Lawmakers in Germany on Wednesday elected Social Democrat Olaf Scholz an the country's chancellor on Wednesday. This marked end of the Merkel era who was in Germany's top office for 16 years. Elections of Scholz has paved way for pro-European coalition government which has vowed to boost green investment.

Scholz, 63, who served as vice chancellor and finance minister in Merkel's outgoing government, got a clear majority of 395 votes from lawmakers in the Bundestag lower house of parliament, Bundestag President Baerbel Bas said.

Scholz, who nodded wearing a face mask and waved as he received a standing ovation from lawmakers, received bouquets of flowers and a basket of apples from the leaders of the parliamentary groups.

As he took over from Angela Merkel in official power handover ceremony Scholz pledged a&nbsp;"new beginning" for Germany.

"It will be a new beginning for our country. In any case I will do everything to work towards that," said the 63-year-old.

With his down-to-earth and no-nonsense manner, Scholz has positioned himself as Merkel's natural successor and a safe pair of hands to steer Germany through challenges ranging from tackling the climate crisis to dealing with a more confrontational Russia and a more assertive China.

Scholz will lead an unprecedented three-way ruling coalition on the federal level with the pro-spending, environmentalist Greens and the fiscally more conservative, libertarian Free Democrats (FDP) - unlikely political bedfellows in the past.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lawmakers in Germany on Wednesday elected Social Democrat Olaf Scholz an the country's chancellor on Wednesday. This marked end of the Merkel era who was in Germany's top office for 16 years.

Lawmakers in Germany on Wednesday elected Social Democrat Olaf Scholz an the country's chancellor on Wednesday. This marked end of the Merkel era who was in Germany's top office for 16 years. Elections of Scholz has paved way for pro-European coalition government which has vowed to boost green investment. Scholz, 63, who served as vice chancellor and finance minister in Merkel's outgoing government, got a clear majority of 395 votes from lawmakers in the Bundestag lower house of parliament, Bundestag President Baerbel Bas said. Scholz, who nodded wearing a face mask and waved as he received a standing ovation from lawmakers, received bouquets of flowers and a basket of apples from the leaders of the parliamentary groups. As he took over from Angela Merkel in official power handover ceremony Scholz pledged a "new beginning" for Germany. "It will be a new beginning for our country. In any case I will do everything to work towards that," said the 63-year-old. With his down-to-earth and no-nonsense manner, Scholz has positioned himself as Merkel's natural successor and a safe pair of hands to steer Germany through challenges ranging from tackling the climate crisis to dealing with a more confrontational Russia and a more assertive China. Scholz will lead an unprecedented three-way ruling coalition on the federal level with the pro-spending, environmentalist Greens and the fiscally more conservative, libertarian Free Democrats (FDP) - unlikely political bedfellows in the past. (With inputs from agencies)

Ending Merkel era, Olaf Scholz becomes Germany's new chancellor

Germany's pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) on Sunday voted on Sunday to back coalition agreement with the Social Democrats and the Greens. This has paved way for three-way alliance. The government formation is expected to take place next week.

The coalition forged this time is first of a kind at the federal level. Free Democrat, environmentalist Green Party and Olaf Scholz's centre-left Social Democratic Party are forming the government.

Urging his FDP to back the deal, party leader Christian Lindner said the coalition agreement would bring about a "new departure in Germany".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-scare-germany-gets-tough-on-unvaccinated-imposes-restrictions-433591">Omicron scare: Germany gets tough on unvaccinated, imposes restrictions</a>

"Germany is waiting for this new departure," stressed Lindner, who is poised to become finance minister.

The SPD has already approved the agreement on Saturday. The Greens are due to announce the outcome of a member survey on the deal on Monday. The three parties are hoping that Germany's lower house of the parliament, the Bundestag will vote Olaf Scholz as next chancellor of the country.

The "traffic light" alliance, named after the parties'respective colours, will usher in a new era of relations with Europe, and plans to speed up digitalisation of the continents biggest economy and put a focus on fighting climate change.

Under their roadmap for Germany, the three parties want to bring forward an end to coal to 2030 from 2038. They also plan to put 15 million electric cars on the road by 2030, and ramp up the building of new homes to keep housing costs affordable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany's pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) on Sunday voted on Sunday to back coalition agreement with the Social Democrats and the Greens. This has paved way for three-way alliance.

Germany's pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) on Sunday voted on Sunday to back coalition agreement with the Social Democrats and the Greens. This has paved way for three-way alliance. The government formation is expected to take place next week. The coalition forged this time is first of a kind at the federal level. Free Democrat, environmentalist Green Party and Olaf Scholz's centre-left Social Democratic Party are forming the government. Urging his FDP to back the deal, party leader Christian Lindner said the coalition agreement would bring about a "new departure in Germany". Also Read | Omicron scare: Germany gets tough on unvaccinated, imposes restrictions "Germany is waiting for this new departure," stressed Lindner, who is poised to become finance minister. The SPD has already approved the agreement on Saturday. The Greens are due to announce the outcome of a member survey on the deal on Monday. The three parties are hoping that Germany's lower house of the parliament, the Bundestag will vote Olaf Scholz as next chancellor of the country. The "traffic light" alliance, named after the parties'respective colours, will usher in a new era of relations with Europe, and plans to speed up digitalisation of the continents biggest economy and put a focus on fighting climate change. Under their roadmap for Germany, the three parties want to bring forward an end to coal to 2030 from 2038. They also plan to put 15 million electric cars on the road by 2030, and ramp up the building of new homes to keep housing costs affordable. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany: Free Democrats back coalition agreement

Head of the state, German chancellor Angela Merkel has done some remarkable economic and geopolitical reforms. However, Merkel's departure marks the end of an era for liberal politics. Here we bring you all the latest news from all around the world.

End of 'Angela Merkel' era in Germany, leader set to handover charge on Dec 8

Germany's military saluted Angela Merkel, with a hit by the "godmother of punk" Nina Hagen, as they bid farewell to her during the ceremony - 'Grand Tattoo.' The Bundeswehr staff music corps also played a hymn.

Germany's military saluted Angela Merkel, with a hit by the "godmother of punk" Nina Hagen, as they bid farewell to her during the ceremony - 'Grand Tattoo.' The Bundeswehr staff music corps also played a hymn. Wisely chosen, they played a 1960s song with the lyrics, "I can't acquiesce, can't make do, I still want to win." Watch: Chancellor Angela Merkel receives a grand farewell from Germany's military, complete with the marching band playing a hit song by punk icon Nina Hagen. pic.twitter.com/6jsLN5NcIo — DW News (@dwnews) December 3, 2021 × The '60s song "Red roses are to rain for me" reflects Merkel's youthful ambition. Astonishing the Germans, she picked a Nina Hagen soundtrack for her military leaving ceremony. She is known for her regular attendance at Bayreuth opera festival, which is dedicated to the composer Richard Wagner. Also read | In Pics | With punk, torches and hymn, German military bids farewell to Angela Merkel at 'Grand Tattoo' This is why Merkel managed to surprise everybody with her unusual playlist for the military pomp. ﻿Almost all the members of Germany's political elite were invited to the event, except the far-right Alternative for Germany. Merkel has officially bid farewell to sixteen years in office. At the ceremony, she said, her four terms were "eventful and often very challenging years." "They have challenged me politically and humanly and at the same time, they were also fulfilling." She further stressed how democracies live on "solidarity and trust, also from trust in facts." Germany's military saluted the former Chancellor as members of armed forces were seen carrying torches. (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel surprises Germans by her unusual taste in music; picks Nina Hagen soundtrack for ceremony

Germany has decided to tighten restrictions for those unvaccinated against COVID-19. Unvaccinated people in the country will be barred from access to all but the most essential businesses, such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

Germany introduces COVID-19 restrictions on unvaccinated people

As the new covid variant Omicron gets detected across the world, governments are rushing to get the unvaccinated inoculated and the vaccinated gets the booster job. Germany has announced that it will impose curbs on those who are not vaccinated.

Germany imposes new covid-19 restrictions as cases surge

Germany has decided to tighten restrictions for those unvaccinated against COVID-19. Outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel has announced that people without the jab will soon be excluded from non-essential shops, restaurants, places of culture, or leisure.

Germany cracks down on unvaccinated to tackle COVID-19 surge

Germany imposed restrictions on the unvaccinated on Thursday in a bid to break dramatic surge in coronavirus cases and the latest Omicron&nbsp;scare.

Outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel and her successor Olaf Scholz agreed with leaders of Germany's 16 states to bar the unvaccinated from access to all but the most essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies and bakeries.

The leaders also passed legislation in national parliament to make vaccination compulsory.

Eager to avoid lockdowns that could derail a fragile recovery of Europe's biggest economy, they kept businesses open to the almost 69% of the population that is fully vaccinated as well as those with proof of having recovered from COVID-19.

"The situation is very serious," Merkel said during a news conference with Scholz, who is expected to be elected as chancellor by the Bundestag (lower house) next week. "The number of infections has stabilized, but on a far too high a level."

She further said that an ethics committee will be asked to draft legislation that will make vaccination mandatory.

Authorities fear the fourth wave of COVID-19 risks overwhelming intensive care units and on Thursday it resulted in more than 73,000 new infections and 388 deaths.

Virologists blame the renewed outbreak on resistance to vaccination by a significant section of society, and have criticised politicians for acting too late to rein in contagion.

Germany's vaccination rate of just under 70% is around the EU average but lower than countries like Portugal and Ireland.

There have been signs that the curve showing new infections is starting to flatten. The seven-day incidence among 100,000 residents fell for the third consecutive day to 439.2.

Merkel, who hailed the restrictions as a necessary "national act of solidarity," said that in regions where the 7-day incidence hits 350, steps such as closing nightclubs and music venues and limiting indoor events to 50 people would kick in.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany imposed restrictions on the unvaccinated on Thursday in a bid to break dramatic surge in coronavirus cases and the latest Omicron scare. Outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel and her successor Olaf Scholz agreed with leaders of Germany's 16 states to bar the unvaccinated from access to all but the most essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies and bakeries.

Germany imposed restrictions on the unvaccinated on Thursday in a bid to break dramatic surge in coronavirus cases and the latest Omicron scare. Outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel and her successor Olaf Scholz agreed with leaders of Germany's 16 states to bar the unvaccinated from access to all but the most essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies and bakeries. The leaders also passed legislation in national parliament to make vaccination compulsory. Eager to avoid lockdowns that could derail a fragile recovery of Europe's biggest economy, they kept businesses open to the almost 69% of the population that is fully vaccinated as well as those with proof of having recovered from COVID-19. "The situation is very serious," Merkel said during a news conference with Scholz, who is expected to be elected as chancellor by the Bundestag (lower house) next week. "The number of infections has stabilized, but on a far too high a level." She further said that an ethics committee will be asked to draft legislation that will make vaccination mandatory. Authorities fear the fourth wave of COVID-19 risks overwhelming intensive care units and on Thursday it resulted in more than 73,000 new infections and 388 deaths. Virologists blame the renewed outbreak on resistance to vaccination by a significant section of society, and have criticised politicians for acting too late to rein in contagion. Germany's vaccination rate of just under 70% is around the EU average but lower than countries like Portugal and Ireland. There have been signs that the curve showing new infections is starting to flatten. The seven-day incidence among 100,000 residents fell for the third consecutive day to 439.2. Merkel, who hailed the restrictions as a necessary "national act of solidarity," said that in regions where the 7-day incidence hits 350, steps such as closing nightclubs and music venues and limiting indoor events to 50 people would kick in. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron scare: Germany gets tough on unvaccinated, imposes restrictions

After Belgium, Germany on Saturday said it has discovered a new positive case resembling Omicron variant.

Germany’s social affairs minister said that a traveller from South Africa was detected with similar mutations.

“Last night several Omicron-typical mutations were found in a traveller returning from South Africa," tweeted Kai Klose, social affairs minister in the western German state that is home to Frankfurt airport.

He added that a full sequencing of the variant was being carried out and that the person was isolating, and he urged anyone who had travelled from South Africa in the last few weeks to limit contacts and get tested.

This comes at a time when Germany is already witnessing the fourth wave of COVID-19, as it recorded 67,125 new coronavirus cases on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-arriving-from-south-africa-at-amsterdam-airport-test-positive-for-covid-19-432380">Passengers arriving from South Africa at Amsterdam airport test positive for COVID-19</a>

Germany had declared&nbsp;South Africa a virus-variant area, meaning airlines are allowed to fly only Germans to Germany from South Africa, a source told Reuters on Friday. Even those who are vaccinated must spend 14 days in quarantine.

Germany is the second EU country after Belgium to report Omicron variant cases.

Belgium on Friday said that it has detected a confirmed case of the B.1.1.529 variant.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286" hreflang="en">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

"We have a case that is now confirmed of this variant," he said on Friday. "This is someone who came from abroad, who tested positive on November 22, who was not vaccinated."

Several European countries including France, Germany and Italy, have already imposed new travel restrictions with South Africa and neighbouring countries that include a 14-day quarantine period for travellers whether they are vaccinated or not.

The European Commission has recommended all EU countries follow suit with President Ursula von der Leyen writing in a statement on Friday that "all air travel to these countries should be suspended."

Apart from South Africa, Omicron has been detected in Israel, Botswana, Hong Kong and Belgium.

The B.1.1.529 variant has been declared as a ‘variant of concern’ by the WHO.

It had a large number of mutations, and early evidence suggested an increased reinfection risk, the global health body said.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Belgium, Germany on Saturday said it has discovered a new positive case resembling Omicron variant. Germany’s social affairs minister said that a traveller from South Africa was detected with similar mutations.

After Belgium, Germany on Saturday said it has discovered a new positive case resembling Omicron variant. Germany’s social affairs minister said that a traveller from South Africa was detected with similar mutations. “Last night several Omicron-typical mutations were found in a traveller returning from South Africa," tweeted Kai Klose, social affairs minister in the western German state that is home to Frankfurt airport. He added that a full sequencing of the variant was being carried out and that the person was isolating, and he urged anyone who had travelled from South Africa in the last few weeks to limit contacts and get tested. This comes at a time when Germany is already witnessing the fourth wave of COVID-19, as it recorded 67,125 new coronavirus cases on Saturday. Also read | Passengers arriving from South Africa at Amsterdam airport test positive for COVID-19 Germany had declared South Africa a virus-variant area, meaning airlines are allowed to fly only Germans to Germany from South Africa, a source told Reuters on Friday. Even those who are vaccinated must spend 14 days in quarantine. Germany is the second EU country after Belgium to report Omicron variant cases. Belgium on Friday said that it has detected a confirmed case of the B.1.1.529 variant. Also read | WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' "We have a case that is now confirmed of this variant," he said on Friday. "This is someone who came from abroad, who tested positive on November 22, who was not vaccinated." Several European countries including France, Germany and Italy, have already imposed new travel restrictions with South Africa and neighbouring countries that include a 14-day quarantine period for travellers whether they are vaccinated or not. The European Commission has recommended all EU countries follow suit with President Ursula von der Leyen writing in a statement on Friday that "all air travel to these countries should be suspended." Apart from South Africa, Omicron has been detected in Israel, Botswana, Hong Kong and Belgium. The B.1.1.529 variant has been declared as a ‘variant of concern’ by the WHO. It had a large number of mutations, and early evidence suggested an increased reinfection risk, the global health body said. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron-typical mutations were found in a traveller, says German minister

Germany on Friday deployed its Air Force to transfer seriously ill COVID-19 patients from overwhelmed hospitals in the south as the country’s coronavirus cases continued to break records.

Cases in Germany have been rising sharply in recent weeks, after seeing a dip in the summer, with daily new infections hitting a record above 76,000 on Friday.

German news agency&nbsp;dpa&nbsp;reported that starting Friday, a Luftwaffe A310 medevac plane will&nbsp;start transporting seriously ill COVID patients from the southern state of Bavaria to the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia

The military is setting aside two planes for such operations going forward.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-virus-variant-detected-in-europe-as-belgium-reports-first-case-432173">New virus variant detected in Europe as Belgium reports first case</a>

“Transporting 80 or 100 patients&nbsp;within Germany is possible once, or perhaps twice, but not indefinitely,” Health Minister Jens Spahn said.

"We must stop this wave now, otherwise we'll experience exactly what we always wanted to avoid, namely an overburdening of our health care system," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;S<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-says-uks-travel-ban-order-seems-rushed-as-new-covid-variant-raises-alarm-432166">outh Africa says UK’s travel ban order 'seems rushed' as new Covid variant raises alarm</a>

Citing the sharp rise in cases, Spahn said contacts between people need to be sharply reduced to curb the spread of the virus.

“The situation is dramatically serious, more serious than it's been at any point in the pandemic,” he told reporters in Berlin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-covid-19-variant-from-uk-to-france-list-of-countries-that-have-banned-travel-to-south-africa-432196">New COVID-19 variant: From UK to France, list of countries that have banned travel to South Africa</a>

Otherwise, there could be a "complete" reduction, he said, without mentioning "lockdown".

According to reports, hospitals in southern and eastern regions of Germany are running out of intensive care beds because of the large number of seriously ill COVID-19&nbsp;patients.

(With reports from agencies)

Germany on Friday deployed its Air Force to transfer seriously ill COVID-19 patients from overwhelmed hospitals in the south as the country’s coronavirus cases continued to break records.

Germany on Friday deployed its Air Force to transfer seriously ill COVID-19 patients from overwhelmed hospitals in the south as the country’s coronavirus cases continued to break records. Cases in Germany have been rising sharply in recent weeks, after seeing a dip in the summer, with daily new infections hitting a record above 76,000 on Friday. German news agency dpa reported that starting Friday, a Luftwaffe A310 medevac plane will start transporting seriously ill COVID patients from the southern state of Bavaria to the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia The military is setting aside two planes for such operations going forward. Also read | New virus variant detected in Europe as Belgium reports first case “Transporting 80 or 100 patients within Germany is possible once, or perhaps twice, but not indefinitely,” Health Minister Jens Spahn said. "We must stop this wave now, otherwise we'll experience exactly what we always wanted to avoid, namely an overburdening of our health care system," he added. Also read | South Africa says UK’s travel ban order 'seems rushed' as new Covid variant raises alarm Citing the sharp rise in cases, Spahn said contacts between people need to be sharply reduced to curb the spread of the virus. “The situation is dramatically serious, more serious than it's been at any point in the pandemic,” he told reporters in Berlin. Also read | New COVID-19 variant: From UK to France, list of countries that have banned travel to South Africa Otherwise, there could be a "complete" reduction, he said, without mentioning "lockdown". According to reports, hospitals in southern and eastern regions of Germany are running out of intensive care beds because of the large number of seriously ill COVID-19 patients. (With reports from agencies)

Germany deploys Air Force planes to transport seriously ill Covid patients as hospitals run out of bed

Germany has increased the minimum wage, Japan is asking companies to give its workers a minimum of 3% salary hike. Countries and companies worldwide are rewarding employees for their hard work during the pandemic. Palki Sharma tells you all about it.

Gravitas: Germany increases minimum wage, Japan pushes for higher pay

A new era is about to begin in Germany. Olaf Scholz is set to become the chancellor, as Angela Merkel steps down after 16 years. Scholz entered politics at the age of 17, what does he bring to the table as Germany's new leader? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: A new era in Germany: Olaf Scholz set to become chancellor

Dressed in a silver snakeskin outfit and wearing his trademark cowboy boots Alain Robert, a French Spiderman climbed up a 39-storey Frankfurt skyscraper without any technical assistance.

Germany: French Spiderman scales skyscraper

It is the end of an era for Germany, the beginning of another. After being in power for 16 years German chancellor is retiring from politics paving way for a new coalition government.

Germany to have a centre-left government for the first time ever

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's&nbsp;Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances...You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government". &nbsp;

The envoy also spoke on many issues, including responding to a query regarding PM Modi's visit to Germany as part of biennial mechanism.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/have-to-work-for-a-better-un-says-argentinas-deputy-fm-during-india-visit-431794" hreflang="en">Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's Deputy FM during India visit</a>

He said, "We hope it (PM's visit) happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government." Germany just had a new government formation after over 15 years rule by Angela Merkel. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: What details can you give us on the government formation in Germany and ties with India? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: As we speak, government formation is about to finish. The new coalition have a treaty that took seven weeks to negotiate and normally you have leaks and people are speculating. I haven't seen the list and we will know, who will take the ministry. For India not much change, yes madame Merkel will not there, we all will miss her. She will be missed worldwide. In a democracy, after 15 years, if she says I'm not running anymore, she has a successor. Her successor comes from a different party but you will see the style of the successor is very similar. He is from Hamburg and have lot of experience of a party and of a major city and will very soon show he is the right person to lead the country. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the Germany's role in development partnership when it comes to India? Tell us about any conversations that happened in Delhi? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: These conversations happen every year. The cooperation, dialogue keeps going on. We discuss what money do you need, what projects can we support and do we have the money to support them. We have been successful again. We have pledged more than 1.2 billion euros for the next year which will be like the same amount like last year. It amounts to more than 20 billion euro, which Germany has given in development assistance to India in last some decades. It will be for one year and cover lots of projects like climate change projects, poverty reduction and development goals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: Several development projects are focused on climate issues. How are both countries tackling climate issues? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: Every fifth person is an Indian. So, without India you can't solve many world problems. One of the biggest world problems is climate change. Along with it, renewable energy is also important and we can do this together with India. &nbsp;We try to help India and fulfil our own goals which we promised at COP26. We have to work together and many of these projects are in this context. So, we can do a lot technology wise. We can also exchange experiences and work on a number of projects in this country. I travel a lot in India, and wherever I go I find projects which we can support in different regions of the country in a huge dimension. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the camaraderie between PM Narendra Modi and German chancellor Angela Merkel? You have been a part of various meetings. &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: Yes, I have been a part of various functions, lunches, dinners and wherever they have met. It has always been a special atmosphere, characterised by mutual respect. Merkel always had a lot of respect for PM Modi as he has been ruling such a huge country with over a billion people and many challenges. It is really a task. They had a philosophical talk, like what is the future of work, what do we do when robots replace workers, we have artificial intelligence, so philosophical discussions, deep running discussions which, you don't have as a leader of the country with every other counterpart leader. It was the ninth time, they met bilaterally (in Rome), maybe they will meet in future. &nbsp;

&nbsp;WION: Will PM Modi visit Germany as part of biennial mechanism? &nbsp;

Walter Lindner: You have to ask your prime minister because this is the standard because every two years either we come, or PM comes to Germany. Merkel was here two years ago, so next year, if covid allows your PM, he may visit Germany. So, we hope it happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government. &nbsp;

WION: How does Germany sees the situation in Afghanistan and what kind of contact do you have with India on this?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Walter Lindner: I think we see it very similar to India. Realpolitik, we don't like this government. They have given some assurances that they will allow girls to go to school and women will be present in the government, which is not happening. Still, you have to talk to them, because you need to get people, who were co-workers with our army, out of the war-torn country. You need to get humanitarian assistance because winter is coming, and you need to have some influence as to what is the future course of the country. You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government, but quite difficult as we are forced to talk to people, who have just the opposite values. This is realpolitik and I think Indians have the same dilemma but out of necessity we have to talk.&nbsp;

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances.

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with Taliban as "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We don't like this government, and they have given some assurances...You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government". The envoy also spoke on many issues, including responding to a query regarding PM Modi's visit to Germany as part of biennial mechanism. Also Read: Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's Deputy FM during India visit He said, "We hope it (PM's visit) happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government." Germany just had a new government formation after over 15 years rule by Angela Merkel. WION: What details can you give us on the government formation in Germany and ties with India? Walter Lindner: As we speak, government formation is about to finish. The new coalition have a treaty that took seven weeks to negotiate and normally you have leaks and people are speculating. I haven't seen the list and we will know, who will take the ministry. For India not much change, yes madame Merkel will not there, we all will miss her. She will be missed worldwide. In a democracy, after 15 years, if she says I'm not running anymore, she has a successor. Her successor comes from a different party but you will see the style of the successor is very similar. He is from Hamburg and have lot of experience of a party and of a major city and will very soon show he is the right person to lead the country. WION: What is the Germany's role in development partnership when it comes to India? Tell us about any conversations that happened in Delhi? Walter Lindner: These conversations happen every year. The cooperation, dialogue keeps going on. We discuss what money do you need, what projects can we support and do we have the money to support them. We have been successful again. We have pledged more than 1.2 billion euros for the next year which will be like the same amount like last year. It amounts to more than 20 billion euro, which Germany has given in development assistance to India in last some decades. It will be for one year and cover lots of projects like climate change projects, poverty reduction and development goals. WION: Several development projects are focused on climate issues. How are both countries tackling climate issues? Walter Lindner: Every fifth person is an Indian. So, without India you can't solve many world problems. One of the biggest world problems is climate change. Along with it, renewable energy is also important and we can do this together with India. We try to help India and fulfil our own goals which we promised at COP26. We have to work together and many of these projects are in this context. So, we can do a lot technology wise. We can also exchange experiences and work on a number of projects in this country. I travel a lot in India, and wherever I go I find projects which we can support in different regions of the country in a huge dimension. Also Read: Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official WION: How do you see the camaraderie between PM Narendra Modi and German chancellor Angela Merkel? You have been a part of various meetings. Walter Lindner: Yes, I have been a part of various functions, lunches, dinners and wherever they have met. It has always been a special atmosphere, characterised by mutual respect. Merkel always had a lot of respect for PM Modi as he has been ruling such a huge country with over a billion people and many challenges. It is really a task. They had a philosophical talk, like what is the future of work, what do we do when robots replace workers, we have artificial intelligence, so philosophical discussions, deep running discussions which, you don't have as a leader of the country with every other counterpart leader. It was the ninth time, they met bilaterally (in Rome), maybe they will meet in future. WION: Will PM Modi visit Germany as part of biennial mechanism? Walter Lindner: You have to ask your prime minister because this is the standard because every two years either we come, or PM comes to Germany. Merkel was here two years ago, so next year, if covid allows your PM, he may visit Germany. So, we hope it happens within next six months, this will be the first official meeting of the two heads of government. WION: How does Germany sees the situation in Afghanistan and what kind of contact do you have with India on this? Walter Lindner: I think we see it very similar to India. Realpolitik, we don't like this government. They have given some assurances that they will allow girls to go to school and women will be present in the government, which is not happening. Still, you have to talk to them, because you need to get people, who were co-workers with our army, out of the war-torn country. You need to get humanitarian assistance because winter is coming, and you need to have some influence as to what is the future course of the country. You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the government, but quite difficult as we are forced to talk to people, who have just the opposite values. This is realpolitik and I think Indians have the same dilemma but out of necessity we have to talk.

Dealings with Taliban "realpolitik", says German envoy Walter Lindner

Germany: Coalition pledges to modernize Europe's largest economy

Germany's death toll on Thursday passed 100,000 as the European country continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus. It recorded 351 fatalities in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 100,119, reports the Robert Koch Institute.&nbsp;

Also, the weekly incidence rate hit an all-time high of 419.7 new infections per 100,000 people.&nbsp;

Earlier, a top virologist had warned that a further 100,000 people can die. Christian Drosten described it as a real emergency and said "We have to act right now." Also, doctors have warned that this wave could be the worst yet.

The surge in German cases comes after the country's general election in September.&nbsp;

Amid a surge, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the current curbs are "not enough." Reports claim coronavirus cases have been surging among the elderly in Germany even as nearly 68 per cent of the population have received both jabs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indulgence-for-inoculation-germany-bars-unvaccinated-people-from-christmas-markets-430053">Also read |&nbsp;Indulgence for inoculation: Germany bars unvaccinated people from Christmas markets</a>

Health Minister Jens Spahn while stating the vaccine situation said, "Probably by the end of this winter, as is sometimes cynically said, pretty much everyone in Germany will be vaccinated, cured or dead."&nbsp;

In a bid to tighten restrictions to battle the virus, Germany has barred unvaccinated people from entering the famous Christmas markets in the country. Some of the traditional markets have already been cancelled.&nbsp;

This comes in at a time when Europe, once again, has become the epicentre of the virus. The WHO has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million.&nbsp;

The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said. &nbsp;

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines."

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany's death toll on Thursday passed 100,000 as the European country continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus. It recorded 351 fatalities in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 100,119, reports the Robert Koch Institute.

Germany's death toll on Thursday passed 100,000 as the European country continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus. It recorded 351 fatalities in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 100,119, reports the Robert Koch Institute. Also, the weekly incidence rate hit an all-time high of 419.7 new infections per 100,000 people. Earlier, a top virologist had warned that a further 100,000 people can die. Christian Drosten described it as a real emergency and said "We have to act right now." Also, doctors have warned that this wave could be the worst yet. The surge in German cases comes after the country's general election in September. Amid a surge, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the current curbs are "not enough." Reports claim coronavirus cases have been surging among the elderly in Germany even as nearly 68 per cent of the population have received both jabs. Also read | Indulgence for inoculation: Germany bars unvaccinated people from Christmas markets Health Minister Jens Spahn while stating the vaccine situation said, "Probably by the end of this winter, as is sometimes cynically said, pretty much everyone in Germany will be vaccinated, cured or dead." In a bid to tighten restrictions to battle the virus, Germany has barred unvaccinated people from entering the famous Christmas markets in the country. Some of the traditional markets have already been cancelled. This comes in at a time when Europe, once again, has become the epicentre of the virus. The WHO has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said. Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines." (With inputs from agencies)

Germany crosses 100,000 Covid deaths as weekly incidence rate hits another high

Olaf Scholz succeeded in his campaign to become the next chancellor of Germany primarily by convincing voters that he would be very much like the towering and long-serving figure he will replace: Angela Merkel.

Terse, well-briefed and abstaining from any gesture of triumph, Scholz not only sounded like the outgoing chancellor, he perfected the art of embodying her aura of stability and calm to the point of holding his hands together in her signature diamond shape.

“He’s like a soccer player who studied videos of another player and changed his game,” said Robin Alexander, a long-term political observer of both Merkel and Scholz. “From temperament and political style all the way down to facial expression, Scholz now channels Merkel. If Scholz was a woman, he would wear pantsuits.”

As Scholz unveiled his new government Wednesday and prepares to take office next month, one question for Germany and for the whole of Europe and the world is, can he deliver and fill Merkel’s very big shoes?

Rarely has a German leader come into office with so many burning crises.

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As soon as he is sworn in as chancellor in early December, Scholz will have to deal with a surging pandemic, tensions at the Polish-Belarussian border, a Russian president mobilizing troops on Ukraine’s eastern border, a more confrontational China and a less dependable United States.

“The pressure is huge,” said Jana Puglierin of the European Council on Foreign Relations. “The new government is taking office in a situation that has been heating up on multiple fronts. And when it comes to foreign policy, Olaf Scholz remains a bit of an enigma.”

Indeed, which Scholz will show up as chancellor in two weeks is a matter of intense speculation. A lifelong Social Democrat, Scholz, 63, has been a familiar face in German politics for more than two decades and served in two of Merkel’s governments, most recently as her finance minister.

But he has also been something of a political chameleon, a pragmatic politician who straddles left and right so easily it is sometimes hard to know where he stands.

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Born in Osnabrück, northern Germany, Scholz grew up in Hamburg, the city he would later run as mayor. His grandfather was a railway man; his parents worked in textiles. He and his brothers were the first in his family to go to university.

He was still in high school when he joined the Social Democrats. A fiery young Socialist, he spent a decade as a labor lawyer defending workers threatened by factory closures. Then, as secretary-general of his party under the last center-left administration of Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, he defended painful labor market reforms with a machinelike efficiency that earned him the nickname “Scholzo-mat.”

When he was first elected into Parliament, he sat with the left wing of his party. Today he is considered to be to the right of much of its base — not unlike President Joe Biden in the United States, with whom he is sometimes compared.

But like with Biden, some see some leftist reflexes.

Scholz lost his party’s leadership contest to a pair of leftists two years ago but surprised and impressed some of his fiercest critics in his own party when he pulled out a “bazooka” of hundreds of billions of euros in state aid to help struggling workers and businesses during the pandemic.

Some hope that this — and his election campaign theme centered on respect for the working classes — was proof that the youthful idealist who mellowed into a post-ideological centrist might be turning more radical again in his 60s.

“The bazooka was a big moment,” said Kevin Kühnert, an outspoken left-winger and one of the Social Democrats’ deputy leaders. “It was the belated peace with his party. And it was the beginning of a deeper social transformation he’s hoping for.”

Scholz, who reportedly lost 12 kilograms, about 26 pounds, and stopped drinking alcohol before the election, has long been underestimated. He has always played a long game. His ambition to become chancellor dates back to 2011, according to a close ally.

Even political opponents speak admiringly of his political instinct, his stamina and quiet self-belief. Three years ago, when his party’s approval ratings were hovering near record lows, he told The New York Times that the Social Democrats would win the next election.

Like Merkel, he has a reputation for being a safe pair of hands and a decent person with a bipartisan aura.

“Merkel is beyond party politics; she is the voice of reason,” said Alexander, who wrote a bestselling book on the end of the Merkel era. “Being the center of politics as a person, that’s what Merkel did so masterfully, and that’s what Scholz is aiming for.”

That political flexibility may now make him the perfect leader to tackle what may be his abiding challenge as chancellor — keeping the peace in an unusual and untested three-way coalition with two ideologically divergent parties: the progressive Greens, who want to spend 50 billion euros, or about $56 billion, on a green transition; and the pro-market Free Democrats, who will control the finance ministry and with it the purse strings.

But it also runs the risk of satisfying no one. Just how absorbed Scholz gets in having to balance conflicting demands at home, observers say, could affect his ability to push through his government’s ambitious agenda to prepare Germany for a carbon-neutral future and a digital age.

It will also determine how large a role Germany can play abroad. If Scholz gets too distracted by internal tensions, Europe and the world are bound to feel the loss of Merkel’s leadership, analysts predict.

But if it goes smoothly, Scholz’ Germany could turn out to be a pivotal power for European cohesion, for more trans-Atlantic unity on fighting climate change and for confronting strategic competitors like China and Russia — and, some hope, for a revival of social democracy in different parts of the world.

Foreign policy was barely discussed in the election campaign, but along with the pandemic, it might well end up dominating the first months of the new administration. Germany is taking over the presidency of the Group of 7 in January, and Scholz will immediately have the spotlight on him on a host of pressing international questions.

He has a seeming center-left ally in Biden. Not since the second term of former President Bill Clinton have both the White House and the German chancellery been in the hands of center-left leaders.

But no one in Berlin is relying too much on Washington.

“We don’t know how dependable the Biden administration is, and we don’t know how long it will be in power,” said Puglierin of the European Council on Foreign Relations.

One of Scholz’ advisers put it more bluntly: “Biden is America First, just more polite.”

Scholz will focus his energy on strengthening the European Union, his advisers say. His first foreign visit will be to President Emmanuel Macron in France, who faces his own difficult election campaign next year. Supporting Macron, who is taking over the European Union’s rotating presidency in January, is one goal.

“We will talk a lot more about European sovereignty. We will sound more French. But in reality it will be hard to turn that into real policy,” Puglierin said.

Few analysts expect the new chancellor to change course significantly from Merkel, who took him along to her last Group of 20 meeting last month and introduced him to a number of world leaders, including Biden.

“Don’t expect too much change,” Nils Schmid, foreign policy spokesperson of the Social Democrats, said last weekend.

To those of Germany’s allies who are hoping for a much more robust stance on China and Russia and an increase in military spending, that promise of continuity may be only partly reassuring.

But with so many fires burning on the international stage and some structural geopolitical shifts underway, circumstances — and his more hawkish coalition partners — might force the new chancellor’s hand, said Thomas Kleine-Brockhoff of the German Marshall Fund.

One of the first tests Scholz will face is how to deal with Poland, which has violated some of the democratic principles of EU membership but is also under pressure from neighboring Belarus, a Russian ally that has been funneling migrants to the Polish border in an apparent attempt to destabilize the bloc.

Scholz’ Social Democrats are traditionally dovish on Russia, supporting projects like the divisive Nordstream II gas pipeline. But if Moscow launches another offensive in Ukraine, it would be another significant test.

On China, the picture is more complicated.

The Social Democrats have signaled that Scholz would not turn hawkish overnight and close ranks with the United States.

“If you look at Merkel’s China policy, I think that Olaf Scholz will be more similar to this than U.S. policy toward China,” Lars Klingbeil, secretary-general of the Social Democrats and a close ally of Scholz, said last month.

But as Beijing has become more confrontational and German industry more outspoken about its dependency on the Chinese market, Germany’s China policy is ripe for evolving from the mercantilist soft touch of the Merkel era, analysts say.

“Scholz has clout, and he will gain further clout in office,” said Holger Schmieding, chief economist of Berenberg Bank. “He has the potential to be a strong leader with international standing — as long as he keeps his coalition together.”

Olaf Scholz succeeded in his campaign to become the next chancellor of Germany primarily by convincing voters that he would be very much like the towering and long-serving figure he will replace: Angela Merkel.

Olaf Scholz succeeded in his campaign to become the next chancellor of Germany primarily by convincing voters that he would be very much like the towering and long-serving figure he will replace: Angela Merkel. Terse, well-briefed and abstaining from any gesture of triumph, Scholz not only sounded like the outgoing chancellor, he perfected the art of embodying her aura of stability and calm to the point of holding his hands together in her signature diamond shape. “He’s like a soccer player who studied videos of another player and changed his game,” said Robin Alexander, a long-term political observer of both Merkel and Scholz. “From temperament and political style all the way down to facial expression, Scholz now channels Merkel. If Scholz was a woman, he would wear pantsuits.” As Scholz unveiled his new government Wednesday and prepares to take office next month, one question for Germany and for the whole of Europe and the world is, can he deliver and fill Merkel’s very big shoes? Rarely has a German leader come into office with so many burning crises. ALSO READ | Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands As soon as he is sworn in as chancellor in early December, Scholz will have to deal with a surging pandemic, tensions at the Polish-Belarussian border, a Russian president mobilizing troops on Ukraine’s eastern border, a more confrontational China and a less dependable United States. “The pressure is huge,” said Jana Puglierin of the European Council on Foreign Relations. “The new government is taking office in a situation that has been heating up on multiple fronts. And when it comes to foreign policy, Olaf Scholz remains a bit of an enigma.” Indeed, which Scholz will show up as chancellor in two weeks is a matter of intense speculation. A lifelong Social Democrat, Scholz, 63, has been a familiar face in German politics for more than two decades and served in two of Merkel’s governments, most recently as her finance minister. But he has also been something of a political chameleon, a pragmatic politician who straddles left and right so easily it is sometimes hard to know where he stands. ALSO READ | Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China Born in Osnabrück, northern Germany, Scholz grew up in Hamburg, the city he would later run as mayor. His grandfather was a railway man; his parents worked in textiles. He and his brothers were the first in his family to go to university. He was still in high school when he joined the Social Democrats. A fiery young Socialist, he spent a decade as a labor lawyer defending workers threatened by factory closures. Then, as secretary-general of his party under the last center-left administration of Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, he defended painful labor market reforms with a machinelike efficiency that earned him the nickname “Scholzo-mat.” When he was first elected into Parliament, he sat with the left wing of his party. Today he is considered to be to the right of much of its base — not unlike President Joe Biden in the United States, with whom he is sometimes compared. But like with Biden, some see some leftist reflexes. Scholz lost his party’s leadership contest to a pair of leftists two years ago but surprised and impressed some of his fiercest critics in his own party when he pulled out a “bazooka” of hundreds of billions of euros in state aid to help struggling workers and businesses during the pandemic. Some hope that this — and his election campaign theme centered on respect for the working classes — was proof that the youthful idealist who mellowed into a post-ideological centrist might be turning more radical again in his 60s. “The bazooka was a big moment,” said Kevin Kühnert, an outspoken left-winger and one of the Social Democrats’ deputy leaders. “It was the belated peace with his party. And it was the beginning of a deeper social transformation he’s hoping for.” Scholz, who reportedly lost 12 kilograms, about 26 pounds, and stopped drinking alcohol before the election, has long been underestimated. He has always played a long game. His ambition to become chancellor dates back to 2011, according to a close ally. Even political opponents speak admiringly of his political instinct, his stamina and quiet self-belief. Three years ago, when his party’s approval ratings were hovering near record lows, he told The New York Times that the Social Democrats would win the next election. Like Merkel, he has a reputation for being a safe pair of hands and a decent person with a bipartisan aura. “Merkel is beyond party politics; she is the voice of reason,” said Alexander, who wrote a bestselling book on the end of the Merkel era. “Being the center of politics as a person, that’s what Merkel did so masterfully, and that’s what Scholz is aiming for.” That political flexibility may now make him the perfect leader to tackle what may be his abiding challenge as chancellor — keeping the peace in an unusual and untested three-way coalition with two ideologically divergent parties: the progressive Greens, who want to spend 50 billion euros, or about $56 billion, on a green transition; and the pro-market Free Democrats, who will control the finance ministry and with it the purse strings. But it also runs the risk of satisfying no one. Just how absorbed Scholz gets in having to balance conflicting demands at home, observers say, could affect his ability to push through his government’s ambitious agenda to prepare Germany for a carbon-neutral future and a digital age. It will also determine how large a role Germany can play abroad. If Scholz gets too distracted by internal tensions, Europe and the world are bound to feel the loss of Merkel’s leadership, analysts predict. But if it goes smoothly, Scholz’ Germany could turn out to be a pivotal power for European cohesion, for more trans-Atlantic unity on fighting climate change and for confronting strategic competitors like China and Russia — and, some hope, for a revival of social democracy in different parts of the world. Foreign policy was barely discussed in the election campaign, but along with the pandemic, it might well end up dominating the first months of the new administration. Germany is taking over the presidency of the Group of 7 in January, and Scholz will immediately have the spotlight on him on a host of pressing international questions. He has a seeming center-left ally in Biden. Not since the second term of former President Bill Clinton have both the White House and the German chancellery been in the hands of center-left leaders. But no one in Berlin is relying too much on Washington. “We don’t know how dependable the Biden administration is, and we don’t know how long it will be in power,” said Puglierin of the European Council on Foreign Relations. One of Scholz’ advisers put it more bluntly: “Biden is America First, just more polite.” Scholz will focus his energy on strengthening the European Union, his advisers say. His first foreign visit will be to President Emmanuel Macron in France, who faces his own difficult election campaign next year. Supporting Macron, who is taking over the European Union’s rotating presidency in January, is one goal. “We will talk a lot more about European sovereignty. We will sound more French. But in reality it will be hard to turn that into real policy,” Puglierin said. Few analysts expect the new chancellor to change course significantly from Merkel, who took him along to her last Group of 20 meeting last month and introduced him to a number of world leaders, including Biden. “Don’t expect too much change,” Nils Schmid, foreign policy spokesperson of the Social Democrats, said last weekend. To those of Germany’s allies who are hoping for a much more robust stance on China and Russia and an increase in military spending, that promise of continuity may be only partly reassuring. But with so many fires burning on the international stage and some structural geopolitical shifts underway, circumstances — and his more hawkish coalition partners — might force the new chancellor’s hand, said Thomas Kleine-Brockhoff of the German Marshall Fund. One of the first tests Scholz will face is how to deal with Poland, which has violated some of the democratic principles of EU membership but is also under pressure from neighboring Belarus, a Russian ally that has been funneling migrants to the Polish border in an apparent attempt to destabilize the bloc. Scholz’ Social Democrats are traditionally dovish on Russia, supporting projects like the divisive Nordstream II gas pipeline. But if Moscow launches another offensive in Ukraine, it would be another significant test. On China, the picture is more complicated. The Social Democrats have signaled that Scholz would not turn hawkish overnight and close ranks with the United States. “If you look at Merkel’s China policy, I think that Olaf Scholz will be more similar to this than U.S. policy toward China,” Lars Klingbeil, secretary-general of the Social Democrats and a close ally of Scholz, said last month. But as Beijing has become more confrontational and German industry more outspoken about its dependency on the Chinese market, Germany’s China policy is ripe for evolving from the mercantilist soft touch of the Merkel era, analysts say. “Scholz has clout, and he will gain further clout in office,” said Holger Schmieding, chief economist of Berenberg Bank. “He has the potential to be a strong leader with international standing — as long as he keeps his coalition together.”

He convinced voters he would be like Merkel. But who is Olaf Scholz?

The climate crisis has been one of the major talking points across all nations after especially the COP26 summit. Leaders have come up with grand plans, they have proposed bills to battle the challenge at hand. Germany's three political parties have come together and agreed to phase out coal by 2030.

German parties agree to phase out coal by 2030: Reports

Surging numbers of coronavirus infections in Europe have prompted US officials to advise citizens against traveling to Germany or Denmark.

COVID-19: U.S. issues travel warning for Germany, Denmark

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections.

On Thursday (November 18) Germany's parliament voted in favour of a new Infection Protection Act, that will look for approval at the federal state level on Friday.

Among rules being touted are that Germany should demand proof of vaccination or recent recovery from COVID-19 for all indoor leisure activities, and require vaccinated people to also present a negative test for risky environments.

Signs were already popping up in Berlin restaurants and cafes introducing the so-called 2G rule where it is no longer enough to bring a negative test.

"When we were given the option of 2G or 3G (3G is the option vaccinated, recovered or tested) we pretty quickly went for the 2G option because it gives everyone a lot more protection," said cafe manager Tuelin Duman.

"The rules that we have introduced match what our customers feel and that's a good thing. So we aren't having to face disappointed faces at the door of people who aren't being allowed in, that hasn't hardly happened with any of our regulars since we have the new rule," she added.

Similar rules have been put in place in Austrian hotspots where police have also reported a general acceptance of the rule.

Germany recorded 32,048 new infections at the beginning of the week, a rise of 47% compared to a week ago, and another 265 deaths, bringing Germany's total during the pandemic to 97,980.

Several German regions, including the capital Berlin, have already introduced the 2G rule, in effect excluding non-vaccinated people from places such as cinemas, hairdressers, restaurants and fitness studios.

It is not clear who should be responsible for policing the new rules. Berlin mayor Michael Mueller called on city officials to check vaccine passports rather than issue parking tickets.

On Thursday Germany's vaccine advisory committee recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18 as the number of coronavirus infections hits a new record in Europe's largest economy.

The committee, known as STIKO, said it also recommends booster shots to be administered with an mRNA vaccine and that a booster should be given six months after the last vaccine dose.

A shortening of the vaccination interval to five months can be considered in individual cases or if there is enough capacity, it added.

Vaccine centres, which had been winding down were experiencing long queues as the coming winter and the fear of being locked out of leisure activities lured people in.

The new wave of infections is challenging a government in transition, with three parties negotiating to form the next cabinet after September's federal election.

Germany's vaccination rate, at 68%, is among the lowest in western Europe.

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections.

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections. On Thursday (November 18) Germany's parliament voted in favour of a new Infection Protection Act, that will look for approval at the federal state level on Friday. Among rules being touted are that Germany should demand proof of vaccination or recent recovery from COVID-19 for all indoor leisure activities, and require vaccinated people to also present a negative test for risky environments. Signs were already popping up in Berlin restaurants and cafes introducing the so-called 2G rule where it is no longer enough to bring a negative test. "When we were given the option of 2G or 3G (3G is the option vaccinated, recovered or tested) we pretty quickly went for the 2G option because it gives everyone a lot more protection," said cafe manager Tuelin Duman. "The rules that we have introduced match what our customers feel and that's a good thing. So we aren't having to face disappointed faces at the door of people who aren't being allowed in, that hasn't hardly happened with any of our regulars since we have the new rule," she added. Similar rules have been put in place in Austrian hotspots where police have also reported a general acceptance of the rule. Germany recorded 32,048 new infections at the beginning of the week, a rise of 47% compared to a week ago, and another 265 deaths, bringing Germany's total during the pandemic to 97,980. Several German regions, including the capital Berlin, have already introduced the 2G rule, in effect excluding non-vaccinated people from places such as cinemas, hairdressers, restaurants and fitness studios. It is not clear who should be responsible for policing the new rules. Berlin mayor Michael Mueller called on city officials to check vaccine passports rather than issue parking tickets. On Thursday Germany's vaccine advisory committee recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18 as the number of coronavirus infections hits a new record in Europe's largest economy. The committee, known as STIKO, said it also recommends booster shots to be administered with an mRNA vaccine and that a booster should be given six months after the last vaccine dose. A shortening of the vaccination interval to five months can be considered in individual cases or if there is enough capacity, it added. Vaccine centres, which had been winding down were experiencing long queues as the coming winter and the fear of being locked out of leisure activities lured people in. The new wave of infections is challenging a government in transition, with three parties negotiating to form the next cabinet after September's federal election. Germany's vaccination rate, at 68%, is among the lowest in western Europe.

Germany gets tough on unvaccinated as new rules come into force

The&nbsp;German&nbsp;region&nbsp;hardest&nbsp;hit&nbsp;by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a&nbsp;partial&nbsp;lockdown, local media&nbsp;reported on Thursday as&nbsp;regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide.

Saxony, which has&nbsp;Germany's lowest vaccination rate and highest infection rate, is considering measures like closing theatres, concerts and soccer games to the public once more and shutting bars and discos, according to Bild newspaper.

The eastern&nbsp;region, where new daily infections have risen 14-fold in the past month, is a stronghold of the far-right Alternative for&nbsp;Germany (AfD) party, which harbours many vaccine sceptics who have joined anti-lockdown&nbsp;protests.

A Forsa poll published earlier this month found that half of unvaccinated respondents in&nbsp;Germany had voted for the right-wing populist AfD in the recent federal election.

"This coalition is ready to now impose a hard and clear wave breaker," Saxony leader Michael Kretschmer told the national parliament, according to Bild. The specifics would be hammered out this week, he said.

The announcement comes the same week Austria imposed a&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;for the unvaccinated. Kretschmer said he did not believe targeting only the unvaccinated was enough.

German&nbsp;federal and&nbsp;regional leaders will later on Thursday discuss nationwide measure to tackle the pandemic as cases continue to touch new record highs although the rate of increase is slowing down slightly.

Europe's latest coronavirus wave comes at an awkward time in&nbsp;Germany with conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel acting in a caretaker capacity while three other parties negotiate to form a new government after an inconclusive September election.

Those three parties shepherded a law authorising a package of measures to tackle the pandemic through the Bundestag (lower house of parliament) earlier on Thursday. On Friday, the law, which is designed to come into effect as emergency powers expire, goes to the Bundesrat (upper house).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catastrophic-flooding-triggers-state-of-emergency-in-canada-430285">Also read |&nbsp;'Catastrophic' flooding triggers state of emergency in Canada</a>

The law will tighten some measures currently in place, forcing people to show proof of vaccination or recovery or a negative&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;test on public transport and at work, in addition to wearing face masks.

It will provide states also with a toolbox of other measures depending on the severity of their outbreak, with infection rates currently much higher in eastern and southern&nbsp;Germany.

But some, especially among Merkel's conservatives who are likely heading into the opposition after 16 years in power, feel it does not go far enough.

They would prefer to see the state of emergency, which allows the government to impose school closures and blanket&nbsp;lockdowns without consulting the parliament, to be extended. Merkel described&nbsp;Germany's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;situation as dramaticon Wednesday.

Separately,&nbsp;Germany's vaccine advisory committee on Thursday recommended&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18.

Vaccinations have picked up lately in&nbsp;Germany, which has a history of vaccine resistance, although largely due to uptake of booster shots as more indoor gatherings due to colder weather raises the risk of spreading the virus.

The German region hardest hit by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a partial lockdown, local media reported on Thursday as regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide.

The German region hardest hit by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a partial lockdown, local media reported on Thursday as regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide. Saxony, which has Germany's lowest vaccination rate and highest infection rate, is considering measures like closing theatres, concerts and soccer games to the public once more and shutting bars and discos, according to Bild newspaper. The eastern region, where new daily infections have risen 14-fold in the past month, is a stronghold of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which harbours many vaccine sceptics who have joined anti-lockdown protests. A Forsa poll published earlier this month found that half of unvaccinated respondents in Germany had voted for the right-wing populist AfD in the recent federal election. "This coalition is ready to now impose a hard and clear wave breaker," Saxony leader Michael Kretschmer told the national parliament, according to Bild. The specifics would be hammered out this week, he said. The announcement comes the same week Austria imposed a lockdown for the unvaccinated. Kretschmer said he did not believe targeting only the unvaccinated was enough. German federal and regional leaders will later on Thursday discuss nationwide measure to tackle the pandemic as cases continue to touch new record highs although the rate of increase is slowing down slightly. Europe's latest coronavirus wave comes at an awkward time in Germany with conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel acting in a caretaker capacity while three other parties negotiate to form a new government after an inconclusive September election. Those three parties shepherded a law authorising a package of measures to tackle the pandemic through the Bundestag (lower house of parliament) earlier on Thursday. On Friday, the law, which is designed to come into effect as emergency powers expire, goes to the Bundesrat (upper house). Also read | 'Catastrophic' flooding triggers state of emergency in Canada The law will tighten some measures currently in place, forcing people to show proof of vaccination or recovery or a negative COVID-19 test on public transport and at work, in addition to wearing face masks. It will provide states also with a toolbox of other measures depending on the severity of their outbreak, with infection rates currently much higher in eastern and southern Germany. But some, especially among Merkel's conservatives who are likely heading into the opposition after 16 years in power, feel it does not go far enough. They would prefer to see the state of emergency, which allows the government to impose school closures and blanket lockdowns without consulting the parliament, to be extended. Merkel described Germany's COVID-19 situation as dramaticon Wednesday. Separately, Germany's vaccine advisory committee on Thursday recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18. Vaccinations have picked up lately in Germany, which has a history of vaccine resistance, although largely due to uptake of booster shots as more indoor gatherings due to colder weather raises the risk of spreading the virus.

German region hardest hit by COVID surge plans partial lockdown: Report

The Munich Christkindlmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest and biggest Christmas markets, has been cancelled for the second consecutive year, as another coronavirus wave sweeps through the country.

It’s the largest German Christmas market to be cancelled so far, as the events struggle to survive the country’s fourth virus surge after being mostly shuttered last year.

“It is bitter news that I have today for all Munich residents, and especially for the stall owners. However, the extreme situation in our hospitals and exponentially rising infection rates leave me no other choice,” said Mayor Dieter Reiter.

Germans have gathered at outdoor markets in the weeks before Christmas since the 14th century, when vendors first built their stands in city centres to sell their wares to people coming from church services. They offer an array of foods, artisanal gifts and other provisions for the coming celebrations and the long winter months.

Germany’s roughly 3,000 Christmas markets are an important economic boon to many communities. Local restaurants, breweries, bakeries and artisans depend on the annual holiday fairs for a substantial amount of their income.

The Munich market is famed for its stalls offering traditional gingerbread, grilled sausages, mulled wine and hand-painted trinkets, according to Lonely Planet.

A combination of factors has propelled Germany’s latest virus surge, among them wintry temperatures, a slow rollout of booster vaccines, and an even more pronounced spike in neighbouring eastern European nations like the Czech Republic.

Experts say the unvaccinated are driving the wave of cases that are filling up hospitals across Germany.

For the Christmas markets that remain open, only those vaccinated against the coronavirus or fully recovered from a previous infection can fully participate, Reuters reported. The unvaccinated can partake in some limited activities, such as listening to carols.

The Munich Christkindlmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest and biggest Christmas markets, has been cancelled for the second consecutive year, as another coronavirus wave sweeps through the country.

The Munich Christkindlmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest and biggest Christmas markets, has been cancelled for the second consecutive year, as another coronavirus wave sweeps through the country. It’s the largest German Christmas market to be cancelled so far, as the events struggle to survive the country’s fourth virus surge after being mostly shuttered last year. “It is bitter news that I have today for all Munich residents, and especially for the stall owners. However, the extreme situation in our hospitals and exponentially rising infection rates leave me no other choice,” said Mayor Dieter Reiter. Germans have gathered at outdoor markets in the weeks before Christmas since the 14th century, when vendors first built their stands in city centres to sell their wares to people coming from church services. They offer an array of foods, artisanal gifts and other provisions for the coming celebrations and the long winter months. Germany’s roughly 3,000 Christmas markets are an important economic boon to many communities. Local restaurants, breweries, bakeries and artisans depend on the annual holiday fairs for a substantial amount of their income. The Munich market is famed for its stalls offering traditional gingerbread, grilled sausages, mulled wine and hand-painted trinkets, according to Lonely Planet. A combination of factors has propelled Germany’s latest virus surge, among them wintry temperatures, a slow rollout of booster vaccines, and an even more pronounced spike in neighbouring eastern European nations like the Czech Republic. Experts say the unvaccinated are driving the wave of cases that are filling up hospitals across Germany. For the Christmas markets that remain open, only those vaccinated against the coronavirus or fully recovered from a previous infection can fully participate, Reuters reported. The unvaccinated can partake in some limited activities, such as listening to carols.

Munich’s famed Christmas Market cancelled again as another virus wave hammers Germany

Germany has barred unvaccinated people from entering the famous Christmas markets in the country.

Some of the traditional markets have already been cancelled as the government scrambles to respond to a dramatic rise in infections over the past two weeks.

Describing the situation as "dramatic," Chancellor Angela Merkel said ''The fourth wave is hitting our country with full force.''

"The number of daily new infections is higher than ever before... and the daily death toll is also frightening."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-battling-rapid-surge-in-covid-19-cases-despite-nearly-90-vaccination-rate-430023" hreflang="en">South Korea battling rapid surge in COVID-19 cases despite nearly 90% vaccination rate</a>

This year, only revellers who are vaccinated against COVID-19 or recently recovered will be able to indulge in steaming hot mulled wine and candied almonds or gingerbread under festive fairy lights.

However, unvaccinated will still be able to enjoy looking at the wooden stalls selling handicrafts or sweets, listen to Christmas carols, and admire the nativity scenes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grave-concern-covid-cases-soar-in-germany-426732">Also read |&nbsp;'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany</a>

Germany has one of the lowest vaccination rates in western Europe at 67 per cent. Health officials believe it is imperative to get more people inoculated as the country reports new record highs in the rate of infection.

But there is still no political consensus in Germany for mandatory vaccines that have been implemented in certain sectors like care homes in some neighbouring countries.

Christmas markets have been an annual fixture in Germany since the 15th century when craftsmen and bakers were given special permission to ply their wares in town squares in the run-up to Christmas.

Despite the financial losses, most German cities cancelled their Christmas markets last year after Covid-19 cases began spiralling.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany has barred unvaccinated people from entering the famous Christmas markets in the country. Some of the traditional markets have already been cancelled as the government scrambles to respond to a dramatic rise in infections over the past two weeks.

Germany has barred unvaccinated people from entering the famous Christmas markets in the country. Some of the traditional markets have already been cancelled as the government scrambles to respond to a dramatic rise in infections over the past two weeks. Describing the situation as "dramatic," Chancellor Angela Merkel said ''The fourth wave is hitting our country with full force.'' "The number of daily new infections is higher than ever before... and the daily death toll is also frightening." Also read | South Korea battling rapid surge in COVID-19 cases despite nearly 90% vaccination rate This year, only revellers who are vaccinated against COVID-19 or recently recovered will be able to indulge in steaming hot mulled wine and candied almonds or gingerbread under festive fairy lights. However, unvaccinated will still be able to enjoy looking at the wooden stalls selling handicrafts or sweets, listen to Christmas carols, and admire the nativity scenes. Also read | 'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany Germany has one of the lowest vaccination rates in western Europe at 67 per cent. Health officials believe it is imperative to get more people inoculated as the country reports new record highs in the rate of infection. But there is still no political consensus in Germany for mandatory vaccines that have been implemented in certain sectors like care homes in some neighbouring countries. Christmas markets have been an annual fixture in Germany since the 15th century when craftsmen and bakers were given special permission to ply their wares in town squares in the run-up to Christmas. Despite the financial losses, most German cities cancelled their Christmas markets last year after Covid-19 cases began spiralling. (With inputs from agencies)

Indulgence for inoculation: Germany bars unvaccinated people from Christmas markets

Europe is once again becoming the epicentre of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak, with some countries looking to impose lockdowns till Christmas and New Year as cases continue to rise.

Europe accounts for more than half of the average 7-day infections globally and about half of latest deaths, according to a Reuters tally, the highest levels since April last year when the virus was at its initial peak in Italy.

Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Croatia are among countries that have recently seen a surge in Covid cases. On Thursday, Germany recorded 50,196 new COVID-19 infections for the first time since the pandemic began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-emergency-top-german-virologist-warns-of-100000-covid-deaths-as-cases-continue-to-surge-428381">'Real emergency': Top German virologist warns of 100,000 Covid deaths as cases continue to surge</a>

According to EU data, the pace of inoculation has slowed in recent months. Only about 65 per cent of the population of the European Economic Area (EEA), including the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, have received two doses.

The situation is so precarious that UK Prime Minister Boris Johson warned of “storm clouds” forming over parts of Europe. While outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel&nbsp;on Saturday called for a "national effort" to break a fourth wave of coronavirus that is sweeping Germany and again urged people to get vaccinated.

Speaking in a broadcast clip, Boris Johnson said, “I’m seeing the storm clouds gathering over parts of the European continent. And I’ve got to be absolutely frank with people: we’ve been here before. We remember what happens when the wave starts rolling in,” he said.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-becomes-covid-19-epicenter-yet-again-428905/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Europe head, Hans Kluge, has said a lack of uptake of&nbsp;Covid vaccines is behind the increase.

The WHO’s recent report showed that Europe, including Russia, was the only region to record a rise in cases, up 7 per cent, while other areas reported declines or stable trends.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-covid-19-cases-surge-in-europe-who-top-official-urges-us-to-pay-attention-427863">As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention</a>

Similarly, it reported a 10 percent increase in deaths, while other regions reported declines.

Germany and Austria are planning to impose a fresh lockdown as vaccine hesitancy still lingers on among the people.

Whereas other EU countries are planning to introduce booster shots for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems to avoid lockdown.

Norway, for example, has already given third dose to those aged 65 and above, while it is planning to offer the booster shot to everyone aged 18 and older.

Italy said that from December 1, it will also offer the third dose to people over 40.

(With inputs from agencies)

Europe is once again becoming the epicentre of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak, with some countries looking to impose lockdowns till Christmas and New Year as cases continue to rise.

Europe is once again becoming the epicentre of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak, with some countries looking to impose lockdowns till Christmas and New Year as cases continue to rise. Europe accounts for more than half of the average 7-day infections globally and about half of latest deaths, according to a Reuters tally, the highest levels since April last year when the virus was at its initial peak in Italy. Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Croatia are among countries that have recently seen a surge in Covid cases. On Thursday, Germany recorded 50,196 new COVID-19 infections for the first time since the pandemic began. Also read | 'Real emergency': Top German virologist warns of 100,000 Covid deaths as cases continue to surge According to EU data, the pace of inoculation has slowed in recent months. Only about 65 per cent of the population of the European Economic Area (EEA), including the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, have received two doses. The situation is so precarious that UK Prime Minister Boris Johson warned of “storm clouds” forming over parts of Europe. While outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday called for a "national effort" to break a fourth wave of coronavirus that is sweeping Germany and again urged people to get vaccinated. Speaking in a broadcast clip, Boris Johnson said, “I’m seeing the storm clouds gathering over parts of the European continent. And I’ve got to be absolutely frank with people: we’ve been here before. We remember what happens when the wave starts rolling in,” he said. Watch The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Europe head, Hans Kluge, has said a lack of uptake of Covid vaccines is behind the increase. The WHO’s recent report showed that Europe, including Russia, was the only region to record a rise in cases, up 7 per cent, while other areas reported declines or stable trends. Also read | As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention Similarly, it reported a 10 percent increase in deaths, while other regions reported declines. Germany and Austria are planning to impose a fresh lockdown as vaccine hesitancy still lingers on among the people. Whereas other EU countries are planning to introduce booster shots for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems to avoid lockdown. Norway, for example, has already given third dose to those aged 65 and above, while it is planning to offer the booster shot to everyone aged 18 and older. Italy said that from December 1, it will also offer the third dose to people over 40. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe becoming COVID-19’s epicentre yet again, some countries planning lockdown, booster shots

Germany's COVID infections are now higher than ever. WHO has expressed concern over the rising cases.

COVID-19: Covid cases on rise in Germany

Germany is in the midst of fourth Covid wave. Many hospitals are being overburdened, even as outgoing&nbsp;Chancellor Angela Merkel described the rise in infections as “dramatic”.

On&nbsp;Thursday, Germany registered a record 50,196 new COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;According to health authorities, it is the first time Germany has exceeded 50,000 cases since the beginning of the pandemic. The death rates have also soared since mid-October.

According to a report from the New York Times, unvaccinated Germans are primarily responsible for the fourth Covid wave in the country, producing thousands of new daily infections — more than the country has had at any point in the pandemic.

Many factors are being attributed to surge in cases, including winter temperature, a slow rollout of booster vaccines, and more pronounced spike in infections in neighbouring eastern European nations.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-emergency-top-german-virologist-warns-of-100000-covid-deaths-as-cases-continue-to-surge-428381">&nbsp;'Real emergency': Top German virologist warns of 100,000 Covid deaths as cases continue to surge</a>

However, experts are of the opinion that unvaccinated Germans are the primary cause of the present outbreak.

“It’s our low rate of vaccination; we haven’t done what was necessary,” said Herold, a scientist, told the New York Times.

She was part of a team of scientists who modelled the impact of a fourth wave. Early in the year, she had warned that at least 85 per cent of the whole population would need to be vaccinated to avert a delta variant-fuelled crisis in the health care system.

“We are still below 70 per cent. I don’t know how we can win this race against time with the fourth wave. I fear we’ve already lost,” she was quoted as saying.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-emergency-top-german-virologist-warns-of-100000-covid-deaths-as-cases-continue-to-surge-428381">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grave-concern-covid-cases-soar-in-germany-426732">&nbsp;'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany</a>

Pressure is also building on hospitals, in an outbreak blamed on Germany's relatively low vaccination rates of just over 67 per cent.

About 1 in 3 Germans not yet fully vaccinated, the German vaccination rate is among the lowest in Western Europe, according to reports.

“What we are experiencing is above all a pandemic of the unvaccinated,” the minister of health, Jens Spahn, said this month.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany is in the midst of fourth Covid wave. Many hospitals are being overburdened, even as outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel described the rise in infections as “dramatic”.

Germany is in the midst of fourth Covid wave. Many hospitals are being overburdened, even as outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel described the rise in infections as “dramatic”. On Thursday, Germany registered a record 50,196 new COVID-19 infections. According to health authorities, it is the first time Germany has exceeded 50,000 cases since the beginning of the pandemic. The death rates have also soared since mid-October. According to a report from the New York Times, unvaccinated Germans are primarily responsible for the fourth Covid wave in the country, producing thousands of new daily infections — more than the country has had at any point in the pandemic. Many factors are being attributed to surge in cases, including winter temperature, a slow rollout of booster vaccines, and more pronounced spike in infections in neighbouring eastern European nations. Also read | 'Real emergency': Top German virologist warns of 100,000 Covid deaths as cases continue to surge However, experts are of the opinion that unvaccinated Germans are the primary cause of the present outbreak. “It’s our low rate of vaccination; we haven’t done what was necessary,” said Herold, a scientist, told the New York Times. She was part of a team of scientists who modelled the impact of a fourth wave. Early in the year, she had warned that at least 85 per cent of the whole population would need to be vaccinated to avert a delta variant-fuelled crisis in the health care system. “We are still below 70 per cent. I don’t know how we can win this race against time with the fourth wave. I fear we’ve already lost,” she was quoted as saying. Also read | 'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany Pressure is also building on hospitals, in an outbreak blamed on Germany's relatively low vaccination rates of just over 67 per cent. About 1 in 3 Germans not yet fully vaccinated, the German vaccination rate is among the lowest in Western Europe, according to reports. “What we are experiencing is above all a pandemic of the unvaccinated,” the minister of health, Jens Spahn, said this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Unvaccinated Germans responsible for fourth Covid wave, say experts

As Germany continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus, a top virologist has warned that a further 100,000 people can die. Christian Drosten described it as a real emergency situation and said "We have to act right now." Also, doctors have warned that this wave could be the worst yet.

Saxony has the highest seven-day infection rate in Germany with 459 cases per 100,000 people. The german state has now banned unvaccinated people from bars, restaurants, public events and leisure facilities.&nbsp;

This has raged the anti-vaxxers, many of which were seen protesting in Leipzig.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, incidence rate which measures the number of new coronavirus infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days soared to 201.1 a record since the pandemic erupted more than a year ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/grave-concern-covid-cases-soar-in-germany-426732">Also read |&nbsp;'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany</a>

Vaccination rates have stagnated at under 70 per cent as officials plead in for the population to get the jab. "For the unvaccinated, the risk is high that they will become infected in the coming months," warned RKI chief Lothar Wieler.&nbsp;

The surge in German cases comes with the country following September's general election. The incoming coalition parties have so far ruled out mandatory jabs. The parties have further said that there will be no new lockdowns, at least not for the vaccinated.

Not just Germany, but cases are surging in various parts of Europe.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cases-grow-in-germany-as-a-national-state-of-emergency-is-set-to-expire-next-month-423669">Also read |&nbsp;Cases grow in Germany, as a national state of emergency is set to expire next month</a>

Greek Prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the country is has been hit by the "fourth wave" of the virus as Europe continues to reel under the coronavirus pandemic.

French President Emmanuel Macron urged countrymen to get vaccinated amid rising hospitalisations in the country.&nbsp;Reports said COVID-19 cases have also surged in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.&nbsp;

As Germany continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus, a top virologist has warned that a further 100,000 people can die. Christian Drosten described it as a real emergency situation and said "We have to act right now.

As Germany continues to battle with the fourth wave of deadly coronavirus, a top virologist has warned that a further 100,000 people can die. Christian Drosten described it as a real emergency situation and said "We have to act right now." Also, doctors have warned that this wave could be the worst yet. Saxony has the highest seven-day infection rate in Germany with 459 cases per 100,000 people. The german state has now banned unvaccinated people from bars, restaurants, public events and leisure facilities. This has raged the anti-vaxxers, many of which were seen protesting in Leipzig. Earlier this week, incidence rate which measures the number of new coronavirus infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days soared to 201.1 a record since the pandemic erupted more than a year ago. Also read | 'Grave concern': Covid cases soar in Germany Vaccination rates have stagnated at under 70 per cent as officials plead in for the population to get the jab. "For the unvaccinated, the risk is high that they will become infected in the coming months," warned RKI chief Lothar Wieler. The surge in German cases comes with the country following September's general election. The incoming coalition parties have so far ruled out mandatory jabs. The parties have further said that there will be no new lockdowns, at least not for the vaccinated. Not just Germany, but cases are surging in various parts of Europe. Also read | Cases grow in Germany, as a national state of emergency is set to expire next month Greek Prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the country is has been hit by the "fourth wave" of the virus as Europe continues to reel under the coronavirus pandemic. French President Emmanuel Macron urged countrymen to get vaccinated amid rising hospitalisations in the country. Reports said COVID-19 cases have also surged in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

'Real emergency': Top German virologist warns of 100,000 Covid deaths as cases continue to surge

Germany's incidence rate measuring the number of new coronavirus infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days soared to 201.1 on Monday, a record since the pandemic erupted more than a year ago.

The figure, published by Germany's Robert Koch Institute (RKI), surpasses the last high, which had been 197.6 reached on December 22, 2020.&nbsp;

While many more people in the country have had the jab than at that point last year, vaccination rates have stagnated at under 70 percent, with officials pleading in the last days for the population to get the jab.

"For the unvaccinated, the risk is high that they will become infected in the coming months," warned RKI chief Lothar Wieler on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/staring-into-an-abyss-un-says-3-million-in-afghanistan-45-million-worldwide-knocking-at-famines-door-427541">Also read |&nbsp;'Staring into an abyss': UN says 3 million in Afghanistan, 45 million worldwide knocking at famine's door</a>

In the eastern state of Saxony, where the incidence rate is more than twice the national average at 491.3, unvaccinated people face new restrictions from Monday.

Access to indoor dining and other indoor events will be limited to those who are fully vaccinated or can show proof of recovery.

The new rules are the toughest state-wide restrictions in Germany against non-inoculated people. Only children as well as those who cannot receive jabs for medical reasons will be exempt.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/national-mission-uk-government-to-implement-travel-restrictions-for-those-who-refuse-booster-shot-427538">Also read |&nbsp;'National mission': UK government to implement travel restrictions for those who refuse booster shot</a>

The surge in German cases comes with the country in political limbo following September's general election.&nbsp;

The incoming coalition parties, aiming to form a government by early December, have so far ruled out mandatory jabs and said there will be no new lockdowns,&nbsp;at least not for the vaccinated.

Germany's incidence rate measuring the number of new coronavirus infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days soared to 201.1 on Monday, a record since the pandemic erupted more than a year ago.

Germany's incidence rate measuring the number of new coronavirus infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days soared to 201.1 on Monday, a record since the pandemic erupted more than a year ago. The figure, published by Germany's Robert Koch Institute (RKI), surpasses the last high, which had been 197.6 reached on December 22, 2020. While many more people in the country have had the jab than at that point last year, vaccination rates have stagnated at under 70 percent, with officials pleading in the last days for the population to get the jab. "For the unvaccinated, the risk is high that they will become infected in the coming months," warned RKI chief Lothar Wieler on Wednesday. Also read | 'Staring into an abyss': UN says 3 million in Afghanistan, 45 million worldwide knocking at famine's door In the eastern state of Saxony, where the incidence rate is more than twice the national average at 491.3, unvaccinated people face new restrictions from Monday. Access to indoor dining and other indoor events will be limited to those who are fully vaccinated or can show proof of recovery. The new rules are the toughest state-wide restrictions in Germany against non-inoculated people. Only children as well as those who cannot receive jabs for medical reasons will be exempt. Also read | 'National mission': UK government to implement travel restrictions for those who refuse booster shot The surge in German cases comes with the country in political limbo following September's general election. The incoming coalition parties, aiming to form a government by early December, have so far ruled out mandatory jabs and said there will be no new lockdowns, at least not for the vaccinated.

Germany: Seven-day COVID-19 incidence rate rises to record high

The World Health Organization expressed "grave concern" over the rising pace of coronavirus infections in Europe, as Germany registered its biggest daily increase since the start of the pandemic.

COVID-19 cases rise in Europe

In an emotional moment, German Chancellor Angela Merkel bid goodbye to the President of France Emmanuel Macron as they met for what is expected to be the last time before Merkel steps down.

'You kept Europe united', says Macron while raising final toast to Merkel

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