Over 170 passengers, including migrants, were rescued from a ferry sailing from the Italian island of Lampedusa to Sicily early Saturday (Sep 30) after a fire broke out, according to media reports citing officials. This comes amid a surge of landings on the island which has led to the migration issue being at the top of the European agenda in recent months.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The Italian coast guard said that it rescued 177 people including 27 crew from a ferry that caught fire when it was en route to Porto Empedocle in Sicily. The passengers also included 83 migrants being transferred from Lampedusa, said the Italian officials.&nbsp;

The officials also announced that the passengers were brought to safety and put onto patrol vessels and are on their way to Porto Empedocle, except three who are returning to Lampedusa.&nbsp;

&nbsp;ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-at-least-two-dead-30-missing-after-migrant-shipwrecks-off-lampedusa-622845">Italy: At least two dead, 30 missing after two shipwrecks off Lampedusa</a>

In a statement shared on X, the Italian officials also said that during the rescue they used water jets to cool parts of the ferry affected by the fire. The blaze was said to have broken out in the engine room late on Friday (Sep 29) night.&nbsp; 
 
Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users.&nbsp;Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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Incendio a bordo di un traghetto in navigazione tra Lampedusa e Porto Empedocle: la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GuardiaCostiera?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GuardiaCostiera</a> trae in salvo i 150 passeggeri con 
motovedetta SAR CP324 e nave Diciotti, che ha operato anche in assetto anti incendio, raffreddando con getti d’acqua le murate della nave. <a href="https://t.co/0S9aB663QY">pic.twitter.com/0S9aB663QY</a>
— Guardia Costiera (@guardiacostiera) <a href="https://twitter.com/guardiacostiera/status/1707977443024195870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Surge of migrants in Italy</h2>

Italy, particularly Lampedusa, has witnessed a surge of migrants as many land on the Italian island after making the dangerous Mediterranean crossing by boat.&nbsp;

This has pushed the migration issue to the top of the European Union agenda with Italy’s hard-right government demanding more help from the EU.&nbsp;

According to the country’s interior ministry, more than 130,000 migrants have arrived on Italy’s shores so far this year which is double the number last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-artist-banksys-migrant-rescue-ship-seized-by-italian-officials-576017">British artist Banksy’s migrant rescue ship seized by Italian officials</a>

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also sought to amend an EU pact on migration which would force charity ships rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean to disembark them in their own countries, reported news agency AFP, on Friday (Sep 29).&nbsp;

However, Italian media reported that her bid was rejected after an interior ministers meeting in Brussels the day prior during talks focused on handling asylum seekers and irregular migrants entering the 27-nation bloc.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Over 170 passengers, including migrants, were rescued from a ferry sailing from the Italian island of Lampedusa to Sicily early Saturday (Sep 30) after a fire broke out, according to media reports citing officials.

Over 170 passengers, including migrants, were rescued from a ferry sailing from the Italian island of Lampedusa to Sicily early Saturday (Sep 30) after a fire broke out, according to media reports citing officials. This comes amid a surge of landings on the island which has led to the migration issue being at the top of the European agenda in recent months. What happened? The Italian coast guard said that it rescued 177 people including 27 crew from a ferry that caught fire when it was en route to Porto Empedocle in Sicily. The passengers also included 83 migrants being transferred from Lampedusa, said the Italian officials. The officials also announced that the passengers were brought to safety and put onto patrol vessels and are on their way to Porto Empedocle, except three who are returning to Lampedusa. ALSO READ | Italy: At least two dead, 30 missing after two shipwrecks off Lampedusa In a statement shared on X, the Italian officials also said that during the rescue they used water jets to cool parts of the ferry affected by the fire. The blaze was said to have broken out in the engine room late on Friday (Sep 29) night. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. Incendio a bordo di un traghetto in navigazione tra Lampedusa e Porto Empedocle: la #GuardiaCostiera trae in salvo i 150 passeggeri con motovedetta SAR CP324 e nave Diciotti, che ha operato anche in assetto anti incendio, raffreddando con getti d’acqua le murate della nave. pic.twitter.com/0S9aB663QY — Guardia Costiera (@guardiacostiera) September 30, 2023 × Surge of migrants in Italy Italy, particularly Lampedusa, has witnessed a surge of migrants as many land on the Italian island after making the dangerous Mediterranean crossing by boat. This has pushed the migration issue to the top of the European Union agenda with Italy’s hard-right government demanding more help from the EU. According to the country’s interior ministry, more than 130,000 migrants have arrived on Italy’s shores so far this year which is double the number last year. ALSO READ | British artist Banksy’s migrant rescue ship seized by Italian officials Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also sought to amend an EU pact on migration which would force charity ships rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean to disembark them in their own countries, reported news agency AFP, on Friday (Sep 29). However, Italian media reported that her bid was rejected after an interior ministers meeting in Brussels the day prior during talks focused on handling asylum seekers and irregular migrants entering the 27-nation bloc. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Watch | Italian coast guard rescues over 170 people aboard burning ferry

The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package.

EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson said "no main obstacles" remain on the thorny issue after a meeting of the bloc's interior ministers, and formal agreement would come "in a few days".

Once implemented, the new Pact on Migration and Asylum would seek to relieve the pressure on so-called frontline countries such as Italy and Greece by relocating some arrivals to other EU states.

Those countries opposed to hosting asylum-seekers -- Poland and Hungary among them -- would be required to pay the ones that do take migrants in.

At the same time, the European Union will seek to speed up processing of asylum applications so that migrants deemed inadmissible are returned to their country of origin or of transit, and maximum detention times for migrants in border centres would be lengthened from the current 12 weeks.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said her country won concessions allowing it to finally back the deal, after initially abstaining on an earlier draft it considered too harsh for some categories of migrants.

Only Poland and Hungary voiced opposition to the compromise text in the Brussels meeting, she said, so "we therefore assume that this political agreement is valid".

Changes made to get German assent included making sure families and children were "prioritised" when they arrived irregularly on EU soil and admission criteria for asylum-seekers were not tightened, she said.

Also, "the concept of instrumentalisation was defined more narrowly," Faeser said.

That appeared to refer to efforts by Italy's right-wing government to treat charity ships conducting migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean similarly to people-smugglers, &nbsp;or to countries such as Belarus that have pushed migration flows towards Europe as a tactic.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in Berlin that his country needed more time to study the latest text.

Speaking after chairing the Brussels meeting, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stressed that "a very broad majority of member states" agreed with the compromise approach.

While "nuances" still needed to be hammered out, he vowed that final agreement would be reached "within the next few days".

"We are almost at the finishing line," he said.

Paralysis on the issue had caused growing frustration in the 27-nation bloc as it faces a rise in irregular migration.

The arrival of thousands of asylum-seekers arriving from Africa on the Italian island of Lampedusa notably spurred urgency to get the revised policy in place.

Part of the aim of the revised policy is for European Union countries to act together should they be faced with a sudden large inflow of asylum-seekers, as happened in 2015-2016 when hundreds of thousands of migrants arrived, most of them Syrians fleeing the war in their country.

Agreement among EU member states needs a weighted majority of countries to vote in favour, meaning countries opposing the host-or-pay clause -- Poland, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic -- would likely not have enough support to block it.

In Budapest, Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, heaped fresh criticism on the migration pact.

"All they can achieve with this migration pact is to turn the border countries, countries along the Schengen border into Lampedusa," he said.

The European Parliament added its own pressure on the ministers by deciding last week to pause negotiations with EU member states on aspects of the pact that had met little resistance, those dealing with reinforced security along the bloc's outer border.

The goal of the EU is to have the reform made law before European elections next June that will usher in a new European Parliament and commission.

The next cycle in EU politics could see a political shift in the European Parliament, given the rise of right-wing parties in several EU countries, and would see Hungary and Poland take turns holding the rotating EU presidency.

The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package.

The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package. EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson said "no main obstacles" remain on the thorny issue after a meeting of the bloc's interior ministers, and formal agreement would come "in a few days". Once implemented, the new Pact on Migration and Asylum would seek to relieve the pressure on so-called frontline countries such as Italy and Greece by relocating some arrivals to other EU states. Those countries opposed to hosting asylum-seekers -- Poland and Hungary among them -- would be required to pay the ones that do take migrants in. At the same time, the European Union will seek to speed up processing of asylum applications so that migrants deemed inadmissible are returned to their country of origin or of transit, and maximum detention times for migrants in border centres would be lengthened from the current 12 weeks. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said her country won concessions allowing it to finally back the deal, after initially abstaining on an earlier draft it considered too harsh for some categories of migrants. Only Poland and Hungary voiced opposition to the compromise text in the Brussels meeting, she said, so "we therefore assume that this political agreement is valid". Changes made to get German assent included making sure families and children were "prioritised" when they arrived irregularly on EU soil and admission criteria for asylum-seekers were not tightened, she said. Also, "the concept of instrumentalisation was defined more narrowly," Faeser said. That appeared to refer to efforts by Italy's right-wing government to treat charity ships conducting migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean similarly to people-smugglers, or to countries such as Belarus that have pushed migration flows towards Europe as a tactic. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in Berlin that his country needed more time to study the latest text. Speaking after chairing the Brussels meeting, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stressed that "a very broad majority of member states" agreed with the compromise approach. While "nuances" still needed to be hammered out, he vowed that final agreement would be reached "within the next few days". "We are almost at the finishing line," he said. Paralysis on the issue had caused growing frustration in the 27-nation bloc as it faces a rise in irregular migration. The arrival of thousands of asylum-seekers arriving from Africa on the Italian island of Lampedusa notably spurred urgency to get the revised policy in place. Part of the aim of the revised policy is for European Union countries to act together should they be faced with a sudden large inflow of asylum-seekers, as happened in 2015-2016 when hundreds of thousands of migrants arrived, most of them Syrians fleeing the war in their country. Agreement among EU member states needs a weighted majority of countries to vote in favour, meaning countries opposing the host-or-pay clause -- Poland, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic -- would likely not have enough support to block it. In Budapest, Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, heaped fresh criticism on the migration pact. "All they can achieve with this migration pact is to turn the border countries, countries along the Schengen border into Lampedusa," he said. The European Parliament added its own pressure on the ministers by deciding last week to pause negotiations with EU member states on aspects of the pact that had met little resistance, those dealing with reinforced security along the bloc's outer border. The goal of the EU is to have the reform made law before European elections next June that will usher in a new European Parliament and commission. The next cycle in EU politics could see a political shift in the European Parliament, given the rise of right-wing parties in several EU countries, and would see Hungary and Poland take turns holding the rotating EU presidency.

EU poised to agree new rules for asylum-seekers

In a major development from the European Union, plans are underway to reshape the future of membership expansion. The core of the proposal revolves around two key components: First, providing substantial financial aid to these aspiring members to accelerate their reform efforts. Secondly, the EU aims to grant these candidate nations early access to the lucrative single market.

EU's growth plan for countries

European justice and home affairs ministers met in Brussels amid growing pressure for the bloc to agree on a new migration and asylum pact.

EU countries agree on new migration deal, families and children to be prioritised

A senior European official, briefing reporters on the condition of anonymity, said on Wednesday (September 27) that US President Joe Biden is preparing to host European Union chiefs Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen in Washington on October 20.

AFP reported citing the official that there has been "good discussion" over the summit and that the EU side was "hopeful" of a breakthrough over many issues.

Last EU-US summit took place in Brussels in June 2021. In March last year, Biden was a guest of the 27 EU member state leaders during European Council meeting.

The goal of the upcoming summit is to reinforce the trans-Atlantic partnership to better fight crises like climate change and at the same time, balancing the world economy.

The US and the EU are on the same page on range of issues. It is expected that a strong message of unity will be sent especially in the face of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

However, differences remain between the two sides over issues like tariffs imposed by Trump administration on steel and aluminium from Europe.

The tariffs have been suspended. But they mau come back into force by next month-end if the US and the EU do not agree over a lasting solution over this issue.

Europe has also expressed concerns over Biden's $370 billion Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), fearing its subsidies for clean energy tech will lead to all US firms out-competing their European rivals. &nbsp;

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A senior European official, briefing reporters on the condition of anonymity, said on Wednesday (September 27) that US President Joe Biden is preparing to host European Union chiefs Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen in Washington on October 20.

A senior European official, briefing reporters on the condition of anonymity, said on Wednesday (September 27) that US President Joe Biden is preparing to host European Union chiefs Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen in Washington on October 20. AFP reported citing the official that there has been "good discussion" over the summit and that the EU side was "hopeful" of a breakthrough over many issues. Last EU-US summit took place in Brussels in June 2021. In March last year, Biden was a guest of the 27 EU member state leaders during European Council meeting. The goal of the upcoming summit is to reinforce the trans-Atlantic partnership to better fight crises like climate change and at the same time, balancing the world economy. The US and the EU are on the same page on range of issues. It is expected that a strong message of unity will be sent especially in the face of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, differences remain between the two sides over issues like tariffs imposed by Trump administration on steel and aluminium from Europe. The tariffs have been suspended. But they mau come back into force by next month-end if the US and the EU do not agree over a lasting solution over this issue. Europe has also expressed concerns over Biden's $370 billion Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), fearing its subsidies for clean energy tech will lead to all US firms out-competing their European rivals.  You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US-EU summit to take place in Washington on October 20, says EU official

The European Union has no intention to (quote unquote) decouple from China but needs to protect itself when its openness is abused. That's what the bloc's executive vice president Valdis Dombrovskis said on Saturday. Dombrovskis, who is also the bloc's trade commissioner, is on a four-day visit to China. Dombrovskis' statement, however, is a clear indication that the European Union wants to cool rising tensions with China over geopolitics and trade.

EU Trade Chief visits china

The European Union's antitrust regulator has fined US tech giant Intel for a two-decade-old anti-competition practice of blocking rivals from entering the European market. The EU watchdog has fined Intel nearly 400 million dollars for paying HP, Acer and Lenovo to halt or delay rival products between November 2002 and December 2006.

EU antitrust body fines Intel

Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following a visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa – which has recently witnessed a record number of migrant arrivals and announced a state of emergency – promised a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy deal with the situation.

<h2>Italian president’s statement</h2>

During a visit to the Italian region of Sicily, on Thursday (Sept 21), with his German counterpart, Mattarella said the EU rules for migrant distribution were “prehistoric” and called for “new, courageous” solutions to deal with the surge of migration into Europe.&nbsp;

He also spoke about how it is necessary to think “how to use the rudimentary and outdated tools differently in the face of a totally new phenomenon,” adding that “the Dublin regulations are prehistoric” and drawn up “in another world, the phenomenon of mass migration had not begun.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-flat-out-refuses-to-welcome-migrants-from-lampedusa-637695">France flat out refuses to 'welcome' migrants from Lampedusa</a>

Similarly, the German president reiterated the criticism of the so-called Dublin procedure – which requires irregular migrants to be registered in the EU country they first enter – and said, “There must be progress here, that’s not even in question.”&nbsp;

He also hoped that the two countries would again meet on migration policy in the months to come after his meeting with Mattarella where the two heads of state visited a centre for refugees.

Notably, the Dublin procedure also says that should the irregular migrants head to another nation in the 27-nation bloc, they could be returned to their first port of call. Ahead of his visit, Steinmeier had also called for “fair distribution” of migrants arriving irregularly in Europe.&nbsp;

In an interview with Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, the German president said both Rome and Berlin were “at their limits” and stressed the need for “stronger controls and surveillance at our external borders.”

<h2>What is happening in Lampedusa?</h2>

During her visit to the Italian island, the European Commission president vowed a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy which includes using the EU’s external borders agency Frontex to identify migrants arriving and repatriate those not eligible for asylum.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-crisis-eu-chief-and-italys-pm-visit-lampedusa-call-for-swift-action-636962">Migrant crisis: EU chief and Italy's PM visit Lampedusa, promise swift action</a>

This comes after nearly 126,000 migrants have arrived in Italy just this year, which is almost double the figure by the same date in 2022.&nbsp;

Not to mention the island saw a sharp rise in the number of people arriving by boat, with more than 7,000 landing last week which prompted Lampedusa’s mayor, Filippo Mannino, to declare a state of emergency.&nbsp;

In response to the situation, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Tuesday (Sept 19) said that while his government has good diplomatic relations with Italy, they will not welcome any migrants coming from Lampedusa.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
 
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Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a meeting with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier called the European Union rules on the distribution of migrants “prehistoric” as the debate raged on Friday (September 22), about how to manage the surge of migrant boat arrivals from North Africa. Earlier this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following a visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa – which has recently witnessed a record number of migrant arrivals and announced a state of emergency – promised a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy deal with the situation. Italian president’s statement During a visit to the Italian region of Sicily, on Thursday (Sept 21), with his German counterpart, Mattarella said the EU rules for migrant distribution were “prehistoric” and called for “new, courageous” solutions to deal with the surge of migration into Europe. He also spoke about how it is necessary to think “how to use the rudimentary and outdated tools differently in the face of a totally new phenomenon,” adding that “the Dublin regulations are prehistoric” and drawn up “in another world, the phenomenon of mass migration had not begun.” ALSO READ | France flat out refuses to 'welcome' migrants from Lampedusa Similarly, the German president reiterated the criticism of the so-called Dublin procedure – which requires irregular migrants to be registered in the EU country they first enter – and said, “There must be progress here, that’s not even in question.” He also hoped that the two countries would again meet on migration policy in the months to come after his meeting with Mattarella where the two heads of state visited a centre for refugees. Notably, the Dublin procedure also says that should the irregular migrants head to another nation in the 27-nation bloc, they could be returned to their first port of call. Ahead of his visit, Steinmeier had also called for “fair distribution” of migrants arriving irregularly in Europe. In an interview with Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, the German president said both Rome and Berlin were “at their limits” and stressed the need for “stronger controls and surveillance at our external borders.” What is happening in Lampedusa? During her visit to the Italian island, the European Commission president vowed a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy which includes using the EU’s external borders agency Frontex to identify migrants arriving and repatriate those not eligible for asylum. ALSO READ | Migrant crisis: EU chief and Italy's PM visit Lampedusa, promise swift action This comes after nearly 126,000 migrants have arrived in Italy just this year, which is almost double the figure by the same date in 2022. Not to mention the island saw a sharp rise in the number of people arriving by boat, with more than 7,000 landing last week which prompted Lampedusa’s mayor, Filippo Mannino, to declare a state of emergency. In response to the situation, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Tuesday (Sept 19) said that while his government has good diplomatic relations with Italy, they will not welcome any migrants coming from Lampedusa. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Italian president calls EU rules on sharing migrants ‘prehistoric’, urges for reforms

Following remarks made by Sir Keir Starmer at a conference, Labour has attempted to make clear what its future relationship with the EU will entail after Brexit. The leader of the Labour Party declaring the party doesn't want to "diverge" from the bloc's regulations has surfaced in a video.

UK: Starmer argues UK's relationship with EU can get stronger

Carmakers in the United Kingdom are hoping for a postponement in a 10 per cent tariff on electric vehicles mandated by a provision in the post-Brexit EU trade treaty.&nbsp;

Britain clinched a last-gasp free trade deal as it left the European Union. The deal removed tariffs for the nation's largely foreign-owned carmakers.

However, as per the "rules of origin" of the trade deal, at least 45 per cent of the value of vehicle parts should come from Britain or the EU in order for the vehicle to be exempt from customs duties 2024 onwards.

For an electric vehicle, batteries represent a significant chunk of the final sale price. The batteries often originate from China. The UK has been trying to establish its own gigafactories for manufacturing of the batteries.

"We are still optimistic that an agreement will be reached" before the looming change on January 1, said Mike Hawes, chief executive of industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. AFP quoted Hawes.

"It makes common sense because the last thing you want to do is put additional tariffs on the very vehicles you are encouraging people to buy," he told an SMMT conference in London.

Hawes added: "We are optimistic but I can see this going down, like we did with Brexit, to Christmas Eve or something like that."

The UK has plans to ban sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030. The country is aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This means that by that year, the sector must produce fully electric cars.

Britain is also a vital market for EU-based car producers.&nbsp;

Germany urged the European Union this month to postpone the impending tariffs on electric car sales between the UK and the EU, according to a report in Financial Times.

There is a possibility that the customs duties would be hiked even more, especially as the EU is seeking to defend its own industry from unfair competition. Just last week, Brussels announced an investigation into state subsidies China offers for electric cars.

Monday's SMMT plea comes one week after German car giant BMW unveiled plans to ramp up production of electric Mini cars in Britain, backed partly by UK support.&nbsp;

India's Tata Group in July said it would build a £4-billion ($4.95 billion) plant in Britain to manufacture batteries, as nations accelerate away from fossil fuel vehicles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Carmakers in the United Kingdom are hoping for a postponement in a 10 per cent tariff on electric vehicles mandated by a provision in the post-Brexit EU trade treaty.

Carmakers in the United Kingdom are hoping for a postponement in a 10 per cent tariff on electric vehicles mandated by a provision in the post-Brexit EU trade treaty. Britain clinched a last-gasp free trade deal as it left the European Union. The deal removed tariffs for the nation's largely foreign-owned carmakers. However, as per the "rules of origin" of the trade deal, at least 45 per cent of the value of vehicle parts should come from Britain or the EU in order for the vehicle to be exempt from customs duties 2024 onwards. For an electric vehicle, batteries represent a significant chunk of the final sale price. The batteries often originate from China. The UK has been trying to establish its own gigafactories for manufacturing of the batteries. "We are still optimistic that an agreement will be reached" before the looming change on January 1, said Mike Hawes, chief executive of industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. AFP quoted Hawes. "It makes common sense because the last thing you want to do is put additional tariffs on the very vehicles you are encouraging people to buy," he told an SMMT conference in London. Hawes added: "We are optimistic but I can see this going down, like we did with Brexit, to Christmas Eve or something like that." The UK has plans to ban sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030. The country is aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This means that by that year, the sector must produce fully electric cars. Britain is also a vital market for EU-based car producers. Germany urged the European Union this month to postpone the impending tariffs on electric car sales between the UK and the EU, according to a report in Financial Times. There is a possibility that the customs duties would be hiked even more, especially as the EU is seeking to defend its own industry from unfair competition. Just last week, Brussels announced an investigation into state subsidies China offers for electric cars. Monday's SMMT plea comes one week after German car giant BMW unveiled plans to ramp up production of electric Mini cars in Britain, backed partly by UK support. India's Tata Group in July said it would build a £4-billion ($4.95 billion) plant in Britain to manufacture batteries, as nations accelerate away from fossil fuel vehicles. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Car makers in UK hope for delayed post-Brexit tariff

Finnish travelers flying from Helsinki to the UK can now use a digital ID on their phone instead of a physical passport. This is possible for some Finnair flights and offers a smoother border control experience. Finnish Border Control claims it's the world's first acceptance of a digital passport in a real border control environment.

Finland becomes first EU country to try digital passports

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- India Santiniketan makes it to UNESCO's world heritage, Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA, Poland begins enforcement of European Union ban on cars registered in Russia.

India Santiniketan makes it to UNESCO's world heritage | Summer 2023 was hottest

A paper prepared for EU leaders ahead of an October summit is raising concerns. EU risks becoming as dependent on China for batteries as it was on Russia for energy before the Ukraine war. Watch this video for all details.

Will EU become as hooked on Chinese batteries as it was on Russian energy before Ukraine war?

A report by the European Union has stirred up emotions in Turkiye. Ankara is now contemplating parting ways with the European Body.

Turkiye secured EU pledge after backing Sweden's NATO bid

World Trade Organisation (WTO) officials in Geneva issued a stern warning earlier this week: dividing the global economy into competing trade blocs will cut real wages by 5% globally and by twice as much in the poorest nations. Nevertheless, the European Union's tariffs on Chinese goods went into effect the next day. This has worried some of the bloc's most recognisable businesses, including Airbus, cosmetics manufacturers, and wineries.

EU-China trade war threatens world economy

The Italian island of Lampedusa is grappling with the new wave of migrant crisis. The island has been a witness to a record number of migrant landings, a vast majority of them arriving via sea from North Africa, Italy.

Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are&nbsp;"literally" living like&nbsp;hostages in the embassy.&nbsp;

Macron said envoy&nbsp;Sylvain Itte remains persona non grata while accusing&nbsp;the junta of blocking food deliveries to the consulate where the diplomatic staff is living in miserable conditions.&nbsp;

"As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;told reporters during a visit to Burgundy.

"They are preventing food deliveries. He is eating military rations," he added.&nbsp;

Quizzed if his government was planning to bring Itte back home, Macron said:&nbsp;"I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day."

Notably, the military rulers, who overthrew&nbsp;President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 had told&nbsp;Itte that he was to leave the country as soon as possible. However, even after the 48-hour ultimatum lapsed, the French government refused to comply as well recognise the military regime as legitimate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-is-niger-a-victim-of-foreign-exploitation-624905">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation?</a>

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According to&nbsp;Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, the ambassador "is working" in the consulate and would stay at his post, as long as his country demands.&nbsp;

"He is very useful for us with his contacts and those of his team," Colonna was quoted as saying by French media reports.&nbsp;

Macron has for weeks rejected the call to remove the French ambassador, a stance backed by the EU which has described the demand as "a provocation". Like France, the EU "does not recognise" the authorities that seized power in Niger, said EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-orders-troops-to-go-on-maximum-alert-629497">Also read |&nbsp;Niger junta orders troops to be on 'maximum alert' amid high threat of attack</a>

<h2>What is happening in Niger?&nbsp;</h2>

On July 26, Bazoum was overthrown when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency. After the military junta seized power, General Abdourahamane Tiani was made the new head of the state.&nbsp;

The main West African bloc ECOWAS has been trying to negotiate with the junta but to no avail.&nbsp;The bloc's decision last month to activate a so-called standby force for a possible intervention has raised fears of an escalation that could further destabilise the insurgency-torn Sahel region.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are "literally" living like hostages in the embassy.

French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that the country's envoy to the conflict-ridden state of Niger and his staff are "literally" living like hostages in the embassy. Macron said envoy Sylvain Itte remains persona non grata while accusing the junta of blocking food deliveries to the consulate where the diplomatic staff is living in miserable conditions. "As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy," Macron told reporters during a visit to Burgundy. "They are preventing food deliveries. He is eating military rations," he added. Quizzed if his government was planning to bring Itte back home, Macron said: "I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day." Notably, the military rulers, who overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 had told Itte that he was to leave the country as soon as possible. However, even after the 48-hour ultimatum lapsed, the French government refused to comply as well recognise the military regime as legitimate. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation? × According to Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, the ambassador "is working" in the consulate and would stay at his post, as long as his country demands. "He is very useful for us with his contacts and those of his team," Colonna was quoted as saying by French media reports. Macron has for weeks rejected the call to remove the French ambassador, a stance backed by the EU which has described the demand as "a provocation". Like France, the EU "does not recognise" the authorities that seized power in Niger, said EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali last month. Also read | Niger junta orders troops to be on 'maximum alert' amid high threat of attack What is happening in Niger? On July 26, Bazoum was overthrown when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency. After the military junta seized power, General Abdourahamane Tiani was made the new head of the state. The main West African bloc ECOWAS has been trying to negotiate with the junta but to no avail. The bloc's decision last month to activate a so-called standby force for a possible intervention has raised fears of an escalation that could further destabilise the insurgency-torn Sahel region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Macron says French ambassador to Niger 'literally' being held hostage

The European commission launched an investigation, looking into whether to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, which it believes are benefiting from substantial state subsidies. This move follows concerns that the flood of cheaper electric cars from China is threatening EU producers and distorting the market.

China's EV industry faces EU scrutiny

Belgium said on Thursday (September 14) it would review potential health risks linked to Apple's iPhone 12, raising the prospect that more European countries might ban the model after France ordered a halt to sales due to breaches of radiation exposure limits.

What is EU's safe radiation exposure limit as more countries mull a ban on Apple iPhone 12 sales?

Poland on Tuesday (Sep&nbsp;12) called on the European Union to extend the embargo on imports of Ukrainian grain ahead of the deadline by the end of this week and said that it would continue to block domestic imports even if Brussels lifts the ban. In response, Kyiv has warned that it would seek international arbitration over the restrictions.&nbsp;

The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed member nations, Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains like wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds.&nbsp;

The ban, which was designed to ease excess supply and is set to expire Friday (Sep 15), did not affect the transit of Ukrainian grain for export elsewhere.

<h2>Why has Poland sought the extension?</h2>

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said he has requested that the European Commission extend its ban on Ukrainian grain or else “we will do it ourselves because we cannot allow for a deregulation of the market.”&nbsp;

Morawiecki, who was addressing the farmers in Kosow Lacki in Poland’s farming east region, said that the October 15 elections will be key for the future of the country’s agriculture.&nbsp;

This comes as the ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign and said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grain-prices-rise-with-russian-strikes-on-danube-port-putin-reaffirms-stance-on-deal-621706">Russia reaffirms stance on grain deal, continues strikes on key Ukrainian ports</a>

The Polish government has also faced pressure from domestic farmers to stand firm ahead of next month’s parliamentary election.

“We will not open the borders to Ukrainian grain! Embargo stays,” Morawiecki said on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

But it is not just Warsaw that wants the ban extended, as the five central European countries have sought the extension of the ban on Ukrainian grain until the end of the year, said the Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus, last month.&nbsp;

He also said that the five countries’ agriculture ministers have also supported the call for an extension of the ban while supporting grain transit subsidies.&nbsp;

<h2>How has Ukraine responded?</h2>

After the Polish PM’s remarks his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal, took to X and said “We have no intention of harming Polish farmers. We greatly appreciate the support of the Polish people and Polish families!”

He added, “But in case of violation of trade law in the interest of political populism before the elections, Ukraine will be forced to turn to WTO (World Trade Organization) arbitration…”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-import-bans-mount-ukraine-seeks-re-opening-of-grain-transit-via-poland-583341">As import bans mount Ukraine seeks re-opening of grain transit via Poland</a>

Poland’s remarks also come at a crucial time when maintaining the grain exports is important for Ukraine considering Russia backed out of the agreement which provided a safe passage for Kyiv’s grains to be exported via the Black Sea route.&nbsp;

However, the Ukrainian government has said that it would be able to export around 50 million metric tons of agricultural goods in the 2023/24 July-June season, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Poland on Tuesday (Sep 12) called on the European Union to extend the embargo on imports of Ukrainian grain ahead of the deadline by the end of this week and said that it would continue to block domestic imports even if Brussels lifts the ban.

Poland on Tuesday (Sep 12) called on the European Union to extend the embargo on imports of Ukrainian grain ahead of the deadline by the end of this week and said that it would continue to block domestic imports even if Brussels lifts the ban. In response, Kyiv has warned that it would seek international arbitration over the restrictions. The restrictions in question were imposed by the EU back in May, which allowed member nations, Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian grains like wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds. The ban, which was designed to ease excess supply and is set to expire Friday (Sep 15), did not affect the transit of Ukrainian grain for export elsewhere. Why has Poland sought the extension? Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said he has requested that the European Commission extend its ban on Ukrainian grain or else “we will do it ourselves because we cannot allow for a deregulation of the market.” Morawiecki, who was addressing the farmers in Kosow Lacki in Poland’s farming east region, said that the October 15 elections will be key for the future of the country’s agriculture. This comes as the ruling conservative Law and Justice party has sought to attract farmer voters for its campaign and said that the cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable. ALSO READ | Russia reaffirms stance on grain deal, continues strikes on key Ukrainian ports The Polish government has also faced pressure from domestic farmers to stand firm ahead of next month’s parliamentary election. “We will not open the borders to Ukrainian grain! Embargo stays,” Morawiecki said on X, formerly known as Twitter. But it is not just Warsaw that wants the ban extended, as the five central European countries have sought the extension of the ban on Ukrainian grain until the end of the year, said the Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus, last month. He also said that the five countries’ agriculture ministers have also supported the call for an extension of the ban while supporting grain transit subsidies. How has Ukraine responded? After the Polish PM’s remarks his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal, took to X and said “We have no intention of harming Polish farmers. We greatly appreciate the support of the Polish people and Polish families!” He added, “But in case of violation of trade law in the interest of political populism before the elections, Ukraine will be forced to turn to WTO (World Trade Organization) arbitration…” ALSO READ | As import bans mount Ukraine seeks re-opening of grain transit via Poland Poland’s remarks also come at a crucial time when maintaining the grain exports is important for Ukraine considering Russia backed out of the agreement which provided a safe passage for Kyiv’s grains to be exported via the Black Sea route. However, the Ukrainian government has said that it would be able to export around 50 million metric tons of agricultural goods in the 2023/24 July-June season, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Poland asks EU to extend embargo on Ukraine grain; Kyiv may take legal action over restrictions

China's BRI has a new rival. India, US, Saudi Arabia and the European Union announced a multinational rail and ports deal on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The corridor will link India with the Middle East and Europe. The move is seen as a weapon to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative. Watch this video to know more.

Experts weigh in on ambitious economic corridor announced at G20 summit. Will it counter China's BRI

The death toll in Greece rose to 15 after the country’s rescue teams recovered the bodies of four more people, on Sunday (September 10) as it continues to witness the most intense rain storm since records began in 1930, reported Reuters. This comes after Storm Daniel pummelled Greece for three days starting Tuesday (Sep 5) at the end of the hottest summer on record after witnessing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-largest-ever-wildfires-greece-witnesses-heavy-rains-and-flooding-one-dead-632590">“largest ever” wildfires</a> in European Union (EU) history.&nbsp;

<h2>Rise in death toll</h2>

A report by Reuters citing officials said that two people were still missing. This comes after the Greek rescue teams recovered four bodies taking the previously reported death toll of 11 to 15, on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unprecedented-phenomenon-in-just-one-day-greece-surpasses-average-annual-rainfall-in-magnesia-region-633011">'Unprecedented phenomenon': In just one day, Greece surpasses average annual rainfall in Magnesia region</a>

The bodies of an 88-year-old woman and two 58-year-old and 65-year-old men were found near the city of Karditsa, which was said to be one of the worst-hit areas on Sunday. The rescue teams also found the body of a 42-year-old man in the area of Volos, reported the new agency.&nbsp;

<h2>More than 4,000 evacuated</h2>

As many as 4,250 people have been evacuated from flood-stricken areas after being airlifted or transferred in lifeboats across the region.&nbsp;

The officials said that the rescue and evacuation efforts were focused on villages near the city of Larissa and close to the River Pineios since parts of the river have overflowed. damaging villages further.

<h2>What’s the damage?</h2>

The floods have caused widespread damage and led to the collapse of homes and bridges while some schools, roads and power poles were destroyed. The crops in the once fertile Greek region of Thessaly were said to have been ‘wiped out’ and many animals reportedly drowned.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-largest-ever-wildfires-greece-witnesses-heavy-rains-and-flooding-one-dead-632590">&nbsp;After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead</a>

During his visit to the main operation centre in Thessaly on Sunday evening, Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced financial relief which will be granted to those affected by the floods.&nbsp;

The Greek PM also said that he would meet the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Strasbourg on Tuesday (Sep 12) and ensure Athens can get extra funds to deal with the effect of the storm, the extent of which he described as “beyond any prediction”.&nbsp;

<h2>Effects of climate change?</h2>

The recent storm-induced floods in Greece came after the country’s capital Athens witnessed its hottest July weekend in 50 years, with temperatures soaring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/temperatures-soar-up-to-40-degree-celsius-in-greece-615889">above 40 degrees Celsius</a>.&nbsp;

This was followed by the deadly wildfires dubbed the “largest ever” in European Union history in August and the beginning of September.&nbsp;

According to scientists, Greece’s Mediterranean climate puts it on the front line of global climate change, with freak weather incidents increasingly common, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The death toll in Greece rose to 15 after the country’s rescue teams recovered the bodies of four more people, on Sunday (September 10) as it continues to witness the most intense rain storm since records began in 1930, reported Reuters.

The death toll in Greece rose to 15 after the country’s rescue teams recovered the bodies of four more people, on Sunday (September 10) as it continues to witness the most intense rain storm since records began in 1930, reported Reuters. This comes after Storm Daniel pummelled Greece for three days starting Tuesday (Sep 5) at the end of the hottest summer on record after witnessing the “largest ever” wildfires in European Union (EU) history. Rise in death toll A report by Reuters citing officials said that two people were still missing. This comes after the Greek rescue teams recovered four bodies taking the previously reported death toll of 11 to 15, on Sunday. ALSO READ | 'Unprecedented phenomenon': In just one day, Greece surpasses average annual rainfall in Magnesia region The bodies of an 88-year-old woman and two 58-year-old and 65-year-old men were found near the city of Karditsa, which was said to be one of the worst-hit areas on Sunday. The rescue teams also found the body of a 42-year-old man in the area of Volos, reported the new agency. More than 4,000 evacuated As many as 4,250 people have been evacuated from flood-stricken areas after being airlifted or transferred in lifeboats across the region. The officials said that the rescue and evacuation efforts were focused on villages near the city of Larissa and close to the River Pineios since parts of the river have overflowed. damaging villages further. What’s the damage? The floods have caused widespread damage and led to the collapse of homes and bridges while some schools, roads and power poles were destroyed. The crops in the once fertile Greek region of Thessaly were said to have been ‘wiped out’ and many animals reportedly drowned. ALSO READ | After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead During his visit to the main operation centre in Thessaly on Sunday evening, Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced financial relief which will be granted to those affected by the floods. The Greek PM also said that he would meet the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Strasbourg on Tuesday (Sep 12) and ensure Athens can get extra funds to deal with the effect of the storm, the extent of which he described as “beyond any prediction”. Effects of climate change? The recent storm-induced floods in Greece came after the country’s capital Athens witnessed its hottest July weekend in 50 years, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. This was followed by the deadly wildfires dubbed the “largest ever” in European Union history in August and the beginning of September. According to scientists, Greece’s Mediterranean climate puts it on the front line of global climate change, with freak weather incidents increasingly common, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930

China's BRI has a new rival. India, US, Saudi Arabia and the European Union announced a multinational rail and ports deal on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The corridor will link India with the Middle East and Europe. The move is seen as a weapon to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative

Threat to China's BRI? All about India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”. Separately, Russia said it was sticking to its conditions to return to the grain deal which it quit back in July.

<h2>‘Parody of generosity’</h2>

During the talks in New Delhi, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, said that the United Nations-Turkey brokered deal, which allowed the delivery of Ukrainian grain to vulnerable countries was 30 times more in volume than what Russia has offered to Africa.&nbsp;

“And what cynicism...you did not accept this,” Michel said in comments directed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov who is representing Moscow at the summit.

“Not only have you decided to pull out of this agreement on the Black Sea, but at the same time you are attacking the port infrastructure,” said the European Council president.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-war-g20-leaders-call-for-upholding-territorial-integrity-sovereignty-634125">Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

“To add insult to injury, Russia is offering 1 million tons of grain to African countries in a parody of generosity,” said Michel, adding, “What cynicism and contempt for African countries.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, G20 leaders in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration called for the “full, timely and effective implementation to ensure the immediate and unimpeded deliveries of grain, foodstuffs, and fertilisers/inputs from the Russian Federation and Ukraine.”&nbsp;

Adding that it is “necessary to meet the demand in developing and least developed countries, particularly those in Africa.”&nbsp;

<h2>Russia rejects UN bank proposal</h2>

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Saturday, said that Russia is sticking to its demands to rejoin the grain deal and rejected the UN’s proposal that a Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank could immediately apply to SWIFT to “effectively enable access” for the bank within 30 days.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637">Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?</a>

“All our conditions are perfectly well known. They do not need interpretation, they are absolutely concrete and all this is absolutely achievable,” said Peskov. “Therefore Russia maintains its responsible, clear and consistent position, which has been repeatedly voiced by the president,” he added.&nbsp;

The statement comes months after Russia backed out of the Black Sea grain deal saying Western sanctions are hindering its grain and fertiliser exports.&nbsp;

While the exports are not directly sanctioned by the West, it is sanctions against port access, insurance, logistics and payments, including the removal of agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank from SWIFT, which Moscow says is affecting its export.&nbsp;

“The agreements say that SWIFT should be open to Rosselkhozbank, and not to its subsidiary. That is, we are talking about the need to return to the basics, to the agreements that were in place originally and which we were promised would be fulfilled,” said Peskov.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”.

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”. Separately, Russia said it was sticking to its conditions to return to the grain deal which it quit back in July. ‘Parody of generosity’ During the talks in New Delhi, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, said that the United Nations-Turkey brokered deal, which allowed the delivery of Ukrainian grain to vulnerable countries was 30 times more in volume than what Russia has offered to Africa. “And what cynicism...you did not accept this,” Michel said in comments directed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov who is representing Moscow at the summit. “Not only have you decided to pull out of this agreement on the Black Sea, but at the same time you are attacking the port infrastructure,” said the European Council president. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations “To add insult to injury, Russia is offering 1 million tons of grain to African countries in a parody of generosity,” said Michel, adding, “What cynicism and contempt for African countries.” Meanwhile, G20 leaders in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration called for the “full, timely and effective implementation to ensure the immediate and unimpeded deliveries of grain, foodstuffs, and fertilisers/inputs from the Russian Federation and Ukraine.” Adding that it is “necessary to meet the demand in developing and least developed countries, particularly those in Africa.” Russia rejects UN bank proposal Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Saturday, said that Russia is sticking to its demands to rejoin the grain deal and rejected the UN’s proposal that a Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank could immediately apply to SWIFT to “effectively enable access” for the bank within 30 days. ALSO READ | Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now? “All our conditions are perfectly well known. They do not need interpretation, they are absolutely concrete and all this is absolutely achievable,” said Peskov. “Therefore Russia maintains its responsible, clear and consistent position, which has been repeatedly voiced by the president,” he added. The statement comes months after Russia backed out of the Black Sea grain deal saying Western sanctions are hindering its grain and fertiliser exports. While the exports are not directly sanctioned by the West, it is sanctions against port access, insurance, logistics and payments, including the removal of agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank from SWIFT, which Moscow says is affecting its export. “The agreements say that SWIFT should be open to Rosselkhozbank, and not to its subsidiary. That is, we are talking about the need to return to the basics, to the agreements that were in place originally and which we were promised would be fulfilled,” said Peskov. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

‘Parody of generosity’: At G20 Summit, EU criticises Russia for pulling out of Black Sea grain deal

Britain is to rejoin the Horizon Europe science research programme under a new bespoke deal, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's office and the EU said on Thursday (September 7).

Britain is to rejoin the Horizon Europe science research programme under a new bespoke deal, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's office and the EU said on Thursday (September 7). Horizon is a European Union scheme that funds research projects which the UK says it has been excluded from for the past three years, following Brexit. "As part of the new deal negotiated over the last six months, the prime minister has secured improved financial terms of association to Horizon Europe that are right for the UK," a statement said. The deal follows a call between Sunak and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday. "The EU and UK are key strategic partners and allies, and today's agreement proves that point. We will continue to be at the forefront of global science and research,” von der Leyen said in a statement. The deal means that UK researchers can apply immediately for grants and bid to take part in projects under the Horizon programme, the UK government statement said. "Horizon will give UK companies and research institutions unrivalled opportunities to lead global work to develop new technologies and research projects, in areas from health to AI," it added. Under the new accord, however, the UK will not be involved with the Euratom nuclear regulator, but instead "take forward its own fusion energy strategy", Downing Street added. The UK scientific community welcomed the announcement. "This is a great day for researchers in the UK and across Europe," said a joint statement by the Academy of Medical Sciences, the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society. Watch | UK PM Rishi Sunak accused of cutting back repair efforts × Obstacles "The Horizon programme is a beacon of international collaboration and UK-based academic and industrial researchers will now be back at the heart of that," they added. Cancer Research UK chief Michelle Mitchell said the EU and the UK should "work with urgency to rebuild the strong position the UK occupied in the Horizon programme". "There will be relief throughout the research community that the uncertainty of the last two-and-a-half years has come to an end," she added. Britain previously said it had been excluded from the EU's flagship Horizon Europe programme that funds research, nuclear regulator Euratom and the Copernicus satellite monitoring group. Also read | Sunak insists on free trade deal with India which works for all of UK London said it considered the delay to be a breach of the post-Brexit deal. Just over a year ago, it launched dispute procedures with the EU over the exclusion, using a mechanism set out in a post-Brexit deal. The British government said that its inability to participate in science and technology programmes was causing "serious damage" both in the UK and EU countries. The EU responded by saying there were "serious difficulties" since the post-Brexit trading accord did not oblige the EU to make the UK an associate on such programmes. However, welcoming, the resolution of the issue, Universities UK president Sally Mapstone said the scientific community was grateful to the government and the EU for their "perseverance". "The entire research community, within our universities and beyond, will be delighted at the news that an agreement has been reached. Overcoming the obstacles to association was no small feat," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sunak-led talks bear fruit as UK rejoins EU's Horizon research years after exit during Brexit

Tech giants including Apple, Facebook owner Meta and TikTok parent ByteDance will now face the new and toughest-ever EU restraints under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on the ways they conduct their respective businesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The European Commission, the European Union's most powerful body, unveiled a list on Wednesday (September 6), naming 22 "core platform" services belonging to six big US tech players designated as "gatekeepers": Google parent Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft and China's ByteDance. &nbsp;

Brussels is working through a legislative plan to construct more stringent rules for big tech, asserting that it needs to safeguard European consumers online.

The move has reportedly also been taken to create competition in the market which is primarily dominated by the US tech giants.

Services that will be impacted by the stricter laws include Apple's App Store; Meta's Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp; Google's YouTube video platform and Chrome browser; as well as Apple's Safari. Operating systems from Apple, Microsoft, Google and Alphabet's Google Maps, Play and Shopping will also be affected by the new law.

<h2>'Gatekeepers'</h2>

Targeting the world's leading tech companies' market influence, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) is one of the world's most stringent pieces of legislation which is aimed at making it more manageable for users to move between contending services, such as social media platforms, internet browsers and app stores.

The EU Commission specified 22 services of the top tech companies as "gatekeepers" of online services.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-set-to-shift-from-lighting-port-to-usb-type-c-for-its-upcoming-iphone-15-series-632307"> Apple set to shift from lighting port to USB Type-C for its upcoming iPhone 15 series</a>

This means that such businesses will now have to make their messaging apps interoperate with competitors and let users decide as to which applications to pre-install on their devices.

Also, under the DMA, the services will have to take the user's direct consent before tracking their activities for advertising purposes.

The firms have six months to comply.&nbsp;

<h2>Apple reacts</h2>

Apple, while expressing concerns over the tough new EU curbs, spoke&nbsp;Wednesday about&nbsp;the risks posed by the landmark digital markets law.

"We remain very concerned about the privacy and data security risks the DMA poses for our users. Our focus will be on how we mitigate these impacts," &nbsp;Apple said in a statement, referring to the EU Digital Markets Act.

Microsoft released a statement accepting its designation as gatekeeper, while also welcoming the commission's decision to open a probe into a possible exemption of Microsoft's services Bing, Edge and Microsoft Ads from the DMA.

Facebook parent company Meta said it was assessing the commission's designation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Tech giants including Apple, Facebook owner Meta and TikTok parent ByteDance will now face the new and toughest-ever EU restraints under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on the ways they conduct their respective businesses.

Tech giants including Apple, Facebook owner Meta and TikTok parent ByteDance will now face the new and toughest-ever EU restraints under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on the ways they conduct their respective businesses. The European Commission, the European Union's most powerful body, unveiled a list on Wednesday (September 6), naming 22 "core platform" services belonging to six big US tech players designated as "gatekeepers": Google parent Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft and China's ByteDance. Brussels is working through a legislative plan to construct more stringent rules for big tech, asserting that it needs to safeguard European consumers online. The move has reportedly also been taken to create competition in the market which is primarily dominated by the US tech giants. Services that will be impacted by the stricter laws include Apple's App Store; Meta's Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp; Google's YouTube video platform and Chrome browser; as well as Apple's Safari. Operating systems from Apple, Microsoft, Google and Alphabet's Google Maps, Play and Shopping will also be affected by the new law. 'Gatekeepers' Targeting the world's leading tech companies' market influence, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) is one of the world's most stringent pieces of legislation which is aimed at making it more manageable for users to move between contending services, such as social media platforms, internet browsers and app stores. The EU Commission specified 22 services of the top tech companies as "gatekeepers" of online services. Also read: Apple set to shift from lighting port to USB Type-C for its upcoming iPhone 15 series This means that such businesses will now have to make their messaging apps interoperate with competitors and let users decide as to which applications to pre-install on their devices. Also, under the DMA, the services will have to take the user's direct consent before tracking their activities for advertising purposes. The firms have six months to comply. Apple reacts Apple, while expressing concerns over the tough new EU curbs, spoke Wednesday about the risks posed by the landmark digital markets law. "We remain very concerned about the privacy and data security risks the DMA poses for our users. Our focus will be on how we mitigate these impacts," Apple said in a statement, referring to the EU Digital Markets Act. Microsoft released a statement accepting its designation as gatekeeper, while also welcoming the commission's decision to open a probe into a possible exemption of Microsoft's services Bing, Edge and Microsoft Ads from the DMA. Facebook parent company Meta said it was assessing the commission's designation. (With inputs from agencies) 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

EU hits Big Tech giants including Apple, Amazon and Meta with tougher market curbs

The European Union has confirmed that a Swedish diplomat working with EU has been held captive in Iran for more than 500 days. Now the EU's Foreign Policy Chief Joseph Burell has said that officials are doing everything for his release.

EU official from Sweden imprisoned in Iran for over 500 days

At least one person was killed after torrential rains in Greece flooded homes and roads, said a report by Reuters citing the fire brigade on Tuesday (September 5). This comes a day after officials in Greece reported that the firefighters were gaining the upper hand on a massive blaze as deadly wildfires dubbed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-wildfires-dubbed-largest-ever-recorded-in-european-unions-history-630342">“largest ever”</a>&nbsp;in European Union history ravaged the country.&nbsp;

<h2>Floods in Greece</h2>

Since Monday (Sep 4), Storm Daniel has battered western and central Greece, prompting hundreds of calls to emergency services to pump out the water that caused flooding in several areas.&nbsp;

A day earlier Greek officials said they were making headway in bringing the wildfire which experts have classified as a “megafire” in Dadia National Park, also in the northern part of the country.&nbsp;

“A man died after a wall collapsed near Volos city, probably due to bad weather,” a fire brigade official told Reuters. The Athens News Agency identified the man as a cattle breeder who was trying to reach his animals.

Fire brigade spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios told Skai television that a man was missing from Volos, a port city on the Pagasetic Gulf after his car was swept away by the rainstorm. “His son came out (of the car) but the father was carried away and there is a search operation under way right now,” said Artopoios.&nbsp;

Multiple cars in Volos were seen being washed away by torrential rain onto muddy shores, reported Reuters, citing footage from the state broadcaster ERT. Officials have also restricted traffic in the wider area of Volos due to the floods.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Megafire’ in northeastern Greece</h2>

The heavy rain-triggered floods were reported just days after deadly wildfires ravaged areas in northern Greece. The “megafire” blaze in Dalia has destroyed more than 81,000 hectares of the forested area, protected by the European agency Natura 2000, as of Monday (Sep 4).&nbsp;

“According to the latest information from our firefighters, the Dadia fire front is on its way to being completely under control,” said government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis.&nbsp;

The European climate service Copernicus had previously said that the devastation in Dadia accounts for almost half the total area burned by wildfires in Greece since the beginning of this summer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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At least one person was killed after torrential rains in Greece flooded homes and roads, said a report by Reuters citing the fire brigade on Tuesday (September 5).

At least one person was killed after torrential rains in Greece flooded homes and roads, said a report by Reuters citing the fire brigade on Tuesday (September 5). This comes a day after officials in Greece reported that the firefighters were gaining the upper hand on a massive blaze as deadly wildfires dubbed the “largest ever” in European Union history ravaged the country. Floods in Greece Since Monday (Sep 4), Storm Daniel has battered western and central Greece, prompting hundreds of calls to emergency services to pump out the water that caused flooding in several areas. A day earlier Greek officials said they were making headway in bringing the wildfire which experts have classified as a “megafire” in Dadia National Park, also in the northern part of the country. “A man died after a wall collapsed near Volos city, probably due to bad weather,” a fire brigade official told Reuters. The Athens News Agency identified the man as a cattle breeder who was trying to reach his animals. Fire brigade spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios told Skai television that a man was missing from Volos, a port city on the Pagasetic Gulf after his car was swept away by the rainstorm. “His son came out (of the car) but the father was carried away and there is a search operation under way right now,” said Artopoios. Multiple cars in Volos were seen being washed away by torrential rain onto muddy shores, reported Reuters, citing footage from the state broadcaster ERT. Officials have also restricted traffic in the wider area of Volos due to the floods. ‘Megafire’ in northeastern Greece The heavy rain-triggered floods were reported just days after deadly wildfires ravaged areas in northern Greece. The “megafire” blaze in Dalia has destroyed more than 81,000 hectares of the forested area, protected by the European agency Natura 2000, as of Monday (Sep 4). “According to the latest information from our firefighters, the Dadia fire front is on its way to being completely under control,” said government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis. The European climate service Copernicus had previously said that the devastation in Dadia accounts for almost half the total area burned by wildfires in Greece since the beginning of this summer. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead

After months of pressure and pushback, the United States-based tech giant, Apple, is reportedly set to shift its iPhone charging port from a lighting to USB-C, as the standard charging method for its upcoming iPhone 15 series.&nbsp;

<h2>Apple announces when the change might happen</h2>

A report by Bloomberg said Apple has confirmed September 12 as the date for its iPhone 15 event as the company also aims to overhaul device production with 3D printers.&nbsp;

Although, if the company had its way it would stick to its current Lightning connector for a few more years before it could phase out ports on its smartphones altogether.

However, the European Union forced its hand after the 27-nation bloc’s parliament approved new rules making it compulsory for tech companies to ensure a universal charging port is introduced for electronic gadgets like mobile phones, tablets, cameras, e-readers, earbuds and other devices by the end of next year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-shock-to-apple-eu-to-introduce-usb-c-connectors-for-all-electronic-gadgets-by-2024-522344">In a shock to Apple, EU to introduce USB-C chargers for all electronic gadgets by 2024</a>

The motion passed with 602 votes in favour and 13 against it, back in October 2022. Accordingly, the vote by the EU parliament confirms the previous agreement of making USB-C chargers used by Android-based devices the standard for the entire continent.&nbsp;

Succinctly put, all devices in the EU will have to carry the same charging port, in a bid to reduce e-waste. According to Bloomberg, when the company introduces its iPhone 15 later this month, USB-C connectors will appear on its four new phone models, as well as the AirPods Pro.&nbsp;

Notably, this is the second time in Apple’s history that the company would replace its charging port for its iPhones after it ditched the 30-pin Dock connector nearly a decade ago for its iPhone 5.&nbsp;

<h2>Users to benefit from the shift</h2>

At the upcoming event, Apple will reportedly also hail the shift to USB-C connectors as a major win for customers. In line with the new rule, users will now be able to use a single charging cable for several Apple devices like iPhones, Macs and iPads.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-eu-india-will-soon-shift-towards-common-type-c-charging-port-534934">After EU, India to make common Type-C charging port mandatory for all smart devices</a>

The shift would also reportedly bring breakthrough data transfer speed in new high-end iPhone models.&nbsp;

But arguably one of the biggest benefits of the upcoming iPhone 15 series would be that users would not have to scramble in order to search for an Apple charger when they are away from home as they can borrow one from other non-Apple users.&nbsp;

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After months of pressure and pushback, the United States-based tech giant, Apple, is reportedly set to shift its iPhone charging port from a lighting to USB-C, as the standard charging method for its upcoming iPhone 15 series.

After months of pressure and pushback, the United States-based tech giant, Apple, is reportedly set to shift its iPhone charging port from a lighting to USB-C, as the standard charging method for its upcoming iPhone 15 series. Apple announces when the change might happen A report by Bloomberg said Apple has confirmed September 12 as the date for its iPhone 15 event as the company also aims to overhaul device production with 3D printers. Although, if the company had its way it would stick to its current Lightning connector for a few more years before it could phase out ports on its smartphones altogether. However, the European Union forced its hand after the 27-nation bloc’s parliament approved new rules making it compulsory for tech companies to ensure a universal charging port is introduced for electronic gadgets like mobile phones, tablets, cameras, e-readers, earbuds and other devices by the end of next year. ALSO READ | In a shock to Apple, EU to introduce USB-C chargers for all electronic gadgets by 2024 The motion passed with 602 votes in favour and 13 against it, back in October 2022. Accordingly, the vote by the EU parliament confirms the previous agreement of making USB-C chargers used by Android-based devices the standard for the entire continent. Succinctly put, all devices in the EU will have to carry the same charging port, in a bid to reduce e-waste. According to Bloomberg, when the company introduces its iPhone 15 later this month, USB-C connectors will appear on its four new phone models, as well as the AirPods Pro. Notably, this is the second time in Apple’s history that the company would replace its charging port for its iPhones after it ditched the 30-pin Dock connector nearly a decade ago for its iPhone 5. Users to benefit from the shift At the upcoming event, Apple will reportedly also hail the shift to USB-C connectors as a major win for customers. In line with the new rule, users will now be able to use a single charging cable for several Apple devices like iPhones, Macs and iPads. ALSO READ | After EU, India to make common Type-C charging port mandatory for all smart devices The shift would also reportedly bring breakthrough data transfer speed in new high-end iPhone models. But arguably one of the biggest benefits of the upcoming iPhone 15 series would be that users would not have to scramble in order to search for an Apple charger when they are away from home as they can borrow one from other non-Apple users. 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.

Apple set to shift from lighting port to USB Type-C for its upcoming iPhone 15 series

Cyprus police, on Saturday (September 2) said that they have arrested 13 people after an anti-migrant march turned violent and a mob smashed storefronts and set numerous trash bins on fire in the coastal resort city of Limassol. The police said that some five people were injured after being assaulted during Friday night’s protest that involved some 500 people.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

According to reports, a group of people wearing hoods attacked migrants and their businesses in Limassol on Friday evening.&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press citing amateur video broadcast on local news outlets and websites said several damaged storefronts, trash bins burning in the street and a group of protesters chanting anti-immigrant slogans.

Police also used water cannons to disperse protesters, some of whom even held a banner that read “Refugees not welcome,” reported AFP.&nbsp;

This comes amid reported tensions over an influx of migrants on the east Mediterranean island nation where officials are struggling to cope with the numbers.&nbsp;

Cyprus, a European Union member, has said that it is the “front-line country” on the Mediterranean migrant route with the latest data showing that the island nation has the highest number of first-time asylum applications than the rest of the 27-member countries of the bloc.&nbsp;

According to officials in Cyprus, migrants comprise six per cent of their population more than five times that of the average in other EU member nations.&nbsp;

<h2>Injuries and arrests</h2>

According to the police, at least five people were injured due to the unrest that broke out during Friday night’s march. All five have since been treated in the hospital and released.&nbsp;

Officers also arrested 13 people, including the alleged organiser of the march.

<h2>‘Images of shame’: Cyprus president</h2>

After the violence, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides condemned what he called “images of shame,” and said that the violence was the product of a group of petty criminals with no real connection to the migration situation.&nbsp;

“There is not much that can be said other than the embarrassing images we have seen,” a visibly angry Christodoulides told reporters, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

He added, “They have nothing to do with dealing with immigration. If all those involved (in the Limassol incidents) loved or cared about our country, they would not have taken such actions which, above all, insult our country.”

Meanwhile, a pro-immigrant demonstration has been planned for Saturday evening, as per AP.&nbsp;

<h2>Previous violence</h2>

The incident on Friday night also comes days after a group of Greek Cypriots wearing hoods and armed with bats attempted to attack protesting Syrians in a small village where tensions have recently run high between locals and migrants.

The police had also arrested some two dozen people in connection with that violence which broke out four days ago in the southeastern village of Chloraka where parallel protests by some 250 Syrians and an equal number of Greek Cypriots degenerated into violence, reported the AP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Cyprus police, on Saturday (September 2) said that they have arrested 13 people after an anti-migrant march turned violent and a mob smashed storefronts and set numerous trash bins on fire in the coastal resort city of Limassol.

Cyprus police, on Saturday (September 2) said that they have arrested 13 people after an anti-migrant march turned violent and a mob smashed storefronts and set numerous trash bins on fire in the coastal resort city of Limassol. The police said that some five people were injured after being assaulted during Friday night’s protest that involved some 500 people. What happened? According to reports, a group of people wearing hoods attacked migrants and their businesses in Limassol on Friday evening. A report by the Associated Press citing amateur video broadcast on local news outlets and websites said several damaged storefronts, trash bins burning in the street and a group of protesters chanting anti-immigrant slogans. Police also used water cannons to disperse protesters, some of whom even held a banner that read “Refugees not welcome,” reported AFP. This comes amid reported tensions over an influx of migrants on the east Mediterranean island nation where officials are struggling to cope with the numbers. Cyprus, a European Union member, has said that it is the “front-line country” on the Mediterranean migrant route with the latest data showing that the island nation has the highest number of first-time asylum applications than the rest of the 27-member countries of the bloc. According to officials in Cyprus, migrants comprise six per cent of their population more than five times that of the average in other EU member nations. Injuries and arrests According to the police, at least five people were injured due to the unrest that broke out during Friday night’s march. All five have since been treated in the hospital and released. Officers also arrested 13 people, including the alleged organiser of the march. ‘Images of shame’: Cyprus president After the violence, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides condemned what he called “images of shame,” and said that the violence was the product of a group of petty criminals with no real connection to the migration situation. “There is not much that can be said other than the embarrassing images we have seen,” a visibly angry Christodoulides told reporters, as quoted by AFP. He added, “They have nothing to do with dealing with immigration. If all those involved (in the Limassol incidents) loved or cared about our country, they would not have taken such actions which, above all, insult our country.” Meanwhile, a pro-immigrant demonstration has been planned for Saturday evening, as per AP. Previous violence The incident on Friday night also comes days after a group of Greek Cypriots wearing hoods and armed with bats attempted to attack protesting Syrians in a small village where tensions have recently run high between locals and migrants. The police had also arrested some two dozen people in connection with that violence which broke out four days ago in the southeastern village of Chloraka where parallel protests by some 250 Syrians and an equal number of Greek Cypriots degenerated into violence, reported the AP. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Cyprus police arrest at least 13 people after anti-immigrant march turns violent

The Google-owned fitness tracking business is allegedly in violation of EU data privacy laws, according to complaints filed against Fitbit in Austria, the Netherlands, and Italy by the advocacy organization Noyb, which is based in Vienna.

Does Fitbit share data outside the European Union?

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