, Air Sinai, set up exclusively for the Israel route, creating a buffer between Egyptair and the Jewish state.&nbsp;

But Egyptair will now run four flights per week into Israel under its own banner, IAA spokesman Ofer Lefler told AFP.&nbsp;

He called Sunday's landing "a historic first."

The move comes after a visit to Egypt last month by Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett for talks with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Bennett said he and Sisi had "created a foundation for deep ties in the future."

Thousands of Israeli tourists typically visit Egypt annually, including to the Sinai desert and Red Sea resorts.&nbsp;

Five Arab states have normalised ties with Israel since Egypt became the first.&nbsp;

Next was Jordan, in 1994 and, since the summer of 2020, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco have followed suit. &nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A plane branded with the logo of national Egyptian carrier Egyptair landed in Israel for the first time Sunday, a flight described as "historic" by the Israel Airports Authority.

A plane branded with the logo of national Egyptian carrier Egyptair landed in Israel for the first time Sunday, a flight described as "historic" by the Israel Airports Authority. Egypt was the first Arab nation to establish ties with Israel in a 1979 peace deal, and direct flights between the countries followed that accord. But the Egyptian flights to Israel had previously been operated by an Egyptair subsidiary, Air Sinai, set up exclusively for the Israel route, creating a buffer between Egyptair and the Jewish state. But Egyptair will now run four flights per week into Israel under its own banner, IAA spokesman Ofer Lefler told AFP. He called Sunday's landing "a historic first." The move comes after a visit to Egypt last month by Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett for talks with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Bennett said he and Sisi had "created a foundation for deep ties in the future." Thousands of Israeli tourists typically visit Egypt annually, including to the Sinai desert and Red Sea resorts. Five Arab states have normalised ties with Israel since Egypt became the first. Next was Jordan, in 1994 and, since the summer of 2020, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco have followed suit.

First 'Egyptair' flight lands in Israel

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January.

In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development.

The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France.

The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement.

But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation".

"Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name.

"I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency.

North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives.

On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors.

Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb". Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January. In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development. The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France. The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement. But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation". "Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name. "I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency. North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives. On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors. Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea slams UN over its meeting on missile test

Turkey on Friday lashed out at a multibillion-euro warship deal between France and regional foe Greece, warning the agreement would threaten regional stability by isolating Ankara. &nbsp;&nbsp;

France and Greece on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding that will see Athens buy three French warships, an accord hailed by French President Emmanuel Macron as a major boost to the EU's defence ambitions.

But Turkey, which has an uneasy history and relationship with its NATO neighbour Greece, criticised the agreement as being aimed against Ankara.

"Greece's armament and the isolating and alienating of Turkey, instead of cooperation, is a problematic policy that will harm Greece and the EU, and that threatens regional peace and stability," Turkey's foreign ministry spokesman said.

On Tuesday, Macron said the frigate sale was not meant to be seen as a threat against Ankara, calling it a means to jointly ensure security in the Mediterranean as well as in North Africa, the Middle East and the Balkans.

France and Greece have forged closer ties in recent years, while each country's relationship with Turkey has been strained.

Greek-Turkish relations have a history of war and conflict.

Last year, the two countries were involved in a standoff when their gunboats collided while shadowing each other during a Turkish push into disputed eastern Mediterranean waters.

Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Tanju Bilgic on Friday suggested that the warship deal with France was part of Greece's effort to bolster what he called "maximalist maritime zone and air space claims" that were "contrary to international law".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Turkey on Friday lashed out at a multibillion-euro warship deal between France and regional foe Greece, warning the agreement would threaten regional stability by isolating Ankara.

Turkey on Friday lashed out at a multibillion-euro warship deal between France and regional foe Greece, warning the agreement would threaten regional stability by isolating Ankara. France and Greece on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding that will see Athens buy three French warships, an accord hailed by French President Emmanuel Macron as a major boost to the EU's defence ambitions. But Turkey, which has an uneasy history and relationship with its NATO neighbour Greece, criticised the agreement as being aimed against Ankara. "Greece's armament and the isolating and alienating of Turkey, instead of cooperation, is a problematic policy that will harm Greece and the EU, and that threatens regional peace and stability," Turkey's foreign ministry spokesman said. On Tuesday, Macron said the frigate sale was not meant to be seen as a threat against Ankara, calling it a means to jointly ensure security in the Mediterranean as well as in North Africa, the Middle East and the Balkans. France and Greece have forged closer ties in recent years, while each country's relationship with Turkey has been strained. Greek-Turkish relations have a history of war and conflict. Last year, the two countries were involved in a standoff when their gunboats collided while shadowing each other during a Turkish push into disputed eastern Mediterranean waters. Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Tanju Bilgic on Friday suggested that the warship deal with France was part of Greece's effort to bolster what he called "maximalist maritime zone and air space claims" that were "contrary to international law".

Turkey warns Greece-France arms deal threatens 'stability'

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