<p>Pope Francis on Friday (May 10) urged the Italians to have children. He pressed his campaign to call for long-term policies to help families tackle the issues of falling birth rates and ageing population. He also warned that the country's demographic crisis was threatening the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at an annual gathering of pro-family groups, Pope said, "The number of births is the first indicator of the hope of a people. Without children and young people, a country loses its desire for the future."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-universities-withdraw-invitation-to-us-envoy-to-un-amid-gaza-war-protests-720057">Universities withdraw invitation to US envoy to UN amid Gaza war protests</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Effective policies are urgently needed, courageous, concrete and long-term choices... There is a need for greater commitment from all governments so that the young generations are put in a position to realize their legitimate dreams," the Pope said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pope's appeal was not only for Italy but for the entire Europe to tackle what he has called the demographic winter in many nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-polls-wouldnt-have-voted-for-you-because-author-tells-vivek-ramaswamy-he-reacts-719986">Support pours out for Vivek Ramaswamy after US author's 'you're Indian' comment</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;UK to address prison overcrowding, police cells to accomodate inmates&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Italy's demographic crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Italy's birth rate is already one of the lowest in the world.&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;has been falling steadily for about 15 years and reached a record low last year with 379,000 babies born.</p>

<p>He said, "There is a fact that a demographics scholar told me. Right now the investments that give the most revenue are the arms factories and contraceptives. One destroys life, the other prevents life ... What future do we have? It is ugly."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Homes are filled with objects and emptied of children, becoming very sad places. There is no shortage of little dogs, cats. These are not lacking. There is a lack of children," the Pope said.</p>

<p>According to the Pope, the government should formulate policies that enable mothers not to have to choose between work and childcare. The policies should give young couples a stable job and the possibility to buy a house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know that for many of you, the future may seem unsettling and that amidst declining birth rates, wars, pandemics and climate change it is not easy to keep hope alive. But do not give up, have faith," the Pope said, referring to young people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Pope Francis on Friday (May 10) urged the Italians to have children. He pressed his campaign to call for long-term policies to help families tackle the issues of falling birth rates and ageing population.

Pope Francis on Friday (May 10) urged the Italians to have children. He pressed his campaign to call for long-term policies to help families tackle the issues of falling birth rates and ageing population. He also warned that the country's demographic crisis was threatening the future. While speaking at an annual gathering of pro-family groups, Pope said, "The number of births is the first indicator of the hope of a people. Without children and young people, a country loses its desire for the future." Also read: Universities withdraw invitation to US envoy to UN amid Gaza war protests "Effective policies are urgently needed, courageous, concrete and long-term choices... There is a need for greater commitment from all governments so that the young generations are put in a position to realize their legitimate dreams," the Pope said. Pope's appeal was not only for Italy but for the entire Europe to tackle what he has called the demographic winter in many nations. Also read: Support pours out for Vivek Ramaswamy after US author's 'you're Indian' comment Watch: UK to address prison overcrowding, police cells to accomodate inmates × Italy's demographic crisis Italy's birth rate is already one of the lowest in the world. Italy has been falling steadily for about 15 years and reached a record low last year with 379,000 babies born. He said, "There is a fact that a demographics scholar told me. Right now the investments that give the most revenue are the arms factories and contraceptives. One destroys life, the other prevents life ... What future do we have? It is ugly." "Homes are filled with objects and emptied of children, becoming very sad places. There is no shortage of little dogs, cats. These are not lacking. There is a lack of children," the Pope said. According to the Pope, the government should formulate policies that enable mothers not to have to choose between work and childcare. The policies should give young couples a stable job and the possibility to buy a house. "I know that for many of you, the future may seem unsettling and that amidst declining birth rates, wars, pandemics and climate change it is not easy to keep hope alive. But do not give up, have faith," the Pope said, referring to young people. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope asks Italians to have babies: 'No shortage of little dogs, cats. There is a lack of children'

<p>For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the record</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, around a dozen bakers gathered for the Suresnes Baguette Show organised with the Confédération Nationale de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française et Nutella, managed to beat the world record for the longest baguette, with a loaf measuring 140.53 metres.</p>

<p>The preparation for the record-setting loaf began at 3:00 am (local time) in the hopes of beating the 132.62-metre record set by the Italians on June 16, 2019, and after 14 hours it was a success.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-run-a-train-to-mars-space-agency-funds-ambitious-lunar-rail-system-718346">NASA working on building rail tracks on Moon, sending humans and cargo to Mars</a></strong></p>

<p>After the kneading and shaping of the dough began in the middle of the night, it was placed in a specially built slow-moving oven on wheels. The baguette, made by the French bakers, is said to be 235 times longer than the traditional one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everything has been validated, we are all very happy to have beaten this record and that it was done in France,” Anthony Arrigault, one of the bakers, said after the baguette was approved by a Guinness World Records judge, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">[🥖🇨🇵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suresnesbaguetteshow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Suresnesbaguetteshow</a>]<br />
Derniers mètres de baguette avant la fin de la cuisson. Le suspense est à son comble pour la validation du record 🤞💪!<a href="https://twitter.com/cnbpf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cnbpf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FerreroFr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FerreroFr</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NutellaFR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NutellaFR</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jx6RcmDnrs">pic.twitter.com/Jx6RcmDnrs</a></p>
— Ville de Suresnes (@villedesuresnes) <a href="https://twitter.com/villedesuresnes/status/1787114186532630975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>A part of the record-breaking baguette, which according to the guidelines had to be at least five centimetres thick throughout, was shared with the public and the rest was to be given to homeless people in Suresnes</p>

<p>“The dough will be kneaded, shaped on site, and then baked in front of the public in a rolling oven under a tent,” said the organisers in a statement ahead of the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “It will be made according to the rules of the art, with wheat flour, water, yeast and salt as the only ingredients.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Bringing the record home’</strong></h2>

<p>It is also worth noting that both world records for creating the longest French-origin bread were held by Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The record five years ago came after the title of longest baguette was held by a 122-metre loaf baked at the Milan Expo in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-propaganda-song-becomes-as-popular-as-taylor-swifts-music-says-internet-718370">Kim Jong Un propaganda song floors netizens who didn't hesitate to invoke Taylor Swift</a></strong></p>

<p>Since both the records were held by Italy, the objective was “bringing the record home,” said the organisers, according to the town’s website.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago.

For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago. About the record On Sunday, around a dozen bakers gathered for the Suresnes Baguette Show organised with the Confédération Nationale de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française et Nutella, managed to beat the world record for the longest baguette, with a loaf measuring 140.53 metres. The preparation for the record-setting loaf began at 3:00 am (local time) in the hopes of beating the 132.62-metre record set by the Italians on June 16, 2019, and after 14 hours it was a success. Also Read | NASA working on building rail tracks on Moon, sending humans and cargo to Mars After the kneading and shaping of the dough began in the middle of the night, it was placed in a specially built slow-moving oven on wheels. The baguette, made by the French bakers, is said to be 235 times longer than the traditional one. “Everything has been validated, we are all very happy to have beaten this record and that it was done in France,” Anthony Arrigault, one of the bakers, said after the baguette was approved by a Guinness World Records judge, as quoted by Reuters. [🥖🇨🇵#Suresnesbaguetteshow] Derniers mètres de baguette avant la fin de la cuisson. Le suspense est à son comble pour la validation du record 🤞💪!@cnbpf @FerreroFr @NutellaFR pic.twitter.com/Jx6RcmDnrs — Ville de Suresnes (@villedesuresnes) May 5, 2024 × A part of the record-breaking baguette, which according to the guidelines had to be at least five centimetres thick throughout, was shared with the public and the rest was to be given to homeless people in Suresnes “The dough will be kneaded, shaped on site, and then baked in front of the public in a rolling oven under a tent,” said the organisers in a statement ahead of the event. It added, “It will be made according to the rules of the art, with wheat flour, water, yeast and salt as the only ingredients.” ‘Bringing the record home’ It is also worth noting that both world records for creating the longest French-origin bread were held by Italy. The record five years ago came after the title of longest baguette was held by a 122-metre loaf baked at the Milan Expo in 2015. Also Read | Kim Jong Un propaganda song floors netizens who didn't hesitate to invoke Taylor Swift Since both the records were held by Italy, the objective was “bringing the record home,” said the organisers, according to the town’s website. (With inputs from agencies)

France sets record for world’s longest baguette, beats Italy after five years

Italian Navy has shot down a drone in the Red Sea headed in the direction of an escorted merchant ship. According to Italy's Defence Ministry, Italy Navy which was protecting a European commercial feer shot down the drone.

Italy's Navy down drone headed for Red Sea merchant vessel; Yemen's Houthis claim attacks on vessels

A mosquito species that spreads Malaria has returned to Southern Italy more than 50 years after the country was declared free of the disease. Watch in for more details!

Malaria mosquito species return to Italy after 50 years

An Italian navy frigate shot down a drone in the Red Sea headed in the direction of an escorted merchant ship, Italy’s defense ministry said Monday. Watch in for more details!

Italy's Navy downs drone headed for Red Sea merchant vessel

A light show is taking place in the Alps, in an attempt to draw attention to the effects of climate change. Located in Italy's 36 light works supplied by artists from 17 countries are on display throughout the monastry.

Italy Brixen water light festival, melting glaciers theme of light festival

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced on Sunday she will be a candidate at June's European elections in a bid to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party, though she will not take up a seat if elected.

Italy PM Meloni announces candidacy at EU election | To represent Brothers of Italy Party

Protesters in Italy's Turin city have hit the streets and expressed their anger over the issue of Climate Crisis against world leaders ahead of the G7 summit.

Italy's Turin city on the boil ahead of G7 summit

Protests erupt in Italy as G7 ministers meet to discuss climate crisis

<p>Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia.</p>

<p>Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field".</p>

<p>She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/charles-to-return-to-some-public-duties-during-cancer-treatment-buckingham-palace-715466">Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment</a></p>

<p>"I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said.</p>

<p>Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday.</p>

<p>"Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused.</p>

<p>He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections.</p>

<p>The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).

Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26). The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same. "This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message. She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia. Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field". She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms". Also read: Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment "I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said. Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI. "(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday. "Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added. Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused. He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections. The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy

Mega protest ahead of G7 summit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited by his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to attend the G7 Summit Outreach Sessions in Italy in June this year. Watch in for more details!

Italian PM Meloni invites Indian PM Modi to attend G7 Summit in June

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership.</p>

<p>PM Modi extended greetings to Meloni and the people of Italy on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of Liberation Day.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also received an invitation from PM Meloni for the G7 Summit Outreach Session in Italy that is scheduled to take place in the month of June.</p>

<p>The two leaders discussed taking forward the significant outcomes from India's G20 Presidency, "especially that support the Global South, at the G7 Summit under Italy's Presidency."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Also read:&nbsp;Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a></p>

<p>PM Modi took to his official X account to write, "Spoke with PM Giorgia Meloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation Day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward G20 India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spoke with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiorgiaMeloni</a> and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20India</a> outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1783518460909441519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both leaders, during the call, also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Union also takes part in the Group and at the summits is represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.</p>

<p>Italy, for the seventh time, assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024. The Italian Presidency will last till December 31 this year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership. PM Modi extended greetings to Meloni and the people of Italy on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of Liberation Day. The Indian prime minister also received an invitation from PM Meloni for the G7 Summit Outreach Session in Italy that is scheduled to take place in the month of June. The two leaders discussed taking forward the significant outcomes from India's G20 Presidency, "especially that support the Global South, at the G7 Summit under Italy's Presidency." Also read: Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years PM Modi took to his official X account to write, "Spoke with PM Giorgia Meloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation Day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward G20 India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership". Spoke with PM @GiorgiaMeloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward #G20India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2024 × Both leaders, during the call, also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. WATCH: PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May × The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The European Union also takes part in the Group and at the summits is represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. Italy, for the seventh time, assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024. The Italian Presidency will last till December 31 this year. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi dials Italian counterpart Meloni, thanks her for invite to G7 Summit Outreach Session

Venice has become the first city in the world to introduce an access charge to control the number of tourists trampling over its fragile streets. The system came into effect at 8:30 am local time on Thursday with checks carried out at the city's railway station and other major access points.

Venice residents protest as city starts charging visitors

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day - Putin plans to visit China in May - Egypt warns of catastrophic consequences - IDF pounds targets in South Lebanon

PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidcYSbe9frJjgS" /></p>

<p>In a rare step to control over-tourism, a pilot programme has been launched by the Italian city of Venice according to which the day-trippers will be charged an entry fee of €5 (around $5.35).</p>

<p>The authorities hope that the entry fee will discourage visitors from coming on peak days and turn the city into a more livable place for its dwindling number of residents.</p>

<h2><strong>How has Venice prepared to charge its tourists?</strong></h2>

<p>The authorities have placed signs which inform the visitors regarding the new requirement for a test phase of 29 days across July. The signs have been placed outside the&nbsp;main&nbsp;train station and other important points of arrival.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the authorities have trained some 200 stewards to politely inform anyone who is not aware of the fees and the process of downloading a&nbsp;QR code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venice-to-start-charging-entry-fees-from-visitors-in-2024-632729">Venice to start charging entry fees from visitors in 2024</a></p>

<p>The authorities have also set up a kiosk for those who are not equipped with a smartphone. Once the tourists cross the designated entry ports, officials will conduct random checks for QR codes which show that the day-tripper tax has been paid or that they have exempted the bearer.</p>

<p>A fine of €50 ($53) to €300 ($321)&nbsp;will be imposed on the transgressors. The entry fee&nbsp;is applicable&nbsp;only to people who are entering the city between 8:30 am and 4 pm. Those who wish to enter Venice outside of those&nbsp;hours are not required to pay any fees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venice's tourism official, Simone Venturini said, "We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents. We need to safeguard the&nbsp;spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”</p>

<h2><strong>Venice battles mass tourism</strong></h2>

<p>The move was supported by the city's council executive just weeks after Venice was recommended by the UN cultural agency UNESCO to be included in its list of world heritage in danger, especially because of the negative impact of mass tourism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Venice to charge tourists an entry fee to avoid overcrowding</strong></p>

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<p>For years, the authorities in Venice have sought to ease the pressure of the increasing number of tourists who reach Venice to see sights, which include St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge.</p>

<p>Repeatedly, the ticketing plan has been postponed as concerns were raised that it is likely to seriously affect tourist revenue and compromise people's freedom of movement.</p>

<p>Locals marched in protest of the city's new day-trip entrance charge. Protesters argue that the admission charge will not address the lagoon city's problems of overtourism and depopulation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a rare step to control over-tourism, a pilot programme has been launched by the Italian city of Venice according to which the day-trippers will be charged an entry fee of €5 (around $5.

In a rare step to control over-tourism, a pilot programme has been launched by the Italian city of Venice according to which the day-trippers will be charged an entry fee of €5 (around $5.35). The authorities hope that the entry fee will discourage visitors from coming on peak days and turn the city into a more livable place for its dwindling number of residents. How has Venice prepared to charge its tourists? The authorities have placed signs which inform the visitors regarding the new requirement for a test phase of 29 days across July. The signs have been placed outside the main train station and other important points of arrival. Meanwhile, the authorities have trained some 200 stewards to politely inform anyone who is not aware of the fees and the process of downloading a QR code. Also Read: Venice to start charging entry fees from visitors in 2024 The authorities have also set up a kiosk for those who are not equipped with a smartphone. Once the tourists cross the designated entry ports, officials will conduct random checks for QR codes which show that the day-tripper tax has been paid or that they have exempted the bearer. A fine of €50 ($53) to €300 ($321) will be imposed on the transgressors. The entry fee is applicable only to people who are entering the city between 8:30 am and 4 pm. Those who wish to enter Venice outside of those hours are not required to pay any fees. Venice's tourism official, Simone Venturini said, "We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents. We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.” Venice battles mass tourism The move was supported by the city's council executive just weeks after Venice was recommended by the UN cultural agency UNESCO to be included in its list of world heritage in danger, especially because of the negative impact of mass tourism. Watch: Venice to charge tourists an entry fee to avoid overcrowding For years, the authorities in Venice have sought to ease the pressure of the increasing number of tourists who reach Venice to see sights, which include St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. Repeatedly, the ticketing plan has been postponed as concerns were raised that it is likely to seriously affect tourist revenue and compromise people's freedom of movement. Locals marched in protest of the city's new day-trip entrance charge. Protesters argue that the admission charge will not address the lagoon city's problems of overtourism and depopulation. (With inputs from agencies)

Planning to travel abroad? Venice will now charge you for entry

Italy Senate has approved a contentious government plan on abortion. The decision comes almost six weeks ahead of European Parliament elections in June.

Italy passes contentious abortion law, Senate passes provision in Confidence Vote

<p>Italy's competition authority said Wednesday it had fined two Amazon companies 10 million euros ($10.6 million) for unfair commercial practices that push customers into agreeing to "recurring" rather than "one-time" purchases online.</p>

<p>The AGCM said the option to set up regular purchases was "pre-selected by default" on a wide selection of products listed on Amazon's Italian website.</p>

<p>"The graphic layout of the pre-selected recurring purchase option may lead consumers to buy products periodically -- even when there is no actual need -- thereby limiting their ability to choose freely," the AGCM said in a statement.</p>

<p>"Moreover, the conduct implemented by the company was deemed contrary to the standards of professional diligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As a major operator, Amazon is expected to design its online interfaces, particularly those related to purchasing processes, in a manner that allows consumers to make free and informed commercial decisions."</p>

<p>Amazon said it "strongly disagrees" with the ruling, levelled against the Luxembourg-based Amazon Services Europe and Amazon EU, and said it would appeal.</p>

<p>"Every day&nbsp;customers benefit from the Subscribe and Save programme&nbsp;by saving money and time on regular deliveries&nbsp;of&nbsp;items they routinely use," the company said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said customers in&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;have saved more than 40 million euros under the subscription programme.</p>

<p>The watchdog said it had also raised concerns about the pre-selection of the "paid fast delivery" option on the Amazon website.</p>

<p>But it said it proposed no further action after Amazon agreed to pre-select only the free delivery option in future, and also to compensate consumers who complained last year about this conduct.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Italy's competition authority said Wednesday it had fined two Amazon companies 10 million euros ($10.6 million) for unfair commercial practices that push customers into agreeing to "recurring" rather than "one-time" purchases online.

Italy's competition authority said Wednesday it had fined two Amazon companies 10 million euros ($10.6 million) for unfair commercial practices that push customers into agreeing to "recurring" rather than "one-time" purchases online. The AGCM said the option to set up regular purchases was "pre-selected by default" on a wide selection of products listed on Amazon's Italian website. "The graphic layout of the pre-selected recurring purchase option may lead consumers to buy products periodically -- even when there is no actual need -- thereby limiting their ability to choose freely," the AGCM said in a statement. "Moreover, the conduct implemented by the company was deemed contrary to the standards of professional diligence. "As a major operator, Amazon is expected to design its online interfaces, particularly those related to purchasing processes, in a manner that allows consumers to make free and informed commercial decisions." Amazon said it "strongly disagrees" with the ruling, levelled against the Luxembourg-based Amazon Services Europe and Amazon EU, and said it would appeal. "Every day customers benefit from the Subscribe and Save programme by saving money and time on regular deliveries of items they routinely use," the company said in a statement. It said customers in Italy have saved more than 40 million euros under the subscription programme. The watchdog said it had also raised concerns about the pre-selection of the "paid fast delivery" option on the Amazon website. But it said it proposed no further action after Amazon agreed to pre-select only the free delivery option in future, and also to compensate consumers who complained last year about this conduct.

Italy fines Amazon over ‘recurring’ purchase option

<p>Archaeologists from the University of Tokyo might have finally discovered the death site of the Roman Empire's founder Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus (born Gaius Octavius).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The possible traces of the Villa of Augustus were found during excavations at Somma Vesuviana - a place where Augustus was said to have died in the year 14 AD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Villa of Augustus is the first-century grand estate that was built near Somma Vesuviana, which is a town and commune in the Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-say-asteroid-kamooalewa-is-likely-the-second-moon-which-once-belonged-to-our-moon-714140">This asteroid orbits the Sun, left a massive crater on Moon, but without ever hitting it</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>History books have mentioned that during the Roman period, the region area was a resort for the elite of Rome who constructed large villa complexes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The villa was built on the northern side of Mount Vesuvius and was buried under tonnes of volcanic ash and molten lava after the catastrophic eruption of this volcano in 79 AD, which also destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 1930 excavations in the Nola area uncovered a large Roman villa which was interpreted as the Villa of Augustus. Since 2002, it has been subjected to archaeological probes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/two-lifeforms-merge-into-one-organism-in-a-phenomenon-that-occurs-once-in-a-billion-years-714121">Two life forms merge into one organism in a phenomenon that occurs once in a billion years</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to a press statement by the University of Tokyo: "This suggests that even the northern foothills of Mount Vesuvius, where the effects of the AD 79 eruption were said to have been less severe than the southeastern region of the mountain, were also affected by the eruption with destructive power."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The remains of a Roman-era estate, unearthed during the 1930s, were believed to be the long-buried villa, however, probes later revealed that the ruins dated to the second century AD, which means it had been built after Mount Vesuvius had already erupted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Japanese researchers conducted excavations in 2023 and uncovered evidence of a building from an earlier period, which was just below the second-century structure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers believed that the older building was the site where Augustus died.</p>


Archaeologists from the University of Tokyo might have finally discovered the death site of the Roman Empire's founder Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus (born Gaius Octavius).

Archaeologists from the University of Tokyo might have finally discovered the death site of the Roman Empire's founder Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus (born Gaius Octavius). The possible traces of the Villa of Augustus were found during excavations at Somma Vesuviana - a place where Augustus was said to have died in the year 14 AD. Villa of Augustus is the first-century grand estate that was built near Somma Vesuviana, which is a town and commune in the Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy. Also read: This asteroid orbits the Sun, left a massive crater on Moon, but without ever hitting it History books have mentioned that during the Roman period, the region area was a resort for the elite of Rome who constructed large villa complexes. The villa was built on the northern side of Mount Vesuvius and was buried under tonnes of volcanic ash and molten lava after the catastrophic eruption of this volcano in 79 AD, which also destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum. The 1930 excavations in the Nola area uncovered a large Roman villa which was interpreted as the Villa of Augustus. Since 2002, it has been subjected to archaeological probes. Also read: Two life forms merge into one organism in a phenomenon that occurs once in a billion years According to a press statement by the University of Tokyo: "This suggests that even the northern foothills of Mount Vesuvius, where the effects of the AD 79 eruption were said to have been less severe than the southeastern region of the mountain, were also affected by the eruption with destructive power." The remains of a Roman-era estate, unearthed during the 1930s, were believed to be the long-buried villa, however, probes later revealed that the ruins dated to the second century AD, which means it had been built after Mount Vesuvius had already erupted. The Japanese researchers conducted excavations in 2023 and uncovered evidence of a building from an earlier period, which was just below the second-century structure. The researchers believed that the older building was the site where Augustus died.

Archaeologists might have discovered death site of Roman Empire's founder

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that Israel warned the US about a drone attack on Iran Friday apparently targeting an air base and a nuclear site in central Iran. Watch in for more details!

Israel warned US about drone strike on Iran, says Italy

Italy says Israel warned US about drone attack on Iran

<p>NATO allies, on Friday (Apr 19) agreed to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems, said the alliance’s chief Jens Stoltenberg after a special meeting of defence ministers of the member countries, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, Group of Seven (G7) countries’ foreign ministers also said that they are determined to bolster Ukraine’s air defences after Russia has ramped up strikes in recent weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>NATO allies pledge&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“In addition to Patriots, there are other weapons that allies can provide, including (the French system) SAMP/T and many others, who do not have available systems, have pledged to provide financial support to purchase them for Ukraine,” the NATO chief told reporters in Brussels.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'Ukraine could lose war', says CIA director</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-could-lose-war-says-cia-director-713096/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This comes as Germany said that it would hand over one Patriot missile battery to Kyiv and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on other countries to follow suit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky told a virtual meeting of NATO defence ministers that his country needs a "minimum" of&nbsp;seven Patriot air defence systems and said&nbsp;the alliance should decide "whether we indeed are allies".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is obvious that now, while Russia has air advantage and can rely on its drone and rocket terror, our capabilities on the ground, unfortunately, are limited," said the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 vows to bolster Ukraine air defence</strong></h2>

<p>The G7 will “bolster Ukraine’s air defence capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure,” said the foreign ministers in a statement which came after a three-day meeting in the southern Italian island of Capri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement also said that they would increase defence and security assistance for Kyiv and that they are “determined to continue to provide military, financial, political, humanitarian, economic, and development support to Ukraine and its people.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was also fiercely critical of the Russian invasion of Ukraine which has been going on for more than two years now. Ukraine has said that it is running out of weapons to shoot down Russian missiles and drones as Moscow has ramped up attacks on infrastructure in recent months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-ukraines-strike-sends-russian-bomber-into-tailspin-713005">Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin</a></strong></p>

<p>Kuleba, told reporters in Capri that the G7 had identified specific steps to help boost Ukraine’s air defence. However, he did not give any further details.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of funds</strong></h2>

<p>Britain’s Foreign Minister David Cameron also urged G7 allies to be “creative” in using Russian assets, which have been frozen since the invasion in 2022, to help Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Military aid to Ukraine has slowed down in recent months, with the war-torn country’s European partners running low on ammunition and the Republicans in the United States Congress blocking funding to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement also said that they will work to explore all avenues and options ahead of the G7 Apulia Summit in June to use Russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine which is “consistent with our respective legal systems and international law”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the slowdown in funding the West is looking for ways to use profits from some $300 billion of sovereign Russian assets held in their countries to help Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian airstrike in Dnipro</strong></h2>

<p>At least eight people, including two children, were killed after a Russian airstrike in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, on Friday, said the Ukrainian officials. Kuleba said a 14-year-old girl and 8-year-old boy had been killed during the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Missiles rained down on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro and the surrounding region in the early hours and a trail of destruction in its wake. According to regional officials, the strike damaged residential buildings, and the main train station and wounded at least 28 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-russian-strikes-on-dnipropetrovsk-region-injure-over-25-people-damage-critical-infrastructure-712899">Over 25 injured in Russian strikes in Dnipropetrovsk region</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has ramped up its long-range assaults across Ukraine prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to call for urgent supplies of air defences from the war-torn country’s allies in the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first time since the beginning of the invasion, Ukraine’s air force commander and military spy agency said they shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber that had fired missiles at Ukraine during the overnight attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine’s air force said it shot down 15 missiles, including two Kh-22 cruise missiles and 14 drones overnight. Governor Serhiy Lysak said that air defences in the Dnipropetrovsk region shot down 11 out of 16 missiles and nine out of 10 drones.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


NATO allies, on Friday (Apr 19) agreed to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems, said the alliance’s chief Jens Stoltenberg after a special meeting of defence ministers of the member countries, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

NATO allies, on Friday (Apr 19) agreed to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems, said the alliance’s chief Jens Stoltenberg after a special meeting of defence ministers of the member countries, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Additionally, Group of Seven (G7) countries’ foreign ministers also said that they are determined to bolster Ukraine’s air defences after Russia has ramped up strikes in recent weeks. NATO allies pledge “In addition to Patriots, there are other weapons that allies can provide, including (the French system) SAMP/T and many others, who do not have available systems, have pledged to provide financial support to purchase them for Ukraine,” the NATO chief told reporters in Brussels. WATCH | 'Ukraine could lose war', says CIA director This comes as Germany said that it would hand over one Patriot missile battery to Kyiv and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on other countries to follow suit. Zelensky told a virtual meeting of NATO defence ministers that his country needs a "minimum" of seven Patriot air defence systems and said the alliance should decide "whether we indeed are allies". "It is obvious that now, while Russia has air advantage and can rely on its drone and rocket terror, our capabilities on the ground, unfortunately, are limited," said the Ukrainian president. G7 vows to bolster Ukraine air defence The G7 will “bolster Ukraine’s air defence capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure,” said the foreign ministers in a statement which came after a three-day meeting in the southern Italian island of Capri. The statement also said that they would increase defence and security assistance for Kyiv and that they are “determined to continue to provide military, financial, political, humanitarian, economic, and development support to Ukraine and its people.” The statement was also fiercely critical of the Russian invasion of Ukraine which has been going on for more than two years now. Ukraine has said that it is running out of weapons to shoot down Russian missiles and drones as Moscow has ramped up attacks on infrastructure in recent months. Also Read | Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin Kuleba, told reporters in Capri that the G7 had identified specific steps to help boost Ukraine’s air defence. However, he did not give any further details. Lack of funds Britain’s Foreign Minister David Cameron also urged G7 allies to be “creative” in using Russian assets, which have been frozen since the invasion in 2022, to help Ukraine. Military aid to Ukraine has slowed down in recent months, with the war-torn country’s European partners running low on ammunition and the Republicans in the United States Congress blocking funding to Kyiv. The statement also said that they will work to explore all avenues and options ahead of the G7 Apulia Summit in June to use Russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine which is “consistent with our respective legal systems and international law”. Amid the slowdown in funding the West is looking for ways to use profits from some $300 billion of sovereign Russian assets held in their countries to help Ukraine. Russian airstrike in Dnipro At least eight people, including two children, were killed after a Russian airstrike in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, on Friday, said the Ukrainian officials. Kuleba said a 14-year-old girl and 8-year-old boy had been killed during the attack. Missiles rained down on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro and the surrounding region in the early hours and a trail of destruction in its wake. According to regional officials, the strike damaged residential buildings, and the main train station and wounded at least 28 people. Also Read | Over 25 injured in Russian strikes in Dnipropetrovsk region Russia has ramped up its long-range assaults across Ukraine prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to call for urgent supplies of air defences from the war-torn country’s allies in the West. For the first time since the beginning of the invasion, Ukraine’s air force commander and military spy agency said they shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber that had fired missiles at Ukraine during the overnight attack. Ukraine’s air force said it shot down 15 missiles, including two Kh-22 cruise missiles and 14 drones overnight. Governor Serhiy Lysak said that air defences in the Dnipropetrovsk region shot down 11 out of 16 missiles and nine out of 10 drones. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

NATO countries to give more air defence systems to Ukraine, says Stoltenberg

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a session during the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting on Capri Island, Italy. During the summit he said that Washington is committed to Israel’s security. Watch in to know more!

US State Secretary Antony Blinken speaks at G7 foreign ministers summit in Capri

<p>An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart".</p>

<p>Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy. The trial is scheduled to begin on October 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Past instances</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, Meloni successfully sued journalist Roberto Saviano for slamming&nbsp;her immigration policies in December 2020, resulting in a suspended fine of $1,063.</p>

<p>She has also filed a lawsuit against the lead singer of the British rock band Placebo for calling&nbsp;her&nbsp;"racist" and "fascist" during a performance in Italy in July 2023.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-sues-father-son-duo-aged-40-and-73-over-pornographic-deepfake-seeks-eu100000-in-damages-702610">Also read |&nbsp;Giorgia Meloni sues father-son duo over pornographic deepfake</a></p>

<p>Meloni shared a video of Canfora's remarks on Facebook, condemning them as "unacceptable" and akin to "propaganda" targeted at young students.</p>

<p>In anticipation of the court hearing in Bari, Canfora, a former professor renowned in Italy for his expertise in Greek and Latin philology, remained steadfast in his position. He explained that by using the term "neo-Nazi," he intended to evoke certain ideological tendencies rather than directly accusing Meloni of criminal actions.</p>

<p>Canfora pointed to Meloni's own words in her autobiography, where she acknowledged aligning herself with post-war far-right figures like Giorgio Almirante, a co-founder of the now-defunct Italian Social Movement (MSI) and a supporter of Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/artificial-intelligence-to-be-key-g7-issue-for-italy-giorgia-meloni-676743/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Despite this, Meloni stated upon assuming office that she never supported undemocratic regimes, including Fascism.</p>

<p>Many&nbsp;Italian and foreign intellectuals have rallied behind Canfora, with publications like the French newspaper Liberation organising a petition in his support.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart". Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy.

An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart". Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy. The trial is scheduled to begin on October 7. Past instances Previously, Meloni successfully sued journalist Roberto Saviano for slamming her immigration policies in December 2020, resulting in a suspended fine of $1,063. She has also filed a lawsuit against the lead singer of the British rock band Placebo for calling her "racist" and "fascist" during a performance in Italy in July 2023. Also read | Giorgia Meloni sues father-son duo over pornographic deepfake Meloni shared a video of Canfora's remarks on Facebook, condemning them as "unacceptable" and akin to "propaganda" targeted at young students. In anticipation of the court hearing in Bari, Canfora, a former professor renowned in Italy for his expertise in Greek and Latin philology, remained steadfast in his position. He explained that by using the term "neo-Nazi," he intended to evoke certain ideological tendencies rather than directly accusing Meloni of criminal actions. Canfora pointed to Meloni's own words in her autobiography, where she acknowledged aligning herself with post-war far-right figures like Giorgio Almirante, a co-founder of the now-defunct Italian Social Movement (MSI) and a supporter of Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime. Also watch | Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni Despite this, Meloni stated upon assuming office that she never supported undemocratic regimes, including Fascism. Many Italian and foreign intellectuals have rallied behind Canfora, with publications like the French newspaper Liberation organising a petition in his support. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy PM Giorgia Meloni sues historian for calling her ‘neo-Nazi at heart’

The Italian government is mulling tougher penalties for AI-related crimes. In other words Italy may soon impose tougher penalties for crimes that are conducted with the help of AI technology.

Italy considers tougher penalties for AI-related crimes

<p>In an extremely rare phenomenon caused by the constant release of vapours and gases, the world’s most active stratovolcano, Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy is blowing out volcanic vortex rings.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rare display of volcanic vortex rings</strong></h2>

<p>Images and videos from the past few days show Europe’s tallest active volcano has been sending near-perfect circular smoke rings into the Sicilian sky after a new crater reportedly opened on its summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The so-called smoke rings emitting from the volcano which has been in a near constant state of activity for years now.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In a relatively rare phenomenon caused by a constant release of vapors and gases, Italy's Mount Etna puffed out volcanic vortex rings <a href="https://t.co/ucdMHGfWwg">pic.twitter.com/ucdMHGfWwg</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1776663662910206375?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO: Rare smoke rings rise into the blue sky above Sicily's Mount Etna. Towering over the island at a height of 3,357 metres, Etna is Europe's most active volcano and activity has been recorded there for over 3,500 years. <a href="https://t.co/587M2rxXio">pic.twitter.com/587M2rxXio</a></p>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1776892830574612588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The gas rings are emitting from a small vent on Mount Etna’s southeast crater, said Boris Behncke, a volcanologist with the INGV-Osservatorio Etneo or Etna Observatory, in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/googles-solar-eclipse-2024-search-animation-steals-the-show-heres-how-to-see-it-708688">Google's Solar Eclipse 2024 search animation steals the show! Here's how to see it</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to Behncke, the phenomenon has been observed since Tuesday (Apr 2) evening.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Etna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Etna</a> is putting on a new, different show. Since the evening of 2 April 2024, a small vent on the Southeast Crater is emetting unprecedented quantities of gas rings (volcanic vortex rings). Timelapse (10x) video recorded at dawn on 4 April 2024 from home in Tremestieri Etneo <a href="https://t.co/4VjxNJYxKP">pic.twitter.com/4VjxNJYxKP</a></p>
— Boris Behncke (@etnaboris) <a href="https://twitter.com/etnaboris/status/1775973860908675279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Etna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Etna</a>'s Southeast Crater continues emitting countless graceful vapor rings ("volcanic vortex rings"), a phenomenon never seen like this before. Someone said "maybe because we receive so much bad news lately, Etna has decided to do something simply beautiful". 5 April 2024 <a href="https://t.co/zVxsKzX99K">pic.twitter.com/zVxsKzX99K</a></p>
— Boris Behncke (@etnaboris) <a href="https://twitter.com/etnaboris/status/1776285207823323215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Volcanic vortex rings are an extremely rare and natural phenomenon and are marked by near-perfect circles of vapour and gas being emitted from a volcano under specific conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is when gas bubbles are pushed through the narrow central part of the volcanic conduits and then form into rings as the gas and vapour wrap around themselves in a vortex motion. These rings are propelled hundreds of metres into the air.</p>

<h2><strong>Mount Etna eruption</strong></h2>

<p>An ash cloud from Mount Etna which had erupted in August last year, led to the cancellation, delay, and redirection of flights affecting millions during the holiday season.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/volcanoes-fault-zone-filled-lake-baikal-gearing-up-for-earthquake-study-hints-so-708053">Lake Baikal, filled with volcanoes and fault zone, is reportedly staring at an earthquake</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, most eruptions of Mount Etna are harmless. However, the 3,330 metre-high volcano burst on August 13, 2023, left many vehicles and streets of the Mediterranean island covered in ash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2013, Mount Etna was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In an extremely rare phenomenon caused by the constant release of vapours and gases, the world’s most active stratovolcano, Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy is blowing out volcanic vortex rings.

In an extremely rare phenomenon caused by the constant release of vapours and gases, the world’s most active stratovolcano, Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy is blowing out volcanic vortex rings. Rare display of volcanic vortex rings Images and videos from the past few days show Europe’s tallest active volcano has been sending near-perfect circular smoke rings into the Sicilian sky after a new crater reportedly opened on its summit. The so-called smoke rings emitting from the volcano which has been in a near constant state of activity for years now. In a relatively rare phenomenon caused by a constant release of vapors and gases, Italy's Mount Etna puffed out volcanic vortex rings pic.twitter.com/ucdMHGfWwg — Reuters (@Reuters) April 6, 2024 × VIDEO: Rare smoke rings rise into the blue sky above Sicily's Mount Etna. Towering over the island at a height of 3,357 metres, Etna is Europe's most active volcano and activity has been recorded there for over 3,500 years. pic.twitter.com/587M2rxXio — AFP News Agency (@AFP) April 7, 2024 × The gas rings are emitting from a small vent on Mount Etna’s southeast crater, said Boris Behncke, a volcanologist with the INGV-Osservatorio Etneo or Etna Observatory, in a post on X. Also Read | Google's Solar Eclipse 2024 search animation steals the show! Here's how to see it According to Behncke, the phenomenon has been observed since Tuesday (Apr 2) evening. #Etna is putting on a new, different show. Since the evening of 2 April 2024, a small vent on the Southeast Crater is emetting unprecedented quantities of gas rings (volcanic vortex rings). Timelapse (10x) video recorded at dawn on 4 April 2024 from home in Tremestieri Etneo pic.twitter.com/4VjxNJYxKP — Boris Behncke (@etnaboris) April 4, 2024 × #Etna's Southeast Crater continues emitting countless graceful vapor rings ("volcanic vortex rings"), a phenomenon never seen like this before. Someone said "maybe because we receive so much bad news lately, Etna has decided to do something simply beautiful". 5 April 2024 pic.twitter.com/zVxsKzX99K — Boris Behncke (@etnaboris) April 5, 2024 × Volcanic vortex rings are an extremely rare and natural phenomenon and are marked by near-perfect circles of vapour and gas being emitted from a volcano under specific conditions. It is when gas bubbles are pushed through the narrow central part of the volcanic conduits and then form into rings as the gas and vapour wrap around themselves in a vortex motion. These rings are propelled hundreds of metres into the air. Mount Etna eruption An ash cloud from Mount Etna which had erupted in August last year, led to the cancellation, delay, and redirection of flights affecting millions during the holiday season. Also Read | Lake Baikal, filled with volcanoes and fault zone, is reportedly staring at an earthquake Notably, most eruptions of Mount Etna are harmless. However, the 3,330 metre-high volcano burst on August 13, 2023, left many vehicles and streets of the Mediterranean island covered in ash. In 2013, Mount Etna was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Mount Etna puffs out ‘smoke rings’ in rare phenomenon

<p>An eighth-grade student Aaryan Shukla achieved a remarkable feat by creating a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to mentally add 50 five-digit numbers.</p>

<p>Shukla, a student of Delhi Public School Nashik, created the record in 25.19 seconds on the Italian TV show, ‘Lo Show Dei Record’ in Milan, Italy on 29th February 2024.</p>

<p><strong>Here's the full interaction with Shukla:</strong></p>

<p>WION: How does it feel to be representing your country at such a young age and achieving this feat?</p>

<p>Aaryan Shukla: "I feel very proud when I represent India at various stages. It is also a proud moment for me when our country wins."</p>

<p>WION: How does your ability to calculate this fast help you with day-to-day activities?</p>

<p>Aaryan Shukla: "It helps me to process data. Whenever I go grocery shopping, it helps me calculate the total amount and the bill."</p>

<p>WION: Do you practice mental Maths every day? What does a usual day look like for you?</p>

<p>"Generally I practice mental Maths for about two to three hours every day. However, before a competition, I practice for more hours."</p>

<p><strong>Watch the full video here:</strong></p>

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<p>Shukla is one of the founding board members of the Global Mental Calculators Association (GMCA).</p>

<p>GMCA is a geographically diverse elite group that comprises of mental calculators worldwide.</p>

<p>The association aims at expanding and strengthening mental calculation.</p>

<p>Apart from this, Shukla at the age of eight won 10 medals as he represented India at the ‘Memorial Turkey Open Championship in Istanbul, Turkey.</p>


An eighth-grade student Aaryan Shukla achieved a remarkable feat by creating a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to mentally add 50 five-digit numbers. Shukla, a student of Delhi Public School Nashik, created the record in 25.

An eighth-grade student Aaryan Shukla achieved a remarkable feat by creating a Guinness World Record for the fastest time to mentally add 50 five-digit numbers. Shukla, a student of Delhi Public School Nashik, created the record in 25.19 seconds on the Italian TV show, ‘Lo Show Dei Record’ in Milan, Italy on 29th February 2024. Here's the full interaction with Shukla: WION: How does it feel to be representing your country at such a young age and achieving this feat? Aaryan Shukla: "I feel very proud when I represent India at various stages. It is also a proud moment for me when our country wins." WION: How does your ability to calculate this fast help you with day-to-day activities? Aaryan Shukla: "It helps me to process data. Whenever I go grocery shopping, it helps me calculate the total amount and the bill." WION: Do you practice mental Maths every day? What does a usual day look like for you? "Generally I practice mental Maths for about two to three hours every day. However, before a competition, I practice for more hours." Watch the full video here: × Shukla is one of the founding board members of the Global Mental Calculators Association (GMCA). GMCA is a geographically diverse elite group that comprises of mental calculators worldwide. The association aims at expanding and strengthening mental calculation. Apart from this, Shukla at the age of eight won 10 medals as he represented India at the ‘Memorial Turkey Open Championship in Istanbul, Turkey.

Exclusive | 12-year-old Aaryan Shukla creates Guinness World Record for fastest mental math calculation

The Italian brand Brandy Melville has come under fire for alleged discrimination. Customers have accused it of exclusivity due to limited size options.

Gravitas | The fashion divide: 'One size fits all', but it is small

<p>Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian&nbsp;city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century.</p>

<p>The towers have been leaning (or tilting) at an alarming rate for now, and authorities have come up with a plan similar to the one that shored up the Tower of Pisa.</p>

<p>One of the two titling Garisenda towers is 48 meters high and is about two centuries old. At present, it leans at an angle of four degrees, just a little more than the Pisa tower’s current 3.9-degree slant. Last year, the streets of the city were cordoned off for scientists to examine the area under the tower to find whether there is any evidence of cracking in the ground, concluding that the structure is at “high risk”.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flashback-friday-how-a-reddit-community-triggered-the-meme-stock-phenomenon-705559">Flashback Friday |&nbsp;How a Reddit community triggered the 'meme stock' phenomenon&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Bologna's mayor Matteo Lepore announced that pylons and cables used to save the Tower in Pisa would now be deployed with adapted steel scaffolding to prevent Garisenda Tower&nbsp;from falling.</p>

<p>“This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Lepore told a press conference. He said it could allow the Asinelli Tower, a taller structure that stands next to Garisenda, to reopen to the public.</p>

<p>“In 2025 and 2026 there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” Lepori added.</p>

<p>The entire repair work will cost around 19 million euros (about $20 million) and will take “about six months” to adapt the equipment used for the Tower of Pisa to Garisenda, said Lepore.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/controversy-erupts-as-photo-of-hamas-militants-parading-womans-body-wins-award-705563">Controversy erupts as photo of Hamas militants parading woman's body wins award</a></p>

<p>According to a municipality press release, once the two steel pylon structures used in Pisa are erected and adapted to Garisenda, consolidation work will begin on the tower’s masonry. The structure will also be induced with injections of a lime-based mortar mix compatible with the one used in the building’s original construction.</p>

<p>Then cables connecting the pylons to scaffolding attached to the tower would be tightened, a procedure that would decrease stress levels at the tower’s base.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-destroys-three-thermal-power-plants-in-ukraine-says-the-largest-private-power-firm-dtek-705576">Russia destroys three thermal power plants in Ukraine, says the largest private power firm DTEK</a></p>

<p>The Tower of Pisa, which is now the centrepiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site, started leaning in the 1990s. Concerns surrounding its structure's probable fall led to an international effort to stop it from falling to the ground. The rehabilitation process for the tower started in 1993 and took eight whole years to make it intact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today the bell tower is a stable monument due to the steel pylons which will hopefully give the Garisenda tower a second life.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century.

Italy’s Garisenda tower, which is nowadays known as another “leaning tower” because of its extreme tilting, is on the verge of collapsing, as per authorities. The duo towers are situated in the Northern Italian city of Bologna and were built in the 12th century. The towers have been leaning (or tilting) at an alarming rate for now, and authorities have come up with a plan similar to the one that shored up the Tower of Pisa. One of the two titling Garisenda towers is 48 meters high and is about two centuries old. At present, it leans at an angle of four degrees, just a little more than the Pisa tower’s current 3.9-degree slant. Last year, the streets of the city were cordoned off for scientists to examine the area under the tower to find whether there is any evidence of cracking in the ground, concluding that the structure is at “high risk”. Also Read | Flashback Friday | How a Reddit community triggered the 'meme stock' phenomenon On Wednesday, Bologna's mayor Matteo Lepore announced that pylons and cables used to save the Tower in Pisa would now be deployed with adapted steel scaffolding to prevent Garisenda Tower from falling. “This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Lepore told a press conference. He said it could allow the Asinelli Tower, a taller structure that stands next to Garisenda, to reopen to the public. “In 2025 and 2026 there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” Lepori added. The entire repair work will cost around 19 million euros (about $20 million) and will take “about six months” to adapt the equipment used for the Tower of Pisa to Garisenda, said Lepore. Also Read | Controversy erupts as photo of Hamas militants parading woman's body wins award According to a municipality press release, once the two steel pylon structures used in Pisa are erected and adapted to Garisenda, consolidation work will begin on the tower’s masonry. The structure will also be induced with injections of a lime-based mortar mix compatible with the one used in the building’s original construction. Then cables connecting the pylons to scaffolding attached to the tower would be tightened, a procedure that would decrease stress levels at the tower’s base. Also Read | Russia destroys three thermal power plants in Ukraine, says the largest private power firm DTEK The Tower of Pisa, which is now the centrepiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site, started leaning in the 1990s. Concerns surrounding its structure's probable fall led to an international effort to stop it from falling to the ground. The rehabilitation process for the tower started in 1993 and took eight whole years to make it intact. Today the bell tower is a stable monument due to the steel pylons which will hopefully give the Garisenda tower a second life. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy's tilting Garisena tower to be shored up with similar equipment used for the Tower of Pisa

Najib Mikati, Lebanon's temporary prime minister, had a red carpet gaffe when he appeared to mistake an aide for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Watch to know more.

Lebanon Prime Minister confuses Italian counterpart with aide

You can now get a bird's eye view of the Italian Countryside Umbria through a new adventurous delight, the Tibetan Bridge. The bridge is suspended 175 m above the ground & is opening in Umbria also called the green heart of Italy. Watch in for more details!

Europe's highest Tibetan bridge opens for thrill-seekers in Italy

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