New Zealand cricketer Tom Latham was at his destructive best on Saturday as he slammed a brilliant 140 not out off just 123 deliveries against Netherlands during their ODI series in Hamilton.<o:p></o:p>

The Kiwis were struggling at 89/6 after 23 overs but Latham played a perfect captain’s innings to take them to 264/9 and the hosts were able to win the match by 118 runs to clinch the series.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-193-could-have-been-chased-rohit-sharma-reacts-as-mi-lose-2nd-game-in-a-row-in-ipl-2022-467775" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma reacts as Mumbai Indians lose 2nd game in a row in IPL 2022</a>

Latham’s impressive knock comprised on ten boundaries and five massive sixes.<o:p></o:p>

Thanks to this knock, Latham broke the record of the highest individual ODI score made by a player on his birthday. The record previously belonged to Indian cricket team legend Sachin Tendulkar who played an innings of 134 on his birthday back in 1998 against Australia in Sharjah.<o:p></o:p>

Latham, who turned 30 on April 2, also went past compatriot Ross Taylor who celebrated his 27th birthday by hitting 131 against Pakistan during the 2011 ICC World Cup in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-rajasthan-royals-vs-mumbai-indians-clash-467749" hreflang="en">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians clash</a>

The two other batsmen to achieve this feat are – Sanath Jayasuriya who scored 130 against Bangladesh in the 2008 Asia Cup and Vinod Kambli who scored 100 against England in 1993.<o:p></o:p>

Latham found support from Doug Bracewell down the order as he kept his wicket intact on the other end and scored 41 off 51 deliveries as Latham wreaked havoc. Michael Bracewell was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers took three wickets while Kylie Jameson and Ish Sodhi took two each as Netherlands were bundled out for just 146. <o:p></o:p>

New Zealand cricketer Tom Latham was at his destructive best on Saturday as he slammed a brilliant 140 not out off just 123 deliveries against Netherlands during their ODI series in Hamilton.

New Zealand cricketer Tom Latham was at his destructive best on Saturday as he slammed a brilliant 140 not out off just 123 deliveries against Netherlands during their ODI series in Hamilton. The Kiwis were struggling at 89/6 after 23 overs but Latham played a perfect captain’s innings to take them to 264/9 and the hosts were able to win the match by 118 runs to clinch the series. Also read | Rohit Sharma reacts as Mumbai Indians lose 2nd game in a row in IPL 2022 Latham’s impressive knock comprised on ten boundaries and five massive sixes. Thanks to this knock, Latham broke the record of the highest individual ODI score made by a player on his birthday. The record previously belonged to Indian cricket team legend Sachin Tendulkar who played an innings of 134 on his birthday back in 1998 against Australia in Sharjah. Latham, who turned 30 on April 2, also went past compatriot Ross Taylor who celebrated his 27th birthday by hitting 131 against Pakistan during the 2011 ICC World Cup in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. Also read | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians clash The two other batsmen to achieve this feat are – Sanath Jayasuriya who scored 130 against Bangladesh in the 2008 Asia Cup and Vinod Kambli who scored 100 against England in 1993. Latham found support from Doug Bracewell down the order as he kept his wicket intact on the other end and scored 41 off 51 deliveries as Latham wreaked havoc. Michael Bracewell was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers took three wickets while Kylie Jameson and Ish Sodhi took two each as Netherlands were bundled out for just 146.

Tom Latham breaks Sachin Tendulkar's 24-year-old record with ton against Netherlands

Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades.

Situated in a leafy upmarket suburb of The Hague, the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre is the only one of its kind, giving information, assisting medical doctors and providing&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;as end-of-life care, which was legalised in a world first in the Netherlands on April 1, 2002.&nbsp;

Belgium soon followed later that year and Spain last year became the sixth country to adopt&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;-- the act of intentionally ending a life to relieve a person's suffering, for instance through a lethal injection given by a doctor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-to-die-italy-court-refuses-to-allow-euthanasia-referendum-453723">'Right-to-die': Italy court refuses to allow euthanasia referendum</a>

The number of people seeking&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;is growing in the Netherlands, with some 7,666 last year, up by more than 10 percent from the year before, according to official figures.

The vast majority are aged 60 or over, suffering from cancer or other terminal illnesses.

"Twenty years ago, when the law was passed it was known, but certainly not used as often as today," said Sonja Kersten, director of the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre.

The reasons are many: an ageing Dutch population; the fact that&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;is no longer a taboo subject and society has opened up to the issue.

"Dying with dignity is a debate that's growing within Dutch society, which is quite open to the subject," Kersten said.

Existential question

Euthanasia&nbsp;is only authorised in a few countries around the world.&nbsp;

In Belgium, which will mark two decades of&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;in May, some 40 French citizens also benefitted from the practice last year.

The decision to ask for&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;as end-of-life care remains a "difficult and&nbsp;existential question", Kersten said.

"It's neither a patient's right, nor a doctor's duty," to have&nbsp;euthanasia, she added.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-euthanasia-and-marijuana-new-zealand-targets-smoking-378060">&nbsp;After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking</a>

In the Netherlands,&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;can only be carried out under strict conditions set down in Dutch law.

Children aged up to 16 need the permission of their parents and guardians, while parents must be involved in the process for children aged 16 and 17. From 18, any Dutch citizen may ask for assisted death.&nbsp;

In all cases, the patient must have "unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement" and must have requested to die in a way that is "voluntary, well considered and with full conviction".&nbsp;

Other criteria apply as well, like the absence of a reasonable alternative to the patient's situation.

Doctors, too, cannot be forced to perform&nbsp;euthanasia.

Die at home

The&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre helps doctors through the process by sharing knowledge and providing guidance. At the same time, the centre helps patients whose doctors refuse to help them.

The centre, established in 2012, is a foundation but patient care is reimbursed by health insurers.

It first positioned itself as the "Levenseindekliniek", Dutch for "End-of-life clinic", offering on-site&nbsp;euthanasia.

But even before the start, it became apparent that most patients preferred to die at home, Kersten said.

Today, the centre can call upon a network of about 140 doctors and nurses around the country, employed by the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-where-euthanasia-assisted-suicide-is-legal-281943">Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal</a>

Most&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;requests, however, are handled by the patient's own physician, with whom they already have a relationship of trust.&nbsp;Last year, this was the case for 80 percent of euthanasias performed in the country.

"There are however still doctors in the Netherlands who are opposed to&nbsp;euthanasia," said Kersten, adding "they have every right".

The centre's medical team itself provided&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;to nearly 900 people in 2020, out of nearly 3,000 requests, with figures on the rise.

About 20 percent had dementia or psychiatric disorders.

The Netherlands' highest court ruled in 2020 that doctors can euthanise patients with severe dementia without the fear of prosecution.&nbsp;

It concerns patients with advanced dementia who are no longer mentally competent, but who previously had a clear request for euthanasia.

The decision followed a landmark case, not related to the Expertise centre, in which a doctor was acquitted of providing euthanasia on a woman in 2016 with severe Alzheimer's disease, who earlier requested the procedure.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Can a person end their own life to escape pain?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-a-person-end-their-own-life-to-escape-pain-371790/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only euthanasia expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades.

Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only euthanasia expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades. Situated in a leafy upmarket suburb of The Hague, the Euthanasia Expertise Centre is the only one of its kind, giving information, assisting medical doctors and providing euthanasia as end-of-life care, which was legalised in a world first in the Netherlands on April 1, 2002. Belgium soon followed later that year and Spain last year became the sixth country to adopt euthanasia -- the act of intentionally ending a life to relieve a person's suffering, for instance through a lethal injection given by a doctor. Also read | 'Right-to-die': Italy court refuses to allow euthanasia referendum The number of people seeking euthanasia is growing in the Netherlands, with some 7,666 last year, up by more than 10 percent from the year before, according to official figures. The vast majority are aged 60 or over, suffering from cancer or other terminal illnesses. "Twenty years ago, when the law was passed it was known, but certainly not used as often as today," said Sonja Kersten, director of the Euthanasia Expertise Centre. The reasons are many: an ageing Dutch population; the fact that euthanasia is no longer a taboo subject and society has opened up to the issue. "Dying with dignity is a debate that's growing within Dutch society, which is quite open to the subject," Kersten said. Existential question Euthanasia is only authorised in a few countries around the world. In Belgium, which will mark two decades of euthanasia in May, some 40 French citizens also benefitted from the practice last year. The decision to ask for euthanasia as end-of-life care remains a "difficult and existential question", Kersten said. "It's neither a patient's right, nor a doctor's duty," to have euthanasia, she added. Also read | After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking In the Netherlands, euthanasia can only be carried out under strict conditions set down in Dutch law. Children aged up to 16 need the permission of their parents and guardians, while parents must be involved in the process for children aged 16 and 17. From 18, any Dutch citizen may ask for assisted death. In all cases, the patient must have "unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement" and must have requested to die in a way that is "voluntary, well considered and with full conviction". Other criteria apply as well, like the absence of a reasonable alternative to the patient's situation. Doctors, too, cannot be forced to perform euthanasia. Die at home The Euthanasia Expertise Centre helps doctors through the process by sharing knowledge and providing guidance. At the same time, the centre helps patients whose doctors refuse to help them. The centre, established in 2012, is a foundation but patient care is reimbursed by health insurers. It first positioned itself as the "Levenseindekliniek", Dutch for "End-of-life clinic", offering on-site euthanasia. But even before the start, it became apparent that most patients preferred to die at home, Kersten said. Today, the centre can call upon a network of about 140 doctors and nurses around the country, employed by the Euthanasia Expertise Centre. Also read | Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal Most euthanasia requests, however, are handled by the patient's own physician, with whom they already have a relationship of trust. Last year, this was the case for 80 percent of euthanasias performed in the country. "There are however still doctors in the Netherlands who are opposed to euthanasia," said Kersten, adding "they have every right". The centre's medical team itself provided euthanasia to nearly 900 people in 2020, out of nearly 3,000 requests, with figures on the rise. About 20 percent had dementia or psychiatric disorders. The Netherlands' highest court ruled in 2020 that doctors can euthanise patients with severe dementia without the fear of prosecution. It concerns patients with advanced dementia who are no longer mentally competent, but who previously had a clear request for euthanasia. The decision followed a landmark case, not related to the Expertise centre, in which a doctor was acquitted of providing euthanasia on a woman in 2016 with severe Alzheimer's disease, who earlier requested the procedure. Watch | Gravitas: Can a person end their own life to escape pain?

'Dying with dignity': Dutch mark 20 years of euthanasia

Australia&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Netherlands&nbsp;said they had begun joint&nbsp;legal&nbsp;action&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;at the International Civil Aviation Organisation over the&nbsp;downing&nbsp;of Malaysia Airlines flight&nbsp;MH17&nbsp;eight years ago.

Russia&nbsp;was responsible under international law for the&nbsp;downing&nbsp;of the flight, and&nbsp;action&nbsp;in the United Nations aviation council was a step forward in the fight for justice for 298 victims, including 38&nbsp;Australians,&nbsp;Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a statement on Monday.

Australia&nbsp;said the incident was a clear breach of a convention to protect civilian aircraft from weapons fire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-australia-and-japan-imported-most-arms-in-last-5-years-sipri-462069">India, Australia and Japan imported most arms in last 5 years: SIPRI</a>

The Dutch government said in a statement the UN Security Council had also been informed of the step.

Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra said in the statement: "The death of 298 civilians, including 196 Dutch, cannot and should not remain without consequences. The current events in Ukraine underscore the vital importance of this."

The joint&nbsp;action&nbsp;under Article 84 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation is separate to a Dutch murder trial for four suspects over their individual criminal responsibility.

Australia&nbsp;said it was seeking full reparations from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;for the injury caused, and the suspension of&nbsp;Russia's voting power in the aviation council, which sets standards for civilian air travel.

While it has no regulatory power, the Montreal-based ICAO sits at the centre of a system of safety and security standards that operates across political barriers but requires an often slow-moving consensus.

"Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and the escalation of its aggression underscores the need to continue our enduring efforts to hold&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to account for its blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter, including threats to Ukraine’s sovereignty and airspace," Morrison and Payne said in the statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-australia-virtual-summit-later-this-month-461988">India, Australia virtual summit later this month</a>

MH17&nbsp;was flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014 when it was hit over rebel-held eastern Ukraine by what international investigators and prosecutors say was a&nbsp;Russian-made surface-to-air missile.

Moscow has always denied involvement and has promoted a range of alternative theories, which international investigators have rejected as unsupported by evidence.

A verdict in the murder trial, involving three&nbsp;Russians and a Ukrainian who remain at large, is expected later this year. None of the defendants have attended the Dutch court.

Australia&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Netherlands&nbsp;would rely on evidence&nbsp;MH17&nbsp;was shot down by a&nbsp;Russian surface-to-air missile system transported from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to an area of eastern Ukraine under the control of&nbsp;Russian-backed separatists, and it was accompanied by a&nbsp;Russian military crew, the statement said.

The missile system was returned to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;shortly after the&nbsp;downing&nbsp;of&nbsp;MH17, it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Has China infiltrated the Australian parliament?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-china-infiltrated-the-australian-parliament-454448/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Russia&nbsp;has to date refused to take responsibility for its clear role in this incident," Payne told reporters in Sydney on Monday.

Australia&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Netherlands&nbsp;had pursued negotiations with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in good faith over the incident, but&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;unilaterally withdrew from the talks in 2020, she said.

Australia and the Netherlands said they had begun joint legal action against Russia at the International Civil Aviation Organisation over the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 eight years ago.

Australia and the Netherlands said they had begun joint legal action against Russia at the International Civil Aviation Organisation over the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 eight years ago. Russia was responsible under international law for the downing of the flight, and action in the United Nations aviation council was a step forward in the fight for justice for 298 victims, including 38 Australians, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a statement on Monday. Australia said the incident was a clear breach of a convention to protect civilian aircraft from weapons fire. Also read | India, Australia and Japan imported most arms in last 5 years: SIPRI The Dutch government said in a statement the UN Security Council had also been informed of the step. Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra said in the statement: "The death of 298 civilians, including 196 Dutch, cannot and should not remain without consequences. The current events in Ukraine underscore the vital importance of this." The joint action under Article 84 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation is separate to a Dutch murder trial for four suspects over their individual criminal responsibility. Australia said it was seeking full reparations from Russia for the injury caused, and the suspension of Russia's voting power in the aviation council, which sets standards for civilian air travel. While it has no regulatory power, the Montreal-based ICAO sits at the centre of a system of safety and security standards that operates across political barriers but requires an often slow-moving consensus. "Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and the escalation of its aggression underscores the need to continue our enduring efforts to hold Russia to account for its blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter, including threats to Ukraine’s sovereignty and airspace," Morrison and Payne said in the statement. Also read | India, Australia virtual summit later this month MH17 was flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014 when it was hit over rebel-held eastern Ukraine by what international investigators and prosecutors say was a Russian-made surface-to-air missile. Moscow has always denied involvement and has promoted a range of alternative theories, which international investigators have rejected as unsupported by evidence. A verdict in the murder trial, involving three Russians and a Ukrainian who remain at large, is expected later this year. None of the defendants have attended the Dutch court. Australia and the Netherlands would rely on evidence MH17 was shot down by a Russian surface-to-air missile system transported from Russia to an area of eastern Ukraine under the control of Russian-backed separatists, and it was accompanied by a Russian military crew, the statement said. The missile system was returned to Russia shortly after the downing of MH17, it said. Watch | Gravitas: Has China infiltrated the Australian parliament? "Russia has to date refused to take responsibility for its clear role in this incident," Payne told reporters in Sydney on Monday. Australia and the Netherlands had pursued negotiations with Russia in good faith over the incident, but Russia unilaterally withdrew from the talks in 2020, she said.

Australia, Netherlands start legal action against Russia for downing of MH17

Netherlands coach Ryan Campbell has announced the squad for the national side's tour to New Zealand which gets underway with a T20I from March 25.

The Netherlands will play three ODIs and a T20I against New Zealand in March and April.

"New Zealand represents a fantastic challenge for us as they have been one of the best white-ball teams in World Cricket over the past five years. Again, we have taken the opportunity to take some of our best young talents away with us, and bringing back Vikramjit Singh is really exciting," Campbell said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mumbai-and-pune-to-host-league-stage-final-decision-on-starting-date-venues-soon-report-455709">IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report</a>

"He will be joined by U19s teammate Shariz Ahmad, who gets his first opportunity with the Dutch national side after doing well at the U19s World Cup Qualifiers. Those two will be joined by U19s teammate Aryan Dutt who gets another opportunity after bowling well against Afghanistan."

"Along with our youngsters, it is great to welcome back senior players Stephan Myburgh, Max O'Dowd and Logan van Beek who will add experience to this squad," Campbell added.

Netherlands squad: Pieter Seelaar (capt), Stephan Myburgh, Max O'Dowd, Scott Edwards (wk), Bas de Leede, Vikramjit Singh, Aryan Dutt, Logan van Beek, Philippe Boissevain, Brandon Glover, Fred Klaassen, Ryan Klein, Clayton Floyd, Boris Gorlee, Shariz Ahmad

Netherlands coach Ryan Campbell has announced the squad for the national side's tour to New Zealand which gets underway with a T20I from March 25. The Netherlands will play three ODIs and a T20I against New Zealand in March and April.

Netherlands coach Ryan Campbell has announced the squad for the national side's tour to New Zealand which gets underway with a T20I from March 25. The Netherlands will play three ODIs and a T20I against New Zealand in March and April. "New Zealand represents a fantastic challenge for us as they have been one of the best white-ball teams in World Cricket over the past five years. Again, we have taken the opportunity to take some of our best young talents away with us, and bringing back Vikramjit Singh is really exciting," Campbell said in a statement. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report "He will be joined by U19s teammate Shariz Ahmad, who gets his first opportunity with the Dutch national side after doing well at the U19s World Cup Qualifiers. Those two will be joined by U19s teammate Aryan Dutt who gets another opportunity after bowling well against Afghanistan." "Along with our youngsters, it is great to welcome back senior players Stephan Myburgh, Max O'Dowd and Logan van Beek who will add experience to this squad," Campbell added. Netherlands squad: Pieter Seelaar (capt), Stephan Myburgh, Max O'Dowd, Scott Edwards (wk), Bas de Leede, Vikramjit Singh, Aryan Dutt, Logan van Beek, Philippe Boissevain, Brandon Glover, Fred Klaassen, Ryan Klein, Clayton Floyd, Boris Gorlee, Shariz Ahmad

ICC Cricket World Cup Super League: Netherlands announce squad for New Zealand tour

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country.

France fisheries minister Annick Girardin said the images were shocking and that there would be an investigation to find out whether the incident was deliberate.

The spill, which took place in early Thursday, was caused by a tear in the trawler’s net, said fishing industry group Pelagic Freezer-Trawler Association (PFA), which represents the vessel's owner.

In a statement, the group called the spill a “very rare occurrence”.

Environmental activists have often criticised such trawlers for using drag nets for more than a kilometre long and processing the fish in onboard factories.

The dumped fish were blue whiting, a sub-species of cod, which is used by the industry to mass-produce fish fingers, fish oil and meal.

The French arm of campaign group Sea Shepherd first published images of the spill, showing the ocean's surface covered by a 3,000 sq m.

Environmental activists who spotted the fish described it as a “floating carpet of carcasses”.

Sea Shepherd France, a non-profit, marine conservation activism organization, said it did not believe that the incident was accidental, reported The Guardian.

The organisation claimed that the trawler deliberately discharged the fish as it did not want to process, a practice known as discharging bycatch which is banned under EU fishing rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country.

A Dutch-fishing vessel, the world’s second-biggest fishing trawler, dumped more than 100,000 dead fish into the Atlantic Ocean off the French coast, sending shockwaves across the country. France fisheries minister Annick Girardin said the images were shocking and that there would be an investigation to find out whether the incident was deliberate. The spill, which took place in early Thursday, was caused by a tear in the trawler’s net, said fishing industry group Pelagic Freezer-Trawler Association (PFA), which represents the vessel's owner. In a statement, the group called the spill a “very rare occurrence”. Environmental activists have often criticised such trawlers for using drag nets for more than a kilometre long and processing the fish in onboard factories. The dumped fish were blue whiting, a sub-species of cod, which is used by the industry to mass-produce fish fingers, fish oil and meal. The French arm of campaign group Sea Shepherd first published images of the spill, showing the ocean's surface covered by a 3,000 sq m. Environmental activists who spotted the fish described it as a “floating carpet of carcasses”. Sea Shepherd France, a non-profit, marine conservation activism organization, said it did not believe that the incident was accidental, reported The Guardian. The organisation claimed that the trawler deliberately discharged the fish as it did not want to process, a practice known as discharging bycatch which is banned under EU fishing rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch trawler dumps over 100,000 dead fish into Atlantic Ocean off French coast, triggering fury

Researchers at Oxford University announced Thursday the discovery of a highly virulent strain of HIV that has been lurking in the Netherlands for decades but is not a danger because of the effectiveness of modern treatments.

The researchers reported in the journal "<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abk1688">Science</a>," that patients infected with the "VB variant" had 3.5 to 5.5 times higher viral levels in their blood than those infected with alternative variants, along with a faster deterioration of their immune system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-hiv-behind-the-emergence-of-omicron-here-is-what-we-know-so-far-436192">Is HIV behind the emergence of Omicron? Here is what we know so far</a>

It was found, however, that when individuals with the VB variant began treatment, they had similar immune system recovery and survival to individuals with other HIV variants.

According to Oxford epidemiologist Chris Wymant, the lead author of the paper, there is no reason for alarm.

The researchers believe the variant emerged in the Netherlands in the late 1980s and early 1990s but started declining around 2010.

The research team believes that since modern treatments are still effective against the variant, widespread HIV treatment in the Netherlands could not have led to the evolution of the virus, so early detection and treatment are essential.&nbsp;

"Our findings emphasize the importance of World Health Organization guidance that individuals at risk of acquiring HIV have access to regular testing to allow early diagnosis, followed by immediate treatment," said co-author Christophe Fraser, also an Oxford researcher, in a press release announcing the findings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-injectable-medication-for-prevention-from-hiv-gets-fda-nod-in-us-438778">In a first, injectable medication for prevention from HIV gets FDA nod in US</a>

Moreover, this study supports the theory that viruses can evolve to become virulent, which is a widely-hypothesized idea for which there are few real-world examples.

Another recent example is the Delta variant of the Novel Coronavirus.

The discovery of the HIV variant should therefore "be a warning that we should never be overconfident about saying viruses will just evolve to become milder," said Wymant while speaking to AFP.

A total of 109 people were found to be infected with the VB variant, but only four were living outside of the Netherlands.

The HIV virus is constantly evolving, to such an extent that each person has a slightly different strain.&nbsp;VB variant, however, has over 500 mutations.

"Finding a new variant is normal, but finding a new variant with unusual properties is not -- especially one with increased virulence," Wyman explained.

Also read |&nbsp;Hope for HIV-AIDS Cure? 'Kick and Kill' strategy for hidden HIV-infected cells

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hope-for-hiv-aids-cure-kick-and-kill-strategy-for-hidden-hiv-infected-cells-445293/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A broad data set from the BEEHIVE project, a data collection and analysis initiative in Europe and Uganda, was parsed by the researchers to identify the VB variant in 17 HIV positive individuals.

92 other HIV-positive individuals were identified by analyzing data from 6,700 Dutch HIV-positive individuals since 15 of the 17 individuals lived in the Netherlands.

VB was first observed in 1992 in a patient with an early form of the gene variant and was found most recently in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers at Oxford University announced Thursday the discovery of a highly virulent strain of HIV that has been lurking in the Netherlands for decades but is not a danger because of the effectiveness of modern treatments.

Researchers at Oxford University announced Thursday the discovery of a highly virulent strain of HIV that has been lurking in the Netherlands for decades but is not a danger because of the effectiveness of modern treatments. The researchers reported in the journal "Science," that patients infected with the "VB variant" had 3.5 to 5.5 times higher viral levels in their blood than those infected with alternative variants, along with a faster deterioration of their immune system. Also read | Is HIV behind the emergence of Omicron? Here is what we know so far It was found, however, that when individuals with the VB variant began treatment, they had similar immune system recovery and survival to individuals with other HIV variants. According to Oxford epidemiologist Chris Wymant, the lead author of the paper, there is no reason for alarm. The researchers believe the variant emerged in the Netherlands in the late 1980s and early 1990s but started declining around 2010. The research team believes that since modern treatments are still effective against the variant, widespread HIV treatment in the Netherlands could not have led to the evolution of the virus, so early detection and treatment are essential. "Our findings emphasize the importance of World Health Organization guidance that individuals at risk of acquiring HIV have access to regular testing to allow early diagnosis, followed by immediate treatment," said co-author Christophe Fraser, also an Oxford researcher, in a press release announcing the findings. Also read | In a first, injectable medication for prevention from HIV gets FDA nod in US Moreover, this study supports the theory that viruses can evolve to become virulent, which is a widely-hypothesized idea for which there are few real-world examples. Another recent example is the Delta variant of the Novel Coronavirus. The discovery of the HIV variant should therefore "be a warning that we should never be overconfident about saying viruses will just evolve to become milder," said Wymant while speaking to AFP. A total of 109 people were found to be infected with the VB variant, but only four were living outside of the Netherlands. The HIV virus is constantly evolving, to such an extent that each person has a slightly different strain. VB variant, however, has over 500 mutations. "Finding a new variant is normal, but finding a new variant with unusual properties is not -- especially one with increased virulence," Wyman explained. Also read | Hope for HIV-AIDS Cure? 'Kick and Kill' strategy for hidden HIV-infected cells A broad data set from the BEEHIVE project, a data collection and analysis initiative in Europe and Uganda, was parsed by the researchers to identify the VB variant in 17 HIV positive individuals. 92 other HIV-positive individuals were identified by analyzing data from 6,700 Dutch HIV-positive individuals since 15 of the 17 individuals lived in the Netherlands. VB was first observed in 1992 in a patient with an early form of the gene variant and was found most recently in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists identify a new 'highly virulent' HIV strain in the Netherlands

Rotterdam, a city in the Netherlands will dismantle a historic bridge temporarily to make way for a superyacht built for Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.&nbsp;

A Dutch firm Oceanco is reportedly building the gigantic yacht for the billionaire but it is&nbsp;too tall to fit through the historic Koningshaven Bridge, known to Rotterdammers as De Hef.&nbsp;

The iconic Koningshaven Bridge dates from 1878 and was rebuilt after being bombed by the Nazis in 1940 during World War II.&nbsp;

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The superyacht is said to be worth $485 million and is said to be 417ft long as the shipyard building the three-masted mammoth in Alblasserdam, near Rotterdam.&nbsp;

The company has asked the local council to remove the bridge's central section so it can pass through. However, locals are angry over the decision to let it happen.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that the local council promised after a major renovation in 2017 that it would never again dismantle the bridge.&nbsp;

A spokesman for the mayor of Rotterdam told AFP, "It's the only route to the sea," adding that billionaire Bezos would foot the bill for the operation.&nbsp;

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The mayor's office insisted on the economic benefits and jobs created by the construction of the boat. It has also been promised that the bridge would be rebuilt in its current form.

Local media reports mentioned that the middle section of the steel-girdered bridge will be removed to give enough clearance to the boat. However, the entire process will take a few weeks and is expected to happen this summer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rotterdam, a city in the Netherlands will dismantle a historic bridge temporarily to make way for a superyacht built for Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. A Dutch firm Oceanco is reportedly building the gigantic yacht for the billionaire but it is too tall to fit through the historic Koningshaven Bridge, known to Rotterdammers as De Hef.

Rotterdam, a city in the Netherlands will dismantle a historic bridge temporarily to make way for a superyacht built for Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. A Dutch firm Oceanco is reportedly building the gigantic yacht for the billionaire but it is too tall to fit through the historic Koningshaven Bridge, known to Rotterdammers as De Hef. The iconic Koningshaven Bridge dates from 1878 and was rebuilt after being bombed by the Nazis in 1940 during World War II. ALSO READ | Scientists discover a way to target & destroy cancer cells: Here's how the ground-breaking therapy works The superyacht is said to be worth $485 million and is said to be 417ft long as the shipyard building the three-masted mammoth in Alblasserdam, near Rotterdam. The company has asked the local council to remove the bridge's central section so it can pass through. However, locals are angry over the decision to let it happen. Reports have mentioned that the local council promised after a major renovation in 2017 that it would never again dismantle the bridge. A spokesman for the mayor of Rotterdam told AFP, "It's the only route to the sea," adding that billionaire Bezos would foot the bill for the operation. ALSO READ | NASA reveals when it will crash International Space Station on Earth The mayor's office insisted on the economic benefits and jobs created by the construction of the boat. It has also been promised that the bridge would be rebuilt in its current form. Local media reports mentioned that the middle section of the steel-girdered bridge will be removed to give enough clearance to the boat. However, the entire process will take a few weeks and is expected to happen this summer. (With inputs from agencies)

Here's how Jeff Bezos' superyacht messing up with history of this Dutch port city

The Netherlands has announced to ease Covid restrictions—one of the harshest in Europe—despite witnessing rising cases.

Cafes, bars and restaurants will be allowed to open until 10 pm, though to gain entry patrons will be required to show a negative test result, prove they are vaccinated or have recently recovered from a coronavirus infection.

Nightclubs will remain closed, and capacity at sporting and cultural events will be limited to 1,250 people.

The new rules will be effective until March 8.

“We are taking a big step today to unlock the Netherlands while the infections numbers are really going through the roof,” Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday evening, adding that the move was not without risks.

For more than a month, restaurants and cultural venues have been closed, while strict quarantine rules have shut a quarter of primary school classes in the Netherlands.

The Dutch prime minister had been facing the ire of hospitality sector employees, who were left disappointed by the government's decision to allow shops, gyms, hairdressers and sex workers to resume business on January 15 while their sector was kept in lockdown.

There were widespread protests last week by business owners ranging from cafes to museums to theatres who opened in defiance of the restrictions.

Despite the harsh restrictions, new Covid cases have continued to rise. On Tuesday, the National Institute for Health (RIVM) reported a record 366,120 cases for the previous week, a rise of 51 per cent

Nearly 90 per cent of people in the Netherlands have now been vaccinated, reported the BBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Netherlands has announced to ease Covid restrictions—one of the harshest in Europe—despite witnessing rising cases. Cafes, bars and restaurants will be allowed to open until 10 pm, though to gain entry patrons will be required to show a negative test result, prove they are vaccinated or have recently recovered from a coronavirus infection.

The Netherlands has announced to ease Covid restrictions—one of the harshest in Europe—despite witnessing rising cases. Cafes, bars and restaurants will be allowed to open until 10 pm, though to gain entry patrons will be required to show a negative test result, prove they are vaccinated or have recently recovered from a coronavirus infection. Nightclubs will remain closed, and capacity at sporting and cultural events will be limited to 1,250 people. The new rules will be effective until March 8. “We are taking a big step today to unlock the Netherlands while the infections numbers are really going through the roof,” Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday evening, adding that the move was not without risks. For more than a month, restaurants and cultural venues have been closed, while strict quarantine rules have shut a quarter of primary school classes in the Netherlands. The Dutch prime minister had been facing the ire of hospitality sector employees, who were left disappointed by the government's decision to allow shops, gyms, hairdressers and sex workers to resume business on January 15 while their sector was kept in lockdown. There were widespread protests last week by business owners ranging from cafes to museums to theatres who opened in defiance of the restrictions. Despite the harsh restrictions, new Covid cases have continued to rise. On Tuesday, the National Institute for Health (RIVM) reported a record 366,120 cases for the previous week, a rise of 51 per cent Nearly 90 per cent of people in the Netherlands have now been vaccinated, reported the BBC. (With inputs from agencies)

Under fire, Dutch PM eases Covid restrictions despite rising cases

People protest against continued closure amid lockdown in the Netherlands. Meanwhile, Van Gogh Museum offers manicures, yoga sessions, haircuts & live performances.

Netherlands: Van Gogh Museum offers manicures, yoga sessions, haircuts & live performances

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of the Dutch capital to denounce government's virus protocols. Demonstrators packed Amsterdam streets in opposition to the government imposed covid-19 restrictions and vaccination campaign. Protesters waved flags and chanted anti-government slogans as they marched through the streets.

Netherlands: Thousands protest against Covid-19 curbs in Amsterdam

Shops, bars and restaurants in a southern Dutch town opened Friday in a protest action that underscored growing anger at weeks of coronavirus lockdown measures, a day before some of the restrictions are expected to be eased.

A local broadcaster showed people eating and drinking at outdoor tables of restaurants in the main street of Valkenburg in open defiance of a lockdown in the Netherlands. Authorities in the tourist town, which was devastated by flooding last year, didn't take action to enforce coronavirus restrictions.

More towns in the region were planning similar protest openings on Saturday.

The country has been in an tough lockdown since the week before Christmas in a move the government says is aimed at “buying time” to ease pressure on overburdened hospitals and ramp up the country's vaccine booster program.

While infections have shot to record numbers recently as the omicron variant became the dominant coronavirus strain, hospital and intensive care unit admissions have been falling for weeks.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte is holding a COVID-19 news conference Friday evening and Dutch media citing unnamed government sources report that he is likely to allow nonessential stores along with businesses like hairdressers to reopen. Universities also are expected to reopen for in-person classes from Monday.

“There will be a real difference between today and tomorrow,” Social Affairs Minister Karien van Gennip told reporters before a Cabinet meeting.

Bars, restaurants, museums and theaters are, however, expected to remain closed, sparking anger from those sectors.

Dirk Beljaarts, general director of the national hospitality industry group, said said he met with new Economic Affairs Minister Micky Adriaansens to press for bars and restaurants to be allowed to reopen.

“The Cabinet can't leave hospitality (&amp; culture) as the only sectors out in the cold,” Beljaarts tweeted.

The lockdown has led to frustration particularly in towns like Valkenburg that are close to the Dutch borders with Germany and Belgium that are seeing people visiting those neighboring nations to shop or dine out because they have fewer restrictions.

The booster drive was slow to get started in the Netherlands, but has gathered pace in recent weeks. Just over 86% of adults are fully vaccinated and 45% have had a booster shot.

Shops, bars and restaurants in a southern Dutch town opened Friday in a protest action that underscored growing anger at weeks of coronavirus lockdown measures, a day before some of the restrictions are expected to be eased.

Shops, bars and restaurants in a southern Dutch town opened Friday in a protest action that underscored growing anger at weeks of coronavirus lockdown measures, a day before some of the restrictions are expected to be eased. A local broadcaster showed people eating and drinking at outdoor tables of restaurants in the main street of Valkenburg in open defiance of a lockdown in the Netherlands. Authorities in the tourist town, which was devastated by flooding last year, didn't take action to enforce coronavirus restrictions. More towns in the region were planning similar protest openings on Saturday. The country has been in an tough lockdown since the week before Christmas in a move the government says is aimed at “buying time” to ease pressure on overburdened hospitals and ramp up the country's vaccine booster program. While infections have shot to record numbers recently as the omicron variant became the dominant coronavirus strain, hospital and intensive care unit admissions have been falling for weeks. Prime Minister Mark Rutte is holding a COVID-19 news conference Friday evening and Dutch media citing unnamed government sources report that he is likely to allow nonessential stores along with businesses like hairdressers to reopen. Universities also are expected to reopen for in-person classes from Monday. “There will be a real difference between today and tomorrow,” Social Affairs Minister Karien van Gennip told reporters before a Cabinet meeting. Bars, restaurants, museums and theaters are, however, expected to remain closed, sparking anger from those sectors. Dirk Beljaarts, general director of the national hospitality industry group, said said he met with new Economic Affairs Minister Micky Adriaansens to press for bars and restaurants to be allowed to reopen. “The Cabinet can't leave hospitality (& culture) as the only sectors out in the cold,” Beljaarts tweeted. The lockdown has led to frustration particularly in towns like Valkenburg that are close to the Dutch borders with Germany and Belgium that are seeing people visiting those neighboring nations to shop or dine out because they have fewer restrictions. The booster drive was slow to get started in the Netherlands, but has gathered pace in recent weeks. Just over 86% of adults are fully vaccinated and 45% have had a booster shot.

Netherlands: In southern Dutch town, cafes open in lockdown protest

After a record wait of 10 months after elections, the Netherlands has finally elected a new cabinet. This is the Dutch prime minister's 4th coalition government and is aimed big at climate change and dealing with the Covid situation.

Netherlands: New cabinet to focus on climate change, and Covid fallout

Netherlands began a lockdown on Sunday aimed at limiting an expected Covid-19 surge caused by the rise of the Omicron variant. Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down on Saturday evening, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores.

Netherlands imposes lockdown aimed at limiting an expected Covid-19 surge

Netherlands PM Mark Rutte announces lockdown in country

The Netherlands began lockdown to prevent spread of Omicron variant on Sunday. The restrictions have come just as Christmas season approaches

Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down on Saturday evening, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places from Sunday until at least Jan. 14.

The news came as a shock to many Dutch people as they headed into the Christmas and New Year period. Many people rushed out on Saturday to stock up on presents and food and to get a last-minute haircut.

Hospitality workers demanded compensation for lost income in the holiday season, while gym owners stressed the importance of exercise during a health crisis.

"Closing all bars and restaurants in such an important month is incredibly painful and dramatic. We need compensation and an exit strategy", the Dutch association for hospitality services said.

All schools will close a week early for the Christmas break on Monday and will remain shut until at least Jan. 9, while households are recommended to receive no more than two visitors and gatherings outside are also limited to a maximum of two.

Coronavirus infections in the Netherlands have dropped from record levels in recent weeks after a night-time lockdown was put in place late last month. But cases involving the Omicron variant have increased rapidly since the beginning of December and the strain is expected to become dominant before the end of the year.

The Netherlands began lockdown to prevent spread of Omicron variant on Sunday. The restrictions have come just as Christmas season approaches Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down on Saturday evening, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places from Sunday until at least Jan.

The Netherlands began lockdown to prevent spread of Omicron variant on Sunday. The restrictions have come just as Christmas season approaches Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down on Saturday evening, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places from Sunday until at least Jan. 14. The news came as a shock to many Dutch people as they headed into the Christmas and New Year period. Many people rushed out on Saturday to stock up on presents and food and to get a last-minute haircut. Hospitality workers demanded compensation for lost income in the holiday season, while gym owners stressed the importance of exercise during a health crisis. "Closing all bars and restaurants in such an important month is incredibly painful and dramatic. We need compensation and an exit strategy", the Dutch association for hospitality services said. All schools will close a week early for the Christmas break on Monday and will remain shut until at least Jan. 9, while households are recommended to receive no more than two visitors and gatherings outside are also limited to a maximum of two. Coronavirus infections in the Netherlands have dropped from record levels in recent weeks after a night-time lockdown was put in place late last month. But cases involving the Omicron variant have increased rapidly since the beginning of December and the strain is expected to become dominant before the end of the year.

Netherlands starts Omicron lockdown just as Christmas season approaches

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations. Thierry Baudet, the MP who drew court's ire heads the populist Forum for Democracy Party.

He had said on Twitter that "the unvaccinated are the new Jews, those who look away from the exclusions are the new Nazis".

He also posted side-by-side a photo of a young Dutch boy prevented from attending a festive St Nicholas party and one of a Jewish boy from a Polish ghetto before his deportation during World War II.

Baudet, 38, must delete the relevant social media posts within 48 hours and can no longer use pictures of the Holocaust in debates over Dutch health restrictions, local media reported.

He risks incurring a daily fine of 25,000 euros ($28,000) for breaking the court order.

A judge ruled against Baudet for "pointlessly offending Holocaust victims and their relatives".

"The right to freedom of expression is not unlimited for a representative of the people," Dutch press agency ANP quoted the judge as saying. 
Baudet had also shared a photo of the Buchenwald concentration camp in Germany with the comment: "How is it POSSIBLE to not see how history is repeating itself."

Four Jewish World War II survivors, Dutch Jewish organisations and an anti-Semitism monitoring group had initiated proceedings.

"Incomprehensible, crazy ruling. We are angry and ready to fight. And of course, we will appeal," Baudet wrote on Twitter afterwards.

Baudet, who is well-known for his opposition to Covid-19 vaccinations and health measures, received a warning from Twitter in March 2021, one week before legislative elections.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations.

A court in Holland has banned a right-wing political leader from comparing coronavirus restrictions to the Holocaust on social media. The ban came after legal action by World War 2 survivors and Jewish organisations. Thierry Baudet, the MP who drew court's ire heads the populist Forum for Democracy Party. He had said on Twitter that "the unvaccinated are the new Jews, those who look away from the exclusions are the new Nazis". He also posted side-by-side a photo of a young Dutch boy prevented from attending a festive St Nicholas party and one of a Jewish boy from a Polish ghetto before his deportation during World War II. Baudet, 38, must delete the relevant social media posts within 48 hours and can no longer use pictures of the Holocaust in debates over Dutch health restrictions, local media reported. He risks incurring a daily fine of 25,000 euros ($28,000) for breaking the court order. A judge ruled against Baudet for "pointlessly offending Holocaust victims and their relatives". "The right to freedom of expression is not unlimited for a representative of the people," Dutch press agency ANP quoted the judge as saying. Baudet had also shared a photo of the Buchenwald concentration camp in Germany with the comment: "How is it POSSIBLE to not see how history is repeating itself." Four Jewish World War II survivors, Dutch Jewish organisations and an anti-Semitism monitoring group had initiated proceedings. "Incomprehensible, crazy ruling. We are angry and ready to fight. And of course, we will appeal," Baudet wrote on Twitter afterwards. Baudet, who is well-known for his opposition to Covid-19 vaccinations and health measures, received a warning from Twitter in March 2021, one week before legislative elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Court punishes Dutch MP for comparing Covid restrictions to Holocaust

The Netherlands government has announced that it is planning to buy a self-portrait of the 17th Century Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Culture Minister Ingrid van Engelshoven took to her Twitter handle and shared an image of the iconic self-portrait as she wrote, "With this purchase we can make one of the most beautiful Rembrandts accessible to everyone."

Before being displayed at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, the masterpiece will be taken on a tour. It is costing the government €150 million. Along with this, the museum's fund will be adding another €10 million and the Rembrandt Association €15 million.

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Met deze aankoop kunnen we één van de mooiste Rembrandts toegankelijk maken voor iedereen. Samen met <a href="https://twitter.com/rijksmuseum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rijksmuseum</a> en <a href="https://twitter.com/VRembrandt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VRembrandt</a> zorgen we ervoor dat <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeVaandeldrager?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeVaandeldrager</a> voor altijd Nederlands publiek bezit blijft. <a href="https://t.co/6gypDjTDwn">pic.twitter.com/6gypDjTDwn</a>
— Ingrid van Engelshoven (@ivanengelshoven) <a href="https://twitter.com/ivanengelshoven/status/1468543317021503497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to reports by The National News, ministry spokesman Michiel Hendrikx said, "The Dutch master's The Standard Bearer will be "in Dutch hands for the first time" if Parliament backs the initiative."

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He further added, "It's a unique opportunity" to acquire the last Rembrandt of such quality. He further expressed his satisfaction that the Netherlands had "managed to seize it".

The masterpiece was painted in the year 1636 when Rembrandt was 30-years-old.

The painting shows him wearing a costume of a standard-bearer who led troops into battle. This war further led to the independence of the Netherlands in 1648.

Taco Dibbits, director of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, which hosts 22 of Rembrandt's about 340 paintings was quoted by The National News as saying, "We have been dreaming for generations of bringing The Standard Bearer to our country. The quality and the fact that this painting marks Rembrandt's breakthrough as an artist make it an unmatched work from the master."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Netherlands government has announced that it is planning to buy a self-portrait of the 17th Century Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Culture Minister Ingrid van Engelshoven took to her Twitter handle and shared an image of the iconic self-portrait as she wrote, "With this purchase we can make one of the most beautiful Rembrandts accessible to everyone.

The Netherlands government has announced that it is planning to buy a self-portrait of the 17th Century Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Culture Minister Ingrid van Engelshoven took to her Twitter handle and shared an image of the iconic self-portrait as she wrote, "With this purchase we can make one of the most beautiful Rembrandts accessible to everyone." Before being displayed at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, the masterpiece will be taken on a tour. It is costing the government €150 million. Along with this, the museum's fund will be adding another €10 million and the Rembrandt Association €15 million. Met deze aankoop kunnen we één van de mooiste Rembrandts toegankelijk maken voor iedereen. Samen met @rijksmuseum en @VRembrandt zorgen we ervoor dat #DeVaandeldrager voor altijd Nederlands publiek bezit blijft. pic.twitter.com/6gypDjTDwn — Ingrid van Engelshoven (@ivanengelshoven) December 8, 2021 × According to reports by The National News, ministry spokesman Michiel Hendrikx said, "The Dutch master's The Standard Bearer will be "in Dutch hands for the first time" if Parliament backs the initiative." Also read | 1,344 eggs, 36kg flour and a lot of weed: US company makes world's largest 'pot brownie' He further added, "It's a unique opportunity" to acquire the last Rembrandt of such quality. He further expressed his satisfaction that the Netherlands had "managed to seize it". The masterpiece was painted in the year 1636 when Rembrandt was 30-years-old. The painting shows him wearing a costume of a standard-bearer who led troops into battle. This war further led to the independence of the Netherlands in 1648. Taco Dibbits, director of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, which hosts 22 of Rembrandt's about 340 paintings was quoted by The National News as saying, "We have been dreaming for generations of bringing The Standard Bearer to our country. The quality and the fact that this painting marks Rembrandt's breakthrough as an artist make it an unmatched work from the master." (With inputs from agencies)

'The Standard Bearer': Netherlands govt to pay $170M for Rembrandt's self portrait

The Covid variant Omicron was present in the Netherlands a week before two flights arrived from South Africa carrying the virus, the Dutch health authorities said on Tuesday.

“We have found the Omicron coronavirus variant in two test samples that were taken on November 19 and November 23. It is not clear yet whether these people have visited Southern Africa," the National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-omicron-variant-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-slams-hype-432552">Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype&nbsp;</a>

At least 14 people on flights from Johannesburg and Capetown arrived at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport on November 26 carrying the new variant, RIVM&nbsp;said, adding that the people had been informed and municipal health services had now started contact investigations.

South Africa first reported the new strain to the World Health Organization on November 24.

Earlier, the first cases in the Netherlands was believed to be the 14 Omicron infections on two KLM flights from South Africa that arrived in Amsterdam on November 26.

"In the coming period, various studies will be conducted into the distribution of the Omicron variant in the Netherlands," the institute said, adding that it would re-examine more samples from previous tests.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron covid variant found in Europe before South Africa

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The airline passengers with Omicron, who were among 61 travellers on the two South Africa flights that tested positive for Covid, are currently in quarantine.

In addition to the Netherlands, other European countries, including Belgium and Germany, have also reported cases of the new strain before it was officially notified by South Africa to the World Health Organization on November 24.

"We found two additional cases of Omicron variant which have been sampled on the 19th and 23rd of November," RIVM infectious diseases chief Aura Timen told AFP.

"So that points at the presence already of this variant in the Netherlands."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moderna-says-current-vaccines-not-effective-against-the-omicron-variant-432697">Moderna says current vaccines not effective against the Omicron variant</a>

As of now, the Netherlands has confirmed 16 cases of the new strain, the highest number in Europe.

However, as Timen pointed out, it was likely that other countries will repeat the Dutch situation when they retest samples for Omicron cases.

"I don't think that we are in an exceptional situation or exceptional risk at this point," Timen said.

"The moment a new variant emerges and is announced, probably the variant is already spread all over the world."

In Belgium, the first European country to report the presence of the new strain, a case was detected on November 22 and developed symptoms 11 days after travelling to Egypt via Turkey.

Meanwhile, Germany has confirmed that a person who tested positive for the variant arrived at the Frankfurt airport on November 21.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Covid variant Omicron was present in the Netherlands a week before two flights arrived from South Africa carrying the virus, the Dutch health authorities said on Tuesday.

The Covid variant Omicron was present in the Netherlands a week before two flights arrived from South Africa carrying the virus, the Dutch health authorities said on Tuesday. “We have found the Omicron coronavirus variant in two test samples that were taken on November 19 and November 23. It is not clear yet whether these people have visited Southern Africa," the National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) said. Also read | Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype At least 14 people on flights from Johannesburg and Capetown arrived at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport on November 26 carrying the new variant, RIVM said, adding that the people had been informed and municipal health services had now started contact investigations. South Africa first reported the new strain to the World Health Organization on November 24. Earlier, the first cases in the Netherlands was believed to be the 14 Omicron infections on two KLM flights from South Africa that arrived in Amsterdam on November 26. "In the coming period, various studies will be conducted into the distribution of the Omicron variant in the Netherlands," the institute said, adding that it would re-examine more samples from previous tests. Watch | Omicron covid variant found in Europe before South Africa The airline passengers with Omicron, who were among 61 travellers on the two South Africa flights that tested positive for Covid, are currently in quarantine. In addition to the Netherlands, other European countries, including Belgium and Germany, have also reported cases of the new strain before it was officially notified by South Africa to the World Health Organization on November 24. "We found two additional cases of Omicron variant which have been sampled on the 19th and 23rd of November," RIVM infectious diseases chief Aura Timen told AFP. "So that points at the presence already of this variant in the Netherlands." Also read | Moderna says current vaccines not effective against the Omicron variant As of now, the Netherlands has confirmed 16 cases of the new strain, the highest number in Europe. However, as Timen pointed out, it was likely that other countries will repeat the Dutch situation when they retest samples for Omicron cases. "I don't think that we are in an exceptional situation or exceptional risk at this point," Timen said. "The moment a new variant emerges and is announced, probably the variant is already spread all over the world." In Belgium, the first European country to report the presence of the new strain, a case was detected on November 22 and developed symptoms 11 days after travelling to Egypt via Turkey. Meanwhile, Germany has confirmed that a person who tested positive for the variant arrived at the Frankfurt airport on November 21. (With inputs from agencies)

Netherlands, Belgium, Germany had Omicron cases a week before S.Africa identified the Coronavirus variant

Fresh rioting broke out in the Netherlands on Saturday over the Dutch government's latest Coronavirus measures. The government plans to restrict access for unvaccinated people to some venues.

Fresh riot breaks out in Netherlands over COVID-19 measures

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise.

Dutch government coalitions often take months to form, but this year's post-election talks have been especially drawn out. For months, parties failed to even move beyond the question of who would be allowed at the negotiation table.

Meanwhile, pressing matters such as climate change, health care and the strained housing market have been left untouched.

"It's remarkable," said political historian and cabinet formation expert Carla van Baalen. "We have never seen a situation in which no real talks were held for months following the elections."

Talks came to a standstill shortly after the elections as parties tried to mend relations following a failed no-confidence vote in Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

As efforts to bring other parties to the table failed, the four parties that have governed the Netherlands since 2017 finally agreed to try to extend their coalition last month, but no real progress has been reported since.

The lack of fully-functioning government does not seem to have hurt the Dutch economy. It has rebounded strongly from a COVID-19 slump and boasts one of the strongest growth rates in Europe.

But pressing longer-term problems are being neglected as long as the coalition remains in caretaker status.

"Only urgent problems, such as immediate measures to fight COVID-19, are addressed", Van Baalen said.

The March elections were won by the conservative VVD party led by Rutte, who has been Prime Minister since 2010. But with only 22% of the vote, Rutte needs the support of at least three junior partners to secure a majority in parliament.

Party leaders were expected to grasp the nettle during a three-day retreat that started last Wednesday, but as they convened Rutte made it clear that a compromise was still not in sight.

"We'll have more talks next week, and probably in the week after too", Rutte said. "There is still a lot of work to do."

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise.

Government formation talks in the Netherlands on Friday became the longest on record, 226 days after the March 17 elections delivered a fractured political landscape that made parties more reluctant than ever to compromise. Dutch government coalitions often take months to form, but this year's post-election talks have been especially drawn out. For months, parties failed to even move beyond the question of who would be allowed at the negotiation table. Meanwhile, pressing matters such as climate change, health care and the strained housing market have been left untouched. "It's remarkable," said political historian and cabinet formation expert Carla van Baalen. "We have never seen a situation in which no real talks were held for months following the elections." Talks came to a standstill shortly after the elections as parties tried to mend relations following a failed no-confidence vote in Prime Minister Mark Rutte. As efforts to bring other parties to the table failed, the four parties that have governed the Netherlands since 2017 finally agreed to try to extend their coalition last month, but no real progress has been reported since. The lack of fully-functioning government does not seem to have hurt the Dutch economy. It has rebounded strongly from a COVID-19 slump and boasts one of the strongest growth rates in Europe. But pressing longer-term problems are being neglected as long as the coalition remains in caretaker status. "Only urgent problems, such as immediate measures to fight COVID-19, are addressed", Van Baalen said. The March elections were won by the conservative VVD party led by Rutte, who has been Prime Minister since 2010. But with only 22% of the vote, Rutte needs the support of at least three junior partners to secure a majority in parliament. Party leaders were expected to grasp the nettle during a three-day retreat that started last Wednesday, but as they convened Rutte made it clear that a compromise was still not in sight. "We'll have more talks next week, and probably in the week after too", Rutte said. "There is still a lot of work to do."

Why rush? Dutch government formation talks drag on for record 226 days

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday.

Wiese's maiden international half-century changed the pace of the game in matter of minutes as runs flew thick and fast after he took charge at the crease and in the process added 93 runs with skipper Gerhard Erasmus (32) for the fourth wicket.

Chasing 165 to stay alive in the competition, debutants Namibia were stuttering at 52 for three after nine overs but Wiese single-handedly sank the Dutch side.

His onslaught on the spinners, especially the monstrous straight sixes, was a treat to watch as the Dutch bowlers were guilty of putting the balls in the slot for Wiese to clobber.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-rohit-sharmas-half-century-helps-india-chase-australias-153-in-second-warm-up-game-422396">T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game</a>

And even if the pacers drew the length a bit back, the 36-year-old Wiese had enough power to muscle the ball around for big shots.

He raised his fifty in just 29 balls, with a six off rival skipper Pietar Seelar. His 40-ball unbeaten knock was adorned with five sixes and four shots to the fence.

Erasmus too timed the ball beautifully and got boundaries with ease in his 22-ball knock that had four fours and a six.

The victory has kept Namibia in hunt for the Super-12 stage and now need to beat Ireland in their final game in the first round. They had lost to Sri Lanka in their opening match.

The Netherlands now have lost both their games and their chances to make it to the next stage are quite low.

Earlier, opener Max O'Dowd (70) struck his second consecutive half-century and shared a 82-run stand with Colin Ackermann (35) to help the Netherland post a competitive 164 for four.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-know-how-india-get-favourites-tag-says-michael-vaughan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-cos-pakistan-tie-422332">Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Pakistan tie</a>

O'Dowd, who had hit 51 against Ireland in the previous match, expressed himself freely, going after the bowlers. At times he played uppish shots, not exactly in control but still kept finding the gaps to keep the scoreboard going.

His 57-ball knock had six fours and a six.

Stroke making was not easy on the wicket and his opening partner Stephan Myburgh (17) was happy playing the ball according to merit.

Myburgh got out when he tried to slap one hard from Frylinck but ended up giving a simple catch to Baard at point.

The Dutch side had high hopes from experienced Roelof van der Merwe (6) but he also fell cheaply off pacer David Wiese. 
Next-man in Ackermann though timed the ball nicely and even used his feet effectively.

O'Dowd completed his fifty with an inside-out boundary off the bowling of spinner Bernard Scholtz in the cover region. That shot also brought up hundred of the side in the 14th over.

Pacer JJ Smit was impressive with his accurate widish deliveries in slog overs, not letting the Dutch batters score freely. Wiese too kept it tight.

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday.

In a sensational display of power-hitting, David Wiese conjured up a 66-run knock to fashion Namibia's six-wicket win over the Netherlands in a crucial first round Group A game of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday. Wiese's maiden international half-century changed the pace of the game in matter of minutes as runs flew thick and fast after he took charge at the crease and in the process added 93 runs with skipper Gerhard Erasmus (32) for the fourth wicket. Chasing 165 to stay alive in the competition, debutants Namibia were stuttering at 52 for three after nine overs but Wiese single-handedly sank the Dutch side. His onslaught on the spinners, especially the monstrous straight sixes, was a treat to watch as the Dutch bowlers were guilty of putting the balls in the slot for Wiese to clobber. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Rohit Sharma's half-century helps India chase Australia's 153 in second warm-up game And even if the pacers drew the length a bit back, the 36-year-old Wiese had enough power to muscle the ball around for big shots. He raised his fifty in just 29 balls, with a six off rival skipper Pietar Seelar. His 40-ball unbeaten knock was adorned with five sixes and four shots to the fence. Erasmus too timed the ball beautifully and got boundaries with ease in his 22-ball knock that had four fours and a six. The victory has kept Namibia in hunt for the Super-12 stage and now need to beat Ireland in their final game in the first round. They had lost to Sri Lanka in their opening match. The Netherlands now have lost both their games and their chances to make it to the next stage are quite low. Earlier, opener Max O'Dowd (70) struck his second consecutive half-century and shared a 82-run stand with Colin Ackermann (35) to help the Netherland post a competitive 164 for four. ALSO READ | Don’t know how India get favourites tag, says Michael Vaughan ahead of Virat Kohli & Co.'s Pakistan tie O'Dowd, who had hit 51 against Ireland in the previous match, expressed himself freely, going after the bowlers. At times he played uppish shots, not exactly in control but still kept finding the gaps to keep the scoreboard going. His 57-ball knock had six fours and a six. Stroke making was not easy on the wicket and his opening partner Stephan Myburgh (17) was happy playing the ball according to merit. Myburgh got out when he tried to slap one hard from Frylinck but ended up giving a simple catch to Baard at point. The Dutch side had high hopes from experienced Roelof van der Merwe (6) but he also fell cheaply off pacer David Wiese. Next-man in Ackermann though timed the ball nicely and even used his feet effectively. O'Dowd completed his fifty with an inside-out boundary off the bowling of spinner Bernard Scholtz in the cover region. That shot also brought up hundred of the side in the 14th over. Pacer JJ Smit was impressive with his accurate widish deliveries in slog overs, not letting the Dutch batters score freely. Wiese too kept it tight.

T20 WC: Former South Africa batter David Wiese's 66 helps Namibia stun Netherlands by 6 wickets

Match 2 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Pieter Seelaar-led Netherlands (NED) on Monday&nbsp;(October 18). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

This match is a Round 1 match that features eight teams: Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, and the Netherlands. They are&nbsp;divided into two groups.

They will face each other once, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the Super 12 stage. Group A includes Sri Lanka, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Namibia. Group B includes Bangladesh, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, and Oman.

In the warm-up matches, Netherlands won against Oman but was defeated by Scotland whereas Ireland defeated both Papua New Guinea and Bangladesh.&nbsp;The Group A match will be vital to the hopes of both the teams progressing to the Super 12 stage.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:

Where is the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands taking place?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

What time does the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands begin?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands begins at 3:30 PM IST on Monday.

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands?

The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IRE vs NED will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

Match 2 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Pieter Seelaar-led Netherlands (NED) on Monday (October 18). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Match 2 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland (IRE) take on the Pieter Seelaar-led Netherlands (NED) on Monday (October 18). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. This match is a Round 1 match that features eight teams: Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Oman, Papua New Guinea, and the Netherlands. They are divided into two groups. They will face each other once, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the Super 12 stage. Group A includes Sri Lanka, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Namibia. Group B includes Bangladesh, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, and Oman. In the warm-up matches, Netherlands won against Oman but was defeated by Scotland whereas Ireland defeated both Papua New Guinea and Bangladesh. The Group A match will be vital to the hopes of both the teams progressing to the Super 12 stage. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands taking place? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. What time does the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands begin? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands begins at 3:30 PM IST on Monday. Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands? The T20 World Cup match between Ireland vs Netherlands will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IRE vs NED will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

T20 World Cup, IRE vs NED live streaming: When and where to watch Ireland vs Netherlands match?

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne.

Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia, 17, is the heir apparent to King Willem-Alexander.

PM Rutte was responding to questions from parliament that were after publishing of a recent book, "Amalia, Duty Calls".

It argued that old laws would appear to exclude the possibility of a same-sex couple on the throne. However, same-sex marriage has been legal in the Netherlands since 2001.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chat-checkouts-dutch-supermarket-makes-an-effort-to-get-rid-of-loneliness-amid-pandemic-419907">'Chat checkouts': Dutch supermarket makes an effort to get rid of loneliness amid pandemic</a>

"The government believes that the heir can also marry a person of the same sex," Rutte wrote in his response to parliament.

"The cabinet therefore does not see that an heir to the throne or the King should abdicate if he/she would like to marry a partner of the same sex."

Also Reads | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-behind-identical-twins-solved-by-dutch-scientists-417122">Mystery behind identical twins solved by Dutch scientists</a>

Royal marriages do need the approval of parliament, however, and members of the royal house have on occasion given up their place in the line of succession, either to marry someone without permission or because they seemed unlikely to obtain it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia (17) can marry a person of whatever gender she chooses and she would not have to forfeit her right to the throne. Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia, 17, is the heir apparent to King Willem-Alexander. PM Rutte was responding to questions from parliament that were after publishing of a recent book, "Amalia, Duty Calls". It argued that old laws would appear to exclude the possibility of a same-sex couple on the throne. However, same-sex marriage has been legal in the Netherlands since 2001. Also Read | 'Chat checkouts': Dutch supermarket makes an effort to get rid of loneliness amid pandemic "The government believes that the heir can also marry a person of the same sex," Rutte wrote in his response to parliament. "The cabinet therefore does not see that an heir to the throne or the King should abdicate if he/she would like to marry a partner of the same sex." Also Reads | Mystery behind identical twins solved by Dutch scientists Royal marriages do need the approval of parliament, however, and members of the royal house have on occasion given up their place in the line of succession, either to marry someone without permission or because they seemed unlikely to obtain it. (With inputs from agencies)

Game of thrones! Gay marriage of Dutch crown princess won't force her to give up the throne

Germany&nbsp;and the Netherlands said Wednesday they have stopped forced repatriations of Afghan migrants because of deteriorating security in&nbsp;Afghanistan, as the Taliban pressed on with its rapid advance in the country's north.

"Due to current developments in the security situation, the interior minister has decided to suspend deportations to&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;for the time being,"&nbsp;Germany's interior ministry spokesman Steve Alter wrote on Twitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-the-taliban-take-over-afghanistan-heres-what-we-know-404730" hreflang="en">Could the Taliban take over Afghanistan? Here’s what we know</a>

Separately in The Hague, Dutch State Secretary for Justice and Security Ankie Broekers-Knol announced a "moratorium on (deportation) decisions and departures."

The halt "will apply for six months and will apply to foreign nationals of Afghan nationality," she wrote in a letter to the Dutch parliament.

Wednesday's move by the Germans and Dutch marked a sharp U-turn from their previous position.

Officials had said as late as Tuesday that both governments had joined their counterparts in Austria, Belgium, Denmark and Greece to write to the EU's executive arm saying they should be allowed to press on with expulsions of Afghan migrants if their asylum bids fail.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-wants-afghanistans-neighbours-not-to-recognise-govt-imposed-by-force-as-taliban-capture-9th-provincial-capital-404659" hreflang="en">US wants Afghanistan's neighbours not to recognise govt imposed by force as Taliban capture 9th provincial capital</a>

Afghanistan&nbsp;urged the EU in July to cease forced deportations of Afghan migrants for three months as security forces battle the Taliban offensive ahead of the full US military pullout from&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;on August 31.

"We are now complying with this request, which I consider to be the right thing to do,"&nbsp;Germany's foreign minister Heiko Maas said of Kabul's call.

As a deportation flight had to be stopped in recent days because of fighting in Kabul close to the airport, Maas said a decision had to be quickly made on whether to resume the flight.

Austria maintains expulsions&nbsp;

Neighbouring Austria however said it would press on with expulsions to&nbsp;Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"Austria is keeping to its plans for deportations. A de facto suspension of deportations is currently not up for discussion," a spokesman for the interior ministry told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-capture-another-provincial-capital-several-afghan-soldiers-surrender-near-kunduz-404619" hreflang="en">Taliban capture another provincial capital, several Afghan soldiers surrender near Kunduz</a>

The Taliban have in recent days made huge advances in the north, capturing territory including provincial capital Kunduz -- where German soldiers had been deployed for a decade until the end of June.

German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer had voiced disappointment at the developments.

"The reports from Kunduz and from all over&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;are bitter and hurt a lot," she wrote on Twitter on Monday.

Northern&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;has long been considered an anti-Taliban stronghold that saw some of the stiffest resistance to militant rule in the 1990s.&nbsp;

Germany and the Netherlands said Wednesday they have stopped forced repatriations of Afghan migrants because of deteriorating security in Afghanistan, as the Taliban pressed on with its rapid advance in the country's north.

Germany and the Netherlands said Wednesday they have stopped forced repatriations of Afghan migrants because of deteriorating security in Afghanistan, as the Taliban pressed on with its rapid advance in the country's north. "Due to current developments in the security situation, the interior minister has decided to suspend deportations to Afghanistan for the time being," Germany's interior ministry spokesman Steve Alter wrote on Twitter. Also read | Could the Taliban take over Afghanistan? Here’s what we know Separately in The Hague, Dutch State Secretary for Justice and Security Ankie Broekers-Knol announced a "moratorium on (deportation) decisions and departures." The halt "will apply for six months and will apply to foreign nationals of Afghan nationality," she wrote in a letter to the Dutch parliament. Wednesday's move by the Germans and Dutch marked a sharp U-turn from their previous position. Officials had said as late as Tuesday that both governments had joined their counterparts in Austria, Belgium, Denmark and Greece to write to the EU's executive arm saying they should be allowed to press on with expulsions of Afghan migrants if their asylum bids fail. Also read | US wants Afghanistan's neighbours not to recognise govt imposed by force as Taliban capture 9th provincial capital Afghanistan urged the EU in July to cease forced deportations of Afghan migrants for three months as security forces battle the Taliban offensive ahead of the full US military pullout from Afghanistan on August 31. "We are now complying with this request, which I consider to be the right thing to do," Germany's foreign minister Heiko Maas said of Kabul's call. As a deportation flight had to be stopped in recent days because of fighting in Kabul close to the airport, Maas said a decision had to be quickly made on whether to resume the flight. Austria maintains expulsions Neighbouring Austria however said it would press on with expulsions to Afghanistan. "Austria is keeping to its plans for deportations. A de facto suspension of deportations is currently not up for discussion," a spokesman for the interior ministry told AFP. Also read | Taliban capture another provincial capital, several Afghan soldiers surrender near Kunduz The Taliban have in recent days made huge advances in the north, capturing territory including provincial capital Kunduz -- where German soldiers had been deployed for a decade until the end of June. German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer had voiced disappointment at the developments. "The reports from Kunduz and from all over Afghanistan are bitter and hurt a lot," she wrote on Twitter on Monday. Northern Afghanistan has long been considered an anti-Taliban stronghold that saw some of the stiffest resistance to militant rule in the 1990s.

Germany, Netherlands halt migrant expulsions to Afghanistan

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