After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction.

An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands.

Turns out, the lockdown has made some relationships more solid.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-faces-the-worst-crisis-since-great-depression-imf-chief-291720" hreflang="en">World faces the worst crisis since 'Great depression': IMF chief</a>

The 76-day lockdown was lifted on Wednesday in the city where the virus initially emerged.

According to a statement released by the company Alipay, a 300 per cent surge was recorded on the portal after the removal of the lockdown.

“The number of visits to the wedding appointment applet in Wuhan exceeded expectations, about 300 percent... which caused a temporary freeze. The appointment system did not collapse, but it may be a bit slow. Just refresh it a few more times,” the company said in a statement.

As 11 million people were quarantined from the rest of the world in February, marriage applications were halted.

Owing to this unexpected surge in the number of cases, the app was grounded for a few hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-deaths-top-16000-cases-near-500000-291694" hreflang="en">US coronavirus deaths top 16,000; cases near 5,00,000</a>

However, once the application was fixed, the number of registrations surged monumentally.

Marriage won’t be easy for Wuhan residents, as they must prove that they are coronavirus negative, otherwise they will not be given a registration appointment.

The app also offers an option to check trending baby names.

Alipay “didn’t expect the strong demand for marriage services after an earlier surge in divorce appointments.”

After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction. An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands.

After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction. An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands. Turns out, the lockdown has made some relationships more solid. Also read: World faces the worst crisis since 'Great depression': IMF chief The 76-day lockdown was lifted on Wednesday in the city where the virus initially emerged. According to a statement released by the company Alipay, a 300 per cent surge was recorded on the portal after the removal of the lockdown. “The number of visits to the wedding appointment applet in Wuhan exceeded expectations, about 300 percent... which caused a temporary freeze. The appointment system did not collapse, but it may be a bit slow. Just refresh it a few more times,” the company said in a statement. As 11 million people were quarantined from the rest of the world in February, marriage applications were halted. Owing to this unexpected surge in the number of cases, the app was grounded for a few hours. Also read: US coronavirus deaths top 16,000; cases near 5,00,000 However, once the application was fixed, the number of registrations surged monumentally. Marriage won’t be easy for Wuhan residents, as they must prove that they are coronavirus negative, otherwise they will not be given a registration appointment. The app also offers an option to check trending baby names. Alipay “didn’t expect the strong demand for marriage services after an earlier surge in divorce appointments.”

Chinese app records 300% surge in marriage appointments as Wuhan lockdown ends

The biggest full moon of 2020 known as the 'pink supermoon' illuminated the night sky all across the globe on Tuesday.

Its name is a northern Native American reference to an early-blooming wildflower called phlox subulata which are bright pink in colour and are&nbsp;first seen across North America as spring begins.

It occurs when the moon reaches its closest position to the Earth, known as the perigee, making the satellite appear bigger and brighter than usual.

It was&nbsp;about 0.1 per cent&nbsp;closer to Earth than the March full moon was, making it the biggest supermoon&nbsp;of&nbsp;2020, NASA reported.

Moreover, it appeared 7 per cent&nbsp;larger than an average full moon.

Interestingly, the moon itself didn't look pink, but it&nbsp;appeared more golden as it rose&nbsp;above the horizon due to an effect caused by the planet's atmosphere, similar to how the sun&nbsp;appears more red as it rises and sets, according to&nbsp;NASA.

April's full moon has also been known as the "sprouting grass moon" or "egg moon," heralding other first signs of spring.

The biggest full moon of 2020 known as the 'pink supermoon' illuminated the night sky all across the globe on Tuesday. Its name is a northern Native American reference to an early-blooming wildflower called phlox subulata which are bright pink in colour and are first seen across North America as spring begins.

The biggest full moon of 2020 known as the 'pink supermoon' illuminated the night sky all across the globe on Tuesday. Its name is a northern Native American reference to an early-blooming wildflower called phlox subulata which are bright pink in colour and are first seen across North America as spring begins. It occurs when the moon reaches its closest position to the Earth, known as the perigee, making the satellite appear bigger and brighter than usual. It was about 0.1 per cent closer to Earth than the March full moon was, making it the biggest supermoon of 2020, NASA reported. Moreover, it appeared 7 per cent larger than an average full moon. Interestingly, the moon itself didn't look pink, but it appeared more golden as it rose above the horizon due to an effect caused by the planet's atmosphere, similar to how the sun appears more red as it rises and sets, according to NASA. April's full moon has also been known as the "sprouting grass moon" or "egg moon," heralding other first signs of spring.

Pink moon: Biggest supermoon of 2020 illuminates the sky

Spain said on Saturday that it would extend its lockdown by two weeks to April 25 after the number of coronavirus cases surpassed those in Italy.

Spain extends lockdown across country till April 25

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths have been reported in UK in 24 hours. Despite several warnings from authorities to stay at home, people are not following guidelines.

UK residents hit beaches, parks amid lockdown | Coronavirus Pandemic

Queen Elizabeth II is set to address to the nation and commonwealth countries about the coronavirus pandemic. In the message, the Queen will urge people to rise to the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak and will personally thank frontline healthcare staff and other key workers for their efforts during the crisis.

Queen Elizabeth II to address nation over COVID-19

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Reports suggests that 85% of COVID-19 deaths in Europe has occurred in Spain, Italy, France and United Kingdom.

Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths reported in UK in 24 hours

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-worlds-richest-nations-have-deserted-the-poor-290230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Let's first look at Las Vegas in the United States. In the above video, you can see, homeless lying on open spaces with no mattresses, without any masks or hand gloves at a time when staying inside the home is the only way to contain the spread.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-near-a-million-death-toll-rises-to-50230-290148">Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230</a>

Some people were thrown out of their shelter homes after one member from their community was found infected with COVID-19. Now these homeless people have no place to go and the world's biggest economy doesn't bother.&nbsp;

Another US city San Franciso has a similar story to tell. About 8,000 people are homeless in San Francisco. The city's 30,000 hotel rooms are empty, out of which 11,000 have been offered to city officials. But the doors remain shut for the homeless.&nbsp;

These poor remain vulnerable to the novel coronavirus as their immune systems are week and are highly likely to be suffering from undetected ailments. &nbsp;

Germany, however, has a good story to tell.&nbsp;

The country has given shelter to poor in hotels.&nbsp;

"(The idea) was received really well. They (the homeless) are really happy that they have somewhere to stay for now..They stay in their rooms a lot, relax, watch TV and enjoy the time in which they can have a good night's sleep, " Johannes Jung, a hotel manager said.&nbsp;

Similar humanitarian gestures were seen in the United Kingdom too.&nbsp;

However, Italy, which is worst-hit by the coronavirus, is struggling to even provide basic supplies to the homeless. The Netherlands is also following a similar path.&nbsp;

On any given night, at least 70,000 people in Europe spend the night on the streets.&nbsp;

If this is the story of some of the advances economies, one can imagine, the situation of struggling nations.&nbsp;

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor.

The rich and developed countries are expected to take care of poor people when an outbreak as deadly as coronavirus strikes. This time, however, the world's richest countries deserted the poor. Watch | Let's first look at Las Vegas in the United States. In the above video, you can see, homeless lying on open spaces with no mattresses, without any masks or hand gloves at a time when staying inside the home is the only way to contain the spread. Also read | Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230 Some people were thrown out of their shelter homes after one member from their community was found infected with COVID-19. Now these homeless people have no place to go and the world's biggest economy doesn't bother. Another US city San Franciso has a similar story to tell. About 8,000 people are homeless in San Francisco. The city's 30,000 hotel rooms are empty, out of which 11,000 have been offered to city officials. But the doors remain shut for the homeless. These poor remain vulnerable to the novel coronavirus as their immune systems are week and are highly likely to be suffering from undetected ailments. Germany, however, has a good story to tell. The country has given shelter to poor in hotels. "(The idea) was received really well. They (the homeless) are really happy that they have somewhere to stay for now..They stay in their rooms a lot, relax, watch TV and enjoy the time in which they can have a good night's sleep, " Johannes Jung, a hotel manager said. Similar humanitarian gestures were seen in the United Kingdom too. However, Italy, which is worst-hit by the coronavirus, is struggling to even provide basic supplies to the homeless. The Netherlands is also following a similar path. On any given night, at least 70,000 people in Europe spend the night on the streets. If this is the story of some of the advances economies, one can imagine, the situation of struggling nations.

Coronavirus: Have rich countries disappointed the poor?

Europe could be staring at a major economic crisis. According to a report, the Coronavirus outbreak could lead to a decade of stagnation for Europe. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay has more.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Europe's economy struggles

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths.&nbsp;

Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-border-curbs-disrupt-european-union-food-supplies-industry-287413">Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry</a>

The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-calls-for-european-unity-suggests-riskiest-weeks-ahead-286761">Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead</a>

Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths.&nbsp;

Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important.&nbsp;

The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak.&nbsp;

If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it.&nbsp;

However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May.&nbsp;

The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China.&nbsp;

Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury.&nbsp;

The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances.&nbsp;

The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people.&nbsp;

The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak.

After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. &nbsp;

A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient.&nbsp;

The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years. &nbsp;

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt.

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report. Also read | Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis. Also read | Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths. Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important. The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak. If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it. However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May. The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China. Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury. The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances. The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people. The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak. After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient. The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years.

Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends

Satellite images have revealed that European air pollution levels have witnessed a downfall amid the coronavirus lockdown.

As emissions drop over European cities, the skies are clearer than ever!

However, scientists warn of the longer-term threat to the progress made in tackling climate change progress.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/surviving-lockdown-101-masters-of-isolation-astronauts-tell-you-what-to-do-289092" hreflang="en">Surviving lockdown 101: Masters of isolation - astronauts tell you what to do!</a>

The coronavirus pandemic is shutting down countries across the world, causing a significant decline in air pollution.

Recent satellite images reveal that the air pollution from nitrogen dioxide has fallen by 40 per cent in three European cities including Paris and Madrid.

<h6><img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52466130-b43b-4272-a2df-99fdcb857692" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29_17.jpg" /> 
Men working for food delivery services wait outside a restaurant in Madrid on March 27, 2020 amid a national lockdown | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Researchers studying the impact of emissions from industry and transport on climate change and human health are scrambling to understand the possible implications of the coronavirus pandemic.

"Spectrometers are measuring in different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. In this particular case, we are having measurement, so we are taking measurements in the ultraviolet, in the visible, in the infra-red and the shortwave infra-red, and then absorption bands of no2. And that allows us therefore to measure the concentration of no2 in the atmosphere", said Josef Aschbacher, the Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/is-coronavirus-triggering-a-shortage-of-condoms-289086" hreflang="en">Is coronavirus triggering a shortage of condoms?</a>

For Europe, it is the only silver lining in this global coronavirus pandemic as almost every city-dwelling European is exposed to pollution levels that exceed healthy levels.

But the pandemic’s unintended climate impact also offers a glimpse into how countries and corporations are equipped to handle the slower-moving but destructive climate change crisis.

So far, the researchers warn that the world is ill-prepared.&nbsp;

Satellite images have revealed that European air pollution levels have witnessed a downfall amid the coronavirus lockdown. As emissions drop over European cities, the skies are clearer than ever!

Satellite images have revealed that European air pollution levels have witnessed a downfall amid the coronavirus lockdown. As emissions drop over European cities, the skies are clearer than ever! However, scientists warn of the longer-term threat to the progress made in tackling climate change progress. Also read: Surviving lockdown 101: Masters of isolation - astronauts tell you what to do! The coronavirus pandemic is shutting down countries across the world, causing a significant decline in air pollution. Recent satellite images reveal that the air pollution from nitrogen dioxide has fallen by 40 per cent in three European cities including Paris and Madrid. Men working for food delivery services wait outside a restaurant in Madrid on March 27, 2020 amid a national lockdown | AFP Researchers studying the impact of emissions from industry and transport on climate change and human health are scrambling to understand the possible implications of the coronavirus pandemic. "Spectrometers are measuring in different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. In this particular case, we are having measurement, so we are taking measurements in the ultraviolet, in the visible, in the infra-red and the shortwave infra-red, and then absorption bands of no2. And that allows us therefore to measure the concentration of no2 in the atmosphere", said Josef Aschbacher, the Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency. Also read: Is coronavirus triggering a shortage of condoms? For Europe, it is the only silver lining in this global coronavirus pandemic as almost every city-dwelling European is exposed to pollution levels that exceed healthy levels. But the pandemic’s unintended climate impact also offers a glimpse into how countries and corporations are equipped to handle the slower-moving but destructive climate change crisis. So far, the researchers warn that the world is ill-prepared.

Europe experiences a dip in pollution levels amid coronavirus-induced lockdowns

The failure of EU leaders to come up with a joint economic response to the coronavirus crisis unleashed widespread criticism in Italy on Friday, with newspapers slamming Europe's foot-dragging.

Portugal also lashed out at northern European fiscal orthodoxy, calling the Dutch position on budgets "repugnant". &nbsp; &nbsp;

Germany and other northern European countries on Thursday rejected the plea of nine countries, including hardest-hit Italy, for pooled borrowing through "corona bonds" to help cushion the economic blow of the pandemic. &nbsp;

"Ugly Europe," thundered the headline of La Repubblica newspaper.

The anti-establishment Il Fatto Quotidiano was even blunter, screaming: "Conte's screw you to a dead Europe."

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had asked during a six-hour video conference with other EU leaders for new financial instruments "truly adapted to a war".

But his request was rebuffed, and instead a summit declaration late Thursday gave eurozone finance ministers two weeks to come up with options.&nbsp;

Conte, the Corriere della Sera daily wrote, had asked his European colleagues for two things: "unity and swift action" but received neither.&nbsp;

"If the EU is not in agreement, the European project is over," it said.

Foreign Minister Luigi DiMaio voiced his support for the prime minister.

"Conte did well. If they (Europe) want to use old financial instruments, we will do it alone," DiMaio told Rai 1 television.

Rome and Madrid had held out for a stronger response from their EU partners but in the end the summit declaration said upcoming proposals would take into account "the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 shock affecting all our countries".&nbsp;

"Our response will be stepped up, as necessary, with further action in an inclusive way, in light of developments, in order to deliver a comprehensive response," the statement said.

&nbsp;'Cowardly Europe'

The caution exhibited by Europe's northern countries underscores their long-standing reluctance to allow southern countries with weaker economies and higher debt to push through demands for pooled public borrowing within the eurozone.&nbsp;

France, Spain and Italy have long called for some kind of Eurobond that would in effect allow joint borrowing by the 19 members of the euro single currency, but sceptics view it as a tool by some eurozone members to avoid higher borrowing rates.

The Italian former head of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, slammed those countries which blocked stronger measures.

"A cowardly Europe, like the one we saw yesterday, will be overwhelmed by the coronavirus," Tajani wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

'Repugnant'

"As we die and the economy plummets, decisions are postponed for two weeks," he wrote.&nbsp;

"The masochistic selfishness of the inflexible is short-sighted and dangerous for all."

The president of Italy's Veneto region, which like its neighbour Lombardy has been especially hard hit by the virus, similarly criticised the EU.&nbsp;

"Europe is once again proving its absence. There is no strategy," Luca Zaia told Rete4 television.&nbsp;

"It's outrageous that someone would think it was just an Italian problem."

The prime minister of Portugal, meanwhile, lashed out at what he called "the recurring pettiness" of the Dutch government, traditionally one of the strongest defenders of EU budgetary discipline.

Asked at a news conference about a reported proposal by the Netherlands to investigate the lack of budgetary leeway in some EU members to deal with the coronavirus fallout, Antonio Costa said: "This talk is repugnant in the framework of the European Union. That's exactly the word: Repugnant."

According to Dutch media, Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra has said several times in the past week that a number of countries should have saved more over recent years which would have allowed to them to deal with the virus impact.

"This type of answer shows complete ignorance and such recurring pettiness undermines the spirit of the European Union and represents a threat to the future of the European Union," Costa said.

The failure of EU leaders to come up with a joint economic response to the coronavirus crisis unleashed widespread criticism in Italy on Friday, with newspapers slamming Europe's foot-dragging.

The failure of EU leaders to come up with a joint economic response to the coronavirus crisis unleashed widespread criticism in Italy on Friday, with newspapers slamming Europe's foot-dragging. Portugal also lashed out at northern European fiscal orthodoxy, calling the Dutch position on budgets "repugnant". Germany and other northern European countries on Thursday rejected the plea of nine countries, including hardest-hit Italy, for pooled borrowing through "corona bonds" to help cushion the economic blow of the pandemic. "Ugly Europe," thundered the headline of La Repubblica newspaper. The anti-establishment Il Fatto Quotidiano was even blunter, screaming: "Conte's screw you to a dead Europe." Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had asked during a six-hour video conference with other EU leaders for new financial instruments "truly adapted to a war". But his request was rebuffed, and instead a summit declaration late Thursday gave eurozone finance ministers two weeks to come up with options. Conte, the Corriere della Sera daily wrote, had asked his European colleagues for two things: "unity and swift action" but received neither. "If the EU is not in agreement, the European project is over," it said. Foreign Minister Luigi DiMaio voiced his support for the prime minister. "Conte did well. If they (Europe) want to use old financial instruments, we will do it alone," DiMaio told Rai 1 television. Rome and Madrid had held out for a stronger response from their EU partners but in the end the summit declaration said upcoming proposals would take into account "the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 shock affecting all our countries". "Our response will be stepped up, as necessary, with further action in an inclusive way, in light of developments, in order to deliver a comprehensive response," the statement said. 'Cowardly Europe' The caution exhibited by Europe's northern countries underscores their long-standing reluctance to allow southern countries with weaker economies and higher debt to push through demands for pooled public borrowing within the eurozone. France, Spain and Italy have long called for some kind of Eurobond that would in effect allow joint borrowing by the 19 members of the euro single currency, but sceptics view it as a tool by some eurozone members to avoid higher borrowing rates. The Italian former head of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, slammed those countries which blocked stronger measures. "A cowardly Europe, like the one we saw yesterday, will be overwhelmed by the coronavirus," Tajani wrote on Twitter. 'Repugnant' "As we die and the economy plummets, decisions are postponed for two weeks," he wrote. "The masochistic selfishness of the inflexible is short-sighted and dangerous for all." The president of Italy's Veneto region, which like its neighbour Lombardy has been especially hard hit by the virus, similarly criticised the EU. "Europe is once again proving its absence. There is no strategy," Luca Zaia told Rete4 television. "It's outrageous that someone would think it was just an Italian problem." The prime minister of Portugal, meanwhile, lashed out at what he called "the recurring pettiness" of the Dutch government, traditionally one of the strongest defenders of EU budgetary discipline. Asked at a news conference about a reported proposal by the Netherlands to investigate the lack of budgetary leeway in some EU members to deal with the coronavirus fallout, Antonio Costa said: "This talk is repugnant in the framework of the European Union. That's exactly the word: Repugnant." According to Dutch media, Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra has said several times in the past week that a number of countries should have saved more over recent years which would have allowed to them to deal with the virus impact. "This type of answer shows complete ignorance and such recurring pettiness undermines the spirit of the European Union and represents a threat to the future of the European Union," Costa said.

Italy papers slam 'Ugly Europe' over delayed economic plan

Two more doctors have died after contracting the coronavirus in France, officials said on Monday, a day after the country reported the first death of a doctor treating COVID-19 patients.

One of the doctors, a 66-year-old gynaecologist in Mulhouse near the border with Switzerland and Germany, was infected by a patient during a consultation, according to his clinic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-use-mobile-phones-to-track-people-at-risk-of-coronavirus-288076" hreflang="en">Russia to use mobile phones to track people at risk of coronavirus</a>

The other was a 60-year-old general practitioner at a hospital in Saint-Avold near Metz, further north along the German frontier, according to the town's mayor.

Both died on Sunday when officials announced the death of a 67-year-old doctor who was among the first to treat coronavirus cases in the northern Oise department, which has been badly hit by the outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-tops-2000-after-462-deaths-in-24-hours-288065" hreflang="en">Spain death toll tops 2,000 after 462 deaths in 24 hours</a>

Health experts warn that many French hospitals are already overflowing with coronavirus cases even as the government races to set up military field hospitals to help cope with a shortage of beds.

Mulhouse has imposed its own nighttime curfew in addition to nationwide home-confinement rules seeking to curtail the virus, which has spread rapidly in France's eastern regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-one-billion-people-self-isolating-globally-to-limit-the-spread-of-coronavirus-288061" hreflang="en">More than one billion people self-isolating globally to limit the spread of coronavirus</a>

France is also experiencing a shortfall of ventilators to care for seriously ill patients and face masks and other protective equipment for health workers.

France's national health service reported Sunday that 674 people had died in the country so far -- an increase of 112 in 24 hours.

Two more doctors have died after contracting the coronavirus in France, officials said on Monday, a day after the country reported the first death of a doctor treating COVID-19 patients.

Two more doctors have died after contracting the coronavirus in France, officials said on Monday, a day after the country reported the first death of a doctor treating COVID-19 patients. One of the doctors, a 66-year-old gynaecologist in Mulhouse near the border with Switzerland and Germany, was infected by a patient during a consultation, according to his clinic. Also read: Russia to use mobile phones to track people at risk of coronavirus The other was a 60-year-old general practitioner at a hospital in Saint-Avold near Metz, further north along the German frontier, according to the town's mayor. Both died on Sunday when officials announced the death of a 67-year-old doctor who was among the first to treat coronavirus cases in the northern Oise department, which has been badly hit by the outbreak. Also read: Spain death toll tops 2,000 after 462 deaths in 24 hours Health experts warn that many French hospitals are already overflowing with coronavirus cases even as the government races to set up military field hospitals to help cope with a shortage of beds. Mulhouse has imposed its own nighttime curfew in addition to nationwide home-confinement rules seeking to curtail the virus, which has spread rapidly in France's eastern regions. Also read: More than one billion people self-isolating globally to limit the spread of coronavirus France is also experiencing a shortfall of ventilators to care for seriously ill patients and face masks and other protective equipment for health workers. France's national health service reported Sunday that 674 people had died in the country so far -- an increase of 112 in 24 hours.

Two more doctors die from coronavirus in France

Coronavirus kills over 5,000 in Europe; number likely to increase overnight

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&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-kills-over-5000-in-europe-number-likely-to-increase-overnight-287648">Read more here</a>

 
Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-nasa-suspends-work-on-moon-rocket-287633">Read more here</a>

UK: Government releases list of 'key workers' whose kids will be prioritised at schools amid coronavirus

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Eight out of ten people expected to contract COVID-19 in Spanish capital Madrid

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UK turns to car manufacturers to fulfill ventilator shortage due to coronavirus 
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Coronavirus pandemic: Ukraine expects to receive 10 million virus test kits from China 
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Coronavirus kills over 5,000 in Europe; number likely to increase overnight Read more here Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket Read more her

Coronavirus kills over 5,000 in Europe; number likely to increase overnight Read more here Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket Read more here UK: Government releases list of 'key workers' whose kids will be prioritised at schools amid coronavirus Read more here Eight out of ten people expected to contract COVID-19 in Spanish capital Madrid Read more here UK turns to car manufacturers to fulfill ventilator shortage due to coronavirus Read more here Coronavirus pandemic: Ukraine expects to receive 10 million virus test kits from China Read more here

Top world news: COVID-19 kills 5,000 in Europe, NASA suspends work on moon rocket, and more!

Scientists from Europe & the U.S. have released a report predicting the fallout of a nuclear war between India and Pakistan. Palki Sharma tells you why the findings should jolt the world into action and force Pakistan to dismantle its terror networks & nuclear weapons.

Gravitas: A limited India-Pakistan nuke war could trigger a famine

On Monday, India decided to ban arrivals from European countries, the UK and Turkey. The decision also affects the Indian citizens in these countries. How does the government plan to help them? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Wuhan Coronavirus: Why India banned arrivals from Europe

The Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak has triggered panic buying. People around the world are stocking up on essential supplies. But, panic buying could create more trouble.

Global Pandemic: Stores run out of supplies in India

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus.

The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery.

There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday.

There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world.

The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000.

In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected.

The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively.

Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain.

Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

 
&nbsp;

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65.

The United States administration has ordered shutdown of New York city and Los Angeles, after the death toll due to coronavirus outbreak in the country crossed 65. In New York City only, more than 350 people were confirmed to have been infected with the virus. The city of New York is set to close all restaurants, cafes and bars from March 17 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The decision was announced by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the city would be closing bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues and gyms until at least March 31. Restaurants will remain open only for takeout and delivery. There were at least 3,244 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the United States as of Sunday. There are more than 1,69,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across the world. The deadly virus has travelled far and wide to Europe too. The region has witnessed heavy fatalities, with death toll in Italy crossing 1,000. In Italy alone, 24,000 persons remain infected. The death toll in Spain and France have crossed 300 and 120 respectively. Germany has been the third-worst-affected country by the coronavirus pandemic in Europe, after Italy and Spain. Germany announced on Monday that all shopping malls, bars, and sport venues across the country would be closed.

Coronavirus shuts down US, Europe

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe.

United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus.

"We also now expect these deep cuts to extend into the summer travel period," said chief executive Oscar Munoz and company president Scott Kirby in a letter to employees published on the airline's website on Sunday.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airline-crisis-worsens-as-us-puts-europeans-in-coronavirus-quarantine-285968">Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine</a>

In the first half of March -- usually the busiest month of the year United had "welcomed more than one million fewer customers on-board our aircraft than the same period last year."

Revenue for March 2020 was projected to be $1.5 billion lower than last March, the letter added.

The airline has begun speaking to unions "about how to reduce our payroll expense," it said, acknowledging this would be "painful" but that senior staff had already been told their salaries would be halved.

American Airlines said it would reduce all international capacity by 75 per cent.

"This suspension will last through May 6," the carrier said. "This change is in response to decreased demand and changes to US government travel restrictions due to coronavirus."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-qantas-virgin-atlantic-among-many-who-banned-flights-to-china-among-coronavirus-outbreak-280547">United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic among many who have extended flight ban to China on Coronavirus Fears</a>

It also said domestic service would be reduced by 20 per cent in April compared to last year.

Its competitor Delta said it would "significantly reduce its US to Europe flying beginning Monday, March 16, following the US government directive restricting travel between the US and Europe."

Southwest Airlines said it "will likely make service reductions based on demand."

The US restrictions on travel from Europe took effect at midnight Friday and were later extended to Britain and Ireland as of Tuesday.

US airlines had already suspended flights between the US and Italy, hard-hit by the virus, and earlier between the US and China where the new coronavirus emerged in December.

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe. United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus.

US airlines have announced drastic reductions in flights after President Donald Trump's administration banned foreign travellers arriving from Europe. United Airlines said it would announce a cut in the capacity of around 50 per cent for April and May, as the United States ramps up restrictions to try and contain the spread of the coronavirus. "We also now expect these deep cuts to extend into the summer travel period," said chief executive Oscar Munoz and company president Scott Kirby in a letter to employees published on the airline's website on Sunday. Also Read: Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine In the first half of March -- usually the busiest month of the year United had "welcomed more than one million fewer customers on-board our aircraft than the same period last year." Revenue for March 2020 was projected to be $1.5 billion lower than last March, the letter added. The airline has begun speaking to unions "about how to reduce our payroll expense," it said, acknowledging this would be "painful" but that senior staff had already been told their salaries would be halved. American Airlines said it would reduce all international capacity by 75 per cent. "This suspension will last through May 6," the carrier said. "This change is in response to decreased demand and changes to US government travel restrictions due to coronavirus." Also Read: United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic among many who have extended flight ban to China on Coronavirus Fears It also said domestic service would be reduced by 20 per cent in April compared to last year. Its competitor Delta said it would "significantly reduce its US to Europe flying beginning Monday, March 16, following the US government directive restricting travel between the US and Europe." Southwest Airlines said it "will likely make service reductions based on demand." The US restrictions on travel from Europe took effect at midnight Friday and were later extended to Britain and Ireland as of Tuesday. US airlines had already suspended flights between the US and Italy, hard-hit by the virus, and earlier between the US and China where the new coronavirus emerged in December.

Air carriers in US cancel flights amid coronavirus crisis

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers.

Brent crude fell $1.13 to $32.72 a barrel by 0230 GMT, tumbling after last week's plunge of 25%, the largest weekly fall since 2008. The front-month price opened at a high of $35.84 but slipped to a low of $31.63.

US crude was at $31.01, down 72 cents after slipping below $30 earlier in the session, despite US President Donald Trump's pledge to fill strategic oil reserves in the world's largest oil consumer "to the top".

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-jump-to-61-over-opec-supply-cut-reports-265782">Oil prices jump to $61 over OPEC+ supply cut reports</a>

The US Fed slashed interest rates on Sunday in its second emergency cut this month and said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700 billion in coming weeks in a bid to ease tension in financial markets.

Oil prices have come under intense pressure on both demand and supply sides. Worries about the pandemic slashing oil buying persist, while oversupply fears have grown after top exporter Saudi Arabia ramped up output and slashed prices to increase sales to consumers in Asia and Europe.

Earlier this month, the Organization of the Petroleum Countries and Russia failed to extend a production cut agreement which has been supporting prices since 2016.

"Fear remains the crux of the problem here as market players remain unconvinced that monetary policy easing and liquidity injections will solve an essential healthcare crisis," OCBC Bank's economist Selena Ling said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-rise-10-after-russia-indicates-open-to-cooperation-with-opec-285465">Oil prices rise 10% after Russia indicates 'open to cooperation with OPEC'</a>

"The end-game to me remains not about more policy bazookas, but a peak in global COVID-19 infections and fatalities, and, or a COVID-19 vaccine cure in the horizon."

Despite the massive drop in both oil and natural gas prices last week, the US oil drilling rig count rose for a second week in a row to its highest since December, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said in its closely followed report on Friday.

Still, the number of rigs is expected to fall as producers deepen spending cuts on new drilling.

More pain will be felt by US producers as Brent's premium to WTI is close to its narrowest since 2016, making US crude oil uncompetitive in international markets. Exports are set to fall by 1 million barrels per day each in April and May, sources have said.

"The big loser will be US shale, where the Republican government will possibly face a bailout decision on a heavily indebted industry sooner rather than later," said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at Oanda in Singapore.

&nbsp;

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers.

Oil extended losses on Monday as an emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve failed to soothe global financial markets panicked by the rapid spread of the coronavirus while a price war rages on between top producers. Brent crude fell $1.13 to $32.72 a barrel by 0230 GMT, tumbling after last week's plunge of 25%, the largest weekly fall since 2008. The front-month price opened at a high of $35.84 but slipped to a low of $31.63. US crude was at $31.01, down 72 cents after slipping below $30 earlier in the session, despite US President Donald Trump's pledge to fill strategic oil reserves in the world's largest oil consumer "to the top". Also Read: Oil prices jump to $61 over OPEC+ supply cut reports The US Fed slashed interest rates on Sunday in its second emergency cut this month and said it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700 billion in coming weeks in a bid to ease tension in financial markets. Oil prices have come under intense pressure on both demand and supply sides. Worries about the pandemic slashing oil buying persist, while oversupply fears have grown after top exporter Saudi Arabia ramped up output and slashed prices to increase sales to consumers in Asia and Europe. Earlier this month, the Organization of the Petroleum Countries and Russia failed to extend a production cut agreement which has been supporting prices since 2016. "Fear remains the crux of the problem here as market players remain unconvinced that monetary policy easing and liquidity injections will solve an essential healthcare crisis," OCBC Bank's economist Selena Ling said. Also Read: Oil prices rise 10% after Russia indicates 'open to cooperation with OPEC' "The end-game to me remains not about more policy bazookas, but a peak in global COVID-19 infections and fatalities, and, or a COVID-19 vaccine cure in the horizon." Despite the massive drop in both oil and natural gas prices last week, the US oil drilling rig count rose for a second week in a row to its highest since December, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said in its closely followed report on Friday. Still, the number of rigs is expected to fall as producers deepen spending cuts on new drilling. More pain will be felt by US producers as Brent's premium to WTI is close to its narrowest since 2016, making US crude oil uncompetitive in international markets. Exports are set to fall by 1 million barrels per day each in April and May, sources have said. "The big loser will be US shale, where the Republican government will possibly face a bailout decision on a heavily indebted industry sooner rather than later," said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at Oanda in Singapore.

Oil prices slide again on coronavirus fears, price war

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-markets-plunge-deepens-as-coronavirus-panic-worsens-286011">World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens</a>

In a statement, the government also said travellers from countries including Italy, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and parts of France, German and Spain would be subject to a two-week isolation.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-can-live-in-infected-people-for-weeks-longer-than-first-thought-286046">Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought</a>

Estonia has 27 cases of coronavirus so far, one of over 115 countries with infections as the pathogen has spread rapidly around the world over recent weeks.

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday.

Estonia has decided to close schools and ban public gatherings until May 1 to limit the spread of the coronavirus, the government said in a statement late Thursday. Also read: World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens In a statement, the government also said travellers from countries including Italy, China, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and parts of France, German and Spain would be subject to a two-week isolation. Also see: Coronavirus can live in infected people for weeks longer than first thought Estonia has 27 cases of coronavirus so far, one of over 115 countries with infections as the pathogen has spread rapidly around the world over recent weeks.

Estonia closes schools, events until May 1

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday.

The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community".

The Baloch political activists highlighted the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army as they have launched operations in Balochistan, killing civilians and destroying their houses.

Razzak Baloch, organiser, USA Chapter of Baloch Human Rights Council, said, "Every 10 miles there is a check post, Balochistan has become a bigger jail. People cannot move around. You cannot even question them as to why you are stopping us? Why are you searching for our bodies? Why are you searching for our women? Why are you searching for our children?"

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/geneva-activists-protest-seek-un-intervention-to-prevent-pak-inflicted-genocide-in-balochistan-284207">Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan</a>

"Life is very miserable. You cannot move around in Balochistan. Anybody talks and he`s vanished. Is this freedom? We want to be free. We want to breathe freely. It is the duty of our neighbours also to see what is going on in Balochistan," he added.

Taha Siddiqui, a Pakistani journalist, who is now living in exile, said, "In Balochistan, currently the biggest issue is that for a very long time there was abuse. There was a lot of atrocities by the Pakistani state, but now it is not just about these missing persons actually. What is the problem is that there are missing stories, there is an information black hole and things are not being reported independently or not even reported at all."

He added, "So, the worst thing that is going on in Balochistan is that we do not even have an idea of what is going on and that is worse than being able to report about it and talk about it. So in that sense, the way there are secret military operations going on, the abduction is going on, there is religious radicalisation going on and all of this is not being reported."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-in-pakistan-protest-against-violence-rape-honour-killings-285109">Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings</a>

Taha, who escaped his abduction in Pakistan by secret agencies told the source, "The media is not being allowed and we are seeing that this is intensifying ever since China has come into the equation."

He said that ever since China has invested in Balochistan, "the crackdown by the military and Pakistani state has worsened and they do not want to talk about Baloch issues, the human rights abuse or whatever is happening in Balochistan."

"Nothing negative can be reported from the country because China does not want it, so the Pakistan military does not want it," the Pakistani journalist added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/central-asia/womens-rights-activists-attacked-then-detained-in-kyrgyzstan-285086">Women's rights activists attacked then detained in Kyrgyzstan</a>

The event was also attended by a member of the European Parliament who talked about the persecution of people in the mineral-rich but the poorest province in Pakistan.

Ryszard Czarnecki, a Member of European Parliament (MEP) told the source, "You have a very active (Baloch) diaspora, especially in Europe. Representatives of this diaspora inform us, the members of the European Parliament about the real situation in Balochistan and about Pakistani violations and lack of respecting human rights in this region."

"Obviously, we should make an intervention at different international levels. The people in Balochistan should feel that they are not alone. I would like to express my solidarity with our brothers and sisters in this region," the MEP said.

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday. The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community".

Political activists, experts and European parliamentarians here discussed deplorable conditions of people in Balochistan on Wednesday. The 'Save The Baloch' campaign has been launched by the Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) where the participants discuss human rights abuse in Balochistan at a conference titled "Genocide in Balochistan: the role of the international community". The Baloch political activists highlighted the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army as they have launched operations in Balochistan, killing civilians and destroying their houses. Razzak Baloch, organiser, USA Chapter of Baloch Human Rights Council, said, "Every 10 miles there is a check post, Balochistan has become a bigger jail. People cannot move around. You cannot even question them as to why you are stopping us? Why are you searching for our bodies? Why are you searching for our women? Why are you searching for our children?" Also read: Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan "Life is very miserable. You cannot move around in Balochistan. Anybody talks and he`s vanished. Is this freedom? We want to be free. We want to breathe freely. It is the duty of our neighbours also to see what is going on in Balochistan," he added. Taha Siddiqui, a Pakistani journalist, who is now living in exile, said, "In Balochistan, currently the biggest issue is that for a very long time there was abuse. There was a lot of atrocities by the Pakistani state, but now it is not just about these missing persons actually. What is the problem is that there are missing stories, there is an information black hole and things are not being reported independently or not even reported at all." He added, "So, the worst thing that is going on in Balochistan is that we do not even have an idea of what is going on and that is worse than being able to report about it and talk about it. So in that sense, the way there are secret military operations going on, the abduction is going on, there is religious radicalisation going on and all of this is not being reported." Also see: Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings Taha, who escaped his abduction in Pakistan by secret agencies told the source, "The media is not being allowed and we are seeing that this is intensifying ever since China has come into the equation." He said that ever since China has invested in Balochistan, "the crackdown by the military and Pakistani state has worsened and they do not want to talk about Baloch issues, the human rights abuse or whatever is happening in Balochistan." "Nothing negative can be reported from the country because China does not want it, so the Pakistan military does not want it," the Pakistani journalist added. Also read: Women's rights activists attacked then detained in Kyrgyzstan The event was also attended by a member of the European Parliament who talked about the persecution of people in the mineral-rich but the poorest province in Pakistan. Ryszard Czarnecki, a Member of European Parliament (MEP) told the source, "You have a very active (Baloch) diaspora, especially in Europe. Representatives of this diaspora inform us, the members of the European Parliament about the real situation in Balochistan and about Pakistani violations and lack of respecting human rights in this region." "Obviously, we should make an intervention at different international levels. The people in Balochistan should feel that they are not alone. I would like to express my solidarity with our brothers and sisters in this region," the MEP said.

Activists, experts raise issues of human rights abuse in Balochistan

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/turkey-and-china-tie-themselves-in-knots-over-syria-and-xinjiang-257735">Turkey and China tie themselves in knots over Syria and Xinjiang</a>

In an interview with state-owned Anadolu news agency, Cavusoglu said that EU visa liberalisation and an update of the country's customs union with the bloc must be implemented to help solve the migrant issue.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-to-discuss-migrant-issues-with-eu-on-monday-285115"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-to-discuss-migrant-issues-with-eu-on-monday-285115">Turkish President Erdogan to discuss migrant issues with EU on Monday</a>

Late on Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan left meetings in Brussels with European Union and NATO leaders without issuing a joint statement nor appearing at a joint press conference, as had been planned.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that a 2016 agreement between Turkey and the European Union needs to be updated, taking into account developments in Syria and that Ankara was ready to work constructively on the issue. Also Read: Turkey and China tie themselves in knots over Syria and Xinjiang In an interview with state-owned Anadolu news agency, Cavusoglu said that EU visa liberalisation and an update of the country's customs union with the bloc must be implemented to help solve the migrant issue. Also Read: Turkish President Erdogan to discuss migrant issues with EU on Monday Late on Monday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan left meetings in Brussels with European Union and NATO leaders without issuing a joint statement nor appearing at a joint press conference, as had been planned.

Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through.

Thousands of migrants have made for Greece since Ankara said on Feb. 28 that it would let migrants cross its borders into Europe, reneging on a commitment to hold them on its territory under a 2016 deal with the European Union.

Ankara has accused Greek forces of shooting dead four migrants. a charge rejected by Athens, which says Turkish forces are helping the migrants to cross the border. Both sides used tear gas at the Kastanies border post on Wednesday.

<img alt="Migrants, who are part of a group who arrived in the previous days after crossing part of the Aegean Sea from Turkey to Greece, wait for an identification process before being transported to the mainland on a Greek Navy vessel from the port of Mytilene, on the island of Lesbos, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e231cc37-f68a-46c7-a271-380474c64c79" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2834%29.jpg" />

Turkey's interior minister, Suleyman Soylu, visited Edirne province bordering Greece on Thursday and announced the deployment of 1,000 special police to the area to halt the pushback of migrants towards its territory.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/eastern-mediterranean-region-a-microcosm-of-regional-and-global-battles-284505">Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles</a>

Soylu, who said on Wednesday that Turkey was preparing a case at the European Court of Human Rights over Greece's treatment of migrants, accused Greek forces of wounding 164 people and pushing back nearly 5,000 into Turkey.

The situation at the Kastanies border crossing was calm on Thursday. Migrants - many of whom are from Afghanistan and Pakistan as well as Syria and other Arab nations - huddled in tents and makeshift camps on the Turkish side of the border.

<img alt="Two migrants who crossed the border from Turkey to Greece run through a field, near the town of Soufli, in the region of Evros, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61481ed0-c3b4-4b90-a58c-3d672e2d8df1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2836%29_0.jpg" />

Greek border guards rebuffed nearly 7,000 attempts in the last 24 hours alone, taking the total since Feb. 29 to 34,778 and the number of arrests of those who got through to 244, the Greek government sources said.

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Migrants who arrived in Greece illegally after March 1 will be transferred to the northern city of Serres and deported back to their own countries, Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi said late on Wednesday.

"Our aim is to return them to their countries," he told the Athens News Agency.

<img alt="Greek soldiers walk on the railway tracks as they patrol next the Greek-Turkish border near the village of Marasia, in the region of Evros, Greece" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f438018-6855-4b40-9366-7fbb155f62a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2837%29_0.jpg" />

CRITICISM

Mitarachi also said migrants who entered Greece prior to Jan. 1, 2019 and are living on its Aegean islands would be transferred to the mainland in the coming days.

Athens announced on March 1 that it would not accept any new asylum applications for a month following the build-up of migrants at the border. This has triggered criticism from human rights agencies.

The Aegean Sea remained choppy on Thursday and there were no further sightings of dinghies carrying migrants to Lesbos and other Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast.

Lesbos already hosts more than 20,000 asylum seekers, many of them living in filthy conditions in overcrowded camps.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-police-fire-tear-gas-at-migrants-on-turkish-border-284256">Greek police fire tear gas at migrants on Turkish border</a>

Greece and the EU accuse Turkey of deliberately goading the migrants to cross the border as a way of pressuring Brussels into offering more money or supporting Ankara's geopolitical aims in the Syrian conflict.

Turkey, which already hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees and faces another influx from an upsurge in fighting in northwest Syria, says it cannot take in any more and complains that EU aid falls well short of what is needed for the refugees.

President Tayyip Erdogan discussed the migrant issue with senior EU officials in Ankara on Wednesday but his spokesman said the Europeans had made "no concrete proposition" on how to resolve the crisis.

Ankara's change in policy towards the migrants on its soil came after at least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed by Russian-backed Syrian government forces in an air strike in Syria.

Erdogan flew to Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russia's President Vladimir Putin over a potential ceasefire in Syria's Idlib, where their militaries are facing off in a war that has displaced nearly a million people in three months.

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through.

Greece has repulsed nearly 35,000 migrants trying to cross onto its territory illegally since Turkey opened its border nearly a week ago, government sources said on Thursday, as it prepares to deport hundreds of others who made it through. Thousands of migrants have made for Greece since Ankara said on Feb. 28 that it would let migrants cross its borders into Europe, reneging on a commitment to hold them on its territory under a 2016 deal with the European Union. Ankara has accused Greek forces of shooting dead four migrants. a charge rejected by Athens, which says Turkish forces are helping the migrants to cross the border. Both sides used tear gas at the Kastanies border post on Wednesday. Turkey's interior minister, Suleyman Soylu, visited Edirne province bordering Greece on Thursday and announced the deployment of 1,000 special police to the area to halt the pushback of migrants towards its territory. Also read: Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles Soylu, who said on Wednesday that Turkey was preparing a case at the European Court of Human Rights over Greece's treatment of migrants, accused Greek forces of wounding 164 people and pushing back nearly 5,000 into Turkey. The situation at the Kastanies border crossing was calm on Thursday. Migrants - many of whom are from Afghanistan and Pakistan as well as Syria and other Arab nations - huddled in tents and makeshift camps on the Turkish side of the border. Greek border guards rebuffed nearly 7,000 attempts in the last 24 hours alone, taking the total since Feb. 29 to 34,778 and the number of arrests of those who got through to 244, the Greek government sources said. Watch: × Migrants who arrived in Greece illegally after March 1 will be transferred to the northern city of Serres and deported back to their own countries, Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi said late on Wednesday. "Our aim is to return them to their countries," he told the Athens News Agency. CRITICISM Mitarachi also said migrants who entered Greece prior to Jan. 1, 2019 and are living on its Aegean islands would be transferred to the mainland in the coming days. Athens announced on March 1 that it would not accept any new asylum applications for a month following the build-up of migrants at the border. This has triggered criticism from human rights agencies. The Aegean Sea remained choppy on Thursday and there were no further sightings of dinghies carrying migrants to Lesbos and other Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast. Lesbos already hosts more than 20,000 asylum seekers, many of them living in filthy conditions in overcrowded camps. Also read: Greek police fire tear gas at migrants on Turkish border Greece and the EU accuse Turkey of deliberately goading the migrants to cross the border as a way of pressuring Brussels into offering more money or supporting Ankara's geopolitical aims in the Syrian conflict. Turkey, which already hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees and faces another influx from an upsurge in fighting in northwest Syria, says it cannot take in any more and complains that EU aid falls well short of what is needed for the refugees. President Tayyip Erdogan discussed the migrant issue with senior EU officials in Ankara on Wednesday but his spokesman said the Europeans had made "no concrete proposition" on how to resolve the crisis. Ankara's change in policy towards the migrants on its soil came after at least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed by Russian-backed Syrian government forces in an air strike in Syria. Erdogan flew to Moscow on Thursday for talks with Russia's President Vladimir Putin over a potential ceasefire in Syria's Idlib, where their militaries are facing off in a war that has displaced nearly a million people in three months.

Greece blocks 35,000 migrants, plans to deport arrivals after March 1

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens.

The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners.

All standard-class journeys on public transport in the tiny and wealthy European country are now free of charge.

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Public transport will now&nbsp;be funded largely via taxes paid into the national budget, meaning travel savings for private households, especially "low earners," said Luxembourg Transport Minister Francois Bausch.

“The main reason is to have a better quality of mobility, and then the side reason is clearly also environmental issues,”&nbsp;he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-plans-to-make-metro-bus-travel-free-for-women-arvind-kejriwal-223674">Delhi government plans to make metro, bus travel free for women: Arvind Kejriwal</a>

"The scheme applies to residents, cross-border commuters and tourists alike," he also said.

The move will affect approximately 40 per cent of households and save each one about €100 per year.

Luxembourg has just over 600,000 inhabitants, but 214,000 more travel in for work every day from neighbouring Germany, Belgium and France, causing heavy traffic jams as the majority of workers commute by car. More than half of Luxembourg’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transport.

The exception to the free-for-all public transport system will be first-class travel on trains and certain night bus services.

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens. The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners.

Luxembourg has become the first country to grant free access to public transport to its citizens. The country abolished fares for trains, trams and buses in a bid to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as supporting low earners. All standard-class journeys on public transport in the tiny and wealthy European country are now free of charge. Also read: The city where cyclists are unwelcome Public transport will now be funded largely via taxes paid into the national budget, meaning travel savings for private households, especially "low earners," said Luxembourg Transport Minister Francois Bausch. “The main reason is to have a better quality of mobility, and then the side reason is clearly also environmental issues,” he added. Also read: Delhi government plans to make metro, bus travel free for women: Arvind Kejriwal "The scheme applies to residents, cross-border commuters and tourists alike," he also said. The move will affect approximately 40 per cent of households and save each one about €100 per year. Luxembourg has just over 600,000 inhabitants, but 214,000 more travel in for work every day from neighbouring Germany, Belgium and France, causing heavy traffic jams as the majority of workers commute by car. More than half of Luxembourg’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transport. The exception to the free-for-all public transport system will be first-class travel on trains and certain night bus services.

First European country to provide free access to public transport

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