A woman in Germany was carrying a winning ticket in her purse but was unaware that it could make her a millionaire.

Lotto Bayern reported that the 45-year-old woman was the sole winner of the 33 million euros lottery ticket but she had no idea that she was carrying this ticket in her purse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luck-goes-down-the-drain-literally-winning-lottery-ticket-worth-130000-washed-in-laundry-385031">Luck goes down the drain, literally: Winning lottery ticket worth $130,000 'washed in laundry'</a>

"I still get dizzy at the thought that I carelessly carried almost 33 million euros around in my purse for several weeks,"&nbsp;the unnamed woman said.

The woman had randomly picked up numbers on a 1.20 euro lottery ticket. She has decided to never play lottery again as she believes this win was "more than enough for my husband, my daughter and me".

She is hoping to use the money to do her bit for the environment and inch towards living a more healthy lifestyle.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-woman-buys-lottery-ticket-out-of-euro-2020-boredom-wins-ps1-million-398043">UK woman buys lottery ticket out of 'Euro 2020' boredom, wins £1 million</a>

This incident reminded netizens about the woman who could not claim her winning the lottery as her ticket was accidentally 'washed in laundry'. It was a SuperLotto Plus ticket that was sold at a convenience store in the Los Angeles of Norwalk in November. It turned out to be a winning ticket but it was later reported missing as the woman claimed she accidentally washed the ticket in her laundry.

The authorities had asked the woman to bring some "compelling substantial proof you were in possession of the ticket".

Talking of accidental winners, another woman in the UK won&nbsp;£1 million on a lottery ticket that she had bought after getting&nbsp;exceedingly bored while her husband was hooked to Euro 2020 football tournament.

A woman in Germany was carrying a winning ticket in her purse but was unaware that it could make her a millionaire. Lotto Bayern reported that the 45-year-old woman was the sole winner of the 33 million euros lottery ticket but she had no idea that she was carrying this ticket in her purse.

A woman in Germany was carrying a winning ticket in her purse but was unaware that it could make her a millionaire. Lotto Bayern reported that the 45-year-old woman was the sole winner of the 33 million euros lottery ticket but she had no idea that she was carrying this ticket in her purse. Also read | Luck goes down the drain, literally: Winning lottery ticket worth $130,000 'washed in laundry' "I still get dizzy at the thought that I carelessly carried almost 33 million euros around in my purse for several weeks," the unnamed woman said. The woman had randomly picked up numbers on a 1.20 euro lottery ticket. She has decided to never play lottery again as she believes this win was "more than enough for my husband, my daughter and me". She is hoping to use the money to do her bit for the environment and inch towards living a more healthy lifestyle. Also read | UK woman buys lottery ticket out of 'Euro 2020' boredom, wins £1 million This incident reminded netizens about the woman who could not claim her winning the lottery as her ticket was accidentally 'washed in laundry'. It was a SuperLotto Plus ticket that was sold at a convenience store in the Los Angeles of Norwalk in November. It turned out to be a winning ticket but it was later reported missing as the woman claimed she accidentally washed the ticket in her laundry. The authorities had asked the woman to bring some "compelling substantial proof you were in possession of the ticket". Talking of accidental winners, another woman in the UK won £1 million on a lottery ticket that she had bought after getting exceedingly bored while her husband was hooked to Euro 2020 football tournament.

Woman unaware she had 33 million euros worth lottery ticket in her purse

A few days after urging all locals to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> against the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> as soon as possible, Germany has managed to fully vaccinate more than half of the population.

Germany’s health minister, Jens Spahn, took to the social media platform Twitter to announce the numbers. "41.8 million Germans now have full protection, while 61.1 percent have received at least one shot. The more people who get vaccinated, the safer we will be in autumn and winter,"&nbsp;he tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-to-introduce-curbs-for-unvaccinated-people-merkels-aide-400538">Germany to introduce curbs for unvaccinated people: Merkel's aide</a>

Unlike other European countries such as Greece and France, Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel has assured locals that the country will not be making Covid vaccines compulsory.

"We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination."

However, her statement was followed by an announcement that the government is planning to bring out some restrictions for the unvaccinated people of the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-going-down-this-road-merkel-says-vaccines-not-compulsory-in-germany-397894">'Not going down this road': Merkel says vaccines not compulsory in Germany</a>

Currently, unvaccinated Germans are allowed to use all public spaces such as restaurants, cinemas, and sporting venues if they can provide a negative Covid test result. However, if the coronavirus infections keep increasing due to the Delta variant, the government will be introducing curbs for unvaccinated people.

"That could mean that visiting places like restaurants, cinemas and stadiums would no longer be possible even for tested unvaccinated people because the risk is too high," Helge Braun told a local newspaper.

Meanwhile, Merkel has been urging locals to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible to stop the spread of the Delta variant. &nbsp;"The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated."

A few days after urging all locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible, Germany has managed to fully vaccinate more than half of the population.

A few days after urging all locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible, Germany has managed to fully vaccinate more than half of the population. Germany’s health minister, Jens Spahn, took to the social media platform Twitter to announce the numbers. "41.8 million Germans now have full protection, while 61.1 percent have received at least one shot. The more people who get vaccinated, the safer we will be in autumn and winter," he tweeted. Also read | Germany to introduce curbs for unvaccinated people: Merkel's aide Unlike other European countries such as Greece and France, Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel has assured locals that the country will not be making Covid vaccines compulsory. "We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination." However, her statement was followed by an announcement that the government is planning to bring out some restrictions for the unvaccinated people of the country. Also read | 'Not going down this road': Merkel says vaccines not compulsory in Germany Currently, unvaccinated Germans are allowed to use all public spaces such as restaurants, cinemas, and sporting venues if they can provide a negative Covid test result. However, if the coronavirus infections keep increasing due to the Delta variant, the government will be introducing curbs for unvaccinated people. "That could mean that visiting places like restaurants, cinemas and stadiums would no longer be possible even for tested unvaccinated people because the risk is too high," Helge Braun told a local newspaper. Meanwhile, Merkel has been urging locals to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible to stop the spread of the Delta variant. "The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated."

Germany fully vaccinates more than half of population

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain welcomed cheer to the country on a generally baffling day at the Tokyo Olympics. The first woman boxer from Assam at the Games displayed a tight fight against the experienced Nadine Apetz at the Kokugikan Arena.&nbsp;

Lovlina Borgohain, the solitary Indian boxer in action on the day, won 3-2 over her opponent who is 12 years her senior. Both the fighters were making their Olympics debut and the Indian turned into the first from her nine-in-number team to make the quarterfinal stage.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics: Overhaul of coaching staff on cards after poor display by shooters, says Raninder Singh">Tokyo Olympics: Overhaul of coaching staff on cards after poor display by shooters, says Raninder Singh</a>

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Onwards! 🥊🔥 
 
Power packed punching from Lovlina Borgohain lands her a last eight slot as she wins 3-2 against Nadine Apetz of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GER</a> in the women's 69kg welterweight category! 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedByEmotion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedByEmotion</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/LovlinaBorgohai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LovlinaBorgohai</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9rserNmyR">pic.twitter.com/Y9rserNmyR</a>
— #Tokyo2020 for India (@Tokyo2020hi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020hi/status/1419903112761036803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With the success of a split decision over her opposition, Lovlina moved into the quarter-final of the Women's Welterweight division (64 to 69kg). She is currently one success away from fixing a medal for India. The semi-finalists are guaranteed bronze in the sport.&nbsp;

Lovlina will confront the fourth seed Chen Nien-Chin in the quarter-last of Women's Welter on July 30. A victory there will help her complete on the podium amidst what occurs in the semi-last.&nbsp;

The Indian boxer was at her counter-punching best against her opposition She began moderate yet developed into the challenge, tossing some all-around planned right pokes at Apetz who was additionally attempting to make advances in the first round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-sharath-kamals-run-comes-to-an-end-after-losing-to-ma-long-400893" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Sharath Kamal's run comes to an end after losing to Ma Long</a>

Nonetheless, three appointed judges trusted Lovlina was better in the first round. In the second round, Lovlina was the more predominant fighter. Indeed, she was not excessively forceful however tossed counter-punches well and continue to influence away from her opposition.&nbsp;

The third round began with Apetz under serious pressure to get things going. However, Lovlina was at her strategic best, disappointing her adversary and in the long run fixing the quarter-last spot.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain welcomed cheer to the country on a generally baffling day at the Tokyo Olympics. The first woman boxer from Assam at the Games displayed a tight fight against the experienced Nadine Apetz at the Kokugikan Arena.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain welcomed cheer to the country on a generally baffling day at the Tokyo Olympics. The first woman boxer from Assam at the Games displayed a tight fight against the experienced Nadine Apetz at the Kokugikan Arena. Lovlina Borgohain, the solitary Indian boxer in action on the day, won 3-2 over her opponent who is 12 years her senior. Both the fighters were making their Olympics debut and the Indian turned into the first from her nine-in-number team to make the quarterfinal stage. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Overhaul of coaching staff on cards after poor display by shooters, says Raninder Singh Onwards! 🥊🔥 Power packed punching from Lovlina Borgohain lands her a last eight slot as she wins 3-2 against Nadine Apetz of #GER in the women's 69kg welterweight category! 👏 #IND #Tokyo2020 | #StrongerTogether | #UnitedByEmotion | @LovlinaBorgohai pic.twitter.com/Y9rserNmyR — #Tokyo2020 for India (@Tokyo2020hi) July 27, 2021 × With the success of a split decision over her opposition, Lovlina moved into the quarter-final of the Women's Welterweight division (64 to 69kg). She is currently one success away from fixing a medal for India. The semi-finalists are guaranteed bronze in the sport. Lovlina will confront the fourth seed Chen Nien-Chin in the quarter-last of Women's Welter on July 30. A victory there will help her complete on the podium amidst what occurs in the semi-last. The Indian boxer was at her counter-punching best against her opposition She began moderate yet developed into the challenge, tossing some all-around planned right pokes at Apetz who was additionally attempting to make advances in the first round. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sharath Kamal's run comes to an end after losing to Ma Long Nonetheless, three appointed judges trusted Lovlina was better in the first round. In the second round, Lovlina was the more predominant fighter. Indeed, she was not excessively forceful however tossed counter-punches well and continue to influence away from her opposition. The third round began with Apetz under serious pressure to get things going. However, Lovlina was at her strategic best, disappointing her adversary and in the long run fixing the quarter-last spot.

Tokyo 2020: Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain moves into quarterfinals with a win over German pugilist

An explosion in a chemical park in Germany led to the death of one person and has injured at least 16 people, the site operator said.

The blast happened around 09:40 am local time (0740 GMT) on Tuesday, Chempark operator Currenta reported. The reason behind the blast is still unknown.

Firefighters, search and rescue crews, and police officers were rushed to the scene of the blast immediately. In addition to this, pollution detection experts were also called to assess if the smoke coming from the blast site could pose a deadly effect on locals of the area.

As soon as the blast happened, authorities urged locals to stay indoors as thick black smoke started rising in the area. The NINA warning app sent an alert to locals of the area and asked them to close their doors and windows. Locals were also asked to keep emergency numbers free as much as possible to make sure those in need are able to reach out to the authorities.

Out of the 16, two injured people are reported to be in serious condition and four others have been reported missing by local authorities.

The incident took place at Chempark's landfill and waste incineration area in Leverkusen's Buerrig district.

Authorities have assured that all resources are being used to ensure "rescue efforts continue at full speed".

"We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and the death of an employee," Currenta said in a statement.

An explosion in a chemical park in Germany led to the death of one person and has injured at least 16 people, the site operator said. The blast happened around 09:40 am local time (0740 GMT) on Tuesday, Chempark operator Currenta reported.

An explosion in a chemical park in Germany led to the death of one person and has injured at least 16 people, the site operator said. The blast happened around 09:40 am local time (0740 GMT) on Tuesday, Chempark operator Currenta reported. The reason behind the blast is still unknown. Firefighters, search and rescue crews, and police officers were rushed to the scene of the blast immediately. In addition to this, pollution detection experts were also called to assess if the smoke coming from the blast site could pose a deadly effect on locals of the area. As soon as the blast happened, authorities urged locals to stay indoors as thick black smoke started rising in the area. The NINA warning app sent an alert to locals of the area and asked them to close their doors and windows. Locals were also asked to keep emergency numbers free as much as possible to make sure those in need are able to reach out to the authorities. Out of the 16, two injured people are reported to be in serious condition and four others have been reported missing by local authorities. The incident took place at Chempark's landfill and waste incineration area in Leverkusen's Buerrig district. Authorities have assured that all resources are being used to ensure "rescue efforts continue at full speed". "We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and the death of an employee," Currenta said in a statement.

Germany: At least 1 dead, 16 injured in chemical park blast

The women's gymnastics team of Germany wore full-body suits during the Tokyo Olympics' qualifications to promote freedom of choice and encourage women to wear what makes them feel comfortable. The gymnasts wore the suit on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-tokyo-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400698" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Sarah Voss, Pauline Schaefer-Betz, Elisabeth Seitz and Kim Bui donned red and white unitards, which are combined leotards and leggings extending to the ankles.

<img alt="kk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9fd2c67-f56a-4822-a528-a6e73392baf3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2865%29.jpg" />

The team was seen practising on Thursday wearing the same outfits.&nbsp;

Voss said the team had discussed their choice of attire before competing on Sunday and had settled on the unitard.

"As you are growing up as a woman, it is quite difficult to get used to your new body in a way," the 21-year-old said.

<img alt="ooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8abc5a9b-fbe1-45a6-8b39-63650c9b414e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2864%29.jpg" />

"We want to make sure everyone feels comfortable and we show everyone that they can wear whatever they want and look amazing, feel amazing, whether it is in a long leotard or a short one."

Voss said the team -- which wore full-body suits at the European championships in April in a move aimed at countering the sexualisation of the sport -- were keen for the trend to catch on.

"We want to be a role model in any case, to make everybody have the courage to follow us," Voss said.

The Germans' decision to wear unitards earned them praise from fellow competitors in Tokyo.

"I think it's really cool that they have the guts to stand on such a huge arena and show girls from all over the world that you can wear whatever you want," said Norwegian gymnast Julie Erichsen. "I applaud them for that."

(Inputs from Agency)

The women's gymnastics team of Germany wore full-body suits during the Tokyo Olympics' qualifications to promote freedom of choice and encourage women to wear what makes them feel comfortable.

The women's gymnastics team of Germany wore full-body suits during the Tokyo Olympics' qualifications to promote freedom of choice and encourage women to wear what makes them feel comfortable. The gymnasts wore the suit on Sunday. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Sarah Voss, Pauline Schaefer-Betz, Elisabeth Seitz and Kim Bui donned red and white unitards, which are combined leotards and leggings extending to the ankles. The team was seen practising on Thursday wearing the same outfits. Voss said the team had discussed their choice of attire before competing on Sunday and had settled on the unitard. "As you are growing up as a woman, it is quite difficult to get used to your new body in a way," the 21-year-old said. "We want to make sure everyone feels comfortable and we show everyone that they can wear whatever they want and look amazing, feel amazing, whether it is in a long leotard or a short one." Voss said the team -- which wore full-body suits at the European championships in April in a move aimed at countering the sexualisation of the sport -- were keen for the trend to catch on. "We want to be a role model in any case, to make everybody have the courage to follow us," Voss said. The Germans' decision to wear unitards earned them praise from fellow competitors in Tokyo. "I think it's really cool that they have the guts to stand on such a huge arena and show girls from all over the world that you can wear whatever you want," said Norwegian gymnast Julie Erichsen. "I applaud them for that." (Inputs from Agency)

Tokyo Olympics: Gymnasts from Germany opt for full-body suits to promote freedom of choice

Police officers in Germany have identified more than 1,600 potential child-sex abuse suspects who might have been involved in child pornography and zoophilia.

As per the police, these suspects might have participated in online chat groups that shared child pornographic material, and many of the participants are minors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/technology/this-is-how-social-media-giants-are-feeding-dangerous-content-to-children-399247" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/technology/this-is-how-social-media-giants-are-feeding-dangerous-content-to-children-399247&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiB6Mmlnf7xAhU_zTgGHfVECRUQFjAGegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1efqOr9dx73BhXdB-qQ0vk" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/this-is-how-social-media-giants-are-feeding-dangerous-content-to-children-399247" target="_blank">This is how social media giants are feeding dangerous content</a>

The main participants were majorly from the US, Switzerland, Austria, and France in the chat groups. A lot of people were also identified from different parts of the country.

Now, the suspects are being processed and interrogated as part of "two large-scale trials" by police and prosecutors, the Bavarian police reported. The statement also added that if these suspects are proven guilty and convicted, they could face jail time for no less than a year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-sends-notice-to-twitter-over-child-pornography-content-394981" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-sends-notice-to-twitter-over-child-pornography-content-394981&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiAhvqwnf7xAhUOzTgGHUzsCYA4ChAWMAR6BAgDEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TRB0Qw3FlbnWHonP988y0" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-sends-notice-to-twitter-over-child-pornography-content-394981" target="_blank">Delhi Police sends notice to Twitter over child&nbsp;pornography&nbsp;content</a>

This matter came to light when some police officers in the Bavarian town of Amberg came across a graphic advertisement that showed several images and videos of sex acts with children, animals, and adolescents.

"The distribution of child and adolescent pornography has increased markedly in recent years and is an area of focus for us in many investigations," said Peter Krämer, deputy head of criminal police investigations in Amberg. "As well as people with pedophile tendencies, it is often children and adolescents who share material like this in group chats without thinking, and who therefore regularly open themselves up to criminal prosecution."

Police officers in Germany have identified more than 1,600 potential child-sex abuse suspects who might have been involved in child pornography and zoophilia. As per the police, these suspects might have participated in online chat groups that shared child pornographic material, and many of the participants are minors.

Police officers in Germany have identified more than 1,600 potential child-sex abuse suspects who might have been involved in child pornography and zoophilia. As per the police, these suspects might have participated in online chat groups that shared child pornographic material, and many of the participants are minors. Also read | This is how social media giants are feeding dangerous content The main participants were majorly from the US, Switzerland, Austria, and France in the chat groups. A lot of people were also identified from different parts of the country. Now, the suspects are being processed and interrogated as part of "two large-scale trials" by police and prosecutors, the Bavarian police reported. The statement also added that if these suspects are proven guilty and convicted, they could face jail time for no less than a year. Also read | Delhi Police sends notice to Twitter over child pornography content This matter came to light when some police officers in the Bavarian town of Amberg came across a graphic advertisement that showed several images and videos of sex acts with children, animals, and adolescents. "The distribution of child and adolescent pornography has increased markedly in recent years and is an area of focus for us in many investigations," said Peter Krämer, deputy head of criminal police investigations in Amberg. "As well as people with pedophile tendencies, it is often children and adolescents who share material like this in group chats without thinking, and who therefore regularly open themselves up to criminal prosecution."

German police identifies 1,600 potential child sex-abuse suspects

Brazil striker Richarlison struck a stunning hat-trick inside 30 minutes as the defending Olympic champions beat Germany 4-2 in their opening Group D game in the men's football tournament at the International Stadium on Thursday (July 22).

Brazil should have had the outcome decided by the interval given the amount of chances they created but Germany struck twice in the second half, despite going down to 10 men in the 63rd minute.

The match was a repeat of the gold medal game from Rio five years ago and was played at the venue where Brazil beat Germany in the World Cup final in 2002.

Argentina suffered a shock 2-0 loss to Australia in Group C.

In their first Olympic campaign since Beijing 2008, Australia took a surprise lead against twice gold medallists Argentina inside 14 minutes when winger Lachlan Wales scored from close range.

Argentina's problems were compounded late in the first half when left back Francisco Ortega was sent off after two quickfire yellow cards.

The South American side never quite recovered from the setback, as substitute Marco Tilio added a second for the Olyroos in the 80th minute to seal a memorable win.

Hosts Japan made a winning start courtesy of a late strike from midfielder Takefusa Kubo in a 1-0 victory over South Africa, who were dealing with COVID-19 cases on the eve of the Group A match.

Making their first soccer appearance since the 1964 Tokyo Games, Romania beat Honduras 1-0 thanks to an Elvin Oliva own goal.

Brazil striker Richarlison struck a stunning hat-trick inside 30 minutes as the defending Olympic champions beat Germany 4-2 in their opening Group D game in the men's football tournament at the International Stadium on Thursday (July 22).

Brazil striker Richarlison struck a stunning hat-trick inside 30 minutes as the defending Olympic champions beat Germany 4-2 in their opening Group D game in the men's football tournament at the International Stadium on Thursday (July 22). Brazil should have had the outcome decided by the interval given the amount of chances they created but Germany struck twice in the second half, despite going down to 10 men in the 63rd minute. The match was a repeat of the gold medal game from Rio five years ago and was played at the venue where Brazil beat Germany in the World Cup final in 2002. Argentina suffered a shock 2-0 loss to Australia in Group C. In their first Olympic campaign since Beijing 2008, Australia took a surprise lead against twice gold medallists Argentina inside 14 minutes when winger Lachlan Wales scored from close range. Argentina's problems were compounded late in the first half when left back Francisco Ortega was sent off after two quickfire yellow cards. The South American side never quite recovered from the setback, as substitute Marco Tilio added a second for the Olyroos in the 80th minute to seal a memorable win. Hosts Japan made a winning start courtesy of a late strike from midfielder Takefusa Kubo in a 1-0 victory over South Africa, who were dealing with COVID-19 cases on the eve of the Group A match. Making their first soccer appearance since the 1964 Tokyo Games, Romania beat Honduras 1-0 thanks to an Elvin Oliva own goal.

Tokyo Olympics football: Richarlison scores hat-trick as Brazil beat Germany; Argentina suffers shock defeat

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Addressing a German magazine,&nbsp;Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event.&nbsp;

"I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers</a>

He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory.&nbsp;

"I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics.&nbsp;

"To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

World number five Alexander Zverev will make his debut in the deferred 2020 Games – with the tennis event set to start on July 24. Zverev will be seeded fourth in the men's singles draw behind Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Addressing a German magazine, Zverev said he has loved playing under the German flag and that he would gun for glory in Tokyo. He trusts he is one of the top picks to win the gold medal in the men's singles event. "I have already said several times that I am going to Tokyo in order to get a medal for Germany. It does not mean at all that I am going to win, but it is true that I see myself as the one of the favorites for the gold medal," said Zverev. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Two Olympic athletes test positive for COVID-19, say organisers He said the support he will receive from fans back in Germany will make playing at the Olympics a special memory. "I love Germany. I always very, very much like to play for my country. It’s even more emotional when you know that everyone is cheering at home," he added. The 24-year-old sees himself 'as someone who always has a chance against the World No.1 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Novak Djokovic is a top choice to win the Olympic gold medal, having won the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon titles this year. But, according to Zverev, playing aggressive tennis will be the way to beat the favourite at the Olympics. "To defeat a player like Djokovic you have to do things that very few players can do. You have to outrun Nole and dominate him. I see myself as someone who may have a chance to beat him. If you play like him, you will lose. You have to play at a high level and hope that he is not successful that day," he said.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I see myself as one of the favourites for gold medal', says tennis star Alexander Zverev

The first shock of catastrophic flooding in parts of Germany is giving way to helplessness as the extent of the damage becomes clearer. Aid organisations, private companies, the military and emergency services continue to clear roads and set up drinking water stations where the mountains of rubbish are growing and growing.

Mountains of rotting rubbish next problem for flood-hit areas of Germany

The United States has reached a deal with Germany to prevent Russia from using its Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. The deal aims to invest more than 200 million euros in energy security in Ukraine as well as sustainable energy across Europe.

US and Germany reach a deal over controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline

German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with the Cabinet in Berlin on Wednesday in order to approve an enormous emergency relief package to rebuild Germany's flood-ravaged regions.

Germany: Government announces financial aid for victims

Belgium fell silent for a minute of remembrance Tuesday as it held a day of mourning for the victims of the devastating floods that left 200 dead in western Europe.

Heavy rains last week sent floodwaters sweeping through towns and villages, mostly in Belgium and Germany, where Chancellor Angela Merkel visited victims in one of the hardest-hit areas.&nbsp;

At least 31 people were killed in Belgium, with dozens still missing or unaccountable, while Germany on Tuesday increased its death toll to 169 as rescuers scoured the rubble for victims.&nbsp;

The number of missing in Belgium has fallen over the past two days as telephone contact is re-established and more people are traced.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-study-says-moon-wobble-may-trigger-surge-in-coastal-flooding-in-2030s-398008#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20NASA%20study,triggered%20by%20the%20moon's%20wobble.&amp;text=As%20per%20this%20study%2C%20these,or%20longer%20in%20the%202030s.">Also read | NASA study says Moon wobble may trigger surge in coastal flooding in 2030s</a>

The clean-up is still underway to help the regions hit hardest recover from the destruction that saw dozens of homes collapsed and cars piled on top of each other.&nbsp;

Waters have subsided since Friday but workers and volunteers face a mammoth task to clear away the detritus and help residents rebuild their shattered lives.&nbsp;

Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Mathilde paid their respects at the fire station in Verviers, one of the hardest-hit towns.&nbsp;

The moment of silence took place after sirens sounded in fire stations across the country, with buses, trams and metro trains halted in Brussels.

The Belgian tricolour was flown at half-mast on official buildings, as was the star-spangled flag of the European Union around the bloc's headquarters in the capital.

The commemorations were held on the eve of Belgium's national holiday. The city of Brussels has cancelled its "National Ball" and the city of Namur, capital of Wallonia, has cancelled its fireworks display.&nbsp;

This is the first time since 2016 that Belgium has observed national mourning when three days were declared following the March 22 attacks claimed by the Islamic State group, which killed 32 people and injured more than 340 in Brussels.&nbsp;

'Speechless'

In neighbouring Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel met victims of the deluge still struggling to come to terms with the losses in the ravaged medieval town of Bad Munstereifel.

The damage is "appalling... Many houses are no longer habitable," she said, describing "people who have lost everything".&nbsp;

The city has been "so badly hit that it leaves you speechless".

She was accompanied by Armin Laschet, the regional head and pick from Merkel's CDU party to replace her as chancellor at elections in September.&nbsp;

The number of people missing in the country remains unclear, mainly because of disrupted communication networks.

As the scale of the flood disaster became clearer, questions mounted in Germany about whether enough was done to warn residents ahead of time.

The German government on Monday pledged to improve the country's under-fire warning systems as a spokeswoman admitted that the tragedy had shown authorities "need to do more and better".

Although meteorological services had forecast torrential rain and flash floods, many residents said they were caught off-guard by rapidly rising waters.

The disaster has catapulted climate change to the top of the agenda in Germany, ahead of the September polls that will mark the end of Merkel's 16 years in power.

Belgium fell silent for a minute of remembrance Tuesday as it held a day of mourning for the victims of the devastating floods that left 200 dead in western Europe.

Belgium fell silent for a minute of remembrance Tuesday as it held a day of mourning for the victims of the devastating floods that left 200 dead in western Europe. Heavy rains last week sent floodwaters sweeping through towns and villages, mostly in Belgium and Germany, where Chancellor Angela Merkel visited victims in one of the hardest-hit areas. At least 31 people were killed in Belgium, with dozens still missing or unaccountable, while Germany on Tuesday increased its death toll to 169 as rescuers scoured the rubble for victims. The number of missing in Belgium has fallen over the past two days as telephone contact is re-established and more people are traced. Also read | NASA study says Moon wobble may trigger surge in coastal flooding in 2030s The clean-up is still underway to help the regions hit hardest recover from the destruction that saw dozens of homes collapsed and cars piled on top of each other. Waters have subsided since Friday but workers and volunteers face a mammoth task to clear away the detritus and help residents rebuild their shattered lives. Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Mathilde paid their respects at the fire station in Verviers, one of the hardest-hit towns. The moment of silence took place after sirens sounded in fire stations across the country, with buses, trams and metro trains halted in Brussels. The Belgian tricolour was flown at half-mast on official buildings, as was the star-spangled flag of the European Union around the bloc's headquarters in the capital. The commemorations were held on the eve of Belgium's national holiday. The city of Brussels has cancelled its "National Ball" and the city of Namur, capital of Wallonia, has cancelled its fireworks display. This is the first time since 2016 that Belgium has observed national mourning when three days were declared following the March 22 attacks claimed by the Islamic State group, which killed 32 people and injured more than 340 in Brussels. 'Speechless' In neighbouring Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel met victims of the deluge still struggling to come to terms with the losses in the ravaged medieval town of Bad Munstereifel. The damage is "appalling... Many houses are no longer habitable," she said, describing "people who have lost everything". The city has been "so badly hit that it leaves you speechless". She was accompanied by Armin Laschet, the regional head and pick from Merkel's CDU party to replace her as chancellor at elections in September. The number of people missing in the country remains unclear, mainly because of disrupted communication networks. As the scale of the flood disaster became clearer, questions mounted in Germany about whether enough was done to warn residents ahead of time. The German government on Monday pledged to improve the country's under-fire warning systems as a spokeswoman admitted that the tragedy had shown authorities "need to do more and better". Although meteorological services had forecast torrential rain and flash floods, many residents said they were caught off-guard by rapidly rising waters. The disaster has catapulted climate change to the top of the agenda in Germany, ahead of the September polls that will mark the end of Merkel's 16 years in power.

'Day of mourning': Death toll from flooding in western Europe hits 200

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists.

The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf.

"Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference.

"Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added.

Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia.

Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game.

"No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said.

The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors.

"It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany. The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists. The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf. "Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the Olympics I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference. "Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added. Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia. Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game. "No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said. The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors. "It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Tokyo Olympics: Brazil's captain Dani Alves feels 'butterflies' ahead of Germany opener

7 European Nations are reeling under floods. The devastation is unprecedented in terms of scale & damages. Germany is experiencing the worst floods in 1,000 years. What is being done to ease the situation?

Gravitas: Germany witnesses 'once-in-a-millenium' floods

The United States and Germany are expected to announce in coming days a deal resolving their long-standing dispute over Russia's $11 billion Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline, sources familiar with the matter said on Monday. 
 
President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel failed to settle their differences over the undersea pipeline when they met last week, but agreed Moscow must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon against its neighbours. 
 
A deal is now in sight after discussions among US&nbsp;and German officials about US&nbsp;concerns that the pipeline, which is 98% complete, will increase Europe's dependence on Russian gas, and could rob Ukraine of the transit fees it now collects on gas pumped through an existing pipeline. 
 
An agreement would avert the resumption of currently waived US&nbsp;sanctions against Nord Stream 2 AG, the company behind the pipeline, and its chief executive. 
 
Details were not immediately available, but the sources said the deal would include commitments by both sides to ensure increased investment in Ukraine's energy sector to offset any negative fallout from the new pipeline, which will bring gas from the Arctic to Germany under the Baltic Sea. 
 
"It's looking good," said one of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks are still ongoing. "We expect those conversations to reach resolution in coming days." 
 
A second source said the two sides were nearing an agreement that would assuage concerns raised by US&nbsp;lawmakers, as well as those of Ukraine. 
 
Derek Chollet, a senior adviser to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will meet with senior Ukrainian government officials in Kyiv on Tuesday and Wednesday to reinforce the strategic value of US-Ukrainian ties, the State Department said on Monday. 
 
One of the sources said the United States was eager to ensure that Ukraine supported the expected agreement with Germany. 
 
The Biden administration concluded in May that Nord Stream 2 AG and its CEO engaged in sanctionable behavior. But Biden waived the sanctions to allow time to work out a deal and keep rebuilding ties with Germany that were badly frayed during former President Donald Trump`s administration. 
 
In addition to assurances by Germany about its willingness to "reverse flow" gas to Ukraine if Russia ever cuts off supplies to Eastern Europe, the sources said the agreement would include a pledge by both countries to invest in Ukraine's energy transformation, energy efficiency and energy security. 
 
It was not immediately clear whether both countries would announce significant government investments, or whether they would seek to leverage private investments in Ukraine.

The United States and Germany are expected to announce in coming days a deal resolving their long-standing dispute over Russia's $11 billion Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline, sources familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The United States and Germany are expected to announce in coming days a deal resolving their long-standing dispute over Russia's $11 billion Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline, sources familiar with the matter said on Monday. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel failed to settle their differences over the undersea pipeline when they met last week, but agreed Moscow must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon against its neighbours. A deal is now in sight after discussions among US and German officials about US concerns that the pipeline, which is 98% complete, will increase Europe's dependence on Russian gas, and could rob Ukraine of the transit fees it now collects on gas pumped through an existing pipeline. An agreement would avert the resumption of currently waived US sanctions against Nord Stream 2 AG, the company behind the pipeline, and its chief executive. Details were not immediately available, but the sources said the deal would include commitments by both sides to ensure increased investment in Ukraine's energy sector to offset any negative fallout from the new pipeline, which will bring gas from the Arctic to Germany under the Baltic Sea. "It's looking good," said one of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks are still ongoing. "We expect those conversations to reach resolution in coming days." A second source said the two sides were nearing an agreement that would assuage concerns raised by US lawmakers, as well as those of Ukraine. Derek Chollet, a senior adviser to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will meet with senior Ukrainian government officials in Kyiv on Tuesday and Wednesday to reinforce the strategic value of US-Ukrainian ties, the State Department said on Monday. One of the sources said the United States was eager to ensure that Ukraine supported the expected agreement with Germany. The Biden administration concluded in May that Nord Stream 2 AG and its CEO engaged in sanctionable behavior. But Biden waived the sanctions to allow time to work out a deal and keep rebuilding ties with Germany that were badly frayed during former President Donald Trump`s administration. In addition to assurances by Germany about its willingness to "reverse flow" gas to Ukraine if Russia ever cuts off supplies to Eastern Europe, the sources said the agreement would include a pledge by both countries to invest in Ukraine's energy transformation, energy efficiency and energy security. It was not immediately clear whether both countries would announce significant government investments, or whether they would seek to leverage private investments in Ukraine.

US, Germany to announce deal on Nord Stream 2 pipeline in coming days: Sources

The death toll from flooding in Europe climbed above 180 after rescue workers dug deeper into debris left by receding waters. The deadly floods in western Europe have been triggered by heavy rainfall, which in some areas broke a 100-year record.

Over 180 killed in deluge in Europe, hundreds missing in Germany

German government on Monday pledged to improve the nation's warning systems. The warning systems are under fire after worst floods in living memory. At least 165 people are confirmed dead now.

In the west of the country, floodwater swept away trees, cars and bridges and destroyed swathes of housing. Many victims were found in cellars after attempting to collect valuables. Others were swept away by the sheer force of floodwaters.

In Rhineland-Palatinate state, a total of 117 people are dead. In neighbouring North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) the death toll has reached 47. One person has died in Bavaria.

In Belgium, at least 31 people died due to floods.&nbsp;

Torrential rains have caused havoc in southern Germant and neighbouring countries.

"We haven't been to all the houses yet, we must assume that we will find more bodies," said Rhineland Palatinate's regional interior minister Roger Lewentz.&nbsp;

The number of people missing remains unclear, but Lewentz said authorities have been unable to reach more than a thousand in Rhineland-Palatinate, mainly because of disrupted communication networks.

The situation is similar in NRW, where police on Sunday said more than 700 residents initially unaccounted for had since been contacted, but several dozen remain missing.

Government spokeswoman Martina Fietz said the national warning system and mobile phone app Nina had "worked" but admitted that "our experiences with this disaster show that we need to do more and better".

Armin Schuster, president of the government's civil protection agency (BBK), called on German radio for sirens to be reinstated in more areas as part of the country's disaster warnings system.

(With inputs from agencies)

German government on Monday pledged to improve the nation's warning systems. The warning systems are under fire after worst floods in living memory. At least 165 people are confirmed dead now.

German government on Monday pledged to improve the nation's warning systems. The warning systems are under fire after worst floods in living memory. At least 165 people are confirmed dead now. In the west of the country, floodwater swept away trees, cars and bridges and destroyed swathes of housing. Many victims were found in cellars after attempting to collect valuables. Others were swept away by the sheer force of floodwaters. In Rhineland-Palatinate state, a total of 117 people are dead. In neighbouring North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) the death toll has reached 47. One person has died in Bavaria. In Belgium, at least 31 people died due to floods. Torrential rains have caused havoc in southern Germant and neighbouring countries. "We haven't been to all the houses yet, we must assume that we will find more bodies," said Rhineland Palatinate's regional interior minister Roger Lewentz. The number of people missing remains unclear, but Lewentz said authorities have been unable to reach more than a thousand in Rhineland-Palatinate, mainly because of disrupted communication networks. The situation is similar in NRW, where police on Sunday said more than 700 residents initially unaccounted for had since been contacted, but several dozen remain missing. Government spokeswoman Martina Fietz said the national warning system and mobile phone app Nina had "worked" but admitted that "our experiences with this disaster show that we need to do more and better". Armin Schuster, president of the government's civil protection agency (BBK), called on German radio for sirens to be reinstated in more areas as part of the country's disaster warnings system. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany floods: Death toll at 165, country vows to improve flood warning system

Death toll in highly destructive and devastating floods in Germany and Belgium rose above 170 on Saturday. Burst rivers and flash floods have destroyed homes and ripped up roads and power lines.

This is proving to be Germany's worst natural disaster in more than half a century. Around 140 deaths have been recorded in Germany. Out of these, about 98 have died in Ahrweiler district south of Cologne, according to police.

Hundreds of people are missing or are unreachable since several areas were not accessible due to high water levels.

Business owners and residents struggled to pick up the pieces in battered towns.

"Everything is completely destroyed. You don't recognise the scenery," said Michael Lang, owner of a wine shop in the town of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler in Ahrweiler, fighting back tears.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angela-merkel-to-visit-flood-hit-western-germany-on-sunday-398737">Angela Merkel to visit flood-hit western Germany on Sunday</a>

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Erftstadt in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, where the disaster killed at least 43 people.

"We mourn with those that have lost friends, acquaintances, family members," he said. "Their fate is ripping our hearts apart."

Around 700 residents were evacuated late on Friday after a dam broke in the town of Wassenberg near Cologne, authorities said.

But Wassenberg mayor Marcel Maurer said water levels had been stabilising since the night. "It's too early to give the all-clear but we are cautiously optimistic," he said.

The Steinbachtal dam in western Germany, however, remained at risk of breaching, authorities said after some 4,500 people were evacuated from homes downstream.

Steinmeier said it would take weeks before the full damage, expected to require several billions of euros in reconstruction funds, could be assessed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Death toll in highly destructive and devastating floods in Germany and Belgium rose above 170 on Saturday. Burst rivers and flash floods have destroyed homes and ripped up roads and power lines.

Death toll in highly destructive and devastating floods in Germany and Belgium rose above 170 on Saturday. Burst rivers and flash floods have destroyed homes and ripped up roads and power lines. This is proving to be Germany's worst natural disaster in more than half a century. Around 140 deaths have been recorded in Germany. Out of these, about 98 have died in Ahrweiler district south of Cologne, according to police. Hundreds of people are missing or are unreachable since several areas were not accessible due to high water levels. Business owners and residents struggled to pick up the pieces in battered towns. "Everything is completely destroyed. You don't recognise the scenery," said Michael Lang, owner of a wine shop in the town of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler in Ahrweiler, fighting back tears. Also Read: Angela Merkel to visit flood-hit western Germany on Sunday German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Erftstadt in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, where the disaster killed at least 43 people. "We mourn with those that have lost friends, acquaintances, family members," he said. "Their fate is ripping our hearts apart." Around 700 residents were evacuated late on Friday after a dam broke in the town of Wassenberg near Cologne, authorities said. But Wassenberg mayor Marcel Maurer said water levels had been stabilising since the night. "It's too early to give the all-clear but we are cautiously optimistic," he said. The Steinbachtal dam in western Germany, however, remained at risk of breaching, authorities said after some 4,500 people were evacuated from homes downstream. Steinmeier said it would take weeks before the full damage, expected to require several billions of euros in reconstruction funds, could be assessed. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany, Belgium floods death toll rises above 170

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors.

Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens.

As soon as the rains stopped a bit, Merkel rushed to the village of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. She was spotted wearing hiking boots while fist-bumping rescue volunteers. She spent hours listening to the stories of the survivors and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fatal-flooding-ravage-western-europe-over-100-dead-and-hundreds-missing-398841">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fatal-flooding-ravage-western-europe-over-100-dead-and-hundreds-missing-398841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is a surreal, eerie situation," she said. "It is shocking — I can almost say that the German language doesn't have words for the destruction that's been wreaked."

The Rhineland-Palatinate state alone has reported at least 100 dead bodies and 670 injured individuals after days of floods, which are being labelled as the worst floods in the recent past.

While some people were happy to see the leader come personally to check the damage, many people decided to instead volunteer in the search and rescue mission rather than following Merkel in her walkabout.

Meanwhile, as the death toll crossed 180, Germany’s insurance industry has urged the government to rethink its plans and policies related to climate change. "In many places, adaptation to the consequences of climate change is being neglected," Joerg Asmussen, managing director of the German Insurance Association (GDV) told local media. "We have to change course here, otherwise a spiral of further catastrophes and increasing damage will be set in motion, which will first become expensive and then at some point unaffordable."

Merkel, too, urged fellow leaders to "hurry" in its fight against global warming as experts warned extreme weather conditions will become more frequent in near future. "We have to be faster in the fight against climate change," Merkel said.

Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, has also offered support to Germany to express "our friendship and support of the German people in this time of destruction and loss."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors. Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached the flood-affected region of the country on Sunday to assess the damage and meet the survivors. Germany was hit by severe floods in the last few days that took more than 183 lives, injured hundreds, and misplaced dozens. As soon as the rains stopped a bit, Merkel rushed to the village of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. She was spotted wearing hiking boots while fist-bumping rescue volunteers. She spent hours listening to the stories of the survivors and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. WATCH | It is a surreal, eerie situation," she said. "It is shocking — I can almost say that the German language doesn't have words for the destruction that's been wreaked." The Rhineland-Palatinate state alone has reported at least 100 dead bodies and 670 injured individuals after days of floods, which are being labelled as the worst floods in the recent past. While some people were happy to see the leader come personally to check the damage, many people decided to instead volunteer in the search and rescue mission rather than following Merkel in her walkabout. Meanwhile, as the death toll crossed 180, Germany’s insurance industry has urged the government to rethink its plans and policies related to climate change. "In many places, adaptation to the consequences of climate change is being neglected," Joerg Asmussen, managing director of the German Insurance Association (GDV) told local media. "We have to change course here, otherwise a spiral of further catastrophes and increasing damage will be set in motion, which will first become expensive and then at some point unaffordable." Merkel, too, urged fellow leaders to "hurry" in its fight against global warming as experts warned extreme weather conditions will become more frequent in near future. "We have to be faster in the fight against climate change," Merkel said. Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, has also offered support to Germany to express "our friendship and support of the German people in this time of destruction and loss."

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel visits flood-affected area

Southern Germany was hit by flash floods on Sunday. This resulted in at least one casualty. There have been more than 180 deaths in Europe so far.

The Berchtesgadener Land district in Bavaria, which borders Austria, became the latest region to be hit by record rainfall and ensuing floods. Sunday's death brought Germany's death toll to 156 in its worst natural disaster in almost six decades, and the European toll to 183.

Ahrweiler district has been the worst-hit due to the floods. About 110 people have been killed. Police say that more bodies are expected to be found there as the floodwaters recede.

The European floods, which began on Wednesday, have mainly hit the German states of Rhineland Palatinate, North Rhine-Westphalia as well as parts of Belgium. Entire communities have been cut off, without power or communications.

At least 45 people have died in North Rhine-Westphalia. Death toll in Belgium is at 27.

Finance Minister Olaf Scholz told weekly newspaper Bild am Sonntag that the German government will be readying more than 300 million Euros (USD 354 million) in immediate relief and billions of Euros to fix collapsed houses, streets and bridges&nbsp;

"There is huge damage and that much is clear: those who lost their businesses, their houses, cannot stem the losses alone," he said.

There could also be a 10,000 euro short-term relief payment for small businesses affected by the impact of the floods as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, Economy Minister Peter Altmaier told the paper.

Scientists have long said that climate change will lead to heavier downpours. But determining its role in these relentless rainfalls will take several weeks to research at least, scientists said on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Southern Germany was hit by flash floods on Sunday. This resulted in at least one casualty. There have been more than 180 deaths in Europe so far. The Berchtesgadener Land district in Bavaria, which borders Austria, became the latest region to be hit by record rainfall and ensuing floods.

Southern Germany was hit by flash floods on Sunday. This resulted in at least one casualty. There have been more than 180 deaths in Europe so far. The Berchtesgadener Land district in Bavaria, which borders Austria, became the latest region to be hit by record rainfall and ensuing floods. Sunday's death brought Germany's death toll to 156 in its worst natural disaster in almost six decades, and the European toll to 183. Ahrweiler district has been the worst-hit due to the floods. About 110 people have been killed. Police say that more bodies are expected to be found there as the floodwaters recede. The European floods, which began on Wednesday, have mainly hit the German states of Rhineland Palatinate, North Rhine-Westphalia as well as parts of Belgium. Entire communities have been cut off, without power or communications. At least 45 people have died in North Rhine-Westphalia. Death toll in Belgium is at 27. Finance Minister Olaf Scholz told weekly newspaper Bild am Sonntag that the German government will be readying more than 300 million Euros (USD 354 million) in immediate relief and billions of Euros to fix collapsed houses, streets and bridges "There is huge damage and that much is clear: those who lost their businesses, their houses, cannot stem the losses alone," he said. There could also be a 10,000 euro short-term relief payment for small businesses affected by the impact of the floods as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, Economy Minister Peter Altmaier told the paper. Scientists have long said that climate change will lead to heavier downpours. But determining its role in these relentless rainfalls will take several weeks to research at least, scientists said on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany: Floods hit Bavaria, European death toll at 183

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials.

AFP quoted a spokeswoman for regional interior ministry to say that Merkel will travel to the hard-hit town of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state.

The visit is set to take place in the afternoon, the spokeswoman said.

Merkel has already termed the flooding a national "tragedy" and has promised support from federal government.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier toured the town of Erftstadt in the western state of North-Rhine Westphalia on Saturday, to survey the damage from a massive landslide caused by the extreme weather.

The main candidates in the race to succeed Merkel at September's general election have all travelled to the stricken areas in recent days.

Merkel's visit has been delayed because she only returned on Friday from a high-profile trip to Washington, her last official visit as chancellor.

Speaking alongside US President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, Merkel said her "heart goes out to all of those who in this catastrophe lost their loved ones".

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to visit flood-ravaged western Germany on Sunday. Worst rainfall in living memory has caused huge destruction and lef more that 130 people dead as per regional officials. AFP quoted a spokeswoman for regional interior ministry to say that Merkel will travel to the hard-hit town of Schuld in Rhineland-Palatinate state. The visit is set to take place in the afternoon, the spokeswoman said. Merkel has already termed the flooding a national "tragedy" and has promised support from federal government. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier toured the town of Erftstadt in the western state of North-Rhine Westphalia on Saturday, to survey the damage from a massive landslide caused by the extreme weather. The main candidates in the race to succeed Merkel at September's general election have all travelled to the stricken areas in recent days. Merkel's visit has been delayed because she only returned on Friday from a high-profile trip to Washington, her last official visit as chancellor. Speaking alongside US President Joe Biden at the White House on Thursday, Merkel said her "heart goes out to all of those who in this catastrophe lost their loved ones". (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel to visit flood-hit western Germany on Sunday

Germany walked off after 85 minutes of Saturday's pre-Olympics friendly with Honduras after Jordan Torunarigha suffered racist abuse.

The 2016 silver medallists played the Central Americans in Wakayama, Japan, as they warmed up for their Games campaign which starts on July 22 against champions Brazil.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-olympic-most-restrictive-sports-event-ioc-chief-urges-japanese-locals-support-398705" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympic 'most restrictive sports event': IOC chief urges Japanese locals' support</a>

"The game has ended 5 minutes early with the score at 1-1. The Germany players left the pitch after Jordan Torunarigha was racially abused," the German Football Association (DFB) tweeted.

German head coach Stefan Kuntz defended his 23-year-old squad member.

"When one of our players is racially abused, playing on is not an option," told DFB's Twitter account.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/missing-ugandan-weightlifter-wanted-to-stay-in-japan-reports-398649" hreflang="en">Missing Ugandan weightlifter wanted to stay in Japan: Reports</a>

The Honduras Football Federation said on Twitter the situation was down to a "misunderstanding on the pitch."

In February 2020, Hertha Berlin centre-back Torunarigha was sent off for reacting to alleged monkey chants from Schalke fans during a German Cup loss.

In that match, Torunarigha, who is of Nigerian descent, picked up a water bottle carrier and slammed it to the ground before being shown a red card for second bookable offence.

Germany walked off after 85 minutes of Saturday's pre-Olympics friendly with Honduras after Jordan Torunarigha suffered racist abuse. The 2016 silver medallists played the Central Americans in Wakayama, Japan, as they warmed up for their Games campaign which starts on July 22 against champions Brazil.

Germany walked off after 85 minutes of Saturday's pre-Olympics friendly with Honduras after Jordan Torunarigha suffered racist abuse. The 2016 silver medallists played the Central Americans in Wakayama, Japan, as they warmed up for their Games campaign which starts on July 22 against champions Brazil. Also read | Tokyo Olympic 'most restrictive sports event': IOC chief urges Japanese locals' support "The game has ended 5 minutes early with the score at 1-1. The Germany players left the pitch after Jordan Torunarigha was racially abused," the German Football Association (DFB) tweeted. German head coach Stefan Kuntz defended his 23-year-old squad member. "When one of our players is racially abused, playing on is not an option," told DFB's Twitter account. Also read | Missing Ugandan weightlifter wanted to stay in Japan: Reports The Honduras Football Federation said on Twitter the situation was down to a "misunderstanding on the pitch." In February 2020, Hertha Berlin centre-back Torunarigha was sent off for reacting to alleged monkey chants from Schalke fans during a German Cup loss. In that match, Torunarigha, who is of Nigerian descent, picked up a water bottle carrier and slammed it to the ground before being shown a red card for second bookable offence.

Germany walk off Olympics friendly after Torunarigha racist abuse

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well.

No deaths have been reported in the Netherlands. Germany has not been so lucky and accounts for most of the 150+ deaths that have been recorded till now.

Rutte was visiting the Netherlands' southern province of Limburg on Friday (local time) when he held Global Warming responsible for the deadly floods. He said that was "without a doubt the case".

"I don't want to make hasty declarations," he said. "But something is really happening, let's be clear."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-fatal-flooding-in-western-germany-398443">In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany</a> 
 
ANP news agency reported that more than one million Euros had been collected for a fund to help worst-hit areas in the Netherlands

To stop any future flood disasters, "the first thing to do, and fortunately we are doing it in the Netherlands, is to give space to rivers", Rutte said.

The Dutch reshaped the areas around rivers in the country after major flooding in 1993 and 1995 when 250,000 people and one million animals had to be evacuated.

More than two billion euros was invested to widen riverbanks. The project was completed in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well. No deaths have been reported in the Netherlands. Germany has not been so lucky and accounts for most of the 150+ deaths that have been recorded till now. Rutte was visiting the Netherlands' southern province of Limburg on Friday (local time) when he held Global Warming responsible for the deadly floods. He said that was "without a doubt the case". "I don't want to make hasty declarations," he said. "But something is really happening, let's be clear." In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany ANP news agency reported that more than one million Euros had been collected for a fund to help worst-hit areas in the Netherlands To stop any future flood disasters, "the first thing to do, and fortunately we are doing it in the Netherlands, is to give space to rivers", Rutte said. The Dutch reshaped the areas around rivers in the country after major flooding in 1993 and 1995 when 250,000 people and one million animals had to be evacuated. More than two billion euros was invested to widen riverbanks. The project was completed in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate Change responsible for Europe floods, says Dutch PM

At least 58 people have died and dozens more are missing as heavy flooding in Germany turned streams and streets into raging torrents that swept away cars and caused houses to collapse.

Freak storm and flash floods ravage Germany, killing at least 58

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China.

During meetings at the White House, Biden’s agenda included several of his most pressing geopolitical priorities, such as restraining Chinese influence, curbing Russian aggression and waiving intellectual property restrictions on coronavirus vaccine manufacturers.

While there were no apparent breakthroughs, the visit was a way to show a unified front after President Donald Trump’s hostile exchanges with Merkel over NATO contributions, trade and multilateralism badly frayed relations. The meeting also comes before the chancellor’s term ends and a new German government will be sworn in after elections on Sept. 26.

“Good friends can disagree,” said Biden, who appeared alongside Merkel at a news conference in the East Room after the meeting.

For the most part, the trip appeared to be a triumph of the personal over policy. Biden joked that Merkel, who has worked with four U.S. presidents, “knows the Oval Office as well as I do.” The chancellor referred to the president as “dear Joe” several times as she extolled their friendly relationship, which has endured since his time in the Senate.

But the warmth could not cloak the fact that neither leader had shifted from their most substantive areas of disagreement.

Biden said he broached the contentious issue of the $11 billion Nord Stream 2 pipeline, a natural gas conduit being built between Germany and Russia that is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The president and his predecessors have assailed the project as little more than a coercive tool against Ukraine and other allies.

“We’ve come to different assessments,” Merkel said of the project.

Biden said the two had agreed that they were “united in our conviction that Russia should not be able to use energy as a weapon.”

The president waived congressional sanctions this year on the Russian company building the pipeline and its German chief executive, effectively conceding that an effort to halt the project was not worth the expected cost to U.S.-German relations.

Merkel kept her comments nonspecific on countering China, whose influence Biden believes poses an existential threat to American democracy.

“There is a lot of common understanding that China in many areas is our competitor,” the chancellor said, careful not to run afoul of Germany’s largest trading partner. She added that “trade with China needs to rest on the assumption that we have a level playing field.”

The two leaders also signaled that they remained apart on their approach to containing the pandemic. Merkel did not commit to the lifting of patents for coronavirus vaccines, and Biden did not raise the issue in front of reporters. Merkel said she had asked the president if his administration would end a travel ban against Europeans, but he did not commit to ending it.

“I did raise the issue,” the chancellor said, “and got the same answer that the president gave you: The COVID team is evaluating the matter.”

Still, the leaders repeatedly emphasized their one-on-one relationship in their public appearances, a sharp divergence from Merkel’s chilly and stilted interactions with Trump, who maligned her as “captive to Russia.” When asked to compare Biden’s leadership style with his predecessor’s, the chancellor was characteristically restrained, emphasizing that she and Biden had a “very friendly exchange.”

“We are not only partners and allies,” Merkel said, “but we are very close friends.”

The president began the event by offering his condolences to Germans for the loss of life and property caused by recent floods. He went on to thank the chancellor for “an exemplary life of groundbreaking service to Germany.”

Biden was asked to confront cases of diplomatic turmoil closer to home, including protests in Cuba and unrest after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse of Haiti. He told a reporter that beyond dispatching Marines to guard the U.S. Embassy there, he was not considering sending U.S. troops.

Addressing a wave of demonstrations across Cuba, Biden accused its government of being a “failed state” that was “repressing their citizens” and said he would not end rules against payments Americans can make to their Cuban relatives because he could not be sure that the government would not take them.

“I would not do that now,” he said, “because the fact is, it is highly likely that the regime would confiscate those remittances, or big chunks.”

The president grew testy when he was asked about his top domestic economic priorities. When asked if he was confident that a $3.5 trillion budget framework drawn up by Democrats would be enough to pass with every Democratic senator on board, Biden chastised the news media as preemptively suggesting that the plan, along with negotiations over an infrastructure deal, was headed for failure.

“I am supremely confident that everything is going to work out perfectly,” he said dryly. “I have watched and listened to the press declare my initiative dead at least 10 times so far. I don’t think it is dead. I think it is still alive.”

Aside from more thorny policy issues, Merkel’s visit was a diplomatic victory lap of sorts before her term expires. She started her day with a cheese soufflé breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Later in the day, the chancellor received an honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, adding to her collection of degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Once she arrived at the White House, Merkel and the president exchanged compliments in the Oval Office.

Though the exchange was not overly warm, it was leagues more collegial than Merkel’s past meetings in the Oval Office. When she asked Trump in 2017, “Do you want to have a handshake?” Trump apparently did not.

Just as Merkel spent years responding mildly to Trump, she has not always been overeager to accept Biden’s entreaties that the U.S.-German relationship had been restored to a sense of normalcy. During the virtual Munich Security Conference held this year, she said of the U.S. relationship that “our interests will not always converge.”

By the time of the news conference on Thursday, Biden and Merkel seemed more interested in continuing her farewell party than discussing what divided them.

After the news conference, they attended dinner with longtime allies, including Hillary Clinton. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, the House minority leader, was also scheduled to attend after a trip earlier in the day to see Trump at his golf club in New Jersey.

After the two leaders fielded questions, Biden steered Merkel away from reporters.

“If we don’t leave right now,” he told her, “we are going to miss dinner.”

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China.

Signaling that the U.S.-European alliance remained strong after the tension of the Trump era, President Joe Biden and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany on Thursday stressed their shared values, even as both acknowledged differences on a major Russian pipeline and how best to approach China. During meetings at the White House, Biden’s agenda included several of his most pressing geopolitical priorities, such as restraining Chinese influence, curbing Russian aggression and waiving intellectual property restrictions on coronavirus vaccine manufacturers. While there were no apparent breakthroughs, the visit was a way to show a unified front after President Donald Trump’s hostile exchanges with Merkel over NATO contributions, trade and multilateralism badly frayed relations. The meeting also comes before the chancellor’s term ends and a new German government will be sworn in after elections on Sept. 26. “Good friends can disagree,” said Biden, who appeared alongside Merkel at a news conference in the East Room after the meeting. For the most part, the trip appeared to be a triumph of the personal over policy. Biden joked that Merkel, who has worked with four U.S. presidents, “knows the Oval Office as well as I do.” The chancellor referred to the president as “dear Joe” several times as she extolled their friendly relationship, which has endured since his time in the Senate. But the warmth could not cloak the fact that neither leader had shifted from their most substantive areas of disagreement. Biden said he broached the contentious issue of the $11 billion Nord Stream 2 pipeline, a natural gas conduit being built between Germany and Russia that is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The president and his predecessors have assailed the project as little more than a coercive tool against Ukraine and other allies. “We’ve come to different assessments,” Merkel said of the project. Biden said the two had agreed that they were “united in our conviction that Russia should not be able to use energy as a weapon.” The president waived congressional sanctions this year on the Russian company building the pipeline and its German chief executive, effectively conceding that an effort to halt the project was not worth the expected cost to U.S.-German relations. Merkel kept her comments nonspecific on countering China, whose influence Biden believes poses an existential threat to American democracy. “There is a lot of common understanding that China in many areas is our competitor,” the chancellor said, careful not to run afoul of Germany’s largest trading partner. She added that “trade with China needs to rest on the assumption that we have a level playing field.” The two leaders also signaled that they remained apart on their approach to containing the pandemic. Merkel did not commit to the lifting of patents for coronavirus vaccines, and Biden did not raise the issue in front of reporters. Merkel said she had asked the president if his administration would end a travel ban against Europeans, but he did not commit to ending it. “I did raise the issue,” the chancellor said, “and got the same answer that the president gave you: The COVID team is evaluating the matter.” Still, the leaders repeatedly emphasized their one-on-one relationship in their public appearances, a sharp divergence from Merkel’s chilly and stilted interactions with Trump, who maligned her as “captive to Russia.” When asked to compare Biden’s leadership style with his predecessor’s, the chancellor was characteristically restrained, emphasizing that she and Biden had a “very friendly exchange.” “We are not only partners and allies,” Merkel said, “but we are very close friends.” The president began the event by offering his condolences to Germans for the loss of life and property caused by recent floods. He went on to thank the chancellor for “an exemplary life of groundbreaking service to Germany.” Biden was asked to confront cases of diplomatic turmoil closer to home, including protests in Cuba and unrest after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse of Haiti. He told a reporter that beyond dispatching Marines to guard the U.S. Embassy there, he was not considering sending U.S. troops. Addressing a wave of demonstrations across Cuba, Biden accused its government of being a “failed state” that was “repressing their citizens” and said he would not end rules against payments Americans can make to their Cuban relatives because he could not be sure that the government would not take them. “I would not do that now,” he said, “because the fact is, it is highly likely that the regime would confiscate those remittances, or big chunks.” The president grew testy when he was asked about his top domestic economic priorities. When asked if he was confident that a $3.5 trillion budget framework drawn up by Democrats would be enough to pass with every Democratic senator on board, Biden chastised the news media as preemptively suggesting that the plan, along with negotiations over an infrastructure deal, was headed for failure. “I am supremely confident that everything is going to work out perfectly,” he said dryly. “I have watched and listened to the press declare my initiative dead at least 10 times so far. I don’t think it is dead. I think it is still alive.” Aside from more thorny policy issues, Merkel’s visit was a diplomatic victory lap of sorts before her term expires. She started her day with a cheese soufflé breakfast with Vice President Kamala Harris. Later in the day, the chancellor received an honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, adding to her collection of degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Once she arrived at the White House, Merkel and the president exchanged compliments in the Oval Office. Though the exchange was not overly warm, it was leagues more collegial than Merkel’s past meetings in the Oval Office. When she asked Trump in 2017, “Do you want to have a handshake?” Trump apparently did not. Just as Merkel spent years responding mildly to Trump, she has not always been overeager to accept Biden’s entreaties that the U.S.-German relationship had been restored to a sense of normalcy. During the virtual Munich Security Conference held this year, she said of the U.S. relationship that “our interests will not always converge.” By the time of the news conference on Thursday, Biden and Merkel seemed more interested in continuing her farewell party than discussing what divided them. After the news conference, they attended dinner with longtime allies, including Hillary Clinton. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, the House minority leader, was also scheduled to attend after a trip earlier in the day to see Trump at his golf club in New Jersey. After the two leaders fielded questions, Biden steered Merkel away from reporters. “If we don’t leave right now,” he told her, “we are going to miss dinner.”

Acknowledging disagreements, Biden and Merkel signal warmer US-German ties

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is in the United States for probably the last time before she leaves office. A number of topics were under discussion during talks at the White House, such as the Nord Stream 2 project, COVID-19 travel restrictions and ongoing concerns over Russia and China.

Biden welcomes 'great friend' Merkel to the White House

In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany

More than 1,000 have been reported missing as heavy rains and floods lashing western Europe have killed at least 93 people in Germany and&nbsp;Belgium.

In Germany, which is experiencing one of the worst weather disasters since World War II, desperate residents sought refuge on the roofs of their homes as rescue helicopters were being used for evacuation.&nbsp;

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About 60 dead, approx 1,300 peoples are missing, thousands out of power after devastating <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/floods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#floods</a> in Western <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a>. <a href="https://t.co/HvPrv3cQ57">pic.twitter.com/HvPrv3cQ57</a>
— Sandeep Seth (@sandipseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/sandipseth/status/1415859709123338240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Unusually heavy rains were also seen in Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in a visit to Washington, said her "heart goes out" to the victims of the flooding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-flood-as-glacier-breaks-off-at-joshimath-150-labourers-missing-361934">Also read |&nbsp;Massive flood as glacier breaks off at Joshimath, 150 labourers missing</a>

"I fear that we will only see the full extent of the disaster in the coming days," she said, adding that the government is doing its "utmost to help (people) in their distress".

Standing at her side for a news conference after holding bilateral talks, US President Joe Biden called the floods a tragedy.

"Chancellor Merkel, I want to express to you and to the people of Germany my sincere condolences and the condolences of the American people for the devastating loss of life and destruction due to the flooding over the past 24 hours in Germany and neighboring countries," Biden said&nbsp;

Unusually heavy rains in the European countries have caused rivers to burst their banks and flooding streets in cities and towns, while power was knocked out for hundreds of thousands of households.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 1,000 have been reported missing as heavy rains and floods lashing western Europe have killed at least 93 people in Germany and Belgium. In Germany, which is experiencing one of the worst weather disasters since World War II, desperate residents sought refuge on the roofs of their homes as rescue helicopters were being used for evacuation.

More than 1,000 have been reported missing as heavy rains and floods lashing western Europe have killed at least 93 people in Germany and Belgium. In Germany, which is experiencing one of the worst weather disasters since World War II, desperate residents sought refuge on the roofs of their homes as rescue helicopters were being used for evacuation. About 60 dead, approx 1,300 peoples are missing, thousands out of power after devastating #floods in Western #Germany. pic.twitter.com/HvPrv3cQ57 — Sandeep Seth (@sandipseth) July 16, 2021 × Unusually heavy rains were also seen in Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Belgium. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in a visit to Washington, said her "heart goes out" to the victims of the flooding. Also read | Massive flood as glacier breaks off at Joshimath, 150 labourers missing "I fear that we will only see the full extent of the disaster in the coming days," she said, adding that the government is doing its "utmost to help (people) in their distress". Standing at her side for a news conference after holding bilateral talks, US President Joe Biden called the floods a tragedy. "Chancellor Merkel, I want to express to you and to the people of Germany my sincere condolences and the condolences of the American people for the devastating loss of life and destruction due to the flooding over the past 24 hours in Germany and neighboring countries," Biden said Unusually heavy rains in the European countries have caused rivers to burst their banks and flooding streets in cities and towns, while power was knocked out for hundreds of thousands of households. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 93 dead in Germany, Belgium floods; Merkel says her 'heart goes out' to victims

Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors confirmed that it paid a $29.7 million fine issued by German prosecutors over emissions fraud allegations earlier this year.

World Business Watch: Dieselgate costs Mitsubishi $29.7 million penalty in Germany

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccinations</a> will not be made compulsory in the country.

"We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-embarking-on-dangerous-and-unethical-experiment-says-lancet-on-july-19-reopening-plans-397870">UK embarking on unethical experiment, says Lancet on reopening plans</a>

The German leader’s announcement came a day after France’s leader, Emmanuel Macron, announced that people who do not get vaccinated will face some restrictions in key areas. Talking about the same, Merkel has assured that Germany will not be following France and other countries.

However, she also urged locals to get vaccinated on their own as soon as possible. "The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-scientist-warns-against-mixing-and-matching-different-covid-vaccines-397774" hreflang="en">WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines</a>

Her statement has come a few months after the country started the vaccination programme earlier this year. The campaign saw a slow start but authorities managed to fully vaccinate 42.6 per cent of adults and 58.5 per cent of locals have been vaccinated at least with one dose.

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that coronavirus vaccinations will not be made compulsory in the country.

While local authorities are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has assured that coronavirus vaccinations will not be made compulsory in the country. "We have no intention of going down this road," Merkel said in a press conference. "There will be no compulsory vaccination." Also read | UK embarking on unethical experiment, says Lancet on reopening plans The German leader’s announcement came a day after France’s leader, Emmanuel Macron, announced that people who do not get vaccinated will face some restrictions in key areas. Talking about the same, Merkel has assured that Germany will not be following France and other countries. However, she also urged locals to get vaccinated on their own as soon as possible. "The more are vaccinated, the more free we can be again," she told locals. "We are at the beginning of the phase in which we are still promoting (vaccination), where we have more vaccines than we have people who want to be vaccinated." Also read | WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines Her statement has come a few months after the country started the vaccination programme earlier this year. The campaign saw a slow start but authorities managed to fully vaccinate 42.6 per cent of adults and 58.5 per cent of locals have been vaccinated at least with one dose.

'Not going down this road': Merkel says vaccines not compulsory in Germany

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