The&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union’s&nbsp;(EU) drug watchdog is looking to warn general public about a ‘very rare’ possibility of leading to spinal cord inflammation after getting vaccinated with coronavirus vaccines manufactured by AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson.&nbsp;

For this, the European Medicines Agency is also considering to place warning labels on these Covid jabs. &nbsp;

It also said that there was a “reasonable possibility” that they may have resulted in a spinal inflammation on rare occasions. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-benefit-face-masks-help-people-look-good-says-uk-study-444609" hreflang="en">Covid pandemic benefit? Face masks help people look good, says UK study</a>

On Friday, the EMA’s Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) after holding three days of meetings and discussions said that it wants to include a warning for “very rare cases of transverse myelitis (TM) reported following vaccination” with Vaxzevria and Janssen jabs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The panel also added that the condition was an “adverse reaction of unknown frequency” to the vaccine profile. &nbsp;

It comes as PRAC reviewed information on reported cases in the world and scientific literature. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unvaccinated-women-with-covid-are-more-likely-to-lose-fetuses-and-infants-scottish-data-shows-444707" hreflang="en">Unvaccinated women with Covid are more likely to lose fetuses and infants, Scottish data shows</a>

According to the EMA, TM is a rare neurological condition, which is characterised by an “inflammation of one or both sides of the spinal cord.” It can cause weakness in arms or legs, numbness, tingling, pain or loss of pain sensation and problems with bowel and bladder function. &nbsp;

It concluded that “a causal relationship between these two vaccines and transverse myelitis is at least a reasonable possibility.” However, it said the “benefit-risk profile of both vaccines remains unchanged.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union’s (EU) drug watchdog is looking to warn general public about a ‘very rare’ possibility of leading to spinal cord inflammation after getting vaccinated with coronavirus vaccines manufactured by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson.

The European Union’s (EU) drug watchdog is looking to warn general public about a ‘very rare’ possibility of leading to spinal cord inflammation after getting vaccinated with coronavirus vaccines manufactured by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. For this, the European Medicines Agency is also considering to place warning labels on these Covid jabs. It also said that there was a “reasonable possibility” that they may have resulted in a spinal inflammation on rare occasions. Also Read: Covid pandemic benefit? Face masks help people look good, says UK study On Friday, the EMA’s Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) after holding three days of meetings and discussions said that it wants to include a warning for “very rare cases of transverse myelitis (TM) reported following vaccination” with Vaxzevria and Janssen jabs. The panel also added that the condition was an “adverse reaction of unknown frequency” to the vaccine profile. It comes as PRAC reviewed information on reported cases in the world and scientific literature. Also Read: Unvaccinated women with Covid are more likely to lose fetuses and infants, Scottish data shows According to the EMA, TM is a rare neurological condition, which is characterised by an “inflammation of one or both sides of the spinal cord.” It can cause weakness in arms or legs, numbness, tingling, pain or loss of pain sensation and problems with bowel and bladder function. It concluded that “a causal relationship between these two vaccines and transverse myelitis is at least a reasonable possibility.” However, it said the “benefit-risk profile of both vaccines remains unchanged.” (With inputs from agencies)

Covid jabs may lead to ‘very rare’ spinal cord inflammation, says EU’s drug watchdog

Antitrust authority of the European Union will block shipbuilding merger of South Korean companies Daewoo and Hyundai due to concerns that the deal may restrict supply of cargo vessels. The possibility of the veto was reported by AFP citing sources.

The veto of the tie-up comes two years after Brussels stopped India's Tata Steel and Germany's Thyssenkrupp from merging, and three years after it blocked the merger of the train businesses of Siemens and Alstom, angering France and Germany.

After more than two years of procedure, an unusually long time for this kind of case, the EU commission will announce "in the next few days" its veto to the operation, said a source, confirming a report in the Financial Times.

Of particular concern is the deal's fallout on the construction of ships transporting liquefied natural gas, especially at a time when high energy prices are an acute concern in Europe.

The takeover of Daewoo Shipbuilding &amp; Marine Engineering by rival Hyundai Heavy Industries Holdings would create a group controlling nearly two-thirds of the global LNG cargo ship market, the source said.

But the price of cargo shipping more generally has exploded in recent months due to the shock to the global chain caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The commission and the two companies "have explored all possible remedies to the competition concerns raised in considerable detail", without success, said a second source for whom the rejection of the operation is "beyond doubt".&nbsp;

The deadline for the decision was set for January 20, after several extensions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Antitrust authority of the European Union will block shipbuilding merger of South Korean companies Daewoo and Hyundai due to concerns that the deal may restrict supply of cargo vessels.

Antitrust authority of the European Union will block shipbuilding merger of South Korean companies Daewoo and Hyundai due to concerns that the deal may restrict supply of cargo vessels. The possibility of the veto was reported by AFP citing sources. The veto of the tie-up comes two years after Brussels stopped India's Tata Steel and Germany's Thyssenkrupp from merging, and three years after it blocked the merger of the train businesses of Siemens and Alstom, angering France and Germany. After more than two years of procedure, an unusually long time for this kind of case, the EU commission will announce "in the next few days" its veto to the operation, said a source, confirming a report in the Financial Times. Of particular concern is the deal's fallout on the construction of ships transporting liquefied natural gas, especially at a time when high energy prices are an acute concern in Europe. The takeover of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering by rival Hyundai Heavy Industries Holdings would create a group controlling nearly two-thirds of the global LNG cargo ship market, the source said. But the price of cargo shipping more generally has exploded in recent months due to the shock to the global chain caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The commission and the two companies "have explored all possible remedies to the competition concerns raised in considerable detail", without success, said a second source for whom the rejection of the operation is "beyond doubt". The deadline for the decision was set for January 20, after several extensions. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union to block South Korean shipbuilding mega-merger

New Brexit custom rules for goods arriving from the European Union to Britain are taking effect. A leading food industry body has warned that the new border control measures could lead to food shortages from January.

Food shortages feared in the UK as new Brexit custom rules for goods from EU taking effect

From January 4, tattoos in the European Union (EU) will lose colour and shine. No, we are not kidding. It's true.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In January 2020, EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) had banned around 4,000 chemicals typically used in colourful ink for tattoos. &nbsp;

The regulatory body had given ink suppliers time till January 4, 2021 to find a replacement. It had told the suppliers to find different REACH-approved chemicals to come up with same colours. &nbsp;

So, from January 4, tattoo artists in the EU will not be allowed to use coloured ink. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-planning-to-ease-visa-rules-for-indian-citizens-to-clinch-trade-deal-report-441691">UK mulling to ease visa rules for Indian citizens to clinch trade deal: Report</a>

According to the regulatory body, some of the chemicals have already been banned in products applied on top of the skin as they can cause ‘cancer or genetic mutations’. &nbsp;

The REACH has been insisting that "the aim is not to ban tattooing but to make the colours used in tattoos and permanent make-up safer". &nbsp;

Suppliers have been slow on making any progress in this regard, said some tattoo artists. It is making it harder for several people to get colourful tattoos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-torch-874-cars-on-new-years-eve-as-part-of-decades-old-tradition-441697">French torch 874 cars on New Year’s Eve as part of decades old tradition</a>

Distressed about losing access to Pigment Blue 15:3 and Pigment Green 7, a petition to ‘save the pigments’ has garnered over 175,000 signatures. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The REACH has given ink suppliers time until January 4, 2023 to come up with alternatives for just these two pigments. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

From January 4, tattoos in the European Union (EU) will lose colour and shine. No, we are not kidding. It's true. In January 2020, EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) had banned around 4,000 chemicals typically used in colourful ink for tattoos.

From January 4, tattoos in the European Union (EU) will lose colour and shine. No, we are not kidding. It's true. In January 2020, EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) had banned around 4,000 chemicals typically used in colourful ink for tattoos. The regulatory body had given ink suppliers time till January 4, 2021 to find a replacement. It had told the suppliers to find different REACH-approved chemicals to come up with same colours. So, from January 4, tattoo artists in the EU will not be allowed to use coloured ink. Also Read | UK mulling to ease visa rules for Indian citizens to clinch trade deal: Report According to the regulatory body, some of the chemicals have already been banned in products applied on top of the skin as they can cause ‘cancer or genetic mutations’. The REACH has been insisting that "the aim is not to ban tattooing but to make the colours used in tattoos and permanent make-up safer". Suppliers have been slow on making any progress in this regard, said some tattoo artists. It is making it harder for several people to get colourful tattoos. Also Read: French torch 874 cars on New Year’s Eve as part of decades old tradition Distressed about losing access to Pigment Blue 15:3 and Pigment Green 7, a petition to ‘save the pigments’ has garnered over 175,000 signatures. The REACH has given ink suppliers time until January 4, 2023 to come up with alternatives for just these two pigments. (With inputs from agencies)

Coloured ink’s use for tattoo prohibited in EU from January 4  

A recent poll for The Observer has revealed that over six out of ten voters believe that Brexit has either gone bad or worse than they expected. This comes a year after the United Kingdom left the European Union.&nbsp;

The survey further revealed that &nbsp;42 per cent of people who voted in favour of leaving in 2016 had a negative view of how Brexit had turned out. Also, 26 per cent of people who were in support of leaving said that it had gone worse than expected. Another 16 per cent of those who voted for Brexit said that they expected it to go badly and were proved right. People who voted in favour of remaining, 86 per cent said that it had gone bad or worse than they expected.&nbsp;

In total, just 14 per cent of voters turned out to be satisfied and said that Brexit had gone better than expected.

Adam Drummond, of Opinium, was quoted by the Guardian as saying, "For most of the Brexit process any time you’d ask a question that could be boiled down to ‘is Brexit good or bad?’ you’d have all of the Remainers saying ‘bad’ and all of the Leavers saying ‘good’ and these would cancel each other out. Now what we’re seeing is a significant minority of Leavers saying that things are going badly or at least worse than they expected."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-big-blow-to-uk-government-brexit-minister-david-frost-resigns-438073">Also read |&nbsp;In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns</a>

The survey comes a week after Brexit Minister David Frost resigned.&nbsp;

In a letter to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month.&nbsp;

In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.''&nbsp;

However, a report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister resigned due to the increasing resentment against the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent poll for The Observer has revealed that over six out of ten voters believe that Brexit has either gone bad or worse than they expected. This comes a year after the United Kingdom left the European Union.

A recent poll for The Observer has revealed that over six out of ten voters believe that Brexit has either gone bad or worse than they expected. This comes a year after the United Kingdom left the European Union. The survey further revealed that 42 per cent of people who voted in favour of leaving in 2016 had a negative view of how Brexit had turned out. Also, 26 per cent of people who were in support of leaving said that it had gone worse than expected. Another 16 per cent of those who voted for Brexit said that they expected it to go badly and were proved right. People who voted in favour of remaining, 86 per cent said that it had gone bad or worse than they expected. In total, just 14 per cent of voters turned out to be satisfied and said that Brexit had gone better than expected. Adam Drummond, of Opinium, was quoted by the Guardian as saying, "For most of the Brexit process any time you’d ask a question that could be boiled down to ‘is Brexit good or bad?’ you’d have all of the Remainers saying ‘bad’ and all of the Leavers saying ‘good’ and these would cancel each other out. Now what we’re seeing is a significant minority of Leavers saying that things are going badly or at least worse than they expected." Also read | In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns The survey comes a week after Brexit Minister David Frost resigned. In a letter to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month. In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.'' However, a report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister resigned due to the increasing resentment against the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Most voters not satisfied with how Brexit turned out; only 14% say it was better than expected

As the Omicron strain of COVID-19 spread its wings globally, European Union prepares to contain the strain by tweaking the vaccine shots accordingly.

EU prepares to contain highly-mutated Omicron strain of COVID-19 by tweaking vaccine shots

The European Commission said on Sunday that European Union countries will get additional 20 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine to fight Omicron virus that is fast spreading. The vaccines will be made available in first three months of year 2022.

Europe is currently bracing for a new Covid-19 wave driven by Omicron variant which is highly transmissible and mutated. The festive season of Christmas is fast approaching.

Many countries are ramping up their vaccination drives and reimposing travel restrictions and other curbs to try to put a break on infections weeks after the variant was first detected in South Africa.

Member states will get an additional five million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech jab in January, five million in February and 10 million in March, the Commission said in a statement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-health-minister-says-it-may-be-too-late-to-react-to-omicron-as-covid-19-cases-continue-to-rise-438158">UK health minister says it may be 'too late to react' to Omicron as COVID-19 cases continue to rise</a>

"These doses come on top of the already scheduled 195 million doses from Pfizer-BioNTech, bringing the total number of deliveries in the first quarter to 215 million."

Full vaccination and boosters are "now even more urgent than ever" given the "expected rapid increase in infections due to the Omicron variant".

The EU is due to receive 650 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech jabs in total in 2022.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-germany-imposes-restrictions-on-uk-travellers-to-check-omicron-spread-438104">Now, Germany imposes restrictions on UK travellers to check Omicron spread</a>

Omicron is expected to become the dominant strain by mid January in the EU, where 67 percent of the population is fully vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Commission said on Sunday that European Union countries will get additional 20 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine to fight Omicron virus that is fast spreading.

The European Commission said on Sunday that European Union countries will get additional 20 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine to fight Omicron virus that is fast spreading. The vaccines will be made available in first three months of year 2022. Europe is currently bracing for a new Covid-19 wave driven by Omicron variant which is highly transmissible and mutated. The festive season of Christmas is fast approaching. Many countries are ramping up their vaccination drives and reimposing travel restrictions and other curbs to try to put a break on infections weeks after the variant was first detected in South Africa. Member states will get an additional five million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech jab in January, five million in February and 10 million in March, the Commission said in a statement. Also Read | UK health minister says it may be 'too late to react' to Omicron as COVID-19 cases continue to rise "These doses come on top of the already scheduled 195 million doses from Pfizer-BioNTech, bringing the total number of deliveries in the first quarter to 215 million." Full vaccination and boosters are "now even more urgent than ever" given the "expected rapid increase in infections due to the Omicron variant". The EU is due to receive 650 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech jabs in total in 2022. Also Read | Now, Germany imposes restrictions on UK travellers to check Omicron spread Omicron is expected to become the dominant strain by mid January in the EU, where 67 percent of the population is fully vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

To fight Omicron, EU to get 20 million extra vaccines

Europe is experiencing a surge in covid-19 cases, a number of newly identified cases are of the recent omicron variant. The European Commission says that the EU needs a daily review of travel restrictions and a rapid deployment of booster doses.

European Commission: EU needs daily review of restrictions amid surge in Omicron variant cases

Vaccine mandate and strict COVID-19 guidelines spark several mass protests across Europe. Vaccine passports have been made mandatory in several countries to access public and leisure places.

Several mass protests erupt across Europe against vaccine mandate amid Omicron scare

In a Joint statement by Britain, France and Germany, European powers warn Iran as the Nuclear talks nearing the end of the road.

European powers warn on Iran Nuclear talks as the talks nearing the end of the road

The European Medical Agency on Thursday gave go-ahead for emergency use of Pfizer's Covid pill. Formal approval is still pending. The initial go-ahead has been given to curb Omicron infection.

Pills made by Pfizer and Merck are being hailed as groundbreaking because as compared to injections, they can be made accessible readily.

Pfizer said this week that its Paxlovid pill reduced hospitalisations and deaths in vulnerable people by almost 90 percent.

"The medicine, which is not yet authorised in the EU, can be used to treat adults with Covid-19 who do not require supplemental oxygen and who are at increased risk of progressing to severe disease," the EMA said in a statement.

"EMA issued this advice to support national authorities who may decide on possible early use of the medicine... for example in emergency use settings, in the light of rising rates of infection and deaths due to Covid-19 across the EU."

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla welcomed the development. He said that the decision "signifies the strength of our data for Paxlovid in the treatment of high-risk adults diagnosed with Covid-19."

"If authorised, Paxlovid has the potential to help save lives and reduce hospitalisations," he said in a statement.

The Pfizer pill is a combination of a new molecule, PF-07321332, and HIV antiviral ritonavir, that are taken as separate tablets.

The Amsterdam-based EMA said it should be taken as soon as possible after a diagnosis and within five days of the start of symptoms, with the treatment lasting five days.

'Combined effect'

Possible side effects were taste changes, diarrhoea and vomiting. Pregnant women should not use the drug.

The EMA said it also launching a "rolling review" of the Pfizer pill that could lead to its full approval in months.&nbsp;

Merck's pill received EMA emergency approval in November. It is already authorised in Britain and is in the process of being approved in the United States.

Denmark on Thursday became the first EU country to approve its use.

However the full results of a clinical trial released by Merck were disappointing as they showed a much lower efficacy than earlier reports based on interim data.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Medical Agency on Thursday gave go-ahead for emergency use of Pfizer's Covid pill. Formal approval is still pending. The initial go-ahead has been given to curb Omicron infection.

The European Medical Agency on Thursday gave go-ahead for emergency use of Pfizer's Covid pill. Formal approval is still pending. The initial go-ahead has been given to curb Omicron infection. Pills made by Pfizer and Merck are being hailed as groundbreaking because as compared to injections, they can be made accessible readily. Pfizer said this week that its Paxlovid pill reduced hospitalisations and deaths in vulnerable people by almost 90 percent. "The medicine, which is not yet authorised in the EU, can be used to treat adults with Covid-19 who do not require supplemental oxygen and who are at increased risk of progressing to severe disease," the EMA said in a statement. "EMA issued this advice to support national authorities who may decide on possible early use of the medicine... for example in emergency use settings, in the light of rising rates of infection and deaths due to Covid-19 across the EU." Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla welcomed the development. He said that the decision "signifies the strength of our data for Paxlovid in the treatment of high-risk adults diagnosed with Covid-19." "If authorised, Paxlovid has the potential to help save lives and reduce hospitalisations," he said in a statement. The Pfizer pill is a combination of a new molecule, PF-07321332, and HIV antiviral ritonavir, that are taken as separate tablets. The Amsterdam-based EMA said it should be taken as soon as possible after a diagnosis and within five days of the start of symptoms, with the treatment lasting five days. 'Combined effect' Possible side effects were taste changes, diarrhoea and vomiting. Pregnant women should not use the drug. The EMA said it also launching a "rolling review" of the Pfizer pill that could lead to its full approval in months. Merck's pill received EMA emergency approval in November. It is already authorised in Britain and is in the process of being approved in the United States. Denmark on Thursday became the first EU country to approve its use. However the full results of a clinical trial released by Merck were disappointing as they showed a much lower efficacy than earlier reports based on interim data. (With inputs from agencies)

EU drug regulator gives go-ahead for Pfizer Covid pill's emergency use

Europe has stepped up vaccinations of children aged five to eleven years against covid-19. The move comes at a time when the EU's health agency has warned that immunisation alone would not stop the rapid rise in Omicron cases.

EU ramps up Covid-19 vaccination drive for children aged 5-11

Gravitas: Macron's plans for European supremacy

In what can be deemed as a first in European Union, Malta has become the first country to legalise cannabis at home and for personal use. Under the new law, people aged 18 and above will be allowed to have up to seven grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants at home.&nbsp;

However, consuming cannabis in public remains illegal and punishable by a 235 euro fine. Also, consuming the drug in front of a child - both in public or private could lead to a penalty of between 300 and 500 euros.

The new law also allows several non-profit organisations of up to 500 people to grow the drug for the use of their members.

This came after MPs approved a legal reform backed by Prime Minister Robert Abela's Labour party.&nbsp;

Earlier, Abela had said, "We are legislating to address a problem and taking the harm reduction approach by regulating the sector so that people do not have to resort to the black market to purchase cannabis."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luxembourg-becomes-first-european-country-to-legalise-cannabis-423054">Also read |&nbsp;Luxembourg becomes first European country to legalise cannabis</a>

The new law will now go to the president for approval.&nbsp;

The law further introduces easier penalties for people found with larger amounts of cannabis. Adults in possession of between 7 to 28 grams of cannabis for their own use would face a tribunal rather than a court. They can also face a maximum 100 euro fine.

Minors caught with cannabis will be referred to a tribunal which may lead to a care plan or treatment.

Several other countries in the region tolerate its use to varying degrees.&nbsp;

A few weeks back, Luxembourg came forward with a similar proposal as the country’s government had announced that people aged 18 and above will be allowed to grow a maximum of four cannabis plants per household.

Locals will have to use their household boundary, indoors, outdoors, balcony, terrace or garden to grow cannabis at home. In addition to this, the consumption of 3 grams of cannabis will not be deemed as a criminal offence but will be charged as a misdemeanour with a fine of €25 for possession.

Above three grams, nothing changes, you will be considered a dealer," Justice minister Sam Tamson said. "Nothing changes for car drivers either: there is still zero tolerance."

(With inputs from agencies)

In what can be deemed as a first in European Union, Malta has become the first country to legalise cannabis at home and for personal use. Under the new law, people aged 18 and above will be allowed to have up to seven grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants at home.

In what can be deemed as a first in European Union, Malta has become the first country to legalise cannabis at home and for personal use. Under the new law, people aged 18 and above will be allowed to have up to seven grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants at home. However, consuming cannabis in public remains illegal and punishable by a 235 euro fine. Also, consuming the drug in front of a child - both in public or private could lead to a penalty of between 300 and 500 euros. The new law also allows several non-profit organisations of up to 500 people to grow the drug for the use of their members. This came after MPs approved a legal reform backed by Prime Minister Robert Abela's Labour party. Earlier, Abela had said, "We are legislating to address a problem and taking the harm reduction approach by regulating the sector so that people do not have to resort to the black market to purchase cannabis." Also read | Luxembourg becomes first European country to legalise cannabis The new law will now go to the president for approval. The law further introduces easier penalties for people found with larger amounts of cannabis. Adults in possession of between 7 to 28 grams of cannabis for their own use would face a tribunal rather than a court. They can also face a maximum 100 euro fine. Minors caught with cannabis will be referred to a tribunal which may lead to a care plan or treatment. Several other countries in the region tolerate its use to varying degrees. A few weeks back, Luxembourg came forward with a similar proposal as the country’s government had announced that people aged 18 and above will be allowed to grow a maximum of four cannabis plants per household. Locals will have to use their household boundary, indoors, outdoors, balcony, terrace or garden to grow cannabis at home. In addition to this, the consumption of 3 grams of cannabis will not be deemed as a criminal offence but will be charged as a misdemeanour with a fine of €25 for possession. Above three grams, nothing changes, you will be considered a dealer," Justice minister Sam Tamson said. "Nothing changes for car drivers either: there is still zero tolerance." (With inputs from agencies)

In a EU first, Malta legalises cannabis at home and for personal use

European diplomats at the talks in Vienna with Iran warned that the 2015 nuclear deal could soon become “an empty shell".

JCPOA will soon become an empty shell, wars European diplomats

The European Union nations are ramping up measures to vaccinate their younger age group of 5-11 years old. This comes as the continent witnessed a massive surge in COVID-19 infections.

EU nations ramping up measures to vaccinate children aged 5-11

The European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson after a meeting with interior ministers announced that a group of 15 EU states have agreed to incorporate nearly 40,000 afghans for the purpose of resettlement. "And I think this is an impressive act of solidarity," Johansson said. She further added that if more Afghans migrate in a controlled way, it would help prevent "irregular arrivals".

News agency AFP reveals that Germany will allow&nbsp;25,000 afghans, with the Netherlands accepting 3,159. Spain and France will again take in 2,500. Various other countries will also take in afghans but in lower numbers.

France and Sweden have said that they will allow&nbsp;5,000 and 4,200 resettlements. However, these are not just confined&nbsp;to afghans. Belgium has pledged to take in 425 Afghans and 1,250 others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/were-not-giving-up-we-dont-need-to-be-scared-the-radio-station-for-afghan-women-435337">Also read |&nbsp;'We're not giving up. We don't need to be scared': The radio station for Afghan women</a>

After Taliban took over the Afghanistan in August, nearly 85,000 Afghans left the country and flee to the EU. At that time, 24 EU states had taken in 28,000 evacuees.

People living in Afghanistan are currently trying to battle poverty. In September, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement with Afghanistan will remain suspended until there is clarity on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban.

Many Afghans have been selling possessions to buy food as the Taliban is unable to pay wages to civil servants. Also, the urban communities are facing food insecurity similar to rural areas.&nbsp;

There is also a threat of a “looming humanitarian crisis” in the country. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation has deteriorated since the Taliban seized power. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson after a meeting with interior ministers announced that a group of 15 EU states have agreed to incorporate nearly 40,000 afghans for the purpose of resettlement.

The European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson after a meeting with interior ministers announced that a group of 15 EU states have agreed to incorporate nearly 40,000 afghans for the purpose of resettlement. "And I think this is an impressive act of solidarity," Johansson said. She further added that if more Afghans migrate in a controlled way, it would help prevent "irregular arrivals". News agency AFP reveals that Germany will allow 25,000 afghans, with the Netherlands accepting 3,159. Spain and France will again take in 2,500. Various other countries will also take in afghans but in lower numbers. France and Sweden have said that they will allow 5,000 and 4,200 resettlements. However, these are not just confined to afghans. Belgium has pledged to take in 425 Afghans and 1,250 others. Also read | 'We're not giving up. We don't need to be scared': The radio station for Afghan women After Taliban took over the Afghanistan in August, nearly 85,000 Afghans left the country and flee to the EU. At that time, 24 EU states had taken in 28,000 evacuees. People living in Afghanistan are currently trying to battle poverty. In September, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement with Afghanistan will remain suspended until there is clarity on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban. Many Afghans have been selling possessions to buy food as the Taliban is unable to pay wages to civil servants. Also, the urban communities are facing food insecurity similar to rural areas. There is also a threat of a “looming humanitarian crisis” in the country. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation has deteriorated since the Taliban seized power. (With inputs from agencies)

Several EU nations have agreed to incorporate nearly 40,000 Afghans

France is moving forward to take over European Union's rotating Presidency in 2022. As French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for the Presidency of the EU, he has vowed to work towards a strong and sovereign European Union.

French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for the 2022 EU Presidency

European Union's Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service claimed that unusually intense wildfires raged by climate change have been responsible for record-breaking carbon emissions into the atmosphere in 2021.

Wildfires raged due to climate change emitted record-shattering carbon into the atmosphere in 2021

The European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson after a meeting with interior ministers announced that a group of 15 EU states have agreed to incorporate nearly 40,000 afghans for the purpose of resettlement. "And I think this is an impressive act of solidarity," Johansson said. She further added that if more Afghans migrate in a controlled way, it would help prevent "irregular arrivals".

EU nations pledge resettlement for Afghan refugees

French President Emmanuel Macron outlined France's priority on reinforcing European Union's sovereignty, notably its borders. His reaction came in context of France assuming presidency of the EU on January 1.

The rotating presidency of six months is coming to France as Belarus is facing allegations that it had engineered a refugee crisis by forcing Middle East migrants across border to Poland and Lithuania, both EU states.

European Union has seen differing opinions among countries in the block over the issue of response to immigration and policing of common external borders of Schengen area.

"A sovereign Europe, for me, has the foremost aspect of being capable to keep its borders under control," Macron told a news conference at which he presented France's priority for its EU presidency.

Among France's proposals will be setting up an emergency reaction capability to help EU states facing crises at their borders, Macron said.

He also wants the bloc to have regular political meetings on migration - like euro zone states already do on economic matters.

Macron faces a presidential election in April, and conservative and far-right parties are likely to make migration, on which he is viewed by some as a soft touch, a campaign issue.

Macron also said the EU needed to define a new defence strategy that would strengthen its ability to defend itself, even though the trans-Atlantic NATO alliance remained useful and effective.

He said he wanted to "Europeanise" France's security relationship with the West African Sahel region, where French soldiers are deployed in the fight against Islamist militants.

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron outlined France's priority on reinforcing European Union's sovereignty, notably its borders. His reaction came in context of France assuming presidency of the EU on January 1.

French President Emmanuel Macron outlined France's priority on reinforcing European Union's sovereignty, notably its borders. His reaction came in context of France assuming presidency of the EU on January 1. The rotating presidency of six months is coming to France as Belarus is facing allegations that it had engineered a refugee crisis by forcing Middle East migrants across border to Poland and Lithuania, both EU states. European Union has seen differing opinions among countries in the block over the issue of response to immigration and policing of common external borders of Schengen area. "A sovereign Europe, for me, has the foremost aspect of being capable to keep its borders under control," Macron told a news conference at which he presented France's priority for its EU presidency. Among France's proposals will be setting up an emergency reaction capability to help EU states facing crises at their borders, Macron said. He also wants the bloc to have regular political meetings on migration - like euro zone states already do on economic matters. Macron faces a presidential election in April, and conservative and far-right parties are likely to make migration, on which he is viewed by some as a soft touch, a campaign issue. Macron also said the EU needed to define a new defence strategy that would strengthen its ability to defend itself, even though the trans-Atlantic NATO alliance remained useful and effective. He said he wanted to "Europeanise" France's security relationship with the West African Sahel region, where French soldiers are deployed in the fight against Islamist militants. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron speaks of 'sovereign' EU during French presidency

Pope Francis has compared the EU to a 'Nazi dictatorship' for trying to impose woke rules on language and ban using the word Christmas.

Pope Francis compares EU to 'Nazi Dictatorship', row over Christmas greeting guide

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

EU states had agreed to &nbsp;impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants

Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-spreads-in-south-africa-as-president-ramaphosa-urges-vaccination-434673">Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination</a>

The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction."

Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-resulted-in-alarming-increase-in-malaria-deaths-who-434686">Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO</a>

Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted.

South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday. EU states had agreed to impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week. Also Read | Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction." Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting. Also Read | Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted. South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU. (With inputs from agencies)

EU unlikely to lift Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said that several European Union Countries are considering to re-establish a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan.

However, he was quick to point out that it “is a different approach than a political recognition or political dialogue with the Taliban.”

A number of issues had to be resolved, particularly security, for ambassadors to return, Macron said, hoping that a mission would open soon.

“We are thinking of an organisation between several European countries... a common location for several Europeans, which would allow our ambassadors to be present," Macron told reporters in Qatar. The French President is on a two-day Gulf tour.

Western ambassadors pulled out of Afghanistan after the Taliban ousted the civilian government and took power in August.

Several Taliban ministers are subject to US and UN sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-afghanistan-who-has-the-guns-gets-the-land-434095">In Afghanistan, ‘who has the guns gets the land’</a>

Earlier, Macron met with Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, on Friday evening. He will be next heading to Saudi Arabia.

He thanked Qatar for helping to organise the latest evacuation to France of more than 250 threatened Afghans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-and-911-families-fight-for-billions-in-frozen-afghan-funds-432862">Taliban and 9/11 families fight for billions in frozen Afghan funds</a>

"I thank Qatar for the role it has played since the start of the crisis, and which permitted the organisation of several evacuations," Macron said.

A flight chartered by Paris flew out the 258 Afghans who were "particularly threatened because of their activities, especially journalists, or because of their links to France, including former locally-recruited civilian personnel for our armies," the French foreign ministry said on Friday.

The same flight carried 11 French nationals and about 60 from The Netherlands, along with dependents.

The ministry said that since September 10, 110 French nationals and their dependents as well as 396 Afghans have been evacuated on 10 flights organised by Qatar.

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said that several European Union Countries are considering to re-establish a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday said that several European Union Countries are considering to re-establish a joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan. However, he was quick to point out that it “is a different approach than a political recognition or political dialogue with the Taliban.” A number of issues had to be resolved, particularly security, for ambassadors to return, Macron said, hoping that a mission would open soon. “We are thinking of an organisation between several European countries... a common location for several Europeans, which would allow our ambassadors to be present," Macron told reporters in Qatar. The French President is on a two-day Gulf tour. Western ambassadors pulled out of Afghanistan after the Taliban ousted the civilian government and took power in August. Several Taliban ministers are subject to US and UN sanctions. Also read | In Afghanistan, ‘who has the guns gets the land’ Earlier, Macron met with Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, on Friday evening. He will be next heading to Saudi Arabia. He thanked Qatar for helping to organise the latest evacuation to France of more than 250 threatened Afghans. Also read | Taliban and 9/11 families fight for billions in frozen Afghan funds "I thank Qatar for the role it has played since the start of the crisis, and which permitted the organisation of several evacuations," Macron said. A flight chartered by Paris flew out the 258 Afghans who were "particularly threatened because of their activities, especially journalists, or because of their links to France, including former locally-recruited civilian personnel for our armies," the French foreign ministry said on Friday. The same flight carried 11 French nationals and about 60 from The Netherlands, along with dependents. The ministry said that since September 10, 110 French nationals and their dependents as well as 396 Afghans have been evacuated on 10 flights organised by Qatar. (With inputs from agencies)

EU countries planning to open joint diplomatic mission in Afghanistan: France President Macron

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian support offer comes as onset of winter in Afghanistan is worsening the situation in the war-torn country for many residents. The country witnessed a Taliban takeover in August. &nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Niklasson said, "There is a very strong overlap in way, or a very similar analysis of the situation" by India and EU when it comes to Afghanistan and both are "looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work." In Delhi, the EU special envoy met India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh. &nbsp;

Niklasson has come to Delhi from Doha where he had held talks with Taliban delegation led by its Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. One of the key issues raised by EU during the meet was human rights, women's rights, lack of inclusivity of Taliban-led government, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Asked about if EU plans to recognise the regime, he said, "We are not rushing into recognition, we are not recognising, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them". &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversations you had in Delhi with the India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: We had a very good meeting on Wednesday with the foreign secretary and also with the joint secretary working on Afghanistan, whom I have met before. Basically, the purpose of my visit is to explore with Indian officials, understand better how they see the situation, what challenges they see are coming from Afghanistan, what solution they see, how we can work together and I am pleased to see what we basically knew from before that there is a very strong overlap in way or a very similar analysis of the situation and now looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What are these concrete areas where India and EU can work on Afghanistan? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: To start with, we need to have a common understanding of the situation, that we already have. We should also, try to harmonise the messages that we are sending to the Taliban appointed interim government, in terms of what is expected from them, respect for human rights, Afghanistan not again being a threat to other countries, inclusivity of the government and some other issues and that is something we can work on but not exclusively between EU and India and I see convergence among partners in the region and beyond. It is the same thing we tell and that is a good thing. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-announces-first-if-its-kind-nuclear-programme-to-have-9-nuclear-reactors-by-2024-433654" hreflang="en">India announces 'first if its kind' nuclear programme, to have 9 nuclear reactors by 2024</a>

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had in Doha with Taliban FM Muttaqi and do you plan to recognise the Taliban government in Kabul? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: I will start with second question because that is the easiest and shortest one. The answer is no, we are not rushing into recognition, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them and our conversation in Doha this weekend, with acting Taliban foreign minister and the delegation from Kabul touched on the areas I just mentioned. We talked on inclusivity of the government, human rights, counter terrorism, access to humanitarian assistance and safe passage, which means Afghans under threat, people, which need safe passage to be able to leave the country. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: But do you think Taliban is serious about these issues, like human rights, women's education? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: We have discussed the issue of inclusive government and I made it very clear, you are absolutely right that there are no women in the leading position that is something we talked about. On inclusivity, there are other aspects, such as ethnicity, non-Taliban and non-Pashtuns, should have a stronger role if they want government to be recognised by its own people. There is a lot of talk about international recognition but equally important or some would say even more important is to be recognised by own people. When it comes to the right of women, long way to go. We talked about education and there was a clear commitment and clear declaration that it is a policy of the interim government that women and girls should go to school. But obviously this is not happening and we need to see it, we need to push and monitor and ensure girls get access to education. We could even see or support the payments of stipend, to incentivise teachers, so that education can be provided but that can only happen if girls have access. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: India is keen to send humanitarian aid to Afghan people, but there are some hindrances. &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: Humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan is absolutely crucial. EU has raised its pledges of humanitarian assistance from 60 million euros to 300 million euros. Our member states have pledged another 400 million euros and we appreciate contributions from other countries and also appreciate India's offer to send 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. There were some references in our conversation that there were talks going on to solve the issue between India and Pakistan. I am not aware how these talks are progressing, I am not aware of specific details but obviously for the sake of people of Afghanistan, we will very much hope that a solution can be found quickly. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Pakistan has influence when it comes Taliban. What role do you see of the government in Islamabad when it comes to making sure Taliban fulfills its commitment. Do you think Taliban is playing a negative role or it is playing a certain positive role? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: I don't think it is constructive to try to put countries in either of those categories. The relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan is complex and long and we can talk about history, how the countries suffered. Pakistan has paid a heavy price. It has been very clear to me that many Indian voices consider Pakistan to have played negative role but we have seen positive elements. They have generously hosted large number of Afghanistan refugees for decades at a very high price, in terms of how it has impacted the country. They have played a constructive role now in helping the Afghan people and foreign citizens leave the country. So, I would not like to or don't find it helpful to try to draw up a net value. We try to work with countries including India and Pakistan and see that the messaging and the identification of these messages we need to send to the Taliban are very similar and we all need to make progress from words to action. So rather than qualifying, who is playing negative or positive role, we should look as to how each can contribute for the sake of people and for peace and stability. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-free-covid-treatment-if-not-vaccinated-in-this-indias-southern-state-433657" hreflang="en">No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this India’s southern state</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What do you think is the biggest challenge, one is of course, humanitarian aid, and what EU can do about it? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: In short term, winter is already in Afghanistan and humanitarian challenge is a priority. We already have people on the ground in Kabul, we have international humanitarian staff working day and night to make sure our pledges of 300 million euros are translated into medicine, food, cloths and the essentials people need to survive. We work through international organisations, UN organisations and NGOs to make sure that this happens and it is. We see fast progress and there are significant challenges in getting resources into the country, not just the Indian wheat, but liquidity problem, but my basic message is we never left Afghanistan in terms of the humanitarian assistance, we have worked with Afghanistan for more than 20 years and we continue to do everything we can to help the Afghan people because our commitment to it remains very strong. &nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to open full-fledged mission of EU in Kabul? &nbsp;

Tomas Niklasson: There are no plans to open full-fledged mission in Kabul. We had a quite substantial presence; we were providing development assistance of 200-300 million euros per year. This is not happening; this is not possible. What we are considering is if we can have very small number of colleagues, no ambassador, no head of delegation but few people, who can help on the one hand when it comes to humanitarian assistance and second to help Afghans whom we have obligations and big responsibility for, in terms of safe passage. This will depend, if we can do that and when we can do that, on the security situation, how it evolves and it depends on the mechanism we can put in place to secure our staff. which is an absolute priority for us but provided we can solve these issues; this can happen sooner or later.&nbsp;

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan.

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson, who is in Delhi, has welcomed the Indian government's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. The Indian support offer comes as onset of winter in Afghanistan is worsening the situation in the war-torn country for many residents. The country witnessed a Taliban takeover in August. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Niklasson said, "There is a very strong overlap in way, or a very similar analysis of the situation" by India and EU when it comes to Afghanistan and both are "looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work." In Delhi, the EU special envoy met India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh. Niklasson has come to Delhi from Doha where he had held talks with Taliban delegation led by its Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. One of the key issues raised by EU during the meet was human rights, women's rights, lack of inclusivity of Taliban-led government, etc. Asked about if EU plans to recognise the regime, he said, "We are not rushing into recognition, we are not recognising, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them". Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversations you had in Delhi with the India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh? Tomas Niklasson: We had a very good meeting on Wednesday with the foreign secretary and also with the joint secretary working on Afghanistan, whom I have met before. Basically, the purpose of my visit is to explore with Indian officials, understand better how they see the situation, what challenges they see are coming from Afghanistan, what solution they see, how we can work together and I am pleased to see what we basically knew from before that there is a very strong overlap in way or a very similar analysis of the situation and now looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work. Sidhant Sibal: What are these concrete areas where India and EU can work on Afghanistan? Tomas Niklasson: To start with, we need to have a common understanding of the situation, that we already have. We should also, try to harmonise the messages that we are sending to the Taliban appointed interim government, in terms of what is expected from them, respect for human rights, Afghanistan not again being a threat to other countries, inclusivity of the government and some other issues and that is something we can work on but not exclusively between EU and India and I see convergence among partners in the region and beyond. It is the same thing we tell and that is a good thing. Also Read: India announces 'first if its kind' nuclear programme, to have 9 nuclear reactors by 2024 Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had in Doha with Taliban FM Muttaqi and do you plan to recognise the Taliban government in Kabul? Tomas Niklasson: I will start with second question because that is the easiest and shortest one. The answer is no, we are not rushing into recognition, we haven't recognised the Taliban regime, the interim government. We do, however, see the need to engage with them and our conversation in Doha this weekend, with acting Taliban foreign minister and the delegation from Kabul touched on the areas I just mentioned. We talked on inclusivity of the government, human rights, counter terrorism, access to humanitarian assistance and safe passage, which means Afghans under threat, people, which need safe passage to be able to leave the country. Sidhant Sibal: But do you think Taliban is serious about these issues, like human rights, women's education? Tomas Niklasson: We have discussed the issue of inclusive government and I made it very clear, you are absolutely right that there are no women in the leading position that is something we talked about. On inclusivity, there are other aspects, such as ethnicity, non-Taliban and non-Pashtuns, should have a stronger role if they want government to be recognised by its own people. There is a lot of talk about international recognition but equally important or some would say even more important is to be recognised by own people. When it comes to the right of women, long way to go. We talked about education and there was a clear commitment and clear declaration that it is a policy of the interim government that women and girls should go to school. But obviously this is not happening and we need to see it, we need to push and monitor and ensure girls get access to education. We could even see or support the payments of stipend, to incentivise teachers, so that education can be provided but that can only happen if girls have access. Sidhant Sibal: India is keen to send humanitarian aid to Afghan people, but there are some hindrances. Tomas Niklasson: Humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan is absolutely crucial. EU has raised its pledges of humanitarian assistance from 60 million euros to 300 million euros. Our member states have pledged another 400 million euros and we appreciate contributions from other countries and also appreciate India's offer to send 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan. There were some references in our conversation that there were talks going on to solve the issue between India and Pakistan. I am not aware how these talks are progressing, I am not aware of specific details but obviously for the sake of people of Afghanistan, we will very much hope that a solution can be found quickly. Sidhant Sibal: Pakistan has influence when it comes Taliban. What role do you see of the government in Islamabad when it comes to making sure Taliban fulfills its commitment. Do you think Taliban is playing a negative role or it is playing a certain positive role? Tomas Niklasson: I don't think it is constructive to try to put countries in either of those categories. The relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan is complex and long and we can talk about history, how the countries suffered. Pakistan has paid a heavy price. It has been very clear to me that many Indian voices consider Pakistan to have played negative role but we have seen positive elements. They have generously hosted large number of Afghanistan refugees for decades at a very high price, in terms of how it has impacted the country. They have played a constructive role now in helping the Afghan people and foreign citizens leave the country. So, I would not like to or don't find it helpful to try to draw up a net value. We try to work with countries including India and Pakistan and see that the messaging and the identification of these messages we need to send to the Taliban are very similar and we all need to make progress from words to action. So rather than qualifying, who is playing negative or positive role, we should look as to how each can contribute for the sake of people and for peace and stability. Also Read: No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this India’s southern state Sidhant Sibal: What do you think is the biggest challenge, one is of course, humanitarian aid, and what EU can do about it? Tomas Niklasson: In short term, winter is already in Afghanistan and humanitarian challenge is a priority. We already have people on the ground in Kabul, we have international humanitarian staff working day and night to make sure our pledges of 300 million euros are translated into medicine, food, cloths and the essentials people need to survive. We work through international organisations, UN organisations and NGOs to make sure that this happens and it is. We see fast progress and there are significant challenges in getting resources into the country, not just the Indian wheat, but liquidity problem, but my basic message is we never left Afghanistan in terms of the humanitarian assistance, we have worked with Afghanistan for more than 20 years and we continue to do everything we can to help the Afghan people because our commitment to it remains very strong. Sidhant Sibal: Any plans to open full-fledged mission of EU in Kabul? Tomas Niklasson: There are no plans to open full-fledged mission in Kabul. We had a quite substantial presence; we were providing development assistance of 200-300 million euros per year. This is not happening; this is not possible. What we are considering is if we can have very small number of colleagues, no ambassador, no head of delegation but few people, who can help on the one hand when it comes to humanitarian assistance and second to help Afghans whom we have obligations and big responsibility for, in terms of safe passage. This will depend, if we can do that and when we can do that, on the security situation, how it evolves and it depends on the mechanism we can put in place to secure our staff. which is an absolute priority for us but provided we can solve these issues; this can happen sooner or later.

EU special envoy on Afghanistan lauds India's humanitarian support offer to Kabul  

European Union's special envoy on Afghanistan, Tomas Niklasson who is in Delhi has welcomed the Indian govt's offer to send humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to the people of Afghanistan. The Indian support comes even as the onset of winters in Afghanistan is worsening the situation in the country for many common Afghans. The country saw a Taliban takeover in the month of August. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Niklasson said," there is a very strong overlap in a way, or a very similar analysis of the situation" by India, EU when it comes to Afghanistan, and both are "looking to see if there are concrete areas where we can work." In Delhi, the EU special envoy met India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and JS PAI JP Singh. Niklasson has come to Delhi from Doha where he had talks with the Taliban delegation led by its Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. One of the key issues raised by the EU during the meet was human rights, women's rights, lack of inclusivity of Taliban-led govt, etc. Asked about if EU plans to recognise the regime, he said, "we are not rushing into recognition, we are not recognizing, we haven't recognized the Taliban regime, the interim govt. We do however see the need to engage with them".

WION Exclusive: EU Special envoy on Afghanistan lauds India's offer of humanitarian support to Kabul

After lockdowns eased in the European Union, the greenhouse gas emissions went up by 18 per cent. "Greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2021 increased by 18% compared with the same quarter in the previous year. This is largely due to the effect of the economic rebound after the sharp decrease of activity in the same quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis," read a statement by Eurostat.

The report by Eurostat states that during the second quarter of 2021, EU greenhouse gas emissions were at 867 million tonnes.

The lowest value was recorded in the second quarter of 2020, which was during the pandemic.

The sudden increase in emissions could be attributed to the economic sectors, including manufacture and construction, electricity supply, agriculture, transport services and several other services other than transport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/greenhouse-gas-emissions-are-on-track-to-set-a-new-record-in-2023-iea-399165">Also read |&nbsp;Greenhouse gas emissions are on track to set a new record in 2023: IEA</a>

The report also made comparisons of greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2021 with the same period of the previous year in various sectors as it states, "The emissions by households for heating increased by 42 per cent and for transportation by 25 per cent. Emissions by manufacture and construction increased by 22 per cent, transport services by 18 per cent, electricity supply by 17 per cent and services other than transport by 13 per cent".

Meanwhile, earlier in July this year, International Energy Agency said that global greenhouse gas emissions will grow again this year and next year. The IEA predicted in its latest report monitoring pandemic recovery efforts worldwide that governments had provided $380 billion in clean energy support out of a total of $16 trillion in pandemic support.&nbsp;

Even if all of these steps were implemented on time, the world would still be “far from what is required to put the world on a road to net-zero emissions by mid-century,” according to the report.

After lockdowns eased in the European Union, the greenhouse gas emissions went up by 18 per cent. "Greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2021 increased by 18% compared with the same quarter in the previous year.

After lockdowns eased in the European Union, the greenhouse gas emissions went up by 18 per cent. "Greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2021 increased by 18% compared with the same quarter in the previous year. This is largely due to the effect of the economic rebound after the sharp decrease of activity in the same quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis," read a statement by Eurostat. The report by Eurostat states that during the second quarter of 2021, EU greenhouse gas emissions were at 867 million tonnes. The lowest value was recorded in the second quarter of 2020, which was during the pandemic. The sudden increase in emissions could be attributed to the economic sectors, including manufacture and construction, electricity supply, agriculture, transport services and several other services other than transport. Also read | Greenhouse gas emissions are on track to set a new record in 2023: IEA The report also made comparisons of greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2021 with the same period of the previous year in various sectors as it states, "The emissions by households for heating increased by 42 per cent and for transportation by 25 per cent. Emissions by manufacture and construction increased by 22 per cent, transport services by 18 per cent, electricity supply by 17 per cent and services other than transport by 13 per cent". Meanwhile, earlier in July this year, International Energy Agency said that global greenhouse gas emissions will grow again this year and next year. The IEA predicted in its latest report monitoring pandemic recovery efforts worldwide that governments had provided $380 billion in clean energy support out of a total of $16 trillion in pandemic support. Even if all of these steps were implemented on time, the world would still be “far from what is required to put the world on a road to net-zero emissions by mid-century,” according to the report.

After lockdowns were eased, EU greenhouse gas emissions surged by 18%

After lockdowns eased in the European Union, the greenhouse gas emissions went up by 18 per cent. The report by Eurostat states that during the second quarter of 2021, EU greenhouse gas emissions were at 867 million tonnes.

Rise in EU's greenhouse gas emissions as economies recover from pandemic

Delegates of Taliban and European Union held meetings in Doha to discuss situation in Afghanistan, said Tolo News. As per the report, political and economic issues along with humanitarian aid was discussed.

"Taliban and European delegates met yesterday and today and discussed issues related to various issues in Afghanistan," Tolo tweeted quoting spokesman of the Islamic Emirate`s political office in Qatar, Mohammad Naeem as sayingtweeted Mohammad Naeem, spokesman of the Islamic Emirate`s political office in Qatar.

Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis after Taliban took to power in August this year. A day before Taliban's meet with the EU, the Talibani delegation met the special envoy of Qatar's ministry of foreign affairs, Mutlaq Al Qahtani.

to discuss ways to improve humanitarian assistance for Afghan citizens.

This meeting comes as a delegation from the Taliban is currently visiting Qatar, where a new round of negotiations between the outfit and the US will start next week.

"The delegations discussed topics related to counterterrorism, enhancing human rights and humanitarian aid. The two sides stressed on the importance of having humanitarian aid reach its beneficiaries, especially with the winter season approaching," Qatar`s ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement on Friday, as quoted by Russian News agency Sputnik.

The US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tom West will be meeting with the Taliban leaders in Doha next week."They`ll discuss ... our vital national interests when it comes to Afghanistan," said State Department spokesperson Ned Price, reported Tolo News.

"That includes counterterrorism, that includes a safe passage for US citizens and for Afghans to whom we have a special commitment and that includes humanitarian assistance and the economic situation of the country," he added.

On November 8, West started his first trip in this role to Europe and Asia as the US special envoy for Afghanistan. He visited Brussels and consulted with EU and US allies on Afghanistan.Further, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its report has mentioned that the Afghan economy could shrink by 30% or more year on year which could lead to a famine situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delegates of Taliban and European Union held meetings in Doha to discuss situation in Afghanistan, said Tolo News. As per the report, political and economic issues along with humanitarian aid was discussed.

Delegates of Taliban and European Union held meetings in Doha to discuss situation in Afghanistan, said Tolo News. As per the report, political and economic issues along with humanitarian aid was discussed. "Taliban and European delegates met yesterday and today and discussed issues related to various issues in Afghanistan," Tolo tweeted quoting spokesman of the Islamic Emirate`s political office in Qatar, Mohammad Naeem as sayingtweeted Mohammad Naeem, spokesman of the Islamic Emirate`s political office in Qatar. Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis after Taliban took to power in August this year. A day before Taliban's meet with the EU, the Talibani delegation met the special envoy of Qatar's ministry of foreign affairs, Mutlaq Al Qahtani. to discuss ways to improve humanitarian assistance for Afghan citizens. This meeting comes as a delegation from the Taliban is currently visiting Qatar, where a new round of negotiations between the outfit and the US will start next week. "The delegations discussed topics related to counterterrorism, enhancing human rights and humanitarian aid. The two sides stressed on the importance of having humanitarian aid reach its beneficiaries, especially with the winter season approaching," Qatar`s ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement on Friday, as quoted by Russian News agency Sputnik. The US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tom West will be meeting with the Taliban leaders in Doha next week."They`ll discuss ... our vital national interests when it comes to Afghanistan," said State Department spokesperson Ned Price, reported Tolo News. "That includes counterterrorism, that includes a safe passage for US citizens and for Afghans to whom we have a special commitment and that includes humanitarian assistance and the economic situation of the country," he added. On November 8, West started his first trip in this role to Europe and Asia as the US special envoy for Afghanistan. He visited Brussels and consulted with EU and US allies on Afghanistan.Further, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its report has mentioned that the Afghan economy could shrink by 30% or more year on year which could lead to a famine situation. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban-EU delegates hold discussion on situation in the country

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