Business and political leaders have gathered for the World Economic Forum's annual Davos summit is back in person, two years after the covid-19 pandemic. While the bigwigs enjoy the clear blue skies, concerns have been raised regarding dark clouds looming over the world economy.

Leaders warn of possible recession at Davos summit 2022

A mass shooting in Texas on Tuesday that killed 19 kids intensified pressure on US lawmakers to act on the widespread availability of firearms, but it also raised the bleak prospect of little or no change.

According to the Everytown gun control group, it was the ninth mass shooting this year, and it occurred 10 days after another 18-year-old slaughtered 10 African Americans at a supermarket in New York.

However, limitations on gun purchases and ownership have remained mostly unchanged nearly ten years after a gunman massacred 20 children and six others at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, and four years after 17 people were killed at a Florida high school.

"I had hoped, when I became president, I would not have to do this, again," a distraught President Joe Biden said as he led national mourning, vowing to overcome the US gun lobby and find a way to tighten gun ownership laws.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-elementary-school-shooting-us-leaders-call-for-measures-to-bring-end-to-rising-incidents-481952">Also read | Texas elementary school shooting: US leaders call for measures to check rising incidents</a>

"Another massacre... an elementary school. Beautiful, innocent, second, third, fourth graders," he said. "I am sick and tired of it. We have to act. And don't tell me we can't have an impact on this carnage."

However, guns of all types, particularly high-powered assault rifles and semi-automatic handguns, are now cheaper and more freely available in the United States than they have ever been.

With the news of Tuesday's horrific shooting, the all-too-familiar debates over guns, public safety, and rights resurfaced.

Watch:

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Yet data shows the grim national cost of gun crime.

Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the number of gun deaths in the United States underwent a "historic" increase in 2020.

And the US racked up 19,350 firearm homicides in 2020, up nearly 35 percent over 2019, and 24,245 gun suicides, up 1.5 percent.

At 6.1 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020, the firearm homicide rate was the highest in a quarter century.

Mass shootings have also risen, according to Everytown.

"Since 2009, there have been 274 mass shootings in the United States, resulting in 1,536 people shot and killed and 983 people shot and wounded," the group says.

The country is swamped with guns. US firearms makers produced over 139 million guns for the commercial market over the two decades from 2000, and the country imported another 71 million.

That includes high-powered assault rifles, which can be found for $500, and 9 millimeter pistols that combine ease of use, high accuracy and semi-automatic triggers with prices as low as $200.

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A mass shooting in Texas on Tuesday that killed 19 kids intensified pressure on US lawmakers to act on the widespread availability of firearms, but it also raised the bleak prospect of little or no change.

A mass shooting in Texas on Tuesday that killed 19 kids intensified pressure on US lawmakers to act on the widespread availability of firearms, but it also raised the bleak prospect of little or no change. According to the Everytown gun control group, it was the ninth mass shooting this year, and it occurred 10 days after another 18-year-old slaughtered 10 African Americans at a supermarket in New York. However, limitations on gun purchases and ownership have remained mostly unchanged nearly ten years after a gunman massacred 20 children and six others at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, and four years after 17 people were killed at a Florida high school. "I had hoped, when I became president, I would not have to do this, again," a distraught President Joe Biden said as he led national mourning, vowing to overcome the US gun lobby and find a way to tighten gun ownership laws. Also read | Texas elementary school shooting: US leaders call for measures to check rising incidents "Another massacre... an elementary school. Beautiful, innocent, second, third, fourth graders," he said. "I am sick and tired of it. We have to act. And don't tell me we can't have an impact on this carnage." However, guns of all types, particularly high-powered assault rifles and semi-automatic handguns, are now cheaper and more freely available in the United States than they have ever been. With the news of Tuesday's horrific shooting, the all-too-familiar debates over guns, public safety, and rights resurfaced. Watch: Yet data shows the grim national cost of gun crime. Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the number of gun deaths in the United States underwent a "historic" increase in 2020. And the US racked up 19,350 firearm homicides in 2020, up nearly 35 percent over 2019, and 24,245 gun suicides, up 1.5 percent. At 6.1 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020, the firearm homicide rate was the highest in a quarter century. Mass shootings have also risen, according to Everytown. "Since 2009, there have been 274 mass shootings in the United States, resulting in 1,536 people shot and killed and 983 people shot and wounded," the group says. The country is swamped with guns. US firearms makers produced over 139 million guns for the commercial market over the two decades from 2000, and the country imported another 71 million. That includes high-powered assault rifles, which can be found for $500, and 9 millimeter pistols that combine ease of use, high accuracy and semi-automatic triggers with prices as low as $200. 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.

US gun terror: 'Since 2009… 274 shootings, 1,536 killed,' says US group

After one of the deadliest shooting incidents in the US state of Texas, several leaders of the country have been calling for making right amends to end the shooting spree, which seems to have become common in the country. In the latest incident, around&nbsp;18 children and three adults&nbsp;have been killed along with the gunman on Tuesday, as per media reports.&nbsp;The incident has evoked sharp reactions from several lawmakers. On the shooting, Vice President Kamala Harris said, "Our hearts keep getting broken. Enough is enough. As a nation, we have to have the courage to take action." &nbsp;

The shooting took place at a Texas elementary school, Governor Greg Abbott said. In the crime, 18-year-old shooter, who was a local, was also killed.&nbsp;Senator Chris Murphy said, “What are we doing? What are we doing?…This only happens in this country and nowhere else. Nowhere else do little kids go to school thinking that they might be shot that day." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-school-shooting-14-kids-1-teacher-killed-along-with-shooter-says-texas-governor-481950" hreflang="en">US school shooting: 14 kids, 1 teacher killed along with gunman</a>

The gunman opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. "I’m here on this floor to beg to literally get down on my hands and knees and beg my colleagues. Find a path forward here," said Murphy, who represents Newtown, Connecticut. &nbsp;

On getting apprised about Texas elementary school shooting,&nbsp;US President Joe Biden spoke&nbsp;with Governor Greg Abbott and offered assistance. The president will also address Americans in the wake of this terrible shooting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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A Parkland shooting victim’s father said, "To any family that has lost a kid today: I know the pain...But you have only a small segment of time with the cameras in front of you...While you have the access to show your anger...please do it. Because the media will not be there forever." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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After one of the deadliest shooting incidents in the US state of Texas, several leaders of the country have been calling for making right amends to end the shooting spree, which seems to have become common in the country.

After one of the deadliest shooting incidents in the US state of Texas, several leaders of the country have been calling for making right amends to end the shooting spree, which seems to have become common in the country. In the latest incident, around 18 children and three adults have been killed along with the gunman on Tuesday, as per media reports. The incident has evoked sharp reactions from several lawmakers. On the shooting, Vice President Kamala Harris said, "Our hearts keep getting broken. Enough is enough. As a nation, we have to have the courage to take action." The shooting took place at a Texas elementary school, Governor Greg Abbott said. In the crime, 18-year-old shooter, who was a local, was also killed. Senator Chris Murphy said, “What are we doing? What are we doing?…This only happens in this country and nowhere else. Nowhere else do little kids go to school thinking that they might be shot that day." Also Read: US school shooting: 14 kids, 1 teacher killed along with gunman The gunman opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. "I’m here on this floor to beg to literally get down on my hands and knees and beg my colleagues. Find a path forward here," said Murphy, who represents Newtown, Connecticut. On getting apprised about Texas elementary school shooting, US President Joe Biden spoke with Governor Greg Abbott and offered assistance. The president will also address Americans in the wake of this terrible shooting. WATCH WION LIVE HERE A Parkland shooting victim’s father said, "To any family that has lost a kid today: I know the pain...But you have only a small segment of time with the cameras in front of you...While you have the access to show your anger...please do it. Because the media will not be there forever." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Texas elementary school shooting: US leaders call for measures to check rising incidents

Reconciliation and peace figured prominently during the first session of WION’s 'Global Summit: Mission Peace' in Dubai where speakers made a fervent call for global peace.

The first session was titled ‘Waving the white flag on armed conflicts’.

It was joined by speakers:

1) Jane Holl Lute, former deputy secretary, US homeland security

2) Marko Mihkelson, chairman of foreign affairs committee, Estonia

3) Yasuhide Nakayama, former Japanese state minister of defence, and

4) Shahmahmood Miakhel, former deputy minister of interior, Afghanistan.

The session was moderated by Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Managing Editor, WION.

Speaking on the Russian-Ukraine war, which is believed to have been triggered by the so-called NATO expansion wherein Kyiv tried to join the US-led military alliance, Mihkelson said, “I don't think there's something called NATO expansionism. NATO can't expand or force people to join the defence alliance.”

Mikhelson agreed that sanctions “are the last resort”, adding that “war machines getting money and resources must be punished to end conflicts as soon as possible”.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Global Summit 2022: Russian invasion of Ukraine impacts all, why are peace dialogues not efficient?

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This view was concurred by Lute who said, “If you want to prevent the spread and continuation of violence, you need to create military and financial fire breaks, and sanctions are designed to do that.”

Wading into the issue, Japan’s former minister of defence Yasuhide Nakayama said, “Not just Europe, even Japan faces threat from Russian activities.”

Drawing parallels from the ongoing Russian-Ukraine conflict, when asked about the China-Taiwan tensions, Nakayama said, “Xi Jinping is smart. I don't think he is going to invade Taiwan. But there is some possibility. I think he will be weighing his options. One is the peaceful way and the other option is force&nbsp;by the military action. And the kind of options he chooses will depend on who the superpower is—which is the USA.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-global-summit-japans-ex-minister-yasuhide-nakayama-says-if-xi-is-smart-china-will-not-invade-taiwan-479445">Japan's ex-minister says if Xi is smart, China will not invade Taiwan</a>

Speaking on the Afghanistan issue, where the Taliban swiftly took over the reins after the US withdrawal, former deputy minister of interior, Afghanistan, Shahmahmood Miakhel spoke on the reasons why Washington failed to secure peace in the crisis-hit region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-on-the-brink-of-the-next-world-war-former-belarusian-minister-vladzimir-astapenka-479412">We are on the brink of next world war: Former Belarusian minister Astapenka</a>

“The actual problem was not tackled in Afghanistan, it was just an attempt to cure it. The money we spend on war should be spent on peace process. We don't focus on peace-building, we are only limited to peacemaking,” he said.

“You cannot wash blood with blood,” Miakhel added, while highlighting why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Reconciliation and peace figured prominently during the first session of WION’s 'Global Summit: Mission Peace' in Dubai where speakers made a fervent call for global peace.

Reconciliation and peace figured prominently during the first session of WION’s 'Global Summit: Mission Peace' in Dubai where speakers made a fervent call for global peace. The first session was titled ‘Waving the white flag on armed conflicts’. It was joined by speakers: 1) Jane Holl Lute, former deputy secretary, US homeland security 2) Marko Mihkelson, chairman of foreign affairs committee, Estonia 3) Yasuhide Nakayama, former Japanese state minister of defence, and 4) Shahmahmood Miakhel, former deputy minister of interior, Afghanistan. The session was moderated by Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Managing Editor, WION. Speaking on the Russian-Ukraine war, which is believed to have been triggered by the so-called NATO expansion wherein Kyiv tried to join the US-led military alliance, Mihkelson said, “I don't think there's something called NATO expansionism. NATO can't expand or force people to join the defence alliance.” Mikhelson agreed that sanctions “are the last resort”, adding that “war machines getting money and resources must be punished to end conflicts as soon as possible”. Watch | WION Global Summit 2022: Russian invasion of Ukraine impacts all, why are peace dialogues not efficient? This view was concurred by Lute who said, “If you want to prevent the spread and continuation of violence, you need to create military and financial fire breaks, and sanctions are designed to do that.” Wading into the issue, Japan’s former minister of defence Yasuhide Nakayama said, “Not just Europe, even Japan faces threat from Russian activities.” Drawing parallels from the ongoing Russian-Ukraine conflict, when asked about the China-Taiwan tensions, Nakayama said, “Xi Jinping is smart. I don't think he is going to invade Taiwan. But there is some possibility. I think he will be weighing his options. One is the peaceful way and the other option is force by the military action. And the kind of options he chooses will depend on who the superpower is—which is the USA.” Also read | Japan's ex-minister says if Xi is smart, China will not invade Taiwan Speaking on the Afghanistan issue, where the Taliban swiftly took over the reins after the US withdrawal, former deputy minister of interior, Afghanistan, Shahmahmood Miakhel spoke on the reasons why Washington failed to secure peace in the crisis-hit region. Also read | We are on the brink of next world war: Former Belarusian minister Astapenka “The actual problem was not tackled in Afghanistan, it was just an attempt to cure it. The money we spend on war should be spent on peace process. We don't focus on peace-building, we are only limited to peacemaking,” he said. “You cannot wash blood with blood,” Miakhel added, while highlighting why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

WION Global Summit 2022: Experts stress need to invest in peace instead of war

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifying, US President Joe Biden had a 'constructive conversation' with other Quad leaders, the White House said on Thursday. &nbsp;

The rapidly evolving situation in Ukraine was discussed by the Quad leaders, which include Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-sets-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-europe-on-fire-says-ukraines-minister-458728" hreflang="en">Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister</a>

On Wednesday, the leaders held a virtual meeting. In it, Russia's invasion in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region due to the crisis was discussed. &nbsp;

At a news conference, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, "The President felt it was a constructive conversation." &nbsp; &nbsp;

In a press release, the White House said, “The Quad leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and agreed to meet in person in Tokyo later this year." . &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-use-with-caution-elon-musk-warns-that-starlink-can-be-targeted-by-russia-advises-caution-458726">Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution</a>

In a tweet after the meeting, Biden said, "I met with my fellow Quad leaders Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio about Russia's ongoing attack on Ukraine and our commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity around the world, including in the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp;

Biden has also suggested that members of the respective national security teams can follow up after the meeting of the four heads of state, Psaki said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifying, US President Joe Biden had a 'constructive conversation' with other Quad leaders, the White House said on Thursday.

With the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifying, US President Joe Biden had a 'constructive conversation' with other Quad leaders, the White House said on Thursday. The rapidly evolving situation in Ukraine was discussed by the Quad leaders, which include Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read: Russian shelling sets largest nuclear power plant in Europe on fire, says Ukraine's minister On Wednesday, the leaders held a virtual meeting. In it, Russia's invasion in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region due to the crisis was discussed. At a news conference, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, "The President felt it was a constructive conversation." In a press release, the White House said, “The Quad leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and agreed to meet in person in Tokyo later this year." . Also Read: Elon Musk warns that starlink can be 'targeted' by Russia, advises caution In a tweet after the meeting, Biden said, "I met with my fellow Quad leaders Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio about Russia's ongoing attack on Ukraine and our commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity around the world, including in the Indo-Pacific.” Biden has also suggested that members of the respective national security teams can follow up after the meeting of the four heads of state, Psaki said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Constructive conversation': Quad leaders discuss Ukraine situation

To deal with the plastic pandemic, global leaders have come together to take measures and preserve the ocean from human harm. French president, Emmanuel Macron, is hosting the high-level session of the One Ocean summit on Friday. He said 2022 was “a decisive year, and we should take here, in Brest, clear and firm commitments.”

Nearly 27 EU states and 16 others have agreed to pursue a global agreement by the end of&nbsp;year. The aim is to regulate the sustainable use of the oceans all across the globe.&nbsp;

US climate envoy, John Kerry said that it was “the ocean that makes life on Earth possible, produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe – and even that is at risk. The ocean and climate are inextricably linked. They’re one and the same.”

During the summit, there were several panels on various commitments to marine protection and tackling climate change.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-tells-allies-russia-may-attack-ukraine-on-february-16-reports-452685">Also read |&nbsp;Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports</a>

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The countries participating in the summit said that they would respect the 13 Brest Commitments for Oceans, including protecting biodiversity and ocean resources.&nbsp;

Nearly 84 countries aim to protect 30 per cent of the world's land and sea biodiversity by 2030. Also, many countries joined the "High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People" and "the High Ambition Coalition on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction".&nbsp;

In a bid to finance the restoration of marine ecosystems, France and Colombia launched a global coalition. &nbsp;

The commitments and decisions taken during this summit will be further discussed at the UN Ocean conference in Lisbon, Portugal, in June and during the COP27 in Egypt in the autumn.

(With inputs from agencies)

To deal with the plastic pandemic, global leaders have come together to take measures and preserve the ocean from human harm. French president, Emmanuel Macron, is hosting the high-level session of the One Ocean summit on Friday.

To deal with the plastic pandemic, global leaders have come together to take measures and preserve the ocean from human harm. French president, Emmanuel Macron, is hosting the high-level session of the One Ocean summit on Friday. He said 2022 was “a decisive year, and we should take here, in Brest, clear and firm commitments.” Nearly 27 EU states and 16 others have agreed to pursue a global agreement by the end of year. The aim is to regulate the sustainable use of the oceans all across the globe. US climate envoy, John Kerry said that it was “the ocean that makes life on Earth possible, produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe – and even that is at risk. The ocean and climate are inextricably linked. They’re one and the same.” During the summit, there were several panels on various commitments to marine protection and tackling climate change. Also read | Biden tells allies Russia may attack Ukraine on February 16: Reports The countries participating in the summit said that they would respect the 13 Brest Commitments for Oceans, including protecting biodiversity and ocean resources. Nearly 84 countries aim to protect 30 per cent of the world's land and sea biodiversity by 2030. Also, many countries joined the "High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People" and "the High Ambition Coalition on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction". In a bid to finance the restoration of marine ecosystems, France and Colombia launched a global coalition. The commitments and decisions taken during this summit will be further discussed at the UN Ocean conference in Lisbon, Portugal, in June and during the COP27 in Egypt in the autumn. (With inputs from agencies)

Global leaders meet at One Ocean Summit, several important decisions taken

On the passing of India's legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar at the age of 92, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu joined the nation in sending their condolences on Sunday. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The iconic songstress was admitted to hospital on January 8 after being diagnosed with coronavirus&nbsp;and pneumonia. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-becomes-first-country-in-world-to-administer-covid-19-dna-vaccine-450750" hreflang="en">India becomes first country in world to administer COVID-19 DNA vaccine</a>

Breach Candy Hospital, where she undergoing treatment,&nbsp;said she died of multiple organ failure after Covid at 8.12 am on Sunday. &nbsp;

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Lata-ji’s demise is heart-breaking for me, as it is for millions the world over. In her vast range of songs, rendering the essence and beauty of India, generations found expression of their inner-most emotions. A Bharat Ratna, Lata-ji’s accomplishments will remain incomparable. <a href="https://t.co/rUNQq1RnAp">pic.twitter.com/rUNQq1RnAp</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1490181753054822400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Indian President Ram Nath Kovind said, “Lata-ji’s demise is heart-breaking for me, as it is for millions the world over. In her vast range of songs, rendering the essence and beauty of India, generations found expression of their inner-most emotions. A Bharat Ratna, Lata-ji’s accomplishments will remain incomparable.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

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I am extremely saddened by the demise of Lata Mangeshkar Ji, the Nightingale of Indian Cinema and legendary singer. India has lost its voice in the death of Lata ji, who has enthralled music lovers in India &amp; across the globe with her mellifluous &amp; sublime voice for many decades. <a href="https://t.co/C9m3PfexyP">pic.twitter.com/C9m3PfexyP</a>
— Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPSecretariat/status/1490179908441874433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“I am extremely saddened by the demise of Lata Mangeshkar Ji, the Nightingale of Indian Cinema and legendary singer. India has lost its voice in the death of Lata ji, who has enthralled music lovers in India &amp; across the globe with her mellifluous &amp; sublime voice for many decades,” said Vice President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/legendary-indian-singer-lata-mangeshkar-passes-away-450831" hreflang="en">Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar passes away</a>

“I am anguished beyond words. The kind and caring Lata Didi has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled. The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people,” said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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I am anguished beyond words. The kind and caring Lata Didi has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled. The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people. <a href="https://t.co/MTQ6TK1mSO">pic.twitter.com/MTQ6TK1mSO</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1490180741195780096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Mangeshkar was popular as 'Queen of Melody' and the 'Nightingale of India'. She was one of the most loved singers in the history of the Indian music industry.

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Meri Awaaz Hi Pehchaan Hain, Gar Yaad Rahe…and how can one forget such a voice! 
Deeply saddened by the passing away of Lata Mangeshkar ji, my sincere condolences and prayers. Om Shanti 🙏🏻
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1490181967924523008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Meri Awaaz Hi Pehchaan Hain, Gar Yaad Rahe…and how can one forget such a voice! Deeply saddened by the passing away of Lata Mangeshkar ji, my sincere condolences and prayers. Om Shanti," said actor Akshay Kumar. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

On the passing of India's legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar at the age of 92, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu joined the nation in sending their condolences on Sunday.

On the passing of India's legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar at the age of 92, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu joined the nation in sending their condolences on Sunday. The iconic songstress was admitted to hospital on January 8 after being diagnosed with coronavirus and pneumonia. Also Read: India becomes first country in world to administer COVID-19 DNA vaccine Breach Candy Hospital, where she undergoing treatment, said she died of multiple organ failure after Covid at 8.12 am on Sunday. Lata-ji’s demise is heart-breaking for me, as it is for millions the world over. In her vast range of songs, rendering the essence and beauty of India, generations found expression of their inner-most emotions. A Bharat Ratna, Lata-ji’s accomplishments will remain incomparable. pic.twitter.com/rUNQq1RnAp — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 6, 2022 × Indian President Ram Nath Kovind said, “Lata-ji’s demise is heart-breaking for me, as it is for millions the world over. In her vast range of songs, rendering the essence and beauty of India, generations found expression of their inner-most emotions. A Bharat Ratna, Lata-ji’s accomplishments will remain incomparable.” I am extremely saddened by the demise of Lata Mangeshkar Ji, the Nightingale of Indian Cinema and legendary singer. India has lost its voice in the death of Lata ji, who has enthralled music lovers in India & across the globe with her mellifluous & sublime voice for many decades. pic.twitter.com/C9m3PfexyP — Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) February 6, 2022 × “I am extremely saddened by the demise of Lata Mangeshkar Ji, the Nightingale of Indian Cinema and legendary singer. India has lost its voice in the death of Lata ji, who has enthralled music lovers in India & across the globe with her mellifluous & sublime voice for many decades,” said Vice President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu. Also Read: Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar passes away “I am anguished beyond words. The kind and caring Lata Didi has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled. The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people,” said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I am anguished beyond words. The kind and caring Lata Didi has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled. The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people. pic.twitter.com/MTQ6TK1mSO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 6, 2022 × Mangeshkar was popular as 'Queen of Melody' and the 'Nightingale of India'. She was one of the most loved singers in the history of the Indian music industry. Meri Awaaz Hi Pehchaan Hain, Gar Yaad Rahe…and how can one forget such a voice! Deeply saddened by the passing away of Lata Mangeshkar ji, my sincere condolences and prayers. Om Shanti 🙏🏻 — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) February 6, 2022 × "Meri Awaaz Hi Pehchaan Hain, Gar Yaad Rahe…and how can one forget such a voice! Deeply saddened by the passing away of Lata Mangeshkar ji, my sincere condolences and prayers. Om Shanti," said actor Akshay Kumar. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM, president lead condolences on legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar’s demise

Realising the true importance of Covid shots, seven gang leaders in New Zealand have joined forces in a four-minute video to urge communities to get vaccinated. &nbsp;&nbsp;

These leaders represent four of the countries’ most well-known street gangs. The concept seems to have been conjured up by a government minister. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-for-children-us-gives-final-nod-to-pfizer-jabs-for-5-11-age-group-426324" hreflang="en">COVID-19 vaccine for children: US gives final nod to Pfizer jabs for 5-11 age group</a>

After a discussion with gang leaders, the video was commissioned by the Minister for Maori development, Willie Jackson. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The leaders had provided footage that was edited by Jackson’s son, Hikurangi, reported the Herald. &nbsp;

Denis O’Reilly, who joined Black Power gang at the age of 19, said, he had “taken a few shots” in his time, including the two shots of Covid vaccine. He has asked his community “to do the same”. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-origins-china-says-us-report-without-credibility-intelligence-services-known-for-fraud-and-deception-426094" hreflang="en">China says US Covid origin report 'without credibility'</a>

Harry Tam of Mongrel Mob, said, “This is not all about gangs, this is all about our whānau (family)."

"One thing we need to be clear about is that this is not about the government telling us, it is about the experts telling the government, that is getting us to vaccinate to protect ourselves.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is a “no-brainer”, said fellow member Dennis Makalio. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Realising the true importance of Covid shots, seven gang leaders in New Zealand have joined forces in a four-minute video to urge communities to get vaccinated. These leaders represent four of the countries’ most well-known street gangs.

Realising the true importance of Covid shots, seven gang leaders in New Zealand have joined forces in a four-minute video to urge communities to get vaccinated. These leaders represent four of the countries’ most well-known street gangs. The concept seems to have been conjured up by a government minister. Also Read: COVID-19 vaccine for children: US gives final nod to Pfizer jabs for 5-11 age group After a discussion with gang leaders, the video was commissioned by the Minister for Maori development, Willie Jackson. The leaders had provided footage that was edited by Jackson’s son, Hikurangi, reported the Herald. Denis O’Reilly, who joined Black Power gang at the age of 19, said, he had “taken a few shots” in his time, including the two shots of Covid vaccine. He has asked his community “to do the same”. Also Read: China says US Covid origin report 'without credibility' Harry Tam of Mongrel Mob, said, “This is not all about gangs, this is all about our whānau (family)." "One thing we need to be clear about is that this is not about the government telling us, it is about the experts telling the government, that is getting us to vaccinate to protect ourselves.” It is a “no-brainer”, said fellow member Dennis Makalio. (With inputs from agencies)

Street gang leaders unite, urge community to get Covid jab in New Zealand

US President Joe Biden urged world leaders to take action to reduce supply-chain problems and prevent them from happening in the future. While speaking to fellow leaders gathered for the G20 summit in Rome, Biden also laid out new steps his administration is taking to address the issue at home.

US President Joe Biden urged world leaders to take action to reduce supply-chain problems and prevent them from happening in the future. While speaking to fellow leaders gathered for the G20 summit in Rome, Biden also laid out new steps his administration is taking to address the issue at home. As the coronavirus pandemic took over the world at the beginning of 2019, all kinds of transportation came to a halt. This has negatively impacted the industry and companies have had to bear massive losses, thus affecting the global supply chain. Earlier in September, the transport industry urged global leaders and the United Nations (UN) to pay attention to their worsening situation. IRU, the world road transport organisation, IATA, the International Air Transport Association, ICS, the International Chamber of Shipping, and ITF, the International Transport Workers' Federation came together to draft a letter and make an urgent plea on behalf of the whole transport industry. Also read | UK's Johnson warns on COP26: 'If Glasgow fails, the whole thing fails' "Our collective industries account for more than $20 trillion of world trade annually, and represent 65 million global transport workers, and over 3.5 million road freight and airline companies, as well as more than 80% of the world merchant shipping fleet," the chiefs said in a joint letter. The joint open letter by the global transport chiefs blamed world leaders for not offering them enough support in these difficult times. "Transport workers keep the world running and are vital for the free movement of products, including vaccines and PPE, but have been continually failed by governments and taken for granted by their officials," the letter reads.

Biden urges world leaders to help address global supply-chain issue

As Cop26 is set to begin in a few days, the United Nations Development Programme released a video of Frankie, the talking dinosaur, in an attempt to warn the world about climate disasters.

The dinosaur urged the world not to choose extinction.&nbsp;

"You're headed for a climate disaster, and yet every year governments spend hundreds of billions of public funds on fossil fuel subsidies. Think of all the other things you could do with that money. Around the world, people are living in poverty. Don't you think helping them would make more sense than paying for the demise of your entire species?", the dinosaur said, standing at the podium of the UN General Assembly.

The talking dinosaur urged the people to rebuild their economies and 'bounce back' from this pandemic.&nbsp;"This is humanity's big chance," the dinosaur said as he urged the people to not choose extinction and save their species.&nbsp;

"We can’t ignore climate change any longer. Unless we end the excuses, we’ll be another species facing extinction," said UNDP as they published the video of the dinosaur.&nbsp;

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We can’t ignore <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateChange?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateChange</a> any longer. Unless we end the excuses, we’ll be another species facing extinction. 
 
Join us and <a href="https://twitter.com/frankiethedino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FrankieTheDino</a>, and let's take <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateAction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateAction</a> before it’s too late: <a href="https://t.co/vf7PQ2oLeR">https://t.co/vf7PQ2oLeR</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DontChooseExtinction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DontChooseExtinction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> <a href="https://t.co/lwAXw4FCYI">pic.twitter.com/lwAXw4FCYI</a>
— UN Development (@UNDP) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNDP/status/1453210331308691459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/due-to-fuel-shortages-china-rations-diesel-424700">Also read |&nbsp;Due to fuel shortages, China rations diesel&nbsp;</a>

Meanwhile, the UK president-designate of the Cop26 talks, Alok Sharma, has said that achieving a global climate deal in Glasgow will be harder than signing the Paris agreement of 2015.&nbsp;

He further said that the task would be to get nearly 200 countries to implement stringent cuts to their greenhouse gas emissions, keeping in mind the increase in global temperature to within 1.5C of pre-industrial levels.

Sharma was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "What we’re trying to do here in Glasgow is actually really tough."

“It was brilliant what they did in Paris, it was a framework agreement, a lot of the detailed rules were left for the future."

“It’s like, we’ve got to the end of the exam paper and the most difficult questions are left and you’re running out of time, the exam’s over in half an hour and you go, ‘How are we going to answer this one?'

Also, world’s top carbon emitters are now urging the rich countries to do more to finance the developing world’s transition away from fossil fuels.&nbsp;

As Cop26 is set to begin in a few days, the United Nations Development Programme released a video of Frankie, the talking dinosaur, in an attempt to warn the world about climate disasters.

As Cop26 is set to begin in a few days, the United Nations Development Programme released a video of Frankie, the talking dinosaur, in an attempt to warn the world about climate disasters. The dinosaur urged the world not to choose extinction. "You're headed for a climate disaster, and yet every year governments spend hundreds of billions of public funds on fossil fuel subsidies. Think of all the other things you could do with that money. Around the world, people are living in poverty. Don't you think helping them would make more sense than paying for the demise of your entire species?", the dinosaur said, standing at the podium of the UN General Assembly. The talking dinosaur urged the people to rebuild their economies and 'bounce back' from this pandemic. "This is humanity's big chance," the dinosaur said as he urged the people to not choose extinction and save their species. "We can’t ignore climate change any longer. Unless we end the excuses, we’ll be another species facing extinction," said UNDP as they published the video of the dinosaur. We can’t ignore #ClimateChange any longer. Unless we end the excuses, we’ll be another species facing extinction. Join us and @FrankieTheDino, and let's take #ClimateAction before it’s too late: https://t.co/vf7PQ2oLeR#DontChooseExtinction #COP26 pic.twitter.com/lwAXw4FCYI — UN Development (@UNDP) October 27, 2021 × Also read | Due to fuel shortages, China rations diesel Meanwhile, the UK president-designate of the Cop26 talks, Alok Sharma, has said that achieving a global climate deal in Glasgow will be harder than signing the Paris agreement of 2015. He further said that the task would be to get nearly 200 countries to implement stringent cuts to their greenhouse gas emissions, keeping in mind the increase in global temperature to within 1.5C of pre-industrial levels. Sharma was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "What we’re trying to do here in Glasgow is actually really tough." “It was brilliant what they did in Paris, it was a framework agreement, a lot of the detailed rules were left for the future." “It’s like, we’ve got to the end of the exam paper and the most difficult questions are left and you’re running out of time, the exam’s over in half an hour and you go, ‘How are we going to answer this one?' Also, world’s top carbon emitters are now urging the rich countries to do more to finance the developing world’s transition away from fossil fuels.

'Humanity's big chance': Talking dinosaur Frankie urges world leaders to not choose extinction

India will be hosting young leaders under the age of 35, in November, as a part of a new initiative called "Gen Next democratic network". The event is planned by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which happens to be an autonomous body under the Ministry of External Affairs, which deals with policies relating to India's external cultural relations.

Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, President of ICCR at a presser said, "We will be celebrating Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav by emphasising on India's rich democratic traditions. We are establishing, one of the major events, Gen next democratic network. It is a program in which we are inviting young leaders below the age of 35 from 75 different democracies." These young leaders will be from the ruling party, the opposition party and other key parties as desirable. Around 5-7 leaders will be invited in different groups.

The inaugural batch will include Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Chile, Japan, Indonesia, Zambia. The structure includes countries representing regions and continents like South East Asia and&nbsp;Africa.

Sahasrabuddhe explained, "We are approaching and trying to build relations with the gen next of 75 democracies. These people are going to be future leader of those countries. So they get a comprehensive idea of India's rich democratic culture."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indias-eam-jaishankar-speaks-to-wion-on-india-israel-ties-421823">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive: India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to WION on India-Israel ties</a>

The speaker of the Lok Sabha (Lower house of the Indian Parliament), Om Birla will be inaugurating the event that will take place from November 25. ICCR top officials had met the speaker earlier on Monday for the same. They will be staying in India for a week. They will stay in Delhi for 3 days, where they will be hosted by the Indian parliament.&nbsp;

Interestingly, they will also go one state at least with ICCR approaching the state government.&nbsp;

DG ICCR Dinesh K. Patnaik highlighted, "ICCR is all about exchange of cultures, creating mutual understanding, not a one-way street"

The initiative comes as India has been taking a lead role in terms of geo politics of democracies.&nbsp;From quad grouping, where leaders from India, US, Japan and Australia, met in person at Washington to PM Modi referring to India's democratic credentials at his United Nations General Assembly speech calling the country as "Mother of democracy".

India will be hosting young leaders under the age of 35, in November, as a part of a new initiative called "Gen Next democratic network". The event is planned by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which happens to be an autonomous body under the Ministry of External Affairs, which deals with policies relating to India's external cultural relations.

India will be hosting young leaders under the age of 35, in November, as a part of a new initiative called "Gen Next democratic network". The event is planned by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which happens to be an autonomous body under the Ministry of External Affairs, which deals with policies relating to India's external cultural relations. Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, President of ICCR at a presser said, "We will be celebrating Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav by emphasising on India's rich democratic traditions. We are establishing, one of the major events, Gen next democratic network. It is a program in which we are inviting young leaders below the age of 35 from 75 different democracies." These young leaders will be from the ruling party, the opposition party and other key parties as desirable. Around 5-7 leaders will be invited in different groups. The inaugural batch will include Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Chile, Japan, Indonesia, Zambia. The structure includes countries representing regions and continents like South East Asia and Africa. Sahasrabuddhe explained, "We are approaching and trying to build relations with the gen next of 75 democracies. These people are going to be future leader of those countries. So they get a comprehensive idea of India's rich democratic culture." Also read | Exclusive: India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to WION on India-Israel ties The speaker of the Lok Sabha (Lower house of the Indian Parliament), Om Birla will be inaugurating the event that will take place from November 25. ICCR top officials had met the speaker earlier on Monday for the same. They will be staying in India for a week. They will stay in Delhi for 3 days, where they will be hosted by the Indian parliament. Interestingly, they will also go one state at least with ICCR approaching the state government. DG ICCR Dinesh K. Patnaik highlighted, "ICCR is all about exchange of cultures, creating mutual understanding, not a one-way street" The initiative comes as India has been taking a lead role in terms of geo politics of democracies. From quad grouping, where leaders from India, US, Japan and Australia, met in person at Washington to PM Modi referring to India's democratic credentials at his United Nations General Assembly speech calling the country as "Mother of democracy".

India to host 'Gen Next' leaders from 75 democratic countries

In March, when Miami Mayor Francis Suarez revealed that the city would bring on Art Acevedo, Houston's police chief, to head its Police Department, Suarez told the local newspaper that the hire was “like getting the Tom Brady or the Michael Jordan of police chiefs.”

His star pick lasted barely six months.

On Monday, Miami officials said they had decided to suspend Acevedo with the intent to terminate him, showing the chief the door after a contentious tenure in which he clashed with powerful elected commissioners who laid out their grievances against him in a series of City Hall meetings that frequently devolved into spectacle.

“The relationship between the chief and the organization has become untenable and needed to be resolved promptly,” Art Noriega, the city manager, said in a statement. “Relationships between employers and employees come down to fit and leadership style and unfortunately, Chief Acevedo is not the right fit for this organization.”

Acevedo made a series of decisions and comments that enraged commissioners, including dismissing or demoting several of the department’s top officers, investigating a City Hall sergeant-at-arms and posing for a selfie at a pro-Cuban democracy protest with a prominent member of the Proud Boys, whom the chief said he did not know.

The chief also said the Police Department was being run by a “Cuban mafia” — as a joke, he said — and later compared the reaction of commissioners to his actions to “the repressive regime and police state” of Communist Cuba. A majority of commissioners are Cuban American, as is Acevedo, although he grew up in California, not in the Cuban exile stronghold of South Florida.

Noriega had initially required Acevedo to submit an improvement plan of sorts, which the chief did. But at least one city commissioner declared that step insufficient. It had been clear for weeks that Acevedo had never won over commissioners, who had been taken aback by his surprise hiring. Noriega did not strongly defend Acevedo before the commission at its meetings. Suarez did not show up at all.

Acevedo has not spoken publicly as his tenure unraveled over the past weeks, despite his outspoken nature. (His national profile came in part from his frequent Twitter posts.) He thanked the department in a letter Monday evening.

“It has been a privilege serving with you and fighting for you,” he wrote, according to a copy of the letter posted online by WPLG, the local ABC News station.

Acevedo had accused several city commissioners of improperly meddling in personnel decisions, and he did not back away from that position in his memo.

“I promise to continue to fight the good fight to rid MPD of the political interference from City Hall that unfortunately continues to negatively impact this organization,” he wrote.

In March, when Miami Mayor Francis Suarez revealed that the city would bring on Art Acevedo, Houston's police chief, to head its Police Department, Suarez told the local newspaper that the hire was “like getting the Tom Brady or the Michael Jordan of police chiefs.

In March, when Miami Mayor Francis Suarez revealed that the city would bring on Art Acevedo, Houston's police chief, to head its Police Department, Suarez told the local newspaper that the hire was “like getting the Tom Brady or the Michael Jordan of police chiefs.” His star pick lasted barely six months. On Monday, Miami officials said they had decided to suspend Acevedo with the intent to terminate him, showing the chief the door after a contentious tenure in which he clashed with powerful elected commissioners who laid out their grievances against him in a series of City Hall meetings that frequently devolved into spectacle. “The relationship between the chief and the organization has become untenable and needed to be resolved promptly,” Art Noriega, the city manager, said in a statement. “Relationships between employers and employees come down to fit and leadership style and unfortunately, Chief Acevedo is not the right fit for this organization.” Acevedo made a series of decisions and comments that enraged commissioners, including dismissing or demoting several of the department’s top officers, investigating a City Hall sergeant-at-arms and posing for a selfie at a pro-Cuban democracy protest with a prominent member of the Proud Boys, whom the chief said he did not know. The chief also said the Police Department was being run by a “Cuban mafia” — as a joke, he said — and later compared the reaction of commissioners to his actions to “the repressive regime and police state” of Communist Cuba. A majority of commissioners are Cuban American, as is Acevedo, although he grew up in California, not in the Cuban exile stronghold of South Florida. Noriega had initially required Acevedo to submit an improvement plan of sorts, which the chief did. But at least one city commissioner declared that step insufficient. It had been clear for weeks that Acevedo had never won over commissioners, who had been taken aback by his surprise hiring. Noriega did not strongly defend Acevedo before the commission at its meetings. Suarez did not show up at all. Acevedo has not spoken publicly as his tenure unraveled over the past weeks, despite his outspoken nature. (His national profile came in part from his frequent Twitter posts.) He thanked the department in a letter Monday evening. “It has been a privilege serving with you and fighting for you,” he wrote, according to a copy of the letter posted online by WPLG, the local ABC News station. Acevedo had accused several city commissioners of improperly meddling in personnel decisions, and he did not back away from that position in his memo. “I promise to continue to fight the good fight to rid MPD of the political interference from City Hall that unfortunately continues to negatively impact this organization,” he wrote.

Miami will fire police chief who likened leaders to Cuban dictators 

In a speech to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), British Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks to tell world leaders that humanity has to 'grow up' and tackle climate change.

Watch:&nbsp;

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The UK leader wants to say that humans need to stop trashing the planet like a teenager on a bender. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In six weeks, Johnson will host a major UN climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland. Johnson is looking to use the UNGA forum to press governments for tougher emissions-cutting targets.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-kids-under-two-years-of-age-in-developing-countries-are-nourished-says-unicef-415019" hreflang="en">One third kids under two years of age in developing countries are nourished, says UNICEF</a>

He also wants to help poor countries clean up their economies by providing more money. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the advance extracts of the speech, which has been released by the British government, Johnson looks to say it's now or never if the world is to meet its goal of limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/put-uk-on-covid-high-alert-as-over-100000-kids-go-absent-from-school-warn-headteachers-415010" hreflang="en">Put UK on Covid 'high alert' as over 100,000 kids go absent from school, warn headteachers</a>

"I'll be saying to the UN General assembly tonight: This is it, folks. This is the moment when humanity comes to an inflection point, and we either take the steps necessary to avert a catastrophic increase in temperatures over the next hundred years, or we fail,” Johnson said in Washington on Wednesday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a speech to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), British Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks to tell world leaders that humanity has to 'grow up' and tackle climate change.

In a speech to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), British Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks to tell world leaders that humanity has to 'grow up' and tackle climate change. Watch: × The UK leader wants to say that humans need to stop trashing the planet like a teenager on a bender. In six weeks, Johnson will host a major UN climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland. Johnson is looking to use the UNGA forum to press governments for tougher emissions-cutting targets. Also Read: One third kids under two years of age in developing countries are nourished, says UNICEF He also wants to help poor countries clean up their economies by providing more money. In the advance extracts of the speech, which has been released by the British government, Johnson looks to say it's now or never if the world is to meet its goal of limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. Also Read: Put UK on Covid 'high alert' as over 100,000 kids go absent from school, warn headteachers "I'll be saying to the UN General assembly tonight: This is it, folks. This is the moment when humanity comes to an inflection point, and we either take the steps necessary to avert a catastrophic increase in temperatures over the next hundred years, or we fail,” Johnson said in Washington on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Humanity has to 'grow up', tackle climate change, UK PM wants to tell leaders at UNGA 2021

The White House has announced on Monday that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping, which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, the US President Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Innocent civilians pay the price of America's war on terror

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March 12 saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad Vaccine initiative will see covid vaccines--developed in the US, manufactured in India, financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Indo Pacific as a vision is being backed by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-combat-covid-19s-second-wave-india-inc-spent-over-rs-16-billion-412792" hreflang="en">To combat COVID-19's second wave, India Inc spent over Rs 16 billion</a>

The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas, such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Quad first came into existence after the 2004 Tsunami and saw some formalisation in 2007. At that time, Australia had issues, with the grouping again meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. &nbsp;

The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral meeting with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the two leaders since the change of guard in Washington. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On September 25, he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly high-level week for the address. During his address, he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.&nbsp;

The White House has announced on Monday that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington.

The White House has announced on Monday that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping, which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, the US President Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi. A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person". Watch: Innocent civilians pay the price of America's war on terror × March 12 saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad Vaccine initiative will see covid vaccines--developed in the US, manufactured in India, financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia. The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." Indo Pacific as a vision is being backed by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it. Also Read: To combat COVID-19's second wave, India Inc spent over Rs 16 billion The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas, such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." Quad first came into existence after the 2004 Tsunami and saw some formalisation in 2007. At that time, Australia had issues, with the grouping again meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral meeting with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the two leaders since the change of guard in Washington. On September 25, he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly high-level week for the address. During his address, he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.

First in-person Quad leaders' Summit on September 24, says White House  

For some time, two senior Taliban leaders, the group’s supreme leader and new deputy prime minister, have been missing from public view. Several questions are being raised about their whereabouts and health. &nbsp;

Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, the top Taliban leader, has not been seen by public in a month since the group seized control of Afghanistan. However, a spokesperson has denied the rumours of his death. &nbsp;

The Taliban’s most recognised face, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, seems to have gone missing too. Several eyebrows have raised over his disappearance. The concerns about the well-being of the head of the political office and key figure in peace talks has been growing in last some days.

Watch:&nbsp;Taliban co-founder releases audio statement after death rumours &nbsp;

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Several rumours of his death or getting badly injured in a fight with another senior Taliban figure in an argument about how to divide Afghanistan’s ministries seem to be doing rounds. &nbsp;

These disappearances have been fuelling rumours of growing infighting in the group. The real question is that will it be able to hold or result in a full-scale civil war. &nbsp;

The efforts of the officials to dispel the rumours seem to have deepened the mystery. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-killing-civilians-in-panjshir-valley-says-report-412897" hreflang="en">Taliban killing civilians in Panjshir Valley, says report</a>

Earlier, the Taliban released photos of a handwritten note from a Baradar deputy, which said he was in Kandahar. Then, they shared an audio message purporting to be from Baradar. The absence of a video raised more doubts. The videos and a photo, which has been shared online, doesn’t confirm about when they were taken. &nbsp;

Denying the rumours, spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter, “Mullah Bradar, deputy PM, Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, in a voice message rejected all those claims that he was injured or killed in a clash. He says it is lies and totally baseless.”&nbsp;

For some time, two senior Taliban leaders, the group’s supreme leader and new deputy prime minister, have been missing from public view. Several questions are being raised about their whereabouts and health.

For some time, two senior Taliban leaders, the group’s supreme leader and new deputy prime minister, have been missing from public view. Several questions are being raised about their whereabouts and health. Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, the top Taliban leader, has not been seen by public in a month since the group seized control of Afghanistan. However, a spokesperson has denied the rumours of his death. The Taliban’s most recognised face, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, seems to have gone missing too. Several eyebrows have raised over his disappearance. The concerns about the well-being of the head of the political office and key figure in peace talks has been growing in last some days. Watch: Taliban co-founder releases audio statement after death rumours × Several rumours of his death or getting badly injured in a fight with another senior Taliban figure in an argument about how to divide Afghanistan’s ministries seem to be doing rounds. These disappearances have been fuelling rumours of growing infighting in the group. The real question is that will it be able to hold or result in a full-scale civil war. The efforts of the officials to dispel the rumours seem to have deepened the mystery. Also Read: Taliban killing civilians in Panjshir Valley, says report Earlier, the Taliban released photos of a handwritten note from a Baradar deputy, which said he was in Kandahar. Then, they shared an audio message purporting to be from Baradar. The absence of a video raised more doubts. The videos and a photo, which has been shared online, doesn’t confirm about when they were taken. Denying the rumours, spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter, “Mullah Bradar, deputy PM, Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, in a voice message rejected all those claims that he was injured or killed in a clash. He says it is lies and totally baseless.”

Are two top Taliban leaders alive? Several questions arise after disappearance  

The entire world was shocked when al Qaeda terrorists smashed two planes into New York's World Trade Center, killing 2,753 people.&nbsp;

A third commercial jet hit the Pentagon, killing 184, and 40 more died after a fourth plane crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after a passenger revolt.

It was the first foreign attack on the US mainland in nearly two centuries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/911-attacks-and-a-money-trail-how-terrorists-planned-the-devastating-attacks-412286">Also read |&nbsp;9/11 attacks and a money trail: How terrorists planned the devastating attacks</a>

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, world leaders from all across the globe sent messages of solidarity saying that the attackers had failed to destroy Western values.

"We can now say with the perspective of 20 years that they (the jihadists) failed to shake our belief in freedom and democracy," said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as he posted a video on his Twitter handle.&nbsp;

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Today we remember the 2,977 people taken from us on September 11th 2001. 
 
But while the terrorists imposed their burden of grief and suffering, we can now say with the perspective of 20 years that they failed to shake our belief in freedom and democracy. <a href="https://t.co/BBuz9i08WZ">pic.twitter.com/BBuz9i08WZ</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1436605086688546818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He further wrote, "They failed to drive our nations apart, or cause us to abandon our values, or to live in permanent fear." 
Queen Elizabeth II, in a separate message, said: "My thoughts and prayers - and those of my family and the entire nation -- remain with the victims, survivors and families affected."

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said, "On 9/11 we remember those who lost their lives and honour those who risked everything to help them. Even in the darkest, most trying of times, the very best of human nature can shine through".

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On 9/11 we remember those who lost their lives and honour those who risked everything to help them. 
 
Even in the darkest, most trying of times, the very best of human nature can shine through. 
 
The EU stands with the USA in defending freedom &amp; compassion over hate. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/September11?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#September11</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1436564003581566977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"The horrific attacks of #September11 20 years ago changed the course of history. We remember the victims and noble sacrifice of so many first responders and aid workers. The EU stands by the US and @POTUS in the continued fight against terrorism and extremism in all its forms," tweeted European Council head Charles Michel.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, in an opinion piece said, "September 11 reminded us that freedom is always fragile. As Ronald Reagan said, it 'must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation".

He further wrote, "That day was an attack on free peoples everywhere. It was an attack on our way of life and the values of liberal democracy. Despite the pain inflicted on that day, the terrorists ultimately failed in their attempts to crush our resolve and change our way of life."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said, "We have now had to recognise that although we have been able to defeat terrorism, which is endangering our security, at the present time we have not achieved all our goals". She further added, "That is why it is important for us on the German side to safeguard what we have been able to achieve, education for girls and the like, although we know that this will not be easy with the Taliban.

"Above all, bringing citizens in need of protection to Germany and giving them protection is something we feel we have a moral obligation to do".

French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted, "We will #NeverForget. We will always fight for freedom".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on world countries to learn the lessons taught by the worst ever terror tragedy two decades ago. In his message, PM recalled the day of 9/11, calling it an attack on the humanity.&nbsp;

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सरदारधाम का 11 सितंबर यानि 9/11 को लोकार्पण हुआ है। यह तारीख जितनी अहम है, उतना ही बड़ा इससे जुड़ा संदेश है। 
 
इस तारीख को जहां एक तरफ मानवता पर प्रहार के लिए जाना जाता है, वहीं दूसरी तरफ इसी तारीख को स्वामी विवेकानंद ने दुनिया को भारत के मानवीय मूल्यों से परिचित कराया था। <a href="https://t.co/yGwKBjqzhe">pic.twitter.com/yGwKBjqzhe</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1436621726540992513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He invoked the message of Swami Vivekananda and said that it was on this day only when he had introduced the world to human values of India during his famous speech at Chicago in 1893.&nbsp;

The entire world was shocked when al Qaeda terrorists smashed two planes into New York's World Trade Center, killing 2,753 people. A third commercial jet hit the Pentagon, killing 184, and 40 more died after a fourth plane crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after a passenger revolt.

The entire world was shocked when al Qaeda terrorists smashed two planes into New York's World Trade Center, killing 2,753 people. A third commercial jet hit the Pentagon, killing 184, and 40 more died after a fourth plane crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after a passenger revolt. It was the first foreign attack on the US mainland in nearly two centuries. Also read | 9/11 attacks and a money trail: How terrorists planned the devastating attacks On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, world leaders from all across the globe sent messages of solidarity saying that the attackers had failed to destroy Western values. "We can now say with the perspective of 20 years that they (the jihadists) failed to shake our belief in freedom and democracy," said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as he posted a video on his Twitter handle. Today we remember the 2,977 people taken from us on September 11th 2001. But while the terrorists imposed their burden of grief and suffering, we can now say with the perspective of 20 years that they failed to shake our belief in freedom and democracy. pic.twitter.com/BBuz9i08WZ — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) September 11, 2021 × He further wrote, "They failed to drive our nations apart, or cause us to abandon our values, or to live in permanent fear." Queen Elizabeth II, in a separate message, said: "My thoughts and prayers - and those of my family and the entire nation -- remain with the victims, survivors and families affected." Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said, "On 9/11 we remember those who lost their lives and honour those who risked everything to help them. Even in the darkest, most trying of times, the very best of human nature can shine through". On 9/11 we remember those who lost their lives and honour those who risked everything to help them. Even in the darkest, most trying of times, the very best of human nature can shine through. The EU stands with the USA in defending freedom & compassion over hate. #September11 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) September 11, 2021 × "The horrific attacks of #September11 20 years ago changed the course of history. We remember the victims and noble sacrifice of so many first responders and aid workers. The EU stands by the US and @POTUS in the continued fight against terrorism and extremism in all its forms," tweeted European Council head Charles Michel. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, in an opinion piece said, "September 11 reminded us that freedom is always fragile. As Ronald Reagan said, it 'must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation". He further wrote, "That day was an attack on free peoples everywhere. It was an attack on our way of life and the values of liberal democracy. Despite the pain inflicted on that day, the terrorists ultimately failed in their attempts to crush our resolve and change our way of life." German Chancellor Angela Merkel said, "We have now had to recognise that although we have been able to defeat terrorism, which is endangering our security, at the present time we have not achieved all our goals". She further added, "That is why it is important for us on the German side to safeguard what we have been able to achieve, education for girls and the like, although we know that this will not be easy with the Taliban. "Above all, bringing citizens in need of protection to Germany and giving them protection is something we feel we have a moral obligation to do". French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted, "We will #NeverForget. We will always fight for freedom". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on world countries to learn the lessons taught by the worst ever terror tragedy two decades ago. In his message, PM recalled the day of 9/11, calling it an attack on the humanity. सरदारधाम का 11 सितंबर यानि 9/11 को लोकार्पण हुआ है। यह तारीख जितनी अहम है, उतना ही बड़ा इससे जुड़ा संदेश है। इस तारीख को जहां एक तरफ मानवता पर प्रहार के लिए जाना जाता है, वहीं दूसरी तरफ इसी तारीख को स्वामी विवेकानंद ने दुनिया को भारत के मानवीय मूल्यों से परिचित कराया था। pic.twitter.com/yGwKBjqzhe — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2021 × He invoked the message of Swami Vivekananda and said that it was on this day only when he had introduced the world to human values of India during his famous speech at Chicago in 1893.

World leaders remember 9/11 victims and survivors

Welcoming possible US involvement in the reconstruction of the country, the Taliban says it is ready to have relations with Washington, the group’s spokesman Suhail Shaheen told Sputnik. &nbsp;

The group wants relations that can serve the interests of both Afghanistan and the United States. The spokesman said, "Yes, of course, in a new chapter if America wants to have a relation with us, which could be in the interest of both countries and both peoples, and if they want to participate in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, they are welcome."

Watch: Reports challenge prospect of Mullah Baradar leading new Afghanistan govt

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Shaheen added, the Taliban will not have any relations with Israel but wants to maintain a dialogue with all of its neighbours. &nbsp;

The leader said, "Of course, we won't have any relation with Israel. We want to have relations with other countries, Israel is not among these countries… We would like to have relations with all the regional countries and neighbouring countries as well as Asian countries." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-built-databases-a-potential-tool-of-taliban-repression-411368" hreflang="en">US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression</a>

Meanwhile, the Taliban has also invited former Afghan military men to join the new hardline leadership. &nbsp;

"Afghan soldiers, who have been trained over the last 20 years, will be requested to rejoin security departments alongside Taliban fighters," said spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid at a press conference in Kabul. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Welcoming possible US involvement in the reconstruction of the country, the Taliban says it is ready to have relations with Washington, the group’s spokesman Suhail Shaheen told Sputnik.

Welcoming possible US involvement in the reconstruction of the country, the Taliban says it is ready to have relations with Washington, the group’s spokesman Suhail Shaheen told Sputnik. The group wants relations that can serve the interests of both Afghanistan and the United States. The spokesman said, "Yes, of course, in a new chapter if America wants to have a relation with us, which could be in the interest of both countries and both peoples, and if they want to participate in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, they are welcome." Watch: Reports challenge prospect of Mullah Baradar leading new Afghanistan govt × Shaheen added, the Taliban will not have any relations with Israel but wants to maintain a dialogue with all of its neighbours. The leader said, "Of course, we won't have any relation with Israel. We want to have relations with other countries, Israel is not among these countries… We would like to have relations with all the regional countries and neighbouring countries as well as Asian countries." Also Read: US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression Meanwhile, the Taliban has also invited former Afghan military men to join the new hardline leadership. "Afghan soldiers, who have been trained over the last 20 years, will be requested to rejoin security departments alongside Taliban fighters," said spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid at a press conference in Kabul. (With inputs from agencies)

With reconstruction on mind, Taliban ready to have relations with US

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan.&nbsp;Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

"Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted.

Watch:&nbsp;146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha

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Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier.

The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kabul-evacuations-several-indians-return-to-home-country-from-many-destinations-407551">Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations&nbsp;</a>

As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country.

On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital.

The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe. "Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted. Watch: 146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha × Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier. The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country. Also Read | Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country. On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital. The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

Indian external affairs minister Jaishankar to brief political party leaders on developments in Afghanistan

Canada plans to resettle more than 20,000 vulnerable Afghans including women leaders, human rights workers and reporters to protect them from Taliban reprisals, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino said on Friday. 
 
The effort is in addition to an earlier initiative to welcome thousands of Afghans, who worked for the Canadian government, such as interpreters, embassy workers and their families, he told a news conference. 
 
"As the Taliban continues to take over more of Afghanistan, many more Afghans' lives are under increasing threat," he said. He did not provide a timetable. 
 
Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan said some Canadian special forces were in Afghanistan taking part in the relocation effort but gave no details. 
 
"The challenges on the ground are quite immense," he said. 
 
Canada's new plan would focus on those who are particularly vulnerable, including women leaders, human rights defenders, reporters, persecuted religious minorities and members of the gay and lesbian community, Mendicino said. 
 
It covers both people who want to leave Afghanistan and those already in neighbouring countries. 
 
The Taliban have seized Afghanistan's second- and third-biggest cities as resistance from government forces crumbled. 
 
"We know the situation is dire. It's getting worse by the hour," said Mendicino.

Canada plans to resettle more than 20,000 vulnerable Afghans including women leaders, human rights workers and reporters to protect them from Taliban reprisals, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino said on Friday.

Canada plans to resettle more than 20,000 vulnerable Afghans including women leaders, human rights workers and reporters to protect them from Taliban reprisals, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino said on Friday. The effort is in addition to an earlier initiative to welcome thousands of Afghans, who worked for the Canadian government, such as interpreters, embassy workers and their families, he told a news conference. "As the Taliban continues to take over more of Afghanistan, many more Afghans' lives are under increasing threat," he said. He did not provide a timetable. Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan said some Canadian special forces were in Afghanistan taking part in the relocation effort but gave no details. "The challenges on the ground are quite immense," he said. Canada's new plan would focus on those who are particularly vulnerable, including women leaders, human rights defenders, reporters, persecuted religious minorities and members of the gay and lesbian community, Mendicino said. It covers both people who want to leave Afghanistan and those already in neighbouring countries. The Taliban have seized Afghanistan's second- and third-biggest cities as resistance from government forces crumbled. "We know the situation is dire. It's getting worse by the hour," said Mendicino.

Canada to accept 20,000 vulnerable Afghans such as women leaders, human rights workers

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged. The meet is likely to happen on the sidelines of any major multilateral summit. G20 summit in Italy in October could provide an opportunity for the meet.&nbsp;

The development comes almost a year after the group first met at the secretary level. The France, India and Australia trilateral was launched in September 2020 at foreign secretaries' level&nbsp;with three joint priorities, maritime security, environment and multilateralism.&nbsp;

This year's May saw the first foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in London. Indian External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Australian FM Marise Payne met and discussed a number of issues.&nbsp;

The focus of the grouping has been on Indo-Pacific largely. Remember, both France and Australia are part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) announced by India in 2019. In fact, Paris announced that it will join IPOI and take the lead of its 'Maritime Resources' pillar during the French foreign minister's visit to New Delhi in April 2020. The mandate of the trilateral is being expanded. Ahead of the G20 FMs meet in Italy, the trilateral had coordinated amongst themselves on a joint strategy at the forum.&nbsp;

Earlier, this year also saw the grouping having met at the senior officials’ level. The Indian side was led by Joint Secretary (Europe West) in MEA, Sandeep Chakravorty; French by Bertrand Lortholary, Director (Asia and Oceania), and the Australian side was led by Gary Cowan, First Assistant Secretary (North and South Asia Division). An official level meeting is also expected to happen in September.

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged.

France, India and Australia trilateral is all set to be elevated to leaders' level as President Emmanuel Macron, PM Narendra Modi and PM Scott Morrison meet is being envisaged. The meet is likely to happen on the sidelines of any major multilateral summit. G20 summit in Italy in October could provide an opportunity for the meet. The development comes almost a year after the group first met at the secretary level. The France, India and Australia trilateral was launched in September 2020 at foreign secretaries' level with three joint priorities, maritime security, environment and multilateralism. This year's May saw the first foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in London. Indian External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Australian FM Marise Payne met and discussed a number of issues. The focus of the grouping has been on Indo-Pacific largely. Remember, both France and Australia are part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) announced by India in 2019. In fact, Paris announced that it will join IPOI and take the lead of its 'Maritime Resources' pillar during the French foreign minister's visit to New Delhi in April 2020. The mandate of the trilateral is being expanded. Ahead of the G20 FMs meet in Italy, the trilateral had coordinated amongst themselves on a joint strategy at the forum. Earlier, this year also saw the grouping having met at the senior officials’ level. The Indian side was led by Joint Secretary (Europe West) in MEA, Sandeep Chakravorty; French by Bertrand Lortholary, Director (Asia and Oceania), and the Australian side was led by Gary Cowan, First Assistant Secretary (North and South Asia Division). An official level meeting is also expected to happen in September.

France, India & Australia trilateral to be elevated to leaders' level as Modi, Macron, Morrison's meet envisaged

Leaders of the Asia-Pacific trade group APEC, including US&nbsp;President Joe Biden, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and China's Xi Jinping, pledged on Friday to work to expand sharing and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines to fight the global pandemic. 
 
The leaders, struggling to tame outbreaks exacerbated by the Delta variant of coronavirus, said they would encourage the voluntary transfer of vaccine production technologies 'on mutually agreed terms' as the region prepared for future health shocks. 
 
"The pandemic continues to have a devastating impact on our region’s people and economies," the leaders said in a joint statement issued after a virtual meeting chaired by New Zealand. 
 
"We will only overcome this health emergency by accelerating equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured, and affordable COVID-19 vaccines," they said. 
 
The APEC leaders met virtually to discuss collective actions to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impacts. 
 
New Zealand, the revolving Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation host, said this week it would chair the extraordinary meeting ahead of a formal gathering in November, the first time such an additional meeting has been held. 
 
"Our discussions moved us beyond vaccine nationalism. Now we are focusing on all aspects of contributing to the global vaccination effort — making vaccines, sharing vaccines and using vaccines," New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said after the meeting. She said the leaders agreed this will not be the world`s last pandemic and that preparedness was critical. 
 
The meeting highlights growing concerns around COVID-19, which is raging in the region as countries including Indonesia, Thailand and Australia face new waves of infections.

Leaders of the Asia-Pacific trade group APEC, including US President Joe Biden, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and China's Xi Jinping, pledged on Friday to work to expand sharing and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines to fight the global pandemic.

Leaders of the Asia-Pacific trade group APEC, including US President Joe Biden, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and China's Xi Jinping, pledged on Friday to work to expand sharing and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines to fight the global pandemic. The leaders, struggling to tame outbreaks exacerbated by the Delta variant of coronavirus, said they would encourage the voluntary transfer of vaccine production technologies 'on mutually agreed terms' as the region prepared for future health shocks. "The pandemic continues to have a devastating impact on our region’s people and economies," the leaders said in a joint statement issued after a virtual meeting chaired by New Zealand. "We will only overcome this health emergency by accelerating equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured, and affordable COVID-19 vaccines," they said. The APEC leaders met virtually to discuss collective actions to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impacts. New Zealand, the revolving Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation host, said this week it would chair the extraordinary meeting ahead of a formal gathering in November, the first time such an additional meeting has been held. "Our discussions moved us beyond vaccine nationalism. Now we are focusing on all aspects of contributing to the global vaccination effort — making vaccines, sharing vaccines and using vaccines," New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said after the meeting. She said the leaders agreed this will not be the world`s last pandemic and that preparedness was critical. The meeting highlights growing concerns around COVID-19, which is raging in the region as countries including Indonesia, Thailand and Australia face new waves of infections.

World leaders pledge to redouble pandemic fight at special APEC meeting

According to a report of North Korea's KCNA news agency on Sunday,&nbsp;the leaders of North Korea and China have traded messages vowing to strengthen cooperation on the anniversary of their treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance between the two countries.

While giving a&nbsp;message to China's President Xi Jinping,&nbsp;North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said their relationship is vital in the face of hostile foreign forces, while Jinping promised to bring cooperation 'to a new stage', KCNA said.

In the message,&nbsp;Kim said,&nbsp;"Despite the unprecedentedly complicated international situation in recent years, the comradely trust and militant friendship between the DPRK and China gets stronger day by day."

China has been North Korea's only major ally since the two signed the treaty in 1961, and international sanctions imposed over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes have made it more dependent than ever on Beijing for trade and other support. 
 
The treaty is defending socialism and peace in Asia 'now that the hostile forces become more desperate in their challenge and obstructive moves," Kim said. 
 
Xi said he plans to provide greater happiness to the two countries and their people by strengthening communication with Kim and 'by steadily leading the relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries to a new stage,' KCNA said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

According to a report of North Korea's KCNA news agency on Sunday, the leaders of North Korea and China have traded messages vowing to strengthen cooperation on the anniversary of their treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance between the two countries.

According to a report of North Korea's KCNA news agency on Sunday, the leaders of North Korea and China have traded messages vowing to strengthen cooperation on the anniversary of their treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance between the two countries. While giving a message to China's President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said their relationship is vital in the face of hostile foreign forces, while Jinping promised to bring cooperation 'to a new stage', KCNA said. In the message, Kim said, "Despite the unprecedentedly complicated international situation in recent years, the comradely trust and militant friendship between the DPRK and China gets stronger day by day." China has been North Korea's only major ally since the two signed the treaty in 1961, and international sanctions imposed over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes have made it more dependent than ever on Beijing for trade and other support. The treaty is defending socialism and peace in Asia 'now that the hostile forces become more desperate in their challenge and obstructive moves," Kim said. Xi said he plans to provide greater happiness to the two countries and their people by strengthening communication with Kim and 'by steadily leading the relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries to a new stage,' KCNA said. (With inputs from agencies)

N Korean, Chinese leaders vow greater cooperation in face of foreign hostility: Report

Authorities in&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;issued search warrants and offered&nbsp;rewards&nbsp;Thursday of up to $500,000&nbsp;for&nbsp;gang&nbsp;bosses fueling deadly clashes between armed bandits and security forces in the capital Caracas.

The biggest&nbsp;rewards&nbsp;were for three criminal&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;known by their aliases of "Koki," "El Galvis" and "El Vampi," while others had prices of between $20,000&nbsp;and $50,000&nbsp;placed on their heads.

Koki, real name Carlos Luis Revete, is a leader of the&nbsp;gang&nbsp;Cota 905, one of several involved in a fresh outbreak of running battles with police in the poorer neighborhoods of Caracas since Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-covid-19-origins-reflect-initial-spread-of-sars-virus-17-years-ago-396714">Also read |&nbsp;Study shows COVID-19 origins reflect initial spread of SARS virus 17 years ago</a>

Local media say a dozen people have been killed, including a number of bystanders.

Venezuela, once a wealthy oil-producing nation, is in its fourth year of hyperinflation and its eight year of recession.&nbsp;

It is one of the most violent countries on Earth, with heavily armed gangs rife in poor neighborhoods.

The&nbsp;rewards&nbsp;offered are astronomical sums in a country where the monthly minimum wage is about $2.50 -- not enough to buy a kilogram (2.2 pounds) of meat.

In 2020,&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;registered 12,000&nbsp;violent deaths, according to the Venezuelan Violence Observatory. This is a rate of 45.6 per 100,000&nbsp;inhabitants -- seven times higher than the global average.

Authorities in Venezuela issued search warrants and offered rewards Thursday of up to $500,000 for gang bosses fueling deadly clashes between armed bandits and security forces in the capital Caracas.

Authorities in Venezuela issued search warrants and offered rewards Thursday of up to $500,000 for gang bosses fueling deadly clashes between armed bandits and security forces in the capital Caracas. The biggest rewards were for three criminal leaders known by their aliases of "Koki," "El Galvis" and "El Vampi," while others had prices of between $20,000 and $50,000 placed on their heads. Koki, real name Carlos Luis Revete, is a leader of the gang Cota 905, one of several involved in a fresh outbreak of running battles with police in the poorer neighborhoods of Caracas since Wednesday. Also read | Study shows COVID-19 origins reflect initial spread of SARS virus 17 years ago Local media say a dozen people have been killed, including a number of bystanders. Venezuela, once a wealthy oil-producing nation, is in its fourth year of hyperinflation and its eight year of recession. It is one of the most violent countries on Earth, with heavily armed gangs rife in poor neighborhoods. The rewards offered are astronomical sums in a country where the monthly minimum wage is about $2.50 -- not enough to buy a kilogram (2.2 pounds) of meat. In 2020, Venezuela registered 12,000 violent deaths, according to the Venezuelan Violence Observatory. This is a rate of 45.6 per 100,000 inhabitants -- seven times higher than the global average.

Venezuela offers $500,000 rewards for gang leaders

G7 leaders will agree to expand global Covid vaccine manufacturing to provide at least one billion doses to the world through sharing and financing schemes, Britain said Thursday.

G7 leaders will agree to expand global Covid vaccine manufacturing to provide at least one billion doses to the world through sharing and financing schemes, Britain said Thursday. The announcement came after the United States said it would donate 500 million jabs to 92 poor and lower-middle-income nations. The UK, which is hosting the big powers' gathering in southwest England, added it would donate at least 100 million surplus doses within the next year, including five million beginning in the coming weeks. The commitments follow growing calls for richer countries to step up their efforts to share Covid-19 shots with less-developed nations, with charities warning the current situation is leading to "vaccine apartheid". Britain, which has orders for more than 400 million doses, has faced criticism for failing to begin making donations to poorer countries. But on the eve of welcoming world leaders from the group of seven wealthy nations to their first summit in almost two years, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed that would soon change. "As a result of the success of the UK's vaccine program we are now in a position to share some of our surplus doses with those who need them," he said. "At the G7 Summit, I hope my fellow leaders will make similar pledges". Also Read | Ahead of G7 summit, US President Biden meets UK PM Johnson A Downing Street statement said: "At the Summit world leaders are expected to announce they will provide at least one billion coronavirus vaccine doses to the world.. and set out a plan to expand vaccine manufacturing in order to achieve that goal." 'Humanitarian obligation' Meanwhile, EU members have agreed to donate at least 100 million doses by the end of 2021 -- with France and Germany each committing to providing 30 million. French President Emmanuel Macron issued his own call for pharma groups producing vaccines to donate 10 percent of their production to poor nations. US President Joe Biden on Thursday saluted a "historic" moment in the fight against the pandemic after Washington announced its donation. "This is about our responsibility, our humanitarian obligation to save as many lives as we can," Biden told reporters at the start of his first overseas trip as president. Biden said the move was also in the US interest because of the risk of variants while the White House said the decision would "supercharge the global fight against the pandemic". The enduring challenge to defeat the virus was earlier laid bare by the World Health Organization which warned Europeans not to drop their guard because vaccination levels remain too low to stop another wave of infections. Although pockets of the rich world have scored successes against the disease, the gains are fragile and billions of mostly poor people remain unprotected. Over 100 million people in the 27-nation European Union, or 22.6 percent of its population, have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, according to an AFP count. The contrast with developing nations was further evidenced Thursday when South Africa's National Institute For Communicable Diseases announced his country had technically entered the third wave with more than 9,000 cases over the past 24 hours. On Thursday, India reported a global record of more than 6,000 Covid-19 deaths in a day after one state dramatically revised its data upwards, fuelling concerns that the official tally of almost 360,000 deaths, the world's third-highest toll, is woefully understated. WHO warns against complacency The United States has also faced criticism for sitting on huge stocks of unused vaccines. But with more than 60 percent of Americans have received at least one shot, Washington has moved to reclaim global leadership with its huge donation which will be channeled through the Covax program which aims to ensure equitable global vaccine distribution. The White House said the doses will start shipping in August. Also Read | UK report says Hong Kong security law used to 'drastically curtail freedoms' Dismissing suggestions that it is in a so-called vaccine diplomacy contest with Russia and China, Washington has described its initiatives as a return to multilateral action after the nationalist isolationism under Biden's predecessor Donald Trump. In Europe, some lockdown restrictions have been eased of late notably ahead of the Euro football competition starting Friday. But Hans Kluge, the WHO's regional director, said he feared complacency. "Vaccination coverage is far from sufficient to protect the region from a resurgence," Kluge told reporters, warning against repeating the "mistake" of last summer by easing protective measures prematurely. Iran's government meanwhile warned that recent success in containing the Middle East's deadliest coronavirus outbreak risks being reversed should the public cease being diligent in their precautions amid a shortage of vaccines. The country saw total infections pass the three million mark on Thursday, adding to the global total of almost 174,350,990. The pandemic has claimed more than 3.7 million lives worldwide.

G7 leaders agree to provide 1 billion Covid vaccine doses to world: UK

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