The European Commission is planning to introduce a law that would force Apple to abandon its Lightning connector cable.&nbsp;

The cable is primarily used to sync Apple devices, including iPhones.

Members of the European Parliament requested the European Commission to force tech companies to adopt a universal charging method, BBC reported.

Two other kinds of cables do the rounds in the market are the USB-C and micro-USB, primarily used on Android devices.

Apple recently dropped the Lightning cable from its 2018 model of the iPad Pro.

According to Apple, this move would hurt innovation and cause disruption to consumers.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="u" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a736f48-48cb-4257-9d34-ba034d853061" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_22.jpg" /> 
Image: Charging cables | Twitter user @GishShopping 
&nbsp;</h6>

"A common charger should fit all mobile phones, tablets, e-book readers and other portable devices", European Parliament member Alex Agius Saliba.

If and when approved, the regulation would require Apple to remodel all its phones to favour a single universal charging method.

Apple has already embraced the USB-C on its iPad Pro, and the company might be forced to take up in future devices if the European Commission approves the move.

There's another option for the company: to eradicate charging ports and cables altogether and to switch to wireless charging.&nbsp;

If enforced, the new cable would mark Apple's third in 13 years.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apples-iphone-sales-in-china-up-18-in-december-sources-273217">Apple's iPhone sales in China up 18 per cent in December: Report</a>

The move is not new, The European Commission has been pushing for a single charging method for the last ten years.

In 2009, there were more than 30 types of chargers in the market, but the number now stands at three.

With this regulation, the EU wants to decrease the electronic waste which is created by old cables. According to the BBC, it generates more than 51,000 tonnes of waste every year.

<h6><img alt="iiiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="198597cf-af70-4fbd-a74f-a4b67f514cbe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/78235-untitled-design-3.jpg" /> 
Image: Apple logo | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

"This is hugely detrimental for the environment," Saliba added.

In 2009, ten tech giants including Nokia, Samsung, and Apple had signed a memorandum of understanding to provide micro-USB compatible chargers for consumers.

However, there was a loophole that enabled manufacturers to continue using their own chargers if they offered an adaptor.

As part of its efforts in 2014, the EU passed the Radio Equipment Directive, calling for "renewed effort to develop a common charger".

It was then that Apple insisted that its slimmer phones would not be able to accommodate the USB-C technology, and said that it would cost up to $2 billion to meet the desired standard.

The technology landscape has witnessed a lot of change recently, with most giants focusing on wireless charging technology.

According to many analysts, Apple is planning to scrap charging ports altogether by relying solely on wireless charging.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-attacks-apple-asks-tech-biggies-to-simplify-encryption-274441">We help Apple on trade, yet they refuse to unlock phones used by killers: Trump</a>

The European Commission is planning to introduce a law that would force Apple to abandon its Lightning connector cable. The cable is primarily used to sync Apple devices, including iPhones.

The European Commission is planning to introduce a law that would force Apple to abandon its Lightning connector cable. The cable is primarily used to sync Apple devices, including iPhones. Members of the European Parliament requested the European Commission to force tech companies to adopt a universal charging method, BBC reported. Two other kinds of cables do the rounds in the market are the USB-C and micro-USB, primarily used on Android devices. Apple recently dropped the Lightning cable from its 2018 model of the iPad Pro. According to Apple, this move would hurt innovation and cause disruption to consumers. Image: Charging cables | Twitter user @GishShopping "A common charger should fit all mobile phones, tablets, e-book readers and other portable devices", European Parliament member Alex Agius Saliba. If and when approved, the regulation would require Apple to remodel all its phones to favour a single universal charging method. Apple has already embraced the USB-C on its iPad Pro, and the company might be forced to take up in future devices if the European Commission approves the move. There's another option for the company: to eradicate charging ports and cables altogether and to switch to wireless charging. If enforced, the new cable would mark Apple's third in 13 years. Read more: Apple's iPhone sales in China up 18 per cent in December: Report The move is not new, The European Commission has been pushing for a single charging method for the last ten years. In 2009, there were more than 30 types of chargers in the market, but the number now stands at three. With this regulation, the EU wants to decrease the electronic waste which is created by old cables. According to the BBC, it generates more than 51,000 tonnes of waste every year. Image: Apple logo | Reuters "This is hugely detrimental for the environment," Saliba added. In 2009, ten tech giants including Nokia, Samsung, and Apple had signed a memorandum of understanding to provide micro-USB compatible chargers for consumers. However, there was a loophole that enabled manufacturers to continue using their own chargers if they offered an adaptor. As part of its efforts in 2014, the EU passed the Radio Equipment Directive, calling for "renewed effort to develop a common charger". It was then that Apple insisted that its slimmer phones would not be able to accommodate the USB-C technology, and said that it would cost up to $2 billion to meet the desired standard. The technology landscape has witnessed a lot of change recently, with most giants focusing on wireless charging technology. According to many analysts, Apple is planning to scrap charging ports altogether by relying solely on wireless charging. Also read: We help Apple on trade, yet they refuse to unlock phones used by killers: Trump

Apple may be forced to ditch its lightning cable as European Commission presses for universal charger

Almost half of all Europeans fear <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/climate-change-hits-india-much-work-needs-to-be-done-262038">climate change</a> more than losing a job or of a terrorist attack, a study by the European Investment Bank (EIB) showed on Thursday as EU lawmakers declared a “climate emergency”.&nbsp;

The symbolic vote by lawmakers was designed to pressure for action against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bearing-brunt-of-climate-change-240729">global warming</a> at an upcoming United Nations summit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/greta-thunberg-how-one-school-girls-climate-change-campaign-recruited-millions-249747">In Pictures: Greta Thunberg — How one school girl's climate change campaign recruited millions</a>

The EIB survey of 30,000 respondents from 30 countries, including China and the United States, showed 47% of Europeans saw climate change as the number one threat in their lives, above unemployment, large scale migration and concerns about terrorism.

“European citizens are highly concerned about climate change and its impact on their everyday life and future,” said Emma Navarro, EIB Vice-President responsible for climate action and the environment.

“Interestingly, many of them are optimistic about the possibility to reverse it. Unfortunately, science says otherwise. We have one shot at limiting global warming and mitigating its effects,” she said.

The EIB, owned by European Union governments, is the world’s largest international public lending institution and has the task of financing climate-change-related investment that is a priority for the new European Commission.

The survey, the first of four planned by the EIB, showed the level of concern about climate change was even higher in China than the EU, with 73% of respondents seeing it as the biggest threat to society, compared to 39% in the United States, where most people worried more about access to health services.

The study also showed that 41% of young Europeans between the age of 15 and 29, especially from southern countries like Spain, Greece and France thought they would have to move to another country because of the changing climate.

“Overall, 82% of Europeans report that climate change has an impact on their everyday lives, a perception that goes up to 98% in China and 76% in the United States,” the study said.

The incoming European Commission, which will start on Dec 1, wants to make the whole of the European Union an area that is neutral in terms of carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 after slashing emissions by 50% by 2030. It still requires the consent of all EU governments before such a target becomes binding, but some countries which still heavily depend on coal like Poland, oppose such ambition.

Almost half of all Europeans fear climate change more than losing a job or of a terrorist attack, a study by the European Investment Bank (EIB) showed on Thursday as EU lawmakers declared a “climate emergency”.

Almost half of all Europeans fear climate change more than losing a job or of a terrorist attack, a study by the European Investment Bank (EIB) showed on Thursday as EU lawmakers declared a “climate emergency”. The symbolic vote by lawmakers was designed to pressure for action against global warming at an upcoming United Nations summit. In Pictures: Greta Thunberg — How one school girl's climate change campaign recruited millions The EIB survey of 30,000 respondents from 30 countries, including China and the United States, showed 47% of Europeans saw climate change as the number one threat in their lives, above unemployment, large scale migration and concerns about terrorism. “European citizens are highly concerned about climate change and its impact on their everyday life and future,” said Emma Navarro, EIB Vice-President responsible for climate action and the environment. “Interestingly, many of them are optimistic about the possibility to reverse it. Unfortunately, science says otherwise. We have one shot at limiting global warming and mitigating its effects,” she said. The EIB, owned by European Union governments, is the world’s largest international public lending institution and has the task of financing climate-change-related investment that is a priority for the new European Commission. The survey, the first of four planned by the EIB, showed the level of concern about climate change was even higher in China than the EU, with 73% of respondents seeing it as the biggest threat to society, compared to 39% in the United States, where most people worried more about access to health services. The study also showed that 41% of young Europeans between the age of 15 and 29, especially from southern countries like Spain, Greece and France thought they would have to move to another country because of the changing climate. “Overall, 82% of Europeans report that climate change has an impact on their everyday lives, a perception that goes up to 98% in China and 76% in the United States,” the study said. The incoming European Commission, which will start on Dec 1, wants to make the whole of the European Union an area that is neutral in terms of carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 after slashing emissions by 50% by 2030. It still requires the consent of all EU governments before such a target becomes binding, but some countries which still heavily depend on coal like Poland, oppose such ambition.

Climate change scares Europeans more than terrorism, unemployment or migration

Does the European Union Have The Ability To Protect Itself?

WION Edit: Is European Union Falling Apart? What Next For Nato?

Asian markets mostly rose Wednesday with a broadly upbeat tone across trading floors ahead of major meetings at the European and US central banks, while there is also a growing sense of optimism over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-trade-talks-to-restart-after-g20-tariff-truce-239483">China-US trade talks</a>.

News that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-asked-nsa-john-bolton-to-resign-tweets-us-president-donald-trump-248901">Donald Trump</a> had fired his fervently hawkish national security adviser also lifted sentiment with analysts saying it could see the White House take a less strident approach and ease geopolitical tensions.

With the global economy sputtering, attention has turned increasingly to central banks as investors look for more stimulus.

Watch Vidoe:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump fires NSA John Bolton

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On Thursday the European Central Bank holds one of its most anticipated gatherings and hopes are for a series of fresh measures including a possible interest rate cut, fresh bond-buying quantitative easing (QE) or other loosening tools.

That is followed by the Federal Reserve's board meeting next week, where it is tipped to announce another reduction in borrowing costs as the world's top economy which has so far been the strongest globally stutters.

"With the expectation of the resumption of quantitative easing by the ECB&nbsp;and a rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week, the risk environment has solidified and tempted investors out of hiding from the bond markets and back into equities," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA.

In the afternoon trade, Hong Kong climbed 1.6 per cent as investors made the most of the upbeat mood to pick up cheap stocks after months of sometimes violent protests in the city weighed on the stock market.

Tokyo finished one per cent higher, Singapore put on more than one per cent, Seoul rose 0.8 per cent, Sydney gained 0.4 per cent and Taipei added 0.3 per cent, while Manila, Mumbai, Bangkok, and Jakarta also posted gains.

However, Shanghai was fell 0.4 per cent, with little major reaction to the news that China had listed 16 US categories of goods it would exempt from tariffs, ahead of planned top-level trade talks next month. Dealers also appeared to brush off Beijing's decision on Tuesday to lift limits on foreign investment in the country.

Wellington tumbled almost two per cent as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's government was rocked by its handling of sexual assault allegations against a top Labour Party staffer.

In early trade London rose 0.5 per cent, Frankfurt jumped 0.6 per cent and Paris edged up 0.3 per cent.

Trump's decision to sack John Bolton as a leading security adviser raised the possibility of an easing of tensions between the US and several nations, particularly Iran.

The controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-security-adviser-john-bolton-to-urge-tougher-uk-stance-on-iran-and-china-242307">Bolton</a> was closely linked to the invasion of Iraq and other past aggressive US foreign policy decisions and was seen as one of the main driving forces in Trump's muscular approach to Tehran, North Korea, and Venezuela, among others.

Stephen Innes at AxiTrader said that while the move did not necessarily mean a huge change in policy direction, "it does eliminate the most vocal advocate for US military-enforced regime change in the Trump administration".

He added that "from a geopolitical risk perspective, it does lessen war risk premiums, especially in Syria, Venezuela, and Iran and opens the door to more friendly discussion with North Korea".

However, the possibility of dialling down in the stand-off between the US and Iran led to a plunge Tuesday in the price of oil, with WTI diving almost three per cent from an intraday high and Brent shedding 2.5 per cent.

The two contracts later clawed back some of the losses on bargain-buying expectations for more output cuts by leading producers led by Saudi Arabia.

In share trading companies linked to Apple enjoyed healthy buying after the US tech giant unveiled new iPhones, including a lower-priced offering, and set launch dates for its original video offering as well as its game subscription service.

In Tokyo, Alps Alpine surged three per cent, Japan Display put on nearly three per cent and Sharp rallied more than four per cent, while LG Display in Seoul was up two per cent in Seoul. Taipei-listed Foxconn rose by 0.2 per cent.

On forex markets, the positive vibe helped the dollar up against the safe-haven yen, while higher-yielding, riskier currencies edged up against the greenback.

The pound held its recent gains as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was pushing to strike a divorce agreement with the European Union, having lost a series of key votes to MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit.

Asian markets mostly rose Wednesday with a broadly upbeat tone across trading floors ahead of major meetings at the European and US central banks, while there is also a growing sense of optimism over China-US trade talks.

Asian markets mostly rose Wednesday with a broadly upbeat tone across trading floors ahead of major meetings at the European and US central banks, while there is also a growing sense of optimism over China-US trade talks. News that Donald Trump had fired his fervently hawkish national security adviser also lifted sentiment with analysts saying it could see the White House take a less strident approach and ease geopolitical tensions. With the global economy sputtering, attention has turned increasingly to central banks as investors look for more stimulus. Watch Vidoe: US President Donald Trump fires NSA John Bolton × On Thursday the European Central Bank holds one of its most anticipated gatherings and hopes are for a series of fresh measures including a possible interest rate cut, fresh bond-buying quantitative easing (QE) or other loosening tools. That is followed by the Federal Reserve's board meeting next week, where it is tipped to announce another reduction in borrowing costs as the world's top economy which has so far been the strongest globally stutters. "With the expectation of the resumption of quantitative easing by the ECB and a rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week, the risk environment has solidified and tempted investors out of hiding from the bond markets and back into equities," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA. In the afternoon trade, Hong Kong climbed 1.6 per cent as investors made the most of the upbeat mood to pick up cheap stocks after months of sometimes violent protests in the city weighed on the stock market. Tokyo finished one per cent higher, Singapore put on more than one per cent, Seoul rose 0.8 per cent, Sydney gained 0.4 per cent and Taipei added 0.3 per cent, while Manila, Mumbai, Bangkok, and Jakarta also posted gains. However, Shanghai was fell 0.4 per cent, with little major reaction to the news that China had listed 16 US categories of goods it would exempt from tariffs, ahead of planned top-level trade talks next month. Dealers also appeared to brush off Beijing's decision on Tuesday to lift limits on foreign investment in the country. Wellington tumbled almost two per cent as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's government was rocked by its handling of sexual assault allegations against a top Labour Party staffer. In early trade London rose 0.5 per cent, Frankfurt jumped 0.6 per cent and Paris edged up 0.3 per cent. Trump's decision to sack John Bolton as a leading security adviser raised the possibility of an easing of tensions between the US and several nations, particularly Iran. The controversial Bolton was closely linked to the invasion of Iraq and other past aggressive US foreign policy decisions and was seen as one of the main driving forces in Trump's muscular approach to Tehran, North Korea, and Venezuela, among others. Stephen Innes at AxiTrader said that while the move did not necessarily mean a huge change in policy direction, "it does eliminate the most vocal advocate for US military-enforced regime change in the Trump administration". He added that "from a geopolitical risk perspective, it does lessen war risk premiums, especially in Syria, Venezuela, and Iran and opens the door to more friendly discussion with North Korea". However, the possibility of dialling down in the stand-off between the US and Iran led to a plunge Tuesday in the price of oil, with WTI diving almost three per cent from an intraday high and Brent shedding 2.5 per cent. The two contracts later clawed back some of the losses on bargain-buying expectations for more output cuts by leading producers led by Saudi Arabia. In share trading companies linked to Apple enjoyed healthy buying after the US tech giant unveiled new iPhones, including a lower-priced offering, and set launch dates for its original video offering as well as its game subscription service. In Tokyo, Alps Alpine surged three per cent, Japan Display put on nearly three per cent and Sharp rallied more than four per cent, while LG Display in Seoul was up two per cent in Seoul. Taipei-listed Foxconn rose by 0.2 per cent. On forex markets, the positive vibe helped the dollar up against the safe-haven yen, while higher-yielding, riskier currencies edged up against the greenback. The pound held its recent gains as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was pushing to strike a divorce agreement with the European Union, having lost a series of key votes to MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit.

Asian markets extend gains over optimism on China-US trade talks

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/uk-brexit-minister-urges-european-union-to-reopen-withdrawal-deal-talks-234121">European</a> regulators have ordered inspections on some older Airbus A380 superjumbo aeroplanes after some cracks were detected in wings on the world's largest passenger aircraft.

The European Aviation Safety Agency directive, which formalises an instruction from the manufacturer itself, covers part of the outer wing on the 25 oldest aircraft, which first went into service in 2007 with <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/singapore-high-court-orders-freezing-of-accounts-of-nirav-modis-sister-brother-in-law-232328">Singapore</a> Airlines.

The company confirmed that small cracks have been found on the outer rear wing spars of early production A380 aircraft.

"We have identified the issue and designed an inspection and repair scheme," Airbus said in a statement, adding that the ongoing airworthiness of the A380 fleet was not affected.

In 2012, Airbus was forced to carry out A380 inspections and devise a costly repair program after cracks were found on part of the wings, the world's largest for a passenger plane.

European regulators have ordered inspections on some older Airbus A380 superjumbo aeroplanes after some cracks were detected in wings on the world's largest passenger aircraft.

European regulators have ordered inspections on some older Airbus A380 superjumbo aeroplanes after some cracks were detected in wings on the world's largest passenger aircraft. The European Aviation Safety Agency directive, which formalises an instruction from the manufacturer itself, covers part of the outer wing on the 25 oldest aircraft, which first went into service in 2007 with Singapore Airlines. The company confirmed that small cracks have been found on the outer rear wing spars of early production A380 aircraft. "We have identified the issue and designed an inspection and repair scheme," Airbus said in a statement, adding that the ongoing airworthiness of the A380 fleet was not affected. In 2012, Airbus was forced to carry out A380 inspections and devise a costly repair program after cracks were found on part of the wings, the world's largest for a passenger plane.

Inspections ordered on some Airbus A380 airplanes after wing cracks found

The US on Monday threatened to impose <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-set-for-trade-talks-with-us-on-march-6-amid-concern-over-tariffs-201134&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi2vPzDmMLhAhWad94KHch8DJIQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Yk0M-aoR0ub3iSWNaTvJu">tariff</a> counter-measures of up to $11.2 billion on a host of European products in response to subsidies received by aircraft maker Airbus.

For more than 14 years, Washington and Brussels have accused each other of unfairly subsidising Boeing and Airbus, respectively, in a tit-for-tat dispute.&nbsp;

In a statement Monday, the office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) said the World Trade Organization (WTO) had repeatedly found that European subsidies to Airbus have caused adverse effects to the United States. &nbsp;

"This case has been in litigation for 14 years, and the time has come for action," said US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.

"Our ultimate goal is to reach an agreement with the EU to end all WTO-inconsistent subsidies to large civil aircraft. &nbsp;When the EU ends these harmful subsidies, the additional US duties imposed in response can be lifted."

The statement added that the final amount it would seek in duties was subject to arbitration at the WTO, the result of which was expected in the summer.

The USTR's preliminary list extends to 14 pages and contains a number of products in the civil aviation sector, including Airbus aircraft.

It also contains food products such as swordfish, salmon, cheeses, fruits, olive oil and wines, along with clothes.

Complicated trade spat&nbsp;

The Boeing-Airbus spat is the longest and most complicated dispute dealt with by the WTO, which aims to create a level playing field in global trade.

Both Airbus and Boeing have scored points along the way.

The WTO ruled in March 2012 that billions of dollars of subsidies to Boeing were illegal and notified the United States to end them.

But a few months later, the European Union filed a new complaint, alleging Washington was not complying with that order.

In a ruling published in June 2017, the WTO said the US had brought 28 of 29 programmes into compliance but agreed with Brussels that Washington had not taken "appropriate steps to remove the adverse effects or... withdraw the subsidy" in the case of Washington state.

The EU and the US appealed against that to the WTO Appellate Body, which on last month echoed the 2017 finding, although it appeared to take a harsher line against the American side.

The EU was also reprimanded by the WTO during the tit-for-tat conflict between Airbus and Boeing, and the US asked the WTO to determine the amount it could impose in sanctions against the European Union for failing to comply in removing subsidies.&nbsp;

The USTR said Monday that once that report is issued, it will announce a full product list, which comes after months of trade tensions between the US and the EU.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's administration has made punitive tariffs something of a signature, imposing many and frequently threatening them as a negotiation tactic: and the EU was no exception.

The EU and the US have been working to set in motion a limited trade pact as part of a truce agreed in July when Trump and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker pledged no new tariffs following those imposed on steel and aluminium.

The USTR's statement also comes as Boeing faces a crisis over its 737 MAX aircraft, which is grounded over safety fears following two fatal accidents.

The US on Monday threatened to impose tariff counter-measures of up to $11.2 billion on a host of European products in response to subsidies received by aircraft maker Airbus.

The US on Monday threatened to impose tariff counter-measures of up to $11.2 billion on a host of European products in response to subsidies received by aircraft maker Airbus. For more than 14 years, Washington and Brussels have accused each other of unfairly subsidising Boeing and Airbus, respectively, in a tit-for-tat dispute. In a statement Monday, the office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) said the World Trade Organization (WTO) had repeatedly found that European subsidies to Airbus have caused adverse effects to the United States. "This case has been in litigation for 14 years, and the time has come for action," said US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. "Our ultimate goal is to reach an agreement with the EU to end all WTO-inconsistent subsidies to large civil aircraft. When the EU ends these harmful subsidies, the additional US duties imposed in response can be lifted." The statement added that the final amount it would seek in duties was subject to arbitration at the WTO, the result of which was expected in the summer. The USTR's preliminary list extends to 14 pages and contains a number of products in the civil aviation sector, including Airbus aircraft. It also contains food products such as swordfish, salmon, cheeses, fruits, olive oil and wines, along with clothes. Complicated trade spat The Boeing-Airbus spat is the longest and most complicated dispute dealt with by the WTO, which aims to create a level playing field in global trade. Both Airbus and Boeing have scored points along the way. The WTO ruled in March 2012 that billions of dollars of subsidies to Boeing were illegal and notified the United States to end them. But a few months later, the European Union filed a new complaint, alleging Washington was not complying with that order. In a ruling published in June 2017, the WTO said the US had brought 28 of 29 programmes into compliance but agreed with Brussels that Washington had not taken "appropriate steps to remove the adverse effects or... withdraw the subsidy" in the case of Washington state. The EU and the US appealed against that to the WTO Appellate Body, which on last month echoed the 2017 finding, although it appeared to take a harsher line against the American side. The EU was also reprimanded by the WTO during the tit-for-tat conflict between Airbus and Boeing, and the US asked the WTO to determine the amount it could impose in sanctions against the European Union for failing to comply in removing subsidies. The USTR said Monday that once that report is issued, it will announce a full product list, which comes after months of trade tensions between the US and the EU. US President Donald Trump's administration has made punitive tariffs something of a signature, imposing many and frequently threatening them as a negotiation tactic: and the EU was no exception. The EU and the US have been working to set in motion a limited trade pact as part of a truce agreed in July when Trump and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker pledged no new tariffs following those imposed on steel and aluminium. The USTR's statement also comes as Boeing faces a crisis over its 737 MAX aircraft, which is grounded over safety fears following two fatal accidents.

US threatens new tariffs on EU products over Airbus subsidies

China is under EU scanner on Uighur Muslims

The fate of foreigners who joined Islamic State has become an increasingly urgent issue as US-backed fighters prepare to capture the militant group's last stronghold in eastern Syria.

The Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces say they are holding 800 foreign fighters, with 700 of their wives and 1,500 of their children living separately in camps. Dozens of more militants and family members have been arriving daily.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Sunday European countries must do more to take back their citizens or they will be released. The SDF says it has no intention of freeing them, but they could escape in future if the area is attacked.

European countries say they are working on how to deal with their citizens who want to come home, including investigating and prosecuting those guilty of crimes.

But they say this is made more complicated because diplomats cannot operate in territory held by the SDF, which is not internationally recognised, and they worry that the Trump administration's decision to withdraw its 2,000-strong force from Syria means there will not be enough time to respond.

According to European police agency Europol, some 5,000 Europeans -- most from Britain, France, Germany and Belgium -- went to fight in Syria and Iraq, of whom some 1,500 have returned.

Following is a breakdown by country of Europeans believed to have travelled to Syria or Iraq.

Britain

British officials estimate around 900 people from the United Kingdom went to the Syria region. Around a fifth have died and about half have returned, so around 360 remain in the region. Officials noted that not all of those who went to the Syria region were extremists: some went with genuine charitable intentions. Of those who went to fight, not all joined Islamic State, though most of those left in the region are thought to represent militant elements.

The issue has gained greater attention in recent days as news organisations have run interviews with Shamima Begum, a pregnant 19-year-old who left London to become an Islamic State bride as a schoolgirl.

Belgium

The Belgian threat assessment centre OCAD/OCAM says 442 Belgians left for Syria or Iraq, of whom 130 have returned and 142 have been killed. Six Belgian men, 17 women and 32 children are being held in Syria, and two men are jailed in Iraq.

Denmark

The latest data available from Denmark's security and intelligence service dates to January 2018. The authorities believe at least 150 people have left Denmark for Syria or Iraq since the summer of 2012 to join militant Islamist groups. More than a third have returned to Denmark and at least a quarter are presumed dead. Roughly one fifth are still in the conflict zone, with the rest located in third countries.

France

French officials and the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation and Political Violence estimate that 800-1,500 people have travelled from France to join Islamic State. French officials estimate that around 300 have been killed and a similar number have returned to France.

Of those that remain in Syria and Iraq, diplomats and military officials said two weeks ago that Kurdish-led forces were holding about 150 French citizens in northeastern Syria. An estimated 100 French citizens are believed to be left in the last pocket of Islamic State fighters, although it is not clear if that includes families and children. A further 150 French fighters and children are in Idlib, French officials have said.

Germany

According to the German authorities, around 1050 people from Germany have travelled to Syria and Iraq since 2013, around one-third of whom have returned. Around 270 women and children from Germany are now in Syria and Iraq. Around 75 per cent of the children are under the age of three years old and believed to have been born in the conflict zone. The Interior Ministry estimates the number of Germans in the custody of the Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria as in the high double digits.

Netherlands

The Dutch intelligence agency AIVD says about 315 people left the Netherlands for Syria or Iraq with the intention of joining the militants, about two-thirds of the men and one-third women. About 55 are believed to have returned, 85 are believed to have died, 135 are still in the conflict area and 40 are either in third countries or in detention in the region.

Sources told Reuters last year that as many as 175 children with the right to Dutch citizenship were believed to be in the conflict zone.

Switzerland

In its 2018 annual report, Switzerland's intelligence service identified 93 cases of jihadi travellers who had left the country for war zones, including 79 who went to Syria or Iraq. Dozens of them had died and 16 had returned to Switzerland, it said. 
&nbsp;

The fate of foreigners who joined Islamic State has become an increasingly urgent issue as US-backed fighters prepare to capture the militant group's last stronghold in eastern Syria.

The fate of foreigners who joined Islamic State has become an increasingly urgent issue as US-backed fighters prepare to capture the militant group's last stronghold in eastern Syria. The Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces say they are holding 800 foreign fighters, with 700 of their wives and 1,500 of their children living separately in camps. Dozens of more militants and family members have been arriving daily. US President Donald Trump said on Sunday European countries must do more to take back their citizens or they will be released. The SDF says it has no intention of freeing them, but they could escape in future if the area is attacked. European countries say they are working on how to deal with their citizens who want to come home, including investigating and prosecuting those guilty of crimes. But they say this is made more complicated because diplomats cannot operate in territory held by the SDF, which is not internationally recognised, and they worry that the Trump administration's decision to withdraw its 2,000-strong force from Syria means there will not be enough time to respond. According to European police agency Europol, some 5,000 Europeans -- most from Britain, France, Germany and Belgium -- went to fight in Syria and Iraq, of whom some 1,500 have returned. Following is a breakdown by country of Europeans believed to have travelled to Syria or Iraq. Britain British officials estimate around 900 people from the United Kingdom went to the Syria region. Around a fifth have died and about half have returned, so around 360 remain in the region. Officials noted that not all of those who went to the Syria region were extremists: some went with genuine charitable intentions. Of those who went to fight, not all joined Islamic State, though most of those left in the region are thought to represent militant elements. The issue has gained greater attention in recent days as news organisations have run interviews with Shamima Begum, a pregnant 19-year-old who left London to become an Islamic State bride as a schoolgirl. Belgium The Belgian threat assessment centre OCAD/OCAM says 442 Belgians left for Syria or Iraq, of whom 130 have returned and 142 have been killed. Six Belgian men, 17 women and 32 children are being held in Syria, and two men are jailed in Iraq. Denmark The latest data available from Denmark's security and intelligence service dates to January 2018. The authorities believe at least 150 people have left Denmark for Syria or Iraq since the summer of 2012 to join militant Islamist groups. More than a third have returned to Denmark and at least a quarter are presumed dead. Roughly one fifth are still in the conflict zone, with the rest located in third countries. France French officials and the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation and Political Violence estimate that 800-1,500 people have travelled from France to join Islamic State. French officials estimate that around 300 have been killed and a similar number have returned to France. Of those that remain in Syria and Iraq, diplomats and military officials said two weeks ago that Kurdish-led forces were holding about 150 French citizens in northeastern Syria. An estimated 100 French citizens are believed to be left in the last pocket of Islamic State fighters, although it is not clear if that includes families and children. A further 150 French fighters and children are in Idlib, French officials have said. Germany According to the German authorities, around 1050 people from Germany have travelled to Syria and Iraq since 2013, around one-third of whom have returned. Around 270 women and children from Germany are now in Syria and Iraq. Around 75 per cent of the children are under the age of three years old and believed to have been born in the conflict zone. The Interior Ministry estimates the number of Germans in the custody of the Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria as in the high double digits. Netherlands The Dutch intelligence agency AIVD says about 315 people left the Netherlands for Syria or Iraq with the intention of joining the militants, about two-thirds of the men and one-third women. About 55 are believed to have returned, 85 are believed to have died, 135 are still in the conflict area and 40 are either in third countries or in detention in the region. Sources told Reuters last year that as many as 175 children with the right to Dutch citizenship were believed to be in the conflict zone. Switzerland In its 2018 annual report, Switzerland's intelligence service identified 93 cases of jihadi travellers who had left the country for war zones, including 79 who went to Syria or Iraq. Dozens of them had died and 16 had returned to Switzerland, it said.

Factbox: Europeans who joined Islamic State

The BJP Tuesday accused Rahul Gandhi of working as a "lobbyist" for foreign firms and asserted that the e-mail he cited to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to some chopper deal and not the purchase of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-table-cag-report-on-rafale-deal-in-parliament-tuesday-196795">Rafale fighter jet</a> as the Congress president claimed.

After Gandhi accused Modi of "treason" claiming that businessman Anil Ambani was aware in advance of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-modi-government-followed-upas-policy-on-inter-governmental-agreements-196598">Rafale deal India </a>and France had signed in 2015, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad dismissed his charges as "height of shamelessness and irresponsibility" and dubbed him a "lying machine".

The Union minister also put Airbus, whose internal e-mail was cited by the Congress president, in a dock, saying the European aircraft manufacturer is under a needle of suspicion in deals finalised during the previous Congress-led government.

The firm is also linked to a corporate lobbyist, who was recently deported from the UAE and is being probed on money laundering charges, he alleged.

"Let Rahul Gandhi explain where did he get an internal e-mail of Airbus.&nbsp;

Who is supplying him? ...There cannot be a bigger thing than this that he is working as a lobbyist for foreign firms," Prasad said.

He also took strong exception to the Congress leader charging Modi with "treason", saying his party had serious differences with former prime ministers coming from the Gandhi family over several "murky" defence deals signed during their term but it never accused them of treason.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) has thrown muck at his own face by abusing our honest prime minister... We will expose his lies before the public," he said. 
Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the government over baseless claims, he said.

Earlier Tuesday, Gandhi accused Modi of acting as a "middleman" of Anil Ambani in the Rafale jet deal, as he cited the e-mail to claim the businessman was aware of the MoU before India and France signed it. 
In a scathing counter-attack targeting the Gandhi family, the BJP leader alleged that its members "looted" the country and that both Sonia and Rahul Gandhi are on bail in a case of "land grab", a reference to the National Herald case.

When they were in power, they made money by "brokering" deals and have now become a lobbyist for foreign firms for making money, Prasad added.

Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra is facing probe and he has the temerity to question our honest prime minister, he said.

"This is the height of shamelessness and irresponsibility. He called the prime minister traitor. What else we can expect from this lying machine," he said.

To Gandhi's dismissal of the CAG report on the Rafale deal as "Chowkidar auditor general" report, the BJP leader said the Congress has a tendency to target institutions when their stand does not suit them. 
&nbsp;

The BJP Tuesday accused Rahul Gandhi of working as a "lobbyist" for foreign firms and asserted that the e-mail he cited to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to some chopper deal and not the purchase of Rafale fighter jet as the Congress president claimed.

The BJP Tuesday accused Rahul Gandhi of working as a "lobbyist" for foreign firms and asserted that the e-mail he cited to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to some chopper deal and not the purchase of Rafale fighter jet as the Congress president claimed. After Gandhi accused Modi of "treason" claiming that businessman Anil Ambani was aware in advance of the Rafale deal India and France had signed in 2015, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad dismissed his charges as "height of shamelessness and irresponsibility" and dubbed him a "lying machine". The Union minister also put Airbus, whose internal e-mail was cited by the Congress president, in a dock, saying the European aircraft manufacturer is under a needle of suspicion in deals finalised during the previous Congress-led government. The firm is also linked to a corporate lobbyist, who was recently deported from the UAE and is being probed on money laundering charges, he alleged. "Let Rahul Gandhi explain where did he get an internal e-mail of Airbus. Who is supplying him? ...There cannot be a bigger thing than this that he is working as a lobbyist for foreign firms," Prasad said. He also took strong exception to the Congress leader charging Modi with "treason", saying his party had serious differences with former prime ministers coming from the Gandhi family over several "murky" defence deals signed during their term but it never accused them of treason. "He (Rahul Gandhi) has thrown muck at his own face by abusing our honest prime minister... We will expose his lies before the public," he said. Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the government over baseless claims, he said. Earlier Tuesday, Gandhi accused Modi of acting as a "middleman" of Anil Ambani in the Rafale jet deal, as he cited the e-mail to claim the businessman was aware of the MoU before India and France signed it. In a scathing counter-attack targeting the Gandhi family, the BJP leader alleged that its members "looted" the country and that both Sonia and Rahul Gandhi are on bail in a case of "land grab", a reference to the National Herald case. When they were in power, they made money by "brokering" deals and have now become a lobbyist for foreign firms for making money, Prasad added. Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra is facing probe and he has the temerity to question our honest prime minister, he said. "This is the height of shamelessness and irresponsibility. He called the prime minister traitor. What else we can expect from this lying machine," he said. To Gandhi's dismissal of the CAG report on the Rafale deal as "Chowkidar auditor general" report, the BJP leader said the Congress has a tendency to target institutions when their stand does not suit them.

BJP accuses Rahul Gandhi of acting as a defence lobbyist

India's latest communication<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-successfully-launches-pslv-c44-rocket-carrying-kalamsat-microsatr-192577"> satellite</a> GSAT-31 was successfully launched by European launch services provider- Arianespace rocket from French Guiana in the early hours of Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-isros-five-successful-satellite-missions-in-2018-184234">In pics: A busy year for ISRO with several rocket launches</a>

Blasting off from Ariane Launch Complex at Kourou, a French territory located in the northeastern coast of South America at 02:31 am (IST), the Ariane-5 vehicle-injected GSAT-31 into the orbit in a flawless flight lasting about 42 minutes.

"It gives me great pleasure on the successful launch of GSAT-31 spacecraft onboard Ariane-5, this is the third mission for ISRO in 2019," Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) Director S Pandian said at Kourou soon after the launch.

"Congratulation to Arianespace on the successful launch and precise injection of a satellite into the orbit," he added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISROMissions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISROMissions</a> 🇮🇳 
 
Here's a lift-off video from <a href="https://twitter.com/Arianespace?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arianespace</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GSAT31?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GSAT31</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ariane5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ariane5</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VA247?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VA247</a>) <a href="https://t.co/mHvltAXC1Y">pic.twitter.com/mHvltAXC1Y</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1092947417551392769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Arianespace CEO Stephane Israel tweeted: "2019 is off to a roaring start for #Arianespace! Flight #VA247, carrying Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4 and GSAT-31, is a confirmed success that underscores our leadership position in the geostationary launch market. @KACST #HellasSat @ISRO @LockheedMartin."

Weighing about 2,535 kg, the GSAT-31 will provide continuity to operational services on some of the in-orbit satellites.&nbsp;

The satellite derives its heritage from ISRO's earlier INSAT/GSAT satellite series, the space agency said, adding that it provides Indian mainland and island coverage.

GSAT-31 is the country's 40th communication satellite which is configured on ISRO's enhanced 'I-2K Bus', utilising the maximum "bus capabilities" of this type.

This satellite will augment the Ku-band transponder capacity in Geostationary Orbit, ISRO said.&nbsp;

With a mission life of around 15 years, GSAT-31 will be used for supporting VSAT networks, Television uplinks, Digital Satellite News Gathering, DTH-television services, cellular backhaul connectivity and many such applications.&nbsp;

It also provides wide beam coverage to facilitate communication over the large oceanic region, comprising large parts of Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, using a wideband transponder.&nbsp;

According to ISRO, two Ku-band beacon downlink signals are transmitted for ground tracking purpose.&nbsp;

The Ariane-5 vehicle (Flight VA247) also carried Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4 along with GSAT-31.&nbsp;

Riding in Ariane 5's upper position, HS-4/SGS-1 was released first in the flight sequence, with its separation occurring about 27 minutes after liftoff.&nbsp;

Comprising two payloads, Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4, also called HS- 4/SGS-1 is a geostationary condosat for KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology Saudi Arabia) and Hellas Sat (Greece Cyprus).&nbsp;

HS- 4/SGS-1 will provide telecommunication capabilities, including television, Internet, telephone and secure communications in the Middle East, South Africa and Europe, Arianespace said on its website.&nbsp;

GSAT-30 is another geostationary satellite to be lofted soon by Arianespace. Since the launch of India's APPLE experimental satellite on Ariane Flight L03 in 1981, Arianespace has orbited 23 satellites and signed 24 launch contracts with the Indian space agency, the European launch services provider said.

India's latest communication satellite GSAT-31 was successfully launched by European launch services provider- Arianespace rocket from French Guiana in the early hours of Wednesday.

India's latest communication satellite GSAT-31 was successfully launched by European launch services provider- Arianespace rocket from French Guiana in the early hours of Wednesday. In pics: A busy year for ISRO with several rocket launches Blasting off from Ariane Launch Complex at Kourou, a French territory located in the northeastern coast of South America at 02:31 am (IST), the Ariane-5 vehicle-injected GSAT-31 into the orbit in a flawless flight lasting about 42 minutes. "It gives me great pleasure on the successful launch of GSAT-31 spacecraft onboard Ariane-5, this is the third mission for ISRO in 2019," Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) Director S Pandian said at Kourou soon after the launch. "Congratulation to Arianespace on the successful launch and precise injection of a satellite into the orbit," he added. 🇮🇳 #ISROMissions 🇮🇳 Here's a lift-off video from @Arianespace.#GSAT31#Ariane5 (#VA247) pic.twitter.com/mHvltAXC1Y — ISRO (@isro) February 6, 2019 × Arianespace CEO Stephane Israel tweeted: "2019 is off to a roaring start for #Arianespace! Flight #VA247, carrying Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4 and GSAT-31, is a confirmed success that underscores our leadership position in the geostationary launch market. @KACST #HellasSat @ISRO @LockheedMartin." Weighing about 2,535 kg, the GSAT-31 will provide continuity to operational services on some of the in-orbit satellites. The satellite derives its heritage from ISRO's earlier INSAT/GSAT satellite series, the space agency said, adding that it provides Indian mainland and island coverage. GSAT-31 is the country's 40th communication satellite which is configured on ISRO's enhanced 'I-2K Bus', utilising the maximum "bus capabilities" of this type. This satellite will augment the Ku-band transponder capacity in Geostationary Orbit, ISRO said. With a mission life of around 15 years, GSAT-31 will be used for supporting VSAT networks, Television uplinks, Digital Satellite News Gathering, DTH-television services, cellular backhaul connectivity and many such applications. It also provides wide beam coverage to facilitate communication over the large oceanic region, comprising large parts of Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, using a wideband transponder. According to ISRO, two Ku-band beacon downlink signals are transmitted for ground tracking purpose. The Ariane-5 vehicle (Flight VA247) also carried Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4 along with GSAT-31. Riding in Ariane 5's upper position, HS-4/SGS-1 was released first in the flight sequence, with its separation occurring about 27 minutes after liftoff. Comprising two payloads, Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4, also called HS- 4/SGS-1 is a geostationary condosat for KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology Saudi Arabia) and Hellas Sat (Greece Cyprus). HS- 4/SGS-1 will provide telecommunication capabilities, including television, Internet, telephone and secure communications in the Middle East, South Africa and Europe, Arianespace said on its website. GSAT-30 is another geostationary satellite to be lofted soon by Arianespace. Since the launch of India's APPLE experimental satellite on Ariane Flight L03 in 1981, Arianespace has orbited 23 satellites and signed 24 launch contracts with the Indian space agency, the European launch services provider said.

Watch: India launches communication satellite GSAT-31 onboard European launch vehicle

The British government on Wednesday played down concerns that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/how-europe-reacted-to-brexit-deal-defeat-190587&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjHwbDerobgAhUGS48KHduaDnQQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ONpHjI7NlHcUTKnXTjxSj">Brexit </a>is scaring away businesses after Sony said it was moving its European headquarters to the Netherlands amid a bitter political stalemate in London.

With just over two months to go until the scheduled date of Brexit on March 29, and with no divorce deal in place, Britain faces the prospect of an imminent and chaotic departure from the European Union after 46 years of membership.

Interviewed by AFP at the World Economic Forum in Davos, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said Britain remained "open for business".

Britain "is an attractive destination for foreign direct investment — and that during the time where there's been uncertainty over Brexit," Fox said.

Japanese electronics giant Sony said it was moving its headquarters' registration by the end of March to avoid Brexit-related customs issues.

Its rival Panasonic last year also moved its European headquarters from Britain to the Netherlands over concerns about potential Brexit-related tax issues.

Several other Japanese firms, including megabank MUFG, Nomura Holdings, Daiwa Securities and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, have said they are planning to move their main EU bases out of London since the 2016 Brexit vote.

France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands have all benefited from companies moving out of London, although the large impact predicted by some on Britain's financial sector has so far failed to materialise.

Dutch officials are in contact with more than 250 companies about a possible post-Brexit move, the government there said Wednesday.

The Dutch government will announce a final figure in February but "every new arrival of business, big or small, is a success," Michiel Bakhuizen, a spokesman for the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency, told AFP.

EU 'ready to be more ambitious'&nbsp;

Britain has been in a state of political upheaval since last week when parliament rejected the withdrawal deal negotiated by <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/attempts-to-delay-brexit-do-not-solve-the-issue-says-uk-pm-theresa-may-192319&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjGwND0robgAhVBs48KHa9BBdwQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0frJRYi9tQtdTQxpw6UMpm">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> with the EU, leaving the UK on course for a no-deal Brexit on March 29.

Brussels negotiator Michel Barnier on Wednesday warned the British government would still face a multi-billion euro divorce settlement with the EU under such a scenario.

Some anti-EU campaigners, opposed to a negotiated settlement with Brussels, baulk at the idea of settling a bill that their own government estimates at £39 billion (44 billion euros) to cover outstanding obligations.

But Barnier, in interviews with several European newspapers, said the bill would still be due.

"For the EU budget, we've always said one simple thing: the totality of the commitments made by the United Kingdom while still an EU member will be respected," the senior EU official said, according to Le Monde.

Separately in the interview, given also to Luxemburger Wort and Poland's Rzeczpospolita, Barnier restated the consensus EU position that the withdrawal deal must stand and that it is up to May's government to find a way to save it.

But he suggested that Brussels would be flexible and modify the political declaration on hopes for future ties, agreed alongside the binding withdrawal deal if Britain were to compromise on May's positions.

"We are ready to be more ambitious if the British decide to shift their red lines, for example by remaining in a customs union, or participating in the single market," he said, according to the Luxemburger Wort.&nbsp;

"I believe there is a readiness in London for that."

Manufacturing sentiment drops 
&nbsp; 
The political crisis in London comes against a backdrop of growing economic gloom, with business leaders warning politicians of the effects of Brexit uncertainty.

A Confederation of British Industry survey of 326 manufacturing firms on Wednesday found that new orders flattened in the quarter to January and sentiment about both the business situation and export prospects tumbled.

Business concerns are particularly high over the prospect of a no-deal Brexit, which could immediately impose high tariffs on key exports such as food and cars.

A disruptive Brexit could also have a major impact on transport hubs such as ports and airports.

The British government on Wednesday played down concerns that Brexit is scaring away businesses after Sony said it was moving its European headquarters to the Netherlands amid a bitter political stalemate in London.

The British government on Wednesday played down concerns that Brexit is scaring away businesses after Sony said it was moving its European headquarters to the Netherlands amid a bitter political stalemate in London. With just over two months to go until the scheduled date of Brexit on March 29, and with no divorce deal in place, Britain faces the prospect of an imminent and chaotic departure from the European Union after 46 years of membership. Interviewed by AFP at the World Economic Forum in Davos, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said Britain remained "open for business". Britain "is an attractive destination for foreign direct investment — and that during the time where there's been uncertainty over Brexit," Fox said. Japanese electronics giant Sony said it was moving its headquarters' registration by the end of March to avoid Brexit-related customs issues. Its rival Panasonic last year also moved its European headquarters from Britain to the Netherlands over concerns about potential Brexit-related tax issues. Several other Japanese firms, including megabank MUFG, Nomura Holdings, Daiwa Securities and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, have said they are planning to move their main EU bases out of London since the 2016 Brexit vote. France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands have all benefited from companies moving out of London, although the large impact predicted by some on Britain's financial sector has so far failed to materialise. Dutch officials are in contact with more than 250 companies about a possible post-Brexit move, the government there said Wednesday. The Dutch government will announce a final figure in February but "every new arrival of business, big or small, is a success," Michiel Bakhuizen, a spokesman for the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency, told AFP. EU 'ready to be more ambitious' Britain has been in a state of political upheaval since last week when parliament rejected the withdrawal deal negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May with the EU, leaving the UK on course for a no-deal Brexit on March 29. Brussels negotiator Michel Barnier on Wednesday warned the British government would still face a multi-billion euro divorce settlement with the EU under such a scenario. Some anti-EU campaigners, opposed to a negotiated settlement with Brussels, baulk at the idea of settling a bill that their own government estimates at £39 billion (44 billion euros) to cover outstanding obligations. But Barnier, in interviews with several European newspapers, said the bill would still be due. "For the EU budget, we've always said one simple thing: the totality of the commitments made by the United Kingdom while still an EU member will be respected," the senior EU official said, according to Le Monde. Separately in the interview, given also to Luxemburger Wort and Poland's Rzeczpospolita, Barnier restated the consensus EU position that the withdrawal deal must stand and that it is up to May's government to find a way to save it. But he suggested that Brussels would be flexible and modify the political declaration on hopes for future ties, agreed alongside the binding withdrawal deal if Britain were to compromise on May's positions. "We are ready to be more ambitious if the British decide to shift their red lines, for example by remaining in a customs union, or participating in the single market," he said, according to the Luxemburger Wort. "I believe there is a readiness in London for that." Manufacturing sentiment drops The political crisis in London comes against a backdrop of growing economic gloom, with business leaders warning politicians of the effects of Brexit uncertainty. A Confederation of British Industry survey of 326 manufacturing firms on Wednesday found that new orders flattened in the quarter to January and sentiment about both the business situation and export prospects tumbled. Business concerns are particularly high over the prospect of a no-deal Brexit, which could immediately impose high tariffs on key exports such as food and cars. A disruptive Brexit could also have a major impact on transport hubs such as ports and airports.

UK plays down concerns over Brexit as Sony moves European headquarters to Netherlands

In a letter to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan the Members of European Parliament have expressed concern over the threats to Asia Bibi (Aasiya Noreen), who was recently acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court in a Blasphemy Case.

The letter is signed by 197 EU politicians including from states that provide financial assistance to Pakistan. They have demanded safe passage for Asia Bibi as the Islamic fundamentalists have threatened to kill her.

Asia Bibi was convicted of Blasphemy eight years ago and sentenced to death by hanging. It was alleged that she made derogatory remarks about Islam after others objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not a Muslim.

In a letter sent to Imran Khan, EU politicians said: "We celebrated the decision of the Supreme Court to acquit Asia Bibi and were pleased to see the government defend the judiciary in the days that followed. However, it has since been reported that because of the political deal struck with Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, Asia Bibi is, once again, effectively on death row"."We are aware that a review of the Supreme Court verdict could take years, leaving Asia incarcerated for that time or vulnerable to mob violence if released", said the letter.

It further stated: "We understand that the decision to review the ruling was made for political, rather than legal, reasons. What happens next in this sad story will show the world whether Pakistan is a nation that respects the rule of law, or whether political interests will prevail."

''The Members of European Parliament said Pakistan must maintain the rule of law and such incidents will hugely impact the country economically."

Investors and businesses need confidence in justice for the sake of contracts, employees, and reputation. Likewise, other nations will be less likely to invest in Pakistan if the rule of law is undermined. Therefore, we urge in the strongest possible terms the Government of Pakistan to guarantee safe passage for Asiya, her family, and any of those under threat due to their part in the decision to acquit her, to any country that accepts them," the letter said.

In a letter to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan the Members of European Parliament have expressed concern over the threats to Asia Bibi (Aasiya Noreen), who was recently acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court in a Blasphemy Case.

In a letter to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan the Members of European Parliament have expressed concern over the threats to Asia Bibi (Aasiya Noreen), who was recently acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court in a Blasphemy Case. The letter is signed by 197 EU politicians including from states that provide financial assistance to Pakistan. They have demanded safe passage for Asia Bibi as the Islamic fundamentalists have threatened to kill her. Asia Bibi was convicted of Blasphemy eight years ago and sentenced to death by hanging. It was alleged that she made derogatory remarks about Islam after others objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not a Muslim. In a letter sent to Imran Khan, EU politicians said: "We celebrated the decision of the Supreme Court to acquit Asia Bibi and were pleased to see the government defend the judiciary in the days that followed. However, it has since been reported that because of the political deal struck with Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, Asia Bibi is, once again, effectively on death row"."We are aware that a review of the Supreme Court verdict could take years, leaving Asia incarcerated for that time or vulnerable to mob violence if released", said the letter. It further stated: "We understand that the decision to review the ruling was made for political, rather than legal, reasons. What happens next in this sad story will show the world whether Pakistan is a nation that respects the rule of law, or whether political interests will prevail." ''The Members of European Parliament said Pakistan must maintain the rule of law and such incidents will hugely impact the country economically." Investors and businesses need confidence in justice for the sake of contracts, employees, and reputation. Likewise, other nations will be less likely to invest in Pakistan if the rule of law is undermined. Therefore, we urge in the strongest possible terms the Government of Pakistan to guarantee safe passage for Asiya, her family, and any of those under threat due to their part in the decision to acquit her, to any country that accepts them," the letter said.

EU politicians demand safe passage for Asia Bibi

Exiled political activists from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) gathered outside the European Parliament in Brussels to protest against Pakistan-sponsored atrocities and plundering of resources in the region.

The activists raised slogans against Islamabad blaming it for the construction of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydro Power Project and Diamer Bhasha Dam that has not only severely affected the flora and fauna of the region, but have left the common people reeling under abject poverty.

"We are here in Brussels in front of the European Parliament demonstrating against the plundering of the natural resources of Kashmiri people (in Pakistan). We are here to protest against the state brutality and for the people who are suffering because of the policies of the Pakistani government. We are actually protesting against their policies, their nefarious designs," said Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, Chairman of the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP).

Another UKPNP activist, named Jamil Maqsood, said, "The fundamental purpose of this demonstration was to highlight the human rights violations in the Pakistan administered Kashmir and occupied Gilgit-Baltistan because Pakistan is constructing Neelum Jhelum hydropower project and Diamer Bhasha dam in Gilgit Baltistan and in both these areas, people have been asked to leave their properties and leave their land without paying them any alternative land and without paying them any compensation".

He added, "In Muzaffarabad, they (Pakistani government) have diverted Neelum river which is at the brink of extinction. It is completely destroyed and approximately hundreds of thousands of people in Neelum, Muzaffarabad and other lower riparian areas are deprived of the basic necessity of water."

Activists from Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Mohajirs also joined the protest to raise the issue of human rights violations as Islamabad has employed similar repressive patterns in their provinces.

Pakistan has been according to a second-class citizen treatment to the people of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh. This diabolic pattern of suppressing its own people has witnessed a significant escalation since the advent of the multi-billion dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Exiled political activists from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) gathered outside the European Parliament in Brussels to protest against Pakistan-sponsored atrocities and plundering of resources in the region.

Exiled political activists from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) gathered outside the European Parliament in Brussels to protest against Pakistan-sponsored atrocities and plundering of resources in the region. The activists raised slogans against Islamabad blaming it for the construction of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydro Power Project and Diamer Bhasha Dam that has not only severely affected the flora and fauna of the region, but have left the common people reeling under abject poverty. "We are here in Brussels in front of the European Parliament demonstrating against the plundering of the natural resources of Kashmiri people (in Pakistan). We are here to protest against the state brutality and for the people who are suffering because of the policies of the Pakistani government. We are actually protesting against their policies, their nefarious designs," said Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, Chairman of the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP). Another UKPNP activist, named Jamil Maqsood, said, "The fundamental purpose of this demonstration was to highlight the human rights violations in the Pakistan administered Kashmir and occupied Gilgit-Baltistan because Pakistan is constructing Neelum Jhelum hydropower project and Diamer Bhasha dam in Gilgit Baltistan and in both these areas, people have been asked to leave their properties and leave their land without paying them any alternative land and without paying them any compensation". He added, "In Muzaffarabad, they (Pakistani government) have diverted Neelum river which is at the brink of extinction. It is completely destroyed and approximately hundreds of thousands of people in Neelum, Muzaffarabad and other lower riparian areas are deprived of the basic necessity of water." Activists from Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Mohajirs also joined the protest to raise the issue of human rights violations as Islamabad has employed similar repressive patterns in their provinces. Pakistan has been according to a second-class citizen treatment to the people of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh. This diabolic pattern of suppressing its own people has witnessed a significant escalation since the advent of the multi-billion dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

PoK activists hold anti-Pak protest outside European Parliament

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a boom in the apple harvest this season. The high-yielding variety of apple plants which have been imported from Europe is helping in the greater outcome of apple production. Every morning with the break of dawn, families gather in their orchards to pick the apples and send them to different parts of India.

The trees are laden heavily with the apples this season in the apple-rich districts of Kashmir valley. The owners of these orchards have a smile on their faces as the crop is above their expectation. The horticulture department has already declared a bumper crop this year leading to joy among the farmers.&nbsp;

Asadullah Bhat's family has been associated with apple farming since generations. Every day he along with his son pack hundreds of boxes from his orchards. Several years back, his son decided to plant the high-yielding variety of apples in his farm which is imported from Europe.&nbsp;

The M-9 and M-6 variety of apple are boosting the rural economy of the state which is, directly and indirectly, helping in the job creation.&nbsp;

"We send these apples to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and other parts of India. We are currently getting a good price for the harvest. On an average, we pack around 2000 boxes," says Asadullah's son Muneeb.

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His father adds that his entire family is dependent on the crop each year. "Our generations have been associated with this business. Earlier, we used some of our land for paddy, but we decided to plant apple trees which are more profitable."

Their apples don't just reach the Indian markets but are also imported to countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. &nbsp;

This year alone, authorities are looking to surpass the previous year record of 17.9 tonnes after apple trees were brought from Italy and other parts of Europe.&nbsp;

Kashmir valley currently accounts for 71 per cent of national apple production and with time it is expected to grow. The imported breed fetches 25 tonnes while the traditional orchards only produce 12 tonnes. Authorities are also aiming to increase state's horticulture revenue from the current 8000 crore rupees to 50,000 crores a year.

"The Italian variety of apple tree is high-yielding and we don't have to work hard on them. The apples produced by the imported trees are high quality and get good prices in the market," says Nazir Ahmad, a farmer from Shopian district of south Kashmir.&nbsp;

In the afternoon, woman bring laden food on their heads which are later enjoyed by the family. The farmers in the south Kashmir's Shopian district cultivate a variety of apples including the famous delicious and golden. Nearly seven lakh families are dependent directly and indirectly on the apple cultivation in the valley.&nbsp;

Another farmer, Shahnawaz Ahmad says that "it takes 6 to 7 months to get ready. Our delicious and Kuloo delicious are good apples. One tree gives 100 to 150 boxes with time."

With the rise in the production, there are concerns too. The state has fewer storage rooms which could accommodate these apples.&nbsp;

Chief horticulture officer, R.K Kotwal believes that state has the capability to surpass the production of China which is at the highest in the world. He says that with the help of imported breed, the apple production of India will rise at the international level.

"We are importing apple trees from Europe. We are accommodating them more per hectare which is around 300 per hectare. European trees will enhance the outcome and give better quality apples," says Kotwal adding that there is a need to make good storage capacity in the valley.

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a boom in the apple harvest this season. The high-yielding variety of apple plants which have been imported from Europe is helping in the greater outcome of apple production.

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a boom in the apple harvest this season. The high-yielding variety of apple plants which have been imported from Europe is helping in the greater outcome of apple production. Every morning with the break of dawn, families gather in their orchards to pick the apples and send them to different parts of India. The trees are laden heavily with the apples this season in the apple-rich districts of Kashmir valley. The owners of these orchards have a smile on their faces as the crop is above their expectation. The horticulture department has already declared a bumper crop this year leading to joy among the farmers. Asadullah Bhat's family has been associated with apple farming since generations. Every day he along with his son pack hundreds of boxes from his orchards. Several years back, his son decided to plant the high-yielding variety of apples in his farm which is imported from Europe. The M-9 and M-6 variety of apple are boosting the rural economy of the state which is, directly and indirectly, helping in the job creation. "We send these apples to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and other parts of India. We are currently getting a good price for the harvest. On an average, we pack around 2000 boxes," says Asadullah's son Muneeb. His father adds that his entire family is dependent on the crop each year. "Our generations have been associated with this business. Earlier, we used some of our land for paddy, but we decided to plant apple trees which are more profitable." Their apples don't just reach the Indian markets but are also imported to countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. This year alone, authorities are looking to surpass the previous year record of 17.9 tonnes after apple trees were brought from Italy and other parts of Europe. Kashmir valley currently accounts for 71 per cent of national apple production and with time it is expected to grow. The imported breed fetches 25 tonnes while the traditional orchards only produce 12 tonnes. Authorities are also aiming to increase state's horticulture revenue from the current 8000 crore rupees to 50,000 crores a year. "The Italian variety of apple tree is high-yielding and we don't have to work hard on them. The apples produced by the imported trees are high quality and get good prices in the market," says Nazir Ahmad, a farmer from Shopian district of south Kashmir. In the afternoon, woman bring laden food on their heads which are later enjoyed by the family. The farmers in the south Kashmir's Shopian district cultivate a variety of apples including the famous delicious and golden. Nearly seven lakh families are dependent directly and indirectly on the apple cultivation in the valley. Another farmer, Shahnawaz Ahmad says that "it takes 6 to 7 months to get ready. Our delicious and Kuloo delicious are good apples. One tree gives 100 to 150 boxes with time." With the rise in the production, there are concerns too. The state has fewer storage rooms which could accommodate these apples. Chief horticulture officer, R.K Kotwal believes that state has the capability to surpass the production of China which is at the highest in the world. He says that with the help of imported breed, the apple production of India will rise at the international level. "We are importing apple trees from Europe. We are accommodating them more per hectare which is around 300 per hectare. European trees will enhance the outcome and give better quality apples," says Kotwal adding that there is a need to make good storage capacity in the valley.

Kashmir sees bumper apple crop after European trees replace traditional variety

Market benchmark Sensex surged 301 points to close at 33,250.30 today on unabated buying by domestic institutional investors amid positive global leads.&nbsp;The wider NSE Nifty too went past the 10,250-level.&nbsp;

The 30-share BSE Sensex opened on a strong footing at 33,034.20 and maintained its upward trend to hit the day&#39;s high of 33,285.68 before ending at 33,250.30, up 301.09 points, or 0.91 per cent.&nbsp;The index had rallied 352.03 points in the previous session on value-buying by investors in recently-battered blue-chip stocks.

The Nifty finished the day at 10,265.65, a hefty gain of 98.95 points, or 0.97 per cent, after shuttling between 10,270.85 and 10,195.25.&nbsp;

On a weekly basis, the Sensex gained 417.36 points, or 1.27 per cent, while the Nifty advanced 143.85 points or 1.42 per cent.

Most Asian and European markets rallied as investors awaited major economic data from China and the US amid overnight gains at Wall Street following reports that President Donald Trump is planning to unveil a big-spending public works plan.

Most Asian and European markets rallied as investors awaited major economic data from China and the US

Market benchmark Sensex surged 301 points to close at 33,250.30 today on unabated buying by domestic institutional investors amid positive global leads. The wider NSE Nifty too went past the 10,250-level. The 30-share BSE Sensex opened on a strong footing at 33,034.20 and maintained its upward trend to hit the day's high of 33,285.68 before ending at 33,250.30, up 301.09 points, or 0.91 per cent. The index had rallied 352.03 points in the previous session on value-buying by investors in recently-battered blue-chip stocks. The Nifty finished the day at 10,265.65, a hefty gain of 98.95 points, or 0.97 per cent, after shuttling between 10,270.85 and 10,195.25. On a weekly basis, the Sensex gained 417.36 points, or 1.27 per cent, while the Nifty advanced 143.85 points or 1.42 per cent. Most Asian and European markets rallied as investors awaited major economic data from China and the US amid overnight gains at Wall Street following reports that President Donald Trump is planning to unveil a big-spending public works plan.

Sensex soars 301 pts, reclaims 33,000-mark

Britain&#39;s European Commissioner Jonathan Hill announced Saturday that he will stand down following his country&#39;s decision to leave the EU, saying he was &quot;very disappointed&#39; but &quot;what is done cannot be undone.&quot;

&quot;As we move to a new phase, I don&#39;t believe it is right that I should carry on as the British Commissioner as though nothing had happened,&quot; said a statement by Hill, who is commissioner for financial services.

&quot;At the same time, there needs to be an orderly handover, so I have said that I will work with him to make sure that happens in the weeks ahead.&quot;

Hill, 55, a professional lobbyist and former Conservative party leader in Britain&#39;s upper house of parliament, follows his close ally Prime Minister David Cameron in stepping down in the wake of the referendum on Thursday.

He had already faced calls in the European Parliament to give up the sensitive financial services portfolio, which will be a focus of interest in exit negotiations between Brussels and London. He has had a key role in setting regulations that give Britain&#39;s huge banking sector access to euro zone markets.

As long as Britain remains an EU member it will continue to have a seat on the 28-strong Commission, giving Cameron, or more likely his successor, a right to nominate another commissioner, whose appointment would be subject to EU parliamentary approval.

The distribution of portfolios in the Commission is in the gift of its president, former Luxembourg premier Juncker, in negotiation with the leader of the member state nominating their commissioner.

Hill&#39;s appointment to the finance job in 2014 was seen as a peace offering from Juncker to Cameron, who had tried to block the Commission president&#39;s own appointment that year. It was viewed with some suspicion by euro zone bankers keen to challenge London&#39;s dominance as Europe&#39;s financial capital.

 
(With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Move comes the day after UK votes to leave Europe

Britain's European Commissioner Jonathan Hill announced Saturday that he will stand down following his country's decision to leave the EU, saying he was "very disappointed' but "what is done cannot be undone." "As we move to a new phase, I don't believe it is right that I should carry on as the British Commissioner as though nothing had happened," said a statement by Hill, who is commissioner for financial services. "At the same time, there needs to be an orderly handover, so I have said that I will work with him to make sure that happens in the weeks ahead." Hill, 55, a professional lobbyist and former Conservative party leader in Britain's upper house of parliament, follows his close ally Prime Minister David Cameron in stepping down in the wake of the referendum on Thursday. He had already faced calls in the European Parliament to give up the sensitive financial services portfolio, which will be a focus of interest in exit negotiations between Brussels and London. He has had a key role in setting regulations that give Britain's huge banking sector access to euro zone markets. As long as Britain remains an EU member it will continue to have a seat on the 28-strong Commission, giving Cameron, or more likely his successor, a right to nominate another commissioner, whose appointment would be subject to EU parliamentary approval. The distribution of portfolios in the Commission is in the gift of its president, former Luxembourg premier Juncker, in negotiation with the leader of the member state nominating their commissioner. Hill's appointment to the finance job in 2014 was seen as a peace offering from Juncker to Cameron, who had tried to block the Commission president's own appointment that year. It was viewed with some suspicion by euro zone bankers keen to challenge London's dominance as Europe's financial capital. (With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Britain's European Commissioner to step down

CHANGE PICTURE! IF THIS STORY IS VERIFIED, GET APPROPRIATE PIC,&nbsp;THEN PUBLISH 
 
According to reports in the Sri Lankan press, the&nbsp;Sri Lankan government has received the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to enter into a treaty with Ukraine to extradite criminals hiding in the Eastern European country.

President Maithripala Sirisena in his capacity as the Minister of Defense has presented the proposal to the cabinet for approval.

The ColomboPage News Desk reports that&nbsp;the Sri Lankan Co-Cabinet spokesman, Minister Gayantha Karunathilake, said the agreement &quot;will provide the opportunity to request the authorities in Ukraine to receive criminals who have engaged in illegal activities in this country and sought protection in Ukraine&quot;.

The treaty comes as&nbsp;the Sri Lankan government is attempting to arrest a fugitive envoy currently believed to be in Ukraine.

The government has sought arrest and deportation of Sri Lanka&#39;s former Ambassador to Russia, Udayanga Weeratunga, who is a nephew of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, over several allegations including that the envoy supplied weapons to a terrorist group in Ukraine and is connected to the death of an embassy employee.

Comes as South Asian country's former Russian ambassador is wanted for abetting a Ukrainian terror group

CHANGE PICTURE! IF THIS STORY IS VERIFIED, GET APPROPRIATE PIC, THEN PUBLISH According to reports in the Sri Lankan press, the Sri Lankan government has received the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to enter into a treaty with Ukraine to extradite criminals hiding in the Eastern European country. President Maithripala Sirisena in his capacity as the Minister of Defense has presented the proposal to the cabinet for approval. The ColomboPage News Desk reports that the Sri Lankan Co-Cabinet spokesman, Minister Gayantha Karunathilake, said the agreement "will provide the opportunity to request the authorities in Ukraine to receive criminals who have engaged in illegal activities in this country and sought protection in Ukraine". The treaty comes as the Sri Lankan government is attempting to arrest a fugitive envoy currently believed to be in Ukraine. The government has sought arrest and deportation of Sri Lanka's former Ambassador to Russia, Udayanga Weeratunga, who is a nephew of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, over several allegations including that the envoy supplied weapons to a terrorist group in Ukraine and is connected to the death of an embassy employee.

Sri Lanka enters treaty with Ukraine to extradite criminals hiding in the Eastern European country

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