Pakistan is implementing sweeping reforms to cut costs and meet the terms of a $7 billion loan deal with the international monetary fund. The government announced plans to cut 150,000 government jobs, close six ministries, and merge two others. These measures are part of an agreement with the IMF to reduce administrative expenditures, increase the tax-to-GDP ratio, and formalise the economy.

Pakistan Cuts Expenditures, Expands Tax Base in IMF-backed Reforms

The National Board of Examinations (NBE) in Medical Sciences on Friday (July 5) said that the NEET-PG entrance examination will be held on August 11 in two shifts.&nbsp;

“In continuation of NBEMS notice dated 22.06.2024, the conduct of NEET-PG 2024 has been rescheduled. The NEET-PG shall now be conducted on 11th August 2024 in two shifts. The cut-off date for the purpose of eligibility to appear in the NEET-PG 2024 shall continue to be 15th August 2024,” said the board, in a notification.&nbsp;

The Central government on June 22 decided to postpone the NEET-PG examination as a "precautionary measure".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/question-papers-of-neet-pg-to-be-made-two-hours-before-exams-after-row-over-irregularities-737156">Question papers of NEET-PG to be made two hours before exams after row over leaks, irregularities</a>

<h2>Ministry to carry out assessment of exam process</h2>

The ministry said that it&nbsp;will carry out a thorough assessment of the robustness of the processes through which the NEET-PG will be conducted by the NBEMS, along with its technical partner TCS for medical students.

“Taking into consideration, the recent incidents of allegations regarding the integrity of certain competitive examinations, the Ministry of Health has decided to undertake a thorough assessment of the robustness of processes of NEET-PG Entrance Examination, conducted by the National Board of Examination for medical students," stated the Ministry of Health, in a statement.&nbsp;

The NEET-PG entrance examination is held nationwide&nbsp;for admission of children to all MBBS DNB courses, post MBBS direct 6-year DNB courses and NBEMS diploma courses which are available in medical colleges throughout the the country.

Earlier, the NEET-PG exam was postponed hours before it was about to start when it was embroiled in a row over alleged irregularities, which included a leak of papers for the UG (undergraduate) exam.

Watch:&nbsp;NEET paper leak scam: CBI raids apartment in Kolkata

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After the exam was scrapped, in which lakhs of aspiring medical professionals had to appear, led to furious protests from students, especially those who had travelled from afar to appear in the exam.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had last month said that NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams had suffered from possible indiscretions like question papers being sold on the darknet, as was alleged by the students which also highlighted how the National Testing Agency has been conducting both tests.

Meanwhile, in an affidavit filed by the Centre before the Supreme Court, the Ministry of Education said that NEET-UG 2024 should not be scrapped and re-conducted because it will seriously jeopardise” the lakhs of honest candidates who gave the exam.&nbsp;

“It is also submitted that at the same time, in the absence of any proof of any large-scale breach of confidentiality in a pan-India examination, it would not be rational to scrap the entire examination and the results already declared,” the Centre stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The National Board of Examinations (NBE) in Medical Sciences on Friday (July 5) said that the NEET-PG entrance examination will be held on August 11 in two shifts.

The National Board of Examinations (NBE) in Medical Sciences on Friday (July 5) said that the NEET-PG entrance examination will be held on August 11 in two shifts. “In continuation of NBEMS notice dated 22.06.2024, the conduct of NEET-PG 2024 has been rescheduled. The NEET-PG shall now be conducted on 11th August 2024 in two shifts. The cut-off date for the purpose of eligibility to appear in the NEET-PG 2024 shall continue to be 15th August 2024,” said the board, in a notification. The Central government on June 22 decided to postpone the NEET-PG examination as a "precautionary measure". Also Read: Question papers of NEET-PG to be made two hours before exams after row over leaks, irregularities Ministry to carry out assessment of exam process The ministry said that it will carry out a thorough assessment of the robustness of the processes through which the NEET-PG will be conducted by the NBEMS, along with its technical partner TCS for medical students. “Taking into consideration, the recent incidents of allegations regarding the integrity of certain competitive examinations, the Ministry of Health has decided to undertake a thorough assessment of the robustness of processes of NEET-PG Entrance Examination, conducted by the National Board of Examination for medical students," stated the Ministry of Health, in a statement. The NEET-PG entrance examination is held nationwide for admission of children to all MBBS DNB courses, post MBBS direct 6-year DNB courses and NBEMS diploma courses which are available in medical colleges throughout the the country. Earlier, the NEET-PG exam was postponed hours before it was about to start when it was embroiled in a row over alleged irregularities, which included a leak of papers for the UG (undergraduate) exam. Watch: NEET paper leak scam: CBI raids apartment in Kolkata After the exam was scrapped, in which lakhs of aspiring medical professionals had to appear, led to furious protests from students, especially those who had travelled from afar to appear in the exam. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had last month said that NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams had suffered from possible indiscretions like question papers being sold on the darknet, as was alleged by the students which also highlighted how the National Testing Agency has been conducting both tests. Meanwhile, in an affidavit filed by the Centre before the Supreme Court, the Ministry of Education said that NEET-UG 2024 should not be scrapped and re-conducted because it will seriously jeopardise” the lakhs of honest candidates who gave the exam. “It is also submitted that at the same time, in the absence of any proof of any large-scale breach of confidentiality in a pan-India examination, it would not be rational to scrap the entire examination and the results already declared,” the Centre stated. (With inputs from agencies)

NBE announces new NEET PG exam dates, two weeks after postponing them

Bharat Ranta awardee and Bihar's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur's son Ramnath Kumar clinched his place in the cabinet of the NDA government on Sunday (June 9).

Two-time JD(U) Rajya Sabha MP Ramnath Kumar's family earlier confirmed Indian media organisations about his&nbsp;ministerial berth.&nbsp;

“We are overwhelmed with the honour. It is a double bonanza after Jannayak Karpoori Thakur received the Bharat Ratna earlier this year. It brings a sense of great responsibility for Ramnath Thakur to excel in the assignment he will be given,” a family member was quoted as saying by the media.

“Ramnath Thakur was one obvious choice for a ministerial position. Karpoori Thakur is not just a matter of symbolism for us,&nbsp;Nitish Kumar&nbsp;has drawn a lot from Karpoori Thakur’s ideology and governance methods. Ramnath Thakur becoming minister helps us play up the Karpoori symbolism. It will send a great message to the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) community of Bihar,” said a senior JD(U) leader, as reported by The Indian Express.

The name of Ramnath Thakur was chosen over other ENC leaders Supaul MP Dileshwar Kamat and Jhanjharpur&nbsp;MP Rampreet Mandal.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Ramnath Thakur?</h2>

Ramnath Thakur, who belongs to Bihar's Samastipur, served as a state minister between 2005 and 2010.&nbsp;

His political career began in 1970 when he was assisting his father. However, he did not join electoral politics as his father was not in favour of it.

After the death of Karpoori Thakur in February 1988, Ramnath went ahead in the electoral politics and got elected as MLA.&nbsp;

In 1994, he was nominated to the Upper House of Bihar legislature. In 2000, Thakur successfully contested the Assembly elections.

He also clinched victory in February 2005 and then again in October 2005 from Samastipur and also held the position of the land and revenue minister.&nbsp;

However, Ramnath faced defeat in the 2010 Assembly polls by a narrow margin in which the Nitish-led NDA clinched victory on 206 of Bihar’s 243 Assembly seats.

After the loss, Ramnath remained low till he received a surprise nomination to the&nbsp;Rajya Sabha&nbsp;from the JD(U) before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Ranta awardee and Bihar's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur's son Ramnath Kumar clinched his place in the cabinet of the NDA government on Sunday (June 9).

Bharat Ranta awardee and Bihar's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur's son Ramnath Kumar clinched his place in the cabinet of the NDA government on Sunday (June 9). Two-time JD(U) Rajya Sabha MP Ramnath Kumar's family earlier confirmed Indian media organisations about his ministerial berth. “We are overwhelmed with the honour. It is a double bonanza after Jannayak Karpoori Thakur received the Bharat Ratna earlier this year. It brings a sense of great responsibility for Ramnath Thakur to excel in the assignment he will be given,” a family member was quoted as saying by the media. “Ramnath Thakur was one obvious choice for a ministerial position. Karpoori Thakur is not just a matter of symbolism for us, Nitish Kumar has drawn a lot from Karpoori Thakur’s ideology and governance methods. Ramnath Thakur becoming minister helps us play up the Karpoori symbolism. It will send a great message to the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) community of Bihar,” said a senior JD(U) leader, as reported by The Indian Express. The name of Ramnath Thakur was chosen over other ENC leaders Supaul MP Dileshwar Kamat and Jhanjharpur MP Rampreet Mandal. Who is Ramnath Thakur? Ramnath Thakur, who belongs to Bihar's Samastipur, served as a state minister between 2005 and 2010. His political career began in 1970 when he was assisting his father. However, he did not join electoral politics as his father was not in favour of it. After the death of Karpoori Thakur in February 1988, Ramnath went ahead in the electoral politics and got elected as MLA. In 1994, he was nominated to the Upper House of Bihar legislature. In 2000, Thakur successfully contested the Assembly elections. He also clinched victory in February 2005 and then again in October 2005 from Samastipur and also held the position of the land and revenue minister. However, Ramnath faced defeat in the 2010 Assembly polls by a narrow margin in which the Nitish-led NDA clinched victory on 206 of Bihar’s 243 Assembly seats. After the loss, Ramnath remained low till he received a surprise nomination to the Rajya Sabha from the JD(U) before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur's son Ramnath Thakur gets entry in Modi 3.0 from JD(U) quota

In an unprecedented move to tackle low birth rates in South Korea, the country's President Yoon Suk Yeol made a unique announcement: establishing a ministry to address the issue.

In an unprecedented move to tackle low birth rates in South Korea, the country's President Yoon Suk Yeol made a unique announcement: establishing a ministry to address the issue. The president said that he plans to establish a new government ministry which will handle the “national emergency” of the infamously low birth rate of the country which is grappling with a demographic crisis. President Suk Yeol, in a televised address, stated that he will ask for the co-operation of the parliament in establishing the Ministry of Low Birth Rate Counter-planning. “We will mobilise all of the nation’s capabilities to overcome the low birth rate, which can be considered a national emergency,” President Yeol said. Also Read: South Korea marks hottest April since 1973, average daily temperatures go 2.5 degrees higher Later speaking in his first press conference held since August 2022 to mark two years in office, Yoon accepted that his administration has fallen short in its efforts to improve the lives of people. He vowed that the next three years of his term would be used to improve the economy and address the issue of low births. The country's demographic crisis is likely to have been caused because of a number of factors. These include the frustrations of Korean couples with the rising cost of living and deteriorating quality of life. President Yeol calls for improvement in economic performance President Yeol said that there is a need to improve the country's economic performance. "I think the important thing going forward is indeed the economy. Corporate growth and job creation are important too but what I think is more important is to try harder to look for what is inconvenient in the life of each and every person and to resolve them," said the South Korean president. While speaking at the conference, he was standing behind a plaque which read: “The Buck Stops Here”. The ministry is set to address the challenges which will contribute to the fast-ageing population and record low birth rate. "This is not a matter we can take time to work on," he stated. Watch: Gravitas | The Great Indo-pacific Battle: South Korea Wants to Join AUKUS Military Alliance Against China The South Korean government as well as policymakers have been making efforts to discover new and innovative measures for addressing the crisis of decreasing child birth rates. The fertility rate of South Korea, which is the number of children a woman is expected to give birth to in her lifetime - decreased to 0.72 in 2023, which has fallen by eight per cent from 2022, as per the preliminary data from Statistics Korea in February. In order to motivate parents, the government has introduced a scheme in which South Korean couples will receive financial assistance from 35 million won (approx. $25763) to 50 million won (approx. $36804) in the form of different incentive and support programmes from the time of the birth of their child till they become seven year old. (With inputs from agencies)

This country will now get its own ministry for birth rates. Here's all you need to know about it

As per the Chinese government officials, their industry's future likely rests on the shoulders of humanoid robots if the new goals of increasing mass production by 2025 and achieving an advanced level of technology by 2027 are to be met. 
 
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which oversees the industrial sector of China, uploaded a nine-page guideline on its website, which stated that humanoid robots should “realise mass production by 2025” in China. 
 
MIIT stated that the country would aim to “establish a humanoid robot innovation system, make breakthroughs in several key technologies and ensure the safe and effective supply of core components” by 2025. 
 
The ministry appealed that the humanoid robots should “become an important new engine of economic growth” in China by 2027.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sizeable-hole-spotted-in-parachute-used-by-astronauts-landing-from-tiangong-space-station-watch-654309">China: Sizeable hole spotted in parachute used by astronauts landing from Tiangong space station.</a>

The document stated that by that time, “the technological innovation of humanoid robots will be significantly improved, a safe and reliable industrial supply chain system will be formed, an industrial ecology with international competitiveness will be constructed and our comprehensive strength will reach the world’s advanced level”. 
 
This is the latest step taken by China for promoting tech self-reliance and accelerating the development of its local robotics industry as it faces fierce competition from the US in major technology areas like chips.

<h2>'Humanoid robots likely to become disruptive innovation'</h2>

As per the World Robotics 2022 Report published by the International Federation of Robotics, significant progress has been made by China in industrial robotics as it overtook the United States in 2021 for the first time and became the world's fifth most automated country in the world. 
 
As per the guidelines shared on Thursday (Nov 2), industries like home services, agriculture, healthcare and logistics are likely to see a boom in the use of robots.

WATCH |&nbsp;China &amp; US need to resume comprehensive dialogue: China FM Wang Yi&nbsp;

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At the start of the document, MIIT stated that humanoid robots are likely to become another “disruptive innovation” after smartphones and computers and can emerge as a technology which is likely to change production and the pattern in which humans live “and reshape the pattern of global industrial development”. 
 
The policy document also asked the industry to emphasise the “cerebellum”, “brain” and “limbs” of humanoid robots with the help of breakthroughs in artificial intelligence like the large-language models. 
 
It appealed to the robot industry to increase the development of humanoid robots for them to be used in dangerous and harsh conditions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per the Chinese government officials, their industry's future likely rests on the shoulders of humanoid robots if the new goals of increasing mass production by 2025 and achieving an advanced level of technology by 2027 are to be met.

As per the Chinese government officials, their industry's future likely rests on the shoulders of humanoid robots if the new goals of increasing mass production by 2025 and achieving an advanced level of technology by 2027 are to be met. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which oversees the industrial sector of China, uploaded a nine-page guideline on its website, which stated that humanoid robots should “realise mass production by 2025” in China. MIIT stated that the country would aim to “establish a humanoid robot innovation system, make breakthroughs in several key technologies and ensure the safe and effective supply of core components” by 2025. The ministry appealed that the humanoid robots should “become an important new engine of economic growth” in China by 2027. ALSO READ | China: Sizeable hole spotted in parachute used by astronauts landing from Tiangong space station. The document stated that by that time, “the technological innovation of humanoid robots will be significantly improved, a safe and reliable industrial supply chain system will be formed, an industrial ecology with international competitiveness will be constructed and our comprehensive strength will reach the world’s advanced level”. This is the latest step taken by China for promoting tech self-reliance and accelerating the development of its local robotics industry as it faces fierce competition from the US in major technology areas like chips. 'Humanoid robots likely to become disruptive innovation' As per the World Robotics 2022 Report published by the International Federation of Robotics, significant progress has been made by China in industrial robotics as it overtook the United States in 2021 for the first time and became the world's fifth most automated country in the world. As per the guidelines shared on Thursday (Nov 2), industries like home services, agriculture, healthcare and logistics are likely to see a boom in the use of robots. WATCH | China & US need to resume comprehensive dialogue: China FM Wang Yi At the start of the document, MIIT stated that humanoid robots are likely to become another “disruptive innovation” after smartphones and computers and can emerge as a technology which is likely to change production and the pattern in which humans live “and reshape the pattern of global industrial development”. The policy document also asked the industry to emphasise the “cerebellum”, “brain” and “limbs” of humanoid robots with the help of breakthroughs in artificial intelligence like the large-language models. It appealed to the robot industry to increase the development of humanoid robots for them to be used in dangerous and harsh conditions. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Humanoid robots to shape future of Chinese economy? Ministry hints so

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. 
 
"Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. 
 
"All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. 
 
The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why">Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why</a>

At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated.

<h2>35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister</h2>

Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". 
 
On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. 
 
Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. 
 
Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. 
 
Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way

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Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. 
 
"This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added.

<h2>Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast</h2>

On Sunday,&nbsp;Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the&nbsp;south of the country which marked&nbsp;the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that&nbsp;soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. 
 
Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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<section>
(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats.

Russia on Sunday claimed that its force repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army on a Russian warship which was guarding gas pipelines in the Black Sea. "Ukraine's armed forces made an unsuccessful attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet's Priazovye ship," stated the Russian defence ministry, adding that the forces of Kyiv used six unmanned boats. "All the boats have been destroyed. There are no casualties,” the ministry said in a statement. The Priazovye battleship, which has been guarding the Blue Stream and the TurkStream gas pipelines, has been performing its tasks without much hindrance, said the defence ministry. ALSO READ | Russian opposition failing to unite against Putin. Here's why At the time of the attack, reconnaissance was being conducted by a remotely piloted US military aircraft called the RQ-4 Global Hawk in the Black Sea, Moscow stated. 35 people missing in Ukraine's devastating flood: Minister Thirty-five people, which included seven children, went missing in southern Ukraine on Sunday in the devastating flood which prosecutors called the "worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl". On June 6, the Russian-controlled Kakhovka dam located along the front line in the Kherson region blew up and forced thousands of people to flee, sparking fears of environmental and humanitarian disasters. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of blowing up the dam on the Dnipro River, while Moscow stated that Kyiv fired upon the structure. Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that 77 towns and villages were flooded in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson. Klymenko stated that 35 people went missing in the Kherson region, which included seven children. Because of the flood, five people lost their lives in Kherson and one person was killed in the region of Mykolaiv. WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Around 3,700 people were evacuated from their homes in both regions, said the minister in a statement. “Separately, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and representatives of the International Criminal Court visited the flooded territory,” stated his office. "This is the worst environmental catastrophe since Chernobyl so we are investigating not only a war crime but also an ecocide," said Kostin in a statement. "The situation is very complicated," he added. Ukraine announces first gain of offensive, says retook village in southeast On Sunday, Kyiv stated that Ukrainian forces have retaken a village in the south of the country which marked the first reported gain of the offensive. In a statement, Ukraine's ground forces stated that soldiers of the 68th separate ranger brigade had "liberated the settlement of Blagodatne" in the region of Donetsk. Earlier in the day, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia has started. "Counter-offensive and defensive actions are taking place," he stated. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims it repelled attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship

Brazilian activists are flipping out. A recent move by the Brazilian Congress outraged tons of activists in the country. Brazilian congress moved to dilute the powers of the environment & Indigenous peoples ministries. The legislation slashes the authority of the Ministries of Indigenous Peoples (MPI) & the Environment (MMA). Campaigners called the move, a crippling blow to efforts to protect Indigenous communities & the Amazon

Why is Brazil Congress diluting powers of environment & Indigenous Ministries?

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings.&nbsp;Sunak, who last week celebrated his 100th day in office at 10 Downing Street, said that party leader and cabinet minister&nbsp;Nadhim Zahawi had been replaced by close ally Greg Hands.

After an internal investigation into the&nbsp;Zahawi's tax dealings, dating back to when he spearheaded the YouGov polling company in 2000, found a "serious breach," the Tory leader dismissed him "of ministerial regulations.

The west London constituency MP Greg Hands expressed his excitement on Twitter "to be the new Conservative party chair, a position viewed as vital in the in the run-up to general elections.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am excited to be asked by <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rishisunak</a> to be Chairman of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Conservatives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@conservatives</a> 
 
I joined the Party in 1986 - a ward chairman in 1992, a councillor in 1998, a Group Leader in 1999, an MP in 2005, a Minister in 2011 - an honour to chair it in 2023! 
 
The work starts right away. <a href="https://t.co/eMxGSS2uNo">pic.twitter.com/eMxGSS2uNo</a>
— Greg Hands (@GregHands) <a href="https://twitter.com/GregHands/status/1622917714581897216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In an attempt to address the government's present dire conditions ahead of a general election that is anticipated for next year, Sunak has decided to establish four new government ministries.

Also watch |&nbsp;Sunak appoints new conservative party chair

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It comes after multiple scandals that involved Sunak's predecessors and corresponds with the biggest cost of living crisis in a generation as decades-high inflation threatens to send the country into recession.

Sunak established the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and appointed Grant Shapps as the ministry's director.

Additionally, he established the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, appointing Michelle Donelan, a former Secretary of Culture, to the position.

As Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, lawmaker Lucy Frazer was promoted to take her position.

The Tory party's rising star Kemi Badenoch, who was serving as the international trade secretary, stretched her responsibilities to include heading the business ministry.

She continues to serve as minister of equality for women.

The establishment of the new ministries, according to Sunak's Downing Street office, would&nbsp;“ensure the whole of government is geared up to deliver for the British people."

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled several government ministries on Tuesday (February 7), and named a new head of the Conservative Party, following the dismissal of a key ally last month over dubious tax dealings. Sunak, who last week celebrated his 100th day in office at 10 Downing Street, said that party leader and cabinet minister Nadhim Zahawi had been replaced by close ally Greg Hands. After an internal investigation into the Zahawi's tax dealings, dating back to when he spearheaded the YouGov polling company in 2000, found a "serious breach," the Tory leader dismissed him "of ministerial regulations. The west London constituency MP Greg Hands expressed his excitement on Twitter "to be the new Conservative party chair, a position viewed as vital in the in the run-up to general elections. I am excited to be asked by @rishisunak to be Chairman of the @conservatives I joined the Party in 1986 - a ward chairman in 1992, a councillor in 1998, a Group Leader in 1999, an MP in 2005, a Minister in 2011 - an honour to chair it in 2023! The work starts right away. pic.twitter.com/eMxGSS2uNo — Greg Hands (@GregHands) February 7, 2023 × In an attempt to address the government's present dire conditions ahead of a general election that is anticipated for next year, Sunak has decided to establish four new government ministries. Also watch | Sunak appoints new conservative party chair It comes after multiple scandals that involved Sunak's predecessors and corresponds with the biggest cost of living crisis in a generation as decades-high inflation threatens to send the country into recession. Sunak established the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and appointed Grant Shapps as the ministry's director. Additionally, he established the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, appointing Michelle Donelan, a former Secretary of Culture, to the position. As Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, lawmaker Lucy Frazer was promoted to take her position. The Tory party's rising star Kemi Badenoch, who was serving as the international trade secretary, stretched her responsibilities to include heading the business ministry. She continues to serve as minister of equality for women. The establishment of the new ministries, according to Sunak's Downing Street office, would “ensure the whole of government is geared up to deliver for the British people." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: Rishi Sunak creates four ministries, appoints new Tory chair in mini Cabinet reshuffle

The Palestinian health ministry reported on Tuesday that a child was killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Bethlehem. According to Israeli authorities, the incident took place when the forces fired on people who were throwing Molotov cocktails.

"The death of the child Adam Essam Shaker Ayyad, 15, with a bullet in the chest fired by the occupation soldiers during the aggression on Bethlehem at dawn today," the statement read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ben-gvir-visits-al-aqsa-mosque-in-jerusalem-enraging-palestinians-jordan-condemns-move-548979">Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, enraging Palestinians</a>

There were contrasting accounts regarding the incident from both sides. The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that the clashes took place when the forces entered Bethlehem's Dheisheh refugee camp to search the houses. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that they were attacked with rocks and Molotov cocktails during a routine search operation on Monday.

"The forces fired toward Molotov cocktails (sic) hurlers who risked their lives, hits were identified."

WATCH |&nbsp;Two teenagers face death penalty, capital charge over involvement in 'riots'

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The clashes between Israel and Palestine have intensified in the past year with the United Nations calling 2022 the deadliest year in the West Bank. According to official data accessed by AFP, more than 150 Palestinians and 26 Israelis were killed across Israel and the West Bank.

The year 2023 also started on a tragic note as two Palestinian men were shot dead in the city of Jenin after clashes broke out over demolition of few settlements. With veteran politician Benjamin Netanyahu returning as the Prime Minister of Israel, the tension has grown considerably in the region and it remains to be seen what new measures the government will adopt.

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The Palestinian health ministry reported on Tuesday that a child was killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Bethlehem. According to Israeli authorities, the incident took place when the forces fired on people who were throwing Molotov cocktails.

The Palestinian health ministry reported on Tuesday that a child was killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Bethlehem. According to Israeli authorities, the incident took place when the forces fired on people who were throwing Molotov cocktails. "The death of the child Adam Essam Shaker Ayyad, 15, with a bullet in the chest fired by the occupation soldiers during the aggression on Bethlehem at dawn today," the statement read. Also read | Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, enraging Palestinians There were contrasting accounts regarding the incident from both sides. The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that the clashes took place when the forces entered Bethlehem's Dheisheh refugee camp to search the houses. On the other hand, the Israeli military said that they were attacked with rocks and Molotov cocktails during a routine search operation on Monday. "The forces fired toward Molotov cocktails (sic) hurlers who risked their lives, hits were identified." WATCH | Two teenagers face death penalty, capital charge over involvement in 'riots' The clashes between Israel and Palestine have intensified in the past year with the United Nations calling 2022 the deadliest year in the West Bank. According to official data accessed by AFP, more than 150 Palestinians and 26 Israelis were killed across Israel and the West Bank. The year 2023 also started on a tragic note as two Palestinian men were shot dead in the city of Jenin after clashes broke out over demolition of few settlements. With veteran politician Benjamin Netanyahu returning as the Prime Minister of Israel, the tension has grown considerably in the region and it remains to be seen what new measures the government will adopt.

Palestinian child killed by Israel forces during clashes in Bethlehem, says ministry

The railways has notified the Indian Railway Management System (IRMS) which will unify the eight existing services of the national transporter. A gazette notification for the same was issued by the ministry on February 9.

The reform proposed during the tenure of Piyush Goyal as railway minister created a lot of heartburn among certain sections of officers. The railways had clarified that the seniority of officers will not be affected.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-inducts-made-in-india-choppers-for-maritime-security-of-west-coast-452113">Indian Coast Guard inducts made-in-India choppers for maritime security of west coast</a>

It said that 27 posts of GMs have been upgraded to apex grade. It will be ensured that eligible officers of all the erstwhile services get the apex grade post of GM. In the approved cabinet note, it has been mentioned that only the officers of IRMS will be eligible to become the functional members and chairman/CEO of the railway board.

Watch | India completes world's highest rail bridge arch

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There will likely be an option for employees to opt out of IRMS.

"In pursuance of Cabinet's decision dated 24.12.2019, there shall be creation of a new Group 'A' Central service called Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS)," the notification stated.

The railways has notified the Indian Railway Management System (IRMS) which will unify the eight existing services of the national transporter. A gazette notification for the same was issued by the ministry on February 9.

The railways has notified the Indian Railway Management System (IRMS) which will unify the eight existing services of the national transporter. A gazette notification for the same was issued by the ministry on February 9. The reform proposed during the tenure of Piyush Goyal as railway minister created a lot of heartburn among certain sections of officers. The railways had clarified that the seniority of officers will not be affected. Also read | Indian Coast Guard inducts made-in-India choppers for maritime security of west coast It said that 27 posts of GMs have been upgraded to apex grade. It will be ensured that eligible officers of all the erstwhile services get the apex grade post of GM. In the approved cabinet note, it has been mentioned that only the officers of IRMS will be eligible to become the functional members and chairman/CEO of the railway board. Watch | India completes world's highest rail bridge arch There will likely be an option for employees to opt out of IRMS. "In pursuance of Cabinet's decision dated 24.12.2019, there shall be creation of a new Group 'A' Central service called Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS)," the notification stated.

Indian Railway Ministry announces IRMS, bringing together eight existing services of the railways

In what depicts the true state of women under the new Taliban rule, the group seems to have closed down the women's affairs ministry and replaced it with a department, which used to once enforce strict religious doctrines. &nbsp;

The Taliban’s true commitment towards women rights has come to light with this move. &nbsp;

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Taliban replaced the Ministry of Women’s affairs to the Ministry or Guidance, Virtue and Vice. Photo via social media <a href="https://t.co/JPaWQwn8Hf">pic.twitter.com/JPaWQwn8Hf</a>
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The sign at the ministry was removed on Friday. A sign for the ministry of virtue and vice was also put in its place. &nbsp;

On social media, some videos also showed women employees outside the offices, urging the Taliban to let them return to work. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Blow to women's rights in Taliban's Afghanistan

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In another measure curbing women’s freedom in Afghanistan, the new Taliban government’s higher education minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani had earlier said that women in Afghanistan can continue to study in universities, but classrooms will be gender-segregated and Islamic dress is compulsory. The women will be allowed to study at post-graduate levels too. &nbsp; &nbsp;

At a news conference, the minister laid out new policies days after Afghanistan's new rulers formed the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-apologise-us-admits-kabul-airstrike-killed-10-civilians-not-isis-k-militants-413889" hreflang="en">'We apologise': US admits Kabul airstrike killed 10 civilians, not ISIS-K militants</a>

At this time, the whole world has been watching the new government’s actions closely to see is the group true to its words and the type of rule it imposes on the country this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In the era of their last rule, girls and women were denied an education, and were totally excluded from public life. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Taliban have claimed to have changed, including in their attitudes towards women. But in recent days, they have used violence against women protesters demanding equal rights. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what depicts the true state of women under the new Taliban rule, the group seems to have closed down the women's affairs ministry and replaced it with a department, which used to once enforce strict religious doctrines.

In what depicts the true state of women under the new Taliban rule, the group seems to have closed down the women's affairs ministry and replaced it with a department, which used to once enforce strict religious doctrines. The Taliban’s true commitment towards women rights has come to light with this move. Taliban replaced the Ministry of Women’s affairs to the Ministry or Guidance, Virtue and Vice. Photo via social media pic.twitter.com/JPaWQwn8Hf — Ahmad Mukhtar (@AhMukhtar) September 17, 2021 × The sign at the ministry was removed on Friday. A sign for the ministry of virtue and vice was also put in its place. On social media, some videos also showed women employees outside the offices, urging the Taliban to let them return to work. Watch: Blow to women's rights in Taliban's Afghanistan × In another measure curbing women’s freedom in Afghanistan, the new Taliban government’s higher education minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani had earlier said that women in Afghanistan can continue to study in universities, but classrooms will be gender-segregated and Islamic dress is compulsory. The women will be allowed to study at post-graduate levels too. At a news conference, the minister laid out new policies days after Afghanistan's new rulers formed the government. Also Read: 'We apologise': US admits Kabul airstrike killed 10 civilians, not ISIS-K militants At this time, the whole world has been watching the new government’s actions closely to see is the group true to its words and the type of rule it imposes on the country this time. In the era of their last rule, girls and women were denied an education, and were totally excluded from public life. The Taliban have claimed to have changed, including in their attitudes towards women. But in recent days, they have used violence against women protesters demanding equal rights. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban replace Afghan women's affairs ministry with virtue, vice deptt

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday.&nbsp;

This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April.

"Every country works with an aim of keeping its people, economy and social system safe," Rajesh Bhushan told a weekly news conference.

"Even the public health response to COVID-19 is governed by those goals. So we will also try to achieve those goals and see when would be the right time to export vaccines," he added.

Meanwhile, India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-covid-19-cases-in-two-months-worst-hit-kerala-in-focus-410225">Also read |&nbsp;India records highest COVID-19 cases in two months, worst-hit Kerala in focus</a>

Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths.

This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common.

"With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala.

India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent.

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday. This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April.

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday. This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April. "Every country works with an aim of keeping its people, economy and social system safe," Rajesh Bhushan told a weekly news conference. "Even the public health response to COVID-19 is governed by those goals. So we will also try to achieve those goals and see when would be the right time to export vaccines," he added. Meanwhile, India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season. Also read | India records highest COVID-19 cases in two months, worst-hit Kerala in focus Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths. This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common. "With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala. India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent.

India's interests come before vaccine exports: Health ministry

Four&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;have been&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in two separate incidents in northern&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;said Monday.

Three&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;said.

Another soldier was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;and one wounded in a shootout with Kurdish fighters near a&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;military base, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-recognise-a-future-afghan-govt-only-if-it-upholds-basic-rights-blinken-405979">Also read |&nbsp;US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken&nbsp;</a>

Turkish&nbsp;forces routinely conduct operations against PKK bases in rugged mountains in northern&nbsp;Iraq.

The group is listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies.

Turkish&nbsp;troops have maintained a network of bases in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;since the mid-1990s under security agreements struck with Saddam Hussein's regime.

The PKK has waged a rebellion in the mainly Kurdish southeast of Turkey since 1984 that has claimed more than 40,000 lives.

The PKK's pan-Kurdish agenda for a homeland straddling parts of Syria, Turkey,&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;and Iran&nbsp;has often put it at odds with&nbsp;Iraq's autonomous Kurdish government, which has sought to maintain good relations with Ankara.

Four Turkish soldiers have been killed in two separate incidents in northern Iraq where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence ministry said Monday. Three soldiers died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where Turkish forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the ministry said.

Four Turkish soldiers have been killed in two separate incidents in northern Iraq where they are battling Kurdish militants, the defence ministry said Monday. Three soldiers died and two were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Sunday in an area where Turkish forces have been conducting an operation against fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the ministry said. Another soldier was killed and one wounded in a shootout with Kurdish fighters near a Turkish military base, it said. Also read | US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken Turkish forces routinely conduct operations against PKK bases in rugged mountains in northern Iraq. The group is listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies. Turkish troops have maintained a network of bases in Iraq since the mid-1990s under security agreements struck with Saddam Hussein's regime. The PKK has waged a rebellion in the mainly Kurdish southeast of Turkey since 1984 that has claimed more than 40,000 lives. The PKK's pan-Kurdish agenda for a homeland straddling parts of Syria, Turkey, Iraq and Iran has often put it at odds with Iraq's autonomous Kurdish government, which has sought to maintain good relations with Ankara.

Four Turkish soldiers killed in Iraq: Ministry

A&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;shot by&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;forces in the occupied&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;died of his wounds on Friday, the&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;health&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;said.

Imad Ali Mohammad Dweikat, 38, reached hospital in the city of Nablus "in a critical state"&nbsp;after&nbsp;receiving "a live bullet to the chest" in the nearby town of Beita, it said in a statement.

Beita sees regular demonstrations against the&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;occupation and settlement expansion, which often degenerate into&nbsp;clashes.

An AFP reporter saw hundreds of demonstrators protesting outside the town on Friday afternoon, some throwing rocks at&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;troops.

The&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;army told AFP a "riot" had been instigated by "700 Palestinians who burned tires and hurled rocks and Molotov cocktails at IDF troops and border police officers, who responded with riot dispersal means".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-massive-reinforcement-of-forces-to-quell-unrest-in-cities-after-gaza-violence-384790">Also read |&nbsp;Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence</a>

"We are aware of reports that a&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;was killed and a number of Palestinians were injured", it said, without adding details.

Last Friday, some 270 Palestinians were wounded in&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;with&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;troops during protests in Beita and during the funeral of a young&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;killed the day before, the&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;Red Crescent reported.&nbsp;

On July 23, 320 Palestinians were wounded or suffered from tear gas inhalation in&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;with&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;forces in Beita, medics said. A teenager shot by&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;forces later died of his wounds.

Beita residents have been demonstrating since May against a the wildcat Eviatar Jewish settlement set up nearby without official permission from&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;authorities.&nbsp;

The settlement was evacuated in early July but&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;army troops remain stationed there while authorities deliberate on its fate.

If the settlement is approved, its founders will be allowed to take up residence there more permanently.

Beita's residents have vowed to continue their campaign until the army also leaves the outpost.

Israel occupied the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;during the 1967 Six-Day War and all Jewish settlements there are considered illegal by most of the international community.

Almost half a million people live in&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;settlements in the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank, alongside 2.8 million Palestinians.

A Palestinian shot by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank died of his wounds on Friday, the Palestinian health ministry said. Imad Ali Mohammad Dweikat, 38, reached hospital in the city of Nablus "in a critical state" after receiving "a live bullet to the chest" in the nearby town of Beita, it said in a statement.

A Palestinian shot by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank died of his wounds on Friday, the Palestinian health ministry said. Imad Ali Mohammad Dweikat, 38, reached hospital in the city of Nablus "in a critical state" after receiving "a live bullet to the chest" in the nearby town of Beita, it said in a statement. Beita sees regular demonstrations against the Israeli occupation and settlement expansion, which often degenerate into clashes. An AFP reporter saw hundreds of demonstrators protesting outside the town on Friday afternoon, some throwing rocks at Israeli troops. The Israeli army told AFP a "riot" had been instigated by "700 Palestinians who burned tires and hurled rocks and Molotov cocktails at IDF troops and border police officers, who responded with riot dispersal means". Also read | Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence "We are aware of reports that a Palestinian was killed and a number of Palestinians were injured", it said, without adding details. Last Friday, some 270 Palestinians were wounded in clashes with Israeli troops during protests in Beita and during the funeral of a young Palestinian killed the day before, the Palestinian Red Crescent reported. On July 23, 320 Palestinians were wounded or suffered from tear gas inhalation in clashes with Israeli forces in Beita, medics said. A teenager shot by Israeli forces later died of his wounds. Beita residents have been demonstrating since May against a the wildcat Eviatar Jewish settlement set up nearby without official permission from Israeli authorities. The settlement was evacuated in early July but Israeli army troops remain stationed there while authorities deliberate on its fate. If the settlement is approved, its founders will be allowed to take up residence there more permanently. Beita's residents have vowed to continue their campaign until the army also leaves the outpost. Israel occupied the West Bank during the 1967 Six-Day War and all Jewish settlements there are considered illegal by most of the international community. Almost half a million people live in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, alongside 2.8 million Palestinians.

Palestinian dies of Israeli gunfire after West Bank clashes: Ministry

China's environment ministry said on Wednesday that there was no leak at the Taishan nuclear power station, responding to a CNN report earlier this week. 
 
The Ministry of Ecology and Environment also said in a statement on its official WeChat account that the National Nuclear Safety Administration did not raise acceptable limits for radiation detection levels outside of the Taishan plant. 
 
Earlier, a US media report had revealed the possibility of a potential leak in a Chinese nuclear plant near Hong Kong after its French operator said that the plant is dealing with a 'performance issue' linked to a gas build-up.

The Taishan Nuclear Power Plant is jointly owned by China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group and French multinational electric utility Électricité de France, the main owner of Framotome, which helps operate the plant.

CNN reported that Framotome had written to the US Department of Energy warning of an 'imminent radiological threat'&nbsp;and accusing Chinese authorities of raising acceptable limits for radiation outside the plant to avoid having to shut it down.

EDF, the majority owner of Framatome, said in a statement that it had requested an extraordinary meeting of the power plant's board 'for management to present all the data and the necessary decisions'.

Framatome said in a statement that it is 'supporting a resolution of a performance issue' at the plant.

"According to the data available, the plant is operating within the safety parameters," the company said.

EDF later said that there was an "increase in the concentration of certain noble gases in the primary circuit of reactor no. 1" at Taishan, referring to a part of the reactor's cooling system.

Noble gases are elements like argon, helium and neon which have low chemical reactivity.

Their presence in the system "is a known phenomenon, studied and provided for in the reactor operating procedures," EDF said.

David Fishman, manager at energy-focused consulting group The Lantau Group, said that the presence of noble gases could suggest the problem was caused by a cracked fuel rod.

"When you have a cracked fuel rod... you get a small release potentially of fission materials from inside that cracked fuel rod into the cooling loop, where it wouldn't normally be," he said.&nbsp;

"Failed fuel or cracked fuel is a fairly normal and common, undesirably certainly but not uncommon phenomenon in the nuclear fuel industry."

Citing a letter from Framatome to the US energy department, CNN said the warning included an accusation that the Chinese safety authority was raising the acceptable limits for radiation outside the facility in order to avoid having to shut it down.

But a US official told the broadcaster that the administration of President Joe Biden believes the facility is not yet at "crisis level".

The operator of the power station, state-owned China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN), said in a statement on Sunday evening that "the environmental indicators of Taishan Nuclear Power Plant and its surroundings are normal".

It did not reference any leak or incident at the power station, which it said meets "the requirements of nuclear safety regulations and power plant technical specifications."

The International Atomic Energy Agency, a UN body, said it had contacted its counterpart in China regarding the issue.

"At this stage, the Agency has no indication that a radiological incident occurred," the IAEA said in a statement, adding that it would share more information "as it becomes available".

If the problem is a cracked fuel rod, said Fishman, it would have to be logged by the Chinese nuclear safety administration with a mitigation report to fix the problem.

What's more, "if (Framatome) were going to transfer over any information that they have gotten from working in the US, they would have to apply for an exemption... because CGN is on the US entity list," he added.

"It is a no-fly zone for any US information, any information or data or technology or IP to go to China."

(With inputs from agencies)

China's environment ministry said on Wednesday that there was no leak at the Taishan nuclear power station, responding to a CNN report earlier this week. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment also said in a statement on its official WeChat account that the National Nuclear Safety Administration did not raise acceptable limits for radiation detection levels outside of the Taishan plant.

China's environment ministry said on Wednesday that there was no leak at the Taishan nuclear power station, responding to a CNN report earlier this week. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment also said in a statement on its official WeChat account that the National Nuclear Safety Administration did not raise acceptable limits for radiation detection levels outside of the Taishan plant. Earlier, a US media report had revealed the possibility of a potential leak in a Chinese nuclear plant near Hong Kong after its French operator said that the plant is dealing with a 'performance issue' linked to a gas build-up. The Taishan Nuclear Power Plant is jointly owned by China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group and French multinational electric utility Électricité de France, the main owner of Framotome, which helps operate the plant. CNN reported that Framotome had written to the US Department of Energy warning of an 'imminent radiological threat' and accusing Chinese authorities of raising acceptable limits for radiation outside the plant to avoid having to shut it down. EDF, the majority owner of Framatome, said in a statement that it had requested an extraordinary meeting of the power plant's board 'for management to present all the data and the necessary decisions'. Framatome said in a statement that it is 'supporting a resolution of a performance issue' at the plant. "According to the data available, the plant is operating within the safety parameters," the company said. EDF later said that there was an "increase in the concentration of certain noble gases in the primary circuit of reactor no. 1" at Taishan, referring to a part of the reactor's cooling system. Noble gases are elements like argon, helium and neon which have low chemical reactivity. Their presence in the system "is a known phenomenon, studied and provided for in the reactor operating procedures," EDF said. David Fishman, manager at energy-focused consulting group The Lantau Group, said that the presence of noble gases could suggest the problem was caused by a cracked fuel rod. "When you have a cracked fuel rod... you get a small release potentially of fission materials from inside that cracked fuel rod into the cooling loop, where it wouldn't normally be," he said. "Failed fuel or cracked fuel is a fairly normal and common, undesirably certainly but not uncommon phenomenon in the nuclear fuel industry." Citing a letter from Framatome to the US energy department, CNN said the warning included an accusation that the Chinese safety authority was raising the acceptable limits for radiation outside the facility in order to avoid having to shut it down. But a US official told the broadcaster that the administration of President Joe Biden believes the facility is not yet at "crisis level". The operator of the power station, state-owned China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN), said in a statement on Sunday evening that "the environmental indicators of Taishan Nuclear Power Plant and its surroundings are normal". It did not reference any leak or incident at the power station, which it said meets "the requirements of nuclear safety regulations and power plant technical specifications." The International Atomic Energy Agency, a UN body, said it had contacted its counterpart in China regarding the issue. "At this stage, the Agency has no indication that a radiological incident occurred," the IAEA said in a statement, adding that it would share more information "as it becomes available". If the problem is a cracked fuel rod, said Fishman, it would have to be logged by the Chinese nuclear safety administration with a mitigation report to fix the problem. What's more, "if (Framatome) were going to transfer over any information that they have gotten from working in the US, they would have to apply for an exemption... because CGN is on the US entity list," he added. "It is a no-fly zone for any US information, any information or data or technology or IP to go to China." (With inputs from agencies)

China environment ministry says no leak at Taishan nuclear power station

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday. &nbsp;

The nation has also reported 3,040 deaths due to the contagious viral disease so far.&nbsp;

"Nepal has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the past one week. As many as 303 new cases of the novel coronavirus infections were detected across the country in the past 24 hours," the Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement.&nbsp;

For the past couple of months Nepal had witnessed very low corona infection cases, however, the cases have gone up in the last one week.&nbsp;

The new cases were detected when 3,125 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests conducted on Sunday.&nbsp;

With this, the country's COVID-19 case tally has jumped to 280,028 including 3,040 cases of fatality, the ministry said. &nbsp;

As of Sunday, Nepal's COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 97.9 per cent which is the highest among the SAARC countries.&nbsp;

There are 2,961 corona active people undergoing treatment at different isolation centres across Nepal.&nbsp;

Of the total cases so far, 274,027 people have recovered whereas 3,040 have died, the ministry said.&nbsp;

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday.

Nepal has reported 303 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 280,028, the health ministry said on Sunday. The nation has also reported 3,040 deaths due to the contagious viral disease so far. "Nepal has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the past one week. As many as 303 new cases of the novel coronavirus infections were detected across the country in the past 24 hours," the Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement. For the past couple of months Nepal had witnessed very low corona infection cases, however, the cases have gone up in the last one week. The new cases were detected when 3,125 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests conducted on Sunday. With this, the country's COVID-19 case tally has jumped to 280,028 including 3,040 cases of fatality, the ministry said. As of Sunday, Nepal's COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 97.9 per cent which is the highest among the SAARC countries. There are 2,961 corona active people undergoing treatment at different isolation centres across Nepal. Of the total cases so far, 274,027 people have recovered whereas 3,040 have died, the ministry said.

Nepal reports 303 new cases of coronavirus: Health Ministry 

The government on Wednesday said ministries, departments, public sector undertakings and public sector banks will stop physical printing of calendars, diaries and greeting cards.

In an office memorandum on 'Economy Instructions -- Printing Activities', the Department of Expenditure under the finance ministry also banned the printing of coffee-table books and said e-books would be encouraged.

The decision has been taken given the fact that using technological innovations for planning, scheduling and forecasting is known to be economical, efficient and effective.

"The Government of India has decided that there will be no activities towards printing wall calendars, desktop calendars, diaries festival greeting cards and similar materials for use in the coming year by any Ministries/Departments/PSUs/PSBs and all other organs of the government. All such activity shall go digital and online," the ministry said.

Further, all the government departments and offices have been directed to make efforts to adopt innovative means to use digital or online method for these items.

The government on Wednesday said ministries, departments, public sector undertakings and public sector banks will stop physical printing of calendars, diaries and greeting cards.

The government on Wednesday said ministries, departments, public sector undertakings and public sector banks will stop physical printing of calendars, diaries and greeting cards. In an office memorandum on 'Economy Instructions -- Printing Activities', the Department of Expenditure under the finance ministry also banned the printing of coffee-table books and said e-books would be encouraged. The decision has been taken given the fact that using technological innovations for planning, scheduling and forecasting is known to be economical, efficient and effective. "The Government of India has decided that there will be no activities towards printing wall calendars, desktop calendars, diaries festival greeting cards and similar materials for use in the coming year by any Ministries/Departments/PSUs/PSBs and all other organs of the government. All such activity shall go digital and online," the ministry said. Further, all the government departments and offices have been directed to make efforts to adopt innovative means to use digital or online method for these items.

Govt stops physical printing of diaries, calendars and coffee table books

The Home Ministry on Tuesday informed the Lok Sabha that 22,557 terrorists have been killed in terror incidents since 1990. 
 
"Since 1990.. 22,557 militants have been neutralised in incidents of terrorist violence by security forces till 1st December 2019," G Kishan Reddy, MoS for Home Affairs, in a written reply told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. 
 
From 2005 till October 31 this year, nearly 1000 terrorists have been killed while trying to cross over into India through Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, while 2,253 were pushed back due to vigil by security forces, the Lower House was informed. 
 
"During attempts of infiltration from across Line of Control from 2005 till 31st October, 2019, 1011 militants have been killed, 42 militants apprehended and 2253 militants pushed back/returned due to efficient vigil of security forces," Reddy added. 
 
The minister, speaking about the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict, stated that the central government is duty-bound to act as per the directions and orders of the top court, within a stipulated time frame. 
 
"Directions of Supreme Court in its judgement on Ram Janma Bhoomi-Babri Masjid matter include formulation of a scheme by Centre with necessary provisions for setting up of a Trust with a Board of Trustees or any other appropriate body, the functioning of the Trust, the powers of the Trustees, transfer of land to the Trust and all necessary, incidental and supplemental matters," he said. 
 
Reddy also said that the government of Jammu and Kashmir had reported that "in order to prevent committing of offences involving a breach of peace, activities prejudicial to the security of State and maintenance of public order", stone pelters, overground workers, separatists, were taken into preventive custody under statutory provisions. 
 
Such preventive detentions are being regularly reviewed by relevant statutory authorities.

The Home Ministry on Tuesday informed the Lok Sabha that 22,557 terrorists have been killed in terror incidents since 1990. "Since 1990.. 22,557 militants have been neutralised in incidents of terrorist violence by security forces till 1st December 2019," G Kishan Reddy, MoS for Home Affairs, in a written reply told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

The Home Ministry on Tuesday informed the Lok Sabha that 22,557 terrorists have been killed in terror incidents since 1990. "Since 1990.. 22,557 militants have been neutralised in incidents of terrorist violence by security forces till 1st December 2019," G Kishan Reddy, MoS for Home Affairs, in a written reply told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. From 2005 till October 31 this year, nearly 1000 terrorists have been killed while trying to cross over into India through Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, while 2,253 were pushed back due to vigil by security forces, the Lower House was informed. "During attempts of infiltration from across Line of Control from 2005 till 31st October, 2019, 1011 militants have been killed, 42 militants apprehended and 2253 militants pushed back/returned due to efficient vigil of security forces," Reddy added. The minister, speaking about the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict, stated that the central government is duty-bound to act as per the directions and orders of the top court, within a stipulated time frame. "Directions of Supreme Court in its judgement on Ram Janma Bhoomi-Babri Masjid matter include formulation of a scheme by Centre with necessary provisions for setting up of a Trust with a Board of Trustees or any other appropriate body, the functioning of the Trust, the powers of the Trustees, transfer of land to the Trust and all necessary, incidental and supplemental matters," he said. Reddy also said that the government of Jammu and Kashmir had reported that "in order to prevent committing of offences involving a breach of peace, activities prejudicial to the security of State and maintenance of public order", stone pelters, overground workers, separatists, were taken into preventive custody under statutory provisions. Such preventive detentions are being regularly reviewed by relevant statutory authorities.

22,557 terrorists neutralised since 1990: Home Ministry

The Myanmar government is planning to extend the visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian and Chinese tourists for one more year, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has said.

On late Monday, the Ministry also divulged that it will extend visa exemption schemes for visitors from Japan and South Korea for another year, to September 30, 2020, to attract more tourists to the country, Xinhua news agency reported.

The visa exemption was initially allowed for visitors from Japan and South Korea and visa-on-arrival for those from China from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2019. But now visa-on-arrival granted for Indian tourists for one year from December 1, 2018, will also be extended to November 30, 2020, the Ministry said.

The Ministry, in an earlier release in July, had noted that Myanmar authorities planned to grant visa-on-arrival to visitors from six more countries starting from October 1 as further relaxation of visa restriction on foreign visitors in addition to those belonging to the Asian countries in a bid to boost tourism.

The prior relaxation of visa restriction on Asian travelers have significantly prompted the increase of tourist arrivals in Myanmar in the first six months of 2019 to 2.14 million, up by almost 420,000 people as compared with the same period of 2018 when 1.72 million entered the country, according to the figures from the ministry. The country targets to attract over seven million visitors by 2020.&nbsp;

The Myanmar government is planning to extend the visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian and Chinese tourists for one more year, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has said.

The Myanmar government is planning to extend the visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian and Chinese tourists for one more year, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has said. On late Monday, the Ministry also divulged that it will extend visa exemption schemes for visitors from Japan and South Korea for another year, to September 30, 2020, to attract more tourists to the country, Xinhua news agency reported. The visa exemption was initially allowed for visitors from Japan and South Korea and visa-on-arrival for those from China from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2019. But now visa-on-arrival granted for Indian tourists for one year from December 1, 2018, will also be extended to November 30, 2020, the Ministry said. The Ministry, in an earlier release in July, had noted that Myanmar authorities planned to grant visa-on-arrival to visitors from six more countries starting from October 1 as further relaxation of visa restriction on foreign visitors in addition to those belonging to the Asian countries in a bid to boost tourism. The prior relaxation of visa restriction on Asian travelers have significantly prompted the increase of tourist arrivals in Myanmar in the first six months of 2019 to 2.14 million, up by almost 420,000 people as compared with the same period of 2018 when 1.72 million entered the country, according to the figures from the ministry. The country targets to attract over seven million visitors by 2020.

Myanmar plans to extend visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian, Chinese tourists for one more year

The Myanmar government is planning to extend the visa-on-arrival scheme for Indian and Chinese tourists for one more year, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has said.

On late Monday, the Ministry also divulged that it will extend visa exemption schemes for visitors from Japan and South Korea for another year, to September 30, 2020, to attract more tourists to the country, Xinhua news agency reported.

The visa exemption was initially allowed for visitors from Japan and South Korea and visa-on-arrival for those from China from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2019. But now visa-on-arrival granted for Indian tourists for one year from December 1, 2018, will also be extended to November 30, 2020, the Ministry said.

The Ministry, in an earlier release in July, had noted that Myanmar authorities planned to grant visa-on-arrival to visitors from six more countries starting from October 1 as further relaxation of visa restriction on foreign visitors in addition to those belonging to the Asian countries in a bid to boost tourism.

The prior relaxation of visa restriction on Asian travelers have significantly prompted the increase of tourist arrivals in Myanmar in the first six months of 2019 to 2.14 million, up by almost 420,000 people as compared with the same period of 2018 when 1.72 million entered the country, according to the figures from the ministry.

The country targets to attract over seven million visitors by 2020.&nbsp;

A building in a northern Peruvian town was set on fire on Friday in a protest against China National Petroleum Corp that devolved into clashes between police and demonstrators who want the company to make pledges to help the local community, an industry source said.

A building in a northern Peruvian town was set on fire on Friday in a protest against China National Petroleum Corp that devolved into clashes between police and demonstrators who want the company to make pledges to help the local community, an industry source said. The unrest follows the breakdown of talks between the company and residents in the district of El Alto, in a desert coastal region near three offshore oil blocks that CNPC operates. Residents want CNPC to agree to a series of commitments to local development, including a guarantee that it will 100 jobs for young people, said the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. There were no initial reports of deaths in the clashes, but the offices of a Bogota-based company that provides maintenance services to CNPC, Confipetrol, were set on fire, the source added. CNPC and Confipetrol could not immediately be reached for comment outside of normal business hours on Friday. TV images on local broadcaster Canal N showed black fumes spewing from a building in El Alto. The local firefighters' office declined to provide comment over the phone. Peru is rife with protests against mining and oil and natural gas operations, often turning deadly when police try to repel crowds from roads. But arson is rare. CNPC, which says it has operated offshore oil blocks in Peru since 1993, has largely steered clear of the kind of protests that have blocked billions of dollars in mining investments in one of Latin America's most stable economies. The unrest in El Alto is the latest flare-up in social conflicts that President Martin Vizcarra's government has struggled to contain in recent weeks. Protests continued on Friday against two major mining projects - copper mines proposed by Southern Copper Corp and Anglo American worth more than $6 billion - blocking roads in southern Peru. A spokeswoman for Peru's Energy and Mines Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. CNPC's offshore oil blocks in northern Peru produce an average of 14,500 barrels of oil per day, according to the company's website.

Building set on fire in protest against China's CNPC in Peru

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/huawei-launches-5g-lab-in-south-korea-but-keeps-event-low-key-after-us-ban-222638">China is soon to issue 5G licenses</a> as 5G&nbsp;has entered into a crucial period for commercial use.

China has established a competitive advantage in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-5g-telecoms-decision-based-on-security-and-performance-nobody-to-be-ruled-out-220458">5G development through self-innovation and cooperation</a>, says the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in Beijing on Monday.

According to the ministry, the global 5G networks are currently entering a critical period of commercial deployment. During the phase of technical testing, foreign companies, including Nokia, Ericsson, Qualcomm and Intel, have been fully involved. China welcomes both domestic and foreign enterprises to actively participate in the building of 5G networks.

"The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will soon grant 5G commercial-use licenses, meaning that China will officially enter the first year of 5G commercial use. We, as always, welcome foreign enterprises to participate in 5G network construction and promotion, continue to deepen cooperation, work together to achieve the development and innovation of 5G and share the achievements of China's 5G," said Gong Daning, senior engineer of the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology.

The standards of 5G networks are a set of unified international standards jointly developed by the global industry. Data show that China is leading the world in 5G research.

According to IPlytics, an intellectual property analysis service, China held the largest number of patents in 5G as of March this year, accounting for a third of the world's total, followed by South Korea, the US, and Finland.

Watch:&nbsp;Brand new 5G-equipped bus keeps passengers entertained in southwest China

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brand-new-5g-equipped-bus-keeps-passengers-entertained-in-southwest-china-218683/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

So far, countries including South Korea, the US, and the UK have already had 5G services. The telecom giant Huawei played an important role as it is a leading supplier of base stations, a key facility that enables the exchange of signals between devices.

"In terms of industrial development, China takes the lead in 5G technology research and development test, accelerating the research and industrialization of 5G equipment. At present, China's mid-band 5G equipment, terminal chips and smartphones are in the first tier of the global industry," said Gong.

Currently, the application of 5G is stretching in the pilot cities. In south China's Guangzhou, the 5G network plus 4K Ultra High-Definition (UHD) industry has become a new growth point for its economy.

"This year we will build 10,000 5G base stations to cover the main urban areas with 5G signal. Besides, we will introduce over 1,000 high-tech enterprises like artificial intelligence and Big Data and create new information products for people, enabling them to have more information and greater sense of fulfilment," said Hu Zhigang, chief engineer of the Guangzhou Municipal Industry and Information Technology Bureau.

In Shanghai, over 20,000 residential areas have been equipped with fixed gigabit broadband based on optical fibre, with the number of users exceeding 10 million.

"We have so far completed the program of 20,000 5G base stations in Shanghai and in 2019 we will start the building of 3,000. 5G will basically cover Shanghai city centre as well as the city's major towns by 2020," said Liu Yuefeng, head of the 5G promotion office of the Shanghai Branch under China Telecom.

China is soon to issue 5G licenses as 5G has entered into a crucial period for commercial use. China has established a competitive advantage in the 5G development through self-innovation and cooperation, says the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in Beijing on Monday.

China is soon to issue 5G licenses as 5G has entered into a crucial period for commercial use. China has established a competitive advantage in the 5G development through self-innovation and cooperation, says the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in Beijing on Monday. According to the ministry, the global 5G networks are currently entering a critical period of commercial deployment. During the phase of technical testing, foreign companies, including Nokia, Ericsson, Qualcomm and Intel, have been fully involved. China welcomes both domestic and foreign enterprises to actively participate in the building of 5G networks. "The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will soon grant 5G commercial-use licenses, meaning that China will officially enter the first year of 5G commercial use. We, as always, welcome foreign enterprises to participate in 5G network construction and promotion, continue to deepen cooperation, work together to achieve the development and innovation of 5G and share the achievements of China's 5G," said Gong Daning, senior engineer of the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology. The standards of 5G networks are a set of unified international standards jointly developed by the global industry. Data show that China is leading the world in 5G research. According to IPlytics, an intellectual property analysis service, China held the largest number of patents in 5G as of March this year, accounting for a third of the world's total, followed by South Korea, the US, and Finland. Watch: Brand new 5G-equipped bus keeps passengers entertained in southwest China So far, countries including South Korea, the US, and the UK have already had 5G services. The telecom giant Huawei played an important role as it is a leading supplier of base stations, a key facility that enables the exchange of signals between devices. "In terms of industrial development, China takes the lead in 5G technology research and development test, accelerating the research and industrialization of 5G equipment. At present, China's mid-band 5G equipment, terminal chips and smartphones are in the first tier of the global industry," said Gong. Currently, the application of 5G is stretching in the pilot cities. In south China's Guangzhou, the 5G network plus 4K Ultra High-Definition (UHD) industry has become a new growth point for its economy. "This year we will build 10,000 5G base stations to cover the main urban areas with 5G signal. Besides, we will introduce over 1,000 high-tech enterprises like artificial intelligence and Big Data and create new information products for people, enabling them to have more information and greater sense of fulfilment," said Hu Zhigang, chief engineer of the Guangzhou Municipal Industry and Information Technology Bureau. In Shanghai, over 20,000 residential areas have been equipped with fixed gigabit broadband based on optical fibre, with the number of users exceeding 10 million. "We have so far completed the program of 20,000 5G base stations in Shanghai and in 2019 we will start the building of 3,000. 5G will basically cover Shanghai city centre as well as the city's major towns by 2020," said Liu Yuefeng, head of the 5G promotion office of the Shanghai Branch under China Telecom.

China soon to issue 5G license as the network enters crucial period for commercial use

The Netherlands' international representative for climate affairs on Tuesday told EFE in an interview that everyone should join forces in the fight against global warming.

Marcel Beukeboom, who was appointed Climate Envoy of the Dutch ministry of economic affairs and climate policy in October 2017, stressed that it was crucial to act as soon as possible and without looking for culprits when it came to countering climate change, instead working with the worst global emitters of greenhouse gases to find ways of reducing their emissions.

"You can't just say: 'okay, this is what we agreed in the Paris Agreements, so now we know what to do, we have ambition and we implement ambitious policies,'" Beukeboom said.

"We also know we can only get there if we do it together, especially with the biggest emitters globally, and those are the ones, as you know, that is not always the most ambitious when it comes to the implementation of policies," he added. "It's not an easy job."

Beukeboom said he believed the current disagreements over how to reduce the future increase in global temperatures to just two degrees Celsius gave forth a very complicated image, "but we have to deal with it, because we cannot consider that having clear objectives is enough, we have to work together."

One of the Dutch expert's main goals when it comes to the European Union is to convince member states to adopt a higher target regarding the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

"It always starts with the Paris Agreement," he said. "That is what is an overarching goal. We know what science tells us and we have to strive towards limiting global warming to 2 or 1.5 degrees, and from that, we derive policies."&nbsp;

"The Paris Agreement is what we call a hybrid agreement, it has an overarching goal, the 2 or 1.5 degrees. All the countries had submitted their own plans that have to be updated every five years," he added. "Next year, all members of the United Nations have to do that, including the EU and its member states. I think that is a big priority."&nbsp;

Beukeboom frequently travels to Asia, a region in which he has several counterparts and the part of the planet that has suffered some of the worst visible effects of climate change in recent years.

He said that China was one of the most important players to be counted on in the fight against global warming due to its size, while another Asian giant, India, was starting to lead the way, especially when it came to solar energy and other related issues such as poverty, security and intelligent agriculture.

Beukeboom acknowledged that often, progress was hindered by the positions of some African countries which are the main victims of the effects of climate change such as long droughts but are the least responsible for global warming as they have historically had lower emissions due to a comparatively reduced industrialization process.

He said that in those instances, he tries not to use the word "guilt," but rather "responsibility" and "aid."&nbsp;

"We need to find how to solve the situation together. It doesn't help to look for culprits and make accusations, we need to move forward," he added.

"The moment you make it more concrete, it becomes more tangible for ordinary people as well," Beukeboom explained. "And then we talk about a whole range: energy use, transportation, what can you do? Do you have to change to an electric vehicle, for example? Do we have to change our diet and consume less meat?"

The Netherlands' international representative for climate affairs on Tuesday told EFE in an interview that everyone should join forces in the fight against global warming.

The Netherlands' international representative for climate affairs on Tuesday told EFE in an interview that everyone should join forces in the fight against global warming. Marcel Beukeboom, who was appointed Climate Envoy of the Dutch ministry of economic affairs and climate policy in October 2017, stressed that it was crucial to act as soon as possible and without looking for culprits when it came to countering climate change, instead working with the worst global emitters of greenhouse gases to find ways of reducing their emissions. "You can't just say: 'okay, this is what we agreed in the Paris Agreements, so now we know what to do, we have ambition and we implement ambitious policies,'" Beukeboom said. "We also know we can only get there if we do it together, especially with the biggest emitters globally, and those are the ones, as you know, that is not always the most ambitious when it comes to the implementation of policies," he added. "It's not an easy job." Beukeboom said he believed the current disagreements over how to reduce the future increase in global temperatures to just two degrees Celsius gave forth a very complicated image, "but we have to deal with it, because we cannot consider that having clear objectives is enough, we have to work together." One of the Dutch expert's main goals when it comes to the European Union is to convince member states to adopt a higher target regarding the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. "It always starts with the Paris Agreement," he said. "That is what is an overarching goal. We know what science tells us and we have to strive towards limiting global warming to 2 or 1.5 degrees, and from that, we derive policies." "The Paris Agreement is what we call a hybrid agreement, it has an overarching goal, the 2 or 1.5 degrees. All the countries had submitted their own plans that have to be updated every five years," he added. "Next year, all members of the United Nations have to do that, including the EU and its member states. I think that is a big priority." Beukeboom frequently travels to Asia, a region in which he has several counterparts and the part of the planet that has suffered some of the worst visible effects of climate change in recent years. He said that China was one of the most important players to be counted on in the fight against global warming due to its size, while another Asian giant, India, was starting to lead the way, especially when it came to solar energy and other related issues such as poverty, security and intelligent agriculture. Beukeboom acknowledged that often, progress was hindered by the positions of some African countries which are the main victims of the effects of climate change such as long droughts but are the least responsible for global warming as they have historically had lower emissions due to a comparatively reduced industrialization process. He said that in those instances, he tries not to use the word "guilt," but rather "responsibility" and "aid." "We need to find how to solve the situation together. It doesn't help to look for culprits and make accusations, we need to move forward," he added. "The moment you make it more concrete, it becomes more tangible for ordinary people as well," Beukeboom explained. "And then we talk about a whole range: energy use, transportation, what can you do? Do you have to change to an electric vehicle, for example? Do we have to change our diet and consume less meat?"

We need to join forces to fight against global warming: Dutch climate envoy

China will use all necessary means to defend the interests of the country and its companies against a US&nbsp;trade investigation, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

The ministry on Monday expressed &quot;strong dissatisfaction&quot; with the US&nbsp;launch of the probe into China&#39;s alleged theft of US&nbsp;intellectual property, calling it &quot;irresponsible&quot;.

The probe is the Trump administration&#39;s first direct measure against Chinese trade practices, which the White House and US&nbsp;business groups say are bruising American industry.

&quot;We will take all the necessary measures to resolutely defend the interests of China and Chinese firms&quot; in the face of the unilateral US&nbsp;actions, commerce ministry official Gao Feng told reporters at a regular news conference.

Gao also said that China&#39;s support for overseas investment by Chinese firms will not change, but that oversight of deals will increase and projects related to China&#39;s Belt and Road initiative will be given priority.

China&#39;s cabinet released guidelines to manage overseas investments, with certain sectors encouraged and others restricted or banned outright.

Mergers and acquisitions by Chinese companies in countries linked to the Belt and Road initiative have been growing at a rapid rate, even as the government takes aim at China&#39;s acquisitive conglomerates to restrict capital outflows.

&quot;We will further improve the overseas investment reporting management system,&quot; said Gao, adding China would push forward legislation to govern foreign investment.

The probe is the Trump administration's first direct measure against Chinese trade practices, which the White House and U.S. business groups say are bruising American industry

China will use all necessary means to defend the interests of the country and its companies against a US trade investigation, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday. The ministry on Monday expressed "strong dissatisfaction" with the US launch of the probe into China's alleged theft of US intellectual property, calling it "irresponsible". The probe is the Trump administration's first direct measure against Chinese trade practices, which the White House and US business groups say are bruising American industry. "We will take all the necessary measures to resolutely defend the interests of China and Chinese firms" in the face of the unilateral US actions, commerce ministry official Gao Feng told reporters at a regular news conference. Gao also said that China's support for overseas investment by Chinese firms will not change, but that oversight of deals will increase and projects related to China's Belt and Road initiative will be given priority. China's cabinet released guidelines to manage overseas investments, with certain sectors encouraged and others restricted or banned outright. Mergers and acquisitions by Chinese companies in countries linked to the Belt and Road initiative have been growing at a rapid rate, even as the government takes aim at China's acquisitive conglomerates to restrict capital outflows. "We will further improve the overseas investment reporting management system," said Gao, adding China would push forward legislation to govern foreign investment.

Beijing dissatisfied over US probe into China's alleged theft of intellectual property

ministry

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