Hundreds of migrants sought to storm the border from Belarus into Poland on Monday, cutting razor wire fences and using branches to try and climb over them.

Migrants aided by Belarus try to storm border into Poland

The World Health Organization expressed "grave concern" over the rising pace of coronavirus infections in Europe, as Germany registered its biggest daily increase since the start of the pandemic.

COVID-19 cases rise in Europe

Lithuania builds border barrier amid new migrant crisis. Lithuania claimed Belarus was flying migrants to the country from abroad and allowing them to cross the land border.

Lithuania builds laser walls against migrants

In an emotional moment, German Chancellor Angela Merkel bid goodbye to the President of France Emmanuel Macron as they met for what is expected to be the last time before Merkel steps down.

'You kept Europe united', says Macron while raising final toast to Merkel

Bad weather in Europe's top wine-making countries means 2021 will be an extremely low year for wine production, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) said on Thursday.

The Paris-based industry body said that world wine production volume is expected to come in at around 250 million hectalitres, a drop of four percent from last year and seven percent below the 20-year average.

"The 2021 wine production can be considered extremely low, only slightly above the historically small production of 2017," said the OIV.

"This is the result of unfavourable climatic conditions that severely impacted the major wine-producing countries in Europe this year," it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/space-aged-bordeaux-wine-offered-for-private-sale-by-christies-382939">Also read |&nbsp;Space-aged Bordeaux wine offered for private sale by Christie's&nbsp;</a>

Italy, Spain, and France are Europe's leading wine producers and account for 45 percent of the total. They saw their output plummet 22 million hectalitres thanks to spring frosts, hail storms, and deluges of rain.

France's production level was knocked back all the way to 1957.

If wine growers adapted relatively well to the Covid-19 crisis last year, they are now "confronting a much greater problem than the pandemic: climate change," OIV director Pau Roca said.

He said adverse weather events were occurring more and more frequently.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-an-era-for-bernadino-sparkling-wine-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-403445">Also read |&nbsp;End of an era for Bernadino sparkling wine, here is all you need to know</a>

While "there is no vaccine" against climate change, Roca said "there are long-term solutions which will require major efforts in terms of sustainable practices for cultivating vines and producing wine".

He said adaption is an "urgent necessity" for the industry.

The impact of the low production level this year, the third in a row, is still unclear due to the volatility caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the OIV said.&nbsp;

If consumption fell last year by three percent due to the impact of Covid-related restrictions, it is expected to rebound by two percent this year, and could return to pre-pandemic levels except in China.&nbsp;

Bad weather in Europe's top wine-making countries means 2021 will be an extremely low year for wine production, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) said on Thursday.

Bad weather in Europe's top wine-making countries means 2021 will be an extremely low year for wine production, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) said on Thursday. The Paris-based industry body said that world wine production volume is expected to come in at around 250 million hectalitres, a drop of four percent from last year and seven percent below the 20-year average. "The 2021 wine production can be considered extremely low, only slightly above the historically small production of 2017," said the OIV. "This is the result of unfavourable climatic conditions that severely impacted the major wine-producing countries in Europe this year," it added. Also read | Space-aged Bordeaux wine offered for private sale by Christie's Italy, Spain, and France are Europe's leading wine producers and account for 45 percent of the total. They saw their output plummet 22 million hectalitres thanks to spring frosts, hail storms, and deluges of rain. France's production level was knocked back all the way to 1957. If wine growers adapted relatively well to the Covid-19 crisis last year, they are now "confronting a much greater problem than the pandemic: climate change," OIV director Pau Roca said. He said adverse weather events were occurring more and more frequently. Also read | End of an era for Bernadino sparkling wine, here is all you need to know While "there is no vaccine" against climate change, Roca said "there are long-term solutions which will require major efforts in terms of sustainable practices for cultivating vines and producing wine". He said adaption is an "urgent necessity" for the industry. The impact of the low production level this year, the third in a row, is still unclear due to the volatility caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the OIV said. If consumption fell last year by three percent due to the impact of Covid-related restrictions, it is expected to rebound by two percent this year, and could return to pre-pandemic levels except in China.

'Extremely low' wine production in Europe due to bad weather

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that another 500,000 people could die across Europe with cases once again on the rise.

WHO warns of another 500,000 deaths in Europe as COVID-19 cases soar

Taiwan's democracy is "a treasure" to be protected, the head of a visiting European Parliament delegation said on Thursday, promising to stand with the island as tensions between Beijing and Taipei spiral to their highest level in years.

China lays claim to&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and has intensified efforts in recent years to isolate it on the international stage, bristling at any attempt to treat the self-ruled island as an independent state.&nbsp;

Recent Chinese airforce incursions into&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence zone have been met with international support for Taipei, including from the United States -- which reiterated its long-standing commitment to&nbsp;supporting&nbsp;the island's&nbsp;self-defence.&nbsp;

Led by French MEP Raphael Glucksmann, a vocal China critic who was among five lawmakers sanctioned by Beijing in March, the group has been described as the first "official" delegation to Taipei from the European Parliament despite Chinese opposition.&nbsp;

Glucksmann called&nbsp;Taiwan's democracy "a treasure that all democrats around the world should cherish and protect".

"We came here with a very simple, very clear message -- you are not alone," he said as the delegation met with&nbsp;Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-once-again-at-epicentre-of-coronavirus-pandemic-who-426681">Also read |&nbsp;Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO</a>

"Europe&nbsp;is&nbsp;standing&nbsp;with&nbsp;you...&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;of&nbsp;freedom and&nbsp;the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;of&nbsp;rule of law&nbsp;and&nbsp;human&nbsp;dignity," he said, urging the European Union to step up cooperation with&nbsp;Taiwan.&nbsp;

"It's high time for us in the European Union to show that we are in the same boat... next we need a very concrete agenda of high-level meetings and high-level concrete steps" to build an EU-Taiwan&nbsp;partnership.&nbsp;

Tsai tweeted her thanks to the delegates on Thursday, saying an EU-Taiwan&nbsp;"partnership will help us better address these common threats and protect our shared democratic values".

'Sensitive issue'

China's foreign office expressed "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition" to the visit.&nbsp;

An official said members of the European Parliament "should fully understand the complexity and sensitivity of the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;issue, abide by the EU's commitment to the One-China Principle... and safeguard the political basis of the development of China-EU relations".

Beijing also responded to comments made by US Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley on Wednesday, in which he stressed "we absolutely have the capability" to defend&nbsp;Taiwan.

"No one should underestimate China's firm determination and will to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity," the foreign official said.&nbsp;

"We will never allow anyone or any force to separate&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;from the embrace of the motherland in any way."

The Chinese mission in Brussels warned before the European Parliament delegation left that a&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;visit by MEPs would "damage China's core interest and undermine the healthy development of China-EU relations".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cheap-tricks-based-on-gossip-says-china-on-pentagons-nuclear-warhead-report-426687">Also read |&nbsp;Cheap tricks based on gossip, says China on Pentagon's nuclear warhead report</a>

Beijing reacted with anger when a group of French senators travelled to Taipei last month, and to Taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu's recent visits to Slovakia and the Czech Republic.&nbsp;

China-Taiwan&nbsp;ties have plunged since Tsai took office in 2016, as she views the island as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of Chinese territory.&nbsp;

Taiwan's defence minister said that military tensions with Beijing were at their highest in four decades after record incursions by Chinese warplanes into the island's air defence zone last month.&nbsp;

Taiwan's democracy is "a treasure" to be protected, the head of a visiting European Parliament delegation said on Thursday, promising to stand with the island as tensions between Beijing and Taipei spiral to their highest level in years.

Taiwan's democracy is "a treasure" to be protected, the head of a visiting European Parliament delegation said on Thursday, promising to stand with the island as tensions between Beijing and Taipei spiral to their highest level in years. China lays claim to Taiwan and has intensified efforts in recent years to isolate it on the international stage, bristling at any attempt to treat the self-ruled island as an independent state. Recent Chinese airforce incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone have been met with international support for Taipei, including from the United States -- which reiterated its long-standing commitment to supporting the island's self-defence. Led by French MEP Raphael Glucksmann, a vocal China critic who was among five lawmakers sanctioned by Beijing in March, the group has been described as the first "official" delegation to Taipei from the European Parliament despite Chinese opposition. Glucksmann called Taiwan's democracy "a treasure that all democrats around the world should cherish and protect". "We came here with a very simple, very clear message -- you are not alone," he said as the delegation met with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday. Also read | Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO "Europe is standing with you... in the defence of freedom and the defence of rule of law and human dignity," he said, urging the European Union to step up cooperation with Taiwan. "It's high time for us in the European Union to show that we are in the same boat... next we need a very concrete agenda of high-level meetings and high-level concrete steps" to build an EU-Taiwan partnership. Tsai tweeted her thanks to the delegates on Thursday, saying an EU-Taiwan "partnership will help us better address these common threats and protect our shared democratic values". 'Sensitive issue' China's foreign office expressed "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition" to the visit. An official said members of the European Parliament "should fully understand the complexity and sensitivity of the Taiwan issue, abide by the EU's commitment to the One-China Principle... and safeguard the political basis of the development of China-EU relations". Beijing also responded to comments made by US Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley on Wednesday, in which he stressed "we absolutely have the capability" to defend Taiwan. "No one should underestimate China's firm determination and will to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity," the foreign official said. "We will never allow anyone or any force to separate Taiwan from the embrace of the motherland in any way." The Chinese mission in Brussels warned before the European Parliament delegation left that a Taiwan visit by MEPs would "damage China's core interest and undermine the healthy development of China-EU relations". Also read | Cheap tricks based on gossip, says China on Pentagon's nuclear warhead report Beijing reacted with anger when a group of French senators travelled to Taipei last month, and to Taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu's recent visits to Slovakia and the Czech Republic. China-Taiwan ties have plunged since Tsai took office in 2016, as she views the island as a de facto sovereign nation and not part of Chinese territory. Taiwan's defence minister said that military tensions with Beijing were at their highest in four decades after record incursions by Chinese warplanes into the island's air defence zone last month.

Europe 'standing' with Taiwan, visiting delegation says

Kososvo has one of the lowest electricity prices in Europe. 97% of its energy needs are met through coal, the dependence on coals has taken a heavy toll on locals now who have been battling pollution-related illness.

Heavy price for cheap electricity in Europe's Kosovo

Taiwan on Wednesday welcomed the first European Parliament delegation to visit the island, calling the trip significant and its latest move towards stronger ties with Europe amid heightened tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory and has not ruled out taking by force, does not have formal diplomatic relations with any European countries apart from Vatican City. But it is keen to deepen ties with European Union democracies.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-blinken-meets-wang-yi-c">&nbsp;As Blinken meets Wang Yi, Chinese jets enter Taiwan's airspace</a>

"The delegation was the first official delegation dispatched by the European Parliament to Taiwan in history, which is of great significance," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The delegation, led by French Member of the European Parliament Raphael Glucksmann, will discuss complex threats including disinformation and cyber attacks with Taiwan officials, the ministry added.

The three-day visit was organised by a European Parliament committee on foreign interference such as disinformation in democratic processes.

Taiwan's Presidential Office said in a statement the government will share experiences in dealing with challenges including "foreign infiltration" with the delegation.

"The experience of Taiwan in addressing repeated and sophisticated attacks through the mobilisation of its whole society, and without restricting its democracy, is unique," Glucksmann said in a statement before departing for Taiwan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nuke-sniffer-plane-flies-over-south-china-sea-report-426091">US 'nuke sniffer' plane flies over South China Sea: Report</a>

President Tsai Ing-wen has warned of increasing Chinese efforts to gain influence in the democratic island and has asked security agencies to counter the infiltration efforts.

The EU lawmakers'&nbsp;visit comes after Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu made a rare trip to Europe last month that angered Beijing, which warned the host countries against undermining their bilateral relations with China.

The European Parliament last month adopted a non-binding resolution to deepen ties with Taiwan, including looking into a bilateral investment agreement.

The delegation will meet Taiwan Premier Su Tseng-chang later on Wednesday before a meeting with Tsai on Thursday.

Taiwan on Wednesday welcomed the first European Parliament delegation to visit the island, calling the trip significant and its latest move towards stronger ties with Europe amid heightened tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

Taiwan on Wednesday welcomed the first European Parliament delegation to visit the island, calling the trip significant and its latest move towards stronger ties with Europe amid heightened tensions between Taipei and Beijing. Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory and has not ruled out taking by force, does not have formal diplomatic relations with any European countries apart from Vatican City. But it is keen to deepen ties with European Union democracies. Also Read | As Blinken meets Wang Yi, Chinese jets enter Taiwan's airspace "The delegation was the first official delegation dispatched by the European Parliament to Taiwan in history, which is of great significance," the foreign ministry said in a statement. The delegation, led by French Member of the European Parliament Raphael Glucksmann, will discuss complex threats including disinformation and cyber attacks with Taiwan officials, the ministry added. The three-day visit was organised by a European Parliament committee on foreign interference such as disinformation in democratic processes. Taiwan's Presidential Office said in a statement the government will share experiences in dealing with challenges including "foreign infiltration" with the delegation. "The experience of Taiwan in addressing repeated and sophisticated attacks through the mobilisation of its whole society, and without restricting its democracy, is unique," Glucksmann said in a statement before departing for Taiwan. Also Read | US 'nuke sniffer' plane flies over South China Sea: Report President Tsai Ing-wen has warned of increasing Chinese efforts to gain influence in the democratic island and has asked security agencies to counter the infiltration efforts. The EU lawmakers' visit comes after Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu made a rare trip to Europe last month that angered Beijing, which warned the host countries against undermining their bilateral relations with China. The European Parliament last month adopted a non-binding resolution to deepen ties with Taiwan, including looking into a bilateral investment agreement. The delegation will meet Taiwan Premier Su Tseng-chang later on Wednesday before a meeting with Tsai on Thursday.

Taiwan welcomes first official European Parliament delegation

A Cambridge faculty, a French museum and a Scottish college all returned artifacts looted from West Africa, with activists and officers hailing a possible turning level within the years-long battle to make sure Europe’s reckoning on race prolonged to restitution of what it plundered.

Europe returns colonial-era looted African artwork

China on Saturday warned Lithuania and European officials not to disrupt ties over decisions by Taiwan and the Baltic country to open reciprocal representative offices.

China demanded in August that Lithuania withdraw its ambassador in Beijing and said it would recall China's envoy to Vilnius after Taiwan announced that its office in Vilnius would be called the Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-puts-pressure-on-nations-to-not-recognise-taiwan-as-a-country-foreign-minister-joseph-wu-tells-wion-336966">China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION</a>

Other Taiwan offices in Europe and the United States use the name of the city Taipei, avoiding a reference to the island itself, which China claims as its own territory.

Lithuania said earlier this year it planned to open a representative office in Taiwan, a decision that also angered Beijing.

China "resolutely opposes" official contacts between countries that have diplomatic relations with China and authorities in Taiwan, Wang Wenbin, a foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement on its website.

"We urge the Lithuanian government to abide by the solemn political commitments made when establishing diplomatic relations with China and not to make irreversible wrong decisions," Wang said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-has-no-right-to-join-united-nations-china-lashes-out-at-us-424497">'Taiwan has no right to join United Nations,' China lashes out at US</a>

"The European side should adopt a correct position and prevent interference with the healthy development of China-EU relations."

China's Xinhua official news agency said Wang`s comments followed a joint letter from the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission expressing concern over China's criticisms of the representative offices.

China on Saturday warned Lithuania and European officials not to disrupt ties over decisions by Taiwan and the Baltic country to open reciprocal representative offices.

China on Saturday warned Lithuania and European officials not to disrupt ties over decisions by Taiwan and the Baltic country to open reciprocal representative offices. China demanded in August that Lithuania withdraw its ambassador in Beijing and said it would recall China's envoy to Vilnius after Taiwan announced that its office in Vilnius would be called the Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania. Also Read | China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION Other Taiwan offices in Europe and the United States use the name of the city Taipei, avoiding a reference to the island itself, which China claims as its own territory. Lithuania said earlier this year it planned to open a representative office in Taiwan, a decision that also angered Beijing. China "resolutely opposes" official contacts between countries that have diplomatic relations with China and authorities in Taiwan, Wang Wenbin, a foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement on its website. "We urge the Lithuanian government to abide by the solemn political commitments made when establishing diplomatic relations with China and not to make irreversible wrong decisions," Wang said. Also Read | 'Taiwan has no right to join United Nations,' China lashes out at US "The European side should adopt a correct position and prevent interference with the healthy development of China-EU relations." China's Xinhua official news agency said Wang`s comments followed a joint letter from the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission expressing concern over China's criticisms of the representative offices.

China warns Lithuania, European officials over Taiwan row

Most of Europe is now using COVID-19 passports to enter bars, restaurants, cinemas and museums even after protests in the region. Scotland, also, has now implemented a vaccine passport even though England does not require a pass.

Most of Europe is now using COVID-19 passports to enter bars, restaurants, cinemas and museums even after protests in the region. Scotland, also, has now implemented a vaccine passport even though England does not require a pass. In Italy, one needs to have a COVID-19 pass to enter their workplace. Italy is said to have adapted the most rigid COVID-19 pass rules in Europe. As per the guidelines, anyone who is on a payroll, both in the public and private sectors, must have a 'green pass' with a QR code as proof of either full vaccination, recent recovery from infection or a negative test. Also, employees who go to work without a pass can be fined up to 1,500 euros and can also face suspension without pay. Employers could also face fines if they allow staff to work without it. Also read | Hong Kong passes law that can censor even past films, to safeguard 'national security' In France, the passe sanitaire has become part of daily life. A report by BBC highlights how the Netherlands does not require a pass now. However, the rules state that anyone aged 13 and over has to show a COVID-19 entry pass. As per the official EU website, the pass contains a QR code, which comprises personal as well as sensitive health data. However, the processing of the information happens exclusively in the browser. "To create the pass, only a cryptographic hash is sent to our server and signed there. This means we have no possibility to read or save your data," says the website. The website urges the citizens to not share COVID-19 passes in order to protect privacy. Meanwhile, recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) expressed concerns over the worsening pandemic situation in Europe. The UN health body said that Europe had the maximum number of cases and deaths due to the viral disease over the last week, with a double-digit percentage surge in each.

Most European countries to keep using COVID-19 passports as winter approaches

Dams, irrigation projects, settlements in the past few decades, the natural course of rivers have been altered due to rapid infrastructural developments but some rivers stay wild, take a look!

Europe: Vjosa river untouched by infrastructure projects

Facebook has lurched from controversy to controversy since Mark Zuckerberg started it as a Harvard undergrad in 2004. But the actions of Frances Haugen, a former product manager, have created a backlash and public relations crisis that stand apart.

On Monday, she took her tightly choreographed campaign to build a case for stiffer oversight of the social media giant to Europe. In front of British lawmakers Monday, she painted a portrait of a company vividly aware of its harmful effects on society but unwilling to act because doing so could jeopardize profits and growth.

Hours before she began speaking in London, more than a dozen news organizations published articles based on the Facebook Papers, a cache of documents she took before resigning from the company.

“We need regulation,” Haugen said Monday. “Until the incentives change, Facebook will not change,” she added later.

Facebook on Monday said profits in the latest quarter, which ended in September, had risen 17% to $9.2 billion, reflecting the company’s financial strength.

The revelations from Haugen have generated increased political support for new regulation in the United States and Europe, including some calls for Zuckerberg to step aside as Facebook’s CEO.

“Facebook is failing to prevent harm to children, it’s failing to stop the spread of disinformation, it is failing to stop the spread of hate speech,” John Nicolson, a lawmaker from Scotland, said during the hearing on Monday.

Haugen left Facebook with scores of internal research papers, slide decks, discussion threads, presentations and memos that she has shared with lawmakers, regulators and journalists.

After leaking internal company documents to The Wall Street Journal, Haugen revealed her identity this month for an episode of “60 Minutes” and testified before a Senate committee. She also shared the documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Since then, she has shared the Facebook materials with other news organizations.

During a call with financial analysts on Monday, Zuckerberg strongly criticized the news coverage and criticism stemming from Haugen’s leaks.

“My view on what we are seeing is a coordinated effort to selectively use leaked documents to create a false picture about our company,” he said.

Facebook has lurched from controversy to controversy since Mark Zuckerberg started it as a Harvard undergrad in 2004. But the actions of Frances Haugen, a former product manager, have created a backlash and public relations crisis that stand apart.

Facebook has lurched from controversy to controversy since Mark Zuckerberg started it as a Harvard undergrad in 2004. But the actions of Frances Haugen, a former product manager, have created a backlash and public relations crisis that stand apart. On Monday, she took her tightly choreographed campaign to build a case for stiffer oversight of the social media giant to Europe. In front of British lawmakers Monday, she painted a portrait of a company vividly aware of its harmful effects on society but unwilling to act because doing so could jeopardize profits and growth. Hours before she began speaking in London, more than a dozen news organizations published articles based on the Facebook Papers, a cache of documents she took before resigning from the company. “We need regulation,” Haugen said Monday. “Until the incentives change, Facebook will not change,” she added later. Facebook on Monday said profits in the latest quarter, which ended in September, had risen 17% to $9.2 billion, reflecting the company’s financial strength. The revelations from Haugen have generated increased political support for new regulation in the United States and Europe, including some calls for Zuckerberg to step aside as Facebook’s CEO. “Facebook is failing to prevent harm to children, it’s failing to stop the spread of disinformation, it is failing to stop the spread of hate speech,” John Nicolson, a lawmaker from Scotland, said during the hearing on Monday. Haugen left Facebook with scores of internal research papers, slide decks, discussion threads, presentations and memos that she has shared with lawmakers, regulators and journalists. After leaking internal company documents to The Wall Street Journal, Haugen revealed her identity this month for an episode of “60 Minutes” and testified before a Senate committee. She also shared the documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Since then, she has shared the Facebook materials with other news organizations. During a call with financial analysts on Monday, Zuckerberg strongly criticized the news coverage and criticism stemming from Haugen’s leaks. “My view on what we are seeing is a coordinated effort to selectively use leaked documents to create a false picture about our company,” he said.

Facebook whistleblower brings campaign to Europe after disclosures

Europe's most active volcano- Mount Etna has erupted sending plumes of ash into the sky, flight services have also been disrupted, this is the volcano's 50th eruption since the beginning of 2021.

Italy: Mount Etna spews ash and smoke, marks Europe's most active volcano

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. &nbsp;

The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO." &nbsp;

The two leaders are due to meet in Rome later this month. The statement said Biden looked forward to the chance to "take stock of the many areas of US-France cooperation, and reinforce our shared interests." The French presidency also issued a similar statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-contain-beijing-anger-after-biden-vows-taiwan-defense-423109" hreflang="en">US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense</a>

This development comes as the US is looking to mend ties after the crisis over AUKUS row. &nbsp;

On September 22, the two presidents had last spoken to each other. It was their first conversation since the spat. &nbsp;

After the call, Macron ordered the French ambassador to return to the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Macron and Biden had vowed to initiate 'in-depth consultations' to bring back the friendship and confidence between the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-neera-tanden-appointed-bidens-staff-secretary-reports-423070" hreflang="en">Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports</a>

"The two leaders agreed that the situation would have benefitted from open consultations among allies on matters of strategic interest to France and our European partners," the statement reads. &nbsp;

Earlier, the French president had openly criticised Australia for ditching a submarine deal with the European nation for a new defence pact with the US and UK, especially without letting Macron know in advance. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO.

In a call, US President Joe Biden and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening European defences. The statement said, the two leaders "discussed efforts to enable a stronger and more capable European defence while ensuring complementarity with NATO." The two leaders are due to meet in Rome later this month. The statement said Biden looked forward to the chance to "take stock of the many areas of US-France cooperation, and reinforce our shared interests." The French presidency also issued a similar statement. Also Read: US seeks to contain Beijing anger after Biden vows Taiwan defense This development comes as the US is looking to mend ties after the crisis over AUKUS row. On September 22, the two presidents had last spoken to each other. It was their first conversation since the spat. After the call, Macron ordered the French ambassador to return to the US. Macron and Biden had vowed to initiate 'in-depth consultations' to bring back the friendship and confidence between the two countries. Also Read | Indian-American Neera Tanden appointed Biden's staff secretary: Reports "The two leaders agreed that the situation would have benefitted from open consultations among allies on matters of strategic interest to France and our European partners," the statement reads. Earlier, the French president had openly criticised Australia for ditching a submarine deal with the European nation for a new defence pact with the US and UK, especially without letting Macron know in advance. (With inputs from agencies)

In call, Biden, Macron discuss strengthening European defences  

European leaders lined up to chastise Warsaw on Thursday for challenging the EU's legal foundations, but Poland's premier said he would not bow to "blackmail" as he joined a summit of the bloc's 27 nations.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said he was ready to resolve disputes with Brussels, though many are worried that a stubborn ideological rift between eastern and western Europe poses an existential threat to the EU itself.

"A few days ago, the legal bedrock of our Union was challenged," European Parliament President David Sassoli said in a letter as the leaders gathered in Brussels for their summit.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-poland-spat-polish-pm-accuses-eu-of-blackmail-422078">&nbsp;EU-Poland spat: Polish PM accuses EU of 'blackmail'</a>

"This was not for the first time, of course, nor will it be the last. But never before has the Union been called into question so radically," the leader of the EU assembly said.

Long-running tensions between Poland's ruling nationalists and the bloc's liberal majority have spiked since Poland's Constitutional Tribunal ruled this month that elements of EU law were incompatible with the country's charter, challenging a central tenet of EU integration.

The dispute not only risks precipitating a new fundamental crisis for the bloc, which is still grappling with the aftermath of Brexit. It could deprive Poland of generous EU handouts.

'Clubs Have Rules'

"Some European institutions assume the right to decide on matters that have not been assigned to them," Morawiecki said as he went into the talks, which come two days after the executive European Commission threatened to take action against Warsaw.

"We will not act under the pressure of blackmail&nbsp;but we will of course talk about how to resolve the current disputes in dialogue."

His wealthier Western counterparts are particularly keen to prevent their governments' cash contributions to the EU benefiting socially conservative politicians who they see as undercutting human rights fixed in European laws.

"If you want to have the advantages of being in a club&nbsp;then you need to respect the rules," Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo said. "You can't be a member of a club and say 'The rules don't apply to me'."

Leaders of countries from Ireland to France urged Warsaw to come back in line. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, referring to Poland's judicial overhaul that puts its courts under more government control, said it was difficult to see how new EU funding could be channelled to the eastern European country, adding: "We have to be tough".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-poses-serious-political-economic-security-technological-challenges-to-eu-421441">China poses serious political, economic, security, technological challenges to EU</a>

An EU official said Rutte stood firm when the matter was discussed at the summit, but most leaders said decisions on how to deal with Poland should be left to the European Commission.

Morawiecki's Law and Justice (PiS) party has raised the stakes in years of increasingly bitter feuds with the EU over a range of democratic principles, from the freedom of courts and media to the rights of women, migrants and LGBT people.

The Commission has for now barred Warsaw from tapping into the 36 billion euros of grants and loans it requested from EU funds to help its economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The top EU court may also slap more fines on Poland, the largest ex-communist EU country of 38 million people.

For the bloc, the latest twist in feuds with the eurosceptic PiS also comes at a sensitive time. The EU last year made a leap towards closer integration by agreeing on joint borrowing to raise 750 billion euros for post-pandemic economic recovery, overcoming stiff resistance from wealthy northern states.

No 'Polexit'

Morawiecki has dismissed the idea of "Polexit" - leaving the bloc - and popular support for membership remains at 88 per cent&nbsp;in Poland, which has benefited enormously from EU funding since it joined in 2004.

But Warsaw, backed by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, wants to return powers to national capitals and has lashed out at what it says are excessive powers of the European Commission.

"Poland is one of the best European countries. There is no need for any sanctions, it's ridiculous," Orban said.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-passes-resolution-seeking-deeper-ties-with-taiwan-china-slams-move-422739">&nbsp;EU passes resolution seeking deeper ties with Taiwan; China slams move</a>

While many have grown increasingly frustrated at failed attempts to convince Warsaw to change tack, outgoing German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against isolating Poland.

"We have to find ways of coming back together," she said, adding that bringing multiple cases against Poland to the Court of Justice of the European Union was no solution.

Her sway, however, is weakened as the veteran of more than 100 summits during her 16 years in power visits Brussels for what may be her last gathering of EU leaders before she hands over to a new German chancellor.

European leaders lined up to chastise Warsaw on Thursday for challenging the EU's legal foundations, but Poland's premier said he would not bow to "blackmail" as he joined a summit of the bloc's 27 nations.

European leaders lined up to chastise Warsaw on Thursday for challenging the EU's legal foundations, but Poland's premier said he would not bow to "blackmail" as he joined a summit of the bloc's 27 nations. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said he was ready to resolve disputes with Brussels, though many are worried that a stubborn ideological rift between eastern and western Europe poses an existential threat to the EU itself. "A few days ago, the legal bedrock of our Union was challenged," European Parliament President David Sassoli said in a letter as the leaders gathered in Brussels for their summit. Also Read | EU-Poland spat: Polish PM accuses EU of 'blackmail' "This was not for the first time, of course, nor will it be the last. But never before has the Union been called into question so radically," the leader of the EU assembly said. Long-running tensions between Poland's ruling nationalists and the bloc's liberal majority have spiked since Poland's Constitutional Tribunal ruled this month that elements of EU law were incompatible with the country's charter, challenging a central tenet of EU integration. The dispute not only risks precipitating a new fundamental crisis for the bloc, which is still grappling with the aftermath of Brexit. It could deprive Poland of generous EU handouts. 'Clubs Have Rules' "Some European institutions assume the right to decide on matters that have not been assigned to them," Morawiecki said as he went into the talks, which come two days after the executive European Commission threatened to take action against Warsaw. "We will not act under the pressure of blackmail but we will of course talk about how to resolve the current disputes in dialogue." His wealthier Western counterparts are particularly keen to prevent their governments' cash contributions to the EU benefiting socially conservative politicians who they see as undercutting human rights fixed in European laws. "If you want to have the advantages of being in a club then you need to respect the rules," Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo said. "You can't be a member of a club and say 'The rules don't apply to me'." Leaders of countries from Ireland to France urged Warsaw to come back in line. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, referring to Poland's judicial overhaul that puts its courts under more government control, said it was difficult to see how new EU funding could be channelled to the eastern European country, adding: "We have to be tough". Also Read | China poses serious political, economic, security, technological challenges to EU An EU official said Rutte stood firm when the matter was discussed at the summit, but most leaders said decisions on how to deal with Poland should be left to the European Commission. Morawiecki's Law and Justice (PiS) party has raised the stakes in years of increasingly bitter feuds with the EU over a range of democratic principles, from the freedom of courts and media to the rights of women, migrants and LGBT people. The Commission has for now barred Warsaw from tapping into the 36 billion euros of grants and loans it requested from EU funds to help its economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The top EU court may also slap more fines on Poland, the largest ex-communist EU country of 38 million people. For the bloc, the latest twist in feuds with the eurosceptic PiS also comes at a sensitive time. The EU last year made a leap towards closer integration by agreeing on joint borrowing to raise 750 billion euros for post-pandemic economic recovery, overcoming stiff resistance from wealthy northern states. No 'Polexit' Morawiecki has dismissed the idea of "Polexit" - leaving the bloc - and popular support for membership remains at 88 per cent in Poland, which has benefited enormously from EU funding since it joined in 2004. But Warsaw, backed by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, wants to return powers to national capitals and has lashed out at what it says are excessive powers of the European Commission. "Poland is one of the best European countries. There is no need for any sanctions, it's ridiculous," Orban said. Also Read | EU passes resolution seeking deeper ties with Taiwan; China slams move While many have grown increasingly frustrated at failed attempts to convince Warsaw to change tack, outgoing German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against isolating Poland. "We have to find ways of coming back together," she said, adding that bringing multiple cases against Poland to the Court of Justice of the European Union was no solution. Her sway, however, is weakened as the veteran of more than 100 summits during her 16 years in power visits Brussels for what may be her last gathering of EU leaders before she hands over to a new German chancellor.

EU leaders lambast Poland over its challenge to union

Alibaba shares surged by more than six per cent as reports suggested that billionaire Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba was seen in Europe. This was taken to be an indication that worst of China's regulatory crackdown for the tech-giant may be over.

Jack Ma has been keeping a low profile even since Chinese officials scuttled Ant Group's record-breaking IPO worth USD 37 billion last November. The crackdown from the Chinese state came after Jack Ma's speech last year criticising Chinese regulators.

Ma's presence in Spain -- for a "study tour of the agricultural industry and technology related to the environment" -- was reported by the South China Morning Post, which is owned by Alibaba.

The paper said the 57-year-old, who retired from the role of Alibaba's chairman in 2019, was attending a series of business meetings in Europe.

It said he had also stayed in Hong Kong for "private time" with his family before his trip abroad, citing an anonymous source familiar with Ma's itinerary.

However, Alibaba spokesperson declined to comment as per Reuters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-business-tycoon-jack-ma-reappears-in-hong-kong-420381">Chinese business tycoon Jack Ma reappears in Hong Kong</a>

But the news sent Alibaba's shares soaring, closing 6.67 percent higher in Hong Kong on Wednesday. So far this month, the firm's share price has surged 23 percent as hopes rise the company is now out of the dog house with authorities in Beijing.

That sentiment has also helped buoy Hong Kong's stock exchange, which has been hammered by China's regulatory crackdown in recent months.

The Hang Seng Index, one of the worst performers this year, is now up 10 percent since closing at a five-year low on October 6.&nbsp;

"It's getting clearer and clearer that the worst of Beijing's crackdowns are behind us, in particular in the technology sector as they were the first to suffer," Jackson Wong, asset management director at Amber Hill Capital, told Bloomberg News.&nbsp;

After Jack Ma's speech last year, Chinese authorities pulled Ant's IPO and followed up with an antitrust probe of Alibaba, eventually fining the company $2.75 billion.

Chinese authorities have also ordered Ant to undergo restructuring as a condition for reviving its IPO.

Ma disappeared towards the end of the last year but briefly resurfaced in January after a video clip showed him giving a speech to rural teachers as part of an event organised by his charity.

His trip to Spain is believed to be the first time he has travelled overseas since regulators went for Alibaba.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Alibaba shares surged by more than six per cent as reports suggested that billionaire Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba was seen in Europe. This was taken to be an indication that worst of China's regulatory crackdown for the tech-giant may be over.

Alibaba shares surged by more than six per cent as reports suggested that billionaire Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba was seen in Europe. This was taken to be an indication that worst of China's regulatory crackdown for the tech-giant may be over. Jack Ma has been keeping a low profile even since Chinese officials scuttled Ant Group's record-breaking IPO worth USD 37 billion last November. The crackdown from the Chinese state came after Jack Ma's speech last year criticising Chinese regulators. Ma's presence in Spain -- for a "study tour of the agricultural industry and technology related to the environment" -- was reported by the South China Morning Post, which is owned by Alibaba. The paper said the 57-year-old, who retired from the role of Alibaba's chairman in 2019, was attending a series of business meetings in Europe. It said he had also stayed in Hong Kong for "private time" with his family before his trip abroad, citing an anonymous source familiar with Ma's itinerary. However, Alibaba spokesperson declined to comment as per Reuters. Also Read | Chinese business tycoon Jack Ma reappears in Hong Kong But the news sent Alibaba's shares soaring, closing 6.67 percent higher in Hong Kong on Wednesday. So far this month, the firm's share price has surged 23 percent as hopes rise the company is now out of the dog house with authorities in Beijing. That sentiment has also helped buoy Hong Kong's stock exchange, which has been hammered by China's regulatory crackdown in recent months. The Hang Seng Index, one of the worst performers this year, is now up 10 percent since closing at a five-year low on October 6. "It's getting clearer and clearer that the worst of Beijing's crackdowns are behind us, in particular in the technology sector as they were the first to suffer," Jackson Wong, asset management director at Amber Hill Capital, told Bloomberg News. After Jack Ma's speech last year, Chinese authorities pulled Ant's IPO and followed up with an antitrust probe of Alibaba, eventually fining the company $2.75 billion. Chinese authorities have also ordered Ant to undergo restructuring as a condition for reviving its IPO. Ma disappeared towards the end of the last year but briefly resurfaced in January after a video clip showed him giving a speech to rural teachers as part of an event organised by his charity. His trip to Spain is believed to be the first time he has travelled overseas since regulators went for Alibaba. (With inputs from agencies)

Jack Ma's reported Europe trip boosts Alibaba shares

Greece and Egypt on Thursday (October 14) signed memorandum of understanding for a project that will see an undersea cable that will transmit power produced by renewables from North Africa to Europe. This is first such infrastructure in the Mediterranean.

The MoU was signed by Greek Energy Minister Kostas Skrekas and his Egyptian counterpart, Mohamed Shaker. The ceremony was held in Athens.

"Such an infrastructure, the first of its kind in the eastern Mediterranean, will enhance regional market integration between Greece and Egypt, between Europe and North Africa, allowing all parties to expand the participation of renewables in their respective generation mix thereby effectively combating the effects of climate change," said Skrekas.

"The electrical connection which we are considering today has many benefits to meet the country electricity needs including securing and stabilizing the electrical system for both countries, reducing reserve margins to cope with emergencies, and diversification of electrical energy sources," said Shaker.

"In Egypt during the last five or six years...we were suffering from a shortage of power supply, now we have a surplus of power supply," he added.

The deal has come as Greece, Cyprus and Israel plan to build the Euro-Asia Interconnector, the world's longest and deepest underwater power cable crossing the Mediterranean. The estimated cost of this is about USD 900 million.

The Greek-Egyptian memorandum establishes a high-level working group of senior officials, representatives of the power grid operators and energy regulators.

The group will examine means and financing for the implementation of the project and facilitate the timely granting of permits and approvals, necessary the feasibility studies, Skrekas said.

As part of the project, Cyprus is due to sign a similar agreement with Egypt on Saturday.

The agreement further strengthens ties between Greece and Egypt, which last year signed an accord on their maritime boundaries, giving them rights over natural resources.

(With inputs from agencies)

Greece and Egypt on Thursday (October 14) signed memorandum of understanding for a project that will see an undersea cable that will transmit power produced by renewables from North Africa to Europe.

Greece and Egypt on Thursday (October 14) signed memorandum of understanding for a project that will see an undersea cable that will transmit power produced by renewables from North Africa to Europe. This is first such infrastructure in the Mediterranean. The MoU was signed by Greek Energy Minister Kostas Skrekas and his Egyptian counterpart, Mohamed Shaker. The ceremony was held in Athens. "Such an infrastructure, the first of its kind in the eastern Mediterranean, will enhance regional market integration between Greece and Egypt, between Europe and North Africa, allowing all parties to expand the participation of renewables in their respective generation mix thereby effectively combating the effects of climate change," said Skrekas. "The electrical connection which we are considering today has many benefits to meet the country electricity needs including securing and stabilizing the electrical system for both countries, reducing reserve margins to cope with emergencies, and diversification of electrical energy sources," said Shaker. "In Egypt during the last five or six years...we were suffering from a shortage of power supply, now we have a surplus of power supply," he added. The deal has come as Greece, Cyprus and Israel plan to build the Euro-Asia Interconnector, the world's longest and deepest underwater power cable crossing the Mediterranean. The estimated cost of this is about USD 900 million. The Greek-Egyptian memorandum establishes a high-level working group of senior officials, representatives of the power grid operators and energy regulators. The group will examine means and financing for the implementation of the project and facilitate the timely granting of permits and approvals, necessary the feasibility studies, Skrekas said. As part of the project, Cyprus is due to sign a similar agreement with Egypt on Saturday. The agreement further strengthens ties between Greece and Egypt, which last year signed an accord on their maritime boundaries, giving them rights over natural resources. (With inputs from agencies)

Greece, Egypt agree to lay first subsea power link between Europe and Africa

US authorities are trying to cap the amount of salt food manufacturers and restaurants put in food. Many European countries already have salt limits. Palki Sharma tells you why India too must rethink the amount of salt and sugar it is consuming.

Gravitas: FDA issues salt guidelines for processed, restaurant food

In what can be a major relief for the European energy sector Russia has said that it will increase gas exports to the continent. The announcement by Russian president Vladimir Putin came as experts accuse Moscow of trying to profit from Europe's energy crisis. They say that gas prices have risen because Russia limited supplies.

Russia to increase gas exports to Europe

As per Europe's “red list” report, one in five bird species is now at risk. The BirdLife International analysis, which is based on observations of 544 native bird species, reveals that various birds of the European ecosystems are disappearing. Since the last report in 2015, three species have become regionally extinct in Europe.&nbsp;

These include Pallas’s sandgrouse, common buttonquail and pine bunting.

In total, 30 per cent of species assessed have shown population decline. At a European level, 13 per cent of birds are threatened with extinction and a further 6 per cent are near threatened. The data is based on millions of observations made since 1980.

Anna Staneva, interim head of conservation, BirdLife Europe and Central Asia was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The results are alarming but we are not surprised. We’re running out of time, the clock is ticking. We don’t want to see the dramatic changes we’re seeing now happening in the next five or 10 years."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-24-year-old-rumeysa-gelgi-titled-as-tallest-woman-living-420736">Also read |&nbsp;Turkey’s 24-year-old Rumeysa Gelgi titled as tallest woman living</a>

The findings, collected in 2019, are based on the IUCN red list categories and criteria applied at the regional level. They compile conclusions from the State of Nature in the EU 2013-2018 report, which found only a quarter of species have good conservation status.&nbsp;

Loss of habitat, intensification of agriculture, the overexploitation of resources, pollution and unsustainable forestry practices are included in the report. Climate crisis is also considered as a growing factor.&nbsp;

Staneva was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "These are big, large-scale threats which we call systemic threats, and they’re very much related to the way our society works and how we use resources."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-spotted-smiling-and-clapping-as-soldiers-lie-on-bed-of-nails-420694">Also read |&nbsp;Kim Jong Un spotted smiling and clapping as soldiers lie on bed of nails</a>

“It’s a signal that something is seriously going wrong around us. We need to change the way we live, that is the key message coming from our results.”

Another threatened species is the common swift. Rooks and common snipe are also now considered vulnerable due to sharp declines since 2015.&nbsp;

In order for the species to be placed in the near-threatened category, the population has to have declined by 25 per cent over three generations. When declines are greater than 30 per cent they enter the threatened category.

As per Europe's “red list” report, one in five bird species is now at risk. The BirdLife International analysis, which is based on observations of 544 native bird species, reveals that various birds of the European ecosystems are disappearing.

As per Europe's “red list” report, one in five bird species is now at risk. The BirdLife International analysis, which is based on observations of 544 native bird species, reveals that various birds of the European ecosystems are disappearing. Since the last report in 2015, three species have become regionally extinct in Europe. These include Pallas’s sandgrouse, common buttonquail and pine bunting. In total, 30 per cent of species assessed have shown population decline. At a European level, 13 per cent of birds are threatened with extinction and a further 6 per cent are near threatened. The data is based on millions of observations made since 1980. Anna Staneva, interim head of conservation, BirdLife Europe and Central Asia was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The results are alarming but we are not surprised. We’re running out of time, the clock is ticking. We don’t want to see the dramatic changes we’re seeing now happening in the next five or 10 years." Also read | Turkey’s 24-year-old Rumeysa Gelgi titled as tallest woman living The findings, collected in 2019, are based on the IUCN red list categories and criteria applied at the regional level. They compile conclusions from the State of Nature in the EU 2013-2018 report, which found only a quarter of species have good conservation status. Loss of habitat, intensification of agriculture, the overexploitation of resources, pollution and unsustainable forestry practices are included in the report. Climate crisis is also considered as a growing factor. Staneva was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "These are big, large-scale threats which we call systemic threats, and they’re very much related to the way our society works and how we use resources." Also read | Kim Jong Un spotted smiling and clapping as soldiers lie on bed of nails “It’s a signal that something is seriously going wrong around us. We need to change the way we live, that is the key message coming from our results.” Another threatened species is the common swift. Rooks and common snipe are also now considered vulnerable due to sharp declines since 2015. In order for the species to be placed in the near-threatened category, the population has to have declined by 25 per cent over three generations. When declines are greater than 30 per cent they enter the threatened category.

Europe: One in five bird species moving towards extinction

Europe is currently in the grip of an unfolding energy crisis. Natural gas prices have soared 600% so far this year which is now hitting key economical areas, take a look at this bulletin.

Europe: Natural gas prices soar by 600% in 2021

Thousands of refugees and migrants in Libya are trapped in a vicious cycle of cruelty. With little to no hope of finding safe and legal pathways out, they have been enduring unethical suffering in Libya. They risk their lives at sea seeking safety in Europe only to be intercepted, transferred back to Libya to endure the same abuses they sought to escape.

Thousands of refugees, migrants in Libya demand immediate deportation

Polish foreign ministry said on Saturday that the country will continue to respect European law. Poland and the European Union are experiencing strained relations after Poland's Constitutional Tribunal held that parts of EU law were incompatible with Polish constitution.

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"All obligations arising from both primary and secondary European Union law remain in force and thus, will continue to be fully respected by Poland," said foreign ministry in a statement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-calls-poland-court-ruling-attack-against-eu-419132">France calls Poland court ruling 'attack against EU'</a>

"The provisions of the Treaty of the European Union indicated in the judgment ...remain in force. What cannot be accepted are only the forms of their interpretation or application that violate the constitution."

Relations between Warsaw and Brussels were especially strained after Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki had welcomed Polish tribunal's decision.

This had led to heated exchange of words between Poland and EU.

France and Germany on Saturday, said in a joint statement that Poland had a legal and moral obligation to abide by the bloc's rules completely and unconditionally.

(Wion web team)

Polish foreign ministry said on Saturday that the country will continue to respect European law. Poland and the European Union are experiencing strained relations after Poland's Constitutional Tribunal held that parts of EU law were incompatible with Polish constitution.

Polish foreign ministry said on Saturday that the country will continue to respect European law. Poland and the European Union are experiencing strained relations after Poland's Constitutional Tribunal held that parts of EU law were incompatible with Polish constitution. × "All obligations arising from both primary and secondary European Union law remain in force and thus, will continue to be fully respected by Poland," said foreign ministry in a statement. Also Read | France calls Poland court ruling 'attack against EU' "The provisions of the Treaty of the European Union indicated in the judgment ...remain in force. What cannot be accepted are only the forms of their interpretation or application that violate the constitution." Relations between Warsaw and Brussels were especially strained after Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki had welcomed Polish tribunal's decision. This had led to heated exchange of words between Poland and EU. France and Germany on Saturday, said in a joint statement that Poland had a legal and moral obligation to abide by the bloc's rules completely and unconditionally. (Wion web team)

Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry

The current energy crisis has kicked off a blame game between the world's superpowers. Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Europe for the current crisis saying that Europe was wrong to reduce the share of long-term deals in natural gas trade in favour of the spot market where prices have surged.

World's superpowers Russia, Europe blame each other

In a first, breaking a European record, more than 29 inches of rain, which is nearly two and a half feet, fell in a time span of 12 hours in Italy this week.

On Monday, a series of storms were seen in northwestern Italy, unleashing rainfall rates never before in entire Europe. Also, in

Oman, a rare tropical cyclone poured worth of rainfall, bringing deadly floods to the desert landscape that rarely experiences rain.

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🔴 ITALY 🇮🇹: Severe flooding in Parts Of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Liguria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Liguria</a> Region!🚨 
 
☔️ 925.8 mm of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rain</a> fell in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rossiglione?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rossiglione</a>, central <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Liguria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Liguria</a>,in 24 hrs &amp; 808 mm in 15 hrs! 
 
HOW CAN WE PRETEND THIS IS NORMAL?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FaceTheClimateEmergency?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FaceTheClimateEmergency</a><a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GretaThunberg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ExtinctionR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ExtinctionR</a><a href="https://twitter.com/vanessa_vash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vanessa_vash</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/OSlmVuWF90">pic.twitter.com/OSlmVuWF90</a>
— AaravSeth🇮🇳 (@AaravSeth_) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaravSeth_/status/1445316408343031813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The commune of Rossiglione in Genoa, Liguria, was among the worst affected with the record deluge of 29.2in of rain on Monday. Usually, the region gets about 50 inches of rain in an entire year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-life-expectancy-drops-amid-covid-19-battle-411304">Also read |&nbsp;Italy's life expectancy drops amid COVID-19 battle</a>

Red alerts were issued across the regions of Liguria, Piedmont and Lombardy.

Katia Piccardo, mayor of Rossiglione, warned of a "very dangerous situation" as heavy rain took over the region.

"I'm back from the last inspection now. In these 72 endless hours, the hours of sleep can be counted on the fingers of one hand and interrupted by a thousand thoughts for my fellow citizens, for my land. We have a myriad of disasters and open fronts," she said.

In Cairo Montenotte, about 20 miles west of Rossiglione, a record 19.5 inches of rain fell in just six hours. The previous record was 18.5 inches.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/want-to-know-what-happens-inside-a-hurricane-this-actual-video-will-show-you-418616">Also read |&nbsp;Want to know what happens inside a hurricane? This actual video will show you</a>

As a result of excessive rains, several rivers broke their banks.&nbsp;

The Erro flooded areas of Pontinvrea, the Bormida river overflowed in Cairo Montenotte. Also, the Letimbro caused flooding in the city of Savona.

In a first, breaking a European record, more than 29 inches of rain, which is nearly two and a half feet, fell in a time span of 12 hours in Italy this week. On Monday, a series of storms were seen in northwestern Italy, unleashing rainfall rates never before in entire Europe.

In a first, breaking a European record, more than 29 inches of rain, which is nearly two and a half feet, fell in a time span of 12 hours in Italy this week. On Monday, a series of storms were seen in northwestern Italy, unleashing rainfall rates never before in entire Europe. Also, in Oman, a rare tropical cyclone poured worth of rainfall, bringing deadly floods to the desert landscape that rarely experiences rain. 🔴 ITALY 🇮🇹: Severe flooding in Parts Of #Liguria Region!🚨 ☔️ 925.8 mm of #rain fell in #Rossiglione, central #Liguria,in 24 hrs & 808 mm in 15 hrs! HOW CAN WE PRETEND THIS IS NORMAL?#FaceTheClimateEmergency@GretaThunberg @ExtinctionR@vanessa_vash pic.twitter.com/OSlmVuWF90 — AaravSeth🇮🇳 (@AaravSeth_) October 5, 2021 × The commune of Rossiglione in Genoa, Liguria, was among the worst affected with the record deluge of 29.2in of rain on Monday. Usually, the region gets about 50 inches of rain in an entire year. Also read | Italy's life expectancy drops amid COVID-19 battle Red alerts were issued across the regions of Liguria, Piedmont and Lombardy. Katia Piccardo, mayor of Rossiglione, warned of a "very dangerous situation" as heavy rain took over the region. "I'm back from the last inspection now. In these 72 endless hours, the hours of sleep can be counted on the fingers of one hand and interrupted by a thousand thoughts for my fellow citizens, for my land. We have a myriad of disasters and open fronts," she said. In Cairo Montenotte, about 20 miles west of Rossiglione, a record 19.5 inches of rain fell in just six hours. The previous record was 18.5 inches. Also read | Want to know what happens inside a hurricane? This actual video will show you As a result of excessive rains, several rivers broke their banks. The Erro flooded areas of Pontinvrea, the Bormida river overflowed in Cairo Montenotte. Also, the Letimbro caused flooding in the city of Savona.

Over two feet of rain in Italy sets new European record amid extreme climate conditions

Russian President Vladimir Putin is blaming Europe for its current energy crisis. Putin said that one of the factors influencing the prices was the termination of 'long-term contracts' in favour of the spot market.

Putin blames Europe for gas price crisis

The European Union said on Wednesday it would scrutinise its power market design and consider proposals to revamp EU regulation, as the bloc seeks to keep its plans to tackle climate change on track amid record-high energy costs.

European electricity and gas prices have rocketed higher this year as tight gas supplies have collided with strong demand in economies recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Soaring energy prices topped the EU's political agenda on Wednesday, with environment ministers and European Parliament each meeting to debate the issue, after EU country leaders discussed their response on Tuesday evening.

"There is no question that we need to take policy measures," EU energy commissioner Kadri Simson told the EU's parliament.

The crisis has divided countries over whether Brussels should intervene. The Commission will next week publish a menu of options for how governments and the EU could react.

Simson said the Commission would launch a study into whether the EU's power market was fit to deliver the bloc's planned transition to green energy. Spain and France have called for a revamp of EU electricity regulation to decouple the price of power from the cost of gas.

"We believe this framework is sound, but we see the challenges," Simson said.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he and other countries had asked Brussels to offer an "audacious" response.

"We need extraordinary, innovative measures&nbsp;we have asked for a joint purchase of gas," he said.

Not all countries are convinced. EU regulators expect gas market conditions to ease in spring and some governments say the issue is best treated with national subsidies and tax breaks to cushion consumers from high bills - measures many countries have rolled out.

"It's mainly something for the member states to address," Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said.

"We should look at what Europe can do collectively. There are proposals - some wilder, others less wild."

The price spike has arrived as the EU prepares for a major upgrade of climate policies, stoking concerns among poorer central and eastern EU states that steps to increase the cost of polluting fuels could push more households into energy poverty.

Brussels is determined to ensure the price spike will not derail its plan to slash emissions and has proposed a multi-billion-euro fund to help poorer households invest in green options.

"Let's keep our eye on the ball. The problem here is the climate crisis," EU climate policy chief Frans Timmermans said. "The quicker we move towards renewable energy, the quicker we can protect our citizens against high prices."

The European Union said on Wednesday it would scrutinise its power market design and consider proposals to revamp EU regulation, as the bloc seeks to keep its plans to tackle climate change on track amid record-high energy costs.

The European Union said on Wednesday it would scrutinise its power market design and consider proposals to revamp EU regulation, as the bloc seeks to keep its plans to tackle climate change on track amid record-high energy costs. European electricity and gas prices have rocketed higher this year as tight gas supplies have collided with strong demand in economies recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Soaring energy prices topped the EU's political agenda on Wednesday, with environment ministers and European Parliament each meeting to debate the issue, after EU country leaders discussed their response on Tuesday evening. "There is no question that we need to take policy measures," EU energy commissioner Kadri Simson told the EU's parliament. The crisis has divided countries over whether Brussels should intervene. The Commission will next week publish a menu of options for how governments and the EU could react. Simson said the Commission would launch a study into whether the EU's power market was fit to deliver the bloc's planned transition to green energy. Spain and France have called for a revamp of EU electricity regulation to decouple the price of power from the cost of gas. "We believe this framework is sound, but we see the challenges," Simson said. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he and other countries had asked Brussels to offer an "audacious" response. "We need extraordinary, innovative measures we have asked for a joint purchase of gas," he said. Not all countries are convinced. EU regulators expect gas market conditions to ease in spring and some governments say the issue is best treated with national subsidies and tax breaks to cushion consumers from high bills - measures many countries have rolled out. "It's mainly something for the member states to address," Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said. "We should look at what Europe can do collectively. There are proposals - some wilder, others less wild." The price spike has arrived as the EU prepares for a major upgrade of climate policies, stoking concerns among poorer central and eastern EU states that steps to increase the cost of polluting fuels could push more households into energy poverty. Brussels is determined to ensure the price spike will not derail its plan to slash emissions and has proposed a multi-billion-euro fund to help poorer households invest in green options. "Let's keep our eye on the ball. The problem here is the climate crisis," EU climate policy chief Frans Timmermans said. "The quicker we move towards renewable energy, the quicker we can protect our citizens against high prices."

Soaring energy prices climb up EU's political agenda

Plans are afoot for connectivity from the Mediterranean to India via the Gulf. The plans involve countries like Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, UAE, Saudi Arabia and India.

The foreign ministers of India, Israeli, Egyptian, Cyprus, Greece and others are expected to meet in Dubai at the 12th edition of the Sir Bani Yas Forum to further discuss the plan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/infra-projects-buddha-link-rights-of-tamils-dominate-shringlas-sri-lanka-visit-418297">Infra projects, Buddha link, rights of Tamils dominate Shringla's Sri Lanka visit</a>

The forum will meet from 12th to 14th November.

WION has learnt that the project focuses on building a corridor that connects India to the Gulf and West Asia to the Eastern Mediterranean, which will link the region to Europe and be a game-changer.

The foreign ministers' face-to-face meeting is expected to eliminate the roadblocks in this&nbsp;connectivity project, which currently is in the preliminary stages.

It is important to understand that three key countries in West Asia; Saudi Arabia, Israel and UAE who will also be a part of the discussion of the project, already have a close relationship with New Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979">UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

Several trilateral projects are also underway between India, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

The Abraham Accords of 2020, saw the normalisation of ties between Israel and UAE and since then both sides have increased engagements with each other including the presence of the Israel pavilion at the ongoing Dubai Expo.

India has been taking a lead in several connectivity initiatives, from the Chabahar port project in Iran that links it to Central Asia and beyond; to the Kaladan Multimodal project in the east that connects it to ASEAN countries.&nbsp;

Chabahar is also key to the International north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow.

Plans are afoot for connectivity from the Mediterranean to India via the Gulf. The plans involve countries like Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, UAE, Saudi Arabia and India.

Plans are afoot for connectivity from the Mediterranean to India via the Gulf. The plans involve countries like Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, UAE, Saudi Arabia and India. The foreign ministers of India, Israeli, Egyptian, Cyprus, Greece and others are expected to meet in Dubai at the 12th edition of the Sir Bani Yas Forum to further discuss the plan. Also read | Infra projects, Buddha link, rights of Tamils dominate Shringla's Sri Lanka visit The forum will meet from 12th to 14th November. WION has learnt that the project focuses on building a corridor that connects India to the Gulf and West Asia to the Eastern Mediterranean, which will link the region to Europe and be a game-changer. The foreign ministers' face-to-face meeting is expected to eliminate the roadblocks in this connectivity project, which currently is in the preliminary stages. It is important to understand that three key countries in West Asia; Saudi Arabia, Israel and UAE who will also be a part of the discussion of the project, already have a close relationship with New Delhi. Also read | UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss Several trilateral projects are also underway between India, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates. The Abraham Accords of 2020, saw the normalisation of ties between Israel and UAE and since then both sides have increased engagements with each other including the presence of the Israel pavilion at the ongoing Dubai Expo. India has been taking a lead in several connectivity initiatives, from the Chabahar port project in Iran that links it to Central Asia and beyond; to the Kaladan Multimodal project in the east that connects it to ASEAN countries. Chabahar is also key to the International north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow.

Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf

A Syrian refugee puppet is trekking across Europe to raise awareness about the plight of refugee children. On The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis brings you the story of Amal.

The West Asia Post: Meet Amal, the refugee puppet on a mission

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