In an attempt to stave off Chinese influence in the country, the German foreign ministry is planning to tighten the rules for companies that are in bed with China, says&nbsp;a Reuters report. It further states that the Olaf Scholz government, as part of reducing the country’s&nbsp; dependence on China, is chalking up a new proposal.&nbsp;Under the new business strategy, companies will be required to disclose more information and&nbsp;possibly conduct stress tests for geopolitical risks.

"We aim to oblige companies particularly exposed to China to specify and summarise relevant China-related developments and figures, for example in the form of a separate notification obligation, on the basis of existing disclosure requirements,"&nbsp;read the document accessed by the publication.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-chancellor-arrives-in-china-scholzs-coalition-uncertain-about-its-relation-with-beijing-531070">WATCH |&nbsp;German Chancellor arrives in China, Scholz's coalition uncertain about its relation with Beijing</a>

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The draft adds that investment in German companies by the Chinese will face greater scrutiny.&nbsp;

"The aim is to change the incentive structure for German companies with market economy instruments so that reducing export dependency is more attractive."

Notably, the drafting of the proposal comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;Chancellor Scholz visiting China and meeting President Xi Jinping.

In September, Scholz's colleague and economy minister Robert Habeck&nbsp;said in an interview that Germany 'couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed' by other countries.&nbsp;

"We cannot allow ourselves to be blackmailed. If [the Chinese market] were to close, which is not likely at the moment...we would have extreme sales problems," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/once-bitten-twice-shy-after-russia-lesson-germany-to-reconsider-trade-deal-with-china-516058">Read more: Once bitten, twice shy: After Russia lesson, Germany to reconsider trade deal with China</a>

China has been Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China.

Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

While the German government claims it is attempting to decouple itself from China, the actions suggest otherwise. In October, the&nbsp;German cabinet&nbsp;approved China’s Cosco buying&nbsp;a 24.9 per cent stake in HHLA, a container operator at Germany’s largest Hafen Hamburg port.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-allows-chinese-company-to-buy-stakes-in-a-company-at-its-largest-port-528560">Read more:&nbsp;Germany allows Chinese company to buy stakes in container operator at its largest port</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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In an attempt to stave off Chinese influence in the country, the German foreign ministry is planning to tighten the rules for companies that are in bed with China, says a Reuters report.

In an attempt to stave off Chinese influence in the country, the German foreign ministry is planning to tighten the rules for companies that are in bed with China, says a Reuters report. It further states that the Olaf Scholz government, as part of reducing the country’s dependence on China, is chalking up a new proposal. Under the new business strategy, companies will be required to disclose more information and possibly conduct stress tests for geopolitical risks. "We aim to oblige companies particularly exposed to China to specify and summarise relevant China-related developments and figures, for example in the form of a separate notification obligation, on the basis of existing disclosure requirements," read the document accessed by the publication. WATCH | German Chancellor arrives in China, Scholz's coalition uncertain about its relation with Beijing × The draft adds that investment in German companies by the Chinese will face greater scrutiny. "The aim is to change the incentive structure for German companies with market economy instruments so that reducing export dependency is more attractive." Notably, the drafting of the proposal comes in the backdrop of Chancellor Scholz visiting China and meeting President Xi Jinping. In September, Scholz's colleague and economy minister Robert Habeck said in an interview that Germany 'couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed' by other countries. "We cannot allow ourselves to be blackmailed. If [the Chinese market] were to close, which is not likely at the moment...we would have extreme sales problems," he said. Read more: Once bitten, twice shy: After Russia lesson, Germany to reconsider trade deal with China China has been Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China. Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis. While the German government claims it is attempting to decouple itself from China, the actions suggest otherwise. In October, the German cabinet approved China’s Cosco buying a 24.9 per cent stake in HHLA, a container operator at Germany’s largest Hafen Hamburg port. Read more: Germany allows Chinese company to buy stakes in container operator at its largest port (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany to chalk new business strategy to reduce trade deficit, dependence on China

Deputy Envoy to the UN said that France supports the candidacy of Germany, Brazil, India and Japan as permanent members. He said that French President Emmanuel Macron has called for regulations in the use of veto with regards to Massachusetts. He said this comes in the context of the changing world.

France calls for expansion of UNSC, regulations on veto

France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise.&nbsp;As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year.

The wargames are called Orion and come against the background of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. As per a senior French official, they are justified because of the geopolitical context.

"The geopolitical context justifies this exercise," said Yves Metayer, commander of the troop deployment division at the French chiefs of staff.&nbsp;

He added that the scenario plans for a major confrontation with an unspecified foreign state and that the plan had been in development since 2020 and was a culmination of a French strategic review that was released in 2017.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-addresses-g19-leaders-tells-them-now-is-the-time-to-end-russias-war-534498" hreflang="en">Zelensky addresses 'G19' leaders, tells them 'now is the time' to end Russia's war</a>

Metayer said that the review indicated that preparation for a major conflict was required, given the two decades of "mostly asymmetrical warfare with non-state actors" like Jihadists.&nbsp;

Orion will include components for the land, sea, air, and space as well as cyber warfare— along with civilian operations such as transportation and medical services during conflicts.

The first phase will act as a simulation of an intervention in a nation that is being torn apart by militia activity and is a neighbour to a nuclear-armed superpower.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-fresh-russian-attacks-cause-power-cuts-in-several-regions-534476" hreflang="en">Ukraine: Fresh Russian attacks cause power cuts in several regions&nbsp;</a>

In it, 7,000 soldiers will take part in a sequence featuring naval operations in the Mediterranean and an amphibian and airlift operation. This will reportedly take place in southern France between late February and early May.

The second phase from mid-April to early May will be a simulation of air and land conflict with the aforementioned nuclear superpower and would deploy 12,000 troops in Northern France.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise. As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year.

France is reportedly planning its biggest-ever military exercise. As per an AFP report, it will involve 12,000 troops, including NATO allies Germany, Britain, Belgium, Italy and Spain, along with the United States and will happen in the first half of next year. The wargames are called Orion and come against the background of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. As per a senior French official, they are justified because of the geopolitical context. "The geopolitical context justifies this exercise," said Yves Metayer, commander of the troop deployment division at the French chiefs of staff. He added that the scenario plans for a major confrontation with an unspecified foreign state and that the plan had been in development since 2020 and was a culmination of a French strategic review that was released in 2017. Also read | Zelensky addresses 'G19' leaders, tells them 'now is the time' to end Russia's war Metayer said that the review indicated that preparation for a major conflict was required, given the two decades of "mostly asymmetrical warfare with non-state actors" like Jihadists. Orion will include components for the land, sea, air, and space as well as cyber warfare— along with civilian operations such as transportation and medical services during conflicts. The first phase will act as a simulation of an intervention in a nation that is being torn apart by militia activity and is a neighbour to a nuclear-armed superpower. Also read | Ukraine: Fresh Russian attacks cause power cuts in several regions In it, 7,000 soldiers will take part in a sequence featuring naval operations in the Mediterranean and an amphibian and airlift operation. This will reportedly take place in southern France between late February and early May. The second phase from mid-April to early May will be a simulation of air and land conflict with the aforementioned nuclear superpower and would deploy 12,000 troops in Northern France. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

In 2023, France to hold its biggest-ever war exercise ‘Orion ’ with NATO countries

On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change.&nbsp;

Coordinated by the G7 president nation Germany, it will provide rapid access to funds for insurance and disaster protection after flooding, drought and hurricanes. The programme was developed in collaboration with ‘V20’ which is a group of 58 climate-vulnerable countries chaired by Ghana.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-summit-germany-warns-its-delegates-against-egyptian-security-agents-amid-spying-allegations-534087">Germany warns its delegates against Egyptian agents spying on them at COP27: Reports</a>

A statement was issued by Berlin, in which it named seven countries – Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Fiji, Ghana, Pakistan, the Philippines and Senegal, as the first recipients of packages, which would be developed in the upcoming months. So far, Germany has contributed $175.17 million in funding to Global Shield while other countries including Denmark and Ireland have contributed a little over $41 million.&nbsp;

The first draft released on Monday reportedly highlighted two major points – the divide between rich and poor nations, while the V20 countries proposed that this fund should not be “operationalised” by November 2024.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop27-summit-us-wants-china-back-on-negotiation-table-loss-and-damage-payments-to-dominate-531600">Cop27 Summit: US wants China back on negotiation table, ‘loss and damage payments’ to dominate</a>

While some countries have been wary that it risked efforts to secure a substantive deal on financial help for so-called “loss and damage”, Germany’s economic cooperation and development minister Svenja Schulze said that the aim with these funds is to add to but not replace the progress on loss and damage.&nbsp;

“It is not a kind of tactic to avoid formal negotiation on loss and damage funding arrangements here…Global Shield isn't the one and only solution for loss and damage. Certainly not. We need a broad range of solutions,” said Schulze. However, some vulnerable countries are not yet persuaded as there is reportedly not a lot of clarity on the “insurance elements” of the deal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-xi-meeting-no-fireworks-but-discussion-on-important-issues-takes-place-534085">Biden-Xi meeting: No fireworks, but discussion on important issues takes place</a>

“Using insurance is a method in which the victim pays, just in installments in the beginning,” said a special envoy on climate finance Avinash Persaud to the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, reported Reuters. He also said that the loss and damage finance should be grant-based.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change.

On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change. Coordinated by the G7 president nation Germany, it will provide rapid access to funds for insurance and disaster protection after flooding, drought and hurricanes. The programme was developed in collaboration with ‘V20’ which is a group of 58 climate-vulnerable countries chaired by Ghana. ALSO READ: Germany warns its delegates against Egyptian agents spying on them at COP27: Reports A statement was issued by Berlin, in which it named seven countries – Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Fiji, Ghana, Pakistan, the Philippines and Senegal, as the first recipients of packages, which would be developed in the upcoming months. So far, Germany has contributed $175.17 million in funding to Global Shield while other countries including Denmark and Ireland have contributed a little over $41 million. The first draft released on Monday reportedly highlighted two major points – the divide between rich and poor nations, while the V20 countries proposed that this fund should not be “operationalised” by November 2024. ALSO WATCH: Cop27 Summit: US wants China back on negotiation table, ‘loss and damage payments’ to dominate While some countries have been wary that it risked efforts to secure a substantive deal on financial help for so-called “loss and damage”, Germany’s economic cooperation and development minister Svenja Schulze said that the aim with these funds is to add to but not replace the progress on loss and damage. “It is not a kind of tactic to avoid formal negotiation on loss and damage funding arrangements here…Global Shield isn't the one and only solution for loss and damage. Certainly not. We need a broad range of solutions,” said Schulze. However, some vulnerable countries are not yet persuaded as there is reportedly not a lot of clarity on the “insurance elements” of the deal. ALSO READ: Biden-Xi meeting: No fireworks, but discussion on important issues takes place “Using insurance is a method in which the victim pays, just in installments in the beginning,” said a special envoy on climate finance Avinash Persaud to the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, reported Reuters. He also said that the loss and damage finance should be grant-based. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Pakistan among the first seven countries to receive climate funding under ‘Global Shield’ initiative by G7

Amid the ongoing COP27 climate conference at the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, German federal police have warned its delegates that they may be getting spied on by the host country’s security agents, said a report by Reuters citing three people with knowledge on the matter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Germany has lodged a complaint with the Egyptian government over constant unwanted monitoring by their security agents and accused them of monitoring and filming events at the country’s pavilion at the summit, said a report by the German press agency (DPA).&nbsp;

On the other hand, an email sent on November 12 by the German police warned its delegates of “overt and covert surveillance through photography and videography” by Egyptian security agents, said one of the people quoting the email to Reuters. Meanwhile, two officials have confirmed the issuance of the warning but did not elaborate on the specifics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-warns-against-worldwide-renaissance-of-fossil-fuels-532070">German Chancellor Scholz warns against 'worldwide renaissance of fossil fuels'</a>

The person quoting the email also said they were warned about their conversations being recorded and possible disruptions by the Egyptian state at events organised by Berlin. Furthermore, three German attendees from non-governmental organisations and industry say that they have also been warned by other attendees and delegations of possible surveillance at COP27.&nbsp;

Two NGO members, one from German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation, and another from Climate Action Network, claim that they have on multiple occasions in recent days witnessed being photographed and followed, said Reuters. This comes as Berlin has used their conference area for hosting events focused on human rights situations in Egypt.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, following these allegations Germany’s foreign ministry, in a statement had said, “We expect all participants in the UN&nbsp;climate conference to be able to work and negotiate under safe conditions…This is not just true for the German but for all delegations, as well as representatives of civil society and the media.” &nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/30-egyptians-protest-outside-cop27-summit-demand-protection-of-coral-reefs-533661">30 Egyptians protest outside COP27 Summit, demand protection of coral reefs</a>

Reportedly, the German pavilion at the summit saw the attendance of activists from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International along with prominent Egyptian activist and film editor, Sanaa Seif who has served several prison terms in the country. Seif is also the sister&nbsp;of a jailed&nbsp;Egyptian-British hunger striker and pro-democracy activist, Alaa Abd el-Fattah.&nbsp;

The Egyptian security sources while speaking to DPA rejected these allegations and said that personnel were present for the security of foreign seminars and activities for the UN team and their role as Egyptians was restricted to security outside the halls and in the city. However, several participants have alleged that the Egyptian staff had insisted on being a part of closed sessions as well.&nbsp;

“It is very obvious that the Egyptian authorities are monitoring human rights activities…The only reason they haven't used physical violence yet is that we're in a UN-controlled area,” said &nbsp;Hossam Bahgat, founder of the human rights organisation, Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), while speaking with DPA.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-egyptian-hunger-striker-abdel-fattah-is-now-in-good-health-says-prosecutor-us-shows-concern-533072">COP27: Egyptian hunger striker Abdel Fattah is in 'good health,' says prosecutor, US shows concern&nbsp;</a>

Amid these allegations in a statement given to the Associated Press, on Sunday, the United Nations climate office confirmed that some of the security officials at the venue are from the host country due to the "scale and complexity of providing security at a large scale event". However, they work under the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Department for Safety and Security (UN DSS) to assist in "fortifying the venue and ensuring the safety and security of all participants.”&nbsp; 
 
It added, "UN DSS has been made aware of allegations of the Code of Conduct violations and is investigating these reports.” According to the German media report, Egyptian officials arriving in the German area had taken photos, and videos, and even disrupted proceedings on at least two occasions. This comes days after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, had also raised the issue of jailed hunger striker Alaa Abd el-Fattah during his visit to the climate summit.&nbsp;

The prominent activist and blogger has been sentenced to five years in prison on charges of spreading false news and has been on hunger strike for over 200 days against his detention and the conditions of the prison. “A decision needs to be taken, a release has to be made possible, so that it doesn't come to it that the hunger striker dies,” said Scholz during a press conference in Egypt.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Amid the ongoing COP27 climate conference at the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, German federal police have warned its delegates that they may be getting spied on by the host country’s security agents, said a report by Reuters citing three people with knowledge on the matter.

Amid the ongoing COP27 climate conference at the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, German federal police have warned its delegates that they may be getting spied on by the host country’s security agents, said a report by Reuters citing three people with knowledge on the matter. Meanwhile, Germany has lodged a complaint with the Egyptian government over constant unwanted monitoring by their security agents and accused them of monitoring and filming events at the country’s pavilion at the summit, said a report by the German press agency (DPA). On the other hand, an email sent on November 12 by the German police warned its delegates of “overt and covert surveillance through photography and videography” by Egyptian security agents, said one of the people quoting the email to Reuters. Meanwhile, two officials have confirmed the issuance of the warning but did not elaborate on the specifics. ALSO READ: German Chancellor Scholz warns against 'worldwide renaissance of fossil fuels' The person quoting the email also said they were warned about their conversations being recorded and possible disruptions by the Egyptian state at events organised by Berlin. Furthermore, three German attendees from non-governmental organisations and industry say that they have also been warned by other attendees and delegations of possible surveillance at COP27. Two NGO members, one from German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation, and another from Climate Action Network, claim that they have on multiple occasions in recent days witnessed being photographed and followed, said Reuters. This comes as Berlin has used their conference area for hosting events focused on human rights situations in Egypt. Meanwhile, following these allegations Germany’s foreign ministry, in a statement had said, “We expect all participants in the UN climate conference to be able to work and negotiate under safe conditions…This is not just true for the German but for all delegations, as well as representatives of civil society and the media.” ALSO WATCH: 30 Egyptians protest outside COP27 Summit, demand protection of coral reefs Reportedly, the German pavilion at the summit saw the attendance of activists from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International along with prominent Egyptian activist and film editor, Sanaa Seif who has served several prison terms in the country. Seif is also the sister of a jailed Egyptian-British hunger striker and pro-democracy activist, Alaa Abd el-Fattah. The Egyptian security sources while speaking to DPA rejected these allegations and said that personnel were present for the security of foreign seminars and activities for the UN team and their role as Egyptians was restricted to security outside the halls and in the city. However, several participants have alleged that the Egyptian staff had insisted on being a part of closed sessions as well. “It is very obvious that the Egyptian authorities are monitoring human rights activities…The only reason they haven't used physical violence yet is that we're in a UN-controlled area,” said Hossam Bahgat, founder of the human rights organisation, Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), while speaking with DPA. ALSO READ: COP27: Egyptian hunger striker Abdel Fattah is in 'good health,' says prosecutor, US shows concern Amid these allegations in a statement given to the Associated Press, on Sunday, the United Nations climate office confirmed that some of the security officials at the venue are from the host country due to the "scale and complexity of providing security at a large scale event". However, they work under the UN Department for Safety and Security (UN DSS) to assist in "fortifying the venue and ensuring the safety and security of all participants.” It added, "UN DSS has been made aware of allegations of the Code of Conduct violations and is investigating these reports.” According to the German media report, Egyptian officials arriving in the German area had taken photos, and videos, and even disrupted proceedings on at least two occasions. This comes days after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, had also raised the issue of jailed hunger striker Alaa Abd el-Fattah during his visit to the climate summit. The prominent activist and blogger has been sentenced to five years in prison on charges of spreading false news and has been on hunger strike for over 200 days against his detention and the conditions of the prison. “A decision needs to be taken, a release has to be made possible, so that it doesn't come to it that the hunger striker dies,” said Scholz during a press conference in Egypt. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Germany warns its delegates against Egyptian agents spying on them at COP27: Reports

The major Western powers - US, UK, France and Germany want the UN nuclear watchdog to pass a resolution on Iran. The countries want the International Atomic Energy Agency to ask Iran to explain the Uranian traces found at the three undeclared sites.

Concern over Iran's nuclear program; West seeks country's 'urgent cooperation'

US, Allies push IAEA board over Iran; West wants Iran to explain Uranium traces

Fast food giant KFC has apologised after it asked its customers in Germany to 'commemorate Kristallnacht,' a Nazi atrocity that is seen as the beginning of systematic Nazi attempts to annihilate Jewish population. KFC on Wednesday (October 9) asked customers to commemorate the atrocity by ordering Chicken and Cheese from the fast food chain. It was a push notification sent by KFC on customers' mobile phones.

“Commemorate Kristallnacht – treat yourself to more soft cheese and crispy chicken. Now at KFCheese!” said the notification.

KFC appeared to be in damage control mode as it sent another notification just an hour later and apologised for the previous one. KFC said that the previous notification was sent due to “a fault in our system”

84 years ago, 'Kristallnacht' or 'night of the broken glass' saw Nazi-led gangs vandalising and even setting on fire, shops and businesses owned by Jews in Germany. Even Synagogues were not spared.

It is being believed that the KFC push notification was auto-generated, with automated systems linking any anniversary&nbsp;to notifications to boost sales. But a blunder such as an appeal to commemorate an anti-Jew pogrom in Germany has drawn sharp reactions.

German news outlet Bild termed the blunder "tasteless". It said it was “fast-food advertising at the cost of the remembrance of the victims of the Nazi regime”.

On Kristallnacht, the night between November 9 and 10, 1938. Nazi-led mobs went on rampage to intimidate the Jewish population.

According to the official reports at the time, 91 people were killed, 7500 businesses were destroyed along with 267 synagogues. However, it is believed that the real figure was much higher. It is said that at least 1300 people lost their lives and at least 1400 synagogues were destroyed in Germany and Austria.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Fast food giant KFC has apologised after it asked its customers in Germany to 'commemorate Kristallnacht,' a Nazi atrocity that is seen as the beginning of systematic Nazi attempts to annihilate Jewish population.

Fast food giant KFC has apologised after it asked its customers in Germany to 'commemorate Kristallnacht,' a Nazi atrocity that is seen as the beginning of systematic Nazi attempts to annihilate Jewish population. KFC on Wednesday (October 9) asked customers to commemorate the atrocity by ordering Chicken and Cheese from the fast food chain. It was a push notification sent by KFC on customers' mobile phones. “Commemorate Kristallnacht – treat yourself to more soft cheese and crispy chicken. Now at KFCheese!” said the notification. KFC appeared to be in damage control mode as it sent another notification just an hour later and apologised for the previous one. KFC said that the previous notification was sent due to “a fault in our system” 84 years ago, 'Kristallnacht' or 'night of the broken glass' saw Nazi-led gangs vandalising and even setting on fire, shops and businesses owned by Jews in Germany. Even Synagogues were not spared. It is being believed that the KFC push notification was auto-generated, with automated systems linking any anniversary to notifications to boost sales. But a blunder such as an appeal to commemorate an anti-Jew pogrom in Germany has drawn sharp reactions. German news outlet Bild termed the blunder "tasteless". It said it was “fast-food advertising at the cost of the remembrance of the victims of the Nazi regime”. On Kristallnacht, the night between November 9 and 10, 1938. Nazi-led mobs went on rampage to intimidate the Jewish population. According to the official reports at the time, 91 people were killed, 7500 businesses were destroyed along with 267 synagogues. However, it is believed that the real figure was much higher. It is said that at least 1300 people lost their lives and at least 1400 synagogues were destroyed in Germany and Austria. 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 ×

KFC apologises after asking Germans to 'commemorate' Nazi atrocity

From Brazil to France: Listing winners of past five editions of the FIFA World Cup

The German government has blocked the prospects of Chinese government in two domestic semiconductor producers, a decision triggered by concerns over national security and the flow of sensitive technology and information to Beijing.

Germany tries to reduce reliance on China for trade, halts Chinese stake in two chipmakers

In Pics | Holocaust: Unseen ghastly images of Nazis' Kristallnacht pogrom

German billionaire Rainer Schaller and his son's remains, have been identified&nbsp;after their jet crashed in the Caribbean last month,&nbsp;his firm RSG announced on Friday. On 21 October, a jet&nbsp;bound for Mexico with six people on board disappeared from radar as it attempted to touch down at a runway in the Limon area of eastern Costa Rica.

An adult and a child's corpses, as well as pieces of the wreckage from the plane and their personal belongings&nbsp;including bags and backpacks, were discovered the next day 28 kilometres (17 miles) off the coast of Limon.

"It is with great dismay that we have received the sad certainty that our founder Rainer Schaller and his son have been identified as the deceased of the plane crash in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bus-crash-in-costa-rica-claims-at-least-9-lives-several-injured-517647">Costa Rica</a>," RSG said Friday.&nbsp;

"His life partner, her daughter, our colleague and the pilot, who were also on board, are still among the missing."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-two-killed-after-plane-crashes-in-car-dealership-parking-lot-in-ohio-526588">US: Two killed after plane crashes in car dealership parking lot in Ohio</a>

The McFit chain of gyms was started by Schaller. While the pilot was Swiss, all of the passengers were German.

After 11 days of search, Costa Rican police called the hunt for the missing jet off on Tuesday because "no new evidence has been located."

Schaller built his low-cost McFit network into the biggest fitness chain&nbsp;in Europe after starting with just one gym in the German city of Wuerzburg in 1997.

(With inputs from agencies)

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German billionaire Rainer Schaller and his son's remains, have been identified after their jet crashed in the Caribbean last month, his firm RSG announced on Friday.

German billionaire Rainer Schaller and his son's remains, have been identified after their jet crashed in the Caribbean last month, his firm RSG announced on Friday. On 21 October, a jet bound for Mexico with six people on board disappeared from radar as it attempted to touch down at a runway in the Limon area of eastern Costa Rica. An adult and a child's corpses, as well as pieces of the wreckage from the plane and their personal belongings including bags and backpacks, were discovered the next day 28 kilometres (17 miles) off the coast of Limon. "It is with great dismay that we have received the sad certainty that our founder Rainer Schaller and his son have been identified as the deceased of the plane crash in Costa Rica," RSG said Friday. "His life partner, her daughter, our colleague and the pilot, who were also on board, are still among the missing." Also read | US: Two killed after plane crashes in car dealership parking lot in Ohio The McFit chain of gyms was started by Schaller. While the pilot was Swiss, all of the passengers were German. After 11 days of search, Costa Rican police called the hunt for the missing jet off on Tuesday because "no new evidence has been located." Schaller built his low-cost McFit network into the biggest fitness chain in Europe after starting with just one gym in the German city of Wuerzburg in 1997. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

German billionaire Rainer Schaller and his son's remains identified after Caribbean crash

Germany is set&nbsp;to replace its popular €9 monthly local public transportation ticket with a €49 version, a decision that has drawn criticism from charities and social care organisations who claim the increased cost would exclude millions of Germans who are struggling to make ends meet. During the summer, an experiment involving a €9 pass (equivalent to roughly £7.80) was conducted in an effort to encourage people to use public transportation and to help combat growing inflation.

Following a conference between the federal government and the leaders of Germany's 16 states to decide who would bear the costs of the subsidised ticket and how much it should cost, a decision was made about the new Deutschland Ticket.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-calls-on-china-to-use-influence-on-russia-531164">German Chancellor calls on China to use 'influence' on Russia</a>

Following months of debate about a replacement for the €9 ticket, which was followed by transportation observers worldwide and gave rise to a number of analytical studies, transportation experts welcomed the announcement, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;

Representatives of charities and social care organisations, however, criticised the new ticket as a gift to the middle class, especially those who travel for work, and cautioned that its price would put millions of people out of their price range.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;German Chancellor arrives in China, Scholz's coalition uncertain about its relation with Beijing

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-activists-who-targetted-girl-with-a-pearl-earring-get-prison-sentence-531037">Climate activists</a> expressed concern that the cost would not be low enough to entice people away from their automobiles and said that due to the poor quality of rural services, many people would find it challenging to use public transport for transit.

Even while she applauded the decision about the ticket, Michaela Engelmeier, the leader of the German Social Association, a lobbying organisation, said she thought many people wouldn't be able to pay it.

<blockquote>
“We are sticking to our position that the €49 ticket will not be affordable for everyone, which is why we’re continuing to push for a €365-a-year ticket,” said&nbsp;Michaela Engelmeier.
</blockquote>

Bicyclists said that throughout the discussions, their demands were frequently disregarded. The ADFC, a lobbying organisation that represents cyclists' interests, aims to eliminate the need for bike fees by allowing bicycles on trains for free as part of the travel ticket price.

The cost of the new ticket, which will be split evenly between the federal government and the states, is anticipated to be over €3 billion in public subsidies. It may debut as early as January.

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Germany is set to replace its popular €9 monthly local public transportation ticket with a €49 version, a decision that has drawn criticism from charities and social care organisations who claim the increased cost would exclude millions of Germans who are struggling to make ends meet.

Germany is set to replace its popular €9 monthly local public transportation ticket with a €49 version, a decision that has drawn criticism from charities and social care organisations who claim the increased cost would exclude millions of Germans who are struggling to make ends meet. During the summer, an experiment involving a €9 pass (equivalent to roughly £7.80) was conducted in an effort to encourage people to use public transportation and to help combat growing inflation. Following a conference between the federal government and the leaders of Germany's 16 states to decide who would bear the costs of the subsidised ticket and how much it should cost, a decision was made about the new Deutschland Ticket. Also read | German Chancellor calls on China to use 'influence' on Russia Following months of debate about a replacement for the €9 ticket, which was followed by transportation observers worldwide and gave rise to a number of analytical studies, transportation experts welcomed the announcement, as reported by the Guardian. Representatives of charities and social care organisations, however, criticised the new ticket as a gift to the middle class, especially those who travel for work, and cautioned that its price would put millions of people out of their price range. Also WATCH | German Chancellor arrives in China, Scholz's coalition uncertain about its relation with Beijing Climate activists expressed concern that the cost would not be low enough to entice people away from their automobiles and said that due to the poor quality of rural services, many people would find it challenging to use public transport for transit. Even while she applauded the decision about the ticket, Michaela Engelmeier, the leader of the German Social Association, a lobbying organisation, said she thought many people wouldn't be able to pay it. “We are sticking to our position that the €49 ticket will not be affordable for everyone, which is why we’re continuing to push for a €365-a-year ticket,” said Michaela Engelmeier. Bicyclists said that throughout the discussions, their demands were frequently disregarded. The ADFC, a lobbying organisation that represents cyclists' interests, aims to eliminate the need for bike fees by allowing bicycles on trains for free as part of the travel ticket price. The cost of the new ticket, which will be split evenly between the federal government and the states, is anticipated to be over €3 billion in public subsidies. It may debut as early as January. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany proposes raising the cost of public transportation from €9 to €49, stirs controversy

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has arrived in China, his one-day visit will make him the first G7 leader to visit China since the start of the pandemic. The high-stakes with it is also being closely watched on how serious Germany is about reducing its economic reliance on Asia's rising superpower.

Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz holds talks with Xi Jinping, hopes China persuades Russia to end war

Energy crisis looms over Europe this winter due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Germany's government signed off an energy price cap package of $198 to try to shield households and businesses from rising cost.

Germany finds way to tackle high gas price | Latest News | WION

Scientists in Germany are working on ways to restore seagrass fields in the Baltic Sea, which are shrinking fast in the face of falling water quality, global warming and disease.

WION Climate Tracker: Scientists in Germany try to restore seagrass in the Baltic sea

Some pub owners in Germany will not be showing matches of the upcoming Qatar World Cup, saying they took the decision from "an ethical standpoint" given the Gulf state's record on human rights.

Qatar, the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup, has come under intense international pressure for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. Disquiet over the country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the games at the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 tournaments.

"Too many human rights were violated and from an ethical standpoint, I can't justify it," Fanny Delaune, owner of "Babel" sports bar in Bonn, told Reuters. "Some understand it and others will watch anyway but ultimately, it's my bar and my decision."

Tobias Epping, who owns "Die Wache" bar, will also do the same. "Not just me but also my regular customers who I asked to vote on Facebook and Instagram decided not to show the World Cup because there was a point when we said 'enough'," he said.

"The number of workers killed went beyond 15,000, stadiums are air conditioned during times like these and you can't even drink a beer which for me as a bar owner obviously is a part of it: no. We can no longer support that. "From an economic point of view: was this a smart decision? Probably not. But at least you can go to a bar with a clean conscience..."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-erling-haaland-to-luis-diaz-superstar-footballers-who-wont-be-seen-in-fifa-world-cup-in-qatar-529189">From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar</a>

A Guardian newspaper analysis in Feb. 2021 concluded 6,500 South Asian migrants had died in Qatar since 2010 and the International Labour Organisation has said Qatar is not adequately reporting worker deaths. Qatar's World Cup organisers, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), have disputed claims that thousands of people have died during the preparations for the tournament.

Qatar’s government has said its labour system is a work in progress, but denied a 2021 Amnesty report that thousands of migrant workers were still being exploited. A female fan, who did not share her name, said she would support the boycott by the bars.

"Even if Qatar had great stadiums and fantastically paid workers, in any case a World Cup during the winter is stupid," she said. "But in this case, it's totally unacceptable. I don't feel like watching and I fully support a boycott. I won't be watching."

The SC, which has promised a carbon neutral World Cup, says the stadium cooling systems require about a fifth of the energy typical to cool spaces of the same size, such as airport terminals or closed baseball fields. The World Cup will be held in late autumn, when Qatar’s summer heat has subsided and temperatures usually fall to mid-20 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit).

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Some pub owners in Germany will not be showing matches of the upcoming Qatar World Cup, saying they took the decision from "an ethical standpoint" given the Gulf state's record on human rights.

Some pub owners in Germany will not be showing matches of the upcoming Qatar World Cup, saying they took the decision from "an ethical standpoint" given the Gulf state's record on human rights. Qatar, the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup, has come under intense international pressure for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. Disquiet over the country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the games at the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 tournaments. "Too many human rights were violated and from an ethical standpoint, I can't justify it," Fanny Delaune, owner of "Babel" sports bar in Bonn, told Reuters. "Some understand it and others will watch anyway but ultimately, it's my bar and my decision." Tobias Epping, who owns "Die Wache" bar, will also do the same. "Not just me but also my regular customers who I asked to vote on Facebook and Instagram decided not to show the World Cup because there was a point when we said 'enough'," he said. "The number of workers killed went beyond 15,000, stadiums are air conditioned during times like these and you can't even drink a beer which for me as a bar owner obviously is a part of it: no. We can no longer support that. "From an economic point of view: was this a smart decision? Probably not. But at least you can go to a bar with a clean conscience..." ALSO READ | From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar A Guardian newspaper analysis in Feb. 2021 concluded 6,500 South Asian migrants had died in Qatar since 2010 and the International Labour Organisation has said Qatar is not adequately reporting worker deaths. Qatar's World Cup organisers, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), have disputed claims that thousands of people have died during the preparations for the tournament. Qatar’s government has said its labour system is a work in progress, but denied a 2021 Amnesty report that thousands of migrant workers were still being exploited. A female fan, who did not share her name, said she would support the boycott by the bars. "Even if Qatar had great stadiums and fantastically paid workers, in any case a World Cup during the winter is stupid," she said. "But in this case, it's totally unacceptable. I don't feel like watching and I fully support a boycott. I won't be watching." The SC, which has promised a carbon neutral World Cup, says the stadium cooling systems require about a fifth of the energy typical to cool spaces of the same size, such as airport terminals or closed baseball fields. The World Cup will be held in late autumn, when Qatar’s summer heat has subsided and temperatures usually fall to mid-20 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit). ×

Qatar 2022: Pub owners in Germany to boycott telecast of World Cup games

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged climate activists to show creativity and avoid endangering others after attacking artworks and setting up road blockades.

WION Climate Tracker: German chancellor Olaf Scholz slams climate activists for attacking artworks

Germany said on Monday (October 31) that the Europen Union is thinking of imposing more sanctions against Iran over "excessive" crackdown on demonstrators.

"I am shocked that people who are peacefully demonstrating at protests in Iran are dying," Scholz tweeted.&nbsp;

"We condemn the excessive violence of the security forces and stand by the people in Iran. Our EU sanctions are important. We are reviewing further steps."

Protests have rocked Iran after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's custodial death. Iran's dreaded 'morality police' detained Amini over her 'inappropriate attire'. The protests that started after that have even seen demands of regime change.

Watch | Iran Protests: Students defy ultimatum by revolutionary guards, chant 'freedom'

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&nbsp;

The EU has already imposed sanctions against the 'morality police' and 11 officials. This includes Iran's telecommunications minister.

Last week, Berlin condemned Tehran for imposing sanctions on European-based media in retaliation and vowed to tighten its rules for entry to Iran, going beyond EU sanctions.

On Sunday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that Germany and the EU were examining whether Iran's Revolutionary Guards should be deemed a 'terrorist organisation'

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-clashes-break-out-between-students-and-security-forces-in-iran-report-529754">Violent clashes break out between students and security forces in Iran: Report</a>

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani on Monday denounced the proposal.

"The Revolutionary Guards are the official military body of the Islamic republic, and this action is completely illegal," Kanani told reporters.

"Germany's decision to sanction the Guards, if it takes such action, is a continuation of that country's irresponsible and unconstructive actions."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany said on Monday (October 31) that the Europen Union is thinking of imposing more sanctions against Iran over "excessive" crackdown on demonstrators. "I am shocked that people who are peacefully demonstrating at protests in Iran are dying," Scholz tweeted.

Germany said on Monday (October 31) that the Europen Union is thinking of imposing more sanctions against Iran over "excessive" crackdown on demonstrators. "I am shocked that people who are peacefully demonstrating at protests in Iran are dying," Scholz tweeted. "We condemn the excessive violence of the security forces and stand by the people in Iran. Our EU sanctions are important. We are reviewing further steps." Protests have rocked Iran after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini's custodial death. Iran's dreaded 'morality police' detained Amini over her 'inappropriate attire'. The protests that started after that have even seen demands of regime change. Watch | Iran Protests: Students defy ultimatum by revolutionary guards, chant 'freedom' × The EU has already imposed sanctions against the 'morality police' and 11 officials. This includes Iran's telecommunications minister. Last week, Berlin condemned Tehran for imposing sanctions on European-based media in retaliation and vowed to tighten its rules for entry to Iran, going beyond EU sanctions. On Sunday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that Germany and the EU were examining whether Iran's Revolutionary Guards should be deemed a 'terrorist organisation' Also Read | Violent clashes break out between students and security forces in Iran: Report Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani on Monday denounced the proposal. "The Revolutionary Guards are the official military body of the Islamic republic, and this action is completely illegal," Kanani told reporters. "Germany's decision to sanction the Guards, if it takes such action, is a continuation of that country's irresponsible and unconstructive actions." (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

EU thinking of more sanctions against Iran over 'excessive' crackdown, says Scholz

French President Emmanuel Macron hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Paris on Wednesday, amidst recent political differences between the two countries.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris

Is German failure on the road to a renewable future? A German energy firm is dismantling wind turbines. The government on the other hand urged the energy firm to stop dismantling.

WION Climate Tracker: German failure on the road to a renewable future?

Germany is all set to legalise the consumption and distribution of cannabis for recreational purposes, according to health minister Karl Lauterbach. It was one of the major promises made by Chancellor Olaf Scholz during the election campaign.&nbsp;

Lauterbach presented a paper on Wednesday that contained the details of the proposed legislation and the ways the legalisation will be controlled. According to Reuters, the legislation states that any individual will be able to possess up to 30 gm&nbsp;of cannabis – but only for recreational use.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-politics-live-pm-rishi-sunak-set-to-face-opposition-for-first-time-528477" hreflang="en">UK politics LIVE updates: Britain's new PM Sunak reinstates fracking ban</a>

The legislation also includes an entire chapter about the cultivation of cannabis which will decide the production and distribution of the product. While no major restrictions are currently planned for the consumers, a consumption tax is expected to be introduced in the near future on every purchase.&nbsp;

The paper will now be presented in front of the European Commission for assessment. If it is passed by the commission, the legislation can officially be adopted following a parliamentary vote.&nbsp;

The decision to legalise cannabis was taken by the German government last year and if passed, Germany can become the second nation after Malta to take the step. According to a survey taken in 2021, the decision can also boost the economy by around $4.7 billion thanks to the consumption tax alone.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shots-fired-at-protesters-during-gathering-at-mahsa-aminis-grave-in-iran-528570">Shots fired at protesters during gathering at Mahsa Amini's grave in Iran</a>

While the announcement was welcomed by a majority of the general public,&nbsp;some politicians expressed their concern regarding the health risks that cannabis can cause.

"Consumption entails significant and sometimes irreversible health and social risks - and any form of trivialization is completely irresponsible," Bavarian Health Minister Klaus Holetschek said.&nbsp;

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Germany is all set to legalise the consumption and distribution of cannabis for recreational purposes, according to health minister Karl Lauterbach. It was one of the major promises made by Chancellor Olaf Scholz during the election campaign.

Germany is all set to legalise the consumption and distribution of cannabis for recreational purposes, according to health minister Karl Lauterbach. It was one of the major promises made by Chancellor Olaf Scholz during the election campaign. Lauterbach presented a paper on Wednesday that contained the details of the proposed legislation and the ways the legalisation will be controlled. According to Reuters, the legislation states that any individual will be able to possess up to 30 gm of cannabis – but only for recreational use. Also read | UK politics LIVE updates: Britain's new PM Sunak reinstates fracking ban The legislation also includes an entire chapter about the cultivation of cannabis which will decide the production and distribution of the product. While no major restrictions are currently planned for the consumers, a consumption tax is expected to be introduced in the near future on every purchase. The paper will now be presented in front of the European Commission for assessment. If it is passed by the commission, the legislation can officially be adopted following a parliamentary vote. The decision to legalise cannabis was taken by the German government last year and if passed, Germany can become the second nation after Malta to take the step. According to a survey taken in 2021, the decision can also boost the economy by around $4.7 billion thanks to the consumption tax alone. Also read | Shots fired at protesters during gathering at Mahsa Amini's grave in Iran While the announcement was welcomed by a majority of the general public, some politicians expressed their concern regarding the health risks that cannabis can cause. "Consumption entails significant and sometimes irreversible health and social risks - and any form of trivialization is completely irresponsible," Bavarian Health Minister Klaus Holetschek said.

Germany set to legalise cannabis for recreational use, says health minister

On Wednesday, the German carmaker Mercedes-Benz said it would quit the Russian market and sell its shares in the local subsidiaries to the country’s car dealer chain Avtodom, joining several other car manufacturers to exit Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

“Mercedes-Benz intends to sell its shares in Russian subsidiaries to a local investor,” said the Russian ministry of industry in a statement on Telegram. It added, “The new owner of the Russian divisions of Mercedes-Benz, Avtodom, will be able to attract other companies as partners for joint productions.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mercedes-recalls-one-million-cars-over-faulty-brakes-485489">Mercedes recalls one million cars over faulty brakes</a> 
 
This comes after carmakers like Nissan, Renault, Toyota and others have exited the Russian market due to its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. According to reports, Avtodom will retain “highly qualified jobs and competencies” at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Moscow but it is unclear if the employees will retain their jobs in the process. The production and import&nbsp;of Mercedes in Russia had been halted earlier this year in March.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, Russia, Natalia Koroleva in a statement said, “The main priorities in agreeing the terms of the transaction were to maximise the fulfilment of obligations to clients from Russia both in terms of after-sales services and financial services, as well as preserving jobs of employees at the Russian divisions of the company.”

The German carmaker’s CFO Harald Wilhelm, while presenting the third-quarter reports, said that this transaction may not affect the company’s profits or financial position when compared to previous quarters. “The completion of the transaction is subject to the approval of all relevant authorities,” said the German carmaker in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mercedes-benz-launches-first-made-in-india-eqs-580-electric-car-521927">Mercedes-Benz launches first ‘Made in India’ EQS 580 luxury electric car</a> 
 
Meanwhile, the Russian car dealer chain Avtodom said that it would choose a technology partner to continue operations at the Mercedes-Benz production facilities in the northwest of Moscow. As reports also suggest that following the completion of the deal the local investor will also provide maintenance for the Mercedes-Benz car owners in Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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On Wednesday, the German carmaker Mercedes-Benz said it would quit the Russian market and sell its shares in the local subsidiaries to the country’s car dealer chain Avtodom, joining several other car manufacturers to exit Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine.

On Wednesday, the German carmaker Mercedes-Benz said it would quit the Russian market and sell its shares in the local subsidiaries to the country’s car dealer chain Avtodom, joining several other car manufacturers to exit Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine. “Mercedes-Benz intends to sell its shares in Russian subsidiaries to a local investor,” said the Russian ministry of industry in a statement on Telegram. It added, “The new owner of the Russian divisions of Mercedes-Benz, Avtodom, will be able to attract other companies as partners for joint productions.” ALSO READ: Mercedes recalls one million cars over faulty brakes This comes after carmakers like Nissan, Renault, Toyota and others have exited the Russian market due to its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. According to reports, Avtodom will retain “highly qualified jobs and competencies” at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Moscow but it is unclear if the employees will retain their jobs in the process. The production and import of Mercedes in Russia had been halted earlier this year in March. Meanwhile, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, Russia, Natalia Koroleva in a statement said, “The main priorities in agreeing the terms of the transaction were to maximise the fulfilment of obligations to clients from Russia both in terms of after-sales services and financial services, as well as preserving jobs of employees at the Russian divisions of the company.” The German carmaker’s CFO Harald Wilhelm, while presenting the third-quarter reports, said that this transaction may not affect the company’s profits or financial position when compared to previous quarters. “The completion of the transaction is subject to the approval of all relevant authorities,” said the German carmaker in a statement. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz launches first ‘Made in India’ EQS 580 luxury electric car Meanwhile, the Russian car dealer chain Avtodom said that it would choose a technology partner to continue operations at the Mercedes-Benz production facilities in the northwest of Moscow. As reports also suggest that following the completion of the deal the local investor will also provide maintenance for the Mercedes-Benz car owners in Russia. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Mercedes-Benz to exit Russian market, sells shares to local car dealer chain

The German cabinet on Tuesday approved China’s Cosco buying&nbsp;a 24.9 per cent stake in HHLA, a container operator at Germany’s Hafen Hamburg port. The nod came despite calls from several quarters urging Chancellor Olaf Scholz to not let the Chinese company buy stakes in the firm.

Referring to the deal, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson&nbsp;Wang Wenbin said Beijing hoped that&nbsp;"relevant parties would see pragmatic cooperation between China and Germany rationally (and) stop gratuitous speculation."

Earlier, Cosco was attempting to buy a 35 per cent stake in the company. However, the smaller-than-planned stake was necessitated after Germany learned its painful lesson of being overtly dependent on a single country, in the aftermath of the Russian gas crisis.&nbsp;

Yet,&nbsp;it appears that&nbsp;Scholz used his veto power to allow the deal to go through. As reported by WION, last month, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said that Berlin couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed by other countries, hinting at China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-germany-next-in-chinas-trap-317115">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Germany | Next in China's trap?</a>

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He referred to Cosco-HHLA and said he was against the deal. "I’m leaning towards the fact that we don’t allow that," said&nbsp;Habeck.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/once-bitten-twice-shy-after-russia-lesson-germany-to-reconsider-trade-deal-with-china-516058">Read more:&nbsp;Once bitten, twice shy: After Russia lesson, Germany to reconsider trade deal with China</a>

Notably, China is Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China.&nbsp;

Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

China has been known to use its advantageous position in bilateral trade to coerce sovereign governments by bending them to its will. The German opposition has protested against the deal and questioned Scholz.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The German cabinet on Tuesday approved China’s Cosco buying a 24.9 per cent stake in HHLA, a container operator at Germany’s Hafen Hamburg port. The nod came despite calls from several quarters urging Chancellor Olaf Scholz to not let the Chinese company buy stakes in the firm.

The German cabinet on Tuesday approved China’s Cosco buying a 24.9 per cent stake in HHLA, a container operator at Germany’s Hafen Hamburg port. The nod came despite calls from several quarters urging Chancellor Olaf Scholz to not let the Chinese company buy stakes in the firm. Referring to the deal, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said Beijing hoped that "relevant parties would see pragmatic cooperation between China and Germany rationally (and) stop gratuitous speculation." Earlier, Cosco was attempting to buy a 35 per cent stake in the company. However, the smaller-than-planned stake was necessitated after Germany learned its painful lesson of being overtly dependent on a single country, in the aftermath of the Russian gas crisis. Yet, it appears that Scholz used his veto power to allow the deal to go through. As reported by WION, last month, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said that Berlin couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed by other countries, hinting at China. WATCH | Gravitas: Germany | Next in China's trap? × He referred to Cosco-HHLA and said he was against the deal. "I’m leaning towards the fact that we don’t allow that," said Habeck. Read more: Once bitten, twice shy: After Russia lesson, Germany to reconsider trade deal with China Notably, China is Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China. Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis. China has been known to use its advantageous position in bilateral trade to coerce sovereign governments by bending them to its will. The German opposition has protested against the deal and questioned Scholz. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany allows Chinese company to buy stakes in container operator at its largest port

The Eurozone's biggest economy, Germany, could be heading for an imminent recession. According to SMP Global Market Intelligence, there are growing signs of an impending recession.

UK: Eurozone downturn deepens, Germany heads for recession

The war continues unabated in Ukraine, NATO is looking very keenly at its Eastern Flank as part of the Baltic Tiger exercises. Nearly about 250 German and Estonian soldiers run a joint NATO exercise in Estonia.

250 German & Estonian soldiers run joint NATO drills in Estonia

Amidst rising energy crisis, protesters hit the street in Germany calling out the government for not doing enough to protect those with lower and average incomes. Watch the video for more details.

Germany energy crisis: Thousands hit streets over skyrocketing energy costs

German utility Uniper is shutting half the office space in its headquarters and lowering temperatures in areas remaining open to save gas as it struggles to stay afloat even after being nationalized.

WION Business News | German utility major Uniper to shut 50% office space

A little more than a month after claiming that the 'worst was yet to come', German energy giant Uniper is taking desperate measures. Reportedly, the company is closing office space in its headquarters and lowering the temperature in the remaining areas to save gas.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, the company in its Düsseldorf headquarters has shut down devices and lamps in 50 per cent of the office spaces. The temperature has been lowered to 14 degrees and the cleaning has been stopped as well.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the offices where employees are working, the thermostat has been set at 20 degrees.&nbsp;

Uniper, Germany's biggest importer of gas has been hit hard by the reduction in gas supplies from Russia. The company was in such dire straits that the Chancellor Olaf Scholz's&nbsp;government in July had to bail out the company with a $15.24 billion bailout package.&nbsp;

However, that didn't prove enough as the German government in September nationalised the company by announcing&nbsp;that it was acquiring&nbsp;98.5 per cent stake in the company and investing&nbsp;more than $7.9 billion.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-nationalises-energy-giant-uniper-to-combat-global-energy-crisis-518326">Read more:&nbsp;Germany nationalises energy giant Uniper to combat global energy crisis</a>

As reported by WION, prior to the nationalisation, Uniper CEO&nbsp;Klaus-Dieter Maubach had warned that the worst was yet to come for the continent of Europe.&nbsp;

“I have said this a number of times now over this year and I’m also educating policymakers. Look, the worst is still to come,” said Klaus-Dieter Maubach, Uniper CEO.&nbsp;

Adding that the wholesale prices had shot exponentially, Maubach called for an open discussion amongst the stakeholders.&nbsp;

“What we see on the wholesale market is 20 times the price that we have seen two years ago. 20 times. That is why I think we need to have really an open discussion with everyone taking responsibility on how to fix that,”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uniper-the-german-gas-giant-states-that-the-worst-is-yet-to-come-amid-the-halt-in-gas-supplies-513538">Read more:&nbsp;Uniper, the German gas giant states that the worst is yet to come amid the halt in gas supplies</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A little more than a month after claiming that the 'worst was yet to come', German energy giant Uniper is taking desperate measures. Reportedly, the company is closing office space in its headquarters and lowering the temperature in the remaining areas to save gas.

A little more than a month after claiming that the 'worst was yet to come', German energy giant Uniper is taking desperate measures. Reportedly, the company is closing office space in its headquarters and lowering the temperature in the remaining areas to save gas. According to local media reports, the company in its Düsseldorf headquarters has shut down devices and lamps in 50 per cent of the office spaces. The temperature has been lowered to 14 degrees and the cleaning has been stopped as well. Meanwhile, the offices where employees are working, the thermostat has been set at 20 degrees. Uniper, Germany's biggest importer of gas has been hit hard by the reduction in gas supplies from Russia. The company was in such dire straits that the Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government in July had to bail out the company with a $15.24 billion bailout package. However, that didn't prove enough as the German government in September nationalised the company by announcing that it was acquiring 98.5 per cent stake in the company and investing more than $7.9 billion. Read more: Germany nationalises energy giant Uniper to combat global energy crisis As reported by WION, prior to the nationalisation, Uniper CEO Klaus-Dieter Maubach had warned that the worst was yet to come for the continent of Europe. “I have said this a number of times now over this year and I’m also educating policymakers. Look, the worst is still to come,” said Klaus-Dieter Maubach, Uniper CEO. Adding that the wholesale prices had shot exponentially, Maubach called for an open discussion amongst the stakeholders. “What we see on the wholesale market is 20 times the price that we have seen two years ago. 20 times. That is why I think we need to have really an open discussion with everyone taking responsibility on how to fix that,” Read more: Uniper, the German gas giant states that the worst is yet to come amid the halt in gas supplies (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany energy giant Uniper shuts 50% office spaces to save gas

Amidst rising energy crisis, protesters hit streets of Germany calling out the government for not doing enough to protect those with lower and average incomes.

Protesters: Government not doing enough for all lower, average income group

At least six passengers of a plane went missing and are feared dead, said Costa Rican authorities after a small plane crashed into the Caribbean just off the country’s eastern coast. Reports suggest that all five passengers are believed to be German and the pilot to be Swiss.&nbsp;

Furthermore, local authorities have also found debris from the small twin-engine turboprop aircraft in the water on Saturday after the plane went missing on Friday.&nbsp;

Costa Rica’s assistant security minister, Martín Arias, said “28 kilometres from the Limon airport, in the Caribbean Sea, the wreckage was located, which apparently indicates that it is the aircraft. At the moment we have not located any bodies or people alive”.&nbsp;

According to media reports among the six passengers was German entrepreneur&nbsp;Rainer Schaller, along with his partner and children. Schaller is the CEO and founder of the gym chain McFitand reportedly owns 200 locations in Germany and hundreds of others in countries like Austria, Italy, Poland and Spain with at least 1.4 million members.&nbsp;

“Around six in the afternoon we received an alert about a flight coming from Mexico to the Limon airport, carrying five German passengers,” said Security Minister Jorge Torres. He added that while the search began immediately it had to temporarily be called off due to bad weather. &nbsp;

The German CEO made headlines in 2010 when an event organised by him in Berlin led to the death of at least 21 people and injured more than 500. The authorities at the time had blamed Schaller’s security and their inability to stop the flow of people to the Berlin Love Parade techno festival ground. However, he fought back those accusations by saying that the security was approved by the city officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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At least six passengers of a plane went missing and are feared dead, said Costa Rican authorities after a small plane crashed into the Caribbean just off the country’s eastern coast.

At least six passengers of a plane went missing and are feared dead, said Costa Rican authorities after a small plane crashed into the Caribbean just off the country’s eastern coast. Reports suggest that all five passengers are believed to be German and the pilot to be Swiss. Furthermore, local authorities have also found debris from the small twin-engine turboprop aircraft in the water on Saturday after the plane went missing on Friday. Costa Rica’s assistant security minister, Martín Arias, said “28 kilometres from the Limon airport, in the Caribbean Sea, the wreckage was located, which apparently indicates that it is the aircraft. At the moment we have not located any bodies or people alive”. According to media reports among the six passengers was German entrepreneur Rainer Schaller, along with his partner and children. Schaller is the CEO and founder of the gym chain McFitand reportedly owns 200 locations in Germany and hundreds of others in countries like Austria, Italy, Poland and Spain with at least 1.4 million members. “Around six in the afternoon we received an alert about a flight coming from Mexico to the Limon airport, carrying five German passengers,” said Security Minister Jorge Torres. He added that while the search began immediately it had to temporarily be called off due to bad weather. The German CEO made headlines in 2010 when an event organised by him in Berlin led to the death of at least 21 people and injured more than 500. The authorities at the time had blamed Schaller’s security and their inability to stop the flow of people to the Berlin Love Parade techno festival ground. However, he fought back those accusations by saying that the security was approved by the city officials. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Reports: Plane crashes off the Costa Rican coast, six people missing

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