Pakistan requires $8 billion from its global allies in the next three years to recover from the devastating 2022 floods. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed the bailout plan in Geneva on Monday.&nbsp;

Pakistan witnessed 'calamitous' floods last year that massively impacted and strained the nation's economy. Moreover, the floods killed around 1,700 people and displaced eight million people. Recovering measures might cost nearly $16 billion, Reuters news agency reported.&nbsp;

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/biden-reaches-mexico-following-strategic-stop-at-us-mexico-border-as-immigration-takes-centrestage-550585">Biden reaches Mexico following strategic stop at US-Mexico border as immigration takes centrestage</a>

In addition to Pakistan's plea, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, called other countries to aid the flood-ravaged nation. "We must match the heroic response of the people of Pakistan with our efforts and massive investments to strengthen their communities for the future," Antonio Guterres said in Geneva. The UN Secretary-General also referred to Pakistan as a 'doubly victimised' nation.

While Pakistan hasn't recovered from losses during the flood, the country's economy remains in turmoil.&nbsp;

Watch|&nbsp;Pakistan PM to unveil comprehensive post-disaster framework today

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UN development agency Chief, Achim Steiner, called the floods a 'cataclysmic' event. He said that the nations need to step up for Pakistan as it has already faced an extraordinary amount of misery.&nbsp;

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan's foreign minister, also attended the conference in Geneva. He said, "This is the greatest climate disaster in our country's history. Pakistan will need considerable support over the next several years." Furthermore, he asked other countries to aid Pakistan in their comprehensive recovery plan.&nbsp;

The government of Pakistan has shut down shops and wedding halls to save fuel and electricity. The economic chaos seems to deepen as citizens find it difficult to fulfil basic life needs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan requires $8 billion from its global allies in the next three years to recover from the devastating 2022 floods. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed the bailout plan in Geneva on Monday.

Pakistan requires $8 billion from its global allies in the next three years to recover from the devastating 2022 floods. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed the bailout plan in Geneva on Monday. Pakistan witnessed 'calamitous' floods last year that massively impacted and strained the nation's economy. Moreover, the floods killed around 1,700 people and displaced eight million people. Recovering measures might cost nearly $16 billion, Reuters news agency reported. Also Read| Biden reaches Mexico following strategic stop at US-Mexico border as immigration takes centrestage In addition to Pakistan's plea, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, called other countries to aid the flood-ravaged nation. "We must match the heroic response of the people of Pakistan with our efforts and massive investments to strengthen their communities for the future," Antonio Guterres said in Geneva. The UN Secretary-General also referred to Pakistan as a 'doubly victimised' nation. While Pakistan hasn't recovered from losses during the flood, the country's economy remains in turmoil. Watch| Pakistan PM to unveil comprehensive post-disaster framework today UN development agency Chief, Achim Steiner, called the floods a 'cataclysmic' event. He said that the nations need to step up for Pakistan as it has already faced an extraordinary amount of misery. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan's foreign minister, also attended the conference in Geneva. He said, "This is the greatest climate disaster in our country's history. Pakistan will need considerable support over the next several years." Furthermore, he asked other countries to aid Pakistan in their comprehensive recovery plan. The government of Pakistan has shut down shops and wedding halls to save fuel and electricity. The economic chaos seems to deepen as citizens find it difficult to fulfil basic life needs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan needs $8 billion to recover from devastating floods, says PM Sharif at UN conference

Baking cookies or decorating gingerbread houses or watching a Christmas movie, people from around the world have various Christmas traditions but in Geneva, there's a quirky one and that is jumping into a freezing lake just to stand a chance to win the glimmering Christmas cup.

4000 swimmers take part in the Christmas tradition, assemble despite freezing temperatures

An extremely rare 18-carat rare diamond called the ‘Fortune Pink’ was sold for a whopping $28.5 million at an auction in Geneva.&nbsp;A private Asian collector successfully bid for the pear-shaped "fancy vivid pink" jewel. &nbsp;The auction began with a starting price of 17 million Swiss francs, but a three-way battle jacked up the value of the dazzling gem up to $28,570,150 (28,436,500 Swiss francs), which includes the buyer's premium, reports AFP news agency.&nbsp;

The dazzling stone, which is mounted on a ring flanked by a large white diamond on either side, was auctioned in the Magnificent Jewels at the Hotel des Bergues, as part of Christie's Luxury Week of sales.&nbsp;

Before being auctioned in Geneva, it was put up for exhibition in New York, Shanghai, Taiwan, and Singapore.&nbsp;

It was earlier estimated that the ‘Fortune Pink’ diamond would fetch between $25 million and $35 million.&nbsp;

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The highest a pink diamond could fetch was $71.2 million, when the stone known as the CTF Pink Star went under the hammer in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Pink diamonds are considered to be one of the rarest gemstones in the world as they are only found in very few locations.&nbsp;It is estimated that fewer than 10 per cent of these diamonds weigh more than one-fifth of a carat.&nbsp;

Speculations are rife as to how these diamonds obtained the pink colour. There are reports which suggest that a structural defect known as plastic deformation caused these diamonds to absorb light differently, and a result, the gems got their pink hue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Christie’s, the first pink diamonds ever recorded were found in India’s Golconda mines in the 16th Century, and later in Africa, Australia, Brazil, and Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An extremely rare 18-carat rare diamond called the ‘Fortune Pink’ was sold for a whopping $28.5 million at an auction in Geneva. A private Asian collector successfully bid for the pear-shaped "fancy vivid pink" jewel.

An extremely rare 18-carat rare diamond called the ‘Fortune Pink’ was sold for a whopping $28.5 million at an auction in Geneva. A private Asian collector successfully bid for the pear-shaped "fancy vivid pink" jewel. The auction began with a starting price of 17 million Swiss francs, but a three-way battle jacked up the value of the dazzling gem up to $28,570,150 (28,436,500 Swiss francs), which includes the buyer's premium, reports AFP news agency. The dazzling stone, which is mounted on a ring flanked by a large white diamond on either side, was auctioned in the Magnificent Jewels at the Hotel des Bergues, as part of Christie's Luxury Week of sales. Before being auctioned in Geneva, it was put up for exhibition in New York, Shanghai, Taiwan, and Singapore. It was earlier estimated that the ‘Fortune Pink’ diamond would fetch between $25 million and $35 million. Watch | US Midterm Elections: Republicans call out Biden's 'blank cheque' for Ukraine The highest a pink diamond could fetch was $71.2 million, when the stone known as the CTF Pink Star went under the hammer in Hong Kong. Pink diamonds are considered to be one of the rarest gemstones in the world as they are only found in very few locations. It is estimated that fewer than 10 per cent of these diamonds weigh more than one-fifth of a carat. Speculations are rife as to how these diamonds obtained the pink colour. There are reports which suggest that a structural defect known as plastic deformation caused these diamonds to absorb light differently, and a result, the gems got their pink hue. According to Christie’s, the first pink diamonds ever recorded were found in India’s Golconda mines in the 16th Century, and later in Africa, Australia, Brazil, and Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Extremely rare 18-carat pear-shaped pink diamond sold for $28.5 million at auction

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials".

The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities.

Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice.

"This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva.

A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work.

The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May.

The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier.

Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify.

The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts.

Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year.

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Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities. Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice. "This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva. A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work. The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May. The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier. Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify. The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts. Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN probe hearings of alleged Israeli rights abuses open in Geneva

Following a deadly clash between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the Foreign Ministers of the two countries held talks in Geneva on a future possible peace agreement.

Armenia and Azerbaijan hold peace talks after deadly border clashes

Switzerland wants to enact stricter animal welfare regulations and ban factory farming, but a referendum on the issue has been rejected by Swiss citizens.

The proposal to make safeguarding the dignity of farm animals like cattle, poultry, and pigs a constitutional obligation was submitted to a referendum under the Swiss form of direct democracy, reports Reuters.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Non-vegetarians, will you make changes to save Earth?

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However, VoteInfo app which uses the Federal Statistics Office collected data on election outcomes, showed a provisional result of 62.86 per cent of votes against the proposal.

The government had also advised against the idea, claiming that such modifications would violate trade agreements, raise investment and operating expenses, and increase food prices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/organisation-wants-meat-eating-men-banned-from-having-sex-heres-why-519557">Organisation wants meat-eating men 'banned from having sex'. Here's why</a>

According to the farming proposal, the government would have had to establish more stringent guidelines for both caring for and slaughtering animals. This would have included granting them access to the outdoors. The rules would have applied to imported animals and animal products as well.

Fabrice Drouin, a resident of Geneva, told Reuters that he voted no, because in his opinion while "There are farmers who are doing intensive farming with their animals" they respect animal welfare.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-meat-increases-risk-of-heart-diseases-by-18-study-399496">Red meat increases risk of heart diseases by 18%: Study</a>

He added that the nation must practise factory farming, at least in part, in order to feed the population, "otherwise, we won't be able to eat meat anymore."

Another Geneva resident Florian Barbon who also voted against the initiative said that he believes that "in general, people are regulating themselves on their own," and that "I don't think we need a legal framework for this."

Switzerland wants to enact stricter animal welfare regulations and ban factory farming, but a referendum on the issue has been rejected by Swiss citizens. The proposal to make safeguarding the dignity of farm animals like cattle, poultry, and pigs a constitutional obligation was submitted to a referendum under the Swiss form of direct democracy, reports Reuters.

Switzerland wants to enact stricter animal welfare regulations and ban factory farming, but a referendum on the issue has been rejected by Swiss citizens. The proposal to make safeguarding the dignity of farm animals like cattle, poultry, and pigs a constitutional obligation was submitted to a referendum under the Swiss form of direct democracy, reports Reuters. Watch | Non-vegetarians, will you make changes to save Earth? However, VoteInfo app which uses the Federal Statistics Office collected data on election outcomes, showed a provisional result of 62.86 per cent of votes against the proposal. The government had also advised against the idea, claiming that such modifications would violate trade agreements, raise investment and operating expenses, and increase food prices. Also read | Organisation wants meat-eating men 'banned from having sex'. Here's why According to the farming proposal, the government would have had to establish more stringent guidelines for both caring for and slaughtering animals. This would have included granting them access to the outdoors. The rules would have applied to imported animals and animal products as well. Fabrice Drouin, a resident of Geneva, told Reuters that he voted no, because in his opinion while "There are farmers who are doing intensive farming with their animals" they respect animal welfare. Also read | Red meat increases risk of heart diseases by 18%: Study He added that the nation must practise factory farming, at least in part, in order to feed the population, "otherwise, we won't be able to eat meat anymore." Another Geneva resident Florian Barbon who also voted against the initiative said that he believes that "in general, people are regulating themselves on their own," and that "I don't think we need a legal framework for this."

Switzerland: 62% people reject proposal to toughen animal protection laws, ban factory farming

Two Air France pilots were suspended after physically fighting in the cockpit on a Geneva-Paris flight in June, an Air France official said Sunday.

Two Air France pilots suspended for cockpit brawl during Geneva-Paris flight

10 best places to live in the world

EIU Global Liveability Index 2022: 10 best places to live in the world

After more than five days of arduous discussions, the 164 members of the World Trade Organization agreed to a series of trade accords early on Friday, including obligations on fish and pledges on health and food security.&nbsp;

It was also decided that by the next WTO ministerial conference, or no later than March 2024, a final solution to the question of the continuance of the moratorium on imposing customs charges on electronic transmission of commodities would be found.

Round-the-clock negotiations among delegations, according to the WTO, aided in the conclusion of the agreement, which included a number of decisions on fisheries subsidies, WTO response to emergencies, including a waiver of certain requirements concerning compulsory licencing for COVID-19 vaccines, food safety and agriculture, and WTO reforms.

A win-win situation for India

India adjusted the narrative and controlled it brilliantly from start to finish at the WTO ministerial session, which witnessed several landmark decisions, and the country's reputation has increased dramatically in the international community.

After seven years, a ministerial conference finally produced a result. Ministerial decisions were made on all topics except agriculture, which was expected. a total of eight or nine, with several ground-breaking verdicts.

What was accomplished in the WTO, according to sources, is a tremendous achievement.According to the insiders, India's reputation has shifted from deal-breaker to deal-maker, which was impossible a year ago.

The following are the specifics of historic agreements:

Response to the Covid-19 pandemic

For more than a year, India, South Africa, and other developing countries have sought a waiver of intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics, but have been met with opposition from numerous developed countries with large pharmaceutical companies.

In May, a tentative agreement confined to vaccines was reached amongst the main parties – India, South Africa, the United States, and the European Union – and this is largely what has been implemented.

Developing countries will be able to use a patent for manufacturing and supplying without the approval of the patent holder for a period of five years, with the possibility of an extension. Production does not have to be primarily for the home market, allowing for larger exports to provide fair access. 
 
Watch | WTO agrees to lift COVID vaccine patents for 5 years

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WTO members must consider extending the waiver to pharmaceuticals and diagnostics within six months.China has freely chosen to opt out of the waiver, which the US had insisted on.

Members were advised to reject the wording because it was too restrictive and not a true IP waiver, according to campaign groups.The WTO also agreed on a declaration on its reaction to COVID-19 and future pandemic preparedness, with a focus on the requirements of LDCs.

Members also agreed that any emergency trade measures should be proportionate and temporary, and that supply chains should not be disrupted unnecessarily. Imposing export restrictions on vital medical supplies should also be done with caution.

Illegal fishing to be tackled

WTO members in the fishing sector have agreed to eliminate subsidies that contribute to overfishing, a step that environmentalists say is critical to reviving fish stocks.

The negotiations have lasted 20 years, and the agreement is only the WTO's second multilateral agreement on new global trade rules in its 27-year history. The outcome in the fisheries case was considered as a litmus test for the WTO's own credibility.

According to the agreement, no WTO member may provide a subsidy to vessels or operators who engage in illicit, unreported, or unregulated fishing, or who fish an overfished stock.

For two years, developing countries will be exempt.Members will conduct their own investigations into activities off their shores, and all members will be compelled to report their fishing subsidy schemes to the WTO.

India had previously been one of the most vocal opponents.However, discussions will continue in order to reach a more complete agreement on fishing subsidies in time for the next ministerial conference, which is expected to take place in 2023. 
 
Watch | WTO signs landmark deals on food, health and fishing

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Actions to ease trade in food and agriculture

The World Trade Organization (WTO) aimed to address a food supply and price increase dilemma caused by export disruptions from key wheat exporters, Ukraine and Russia.

Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed in a declaration to take specific actions to ease trade in food and agriculture, including cereals, fertilisers, and other agricultural inputs, and emphasised the significance of lowering export restrictions.

Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) also agreed to a binding commitment not to stifle exports to the World Food Programme (WFP), which works to alleviate hunger in areas affected by conflict, natural disasters, and climate change. Members would still have the option of taking steps to assure their own food security.

E-commerce moratorium

WTO members have extended a moratorium on imposing customs taxes on electronic communications worth hundreds of billions of dollars per year, ranging from streaming services to financial transactions and corporate data flows.

The ban has been in effect since 1998. South Africa and India were initially opposed to the extension, claiming that they should not lose revenue from customs.

The extension will last until the next ministerial meeting, which is expected to take place by the end of 2023 but will expire on March 31, 2024 in any case.

WTO rules are being revised

WTO members agree that the organization's rules need to be updated, but they disagree on what modifications are needed.

Most importantly, the WTO's dispute appeals court has been shut down for nearly two years after then-President Donald Trump rejected fresh adjudicator nominations, limiting the WTO's ability to adjudicate trade disputes.

Members agreed to work toward WTO reforms in order to strengthen the organization's activities. This effort should be open and transparent, and it should take into account the interests of all members, including developing countries, which are given preferential consideration.

By 2024, the WTO has committed to holding discussions in order to establish a fully functional dispute settlement system. 
&nbsp;

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After more than five days of arduous discussions, the 164 members of the World Trade Organization agreed to a series of trade accords early on Friday, including obligations on fish and pledges on health and food security.

After more than five days of arduous discussions, the 164 members of the World Trade Organization agreed to a series of trade accords early on Friday, including obligations on fish and pledges on health and food security. It was also decided that by the next WTO ministerial conference, or no later than March 2024, a final solution to the question of the continuance of the moratorium on imposing customs charges on electronic transmission of commodities would be found. Round-the-clock negotiations among delegations, according to the WTO, aided in the conclusion of the agreement, which included a number of decisions on fisheries subsidies, WTO response to emergencies, including a waiver of certain requirements concerning compulsory licencing for COVID-19 vaccines, food safety and agriculture, and WTO reforms. A win-win situation for India India adjusted the narrative and controlled it brilliantly from start to finish at the WTO ministerial session, which witnessed several landmark decisions, and the country's reputation has increased dramatically in the international community. After seven years, a ministerial conference finally produced a result. Ministerial decisions were made on all topics except agriculture, which was expected. a total of eight or nine, with several ground-breaking verdicts. What was accomplished in the WTO, according to sources, is a tremendous achievement.According to the insiders, India's reputation has shifted from deal-breaker to deal-maker, which was impossible a year ago. The following are the specifics of historic agreements: Response to the Covid-19 pandemic For more than a year, India, South Africa, and other developing countries have sought a waiver of intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics, but have been met with opposition from numerous developed countries with large pharmaceutical companies. In May, a tentative agreement confined to vaccines was reached amongst the main parties – India, South Africa, the United States, and the European Union – and this is largely what has been implemented. Developing countries will be able to use a patent for manufacturing and supplying without the approval of the patent holder for a period of five years, with the possibility of an extension. Production does not have to be primarily for the home market, allowing for larger exports to provide fair access. Watch | WTO agrees to lift COVID vaccine patents for 5 years WTO members must consider extending the waiver to pharmaceuticals and diagnostics within six months.China has freely chosen to opt out of the waiver, which the US had insisted on. Members were advised to reject the wording because it was too restrictive and not a true IP waiver, according to campaign groups.The WTO also agreed on a declaration on its reaction to COVID-19 and future pandemic preparedness, with a focus on the requirements of LDCs. Members also agreed that any emergency trade measures should be proportionate and temporary, and that supply chains should not be disrupted unnecessarily. Imposing export restrictions on vital medical supplies should also be done with caution. Illegal fishing to be tackled WTO members in the fishing sector have agreed to eliminate subsidies that contribute to overfishing, a step that environmentalists say is critical to reviving fish stocks. The negotiations have lasted 20 years, and the agreement is only the WTO's second multilateral agreement on new global trade rules in its 27-year history. The outcome in the fisheries case was considered as a litmus test for the WTO's own credibility. According to the agreement, no WTO member may provide a subsidy to vessels or operators who engage in illicit, unreported, or unregulated fishing, or who fish an overfished stock. For two years, developing countries will be exempt.Members will conduct their own investigations into activities off their shores, and all members will be compelled to report their fishing subsidy schemes to the WTO. India had previously been one of the most vocal opponents.However, discussions will continue in order to reach a more complete agreement on fishing subsidies in time for the next ministerial conference, which is expected to take place in 2023. Watch | WTO signs landmark deals on food, health and fishing Actions to ease trade in food and agriculture The World Trade Organization (WTO) aimed to address a food supply and price increase dilemma caused by export disruptions from key wheat exporters, Ukraine and Russia. Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed in a declaration to take specific actions to ease trade in food and agriculture, including cereals, fertilisers, and other agricultural inputs, and emphasised the significance of lowering export restrictions. Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) also agreed to a binding commitment not to stifle exports to the World Food Programme (WFP), which works to alleviate hunger in areas affected by conflict, natural disasters, and climate change. Members would still have the option of taking steps to assure their own food security. E-commerce moratorium WTO members have extended a moratorium on imposing customs taxes on electronic communications worth hundreds of billions of dollars per year, ranging from streaming services to financial transactions and corporate data flows. The ban has been in effect since 1998. South Africa and India were initially opposed to the extension, claiming that they should not lose revenue from customs. The extension will last until the next ministerial meeting, which is expected to take place by the end of 2023 but will expire on March 31, 2024 in any case. WTO rules are being revised WTO members agree that the organization's rules need to be updated, but they disagree on what modifications are needed. Most importantly, the WTO's dispute appeals court has been shut down for nearly two years after then-President Donald Trump rejected fresh adjudicator nominations, limiting the WTO's ability to adjudicate trade disputes. Members agreed to work toward WTO reforms in order to strengthen the organization's activities. This effort should be open and transparent, and it should take into account the interests of all members, including developing countries, which are given preferential consideration. By 2024, the WTO has committed to holding discussions in order to establish a fully functional dispute settlement system. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What did WTO ministerial agree on? And why are these agreements historic?

The WTO has finally agreed to lift all COVID vaccine patents for a period of 5 years. However, experts say the deal has come too late. It has also arrived on a deal to curb overfishing.

WTO agrees to lift COVID vaccine patents for 5 years

The WTO has signed some landmark deals on food, health and fishing in Geneva. India's trade minister hails the WTO trade deal as a major victory for India on fisheries.

WTO signs landmark deals on food, health and fishing

French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds. They will be sold together and may fetch between $2-4 million. They will go under the hammer on November 9. &nbsp;

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That estimate "includes not only the intrinsic value of the diamonds, but also the possibility to wear jewellery that was once worn by the famous queen Marie-Antoinette," Christie's jewellery specialist Marie-Cecile Cisamolo told AFP. &nbsp;

The historic jewels could may also go for far more than the asking price. &nbsp;

In a statement, Francois Curiel, chairman, Christie's luxury division, said, "As seen in recent Geneva sales, the market for jewels of noble provenance continues to perform extremely well." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-hottest-summer-on-record-climate-scientists-411713" hreflang="en">Europe’s hottest summer on record: Climate scientists</a>

In 2018, a natural pearl and diamond pendant of the last queen of France was estimated by the Sotheby's auction house at $1-2 million but was sold for $36 million. &nbsp;

Marie-Antoinette was guillotined in Paris in October 1793 at the age of 37 after the French revolution. &nbsp;

It is not just their history that makes the bracelets special, they also have large size of the diamonds, which can range from around one to four carats. In total, the bracelets comprise 140 to 150 carats, according to the estimates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds.

French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds. They will be sold together and may fetch between $2-4 million. They will go under the hammer on November 9. Watch: Festival in east England to reenact lives of Vikings × That estimate "includes not only the intrinsic value of the diamonds, but also the possibility to wear jewellery that was once worn by the famous queen Marie-Antoinette," Christie's jewellery specialist Marie-Cecile Cisamolo told AFP. The historic jewels could may also go for far more than the asking price. In a statement, Francois Curiel, chairman, Christie's luxury division, said, "As seen in recent Geneva sales, the market for jewels of noble provenance continues to perform extremely well." Also Read | Europe’s hottest summer on record: Climate scientists In 2018, a natural pearl and diamond pendant of the last queen of France was estimated by the Sotheby's auction house at $1-2 million but was sold for $36 million. Marie-Antoinette was guillotined in Paris in October 1793 at the age of 37 after the French revolution. It is not just their history that makes the bracelets special, they also have large size of the diamonds, which can range from around one to four carats. In total, the bracelets comprise 140 to 150 carats, according to the estimates. (With inputs from agencies)

French queen Marie-Antoinette's diamond bracelets up for grabs at Geneva auction

India has given a strong stance against WTO's draft to end fisheries subsidies. Fisheries subsidies help fishermen in easy extraction. However, India's fishery subsidy is lower than other nations.

India stands strong against WTO draft as WTO pushes for elimination of subsidies

WION is reporting live from the WTO meeting in Geneva. India has presented a tough stand at WTO. It has pitched for the interests of the developing countries.

WION reports from the WTO meeting in Geneva: What is India's stand on customs duty moratorium?

12th WTO ministerial conference has kicked off in Geneva. Meeting is to take a call on at least 6 crucial issues impacting trade and livelihood. India's Union Minister Piyush Goyal said India is fighting for its farmers and the poor and for food security.

12th WTO Ministerial conference: Looming food crisis on agenda

12th WTO Ministerial conference: Looming food crisis on the agenda

12th WTO ministerial conference has kicked off in Geneva. Meeting is set to take a call on at least 6 crucial issues impacting trade and livelihood. India's Union Minister Piyush Goyal said India is fighting for its farmers and the poor and for food security.

12th WTO Ministerial conference: India's Union Minister Piyush Goyal attends meet

12th WTO (World Trade Organisation) ministerial conference has kicked off in Geneva. Meeting is set to take a call on at least 6 crucial issues impacting trade and livelihood.

Leaders gather in Geneva for 12th WTO ministerial conference

In pics: Main issues at the 12th World Trade Organization's ministerial conference

Long-sought&nbsp;World Trade Organization&nbsp;(WTO) agreements on fisheries subsidies and a Covid vaccine patent waiver moved a step closer to completion Saturday after negotiators finalised texts for ministerial review, but significant obstacles remained in hammering out a final deal.

Diplomats have been in round-the-clock talks to hammer out texts on several thorny topics before the World Trade Organization's first high-level meeting in five years, where trade ministers and officials from 164 countries have four days starting Sunday to try and get the negotiations across the finish line.

It takes place against&nbsp;the backdrop of the Ukraine-Russia war and fears of a global food crisis as a result of the conflict.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-wasted-over-82-million-coronavirus-vaccine-doses-report-485693">&nbsp;US has wasted over 82 million coronavirus vaccine doses: Report</a>

The global trade body announced in the early hours Saturday that a draft text on a long elusive deal banning subsidies favouring overfishing had been handed over to the ministers.

They will be tasked with ironing out the final sticking points towards a deal decades in the making.

The success of WTO's 12th ministerial conference will largely hinge on whether they succeed.

"Not every issue has been resolved. Indeed, this is a draft agreement and in this draft there remain some issues that members have not agreed to yet," acknowledged Colombian ambassador Santiago Wills, who chairs the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations.

But he said months of intense negotiations had made it possible to present "a clean solution" to some issues that had long "appeared intractable".

The WTO takes decisions by consensus, making agreements all the harder to reach.

Global fisheries subsidies are estimated at between $14 billion and $54 billion a year, according to the body.

It is widely agreed that action is needed to protect a crucial resource that millions of people depend on for their livelihoods.

WTO members have for the past 20 years been discussing the need for a deal banning subsidies that contribute to illegal and unregulated fishing, as well as to overfishing.

Watch |&nbsp;Moderna jabs to approved for infants? FDA to discuss vaccines for babies next week

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'Significant progress'

Wills noted "significant progress" on the tricky issue of "territoriality", with the draft text ensuring that a WTO panel of experts would not be called upon to decide who has jurisdiction over disputed or overlapping territorial claims.

Progress had also been made on the issue of fuel subsidies, and on the so-called special and differential treatment (SDT) for developing countries, long a key stumbling block, he said, hailing a "considerable narrowing of differences".

Special treatment for the poorest countries is widely accepted but demands from some self-identified developing countries for exemption from subsidy constraints, including large fishing nations like India, have been difficult to swallow for some.

The draft text proposes that exemptions should not apply to member states accounting for a certain share of the global volume of marine capture production but that percentage has yet to be defined.

Wills stressed the urgency of finally reaching a deal.

"The longer we wait, the more the fish lose. And the more the fish lose, the more we all lose," he said.

The WTO also said a draft text had been finalised on the thorny issue of a temporary patent waiver for Covid vaccines to provide equitable access to the jabs and better battle the still raging pandemic.

But agreement is far from certain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wto-lowers-global-trade-volume-growth-forecast-in-wake-of-russia-ukraine-war-470625">WTO lowers global trade volume growth forecast in wake of Russia-Ukraine war</a>

The pharmaceutical industry and a number of its host countries have warned of the impact on innovation, while public interest groups warned Saturday that the new text was so weak it might even complicate access to vaccine production further.

"It has been a very difficult process, very difficult," acknowledged WTO chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

"I know that for all of you it has been a tough time but we have done the best we can for now."

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Long-sought World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements on fisheries subsidies and a Covid vaccine patent waiver moved a step closer to completion Saturday after negotiators finalised texts for ministerial review, but significant obstacles remained in hammering out a final deal.

Long-sought World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements on fisheries subsidies and a Covid vaccine patent waiver moved a step closer to completion Saturday after negotiators finalised texts for ministerial review, but significant obstacles remained in hammering out a final deal. Diplomats have been in round-the-clock talks to hammer out texts on several thorny topics before the World Trade Organization's first high-level meeting in five years, where trade ministers and officials from 164 countries have four days starting Sunday to try and get the negotiations across the finish line. It takes place against the backdrop of the Ukraine-Russia war and fears of a global food crisis as a result of the conflict. Also read | US has wasted over 82 million coronavirus vaccine doses: Report The global trade body announced in the early hours Saturday that a draft text on a long elusive deal banning subsidies favouring overfishing had been handed over to the ministers. They will be tasked with ironing out the final sticking points towards a deal decades in the making. The success of WTO's 12th ministerial conference will largely hinge on whether they succeed. "Not every issue has been resolved. Indeed, this is a draft agreement and in this draft there remain some issues that members have not agreed to yet," acknowledged Colombian ambassador Santiago Wills, who chairs the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations. But he said months of intense negotiations had made it possible to present "a clean solution" to some issues that had long "appeared intractable". The WTO takes decisions by consensus, making agreements all the harder to reach. Global fisheries subsidies are estimated at between $14 billion and $54 billion a year, according to the body. It is widely agreed that action is needed to protect a crucial resource that millions of people depend on for their livelihoods. WTO members have for the past 20 years been discussing the need for a deal banning subsidies that contribute to illegal and unregulated fishing, as well as to overfishing. Watch | Moderna jabs to approved for infants? FDA to discuss vaccines for babies next week 'Significant progress' Wills noted "significant progress" on the tricky issue of "territoriality", with the draft text ensuring that a WTO panel of experts would not be called upon to decide who has jurisdiction over disputed or overlapping territorial claims. Progress had also been made on the issue of fuel subsidies, and on the so-called special and differential treatment (SDT) for developing countries, long a key stumbling block, he said, hailing a "considerable narrowing of differences". Special treatment for the poorest countries is widely accepted but demands from some self-identified developing countries for exemption from subsidy constraints, including large fishing nations like India, have been difficult to swallow for some. The draft text proposes that exemptions should not apply to member states accounting for a certain share of the global volume of marine capture production but that percentage has yet to be defined. Wills stressed the urgency of finally reaching a deal. "The longer we wait, the more the fish lose. And the more the fish lose, the more we all lose," he said. The WTO also said a draft text had been finalised on the thorny issue of a temporary patent waiver for Covid vaccines to provide equitable access to the jabs and better battle the still raging pandemic. But agreement is far from certain. Also read | WTO lowers global trade volume growth forecast in wake of Russia-Ukraine war The pharmaceutical industry and a number of its host countries have warned of the impact on innovation, while public interest groups warned Saturday that the new text was so weak it might even complicate access to vaccine production further. "It has been a very difficult process, very difficult," acknowledged WTO chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. "I know that for all of you it has been a tough time but we have done the best we can for now." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTO negotiators finalise key texts on fishing, Covid jabs

Ahead of the crucial talks over the current Ukraine situation on Monday (January 10), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov sat for a working dinner with the United States delegation led by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Geneva on Sunday.&nbsp;

The dinner was held at the luxury residence of the US ambassador to the Conference on Disarmament. Sergei Ryabkov told reporters that preliminary talks with a top US diplomat had been "complex but businesslike", Russian news agencies reported.&nbsp;

After a weeks-long standoff over Russian troop deployments near its border with Ukraine, the West has been accusing Russia that it is planning an invasion. However, officials from both countries are meeting to de-escalate the situation and try to avert a crisis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/left-out-of-high-level-talks-ukraine-tries-other-diplomatic-channels-443446">Left out of high-level talks, Ukraine tries other diplomatic channels</a>

"The conversation was difficult, it couldn't have been easy," the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister was quoted as saying by the Interfax news agency after meeting. "I think that tomorrow we won't waste any time," Ryabkov said. he added that he "never loses optimism."

On the other hand, Sherman told Ryabkov that Washington "would welcome genuine progress through diplomacy," the US State Department said.&nbsp;

What to expect during the meeting?

Russia's state-owned RIA news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying it was entirely possible the diplomacy could end after a single meeting. "I can't rule out anything, this is an entirely possible scenario and the Americans ... should have no illusions about this," he was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

"Naturally, we will not make any concessions under pressure" or amid constant threats from participants in the talks, said Ryabkov, who will lead the Russian delegation in Geneva.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-talks-on-ukraine-blinken-warns-russia-of-confrontation-443436">Ahead of talks on Ukraine, Blinken warns Russia of confrontation</a>

Ukraine crisis

In the past few months, Russian President Vladimir Putin has deployed tens of thousands of Russian troops within reach of the border with Ukraine.&nbsp;

US, Ukraine and the other Western countries say Russia is planning an invasion, eight years after Russia seized the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russia has denied invasion plans and said it is responding to what it calls aggressive and provocative behaviour from the NATO military alliance and Ukraine. Russia is also pushing to join NATO.&nbsp;

In response to Russian demands for Western security guarantees, the United States and allies have said they are prepared to discuss the possibility of each side restricting military exercises and missile deployments in the region.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the crucial talks over the current Ukraine situation on Monday (January 10), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov sat for a working dinner with the United States delegation led by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Geneva on Sunday.

Ahead of the crucial talks over the current Ukraine situation on Monday (January 10), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov sat for a working dinner with the United States delegation led by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Geneva on Sunday. The dinner was held at the luxury residence of the US ambassador to the Conference on Disarmament. Sergei Ryabkov told reporters that preliminary talks with a top US diplomat had been "complex but businesslike", Russian news agencies reported. After a weeks-long standoff over Russian troop deployments near its border with Ukraine, the West has been accusing Russia that it is planning an invasion. However, officials from both countries are meeting to de-escalate the situation and try to avert a crisis. ALSO READ | Left out of high-level talks, Ukraine tries other diplomatic channels "The conversation was difficult, it couldn't have been easy," the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister was quoted as saying by the Interfax news agency after meeting. "I think that tomorrow we won't waste any time," Ryabkov said. he added that he "never loses optimism." On the other hand, Sherman told Ryabkov that Washington "would welcome genuine progress through diplomacy," the US State Department said. What to expect during the meeting? Russia's state-owned RIA news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying it was entirely possible the diplomacy could end after a single meeting. "I can't rule out anything, this is an entirely possible scenario and the Americans ... should have no illusions about this," he was quoted as saying. "Naturally, we will not make any concessions under pressure" or amid constant threats from participants in the talks, said Ryabkov, who will lead the Russian delegation in Geneva. ALSO READ | Ahead of talks on Ukraine, Blinken warns Russia of confrontation Ukraine crisis In the past few months, Russian President Vladimir Putin has deployed tens of thousands of Russian troops within reach of the border with Ukraine. US, Ukraine and the other Western countries say Russia is planning an invasion, eight years after Russia seized the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia has denied invasion plans and said it is responding to what it calls aggressive and provocative behaviour from the NATO military alliance and Ukraine. Russia is also pushing to join NATO. In response to Russian demands for Western security guarantees, the United States and allies have said they are prepared to discuss the possibility of each side restricting military exercises and missile deployments in the region. × (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Russia says preliminary talks with US in Geneva 'complex but businesslike'

Russia on Sunday ruled out any concession over Ukraine during talks with the US in Geneva. Tens of thousands of Russian troops continue to be stationed along the Russia-Ukraine border. Russia is facing massive international pressure to pull back troops.

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russian news agencies ahead of his talks in Geneva the Kremlin was also "disappointed" with signals coming from both Washington and Brussels, where NATO and the European Union are based.

"We will not agree to any concession. That is completely excluded," Ryabkov said. "We are disappointed with the signals coming in the last few days from Washington but also from Brussels."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ready-to-talk-missiles-and-military-exercises-in-ukraine-with-russia-official-443265">US ready to talk missiles and military exercises in Ukraine with Russia: Official</a>

The high-level discussions start a week of diplomacy in which Russia will meet with NATO and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), with the US trying to assure European allies they will not be sidelined.

Russia is dead against Ukraine (formerly part of Soviet Russia) joining the NATO while Ukraine is pushing for its inclusion in the grouping. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already made it clear that Ukraine's inclusion in NATO is unacceptable.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/ukraine-is-only-one-small-part-of-putins-plans-443354">Ukraine is only one small part of Putin’s plans</a>

The United States, to be represented by Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, agreed to talks even though it made plain that many of Moscow's proposals are non-starters.&nbsp;

Originally scheduled to start on Monday, Sherman is now due to have a working dinner with Ryabkov on Sunday evening, said a State Department spokesperson.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, dismissing Moscow's demands as "gaslighting", has insisted that talks will yield no progress so long as Russia has a "gun to Ukraine's head".

"We're prepared to respond forcefully to further Russian aggression. But a diplomatic solution is still possible and preferable if Russia chooses it," Blinken said on Friday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met his US counterpart Joe Biden in Geneva in June and agreed on regular "stability" talks between Sherman and Ryabkov, who will again lead the Russian delegation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Sunday ruled out any concession over Ukraine during talks with the US in Geneva. Tens of thousands of Russian troops continue to be stationed along the Russia-Ukraine border.

Russia on Sunday ruled out any concession over Ukraine during talks with the US in Geneva. Tens of thousands of Russian troops continue to be stationed along the Russia-Ukraine border. Russia is facing massive international pressure to pull back troops. Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russian news agencies ahead of his talks in Geneva the Kremlin was also "disappointed" with signals coming from both Washington and Brussels, where NATO and the European Union are based. "We will not agree to any concession. That is completely excluded," Ryabkov said. "We are disappointed with the signals coming in the last few days from Washington but also from Brussels." Also Read | US ready to talk missiles and military exercises in Ukraine with Russia: Official The high-level discussions start a week of diplomacy in which Russia will meet with NATO and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), with the US trying to assure European allies they will not be sidelined. Russia is dead against Ukraine (formerly part of Soviet Russia) joining the NATO while Ukraine is pushing for its inclusion in the grouping. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already made it clear that Ukraine's inclusion in NATO is unacceptable. Also Read | Ukraine is only one small part of Putin’s plans The United States, to be represented by Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, agreed to talks even though it made plain that many of Moscow's proposals are non-starters. Originally scheduled to start on Monday, Sherman is now due to have a working dinner with Ryabkov on Sunday evening, said a State Department spokesperson. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, dismissing Moscow's demands as "gaslighting", has insisted that talks will yield no progress so long as Russia has a "gun to Ukraine's head". "We're prepared to respond forcefully to further Russian aggression. But a diplomatic solution is still possible and preferable if Russia chooses it," Blinken said on Friday. Russian President Vladimir Putin met his US counterpart Joe Biden in Geneva in June and agreed on regular "stability" talks between Sherman and Ryabkov, who will again lead the Russian delegation. (With inputs from agencies)

No concession over Ukraine in talks with US, says Russia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his US counterpart Antony Blinken met on Friday in Geneva in order to discuss the situation in Ukraine and progress on Russia's security proposals.

Lavrov-Blinken Geneva Meet: A 90-minute-long talks with no concrete breakthrough

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