Authorities in The Netherlands have culled some 190,000 chickens after a highly-contagious strain of bird flu broke out at at least two poultry farms.

Health workers slaughtered around 100,000 hens at a poultry farm at Hekendorp outside Gouda while 90,000 chicks were culled at Witmarsum, in northern Friesland.

In both cases "a highly-contagious strain of the H5 variant" was suspected, the agriculture ministry said Sunday in a statement.

Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds.

Dutch Agriculture Minister Carola Schouten on October 23 imposed preventative indoor containment on all commercial poultry farms after two dead swans were discovered carrying the highly contagious H5N8 variety of bird flu.

The new measures come as the Netherlands also battles a second wave of Covid-19 which continued to infect around 6,000 people a day.

Authorities in The Netherlands have culled some 190,000 chickens after a highly-contagious strain of bird flu broke out at at least two poultry farms. Health workers slaughtered around 100,000 hens at a poultry farm at Hekendorp outside Gouda while 90,000 chicks were culled at Witmarsum, in northern Friesland.

Authorities in The Netherlands have culled some 190,000 chickens after a highly-contagious strain of bird flu broke out at at least two poultry farms. Health workers slaughtered around 100,000 hens at a poultry farm at Hekendorp outside Gouda while 90,000 chicks were culled at Witmarsum, in northern Friesland. In both cases "a highly-contagious strain of the H5 variant" was suspected, the agriculture ministry said Sunday in a statement. Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds. Dutch Agriculture Minister Carola Schouten on October 23 imposed preventative indoor containment on all commercial poultry farms after two dead swans were discovered carrying the highly contagious H5N8 variety of bird flu. The new measures come as the Netherlands also battles a second wave of Covid-19 which continued to infect around 6,000 people a day.

Dutch cull almost 200,000 chickens after bird flu outbreak

The Dutch government announced plans this week to allow doctors to end the lives of terminally ill children who are under 13 years old, a decision that is bound to inflame the debate over physician-assisted death.

The Netherlands already allows doctors to facilitate the deaths of people who are over 12 or less than 1 year old as long as parents have given their consent.

In a letter to parliament Tuesday, the Dutch health minister, Hugo de Jonge, proposed expanding the law to include children between the ages of 1 and 12 who are dying and suffering.

“In a small number of cases, palliative care isn’t sufficient,” de Jonge wrote. “Because of that, some children suffer unnecessarily without any hope of improvement.”

He estimated that the measure would affect about five to 10 children every year.

Doctors in the Netherlands have expressed concern that they could be held criminally liable if they were to help end the lives of “incurably ill” children between 1 and 12, because the law had no provision for children that age who are expected to die imminently.

Under the current law, a doctor may end the life of a child younger than 1, with the consent of the child’s parents, if the child is experiencing “intolerable and hopeless suffering,” de Jonge wrote.

He said the new regulation would provide more transparency for doctors.

Three other European countries — Luxembourg, Belgium and Switzerland — allow physician-assisted death, though the laws differ in each country. Belgium allows children to die with the help of a doctor, but in Luxembourg, the law is restricted to adults with an incurable medical condition.

Canada, parts of Australia and Colombia have also legalized physician-assisted death for adults in certain cases.

In the Netherlands, parliament does not need to vote on the new regulation because it will be folded into the already existing law, de Jonge said in the letter.

Nevertheless, a parliamentary majority is expected to agree with the change, which will take a few months to finalize, a spokesman for de Jonge said.

“It’s an intensely complicated and sad issue,” de Jonge told Dutch broadcaster NOS on Tuesday.

According to Dr. Ira Byock, a palliative care physician and director of the Providence Institute for Human Caring, the development in the Netherlands is a worrying example of the growing reliance on medically assisted death to address wrenching health cases, rather than finding compassionate ways of helping people cope with pain and suffering.

“We can always manage someone’s physical suffering,” he said. “We can always provide medication that approaches general anesthesia and allows someone to die gently — sleep through the end of their life.”

Byock said he was concerned about growing calls in the United States to use euthanasia to help adults with degenerative conditions to end their lives.

“When patients who are suffering are seen as problems to be fixed, rather than whole persons to be cared for, we have set ourselves up for a situation that is damaging to the profession and to our society as a whole,” he said.

Byock added: “We’re all on this slippery slope.”

Eight states and Washington, D.C., have laws that allow mentally competent adults with a terminal illness and six months or less to live to obtain prescription medication that will hasten their deaths, according to Death With Dignity, an Oregon-based nonprofit that supports such laws.

The new language in the Dutch law could create “pressure in the United States to try and expand our conservative policy to include people who are unable to consent but are terminally ill and adults,” said Arthur Caplan, a professor of medical ethics at NYU Langone Medical Center.

But he expressed doubts that the United States would start following the example of the Netherlands, where people with mental illness have been allowed to end their lives with the help of doctors.

Americans have less faith in their medical system than the Dutch, who are more likely to believe doctors when they say a medical condition is hopeless, Caplan said.

The Netherlands is “a small country,” he said. “The doctors and the patients know each other very well, and there is pretty good access to health care.”

Caplan added: “In the United States, we have large segments of people who don’t have access to good health care, and that means more mistrust.”

The Dutch government announced plans this week to allow doctors to end the lives of terminally ill children who are under 13 years old, a decision that is bound to inflame the debate over physician-assisted death.

The Dutch government announced plans this week to allow doctors to end the lives of terminally ill children who are under 13 years old, a decision that is bound to inflame the debate over physician-assisted death. The Netherlands already allows doctors to facilitate the deaths of people who are over 12 or less than 1 year old as long as parents have given their consent. In a letter to parliament Tuesday, the Dutch health minister, Hugo de Jonge, proposed expanding the law to include children between the ages of 1 and 12 who are dying and suffering. “In a small number of cases, palliative care isn’t sufficient,” de Jonge wrote. “Because of that, some children suffer unnecessarily without any hope of improvement.” He estimated that the measure would affect about five to 10 children every year. Doctors in the Netherlands have expressed concern that they could be held criminally liable if they were to help end the lives of “incurably ill” children between 1 and 12, because the law had no provision for children that age who are expected to die imminently. Under the current law, a doctor may end the life of a child younger than 1, with the consent of the child’s parents, if the child is experiencing “intolerable and hopeless suffering,” de Jonge wrote. He said the new regulation would provide more transparency for doctors. Three other European countries — Luxembourg, Belgium and Switzerland — allow physician-assisted death, though the laws differ in each country. Belgium allows children to die with the help of a doctor, but in Luxembourg, the law is restricted to adults with an incurable medical condition. Canada, parts of Australia and Colombia have also legalized physician-assisted death for adults in certain cases. In the Netherlands, parliament does not need to vote on the new regulation because it will be folded into the already existing law, de Jonge said in the letter. Nevertheless, a parliamentary majority is expected to agree with the change, which will take a few months to finalize, a spokesman for de Jonge said. “It’s an intensely complicated and sad issue,” de Jonge told Dutch broadcaster NOS on Tuesday. According to Dr. Ira Byock, a palliative care physician and director of the Providence Institute for Human Caring, the development in the Netherlands is a worrying example of the growing reliance on medically assisted death to address wrenching health cases, rather than finding compassionate ways of helping people cope with pain and suffering. “We can always manage someone’s physical suffering,” he said. “We can always provide medication that approaches general anesthesia and allows someone to die gently — sleep through the end of their life.” Byock said he was concerned about growing calls in the United States to use euthanasia to help adults with degenerative conditions to end their lives. “When patients who are suffering are seen as problems to be fixed, rather than whole persons to be cared for, we have set ourselves up for a situation that is damaging to the profession and to our society as a whole,” he said. Byock added: “We’re all on this slippery slope.” Eight states and Washington, D.C., have laws that allow mentally competent adults with a terminal illness and six months or less to live to obtain prescription medication that will hasten their deaths, according to Death With Dignity, an Oregon-based nonprofit that supports such laws. The new language in the Dutch law could create “pressure in the United States to try and expand our conservative policy to include people who are unable to consent but are terminally ill and adults,” said Arthur Caplan, a professor of medical ethics at NYU Langone Medical Center. But he expressed doubts that the United States would start following the example of the Netherlands, where people with mental illness have been allowed to end their lives with the help of doctors. Americans have less faith in their medical system than the Dutch, who are more likely to believe doctors when they say a medical condition is hopeless, Caplan said. The Netherlands is “a small country,” he said. “The doctors and the patients know each other very well, and there is pretty good access to health care.” Caplan added: “In the United States, we have large segments of people who don’t have access to good health care, and that means more mistrust.”

Netherlands to allow doctors to help end lives of terminally ill children

Europe is grappling with the second wave of coronavirus and the governments are raising to impose stricter restrictions but the question is is it too late to? Watch report.

Europe overtakes US in daily caseload: Worried Europe nations revive curfews

The Netherlands has imposed a semi lockdown from Wednesday night but how did the Dutch into account all the impact of the restrictions and the lockdown have had on the economy. Watch report.

Last party for Dutch as lockdown starts: Who is afraid of coronavirus?

The government of Russia on Thursday said that it is discontinueing the consultations with Australia and the Netherlands over the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH 17. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-questions-about-the-mh17-trial-284521">In pictures: Five key questions about the MH17 trial</a> 
 
Calling the talks ‘meaningless’ Russia accused both the countries of not seeking to establish what happened. Russia said investigations conducted had been biased and politicised.

"Such unfriendly actions by the Netherlands make it meaningless to continue our participation in tripartite talks," the ministry said in a statement, calling the Dutch-led investigations into the downing "biased, superficial and politicised".

"Australia and the Netherlands did not seek to understand what really happened in the summer of 2014, but instead were aiming to get Russia to admit guilt and receive compensation for the victims' relatives," the ministry added.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he was surprised by Russia's unilateral decision to stop negotiations on its liability for the downing of flight MH17, as well as by the timing.

"This is painful for the next of kin," he told Dutch media in Brussels on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of Russia on Thursday said that it is discontinueing the consultations with Australia and the Netherlands over the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH 17.

The government of Russia on Thursday said that it is discontinueing the consultations with Australia and the Netherlands over the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH 17. In pictures: Five key questions about the MH17 trial Calling the talks ‘meaningless’ Russia accused both the countries of not seeking to establish what happened. Russia said investigations conducted had been biased and politicised. "Such unfriendly actions by the Netherlands make it meaningless to continue our participation in tripartite talks," the ministry said in a statement, calling the Dutch-led investigations into the downing "biased, superficial and politicised". "Australia and the Netherlands did not seek to understand what really happened in the summer of 2014, but instead were aiming to get Russia to admit guilt and receive compensation for the victims' relatives," the ministry added. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he was surprised by Russia's unilateral decision to stop negotiations on its liability for the downing of flight MH17, as well as by the timing. "This is painful for the next of kin," he told Dutch media in Brussels on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia pulls cooperation on MH17 probe, calls it 'meaningless'

Coronavirus restrictions are taking effect in the Netherlands, the UK, the Czech Republic, and other parts of Europe as these nations try to reverse an alarming wave in new COVID-19 cases.

Europe reporting 100,000 COVID-19 cases per day: Second coronavirus pandemic wave

In the Netherlands, burials have started to take place in what is described as "world's first living coffin" to accelerate the decomposition of the body.&nbsp;

Named as "Living Cocoon", the coffin is made from mycelium, which is the root structure of mushrooms. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/increased-number-of-burials-hint-towards-a-higher-death-toll-in-jakarta-296150">Increased number of burials hint towards a higher death toll in Jakarta</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/increased-number-of-burials-hint-towards-a-higher-death-toll-in-jakarta-296150">&nbsp;</a>

"This is the world's first living coffin, and actually last Saturday the first human being in the Netherlands was composted and returned into the cycle of life," said Bob Hendrikx to news agency AFP, who invented these coffins in his student laboratory at Delft Technical University.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-on-high-alert-as-mass-burials-take-place-in-st-sebastian-church-212928">Sri Lanka on high alert as mass burials take place in St Sebastian Church</a>

With the help of these coffins, the body can decompose in two to three years, which in traditional burials take over 10 years.&nbsp;

The casket will disappear within 30 to 45 days and has the size of a traditional coffin.&nbsp;

Hendrikx called the mycelium, "biggest recyclers" of nature, saying using this coffin is "most natural way" to bury a body.&nbsp;

"We no longer pollute the environment with toxins in our body and all the stuff that goes into the coffins but actually try to enrich it and really be compost for nature," he further elaborated.&nbsp;

This casket will also not put a burden in one's pocket as they cost around 1500 euros (USD 1,764.87). 
&nbsp;

In the Netherlands, burials have started to take place in what is described as "world's first living coffin" to accelerate the decomposition of the body. Named as "Living Cocoon", the coffin is made from mycelium, which is the root structure of mushrooms.

In the Netherlands, burials have started to take place in what is described as "world's first living coffin" to accelerate the decomposition of the body. Named as "Living Cocoon", the coffin is made from mycelium, which is the root structure of mushrooms. Also read | Increased number of burials hint towards a higher death toll in Jakarta "This is the world's first living coffin, and actually last Saturday the first human being in the Netherlands was composted and returned into the cycle of life," said Bob Hendrikx to news agency AFP, who invented these coffins in his student laboratory at Delft Technical University. Also read | Sri Lanka on high alert as mass burials take place in St Sebastian Church With the help of these coffins, the body can decompose in two to three years, which in traditional burials take over 10 years. The casket will disappear within 30 to 45 days and has the size of a traditional coffin. Hendrikx called the mycelium, "biggest recyclers" of nature, saying using this coffin is "most natural way" to bury a body. "We no longer pollute the environment with toxins in our body and all the stuff that goes into the coffins but actually try to enrich it and really be compost for nature," he further elaborated. This casket will also not put a burden in one's pocket as they cost around 1500 euros (USD 1,764.87).

Netherlands: World's first funeral organised using 'living coffin' made of mushrooms

Experts in the Netherlands are analyzing sewage samples to better understand the spread of COVID-19 in an effort to help health authorities and hospitals adapt countering strategies and anticipate possible new waves of infection.

Netherlands uses sewage samples to better predict, analyze spread of COVID-19

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".&nbsp;

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr&nbsp;No No No!".

Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-unions-coronavirus-rescue-summit-moment-of-truth-says-macron-313966" hreflang="en">European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron</a>

While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home.

The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift.

Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular.&nbsp;

The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French".

"Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this."&nbsp;

Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story".

"According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote.

But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age.

Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic.

In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague.

This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess". Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr No No No!". Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations. Also read: European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home. The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift. Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular. The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French". "Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this." Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story". "According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote. But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age. Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic. In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague. This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17,&nbsp;killing nearly 300 people&nbsp;over eastern Ukraine six years ago.

The Dutch government's move is designed to support cases brought by the relatives of dozens of victims to the Strasbourg-based court, Foreign Minister Stef Blok said.

The Boeing 777 travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was blown out of the sky by a surface-to-air missile fired from rebel-held eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-questions-about-the-mh17-trial-284521">Five key questions about the MH17 trial</a>

"Achieving justice for the 298 victims of the downing of flight MH17 is and will remain the government's highest priority," Blok said in a statement.

"By taking this step today, bringing a case before the ECHR and thus supporting the applications by the next of kin as much as we can, we are moving closer to this goal."&nbsp;

There was no immediate reaction from Moscow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-meddling-casts-dark-shadow-over-mh17-trial-says-prosecutors-285536">Russian meddling casts 'dark shadow' over MH17 trial, says prosecutors</a>

The Netherlands, home to roughly two-thirds of the 298 victims, holds&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;responsible for the crash.The Kremlin has consistently denied involvement in the matter.

After years of collecting evidence, a Dutch-led international Joint Investigation team (JIT) last year said the missile launcher used to hit the jet came from a&nbsp;Russian army base just across the border.

The JIT subsequently issued arrest warrants for four suspects, who were put on trial in the Netherlands in absentia earlier this year.

The four suspects, three&nbsp;Russian men and one Ukrainian, are said to have arranged the missile system. They remain at large and are believed to be in&nbsp;Russia.

Despite the new court case, the Dutch government said it wanted to continue the talks with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;on MH17 that it started together with Australia over a year ago.

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17, killing nearly 300 people over eastern Ukraine six years ago.

The Dutch government on Friday said it would file a suit against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over the downing of Malaysia Airlines passenger flight MH17, killing nearly 300 people over eastern Ukraine six years ago. The Dutch government's move is designed to support cases brought by the relatives of dozens of victims to the Strasbourg-based court, Foreign Minister Stef Blok said. The Boeing 777 travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was blown out of the sky by a surface-to-air missile fired from rebel-held eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014. Also see: Five key questions about the MH17 trial "Achieving justice for the 298 victims of the downing of flight MH17 is and will remain the government's highest priority," Blok said in a statement. "By taking this step today, bringing a case before the ECHR and thus supporting the applications by the next of kin as much as we can, we are moving closer to this goal." There was no immediate reaction from Moscow. Also read: Russian meddling casts 'dark shadow' over MH17 trial, says prosecutors The Netherlands, home to roughly two-thirds of the 298 victims, holds Russia responsible for the crash.The Kremlin has consistently denied involvement in the matter. After years of collecting evidence, a Dutch-led international Joint Investigation team (JIT) last year said the missile launcher used to hit the jet came from a Russian army base just across the border. The JIT subsequently issued arrest warrants for four suspects, who were put on trial in the Netherlands in absentia earlier this year. The four suspects, three Russian men and one Ukrainian, are said to have arranged the missile system. They remain at large and are believed to be in Russia. Despite the new court case, the Dutch government said it wanted to continue the talks with Russia on MH17 that it started together with Australia over a year ago.

Dutch government takes Russia to European court over downing of MH17

At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were&nbsp;thwarted.&nbsp;

Customs officials in Chennai seized a Foreign post parcel that contained 400pills of banned narcotic substance Ecstasy worth Rs12lakhs. An Andhra-based smuggler who was the recipient of the parcel has also been arrested.&nbsp;

According to Officials, a parcel from Haarlem, the Netherlands which was consigned for Bhimavaram in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh was detained, based on intelligence inputs.&nbsp;

On examination, the parcel contained a tiny toy box within which two plastic pouches with coloured tablets were found. Those 400 tablets in green-yellow and pink colour, tested positive for narcotic substance MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).&nbsp;

In narcotics parlance, the green-yellow pills are known as ‘Brazuca’, which contains 220mg MDMA, whereas the pink pills are known as ‘Givenchy’ contain 250mg of MDMA and their samples have been sent to the laboratory.&nbsp;

“We had made two earlier seizures of MDMA this year. During the nationwide lockdown, Cannabis which was sent to Andhra Pradesh via foreign post from America&nbsp;was seized. There have been other cases in the past also where drugs have been seized ”,&nbsp;Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner Customs told WION.

"Based on searches carried&nbsp;out at the recipient address(550km away from Chennai), the accused, a 27-year old engineering dropout was brought to Chennai by road. It was learnt that he had booked the parcel via Dark Web and made the payment via Bitcoin. The individual confessed to his role in smuggling before the magistrate and the accused was remanded in judicial custody,"&nbsp;Rajan Chaudhary added.

MDMA, which is commonly known as Ecstasy, is a party drug that alters mood and perception. It is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. The seized pills are highly potent as they contain over 200mg MMDA per pill. Even dosages above 120mg are considered to be fatal.

At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were thwarted.

At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were thwarted. Customs officials in Chennai seized a Foreign post parcel that contained 400pills of banned narcotic substance Ecstasy worth Rs12lakhs. An Andhra-based smuggler who was the recipient of the parcel has also been arrested. According to Officials, a parcel from Haarlem, the Netherlands which was consigned for Bhimavaram in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh was detained, based on intelligence inputs. On examination, the parcel contained a tiny toy box within which two plastic pouches with coloured tablets were found. Those 400 tablets in green-yellow and pink colour, tested positive for narcotic substance MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). In narcotics parlance, the green-yellow pills are known as ‘Brazuca’, which contains 220mg MDMA, whereas the pink pills are known as ‘Givenchy’ contain 250mg of MDMA and their samples have been sent to the laboratory. “We had made two earlier seizures of MDMA this year. During the nationwide lockdown, Cannabis which was sent to Andhra Pradesh via foreign post from America was seized. There have been other cases in the past also where drugs have been seized ”, Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner Customs told WION. "Based on searches carried out at the recipient address(550km away from Chennai), the accused, a 27-year old engineering dropout was brought to Chennai by road. It was learnt that he had booked the parcel via Dark Web and made the payment via Bitcoin. The individual confessed to his role in smuggling before the magistrate and the accused was remanded in judicial custody," Rajan Chaudhary added. MDMA, which is commonly known as Ecstasy, is a party drug that alters mood and perception. It is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. The seized pills are highly potent as they contain over 200mg MMDA per pill. Even dosages above 120mg are considered to be fatal.

Ecstasy Pills worth Rs 12 lakhs sent from Netherlands to Andhra Pradesh, seized in Chennai, 1 arrested 

Dutch youth hit the club on Saturday (June 6), sort of, in one of the country's first attempts to resume night life after the coronavirus outbreak, with social distancing rules still in place.

Social dis-dancing? Dutch club tries post-coronavirus layout

Medical researchers in the Netherlands have signed up 1,500 people who have recovered from the new coronavirus to donate blood as part of an international push to develop a treatment for the virus from their plasma.

Netherlands: 1,500 people enrolled to donate blood for study

How far will you go to save your country? Back in 1916, workers left their factories to head to battlefields. During the second world war, germans raced against the british to build jet engines.

Now,&nbsp;80 years later, the french are eating cheese. That's how the brave people of France are saving their country, by stuffing their faces with cheese.

At least that's what the cheese makers want. You see, the french dairy industry is in utter distress. Cheese sales have dropped by 60%.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/frances-cheese-market-takes-a-major-hit-due-to-covid-19-outbreak-297989">Also watch: France's cheese market takes a major hit due to COVID-19 outbreak</a>

The pandemic had put a lock on french restaurants and markets. People stopped buying cheese over health fears. As a result, thousands of tonnes of cheese is just lying on shelves; maggots have been eyeing them.

But the french dairy industry won't let the pests win the war. So, it has issued an SOS call.

The people of France were schooled on their national duty. Eat more cheese, they were told. 'It is your patriotic duty'.

The dairy industry even launched a campaign. Meaning, let's act for cheese.

How could the people of France say no?

The summer clothes could wait another year, but the humble cheese may not make it. If the Belgians can eat more fries, the French can sure make their food more cheesy.

We cannot tell you what's next, whether &nbsp;trump will ask Americans to eat more hamburger, or Britons will be told to eat more cumberland sausages. Anything can happen in extraordinary times.

For example,&nbsp;empty tulip fields. There are no visitors in the tulip fields of Netherlands. These colourful fields are extremely popular across the world. Last year, the Keukenhof Garden alone attracted 1.5 million visitors. The Netherlands exports 2 billion tulips every year. This year, the country's tulip industry stands to lose around 215 million euros. The tulip farmers have had to shut their farms.

It is the same story in India. The tulip fields of Kashmir and Uttarakhand are in full bloom, but there are no visitors. The pandemic, however, has not stopped people from admiring the flowers virtually.

How far will you go to save your country? Back in 1916, workers left their factories to head to battlefields. During the second world war, germans raced against the british to build jet engines.

How far will you go to save your country? Back in 1916, workers left their factories to head to battlefields. During the second world war, germans raced against the british to build jet engines. Now, 80 years later, the french are eating cheese. That's how the brave people of France are saving their country, by stuffing their faces with cheese. At least that's what the cheese makers want. You see, the french dairy industry is in utter distress. Cheese sales have dropped by 60%. Also watch: France's cheese market takes a major hit due to COVID-19 outbreak The pandemic had put a lock on french restaurants and markets. People stopped buying cheese over health fears. As a result, thousands of tonnes of cheese is just lying on shelves; maggots have been eyeing them. But the french dairy industry won't let the pests win the war. So, it has issued an SOS call. The people of France were schooled on their national duty. Eat more cheese, they were told. 'It is your patriotic duty'. The dairy industry even launched a campaign. Meaning, let's act for cheese. How could the people of France say no? The summer clothes could wait another year, but the humble cheese may not make it. If the Belgians can eat more fries, the French can sure make their food more cheesy. We cannot tell you what's next, whether trump will ask Americans to eat more hamburger, or Britons will be told to eat more cumberland sausages. Anything can happen in extraordinary times. For example, empty tulip fields. There are no visitors in the tulip fields of Netherlands. These colourful fields are extremely popular across the world. Last year, the Keukenhof Garden alone attracted 1.5 million visitors. The Netherlands exports 2 billion tulips every year. This year, the country's tulip industry stands to lose around 215 million euros. The tulip farmers have had to shut their farms. It is the same story in India. The tulip fields of Kashmir and Uttarakhand are in full bloom, but there are no visitors. The pandemic, however, has not stopped people from admiring the flowers virtually.

Eat more cheese, it is your patriotic duty: French dairy industry

While most of the Netherlands struggles through the coronavirus lockdown, marijuana smokers received the welcome news that "coffee shops" selling the drug have reopened for takeaway orders.

Dutch marijuana back on sale, but don't forget to clean your hands

The “cyclist-first” city of Utrecht is building Netherlands’ car-free residential district for more than 12,000 people, according to The Guadian. The 24-hectare site, located between two canals in the middle of the city, is a business park but by 2024 it will enhance the city's reputation as a bicycling capital of Europe, making it one of the largest of its type in the world.

The “cyclist-first” city of Utrecht is building Netherlands’ car-free residential district for more than 12,000 people, according to The Guadian. The 24-hectare site, located between two canals in the middle of the city, is a business park but by 2024 it will enhance the city's reputation as a bicycling capital of Europe, making it one of the largest of its type in the world. It is expected to be serviced by 20,000 bicycles but no cars, with construction scheduled to begin in 2022. The new 24-hectare community will be home to about 12,000 people and will include 2 new primary schools, a high school, and several health centers, together with an assortment of shops and businesses, according to the report. Bike lanes and tram lines will service the community. Only four 60-meter long “logistical roads” will extend into the neighbourhood from the surrounding area to provide access to delivery vans. Electric shuttles will ferry supplies from the logistical roads to individual homes and businesses, the report said. The idea of walkable, bikeable communities is taking hold in many places around the world. More and more people are beginning to question whether private automobiles are something they need, especially in congested cities where traffic slows the pace of travel to a crawl, parking spaces are at a premium, and the cost of ownership on a per-mile basis is skyrocketing. the report said. Perhaps Utrecht will help other world cities re-imagine the future.

Netherlands Utrecht city builds car-free district for 12,000 people

Five key questions about the MH17 trial

As Storm Ciara gains traction in Europe, hundreds of flights cancelled amid potential floods

The Netherlands is ready to replace the UK's post as a hub for Indian investments into the EU.

WION Wallet: Indian firms eye base in the Netherlands

Three minors were stabbed in the attack in the Dutch city of Hague, Dutch police say they are still looking for a suspect.

The Hague stabbing: Three minors injured in the attack, suspect yet to be identified

Dutch police on Tuesday arrested two women who joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-president-claims-victory-over-islamic-state-263202">Islamic State</a> group in Syria after they were deported by Turkey to the Netherlands, prosecutors said.

The women, one of whom has two young children, were being held on terror charges following their arrival at Amsterdam's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amsterdams-schiphol-airport-temporarily-closed-after-power-outage-133603">Schiphol Airport</a>, the prosecution service said in a statement.&nbsp;

Turkey began deporting foreign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jihadists-kill-four-nigerian-troops-sources-263148">jihadists</a> last week and has criticised Western countries for refusing to repatriate their citizens who left to join IS in Syria and Iraq.

"Two women who have returned from the battlefield of Islamic State in Syria have been deported by Turkey and arrested Tuesday evening on arrival at Schiphol airport," the Dutch prosecutors said.

"They are suspected of participating in a terrorist organisation. The Royal Military Police (who guard airports and ports) arrested the women and handed them over to the police."

One of those arrested was a 23-year-old woman with two children aged three and four, who had been detained in January 2018 in Turkey, prosecutors said.&nbsp;

The other was a 25-year-old woman who had reported to the Dutch embassy in Ankara in October and asked for consular assistance to return.

The pair will appear before magistrates in the port city of Rotterdam on Friday, the prosecutors said.

Earlier this month a Dutch court said the government must "actively" help repatriate children of women who joined the Islamic State group in Syria but the mothers themselves need not be taken back.

The ruling came after lawyers representing 23 jihadist women launched a lawsuit last week demanding the Netherlands return them and their 56 children from detention camps in northern Syria.

Dutch police on Tuesday arrested two women who joined the Islamic State group in Syria after they were deported by Turkey to the Netherlands, prosecutors said. The women, one of whom has two young children, were being held on terror charges following their arrival at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, the prosecution service said in a statement.

Dutch police on Tuesday arrested two women who joined the Islamic State group in Syria after they were deported by Turkey to the Netherlands, prosecutors said. The women, one of whom has two young children, were being held on terror charges following their arrival at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, the prosecution service said in a statement. Turkey began deporting foreign jihadists last week and has criticised Western countries for refusing to repatriate their citizens who left to join IS in Syria and Iraq. "Two women who have returned from the battlefield of Islamic State in Syria have been deported by Turkey and arrested Tuesday evening on arrival at Schiphol airport," the Dutch prosecutors said. "They are suspected of participating in a terrorist organisation. The Royal Military Police (who guard airports and ports) arrested the women and handed them over to the police." One of those arrested was a 23-year-old woman with two children aged three and four, who had been detained in January 2018 in Turkey, prosecutors said. The other was a 25-year-old woman who had reported to the Dutch embassy in Ankara in October and asked for consular assistance to return. The pair will appear before magistrates in the port city of Rotterdam on Friday, the prosecutors said. Earlier this month a Dutch court said the government must "actively" help repatriate children of women who joined the Islamic State group in Syria but the mothers themselves need not be taken back. The ruling came after lawyers representing 23 jihadist women launched a lawsuit last week demanding the Netherlands return them and their 56 children from detention camps in northern Syria.

Dutch police arrest two female Islamic State members

Dutch authorities found 25 migrants stowed away on a cargo ferry bound for Britain shortly after it left the Netherlands on Tuesday and the vessel quickly returned to the Dutch port of Vlaardingen, emergency services said.

Dutch authorities found 25 migrants stowed away on a UK bound ferry

Wales reached their second straight European Championship finals after a goal in each half by midfielder Aaron Ramsey gave them a 2-0 home win over Hungary in their decisive Group E qualifier on Tuesday.

The Welsh, who reached the Euro 2016 semi-finals, finished runners-up on 14 points from eight games, three behind Croatia who sealed their berth on Saturday with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/croatia-thump-hungary-to-stay-on-course-slovakia-hold-wales-255125">3-1 win over Slovakia</a>.

Having previously gone 58 years without reaching a major tournament after the 1958 World Cup, there were joyous scenes at the Cardiff City Stadium as Wales produced a dominant display to wrap up qualification.

Both sides needed victory to progress and Wales drew first blood when Ramsey rose to head home from six metres in the 15th minute after a perfect Gareth Bale cross from the right.

With Hungary pressing for an equaliser, goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey made a crucial double save in the 34th minute when he parried a Dominik Szoboszlai shot from eight metres and then smothered Roland Sallai’s follow up.

Ramsey, who tore Hungary's midfield apart with crisp passing, struck again in the 47th with a close-range drive into the top corner after Kieffer Moore scrambled a Ben Davies free-kick into his path.

Hungary were fortunate not to concede more goals as Daniel James curled a shot from the edge of the penalty area inches wide before Hungary keeper Peter Gulacsi denied Ramsey a hat-trick with a reflex save.

The Hungarians will have another chance to reach next year's 24-nation tournament via the playoffs and so will Slovakia, who beat Azerbaijan 2-0 at home in the group's other fixture.

Belgium thrashes Cyprus&nbsp;

Christian Benteke and Kevin De Bruyne scored two goals each as Belgium thrashed Cyprus 6-1 in their Euro 2020 Group I qualifier at the King Baudouin Stadium on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgium-first-team-into-euro-2020-finals-after-9-0-win-255114">Belgium finish top of their pool</a> with a perfect 10 wins from 10 games, scoring 40 goals in the process, as Yannick Carrasco and an own goal from Kypros Christoforou completed the rout of Cyprus.

The visitors had silenced their hosts with an early strike as Nicholas Ioannou drilled the ball into the corner of the net, but the Belgium supporters were soon back on their feet after an exhibition from their side after that.

Carrasco’s excellent pass provided the opportunity for Benteke to level the score before Cyprus goalkeeper Michael Neofytos somehow allowed De Bruyne’s weak shot to squirm past him.

Carrasco was the provider again as he teed-up De Bruyne to complete a brace before the former grabbed the goal his performance deserved a minute before the break after burying his shot from Eden Hazard's pass.

There was little let-up in the second period as Belgium continued to dominate, with Christoforou putting the ball into his own net and Benteke adding the sixth.

Wijnaldum hat-trick drives the Netherlands to easy win over Estonia

Georginio Wijnaldum struck a hat-trick as the Netherlands, who had already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-netherlands-croatia-qualify-for-euro-2020-262653">booked a spot at Euro 2020</a>, eased to a 5-0 victory over Estonia in their final Group C qualifying clash at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Tuesday.

The home side were in complete control of the contest from early on, with defender Nathan Ake and 18-year-old debutant Myron Boadu also among the goals, as they finished second in the standings with 19 points from eight games, two behind group winners Germany.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said before the game that he would experiment with team selection and stuck to his word, with livewire Quincy Promes converted to right-back, and AZ Alkmaar forward Calvin Stengs, 20, handed a debut from the start.

It took the home side just six minutes to hit the front, as Promes was afforded far too much space on the right and his delivery was headed back across goal and into the net by Wijnaldum, who netted eight times in his seven matches in the qualifiers.

Netherlands dominated possession and launched wave after wave of attacks. They were rewarded for their endeavour with a second goal as Ake headed in a cross from Memphis Depay.

There was little to enthuse over in the opening 20 minutes of the second period but the Netherlands got their third when Stengs robbed the ball off Estonia defender Karol Mets and set up Wijnaldum for his second.

Captain for the night, Wijnaldum then collected a pass from Stengs to complete his hat-trick, before AZ forward Boadu came off the bench to net the fifth.

Germany crush Northern Ireland with Gnabry treble to top group

Serge Gnabry scored a hat-trick as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ginter-the-inspiration-as-germany-clinch-euro-2020-spot-262834">already-qualified Germany</a> came from a goal down to crush Northern Ireland 6-1 in their final Euro 2020 qualifier to finish top of Group C on Tuesday.

It was a successful end to a difficult year for Germany, seeking to overhaul the team after last year's shock World Cup first-round exit and Nations League relegation.

They qualified, having won seven of their eight qualifiers and losing once to the Netherlands.

With qualification already sealed after Saturday's 4-0 victory over Belarus, Germany showed no nerves and quickly cancelled out Michael Smith's shock eighth-minute opener for the visitors with Gnabry's fine turn and shot in the 19th.

Leon Goretzka's 43rd-minute goal put Germany ahead before Gnabry then drilled in their third straight after the restart.

The 24-year-old winger completed his hat-trick on the hour to take his tally to 13 goals in 13 internationals. Goretzka then fired in from 20 metres to crown his own fine performance.

Julian Brandt completed the rout in stoppage time as the Germans finished on 21 points, two ahead of the second-placed Dutch, while Northern Ireland ended the qualifying campaign in third place on 13 points and will go into the playoffs. 
&nbsp;

Wales reached their second straight European Championship finals after a goal in each half by midfielder Aaron Ramsey gave them a 2-0 home win over Hungary in their decisive Group E qualifier on Tuesday.

Wales reached their second straight European Championship finals after a goal in each half by midfielder Aaron Ramsey gave them a 2-0 home win over Hungary in their decisive Group E qualifier on Tuesday. The Welsh, who reached the Euro 2016 semi-finals, finished runners-up on 14 points from eight games, three behind Croatia who sealed their berth on Saturday with a 3-1 win over Slovakia. Having previously gone 58 years without reaching a major tournament after the 1958 World Cup, there were joyous scenes at the Cardiff City Stadium as Wales produced a dominant display to wrap up qualification. Both sides needed victory to progress and Wales drew first blood when Ramsey rose to head home from six metres in the 15th minute after a perfect Gareth Bale cross from the right. With Hungary pressing for an equaliser, goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey made a crucial double save in the 34th minute when he parried a Dominik Szoboszlai shot from eight metres and then smothered Roland Sallai’s follow up. Ramsey, who tore Hungary's midfield apart with crisp passing, struck again in the 47th with a close-range drive into the top corner after Kieffer Moore scrambled a Ben Davies free-kick into his path. Hungary were fortunate not to concede more goals as Daniel James curled a shot from the edge of the penalty area inches wide before Hungary keeper Peter Gulacsi denied Ramsey a hat-trick with a reflex save. The Hungarians will have another chance to reach next year's 24-nation tournament via the playoffs and so will Slovakia, who beat Azerbaijan 2-0 at home in the group's other fixture. Belgium thrashes Cyprus Christian Benteke and Kevin De Bruyne scored two goals each as Belgium thrashed Cyprus 6-1 in their Euro 2020 Group I qualifier at the King Baudouin Stadium on Tuesday. Belgium finish top of their pool with a perfect 10 wins from 10 games, scoring 40 goals in the process, as Yannick Carrasco and an own goal from Kypros Christoforou completed the rout of Cyprus. The visitors had silenced their hosts with an early strike as Nicholas Ioannou drilled the ball into the corner of the net, but the Belgium supporters were soon back on their feet after an exhibition from their side after that. Carrasco’s excellent pass provided the opportunity for Benteke to level the score before Cyprus goalkeeper Michael Neofytos somehow allowed De Bruyne’s weak shot to squirm past him. Carrasco was the provider again as he teed-up De Bruyne to complete a brace before the former grabbed the goal his performance deserved a minute before the break after burying his shot from Eden Hazard's pass. There was little let-up in the second period as Belgium continued to dominate, with Christoforou putting the ball into his own net and Benteke adding the sixth. Wijnaldum hat-trick drives the Netherlands to easy win over Estonia Georginio Wijnaldum struck a hat-trick as the Netherlands, who had already booked a spot at Euro 2020, eased to a 5-0 victory over Estonia in their final Group C qualifying clash at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Tuesday. The home side were in complete control of the contest from early on, with defender Nathan Ake and 18-year-old debutant Myron Boadu also among the goals, as they finished second in the standings with 19 points from eight games, two behind group winners Germany. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said before the game that he would experiment with team selection and stuck to his word, with livewire Quincy Promes converted to right-back, and AZ Alkmaar forward Calvin Stengs, 20, handed a debut from the start. It took the home side just six minutes to hit the front, as Promes was afforded far too much space on the right and his delivery was headed back across goal and into the net by Wijnaldum, who netted eight times in his seven matches in the qualifiers. Netherlands dominated possession and launched wave after wave of attacks. They were rewarded for their endeavour with a second goal as Ake headed in a cross from Memphis Depay. There was little to enthuse over in the opening 20 minutes of the second period but the Netherlands got their third when Stengs robbed the ball off Estonia defender Karol Mets and set up Wijnaldum for his second. Captain for the night, Wijnaldum then collected a pass from Stengs to complete his hat-trick, before AZ forward Boadu came off the bench to net the fifth. Germany crush Northern Ireland with Gnabry treble to top group Serge Gnabry scored a hat-trick as already-qualified Germany came from a goal down to crush Northern Ireland 6-1 in their final Euro 2020 qualifier to finish top of Group C on Tuesday. It was a successful end to a difficult year for Germany, seeking to overhaul the team after last year's shock World Cup first-round exit and Nations League relegation. They qualified, having won seven of their eight qualifiers and losing once to the Netherlands. With qualification already sealed after Saturday's 4-0 victory over Belarus, Germany showed no nerves and quickly cancelled out Michael Smith's shock eighth-minute opener for the visitors with Gnabry's fine turn and shot in the 19th. Leon Goretzka's 43rd-minute goal put Germany ahead before Gnabry then drilled in their third straight after the restart. The 24-year-old winger completed his hat-trick on the hour to take his tally to 13 goals in 13 internationals. Goretzka then fired in from 20 metres to crown his own fine performance. Julian Brandt completed the rout in stoppage time as the Germans finished on 21 points, two ahead of the second-placed Dutch, while Northern Ireland ended the qualifying campaign in third place on 13 points and will go into the playoffs.

Wales qualifies for Euro 202; Belgium, Netherlands, Germany secure victories in final qualifying clash

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

"Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander &amp; HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).

TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship. "Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander & HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar meets Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit. They were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

This is Willem-Alexander's first state visit to India following his ascension to the throne in 2013.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will also call on the Dutch King.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for this summit. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).&nbsp;

The Netherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe.

The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit.

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit. They were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. This is Willem-Alexander's first state visit to India following his ascension to the throne in 2013. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will also call on the Dutch King. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for this summit. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). The Netherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Dutch King and Queen meet President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands&nbsp;came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to&nbsp;beat&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday.

It was a fortunate escape for the home side who fell behind when Josh Magennis gave&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;the lead in the 75th minute after a stout defensive performance had frustrated the hosts.

Yet the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;responded with an equaliser from Depay in the 80th minute and then two stoppage-time&nbsp;goals&nbsp;that put them in a three-way tie at the top of Group C.

Netherlands, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-edge-northern-ireland-to-restore-euro-2020-order-248768">Germany and&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;</a>all have 12 points, although the Irish have played a game more.

Substitute Magennis rose high to head home Stuart Dallas’s cross as the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;paid the price for sloppy defending.

Daley Blind miscued two attempted clearances and was then&nbsp;beaten by Dallas, whose cross was expertly met by Magennis as he rose above Matthijs de Ligt to score.

Depay toe-poked home the equaliser from a square ball by Donyell Malen that eluded the&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Irish defence, as the visitors' lead lasted just five minutes.

Then, as the game went into stoppage time, substitute De Jong needed two chances before finishing at the back post before Depay made sure of a vital three points with another goal after being set up by Frenkie de Jong.

“How we reacted was great,” said&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;captain Virgil van Dijk.

“We were patient, we kept looking for&nbsp;goals&nbsp;and we got our reward for our second-half performance where we put on the pressure.

“In the end, it was a deserved win with an outstanding reaction,” he told NOS.

Yet it was a frustrating night for the&nbsp;Dutch, who did not manage an effort on the visitors' goal until just before the half-hour mark when Steven Bergwijn's shot was blocked.

It took 44 minutes before&nbsp;Northern&nbsp;Ireland&nbsp;goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell actually had to make an intervention, easily collecting the ball as Georginio Wijnaldum’s attempted header looped up into the air.

The&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;ratcheted up the pressure in the second half when Donny van de Beek came on, with center-back Jonny Evans clearing his lines in the 71st minute as Wijnaldum looked to steer the ball home from a difficult angle.

Yet then Magennis silenced the home fans before the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;picked themselves up for a grand finale.

Earlier on Thursday, bottom team Estonia picked up their first point with a goalless draw away in Minsk against Belarus.

The pair are already out of contention in the group with Belarus second from bottom on four points after six games.

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday.

Memphis Depay scored twice, and Luuk de Jong was also on target as the Netherlands came back from a goal down with 10 minutes left to beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in their Euro 2020 qualifier in Rotterdam on Thursday. It was a fortunate escape for the home side who fell behind when Josh Magennis gave Northern Ireland the lead in the 75th minute after a stout defensive performance had frustrated the hosts. Yet the Dutch responded with an equaliser from Depay in the 80th minute and then two stoppage-time goals that put them in a three-way tie at the top of Group C. Netherlands, Germany and Northern Ireland all have 12 points, although the Irish have played a game more. Substitute Magennis rose high to head home Stuart Dallas’s cross as the Dutch paid the price for sloppy defending. Daley Blind miscued two attempted clearances and was then beaten by Dallas, whose cross was expertly met by Magennis as he rose above Matthijs de Ligt to score. Depay toe-poked home the equaliser from a square ball by Donyell Malen that eluded the Northern Irish defence, as the visitors' lead lasted just five minutes. Then, as the game went into stoppage time, substitute De Jong needed two chances before finishing at the back post before Depay made sure of a vital three points with another goal after being set up by Frenkie de Jong. “How we reacted was great,” said Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk. “We were patient, we kept looking for goals and we got our reward for our second-half performance where we put on the pressure. “In the end, it was a deserved win with an outstanding reaction,” he told NOS. Yet it was a frustrating night for the Dutch, who did not manage an effort on the visitors' goal until just before the half-hour mark when Steven Bergwijn's shot was blocked. It took 44 minutes before Northern Ireland goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell actually had to make an intervention, easily collecting the ball as Georginio Wijnaldum’s attempted header looped up into the air. The Dutch ratcheted up the pressure in the second half when Donny van de Beek came on, with center-back Jonny Evans clearing his lines in the 71st minute as Wijnaldum looked to steer the ball home from a difficult angle. Yet then Magennis silenced the home fans before the Dutch picked themselves up for a grand finale. Earlier on Thursday, bottom team Estonia picked up their first point with a goalless draw away in Minsk against Belarus. The pair are already out of contention in the group with Belarus second from bottom on four points after six games.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Dutch grab late goals to beat Northern Ireland

Ryan Babel scored twice as a rampant Netherlands claimed a comfortable 4-0 victory over Estonia in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Monday.

Memphis Depay added an excellent third to mark his 50th cap and Georginio Wijnaldum netted the fourth late on as the Dutch recorded back-to-back wins under manager Ronald Koeman for the first time following Friday’s 4-2 victory in Germany.

The Netherlands remain three points behind the top two in the pool, Germany and Northern Ireland, who have 12 points each. The Dutch have a game in hand.

Estonia slipped to a fifth successive loss in the qualifiers.

The home side started brightly though and created a few half-chances before the visitors took the lead in the 17th minute.

Daley Blind’s low cross from the left was prodded home by Babel, who had ghosted in between the Estonia central defenders and was left with the relatively simple task of placing the ball past goalkeeper Sergei Lepmets.

Wijnaldum saw his shot from the edge of the box saved by Lepmets and the Dutch, for all their domination of possession, failed to add to their tally before halftime.

They scored a second three minutes after the break as Babel rose to head home a Depay’s cross from the right in what was another easy finish.

Netherlands skipper Virgil Van Dijk headed just wide from a free kick, but the visitors got their reward for some adventurous attacking play when Depay controlled the ball on the edge of the box and place a left-footed shot into the corner.

Wijnaldum’s fourth was a gift from Lepmets when his header went under the goalkeeper in what should have been a routine save.

Ryan Babel scored twice as a rampant Netherlands claimed a comfortable 4-0 victory over Estonia in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Monday. Memphis Depay added an excellent third to mark his 50th cap and Georginio Wijnaldum netted the fourth late on as the Dutch recorded back-to-back wins under manager Ronald Koeman for the first time following Friday’s 4-2 victory in Germany.

Ryan Babel scored twice as a rampant Netherlands claimed a comfortable 4-0 victory over Estonia in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Monday. Memphis Depay added an excellent third to mark his 50th cap and Georginio Wijnaldum netted the fourth late on as the Dutch recorded back-to-back wins under manager Ronald Koeman for the first time following Friday’s 4-2 victory in Germany. The Netherlands remain three points behind the top two in the pool, Germany and Northern Ireland, who have 12 points each. The Dutch have a game in hand. Estonia slipped to a fifth successive loss in the qualifiers. The home side started brightly though and created a few half-chances before the visitors took the lead in the 17th minute. Daley Blind’s low cross from the left was prodded home by Babel, who had ghosted in between the Estonia central defenders and was left with the relatively simple task of placing the ball past goalkeeper Sergei Lepmets. Wijnaldum saw his shot from the edge of the box saved by Lepmets and the Dutch, for all their domination of possession, failed to add to their tally before halftime. They scored a second three minutes after the break as Babel rose to head home a Depay’s cross from the right in what was another easy finish. Netherlands skipper Virgil Van Dijk headed just wide from a free kick, but the visitors got their reward for some adventurous attacking play when Depay controlled the ball on the edge of the box and place a left-footed shot into the corner. Wijnaldum’s fourth was a gift from Lepmets when his header went under the goalkeeper in what should have been a routine save.

Ryan Babel's brace spurs Netherlands to 4-0 win in Estonia

&nbsp;Netherlands scored four times in 32 second-half minutes to secure a remarkable 4-2 comeback victory against hosts Germany in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Friday.

Goals from Frenkie de Jong, a Jonathan Tah own goal, Donyell Malen and Georginio Wijnaldum wrapped up the win after Serge Gnabry had given the hosts an early lead and Toni Kroos had pulled them level at 2-2 with a controversial penalty.

The result leaves Germany on nine points from four games, three behind leaders Northern Ireland, who they face on Monday in Belfast. The Netherlands move to six points from three games and next face bottom side Estonia.

It was a winning return to Hamburg for Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, who won in the port city against the Germans as a player during Euro' 88, and a clear mark of his team's improvement after they failed to reach the last two major tournaments.

"I told my players (at halftime) to stay in the game, not to give them so much space, control the ball better," Koeman told reporters. "That we should just keep going and we would get our chances. In the second half the Germans looked more tired and we benefited from that."

"Overall we worked harder than Germany for this victory," he said.

Joachim Loew's Germany side, undergoing their own overhaul after a disappointing 2018 World Cup first-round exit and Nations League relegation, got off to a good start with Gnabry scoring on the rebound in the ninth minute.

There was little to be seen in terms of attacks from the Netherlands but that changed after the break.

Dutch fightback&nbsp;

They turned the game around within seven minutes, first scoring through De Jong in the 59th and then taking the lead courtesy of Tah's unfortunate own goal.

The Germans, missing several injured players, including Leroy Sane and Leon Goretzka, were struggling with the Dutch pace down the wings and were lucky to level with a 73rd minute Kroos penalty after Matthijs de Ligt accidentally handled.

There is no video replay for referees in the qualifiers.

The visitors got revenge for their 3-2 loss in Amsterdam in March, striking through debutant Malen in the 79th after a quick combination left the German defence frozen.

Wijnaldum completed the victory in stoppage time and ended Germany's 14-match winning run in World Cup and Euro qualifiers.

"We played below our skill level and abilities," Loew told reporters. "The Dutch were the better team and we deserved to lose. We went ahead but I never had the feeling that we were in control of the game.

"The Dutch kept pressing and then we ended up playing high balls. That is not how we had planned to play. We will now need to analyse this game and draw our conclusions,"

Belarus earned a stoppage-time 2-1 win at Estonia to claim their first points in the other game in the group on Friday.

Netherlands scored four times in 32 second-half minutes to secure a remarkable 4-2 comeback victory against hosts Germany in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Friday.

Netherlands scored four times in 32 second-half minutes to secure a remarkable 4-2 comeback victory against hosts Germany in their Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Friday. Goals from Frenkie de Jong, a Jonathan Tah own goal, Donyell Malen and Georginio Wijnaldum wrapped up the win after Serge Gnabry had given the hosts an early lead and Toni Kroos had pulled them level at 2-2 with a controversial penalty. The result leaves Germany on nine points from four games, three behind leaders Northern Ireland, who they face on Monday in Belfast. The Netherlands move to six points from three games and next face bottom side Estonia. It was a winning return to Hamburg for Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, who won in the port city against the Germans as a player during Euro' 88, and a clear mark of his team's improvement after they failed to reach the last two major tournaments. "I told my players (at halftime) to stay in the game, not to give them so much space, control the ball better," Koeman told reporters. "That we should just keep going and we would get our chances. In the second half the Germans looked more tired and we benefited from that." "Overall we worked harder than Germany for this victory," he said. Joachim Loew's Germany side, undergoing their own overhaul after a disappointing 2018 World Cup first-round exit and Nations League relegation, got off to a good start with Gnabry scoring on the rebound in the ninth minute. There was little to be seen in terms of attacks from the Netherlands but that changed after the break. Dutch fightback They turned the game around within seven minutes, first scoring through De Jong in the 59th and then taking the lead courtesy of Tah's unfortunate own goal. The Germans, missing several injured players, including Leroy Sane and Leon Goretzka, were struggling with the Dutch pace down the wings and were lucky to level with a 73rd minute Kroos penalty after Matthijs de Ligt accidentally handled. There is no video replay for referees in the qualifiers. The visitors got revenge for their 3-2 loss in Amsterdam in March, striking through debutant Malen in the 79th after a quick combination left the German defence frozen. Wijnaldum completed the victory in stoppage time and ended Germany's 14-match winning run in World Cup and Euro qualifiers. "We played below our skill level and abilities," Loew told reporters. "The Dutch were the better team and we deserved to lose. We went ahead but I never had the feeling that we were in control of the game. "The Dutch kept pressing and then we ended up playing high balls. That is not how we had planned to play. We will now need to analyse this game and draw our conclusions," Belarus earned a stoppage-time 2-1 win at Estonia to claim their first points in the other game in the group on Friday.

Netherlands shock stunned Germany in 4-2 comeback win

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found.

A recent report from the World Weather Attribution group has suggested that the continuous days of extreme heat that hit countries like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-of-35-employees-trial-of-france-telecom-bosses-nears-the-end-235117">France</a> and Netherlands would have been a once in a millennium occurrence without the climate change but was made up to 100 times more probable as a result of it.

In the UK and Germany, the event is less rare (with estimated return periods of around 10-30 years in the current climate) and the likelihood is about 10 times higher (at least 3 times) due to climate change, the study added.

Though in all these countries, the temperature would have been 1.5 to 3 degrees celsius lower without climate change.

The said group has analyzed all seven heatwaves in the 21st century in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-continue-to-reduce-nuclear-deal-commitments-unless-europe-protects-iran-from-us-sanctions-javad-zarif-239698">Europe</a> (2003, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, and June 2019), and found that each one was made more likely and more intense due to human induced climate change.

"The July 2019 heatwave was so extreme over continental Western Europe that the observed magnitudes would have been extremely unlikely without climate change," the report concluded.&nbsp;

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found.

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found. A recent report from the World Weather Attribution group has suggested that the continuous days of extreme heat that hit countries like France and Netherlands would have been a once in a millennium occurrence without the climate change but was made up to 100 times more probable as a result of it. In the UK and Germany, the event is less rare (with estimated return periods of around 10-30 years in the current climate) and the likelihood is about 10 times higher (at least 3 times) due to climate change, the study added. Though in all these countries, the temperature would have been 1.5 to 3 degrees celsius lower without climate change. The said group has analyzed all seven heatwaves in the 21st century in Europe (2003, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, and June 2019), and found that each one was made more likely and more intense due to human induced climate change. "The July 2019 heatwave was so extreme over continental Western Europe that the observed magnitudes would have been extremely unlikely without climate change," the report concluded.

European heatwave fueled by human-induced climate change, study finds

Germany's customs service said Friday it had seized a 4.5-tonne cocaine shipment, the country's largest-ever, with an estimated street value of one billion euros ($1.1 billion).

The illegal drugs were discovered two weeks ago in a Netherlands-bound shipping container from Uruguay during a search in the northern port city of Hamburg, they said.

When customs agents opened the container, which according to the manifesto was loaded with soybeans, they found more than 200 sports bags packed with over 4,200 packages of compressed cocaine.

The 4.5 tonnes surpassed total seizures of 3.8 tonnes made in Hamburg in 2017.

"This enormous quantity represents the largest single seizure of cocaine in Germany," said the customs service in a statement.

"Assuming that this probably very pure cocaine can be diluted to triple the amount for street sale, the 4.5 tonnes have a street value of approximately one billion euros."

The service said that "the cocaine seized has already been destroyed in secret and under extensive security precautions".

Germany's customs service said Friday it had seized a 4.5-tonne cocaine shipment, the country's largest-ever, with an estimated street value of one billion euros ($1.

Germany's customs service said Friday it had seized a 4.5-tonne cocaine shipment, the country's largest-ever, with an estimated street value of one billion euros ($1.1 billion). The illegal drugs were discovered two weeks ago in a Netherlands-bound shipping container from Uruguay during a search in the northern port city of Hamburg, they said. When customs agents opened the container, which according to the manifesto was loaded with soybeans, they found more than 200 sports bags packed with over 4,200 packages of compressed cocaine. The 4.5 tonnes surpassed total seizures of 3.8 tonnes made in Hamburg in 2017. "This enormous quantity represents the largest single seizure of cocaine in Germany," said the customs service in a statement. "Assuming that this probably very pure cocaine can be diluted to triple the amount for street sale, the 4.5 tonnes have a street value of approximately one billion euros." The service said that "the cocaine seized has already been destroyed in secret and under extensive security precautions".

German customs seize record 4.5 tonnes of cocaine

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