The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime. In other news, security forces shot dead an Iranian man who was celebrating his football team's loss to the United States at the World Cup, rights groups said. Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department has said that it had complied with the Supreme Court's order and has made available Donald Trump's tax returns to a congressional committee. Finally, former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried has apologised for his mistakes and said that he did not knowingly commit fraud.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for&nbsp;more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-reports-5006-covid-cases-as-china-stumbles-through-worst-outbreak-538948">Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/15/295862-2022-09-14t153110z2lynxmpei8d0vvrtroptp4health-coronavirus-china.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Across China, new Covid infections numbered 34,942 for Wednesday, coming slightly off a peak of 38,808 registered over the weekend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-protester-celebrating-irans-world-cup-exit-was-shot-dead-say-reports-538918">A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/01/314794-untitled-design-47.png?imwidth=1920" />

Activist Mehran Samak, 27, was honking his car horn in Bandar Anzali, a city on the Caspian Sea coast, when he was shot dead, human rights groups said.

Iran has been facing anti-regime protests following Mahsa Amini's death in police custody after being arrested by the morality police. Several people had refused to support the national team in response to a bloody government crackdown on the protests.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irs-releases-donald-trumps-tax-records-to-house-committee-538924">IRS releases Donald Trump's tax records to House Committee</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/01/314797-untitled-design-2022-11-16t094534292.png?imwidth=1920" />

The court had last week declined to interfere in the matter, saying that the House has the right to request the tax returns from the IRS.&nbsp;A department spokesperson said “Treasury has complied with last week’s court decision”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ftx-ceo-sam-bankman-fried-apologises-for-his-mistakes-says-didnt-knowingly-commit-fraud-538944">Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried apologises for his 'mistakes,' says didn't knowingly commit fraud</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/01/314818-untitled-design-2022-12-01t085609243.png?imwidth=1920" />

Speaking via video call, Bankman said, "I'm deeply sorry about what happened. Clearly, I made a lot of mistakes or things I would be able to give anything to be able to do over again."

Watch |&nbsp;Islamic State group announces death of leader, appoints successor

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The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime.

The Chinese capital of Beijing reported a record 5,006 Covid cases on Wednesday, as the country struggles to get hold of the worst-ever outbreak of viral contagion amid growing public anger against President Xi Jinping's zero Covid regime. In other news, security forces shot dead an Iranian man who was celebrating his football team's loss to the United States at the World Cup, rights groups said. Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department has said that it had complied with the Supreme Court's order and has made available Donald Trump's tax returns to a congressional committee. Finally, former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried has apologised for his mistakes and said that he did not knowingly commit fraud. Click on the headlines for more: Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak Across China, new Covid infections numbered 34,942 for Wednesday, coming slightly off a peak of 38,808 registered over the weekend. A protester celebrating Iran's World Cup exit was shot dead, say reports Activist Mehran Samak, 27, was honking his car horn in Bandar Anzali, a city on the Caspian Sea coast, when he was shot dead, human rights groups said. Iran has been facing anti-regime protests following Mahsa Amini's death in police custody after being arrested by the morality police. Several people had refused to support the national team in response to a bloody government crackdown on the protests. IRS releases Donald Trump's tax records to House Committee The court had last week declined to interfere in the matter, saying that the House has the right to request the tax returns from the IRS. A department spokesperson said “Treasury has complied with last week’s court decision”. Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried apologises for his 'mistakes,' says didn't knowingly commit fraud Speaking via video call, Bankman said, "I'm deeply sorry about what happened. Clearly, I made a lot of mistakes or things I would be able to give anything to be able to do over again." Watch | Islamic State group announces death of leader, appoints successor

Morning brief: Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases, IRS releases Trump's tax records to House Committee & more

Just a day after United States President Joe Biden left Nantucket after his thanksgiving weekend, cars hired by his Secret Service detail caught fire in the airport parking lot.

As per reports, no one from Biden's family or team was injured as the fire happened after the cars had been returned. The cars were a Chevy Suburban, a Ford Explorer, a Ford Expedition, a Jeep Gladiator, and an Infiniti QX80.

Watch | US will not be held hostage in chip supply, says Joe Biden during Michigan speech

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However, it has still flamed up a lot of controversy theories.

The Nantucket Current posted photos and videos of the burned-out cars on social media.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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A large car fire involving multiple rental vehicles at Nantucket Memorial Airport is now out. There were no injuries reported but at least four cars sustained significant damage. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nantucket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nantucket</a> <a href="https://t.co/VF7Zh7qoot">pic.twitter.com/VF7Zh7qoot</a>
— Nantucket Current (@ACKCurrent) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACKCurrent/status/1597193896014278656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Twitter, the publication wrote, "The cars were owned by Hertz, and had just been returned by members of the Secret Service who had been using them during President Biden’s visit, sources said."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-beefs-up-security-due-to-letter-bombs-ukraine-ambassador-pohoreltsev-blames-russia-539178">Spain beefs up security due to letter bombs; Ukraine ambassador Pohoreltsev blames Russia</a>

"Something very fishy going on," commented one user on the Youtube video.

Another wrote, "No freakin' way was this a coincidence. Absolutely no way".

“I feel like the fact that 5 of President Biden’s Secret Service rental cars suddenly burst into flames in the Nantucket Airport parking lot less than 24 hours after they were returned should maybe be a slightly bigger story,” said one user on Twitter.

“Biden’s secret service rented vehicles burst into flames! Terrorism? 5 vehicles caught fire. Something is very wrong here,”&nbsp;said another.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-on-the-menu-biden-welcomes-macron-for-white-house-state-dinner-539176">What's on the menu? Biden welcomes Macron to White House state dinner</a>

As per Forbes an investigation of the incident is underway. The current popular theory is that the fire began in a Ford Expedition, which has been under a safety recall since May because of a defective battery junction box known to cause fires.

However, as per the Daily Beast, the car company Hertz is investigating the fire. Anthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesman said that they had no issues while driving the vehicles and that the cars were returned without incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a day after United States President Joe Biden left Nantucket after his thanksgiving weekend, cars hired by his Secret Service detail caught fire in the airport parking lot.

Just a day after United States President Joe Biden left Nantucket after his thanksgiving weekend, cars hired by his Secret Service detail caught fire in the airport parking lot. As per reports, no one from Biden's family or team was injured as the fire happened after the cars had been returned. The cars were a Chevy Suburban, a Ford Explorer, a Ford Expedition, a Jeep Gladiator, and an Infiniti QX80. Watch | US will not be held hostage in chip supply, says Joe Biden during Michigan speech However, it has still flamed up a lot of controversy theories. The Nantucket Current posted photos and videos of the burned-out cars on social media. A large car fire involving multiple rental vehicles at Nantucket Memorial Airport is now out. There were no injuries reported but at least four cars sustained significant damage. #nantucket pic.twitter.com/VF7Zh7qoot — Nantucket Current (@ACKCurrent) November 28, 2022 × On Twitter, the publication wrote, "The cars were owned by Hertz, and had just been returned by members of the Secret Service who had been using them during President Biden’s visit, sources said." Also read | Spain beefs up security due to letter bombs; Ukraine ambassador Pohoreltsev blames Russia "Something very fishy going on," commented one user on the Youtube video. Another wrote, "No freakin' way was this a coincidence. Absolutely no way". “I feel like the fact that 5 of President Biden’s Secret Service rental cars suddenly burst into flames in the Nantucket Airport parking lot less than 24 hours after they were returned should maybe be a slightly bigger story,” said one user on Twitter. “Biden’s secret service rented vehicles burst into flames! Terrorism? 5 vehicles caught fire. Something is very wrong here,” said another. Also read | What's on the menu? Biden welcomes Macron to White House state dinner As per Forbes an investigation of the incident is underway. The current popular theory is that the fire began in a Ford Expedition, which has been under a safety recall since May because of a defective battery junction box known to cause fires. However, as per the Daily Beast, the car company Hertz is investigating the fire. Anthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesman said that they had no issues while driving the vehicles and that the cars were returned without incident. (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.

Controversy theories erupt after cars used by Joe Biden and his Secret service in Nantucket catch fire

From a scientist's laptop to the syringe used to inject the UK's first Covid vaccine dose, an exhibition that opened Wednesday in London recounts the quest to produce a coronavirus jab through objects.&nbsp;The "Injecting Hope" show at the Science Museum "explores the worldwide effort to develop vaccines at pandemic speed", looking at key moments in their design, trial, manufacture and rollout, said deputy director Julia Knights.

Items on display include artworks, notes taken by UK vaccine chief Kate Bingham during early meetings to decide the country's strategy, and the syringe used to administer its first dose.

Once they had an understanding of the genetic make-up of this new virus, she essentially sat at home, on her laptop, in her pyjamas, drinking lots of&nbsp;cups&nbsp;of&nbsp;tea, designing a vaccine," explained exhibition curator Stewart Emmens.

"We have a laptop, we have a mug and we have a T-shirt on display here. It's nice, in amongst all the science, to really drive it home that there are people behind this, just normal people doing their jobs."

The museum began collecting objects related to Covid in February 2020 as "objects associated with epidemics and pandemics are largely missing from historic collections", said Emmens.

Crucial&nbsp;crabs

The first section features news footage of lockdowns and images of deserted capital cities, empty shelves, at-home schoolchildren and food delivery apps, taking visitors back to the pre-vaccine world.

After exploring the development and testing of the products, visitors then get a glimpse into the unprecedented plans to administer the vaccine to Britain's 67 million citizens.

Machines used to manufacture the vaccine are also on show along with personal artefacts of those at the heart of the battle to&nbsp;beat the virus.

They include the laptop and mug that Teresa Lambe, co-developer of the Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine, relied upon during a weekend of intense work to calculate what its chemical composition should be.

Along with Bingham's scribbled notes are maps integral to the UK's successful rollout.

"When we collected these, they were just plastered on the walls of NHS headquarters," explained Emmens.

"Most people would think... vaccinating countries would be a very much a digital project, very much a big data, number-crunching exercise.&nbsp;But here we have these physical maps, which were used quite early to work out where best to place vaccine centres."

He also hopes that the show will reassure those nervous about taking the vaccine due to its speedy arrival on the market.

"Nothing focuses the mind like a global pandemic," said Emmens.&nbsp;

"The vaccines were following the same processes of approval, and trialing and testing as would normally be the case," he said.

"But very cleverly, things were streamlined, overlapped in a way that gave the same results as you would get normally, without cutting corners."

Sitting incongruously among the gleaming machines are also a collection of&nbsp;crabs.

"We do have some examples of horseshoe&nbsp;crabs&nbsp;within the exhibition, which many visitors will be very surprised by," said Emmens.

The blood from the horseshoe&nbsp;crabs&nbsp;is&nbsp;highly sensitive to bacterial contamination, and is used to make sure the vaccine and the vials that carry it are clean, he explained.

"So they've played a... crucial if unlikely role in the vaccine story."

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From a scientist's laptop to the syringe used to inject the UK's first Covid vaccine dose, an exhibition that opened Wednesday in London recounts the quest to produce a coronavirus jab through objects.

From a scientist's laptop to the syringe used to inject the UK's first Covid vaccine dose, an exhibition that opened Wednesday in London recounts the quest to produce a coronavirus jab through objects. The "Injecting Hope" show at the Science Museum "explores the worldwide effort to develop vaccines at pandemic speed", looking at key moments in their design, trial, manufacture and rollout, said deputy director Julia Knights. Items on display include artworks, notes taken by UK vaccine chief Kate Bingham during early meetings to decide the country's strategy, and the syringe used to administer its first dose. Once they had an understanding of the genetic make-up of this new virus, she essentially sat at home, on her laptop, in her pyjamas, drinking lots of cups of tea, designing a vaccine," explained exhibition curator Stewart Emmens. "We have a laptop, we have a mug and we have a T-shirt on display here. It's nice, in amongst all the science, to really drive it home that there are people behind this, just normal people doing their jobs." The museum began collecting objects related to Covid in February 2020 as "objects associated with epidemics and pandemics are largely missing from historic collections", said Emmens. Crucial crabs The first section features news footage of lockdowns and images of deserted capital cities, empty shelves, at-home schoolchildren and food delivery apps, taking visitors back to the pre-vaccine world. After exploring the development and testing of the products, visitors then get a glimpse into the unprecedented plans to administer the vaccine to Britain's 67 million citizens. Machines used to manufacture the vaccine are also on show along with personal artefacts of those at the heart of the battle to beat the virus. They include the laptop and mug that Teresa Lambe, co-developer of the Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine, relied upon during a weekend of intense work to calculate what its chemical composition should be. Along with Bingham's scribbled notes are maps integral to the UK's successful rollout. "When we collected these, they were just plastered on the walls of NHS headquarters," explained Emmens. "Most people would think... vaccinating countries would be a very much a digital project, very much a big data, number-crunching exercise. But here we have these physical maps, which were used quite early to work out where best to place vaccine centres." He also hopes that the show will reassure those nervous about taking the vaccine due to its speedy arrival on the market. "Nothing focuses the mind like a global pandemic," said Emmens. "The vaccines were following the same processes of approval, and trialing and testing as would normally be the case," he said. "But very cleverly, things were streamlined, overlapped in a way that gave the same results as you would get normally, without cutting corners." Sitting incongruously among the gleaming machines are also a collection of crabs. "We do have some examples of horseshoe crabs within the exhibition, which many visitors will be very surprised by," said Emmens. The blood from the horseshoe crabs is highly sensitive to bacterial contamination, and is used to make sure the vaccine and the vials that carry it are clean, he explained. "So they've played a... crucial if unlikely role in the vaccine story." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Crabs, T-shirt, mugs and tea cups: UK show lifts the lid on Covid vaccine race

To guard Earth's ecosystems against the rising threat of climate change and a loss of natural resources, funds towards its&nbsp;protection need to double from current levels and reach $384 billion a year by 2025, said the UN's environment watchdog.

As per the UN Environment Programme's (UNEP) second "State of Finance for Nature" report, currently, $154 billion yearly is spent, primarily by governments, towards "nature-based solutions" or the protection and management of water, land, air and wildlife.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: UN urges shipping industry to cut emissions

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Ivo Mulder, head of UNEP's climate finance unit, said that this amount "will have to increase by several orders of magnitude if we are to tackle the triple crisis of land degradation, climate and nature."

Even if we are going through many crises, like the war in Ukraine and skyrocketing prices, he said, "It shouldn't be too hard a stretch&nbsp;given that almost 50 per cent of global GDP is dependent on healthy and well-functioning ecosystems."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/18-billion-thats-how-much-governments-fund-every-year-to-human-extinction-and-climate-change-454012">$1.8 billion; that's how much govt subsidies contribute every year to human extinction &amp; climate change</a>

Meanwhile, according to the agency's assessment, governments spend $500 billion to $1 trillion per year on subsidies for fisheries, agriculture, and fossil fuels, which could have negative environmental effects.

Despite their pledges to reduce carbon emissions and deforestation, private sector actors only account for 17&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of investment&nbsp;in nature-based solutions, said UNEP adding that this means that they "will have to combine net zero with nature positive."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-effect-snow-white-alps-turning-green-says-study-after-analysing-satellite-data-484609">Climate change effect: ‘Snow-white' Alps turning green, says study after analysing satellite data</a>

In order to do this, supply chains would need to be sustainable, activities that undermine biodiversity and climate goals would need to be reduced, and damages that could not be avoided would need to be compensated for by working with nature markets.

(With inputs from agencies)

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To guard Earth's ecosystems against the rising threat of climate change and a loss of natural resources, funds towards its protection need to double from current levels and reach $384 billion a year by 2025, said the UN's environment watchdog.

To guard Earth's ecosystems against the rising threat of climate change and a loss of natural resources, funds towards its protection need to double from current levels and reach $384 billion a year by 2025, said the UN's environment watchdog. As per the UN Environment Programme's (UNEP) second "State of Finance for Nature" report, currently, $154 billion yearly is spent, primarily by governments, towards "nature-based solutions" or the protection and management of water, land, air and wildlife. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: UN urges shipping industry to cut emissions Ivo Mulder, head of UNEP's climate finance unit, said that this amount "will have to increase by several orders of magnitude if we are to tackle the triple crisis of land degradation, climate and nature." Even if we are going through many crises, like the war in Ukraine and skyrocketing prices, he said, "It shouldn't be too hard a stretch given that almost 50 per cent of global GDP is dependent on healthy and well-functioning ecosystems." Also read | $1.8 billion; that's how much govt subsidies contribute every year to human extinction & climate change Meanwhile, according to the agency's assessment, governments spend $500 billion to $1 trillion per year on subsidies for fisheries, agriculture, and fossil fuels, which could have negative environmental effects. Despite their pledges to reduce carbon emissions and deforestation, private sector actors only account for 17 per cent of investment in nature-based solutions, said UNEP adding that this means that they "will have to combine net zero with nature positive." Also read | Climate change effect: ‘Snow-white' Alps turning green, says study after analysing satellite data In order to do this, supply chains would need to be sustainable, activities that undermine biodiversity and climate goals would need to be reduced, and damages that could not be avoided would need to be compensated for by working with nature markets. (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.

By 2025, funds for nature conservation must total $384 billion annually: UNEP

In what is being seen in some quarters as a challenge to President Emmanuel Macron, the French Economy and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire has come out openly against the government's over reliance and dependence on external consultancies like US firm McKinsey.&nbsp;

His remarks came days after French investigators opened inquiries into the role that consulting firms played in the 2017 and 2022 elections amid claims of irregular campaign financing. There was also speculation that work done by the consultants were under-billed in violation of the European country's strict electoral laws.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mckinsey-probe-widened-to-include-alleged-illegal-financing-in-macrons-election-campaign-537347">Also read |&nbsp;Probe against McKinsey widened to include alleged illegal financing of Macron's election campaigns</a>

As per an earlier report in Politico, consulting firms like McKinsey, Accenture and Citwell have been extremely influential in French politics, especially when Macron came to power.

The French minister acknowledged that past administrations overly relied on consultancies.

He said, "I willingly recognise it, and I think that we have gone too far."

He added that whether it's the current administration&nbsp;or the previous one, there has been a slip-up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-a-state-visit-macron-blasts-us-law-as-super-aggressive-for-european-businesses-538997">Also read |&nbsp;On a state visit, Macron blasts US law as 'super aggressive' for European businesses</a>

Prior to being re-elected this year, Emmanuel Macron faced criticism for his increasing reliance on the private sector.&nbsp;

However, the president on Friday (Nov 25), refuted claims that he was the primary subject of a judicial investigation of the employment of management consultants by the government and their involvement in the recent election campaigns.

A day earlier, the French prosecutor's office said it had begun an investigation that was reportedly centred on Macron and his 2017 and 2022 presidential campaigns. There were reports, meanwhile, that&nbsp;Bruno Le Maire aims to fight for presidency in the next elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what is being seen in some quarters as a challenge to President Emmanuel Macron, the French Economy and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire has come out openly against the government's over reliance and dependence on external consultancies like US firm McKinsey.

In what is being seen in some quarters as a challenge to President Emmanuel Macron, the French Economy and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire has come out openly against the government's over reliance and dependence on external consultancies like US firm McKinsey. His remarks came days after French investigators opened inquiries into the role that consulting firms played in the 2017 and 2022 elections amid claims of irregular campaign financing. There was also speculation that work done by the consultants were under-billed in violation of the European country's strict electoral laws. Also read | Probe against McKinsey widened to include alleged illegal financing of Macron's election campaigns As per an earlier report in Politico, consulting firms like McKinsey, Accenture and Citwell have been extremely influential in French politics, especially when Macron came to power. The French minister acknowledged that past administrations overly relied on consultancies. He said, "I willingly recognise it, and I think that we have gone too far." He added that whether it's the current administration or the previous one, there has been a slip-up. Also read | On a state visit, Macron blasts US law as 'super aggressive' for European businesses Prior to being re-elected this year, Emmanuel Macron faced criticism for his increasing reliance on the private sector. However, the president on Friday (Nov 25), refuted claims that he was the primary subject of a judicial investigation of the employment of management consultants by the government and their involvement in the recent election campaigns. A day earlier, the French prosecutor's office said it had begun an investigation that was reportedly centred on Macron and his 2017 and 2022 presidential campaigns. There were reports, meanwhile, that Bruno Le Maire aims to fight for presidency in the next elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire: Govt went 'too far' in relying on US consultancies

From New York to San Fransisco: Here's the list of top 10 costliest cities in the world. Take a look!

The results of Nepal's elections are yet to be declared fully but it seems that the ruling coalition in Kathmandu, led by the Nepali Congress, is likely to remain in power. However, the primary opposition CPN-UML might also have a sizable presence in the federal parliament.&nbsp;

While the Nepali Congress&nbsp;is expected to reach 138 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives, the CPN-UML is trying to club together with smaller parties&nbsp;and lure the Madhav Kumar Nepal-led CPN to somehow secure the magic numbers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-elections-2022-odds-in-pm-deubas-favour-as-nepali-congress-surges-in-trends-536880">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal Elections 2022: Odds in PM Deuba's favour as Nepali Congress surges in trends</a>

As of now, the Election Commission has declared winners in 161 first-past-the-post parliamentary seats. Both NC and UML have won 54 seats. Under proportional representation, the UML is expected to secure 34 seats and NC is predicted to gain 32 seats.

NC's leader Bimalendra Nidhi said that the party will be choosing its first parliamentary party leader. He also said that he would easily have the majority since his party is the largest&nbsp; in the parliament. Bimalendra&nbsp;also said that the former alliance partners CPN-Maoists and CPN-Unified Socialists have said that they will continue the pact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-elections-2022-explained-current-political-scenario-electoral-violence-and-road-ahead-535983">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal elections 2022: Current political scenario, electoral violence and road ahead</a>

On the other hand, Subas Chandra Nembang, leader of the CPN-UML said that his party will try to form a government and has begun discussions with other parties. The UML leader said that despite NC having more seats, UML is ahead in vote percentage.

Six sitting ministers of Sher Bahadur Deuba-led five-party coalition,&nbsp;including the Home Minister Khan, Minister for Water Supply Umakanta Chaudhary, and Minister of State for Prime Minister's office Umesh Shreshtha of the Nepali Congress,&nbsp;have lost elections to the house of representatives.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The results of Nepal's elections are yet to be declared fully but it seems that the ruling coalition in Kathmandu, led by the Nepali Congress, is likely to remain in power.

The results of Nepal's elections are yet to be declared fully but it seems that the ruling coalition in Kathmandu, led by the Nepali Congress, is likely to remain in power. However, the primary opposition CPN-UML might also have a sizable presence in the federal parliament. While the Nepali Congress is expected to reach 138 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives, the CPN-UML is trying to club together with smaller parties and lure the Madhav Kumar Nepal-led CPN to somehow secure the magic numbers. Also read | Nepal Elections 2022: Odds in PM Deuba's favour as Nepali Congress surges in trends As of now, the Election Commission has declared winners in 161 first-past-the-post parliamentary seats. Both NC and UML have won 54 seats. Under proportional representation, the UML is expected to secure 34 seats and NC is predicted to gain 32 seats. NC's leader Bimalendra Nidhi said that the party will be choosing its first parliamentary party leader. He also said that he would easily have the majority since his party is the largest in the parliament. Bimalendra also said that the former alliance partners CPN-Maoists and CPN-Unified Socialists have said that they will continue the pact. Also read | Nepal elections 2022: Current political scenario, electoral violence and road ahead On the other hand, Subas Chandra Nembang, leader of the CPN-UML said that his party will try to form a government and has begun discussions with other parties. The UML leader said that despite NC having more seats, UML is ahead in vote percentage. Six sitting ministers of Sher Bahadur Deuba-led five-party coalition, including the Home Minister Khan, Minister for Water Supply Umakanta Chaudhary, and Minister of State for Prime Minister's office Umesh Shreshtha of the Nepali Congress, have lost elections to the house of representatives. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nepal Elections 2022: Nepali Congress has an edge over CPN-UML in race to form government

In an in-person meeting with the president of the European Council Charles Michel, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to strengthen strategic communication and coordination with the European Union.&nbsp;

During the meeting held at the Chinese capital's Great Hall of the People, Xi expressed hope that EU institutions and member states "will establish an objective and correct perception of China", the official broadcaster CCTV reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-willing-to-build-closer-partnership-with-russia-on-energy-issues-says-xi-jinping-538497">Also read |&nbsp;China willing to build closer partnership with Russia on energy issues, says Xi Jinping</a>

Xi told Michel that China will remain open to European companies and hopes that the EU would eliminate its interference to provide a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese companies.

According to Xi, China and European Union should strengthen their macroeconomic policy coordination jointly&nbsp;and will ensure&nbsp;safety and stability of industrial supply chains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-reports-5006-covid-cases-as-china-stumbles-through-worst-outbreak-538948">Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak</a>

Michel decided to visit Beijing despite increasingly violent and outrageous protests in different parts of China against the Covid lockdowns. The meet was centred on Michel's plan to make Xi use his influence over Moscow to oppose its invasion of Ukraine. He also sought to discuss business ties with EU capitals and urged Western allies to maintain allies with China.&nbsp;

During his one-day visit, the EU chief Michel will also be meeting Premier Li Keqiang and Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the National People's Congress standing committee.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In an in-person meeting with the president of the European Council Charles Michel, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to strengthen strategic communication and coordination with the European Union.

In an in-person meeting with the president of the European Council Charles Michel, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to strengthen strategic communication and coordination with the European Union. During the meeting held at the Chinese capital's Great Hall of the People, Xi expressed hope that EU institutions and member states "will establish an objective and correct perception of China", the official broadcaster CCTV reported. Also read | China willing to build closer partnership with Russia on energy issues, says Xi Jinping Xi told Michel that China will remain open to European companies and hopes that the EU would eliminate its interference to provide a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese companies. According to Xi, China and European Union should strengthen their macroeconomic policy coordination jointly and will ensure safety and stability of industrial supply chains. Also read | Beijing reports 5,006 Covid cases as China stumbles through worst outbreak Michel decided to visit Beijing despite increasingly violent and outrageous protests in different parts of China against the Covid lockdowns. The meet was centred on Michel's plan to make Xi use his influence over Moscow to oppose its invasion of Ukraine. He also sought to discuss business ties with EU capitals and urged Western allies to maintain allies with China. During his one-day visit, the EU chief Michel will also be meeting Premier Li Keqiang and Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the National People's Congress standing committee. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Xi meets EU's Charles Michel, says China hopes for fair and transparent ties

After one of the world's largest crypto exchanges, FTX collapsed earlier this month, Brazil's lower house of Congress approved a bill that aims to boost oversight of the country's cryptocurrency sector.

Brazil wants a law on crypto regulations after FTX collapsed earlier this month

The European Union has witnessed a 42 per cent increase in the imports of Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) between January-October, compared to the same period last year, according to an FT report.

The European Union has witnessed a 42 per cent increase in the imports of Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) between January-October, compared to the same period last year, according to an FT report. The continent has imported 62.1 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas this year compared to 17.8 bcm last year. European nations such as the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Spain have topped the list of importers. Most of the Russian LNG is supplied from the Yamal LNG joint venture. Novatek, a Russian company is the majority owner with France's Total, China's CNPC and a Chinese state fund holding the other stakes. It has been over nine months since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began. The West, especially the European continent aggressively postured that it will be reducing its dependence on Russian energy. WATCH | Gravitas: China selling excess Russian gas to Europe × However, on the contrary, the sharp increase in imports suggests that Europe is willing to play both galleries. The West has imposed sanctions on Russian companies and other exports but has consciously avoided energy and utility companies. Experts argue that increasing reliance on Russian LNG can come back to haunt the Europeans. Russia has previously shown that it can use its 'oil and gas' exports as leverage to pin the Europeans into submission. The halt of the supply of gas through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline disturbed Europe throughout the summer. The subsequent sabotage of both Nord Stream pipelines added to the woes. The winter has arrived and if Moscow decides to switch off the supply of LNG, the sanctimonious nations of Europe could be in for a dark, cold and bleak few months. The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winter. And if the figures are anything to go by, it appears that the solidarity has indeed collapsed. Read more: No unity in European Union? Member nations oppose EU's gas curb proposal As long as Europe funds Kremlin by buying gas and oil, the latter will continue to camp in Ukraine until Putin's objectives are met. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people.

In an email statement to AFP a spokesperson for IMF, "Covid and Covid-related restrictions are hard on people... This has been the case everywhere, and even more so in China."

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: China's factory, service activities shrink to 7 month low

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The organisation said that Chinese authorities have made policies more targeted, and "there is scope for further gradual, safe recalibration."

Three years into the pandemic, when many countries have eased covid containment measures like lockdowns, China still regularly deploys such measures, locking up entire neighbourhoods and cities to eradicate the virus. These strict measures come with a heavy toll on citizens and the nation's economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-relaxes-covid-19-rules-in-several-districts-in-guangzhou-538833">Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts of Guangzhou</a>

IMF said that China's economy has partially recovered and an adjustment of its policy may help growth in 2023, while also supporting the global economy.

For a large part of this year, the Chinese major business hub has been under lockdown. This has not only impacted Beijing's economy but also the global markets, and supply chains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-years-of-covid-was-his-entire-life-in-china-child-dies-due-to-lockdown-rules-father-offered-hush-money-530653">'3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money</a>

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&nbsp;

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Recently, following reports of deaths due to these lockdowns people have protested, raging across the nation in a "rare outpouring" of anger.&nbsp;A fire in a high-rise building in Xinjiang that killed ten people last week reportedly acted as a catalyst for these protests. Many have alleged that a partial lockdown on the building fatally delayed rescue operations and also obstructed escape routes.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people. In an email statement to AFP a spokesperson for IMF, "Covid and Covid-related restrictions are hard on people... This has been the case everywhere, and even more so in China." Watch | World Business Watch: China's factory, service activities shrink to 7 month low The organisation said that Chinese authorities have made policies more targeted, and "there is scope for further gradual, safe recalibration." Three years into the pandemic, when many countries have eased covid containment measures like lockdowns, China still regularly deploys such measures, locking up entire neighbourhoods and cities to eradicate the virus. These strict measures come with a heavy toll on citizens and the nation's economy. Also read | Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts of Guangzhou IMF said that China's economy has partially recovered and an adjustment of its policy may help growth in 2023, while also supporting the global economy. For a large part of this year, the Chinese major business hub has been under lockdown. This has not only impacted Beijing's economy but also the global markets, and supply chains. Also read | '3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money Recently, following reports of deaths due to these lockdowns people have protested, raging across the nation in a "rare outpouring" of anger. A fire in a high-rise building in Xinjiang that killed ten people last week reportedly acted as a catalyst for these protests. Many have alleged that a partial lockdown on the building fatally delayed rescue operations and also obstructed escape routes. (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.

China can adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, it's been hard on people, says IMF

India's central bank RBI will launch the country's first pilot for a retail e-rupee on December 1st (Tuesday).&nbsp;The e-rupee will be the Reserve Bank of India's version of the central bank digital currency (CBDC) and will cover select locations and would be available to a closed user group to start with. The group as per the bank will include merchants and some participating customers.&nbsp;"It would be distributed through intermediaries such as banks."

The pilot will be launched in two phases. The first phase will have four banks participating across four cities, these banks are State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, Yes Bank and IDC First Bank.

Watch |&nbsp;India to introduce its digital currency 'E-Rupee' soon

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In the second phase, four more banks, namely: Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank will also join across more cities.&nbsp;At a later stage, the scope of the pilot may be expanded gradually to include more banks, users and locations as needed,&nbsp;said the RBI.

Reuters reports that users will be able to transact using the e-rupee via their mobiles or devices, using the digital wallets of participating banks.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rbi-to-pilot-launch-e-rupee-for-specific-cases-releases-concept-note-523437">India: RBI to pilot launch e-rupee for specific cases, releases concept note</a>

"It would be issued in the same denominations that paper currency and coins are currently issued," said RBI in a statement. However, unlike normal bank deposits, this would not earn users any interest and could not be converted into other forms of money.

"The pilot will test the robustness of the entire process of digital rupee creation, distribution and retail usage in real-time," said the bank.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/what-is-rbis-digital-currency-difference-between-cryptocurrency-and-cbdc-530527">What is e-rupee and what is the difference between cryptocurrency and CBDC?</a>

Based on the pilot test results, the central bank will then test other applications and features of the e-currency.

Previously, on November 1, the Indian central bank also launched a pilot of the wholesale e-rupee. In it, nine participating banks have for a month been transacting in government securities using the e-rupee.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

India's central bank RBI will launch the country's first pilot for a retail e-rupee on December 1st (Tuesday). The e-rupee will be the Reserve Bank of India's version of the central bank digital currency (CBDC) and will cover select locations and would be available to a closed user group to start with.

India's central bank RBI will launch the country's first pilot for a retail e-rupee on December 1st (Tuesday). The e-rupee will be the Reserve Bank of India's version of the central bank digital currency (CBDC) and will cover select locations and would be available to a closed user group to start with. The group as per the bank will include merchants and some participating customers. "It would be distributed through intermediaries such as banks." The pilot will be launched in two phases. The first phase will have four banks participating across four cities, these banks are State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, Yes Bank and IDC First Bank. Watch | India to introduce its digital currency 'E-Rupee' soon In the second phase, four more banks, namely: Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank will also join across more cities. At a later stage, the scope of the pilot may be expanded gradually to include more banks, users and locations as needed, said the RBI. Reuters reports that users will be able to transact using the e-rupee via their mobiles or devices, using the digital wallets of participating banks. Also read | India: RBI to pilot launch e-rupee for specific cases, releases concept note "It would be issued in the same denominations that paper currency and coins are currently issued," said RBI in a statement. However, unlike normal bank deposits, this would not earn users any interest and could not be converted into other forms of money. "The pilot will test the robustness of the entire process of digital rupee creation, distribution and retail usage in real-time," said the bank. Also read | What is e-rupee and what is the difference between cryptocurrency and CBDC? Based on the pilot test results, the central bank will then test other applications and features of the e-currency. Previously, on November 1, the Indian central bank also launched a pilot of the wholesale e-rupee. In it, nine participating banks have for a month been transacting in government securities using the e-rupee. (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.

RBI to launch India's first pilot for retail digital currency, e-rupee, on December 1

Former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison has been censured by the Australian parliament for making secret appointments to multiple ministries. The House of Representatives decision makes Morrison the first former PM to be censured.

Former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison has been censured by the Australian parliament for making secret appointments to multiple ministries. The House of Representatives decision makes Morrison the first former PM to be censured. Earlier, former small business minister Bruce Billson was censured in 2018. The motion was brought in the parliament by the leader of the House, Tony Burke. It was passed with 86 votes in favour to 50 against. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Morrison secretly gained five ministerial roles in health, finance, treasury, resources and home affairs. Most of the cabinet ministers under Morrison were unaware that he had been sharing the portfolios secretly. An inquiry panel led by High Court judge Virginia Bell found that the former Liberal PM's actions likely hurt public confidence in the government. The committee made six recommendations for reforms. WATCH | Ex-Australia PM’s secret appointments eroded public trust, says report × After the report's release, Morrison had doubled down on his version and said the decision was taken in urgency. "These decisions were taken during an extremely challenging period, where there was a need for considerable urgency," said Morrison. "I note that the criticisms of my decisions have been made after the event and with the benefit of this perspective," he added. Current PM Anthony Albanese, however, slammed Morrison for the move and said bringing the motion was a way to fix 'accountability'. "This wasn't about a relationship between the former prime minister and his ministers. It's not a personal relationship between two mates over what happened down the pub," said Albanese. "This is about accountability of our democratic system, and whether the parliament was functioning properly." Read more: Australia government to move censure motion against former PM over secret ministries A censure is a parliamentary jingo and a way for the members to formally express disapproval towards an MP. While largely symbolic and unenforceable, censures can have deep political consequences. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Scott Morrison becomes the first former PM to be censured by the Australian parliament

A Qatari official responsible for the delivery of the FIFA World Cup has revealed that 400 to 500 migrant workers may have died on World Cup-related projects.

In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Hassan al-Thawadi, the World Cup chief and&nbsp;secretary general of the Supreme Committee for delivery and legacy made the rather 'grim' admission. However, he stopped short of providing precise fatality numbers as it was still being discussed.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">“The estimate is around 400, between 400 and 500. I don’t have the exact number, that’s something that’s been discussed. One death is too many, it’s as simple as that,” said&nbsp;al-Thawadi.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">"[But] every year the health and safety standards on the sites are improving, at least on our sites, the World Cup sites, the ones we are responsible for. Most definitely to the extent that you have trade unions [commending] the work that has been done on World Cup sites and the improvement.”

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">Notably, the&nbsp;Supreme Committee previously maintained that there had been only three work-related death and 37 non-work-related fatalities among the workers since the infrastructure construction began in 2014.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-fifa-helps-qatar-sportswash-human-rights-abuses-433965">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: FIFA helps Qatar sportswash human rights abuses</a>

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However, a Guardian report published last year stated that 6,500 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka had died during the preparation of the WC infrastructure.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">The Qatar World Cup has not been&nbsp;devoid of controversy ever since FIFA handed the West Asian country hosting duties, nearly a decade back.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">According to experts, the oil-rich country is using the WC to sportswash itself. However, to do so, it has spent almost $220 billion trying to build the stadiums and related infrastructure from the ground up.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">Several footballing nations have condemned the hosting of the quadrennial event in Qatar. However, FIFA has managed to nip the protests in the bud.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_EF77DDC9-0134-264A-1125-C36F80F360BE@published">(With inputs from agencies)

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A Qatari official responsible for the delivery of the FIFA World Cup has revealed that 400 to 500 migrant workers may have died on World Cup-related projects. In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Hassan al-Thawadi, the World Cup chief and secretary general of the Supreme Committee for delivery and legacy made the rather 'grim' admission.

A Qatari official responsible for the delivery of the FIFA World Cup has revealed that 400 to 500 migrant workers may have died on World Cup-related projects. In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Hassan al-Thawadi, the World Cup chief and secretary general of the Supreme Committee for delivery and legacy made the rather 'grim' admission. However, he stopped short of providing precise fatality numbers as it was still being discussed. “The estimate is around 400, between 400 and 500. I don’t have the exact number, that’s something that’s been discussed. One death is too many, it’s as simple as that,” said al-Thawadi. "[But] every year the health and safety standards on the sites are improving, at least on our sites, the World Cup sites, the ones we are responsible for. Most definitely to the extent that you have trade unions [commending] the work that has been done on World Cup sites and the improvement.” Notably, the Supreme Committee previously maintained that there had been only three work-related death and 37 non-work-related fatalities among the workers since the infrastructure construction began in 2014. WATCH | Gravitas: FIFA helps Qatar sportswash human rights abuses × However, a Guardian report published last year stated that 6,500 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka had died during the preparation of the WC infrastructure. The Qatar World Cup has not been devoid of controversy ever since FIFA handed the West Asian country hosting duties, nearly a decade back. According to experts, the oil-rich country is using the WC to sportswash itself. However, to do so, it has spent almost $220 billion trying to build the stadiums and related infrastructure from the ground up. Several footballing nations have condemned the hosting of the quadrennial event in Qatar. However, FIFA has managed to nip the protests in the bud. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar admits this many migrant workers died on WC projects

Growing protests against the draconian 'zero-Covid' policy in China appears to have rattled the officials. In a video that has gone viral on social media, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian could be seen falling short of words to justify the measures aimed at culling the Covid numbers.

Growing protests against the draconian 'zero-Covid' policy in China appears to have rattled the officials. In a video that has gone viral on social media, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian could be seen falling short of words to justify the measures aimed at culling the Covid numbers. A Reuters journalist during a press briefing asked Zhao if Beijing was thinking about ending the policy soon. "Given the widespread display of anger and frustration at the zero Covid policy in recent days across China, is China thinking about ending it and if so, when?" asked the journalist. The question was asked in English and translated in real-time to Zhao. However, the spokesperson appeared stumped as he wore a confused look. For a good 30 seconds, Zhao remained mum while flipping through the pages on his desk. After regaining some composure, Zhao said, "Can you repeat the question." The journalist posed the same question and once more, Zhao and the journalists in the room had to brave an 'awkward silence'. In the end, Zhao managed to find the words and said, "What you mentioned does not reflect what happened. China has been following a dynamic Covid policy." Awkward silence: China official @zlj517 speechless after question on ongoing peaceful protests in China #WhitePaperRevolution #ChinaUprising #XiJinping pic.twitter.com/bcA0Eg4nms — Kalsang Jigme བོད། (@kalsang_jigme) November 29, 2022 × What is happening in China? Ordinary citizens in different parts of China have been organising protests against the measures used by the communist regime to contain the numbers which have risen exponentially in recent weeks. Slogans of freedom and transparency during the demonstrations have been raised by the protesters. WATCH | Protests spread in China as anger mounts over ‘zero-COVID’; other countries join in solidarity × Sensing the growing resentment, China's top security body has called for a “crackdown” on “hostile forces”. The Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission said it is "necessary to crack down on infiltration and sabotage activities by hostile forces in accordance with the law". Read more: Chinese security body calls for 'crackdown' on 'hostile forces' amid protests The Chinese government has been using force to stop the protests and it has prompted responses from both the United Nations and the United States who urged Beijing to respect the citizens’ right to peaceful protest. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: Chinese official's long, awkward silence when asked about Covid protests

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reportedly debating allowing gay and bisexual men in monogamous relationships to donate blood without abstaining from sex, as required under the current guidelines.

A Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report citing sources familiar with the plans said that the FDA plans to issue the new rules in the coming months.

Under the new guidelines, the donors would be required to complete an individualised risk assessment similar to that used by Canada.

Also read |&nbsp;Gravitas: US senators want FDA to allow gay people to donate blood

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Canada adopted its risk assessment form in September, however, it is not just for gay and bisexual men, rather it is applicable to donors of all genders and sexual orientations. The form asks uniform questions about a potential donor's medical, travel and sexual history.

Officials of the US FDA are still drafting its questionnaire and the guidelines.

WFJ citing an anonymous FDA official reported that the new assessment would most probably ask people about their sexual history over the past three months, including new sexual partners if any.

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People with no new sexual partners in the past three months will be free to donate blood. Those who report new partners would have to answer follow-up questions like whether they engaged in anal sex or not.&nbsp;

Those with no anal sex encounters in the last three months will be allowed to donate blood, while those who reply yes to the question will have to wait another three months before being eligible to donate.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) compared to other forms of sex unprotected anal sex carries a higher risk of HIV infection.&nbsp;

HIV Infection becomes apparent in three months, said the FDA official.

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LGBTQ advocacy groups have for long said that the US policy is discriminatory and outdated, organisations like the American Medical Association, and the American Red Cross too have called for a policy change.

US blood donation policy was originally adopted in 1985 and it dictated that a gay/bisexual man will not be eligible to donate blood if they have had sex with another man even once since 1977. It came into force to protect the blood supply from HIV.

In 2015, the rule was amended and only men who have had a sexual partner of the same sex in the past one year were made ineligible to donate. During the pandemic due to a shortage of blood supply, this time period was further shortened to three months.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reportedly debating allowing gay and bisexual men in monogamous relationships to donate blood without abstaining from sex, as required under the current guidelines.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reportedly debating allowing gay and bisexual men in monogamous relationships to donate blood without abstaining from sex, as required under the current guidelines. A Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report citing sources familiar with the plans said that the FDA plans to issue the new rules in the coming months. Under the new guidelines, the donors would be required to complete an individualised risk assessment similar to that used by Canada. Also read | Gravitas: US senators want FDA to allow gay people to donate blood Canada adopted its risk assessment form in September, however, it is not just for gay and bisexual men, rather it is applicable to donors of all genders and sexual orientations. The form asks uniform questions about a potential donor's medical, travel and sexual history. Officials of the US FDA are still drafting its questionnaire and the guidelines. WFJ citing an anonymous FDA official reported that the new assessment would most probably ask people about their sexual history over the past three months, including new sexual partners if any. Also read | Gender disparity in news: Women especially of colour grossly under-represented in leadership and coverage People with no new sexual partners in the past three months will be free to donate blood. Those who report new partners would have to answer follow-up questions like whether they engaged in anal sex or not. Those with no anal sex encounters in the last three months will be allowed to donate blood, while those who reply yes to the question will have to wait another three months before being eligible to donate. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) compared to other forms of sex unprotected anal sex carries a higher risk of HIV infection. HIV Infection becomes apparent in three months, said the FDA official. Also read | Tokyo court say current definition of marriage constitutional, but creates 'unconstitutional situation' LGBTQ advocacy groups have for long said that the US policy is discriminatory and outdated, organisations like the American Medical Association, and the American Red Cross too have called for a policy change. US blood donation policy was originally adopted in 1985 and it dictated that a gay/bisexual man will not be eligible to donate blood if they have had sex with another man even once since 1977. It came into force to protect the blood supply from HIV. In 2015, the rule was amended and only men who have had a sexual partner of the same sex in the past one year were made ineligible to donate. During the pandemic due to a shortage of blood supply, this time period was further shortened to three months.

US | FDA plans to change 'discriminatory and outdated' blood donation rules for gay men

The TTP has ended its 'shaky ceasefire' with the Pakistan govt & ordered its fighters to stage attacks all over Pakistan. Priyanka Sharma tells you how Pakistan is staring at an abyss of its own making.

Gravitas: TTP ends ceasefire, warns Pakistan of nation-wide attacks

The families of Iran's national soccer team have reportedly been threatened with torture & imprisonment. This comes after the team refused to sing the country's anthem.

Gravitas: Is Iran threatening families of its soccer team?

Child sex abuse boomed in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Children were forced to perform live sex shows for pedophiles around the world. The Filipino president has declared an "all-out war" on child sexual abuse, but it's a war the Philippines does not seem to be winning.

Gravitas: Philippines sees pandemic boom in child sex abuse

Merriam-Webster has declared that Gaslighting is the word of the year for 2022. Searches for the term have gone up by 1,740% this year. So what does Gaslighting mean?

Gravitas: Gaslighting is the word of the year

100 companies in the UK have moved to permanent 4-day work week. Employees will be given an additional day off, and this will not affect their salary. What is stopping Indian companies from making the switch?

Gravitas: 100 UK companies move to permanent 4-day work week

Elon Musk has picked a fight with Apple on Twitter. He asked if Apple was against free speech. But is there some other reason for this feud?

Gravitas: Musk publicly feuds with Apple

Protesters in China want Xi Jinping to resign. Xi's policies have failed China's economy, people, healthcare, and now the people of China want Xi to pay.

Gravitas: Unprecedented protests in China: Why Xi Jinping should resign

NATO is the latest to accuse Russia of weaponising winter. Across Ukraine, civilians struggle to survive winter amidst power cuts.

Gravitas: Russia weaponising winter?

Former Chinese President&nbsp;Jiang Zemin, who rose to prominence in the aftermath of the&nbsp;Tiananmen Square massacre, has died aged 96, according to state media.&nbsp;Jiang died in Shanghai at 12:13 PM (local time) from leukaemia and multiple organ failure. He is survived by his wife Wang Yeping and two sons.&nbsp;

“Jiang Zemin passed away due to leukaemia and multiple organ failure in Shanghai at 12:13pm on November 30, 2022, at the age of 96, it was announced on Wednesday," Xinhua reported.&nbsp;

Jiang took the reins after Tiananmen Square massacre which turned out to be a&nbsp;watershed moment in the People’s Republic of China’s history. It&nbsp;changed the way the&nbsp;leaders of the country went about governing the masses.&nbsp;

Jiang oversaw China when the&nbsp;middle kingdom started to open itself up to the world market and pushed the development locomotive at express speed.

He replaced Deng Xiaoping&nbsp;who had sowed the seeds of turning China into a&nbsp;market-driven economy&nbsp;from&nbsp;a&nbsp;Communist economy.&nbsp;

However, by the time Jiang retired from China's top position in 2003, he made sure that the country was beginning to be counted among the superpowers of the world.

(This is a developing story. More details to follow)

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Former Chinese President Jiang Zemin, who rose to prominence in the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square massacre, has died aged 96, according to state media. Jiang died in Shanghai at 12:13 PM (local time) from leukaemia and multiple organ failure.

Former Chinese President Jiang Zemin, who rose to prominence in the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square massacre, has died aged 96, according to state media. Jiang died in Shanghai at 12:13 PM (local time) from leukaemia and multiple organ failure. He is survived by his wife Wang Yeping and two sons. “Jiang Zemin passed away due to leukaemia and multiple organ failure in Shanghai at 12:13pm on November 30, 2022, at the age of 96, it was announced on Wednesday," Xinhua reported. Jiang took the reins after Tiananmen Square massacre which turned out to be a watershed moment in the People’s Republic of China’s history. It changed the way the leaders of the country went about governing the masses. Jiang oversaw China when the middle kingdom started to open itself up to the world market and pushed the development locomotive at express speed. He replaced Deng Xiaoping who had sowed the seeds of turning China into a market-driven economy from a Communist economy. However, by the time Jiang retired from China's top position in 2003, he made sure that the country was beginning to be counted among the superpowers of the world. (This is a developing story. More details to follow) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jiang Zemin: Former Chinese president, who opened China to world market, dies aged 96

For Joe Jonas of Jonas Brothers, it became a reality when he was offered to play the character Marty Goode in aerial war drama ‘Devotion’ that tells the inspirational true story of two elite US Navy fighter pilots who changed their country’s fortune in the most brutal battle in the Korean War in the 1950s. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Joe Jonas spoke about his acting debut with war drama ‘Devotion’, his experience shooting some crazy action scenes and personal connection with the film.

Exclusive: Joe Jonas to WION on his upcoming debut film Devotion

Republican leader and South Dakota governor Kristi Noem on Tuesday issued an executive order banning the use of Chinese TikTok by state employees and contractors on government gadgets, citing the short video app's ties to Beijing.

Republican leader and South Dakota governor Kristi Noem on Tuesday issued an executive order banning the use of Chinese TikTok by state employees and contractors on government gadgets, citing the short video app's ties to Beijing. “South Dakota will have no part in the intelligence gathering operations of nations who hate us," said Noem in a statement posted on Twitter. "The Chinese Communist Party uses information that it gathers on TikTok to manipulate the American people, and they gather data off the devices that access the platform." Noem added that the order which goes into effect immediately "prohibits downloading or using the TikTok application or visiting the website on state-owned or state-leased electronic devices capable of internet connectivity". South Dakota is banning TikTok for state government. We will have no part in intelligence gathering for China, a nation that hates America. I hope other states quickly follow this example and protect the vital private information of our citizens. pic.twitter.com/rJ2H2k0Rlk — Governor Kristi Noem (@govkristinoem) November 29, 2022 × TikTok did not immediately respond to Noem's order or the ban imposed. Notably, the GOP leaders, in recent weeks have increased the pressure on TikTok and its owner ByteDance to come clean regarding its data-sharing policies. WATCH | US: Senators call TikTok a 'massive surveillance tool; Is TikTok spying on you for China? × Last week, Republican lawmakers Cathy McMorris Rodgers and James Comer wrote a letter criticising ByteDance saying the Chinese company may have misled Congress about how much data it shares with China. Both Rodgers and Comer are expected to set the House agenda next year after Republicans won the lower chamber in the just-concluded midterm elections. Read more: Republicans target TikTok for sharing users’ data with China, likely to unleash probe Previously, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also warned against data leaks through the app. Director Christopher Wray told a House panel that potential Chinese government access to users’ data or software through the app is reason to be “extremely concerned”. Wray added that ByteDance embeds specific application programming interfaces (APIs) in the app which gives Beijing access to “control data collection of millions of users or control the recommendation algorithm". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wary of China, US state of South Dakota bans TikTok on state-owned devices

Russia has turned to India seeking supply of parts across key industrial sectors. Sources say Moscow has sent India a list of more than 500 products for potential delivery including parts for cars, aircraft and trains.

India tries to narrow a ballooning trade deficit with Russia

India's national security adviser Ajit Doval says that there is no space for hate speech in any democracy. Doval made the statement while addressing a meeting of Muslims scholars in New Delhi where Indonesia's Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Dr Mohammed M. Mahmodin was also present.

Doval: No space for hate speech in a democracy | Ulema Meet

Massive protest against strict Covid-19 restrictions was seen in China. But the situation now seems to be under control as the police have clamped down the protest.

China: White House supports peaceful protests, mass testing resumes in Shanghai

General Asim Munir has taken charge as Pakistan's next chief of army in an extravagant handover ceremony held at the general headquarters in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan: General Bajwa passes the baton of command to his successor General Asim Munir

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