Hundreds of curious visitors flock to see Iceland's volcano show is a hit. Take a look!

Iceland's Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir has published her first thriller novel titled 'Reykjavik'. Jakobsdóttir, a crime fiction fan, has reportedly written the book with her close friend Ragnar Ragnar Jónasson, the Icelandic bestselling author of the 'Dark Iceland' series.&nbsp;

For many, the idea of a head of states to have the time to write a novel may seem absurd and unbelievable but the case of Iceland is different.&nbsp; 
 
The country consists of 375,000 people and has a strong tradition of reading and writing literature, with one in 10 Icelanders publishing a book in their lifetime, according to statistics. 
 
"Obviously, this is not something that I thought I would have any time to do", says the 46-year-old prime minister at the book launch event earlier this week. 
The Prime Minister said it was 'liberating to be working on this project during Covid'. The PM said that apart from writing, she doesn't have any other interests.&nbsp; 
 
This is not the first time that a serving PM of Iceland has published a novel. Jakobsdóttir's predecessor David Oddsson published a novel in 1997 while he was in office. 
 
The book 'Reykjavik' tells the story of an unresolved case involving a teenage girl who went missing 30 years ago in Videy, a small island near the Icelandic capital. Years later, a journalist dives into the case to solve it. The story is set in 1986.&nbsp; 
 
The novel was published in Iceland on 25 October and publishers plan to translate it into other languages soon. It is expected to be out in the UK and the US in August 2023.

Iceland's Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir has published her first thriller novel titled 'Reykjavik'. Jakobsdóttir, a crime fiction fan, has reportedly written the book with her close friend Ragnar Ragnar Jónasson, the Icelandic bestselling author of the 'Dark Iceland' series.

Iceland's Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir has published her first thriller novel titled 'Reykjavik'. Jakobsdóttir, a crime fiction fan, has reportedly written the book with her close friend Ragnar Ragnar Jónasson, the Icelandic bestselling author of the 'Dark Iceland' series. For many, the idea of a head of states to have the time to write a novel may seem absurd and unbelievable but the case of Iceland is different. The country consists of 375,000 people and has a strong tradition of reading and writing literature, with one in 10 Icelanders publishing a book in their lifetime, according to statistics. "Obviously, this is not something that I thought I would have any time to do", says the 46-year-old prime minister at the book launch event earlier this week. The Prime Minister said it was 'liberating to be working on this project during Covid'. The PM said that apart from writing, she doesn't have any other interests. This is not the first time that a serving PM of Iceland has published a novel. Jakobsdóttir's predecessor David Oddsson published a novel in 1997 while he was in office. The book 'Reykjavik' tells the story of an unresolved case involving a teenage girl who went missing 30 years ago in Videy, a small island near the Icelandic capital. Years later, a journalist dives into the case to solve it. The story is set in 1986. The novel was published in Iceland on 25 October and publishers plan to translate it into other languages soon. It is expected to be out in the UK and the US in August 2023.

Iceland PM publishes her first crime thriller novel 

In pics | Deja vu as Iceland's capital witnesses volcanic eruption again

A volcanic eruption took place in Iceland near the country's capital Reykjavik which caused emission of hot lava and also plumes of smoke out of a fissure in an uninhabited valley. The eruption took place after a period of intense seismic activity.

Iceland: Volcano erupts near capital

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) said on Wednesday (August 3) that a volcano has erupted on a mountain near Iceland's capital Reykjavik. Media reports stated that it is close to the country’s main airport. Live images on local media showed lava spewing out of a fissure.&nbsp;

The eruption took place approximately 40 kilometres from Reykjavik, where an eruption had taken place last year also. The Mount Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted for six months in March-September 2021. The site attracted tourists and experts to the scene.&nbsp;

IMO wrote on Twitter, "Eruption has started near Fagradalsfjall. The exact location has yet to be confirmed." IMO also noted that the size of the fissure is estimated to be about 300 meters. Further, it said the eruption started in the Meradalir valley, less than one kilometre from the scene of last year's eruption.&nbsp;

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Eruption has started near Fagradalsfjall. Exact location has yet to be confirmed.
— Icelandic Meteorological Office - IMO (@Vedurstofan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vedurstofan/status/1554825456175570948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sentinel-1 interferogram spanning 20 July to 1 August 2022 showing new dike intrusion on Reykjanes Peninsula and deformation associated with the M5.47 earthquake on 31 July 2022. <a href="https://t.co/bZX5WXnEN8">pic.twitter.com/bZX5WXnEN8</a>
— Icelandic Meteorological Office - IMO (@Vedurstofan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vedurstofan/status/1554407072980258816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Notably, the Reykjanes Peninsula is a volcanic and seismic hot spot located southwest of Reykjavik. However, the latest eruption came after a period of intense seismic activity.&nbsp;

It is reported that since Saturday, about 10,000 earthquakes were, including two with a magnitude of at least 5.0.&nbsp;

The IMO said it was "possible that pollution can be detected due to the gas release" but so far there was no ash plume. In most cases, volcanic eruption leads to harmful gages, especially sulphur dioxide. Once they enter the atmosphere, such gases may pose a danger to health. They can even be fatal.&nbsp;

Icelandic foreign ministry said on Twitter: "Risk to populated areas and critical infrastructure is considered very low and there have been no disruptions to flights."&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-pelosis-taiwan-trip-provokes-china-a-win-for-her-but-a-headache-for-the-region-503310">Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan trip provokes China: A win for her, but a headache for the region</a>

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The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) said on Wednesday (August 3) that a volcano has erupted on a mountain near Iceland's capital Reykjavik. Media reports stated that it is close to the country’s main airport.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) said on Wednesday (August 3) that a volcano has erupted on a mountain near Iceland's capital Reykjavik. Media reports stated that it is close to the country’s main airport. Live images on local media showed lava spewing out of a fissure. The eruption took place approximately 40 kilometres from Reykjavik, where an eruption had taken place last year also. The Mount Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted for six months in March-September 2021. The site attracted tourists and experts to the scene. IMO wrote on Twitter, "Eruption has started near Fagradalsfjall. The exact location has yet to be confirmed." IMO also noted that the size of the fissure is estimated to be about 300 meters. Further, it said the eruption started in the Meradalir valley, less than one kilometre from the scene of last year's eruption. ALSO READ | A foreign arms depot in Ukraine's Lviv region has been destroyed, says Russia Eruption has started near Fagradalsfjall. Exact location has yet to be confirmed. — Icelandic Meteorological Office - IMO (@Vedurstofan) August 3, 2022 × Sentinel-1 interferogram spanning 20 July to 1 August 2022 showing new dike intrusion on Reykjanes Peninsula and deformation associated with the M5.47 earthquake on 31 July 2022. pic.twitter.com/bZX5WXnEN8 — Icelandic Meteorological Office - IMO (@Vedurstofan) August 2, 2022 × Notably, the Reykjanes Peninsula is a volcanic and seismic hot spot located southwest of Reykjavik. However, the latest eruption came after a period of intense seismic activity. It is reported that since Saturday, about 10,000 earthquakes were, including two with a magnitude of at least 5.0. The IMO said it was "possible that pollution can be detected due to the gas release" but so far there was no ash plume. In most cases, volcanic eruption leads to harmful gages, especially sulphur dioxide. Once they enter the atmosphere, such gases may pose a danger to health. They can even be fatal. Icelandic foreign ministry said on Twitter: "Risk to populated areas and critical infrastructure is considered very low and there have been no disruptions to flights." ALSO READ | Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan trip provokes China: A win for her, but a headache for the region WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Volcano erupts near Iceland's capital, again

As the month of August gets underway, the startling explosion of roughly 4,000 earthquakes has triggered worries of a new volcanic eruption on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula. According to Severe Weather, strong swarms of up to 4,000 earthquakes have been found in Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, possibly caused by magma movement beneath the earth. This has experts concerned about a probable volcanic eruption.

The officials have increased the warning level in the area as a result of this. The likelihood of an eruption is rising progressively as the earthquake activity does.

One of the world's most active volcanic areas is Iceland, a volcanic island in the North Atlantic. It has produced notable eruptions throughout its history, which had a tremendous impact on Europe, North America, and the entire Northern Hemisphere.

Due to its location along the tectonic plate border between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, the island is constantly shaken by earthquakes. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is another name for this line of separation (MAR).

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge goes across Iceland in the graphic below, which also shows how the tectonic plates are spreading. On the Reykjanes Peninsula, it enters the southwest and turns north after travelling east. The main core volcanoes are depicted as red triangles.

But across the whole Atlantic Ocean, the tectonic plates have separated. What makes this place so special and why did it take millions of years for a big volcanic island to form there?

The answer is a hotspot or mantle plume, which is a vertical column of hot, molten rock rising from the mantle. It is beneath Iceland, as has been demonstrated by extensive research. As a result, it is more frequently referred to as the Icelandic plume.

The graphic below depicts the general location of the point when the plume joins Iceland under the Vatnajokull glacier (black circle). The mid-Atlantic ridge and volcanic locations are also visible.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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As the month of August gets underway, the startling explosion of roughly 4,000 earthquakes has triggered worries of a new volcanic eruption on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula.

As the month of August gets underway, the startling explosion of roughly 4,000 earthquakes has triggered worries of a new volcanic eruption on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula. According to Severe Weather, strong swarms of up to 4,000 earthquakes have been found in Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, possibly caused by magma movement beneath the earth. This has experts concerned about a probable volcanic eruption. The officials have increased the warning level in the area as a result of this. The likelihood of an eruption is rising progressively as the earthquake activity does. One of the world's most active volcanic areas is Iceland, a volcanic island in the North Atlantic. It has produced notable eruptions throughout its history, which had a tremendous impact on Europe, North America, and the entire Northern Hemisphere. Due to its location along the tectonic plate border between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, the island is constantly shaken by earthquakes. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is another name for this line of separation (MAR). The Mid-Atlantic Ridge goes across Iceland in the graphic below, which also shows how the tectonic plates are spreading. On the Reykjanes Peninsula, it enters the southwest and turns north after travelling east. The main core volcanoes are depicted as red triangles. But across the whole Atlantic Ocean, the tectonic plates have separated. What makes this place so special and why did it take millions of years for a big volcanic island to form there? The answer is a hotspot or mantle plume, which is a vertical column of hot, molten rock rising from the mantle. It is beneath Iceland, as has been demonstrated by extensive research. As a result, it is more frequently referred to as the Icelandic plume. The graphic below depicts the general location of the point when the plume joins Iceland under the Vatnajokull glacier (black circle). The mid-Atlantic ridge and volcanic locations are also visible. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fear of volcanic eruptions looms after Iceland witnesses 4000 earthquakes

India has continued its Nordic outreach with the Minister of state for external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi expected to visit Iceland and Norway next month. Other than the two Nordic countries, the minister will also visit Malta. The visit to the two Nordic countries comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;Denmark hosting the second India-Nordic summit. The summit saw the participation of all five Nordic countries and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

When it comes to the Nordic region, the focus has been on climate-friendly solutions, innovation, and clean technology. Iceland was the first Nordic country to publicly extend support to India’s candidature for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and also co-sponsored India’s Resolution at the UN to declare June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga'. The last major incoming visit from Iceland was by Gudlaugur Thor Thordarson in 2018. Back then, Thordarson was the foreign minister of Iceland. Currently, he is the minister for Environment and Energy.

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/big-push-for-india-norway-relations-mea-briefing-on-india-nordic-summit-2022-476335">Big push for India-Norway relations: MEA briefing on India-Nordic Summit 2022</a>

Norway earlier this year announced it is joining the international solar alliance (ISA). Norway is known for its expertise in areas such as electrification, smart grids and renewable energy financing which can further support the alliance. 105 countries have signed the ISA Framework Agreement.

Malta is a fellow Commonwealth country and the last major visit from the Indian side was in 2019 by the then Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Indian naval ships have regularly visited Malta on goodwill visits like the visits of INS Darshak in April 2002 and INS Tarangini in February 2007, June 2015, October 2015 and May 2018.

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India has continued its Nordic outreach with the Minister of state for external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi expected to visit Iceland and Norway next month. Other than the two Nordic countries, the minister will also visit Malta.

India has continued its Nordic outreach with the Minister of state for external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi expected to visit Iceland and Norway next month. Other than the two Nordic countries, the minister will also visit Malta. The visit to the two Nordic countries comes in the backdrop of Denmark hosting the second India-Nordic summit. The summit saw the participation of all five Nordic countries and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. When it comes to the Nordic region, the focus has been on climate-friendly solutions, innovation, and clean technology. Iceland was the first Nordic country to publicly extend support to India’s candidature for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and also co-sponsored India’s Resolution at the UN to declare June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga'. The last major incoming visit from Iceland was by Gudlaugur Thor Thordarson in 2018. Back then, Thordarson was the foreign minister of Iceland. Currently, he is the minister for Environment and Energy. Read More: Big push for India-Norway relations: MEA briefing on India-Nordic Summit 2022 Norway earlier this year announced it is joining the international solar alliance (ISA). Norway is known for its expertise in areas such as electrification, smart grids and renewable energy financing which can further support the alliance. 105 countries have signed the ISA Framework Agreement. Malta is a fellow Commonwealth country and the last major visit from the Indian side was in 2019 by the then Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Indian naval ships have regularly visited Malta on goodwill visits like the visits of INS Darshak in April 2002 and INS Tarangini in February 2007, June 2015, October 2015 and May 2018. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India continues its Nordic outreach as MoS MEA Meenakshi Lekhi to visit Iceland, Norway next month

World's top-rated tourist destination has a deadly beach. Iceland's unique black sand beach has turned fatal for dozens of tourists over the years. Authorities blame the deaths on sneaker waves. What are sneaker waves? How dangerous is Reynisfjara beach? Molly Gambhir explains.

WION Fineprint | Deadly attraction: Iceland's unique black sand beaches

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meetings with prime ministers from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland on Wednesday.

PM Modi at Nordic Summit: Indian PM meets leaders of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden & Norway

Iceland prime minister Katrin Jakobsdottir said that they are willing to help India in any way when it comes to dealing with the climate crisis. In an exclusive interview with Sidhant Sibal of WION, Jakobsdottir spoke about the bilateral ties between the countries and expressed hope for a prolonged partnership between India and Iceland when it comes to tackling climate crisis.

It (the conversation) was very good. We were talking about our bilateral relations and the possibilities to deepen those relations. Not least when it comes to climate, what we can do together, for example, in the areas of geothermal energy, carbon binding and more areas to achieve more results in dealing with the climate crisis,” Jakobsdottir said in the interview.

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“We are very happy to be able to share knowledge and innovation with India. There has been some collaboration between Icelandic and Indian companies. I think we should do more in that field and we can do more in the sector of carbon binding where Iceland is doing some innovations.”

“India has an ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions in carbon neutrality and I think that when it comes to climate, all nations should work together in order to achieve results,” she added.

Jakobsdottir met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the second Indo-Nordic summit in Copenhagen as the two countries celebrated 50 years of their diplomatic relations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-french-president-macron-hold-talks-call-for-end-to-russia-ukraine-war-476483">Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war</a>

When asked about India’s stance about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jakobsdottir said that Modi has made his stance clear about the matter and India want peace in the region.

“It has shocked Europe and Iceland has condemned the invasion. It is brutal and terrible to see a sovereign country being invaded by another. We talked about the importance to achieve a peaceful solution. Not many people are optimistic right now, but it has really changed everything.”

“Everybody should do their bit really to find some solution and Mr Modi was clear about India’s vision that there needs to be peace in the area,” she concluded. &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: India, Iceland to work together on climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir

&nbsp;

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Iceland prime minister Katrin Jakobsdottir said that they are willing to help India in any way when it comes to dealing with the climate crisis. In an exclusive interview with Sidhant Sibal of WION, Jakobsdottir spoke about the bilateral ties between the countries and expressed hope for a prolonged partnership between India and Iceland when it comes to tackling climate crisis.

Iceland prime minister Katrin Jakobsdottir said that they are willing to help India in any way when it comes to dealing with the climate crisis. In an exclusive interview with Sidhant Sibal of WION, Jakobsdottir spoke about the bilateral ties between the countries and expressed hope for a prolonged partnership between India and Iceland when it comes to tackling climate crisis. It (the conversation) was very good. We were talking about our bilateral relations and the possibilities to deepen those relations. Not least when it comes to climate, what we can do together, for example, in the areas of geothermal energy, carbon binding and more areas to achieve more results in dealing with the climate crisis,” Jakobsdottir said in the interview. Also read | Chinese woman pinned down as COVID-19 test conducted forcibly - WATCH “We are very happy to be able to share knowledge and innovation with India. There has been some collaboration between Icelandic and Indian companies. I think we should do more in that field and we can do more in the sector of carbon binding where Iceland is doing some innovations.” “India has an ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions in carbon neutrality and I think that when it comes to climate, all nations should work together in order to achieve results,” she added. Jakobsdottir met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the second Indo-Nordic summit in Copenhagen as the two countries celebrated 50 years of their diplomatic relations. Also read | Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war When asked about India’s stance about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jakobsdottir said that Modi has made his stance clear about the matter and India want peace in the region. “It has shocked Europe and Iceland has condemned the invasion. It is brutal and terrible to see a sovereign country being invaded by another. We talked about the importance to achieve a peaceful solution. Not many people are optimistic right now, but it has really changed everything.” “Everybody should do their bit really to find some solution and Mr Modi was clear about India’s vision that there needs to be peace in the area,” she concluded. WATCH | WION Exclusive: India, Iceland to work together on climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir

Exclusive | Iceland to help India when it comes to climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met his Iceland counterpart Katrin Jakobsdottir and discussed ways to boost ties in areas like trade and energy. Following the meeting, Iceland PM Katrin Jakobsdottir spoke exclusively with WION's Sidhant Sibbal.

WION Exclusive: India, Iceland to work together on climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the second India-Nordic Summit today along with Prime Ministers of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Norway. The summit is being hosted by Denmark.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to participate in second India-Nordic Summit in Denmark today

Metaverse has everyone thinking about it. From those who fully understood what metaverse is to those who are too drowned in information to realise anything about it, everyone is on the bandwagon. Social media is full of jokes, memes and other articulate tomfoolery appreciating Mark Zuckerberg's new frontier in their own way.

But governments making fun of good-ol' Mark and his metaverse? Well this wasn't heard of. Until now.

Iceland's tourism authorities posted a funny video in which an actor invites everyone to 'Icelandverse'

Icelandic actor Jorundur Ragnarsson or 'Zack Mosbergsson' as he has been named in the video, appears to sport Zuckerberg's hairstyle and dressing sense.

The video pokes fun at Zuckerberg and metaverse.

"Today I want to present a revolutionary way to connect our world, without being super-weird," says 'MOsbergsson' in the video.

Icelandverse,&nbsp;he says is an 'enhanced actual reality', because well, Iceland exists in real world. Dig at&nbsp;virtual universe? Very much.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-releases-breathtaking-video-of-davinci-mission-to-venus-428811">NASA releases breathtaking video of DAVINCI mission to Venus</a>

As he goes on talking, Mosbergsson encounters a door but can't open it. He then appears to wait for somebody to come and open. This is an apparent dig at Zuckerberg's insistence on others opening doors for him. The video pokes fun at Zuckerberg even more.

Check out the video

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The video has got more than 900,000 views and hundreds of likes.

But the best part? Mark Zuckerberg himself has commented on it.

“Amazing. I need to make a trip to the Icelandverse soon. Glad you're wearing sunscreen too,” he has commented.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nurse-finds-gold-bible-worth-usd-13-million-in-a-field-427808">Nurse finds gold Bible worth USD 1.3 million in a field</a>

Iceland tourism authorities responded by saying, “Oh, hi Mark! You're always welcome. Icelandverse is open 24/7!”

The banter has got its own fanbase!

Metaverse has everyone thinking about it. From those who fully understood what metaverse is to those who are too drowned in information to realise anything about it, everyone is on the bandwagon.

Metaverse has everyone thinking about it. From those who fully understood what metaverse is to those who are too drowned in information to realise anything about it, everyone is on the bandwagon. Social media is full of jokes, memes and other articulate tomfoolery appreciating Mark Zuckerberg's new frontier in their own way. But governments making fun of good-ol' Mark and his metaverse? Well this wasn't heard of. Until now. Iceland's tourism authorities posted a funny video in which an actor invites everyone to 'Icelandverse' Icelandic actor Jorundur Ragnarsson or 'Zack Mosbergsson' as he has been named in the video, appears to sport Zuckerberg's hairstyle and dressing sense. The video pokes fun at Zuckerberg and metaverse. "Today I want to present a revolutionary way to connect our world, without being super-weird," says 'MOsbergsson' in the video. Icelandverse, he says is an 'enhanced actual reality', because well, Iceland exists in real world. Dig at virtual universe? Very much. Also Read | NASA releases breathtaking video of DAVINCI mission to Venus As he goes on talking, Mosbergsson encounters a door but can't open it. He then appears to wait for somebody to come and open. This is an apparent dig at Zuckerberg's insistence on others opening doors for him. The video pokes fun at Zuckerberg even more. Check out the video × The video has got more than 900,000 views and hundreds of likes. But the best part? Mark Zuckerberg himself has commented on it. “Amazing. I need to make a trip to the Icelandverse soon. Glad you're wearing sunscreen too,” he has commented. Also Read | Nurse finds gold Bible worth USD 1.3 million in a field Iceland tourism authorities responded by saying, “Oh, hi Mark! You're always welcome. Icelandverse is open 24/7!” The banter has got its own fanbase!

Watch: Iceland Tourism mocks metaverse in funny ad, Mark Zuckerberg responds

Iceland, on Sunday, celebrated what was called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation by electing a female-majority parliament. However, this was before a recount which changed the outcome.

The initial vote count gave female candidates 33 seats in Iceland’s 63-seat parliament. The result would have made Iceland the first country in Europe to have more women than men in parliament.

A few hours later, the result was changed by a recount when female candidates were left with 30 seats, a tally previously reached at an election in 2016.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-female-majority-parliament-surfaces-in-iceland-416214">Also read |&nbsp;In a first, female-majority parliament surfaces in Iceland</a>

However, almost 48 per cent of the total is still the highest percentage of female lawmakers in Europe.

Iceland’s voting system is divided into six regions. The recount in western Iceland was held after there were questions about the number of ballots cast.&nbsp;

The mistakes have not been entirely explained but are attributed to human error.

In Saturday's vote, the three parties in the outgoing coalition government led by Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir won 37 seats. This is two more than the last election. They appear to continue to stay in power.&nbsp;

The breakthrough comes despite a poor outcome for parties on the left, where female candidates are more often frontrunners.&nbsp;

Iceland, on Sunday, celebrated what was called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation by electing a female-majority parliament. However, this was before a recount which changed the outcome.

Iceland, on Sunday, celebrated what was called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation by electing a female-majority parliament. However, this was before a recount which changed the outcome. The initial vote count gave female candidates 33 seats in Iceland’s 63-seat parliament. The result would have made Iceland the first country in Europe to have more women than men in parliament. A few hours later, the result was changed by a recount when female candidates were left with 30 seats, a tally previously reached at an election in 2016. Also read | In a first, female-majority parliament surfaces in Iceland However, almost 48 per cent of the total is still the highest percentage of female lawmakers in Europe. Iceland’s voting system is divided into six regions. The recount in western Iceland was held after there were questions about the number of ballots cast. The mistakes have not been entirely explained but are attributed to human error. In Saturday's vote, the three parties in the outgoing coalition government led by Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir won 37 seats. This is two more than the last election. They appear to continue to stay in power. The breakthrough comes despite a poor outcome for parties on the left, where female candidates are more often frontrunners.

Iceland: Recount reverses landmark victory for gender equality

In what can be called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation, Iceland has elected a female-majority parliament. In the vote, centrist parties made huge gains. &nbsp;

In Iceland's 63-seat parliament, the Althing, the female candidates hold 33 seats after counting of votes was done on Sunday. &nbsp;

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In Saturday's vote, the three parties in the outgoing coalition government led by Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir won 37 seats. This is two more than the last election. They appear to continue to stay in power. &nbsp;

The breakthrough comes despite a poor outcome for parties on the left, where female candidates are more often frontrunners. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-spd-secretary-general-says-we-have-mandate-to-govern-416203" hreflang="en">German SPD secretary-general says, 'we have mandate to govern'</a>

The gender quotas implemented by left-leaning parties in last decade managed to create a new norm across political spectrum, said Politics professor Silja Bara Omarsdottir. &nbsp;

"It is no longer acceptable to ignore gender equality when selecting candidates," Omarsdottir added. &nbsp;

In the unpredictable election, where 10 parties were competing for seats, opinion polls suggested a win for left-leaning parties.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hillary-clinton-called-war-criminal-as-she-becomes-chancellor-of-queens-university-416187" hreflang="en">Hillary Clinton called 'war criminal' as she becomes Chancellor of Queen's University</a>&nbsp;

Eventually, the centre-right Independence Party took largest vote share. It won 16 seats, seven of them were held by women. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Winning 13 seats, the centrist Progressive Party celebrated the biggest gain. It got five more than last time. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation, Iceland has elected a female-majority parliament. In the vote, centrist parties made huge gains.

In what can be called a landmark for gender equality in the North Atlantic Island nation, Iceland has elected a female-majority parliament. In the vote, centrist parties made huge gains. In Iceland's 63-seat parliament, the Althing, the female candidates hold 33 seats after counting of votes was done on Sunday. Watch: × In Saturday's vote, the three parties in the outgoing coalition government led by Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir won 37 seats. This is two more than the last election. They appear to continue to stay in power. The breakthrough comes despite a poor outcome for parties on the left, where female candidates are more often frontrunners. Also Read: German SPD secretary-general says, 'we have mandate to govern' The gender quotas implemented by left-leaning parties in last decade managed to create a new norm across political spectrum, said Politics professor Silja Bara Omarsdottir. "It is no longer acceptable to ignore gender equality when selecting candidates," Omarsdottir added. In the unpredictable election, where 10 parties were competing for seats, opinion polls suggested a win for left-leaning parties. Also Read: Hillary Clinton called 'war criminal' as she becomes Chancellor of Queen's University Eventually, the centre-right Independence Party took largest vote share. It won 16 seats, seven of them were held by women. Winning 13 seats, the centrist Progressive Party celebrated the biggest gain. It got five more than last time. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, female-majority parliament surfaces in Iceland

China and Pakistan are among the top 10 countries in the world where internet freedom has been on the decline, stated an international freedom advocacy group, Freedom House.&nbsp;

The group published a report titled "Freedom on the Net 2021: The Global Drive to Control Big Tech" which has claimed that the global internet freedom declined for the 11th consecutive year.&nbsp;

The report has also raised concerns over the rules proposed by Pakistan that could hamper cyber liberty.

As per the report, Myanmar, Belarus, and Uganda witnessed the greatest deteriorations in internet freedom. Also, Myanmar reported a 14-point decline, which is the largest since the group started the documentation project.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/those-fancy-cars-he-flaunted-on-youtube-a-30-million-fraud-scheme-paid-for-them-us-says-415225">Also read |&nbsp;Those fancy cars he flaunted on YouTube? A $30 million fraud scheme paid for them, US says</a>

Iceland, Canada and Germany were among the top 10 countries with greater internet freedom.

China again turns out to be the world’s worst abuser of internet freedom for the seventh consecutive year as it failed to score a single point in the ‘violation of user rights’ category.&nbsp;

“The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is tightening its control over the state bureaucracy, the media, online speech, religious groups, universities, businesses, and civil society associations, and it has undermined its own already modest rule-of-law reforms,” said the report.

The top 10 countries with the highest level of internet freedom are - Iceland, Estonia, Canada, Costa Rica, Taiwan, Germany, France, UK, Georgia, and Japan.&nbsp;

China and Pakistan are among the top 10 countries in the world where internet freedom has been on the decline, stated an international freedom advocacy group, Freedom House.

China and Pakistan are among the top 10 countries in the world where internet freedom has been on the decline, stated an international freedom advocacy group, Freedom House. The group published a report titled "Freedom on the Net 2021: The Global Drive to Control Big Tech" which has claimed that the global internet freedom declined for the 11th consecutive year. The report has also raised concerns over the rules proposed by Pakistan that could hamper cyber liberty. As per the report, Myanmar, Belarus, and Uganda witnessed the greatest deteriorations in internet freedom. Also, Myanmar reported a 14-point decline, which is the largest since the group started the documentation project. Also read | Those fancy cars he flaunted on YouTube? A $30 million fraud scheme paid for them, US says Iceland, Canada and Germany were among the top 10 countries with greater internet freedom. China again turns out to be the world’s worst abuser of internet freedom for the seventh consecutive year as it failed to score a single point in the ‘violation of user rights’ category. “The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is tightening its control over the state bureaucracy, the media, online speech, religious groups, universities, businesses, and civil society associations, and it has undermined its own already modest rule-of-law reforms,” said the report. The top 10 countries with the highest level of internet freedom are - Iceland, Estonia, Canada, Costa Rica, Taiwan, Germany, France, UK, Georgia, and Japan.

China worst abuser of internet freedom, Iceland with the most internet freedom, says report

The world’s largest plant that sucks carbon dioxide directly from the air and deposits it underground is due to start operating on Wednesday, the company behind the nascent green technology said.

Swiss start-up Climeworks AG, which specialises in capturing carbon dioxide directly from the air, has partnered with Icelandic carbon storage firm Carbfix to develop a plant that sucks out up to 4,000 tons of CO2 per year.

That’s the equivalent of the annual emissions from about 790 cars. Last year, global CO2-emissions totalled 31.5 billion tonnes, according to the International Energy Agency.

Direct air capture is one of the few technologies extracting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and is viewed by scientists as vital to limit global warming, blamed for causing more heatwaves, wildfires, floods and rising sea levels.

The Orca plant, a reference to the Icelandic word for energy, consists of eight large containers similar in looks to those used in the shipping industry, which employ high-tech filters and fans to extract carbon dioxide.

The isolated carbon is then mixed with water and pumped deep underground, where it slowly turns into rock. Both technologies are powered by renewable energy sourced from a nearby geothermal power plant.

Direct air capture is still a fledgling and costly technology, but developers hope to drive down prices by scaling up as more companies and consumers look to reduce their carbon footprint.

There are currently 15 direct air capture plants operating worldwide, capturing more than 9,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, according to the IEA.

US oil firm Occidental is currently developing the largest direct-air-capture facility, to pull 1 million tonnes per year of carbon dioxide from the open air near some of its Texas oilfields.

Climeworks, which recently signed a 10-year carbon removal purchase agreement with major insurance firm Swiss Re, also offers a subscription service, which allows consumers to pay for carbon removal through monthly payments.

The world’s largest plant that sucks carbon dioxide directly from the air and deposits it underground is due to start operating on Wednesday, the company behind the nascent green technology said.

The world’s largest plant that sucks carbon dioxide directly from the air and deposits it underground is due to start operating on Wednesday, the company behind the nascent green technology said. Swiss start-up Climeworks AG, which specialises in capturing carbon dioxide directly from the air, has partnered with Icelandic carbon storage firm Carbfix to develop a plant that sucks out up to 4,000 tons of CO2 per year. That’s the equivalent of the annual emissions from about 790 cars. Last year, global CO2-emissions totalled 31.5 billion tonnes, according to the International Energy Agency. Direct air capture is one of the few technologies extracting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and is viewed by scientists as vital to limit global warming, blamed for causing more heatwaves, wildfires, floods and rising sea levels. The Orca plant, a reference to the Icelandic word for energy, consists of eight large containers similar in looks to those used in the shipping industry, which employ high-tech filters and fans to extract carbon dioxide. The isolated carbon is then mixed with water and pumped deep underground, where it slowly turns into rock. Both technologies are powered by renewable energy sourced from a nearby geothermal power plant. Direct air capture is still a fledgling and costly technology, but developers hope to drive down prices by scaling up as more companies and consumers look to reduce their carbon footprint. There are currently 15 direct air capture plants operating worldwide, capturing more than 9,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, according to the IEA. US oil firm Occidental is currently developing the largest direct-air-capture facility, to pull 1 million tonnes per year of carbon dioxide from the open air near some of its Texas oilfields. Climeworks, which recently signed a 10-year carbon removal purchase agreement with major insurance firm Swiss Re, also offers a subscription service, which allows consumers to pay for carbon removal through monthly payments.

World’s largest plant capturing carbon from air starts in Iceland

As the world continues to be battered by the effects of climate change investment is growing into new solutions like capturing and storing carbon - one of the main contributors to global warming. Iceland is now the home of Orca, the world's first and largest direct air capture and storage plant which is aiming to remove 4000 tonnes of carbon from the air each year.

Can carbon capture help solve global warming?

Best places to survive amid global societal collapse

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society.

As per the researchers, human civilisation was “in a perilous state” because of the highly interconnected and energy-intensive society and the environmental damage that has been caused.

Published in the journal Sustainability, the study read, “The globe-spanning, energy-intensive industrial civilisation that characterises the modern era represents an anomalous situation when it is considered against the majority of human history.”

In a bid to assess which nations would be most resilient to a collapse, countries were ranked as per their ability to grow food for their population, protect their borders from unwanted mass migration, and maintain an electrical grid and some manufacturing ability.&nbsp;

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When the conclusion was made, it was observed that the islands in temperate regions and mostly with low population densities came out on top.

As per the researchers, the study highlights the factors that nations need to improve so that they are able to increase resilience.&nbsp;

Prof Aled Jones, at the Global Sustainability Institute, at Anglia Ruskin University, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We weren’t surprised New Zealand was on our list". He added, "We chose that you had to be able to protect borders and places had to be temperate. So with hindsight it’s quite obvious that large islands with complex societies on them already [make up the list]".

“We were quite surprised the UK came out strongly. It is densely populated, has traditionally outsourced manufacturing, hasn’t been the quickest to develop renewable technology, and only produces 50 per cent of its own food at the moment. But it has the potential to withstand shocks.”

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society.

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society. As per the researchers, human civilisation was “in a perilous state” because of the highly interconnected and energy-intensive society and the environmental damage that has been caused. Published in the journal Sustainability, the study read, “The globe-spanning, energy-intensive industrial civilisation that characterises the modern era represents an anomalous situation when it is considered against the majority of human history.” In a bid to assess which nations would be most resilient to a collapse, countries were ranked as per their ability to grow food for their population, protect their borders from unwanted mass migration, and maintain an electrical grid and some manufacturing ability. Also read | Samsung reports surge in profit on pandemic-led demand for chips When the conclusion was made, it was observed that the islands in temperate regions and mostly with low population densities came out on top. As per the researchers, the study highlights the factors that nations need to improve so that they are able to increase resilience. Prof Aled Jones, at the Global Sustainability Institute, at Anglia Ruskin University, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We weren’t surprised New Zealand was on our list". He added, "We chose that you had to be able to protect borders and places had to be temperate. So with hindsight it’s quite obvious that large islands with complex societies on them already [make up the list]". “We were quite surprised the UK came out strongly. It is densely populated, has traditionally outsourced manufacturing, hasn’t been the quickest to develop renewable technology, and only produces 50 per cent of its own food at the moment. But it has the potential to withstand shocks.”

Here is a list of the best places to survive amid a global societal collapse

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of &nbsp;infections.

At the end of June,&nbsp;Iceland&nbsp;lifted rules around social distancing, mask-wearing, limits on public gatherings and the opening hours of bars and restaurants after introducing virus restrictions in March last year.

Starting from midnight on Sunday until August 13, public gatherings will be restricted to 200, the one-metre social distancing rule will be reimposed and bars and restaurants will have to close at 11:00 pm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/four-day-workweek-trial-an-overwhelming-success-in-iceland-396160">Also read |&nbsp;Four-day workweek trial an 'overwhelming success' in Iceland</a>

Swimming pools and indoor sports facilities can only operate to 75 percent of capacity and masks will be mandatory indoors.

Although over 85 percent of the population above 16 have received two vaccine doses,&nbsp;Iceland&nbsp;has seen infections spurt with 355 new cases since July 12.

The majority of cases are due to the Delta variant, which was first detected in India.

Iceland&nbsp;will resume restrictions at its borders, requiring a negative PCR test less than 72 hours old for travellers who are fully vaccinated.

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of infections.

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of infections. At the end of June, Iceland lifted rules around social distancing, mask-wearing, limits on public gatherings and the opening hours of bars and restaurants after introducing virus restrictions in March last year. Starting from midnight on Sunday until August 13, public gatherings will be restricted to 200, the one-metre social distancing rule will be reimposed and bars and restaurants will have to close at 11:00 pm. Also read | Four-day workweek trial an 'overwhelming success' in Iceland Swimming pools and indoor sports facilities can only operate to 75 percent of capacity and masks will be mandatory indoors. Although over 85 percent of the population above 16 have received two vaccine doses, Iceland has seen infections spurt with 355 new cases since July 12. The majority of cases are due to the Delta variant, which was first detected in India. Iceland will resume restrictions at its borders, requiring a negative PCR test less than 72 hours old for travellers who are fully vaccinated.

Iceland reimposes COVID-19 restrictions after cases surge

Trials of a four-day work week in Iceland have been hailed as a "overwhelming success," with studies finding that the project increased productivity and improved workers' total well-being.&nbsp;

The Association for Sustainable Democracy (Alda) in Iceland and the UK-based think tank Autonomy announced the results of two large-scale experiments of a shorter working week with no pay cut that took place from 2015 to 2019.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-from-home-employees-are-quitting-instead-of-returning-to-the-office-389202">Also read | Work from home: Employees are quitting instead of returning to the office</a> 
 
The study included 2,500 workers, which is roughly 1% of Iceland's working-age population.

In Iceland, employees from a range of professions — including workplaces, kindergartens, social service providers, and hospitals — switched from a 40-hour work week to a 35- or 36-hour work week as part of the trial, but were paid the same salary.&nbsp;

Despite concerns a shorter working week would unintentionally lead to overwork, the results of the trials "directly contradict this", the report found.

Approximately 86 per cent of Iceland's working population has "now either transitioned to working fewer hours or earned the right to work shorter hours."&nbsp;

The trials also resulted in a significant rise in worker happiness, as measured by a variety of variables ranging from perceived stress and burnout to health and work-life balance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Trials of a four-day work week in Iceland have been hailed as a "overwhelming success," with studies finding that the project increased productivity and improved workers' total well-being.

Trials of a four-day work week in Iceland have been hailed as a "overwhelming success," with studies finding that the project increased productivity and improved workers' total well-being. The Association for Sustainable Democracy (Alda) in Iceland and the UK-based think tank Autonomy announced the results of two large-scale experiments of a shorter working week with no pay cut that took place from 2015 to 2019. Also read | Work from home: Employees are quitting instead of returning to the office The study included 2,500 workers, which is roughly 1% of Iceland's working-age population. In Iceland, employees from a range of professions — including workplaces, kindergartens, social service providers, and hospitals — switched from a 40-hour work week to a 35- or 36-hour work week as part of the trial, but were paid the same salary. Despite concerns a shorter working week would unintentionally lead to overwork, the results of the trials "directly contradict this", the report found. Approximately 86 per cent of Iceland's working population has "now either transitioned to working fewer hours or earned the right to work shorter hours." The trials also resulted in a significant rise in worker happiness, as measured by a variety of variables ranging from perceived stress and burnout to health and work-life balance. (With inputs from agencies)

Four-day workweek trial an 'overwhelming success' in Iceland

Iceland's glaciers have lost around 750 square kilometres (290 square miles), or seven per cent of their surface, since the turn of the millennium due to global warming, a study published on Monday showed.

The glaciers, which cover more than 10 per cent of the country's land mass, shrank in 2019 to 10,400 square kilometres, the study in the Icelandic scientific journal Jokull said.

Since 1890, the land covered by glaciers has decreased by almost 2,200 square kilometres, or 18 per cent.

But almost a third of this decline has occurred since 2000, according to the recent calculations by glaciologists, geologists and geophysicists.

Experts have previously warned that Iceland's glaciers are at risk of disappearing entirely by 2200.

The ice's retreat over the past two decades is almost equivalent to the total surface area of Hofsjokull, Iceland's third-biggest ice cap at 810 square kilometres.

"Glacier-area variations in Iceland since around 1890 show a clear response to variations in climate," the authors of the study wrote.

"They have been rather synchronous over the country, although surges and subglacial volcanic activity influence the position of some glacier margins," they added.

In 2014, glaciologists stripped the Okjokull glacier of its status as a glacier, a first for Iceland, after determining that it was made up of dead ice and was no longer moving as glaciers do.

Nearly all of the world's 220,000 glaciers are losing mass at an ever increasing pace, contributing to more than a fifth of global sea level rise this century, according to a study published in Nature in April.

Analysing images taken by NASA's Terra satellite, they found that between 2000-2019, the world's glaciers lost an average of 267 billion tonnes of ice each year.

The team also found that the rate of glacier melt had accelerated sharply during the same period.

Between 2000 and 2004, glaciers lost 227 billion tonnes of ice per year. But between 2015-2019, they lost an average of 298 billion tonnes each year.&nbsp;

The findings will be included in a forthcoming assessment report from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change due in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iceland's glaciers have lost around 750 square kilometres (290 square miles), or seven per cent of their surface, since the turn of the millennium due to global warming, a study published on Monday showed.

Iceland's glaciers have lost around 750 square kilometres (290 square miles), or seven per cent of their surface, since the turn of the millennium due to global warming, a study published on Monday showed. The glaciers, which cover more than 10 per cent of the country's land mass, shrank in 2019 to 10,400 square kilometres, the study in the Icelandic scientific journal Jokull said. Since 1890, the land covered by glaciers has decreased by almost 2,200 square kilometres, or 18 per cent. But almost a third of this decline has occurred since 2000, according to the recent calculations by glaciologists, geologists and geophysicists. Experts have previously warned that Iceland's glaciers are at risk of disappearing entirely by 2200. The ice's retreat over the past two decades is almost equivalent to the total surface area of Hofsjokull, Iceland's third-biggest ice cap at 810 square kilometres. "Glacier-area variations in Iceland since around 1890 show a clear response to variations in climate," the authors of the study wrote. "They have been rather synchronous over the country, although surges and subglacial volcanic activity influence the position of some glacier margins," they added. In 2014, glaciologists stripped the Okjokull glacier of its status as a glacier, a first for Iceland, after determining that it was made up of dead ice and was no longer moving as glaciers do. Nearly all of the world's 220,000 glaciers are losing mass at an ever increasing pace, contributing to more than a fifth of global sea level rise this century, according to a study published in Nature in April. Analysing images taken by NASA's Terra satellite, they found that between 2000-2019, the world's glaciers lost an average of 267 billion tonnes of ice each year. The team also found that the rate of glacier melt had accelerated sharply during the same period. Between 2000 and 2004, glaciers lost 227 billion tonnes of ice per year. But between 2015-2019, they lost an average of 298 billion tonnes each year. The findings will be included in a forthcoming assessment report from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change due in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Iceland's glaciers lose 750 square kilometres in 20 years

Two Icelanders managed to climb Mount Everest despite having contracted coronavirus and even though Nepalese authorities insisted there have been no virus cases on the world's highest peak.&nbsp;

The two climbers, Sigurdur Sveinsson and Heimir Hallgrimsson, began coughing and suspected they had caught the virus as they reached around 7,000 metres (about 23,000 feet), they wrote in a message published on Thursday in which they described their perilous descent to base camp.&nbsp;

"At this time and this place, there was no way to get tested," the pair wrote on the website of Umhyggja, an Icelandic aid organisation that helps children with long-term illnesses and for which the pair were raising funds.&nbsp;

The two had tested negative for the virus before beginning their ascent.&nbsp;

"Since we were feeling fine then, we saw no reason to change our plans," they said. &nbsp;

The pair reached the summit, at 8,849 metres on Monday at 4:30 am local time (Sunday at 2245 GMT).&nbsp;

"During the descent, we both began to suffer from increasing fatigue, coughs and discomfort," they said. &nbsp;

"When we left Camp 2, it was clear that Siggi's (Sigurdur's) lungs were very bad and we had to resort to oxygen."&nbsp;

Despite the difficulties, they managed to reach base camp on Wednesday, where tests confirmed they were infected with COVID-19.&nbsp;

In recent weeks, more than 30 climbers have been evacuated from base camp due to illness.&nbsp;

Other than the Icelanders, at least three other climbers have said publicly or told AFP that they have been infected with COVID-19. The total number of cases is not known.&nbsp;

Nepal officials have denied that there have been any cases of the virus on Everest.&nbsp;

Two Icelanders managed to climb Mount Everest despite having contracted coronavirus and even though Nepalese authorities insisted there have been no virus cases on the world's highest peak.

Two Icelanders managed to climb Mount Everest despite having contracted coronavirus and even though Nepalese authorities insisted there have been no virus cases on the world's highest peak. The two climbers, Sigurdur Sveinsson and Heimir Hallgrimsson, began coughing and suspected they had caught the virus as they reached around 7,000 metres (about 23,000 feet), they wrote in a message published on Thursday in which they described their perilous descent to base camp. "At this time and this place, there was no way to get tested," the pair wrote on the website of Umhyggja, an Icelandic aid organisation that helps children with long-term illnesses and for which the pair were raising funds. The two had tested negative for the virus before beginning their ascent. "Since we were feeling fine then, we saw no reason to change our plans," they said. The pair reached the summit, at 8,849 metres on Monday at 4:30 am local time (Sunday at 2245 GMT). "During the descent, we both began to suffer from increasing fatigue, coughs and discomfort," they said. "When we left Camp 2, it was clear that Siggi's (Sigurdur's) lungs were very bad and we had to resort to oxygen." Despite the difficulties, they managed to reach base camp on Wednesday, where tests confirmed they were infected with COVID-19. In recent weeks, more than 30 climbers have been evacuated from base camp due to illness. Other than the Icelanders, at least three other climbers have said publicly or told AFP that they have been infected with COVID-19. The total number of cases is not known. Nepal officials have denied that there have been any cases of the virus on Everest.

Icelandic duo scale Everest despite Covid infection 

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russia's&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister Sergei Lavrov are due to hold talks on Wednesday night ahead of a possible presidential summit in June in an attempt to improve the dire relations between the former Cold War foes.

The face-to-face talks on the sidelines of a gathering of eight&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;ministers&nbsp;in Reykjavik will be the highest-level&nbsp;meeting since US&nbsp;President Joe&nbsp;Biden took office in January.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-us-russia-fight-it-out-or-resolve-issues-377626">Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues?</a>&nbsp;

Ties have been fraught since March when&nbsp;Biden,&nbsp;not long into his presidency,&nbsp;said he regarded President Vladimir Putin as a "killer", prompting Moscow to recall its&nbsp;US&nbsp;ambassador for consultations. The envoy still has not returned.

Washington then imposed sanctions and expelled Russian diplomats over "malign" activities denied by Moscow, pushing Russia to retaliate in kind. It later barred the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Embassy from hiring local staff.

Given the adversarial prelude, immediate gains from the&nbsp;meeting between Blinken and Lavrov are likely to be modest, though they could pave the way for a Putin-Biden summit next month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-address-bidens-climate-summit-despite-crisis-in-us-russia-ties-378679">Putin to address Biden's climate summit despite crisis in US-Russia ties</a>

The summit idea was floated by the White House last month, but it has still not been publicly confirmed. Russia's Kommersant newspaper on Monday cited government sources touting Switzerland as the likeliest venue.

US&nbsp;State Department spokesman Ned Price said Lavrov and Blinken would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;after a&nbsp;meeting of the Arctic Council, a regional grouping of eight nations. The talks are scheduled to start at 2115 GMT.

Washington's relations with Moscow have been at post-Cold War lows for years, strained over everything from election meddling allegations to Ukraine and the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

"We don't seek to escalate, we are simply looking for a more predictable, stable relationship," a senior State Department official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-poses-biggest-threat-to-us-intelligence-report-says-377501">China poses biggest threat to US, intelligence report says</a>

Besides the summit, the talks could broach the subject of their diplomatic missions that have been crimped by tit-for-tat expulsions as well as progress on nuclear arms control.

Russia's lower house of parliament voted on Wednesday to back Moscow's exit from the Open Skies treaty, which allows unarmed surveillance flights over member countries and which Washington quit in November under Donald Trump.

Russia, which says it may complete the withdrawal process in December, has said it would consider staying in the treaty if&nbsp;Biden rejoins it, but that it has so far seen no sign that will happen.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday, that strategic stability should be high on the agenda of a possible Putin-Biden&nbsp;meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-russia-at-ukraine-door-us-and-eu-look-for-options-377610">With Russia at Ukraine door, US and EU look for options</a>

Lavrov, 71, has been the face of Kremlin&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;policy since 2004 as Moscow has asserted what it says is its rightful standing as a world power. Russia has beefed up its military presence in the Arctic and invested in northern infrastructure.

Blinken accused Moscow on Tuesday of making "unlawful maritime claims" on the regulation of&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;vessels transiting the shipping route over Russia's long northern coastline. He said Washington was worried about the region's increasing militarization.

Lavrov on Monday dismissed NATO concerns about increasing Russian military activity in the Arctic, saying Moscow was right to ensure the security of its northern coastline.

He said Moscow would wait to see what Washington meant by stable and predictable ties with Russia.

"If that means stable, predictable sanctions then that's not what's needed."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are due to hold talks on Wednesday night ahead of a possible presidential summit in June in an attempt to improve the dire relations between the former Cold War foes.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are due to hold talks on Wednesday night ahead of a possible presidential summit in June in an attempt to improve the dire relations between the former Cold War foes. The face-to-face talks on the sidelines of a gathering of eight foreign ministers in Reykjavik will be the highest-level meeting since US President Joe Biden took office in January. Also read | Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? Ties have been fraught since March when Biden, not long into his presidency, said he regarded President Vladimir Putin as a "killer", prompting Moscow to recall its US ambassador for consultations. The envoy still has not returned. Washington then imposed sanctions and expelled Russian diplomats over "malign" activities denied by Moscow, pushing Russia to retaliate in kind. It later barred the US Embassy from hiring local staff. Given the adversarial prelude, immediate gains from the meeting between Blinken and Lavrov are likely to be modest, though they could pave the way for a Putin-Biden summit next month. Also read | Putin to address Biden's climate summit despite crisis in US-Russia ties The summit idea was floated by the White House last month, but it has still not been publicly confirmed. Russia's Kommersant newspaper on Monday cited government sources touting Switzerland as the likeliest venue. US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Lavrov and Blinken would meet after a meeting of the Arctic Council, a regional grouping of eight nations. The talks are scheduled to start at 2115 GMT. Washington's relations with Moscow have been at post-Cold War lows for years, strained over everything from election meddling allegations to Ukraine and the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. "We don't seek to escalate, we are simply looking for a more predictable, stable relationship," a senior State Department official said. Also read | China poses biggest threat to US, intelligence report says Besides the summit, the talks could broach the subject of their diplomatic missions that have been crimped by tit-for-tat expulsions as well as progress on nuclear arms control. Russia's lower house of parliament voted on Wednesday to back Moscow's exit from the Open Skies treaty, which allows unarmed surveillance flights over member countries and which Washington quit in November under Donald Trump. Russia, which says it may complete the withdrawal process in December, has said it would consider staying in the treaty if Biden rejoins it, but that it has so far seen no sign that will happen. The Kremlin said on Wednesday, that strategic stability should be high on the agenda of a possible Putin-Biden meeting. Also read | With Russia at Ukraine door, US and EU look for options Lavrov, 71, has been the face of Kremlin foreign policy since 2004 as Moscow has asserted what it says is its rightful standing as a world power. Russia has beefed up its military presence in the Arctic and invested in northern infrastructure. Blinken accused Moscow on Tuesday of making "unlawful maritime claims" on the regulation of foreign vessels transiting the shipping route over Russia's long northern coastline. He said Washington was worried about the region's increasing militarization. Lavrov on Monday dismissed NATO concerns about increasing Russian military activity in the Arctic, saying Moscow was right to ensure the security of its northern coastline. He said Moscow would wait to see what Washington meant by stable and predictable ties with Russia. "If that means stable, predictable sanctions then that's not what's needed."

US and Russian foreign ministers to meet in Iceland in bid to ease friction

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones.

Drone footage filmed on Friday showed the second fissure surrounded by blanket of snow

The volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, some 30 kilometres southwest of the capital Reykjavik, started to erupt on March 19 and has become a tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors.

Volcanologists have no idea how long the eruption will continue, saying it could stop soon or continue for years, possibly even decades.

(With Reuters inputs)

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones.

More fissures have opened up in the volcano in Iceland three weeks after its eruption. A third eruption fissure opened up on Tuesday in between the twp already existing ones. Drone footage filmed on Friday showed the second fissure surrounded by blanket of snow The volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, some 30 kilometres southwest of the capital Reykjavik, started to erupt on March 19 and has become a tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors. Volcanologists have no idea how long the eruption will continue, saying it could stop soon or continue for years, possibly even decades. (With Reuters inputs)

Iceland: Third lava stream opens up in erupting volcano

Extreme kayaker explores Iceland's stunning waterscape

After lying dormant for 6,000 years, a volcano in Iceland erupted over the weekend. The 'minor' eruption has become a public spectacle than a public safety hazard. WION's Molly Gambhir gets you this report.

Gravitas: Iceland wakes from 6,000-year slumber

Volcanic eruption in Iceland leaves behind a magmatic trail of orange hues

After being rocked by thousands of small earthquakes, residents of Iceland may be able to sleep better starting now.

The country’s meteorological office on Saturday said that a volcanic eruption has begun in the southwestern region of Iceland, near the capital Reykjavik.

The eruption took place near the mountain on the Reykjanes Peninsula - Fagradalsfjall, situated at least 30 kilometres (19 miles) away from the country’s capital.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/iceland-records-20000-earthquakes-in-a-week-country-braces-for-volcanic-eruption-368905" hreflang="en">Iceland records 20,000 earthquakes in a week; country braces for volcanic eruption</a>

According to helicopter footage from the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), magma could be seen along the site, in addition to lava.

In the last four weeks, over 40,000 earthquakes have been recorded in the peninsula, which marks a huge jump from the 1,000-3,000 earthquakes registered each year since 2014.

The IMO did add that the eruption poses no danger to the people in Grindavik, and infrastructure in the region is expected to remain unaffected.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/well-this-is-iceland-prime-minister-katrin-jakobsdottir-shrugs-off-earthquake-during-live-tv-interview-336828" hreflang="en">Well, this is Iceland': Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir shrugs off earthquake during live TV interview</a>

A 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano led to 900,000 flights being halted, and hundreds of Icelanders scurrying out of their homes.&nbsp;But the current explosion will not spew a lot of ash or smoke into the atmosphere.

Even though Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport remains functional after the eruption, airlines have been given the onus of deciding whether they want to continue flying or to stop.

After being rocked by thousands of small earthquakes, residents of Iceland may be able to sleep better starting now. The country’s meteorological office on Saturday said that a volcanic eruption has begun in the southwestern region of Iceland, near the capital Reykjavik.

After being rocked by thousands of small earthquakes, residents of Iceland may be able to sleep better starting now. The country’s meteorological office on Saturday said that a volcanic eruption has begun in the southwestern region of Iceland, near the capital Reykjavik. The eruption took place near the mountain on the Reykjanes Peninsula - Fagradalsfjall, situated at least 30 kilometres (19 miles) away from the country’s capital. Also read: Iceland records 20,000 earthquakes in a week; country braces for volcanic eruption According to helicopter footage from the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), magma could be seen along the site, in addition to lava. In the last four weeks, over 40,000 earthquakes have been recorded in the peninsula, which marks a huge jump from the 1,000-3,000 earthquakes registered each year since 2014. The IMO did add that the eruption poses no danger to the people in Grindavik, and infrastructure in the region is expected to remain unaffected. Also read: Well, this is Iceland': Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir shrugs off earthquake during live TV interview A 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano led to 900,000 flights being halted, and hundreds of Icelanders scurrying out of their homes. But the current explosion will not spew a lot of ash or smoke into the atmosphere. Even though Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport remains functional after the eruption, airlines have been given the onus of deciding whether they want to continue flying or to stop.

Volcano erupts near Icelandic capital, ending a streak of earthquakes

Iceland is staring at an imminent volcanic eruption. Thousands of earthquakes in the past few days have rattled its people and sleepless nights and a tireless wait for an eruption. WION brings you a report.

WION Dispatch: Iceland threat of volcanic eruption after thousands of quakes

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