With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit&nbsp;

India, along with South Africa, South Korea &amp; Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall. PM Modi joined the summit virtually.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel specifically referred to PM's mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at the meet and conveyed her strong support for it.

During the meet, the India-South Africa proposal at World Trade Organisation (WTO) for Covid vaccine patent wavier was referred. Australian PM Scott Morrison during the summit, recalling his discussions with PM Modi about Covid vaccine patent wavier conveyed his country's strong support to it.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-adopts-global-infrastructure-plan-an-answer-to-chinas-belt-and-road-initiative-391026">G7 adopts global infrastructure plan, an answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative</a>

Last week, WTO was able to achieve consensus on it with India calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiations.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called for supply of Covid vaccine raw materials to major vaccine producers like India for mass production of vaccines. He had mentioned this at a press conference ahead of the summit too. At the press conference, he highlighted that intellectual property (IP) should never be a barrier to access vaccines &amp; also the need to work on the proposal for a time-and space-limited exemption of IP.

With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit India, along with South Africa, South Korea & Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall.

With Covid pandemic continuing to impact many parts of the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at G7 outreach summit India, along with South Africa, South Korea & Australia have been invited by UK for the G7 outreach summit taking place in Cornwall. PM Modi joined the summit virtually. German Chancellor Angela Merkel specifically referred to PM's mantra of "One Earth, One Health" at the meet and conveyed her strong support for it. During the meet, the India-South Africa proposal at World Trade Organisation (WTO) for Covid vaccine patent wavier was referred. Australian PM Scott Morrison during the summit, recalling his discussions with PM Modi about Covid vaccine patent wavier conveyed his country's strong support to it. Also Read | G7 adopts global infrastructure plan, an answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative Last week, WTO was able to achieve consensus on it with India calling for early conclusion of text-based negotiations. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called for supply of Covid vaccine raw materials to major vaccine producers like India for mass production of vaccines. He had mentioned this at a press conference ahead of the summit too. At the press conference, he highlighted that intellectual property (IP) should never be a barrier to access vaccines & also the need to work on the proposal for a time-and space-limited exemption of IP.

G7 outreach summit: PM Modi gives mantra of 'One Earth, One Health'

The United States and China clashed in rare talks Friday as President Joe Biden made his international debut at the G7 summit, with his administration pressing Beijing on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a>, Taiwan and human rights.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, joining Biden at the summit of industrial democracies in England, spoke by telephone with senior Chinese official Yang Jiechi, their first talks since a heated in-person encounter in Alaska in March.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-meet-at-g7-summit-amid-coronavirus-crisis-390883">World leaders meet at G7 summit amid coronavirus crisis</a>

As Biden used his first presidential trip abroad to unveil a massive plan to buy and distribute 500 million Covid vaccine doses around the world, Blinken renewed US pressure on China over the origins of the pandemic that has killed more than 3.7 million people.

Blinken "stressed the importance of cooperation and transparency regarding the origin of the virus," including allowing World Health Organization experts back into China, State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

Biden has ordered US intelligence to report back by late August on whether Covid-19, first detected in late 2019 in the city of Wuhan, emerged from an animal source or a laboratory accident.

Former President Donald Trump trotted out the lab-leak theory but was widely dismissed, with many believing he was seeking to deflect criticism over his own handling of the pandemic, but Biden has said there was a need for further study after criticizing Beijing for not giving more access to a WHO probe.&nbsp;

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Yang told Blinken that the laboratory theory was "absurd," according to the state-run China Global Television Network.

"We urge the US side to respect facts and science, not to politicize the origin tracing and to focus its attention on international cooperation on the fight against the pandemic," Yang said.

China, which like Russia has been shipping its own vaccines to friendly countries, has sought to rebrand itself in the world's eyes not as the country that failed to stop the virus but as a model on how to contain it.

'Interests of small circles'&nbsp;

Yang, a senior Politburo member who has long taken a lead in Beijing's handling of the United States, renewed denunciations of Washington as Biden met with leaders from other Group of Seven nations, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-g7-may-reallocate-100-billion-from-imf-funds-to-covid-ravaged-nations-390990">US says G7 may reallocate $100 billion from IMF funds to COVID-ravaged nations</a>

"Genuine multilateralism is not pseudo-multilateralism based on the interests of small circles," Yang told Blinken, according to China Central Television.

"The only genuine multilateralism is that founded on the principles of the charter of the United Nations and international law," Yang said.

Yang also renewed accusations of US hypocrisy on human rights as Blinken pressed on what the United States considers the genocide of Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim Turkic people who are incarcerated in camps.

"The United States should resolve its own domestic serious human rights violations, and not use the so-called human rights issues as an excuse to arbitrarily interfere in the internal affairs of other countries," he said.

Yang made similar accusations about the United States in front of cameras during the meeting in Anchorage, taking aback US officials who expected brief, civil remarks but raising his star power inside China.

Concern on Taiwan

Blinken also voiced alarm at China's increasing pressure on Taiwan including military flights off its coast.

Blinken "called on Beijing to cease its pressure campaign against Taiwan and peacefully resolve cross-Strait issues," the State Department statement said.

Washington has been increasingly alarmed that China will attempt to use force on Taiwan, a self-governing democracy it considers part of its territory, after its sweeping curbs on freedoms in Hong Kong.

The United States in recent days agreed to reopen trade talks with Taiwan and authorized a military plane to bring a delegation of senators who offered Covid vaccines.

Amid wide bipartisan criticism of China, Biden has largely continued the hawkish stance of Trump, in substance if not in tone.

The Biden administration has described China as a pre-eminent international challenge and vowed to counter it by shoring up alliances and investing heavily in infrastructure and development at home.

The United States and China clashed in rare talks Friday as President Joe Biden made his international debut at the G7 summit, with his administration pressing Beijing on Covid, Taiwan and human rights.

The United States and China clashed in rare talks Friday as President Joe Biden made his international debut at the G7 summit, with his administration pressing Beijing on Covid, Taiwan and human rights. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, joining Biden at the summit of industrial democracies in England, spoke by telephone with senior Chinese official Yang Jiechi, their first talks since a heated in-person encounter in Alaska in March. Also read | World leaders meet at G7 summit amid coronavirus crisis As Biden used his first presidential trip abroad to unveil a massive plan to buy and distribute 500 million Covid vaccine doses around the world, Blinken renewed US pressure on China over the origins of the pandemic that has killed more than 3.7 million people. Blinken "stressed the importance of cooperation and transparency regarding the origin of the virus," including allowing World Health Organization experts back into China, State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. Biden has ordered US intelligence to report back by late August on whether Covid-19, first detected in late 2019 in the city of Wuhan, emerged from an animal source or a laboratory accident. Former President Donald Trump trotted out the lab-leak theory but was widely dismissed, with many believing he was seeking to deflect criticism over his own handling of the pandemic, but Biden has said there was a need for further study after criticizing Beijing for not giving more access to a WHO probe. Yang told Blinken that the laboratory theory was "absurd," according to the state-run China Global Television Network. "We urge the US side to respect facts and science, not to politicize the origin tracing and to focus its attention on international cooperation on the fight against the pandemic," Yang said. China, which like Russia has been shipping its own vaccines to friendly countries, has sought to rebrand itself in the world's eyes not as the country that failed to stop the virus but as a model on how to contain it. 'Interests of small circles' Yang, a senior Politburo member who has long taken a lead in Beijing's handling of the United States, renewed denunciations of Washington as Biden met with leaders from other Group of Seven nations, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. Also read | US says G7 may reallocate $100 billion from IMF funds to COVID-ravaged nations "Genuine multilateralism is not pseudo-multilateralism based on the interests of small circles," Yang told Blinken, according to China Central Television. "The only genuine multilateralism is that founded on the principles of the charter of the United Nations and international law," Yang said. Yang also renewed accusations of US hypocrisy on human rights as Blinken pressed on what the United States considers the genocide of Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim Turkic people who are incarcerated in camps. "The United States should resolve its own domestic serious human rights violations, and not use the so-called human rights issues as an excuse to arbitrarily interfere in the internal affairs of other countries," he said. Yang made similar accusations about the United States in front of cameras during the meeting in Anchorage, taking aback US officials who expected brief, civil remarks but raising his star power inside China. Concern on Taiwan Blinken also voiced alarm at China's increasing pressure on Taiwan including military flights off its coast. Blinken "called on Beijing to cease its pressure campaign against Taiwan and peacefully resolve cross-Strait issues," the State Department statement said. Washington has been increasingly alarmed that China will attempt to use force on Taiwan, a self-governing democracy it considers part of its territory, after its sweeping curbs on freedoms in Hong Kong. The United States in recent days agreed to reopen trade talks with Taiwan and authorized a military plane to bring a delegation of senators who offered Covid vaccines. Amid wide bipartisan criticism of China, Biden has largely continued the hawkish stance of Trump, in substance if not in tone. The Biden administration has described China as a pre-eminent international challenge and vowed to counter it by shoring up alliances and investing heavily in infrastructure and development at home.

US, China clash as Biden debuts at G7

Britain's Queen Elizabeth met US President Joe Biden under the canopy of the world's largest indoor rainforest on Friday as she hosted a reception for leaders of the Group of Seven richest nations, who are holding a three-day summit. 
 
The 95-year-old monarch was joined by the other senior members of the British royal family, with son and heir Prince Charles and his wife Camilla and grandson Prince William and his wife Kate also present. 
 
It was their first major public event together since the funeral in April of Prince Philip, the queen's husband of more than seven decades. 
 
At the reception, held at the Eden Project, whose distinctive bubble-like Biomes house thousands of plant varieties, the queen met Biden as US&nbsp;President for the first time. He is 13th American leader she has met during her record-breaking 69-year reign. 
 
"Joe and I are both looking forward to meeting the queen," Biden's wife Jill, who joined him at the Eden Project event, had said on Thursday. "That's an exciting part of the visit for us." 
 
They are also due to have tea with the monarch at Windsor Castle on Sunday after the summit has concluded. 
 
Following a photocall with the queen, Prince Charles addressed the G7 leaders about his Sustainable Markets Initiative, which aims to involve business and private sector investment in government efforts to combat climate change. 
 
"The fight against this terrible pandemic provides, if ever one was needed, a crystal-clear example of the scale, and sheer speed, at which the global community can tackle crisis when we combine political will with business ingenuity and public mobilisation," the prince told them. 
 
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are doing it for the pandemic. So if you don't mind me saying so, we must also do it for the planet," said Charles, 72, who has spent much of his life campaigning on environmental issues. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Queen Elizabeth met US President Joe Biden under the canopy of the world's largest indoor rainforest on Friday as she hosted a reception for leaders of the Group of Seven richest nations, who are holding a three-day summit.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth met US President Joe Biden under the canopy of the world's largest indoor rainforest on Friday as she hosted a reception for leaders of the Group of Seven richest nations, who are holding a three-day summit. The 95-year-old monarch was joined by the other senior members of the British royal family, with son and heir Prince Charles and his wife Camilla and grandson Prince William and his wife Kate also present. It was their first major public event together since the funeral in April of Prince Philip, the queen's husband of more than seven decades. At the reception, held at the Eden Project, whose distinctive bubble-like Biomes house thousands of plant varieties, the queen met Biden as US President for the first time. He is 13th American leader she has met during her record-breaking 69-year reign. "Joe and I are both looking forward to meeting the queen," Biden's wife Jill, who joined him at the Eden Project event, had said on Thursday. "That's an exciting part of the visit for us." They are also due to have tea with the monarch at Windsor Castle on Sunday after the summit has concluded. Following a photocall with the queen, Prince Charles addressed the G7 leaders about his Sustainable Markets Initiative, which aims to involve business and private sector investment in government efforts to combat climate change. "The fight against this terrible pandemic provides, if ever one was needed, a crystal-clear example of the scale, and sheer speed, at which the global community can tackle crisis when we combine political will with business ingenuity and public mobilisation," the prince told them. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are doing it for the pandemic. So if you don't mind me saying so, we must also do it for the planet," said Charles, 72, who has spent much of his life campaigning on environmental issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's Queen Elizabeth hosts Biden at G7 reception

G7 leaders are on Saturday set to agree on a joint declaration aimed at preventing another pandemic, as they resume wide-ranging talks at their first in-person summit in almost two years.

G7 leaders are on Saturday set to agree on a joint declaration aimed at preventing another pandemic, as they resume wide-ranging talks at their first in-person summit in almost two years. The group of leading economies -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States -- will also try to showcase Western democratic cohesion against a resurgent China and recalcitrant Russia. They will be joined by the leaders of Australia, South Africa, and South Korea, along with India taking part remotely, as the agenda broadens to foreign policy issues and climate change. The G7 is meeting face to face for the first time since 2019, at a beachside venue in Cornwall, southwest England, after the coronavirus led to the cancellation of last year's summit. The leaders opened the three-day summit Friday with expectations of a pledge to donate one billion vaccine doses to poor countries this year and next -- much too slow to end the crisis now, campaigners said. US President Joe Biden arrived with a message of solidarity and resolve in stark contrast to the isolationist stance of his predecessor Donald Trump. After the traditional family photo and an opening session on "building back better" from Covid-19, the leaders spent the evening at a reception hosted by Queen Elizabeth II at Cornwall's Eden Project. A renowned attraction showcasing the world's ecological riches, the site also hosted a G7 meeting with Prince Charles and 10 international business leaders to discuss ramping up sustainable growth. The G7 this weekend will also tackle climate change, and safeguarding global biodiversity, to lay the groundwork for the UN's pivotal COP26 environmental summit in Scotland in November. The leaders are debating a pledge to protect at least 30 percent of the world's land and oceans by 2030. Shared threats On Saturday's foreign policy agenda, this year's coup in Myanmar and crackdown on pro-democracy supporters in Belarus are expected to figure, alongside tensions with Russia and China. Most of the leaders will reconvene on Monday in Brussels for a NATO meeting, before Biden heads on to his first summit with President Vladimir Putin in Geneva, vowing to deliver a blunt message about Russian behavior. "I'll tell you (about it) after I've delivered it," Biden told reporters Friday. The G7 is expected to finalize the "Carbis Bay Declaration" comprising a series of commitments to prevent a repeat of the devastation wreaked by the coronavirus. "For the first time today, the world's leading democracies have come together to make sure that never again will we be caught unawares," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in remarks released ahead of the summit's second day. "That means learning lessons from the last 18 months and doing it differently next time around." Pandemic radar The declaration will be published Sunday alongside the G7's final communique, following a beachside barbecue on Saturday night. The collective steps include slashing the time taken to develop and license vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics for any future disease to under 100 days while reinforcing global surveillance networks. The leaders will vow to boost genomic sequencing capacity, and support reforms to strengthen the World Health Organization (WHO), according to Johnson's government, which like the US wants China to allow new access to WHO experts to determine how Covid-19 first emerged. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, criticized in some quarters for being too accommodating of China, welcomed the health pact. And he said the UN agency would examine a British proposal to create a "Global Pandemic Radar" to send early warnings of future outbreaks. "The world needs a stronger global surveillance system to detect new epidemic and pandemic risks," Tedros said. The G7 leaders are also expected to outline more help for developing nations to build up infrastructure, as a counterpoint to the debt-fuelled spending by China in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

G7 leaders agree on a joint declaration to stop future pandemics

G7 leaders launched a plan to build infrastructure in poorer nations. In what can be a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative, the G7 plan is offering a "values-driven, high-standard and transparent" partnership.

The adoption of the US-inspired "Build Back Better World" (B3W) project came after President Joe Biden and leaders met to address "strategic competition with China and commit to concrete actions to help meet the tremendous infrastructure need in low- and middle-income countries", the White House said.

The plan is known as the Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative. It will provide a transparent infrastructure partnership. The White House said that this plan will help narrow the USD 40 trillion needed by developing nations by 2035.

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"This is not just about confronting or taking on China," a senior official in Biden's administration said. "But until now we haven't offered a positive alternative that reflects our values, our standards and our way of doing business."&nbsp;

The official was quoted by Reuters.

The G7 and its allies will use the initiative to mobilise private sector capital in areas such as climate, health and health security, digital technology, and gender equity and equality, the White House said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-g7-may-reallocate-100-billion-from-imf-funds-to-covid-ravaged-nations-390990">US says G7 may reallocate $100 billion from IMF funds to COVID-ravaged nations</a>

It was not immediately clear how the plan would exactly work or how much capital it would ultimately allocate.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure scheme that Xi launched in 2013, involving development and investment initiatives that would stretch from Asia to Europe and beyond.

More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate in BRI projects like railways, ports, highways and other infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies)

G7 leaders launched a plan to build infrastructure in poorer nations. In what can be a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative, the G7 plan is offering a "values-driven, high-standard and transparent" partnership.

G7 leaders launched a plan to build infrastructure in poorer nations. In what can be a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative, the G7 plan is offering a "values-driven, high-standard and transparent" partnership. The adoption of the US-inspired "Build Back Better World" (B3W) project came after President Joe Biden and leaders met to address "strategic competition with China and commit to concrete actions to help meet the tremendous infrastructure need in low- and middle-income countries", the White House said. The plan is known as the Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative. It will provide a transparent infrastructure partnership. The White House said that this plan will help narrow the USD 40 trillion needed by developing nations by 2035. × "This is not just about confronting or taking on China," a senior official in Biden's administration said. "But until now we haven't offered a positive alternative that reflects our values, our standards and our way of doing business." The official was quoted by Reuters. The G7 and its allies will use the initiative to mobilise private sector capital in areas such as climate, health and health security, digital technology, and gender equity and equality, the White House said. Also Read | US says G7 may reallocate $100 billion from IMF funds to COVID-ravaged nations It was not immediately clear how the plan would exactly work or how much capital it would ultimately allocate. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure scheme that Xi launched in 2013, involving development and investment initiatives that would stretch from Asia to Europe and beyond. More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate in BRI projects like railways, ports, highways and other infrastructure. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 adopts global infrastructure plan, an answer to China's Belt and Road Initiative

The Group of Seven rich nations will announce on Saturday a new global infrastructure plan as a response to China's belt and road intiative, a senior official in US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration said. 
 
The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, said the United States would also push the other G7 leaders for 'concrete action on forced labour' in China, and to include criticism of Beijing in their final communique. 
 
"This is not just about confronting or taking on China," the official said. "But until now we haven't offered a positive alternative that reflects our values, our standards and our way of doing business." 
 
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure scheme launched in 2013 by President Xi Jinping involving development and investment initiatives that would stretch from Asia to Europe and beyond. 
 
More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate in BRI projects like railways, ports, highways and other infrastructure. 
 
According to a Refinitiv database, as of mid-last year, more than 2,600 projects at a cost of $3.7 trillion were linked to the initiative, although the Chinese foreign ministry said last June that about 20% of projects had been seriously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
In March, Biden said he had suggested to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is hosting the three-day G7 leaders' summit in southwest England, that democratic countries should develop their own rival scheme. 
 
The US&nbsp;official said until now, the West had failed to offer a positive alternative to the 'lack of transparency, poor environmental and labour standards, and coercive approach' of the Chinese government that had left many countries worse off. 
 
"So tomorrow we’ll be announcing ‘build back better for the world,’ an ambitious new global infrastructure initiative with our G7 partners that won’t just be an alternative to the B and I (Belt and Road)," the official said. 
 
In talks, Biden will also press the other leaders to make clear that they believe forced labour practices were an affront to human dignity and "an egregious example of China’s unfair economic competition" to show that they were serious about defending human rights. 
 
"We’re pushing on being specific on areas like Xinjiang where forced labour is taking place and where we have to express our values as a G7," the official said of the final communique to be issued at the end of the summit on Sunday, 
 
There were no specifics on how the global infrastructure scheme would be funded. The plan would involve raising hundreds of billions in public and private money to help close a $40 trillion infrastructure gap in needy countries by 2035, the official said 
 
The aim was to work with Congress to supplement existing development financing "with the hope that together with G7 partners, the private sector and other stakeholders we soon be collectively catalysing hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure investment for low and middle income countries that need it". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Group of Seven rich nations will announce on Saturday a new global infrastructure plan as a response to China's belt and road intiative, a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration said.

The Group of Seven rich nations will announce on Saturday a new global infrastructure plan as a response to China's belt and road intiative, a senior official in US President Joe Biden's administration said. The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, said the United States would also push the other G7 leaders for 'concrete action on forced labour' in China, and to include criticism of Beijing in their final communique. "This is not just about confronting or taking on China," the official said. "But until now we haven't offered a positive alternative that reflects our values, our standards and our way of doing business." China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure scheme launched in 2013 by President Xi Jinping involving development and investment initiatives that would stretch from Asia to Europe and beyond. More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate in BRI projects like railways, ports, highways and other infrastructure. According to a Refinitiv database, as of mid-last year, more than 2,600 projects at a cost of $3.7 trillion were linked to the initiative, although the Chinese foreign ministry said last June that about 20% of projects had been seriously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, Biden said he had suggested to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is hosting the three-day G7 leaders' summit in southwest England, that democratic countries should develop their own rival scheme. The US official said until now, the West had failed to offer a positive alternative to the 'lack of transparency, poor environmental and labour standards, and coercive approach' of the Chinese government that had left many countries worse off. "So tomorrow we’ll be announcing ‘build back better for the world,’ an ambitious new global infrastructure initiative with our G7 partners that won’t just be an alternative to the B and I (Belt and Road)," the official said. In talks, Biden will also press the other leaders to make clear that they believe forced labour practices were an affront to human dignity and "an egregious example of China’s unfair economic competition" to show that they were serious about defending human rights. "We’re pushing on being specific on areas like Xinjiang where forced labour is taking place and where we have to express our values as a G7," the official said of the final communique to be issued at the end of the summit on Sunday, There were no specifics on how the global infrastructure scheme would be funded. The plan would involve raising hundreds of billions in public and private money to help close a $40 trillion infrastructure gap in needy countries by 2035, the official said The aim was to work with Congress to supplement existing development financing "with the hope that together with G7 partners, the private sector and other stakeholders we soon be collectively catalysing hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure investment for low and middle income countries that need it". (With inputs from agencies)

G7 to counter China's belt and road with infrastructure project: Senior US official

The United States and other Group of Seven nations are considering reallocating $100 billion from the International Monetary Fund's warchest to help countries struggling to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, the White House said.

The issue will be on the table when G7 leaders discuss how to help steer the world's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic at a three-day summit in Cornwall, England, which began on Friday.

"The United States and our G7 partners are actively considering a global effort to multiply the impact of the proposed Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocation to the countries most in need," the U.S. president's office said.

"At potentially up to $100 billion in size, the proposed effort would further support health needs – including vaccinations," it said, adding that it would help promote a more sustained and inclusive global recovery.

SDRs are the&nbsp;IMF's reserve asset and are exchangeable for dollars, euros, sterling, yen, and Chinese yuan or renminbi. Member states can loan or donate their SDR reserves to other countries for their use.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-meet-at-g7-summit-amid-coronavirus-crisis-390883">Also Read |&nbsp;World leaders meet at G7 summit amid coronavirus crisis</a>

The United States, which has targeted the SDR allocation to be distributed around the "late (northern) summer," on Friday said: "We strongly support the effort to recycle SDRs to further support health needs."

The&nbsp;IMF&nbsp;had no immediate comment.

IMF&nbsp;Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, who will speak virtually with G7 leaders this weekend, on Wednesday told a separate event that she expected the fund's governors to approve a $650 billion boost in SDRs in mid-August.

The global lender is continuing to study how best richer countries could donate or loan their reserves to benefit poorer nations. Details are expected in early autumn.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday called on the other G7 nations to find an agreement on reallocating $100 billion in SDRs to African states.

World finance chiefs agreed in April to issue new SDRs and extend a debt-servicing freeze to help developing countries deal with the pandemic, although only $34 billion of the $650 billion in new reserves will be allocated to Africa since SDRs are issued according to the size of a member's holding in the&nbsp;IMF.

The United States and other Group of Seven nations are considering reallocating $100 billion from the International Monetary Fund's warchest to help countries struggling to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, the White House said.

The United States and other Group of Seven nations are considering reallocating $100 billion from the International Monetary Fund's warchest to help countries struggling to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, the White House said. The issue will be on the table when G7 leaders discuss how to help steer the world's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic at a three-day summit in Cornwall, England, which began on Friday. "The United States and our G7 partners are actively considering a global effort to multiply the impact of the proposed Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocation to the countries most in need," the U.S. president's office said. "At potentially up to $100 billion in size, the proposed effort would further support health needs – including vaccinations," it said, adding that it would help promote a more sustained and inclusive global recovery. SDRs are the IMF's reserve asset and are exchangeable for dollars, euros, sterling, yen, and Chinese yuan or renminbi. Member states can loan or donate their SDR reserves to other countries for their use. Also Read | World leaders meet at G7 summit amid coronavirus crisis The United States, which has targeted the SDR allocation to be distributed around the "late (northern) summer," on Friday said: "We strongly support the effort to recycle SDRs to further support health needs." The IMF had no immediate comment. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, who will speak virtually with G7 leaders this weekend, on Wednesday told a separate event that she expected the fund's governors to approve a $650 billion boost in SDRs in mid-August. The global lender is continuing to study how best richer countries could donate or loan their reserves to benefit poorer nations. Details are expected in early autumn. French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday called on the other G7 nations to find an agreement on reallocating $100 billion in SDRs to African states. World finance chiefs agreed in April to issue new SDRs and extend a debt-servicing freeze to help developing countries deal with the pandemic, although only $34 billion of the $650 billion in new reserves will be allocated to Africa since SDRs are issued according to the size of a member's holding in the IMF.

US says G7 may reallocate $100 billion from IMF funds to COVID-ravaged nations

18 months after the pandemic began, world leaders are waking up to how China is getting away. G7 leaders are set to demand a new investigation into the origins. A draft statement has been leaked. WION’s Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: G7 leaders join hands to counter China

From blimps to Pikachus, protesters gather to demand G7 action

As world leaders arrived for the G7 summit in England, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she would be supporting "value-based multilateralism".

"Another issue will obviously be how to restart the world economy and I am of course happy that the American president is present," the German Chancellor asserted.

Watch:

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UK PM Boris Johnson along with President Biden, French President Macron, Angela Merkel, Japanese PM Suga arrived at the picturesque English seaside at&nbsp;Carbis Bay.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier hailed the "indestructible" relationship with the US during his meeting with President Joe Biden as the two leaders discussed disruption in Northern Ireland due to Brexit.

Both leaders battling the virus at home had started a mass vaccination programme with COVID-19 cases in the UK and US showing a downward trend.

As the summit kicked off, PM Johnson said there was a "huge opportunity" for global pandemic recovery.

"We need to make sure that when we recover, we level up and we build back better," the British prime minister said.

This is the first in-person summit to take place in nearly two years which was disrupted due to the coronavirus crisis.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As world leaders arrived for the G7 summit in England, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she would be supporting "value-based multilateralism". "Another issue will obviously be how to restart the world economy and I am of course happy that the American president is present," the German Chancellor asserted.

As world leaders arrived for the G7 summit in England, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she would be supporting "value-based multilateralism". "Another issue will obviously be how to restart the world economy and I am of course happy that the American president is present," the German Chancellor asserted. Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson along with President Biden, French President Macron, Angela Merkel, Japanese PM Suga arrived at the picturesque English seaside at Carbis Bay. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier hailed the "indestructible" relationship with the US during his meeting with President Joe Biden as the two leaders discussed disruption in Northern Ireland due to Brexit. Both leaders battling the virus at home had started a mass vaccination programme with COVID-19 cases in the UK and US showing a downward trend. As the summit kicked off, PM Johnson said there was a "huge opportunity" for global pandemic recovery. "We need to make sure that when we recover, we level up and we build back better," the British prime minister said. This is the first in-person summit to take place in nearly two years which was disrupted due to the coronavirus crisis. (With inputs from Agencies)

World leaders meet at G7 summit amid coronavirus crisis

With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi all set to participate at the G7 outreach summit over the weekend virtually, UK has told India that his presence at the meet will be "seamless". UK has invited India for the G7 meet, but PM Modi could not attend it physically due to the 2nd wave of devastating Covid pandemic.&nbsp;

WION learnt that UK has conveyed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson "understands &amp; supports" PM Modi's decision and "will make all efforts to ensure his participation at the summit seamless" as if "he were actually in the room". It was on 11th May that New Delhi announced PM Modi won't be participating in the meet in person.&nbsp;

PM Modi will be speaking at 3 sessions on Saturday and Sunday (12th and 13th June) which are themed--Building Back Stronger, Building Back Together, and Building Back Greener.&nbsp;

UK as the chair of the G7 this year had invited India, along with Australia, South Korea and South Africa.&nbsp;

This is the 7th time UK is leading the G7 and the theme is ‘Build Back Better". London has outlined 4 priority areas during the meet, which include global recovery from Covid, trade, climate change, and "Championing shared values and open societies".

India took part in G7 meetings that took place earlier this year. Indian Health Minister Harsh Vardhan took part in the G7 health minister meet on June 4. Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar took part in G7 ministerial meet on May 21. IT minister took part in such a meeting on April 29. Moreover, India's Principal Economic Advisor Sanjeev Sanyal represenrted India at G7 Economic Resilience Panel as an observer.

India has been in the past invited to G7 outreach summits. India was first to be invited for the G7 outreach summit in 2003 when the then Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Invited by France. From 2005 to 2009, India has been invited annually to the G7 outreach summit with PM Manmohan Singh representing India.

India has been receiving invite for G7 since 2019 consecutively.&nbsp;In 2019, PM Modi had participated in G7 Biarritz Summit chaired by France

In 2020, President Donald Trump had invited PM Modi for the G7 outreach summit at Camp David. The summit was to take place in June 2020 but it could not take place due to the Covid pandemic.

With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi all set to participate at the G7 outreach summit over the weekend virtually, UK has told India that his presence at the meet will be "seamless".

With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi all set to participate at the G7 outreach summit over the weekend virtually, UK has told India that his presence at the meet will be "seamless". UK has invited India for the G7 meet, but PM Modi could not attend it physically due to the 2nd wave of devastating Covid pandemic. WION learnt that UK has conveyed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson "understands & supports" PM Modi's decision and "will make all efforts to ensure his participation at the summit seamless" as if "he were actually in the room". It was on 11th May that New Delhi announced PM Modi won't be participating in the meet in person. PM Modi will be speaking at 3 sessions on Saturday and Sunday (12th and 13th June) which are themed--Building Back Stronger, Building Back Together, and Building Back Greener. UK as the chair of the G7 this year had invited India, along with Australia, South Korea and South Africa. This is the 7th time UK is leading the G7 and the theme is ‘Build Back Better". London has outlined 4 priority areas during the meet, which include global recovery from Covid, trade, climate change, and "Championing shared values and open societies". India took part in G7 meetings that took place earlier this year. Indian Health Minister Harsh Vardhan took part in the G7 health minister meet on June 4. Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar took part in G7 ministerial meet on May 21. IT minister took part in such a meeting on April 29. Moreover, India's Principal Economic Advisor Sanjeev Sanyal represenrted India at G7 Economic Resilience Panel as an observer. India has been in the past invited to G7 outreach summits. India was first to be invited for the G7 outreach summit in 2003 when the then Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Invited by France. From 2005 to 2009, India has been invited annually to the G7 outreach summit with PM Manmohan Singh representing India. India has been receiving invite for G7 since 2019 consecutively. In 2019, PM Modi had participated in G7 Biarritz Summit chaired by France In 2020, President Donald Trump had invited PM Modi for the G7 outreach summit at Camp David. The summit was to take place in June 2020 but it could not take place due to the Covid pandemic.

PM Modi's participation at G7 will be seamless, UK tells India

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed US President Joe Biden as "a big breath of fresh air" on Thursday because he wanted to work with London on a huge range of issues ranging from climate change and COVID to security.

"It’s a big breath of fresh air," Johnson said of the talks with Biden. "It’s new, it’s interesting and we’re working very hard together. We went on for about an hour and 20 or so. It was a long, long, good session. We covered a huge range of subjects."

Biden is keen to try to use the trip to burnish his multilateral credentials after the tumult of Donald Trump's presidency, which left many U.S. allies in Europe and Asia bewildered and some alienated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-agree-to-provide-1-billion-covid-vaccine-doses-to-world-uk-390730">Also Read |&nbsp;G7 leaders agree to provide 1 billion Covid vaccine doses 'to world': UK</a>

Johnson played down differences with Washington over the impact of Brexit on the peace in Northern Ireland, saying that the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union had "complete harmony" on finding solutions to uphold the 1998 peace deal.

"There’s complete harmony on the need to keep going, find solutions, and make sure we uphold the Belfast Good Friday Agreement," Johnson said. "And I think what’s interesting is Northern Ireland is a fantastic place and it’s got amazing potential. It is a great, great part of the UK."

Asked if Biden had made his alarm about the situation in Northern Ireland very clear, Johnson said: "No he didn't. 
"America, the United States, Washington, the UK, plus the European Union have one thing we absolutely all want to do,"

Johnson said. "And that is to uphold the Belfast Good Friday Agreement and make sure we keep the balance of the peace process going. That is absolutely common ground," Johnson said.

"You know, I’m optimistic."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed US President Joe Biden as "a big breath of fresh air" on Thursday because he wanted to work with London on a huge range of issues ranging from climate change and COVID to security.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed US President Joe Biden as "a big breath of fresh air" on Thursday because he wanted to work with London on a huge range of issues ranging from climate change and COVID to security. "It’s a big breath of fresh air," Johnson said of the talks with Biden. "It’s new, it’s interesting and we’re working very hard together. We went on for about an hour and 20 or so. It was a long, long, good session. We covered a huge range of subjects." Biden is keen to try to use the trip to burnish his multilateral credentials after the tumult of Donald Trump's presidency, which left many U.S. allies in Europe and Asia bewildered and some alienated. Also Read | G7 leaders agree to provide 1 billion Covid vaccine doses 'to world': UK Johnson played down differences with Washington over the impact of Brexit on the peace in Northern Ireland, saying that the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union had "complete harmony" on finding solutions to uphold the 1998 peace deal. "There’s complete harmony on the need to keep going, find solutions, and make sure we uphold the Belfast Good Friday Agreement," Johnson said. "And I think what’s interesting is Northern Ireland is a fantastic place and it’s got amazing potential. It is a great, great part of the UK." Asked if Biden had made his alarm about the situation in Northern Ireland very clear, Johnson said: "No he didn't. "America, the United States, Washington, the UK, plus the European Union have one thing we absolutely all want to do," Johnson said. "And that is to uphold the Belfast Good Friday Agreement and make sure we keep the balance of the peace process going. That is absolutely common ground," Johnson said. "You know, I’m optimistic."

UK's Johnson hails Biden as 'a big breath of fresh air'

Carbis Bay Hotel is hosting the G7 Summit and will welcome leaders from across the world, including President of the United States Joe Biden from today.

G7 Summit 2021: World leaders gather at Carbis bay without masks

As the host of this year's summit, the UK has laid out four focus areas for the group: The global recovery from COVID-19 and efforts to prevent future health crises, free and fair trade, tackling climate change, and bolstering shared values.

G7 Summit 2021: COVID-19, vaccine patent, climate action likely to dominate agenda

G7 leaders will agree to expand global Covid vaccine manufacturing to provide at least one billion doses to the world through sharing and financing schemes, Britain said Thursday.

G7 leaders will agree to expand global Covid vaccine manufacturing to provide at least one billion doses to the world through sharing and financing schemes, Britain said Thursday. The announcement came after the United States said it would donate 500 million jabs to 92 poor and lower-middle-income nations. The UK, which is hosting the big powers' gathering in southwest England, added it would donate at least 100 million surplus doses within the next year, including five million beginning in the coming weeks. The commitments follow growing calls for richer countries to step up their efforts to share Covid-19 shots with less-developed nations, with charities warning the current situation is leading to "vaccine apartheid". Britain, which has orders for more than 400 million doses, has faced criticism for failing to begin making donations to poorer countries. But on the eve of welcoming world leaders from the group of seven wealthy nations to their first summit in almost two years, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed that would soon change. "As a result of the success of the UK's vaccine program we are now in a position to share some of our surplus doses with those who need them," he said. "At the G7 Summit, I hope my fellow leaders will make similar pledges". Also Read | Ahead of G7 summit, US President Biden meets UK PM Johnson A Downing Street statement said: "At the Summit world leaders are expected to announce they will provide at least one billion coronavirus vaccine doses to the world.. and set out a plan to expand vaccine manufacturing in order to achieve that goal." 'Humanitarian obligation' Meanwhile, EU members have agreed to donate at least 100 million doses by the end of 2021 -- with France and Germany each committing to providing 30 million. French President Emmanuel Macron issued his own call for pharma groups producing vaccines to donate 10 percent of their production to poor nations. US President Joe Biden on Thursday saluted a "historic" moment in the fight against the pandemic after Washington announced its donation. "This is about our responsibility, our humanitarian obligation to save as many lives as we can," Biden told reporters at the start of his first overseas trip as president. Biden said the move was also in the US interest because of the risk of variants while the White House said the decision would "supercharge the global fight against the pandemic". The enduring challenge to defeat the virus was earlier laid bare by the World Health Organization which warned Europeans not to drop their guard because vaccination levels remain too low to stop another wave of infections. Although pockets of the rich world have scored successes against the disease, the gains are fragile and billions of mostly poor people remain unprotected. Over 100 million people in the 27-nation European Union, or 22.6 percent of its population, have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, according to an AFP count. The contrast with developing nations was further evidenced Thursday when South Africa's National Institute For Communicable Diseases announced his country had technically entered the third wave with more than 9,000 cases over the past 24 hours. On Thursday, India reported a global record of more than 6,000 Covid-19 deaths in a day after one state dramatically revised its data upwards, fuelling concerns that the official tally of almost 360,000 deaths, the world's third-highest toll, is woefully understated. WHO warns against complacency The United States has also faced criticism for sitting on huge stocks of unused vaccines. But with more than 60 percent of Americans have received at least one shot, Washington has moved to reclaim global leadership with its huge donation which will be channeled through the Covax program which aims to ensure equitable global vaccine distribution. The White House said the doses will start shipping in August. Also Read | UK report says Hong Kong security law used to 'drastically curtail freedoms' Dismissing suggestions that it is in a so-called vaccine diplomacy contest with Russia and China, Washington has described its initiatives as a return to multilateral action after the nationalist isolationism under Biden's predecessor Donald Trump. In Europe, some lockdown restrictions have been eased of late notably ahead of the Euro football competition starting Friday. But Hans Kluge, the WHO's regional director, said he feared complacency. "Vaccination coverage is far from sufficient to protect the region from a resurgence," Kluge told reporters, warning against repeating the "mistake" of last summer by easing protective measures prematurely. Iran's government meanwhile warned that recent success in containing the Middle East's deadliest coronavirus outbreak risks being reversed should the public cease being diligent in their precautions amid a shortage of vaccines. The country saw total infections pass the three million mark on Thursday, adding to the global total of almost 174,350,990. The pandemic has claimed more than 3.7 million lives worldwide.

G7 leaders agree to provide 1 billion Covid vaccine doses to world: UK

US President Joe Biden met UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the Carbis Bay in Cornwall ahead of the G7 meeting on Thursday.

The two leaders met at the English seaside resort of Carbis bay as Biden declared: "I've been to this great country many times, but this is my first time as President of the United States."

"I told the Prime Minister that we have something in common - we both married way above our stature," Biden told Johnson jokingly, as the UK prime minister agreed: "I'm not going to descend from that one. I'm not doing to disagree with the President there, or indeed on anything else."

Both leaders engaged in the pandemic fight are seeking to further the "special relationship" between the two countries in the post-pandemic world.

In a breakthrough ahead of the G7 summit, Britain had backed the US decision to adopt&nbsp;minimum rates of corporate taxation as they looked to cement trade ties in the post-Brexit era.

PM Johnson earlier in the day had taken a tour of the garden of a primary school in the Cornish village of St Issey. The British prime minister will be holding the first in-person meeting of the G7 nations for the first time in nearly two years.

US President Joe Biden met UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the Carbis Bay in Cornwall ahead of the G7 meeting on Thursday. The two leaders met at the English seaside resort of Carbis bay as Biden declared: "I've been to this great country many times, but this is my first time as President of the United States.

US President Joe Biden met UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the Carbis Bay in Cornwall ahead of the G7 meeting on Thursday. The two leaders met at the English seaside resort of Carbis bay as Biden declared: "I've been to this great country many times, but this is my first time as President of the United States." "I told the Prime Minister that we have something in common - we both married way above our stature," Biden told Johnson jokingly, as the UK prime minister agreed: "I'm not going to descend from that one. I'm not doing to disagree with the President there, or indeed on anything else." Both leaders engaged in the pandemic fight are seeking to further the "special relationship" between the two countries in the post-pandemic world. In a breakthrough ahead of the G7 summit, Britain had backed the US decision to adopt minimum rates of corporate taxation as they looked to cement trade ties in the post-Brexit era. PM Johnson earlier in the day had taken a tour of the garden of a primary school in the Cornish village of St Issey. The British prime minister will be holding the first in-person meeting of the G7 nations for the first time in nearly two years.

Ahead of G7 summit, US President Biden meets UK PM Johnson

Nearly 30 celebrities, from singer Katy Perry to footballer David Beckham, called on the G7 Tuesday to share Covid-19 vaccines with poorer countries ahead of a summit in Britain this weekend.

The entertainment and sports figures urged the seven countries -- France, Italy, the UK, Canada, Japan, Germany and the United States -- to pledge at least 20 percent of their supply between June and August, amounting to 150 million doses.

"The world has spent a year and a half battling the Covid-19 pandemic, but the virus is still spreading in many countries and producing new variants with the potential to put us all back where we started," the missive warned.

"This means more school closures, more healthcare disruptions, and greater economic fallout -- threating the futures of families and children everywhere," it said.

Among the other signatories on the letter, which included a number of UNICEF goodwill ambassadors, were actors Liam Neeson, Orlando Bloom, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Whoopi Goldberg.&nbsp;

Singers Billie Eilish and Angelique Kidjo plus football star Sergio Ramos, Formula One driver Fernando Alonso and tennis star Andy Murray also signed the letter.

Britain is hosting the G7 summit in Cornwall in southwestern England starting Friday.

Nearly 30 celebrities, from singer Katy Perry to footballer David Beckham, called on the G7 Tuesday to share Covid-19 vaccines with poorer countries ahead of a summit in Britain this weekend.

Nearly 30 celebrities, from singer Katy Perry to footballer David Beckham, called on the G7 Tuesday to share Covid-19 vaccines with poorer countries ahead of a summit in Britain this weekend. The entertainment and sports figures urged the seven countries -- France, Italy, the UK, Canada, Japan, Germany and the United States -- to pledge at least 20 percent of their supply between June and August, amounting to 150 million doses. "The world has spent a year and a half battling the Covid-19 pandemic, but the virus is still spreading in many countries and producing new variants with the potential to put us all back where we started," the missive warned. "This means more school closures, more healthcare disruptions, and greater economic fallout -- threating the futures of families and children everywhere," it said. Among the other signatories on the letter, which included a number of UNICEF goodwill ambassadors, were actors Liam Neeson, Orlando Bloom, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Whoopi Goldberg. Singers Billie Eilish and Angelique Kidjo plus football star Sergio Ramos, Formula One driver Fernando Alonso and tennis star Andy Murray also signed the letter. Britain is hosting the G7 summit in Cornwall in southwestern England starting Friday.

Celebrities call on G7 to share vaccines with poor nations

President Joe Biden's meeting with leaders of the G7 leading industrial economies in an English seaside village this week will usher in a new focus on rallying US&nbsp;allies against common adversaries - the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia and China. 
 
New COVID-19 variants and rising death tolls in some countries will loom large during the gathering from Friday to Sunday, alongside climate change, strengthening global supply chains and ensuring the West maintains its technological edge over China, the world's second-largest economy. 
 
Biden, a Democrat, vowed to rebuild relations with allies after four rocky years under former President Donald Trump, who pulled Washington out of several multilateral institutions and threatened at one point to quit NATO. 
 
"In this moment of global uncertainty, as the world still grapples with a once-in-a-century pandemic, this trip is about realising America’s renewed commitment to our allies and partners," Biden wrote in an opinion piece published by the Washington Post on Saturday. 
 
The gathering will put Biden's 'America is back' motto to the test, with allies disillusioned during the Trump years looking for tangible, lasting action. 
 
It is a pivotal moment for the United States and the world, former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said on CNN on Sunday. 
 
"Is international cooperation going to be restored or are we still in this world where nationalism, protectionism and to some extent isolationism are dominating?" Brown asked.

Russia will be at the forefront of attention at the G7 summit in Cornwall, England, and the days afterward when Biden meets with European leaders and NATO allies in Brussels, before heading to Geneva to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. 
 
The recent ransomware attack on JBS, the world's largest meatpacker, by a criminal group likely based in Russia, and Putin's financial backing for Belarus after it forced a Ryanair flight to land so it could arrest a dissident journalist on board, are pushing US&nbsp;officials to consider sharper action. 
 
On the sidelines of the NATO summit, Biden is also expected to meet with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, a crucial session between the sparring NATO allies after Ankara's purchase of Russian defence systems angered Washington and risked driving a wedge within the alliance. 
 
G7 finance ministers reached a landmark global deal on Saturday to set a minimum global corporate tax rate of at least 15%, potentially hitting giant tech companies like Alphabet Inc's Google, Facebook Inc and Amazon.com Inc. Biden and his counterparts will give the deal their final blessing in Cornwall. 
 
The Biden administration, which on Thursday detailed its plans to donate 80 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines globally by the end of June, is leaning heavily on allies to follow suit as the global pandemic death toll approaches 4 million, US&nbsp;and diplomatic sources say. 
 
Washington reversed course last month and backed negotiations over waivers for intellectual property protections at the World Trade Organization to speed vaccine production in developing countries, much to the chagrin of Germany and Britain. 
 
European diplomats say they see little common ground on the issue, and argue that any WTO compromise would take months to finalise and implement. That may prove a moot point if sufficient vaccine doses are shared with developing countries to slow - and eventually halt - the pandemic. 
 
Biden announced plans in May to require US&nbsp;government contractors and financial institutions to be more transparent about the climate change risks faced by their investments, and administration officials are pushing other countries to adopt similar plans. 
 
The UK also wants governments to require businesses to report such risks as a way to boost investment in green projects. But agreement on a way forward is unlikely to come in June. A deal could emerge at a UN&nbsp;climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, in November. 
 
G7 countries also have different views on carbon pricing, which the International Monetary Fund views as a key way to curb carbon dioxide emissions and reach net-zero emissions by 2050. 
 
The Biden administration will urge allies to unite against China over allegations of forced labour in Xinjiang province, home to the Muslim Uighur minority, even as it seeks to maintain Beijing as an ally in the climate change fight. 
 
Sources following the discussions say they expect G7 leaders to adopt strong language on the forced labour issue. China denies all accusations of abuse in Xinjiang. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

President Joe Biden's meeting with leaders of the G7 leading industrial economies in an English seaside village this week will usher in a new focus on rallying US allies against common adversaries - the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia and China.

President Joe Biden's meeting with leaders of the G7 leading industrial economies in an English seaside village this week will usher in a new focus on rallying US allies against common adversaries - the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia and China. New COVID-19 variants and rising death tolls in some countries will loom large during the gathering from Friday to Sunday, alongside climate change, strengthening global supply chains and ensuring the West maintains its technological edge over China, the world's second-largest economy. Biden, a Democrat, vowed to rebuild relations with allies after four rocky years under former President Donald Trump, who pulled Washington out of several multilateral institutions and threatened at one point to quit NATO. "In this moment of global uncertainty, as the world still grapples with a once-in-a-century pandemic, this trip is about realising America’s renewed commitment to our allies and partners," Biden wrote in an opinion piece published by the Washington Post on Saturday. The gathering will put Biden's 'America is back' motto to the test, with allies disillusioned during the Trump years looking for tangible, lasting action. It is a pivotal moment for the United States and the world, former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said on CNN on Sunday. "Is international cooperation going to be restored or are we still in this world where nationalism, protectionism and to some extent isolationism are dominating?" Brown asked. Russia will be at the forefront of attention at the G7 summit in Cornwall, England, and the days afterward when Biden meets with European leaders and NATO allies in Brussels, before heading to Geneva to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The recent ransomware attack on JBS, the world's largest meatpacker, by a criminal group likely based in Russia, and Putin's financial backing for Belarus after it forced a Ryanair flight to land so it could arrest a dissident journalist on board, are pushing US officials to consider sharper action. On the sidelines of the NATO summit, Biden is also expected to meet with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, a crucial session between the sparring NATO allies after Ankara's purchase of Russian defence systems angered Washington and risked driving a wedge within the alliance. G7 finance ministers reached a landmark global deal on Saturday to set a minimum global corporate tax rate of at least 15%, potentially hitting giant tech companies like Alphabet Inc's Google, Facebook Inc and Amazon.com Inc. Biden and his counterparts will give the deal their final blessing in Cornwall. The Biden administration, which on Thursday detailed its plans to donate 80 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines globally by the end of June, is leaning heavily on allies to follow suit as the global pandemic death toll approaches 4 million, US and diplomatic sources say. Washington reversed course last month and backed negotiations over waivers for intellectual property protections at the World Trade Organization to speed vaccine production in developing countries, much to the chagrin of Germany and Britain. European diplomats say they see little common ground on the issue, and argue that any WTO compromise would take months to finalise and implement. That may prove a moot point if sufficient vaccine doses are shared with developing countries to slow - and eventually halt - the pandemic. Biden announced plans in May to require US government contractors and financial institutions to be more transparent about the climate change risks faced by their investments, and administration officials are pushing other countries to adopt similar plans. The UK also wants governments to require businesses to report such risks as a way to boost investment in green projects. But agreement on a way forward is unlikely to come in June. A deal could emerge at a UN climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, in November. G7 countries also have different views on carbon pricing, which the International Monetary Fund views as a key way to curb carbon dioxide emissions and reach net-zero emissions by 2050. The Biden administration will urge allies to unite against China over allegations of forced labour in Xinjiang province, home to the Muslim Uighur minority, even as it seeks to maintain Beijing as an ally in the climate change fight. Sources following the discussions say they expect G7 leaders to adopt strong language on the forced labour issue. China denies all accusations of abuse in Xinjiang. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden G7, NATO to-do list: Unite allies, fight autocracy, attack COVID-19

Finance ministers from wealthy G7 nations pledged to commit to a global minimum corporate tax of at least 15 percent, rallying behind a US-backed plan.

Historic agreement signed by G7 leaders

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week. 
 
Johnson will host the first in-person summit in almost two years of G7 leaders, which follows a meeting of the group's finance ministers which wrapped up earlier in the day and said he would seek a pledge to hit the global vaccination goal. 
 
"Vaccinating the world by the end of next year would be the single greatest feat in medical history," Johnson said in a statement. "I’m calling on my fellow G7 leaders to join us to end this terrible pandemic and pledge we will never allow the devastation wreaked by coronavirus to happen again." 
 
The leaders of Germany, France, the United States, Italy, Japan, the European Union and Canada will join Johnson for the three-day summit in Cornwall, southwest England, which begins on Friday. It will be the first overseas trip for US&nbsp;President Joe Biden since he took office in January. 
 
While the richest nations have been vaccinating large numbers of their populations, many poorer countries have not had the same access to vaccines. And health experts have warned that unless more COVID-19 shots were donated, the virus will continue to spread and mutate. 
 
US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in London for the finance ministers meeting, said it was urgent for the richest nations to promote vaccinations in poorer countries that could not afford to buy them. 
 
She also repeated the US&nbsp;position that patent rights should be removed for the vaccines, and said they were doing everything they could to address supply chain problems that were preventing a build-up of shots in other parts of the world. 
 
Britain has ordered more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for its population of 67 million and says it will donate any shots it does not need. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday called for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations to make a commitment to vaccinate the entire world against COVID-19 by the end of 2022 when they meet in Britain next week. Johnson will host the first in-person summit in almost two years of G7 leaders, which follows a meeting of the group's finance ministers which wrapped up earlier in the day and said he would seek a pledge to hit the global vaccination goal. "Vaccinating the world by the end of next year would be the single greatest feat in medical history," Johnson said in a statement. "I’m calling on my fellow G7 leaders to join us to end this terrible pandemic and pledge we will never allow the devastation wreaked by coronavirus to happen again." The leaders of Germany, France, the United States, Italy, Japan, the European Union and Canada will join Johnson for the three-day summit in Cornwall, southwest England, which begins on Friday. It will be the first overseas trip for US President Joe Biden since he took office in January. While the richest nations have been vaccinating large numbers of their populations, many poorer countries have not had the same access to vaccines. And health experts have warned that unless more COVID-19 shots were donated, the virus will continue to spread and mutate. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in London for the finance ministers meeting, said it was urgent for the richest nations to promote vaccinations in poorer countries that could not afford to buy them. She also repeated the US position that patent rights should be removed for the vaccines, and said they were doing everything they could to address supply chain problems that were preventing a build-up of shots in other parts of the world. Britain has ordered more than 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine for its population of 67 million and says it will donate any shots it does not need. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Johnson calls on G7 to vaccinate world by end of 2022

Group of Seven rich nations (G7) on Saturday agreed over a global minimum tax of at least 15 per cent on a country by country basis. This is a landmark move. It is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals, especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers in times when economies around the world have been hit because of coronavirus pandemic.

"We commit to reaching an equitable solution on the allocation of taxing rights, with market countries awarded taxing rights on at least 20% of profit exceeding a 10% margin for the largest and most profitable multinational enterprises," a communique from G7 finance ministers seen by Reuters said.

"We will provide for appropriate coordination between the application of the new international tax rules and the removal of all Digital Services Taxes, and other relevant similar measures, on all companies."

The&nbsp;proposal, will then go to the expanded group of 20 countries at their finance meeting in July.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-says-it-could-pay-more-corporate-tax-after-g7-decision-389681">Facebook says it could pay more corporate tax after G7 decision</a>

British finance minister Rishi Sunak was chairing the London meetings, held in person after an easing of Covid-19 restrictions and attended by counterparts from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.

The talks were preparing the ground for a broader summit of G7 leaders in Cornwall, southwest England, starting Friday.

US President Joe Biden will attend the summit next week. This will be his first foreign tour since taking the office in January

'Right time'

Momentum was&nbsp;growing behind the US-led plans to limit the ability of multinationals like tech giants to game the system to boost profits, especially at a time when economies around the world are reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

German finance minister Olaf Scholz on Friday told reporters it was the "right time" for a global tax deal given the vast sums spent by governments "to protect citizens, stabilise the economy and save jobs" since last year.

Biden has called for a unified minimum corporate tax rate of 15 percent in negotiations with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and G20.

(With inputs from agencies)

Group of Seven rich nations (G7) on Saturday agreed over a global minimum tax of at least 15 per cent on a country by country basis. This is a landmark move. It is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals, especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers in times when economies around the world have been hit because of coronavirus pandemic.

Group of Seven rich nations (G7) on Saturday agreed over a global minimum tax of at least 15 per cent on a country by country basis. This is a landmark move. It is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals, especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers in times when economies around the world have been hit because of coronavirus pandemic. "We commit to reaching an equitable solution on the allocation of taxing rights, with market countries awarded taxing rights on at least 20% of profit exceeding a 10% margin for the largest and most profitable multinational enterprises," a communique from G7 finance ministers seen by Reuters said. "We will provide for appropriate coordination between the application of the new international tax rules and the removal of all Digital Services Taxes, and other relevant similar measures, on all companies." The proposal, will then go to the expanded group of 20 countries at their finance meeting in July. Also Read | Facebook says it could pay more corporate tax after G7 decision British finance minister Rishi Sunak was chairing the London meetings, held in person after an easing of Covid-19 restrictions and attended by counterparts from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. The talks were preparing the ground for a broader summit of G7 leaders in Cornwall, southwest England, starting Friday. US President Joe Biden will attend the summit next week. This will be his first foreign tour since taking the office in January 'Right time' Momentum was growing behind the US-led plans to limit the ability of multinationals like tech giants to game the system to boost profits, especially at a time when economies around the world are reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. German finance minister Olaf Scholz on Friday told reporters it was the "right time" for a global tax deal given the vast sums spent by governments "to protect citizens, stabilise the economy and save jobs" since last year. Biden has called for a unified minimum corporate tax rate of 15 percent in negotiations with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and G20. (With inputs from agencies)

Eye on tech firms: G7 nations agree on minimum 15 per cent corporate tax rate

Facebook on Saturday welcomed progress made by G7 group of countries on a minimum tax rate. The social media giant accepted that the decision can mean that it would have to pay more taxes and in different places, its head of global affairs Nick Clegg said on Saturday.

"Facebook has long called for reform of the global tax rules and we welcome the important progress made at the G7," Clegg said on Twitter. "Today's agreement is a significant first step towards certainty for businesses and strengthening public confidence in the global tax system.

"We want the international tax reform process to succeed and recognize this could mean Facebook paying more tax, and in different places."

On Saturday,&nbsp;the G7 group of nations agreed to keep 15 per cent as the minimum rate for corporate tax. It is being understood that the decision has been taken with an eye on multinationals, especially tech companies.

The proposal, will now go to the expanded group of 20 countries at their finance meeting in July.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook on Saturday welcomed progress made by G7 group of countries on a minimum tax rate. The social media giant accepted that the decision can mean that it would have to pay more taxes and in different places, its head of global affairs Nick Clegg said on Saturday.

Facebook on Saturday welcomed progress made by G7 group of countries on a minimum tax rate. The social media giant accepted that the decision can mean that it would have to pay more taxes and in different places, its head of global affairs Nick Clegg said on Saturday. "Facebook has long called for reform of the global tax rules and we welcome the important progress made at the G7," Clegg said on Twitter. "Today's agreement is a significant first step towards certainty for businesses and strengthening public confidence in the global tax system. "We want the international tax reform process to succeed and recognize this could mean Facebook paying more tax, and in different places." On Saturday, the G7 group of nations agreed to keep 15 per cent as the minimum rate for corporate tax. It is being understood that the decision has been taken with an eye on multinationals, especially tech companies. The proposal, will now go to the expanded group of 20 countries at their finance meeting in July. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook says it could pay more corporate tax after G7 decision

The group of G7 nations agreed on 15 per cent tax for the corporates. The landmark move is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers. In other news a Turkish drone strike on Iraq refugee camp claimed three lives. Read this and more in Top 10 World News

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With Russia publicly critical of the Quad, the four-nation grouping of India, the US, Japan and Australia, Putin also said that though it was not up to Moscow to assess how any nation should participate in an initiative and to what extent they should build their relations with other countries but no partnership should be aimed at making friends against anyone

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Momentum is growing behind the US-led plans to limit the ability of multinationals like tech giants to game the system to boost profits, especially at a time when economies around the world are reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic

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Saturday's drone attack came hours after five Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga fighters were killed in a clashes with the PKK in the Mount Matin district of northern Dohuk province, an official said

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The move has been condemned by international human rights groups

Clashes spread to Myanmar's Ayeyarwady delta, several killed 
https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/clashes-spread-to-myanmars-ayeyarwady-delta-several-killed-389631 
On Saturday, clashes spread to the Ayeyarwady region, an important rice growing area that has large populations of both the Bamar majority ethnic group, from which much of the army draws much of its strength, and the Karen minority

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Vatican has not made details of discussion during the meeting public

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Since 2012, the region has suffered attacks from jihadist groups as well as deadly clashes between the different communities living there

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<img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa62a2ab-1edd-44be-9f1d-73513dcb2c8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran%20khan_3.JPG" />

Khan also lauded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for reiterating the message that the developed world has to take responsibility and help countries which do not have the resources when it comes to fighting global warming

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He was speaking just days before a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden whose cabinet in April imposed a broad array of sanctions on Russia, including curbs to its sovereign debt market

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The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said that Twitter's refusal to comply with the rules demonstrated the microblogging site's 'lack of commitment and efforts towards providing a safe experience for the people of India on its platform'.

The group of G7 nations agreed on 15 per cent tax for the corporates. The landmark move is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers.

The group of G7 nations agreed on 15 per cent tax for the corporates. The landmark move is understood to be aimed at getting multinationals especially tech giants to put more money in government coffers. In other news a Turkish drone strike on Iraq refugee camp claimed three lives. Read this and more in Top 10 World News Modi and Xi are 'responsible' leaders, can solve Sino-India issues: Putin With Russia publicly critical of the Quad, the four-nation grouping of India, the US, Japan and Australia, Putin also said that though it was not up to Moscow to assess how any nation should participate in an initiative and to what extent they should build their relations with other countries but no partnership should be aimed at making friends against anyone Eye on tech firms: G7 nations agree on minimum 15 per cent corporate tax rate Momentum is growing behind the US-led plans to limit the ability of multinationals like tech giants to game the system to boost profits, especially at a time when economies around the world are reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic Turkish drone strike on Iraq refugee camp kills three Saturday's drone attack came hours after five Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga fighters were killed in a clashes with the PKK in the Mount Matin district of northern Dohuk province, an official said Nigeria restricts Twitter just days after it deletes president's tweet The move has been condemned by international human rights groups Clashes spread to Myanmar's Ayeyarwady delta, several killed https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/clashes-spread-to-myanmars-ayeyarwady-delta-several-killed-389631 On Saturday, clashes spread to the Ayeyarwady region, an important rice growing area that has large populations of both the Bamar majority ethnic group, from which much of the army draws much of its strength, and the Karen minority Pope meets Canadian cardinals month after indigenous school scandal Vatican has not made details of discussion during the meeting public At least 11 civilians killed in NE Mali: armed group Since 2012, the region has suffered attacks from jihadist groups as well as deadly clashes between the different communities living there Rich nations should help poor countries tackle climate change: Imran Khan Khan also lauded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for reiterating the message that the developed world has to take responsibility and help countries which do not have the resources when it comes to fighting global warming Putin says US threats smack of Soviet Union's fatal mistakes He was speaking just days before a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden whose cabinet in April imposed a broad array of sanctions on Russia, including curbs to its sovereign debt market Indian govt issues 'one last notice' to Twitter to comply with IT rules The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said that Twitter's refusal to comply with the rules demonstrated the microblogging site's 'lack of commitment and efforts towards providing a safe experience for the people of India on its platform'.

Top 10 World News: G7 on corporate tax, Turkish drone strikes, and more

Turkey pushed NATO allies into watering down an official reaction to the forced landing by Belarus of a passenger plane and the detention of a dissident journalist on Sunday, two diplomats familiar with the matter told Reuters.

NATO's 30 allies released a two-paragraph statement on Wednesday condemning the forcing down of a Ryanair flight to arrest journalist Roman Protasevich but did not include any punitive steps that Baltic allies and Poland had pressed for.

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The statement was also less strident than NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's public remarks. He called the incident a "state hijacking" and "outrageous".

Ankara insisted that any mention of support for more Western sanctions on Belarus, and calls for the release of political prisoners there, would be left out of the text, the two diplomats said. Language threatening a suspension of NATO's cooperation with Belarus was also removed, they added.

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Turkey's motives were not immediately clear.

Diplomats said Ankara might be trying to preserve ties with Moscow, Belarus' closest ally, and maintain economic relations with Belarus via Turkish Airlines, which has daily flights to Minsk. Another possibility could be Turkey's keenness to welcome Russian tourists this summer after the COVID-19 pandemic.

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A spike in coronavirus infections last month and a flurry of foreign travel warnings have wiped out many early bookings and raised prospects of another lost tourist season for Turkey, which relies on the cash inflow to fund its heavy foreign debt.

The Turkish foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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A NATO official said: "The statement by the North Atlantic Council on Belarus was agreed by all 30 Allies by consensus. We do not go into the details of discussions in the North Atlantic Council, which are confidential."

One of the diplomats said Stoltenberg had won the agreement of all allies, including Turkey, for the final text, published on NATO's website, to avoid further public divisions.

Upset

Turkey's insistence on a watered-down text upset a number of allies, particularly Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, which had pushed for tougher wording, the diplomats said.

A third diplomat said Ankara's pushback was mainly aimed at using a different wording to that of the European Union, which detailed proposals for sanctions. These included a ban on the overflight of EU airspace by Belarusian airlines, preventing Belarusian airlines from using EU airports and calling on EU airlines to avoid Belarus.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-top-aviation-body-icao-to-hold-urgent-meet-over-belarus-plane-diversion-387712/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Turkey is not an EU member, though it has been a candidate for many years.

"Many allies were very frustrated with Turkey. It was important for NATO to respond and it is not clear why Ankara should want to defend (Belarusian President Alexander) Lukashenko," said a European diplomat present at the discussion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-plane-crisis-tightens-lukashenkos-awkward-embrace-of-putin-387605">Belarus plane crisis tightens Lukashenko’s awkward embrace of Putin</a>

Turkey has become a more difficult partner in recent years for some NATO allies, clashing with France over Turkish policy in Libya, with the United States on Syria and with Greece over energy rights in the Mediterranean.

Turkey has also bought air defence missiles from Russia, which NATO says is an adversary trying to destabilise the West.

The United States and European Union have criticised what they see as a slide towards more authoritarian rule under President Tayyip Erdogan, especially since a failed 2016 coup.

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But Turkey, which has the second largest military in NATO and is in a strategic location between Europe and the Middle East and with coasts on the Black and Mediterranean Seas, is too big and important for the EU or the United States to ignore.

Ankara has said repeatedly it supports NATO but that it has the right to pursue its own sovereign foreign policy.

Turkey pushed NATO allies into watering down an official reaction to the forced landing by Belarus of a passenger plane and the detention of a dissident journalist on Sunday, two diplomats familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Turkey pushed NATO allies into watering down an official reaction to the forced landing by Belarus of a passenger plane and the detention of a dissident journalist on Sunday, two diplomats familiar with the matter told Reuters. NATO's 30 allies released a two-paragraph statement on Wednesday condemning the forcing down of a Ryanair flight to arrest journalist Roman Protasevich but did not include any punitive steps that Baltic allies and Poland had pressed for. Also Read | 'No indication' KGB agents were on flight diverted to Belarus: Greece The statement was also less strident than NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's public remarks. He called the incident a "state hijacking" and "outrageous". Ankara insisted that any mention of support for more Western sanctions on Belarus, and calls for the release of political prisoners there, would be left out of the text, the two diplomats said. Language threatening a suspension of NATO's cooperation with Belarus was also removed, they added. Also Read | Belarus opposition leader accuses Lukashenko of turning country into 'North Korea of Europe' Turkey's motives were not immediately clear. Diplomats said Ankara might be trying to preserve ties with Moscow, Belarus' closest ally, and maintain economic relations with Belarus via Turkish Airlines, which has daily flights to Minsk. Another possibility could be Turkey's keenness to welcome Russian tourists this summer after the COVID-19 pandemic. Also Read | Airlines re-route to avoid Belarus, opposition says journalist beaten A spike in coronavirus infections last month and a flurry of foreign travel warnings have wiped out many early bookings and raised prospects of another lost tourist season for Turkey, which relies on the cash inflow to fund its heavy foreign debt. The Turkish foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also Read | Kremlin dismisses notion of alleged Russian involvement in Belarus plane incident A NATO official said: "The statement by the North Atlantic Council on Belarus was agreed by all 30 Allies by consensus. We do not go into the details of discussions in the North Atlantic Council, which are confidential." One of the diplomats said Stoltenberg had won the agreement of all allies, including Turkey, for the final text, published on NATO's website, to avoid further public divisions. Upset Turkey's insistence on a watered-down text upset a number of allies, particularly Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, which had pushed for tougher wording, the diplomats said. A third diplomat said Ankara's pushback was mainly aimed at using a different wording to that of the European Union, which detailed proposals for sanctions. These included a ban on the overflight of EU airspace by Belarusian airlines, preventing Belarusian airlines from using EU airports and calling on EU airlines to avoid Belarus. Turkey is not an EU member, though it has been a candidate for many years. "Many allies were very frustrated with Turkey. It was important for NATO to respond and it is not clear why Ankara should want to defend (Belarusian President Alexander) Lukashenko," said a European diplomat present at the discussion. Also Read | Belarus plane crisis tightens Lukashenko’s awkward embrace of Putin Turkey has become a more difficult partner in recent years for some NATO allies, clashing with France over Turkish policy in Libya, with the United States on Syria and with Greece over energy rights in the Mediterranean. Turkey has also bought air defence missiles from Russia, which NATO says is an adversary trying to destabilise the West. The United States and European Union have criticised what they see as a slide towards more authoritarian rule under President Tayyip Erdogan, especially since a failed 2016 coup. Also Read | Lukashenko defiant as UN Security Council to meet over Belarus But Turkey, which has the second largest military in NATO and is in a strategic location between Europe and the Middle East and with coasts on the Black and Mediterranean Seas, is too big and important for the EU or the United States to ignore. Ankara has said repeatedly it supports NATO but that it has the right to pursue its own sovereign foreign policy.

Turkey pushed NATO allies into softening outrage over Belarus plane, diplomats say

The Group of Seven (G7) wealthy economies condemned Belarus on Thursday for forcing a passenger plane to land so the authorities could arrest a journalist on board.

"This action jeopardised the safety of the passengers and crew of the flight. It was also a serious attack on the rules governing civil aviation," said the statement, issued by Britain's foreign office on behalf of foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and Britain.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-belarus-diverts-ryanair-plane-to-arrest-critic-387164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities."

"We demand the immediate and unconditional release" of Roman Protasevich, "as well as all other journalists and political prisoners held in&nbsp;Belarus," the ministers said in a joint statement published by the British government.

International disapproval of&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;and its president, Alexander Lukashenko, has increased since the regime diverted a Ryanair jet on Sunday to arrest Protasevich, an opposition journalist, and his companion, Sofia Sopega, who were both on board.

The G7 ministers accused Lukashenko of jeopardising the safety of the passengers and crew on the flight.&nbsp;

"We call on the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to urgently address this challenge to its rules and standards," said the statement.

"This action also represents a serious attack on media freedom," it added.&nbsp;

"We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities."

Dominic Raab, foreign minister for Britain, which currently holds the G7 presidency, wrote on Twitter that "we will use all the tools at our disposal to hold the Lukashenko regime to account".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Group of Seven (G7) wealthy economies condemned Belarus on Thursday for forcing a passenger plane to land so the authorities could arrest a journalist on board.

The Group of Seven (G7) wealthy economies condemned Belarus on Thursday for forcing a passenger plane to land so the authorities could arrest a journalist on board. "This action jeopardised the safety of the passengers and crew of the flight. It was also a serious attack on the rules governing civil aviation," said the statement, issued by Britain's foreign office on behalf of foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and Britain. "We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities." "We demand the immediate and unconditional release" of Roman Protasevich, "as well as all other journalists and political prisoners held in Belarus," the ministers said in a joint statement published by the British government. International disapproval of Belarus and its president, Alexander Lukashenko, has increased since the regime diverted a Ryanair jet on Sunday to arrest Protasevich, an opposition journalist, and his companion, Sofia Sopega, who were both on board. The G7 ministers accused Lukashenko of jeopardising the safety of the passengers and crew on the flight. "We call on the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to urgently address this challenge to its rules and standards," said the statement. "This action also represents a serious attack on media freedom," it added. "We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities." Dominic Raab, foreign minister for Britain, which currently holds the G7 presidency, wrote on Twitter that "we will use all the tools at our disposal to hold the Lukashenko regime to account". (With inputs from agencies)

G7 calls for 'immediate and unconditional' release of Belarus journalist

With an aim to save the planet Earth for future generations, the world’s richest countries have decided to pull the plug on funding coal development projects overseas.

After two days of the G7 meeting of environment and energy ministers, hosted by the UK, all countries present in the meet have decided to end the financial support of coal development and have assured their commitment to limiting global heating to 1.5C.

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G7 members — namely the UK, US, France, Canada, Italy, Germany, and the EU — have come together to make sure there is no more funding for any such projects that can harm the environment for future generations.

Japan, however, has raised concerns about this change. The Japanese government believes if the country does not invest money in coal development, China will step in to build less-efficient and more harmful coal-fired power plants, which will be more harmful, Japan claims.

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"I will strongly recommend to the president that this is a policy that we should pursue … But I guarantee that we will be completely consistent with 1.5C. 1.5C governs the choices we have to make in the next 10 years. Any decision has to be within that framework," John Kerry, the US climate envoy said.

France has come out in support of the decision and hopes this will send out a message that coal is an energy 'of the past'.

"I am delighted that an agreement could be found regarding a key aspect of our G7 communique: the absolute end of new direct government support for international coal power generation. It gives a very strong signal to the world that coal is an energy of the past and has no place in our future energy mix. It sets the stage for a radical transition towards clean energy," Barbara Pompili, France’s environment minister said.

With an aim to save the planet Earth for future generations, the world’s richest countries have decided to pull the plug on funding coal development projects overseas.

With an aim to save the planet Earth for future generations, the world’s richest countries have decided to pull the plug on funding coal development projects overseas. After two days of the G7 meeting of environment and energy ministers, hosted by the UK, all countries present in the meet have decided to end the financial support of coal development and have assured their commitment to limiting global heating to 1.5C. Also read | Astrophysicists detect gamma rays from surprising cosmic sources G7 members — namely the UK, US, France, Canada, Italy, Germany, and the EU — have come together to make sure there is no more funding for any such projects that can harm the environment for future generations. Japan, however, has raised concerns about this change. The Japanese government believes if the country does not invest money in coal development, China will step in to build less-efficient and more harmful coal-fired power plants, which will be more harmful, Japan claims. Also read | Meet climate change's latest offering to Earth - 'Zombie wildfires' "I will strongly recommend to the president that this is a policy that we should pursue … But I guarantee that we will be completely consistent with 1.5C. 1.5C governs the choices we have to make in the next 10 years. Any decision has to be within that framework," John Kerry, the US climate envoy said. France has come out in support of the decision and hopes this will send out a message that coal is an energy 'of the past'. "I am delighted that an agreement could be found regarding a key aspect of our G7 communique: the absolute end of new direct government support for international coal power generation. It gives a very strong signal to the world that coal is an energy of the past and has no place in our future energy mix. It sets the stage for a radical transition towards clean energy," Barbara Pompili, France’s environment minister said.

Rich countries halt funding for coal production overseas

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday.

The University of Oxford has been chosen for its role at the heart of the global fight against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, with world-leading clinical trials and its not-for-profit partnership with AstraZeneca on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccines</a>.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-invites-india-for-g7-fms-meet-in-london-in-may-379064">UK invites India for G7 FMs meet in London in May</a>

Attendees will come together to address the issues of global health security, antimicrobial resistance, clinical trials, and digital health and the discussions will inform the G7 Leaders' Summit in Cornwall a week later between June 11 and 13.

"Oxford is the birthplace of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and at the heart of British life sciences. Oxford is a perfect location to stage pivotal meetings on how the world readies itself to combat future health threats," said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

"Collectively we can build back better from this virus and, as I gather with my Ministerial counterparts from the major democratic nations, we have an opportunity to learn from this pandemic and take measures that will develop global health security," he said.

The summit forms part of the UK's 2021 presidency of the Group of Seven, which includes the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US and the European Union, and will bring together health ministers from these nations in a physical setting.

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However, the UK government said that the two-day talks will also engage virtually with the G7 Presidency's guest countries;&nbsp;India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa.

"Oxford University is honoured to host the G7 Health Ministers. This past year has demonstrated just how much can be accomplished when universities, business and government work together to advance global health," said Professor Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford.

"We hope that in the course of this meeting insights and information will be shared, ideas generated, and lasting partnerships forged. In particular, we hope that as a result of this meeting plans will be developed to ensure that we are never again caught unprepared for a pandemic," she said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankars-participation-at-g7-summit-goes-virtual-over-covid-worries-383017">External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's participation at G7 summit goes virtual over Covid worries</a>

There will be a working ministerial dinner on the evening of June 3 attended by senior representatives from the life sciences industry, who are planning to convene concurrently in Oxford to discuss the themes under the UK Prime Minister's Pandemic Preparedness Partnership between public and private sectors and key issues on the health agenda for the summit.

"As a county with a world-class reputation for cutting-edge research and innovation in life sciences and healthcare, we look forward to welcoming our guests and hope that their time here contributes to strengthening partnerships and boosting collaboration in managing current and future global health threats," said Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council Leader.

Oxford City Council Leader, Councillor Susan Brown, added: "Our city has rightly become synonymous with excellence in life science research and manufacturing. We are proud that Oxford's name is carried by the vaccine used most widely across the world.

"There is a real opportunity for those gathered to step up international support for the vaccination programmes still only in their early stages in many developing countries, particularly in Africa."

G7 countries account for two thirds of the world's pharmaceutical markets and the three vaccines licensed for use in the UK were all developed in G7 nations;&nbsp;the UK, US and Germany.

As host of this year's G7 Presidency, the UK says it is determined to work with its partners to "build back better" from coronavirus and strengthen global preparedness for potential future pandemics.

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday.

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday. The University of Oxford has been chosen for its role at the heart of the global fight against COVID-19, with world-leading clinical trials and its not-for-profit partnership with AstraZeneca on COVID-19 vaccines. Also Read | UK invites India for G7 FMs meet in London in May Attendees will come together to address the issues of global health security, antimicrobial resistance, clinical trials, and digital health and the discussions will inform the G7 Leaders' Summit in Cornwall a week later between June 11 and 13. "Oxford is the birthplace of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and at the heart of British life sciences. Oxford is a perfect location to stage pivotal meetings on how the world readies itself to combat future health threats," said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock. "Collectively we can build back better from this virus and, as I gather with my Ministerial counterparts from the major democratic nations, we have an opportunity to learn from this pandemic and take measures that will develop global health security," he said. The summit forms part of the UK's 2021 presidency of the Group of Seven, which includes the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US and the European Union, and will bring together health ministers from these nations in a physical setting. Also Read | G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet However, the UK government said that the two-day talks will also engage virtually with the G7 Presidency's guest countries; India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa. "Oxford University is honoured to host the G7 Health Ministers. This past year has demonstrated just how much can be accomplished when universities, business and government work together to advance global health," said Professor Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford. "We hope that in the course of this meeting insights and information will be shared, ideas generated, and lasting partnerships forged. In particular, we hope that as a result of this meeting plans will be developed to ensure that we are never again caught unprepared for a pandemic," she said. Also Read | External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's participation at G7 summit goes virtual over Covid worries There will be a working ministerial dinner on the evening of June 3 attended by senior representatives from the life sciences industry, who are planning to convene concurrently in Oxford to discuss the themes under the UK Prime Minister's Pandemic Preparedness Partnership between public and private sectors and key issues on the health agenda for the summit. "As a county with a world-class reputation for cutting-edge research and innovation in life sciences and healthcare, we look forward to welcoming our guests and hope that their time here contributes to strengthening partnerships and boosting collaboration in managing current and future global health threats," said Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council Leader. Oxford City Council Leader, Councillor Susan Brown, added: "Our city has rightly become synonymous with excellence in life science research and manufacturing. We are proud that Oxford's name is carried by the vaccine used most widely across the world. "There is a real opportunity for those gathered to step up international support for the vaccination programmes still only in their early stages in many developing countries, particularly in Africa." G7 countries account for two thirds of the world's pharmaceutical markets and the three vaccines licensed for use in the UK were all developed in G7 nations; the UK, US and Germany. As host of this year's G7 Presidency, the UK says it is determined to work with its partners to "build back better" from coronavirus and strengthen global preparedness for potential future pandemics.

UK invites India to join G7 Health Ministers' Summit virtually

The second&nbsp;India-Nordic summit that was to take place in June in person has been postponed since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi won't be travelling abroad amid the&nbsp;pandemic.&nbsp;

The summit was to take place in Denmark and to include all five&nbsp;Nordic countries - Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.

"it is no secret that PM Modi is not travelling in June, so, therefore, the India-Nordic summit has been postponed," said the ambassador of Denmark&nbsp;Freddy Svane at a virtual meet hosted by the India Writes Network.&nbsp;The physical summit is expected to happen later and a "timespan" is being looked into.

The first India-Nordic summit took place in Sweden's capital Stockholm in April 2018 and is a unique format that brings together India along with all the countries in the Nordic region. A similar&nbsp;format meet has was aligned with the US in May 2016 when the then US President Barack Obama had held meetings with Nordic countries.

New Delhi has been increasing its engagement with the Nordics or the northern European countries,&nbsp;which are known for clean technology, renewables, and a high standard of living.

Since last year, Indian PM Modi has had virtual summits with three&nbsp;Nordic countries - Denmark, Sweden, and Finland&nbsp;which is highest in any specific region of the world.

Earlier, Modi was to travel to the UK as well to participate in the G7 leaders meet in June. India's Ministry of External Affairs announced earlier this month that the visit stands cancelled "given the prevailing COVID-19 situation."&nbsp;

India was invited as a guest to participate at the G7 by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping. This is is the third&nbsp;time in a row that India is being invited for G7, first by the French in 2019, Americans in 2020&nbsp;and now the British this year.&nbsp;

The second India-Nordic summit that was to take place in June in person has been postponed since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi won't be travelling abroad amid the pandemic.

The second India-Nordic summit that was to take place in June in person has been postponed since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi won't be travelling abroad amid the pandemic. The summit was to take place in Denmark and to include all five Nordic countries - Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland. "it is no secret that PM Modi is not travelling in June, so, therefore, the India-Nordic summit has been postponed," said the ambassador of Denmark Freddy Svane at a virtual meet hosted by the India Writes Network. The physical summit is expected to happen later and a "timespan" is being looked into. The first India-Nordic summit took place in Sweden's capital Stockholm in April 2018 and is a unique format that brings together India along with all the countries in the Nordic region. A similar format meet has was aligned with the US in May 2016 when the then US President Barack Obama had held meetings with Nordic countries. New Delhi has been increasing its engagement with the Nordics or the northern European countries, which are known for clean technology, renewables, and a high standard of living. Since last year, Indian PM Modi has had virtual summits with three Nordic countries - Denmark, Sweden, and Finland which is highest in any specific region of the world. Earlier, Modi was to travel to the UK as well to participate in the G7 leaders meet in June. India's Ministry of External Affairs announced earlier this month that the visit stands cancelled "given the prevailing COVID-19 situation." India was invited as a guest to participate at the G7 by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping. This is is the third time in a row that India is being invited for G7, first by the French in 2019, Americans in 2020 and now the British this year.

Amid COVID-19 worries, second India-Nordic summit postponed

India had pledged supplies of the AstraZeneca vaccine produced by its Serum Institute to COVAX but a devastating surge in cases at home has restricted exports.

G7 urged to donate excess COVID vaccines to global sharing scheme

The head of UNICEF on Monday asked G7 countries to donate supplies to the COVAX vaccine-sharing scheme as an emergency measure to address a severe shortfall caused by disruption to Indian vaccine exports.&nbsp;

India has curbed exports of the AstraZeneca vaccine made by its Serum Institute, which had been pledged to COVAX, to be used by the country as it battles a massive second wave of infections.&nbsp;

UN agency UNICEF, which is in charge of supplying coronavirus vaccines through COVAX, estimates the supply shortfall at 140 million doses by the end of May and about 190 million by the end of June.&nbsp;

"Sharing immediately available excess doses is a minimum, essential and emergency stop-gap measure, and it is needed right now," said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore, adding that this could help to prevent vulnerable countries from becoming the next global hotspot.&nbsp;

As G7 leaders prepare to meet in Britain next month, the head of the World Health Organization last week denounced the 'moral catastrophe' of vaccine inequity, urging wealthy countries to donate doses rather than use them for children, who are less vulnerable to severe disease.&nbsp;

Citing new research from scientific information and analytics company Airfinity, UNICEF's Fore said that G7 countries could donate about 153 million doses if they shared only 20% of their available supply over June, July and August.&nbsp;

This could be done while still meeting commitments to vaccinate their own populations, she said, without providing further detail.&nbsp;

COVAX, run jointly by the WHO and the GAVI vaccine alliance, relies heavily on the AstraZeneca shot, which accounts for the bulk of the vaccines earmarked for early rollout as it seeks to provide two billion doses this year. &nbsp;

UNICEF said that other manufacturing limitations outside India had also slowed supply of COVAX doses but those delays are expected to be resolved by the end of June.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The head of UNICEF on Monday asked G7 countries to donate supplies to the COVAX vaccine-sharing scheme as an emergency measure to address a severe shortfall caused by disruption to Indian vaccine exports.

The head of UNICEF on Monday asked G7 countries to donate supplies to the COVAX vaccine-sharing scheme as an emergency measure to address a severe shortfall caused by disruption to Indian vaccine exports. India has curbed exports of the AstraZeneca vaccine made by its Serum Institute, which had been pledged to COVAX, to be used by the country as it battles a massive second wave of infections. UN agency UNICEF, which is in charge of supplying coronavirus vaccines through COVAX, estimates the supply shortfall at 140 million doses by the end of May and about 190 million by the end of June. "Sharing immediately available excess doses is a minimum, essential and emergency stop-gap measure, and it is needed right now," said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore, adding that this could help to prevent vulnerable countries from becoming the next global hotspot. As G7 leaders prepare to meet in Britain next month, the head of the World Health Organization last week denounced the 'moral catastrophe' of vaccine inequity, urging wealthy countries to donate doses rather than use them for children, who are less vulnerable to severe disease. Citing new research from scientific information and analytics company Airfinity, UNICEF's Fore said that G7 countries could donate about 153 million doses if they shared only 20% of their available supply over June, July and August. This could be done while still meeting commitments to vaccinate their own populations, she said, without providing further detail. COVAX, run jointly by the WHO and the GAVI vaccine alliance, relies heavily on the AstraZeneca shot, which accounts for the bulk of the vaccines earmarked for early rollout as it seeks to provide two billion doses this year. UNICEF said that other manufacturing limitations outside India had also slowed supply of COVAX doses but those delays are expected to be resolved by the end of June. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 urged to donate 'emergency' supplies to vaccine-sharing scheme 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be attending the G7 Summit in Cornwall in the UK next month, the government said today.

"While appreciating the invitation to the Prime Minister by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to attend the G7 Summit as a special invitee, given the prevailing COVID-19 situation, it has been decided that the Prime Minister will not attend the G7 Summit in person,” MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi said today.

The G7 comprises of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and UK. The Indian PM was a special invitee at the summit which is due to take place from June 11 to 13.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-lists-covid-strain-first-detected-in-india-as-variant-of-concern-384201">India</a> has been hit hard with the second wave of coronavirus pandemic with the total tally of COVID-19 infections surging to 2,29,92,517 
since the pandemic began.

India has received oxygen concentrators&nbsp;and other medical equipment from several countries including UK, US, Israel as the country grapples&nbsp;with the unprecedented second wave.

Canada on Tuesday said the first consignment of medical aid to India arrived a few days ago with another flight set to get additional supplies in the next couple of days.

"We sent 350 ventilators, 25000 vials of Remdesivir &amp; 1450 oxygen concentrators via Unicef. The outpouring of support and&nbsp;solidarity with people of India in Canada has been special," High Commissioner of Canada to India, Nadir Patel said.

The Canadian government has started off with $10 million donations to Indian Red Cross, Nadir Patel added.

India recorded 3.29 lakh cases in the last 24 including 3,876 fatalities. India's coronavirus tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 last year, however, on May 4 this year it crossed the 2 crore mark amid the raging second wave.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be attending the G7 Summit in Cornwall in the UK next month, the government said today. "While appreciating the invitation to the Prime Minister by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to attend the G7 Summit as a special invitee, given the prevailing COVID-19 situation, it has been decided that the Prime Minister will not attend the G7 Summit in person,” MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi said today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be attending the G7 Summit in Cornwall in the UK next month, the government said today. "While appreciating the invitation to the Prime Minister by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to attend the G7 Summit as a special invitee, given the prevailing COVID-19 situation, it has been decided that the Prime Minister will not attend the G7 Summit in person,” MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi said today. The G7 comprises of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and UK. The Indian PM was a special invitee at the summit which is due to take place from June 11 to 13. India has been hit hard with the second wave of coronavirus pandemic with the total tally of COVID-19 infections surging to 2,29,92,517 since the pandemic began. India has received oxygen concentrators and other medical equipment from several countries including UK, US, Israel as the country grapples with the unprecedented second wave. Canada on Tuesday said the first consignment of medical aid to India arrived a few days ago with another flight set to get additional supplies in the next couple of days. "We sent 350 ventilators, 25000 vials of Remdesivir & 1450 oxygen concentrators via Unicef. The outpouring of support and solidarity with people of India in Canada has been special," High Commissioner of Canada to India, Nadir Patel said. The Canadian government has started off with $10 million donations to Indian Red Cross, Nadir Patel added. India recorded 3.29 lakh cases in the last 24 including 3,876 fatalities. India's coronavirus tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7 last year, however, on May 4 this year it crossed the 2 crore mark amid the raging second wave.

PM Modi not to attend G7 meeting in UK due to Covid crisis

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