Celebrating sibling bond on Raksha Bandhan, schoolgirls tied rakhis to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a school in New Delhi. The schoolchildren greeted PM Modi with smiles as he entered the classroom and tied the sacred thread to him.

PM Modi celebrates Raksha Bandhan with school girls in New Delhi

<p>Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace. These cut-outs appear so lifelike that people might mistake them for actual grey ‘langur’.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit2023</a> Delhi: Lifesize langur cutouts placed by civic authorities to scare away monkeys<br />
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Not only that, there might be people around those cutouts to mimic the sounds of langurs<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20SummitDelhiFAQs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20SummitDelhiFAQs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiReadyForG20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiReadyForG20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/DjduKJZAvG">pic.twitter.com/DjduKJZAvG</a></p>
— Ritam English (@EnglishRitam) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglishRitam/status/1697182246749298859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>And not just the cut-outs, 40 specially trained personnel will also be deployed across different G20 venues to mimic sounds made by ‘langur’.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the cut-outs are being installed?</strong></h2>

<p>Delhi is not new to monkey menace, something which India would not like to introduce to esteemed G20 guests, including the world media and global leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Xi Jinping likely to skip G20 summit in India</strong></p>

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<p>So, ‘langur’ cut-outs are being erected as monkeys usually avoid crossing into territories occupied by langurs.</p>

<p>Officials in Delhi always resort to such tactics ahead of any major event, such as the upcoming G20 summit.</p>

<h2><strong>Where have these cut-outs been installed?</strong></h2>

<p>The life-size cut-outs can be spotted on Delhi’s Sardar Patel Marg as well as the Central Ridge area that's located near Connaught Place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Central Ridge includes 864 hectares of land that was converted into a reserve forest in 1914 and stretches from just south of Sadar Bazaar to Dhaula Kuan.</p>

<p>Delhi officials say the measure has been taken in coordination with the Delhi Forest Department.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-putin-xi-likely-to-pull-out-of-g20-summit-in-india-report-630771"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;After Putin, Xi likely to pull out of G20 summit in India: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The purpose of the measure is to confine monkeys to the forest area so that they don’t cause any menace to G20 guests and dignitaries.</p>

<p>“Langur cutouts have been put up on an experimental basis, and we have to see how much actual impact they have on the density of monkeys,” Vice-chairman of New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) Satish Upadhyay said.</p>

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Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs. Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace.

Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs. Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace. These cut-outs appear so lifelike that people might mistake them for actual grey ‘langur’. #WATCH | #G20Summit2023 Delhi: Lifesize langur cutouts placed by civic authorities to scare away monkeys Not only that, there might be people around those cutouts to mimic the sounds of langurs#G20India #G20SummitDelhiFAQs #G20 #G20delhi #DelhiReadyForG20 #Delhi pic.twitter.com/DjduKJZAvG — Ritam English (@EnglishRitam) August 31, 2023 × And not just the cut-outs, 40 specially trained personnel will also be deployed across different G20 venues to mimic sounds made by ‘langur’. Why the cut-outs are being installed? Delhi is not new to monkey menace, something which India would not like to introduce to esteemed G20 guests, including the world media and global leaders. Watch: Xi Jinping likely to skip G20 summit in India × So, ‘langur’ cut-outs are being erected as monkeys usually avoid crossing into territories occupied by langurs. Officials in Delhi always resort to such tactics ahead of any major event, such as the upcoming G20 summit. Where have these cut-outs been installed? The life-size cut-outs can be spotted on Delhi’s Sardar Patel Marg as well as the Central Ridge area that's located near Connaught Place. The Central Ridge includes 864 hectares of land that was converted into a reserve forest in 1914 and stretches from just south of Sadar Bazaar to Dhaula Kuan. Delhi officials say the measure has been taken in coordination with the Delhi Forest Department. Also read: After Putin, Xi likely to pull out of G20 summit in India: Report The purpose of the measure is to confine monkeys to the forest area so that they don’t cause any menace to G20 guests and dignitaries. “Langur cutouts have been put up on an experimental basis, and we have to see how much actual impact they have on the density of monkeys,” Vice-chairman of New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) Satish Upadhyay said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Delhi places ‘langur’ cut-outs across G20 venues to keep monkeys at bay

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not invited at the G20 summit organised by India in New Delhi. Do you know the reason behind it? Watch this video to find out.

G20 Summit 2023: Why is Ukraine’s Zelensky not invited to the New Delhi Summit?

Only a few days are left for the G20 Summit. India is hosting the G20 summit for the first time in history. More than 25 world leaders will convene at the Summit on September 9-10. Know who all are coming for G20 summit 2023.

G20 Summit 2023: Who is attending, who is skipping?

New Delhi is all prepped up for G20 Summit. The summit is scheduled to be held from September 7-10. The US President is going to visit India in the coming days to attend the G20 summit. But what's on the agenda this time for G20 Summit?

G20 Summit: US President Joe Biden heads to India. What's on the agenda?

The winners of 69th National Film Awards were announced in New Delhi honouring the best filmmaking talent across India. Take a look at the list of the winners.

69th National Film Awards: Alia Bhatt shares Best Actress Award with Kriti Sanon | WION Fineprint

All government and private offices in New Delhi will remain shut between September 8th and 10th in view of the G20 Summit. The Summit in the Indian national capital is scheduled to take place on September 9th and 10th at Pragati maidan. The move aims to elevate any potential traffic congestion and also logistical challenges.

G20 Summit: Offices to remain closed as a measure to control traffic during the Summit

<p>Delivering a keynote address at the Indiaspora G20 forum on Tuesday (August 23), US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said Joe Biden told him that India is the most important country in the world to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Highlighting the growing importance of India on the global map, Garcetti said it was perhaps the first time that any American president had uttered such a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He (President Biden) told me, when he asked me to come here to serve, he said, this is the most important country in the world for me, I think something that no American president has ever uttered in the history of our two countries,” said Garcetti.</p>

<p>“From technology to trade, from the environment to women’s empowerment, from small businesses to space, we used to say the sky is the limit, but now that we’re working together in space, not even the sky is the limit. From the seabed to the heavens, the US and India are a force for good and a powerful force to move this world forward," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-to-visit-india-in-september-for-g20-summit-confirms-white-house-628090"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;President Biden to visit India in September for G20 summit, confirms White House&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Garcetti informed that it was his 'dream' to live in India and at one point, considered coming back to Bodh Gaya (a place where Lord Budha attained enlightenment) and doing a Buddhist studies programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“But politics got in the way. I got elected to the student council and I promised I would serve, so my India dream kind of died, or so I thought. But the universe has a curious way of connecting people and dreams. Now suddenly I'm living that dream here when President Biden asked me to consider serving here."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;White House's top lawyer to step down</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Biden to visit India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Garcetti's statement came on the same day as when the White House confirmed that Biden will visit India in September for the G20 Summit. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will be holding a number of bilateral meetings during his India trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Climate change, green energy and the Ukraine crisis are expected to be key agendas of the G20 summit, the White House noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, during PM Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in June, Biden expressed his support for the G20 summit and said he was looking forward to attending the meeting in person.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Delivering a keynote address at the Indiaspora G20 forum on Tuesday (August 23), US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said Joe Biden told him that India is the most important country in the world to him.

Delivering a keynote address at the Indiaspora G20 forum on Tuesday (August 23), US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said Joe Biden told him that India is the most important country in the world to him. Highlighting the growing importance of India on the global map, Garcetti said it was perhaps the first time that any American president had uttered such a statement. “He (President Biden) told me, when he asked me to come here to serve, he said, this is the most important country in the world for me, I think something that no American president has ever uttered in the history of our two countries,” said Garcetti. “From technology to trade, from the environment to women’s empowerment, from small businesses to space, we used to say the sky is the limit, but now that we’re working together in space, not even the sky is the limit. From the seabed to the heavens, the US and India are a force for good and a powerful force to move this world forward," he added. Also read | President Biden to visit India in September for G20 summit, confirms White House Garcetti informed that it was his 'dream' to live in India and at one point, considered coming back to Bodh Gaya (a place where Lord Budha attained enlightenment) and doing a Buddhist studies programme. “But politics got in the way. I got elected to the student council and I promised I would serve, so my India dream kind of died, or so I thought. But the universe has a curious way of connecting people and dreams. Now suddenly I'm living that dream here when President Biden asked me to consider serving here." Watch: White House's top lawyer to step down Biden to visit India Garcetti's statement came on the same day as when the White House confirmed that Biden will visit India in September for the G20 Summit. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will be holding a number of bilateral meetings during his India trip. Climate change, green energy and the Ukraine crisis are expected to be key agendas of the G20 summit, the White House noted. Earlier, during PM Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in June, Biden expressed his support for the G20 summit and said he was looking forward to attending the meeting in person. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US President Joe Biden reveals the 'most important country' for him

Dengue or breakbone fever is the most common viral infection worldwide. It spreads from mosquitoes to people. Watch this video to find out why is there a sudden spike in dengue cases in India's capital New Delhi.

Why are dengue cases rising rapidly in India's capital New Delhi?

<p>In a bid to bring the skyrocketing prices of tomatoes under control, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF) on Monday (August 14) informed it had successfully sold 71,500 kilogrammes of the vegetable at a subsidised&nbsp;rate over a two-day mega sale event in&nbsp;Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sale across 70 different locations, such as Seelampur and RK Puram in the national capital was held with the Independence Day celebrations&nbsp;in mind. Out of 71,500 kg of tomatoes, 36,500 kg were sold on August 12 while the remaining 35,000 kg was sold on August 13. On both days, the vegetable was sold at a subsidised rate of Rs 70 per kg,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consumers across the country have been forced to avoid tomatoes in their food regime due to the high prices. Notably, since July 11, NCCF, acting on behalf of the Consumer Affairs Ministry, has been selling tomatoes at discounted rates to ease inflation. The government is of the view that due to its sustained intervention, leading to an increase in inventories, the prices were coming down across all locations in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tomato-crisis-looms-large-in-california-as-drought-intensifies-506764"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Why have the prices been so high?</strong></h2>

<p>Multiple reasons have contributed to the price rise but it is the incessant rains that have had the most significant impact on the inflation. The prices, in recent weeks, had&nbsp;surged from Rs 70-80 per kg to Rs 150-200&nbsp;per kg due to&nbsp;limited supply caused by crop damage from heavy rainfall and extreme heat.</p>

<p>Experts also pointed out that fewer tomatoes were planted this year as the farmers went for cash crops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This year, for a variety of reasons, fewer tomatoes were sown than in prior years. As the price of beans surged last year, many farmers switched to growing beans this year. However, lack of rains caused the crops to dry out and wilt. The limited supply of vegetables, particularly tomatoes are due to crop damage caused by heavy rainfall and extreme heat,"&nbsp;Ajay Kedia, a&nbsp;Mumbai-based commodity market expert was quoted as saying by Mint.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tomato-prices-in-india-whats-driving-the-hike-all-you-need-to-know-609755"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tomato prices in India: What's driving the hike? All you need to know</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>When will the prices return to normal?</strong></h2>

<p>According to experts, the price of tomatoes always peaks&nbsp;during this time of the year due to weather disturbances in many cities.&nbsp;Past trends also indicate that after a brief upheaval in prices during mid-Monsoon season, the market course corrects and the tomato prices come down when the yield is supported by the weather.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a bid to bring the skyrocketing prices of tomatoes under control, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF) on Monday (August 14) informed it had successfully sold 71,500 kilogrammes of the vegetable at a subsidised rate over a two-day mega sale event in Delhi.

In a bid to bring the skyrocketing prices of tomatoes under control, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF) on Monday (August 14) informed it had successfully sold 71,500 kilogrammes of the vegetable at a subsidised rate over a two-day mega sale event in Delhi. The sale across 70 different locations, such as Seelampur and RK Puram in the national capital was held with the Independence Day celebrations in mind. Out of 71,500 kg of tomatoes, 36,500 kg were sold on August 12 while the remaining 35,000 kg was sold on August 13. On both days, the vegetable was sold at a subsidised rate of Rs 70 per kg, Consumers across the country have been forced to avoid tomatoes in their food regime due to the high prices. Notably, since July 11, NCCF, acting on behalf of the Consumer Affairs Ministry, has been selling tomatoes at discounted rates to ease inflation. The government is of the view that due to its sustained intervention, leading to an increase in inventories, the prices were coming down across all locations in the country. Also read | Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies Why have the prices been so high? Multiple reasons have contributed to the price rise but it is the incessant rains that have had the most significant impact on the inflation. The prices, in recent weeks, had surged from Rs 70-80 per kg to Rs 150-200 per kg due to limited supply caused by crop damage from heavy rainfall and extreme heat. Experts also pointed out that fewer tomatoes were planted this year as the farmers went for cash crops. “This year, for a variety of reasons, fewer tomatoes were sown than in prior years. As the price of beans surged last year, many farmers switched to growing beans this year. However, lack of rains caused the crops to dry out and wilt. The limited supply of vegetables, particularly tomatoes are due to crop damage caused by heavy rainfall and extreme heat," Ajay Kedia, a Mumbai-based commodity market expert was quoted as saying by Mint. WATCH | Tomato prices in India: What's driving the hike? All you need to know × When will the prices return to normal? According to experts, the price of tomatoes always peaks during this time of the year due to weather disturbances in many cities. Past trends also indicate that after a brief upheaval in prices during mid-Monsoon season, the market course corrects and the tomato prices come down when the yield is supported by the weather. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 71,500 kg tomatoes sold in mega-sale in Delhi. Know why

Delhi is preparing for the next winter season with a new air pollution control strategy. The commission for air quality management in the national capital region and surrounding areas is working hard to reduce air pollution and find effective solutions for its problems. To further increase efforts to combat air pollution, the graded response action plan amendment has been issued.

India: New Delhi's air quality commission issues revised advisory

<p>India's drive to internationalise the Rupee is reaping benefits in one and a half dozen countries across the world. Banks from 18 countries have been allowed by India's central bank, Reserve Bank of India,&nbsp;to open Special Vostro Rupee Accounts (SVRAs) for settling payments in Indian rupees, the Indian government told the parliament which is currently in session.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government's response came to a question from Bharatiya Janata Party’s Sushil Kumar Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Union Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad said that the SVRAs could be set up by banks of partner countries by approaching Authorised Dealer (AD) banks in India that may get permission from the RBI after the due procedure.</p>

<h2><strong>Rupee internationalisation: Which countries can trade in Indian Rupee?</strong></h2>

<p>According to records shared by the Indian government in Rajya Sabha, the Indian parliament's upper house, Special Vostro Rupee Accounts can be opened in 18 countries. They are Botswana, Fiji, Germany, Guyana, Israel, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda and the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>In India, the process of SVRAs began in July 2022 when the RBI announced that, "it has been decided to put in place an additional arrangement for invoicing, payment, and settlement of exports/imports in INR [Indian rupees]."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-steps-up-rupees-internationalisation-for-sri-lankas-economic-recovery-589593">India steps up rupee's internationalisation for Sri Lanka's economic recovery</a></strong></p>

<p>"Procedures for trade in INR have been delineated by RBI in the Circular (No 10 RBI/2022-2023/90 dated 11.07.2022 on ‘International Trade Settlement in Indian rupees’. RBI has also issued Frequently Asked Questions on its website. RBI has clarified matters related to operationalisation of SRVAs through the said FAQs, which are available to banks, importers and exporters etc.,” Karad stated in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia top proponent of de-dollarisation move</strong></h2>

<p>Among the 18 countries mentioned in the government's response to the parliament, Russia has been actively advocating for the use of local currency in a broader effort to achieve "de-dollarisation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, India's interest in promoting trade in local currency primarily stems from its desire to enhance exports.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The growing footprint of Indian rupee | In-Depth Analysis</strong></p>

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<p>The commodities crisis was triggered by Western sanctions imposed on Russia following President Vladimir Putin's launch of offensive on Ukraine.</p>

<p>Over the past year, India has been actively engaging with countries like the United Arab Emirates and Australia to conclude trade agreements. Additionally, India has initiated negotiations with other significant trading partners such as the United Kingdom and the European Union to make towards adopting the Indian Rupee for bilateral and global trade.</p>

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India's drive to internationalise the Rupee is reaping benefits in one and a half dozen countries across the world. Banks from 18 countries have been allowed by India's central bank, Reserve Bank of India, to open Special Vostro Rupee Accounts (SVRAs) for settling payments in Indian rupees, the Indian government told the parliament which is currently in session.

India's drive to internationalise the Rupee is reaping benefits in one and a half dozen countries across the world. Banks from 18 countries have been allowed by India's central bank, Reserve Bank of India, to open Special Vostro Rupee Accounts (SVRAs) for settling payments in Indian rupees, the Indian government told the parliament which is currently in session. The government's response came to a question from Bharatiya Janata Party’s Sushil Kumar Modi. The Union Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad said that the SVRAs could be set up by banks of partner countries by approaching Authorised Dealer (AD) banks in India that may get permission from the RBI after the due procedure. Rupee internationalisation: Which countries can trade in Indian Rupee? According to records shared by the Indian government in Rajya Sabha, the Indian parliament's upper house, Special Vostro Rupee Accounts can be opened in 18 countries. They are Botswana, Fiji, Germany, Guyana, Israel, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda and the United Kingdom. In India, the process of SVRAs began in July 2022 when the RBI announced that, "it has been decided to put in place an additional arrangement for invoicing, payment, and settlement of exports/imports in INR [Indian rupees]." Also read | India steps up rupee's internationalisation for Sri Lanka's economic recovery "Procedures for trade in INR have been delineated by RBI in the Circular (No 10 RBI/2022-2023/90 dated 11.07.2022 on ‘International Trade Settlement in Indian rupees’. RBI has also issued Frequently Asked Questions on its website. RBI has clarified matters related to operationalisation of SRVAs through the said FAQs, which are available to banks, importers and exporters etc.,” Karad stated in the Rajya Sabha. Russia top proponent of de-dollarisation move Among the 18 countries mentioned in the government's response to the parliament, Russia has been actively advocating for the use of local currency in a broader effort to achieve "de-dollarisation." On the other hand, India's interest in promoting trade in local currency primarily stems from its desire to enhance exports. Also watch | The growing footprint of Indian rupee | In-Depth Analysis × The commodities crisis was triggered by Western sanctions imposed on Russia following President Vladimir Putin's launch of offensive on Ukraine. Over the past year, India has been actively engaging with countries like the United Arab Emirates and Australia to conclude trade agreements. Additionally, India has initiated negotiations with other significant trading partners such as the United Kingdom and the European Union to make towards adopting the Indian Rupee for bilateral and global trade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Rupee bolsters New Delhi's economic might in 18 countries

Amid heavy rain in India, cases of conjunctivitis and other eye infections are on a rise. Several states have been reported in New Delhi, Gujarat, Northeastern states and are mostly being found in younger population in New Delhi.

Conjunctivitis cases on rise in India, infection spread mostly in younger population | WION

Indian political leaders gathered at an all-party meet which was presided over by Rajnath Singh, the Indian defence minister. The meet was held in New Delhi a day after the old political parties formed a separate alliance. The goal of the meet was to bring the political parties together and address any issues that the leaders might want to bring up.

New Delhi: 32 legislative items to be discussed in monsoon session | India

The opposition parties are stepping up their efforts to mobilize allies ahead of the next general elections which are scheduled for 2024 in India. Two rival mega political meetings are lined up today.

Key Indian opposition leaders to attend the second day of meet

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals.</p>

<p>In New Delhi, Tehran entered into Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a Beijing-dominated and Moscow-fostered&nbsp;club of Central Asian 'stan' nations&nbsp;— at a summit that turned virtual for no specified reason. This came a little more than a week before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to France and less than four weeks after Modi received Washington's diplomatic niceties during a state visit described with 'unprecedented' adjectives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This week, New Delhi hosted the much-awaited Council of Heads meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, or the SCO Summit, for the first time as the chair of the grouping.&nbsp;A Eurasian security and political group formed in 2001 by Beijing and Moscow, SCO includes India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. And now, Iran joined the grouping and became its ninth member.</p>

<p>Belarus will join it by 2024, it was announced.</p>

<p>But New Delhi turned it&nbsp;into a virtual format for some unknown reason.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<img alt="SCO virtual summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bed5d746-6182-441a-9ce1-27e1a6c6085b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_15.png" /></p>

<p><em>Leaders of states and officials of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) are seen on a screen during a summit via a video conference at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, July 4, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>The leaders were critical of what they said was the negative impact of "unilateral and unlimited expansion of global missile defence systems by certain countries or groups of countries", without directly referring to NATO's expansion and Western military assistance to Ukraine.</p>

<p>All members bar India also supported China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) scheme which envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with large infrastructure spending.</p>

<p>Thereby, soon after the summit's conclusion, debate on Chinese social media took a marked anti-India fervour. Chinese foreign policy analysts welcomed Iran but said that they need to 'save' the grouping from India.</p>

<p>For New Delhi, despite its conscious diversification of its defence needs away from Russia, the SCO continued to act as a multilateral launchpad towards universal standards for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-money-for-terror-meet-global-effort-for-anti-terrorism-standards-has-long-way-to-go-535789">counter-terrorism</a> and regional connectivity that doesn't violate territorial integrity of the member states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more in The Capitals this week.</p>

<h2><strong>Damascus, Syria</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Damascus, Syria" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16c75f50-957a-49a7-b306-1ea8f72ca4dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_9.png" /></p>

<p>When the simmering tensions in Syria began erupting in early 2010s, Damascus deployed paramilitary groups shabbiha — literally meaning ghosts in Arabic — &nbsp;formalised as Popular Committees who were trained, instructed and armed to defend President Bashar al-Assad's rule in the West Asian nation, a report by Belgium-based Commission for International Justice and Accountability (CIJA) said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CIJA’s Syria team of 45 people studied the documents to detail the growth of the shabbiha groups from neigbourhood-level loyalist groups to a well-organised militia and later a parallel wing of the army called the National Defence Force (NDF).</p>

<h2><strong>Taipei, Taiwan</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Reuters illustration Taiwan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86e749a2-993f-472c-bf2a-2d60ad9c9ee9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_16.png" /></p>

<p><em>Chess pieces are seen in front of displayed China and Taiwan's flags in this illustration taken January 25, 2022 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>Taiwan is gearing up to strengthen its diplomatic presence in India by opening the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in Mumbai during the fourth quarter of this year, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-to-expand-diplomatic-presence-in-india-with-opening-of-mumbai-office-612394">reported</a> earlier this week.</p>

<p>The centre will offer visa services, document authentication, and emergency assistance, and will cater to business- people, tourists, and Taiwanese nationals in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh; and Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman.</p>

<p>The existing Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in Delhi, which has been operating as the de facto embassy of Taiwan in India, was established in 1995.</p>

<h2><strong>Guatemala City, Guatemala</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Guatemala elections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7da2d4c1-895f-4ac5-8607-dcbb6f22ffcb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_16.png" /></p>

<p><em>Sandra Torres of Social Democratic Party, a former first lady, alongside Bernardo Arevalo of Semilla, a young progressive party | Reuters</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chief Justice of Central American republic's Supreme Court blocked the certification of the results of country's first-round of presidential election held on June 25.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief Justice Silvia Valds Quezada's ordered that the process could not go forward until the electoral authorities tally the voting sheets and report on inconsistencies, if any.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief Justice's decision has been deemed strange since she has been the sole judge to sign it. Instead, it should have been signed by all 13 justices of Supreme Court.</p>

<p>In the elections held last month, three popular presidential candidates were banned from contesting for arbitrary reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leading candidates, Sandra Torres of Social Democratic Party and Bernardo Arevalo of Semilla (Seed), a young progressive party have demanded that results be officialised at the earliest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the general elections held on June 25, Torres (15.86 per cent) and Bernardo Arevalo (11.77 per cent) received the highest number of votes among 22 candidates. These results, while have been counted and reported upon, are yet to be certified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The presidential runoff is scheduled to take place on August 20, 2023.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals this weekend. See you next week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In New Delhi, Tehran entered into Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a Beijing-dominated and Moscow-fostered club of Central Asian 'stan' nations — at a summit that turned virtual for no specified reason.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In New Delhi, Tehran entered into Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a Beijing-dominated and Moscow-fostered club of Central Asian 'stan' nations — at a summit that turned virtual for no specified reason. This came a little more than a week before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to France and less than four weeks after Modi received Washington's diplomatic niceties during a state visit described with 'unprecedented' adjectives. This week, New Delhi hosted the much-awaited Council of Heads meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, or the SCO Summit, for the first time as the chair of the grouping. A Eurasian security and political group formed in 2001 by Beijing and Moscow, SCO includes India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. And now, Iran joined the grouping and became its ninth member. Belarus will join it by 2024, it was announced. But New Delhi turned it into a virtual format for some unknown reason. Leaders of states and officials of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) are seen on a screen during a summit via a video conference at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, July 4, 2023 | Reuters The leaders were critical of what they said was the negative impact of "unilateral and unlimited expansion of global missile defence systems by certain countries or groups of countries", without directly referring to NATO's expansion and Western military assistance to Ukraine. All members bar India also supported China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) scheme which envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with large infrastructure spending. Thereby, soon after the summit's conclusion, debate on Chinese social media took a marked anti-India fervour. Chinese foreign policy analysts welcomed Iran but said that they need to 'save' the grouping from India. For New Delhi, despite its conscious diversification of its defence needs away from Russia, the SCO continued to act as a multilateral launchpad towards universal standards for counter-terrorism and regional connectivity that doesn't violate territorial integrity of the member states. Read more in The Capitals this week. Damascus, Syria When the simmering tensions in Syria began erupting in early 2010s, Damascus deployed paramilitary groups shabbiha — literally meaning ghosts in Arabic — formalised as Popular Committees who were trained, instructed and armed to defend President Bashar al-Assad's rule in the West Asian nation, a report by Belgium-based Commission for International Justice and Accountability (CIJA) said. CIJA’s Syria team of 45 people studied the documents to detail the growth of the shabbiha groups from neigbourhood-level loyalist groups to a well-organised militia and later a parallel wing of the army called the National Defence Force (NDF). Taipei, Taiwan Chess pieces are seen in front of displayed China and Taiwan's flags in this illustration taken January 25, 2022 | Reuters Taiwan is gearing up to strengthen its diplomatic presence in India by opening the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in Mumbai during the fourth quarter of this year, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal reported earlier this week. The centre will offer visa services, document authentication, and emergency assistance, and will cater to business- people, tourists, and Taiwanese nationals in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh; and Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman. The existing Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in Delhi, which has been operating as the de facto embassy of Taiwan in India, was established in 1995. Guatemala City, Guatemala Sandra Torres of Social Democratic Party, a former first lady, alongside Bernardo Arevalo of Semilla, a young progressive party | Reuters The Chief Justice of Central American republic's Supreme Court blocked the certification of the results of country's first-round of presidential election held on June 25. Chief Justice Silvia Valds Quezada's ordered that the process could not go forward until the electoral authorities tally the voting sheets and report on inconsistencies, if any. Chief Justice's decision has been deemed strange since she has been the sole judge to sign it. Instead, it should have been signed by all 13 justices of Supreme Court. In the elections held last month, three popular presidential candidates were banned from contesting for arbitrary reasons. The two leading candidates, Sandra Torres of Social Democratic Party and Bernardo Arevalo of Semilla (Seed), a young progressive party have demanded that results be officialised at the earliest. In the general elections held on June 25, Torres (15.86 per cent) and Bernardo Arevalo (11.77 per cent) received the highest number of votes among 22 candidates. These results, while have been counted and reported upon, are yet to be certified. The presidential runoff is scheduled to take place on August 20, 2023. That's all for The Capitals this weekend. See you next week. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: New Delhi turns real SCO virtual, 'ghost' militia of Damascus, and more

<p>Delhi-NCR witnessed a downpour of heavy rain overnight on Friday and throughout Saturday, resulting in a drop in temperatures. While the rain brought some respite from the heat, it caused significant inconvenience to commuters.</p>

<p>Several areas in the city were flooded, with water entering shops and houses. Waterlogging and long traffic jams plagued many parts of Delhi, leading to a challenging day for residents, reported PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Waterlogged streets and traffic jams</strong></h2>

<p>Visuals shared on social media depicted numerous areas in Delhi-NCR submerged in water, with shops and houses affected by the flooding.</p>

<p>Connaught Place, a popular area in the city, faced similar challenges as roads in the British-era arcade were heavily waterlogged, causing disruptions to businesses.</p>

<p>Videos from Delhi's Chandni Chowk area showed commuters wading through waist-deep water, while the Tilak Bridge underpass also experienced flooding due to continuous rain.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="ht">Chandni Chowk , Delhi<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhirains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhirains</a> <a href="https://t.co/FBndX1PHLx">pic.twitter.com/FBndX1PHLx</a></p>
— Weatherman Shubham (@shubhamtorres09) <a href="https://twitter.com/shubhamtorres09/status/1677592347692109826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>The resultant waterlogging led to long traffic snarls, particularly at Tilak Marg and ITO in Delhi. To manage the situation, the Delhi Police placed barricades at the Minto Bridge underpass, halting traffic movement.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiRain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiRain</a> tilak Bridge underpass<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/delhirains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#delhirains</a> <a href="https://t.co/F0VSktyAOJ">pic.twitter.com/F0VSktyAOJ</a></p>
— Rahul Sisodia (@Sisodia19Rahul) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sisodia19Rahul/status/1677610109394976768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Efforts to address waterlogging</strong></h2>

<p>The Public Works Department (PWD) reported receiving 15 complaints of waterlogging and promptly addressed them. However, they also forwarded complaints related to stretches under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) or other agencies.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-more-tomatoes-in-mcdonalds-menu-items-company-cited-temporary-issue-612999">No more tomatoes in McDonald's menu items, company cited 'temporary’ issue</a></p>

<p>A PWD official mentioned that the situation remained under control despite the inconvenience caused to commuters near Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College in Delhi University's north campus.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Traffic jams in parts of Delhi after rain lashed the city<br />
<br />
(Visuals from ITO) <a href="https://t.co/rMlKZBg7D8">pic.twitter.com/rMlKZBg7D8</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1677625208029712386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Yellow alert' for Sunday</strong></h2>

<p>The weather department forecasted a generally cloudy sky with heavy rain throughout the day. It predicted further showers and issued a 'Yellow alert' for Sunday.</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department explained that this rainfall marked the season's first heavy spell, with an 'Orange alert' in place for more showers on Saturday. The Met Office tweeted that light to moderate rain would continue in various areas of&nbsp;Delhi and neighbouring areas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bumper-discount-by-indian-railways-fares-of-ac-trains-slashed-by-25-per-cent-613441">Bumper discount by Indian Railways: Fares of AC trains slashed by 25 per cent</a></p>

<p>The early-morning rain caused significant inconvenience to commuters as they encountered difficulties reaching their destinations. Waterlogging, traffic congestion, and the persistent downpour created challenging conditions for those travelling across the city.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Delhi-NCR witnessed a downpour of heavy rain overnight on Friday and throughout Saturday, resulting in a drop in temperatures. While the rain brought some respite from the heat, it caused significant inconvenience to commuters.

Delhi-NCR witnessed a downpour of heavy rain overnight on Friday and throughout Saturday, resulting in a drop in temperatures. While the rain brought some respite from the heat, it caused significant inconvenience to commuters. Several areas in the city were flooded, with water entering shops and houses. Waterlogging and long traffic jams plagued many parts of Delhi, leading to a challenging day for residents, reported PTI. Waterlogged streets and traffic jams Visuals shared on social media depicted numerous areas in Delhi-NCR submerged in water, with shops and houses affected by the flooding. Connaught Place, a popular area in the city, faced similar challenges as roads in the British-era arcade were heavily waterlogged, causing disruptions to businesses. Videos from Delhi's Chandni Chowk area showed commuters wading through waist-deep water, while the Tilak Bridge underpass also experienced flooding due to continuous rain. Chandni Chowk , Delhi#Delhirains pic.twitter.com/FBndX1PHLx — Weatherman Shubham (@shubhamtorres09) July 8, 2023 × The resultant waterlogging led to long traffic snarls, particularly at Tilak Marg and ITO in Delhi. To manage the situation, the Delhi Police placed barricades at the Minto Bridge underpass, halting traffic movement. #DelhiRain tilak Bridge underpass#delhirains pic.twitter.com/F0VSktyAOJ — Rahul Sisodia (@Sisodia19Rahul) July 8, 2023 × Efforts to address waterlogging The Public Works Department (PWD) reported receiving 15 complaints of waterlogging and promptly addressed them. However, they also forwarded complaints related to stretches under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) or other agencies. Also read | No more tomatoes in McDonald's menu items, company cited 'temporary’ issue A PWD official mentioned that the situation remained under control despite the inconvenience caused to commuters near Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College in Delhi University's north campus. #WATCH | Traffic jams in parts of Delhi after rain lashed the city (Visuals from ITO) pic.twitter.com/rMlKZBg7D8 — ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2023 × 'Yellow alert' for Sunday The weather department forecasted a generally cloudy sky with heavy rain throughout the day. It predicted further showers and issued a 'Yellow alert' for Sunday. The India Meteorological Department explained that this rainfall marked the season's first heavy spell, with an 'Orange alert' in place for more showers on Saturday. The Met Office tweeted that light to moderate rain would continue in various areas of Delhi and neighbouring areas. Also read | Bumper discount by Indian Railways: Fares of AC trains slashed by 25 per cent The early-morning rain caused significant inconvenience to commuters as they encountered difficulties reaching their destinations. Waterlogging, traffic congestion, and the persistent downpour created challenging conditions for those travelling across the city. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | 'Delhi deluge': Season's first heavy rainfall submerges capital

<p>A drone was reportedly spotted above Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Monday (July 3) morning, causing a security alert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi Police said that a probe began after they received information from the Special Protection Group (SPG) at 5:30am local time about the drone in the no-flying zone above PM Modi's residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SPG is an elite force that looks after the security of the Prime Minister of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Delhi Police said in a statement: "Information was received about an unidentified flying object near the PM's residence. Thorough searches were made in nearby areas but no such object was detected."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police also said that the air traffic control room (ATC) was also contacted. They also didn't detect any such flying object near the PM's residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials added that "at present, due to the sensitive area, the police are investigating. Things will be clear only after verifying the facts".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's security&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, a new set of rules issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that security will now be handled by an officer not less than the rank of an Additional Director-General belonging to the Indian Police Service. The rules noted that the junior officers will be appointed on deputation for an initial period of six years.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's Varanasi visit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi is likely to visit Kashi on July 7 on the proposed tour of his parliamentary constituency Varanasi. A statement said that it is believed that during this time the Prime Minister will gift several schemes worth about three thousand crores to Kashi. In this, various projects are to be inaugurated and the foundation stone laid by the Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing a list of all the projects to be dedicated and laying the foundation stone. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently reviewed the progress of development works with the officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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A drone was reportedly spotted above Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Monday (July 3) morning, causing a security alert. Delhi Police said that a probe began after they received information from the Special Protection Group (SPG) at 5:30am local time about the drone in the no-flying zone above PM Modi's residence.

A drone was reportedly spotted above Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Monday (July 3) morning, causing a security alert. Delhi Police said that a probe began after they received information from the Special Protection Group (SPG) at 5:30am local time about the drone in the no-flying zone above PM Modi's residence. SPG is an elite force that looks after the security of the Prime Minister of India. The Delhi Police said in a statement: "Information was received about an unidentified flying object near the PM's residence. Thorough searches were made in nearby areas but no such object was detected." Police also said that the air traffic control room (ATC) was also contacted. They also didn't detect any such flying object near the PM's residence. Officials added that "at present, due to the sensitive area, the police are investigating. Things will be clear only after verifying the facts". PM Modi's security Recently, a new set of rules issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that security will now be handled by an officer not less than the rank of an Additional Director-General belonging to the Indian Police Service. The rules noted that the junior officers will be appointed on deputation for an initial period of six years. PM Modi's Varanasi visit PM Modi is likely to visit Kashi on July 7 on the proposed tour of his parliamentary constituency Varanasi. A statement said that it is believed that during this time the Prime Minister will gift several schemes worth about three thousand crores to Kashi. In this, various projects are to be inaugurated and the foundation stone laid by the Prime Minister. The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing a list of all the projects to be dedicated and laying the foundation stone. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently reviewed the progress of development works with the officials. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Drone hovers over Indian PM Modi's residence in New Delhi, probe underway

Indian and Chinese armies engaged in combat in Galvan in 2020. Tanks confronting each other around the Pangong after the clash led to the formation of a League covering eastern Ladakh and western Tibet; current reports indicate frenzied activity there; numerous infrastructure projects have been launched on both sides since the standoff. India is now constructing a black-topped road on the North Bank.

New Delhi building black-topped road on North Bank :Reports

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals.<br />
<br />
This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St. Petersburg, the leaders from the world's second most populous continent pitched their peace plan to end the raging war between Russia and Ukraine now in its 17th month. It finally culminated into a verbally explosive blame-game between Kyiv and Moscow but the message has become clear: Africa's geo-economic credence gives it a rare heft unique to the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Far away from Kyiv and St Petersburg, in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the leaders of G20 nations to include African Union — a bloc of 55 nations of Africa&nbsp;— in the crucial diplomatic grouping.</p>

<p>Read this and more, in The Capitals this week.</p>

<h2><strong>New Delhi</strong></h2>

<h2><strong><img alt="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d817402c-a640-4ddf-870c-f31e885a3d03" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T185217.852.png" /></strong></h2>

<p><em>Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in New Delhi | Reuters</em></p>

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all G20 nations for the African Union be given full, permanent membership of the diplomatic group at its upcoming summit in India.</p>

<p>The move demonstrated India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs.</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Ramaphosa Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5cbef54a-c953-4c40-a3d4-21976c6eacd1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T183210.231.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters photo for representation</em></p>

<p>South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a 10-point peace plan of the African Peace Mission during his visit to Kyiv this week.</p>

<p>As the main points, Ramaphosa emphasised that the war must be settled, and peace has to be achieved through diplomatic means as soon as possible. Ukraine's President Zelensky later responded, however, that talks with Moscow are possible only after a full withdrawal of Russian troops.</p>

<h2><strong>Cairo</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Egypt President Sisi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8037291e-f2ab-4545-8b16-2c668ca1fc31" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T183527.299.png" /></p>

<p><em>Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi | Reuters</em></p>

<p>From Egyptian capital Cairo, a formal application to be the part of five-member BRICS bloc of emerging economies became a major geo-economic moment of significance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BRICS comprises of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.</p>

<p>The development comes after Cairo joined the BRICS bank to help the crisis-hit Egypt reduce dependence on US dollars.</p>

<p>Egypt has become the latest entrant to shed the US currency in trade with several member states of the BRICS economic bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>Jerusalem</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Jerusalem Netanyahu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c4ef31-3c6b-4825-99e7-c858898c5e8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T184134.023.png" /></p>

<p><em>Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a hearing on corruption charges at Jerusalem's District Court, in Jerusalem | Reuters image for representation</em></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial entered a momentous stage this week when the former prime minister and current Opposition leader Yair Lapid testified against Netanyahu.</p>

<p>Lapid was called as a witness to speak about his time as finance minister in 2013-2014, when he was approached by both Netanyahu and billionaire Arnon Milchan about the idea of extending the duration of the tax break given to returning Israelis who have lived abroad, from 10 years to 20.</p>

<p>Netanyahu’s trial began three years ago, and according to the current schedule is slated to last for another five years, although various reports have said that the extensive witness list could be trimmed, potentially shortening the trial by a couple of years.</p>

<h2><strong>Pyongyang</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Putin Kim Jong-un" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86b4a879-7b19-4c31-bad2-81c1f48a6e44" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T184440.901.png" /></p>

<p><em>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok, Russia in this undated photo | Reuters image for representation</em></p>

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this week vowed to "hold hands" with Russian President Vladimir Putin and bolster strategic cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim made the pledge in a message to Putin marking Russia's national day, defending his decision to invade Ukraine and displaying "full support and solidarity." An isolated communist dictatorship, North Korea has sought to forge closer ties with the Kremlin and backed Moscow after it invaded Ukraine last year.</p>

<h2><strong>Kabul</strong></h2>

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<p><em>A Taliban guard posted at a checkpoint in Kabul | Reuters</em></p>

<p>A United Nations report this week further decreased the chances of Kabul's Taliban regime to have any form of international legitimacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN report vindicated the skepticism that was widely expressed when the US withdrawal from Afghanistan pushed Taliban back to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That Kabul will end up nurturing the sanctuaries of terrorism, either directly or indirectly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.</p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St. Petersburg, the leaders from the world's second most populous continent pitched their peace plan to end the raging war between Russia and Ukraine now in its 17th month. It finally culminated into a verbally explosive blame-game between Kyiv and Moscow but the message has become clear: Africa's geo-economic credence gives it a rare heft unique to the continent. Far away from Kyiv and St Petersburg, in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the leaders of G20 nations to include African Union — a bloc of 55 nations of Africa — in the crucial diplomatic grouping. Read this and more, in The Capitals this week. New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in New Delhi | Reuters India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all G20 nations for the African Union be given full, permanent membership of the diplomatic group at its upcoming summit in India. The move demonstrated India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs. Kyiv Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters photo for representation South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a 10-point peace plan of the African Peace Mission during his visit to Kyiv this week. As the main points, Ramaphosa emphasised that the war must be settled, and peace has to be achieved through diplomatic means as soon as possible. Ukraine's President Zelensky later responded, however, that talks with Moscow are possible only after a full withdrawal of Russian troops. Cairo Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi | Reuters From Egyptian capital Cairo, a formal application to be the part of five-member BRICS bloc of emerging economies became a major geo-economic moment of significance. BRICS comprises of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The development comes after Cairo joined the BRICS bank to help the crisis-hit Egypt reduce dependence on US dollars. Egypt has become the latest entrant to shed the US currency in trade with several member states of the BRICS economic bloc. Jerusalem Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a hearing on corruption charges at Jerusalem's District Court, in Jerusalem | Reuters image for representation Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial entered a momentous stage this week when the former prime minister and current Opposition leader Yair Lapid testified against Netanyahu. Lapid was called as a witness to speak about his time as finance minister in 2013-2014, when he was approached by both Netanyahu and billionaire Arnon Milchan about the idea of extending the duration of the tax break given to returning Israelis who have lived abroad, from 10 years to 20. Netanyahu’s trial began three years ago, and according to the current schedule is slated to last for another five years, although various reports have said that the extensive witness list could be trimmed, potentially shortening the trial by a couple of years. Pyongyang North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok, Russia in this undated photo | Reuters image for representation North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this week vowed to "hold hands" with Russian President Vladimir Putin and bolster strategic cooperation. Kim made the pledge in a message to Putin marking Russia's national day, defending his decision to invade Ukraine and displaying "full support and solidarity." An isolated communist dictatorship, North Korea has sought to forge closer ties with the Kremlin and backed Moscow after it invaded Ukraine last year. Kabul A Taliban guard posted at a checkpoint in Kabul | Reuters A United Nations report this week further decreased the chances of Kabul's Taliban regime to have any form of international legitimacy. The UN report vindicated the skepticism that was widely expressed when the US withdrawal from Afghanistan pushed Taliban back to power. That Kabul will end up nurturing the sanctuaries of terrorism, either directly or indirectly. It said that the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: Pretoria, New Delhi lead Africa's ascent in global diplomacy

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union.</p>

<h2><strong>Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms.</p>

<h2><strong>Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda</strong></h2>

<p>As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela.</p>

<h2><strong>Promoting Africa's global rise</strong></h2>

<p>Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth.</p>

<h2><strong>India's support for Africa</strong></h2>

<p>Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment.&nbsp;India's actions reflect the principle of <em>Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam</em>, considering the world as one family.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union. Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms. Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela. Promoting Africa's global rise Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner. India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth. India's support for Africa Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment. India's actions reflect the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, considering the world as one family. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian PM Modi proposes African Union’s full membership at New Delhi G20 Summit

The pact finalising the joint manufacturing is anticipated to be unveiled during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State visit next week. General Electric, located in the United States, would be able to construct engines for military aircraft on Indian territory under the terms of the agreement, which the Biden Administration is ready to sign.

New Delhi keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines

<p>Police said that bodies of two minor siblings were found inside an old wooden box at a house Joga Bai extension area of Jamia Nagar in southeast New Delhi&nbsp;on Tuesday (June 6), said a report of news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the authorities suspect the case to be of accidental asphyxiation. However, there's no confirmation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy Commissioner of Police (southeast) Rajesh Deo said: "Jamia Nagar police station received information regarding the discovery of two bodies at house number F2, Joga Bai extension."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The bodies of two siblings, identified as Neeraj (8) and Arti (6), were found in an old wooden box," Deo added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the children lived with their parents. Their father, Balbir, works as a watchman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said that the parents and other siblings started looking for the&nbsp;two children when they went missing around 3.30pm (local time) on Tuesday. But later, they found their bodies in the wooden box in the house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the DCP Rajesh Deo, it looked like a case of accidental asphyxiation as there were no injury marks on the two bodies. He added that the autopsy will ascertain the exact cause of death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency PTI quoted a social worker as saying that said he was the first person to reach the spot. The social worker identified as Mehmood Ahmed, said, "The family hails from Nepal and the father of the deceased works as a watchman. He has five daughters and one son. We have not seen any injury marks on the bodies, however, froth was coming from the mouth of one of the kids."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naushad Chowdhary, a resident of the area, said, "The box is very old. It most likely seems that the kids were playing and went inside the box. The lid of the box got closed. They could not open it due to which they got trapped and died. That is all we have heard as of now."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Police said that bodies of two minor siblings were found inside an old wooden box at a house Joga Bai extension area of Jamia Nagar in southeast New Delhi on Tuesday (June 6), said a report of news agency PTI.

Police said that bodies of two minor siblings were found inside an old wooden box at a house Joga Bai extension area of Jamia Nagar in southeast New Delhi on Tuesday (June 6), said a report of news agency PTI. The report mentioned that the authorities suspect the case to be of accidental asphyxiation. However, there's no confirmation. Deputy Commissioner of Police (southeast) Rajesh Deo said: "Jamia Nagar police station received information regarding the discovery of two bodies at house number F2, Joga Bai extension." "The bodies of two siblings, identified as Neeraj (8) and Arti (6), were found in an old wooden box," Deo added. He added that the children lived with their parents. Their father, Balbir, works as a watchman. The police said that the parents and other siblings started looking for the two children when they went missing around 3.30pm (local time) on Tuesday. But later, they found their bodies in the wooden box in the house. According to the DCP Rajesh Deo, it looked like a case of accidental asphyxiation as there were no injury marks on the two bodies. He added that the autopsy will ascertain the exact cause of death. News agency PTI quoted a social worker as saying that said he was the first person to reach the spot. The social worker identified as Mehmood Ahmed, said, "The family hails from Nepal and the father of the deceased works as a watchman. He has five daughters and one son. We have not seen any injury marks on the bodies, however, froth was coming from the mouth of one of the kids." Naushad Chowdhary, a resident of the area, said, "The box is very old. It most likely seems that the kids were playing and went inside the box. The lid of the box got closed. They could not open it due to which they got trapped and died. That is all we have heard as of now." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Bodies of 2 minor siblings found inside old wooden box in New Delhi’s Jamia Nagar

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is in New Delhi. The high-level visit aims to facilitate bilateral defence cooperation and explore avenues for strategic partnership. India was one of the first countries to end the state of war with post-war Germany in 1951. It was also amongst the first countries to recognize the federal republic of Germany.

India and Germany focus on defence cooperation | Berlin among New Delhi's Indo-Pacific allies

India: German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in New Delhi, focus on bilateral defence cooperation

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday (May 31)&nbsp;that Delhi this year witnessed its coolest&nbsp;May in 36 years, with copious rainfall lowering the average maximum temperature to 36.8 degree&nbsp;Celsius.&nbsp;According to Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of IMD's regional forecasting division, Delhi had an average high temperature of 36 degree&nbsp;Celsius in May 1987.</p>

<p>"The average maximum temperature of 36.8 degree&nbsp;Celsius in May this year is the lowest since then," he told PTI.</p>

<p>Only nine days in May had maximum temperatures exceeding 40 degree&nbsp;Celsius, with heatwave conditions impacting some portions of the national capital for two days.</p>

<p>"The Safdarjung Observatory, which is representative of Delhi, has not recorded any heat wave in the pre-monsoon season this year. This has happened for the first time since 2014," Srivastava said.</p>

<p>Last year, the weather station recorded 13 heatwave days during the pre-monsoon season, nine in April and four in May. During this time period, there was just one heatwave day in 2021, four in 2020, and one in 2019.</p>

<p>A heatwave is declared when the highest temperature at a station is at least 40 degree&nbsp;Celsius in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly areas, and the deviation from normal is at least 4.5 notches.</p>

<p>May, the warmest month in Delhi with a mean maximum temperature of 39.5 degree&nbsp;Celsius, received 111 mm of rain, 262 per cent higher than the long-term average of 30.7 mm.</p>

<p>According to IMD records, this is also the fourth-greatest monthly rainfall after 165 mm in 2008, 144.8 mm in 2021, and 129.3 mm in 2002.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<p>The city received more than 20 mm of rain in April, the most in a single month since 2017, and saw heatwave conditions in localised areas.</p>

<h2><strong>What's causing the pre-monsoon showers?</strong></h2>

<p>Meteorologists blame the extra rainfall and below-normal temperatures this pre-monsoon season (March to May) to stronger-than-usual western disturbances, which originate in the Mediterranean area and send unseasonal rain to northwest India.</p>

<p>"Usually, five to six western disturbances are recorded in the northern plains in April and May. This time, we saw 10 western disturbances, mostly strong ones," said Srivastava.</p>

<p>"This is unusual. However, we cannot link it to climate change in the absence of data. There is no definite trend," he said.</p>

<p>Delhi recorded 184.3 mm of rainfall this pre-monsoon season (March to May) which is 186 per cent more than normal rainfall, according to the IMD.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday (May 31) that Delhi this year witnessed its coolest May in 36 years, with copious rainfall lowering the average maximum temperature to 36.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday (May 31) that Delhi this year witnessed its coolest May in 36 years, with copious rainfall lowering the average maximum temperature to 36.8 degree Celsius. According to Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of IMD's regional forecasting division, Delhi had an average high temperature of 36 degree Celsius in May 1987. "The average maximum temperature of 36.8 degree Celsius in May this year is the lowest since then," he told PTI. Only nine days in May had maximum temperatures exceeding 40 degree Celsius, with heatwave conditions impacting some portions of the national capital for two days. "The Safdarjung Observatory, which is representative of Delhi, has not recorded any heat wave in the pre-monsoon season this year. This has happened for the first time since 2014," Srivastava said. Last year, the weather station recorded 13 heatwave days during the pre-monsoon season, nine in April and four in May. During this time period, there was just one heatwave day in 2021, four in 2020, and one in 2019. A heatwave is declared when the highest temperature at a station is at least 40 degree Celsius in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly areas, and the deviation from normal is at least 4.5 notches. May, the warmest month in Delhi with a mean maximum temperature of 39.5 degree Celsius, received 111 mm of rain, 262 per cent higher than the long-term average of 30.7 mm. According to IMD records, this is also the fourth-greatest monthly rainfall after 165 mm in 2008, 144.8 mm in 2021, and 129.3 mm in 2002. ALSO WATCH | Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker The city received more than 20 mm of rain in April, the most in a single month since 2017, and saw heatwave conditions in localised areas. What's causing the pre-monsoon showers? Meteorologists blame the extra rainfall and below-normal temperatures this pre-monsoon season (March to May) to stronger-than-usual western disturbances, which originate in the Mediterranean area and send unseasonal rain to northwest India. "Usually, five to six western disturbances are recorded in the northern plains in April and May. This time, we saw 10 western disturbances, mostly strong ones," said Srivastava. "This is unusual. However, we cannot link it to climate change in the absence of data. There is no definite trend," he said. Delhi recorded 184.3 mm of rainfall this pre-monsoon season (March to May) which is 186 per cent more than normal rainfall, according to the IMD. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Delhi's coolest May in 36 years: Copious rains lower average maximum temperature to 36.8°C

Nepal's prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is in India on a four-day- visit. The Nepalese PM arrived in New Delhi yesterday, with a big delegation. He is expected to strike hydroelectric power and airlines deals while on his first overseas trip since assuming the PM office in december last year. He will be meeting the indian prime minister narendra modi today. The Nepalese Prime Minister will seek a long-term deal to export hydroelectric power and opening up of new air routes with New Delhi.

Nepal PM Dahal to meet India's PM Modi, to sign hydropower & airline deals

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals around the world.</p>

<p>In New Delhi, surrounded by India’s secular traditions and acclimated by the opposition's partial boycott, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new, bigger parliament. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"When India moves forward, the world moves forward. This new building of the parliament will call for the development of the world along with the development of India," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/symbol-of-aspiration-for-140cr-people-indian-pm-modi-during-his-opening-speech-in-new-parliament-597431">Modi said</a>, while adding that the world’s biggest democracy has shed its colonial baggage by shifting to a parliament premise built in free India.</p>

<h2><strong>Ankara, Turkey</strong></h2>

<p>"We can say bye bye to Kemal. Bye bye and bye Kemal," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-presidential-run-off-results-erdogan-trumps-kilicdaroglu-in-historic-vote-597594">said</a> Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to a roaring crowd of supporters as he won country’s unprecedented run off vote, trumping his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to claim the beginning of his third decade into power in Ankara's corridors of power.<br />
Erdogan has dominated Turkish politics for 20 years – and he is now set to serve another five-year term.</p>

<h2><strong>Abuja, Nigeria</strong></h2>

<p>A new president will run the state of affairs from Abuja’s corridors of power. President Muhammadu Buhari over the weekend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerians-have-chosen-well-president-muhammudu-buhari-hails-successor-tinubu-597537">addressed</a> his fellow citizens and 'friends of Nigeria', defending his record over economy and security issues and hailing his successor Bola Tinubu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past ten years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I congratulate you on the realisation of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria amongst the leading nations of the world," Buharu said in his address to the nation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the electoral call of presidential succession in Abuja remains disputed as incoming President Bola Tinubu’s victory is being challenged by two opposition rivals. On May 30, a court will hear main arguments in the election petition.</p>

<h2><strong>Moscow, Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Moscow slammed the US-led effort to boost Ukraine’s war-effort with F-16 fighter jets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calling the move "an unacceptable escalation" of the conflict, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said, "It's playing with fire, without a doubt," as he condemned the attempt to "weaken Russia" by "Washington, London and their satellites in the European Union".</p>

<h2><strong>Yerevan, Armenia</strong></h2>

<p>The Armenian capital this week showed signs of deepening its truce with Baku, the Azeri capital. Armenian leader Nikol Pashinyan said this week that his nation was willing to recognise the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave in its entirety as a part of Azerbaijan given rights of ethnic Armenians living in the region are guaranteed.</p>

<p>He acknowledged, "The 86,600 sq km of Azerbaijan's territory includes Nagorno-Karabakh." "If we understand each other correctly, then Armenia recognises the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan within the named limits, and Baku - the territorial integrity of Armenia at 29,800 sq km," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Paris, France</strong></h2>

<p>The heart-moulding elevation of excitement towards the Paris 2024 Olympics achieved a moment of significance this week as the Olympic committee and French authorities presented protocol for Paris 2024's Olympic opening ceremony.</p>

<p>For the first time in the history of the Summer Olympic Games, the Opening ceremony will not be taking place in a stadium. Instead, the extravaganza will unfold along the River Seine, with spectators lining streets and bridges in the heart of the French capital. The plan is not without risks, and organisers revealed extensive safety protocols this week.</p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals around the world. In New Delhi, surrounded by India’s secular traditions and acclimated by the opposition's partial boycott, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new, bigger parliament.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals around the world. In New Delhi, surrounded by India’s secular traditions and acclimated by the opposition's partial boycott, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new, bigger parliament. "When India moves forward, the world moves forward. This new building of the parliament will call for the development of the world along with the development of India," Modi said, while adding that the world’s biggest democracy has shed its colonial baggage by shifting to a parliament premise built in free India. Ankara, Turkey "We can say bye bye to Kemal. Bye bye and bye Kemal," said Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to a roaring crowd of supporters as he won country’s unprecedented run off vote, trumping his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to claim the beginning of his third decade into power in Ankara's corridors of power. Erdogan has dominated Turkish politics for 20 years – and he is now set to serve another five-year term. Abuja, Nigeria A new president will run the state of affairs from Abuja’s corridors of power. President Muhammadu Buhari over the weekend addressed his fellow citizens and 'friends of Nigeria', defending his record over economy and security issues and hailing his successor Bola Tinubu. "To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past ten years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I congratulate you on the realisation of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria amongst the leading nations of the world," Buharu said in his address to the nation. Meanwhile, the electoral call of presidential succession in Abuja remains disputed as incoming President Bola Tinubu’s victory is being challenged by two opposition rivals. On May 30, a court will hear main arguments in the election petition. Moscow, Russia Moscow slammed the US-led effort to boost Ukraine’s war-effort with F-16 fighter jets. Calling the move "an unacceptable escalation" of the conflict, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said, "It's playing with fire, without a doubt," as he condemned the attempt to "weaken Russia" by "Washington, London and their satellites in the European Union". Yerevan, Armenia The Armenian capital this week showed signs of deepening its truce with Baku, the Azeri capital. Armenian leader Nikol Pashinyan said this week that his nation was willing to recognise the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave in its entirety as a part of Azerbaijan given rights of ethnic Armenians living in the region are guaranteed. He acknowledged, "The 86,600 sq km of Azerbaijan's territory includes Nagorno-Karabakh." "If we understand each other correctly, then Armenia recognises the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan within the named limits, and Baku - the territorial integrity of Armenia at 29,800 sq km," he added. Paris, France The heart-moulding elevation of excitement towards the Paris 2024 Olympics achieved a moment of significance this week as the Olympic committee and French authorities presented protocol for Paris 2024's Olympic opening ceremony. For the first time in the history of the Summer Olympic Games, the Opening ceremony will not be taking place in a stadium. Instead, the extravaganza will unfold along the River Seine, with spectators lining streets and bridges in the heart of the French capital. The plan is not without risks, and organisers revealed extensive safety protocols this week. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: New Delhi's renewed tryst with parliament, Ankara's third decade with Erdogan in power, and more

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi is on a whirlwind tour of 3 nations, after attending the G7 summit and hosting the third summit of the forum for India-Pacific islands cooperation. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral talks with Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese.

FIPIC Summit 2023: Washington, New Delhi increasing engagement with Pacific Islands

<p>The central government in India on Friday (May 19) issued an ordinance to constitute the 'National Capital Civil Services Authority' in the national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ordinance comprises of Delhi CM, Chief Secy and Home Secy of the Delhi government and it will now decide on the transfer and posting of Group 'A' officers and DANICS officers serving in Delhi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Provided also that in case of difference of opinion, the decision of the Lieutenant Governor shall be final," the order read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ordinance comes a week after the Indian Supreme Court (SC) handed over the control of services in the national capital to the Delhi government. Police, public order and land were excluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A few days ago, SC ruled that the New Delhi government has legislative and executive powers over services, a massive boost to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)'s government in the capital of the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SC heard the Centre versus the Delhi government case over the demarcation of power. A constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud said an elected government needs to have control over the administration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All matters required to be decided by the authority shall be decided by a majority of votes of the members present and voting. All recommendations of the authority shall be authenticated by the member secretary," the ordinance said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ordinance said that "there shall be an authority to be known as the National Capital Civil Service Authority to exercise the powers conferred on, and discharge the functions assigned to it".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An ordinance has been passed by the Centre to constitute ‘National Capital Civil Services Authority’ in Delhi. This comprises of Delhi CM, Chief Secy and Home Secy of Delhi Govt. They will now decide on the transfer and posting of Group ‘A’ officers and DANICS officers serving in… <a href="https://t.co/AXDHP9aBtZ">https://t.co/AXDHP9aBtZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/V7yoOmNHoo">pic.twitter.com/V7yoOmNHoo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1659613157118345217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The authority is supposed to meet at a time and place as the member secretary decides with the approval of the chairperson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The central government, in consultation with the authority, shall determine the nature and the categories of officers and other employees required to assist the authority in the discharge of its functions and provide the authority with such officers and employees, as it may deem fit....&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Notwithstanding anything contained in any law for the time being in force, the National Capital Civil Service Authority shall have the responsibility to recommend the transfers and postings of all the Group 'A' officers and officers of DANICS serving in the affairs of the government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi but not officers serving in connection with any subject matter," it read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>AAP reacts</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was planning to bring an ordinance to overturn the apex court verdict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi said the Centre's ordinance is a "clear-cut case of contempt of court".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agency PTI, She said, "The Modi government has gone against the unanimous decision of the Supreme Court's constitution bench. The court had directed that the elected government be given powers to take decisions independently, as per its will, as per the principles of democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But the Centre's ordinance is a reflection of the (Narendra) Modi government being a graceless loser. The Centre's sole motive to bring this ordinance is to snatch powers from the Kejriwal government," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AAP chief spokesperson and Services Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said the Centre had "deceived" the people of Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This has never happened in the history of the country. This is deception committed with the Supreme Court and the people of Delhi who have chosen Kejriwal thrice to be the CM. He doesn't have any powers but the LG, who has not even been chosen but forced upon people, will have powers and through him the Centre will keep tabs on the work happening in Delhi. This is contempt of court," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1/2 ordinance drafted by persons blissfully ignorant of law. Power over CS under part 14 of ction, given to NCT by CB, diluted by ord. Federalism, part of basic structure, decimated. Answerability of civil service 2pol executive turned upside down. CM 2preside over own minority!</p>
— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrAMSinghvi/status/1659617865627213825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The central government in India on Friday (May 19) issued an ordinance to constitute the 'National Capital Civil Services Authority' in the national capital. The ordinance comprises of Delhi CM, Chief Secy and Home Secy of the Delhi government and it will now decide on the transfer and posting of Group 'A' officers and DANICS officers serving in Delhi government.

The central government in India on Friday (May 19) issued an ordinance to constitute the 'National Capital Civil Services Authority' in the national capital. The ordinance comprises of Delhi CM, Chief Secy and Home Secy of the Delhi government and it will now decide on the transfer and posting of Group 'A' officers and DANICS officers serving in Delhi government. "Provided also that in case of difference of opinion, the decision of the Lieutenant Governor shall be final," the order read. The ordinance comes a week after the Indian Supreme Court (SC) handed over the control of services in the national capital to the Delhi government. Police, public order and land were excluded. A few days ago, SC ruled that the New Delhi government has legislative and executive powers over services, a massive boost to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)'s government in the capital of the nation. SC heard the Centre versus the Delhi government case over the demarcation of power. A constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud said an elected government needs to have control over the administration. "All matters required to be decided by the authority shall be decided by a majority of votes of the members present and voting. All recommendations of the authority shall be authenticated by the member secretary," the ordinance said. The ordinance said that "there shall be an authority to be known as the National Capital Civil Service Authority to exercise the powers conferred on, and discharge the functions assigned to it". An ordinance has been passed by the Centre to constitute ‘National Capital Civil Services Authority’ in Delhi. This comprises of Delhi CM, Chief Secy and Home Secy of Delhi Govt. They will now decide on the transfer and posting of Group ‘A’ officers and DANICS officers serving in… https://t.co/AXDHP9aBtZ pic.twitter.com/V7yoOmNHoo — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2023 × The authority is supposed to meet at a time and place as the member secretary decides with the approval of the chairperson. "The central government, in consultation with the authority, shall determine the nature and the categories of officers and other employees required to assist the authority in the discharge of its functions and provide the authority with such officers and employees, as it may deem fit.... "Notwithstanding anything contained in any law for the time being in force, the National Capital Civil Service Authority shall have the responsibility to recommend the transfers and postings of all the Group 'A' officers and officers of DANICS serving in the affairs of the government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi but not officers serving in connection with any subject matter," it read. AAP reacts Meanwhile, earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was planning to bring an ordinance to overturn the apex court verdict. Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi said the Centre's ordinance is a "clear-cut case of contempt of court". As quoted by news agency PTI, She said, "The Modi government has gone against the unanimous decision of the Supreme Court's constitution bench. The court had directed that the elected government be given powers to take decisions independently, as per its will, as per the principles of democracy." "But the Centre's ordinance is a reflection of the (Narendra) Modi government being a graceless loser. The Centre's sole motive to bring this ordinance is to snatch powers from the Kejriwal government," she added. AAP chief spokesperson and Services Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said the Centre had "deceived" the people of Delhi. "This has never happened in the history of the country. This is deception committed with the Supreme Court and the people of Delhi who have chosen Kejriwal thrice to be the CM. He doesn't have any powers but the LG, who has not even been chosen but forced upon people, will have powers and through him the Centre will keep tabs on the work happening in Delhi. This is contempt of court," he said. 1/2 ordinance drafted by persons blissfully ignorant of law. Power over CS under part 14 of ction, given to NCT by CB, diluted by ord. Federalism, part of basic structure, decimated. Answerability of civil service 2pol executive turned upside down. CM 2preside over own minority! — Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) May 19, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: AAP reacts after Centre issues ordinance to place services under Delhi govt's control

A dust storm in the Indian capital covered the city in haze and pushed the air quality to the "poor" category on Wednesday. Hem Kaur Saroya brings you the report.

Thick layer of haze hovers over New Delhi | WION Climate Tracker

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