Hong Kong government on Tuesday announced stringent restrictions amid shortage of vegetables due to truck drivers getting positive for coronavirus. The officials have limited the public gatherings from 4 to 2 people.

Vegetable prices soar as COVID affects supply chains in Hong Kong

Pet hamsters that were imported into Hong Kong carried the Delta variant of Coronavirus, sparking a local outbreak, a research study has claimed.

The research, posted January 28 as a preprint on The Lancet which is yet to be peer-reviewed, confirms the earlier fears that a pet shop was the source of COVID-19, which infected more than 50 people and led to the culling of over 2,000 hamsters.

The researchers from the Hong Kong University and government officials had conducted a genomic analysis of viral samples from the rodents to confirm hamster-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

A 23-year-old pet store worker was found to be infected with the Delta variant, which led health officials to determine the possibility of Covid transmission, as the city reportedly hadn’t reported Delta cases since October 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-cull-thousands-of-hamsters-after-finding-traces-of-animal-to-human-covid-transmission-445851">Hong Kong to cull thousands of hamsters after finding traces of animal-to-human Covid transmission</a>

They detected SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in 15 of 28 Syrian hamsters, but in none of the dwarf hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas or mice, British science journal The Nature reported.

The researchers then analysed genomic sequences of samples collected from 12 hamsters and the first 3 infected people, including the pet-shop worker and a visitor to the shop.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-allows-hamster-pet-stores-to-resume-business-after-covid-19-cull-448959">Hong Kong allows hamster pet stores to resume business after COVID-19 cull</a>

All of the samples contained a variant of Delta that had not previously been detected in Hong Kong and probably originated from the same source, the study concluded.

“The viral genomes obtained from hamsters are phylogenetically related with some sequence heterogeneity and phylogenetic dating suggest infection in these hamsters occurred around 21 November 2021. Two separate transmission events to humans are documented, one leading to onward household spread,” the study said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pet hamsters that were imported into Hong Kong carried the Delta variant of Coronavirus, sparking a local outbreak, a research study has claimed. The research, posted January 28 as a preprint on The Lancet which is yet to be peer-reviewed, confirms the earlier fears that a pet shop was the source of COVID-19, which infected more than 50 people and led to the culling of over 2,000 hamsters.

Pet hamsters that were imported into Hong Kong carried the Delta variant of Coronavirus, sparking a local outbreak, a research study has claimed. The research, posted January 28 as a preprint on The Lancet which is yet to be peer-reviewed, confirms the earlier fears that a pet shop was the source of COVID-19, which infected more than 50 people and led to the culling of over 2,000 hamsters. The researchers from the Hong Kong University and government officials had conducted a genomic analysis of viral samples from the rodents to confirm hamster-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2. A 23-year-old pet store worker was found to be infected with the Delta variant, which led health officials to determine the possibility of Covid transmission, as the city reportedly hadn’t reported Delta cases since October 2021. Also read | Hong Kong to cull thousands of hamsters after finding traces of animal-to-human Covid transmission They detected SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in 15 of 28 Syrian hamsters, but in none of the dwarf hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas or mice, British science journal The Nature reported. The researchers then analysed genomic sequences of samples collected from 12 hamsters and the first 3 infected people, including the pet-shop worker and a visitor to the shop. Also read | Hong Kong allows hamster pet stores to resume business after COVID-19 cull All of the samples contained a variant of Delta that had not previously been detected in Hong Kong and probably originated from the same source, the study concluded. “The viral genomes obtained from hamsters are phylogenetically related with some sequence heterogeneity and phylogenetic dating suggest infection in these hamsters occurred around 21 November 2021. Two separate transmission events to humans are documented, one leading to onward household spread,” the study said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong outbreak caused due to Covid transmission from hamsters, says study

Hong Kong has announced strict new coronavirus restrictions as authorities put fresh limits on private gatherings. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has announced ban on private gatherings of more than two families. The measures are being taken to combat record new infections.

Shortage of vegetables has added to the misery of citizens as truck drivers found positive for Covid were not allowed in the city from Chinese mainland.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-infections-in-hong-kong-reach-record-high-testing-capacity-to-ramp-up-451091">Covid infections in Hong Kong reach record high, testing capacity to ramp up</a>

The Asian financial hub reported a record 625 coronavirus cases on Tuesday, with cases likely to continue rising rapidly, authorities said. There were 2,600 infections over the past two weeks compared with just two in December.

Residents in the working-class Tsuen Wan district said they were frustrated by the spike in vegetable prices, and felt let down by the government.

"The price has gone up many times," said a resident with the family name Ngai, pointing to the cost of bean sprouts, which he said had increased approximately tenfold.

"Hong Kong people are having a hard time," he added.

Responding to the worrying trend, Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam said public gatherings would be limited to two people from four currently, while churches and hair salons would close from Thursday (February 10), joining a slew of venues already closed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong has announced strict new coronavirus restrictions as authorities put fresh limits on private gatherings. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has announced ban on private gatherings of more than two families.

Hong Kong has announced strict new coronavirus restrictions as authorities put fresh limits on private gatherings. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has announced ban on private gatherings of more than two families. The measures are being taken to combat record new infections. Shortage of vegetables has added to the misery of citizens as truck drivers found positive for Covid were not allowed in the city from Chinese mainland. Also Read | Covid infections in Hong Kong reach record high, testing capacity to ramp up The Asian financial hub reported a record 625 coronavirus cases on Tuesday, with cases likely to continue rising rapidly, authorities said. There were 2,600 infections over the past two weeks compared with just two in December. Residents in the working-class Tsuen Wan district said they were frustrated by the spike in vegetable prices, and felt let down by the government. "The price has gone up many times," said a resident with the family name Ngai, pointing to the cost of bean sprouts, which he said had increased approximately tenfold. "Hong Kong people are having a hard time," he added. Responding to the worrying trend, Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam said public gatherings would be limited to two people from four currently, while churches and hair salons would close from Thursday (February 10), joining a slew of venues already closed. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong restricts private gatherings to combat Covid

China is tightening its grip in Macao with the planned election and national security measures in the area, including revision of its national security law, to prevent any political crisis like that in nearby Hong Kong from taking root in the semi-autonomous Chinese city, according to a media report.

The Macao government said it "will step up effort to improve governance, and optimize the city's legal provisions regarding national security and their respective implementation," in a December 16 statement on the publication of its 2021-25 five-year plan, reported Voice Of America (VOA).

Officials in the territory seek to "complete" the national security law, push forward enactment of terrorism and communications interception laws, strengthen enforcement of entry restrictions, and "improve" the election system, said the US publication citing the official plan document.The document also stated that the fresh improvement in the election system will ensure the city`s governance is safe and sound in the hands of patriots.

Under the plan, Macao, designated a "special administrative region" by Beijing, will "formulate positive and negative lists of swearing allegiance to the SAR and relevant qualification examination mechanisms to regulate the way legislators perform their duties," according to VOA.

Michael Cunningham, visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation's Asian Studies Center specialising in Chinese politics, said that the election changes are an official step to eliminate any possibility that the pro-establishment camp will lose control of Macao.&nbsp;

Stressing that the existing system is already very much stacked in favour of the pro-Beijing establishment, Cunningham said that the government wants to make sure it stays this way, regardless of how public opinion or political dynamics may shift in the coming years and decades.

Jason Buhi, assistant professor at the Barry University Law School and the author of The Constitutional History of Macau, said that the change skewing the election law toward the pro-establishment camp follows numerous steps in recent years.

Buhi believes that Beijing seeks to maintain a veneer of democracy in Macau while obscuring the realities of its tightly-held system through Byzantine administrative procedures capable of challenging the comprehension of trained political scientists.

China is tightening its grip in Macao with the planned election and national security measures in the area, including revision of its national security law, to prevent any political crisis like that in nearby Hong Kong from taking root in the semi-autonomous Chinese city, according to a media report.

China is tightening its grip in Macao with the planned election and national security measures in the area, including revision of its national security law, to prevent any political crisis like that in nearby Hong Kong from taking root in the semi-autonomous Chinese city, according to a media report. The Macao government said it "will step up effort to improve governance, and optimize the city's legal provisions regarding national security and their respective implementation," in a December 16 statement on the publication of its 2021-25 five-year plan, reported Voice Of America (VOA). Officials in the territory seek to "complete" the national security law, push forward enactment of terrorism and communications interception laws, strengthen enforcement of entry restrictions, and "improve" the election system, said the US publication citing the official plan document.The document also stated that the fresh improvement in the election system will ensure the city`s governance is safe and sound in the hands of patriots. Under the plan, Macao, designated a "special administrative region" by Beijing, will "formulate positive and negative lists of swearing allegiance to the SAR and relevant qualification examination mechanisms to regulate the way legislators perform their duties," according to VOA. Michael Cunningham, visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation's Asian Studies Center specialising in Chinese politics, said that the election changes are an official step to eliminate any possibility that the pro-establishment camp will lose control of Macao. Stressing that the existing system is already very much stacked in favour of the pro-Beijing establishment, Cunningham said that the government wants to make sure it stays this way, regardless of how public opinion or political dynamics may shift in the coming years and decades. Jason Buhi, assistant professor at the Barry University Law School and the author of The Constitutional History of Macau, said that the change skewing the election law toward the pro-establishment camp follows numerous steps in recent years. Buhi believes that Beijing seeks to maintain a veneer of democracy in Macau while obscuring the realities of its tightly-held system through Byzantine administrative procedures capable of challenging the comprehension of trained political scientists.

China tightens rules, restrictions in Macao to avoid Hong Kong-type unrest: Report

Hong Kong's "zero-Covid" policy was on the ropes Saturday as authorities announced a record number of new infections, sending officials scrambling to ramp up testing capacity and warning that a tightening of virus-control measures could be needed.

Like mainland China and much of East Asia, Hong Kong has long followed a strategy of fighting the virus through contact tracing, targeted lockdowns and lengthy quarantines.

And as much of the world has chosen to open up and live with Covid-19, the city has dug in its heels, with Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam insisting she was still committed to achieving "zero-Covid" even as infections mount.

On Saturday the city recorded 351 confirmed cases, its highest daily figure since the pandemic began, with 161 cases being either untraceable or pending investigation.

"Based on the current growth rate of cases, we estimate that (medical isolation) facilities will soon be unable to quarantine all patients," health chief Sophia Chan told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-bones-are-sticking-out-i-cry-every-day-russian-athlete-claims-food-at-beijing-winter-olympics-inedible-451017">Also read |&nbsp;'My bones are sticking out, I cry every day': Russian athlete claims food at Beijing Winter Olympics inedible</a>

Chan urged Hong Kongers to stay at home to slow the spread of the virus, though said that sewage analysis had revealed the virus had already been found in much of the city.

Health officials also said they would loosen rules that have seen thousands of close contacts of infected people detained in a government facility, suggesting they may be able to quarantine at home depending on their risk level.

This would free up hospital beds and take into account the fact that the Omicron variant -- which makes up the majority of Hong Kong's new cases -- causes milder symptoms, authorities added.

Last month authorities locked down thousands of residents of a public housing estate after a superspreader event, prompting criticism that the city's population density made home quarantine unfeasible.

Hong Kong's spike in cases came on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year holidays, during which the government warned against families gathering for festivities.&nbsp;

City leader Lam earlier said authorities could further tighten virus-control measures next week.

Hong Kong has recorded more than 15,000 confirmed coronavirus cases with 213 deaths.

Hong Kong's "zero-Covid" policy was on the ropes Saturday as authorities announced a record number of new infections, sending officials scrambling to ramp up testing capacity and warning that a tightening of virus-control measures could be needed.

Hong Kong's "zero-Covid" policy was on the ropes Saturday as authorities announced a record number of new infections, sending officials scrambling to ramp up testing capacity and warning that a tightening of virus-control measures could be needed. Like mainland China and much of East Asia, Hong Kong has long followed a strategy of fighting the virus through contact tracing, targeted lockdowns and lengthy quarantines. And as much of the world has chosen to open up and live with Covid-19, the city has dug in its heels, with Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam insisting she was still committed to achieving "zero-Covid" even as infections mount. On Saturday the city recorded 351 confirmed cases, its highest daily figure since the pandemic began, with 161 cases being either untraceable or pending investigation. "Based on the current growth rate of cases, we estimate that (medical isolation) facilities will soon be unable to quarantine all patients," health chief Sophia Chan told reporters. Also read | 'My bones are sticking out, I cry every day': Russian athlete claims food at Beijing Winter Olympics inedible Chan urged Hong Kongers to stay at home to slow the spread of the virus, though said that sewage analysis had revealed the virus had already been found in much of the city. Health officials also said they would loosen rules that have seen thousands of close contacts of infected people detained in a government facility, suggesting they may be able to quarantine at home depending on their risk level. This would free up hospital beds and take into account the fact that the Omicron variant -- which makes up the majority of Hong Kong's new cases -- causes milder symptoms, authorities added. Last month authorities locked down thousands of residents of a public housing estate after a superspreader event, prompting criticism that the city's population density made home quarantine unfeasible. Hong Kong's spike in cases came on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year holidays, during which the government warned against families gathering for festivities. City leader Lam earlier said authorities could further tighten virus-control measures next week. Hong Kong has recorded more than 15,000 confirmed coronavirus cases with 213 deaths.

Covid infections in Hong Kong reach record high, testing capacity to ramp up

Dozens of pet stores that sold hamsters in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;may resume business from Sunday,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's government said, after being shuttered last week and thousands culled over coronavirus fears.

Authorities enraged pet lovers with an order to cull more than 2,200 hamsters after tracing an outbreak to a worker in a shop where 11 hamsters tested positive.

Imported hamsters from Holland into the Chinese territory had been cited as the source. All hamster imports remain banned.

The city's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said in a statement late on Saturday that it collected 1,134 samples from animals other than hamsters including rabbits and chinchillas, which were all negative.

Five stores, including the "Little Boss" pet shop, which started the outbreak, remained shuttered as they had not yet "passed the virus test," the government said.

"All the other concerned pet shops on the other hand have been thoroughly disinfected and cleaned and the environmental swabs collected from these shops have all passed the COVID-19 virus test," it said.

The government said on Friday it would compensate pet shops trading in hamsters, offering a one-off payment of up to HK$30,000 (US$3,850).

People who had in recent weeks bought hamsters - popular apartment pets in the congested city - were ordered to surrender them for testing and what the government described as "humane dispatch".

Thousands of people offered to adopt unwanted hamsters amid a public outcry against the government and its pandemic advisers, which authorities called irrational.

A study published in The Lancet medical journal, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, said Hong&nbsp;Kong researchers have found evidence that pet hamsters can spread COVID-19 and linked the animals to human infections in the city.

However, the economic and psychological tolls from&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's hardline approach to curbing the virus are rapidly rising, residents say, with measures becoming more draconian than those first enforced in 2020.

Dozens of pet stores that sold hamsters in Hong Kong may resume business from Sunday, Hong Kong's government said, after being shuttered last week and thousands culled over coronavirus fears.

Dozens of pet stores that sold hamsters in Hong Kong may resume business from Sunday, Hong Kong's government said, after being shuttered last week and thousands culled over coronavirus fears. Authorities enraged pet lovers with an order to cull more than 2,200 hamsters after tracing an outbreak to a worker in a shop where 11 hamsters tested positive. Imported hamsters from Holland into the Chinese territory had been cited as the source. All hamster imports remain banned. The city's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said in a statement late on Saturday that it collected 1,134 samples from animals other than hamsters including rabbits and chinchillas, which were all negative. Five stores, including the "Little Boss" pet shop, which started the outbreak, remained shuttered as they had not yet "passed the virus test," the government said. "All the other concerned pet shops on the other hand have been thoroughly disinfected and cleaned and the environmental swabs collected from these shops have all passed the COVID-19 virus test," it said. The government said on Friday it would compensate pet shops trading in hamsters, offering a one-off payment of up to HK$30,000 (US$3,850). People who had in recent weeks bought hamsters - popular apartment pets in the congested city - were ordered to surrender them for testing and what the government described as "humane dispatch". Thousands of people offered to adopt unwanted hamsters amid a public outcry against the government and its pandemic advisers, which authorities called irrational. A study published in The Lancet medical journal, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, said Hong Kong researchers have found evidence that pet hamsters can spread COVID-19 and linked the animals to human infections in the city. However, the economic and psychological tolls from Hong Kong's hardline approach to curbing the virus are rapidly rising, residents say, with measures becoming more draconian than those first enforced in 2020.

Hong Kong allows hamster pet stores to resume business after COVID-19 cull

For much of 2021, Hong Kong had succeeded in controlling the spread of the COVID-19, but the highly transmissible Omicron variant has spoiled its record with 600 infections detected in January so far.

Hong Kong farmers burn unsold flowers as lockdown due to surging COVID cases ruin business

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam announced that the quarantine period will be reduced to 14 days, starting from February 5. Earlier, residents who were returning from more than 160 countries were asked to quarantine for 21 days in designated hotels.&nbsp;

More details are yet to be announced.

While speaking at a news briefing, Lam said, "It is not because of pressure from anybody. It's just because of science...that Omicron has a relatively short incubation period."

She further added that it is still unlikely to satisfy the business community.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-what-is-the-new-stealth-omicron-447976">Also read |&nbsp;Explainer: What is the new 'stealth Omicron'?</a>

Citywide restrictions would be extended until February 17, Lam said. Schools will continue with online classes and not resume face-to-face classes until February 21.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong's European Chamber of Commerce in a draft report said that it may not reopen until early 2024 because of its strict Covid policies.&nbsp;

This could further trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff, jeopardising the city's role as a financial hub, the report stated.&nbsp;

It mentioned that there is a very likely scenario that Hong Kong would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam announced that the quarantine period will be reduced to 14 days, starting from February 5. Earlier, residents who were returning from more than 160 countries were asked to quarantine for 21 days in designated hotels.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam announced that the quarantine period will be reduced to 14 days, starting from February 5. Earlier, residents who were returning from more than 160 countries were asked to quarantine for 21 days in designated hotels. More details are yet to be announced. While speaking at a news briefing, Lam said, "It is not because of pressure from anybody. It's just because of science...that Omicron has a relatively short incubation period." She further added that it is still unlikely to satisfy the business community. Also read | Explainer: What is the new 'stealth Omicron'? Citywide restrictions would be extended until February 17, Lam said. Schools will continue with online classes and not resume face-to-face classes until February 21. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's European Chamber of Commerce in a draft report said that it may not reopen until early 2024 because of its strict Covid policies. This could further trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff, jeopardising the city's role as a financial hub, the report stated. It mentioned that there is a very likely scenario that Hong Kong would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong to reduce quarantine period for arrivals to 14 days

Hong Kong may not reopen until early 2024 because of its strict COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise the city's role as a financial hub, its European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report.

The limited effectiveness of locally developed vaccines has forced mainland China to maintain tight restrictions on travel, the chamber said in the draft, which was reviewed by Reuters but has not been made public.

The European Chamber of Commerce declined to comment on the report.

The most likely scenario for Hong Kong would be that it would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population, which could take until late 2023 or early 2024, it said.

In that case, the chamber said there was a risk of a "cascade effect" of firms leaving the Asian financial hub.

"We anticipate an exodus of foreigners, probably the largest that Hong Kong has ever seen, and one of the largest in absolute terms from any city in the region in recent history," it said.

While Hong Kong succeeded in keeping the virus under control for much of 2021, it has become one of the world’s most isolated places because of its travel restrictions and intermittent lockdowns that have accelerated a brain drain from the former British colony.

Hong Kong has seen a surge of infections this month, which authorities have struggled to control. Health authorities reported 107 new cases on Wednesday, the fourth consecutive day of triple digit infections.

Given the scenario, multinational firms would increasingly relocate China-focused teams to the mainland or shift their Asian regional teams to Singapore or Seoul, the chamber said.

Hong Kong could lose its appeal as an international business hub as well as its potential to contribute to China's economy.

The departure of international talent could also undermine the city's "potential to maintain world class universities", it said.

FASTER VACCINES, SHORTER QUARANTINE

Unlike the mainland, Hong Kong depends on business travellers and imported goods.

Its role as one of the world’s main transhipment and passenger hubs has been curtailed by tough flight restrictions, which mean very few people are allowed to land and hardly anyone is allowed to transit.

In contrast, the rival financial hub of Singapore has eased its coronavirus curbs including border controls.

Only about 70% of people in Hong Kong have been double-vaccinated compared with 91% of Singapore's eligible population.

Most of Hong Kong's elderly people have not been vaccinated.

The chamber outlined other scenarios of "average likelihood" including the possibility of an uncontrolled outbreak in the mainland leading to Hong Kong sealing its boundary with China and reopening with the rest of the world.

Another scenario was an uncontrolled outbreak in Hong Kong, which would make any additional restrictions meaningless. This could cause up to 20,000 deaths among the elderly.

The chamber made recommendations to the government including accelerating vaccinations and shortening quarantine from 21 days to 7 to 14 days, which would please the international business community.

Foreign businesses should assume that Hong Kong would very likely be "semi-closed for international travel in the coming 12-36 months". Talent, and holding on to it, would be "a precious commodity", it said.

Hong Kong may not reopen until early 2024 because of its strict COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise the city's role as a financial hub, its European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report.

Hong Kong may not reopen until early 2024 because of its strict COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise the city's role as a financial hub, its European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report. The limited effectiveness of locally developed vaccines has forced mainland China to maintain tight restrictions on travel, the chamber said in the draft, which was reviewed by Reuters but has not been made public. The European Chamber of Commerce declined to comment on the report. The most likely scenario for Hong Kong would be that it would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population, which could take until late 2023 or early 2024, it said. In that case, the chamber said there was a risk of a "cascade effect" of firms leaving the Asian financial hub. "We anticipate an exodus of foreigners, probably the largest that Hong Kong has ever seen, and one of the largest in absolute terms from any city in the region in recent history," it said. While Hong Kong succeeded in keeping the virus under control for much of 2021, it has become one of the world’s most isolated places because of its travel restrictions and intermittent lockdowns that have accelerated a brain drain from the former British colony. Hong Kong has seen a surge of infections this month, which authorities have struggled to control. Health authorities reported 107 new cases on Wednesday, the fourth consecutive day of triple digit infections. Given the scenario, multinational firms would increasingly relocate China-focused teams to the mainland or shift their Asian regional teams to Singapore or Seoul, the chamber said. Hong Kong could lose its appeal as an international business hub as well as its potential to contribute to China's economy. The departure of international talent could also undermine the city's "potential to maintain world class universities", it said. FASTER VACCINES, SHORTER QUARANTINE Unlike the mainland, Hong Kong depends on business travellers and imported goods. Its role as one of the world’s main transhipment and passenger hubs has been curtailed by tough flight restrictions, which mean very few people are allowed to land and hardly anyone is allowed to transit. In contrast, the rival financial hub of Singapore has eased its coronavirus curbs including border controls. Only about 70% of people in Hong Kong have been double-vaccinated compared with 91% of Singapore's eligible population. Most of Hong Kong's elderly people have not been vaccinated. The chamber outlined other scenarios of "average likelihood" including the possibility of an uncontrolled outbreak in the mainland leading to Hong Kong sealing its boundary with China and reopening with the rest of the world. Another scenario was an uncontrolled outbreak in Hong Kong, which would make any additional restrictions meaningless. This could cause up to 20,000 deaths among the elderly. The chamber made recommendations to the government including accelerating vaccinations and shortening quarantine from 21 days to 7 to 14 days, which would please the international business community. Foreign businesses should assume that Hong Kong would very likely be "semi-closed for international travel in the coming 12-36 months". Talent, and holding on to it, would be "a precious commodity", it said.

Hong Kong risks exodus over extended COVID-19 isolation, Euro chamber says

Hong Kong may only reopen in early 2024 because of its stringent COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise its role as a financial hub, the city's European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report.

The limited effectiveness of locally developed vaccines is forcing mainland China to maintain tight restrictions on travel, the chamber said in the draft, which was reviewed by Reuters but has not been made public.

The European Chamber of Commerce declined to comment on the report.

The most likely scenario for Hong Kong would be that it would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population, which could take until late 2023 or early 2024, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-winter-olympics-over-25-of-us-diplomats-may-leave-china-find-out-why-447604" hreflang="en">Ahead of Winter Olympics, over 25% of US diplomats may leave China. Find out why</a>

If that was the case, the chamber said there was a risk of a "cascade effect" of firms leaving the Asian financial hub.

"We anticipate an exodus of foreigners, probably the largest than Hong Kong has ever seen, and one of the largest in absolute terms from any city in the region in recent history," it said.

While Hong Kong has succeeded in keeping the virus under control for much of 2021, it has become one of the world’s most isolated places because of its travel restrictions and intermittent lockdowns that have accelerated a brain drain from the former British colony.

Hong Kong saw a surge of infections in January, which authorities have struggled to control.

Given the scenario, multinational firms would increasingly relocate China-focused teams to the mainland or shift their Asian regional teams to Singapore or Seoul, the chamber said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-what-it-is-how-it-functions-and-does-it-work-442865">Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work?</a>

Hong Kong could lose its appeal as an international business hub as well as its potential to contribute to China's economy.

The departure of international talent could also undermine the city's "potential to maintain world class universities", it said.

Faster vaccines, Shorter quarantine

Unlike the mainland, Hong Kong is dependent on business travellers and imported goods.

Its role as one of the world’s main transhipment and passenger hubs has been drastically curtailed by tough flight restrictions, which mean very few people are allowed to land and hardly anyone is allowed to transit.

In contrast, the rival financial hub of Singapore has eased its coronavirus curbs including border controls.

Only about 70% of people in Hong Kong have been double-vaccinated compared with 91% of Singapore's eligible population.

Most of Hong Kong's elderly people have not been vaccinated.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A new infection is spreading from Hong Kong's wet markets

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-new-infection-is-spreading-from-hong-kongs-wet-markets-422778/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The chamber outlined other scenarios of "average likelihood" including the possibility of an uncontrolled outbreak in the mainland leading to Hong Kong sealing its boundary with China and reopening with the rest of the world.

Another scenario was an uncontrolled outbreak in Hong Kong, which would make any additional restrictions meaningless. This could cause up to 20,000 deaths among the elderly.

The chamber made recommendations to the government including accelerating vaccinations and shortening quarantine from 21 days to 7 to 14 days, which would please the international business community.

Foreign businesses should assume that Hong Kong would very likely be "semi-closed for international travel in the coming 12-36 months". Talent, and holding on to it, would be "a precious commodity", it said.

Hong Kong may only reopen in early 2024 because of its stringent COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise its role as a financial hub, the city's European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report.

Hong Kong may only reopen in early 2024 because of its stringent COVID-19 policies, which could trigger an exodus of foreign firms and staff and jeopardise its role as a financial hub, the city's European Chamber of Commerce said in a draft report. The limited effectiveness of locally developed vaccines is forcing mainland China to maintain tight restrictions on travel, the chamber said in the draft, which was reviewed by Reuters but has not been made public. The European Chamber of Commerce declined to comment on the report. The most likely scenario for Hong Kong would be that it would not reopen until China rolls out its mRNA vaccine across its 1.4 billion population, which could take until late 2023 or early 2024, it said. Also read | Ahead of Winter Olympics, over 25% of US diplomats may leave China. Find out why If that was the case, the chamber said there was a risk of a "cascade effect" of firms leaving the Asian financial hub. "We anticipate an exodus of foreigners, probably the largest than Hong Kong has ever seen, and one of the largest in absolute terms from any city in the region in recent history," it said. While Hong Kong has succeeded in keeping the virus under control for much of 2021, it has become one of the world’s most isolated places because of its travel restrictions and intermittent lockdowns that have accelerated a brain drain from the former British colony. Hong Kong saw a surge of infections in January, which authorities have struggled to control. Given the scenario, multinational firms would increasingly relocate China-focused teams to the mainland or shift their Asian regional teams to Singapore or Seoul, the chamber said. Also read | Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work? Hong Kong could lose its appeal as an international business hub as well as its potential to contribute to China's economy. The departure of international talent could also undermine the city's "potential to maintain world class universities", it said. Faster vaccines, Shorter quarantine Unlike the mainland, Hong Kong is dependent on business travellers and imported goods. Its role as one of the world’s main transhipment and passenger hubs has been drastically curtailed by tough flight restrictions, which mean very few people are allowed to land and hardly anyone is allowed to transit. In contrast, the rival financial hub of Singapore has eased its coronavirus curbs including border controls. Only about 70% of people in Hong Kong have been double-vaccinated compared with 91% of Singapore's eligible population. Most of Hong Kong's elderly people have not been vaccinated. Watch | Gravitas: A new infection is spreading from Hong Kong's wet markets The chamber outlined other scenarios of "average likelihood" including the possibility of an uncontrolled outbreak in the mainland leading to Hong Kong sealing its boundary with China and reopening with the rest of the world. Another scenario was an uncontrolled outbreak in Hong Kong, which would make any additional restrictions meaningless. This could cause up to 20,000 deaths among the elderly. The chamber made recommendations to the government including accelerating vaccinations and shortening quarantine from 21 days to 7 to 14 days, which would please the international business community. Foreign businesses should assume that Hong Kong would very likely be "semi-closed for international travel in the coming 12-36 months". Talent, and holding on to it, would be "a precious commodity", it said.

Hong Kong may maintain COVID isolation until 2024, risking exodus - Euro chamber

Hong Kong has culled over 2,000 hamsters in an attempt to contain a Coronavirus outbreak. Despite a public outcry against the crackdown, authorities have urged people to continue to hand over their pets.

Despite public outcry against hamster crackdown Hong Kong urges people to surrender their pets

Speaking at a meeting with health officials, Carrie Lam said that there was only a slim chance the city-wide restrictions to be lifted on the 4th of February.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam warns of worsening COVID outbreak

Defending mass culling of hamsters, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said that Covid infections could be growing exponentially due to an outbreak in pet hamsters. A surge of Delta cases had been linked to a pet shop worker. The 23-year-old woman who worked at the Little Boss pet shop in Causeway Bay may have contracted the disease from the hamsters who were found to be Covid positive.

As a result, Hong Kong decided to kill 2,000 hamsters and temporarily suspend imports of small animals after finding evidence for the first time traces of possible animal-to-human transmission of the Covid virus in the city.&nbsp;

"We are worried that the exponential growth of cases that we have seen in other parts of the world is now happening in Kwai Chung," Lam said. She further urged people to avoid gatherings ahead of Lunar New Year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-cull-thousands-of-hamsters-after-finding-traces-of-animal-to-human-covid-transmission-445851">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong to cull thousands of hamsters after finding traces of animal-to-human Covid transmission</a>

Earlier this week, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Dr Leung Siu-fai announced that all owners who had bought hamsters since December 22 would have to turn over the animals.&nbsp;

“We have assessed that the risks of these batches are relatively high and therefore made the decision based on public health needs,” SCMP quoted Leung as saying.

“We urge all pet owners to observe strict hygiene when handling their pets and cages. Do not kiss them or abandon them on the streets,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Defending mass culling of hamsters, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said that Covid infections could be growing exponentially due to an outbreak in pet hamsters. A surge of Delta cases had been linked to a pet shop worker.

Defending mass culling of hamsters, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said that Covid infections could be growing exponentially due to an outbreak in pet hamsters. A surge of Delta cases had been linked to a pet shop worker. The 23-year-old woman who worked at the Little Boss pet shop in Causeway Bay may have contracted the disease from the hamsters who were found to be Covid positive. As a result, Hong Kong decided to kill 2,000 hamsters and temporarily suspend imports of small animals after finding evidence for the first time traces of possible animal-to-human transmission of the Covid virus in the city. "We are worried that the exponential growth of cases that we have seen in other parts of the world is now happening in Kwai Chung," Lam said. She further urged people to avoid gatherings ahead of Lunar New Year. Also read | Hong Kong to cull thousands of hamsters after finding traces of animal-to-human Covid transmission Earlier this week, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Dr Leung Siu-fai announced that all owners who had bought hamsters since December 22 would have to turn over the animals. “We have assessed that the risks of these batches are relatively high and therefore made the decision based on public health needs,” SCMP quoted Leung as saying. “We urge all pet owners to observe strict hygiene when handling their pets and cages. Do not kiss them or abandon them on the streets,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'We are worried': Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam defends hamster culling

Hong Kong is culling 2000 hamsters after traces of the Wuhan Virus were found in 11 of them. Residents are being forced to surrender their pets; Pet shops are being raided. Hamsters testing negative are being put to sleep too. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Hong Kong to cull 2000 hamsters

Hong Kong is culling 2000 hamsters after traces of the COVID were found in 11 of them. Residents are being forced to surrender their pets; Pet shops are being raided. Hamsters testing negative are being put to sleep too.

Hong Kong is culling scores of hamsters after races of the COVID-19 were found in 11 of them

In Hong Kong 11 small rodents tested positive for covid-19 and in a bid to stop the spread of the virus authorities in in the countries have now ordered pet shops and owners to hand over close to 2000 hamsters for culling, they've also suspended the import of small animals.

11 hamsters tested positive for Coronavirus in Hong Kong, 2000 hamsters to be culled

Amidst concerns that the relaxation of virus rules can once again spark a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections, Hong Kong has now decided to again tighten its virus rules to prevent further transmission of the virus.

Hong Kong: New COVID-19 curbs ahead of lunar New Year to prevent further transmission of the virus

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia.

The UK said that it would supply long-range missiles that Ukraine requested to fight the Russian invasion.

"The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations," Zelensky said on Twitter hours before landing in London.

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Today – London. The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations.
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1657990871541751819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> arrives in the UK for discussions with Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a> on Ukraine’s ongoing military resistance to Putin’s brutal invasion. <a href="https://t.co/Qh2tfpFDZE">pic.twitter.com/Qh2tfpFDZE</a>
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/10DowningStreet/status/1658037524353122305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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For the past few days, the Ukrainian leader&nbsp;has been meeting several Western leaders in order to jack up support as his country gears up for a counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces.

A statement issued by No 10, Downing Street on Monday said Sunak would reiterate the importance of providing a full package of support to Ukraine during the talks at Chequers, the prime minister's official country residence, reports BBC.

"We must not let them [Ukraine] down," the prime minister said, adding it was "a crucial moment" in Ukraine's war effort.

"The front lines of Putin's war of aggression may be in Ukraine but the faultlines stretch all over the world. It is in all our interest to ensure Ukraine succeeds and Putin's barbarism is not rewarded," it said.

The meeting with Sunak comes hours after Zelensky’s Paris visit, where he met President Emanuel Macron to discuss Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs.

<h2>France to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv&nbsp;</h2>

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France agreed to provide dozens more light tanks and armoured vehicles for Ukraine's army, together with training for the soldiers using them.

"In the coming weeks, France will train and equip several battalions with tens of armoured vehicles and light tanks including AMX-10RC," their joint statement stated.

Paris would also focus its efforts "in supporting Ukraine's air defence capacities in order to defend its population against Russian strikes".&nbsp;

A day before landing in Paris, Zelensky also had a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who promised €2.7billion ($2.9bn) worth of weapons.

It includes advanced German Leopard tanks and more anti-aircraft systems to defend Ukraine from almost daily deadly Russian missile and drone attacks.

Zelensky described the new tranche as "the largest since the beginning of the full-scale aggression" by Russia in February 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in the UK on Monday (May 15) in a ‘surprise visit’ to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for “substantive negotiations” to secure more military support for his country’s war effort against Russia. The UK said that it would supply long-range missiles that Ukraine requested to fight the Russian invasion. "The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations," Zelensky said on Twitter hours before landing in London. Today – London. The UK is a leader when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 15, 2023 × President @ZelenskyyUa arrives in the UK for discussions with Prime Minister @RishiSunak on Ukraine’s ongoing military resistance to Putin’s brutal invasion. pic.twitter.com/Qh2tfpFDZE — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) May 15, 2023 × For the past few days, the Ukrainian leader has been meeting several Western leaders in order to jack up support as his country gears up for a counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. A statement issued by No 10, Downing Street on Monday said Sunak would reiterate the importance of providing a full package of support to Ukraine during the talks at Chequers, the prime minister's official country residence, reports BBC. "We must not let them [Ukraine] down," the prime minister said, adding it was "a crucial moment" in Ukraine's war effort. "The front lines of Putin's war of aggression may be in Ukraine but the faultlines stretch all over the world. It is in all our interest to ensure Ukraine succeeds and Putin's barbarism is not rewarded," it said. The meeting with Sunak comes hours after Zelensky’s Paris visit, where he met President Emanuel Macron to discuss Ukraine's military and humanitarian needs. France to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv France agreed to provide dozens more light tanks and armoured vehicles for Ukraine's army, together with training for the soldiers using them. "In the coming weeks, France will train and equip several battalions with tens of armoured vehicles and light tanks including AMX-10RC," their joint statement stated. Paris would also focus its efforts "in supporting Ukraine's air defence capacities in order to defend its population against Russian strikes". A day before landing in Paris, Zelensky also had a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who promised €2.7billion ($2.9bn) worth of weapons. It includes advanced German Leopard tanks and more anti-aircraft systems to defend Ukraine from almost daily deadly Russian missile and drone attacks. Zelensky described the new tranche as "the largest since the beginning of the full-scale aggression" by Russia in February 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In a bid to showcase 'patriotism', Hong Kong police to switch to Chinese-style march drill

Hong Kong will create a host of new national security crimes, the city's leader said Wednesday, as she presided over the first session of a new "patriots only" legislature scrubbed of political opposition.

The legislation will add to a sweeping national security law imposed directly on Hong Kong by Beijing that has transformed the international finance hub and empowered authorities to carry out a widespread crackdown on dissent.

The current national security law defines four crimes -- secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces -- and offenders can face up to life in prison.

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But on Wednesday, Chief Executive Carrie Lam confirmed that her government would create new "local legislation" that meets Article 23 of Hong Kong's mini-constitution, which calls for the city to pass its own national security laws.

"Article 23 legislative work is part of Hong Kong's constitutional duty and cannot be further delayed," Lam told lawmakers, adding that the government aimed to publish a draft by June.

Lam did not outline what the new crimes would be.

But the specific offences Article 23 lists are treason, secession, sedition, subversion and theft of state secrets.&nbsp;

It also includes prohibiting any foreign political organisations from conducting activities in Hong Kong or local political organisations establishing ties with similar overseas bodies.

No opposition

China imposed its own security law after huge and sometimes violent democracy protests swept Hong Kong in 2019, saying it was needed to restore order and would only affect a "tiny minority".

It has begun transforming Hong Kong into a mirror of the authoritarian mainland, criminalising much dissent, setting new legal precedents and sparking sanctions by Western governments who argue it has trashed the city's freedoms and autonomy.

It also empowered China's mainland security apparatus to operate openly in the city, and allows the government to freeze the assets of any company or individual deemed to be a national security threat.

Most of Hong Kong's best-known democracy activists are in jail, have quit politics or have fled overseas.

The vast majority of national security charges revolve around people holding or vocalising political views now deemed illegal.

In 2003, an attempt by Hong Kong's government to pass its own national security law sparked large protests and was eventually aborted -- which is why Beijing imposed a law directly on the city in 2020.

It is unlikely the city government will face much opposition in passing the new law.

Under new "patriots only" political rules also imposed by Beijing, the city's legislature has been cleared of any opposition.

All lawmakers are now vetted for political loyalty before standing, and only 20 seats are directly elected. Just one of the 90 vetted legislators who were selected in polls last month describes himself as "non-establishment".

Prevent and punish

A small committee of Beijing loyalists will choose Hong Kong's next leader in March, and Lam has not yet said whether she will stand for a second term.

Her first term ends in June.

On Wednesday, Lam said it would be difficult for the new national security bill to be completed by the end of her first term, meaning the legislation will probably fall to her successor.

Addressing a chamber whose walls now bear China's red-and-gold national emblem -- placed above the city's official seal -- Lam praised Beijing's security law.

"Its function now is to act as an anchor to guarantee stability, to let people know there are consequences," she told lawmakers, adding the new legislation would be similarly "well written".

"The law requires us to prevent, curb and punish crimes. If prevention is done well, we can punish less."&nbsp;

Hong Kong will create a host of new national security crimes, the city's leader said Wednesday, as she presided over the first session of a new "patriots only" legislature scrubbed of political opposition.

Hong Kong will create a host of new national security crimes, the city's leader said Wednesday, as she presided over the first session of a new "patriots only" legislature scrubbed of political opposition. The legislation will add to a sweeping national security law imposed directly on Hong Kong by Beijing that has transformed the international finance hub and empowered authorities to carry out a widespread crackdown on dissent. The current national security law defines four crimes -- secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces -- and offenders can face up to life in prison. × But on Wednesday, Chief Executive Carrie Lam confirmed that her government would create new "local legislation" that meets Article 23 of Hong Kong's mini-constitution, which calls for the city to pass its own national security laws. "Article 23 legislative work is part of Hong Kong's constitutional duty and cannot be further delayed," Lam told lawmakers, adding that the government aimed to publish a draft by June. Lam did not outline what the new crimes would be. But the specific offences Article 23 lists are treason, secession, sedition, subversion and theft of state secrets. It also includes prohibiting any foreign political organisations from conducting activities in Hong Kong or local political organisations establishing ties with similar overseas bodies. No opposition China imposed its own security law after huge and sometimes violent democracy protests swept Hong Kong in 2019, saying it was needed to restore order and would only affect a "tiny minority". It has begun transforming Hong Kong into a mirror of the authoritarian mainland, criminalising much dissent, setting new legal precedents and sparking sanctions by Western governments who argue it has trashed the city's freedoms and autonomy. It also empowered China's mainland security apparatus to operate openly in the city, and allows the government to freeze the assets of any company or individual deemed to be a national security threat. Most of Hong Kong's best-known democracy activists are in jail, have quit politics or have fled overseas. The vast majority of national security charges revolve around people holding or vocalising political views now deemed illegal. In 2003, an attempt by Hong Kong's government to pass its own national security law sparked large protests and was eventually aborted -- which is why Beijing imposed a law directly on the city in 2020. It is unlikely the city government will face much opposition in passing the new law. Under new "patriots only" political rules also imposed by Beijing, the city's legislature has been cleared of any opposition. All lawmakers are now vetted for political loyalty before standing, and only 20 seats are directly elected. Just one of the 90 vetted legislators who were selected in polls last month describes himself as "non-establishment". Prevent and punish A small committee of Beijing loyalists will choose Hong Kong's next leader in March, and Lam has not yet said whether she will stand for a second term. Her first term ends in June. On Wednesday, Lam said it would be difficult for the new national security bill to be completed by the end of her first term, meaning the legislation will probably fall to her successor. Addressing a chamber whose walls now bear China's red-and-gold national emblem -- placed above the city's official seal -- Lam praised Beijing's security law. "Its function now is to act as an anchor to guarantee stability, to let people know there are consequences," she told lawmakers, adding the new legislation would be similarly "well written". "The law requires us to prevent, curb and punish crimes. If prevention is done well, we can punish less."

Hong Kong to create more national security crimes

Hong Kong has suspended kindergarten and primary schools until next month. All in-person classes and playgrounds will remain shut until the beginning of the lunar new year break, after which the city administration will start the vaccination program for children.

Hong Kong suspends in-person kindergarten & primary school classes until vaccination program starts

Hong Kong has suspended kindergarten and primary schools until next month to slow the spread of Covid-19. All in-person classes and playgrounds will remain shut until the beginning of the Lunar New Year break after which the city administration will start its vaccination program for children above the age of five.

Hong Kong: Kindergarten and primary schools shut until next month to slow Covid-19 spread

Former paramilitary chief of the Xinjiang Peng Jingtang will lead Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Hong Kong.

Citing PLA's spokesman, state broadcaster CCTV reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping has signed the order of Peng's appointment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-hong-kong-begins-voting-on-chinas-blueprint-locals-skip-undemocratic-process-438096">Also read |&nbsp;As Hong Kong begins voting on China's blueprint, locals skip 'undemocratic' process</a>

Peng has vowed to resolutely defend national sovereignty and security interests, follow the command of the ruling Communist Party and Xi Jinping.

Peng will replace Chen Daoxiang, who is reaching the age of retirement. PLA soldiers have become more visible in Hong Kong under Chen's leadership. They cleared debris following a clash between demonstrators and police during the 2019 protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-grants-bail-to-activist-charged-under-security-law-media-393112">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong court grants bail to activist charged under security law: Media</a>

Peng was previously the deputy chief of staff of China's paramilitary police force, the People's Armed Police.&nbsp;

He had also served as the chief of staff of the Armed Police Force in Xinjiang. Currently, he holds the rank of major general.

China has been accused by Washington of genocide in Xinjiang, a far-western region where human rights campaigners say authorities have detained vast numbers of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in camps and are stamping out their culture.

After passing the Hong Kong national security law, Beijing has been trying to remould the business hub in its own authoritarian image.

The PLA maintains a garrison in Hong Kong, but its activities are largely low-profile.

Under the city's mini-constitution, Hong Kong has its own police force but China has maintained military barracks there since the 1997 handover when colonial Britain's own forces left. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former paramilitary chief of the Xinjiang Peng Jingtang will lead Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Hong Kong. Citing PLA's spokesman, state broadcaster CCTV reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping has signed the order of Peng's appointment.

Former paramilitary chief of the Xinjiang Peng Jingtang will lead Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Hong Kong. Citing PLA's spokesman, state broadcaster CCTV reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping has signed the order of Peng's appointment. Also read | As Hong Kong begins voting on China's blueprint, locals skip 'undemocratic' process Peng has vowed to resolutely defend national sovereignty and security interests, follow the command of the ruling Communist Party and Xi Jinping. Peng will replace Chen Daoxiang, who is reaching the age of retirement. PLA soldiers have become more visible in Hong Kong under Chen's leadership. They cleared debris following a clash between demonstrators and police during the 2019 protests. Also read | Hong Kong court grants bail to activist charged under security law: Media Peng was previously the deputy chief of staff of China's paramilitary police force, the People's Armed Police. He had also served as the chief of staff of the Armed Police Force in Xinjiang. Currently, he holds the rank of major general. China has been accused by Washington of genocide in Xinjiang, a far-western region where human rights campaigners say authorities have detained vast numbers of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in camps and are stamping out their culture. After passing the Hong Kong national security law, Beijing has been trying to remould the business hub in its own authoritarian image. The PLA maintains a garrison in Hong Kong, but its activities are largely low-profile. Under the city's mini-constitution, Hong Kong has its own police force but China has maintained military barracks there since the 1997 handover when colonial Britain's own forces left. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Xinjiang paramilitary chief to lead Chinese People’s Liberation Army in Hong Kong

Hong Kong announced a series of strict pandemic control measures Wednesday, including suspending flights from the United States and seven other countries, as it scrambled to control an incipient omicron outbreak.

The new measures will deepen the city’s isolation from the outside world and mark a return to the tough restrictions from the early days of the pandemic. Hong Kong has largely brought the coronavirus under control, but the arrival of omicron threatens to set off the city’s fifth wave of the pandemic.

“Given the very dire situation of the pandemic, we have to grasp this critical moment,” Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, said at a news conference announcing the new rules.

A day earlier, Lam had said that no new social-distancing measures were expected. But the spread of omicron, including the infection of a person with no clear connections to the city’s first omicron cluster, evidently forced a change.

“We have to contain the pandemic to make sure there will not be a major outbreak in the community again,” she said. “We are racing with omicron, a highly transmissible variant.”

The restrictions will make it even harder to enter Hong Kong, which already has one of the world’s longest quarantines — up to three weeks. Under the new rules, flights will be temporarily banned from Australia, Britain, Canada, France, India, Pakistan, the Philippines and United States for two weeks starting on Saturday. People who have recently been in those countries will also be barred from traveling by other routes.

Large public events will be canceled, and several public venues — including bars, gyms and karaoke parlors — will be closed. Visits to hospitals and nursing homes will also be banned for two weeks. Dining in restaurants will be banned after 6 p.m. But the government decided not to stop in-person teaching or require government officials to work from home.

Hong Kong has had a growing number of imported cases of the omicron variant, with 133 as of Tuesday.

“If this continues, there will be tremendous strain on our quarantine and health care facilities,” said Dr. Ronald Lam, Hong Kong’s director of health.

The omicron outbreak in the city has been traced to a Cathay Pacific flight attendant who ignored quarantine requirements after returning from the United States. He dined at the Moon Palace restaurant in the upscale Fashion Walk shopping mall on Dec. 27, infecting his father and at least one other person.

Lam said the measures were most likely “the most decisive, rapid, targeted and comprehensive for the past two years so that we can cut the transmission chains as soon as possible.”

The restrictions came as Hong Kong health authorities on Wednesday ordered a Royal Caribbean cruise ship to return to port early as officials searched for the contacts of a COVID-19 patient.

Nine people who boarded the ship, the Spectrum of the Seas, on Jan. 2 had come into contact with the patient, who did not board the ship, the government said in a statement. The people were told to quarantine as soon as they were identified as contacts, though they preliminarily tested negative. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong announced a series of strict pandemic control measures Wednesday, including suspending flights from the United States and seven other countries, as it scrambled to control an incipient omicron outbreak.

Hong Kong announced a series of strict pandemic control measures Wednesday, including suspending flights from the United States and seven other countries, as it scrambled to control an incipient omicron outbreak. The new measures will deepen the city’s isolation from the outside world and mark a return to the tough restrictions from the early days of the pandemic. Hong Kong has largely brought the coronavirus under control, but the arrival of omicron threatens to set off the city’s fifth wave of the pandemic. “Given the very dire situation of the pandemic, we have to grasp this critical moment,” Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, said at a news conference announcing the new rules. A day earlier, Lam had said that no new social-distancing measures were expected. But the spread of omicron, including the infection of a person with no clear connections to the city’s first omicron cluster, evidently forced a change. “We have to contain the pandemic to make sure there will not be a major outbreak in the community again,” she said. “We are racing with omicron, a highly transmissible variant.” The restrictions will make it even harder to enter Hong Kong, which already has one of the world’s longest quarantines — up to three weeks. Under the new rules, flights will be temporarily banned from Australia, Britain, Canada, France, India, Pakistan, the Philippines and United States for two weeks starting on Saturday. People who have recently been in those countries will also be barred from traveling by other routes. Large public events will be canceled, and several public venues — including bars, gyms and karaoke parlors — will be closed. Visits to hospitals and nursing homes will also be banned for two weeks. Dining in restaurants will be banned after 6 p.m. But the government decided not to stop in-person teaching or require government officials to work from home. Hong Kong has had a growing number of imported cases of the omicron variant, with 133 as of Tuesday. “If this continues, there will be tremendous strain on our quarantine and health care facilities,” said Dr. Ronald Lam, Hong Kong’s director of health. The omicron outbreak in the city has been traced to a Cathay Pacific flight attendant who ignored quarantine requirements after returning from the United States. He dined at the Moon Palace restaurant in the upscale Fashion Walk shopping mall on Dec. 27, infecting his father and at least one other person. Lam said the measures were most likely “the most decisive, rapid, targeted and comprehensive for the past two years so that we can cut the transmission chains as soon as possible.” The restrictions came as Hong Kong health authorities on Wednesday ordered a Royal Caribbean cruise ship to return to port early as officials searched for the contacts of a COVID-19 patient. Nine people who boarded the ship, the Spectrum of the Seas, on Jan. 2 had come into contact with the patient, who did not board the ship, the government said in a statement. The people were told to quarantine as soon as they were identified as contacts, though they preliminarily tested negative.

Hong Kong suspends flights from 8 countries, including US

Independent online publication Citizen News has become the third company to close in Hong Kong as media fears grow amid the rise in the Chinese crackdown.

The company said its shut down had been triggered by the closure of Stand News, a pro-democracy media outlet. Hong Kong police had raided its office and arrested seven people.

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Chris Yeung, the chief writer at Citizen News and former president of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, told reporters, "The decision was made within a short period of time. The trigger point was the fate of Stand News."

"We could not rule out that ... we might be exposed to some risks."

"We have been trying our best not to violate any laws but we can no longer see clearly the lines of law enforcement and we can no longer feel safe to work," he said.

"Journalists are also human beings with families and friends," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-former-editors-of-stand-news-charged-with-sedition-441192">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong: Former editors of Stand News charged with sedition</a>

Beijing is overseeing a sweeping crackdown on dissent ever since it passed the Hong Kong national security law under which saying or printing anything against the Communist Party of China is considered "sedition".

Hong Kong had long been a regional and international media hub, even as the city's press freedom ranking steadily slipped over the last decade.

But in the last 18 months, unprecedented changes have swept through the industry, primarily targeting the local press.

China says rights advocacy is being used as an attempt to disrupt&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's progress after the security law restored stability.

Outspoken tabloid Apple Daily collapsed last year after its assets were frozen and key leaders arrested under a new national security law over the content it published.

(With inputs from agencies)

Independent online publication Citizen News has become the third company to close in Hong Kong as media fears grow amid the rise in the Chinese crackdown. The company said its shut down had been triggered by the closure of Stand News, a pro-democracy media outlet.

Independent online publication Citizen News has become the third company to close in Hong Kong as media fears grow amid the rise in the Chinese crackdown. The company said its shut down had been triggered by the closure of Stand News, a pro-democracy media outlet. Hong Kong police had raided its office and arrested seven people. Chris Yeung, the chief writer at Citizen News and former president of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, told reporters, "The decision was made within a short period of time. The trigger point was the fate of Stand News." "We could not rule out that ... we might be exposed to some risks." "We have been trying our best not to violate any laws but we can no longer see clearly the lines of law enforcement and we can no longer feel safe to work," he said. "Journalists are also human beings with families and friends," he added. Also read | Hong Kong: Former editors of Stand News charged with sedition Beijing is overseeing a sweeping crackdown on dissent ever since it passed the Hong Kong national security law under which saying or printing anything against the Communist Party of China is considered "sedition". Hong Kong had long been a regional and international media hub, even as the city's press freedom ranking steadily slipped over the last decade. But in the last 18 months, unprecedented changes have swept through the industry, primarily targeting the local press. China says rights advocacy is being used as an attempt to disrupt Hong Kong's progress after the security law restored stability. Outspoken tabloid Apple Daily collapsed last year after its assets were frozen and key leaders arrested under a new national security law over the content it published. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent

In China's latest crackdown on Hong Kong's independent media, a Hong Kong Court has now denied bail to the two former senior news editors.

Hong Kong court denies bail to two former senior news editors amid crackdown on independent media

Tang Xiao’ou, an professor and an MIT grad suddenly found himself among the richest in the world as he personal wealth increased manifolds after a successful IPO of company he co-founded.

SenseTime Group shares surged as much as 23% from their IPO price on Thursday, adding billions of dollars to the artificial intelligence start-up`s market value as it debuted in Hong Kong in the city`s final major float for the year.&nbsp;

Even when SenseTime's share had grown by 11 per cent at the end of morning session, net worth of Xiao'ou had touched USD 3.9 billion.

Some analysts had expected the shares to struggle due to weak demand during the IPO process and worries about SenseTime`s inclusion on a U.S. investment blacklist that prompted the Chinese firm to shelve its first attempt to list.

"The main reason that support is coming to the share price is that the market had already digested the U.S. sanction issue," said Kenny Ng, Everbright Sun Hung Kai analyst.

"SenseTime set the IPO price at the lower end of the range which left room for the price performance after listing."

The Chinese company raised $740 million in its initial public offering and priced its shares at HK$3.85 ($0.4937) each.

The deal valued SenseTime at $16.4 billion, while at the session`s high its market capitalisation had added some $3.8 billion.

SenseTime ended at HK$4.13 in its debut session, up 7.3% from its IPO price. It was the fifth most actively traded stock by turnover with 329.97 million shares changing hands worth HK$1.406 bln.

The broader Hang Seng Index gained just 0.11% while tech stocks in Hong Kong were marginally positive on the day.

SenseTime`s IPO was Hong Kong`s fifth largest in 2021, Dealogic data shows.

Hong Kong has struggled to attract big ticket deals this year due to a regulatory crackdown on a number of sectors by Chinese authorities.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Tang Xiao’ou, an professor and an MIT grad suddenly found himself among the richest in the world as he personal wealth increased manifolds after a successful IPO of company he co-founded.

Tang Xiao’ou, an professor and an MIT grad suddenly found himself among the richest in the world as he personal wealth increased manifolds after a successful IPO of company he co-founded. SenseTime Group shares surged as much as 23% from their IPO price on Thursday, adding billions of dollars to the artificial intelligence start-up`s market value as it debuted in Hong Kong in the city`s final major float for the year. Even when SenseTime's share had grown by 11 per cent at the end of morning session, net worth of Xiao'ou had touched USD 3.9 billion. Some analysts had expected the shares to struggle due to weak demand during the IPO process and worries about SenseTime`s inclusion on a U.S. investment blacklist that prompted the Chinese firm to shelve its first attempt to list. "The main reason that support is coming to the share price is that the market had already digested the U.S. sanction issue," said Kenny Ng, Everbright Sun Hung Kai analyst. "SenseTime set the IPO price at the lower end of the range which left room for the price performance after listing." The Chinese company raised $740 million in its initial public offering and priced its shares at HK$3.85 ($0.4937) each. The deal valued SenseTime at $16.4 billion, while at the session`s high its market capitalisation had added some $3.8 billion. SenseTime ended at HK$4.13 in its debut session, up 7.3% from its IPO price. It was the fifth most actively traded stock by turnover with 329.97 million shares changing hands worth HK$1.406 bln. The broader Hang Seng Index gained just 0.11% while tech stocks in Hong Kong were marginally positive on the day. SenseTime`s IPO was Hong Kong`s fifth largest in 2021, Dealogic data shows. Hong Kong has struggled to attract big ticket deals this year due to a regulatory crackdown on a number of sectors by Chinese authorities. (With inputs from agencies)

A professor and MIT grad suddenly becomes one among world's richest

From Iran's announcement of a new space launch to the Pakistani government confirming the purchase of at least 25 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for the Pakistan Air Force, read the top 10 world news headlines here. Click on the hyperlinked headlines to read the full report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-research-cargos-into-space-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-441140">Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks</a> 
Iran said it has carried out a new space launch sending "three research cargos into space". The launch comes as talks between Iran and Western powers over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal has stalled.

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4cbf6e90-31d3-4f47-ada8-d6c2de82330f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_3.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/961-omicron-cases-covid-19-cases-have-risen-since-december-26-says-indias-health-ministry-441168">'961 Omicron cases': COVID-19 cases have risen since December 26, says India's health ministry</a> 
Amid rise in coronavirus cases in the country, India's health ministry said since December 26&nbsp;there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases in the country. "Overall, 22 states have shown more positivity cases spread," health ministry spokesman Luv Aggarwal said, adding, "Kerala and Maharashtra have over 10,000 active cases."

<img alt="Omicron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8b073040-dea9-4f7e-87ba-664b383686c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/omicron.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sharpening-its-rhetoric-chinese-state-media-says-pla-sent-more-warplanes-over-taiwan-than-taipei-acknowledged-441218">Sharpening its rhetoric, Chinese state media says PLA sent more warplanes over Taiwan than Taipei acknowledged</a> 
As the tensions between China and Taiwan continue to escalate, Taiwan witnessed approximately 950 intrusions by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) military planes into its Air Defence Identification Zone in 2021 so far, local media reported citing data from the Ministry of National Defense. There's a reported 60 per cent increase from the previous year as intrusions in 2021 is double the combined sum of that in 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;

<img alt="Taiwan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76c99f1a-19e1-4035-a8e1-3fdce736a97d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taiwan_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-replaces-soldiers-with-robots-in-tibet-as-soldiers-fleeing-in-harsh-winters-441159">China replaces 'soldiers with robots' in Tibet as soldiers ‘fleeing’ in harsh winters</a> 
As the unsolved India-China border dispute brews tensions, new media reports allege that China is sending machine gun-wielding robots to the frontier to exacerbate the situation.

<img alt="India-China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="459583e1-c33d-4c91-ab8f-608dc8c2fb64" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India-China.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-former-editors-of-stand-news-charged-with-sedition-441192">Hong Kong: Former editors of Stand News charged with sedition</a> 
Two former senior editors of Stand News, a pro-democracy news outlet in Hong Kong, were charged with conspiring to publish seditious material, said authorities. This has come a day after about 200 police personnel raided the office of the online publication.

<img alt="Stand News" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73183ae6-cdf1-4803-96db-d894269447c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Stand%20News.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-the-mood-for-a-conversation-says-russia-ahead-of-putin-biden-phone-call-441185">We are in the mood for a conversation, says Russia ahead of Putin-Biden phone call</a> 
Ahead of the phone call between President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden, the Russian president's spokesman said there is a "mood for a conversation" emphasising that differences can be resolved through talks.

<img alt="Putin-Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc14ed13-baaf-4767-ba89-fc2fd47a152e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/putin-biden.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-is-dieting-for-the-sake-of-the-country-communist-officials-441174">Kim Jong-un is dieting 'for the sake of the country': Communist officials</a> 
When North Korean leader Kim Jong-un spoke at a Workers' Party gathering, he appeared to have lost a significant amount of weight. Kim's figure has shrunk dramatically in recent months, owing to rumoured food difficulties. According to South Korean estimates, Kim is roughly 170 cm tall and once weighed 130 kg—values that would put him in the obese category on the BMI (Body Mass Index) scale.&nbsp;

<img alt="North Korea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="934a9642-6aba-4570-ad6f-c1ecacaf4e31" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/North%20Korea.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-johnson-johnsons-booster-shot-effective-against-severe-disease-from-omicron-study-finds-441193">COVID-19: Johnson &amp; Johnson's booster shot effective against severe disease from Omicron, study finds</a> 
Amid a rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases globally, there are calls to ramp up the vaccination process. Also, experts around the world are urging people to get booster shots if they are eligible. Johnson &amp; Johnson, after a clinical trial, found that its booster shot offered strong protection against the Omicron variant of the virus and reduced the risk of hospitalisation.&nbsp;

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c920770-9b57-45d0-baaf-562f7991331f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVID-19_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-have-been-made-a-scapegoat-ashraf-ghani-recalls-the-day-he-fled-afghanistan-denies-taking-money-441143">'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money</a> 
Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15. The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ashraf Ghani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59ee933b-13d5-4c3c-835e-9311212f66df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ashraf%20Ghani.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-buys-25-chinese-j-10c-fighters-in-response-to-indias-rafale-441092">Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale</a> 
The Pakistani government has confirmed the purchase of at least 25 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for the Pakistan Air Force. Sheikh Rashid, Pakistan's interior minister, told reporters in Rawalpindi on Wednesday that a squadron of 25 Chinese-made jets would do a flyover on March 23.

<img alt="J-10C fighter jets" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="49270b12-c494-4c36-86e5-f32d21ea2432" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/J-10C%20fighter%20jets.jpg" />

From Iran's announcement of a new space launch to the Pakistani government confirming the purchase of at least 25 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for the Pakistan Air Force, read the top 10 world news headlines here.

From Iran's announcement of a new space launch to the Pakistani government confirming the purchase of at least 25 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for the Pakistan Air Force, read the top 10 world news headlines here. Click on the hyperlinked headlines to read the full report. Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks Iran said it has carried out a new space launch sending "three research cargos into space". The launch comes as talks between Iran and Western powers over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal has stalled. '961 Omicron cases': COVID-19 cases have risen since December 26, says India's health ministry Amid rise in coronavirus cases in the country, India's health ministry said since December 26 there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases in the country. "Overall, 22 states have shown more positivity cases spread," health ministry spokesman Luv Aggarwal said, adding, "Kerala and Maharashtra have over 10,000 active cases." Sharpening its rhetoric, Chinese state media says PLA sent more warplanes over Taiwan than Taipei acknowledged As the tensions between China and Taiwan continue to escalate, Taiwan witnessed approximately 950 intrusions by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) military planes into its Air Defence Identification Zone in 2021 so far, local media reported citing data from the Ministry of National Defense. There's a reported 60 per cent increase from the previous year as intrusions in 2021 is double the combined sum of that in 2019 and 2020. China replaces 'soldiers with robots' in Tibet as soldiers ‘fleeing’ in harsh winters As the unsolved India-China border dispute brews tensions, new media reports allege that China is sending machine gun-wielding robots to the frontier to exacerbate the situation. Hong Kong: Former editors of Stand News charged with sedition Two former senior editors of Stand News, a pro-democracy news outlet in Hong Kong, were charged with conspiring to publish seditious material, said authorities. This has come a day after about 200 police personnel raided the office of the online publication. We are in the mood for a conversation, says Russia ahead of Putin-Biden phone call Ahead of the phone call between President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden, the Russian president's spokesman said there is a "mood for a conversation" emphasising that differences can be resolved through talks. Kim Jong-un is dieting 'for the sake of the country': Communist officials When North Korean leader Kim Jong-un spoke at a Workers' Party gathering, he appeared to have lost a significant amount of weight. Kim's figure has shrunk dramatically in recent months, owing to rumoured food difficulties. According to South Korean estimates, Kim is roughly 170 cm tall and once weighed 130 kg—values that would put him in the obese category on the BMI (Body Mass Index) scale. COVID-19: Johnson & Johnson's booster shot effective against severe disease from Omicron, study finds Amid a rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases globally, there are calls to ramp up the vaccination process. Also, experts around the world are urging people to get booster shots if they are eligible. Johnson & Johnson, after a clinical trial, found that its booster shot offered strong protection against the Omicron variant of the virus and reduced the risk of hospitalisation. 'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15. The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West. Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale The Pakistani government has confirmed the purchase of at least 25 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for the Pakistan Air Force. Sheikh Rashid, Pakistan's interior minister, told reporters in Rawalpindi on Wednesday that a squadron of 25 Chinese-made jets would do a flyover on March 23.

Top 10 World News: Iran's new space launch, Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters and more

Two former senior editors of Stand News, a pro-democracy news outlet in Hong Kong,&nbsp;were charged with conspiring to publish seditious material, said authorities. This has come a day after about 200 police personnel raided the office of the online publication..

The raid took place on Wednesday (December 29). Assets of Stan News were frozen and several current and former senior editors and former board members were arrested.

The raid was criticised by media advocacy groups and Western governments. The action by the authorities is being seen as a further erosion of press freedom in Hong Kong.

The National Security Department of the police said in a statement it had laid charges of conspiracy to publish seditious material against two men and an online media company.

"The other arrestees are being detained for further enquires," the department said in a statement.

While it did not identify the two or the company a charge sheet filed at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court and seen by Reuters identified them as former Stand News chief editor Chung Pui-kuen and Patrick Lam, acting chief editor.

The same charge of conspiring "to publish and/or reproduce seditious publications" was levelled against Best Pencil (Hong Kong) Limited, the organisation behind Stand News.

Reuters could not reach the pair, nor any of the other five still in detention, including four former board members of Stand News, for comment. Their legal representatives could also not be reached nor could Reuters reach any representative of Best Pencil.

Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with the promise that wide-ranging individual rights, including a free press, would be protected.

But pro-democracy activists and rights groups say freedoms have been eroded, in particular since China imposed the new national security law after months of at times violent pro-democracy protests.

Hong Kong's government denies that and its leader, Carrie Lam, said the action against Stand News was aimed at seditious activity not the suppression of the media.

"These actions have nothing to do with so-called suppression of press freedom," Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam told reporters.

"Journalism is not seditious ... but seditious activities could not be condoned under the guise of news reporting."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two former senior editors of Stand News, a pro-democracy news outlet in Hong Kong, were charged with conspiring to publish seditious material, said authorities. This has come a day after about 200 police personnel raided the office of the online publication.

Two former senior editors of Stand News, a pro-democracy news outlet in Hong Kong, were charged with conspiring to publish seditious material, said authorities. This has come a day after about 200 police personnel raided the office of the online publication.. The raid took place on Wednesday (December 29). Assets of Stan News were frozen and several current and former senior editors and former board members were arrested. The raid was criticised by media advocacy groups and Western governments. The action by the authorities is being seen as a further erosion of press freedom in Hong Kong. The National Security Department of the police said in a statement it had laid charges of conspiracy to publish seditious material against two men and an online media company. "The other arrestees are being detained for further enquires," the department said in a statement. While it did not identify the two or the company a charge sheet filed at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court and seen by Reuters identified them as former Stand News chief editor Chung Pui-kuen and Patrick Lam, acting chief editor. The same charge of conspiring "to publish and/or reproduce seditious publications" was levelled against Best Pencil (Hong Kong) Limited, the organisation behind Stand News. Reuters could not reach the pair, nor any of the other five still in detention, including four former board members of Stand News, for comment. Their legal representatives could also not be reached nor could Reuters reach any representative of Best Pencil. Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with the promise that wide-ranging individual rights, including a free press, would be protected. But pro-democracy activists and rights groups say freedoms have been eroded, in particular since China imposed the new national security law after months of at times violent pro-democracy protests. Hong Kong's government denies that and its leader, Carrie Lam, said the action against Stand News was aimed at seditious activity not the suppression of the media. "These actions have nothing to do with so-called suppression of press freedom," Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam told reporters. "Journalism is not seditious ... but seditious activities could not be condoned under the guise of news reporting." (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Former editors of Stand News charged with sedition

China's latest crackdown on Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement and independent media. Hong Kong police have charged two staff members from online pro-democracy news outlet 'Stand News' with sedition.

Hong Kong pro-democracy 'Stand News' closes after police raids

Hong Kong pro-democracy Stand News closes after police raids

Chinese communist party is continuing its crackdown on free media. Senior journalists working in a pro-democracy website in Hong Kong have been arrested.

Chinese communist party continues its crackdown on free media

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