The European Union members state has imposed sanctions on four Chinese officials. The action has been taken over Beijing's crackdown on a weeker minority Muslims.

European Union sanctions on Chinese officials

In Europe, conflicts seem to brew between the European Union blocking the United Kingdom over the supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. It started after EU's Chief Ursula Von Der Leyan said that they could take some exceptional steps to halt the export of vaccine to Britain.

European Union threatens to halt vaccine export to United Kingdom

France, Germany and Italy have joined a growing list of nations that have suspended the use of AstraZeneca's COVID jabs. Are European powers politicising vaccines, or is there solid science behind the move? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: France, Germany suspend AstraZeneca jabs

The European Union is mulling to issue what is described as the COVID Pass to allow for seamless travel in a bit to boost the tourism industry.

Coronavirus Update: European Union seeks to restart travel with 'COVID Pass'

Coronavirus Update: European Union seeks to restart travel with 'COVID Pass

A visit by European Union ambassadors to the Xinjiang region of China has stalled over their request for access to jailed Uighur academic Ilham Tohti, a diplomatic source confirmed Wednesday.

Since 2019, China says it has invited foreign diplomats and UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet to visit Xinjiang, where rights groups allege more than one million Uighurs and other Muslim minorities are detained in internment camps.

But there has been little sign of progress.

A European diplomat told AFP it was because the mission wants to visit Tohti, a Uighur economist jailed for life on separatism charges in 2014.

He received the Sakharov Prize -- the EU's top human rights award -- in 2019.

"Negotiations are in a stalemate because of Tohti and other conditions," the diplomat said. "I don't think they are going soon."

China's ambassador to the European Union, Zhang Ming, on Tuesday said "almost everything had been arranged" for EU member states' ambassadors to visit Xinjiang.

But it had snagged on "unacceptable requests," he added.

"They insist on a meeting with one criminal convicted by Chinese law," he said. "This is unacceptable, I'm so sorry."

China strongly denies allegations of abuse involving Uighurs in Xinjiang and says all inmates have "graduated" from "vocational training centres", which it claims have helped stamp out extremism in the region and raise incomes.

A delegation of three EU officials who took part in a carefully organised Xinjiang visit in January 2019 previously said they believed the people they met in a "training centre" were reciting a dictated speech.

Zhang added that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi extended an invitation to Bachelet on March 7, after she called for an "independent and comprehensive assessment of the human rights situation" in Xinjiang late February.

He insisted that Xinjiang is "open to foreign diplomats, journalists and tourists."&nbsp;

All foreign journalists face extensive harassment and surveillance from Chinese authorities when attempting to report from Xinjiang over the past year, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China.

A visit by European Union ambassadors to the Xinjiang region of China has stalled over their request for access to jailed Uighur academic Ilham Tohti, a diplomatic source confirmed Wednesday.

A visit by European Union ambassadors to the Xinjiang region of China has stalled over their request for access to jailed Uighur academic Ilham Tohti, a diplomatic source confirmed Wednesday. Since 2019, China says it has invited foreign diplomats and UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet to visit Xinjiang, where rights groups allege more than one million Uighurs and other Muslim minorities are detained in internment camps. But there has been little sign of progress. A European diplomat told AFP it was because the mission wants to visit Tohti, a Uighur economist jailed for life on separatism charges in 2014. He received the Sakharov Prize -- the EU's top human rights award -- in 2019. "Negotiations are in a stalemate because of Tohti and other conditions," the diplomat said. "I don't think they are going soon." China's ambassador to the European Union, Zhang Ming, on Tuesday said "almost everything had been arranged" for EU member states' ambassadors to visit Xinjiang. But it had snagged on "unacceptable requests," he added. "They insist on a meeting with one criminal convicted by Chinese law," he said. "This is unacceptable, I'm so sorry." China strongly denies allegations of abuse involving Uighurs in Xinjiang and says all inmates have "graduated" from "vocational training centres", which it claims have helped stamp out extremism in the region and raise incomes. A delegation of three EU officials who took part in a carefully organised Xinjiang visit in January 2019 previously said they believed the people they met in a "training centre" were reciting a dictated speech. Zhang added that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi extended an invitation to Bachelet on March 7, after she called for an "independent and comprehensive assessment of the human rights situation" in Xinjiang late February. He insisted that Xinjiang is "open to foreign diplomats, journalists and tourists." All foreign journalists face extensive harassment and surveillance from Chinese authorities when attempting to report from Xinjiang over the past year, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China.

EU visit to Xinjiang stalls over access to jailed Uighur: diplomat

Sweden is the latest European country in the row to suspend the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The government of Venezuela has also denied the approval of the vaccine due to the piling reports of complications.

AstraZeneca Vaccine Update: Venezuela denies to authorize the jab

Does AstraZeneca cause blood clots in everybody or only in those with co-morbidities? How many types of blood clots are being reported? Are they all linked to vaccination? WION's Palki Sharma separates the facts from the hype.

Gravitas | AstraZeneca Suspension: Facts vs Hype

Does the Astrazenca vaccine cause blood clots? At least 16 countries have suspended the shot so far. But the European & British regulators say the vaccine is safe. Who is right? Where does India stand? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Does the AstraZeneca vaccine cause blood clots?

European Union is looking for a boost to get its inoculation efforts back on track. Reports suggest that EU is turning to Russia for help. European governments are considering talks with Sputnik-v developers. How will this deal affect EU & the world? WION's Molly Gambhir brings you more.

European Union looking for vaccine boost

European Union vaccination drive stumbles as the production supply becomes the main reason for AstraZeneca shortage. Several countries have suspended the AstraZeneca vaccine over blood clot fears.

AstraZeneca Update: EU faces vaccine shortage, supplies to be blamed

The European Union is facing a further shortfall in its Coronavirus inoculation program. This after the pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said that production problems and experts restrictions would reduce plan deliveries of its vaccine. Several countries have suspended the AstraZeneca vaccine over blood clot fears. ‌

European union faces shortfall of AstraZeneca vaccine

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery. Several countries have suspended use of AstraZeneca vaccines over blood clot fears. AstraZeneca's image has taken a hit even after World Health Organisation (WHO) said that there was no reason to stop using it.

The company had previously warned it was facing shortfalls from its European supply chain due to "lower-than-expected output from the production process" and was hoping to compensate in part by sourcing vaccines from its global network.

"Unfortunately, export restrictions will reduce deliveries in the first quarter, and are likely to affect deliveries in the second quarter," it confirmed in a statement sent to AFP on Saturday.

'Unacceptable'

AstraZeneca started delivering vaccines to European Union in February. It aims to deliver 100 million doses in first half of 2021.

AstraZeneca had initially agreed to supply three times as many doses in the first quarter, and 180 million doses in second quarter alone.

The EU on Saturday sidestepped the issue of the number of AstraZeneca doses it was expecting. "We are aware that the company is experiencing supply issues and that discussions are on-going," it said.

Germany has already reported adverse effects due to the delay, the state of Thuringia cancelling appointments and suspending a pilot project for general practitioners to administer the vaccine.

Thuringia had been due to receive 31,200 doses next week, but the number has been reduced to 9,600.

The state's health minister, Heike Werner, called the delay "absolutely unacceptable".&nbsp;

French Prime Minister Jean Castex said his government still expected to exceed a target of 10 million vaccinated by April 15, though he deplored that some labs were not respecting delivery deadlines.

Castex defended the use of the AstraZeneca jab despite precautions taken by other nations.

"I would not allow myself to send poison to my fellow citizens," he said during a visit to a vaccination centre.

(With AFP inputs)

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery.

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery. Several countries have suspended use of AstraZeneca vaccines over blood clot fears. AstraZeneca's image has taken a hit even after World Health Organisation (WHO) said that there was no reason to stop using it. The company had previously warned it was facing shortfalls from its European supply chain due to "lower-than-expected output from the production process" and was hoping to compensate in part by sourcing vaccines from its global network. "Unfortunately, export restrictions will reduce deliveries in the first quarter, and are likely to affect deliveries in the second quarter," it confirmed in a statement sent to AFP on Saturday. 'Unacceptable' AstraZeneca started delivering vaccines to European Union in February. It aims to deliver 100 million doses in first half of 2021. AstraZeneca had initially agreed to supply three times as many doses in the first quarter, and 180 million doses in second quarter alone. The EU on Saturday sidestepped the issue of the number of AstraZeneca doses it was expecting. "We are aware that the company is experiencing supply issues and that discussions are on-going," it said. Germany has already reported adverse effects due to the delay, the state of Thuringia cancelling appointments and suspending a pilot project for general practitioners to administer the vaccine. Thuringia had been due to receive 31,200 doses next week, but the number has been reduced to 9,600. The state's health minister, Heike Werner, called the delay "absolutely unacceptable". French Prime Minister Jean Castex said his government still expected to exceed a target of 10 million vaccinated by April 15, though he deplored that some labs were not respecting delivery deadlines. Castex defended the use of the AstraZeneca jab despite precautions taken by other nations. "I would not allow myself to send poison to my fellow citizens," he said during a visit to a vaccination centre. (With AFP inputs)

EU: Fresh shortfall of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine supplies

The European Union has hit out at China for the political conditions in Hong Kong, describing it as an "alarming political deterioration" and a "severe erosion of autonomy, democracy and fundamental freedoms".

According to South China Morning Post, the bloc`s annual report on the city hit out at the tightening grip of Beijing on Hong Kong affairs, the "chilling effect on the exercise of protected rights and freedoms" brought by the national security law (NSL), and an uptick in "self-censorship in the media, academia and civil society".

"The wide-ranging nature of the National Security Law (NSL) offences, and the uncertainties over how they will be applied, have provoked serious concerns and have had a chilling effect on the exercise of protected rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. While there has been little overt censorship in response to the NSL, and no pro-democracy publications have faced outright closure, the trend towards self-censorship in the media, academia and civil society has accelerated," the report read.

EU High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell, in a statement, said that over the course of 2020, the bloc witnessed an "alarming political deterioration in Hong Kong. The National Security Law imposed by Beijing is being used to crack down on pro-democracy forces, stifle dissent and pluralism, and erode fundamental freedoms."

"The arrest of dozens of pro-democracy activists in January this year confirmed that this trend is accelerating. China is consciously dismantling the `One Country, Two Systems` principle in violation of its international commitments and the Hong Kong Basic Law. The regressive electoral changes approved yesterday in Beijing are yet another step down this path," Borrell added.

The group said the tightening of mainland authorities` grip on Hong Kong affairs was evidence that the city`s autonomy was under threat."Fears about the vulnerability of `one country, two systems` were compounded in April when the Hong Kong Liaison Office (HKLO), representing the mainland authorities in Hong Kong, asserted that it was not bound by the obligation of non-interference in Hong Kong affairs enshrined in the Basic Law," the report said.According to the South China Morning Post, the Hong Kong government dismissed the EU`s report as "biased and ungrounded political smearing".

"It is totally untrue and biased to say that the Hong Kong national security law [has] had a chilling effect on the exercise of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong national security law clearly stipulates that the HKSAR shall protect the rights and freedoms enjoyed by residents under the Basic Law," the statement said.

The National People`s Congress (NPC) on Thursday passed the resolution by a near-unanimous vote, paving the way for the biggest shake-up to the city`s electoral system since its return to China in 1997, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).

A total of 2,895 delegates voted in favour of the proposal, which will authorise its standing committee to finalise the details of the electoral reform process and applauded for the longest period after the Hong Kong electoral proposal was passed.

Under the new electoral system, NPC members and the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference, the country`s top political advisory body, will be part of the Election Committee in the selection process of the city`s leader next year, reported Xinhua news agency.

Less than a year after imposing the draconian National Security Law, China last week had launched a legislative process for drastic electoral system reform in Hong Kong, which could benefit the pro-establishment camp and further quash the political opposition in the city.

The Election Committee will be expanded to add these 300 Beijing loyalists and the Legislative Council will also be expanded to 90 seats from 70.Although Chinese officials have insisted that the measures are necessary to establish a `democratic electoral system with Hong Kong characteristics`, critics have warned that it would limit the space for the opposition in the city and roll back years of effort to liberalise the system, reported SCMP.Ahead of the NPC`s vote on the electoral measures, Britain said the proposed changes to Hong Kong`s electoral system would be another attack on the former British colony`s rights and freedoms.

The European Union has hit out at China for the political conditions in Hong Kong, describing it as an "alarming political deterioration" and a "severe erosion of autonomy, democracy and fundamental freedoms".

The European Union has hit out at China for the political conditions in Hong Kong, describing it as an "alarming political deterioration" and a "severe erosion of autonomy, democracy and fundamental freedoms". According to South China Morning Post, the bloc`s annual report on the city hit out at the tightening grip of Beijing on Hong Kong affairs, the "chilling effect on the exercise of protected rights and freedoms" brought by the national security law (NSL), and an uptick in "self-censorship in the media, academia and civil society". "The wide-ranging nature of the National Security Law (NSL) offences, and the uncertainties over how they will be applied, have provoked serious concerns and have had a chilling effect on the exercise of protected rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. While there has been little overt censorship in response to the NSL, and no pro-democracy publications have faced outright closure, the trend towards self-censorship in the media, academia and civil society has accelerated," the report read. EU High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell, in a statement, said that over the course of 2020, the bloc witnessed an "alarming political deterioration in Hong Kong. The National Security Law imposed by Beijing is being used to crack down on pro-democracy forces, stifle dissent and pluralism, and erode fundamental freedoms." "The arrest of dozens of pro-democracy activists in January this year confirmed that this trend is accelerating. China is consciously dismantling the `One Country, Two Systems` principle in violation of its international commitments and the Hong Kong Basic Law. The regressive electoral changes approved yesterday in Beijing are yet another step down this path," Borrell added. The group said the tightening of mainland authorities` grip on Hong Kong affairs was evidence that the city`s autonomy was under threat."Fears about the vulnerability of `one country, two systems` were compounded in April when the Hong Kong Liaison Office (HKLO), representing the mainland authorities in Hong Kong, asserted that it was not bound by the obligation of non-interference in Hong Kong affairs enshrined in the Basic Law," the report said.According to the South China Morning Post, the Hong Kong government dismissed the EU`s report as "biased and ungrounded political smearing". "It is totally untrue and biased to say that the Hong Kong national security law [has] had a chilling effect on the exercise of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong national security law clearly stipulates that the HKSAR shall protect the rights and freedoms enjoyed by residents under the Basic Law," the statement said. The National People`s Congress (NPC) on Thursday passed the resolution by a near-unanimous vote, paving the way for the biggest shake-up to the city`s electoral system since its return to China in 1997, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). A total of 2,895 delegates voted in favour of the proposal, which will authorise its standing committee to finalise the details of the electoral reform process and applauded for the longest period after the Hong Kong electoral proposal was passed. Under the new electoral system, NPC members and the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference, the country`s top political advisory body, will be part of the Election Committee in the selection process of the city`s leader next year, reported Xinhua news agency. Less than a year after imposing the draconian National Security Law, China last week had launched a legislative process for drastic electoral system reform in Hong Kong, which could benefit the pro-establishment camp and further quash the political opposition in the city. The Election Committee will be expanded to add these 300 Beijing loyalists and the Legislative Council will also be expanded to 90 seats from 70.Although Chinese officials have insisted that the measures are necessary to establish a `democratic electoral system with Hong Kong characteristics`, critics have warned that it would limit the space for the opposition in the city and roll back years of effort to liberalise the system, reported SCMP.Ahead of the NPC`s vote on the electoral measures, Britain said the proposed changes to Hong Kong`s electoral system would be another attack on the former British colony`s rights and freedoms.

EU slams China over Hong Kong's 'alarming political deterioration'

People's Republic of China has approved the changes to the new electoral system of Hong Kong while the United States condemns Beijing's move to which it says China is continuing its assault on democracy.

China approves Hong Kong's revamped electoral process while US condemns

Denmark, Norway and Iceland halt the COVID-19's vaccine AstraZeneca rollout after the recent blood clot reports. This vaccine will be suspended for 14 days in Denmark.

European Union nations halt AstraZeneca rollout over blood clot reports

Europe has approved Johnson & Johnson's single-dose vaccine and the first shot is expected to be delivered in the month. Previously vaccine from Pfizer, BioNTech, AstraZeneca Oxford and Moderna had been endorsed by the European Union, however, Johnson & Johnson is the first single-shot vaccine to be approved.

European Union approves Johnson & Johnson's single-shot vaccine

The European Union on Thursday&nbsp;approved Johnson &amp; Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines.

&nbsp;

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📢 EMA has just recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19vaccine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19vaccine</a> Janssen to prevent <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in people from 18 years of age. 
👉 <a href="https://t.co/j7jetH1Tbx">https://t.co/j7jetH1Tbx</a> <a href="https://t.co/cKGKujrqYp">pic.twitter.com/cKGKujrqYp</a>
— EU Medicines Agency (@EMA_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/EMA_News/status/1370002324605853701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Johnson&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Johnson is the fourth to be endorsed for use in the EU after Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-Oxford University and Moderna. Three other vaccines are under "rolling review" by the Amsterdam-based EMA,&nbsp;Novavax, CureVac and Russia's Sputnik.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-suspends-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-due-to-blood-clot-fears-369692" hreflang="en">Denmark suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears&nbsp;</a>

US pharma giant J&amp;J filed on February 16 for approval for the vaccine, developed by its Belgian subsidiary Janssen.&nbsp;The company has committed to deliver 200 million doses of its vaccine to the bloc this year.

As well as being the first that requires a single injection as opposed to two, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine is easier to store.

The J&amp;J shot however appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's regimes, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain.

'Bumpy' strategy'

The EU has been struggling with a disappointing vaccination rollout that started in January and faltered because of a lack of doses produced by the three suppliers so far.&nbsp;

The head of the EU's vaccine supply task force, Thierry Breton, said on Tuesday the EU's "bumpy" vaccine strategy should be augmented by the addition of the Johnson &amp; Johnson jab.

Reported production shortfalls in the United States by Johnson &amp; Johnson would not impact the EU because Brussels had made contingency plans for all vaccines, he said.

"Do not believe that because one company has a problem that overall it will jeopardise the whole programme," said Breton, the EU's industry commissioner.

Europe's vaccination strategy faced fresh problems on Wednesday as Denmark and Norway said they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine after some patients developed blood clots

The European Union on Thursday approved Johnson & Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines.

The European Union on Thursday approved Johnson & Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines. 📢 EMA has just recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for #COVID19vaccine Janssen to prevent #COVID19 in people from 18 years of age. 👉 https://t.co/j7jetH1Tbx pic.twitter.com/cKGKujrqYp — EU Medicines Agency (@EMA_News) March 11, 2021 × Johnson & Johnson is the fourth to be endorsed for use in the EU after Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-Oxford University and Moderna. Three other vaccines are under "rolling review" by the Amsterdam-based EMA, Novavax, CureVac and Russia's Sputnik. Also read| Denmark suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears US pharma giant J&J filed on February 16 for approval for the vaccine, developed by its Belgian subsidiary Janssen. The company has committed to deliver 200 million doses of its vaccine to the bloc this year. As well as being the first that requires a single injection as opposed to two, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is easier to store. The J&J shot however appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's regimes, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain. 'Bumpy' strategy' The EU has been struggling with a disappointing vaccination rollout that started in January and faltered because of a lack of doses produced by the three suppliers so far. The head of the EU's vaccine supply task force, Thierry Breton, said on Tuesday the EU's "bumpy" vaccine strategy should be augmented by the addition of the Johnson & Johnson jab. Reported production shortfalls in the United States by Johnson & Johnson would not impact the EU because Brussels had made contingency plans for all vaccines, he said. "Do not believe that because one company has a problem that overall it will jeopardise the whole programme," said Breton, the EU's industry commissioner. Europe's vaccination strategy faced fresh problems on Wednesday as Denmark and Norway said they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine after some patients developed blood clots

European Union gives green light to Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine

The European Union Parliament has voted to lift the parliamentary immunity of former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont and two other separatists.

EU parliament lifts Ex-Catalan leader's immunity

The makers of Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine have demanded an apology from the European Union's medicine regulator. This after a senior official urged EU member states not to use the Sputnik V vaccine yet.

Russia seeks apology from EU over Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine

The European Union exported 25 million doses of vaccines produced in its territory last month to 31 countries around the world, with Britain and Canada the top destinations, just as the bloc saw its own supply cut drastically by pharmaceutical companies, slowing down vaccination efforts and stoking a political crisis at home.

The bloc, whose 27 nations are home to 450 million people,&nbsp;came under criticism last week when Italy used an export-control mechanism to block a small shipment of vaccines to Australia. The move was criticized as protectionist and in sharp contrast to the EU’s mantra of free markets and global solidarity in the face of the pandemic.

The issue of vaccine production and exports has also created a bitter dispute between the EU and Britain, a recently departed member, amid accusations that the bloc wants to deprive the country of vaccine doses out of spite, in part because Britain is doing so much better with its rollout.

The tensions culminated in a diplomatic spat Wednesday after a top EU official accused the United States and Britain of bringing in an “outright ban” on exports — a charge that the British government vehemently denied.

Practically speaking, ban or no ban, Britain is not exporting vaccines authorized for use at home, and the country has said it would be prepared to give excess doses to neighbouring Ireland, though only after it was done with its vaccination efforts at home.

The U.S. has also been holding onto doses, in part through a wartime mechanism known as the Defense Production Act, which gives the federal government greater control over industrial production. President Joe Biden promised last week that all adults in America would have at least one vaccine dose offered to them by May.

But information made public for the first time, recorded in detailed internal documents seen by The New York Times, shows that the EU, far from being protectionist, is in fact a vaccine exporting powerhouse.

Of the 25 million vaccine doses made in EU-based facilities that were exported between Feb. 1 (when the export mechanism came into force) and March 1, more than 8 million doses went to Britain.

And while the U.S. kept doses for itself, the EU shipped 651,000 vaccines to the U.S. last month and made vaccines that immunized its neighbours: The second-largest recipient of EU-made vaccines was Canada, which received more than 3 million doses last month, while the fourth-largest was Mexico, receiving nearly 2.5 million vaccine doses produced in the bloc.

Whether to reveal this data has been hotly debated in the corridors of power at the European Commission, the EU executive branch, which is at the heart of procuring the vaccines and has suffered the biggest political blow for the underwhelming rollout.

On the one hand, several senior EU officials said, revealing the immense export efforts that are keeping countries around the world vaccinated and helping the world economy restart would help restore Europe’s reputation. On the other hand, it would outrage European citizens who are waiting for their shots while watching Americans, Britons, Israelis and others race past them into resuming public life, health and economic activity.

As things stand, nearly 58 per cent&nbsp;of Israelis have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine. The figure is 33 per cent&nbsp;for people in Britain, 18 per cent&nbsp;for the U.S., and 6.5 per cent&nbsp;of people in the EU, data collected by OurWorldInData shows.

The bloc was weeks behind the U.S. and Britain in sealing deals with pharmaceutical firms last year but did secure a broad portfolio of vaccines on favourable terms on behalf of its members. That granted them relatively quick access to immunization that most would not have dreamed of had they been acting alone.

But within weeks of starting its rollout in late December, the bloc began suffering supply shocks. First, Pfizer said it was cutting deliveries to upgrade its facilities. Then AstraZeneca told the bloc that it would deliver only 31 million of a promised 80 million doses in the first quarter of this year.

Moderna, whose vaccine has also been approved for use by the bloc, has likewise had small problems with supply. Many EU countries have also done a poor job getting the vaccines they do have to their citizens because of poor organization and logistics.

The rollout in the bloc has been so poor that member states have been tempted by black-market offers of extra doses, and several are tapping unauthorized vaccines, including Russia’s Sputnik V, which is still under review for use in the bloc.

Hopes that these woes could be eased in the second quarter of this year have largely hinged on AstraZeneca’s supply picking up and a robust delivery plan by Johnson &amp;amp; Johnson, whose COVID-19 vaccine is set to be authorized by the EU regulator Thursday.

Yet there are concerns that Johnson &amp;amp; Johnson could also be slashing supply to the bloc, prompting a request by the bloc to the U.S. government for a loan of 10 million doses. Officials in the U.S. and the EU said the request had been denied.

The European Union exported 25 million doses of vaccines produced in its territory last month to 31 countries around the world, with Britain and Canada the top destinations, just as the bloc saw its own supply cut drastically by pharmaceutical companies, slowing down vaccination efforts and stoking a political crisis at home.

The European Union exported 25 million doses of vaccines produced in its territory last month to 31 countries around the world, with Britain and Canada the top destinations, just as the bloc saw its own supply cut drastically by pharmaceutical companies, slowing down vaccination efforts and stoking a political crisis at home. The bloc, whose 27 nations are home to 450 million people, came under criticism last week when Italy used an export-control mechanism to block a small shipment of vaccines to Australia. The move was criticized as protectionist and in sharp contrast to the EU’s mantra of free markets and global solidarity in the face of the pandemic. The issue of vaccine production and exports has also created a bitter dispute between the EU and Britain, a recently departed member, amid accusations that the bloc wants to deprive the country of vaccine doses out of spite, in part because Britain is doing so much better with its rollout. The tensions culminated in a diplomatic spat Wednesday after a top EU official accused the United States and Britain of bringing in an “outright ban” on exports — a charge that the British government vehemently denied. Practically speaking, ban or no ban, Britain is not exporting vaccines authorized for use at home, and the country has said it would be prepared to give excess doses to neighbouring Ireland, though only after it was done with its vaccination efforts at home. The U.S. has also been holding onto doses, in part through a wartime mechanism known as the Defense Production Act, which gives the federal government greater control over industrial production. President Joe Biden promised last week that all adults in America would have at least one vaccine dose offered to them by May. But information made public for the first time, recorded in detailed internal documents seen by The New York Times, shows that the EU, far from being protectionist, is in fact a vaccine exporting powerhouse. Of the 25 million vaccine doses made in EU-based facilities that were exported between Feb. 1 (when the export mechanism came into force) and March 1, more than 8 million doses went to Britain. And while the U.S. kept doses for itself, the EU shipped 651,000 vaccines to the U.S. last month and made vaccines that immunized its neighbours: The second-largest recipient of EU-made vaccines was Canada, which received more than 3 million doses last month, while the fourth-largest was Mexico, receiving nearly 2.5 million vaccine doses produced in the bloc. Whether to reveal this data has been hotly debated in the corridors of power at the European Commission, the EU executive branch, which is at the heart of procuring the vaccines and has suffered the biggest political blow for the underwhelming rollout. On the one hand, several senior EU officials said, revealing the immense export efforts that are keeping countries around the world vaccinated and helping the world economy restart would help restore Europe’s reputation. On the other hand, it would outrage European citizens who are waiting for their shots while watching Americans, Britons, Israelis and others race past them into resuming public life, health and economic activity. As things stand, nearly 58 per cent of Israelis have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine. The figure is 33 per cent for people in Britain, 18 per cent for the U.S., and 6.5 per cent of people in the EU, data collected by OurWorldInData shows. The bloc was weeks behind the U.S. and Britain in sealing deals with pharmaceutical firms last year but did secure a broad portfolio of vaccines on favourable terms on behalf of its members. That granted them relatively quick access to immunization that most would not have dreamed of had they been acting alone. But within weeks of starting its rollout in late December, the bloc began suffering supply shocks. First, Pfizer said it was cutting deliveries to upgrade its facilities. Then AstraZeneca told the bloc that it would deliver only 31 million of a promised 80 million doses in the first quarter of this year. Moderna, whose vaccine has also been approved for use by the bloc, has likewise had small problems with supply. Many EU countries have also done a poor job getting the vaccines they do have to their citizens because of poor organization and logistics. The rollout in the bloc has been so poor that member states have been tempted by black-market offers of extra doses, and several are tapping unauthorized vaccines, including Russia’s Sputnik V, which is still under review for use in the bloc. Hopes that these woes could be eased in the second quarter of this year have largely hinged on AstraZeneca’s supply picking up and a robust delivery plan by Johnson &amp; Johnson, whose COVID-19 vaccine is set to be authorized by the EU regulator Thursday. Yet there are concerns that Johnson &amp; Johnson could also be slashing supply to the bloc, prompting a request by the bloc to the U.S. government for a loan of 10 million doses. Officials in the U.S. and the EU said the request had been denied.

EU exports millions of vaccine doses despite supply crunch at home

The European Union has come out in support of Italy's decision to block the supply of the AstraZeneca Vaccine to Australia on Saturday. The EU internal market commissioner said that the block has to make sure that the company deliver what it expects.

Italy bans the supply of the AstraZeneca Vaccine to Australia

In signs of growing ties and shared values between India and Sweden, Prime Minister of Sweden Stefan Löfven at the virtual summit on Friday called "India and EU as democratic superpowers".&nbsp;

Indian PM held a virtual summit with Swedish counterpart, the 2nd such virtual summit with any Nordic country, the last being with Denmark in 2020.

Stefan Löfven said, "From our bilateral cooperation to multilateral regional affairs, India and the European union are democratic superpowers. As we join forces, to build back more inclusive societies, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our shared values and mutual commitment to democracy, rule of law, gender equality, human rights and fundamental rights"

The comments come even as European Union is keen to increase ties with New Delhi amidst an aggressive China. Interestingly the statement comes at a time when a Washington-based NGO Freedom house downgraded India has "partly free" from free, pointing out that civil rights are being eroded in the country.&nbsp;

During the one house long virtual summit, both leaders discussed a number of issues, from Myanmar to terrorism to Sweden’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance and reviving NSA level talks between the 2 countries.

MEA's Secretary West Vikas Swarup in response to a question from WION said, "Both leaders expressed concerns over recent developments in Myanmar. PM Modi mentioned that as a country that shares land and maritime border with Myanmar, we have the highest stake in peace and stability in that country". Adding, "as a democracy ourselves, we have remained invested in supporting the democratic transition of Myanmar for it to emerge as a democratic federal union and recent developments are of deep concern to India".

One of the key outcomes of the summit was the creation of a Sweden-India Health Hub at AIIMS-Jodhpur. New Delhi noted defense as long-standing areas of cooperation between the 2 countries, with Indian leadership being aware of Swedish interest on Gripen fighter jets being manufactured in India.

In signs of growing ties and shared values between India and Sweden, Prime Minister of Sweden Stefan Löfven at the virtual summit on Friday called "India and EU as democratic superpowers".

In signs of growing ties and shared values between India and Sweden, Prime Minister of Sweden Stefan Löfven at the virtual summit on Friday called "India and EU as democratic superpowers". Indian PM held a virtual summit with Swedish counterpart, the 2nd such virtual summit with any Nordic country, the last being with Denmark in 2020. Stefan Löfven said, "From our bilateral cooperation to multilateral regional affairs, India and the European union are democratic superpowers. As we join forces, to build back more inclusive societies, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our shared values and mutual commitment to democracy, rule of law, gender equality, human rights and fundamental rights" The comments come even as European Union is keen to increase ties with New Delhi amidst an aggressive China. Interestingly the statement comes at a time when a Washington-based NGO Freedom house downgraded India has "partly free" from free, pointing out that civil rights are being eroded in the country. During the one house long virtual summit, both leaders discussed a number of issues, from Myanmar to terrorism to Sweden’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance and reviving NSA level talks between the 2 countries. MEA's Secretary West Vikas Swarup in response to a question from WION said, "Both leaders expressed concerns over recent developments in Myanmar. PM Modi mentioned that as a country that shares land and maritime border with Myanmar, we have the highest stake in peace and stability in that country". Adding, "as a democracy ourselves, we have remained invested in supporting the democratic transition of Myanmar for it to emerge as a democratic federal union and recent developments are of deep concern to India". One of the key outcomes of the summit was the creation of a Sweden-India Health Hub at AIIMS-Jodhpur. New Delhi noted defense as long-standing areas of cooperation between the 2 countries, with Indian leadership being aware of Swedish interest on Gripen fighter jets being manufactured in India.

India, European Union are democratic superpowers: Sweden PM

The European Union is planning to ask the United States to permit the export of millions of doses of AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine.

According to a report published in the Financial Times, the 27-nation EU also wants Washington to ensure the free flow of shipments of crucial vaccine ingredients needed in European production.

The FT quoted the European Commission as saying in Saturday: "We trust that we can work together with the US to ensure that vaccines produced or bottled in the US for the fulfilment of vaccine producers' contractual obligations with the EU will be fully honoured."

The EU countries started inoculations at the end of December, but are moving at a far slower pace than other rich nations, including former member Britain and the United States. Officials have so far blamed the slow progress in part on supply problems with manufacturers.

The European Commission and Italy this week blocked a shipment of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine destined for Australia after the drug manufacturer failed to meet its EU contract commitments.&nbsp;

The Anglo-Swedish drugmaker has been under fire in the EU for its delayed supplies of shots to the 27-nation bloc, which ordered 300 million doses by the end of June.&nbsp;

AstraZeneca's CEO Pascal Soriot told EU lawmakers in a public hearing in February that they were working to improve the delivery and resolve issues.

(with inputs)

The European Union is planning to ask the United States to permit the export of millions of doses of AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine. According to a report published in the Financial Times, the 27-nation EU also wants Washington to ensure the free flow of shipments of crucial vaccine ingredients needed in European production.

The European Union is planning to ask the United States to permit the export of millions of doses of AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine. According to a report published in the Financial Times, the 27-nation EU also wants Washington to ensure the free flow of shipments of crucial vaccine ingredients needed in European production. The FT quoted the European Commission as saying in Saturday: "We trust that we can work together with the US to ensure that vaccines produced or bottled in the US for the fulfilment of vaccine producers' contractual obligations with the EU will be fully honoured." The EU countries started inoculations at the end of December, but are moving at a far slower pace than other rich nations, including former member Britain and the United States. Officials have so far blamed the slow progress in part on supply problems with manufacturers. The European Commission and Italy this week blocked a shipment of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine destined for Australia after the drug manufacturer failed to meet its EU contract commitments. The Anglo-Swedish drugmaker has been under fire in the EU for its delayed supplies of shots to the 27-nation bloc, which ordered 300 million doses by the end of June. AstraZeneca's CEO Pascal Soriot told EU lawmakers in a public hearing in February that they were working to improve the delivery and resolve issues. (with inputs)

EU wants access to US produced AstraZeneca vaccines, report says

The European Union warned China on Friday that it may take "additional steps" in response to Beijing's move to grant itself a veto over the selection of Hong Kong lawmakers.

A&nbsp;spokesperson of the bloc said, "The EU calls on the authorities in Beijing to carefully consider the political and economic implications of any decision to reform the electoral system of Hong Kong that would undermine fundamental freedoms, political pluralism and democratic principles."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-removes-hong-kongs-fundamental-structure-from-new-draft-368134/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China moved to overhaul&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's electoral system on Friday in a further blow to democracy in the city and unexpectedly set an economic growth target for this year, albeit a modest one, as it kicked off its annual session of parliament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-grants-bail-to-15-of-47-democracy-activists-charged-with-subversion-368020">Hong Kong court grants bail to 15 of 47 democracy activists charged with subversion</a>

During Friday's parliamentary session, Beijing proposed legislation that would tighten its increasingly authoritarian grip on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;by making changes to the electoral committee that chooses the city's leader, giving it new power to nominate legislative candidates.

The measure, set to be approved during the week-long session of China's rubber-stamp parliament, would further marginalise a democratic opposition, decimated after Beijing imposed national security legislation following anti-government protests that rocked&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;in 2019.

This comes after dozens of pro-democracy protesters were arrested in Hong Kong, including former lawmakers, under the draconian security law that was approved last year.&nbsp;

The European Union warned China on Friday that it may take "additional steps" in response to Beijing's move to grant itself a veto over the selection of Hong Kong lawmakers.

The European Union warned China on Friday that it may take "additional steps" in response to Beijing's move to grant itself a veto over the selection of Hong Kong lawmakers. A spokesperson of the bloc said, "The EU calls on the authorities in Beijing to carefully consider the political and economic implications of any decision to reform the electoral system of Hong Kong that would undermine fundamental freedoms, political pluralism and democratic principles." China moved to overhaul Hong Kong's electoral system on Friday in a further blow to democracy in the city and unexpectedly set an economic growth target for this year, albeit a modest one, as it kicked off its annual session of parliament. Also read | Hong Kong court grants bail to 15 of 47 democracy activists charged with subversion During Friday's parliamentary session, Beijing proposed legislation that would tighten its increasingly authoritarian grip on Hong Kong by making changes to the electoral committee that chooses the city's leader, giving it new power to nominate legislative candidates. The measure, set to be approved during the week-long session of China's rubber-stamp parliament, would further marginalise a democratic opposition, decimated after Beijing imposed national security legislation following anti-government protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019. This comes after dozens of pro-democracy protesters were arrested in Hong Kong, including former lawmakers, under the draconian security law that was approved last year.

European Union warns China against Hong Kong election rules change

The European Commission said on Thursday that there were no talks underway about buying Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, hours after the EU drugs regulator began reviewing the shot for possible approval.

EU countries are free to buy vaccines that have not been earmarked by the EU as a whole, but are advised to refrain from parallel talks and deals if the EU is negotiating a joint purchase.

The 27-nation bloc has so far signed supply contracts with six European and US vaccine makers for a total of nearly 2.6 billion doses for its population of 450 million. It is also negotiating further supplies from two other Western companies.

To this end, a spokesperson said, "Currently no talks are ongoing to integrate the Sputnik vaccine in the portfolio."

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said it had begun a rolling review of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine, which could lead to its approval for use in all 27 EU countries.

Sputnik V has already been approved or is being assessed for approval in three EU member states - Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic - and EU officials have said Brussels could start negotiations with a vaccine maker if at least four member countries request it.

The European Commission said on Thursday that there were no talks underway about buying Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, hours after the EU drugs regulator began reviewing the shot for possible approval.

The European Commission said on Thursday that there were no talks underway about buying Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine, hours after the EU drugs regulator began reviewing the shot for possible approval. EU countries are free to buy vaccines that have not been earmarked by the EU as a whole, but are advised to refrain from parallel talks and deals if the EU is negotiating a joint purchase. The 27-nation bloc has so far signed supply contracts with six European and US vaccine makers for a total of nearly 2.6 billion doses for its population of 450 million. It is also negotiating further supplies from two other Western companies. To this end, a spokesperson said, "Currently no talks are ongoing to integrate the Sputnik vaccine in the portfolio." The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said it had begun a rolling review of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine, which could lead to its approval for use in all 27 EU countries. Sputnik V has already been approved or is being assessed for approval in three EU member states - Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic - and EU officials have said Brussels could start negotiations with a vaccine maker if at least four member countries request it.

EU says no talks underway to buy Russia's Covid vaccine

The US and the European Union announced coordinated sanctions on Russia for the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and urged his release from prison.

US, EU imposes sanctions on Russia over Alexei Navalny attack

The US and the European Union have imposed new sanctions on 7 senior Russian officials for the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and urged his release from prison.

7 senior Russian officials blacklisted by US, EU over Navalny attack

Iran has ruled out holding an informal meeting with the US and European powers on ways to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. Iran cites inappropriate time for talks as the reason.

Iran rejects nuclear deal talks says time not suitable

A single-shot Covid-19 vaccine by US drugmaker Johnson and Johnson is likely to be approved for use in the European Union in early March.

The vaccine was&nbsp;cleared for emergency use in the United States on Saturday<a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/us-authorises-johnson-johnsons-covid-19-vaccine-for-emergency-use-fda" target="_blank">,</a>&nbsp;becoming the third available vaccine there.

The single-shot vaccine is highly effective in preventing severe Covid-19, including against newer variants, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said before giving it the green light.

An EU approval in early March would allow the vaccine to be rolled out in late March or early April. It was possible that a booster shot was needed later "but we can't be sure yet".

The EU hoped to receive 600 million doses of the vaccine by the end of June, she said.

France has so far vaccinated 1.5 million people, the minister said. By June all 15 million people belonging to the country's most vulnerable population segments will have been vaccinated, she added, acknowledging however that reaching that target might require a faster vaccine rollout.

In large clinical trials, the J&amp;J vaccine's efficacy against severe disease was 85.9 per cent in the United States, 81.7 per cent in South Africa, and 87.6 per cent in Brazil.

The J&amp;J shot appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's two-shot regimens, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain.

A single-shot Covid-19 vaccine by US drugmaker Johnson and Johnson is likely to be approved for use in the European Union in early March. The vaccine was cleared for emergency use in the United States on Saturday, becoming the third available vaccine there.

A single-shot Covid-19 vaccine by US drugmaker Johnson and Johnson is likely to be approved for use in the European Union in early March. The vaccine was cleared for emergency use in the United States on Saturday, becoming the third available vaccine there. The single-shot vaccine is highly effective in preventing severe Covid-19, including against newer variants, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said before giving it the green light. An EU approval in early March would allow the vaccine to be rolled out in late March or early April. It was possible that a booster shot was needed later "but we can't be sure yet". The EU hoped to receive 600 million doses of the vaccine by the end of June, she said. France has so far vaccinated 1.5 million people, the minister said. By June all 15 million people belonging to the country's most vulnerable population segments will have been vaccinated, she added, acknowledging however that reaching that target might require a faster vaccine rollout. In large clinical trials, the J&J vaccine's efficacy against severe disease was 85.9 per cent in the United States, 81.7 per cent in South Africa, and 87.6 per cent in Brazil. The J&J shot appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's two-shot regimens, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain.

EU to clear Johnson and Johnson vaccine by March

The Europan Union on Thursday declared Venezuela's envoy to the bloc "persona non grata". The decision came as a tit-for-tat move after Venezuela expelled the EU envoy.

A statement said member states had agreed on the move, proposed by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell after Venezuela ordered the European ambassador to leave.

"This is a response to the decision by the Venezuelan government to declare the head of the EU delegation to Venezuela as persona non grata," it said.&nbsp;

"The EU considers this declaration as wholly unwarranted and contrary to the EU's objective of developing relations and building partnerships in third countries."

Claudia Salerno, Venezuela's representative to the EU, responded by saying on Twitter that "the independence and sovereignty of our homeland are not negotiable."

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza on Wednesday announced the country's move against EU envoy Isabel Brilhante Pedrosa, and gave her 72 hours to leave the country.

This had come two days after EU ministers agreed to sanction 19 Venezuelan officials for what they said was "undermining democracy"

The EU expanded its sanctions list after rejecting a December legislative election that saw Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro win control of parliament after an opposition boycott.

Until the disputed vote, the National Assembly was run by an opposition majority with Juan Guaido at the helm as speaker -- the only branch of government not under Maduro's control.

(With AFP inputs)

The Europan Union on Thursday declared Venezuela's envoy to the bloc "persona non grata". The decision came as a tit-for-tat move after Venezuela expelled the EU envoy.

The Europan Union on Thursday declared Venezuela's envoy to the bloc "persona non grata". The decision came as a tit-for-tat move after Venezuela expelled the EU envoy. A statement said member states had agreed on the move, proposed by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell after Venezuela ordered the European ambassador to leave. "This is a response to the decision by the Venezuelan government to declare the head of the EU delegation to Venezuela as persona non grata," it said. "The EU considers this declaration as wholly unwarranted and contrary to the EU's objective of developing relations and building partnerships in third countries." Claudia Salerno, Venezuela's representative to the EU, responded by saying on Twitter that "the independence and sovereignty of our homeland are not negotiable." Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza on Wednesday announced the country's move against EU envoy Isabel Brilhante Pedrosa, and gave her 72 hours to leave the country. This had come two days after EU ministers agreed to sanction 19 Venezuelan officials for what they said was "undermining democracy" The EU expanded its sanctions list after rejecting a December legislative election that saw Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro win control of parliament after an opposition boycott. Until the disputed vote, the National Assembly was run by an opposition majority with Juan Guaido at the helm as speaker -- the only branch of government not under Maduro's control. (With AFP inputs)

Venezuela envoy declared persona non grata by EU

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