Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Moscow and Beijing, which staged naval cooperation drills in the Sea of Japan earlier in October, have cultivated closer military and diplomatic ties in recent years at a time when their relations with the West have soured.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">&nbsp;China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a>

The naval manoeuvres have been closely watched by Japan which said earlier this week that a group of 10 vessels from China and Russia sailed through the Tsugaru Strait separating Japan's main island and its northern island of Hokkaido.

"The group of ships passed through the Tsugaru Strait for the first time as part of the patrol," Russia's defence ministry said in the statement. The strait is regarded as international waters.

"The tasks of the patrols were the demonstration of the Russian and Chinese state flags, maintaining of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, and guardianship of the subjects of maritime economic activities of the two countries," the ministry added.

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday. Moscow and Beijing, which staged naval cooperation drills in the Sea of Japan earlier in October, have cultivated closer military and diplomatic ties in recent years at a time when their relations with the West have soured. Also Read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden The naval manoeuvres have been closely watched by Japan which said earlier this week that a group of 10 vessels from China and Russia sailed through the Tsugaru Strait separating Japan's main island and its northern island of Hokkaido. "The group of ships passed through the Tsugaru Strait for the first time as part of the patrol," Russia's defence ministry said in the statement. The strait is regarded as international waters. "The tasks of the patrols were the demonstration of the Russian and Chinese state flags, maintaining of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, and guardianship of the subjects of maritime economic activities of the two countries," the ministry added.

Russian, Chinese warships hold first joint patrols in the Pacific

We are bombarded with news of global warming each day. We know how the ice caps are melting thereby raising sea levels and affecting local habitat. But a positive news has come from the Pacific Arctic. Scientists have reported cooling for the first time in this region.

This has translated to more retention of ice and return of polar bears.

The merry news has been reported by Sputnik that has quoted a scientist.

"Primarily, we can talk about temperature drop in Chukotka and Alaska, because there, no walruses were this year on the spots [at the shore] that they were occupying for the past 20 years… This is not anomaly, but a return to normalcy. The anomaly was during the past 20 years, during the warming. Now the ice is not that heavy as it was 40 years ago, for example, but close to it. I am happy for walruses and bears, as all of them got a respite," said Anatoly Kochnev as quoted by Sputnik. Kochnev is a researcher at Beringia national park and an expert in sea mammals.

He said that the ice in coastal waters did not melt even in summer. This led to return of walruses.

When there is no ice, polar bears cannot hunt for seals. Retention of ice has meant that seals reappeared and polar bear got their preferred food, Polar bears prefer to hunt seals than walruses. However, if ice recedes, polar bears are forced to hunt for seals.

Polar bear is an endangered animal and cooling of Pacific Arctic region is surely is good sign.

We are bombarded with news of global warming each day. We know how the ice caps are melting thereby raising sea levels and affecting local habitat. But a positive news has come from the Pacific Arctic.

We are bombarded with news of global warming each day. We know how the ice caps are melting thereby raising sea levels and affecting local habitat. But a positive news has come from the Pacific Arctic. Scientists have reported cooling for the first time in this region. This has translated to more retention of ice and return of polar bears. The merry news has been reported by Sputnik that has quoted a scientist. "Primarily, we can talk about temperature drop in Chukotka and Alaska, because there, no walruses were this year on the spots [at the shore] that they were occupying for the past 20 years… This is not anomaly, but a return to normalcy. The anomaly was during the past 20 years, during the warming. Now the ice is not that heavy as it was 40 years ago, for example, but close to it. I am happy for walruses and bears, as all of them got a respite," said Anatoly Kochnev as quoted by Sputnik. Kochnev is a researcher at Beringia national park and an expert in sea mammals. He said that the ice in coastal waters did not melt even in summer. This led to return of walruses. When there is no ice, polar bears cannot hunt for seals. Retention of ice has meant that seals reappeared and polar bear got their preferred food, Polar bears prefer to hunt seals than walruses. However, if ice recedes, polar bears are forced to hunt for seals. Polar bear is an endangered animal and cooling of Pacific Arctic region is surely is good sign.

Polar bears return to Pacific Arctic for first time in 20 years

From Afghanistan to Iraq, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, America is cutting down its military presence & pulling back from conflicts it escalated. For a country that wants to be seen as a superpower, this retreat is humiliating. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: America is retreating from conflicts it escalated

Millions of people across the western United States and Canada were hit Sunday by a new round of scorching hot temperatures, with some roads closed, train traffic limited and new evacuations ordered.

In Canada, with wildfires continuing to spread -- including 50 more blazes erupting in the past two days -- the government announced new emergency measures aimed at preventing further fires.

Sweltering conditions hit much of the Pacific seaboard and as far inland as the western edge of the Rocky Mountains over the weekend. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pacific-north-west-heatwave-killed-almost-200-people-396895">Also read | US Pacific north-west heatwave killed almost 200 people</a> 
 
"A dangerous heatwave will affect much of the western US, with record-breaking temperatures likely," the National Weather Service said on its website Sunday, while Canadian meteorologists predicted highs approaching 90 Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) in parts of western Canada -- well above seasonal norms. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-place-is-safe-reveal-scientists-amid-unprecedented-heatwave-in-parts-of-us-and-canada-395939">Also read | No place is safe, reveal scientists amid unprecedented heatwave in parts of US and Canada</a> 
 
Las Vegas on Saturday matched its record of 117 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) -- a temperature recorded in the desert entertainment city once in 1942 and three other times since 2005.

Sunday was expected to be only a few degrees cooler there, while Death Valley, California -- often the nation's hottest spot -- was headed for a high of 126 degrees Fahrenheit.

Forecasters issued an excessive heat warning for several other urban centres including the southern city of Phoenix and San Jose, the centre of the Silicon Valley tech industry south of San Francisco. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-canada-experience-heatwave-un-confirms-record-heat-in-antarctica-395224">Also read |&nbsp;As US &amp; Canada experience heatwave, UN confirms record heat in Antarctica</a>

The weekend's hot weather follows an earlier heat wave that struck the western United States and Canada at the end of June.

The scorching conditions saw the record daily temperature broken three days in a row in the Canadian province of British Columbia.

Warming temperatures

Canadian transport minister Omar Alghabra on Sunday announced new emergency measures aimed at preventing further wildfires in the tinder-dry region, including steps to slow or limit train traffic.

Trains are a common cause of wildfires, often when their spark-arresting devices are poorly maintained.

Several roads and highways in the area have been closed as the government rated the wildfire risk in much of the province as "extreme." A dozen towns or locales remained under evacuation orders.

The Canadian government has sent investigators to the town of Lytton, 150 miles (250 kilometres) northeast of Vancouver, to see whether a passing cargo train might have caused a late June fire that destroyed 90 per cent of the town.

The overall deaths in British Columbia were not yet known but are thought to run into the hundreds.

As of Sunday morning, the number of wildfires across British Columbia was continuing to rise, hitting 298, authorities said.

In the US state of Oregon, the Bootleg Fire more than tripled in size between Friday and Sunday, gaining more than 100,000 acres, according to the US Forest Service.

Last month was the hottest June on record in North America, according to data released by the European Union's climate monitoring service.

Human activity has driven global temperatures up, stoking increasingly fierce storms, extreme heatwaves, droughts and wildfires.

The World Meteorological Organisation and Britain's Met Office said in May there was a 40 per cent chance of the annual average global temperature temporarily surpassing 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial temperatures within the next five years.

The past six years, including 2020, have been the six warmest on record.

Millions of people across the western United States and Canada were hit Sunday by a new round of scorching hot temperatures, with some roads closed, train traffic limited and new evacuations ordered.

Millions of people across the western United States and Canada were hit Sunday by a new round of scorching hot temperatures, with some roads closed, train traffic limited and new evacuations ordered. In Canada, with wildfires continuing to spread -- including 50 more blazes erupting in the past two days -- the government announced new emergency measures aimed at preventing further fires. Sweltering conditions hit much of the Pacific seaboard and as far inland as the western edge of the Rocky Mountains over the weekend. Also read | US Pacific north-west heatwave killed almost 200 people "A dangerous heatwave will affect much of the western US, with record-breaking temperatures likely," the National Weather Service said on its website Sunday, while Canadian meteorologists predicted highs approaching 90 Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) in parts of western Canada -- well above seasonal norms. Also read | No place is safe, reveal scientists amid unprecedented heatwave in parts of US and Canada Las Vegas on Saturday matched its record of 117 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) -- a temperature recorded in the desert entertainment city once in 1942 and three other times since 2005. Sunday was expected to be only a few degrees cooler there, while Death Valley, California -- often the nation's hottest spot -- was headed for a high of 126 degrees Fahrenheit. Forecasters issued an excessive heat warning for several other urban centres including the southern city of Phoenix and San Jose, the centre of the Silicon Valley tech industry south of San Francisco. Also read | As US & Canada experience heatwave, UN confirms record heat in Antarctica The weekend's hot weather follows an earlier heat wave that struck the western United States and Canada at the end of June. The scorching conditions saw the record daily temperature broken three days in a row in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Warming temperatures Canadian transport minister Omar Alghabra on Sunday announced new emergency measures aimed at preventing further wildfires in the tinder-dry region, including steps to slow or limit train traffic. Trains are a common cause of wildfires, often when their spark-arresting devices are poorly maintained. Several roads and highways in the area have been closed as the government rated the wildfire risk in much of the province as "extreme." A dozen towns or locales remained under evacuation orders. The Canadian government has sent investigators to the town of Lytton, 150 miles (250 kilometres) northeast of Vancouver, to see whether a passing cargo train might have caused a late June fire that destroyed 90 per cent of the town. The overall deaths in British Columbia were not yet known but are thought to run into the hundreds. As of Sunday morning, the number of wildfires across British Columbia was continuing to rise, hitting 298, authorities said. In the US state of Oregon, the Bootleg Fire more than tripled in size between Friday and Sunday, gaining more than 100,000 acres, according to the US Forest Service. Last month was the hottest June on record in North America, according to data released by the European Union's climate monitoring service. Human activity has driven global temperatures up, stoking increasingly fierce storms, extreme heatwaves, droughts and wildfires. The World Meteorological Organisation and Britain's Met Office said in May there was a 40 per cent chance of the annual average global temperature temporarily surpassing 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial temperatures within the next five years. The past six years, including 2020, have been the six warmest on record.

Millions in the US, Canada hit by new rounds of scorching hot temperatures

As health authorities reported 116 deaths in Oregon and 78 in Washington state, the death toll from the record-breaking heatwave that struck the US Pacific north-west rose to nearly 200.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He added, "But climates are changing, and we see the evidence of that with dramatic weather events, major flooding, historic forest fires, and more".

In Oregon, most deaths were in Portland’s Multnomah county. Many people who died lacked air conditioning or fans.&nbsp;

Oregon governor Kate Brown, directed agencies to review how the state can improve its handling of heat emergencies.&nbsp;

Brown also enacted emergency regulations to protect workers from heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-canada-experience-heatwave-un-confirms-record-heat-in-antarctica-395224">Also read |&nbsp;As US &amp; Canada experience heatwave, UN confirms record heat in Antarctica</a>

Richard Bann, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, was quoted by The Guardian saying, "The Pacific north-west got caught in a region where a series of feedbacks set up these very warm temperatures – no, hot temperatures – with very little cloud cover and very warm temperatures at night too".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, humans are not the only ones affected by the deadly heat. British Columbia scientists, more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast are likely to have died from last week’s heatwave.

The heatwave is believed to have killed at least 500 people in Canada, however, it has also had an impact on marine life.

Christopher Harley, a marine biologist at the University of British Columbia, calculated that more than a billion marine animals may have been killed by the unusual heat. As per Harley, a walk along a Vancouver-area beach highlighted the magnitude of devastation brought on by the heatwave.&nbsp;

As per experts, the province needs to adapt to the reality that sudden and sustained heatwaves are likely to become more common. They attributed it to climate change.

As health authorities reported 116 deaths in Oregon and 78 in Washington state, the death toll from the record-breaking heatwave that struck the US Pacific north-west rose to nearly 200.

As health authorities reported 116 deaths in Oregon and 78 in Washington state, the death toll from the record-breaking heatwave that struck the US Pacific north-west rose to nearly 200. He added, "But climates are changing, and we see the evidence of that with dramatic weather events, major flooding, historic forest fires, and more". In Oregon, most deaths were in Portland’s Multnomah county. Many people who died lacked air conditioning or fans. Oregon governor Kate Brown, directed agencies to review how the state can improve its handling of heat emergencies. Brown also enacted emergency regulations to protect workers from heat. Also read | As US & Canada experience heatwave, UN confirms record heat in Antarctica Richard Bann, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, was quoted by The Guardian saying, "The Pacific north-west got caught in a region where a series of feedbacks set up these very warm temperatures – no, hot temperatures – with very little cloud cover and very warm temperatures at night too". Meanwhile, humans are not the only ones affected by the deadly heat. British Columbia scientists, more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast are likely to have died from last week’s heatwave. The heatwave is believed to have killed at least 500 people in Canada, however, it has also had an impact on marine life. Christopher Harley, a marine biologist at the University of British Columbia, calculated that more than a billion marine animals may have been killed by the unusual heat. As per Harley, a walk along a Vancouver-area beach highlighted the magnitude of devastation brought on by the heatwave. As per experts, the province needs to adapt to the reality that sudden and sustained heatwaves are likely to become more common. They attributed it to climate change.

US Pacific north-west heatwave killed almost 200 people

Japan deploys destroyer to gather information after Chinese carrier group spotted in Okinawa and Miyako islands towards the Pacific, Japan has sent its destroyer in retaliation.

Japan sends destroyer to track China's Liaoning aircraft

US Top diplomat Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin visited Japan to extend America's Pacific outreach. In a stern message to China, Blinken said America would push back against Beijing's aggressive tactics if needed. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a full report.

Gravitas: Top US officials extend Pacific outreach in Japan

A recent study has revealed that 'superbugs' may be more dangerous than the novel coronavirus that took over the world in the beginning of this year.

Warning about the bug,&nbsp;Dr Paul De Barro, biosecurity research director at Australia’s national science agency, the CSIRO told local media, “If you thought Covid was bad, you don’t want anti-microbial resistance.”

“I don’t think I’m exaggerating to say it’s the biggest human health threat, bar none. Covid is not anywhere near the potential impact of AMR.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-trials-of-nasal-spray-vaccine-for-coronavirus-326770">Also read:&nbsp;China approves trials of nasal spray vaccine for coronavirus</a>

AMR stands for&nbsp;antimicrobial resistance and can reportedly take humans "back into the dark ages of health.”

The warning has been sound by the Australian scientist, who has also said that while the world is at risk, the problem is acute in the&nbsp;Pacific region.

The drug-resistant bacteria can put the health system at far greater risk than imaginable in the Pacific region as there is very less official data available on this bacteria, and even lesser public knowledge.

“A challenge for Pacific island countries and territories is trying to curtail antimicrobial excess, without jeopardising antimicrobial access for those who need them,” the paper argued.

The study has come a month after the Fiji government announced that 10 people lost their lives to leptospirosis and more than a thousand are suffering from it — a bacterial infection that affects both animals and humans.

The scientists have also warned that unlike coronavirus, social distancing and wearing face masks cannot keep you safe from this disease as this&nbsp;bacteria exists in food, water, air and our everyday-use substances and resources.

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Researchers have also warned the health experts that if this superbug is ignored any longer, it could cause more harm than coronvairus and take nearly&nbsp;350&nbsp;million lives till 2050.

“For instance, we’ve identified people who have a multi-drug-resistant form of tuberculosis and need newer, stronger medication for a longer period of time and those stronger antibiotics are more expensive,” said&nbsp;Dr Donald Wilson, associate dean at the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine.

A recent study has revealed that 'superbugs' may be more dangerous than the novel coronavirus that took over the world in the beginning of this year. Warning about the bug, Dr Paul De Barro, biosecurity research director at Australia’s national science agency, the CSIRO told local media, “If you thought Covid was bad, you don’t want anti-microbial resistance.

A recent study has revealed that 'superbugs' may be more dangerous than the novel coronavirus that took over the world in the beginning of this year. Warning about the bug, Dr Paul De Barro, biosecurity research director at Australia’s national science agency, the CSIRO told local media, “If you thought Covid was bad, you don’t want anti-microbial resistance.” “I don’t think I’m exaggerating to say it’s the biggest human health threat, bar none. Covid is not anywhere near the potential impact of AMR.” Also read: China approves trials of nasal spray vaccine for coronavirus AMR stands for antimicrobial resistance and can reportedly take humans "back into the dark ages of health.” The warning has been sound by the Australian scientist, who has also said that while the world is at risk, the problem is acute in the Pacific region. The drug-resistant bacteria can put the health system at far greater risk than imaginable in the Pacific region as there is very less official data available on this bacteria, and even lesser public knowledge. “A challenge for Pacific island countries and territories is trying to curtail antimicrobial excess, without jeopardising antimicrobial access for those who need them,” the paper argued. The study has come a month after the Fiji government announced that 10 people lost their lives to leptospirosis and more than a thousand are suffering from it — a bacterial infection that affects both animals and humans. The scientists have also warned that unlike coronavirus, social distancing and wearing face masks cannot keep you safe from this disease as this bacteria exists in food, water, air and our everyday-use substances and resources. × Researchers have also warned the health experts that if this superbug is ignored any longer, it could cause more harm than coronvairus and take nearly 350 million lives till 2050. “For instance, we’ve identified people who have a multi-drug-resistant form of tuberculosis and need newer, stronger medication for a longer period of time and those stronger antibiotics are more expensive,” said Dr Donald Wilson, associate dean at the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine.

Superbug is deadlier than COVID-19; situation worse in Pacific

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Companies manufacturing and distributing products, including medicines and personal protective equipment, are increasingly strained as production and distribution ramp-up to address COVID-19.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-may-cause-61-million-loss-to-pakistan-adb-284934">Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB</a>

The support from ADB, working in partnership with commercial banks, will provide such companies in Asia and the Pacific with additional working capital to meet expansion and other requirements.

"The support will target companies in the supply chain that are critical to fighting the virus," said ADB`s Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance Steven Beck.

"We are looking to support companies that want to ramp up production and therefore need to engage suppliers," he added.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-likely-to-cost-global-economy-1-trillion-in-2020-285755">COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020</a>

Given that a single pool of supply chain finance is typically used for a subsequent delivery over a period of 120 to 180 days, the 200 million dollar facility could support more than 400 million dollars of financing over the next 12 months.

A total of 50:50 risk sharing from partner commercial banks could boost support under the facility to 800 million dollars over the same period.

The funds will be made available through ADB`s supply chain finance programme and provided to selected companies within weeks.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-could-get-bigger-in-winters-study-285720">Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study</a>

ADB said it is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on trade finance and is in regular contact with client banks to assess whether additional support is required.

ADB's response to COVID-19 to date includes two million dollars announced on February 7 to enhance detection, prevention and response in China and the Greater Mekong Subregion; another two million dollars announced on February 26 to support response in all its developing members; and an 18.6 million dollar private-sector loan signed on February 25 to Wuhan, China-based pharmaceutical distributor Jointown Pharmaceutical Group to support the continued supply of essential medicines and personal protective equipment.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Companies manufacturing and distributing products, including medicines and personal protective equipment, are increasingly strained as production and distribution ramp-up to address COVID-19. Also read: Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB The support from ADB, working in partnership with commercial banks, will provide such companies in Asia and the Pacific with additional working capital to meet expansion and other requirements. "The support will target companies in the supply chain that are critical to fighting the virus," said ADB`s Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance Steven Beck. "We are looking to support companies that want to ramp up production and therefore need to engage suppliers," he added. Also see: COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020 Given that a single pool of supply chain finance is typically used for a subsequent delivery over a period of 120 to 180 days, the 200 million dollar facility could support more than 400 million dollars of financing over the next 12 months. A total of 50:50 risk sharing from partner commercial banks could boost support under the facility to 800 million dollars over the same period. The funds will be made available through ADB`s supply chain finance programme and provided to selected companies within weeks. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study ADB said it is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on trade finance and is in regular contact with client banks to assess whether additional support is required. ADB's response to COVID-19 to date includes two million dollars announced on February 7 to enhance detection, prevention and response in China and the Greater Mekong Subregion; another two million dollars announced on February 26 to support response in all its developing members; and an 18.6 million dollar private-sector loan signed on February 25 to Wuhan, China-based pharmaceutical distributor Jointown Pharmaceutical Group to support the continued supply of essential medicines and personal protective equipment.

ADB to provide $200 million to support strained supply chains in fight against COVID-19

Peruvian officials on Monday collected tons of garbage on a popular Lima beach in a campaign spanning three dozen beaches in the Pacific, the Amazon and Lake Titicaca.

Cleanup in Peru’s Lake Titicaca

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-tourists-found-alive-two-weeks-after-going-missing-265885">Australia</a> on Wednesday removed the right of doctors to order sick asylum seekers be evacuated from two remote Pacific detention centres for medical treatment, a repeal that opponents said risks the lives of refugees.

Under Australia's controversial immigration policy, asylum seekers intercepted at sea are sent to camps in Papua New Guinea and Nauru. They can never settle in Australia, even if they are found to be refugees.

In February, independent lawmakers and the opposition joined forces to give doctors the right to order sick asylum seekers be sent to Australia if they required medical care.

After securing re-election in May, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would seek to repeal the legislation, though he needed the support of independent lawmakers as the coalition does not enjoy a majority in Australia's upper house Senate.

After weeks of negotiations, the repeal legislation passed Australia's Senate by 37 votes to 35.

"You can take advice from doctors, but doctors aren't elected. They aren't accountable to the public," independent lawmaker Jacqui Lambie, who cast the decisive vote, told the Senate.

Around 500 people remain on the two island centres, many suffering mental health issues after more than six years in detention, aid organisations say.

The United Nations has repeatedly criticised Australia's remote detention centres, insisting they lack adequate medical and mental health care.

"To now deny medical professionals from taking decisions in patients’ best interests,&nbsp;and to effectively hand that power back to unqualified officials... puts those most sick and vulnerable at risk," Paul McPhun, Executive Director of Médecins Sans Frontières Australia said in a statement.

Morrison rejected those allegations, insisting Canberra has provided significant medical aid, while those unable to get necessary treatment can be sent to Australia if the minister for home affairs approves it.

As a result, Morrison said the medical evacuation legislation is unnecessary and undermines Canberra's border policy, designed to discourage asylum seekers from undertaking dangerous sea voyages to Australia.

In 2016, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-china-spy-concerns-australia-launches-anti-espionage-task-force-265625">Australia agreed a deal with former US&nbsp;President Barack Obama</a> to offer refuge to up to 1,250 asylum seekers. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump said it would only honour that deal to maintain a strong relationship with Australia, and then only on condition that refugees satisfied strict checks.

Around 650 refugees have been resettled in the United States, with a further 250 in PNG and Nauru approved to go at a future date, Peter Dutton, the Minister for Home Affairs told reporters in Canberra on Wednesday.

Australia has rejected offers from neighbouring New Zealand to take a further 150 asylum seekers, fearing refugees will use it as a 'backdoor entry' into Australia.

Media reported Lambie has sought a commitment that Canberra will now accept Wellington's offer. Morrison and Lambie declined to comment.

Australia on Wednesday removed the right of doctors to order sick asylum seekers be evacuated from two remote Pacific detention centres for medical treatment, a repeal that opponents said risks the lives of refugees.

Australia on Wednesday removed the right of doctors to order sick asylum seekers be evacuated from two remote Pacific detention centres for medical treatment, a repeal that opponents said risks the lives of refugees. Under Australia's controversial immigration policy, asylum seekers intercepted at sea are sent to camps in Papua New Guinea and Nauru. They can never settle in Australia, even if they are found to be refugees. In February, independent lawmakers and the opposition joined forces to give doctors the right to order sick asylum seekers be sent to Australia if they required medical care. After securing re-election in May, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would seek to repeal the legislation, though he needed the support of independent lawmakers as the coalition does not enjoy a majority in Australia's upper house Senate. After weeks of negotiations, the repeal legislation passed Australia's Senate by 37 votes to 35. "You can take advice from doctors, but doctors aren't elected. They aren't accountable to the public," independent lawmaker Jacqui Lambie, who cast the decisive vote, told the Senate. Around 500 people remain on the two island centres, many suffering mental health issues after more than six years in detention, aid organisations say. The United Nations has repeatedly criticised Australia's remote detention centres, insisting they lack adequate medical and mental health care. "To now deny medical professionals from taking decisions in patients’ best interests, and to effectively hand that power back to unqualified officials... puts those most sick and vulnerable at risk," Paul McPhun, Executive Director of Médecins Sans Frontières Australia said in a statement. Morrison rejected those allegations, insisting Canberra has provided significant medical aid, while those unable to get necessary treatment can be sent to Australia if the minister for home affairs approves it. As a result, Morrison said the medical evacuation legislation is unnecessary and undermines Canberra's border policy, designed to discourage asylum seekers from undertaking dangerous sea voyages to Australia. In 2016, Australia agreed a deal with former US President Barack Obama to offer refuge to up to 1,250 asylum seekers. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump said it would only honour that deal to maintain a strong relationship with Australia, and then only on condition that refugees satisfied strict checks. Around 650 refugees have been resettled in the United States, with a further 250 in PNG and Nauru approved to go at a future date, Peter Dutton, the Minister for Home Affairs told reporters in Canberra on Wednesday. Australia has rejected offers from neighbouring New Zealand to take a further 150 asylum seekers, fearing refugees will use it as a 'backdoor entry' into Australia. Media reported Lambie has sought a commitment that Canberra will now accept Wellington's offer. Morrison and Lambie declined to comment.

Australia restricts medical evacuations of refugees from Pacific camps

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China.

The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles.

For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing.

Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China.

"We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy.

The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report.

"As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday.

The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature.

Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals".

However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April.

The Solomon Islands said Friday that no decision had yet been made on switching the Pacific island nation's diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China. The Solomons are among only 17 nations to recognise Taiwan, but Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare vowed to review the relationship after he was elected in April. A switch would reduce the number of nations backing Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province as well as boosting China's influence among the strategically important Pacific isles. For the Solomons, where less than half the population has access to electricity, the debate offers a chance to weigh up promises of aid from Taipei and Beijing. Government frontbencher Peter Shanel Agovaka, who led a recent ministerial delegation to Beijing to discuss the issue, told a parliamentary committee this week that his preference was to recognise China. "We cannot sit for the next 40 years with our friends Taiwan, it is time that we make new friends," he said, arguing links with China would help boost the Pacific nation's economy. The Solomon Islands' foreign affairs department said no decision had been made and the issue would not be finalised until the cabinet had reviewed a task force report. "As far as can be determined, the Office of Prime Minister has not announced when it is likely to decide on whether or not the government agrees to switch diplomatic ties to China or remain with Taiwan," the department said in a statement issued to media in Taiwan on Friday. The Solomons parliament's foreign relations committee is accepting submissions on the Taiwan-China issue until the end of this month and has an October 31 deadline to report to the legislature. Nations such as Australia and the United States fear Beijing's interest is fuelled by a long-term goal to establish a military base in the islands, offering control of vast swathes of the Pacific Ocean. US Defence Secretary Mark Esper last month accused China of destabilising the region using such tactics, citing "predatory economics and debt-for-sovereignty deals". However, China's ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang has labelled critics "ignorant" and "prejudiced", saying Beijing's main interest is forming partnerships to help Pacific nations.

Solomons say no decision yet in Taiwan-China debate

Manhattan-Sized floating rock in Pacific. To know more watch the video

Manhattan-Sized floating rock in Pacific

The United States no longer has military primacy in the Pacific and could struggle to defend allies against China, a top Australian think tank has warned.

A hard-hitting report from the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney released on Monday said the US military is an "atrophying force" that is&nbsp;"dangerously overstretched" and "ill-prepared" for a confrontation with China.

If correct, the assessment has far-reaching implications for US allies like Australia, Taiwan and Japan who depend on American security guarantees.

Donald Trump's presidency has deepened concerns that Washington would not defend its allies in the face of aggression from China. But this latest report has suggested that the United States may struggle to help even if it wanted to.

Accusing Washington of "strategic insolvency", the authors said decades-long Middle East wars, partisanship and under-investment have left Pacific allies exposed.

China's "growing arsenal of accurate long-range missiles poses a major threat to almost all American, allied and partner bases, airstrips, ports and military installations in the Western Pacific," the report by Australia-based researchers has said.

Under President Xi Jinping, China's official defence budget has increased by around 75 per cent to $178 billion -- although the true figure is believed to be much more.

Crucially, Beijing has invested in precision ballistic missiles and counter-intervention systems that would make it difficult for the US military to reach contested areas quickly.

According to the report, "almost all American, allied and partner bases, airstrips, ports and military installations in the Western Pacific" lack hardened infrastructure and are under major threat.

That advantage could be used to seize territory in Taiwan, Japanese-administered islands or the South China Sea before US forces could get there.

Experts believe that the deployment of US land-based missiles and a changed role for the United States Marine Corps will be vital to countering China, as well as a collective regional defence -- with the likes of Australia and Japan doing more.

In Australia, concerns have been growing about inadequate defences, prompting debate about whether the country should think about developing nuclear weapons.

Similar discussions are have periodically taken place in neighbouring Indonesia.

A separate report released on Sunday by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute recommended Australia boost and harden military capabilities in the thinly-populated north of the country.

"Because of the significantly reduced warning times for future conflict," wrote author John Coyne, it is likely the north of Australia will be used as a forward operating base or a "lily pad" to reach conflict zones. 
The US military has already earmarked around US$210 million to boost a Marine Corps base near Darwin.

During a recent visit to Australia, Defense Secretary Mark Esper suggested the United States wants to deploy intermediate-range missiles in Asia. So far, the Australian government has stressed it has not received a formal request to host those weapons.

The United States no longer has military primacy in the Pacific and could struggle to defend allies against China, a top Australian think tank has warned. A hard-hitting report from the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney released on Monday said the US military is an "atrophying force" that is "dangerously overstretched" and "ill-prepared" for a confrontation with China.

The United States no longer has military primacy in the Pacific and could struggle to defend allies against China, a top Australian think tank has warned. A hard-hitting report from the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney released on Monday said the US military is an "atrophying force" that is "dangerously overstretched" and "ill-prepared" for a confrontation with China. If correct, the assessment has far-reaching implications for US allies like Australia, Taiwan and Japan who depend on American security guarantees. Donald Trump's presidency has deepened concerns that Washington would not defend its allies in the face of aggression from China. But this latest report has suggested that the United States may struggle to help even if it wanted to. Accusing Washington of "strategic insolvency", the authors said decades-long Middle East wars, partisanship and under-investment have left Pacific allies exposed. China's "growing arsenal of accurate long-range missiles poses a major threat to almost all American, allied and partner bases, airstrips, ports and military installations in the Western Pacific," the report by Australia-based researchers has said. Under President Xi Jinping, China's official defence budget has increased by around 75 per cent to $178 billion -- although the true figure is believed to be much more. Crucially, Beijing has invested in precision ballistic missiles and counter-intervention systems that would make it difficult for the US military to reach contested areas quickly. According to the report, "almost all American, allied and partner bases, airstrips, ports and military installations in the Western Pacific" lack hardened infrastructure and are under major threat. That advantage could be used to seize territory in Taiwan, Japanese-administered islands or the South China Sea before US forces could get there. Experts believe that the deployment of US land-based missiles and a changed role for the United States Marine Corps will be vital to countering China, as well as a collective regional defence -- with the likes of Australia and Japan doing more. In Australia, concerns have been growing about inadequate defences, prompting debate about whether the country should think about developing nuclear weapons. Similar discussions are have periodically taken place in neighbouring Indonesia. A separate report released on Sunday by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute recommended Australia boost and harden military capabilities in the thinly-populated north of the country. "Because of the significantly reduced warning times for future conflict," wrote author John Coyne, it is likely the north of Australia will be used as a forward operating base or a "lily pad" to reach conflict zones. The US military has already earmarked around US$210 million to boost a Marine Corps base near Darwin. During a recent visit to Australia, Defense Secretary Mark Esper suggested the United States wants to deploy intermediate-range missiles in Asia. So far, the Australian government has stressed it has not received a formal request to host those weapons.

US power waning in Pacific, China's missiles can destroy its's bases in hours: Australian think tank

Plastic junk spawns desert island disaster in Pacific

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said it was vital "to save the Pacific to save the world" as he wrapped up his brief South Pacific tour in Vanuatu on Saturday.

Guterres has spent the past week in the region pushing for urgent action ahead of a UN summit in September billed as a last chance to prevent irreversible climate change.

According to the UN, Vanuatu is the world's most at-risk country from natural hazards, but Guterres said it was also "leading the way" with is resilience.&nbsp;

At a joint press conference with Vanuatu's Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, Guterres praised the way the country had bounced back from the catastrophic Cyclone Pam which lashed the archipelago in 2015.

It claimed at least 15 lives, flattened villages and impacted nearly half the 300,000 population.&nbsp;

"It is clear that the Pacific is on the frontline of climate change even though they don't contribute to climate change," Guterres told AFP, referring to low-lying Pacific islands which are threatened by rising sea levels.

"So the Pacific has the moral authority to offer a lesson for the rest of the world. We absolutely need to save the Pacific to save the world."

The UN target is to limit rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial revolution levels and Guterres urged governments "to understand that we need transformative measures, in industry, in agriculture and in relation to the oceans".&nbsp;

"I believe it is time to recognise that we need to shift taxation away from people to carbon and pollution instead," he said.&nbsp;

"We need to stop subsidies for fossil fuels. It doesn't make any sense that taxpayers' money is contributing to increased storms, the spread of drought, glaciers melting, corals bleaching and putting these islands in danger."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said it was vital "to save the Pacific to save the world" as he wrapped up his brief South Pacific tour in Vanuatu on Saturday.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said it was vital "to save the Pacific to save the world" as he wrapped up his brief South Pacific tour in Vanuatu on Saturday. Guterres has spent the past week in the region pushing for urgent action ahead of a UN summit in September billed as a last chance to prevent irreversible climate change. According to the UN, Vanuatu is the world's most at-risk country from natural hazards, but Guterres said it was also "leading the way" with is resilience. At a joint press conference with Vanuatu's Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, Guterres praised the way the country had bounced back from the catastrophic Cyclone Pam which lashed the archipelago in 2015. It claimed at least 15 lives, flattened villages and impacted nearly half the 300,000 population. "It is clear that the Pacific is on the frontline of climate change even though they don't contribute to climate change," Guterres told AFP, referring to low-lying Pacific islands which are threatened by rising sea levels. "So the Pacific has the moral authority to offer a lesson for the rest of the world. We absolutely need to save the Pacific to save the world." The UN target is to limit rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial revolution levels and Guterres urged governments "to understand that we need transformative measures, in industry, in agriculture and in relation to the oceans". "I believe it is time to recognise that we need to shift taxation away from people to carbon and pollution instead," he said. "We need to stop subsidies for fossil fuels. It doesn't make any sense that taxpayers' money is contributing to increased storms, the spread of drought, glaciers melting, corals bleaching and putting these islands in danger."

United Nations' chief calls to 'save the Pacific to save the world'

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said.

The fighter jet went missing at around 7:30 pm as it was flying some 135 kilometres east of Misawa, northeastern Japan, a ministry spokeswoman said.

It was not immediately clear if it had it crashed, the spokeswoman said, adding: "We are still trying to search for the aircraft."

The fate of the pilot was not immediately clear.

The plane lost contact about 30 minutes after taking off from Misawa Air Base, public broadcaster NHK said.

The Self-Defence Forces and coastguard dispatched vessels to carry out rescue operations, NHK added.

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said.

A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disappeared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific on Tuesday night, the defence ministry said. The fighter jet went missing at around 7:30 pm as it was flying some 135 kilometres east of Misawa, northeastern Japan, a ministry spokeswoman said. It was not immediately clear if it had it crashed, the spokeswoman said, adding: "We are still trying to search for the aircraft." The fate of the pilot was not immediately clear. The plane lost contact about 30 minutes after taking off from Misawa Air Base, public broadcaster NHK said. The Self-Defence Forces and coastguard dispatched vessels to carry out rescue operations, NHK added.

Japan F-35 fighter jet disappears from radar over Pacific

President Xi Jinping made a push to expand China`s influence in the Pacific on Friday, holding a forum with leaders of eight small island countries in Papua New Guinea.

But Chinese officials barred most media, including reporters from the Pacific, from the forum at which Xi met leaders from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Micronesia, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, as well as Papua New Guinea, in its capital Port Moresby ahead of an APEC summit this weekend.

China`s efforts to win friends in the resource-rich Pacific push have been watched warily by the traditionally influential powers in the region - Australia, New Zealand and the United States - who were not invited to Friday`s forum.

But to the disappointment of many of the journalists there to report on China`s role in the region, Chinese officials barred access to all media, apart from a small list of outlets, citing space and security concerns.

Many of those left out grumbled about what they saw as a lack of transparency around China`s efforts to gain new allies.

"It just sends such a terrible signal," said Jonathan Pryke of Sydney-based think-tank the Lowy Institute.&nbsp;

"It just seems like they are trying to buy influence but not build influence," he said, referring to Chinese aid to the region.

Dozens of accredited journalists were turned away despite being invited to attend by PNG officials, who also arranged transport to the well-guarded forum venue.

Chinese officials said they had not been informed of the host`s plans and had to limit media numbers.

One official suggested journalists could look out for reports on the forum published by China`s state-run news agency Xinhua.

Lina Keapu, photojournalist at PNG`s Sunday Chronicle newspaper said it was a "slap in the face".

"As the local media, we should be there covering it and getting the news to our national public," she said.&nbsp;

Pita Ligaiula, a journalist with the Pacific Island News Association, based in Fiji, said Chinese influence was among the big issues affecting the region and it was important to be able to inform the public about its intentions.

"I come all the way from Fiji only to be told we are not invited to cover this," he said.

China`s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;

Pryke said China had scored an "own goal" by "marginalising domestic media in their own country" when they could have anticipated plenty of positive coverage from the event.

President Xi Jinping made a push to expand China`s influence in the Pacific on Friday, holding a forum with leaders of eight small island countries in Papua New Guinea.

President Xi Jinping made a push to expand China`s influence in the Pacific on Friday, holding a forum with leaders of eight small island countries in Papua New Guinea. But Chinese officials barred most media, including reporters from the Pacific, from the forum at which Xi met leaders from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Micronesia, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, as well as Papua New Guinea, in its capital Port Moresby ahead of an APEC summit this weekend. China`s efforts to win friends in the resource-rich Pacific push have been watched warily by the traditionally influential powers in the region - Australia, New Zealand and the United States - who were not invited to Friday`s forum. But to the disappointment of many of the journalists there to report on China`s role in the region, Chinese officials barred access to all media, apart from a small list of outlets, citing space and security concerns. Many of those left out grumbled about what they saw as a lack of transparency around China`s efforts to gain new allies. "It just sends such a terrible signal," said Jonathan Pryke of Sydney-based think-tank the Lowy Institute. "It just seems like they are trying to buy influence but not build influence," he said, referring to Chinese aid to the region. Dozens of accredited journalists were turned away despite being invited to attend by PNG officials, who also arranged transport to the well-guarded forum venue. Chinese officials said they had not been informed of the host`s plans and had to limit media numbers. One official suggested journalists could look out for reports on the forum published by China`s state-run news agency Xinhua. Lina Keapu, photojournalist at PNG`s Sunday Chronicle newspaper said it was a "slap in the face". "As the local media, we should be there covering it and getting the news to our national public," she said. Pita Ligaiula, a journalist with the Pacific Island News Association, based in Fiji, said Chinese influence was among the big issues affecting the region and it was important to be able to inform the public about its intentions. "I come all the way from Fiji only to be told we are not invited to cover this," he said. China`s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Pryke said China had scored an "own goal" by "marginalising domestic media in their own country" when they could have anticipated plenty of positive coverage from the event.

China's Xi makes push into Pacific; scores 'own goal' with block on media

Harry & Meghan do the haka, rub noses in New Zealand

A US Navy helicopter crashed on board a US aircraft carrier patrolling the Pacific on Friday, causing several injuries, the military said in a statement.

"All injured personnel are in stable condition under evaluation by Ronald Reagan medical staff. While some personnel will be medically evacuated ashore, none of the injuries is life-threatening," the US 7th Fleet said in a statement.

There were no details on how many people were injured when the MH-60 Seahawk crashed shortly after take-off on Friday morning.

"The cause of the mishap is under investigation," the statement added.&nbsp;

The ship was conducting "routine operations" in the Philippine Sea at the time of the accident and remains "fully mission capable," the military added.

The massive nuclear-powered aircraft carrier patrols throughout the Pacific, including sailing through the disputed South China Sea earlier this year as part of a mission intended to reassure Washington's allies in the area.

A US Navy helicopter crashed on board a US aircraft carrier patrolling the Pacific on Friday, causing several injuries, the military said in a statement. "All injured personnel are in stable condition under evaluation by Ronald Reagan medical staff.

A US Navy helicopter crashed on board a US aircraft carrier patrolling the Pacific on Friday, causing several injuries, the military said in a statement. "All injured personnel are in stable condition under evaluation by Ronald Reagan medical staff. While some personnel will be medically evacuated ashore, none of the injuries is life-threatening," the US 7th Fleet said in a statement. There were no details on how many people were injured when the MH-60 Seahawk crashed shortly after take-off on Friday morning. "The cause of the mishap is under investigation," the statement added. The ship was conducting "routine operations" in the Philippine Sea at the time of the accident and remains "fully mission capable," the military added. The massive nuclear-powered aircraft carrier patrols throughout the Pacific, including sailing through the disputed South China Sea earlier this year as part of a mission intended to reassure Washington's allies in the area.

Several hurt in chopper crash on US carrier in Pacific

Tanzania and India have traditionally enjoyed close, friendly and cooperative relations. The country, located in eastern Africa, has the Indian Ocean to its west.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a state visit to Tanzania on July 9 and 10 in 2016. Tanzanian Foreign Minister Dr&nbsp;Augustine Mahiga was in Delhi recently and spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal.

Mahiga backed the Indo-Pacific concept and admitted that Chinese debt is a concern for Africa. Here are excerpts from the interview.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Tanzania ties? 
Dr Augustine Mahiga: India-Tanzania ties are very healthy. They go a long way, over 50 years. Historically, geographically and culturally, they are very strong ties. In fact what we doing is not only to cement the areas of cooperation but to expand the areas of cooperation. In the whole gambit of partnership — in trade, in investment, in technology, in capacity building, in cultural ties.

SS: Are India and Tanzania looking at an energy partnership? Did you discuss that with the external affairs minister? 
AM: We discussed the modalities of working together. It is a sector that is expanding. There are many opportunities in the energy sector; not only covering oil and gas, covering solar, wind, coal and geothermal. There is diversity in various sources of energy. The prospects and opportunity for India to participate are boundless

SS: How do you see the Indo-Pacific construct? Will Tanzania back the concept? 
AM: We need a maritime regime that is rules-based. We need freedom of movement. International trade is to a great extent maritime trade. This is an area where connectivity between the Indian&nbsp;and Pacific oceans must be encouraged and must be opened. India is strategically placed between the Indian and Pacific ocean. So any kind of international discussion on the right to shipping and opportunities for a maritime regime that will be unfettered and based on rules regulations, Tanzania ready to work with India and other countries in the Pacific and Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

SS: How do you see India vs China in Africa? Chinese debt has been a concern? 
AM: Well, of course, there is room (for everyone). Africa is an emerging market and there is room for many countries to invest and do business with Africa. The debt issue is not only a concern to China but first and foremost a concern for Africa. It is important not to build up new debts. Our relationship with any country,&nbsp;not only China or India, but we also have to make sure the debt issue is properly managed.

Tanzania and India have traditionally enjoyed close, friendly and cooperative relations. The country, located in eastern Africa, has the Indian Ocean to its west.

Tanzania and India have traditionally enjoyed close, friendly and cooperative relations. The country, located in eastern Africa, has the Indian Ocean to its west. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a state visit to Tanzania on July 9 and 10 in 2016. Tanzanian Foreign Minister Dr Augustine Mahiga was in Delhi recently and spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal. Mahiga backed the Indo-Pacific concept and admitted that Chinese debt is a concern for Africa. Here are excerpts from the interview. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Tanzania ties? Dr Augustine Mahiga: India-Tanzania ties are very healthy. They go a long way, over 50 years. Historically, geographically and culturally, they are very strong ties. In fact what we doing is not only to cement the areas of cooperation but to expand the areas of cooperation. In the whole gambit of partnership — in trade, in investment, in technology, in capacity building, in cultural ties. SS: Are India and Tanzania looking at an energy partnership? Did you discuss that with the external affairs minister? AM: We discussed the modalities of working together. It is a sector that is expanding. There are many opportunities in the energy sector; not only covering oil and gas, covering solar, wind, coal and geothermal. There is diversity in various sources of energy. The prospects and opportunity for India to participate are boundless SS: How do you see the Indo-Pacific construct? Will Tanzania back the concept? AM: We need a maritime regime that is rules-based. We need freedom of movement. International trade is to a great extent maritime trade. This is an area where connectivity between the Indian and Pacific oceans must be encouraged and must be opened. India is strategically placed between the Indian and Pacific ocean. So any kind of international discussion on the right to shipping and opportunities for a maritime regime that will be unfettered and based on rules regulations, Tanzania ready to work with India and other countries in the Pacific and Indian Ocean. SS: How do you see India vs China in Africa? Chinese debt has been a concern? AM: Well, of course, there is room (for everyone). Africa is an emerging market and there is room for many countries to invest and do business with Africa. The debt issue is not only a concern to China but first and foremost a concern for Africa. It is important not to build up new debts. Our relationship with any country, not only China or India, but we also have to make sure the debt issue is properly managed.

Chinese debt a concern for Africa, Tanzania Foreign Minister tells WION

North Korea has accused Washington of planning a pre-emptive nuclear strike, after the US announced it would deploy its B-1 bomber in the Pacific for the first time in a decade. 
 
The strategic aircraft were to be deployed on Saturday on the US island of Guam, the US military said last month, describing the operation as a routine rotation with the B-52 bomber.&nbsp; 
 
Tensions have been running high since North Korea carried out its fourth nuclear test in January, followed by a barrage of missile launches that this month reached Japanese waters directly for the first time.&nbsp; 
 
Pyongyang accused Washington of &quot;becoming all the more pronounced in their moves to topple down the DPRK by mobilizing all nuclear war hardware,&quot; using North Korea&#39;s official title. 
 
&quot;The enemies are bluffing that they can mount a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the DPRK by letting fly B-1B over the Korean peninsula within two-three hours in contingency,&quot; said an English-language statement on state media.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Such moves for bolstering nuclear force exposes again that the US imperialists are making a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the DPRK a fait accompli.&quot; 
 
North Korea has threatened &quot;physical action&quot; over the planned deployment of a sophisticated US anti-missile system in South Korea, known as THAAD. 
 
Tensions on the divided Korean peninsula are also building ahead of an annual South Korea-US military exercise later this month. 
 
On July 29, the US Air Force said it would upgrade its hardware on Guam, a US territory in the western Pacific, by sending the B-1 for the first time since April 2006.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;The B-1 will provide US Pacific Command and its regional allies and partners with a credible, strategic power projection platform,&quot; it said 
in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
Pyongyang has repeatedly warned it may carry out pre-emptive nuclear strikes against the South and US targets, domestic and abroad. Ultimately, the North wants to be able to strike on the continental US.&nbsp; 
 
The secretive state, led by supreme leader Kim Jong-un, warned on Saturday it would respond to any aggression by reducing the US to a &quot;sea of flames&quot;. 
 
&quot;The ever-mounting moves of the US imperialists to ignite a nuclear war are pushing the situation on the Korean peninsula into the uncontrollable and catastrophic phase,&quot; said the KCNA statement. 
 
(AFP)

The accusation comes after US announced that it would a Bi-bomber in the Pacific on the US island of Guam

North Korea has accused Washington of planning a pre-emptive nuclear strike, after the US announced it would deploy its B-1 bomber in the Pacific for the first time in a decade. The strategic aircraft were to be deployed on Saturday on the US island of Guam, the US military said last month, describing the operation as a routine rotation with the B-52 bomber. Tensions have been running high since North Korea carried out its fourth nuclear test in January, followed by a barrage of missile launches that this month reached Japanese waters directly for the first time. Pyongyang accused Washington of "becoming all the more pronounced in their moves to topple down the DPRK by mobilizing all nuclear war hardware," using North Korea's official title. "The enemies are bluffing that they can mount a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the DPRK by letting fly B-1B over the Korean peninsula within two-three hours in contingency," said an English-language statement on state media. "Such moves for bolstering nuclear force exposes again that the US imperialists are making a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the DPRK a fait accompli." North Korea has threatened "physical action" over the planned deployment of a sophisticated US anti-missile system in South Korea, known as THAAD. Tensions on the divided Korean peninsula are also building ahead of an annual South Korea-US military exercise later this month. On July 29, the US Air Force said it would upgrade its hardware on Guam, a US territory in the western Pacific, by sending the B-1 for the first time since April 2006. "The B-1 will provide US Pacific Command and its regional allies and partners with a credible, strategic power projection platform," it said in a statement. Pyongyang has repeatedly warned it may carry out pre-emptive nuclear strikes against the South and US targets, domestic and abroad. Ultimately, the North wants to be able to strike on the continental US. The secretive state, led by supreme leader Kim Jong-un, warned on Saturday it would respond to any aggression by reducing the US to a "sea of flames". "The ever-mounting moves of the US imperialists to ignite a nuclear war are pushing the situation on the Korean peninsula into the uncontrollable and catastrophic phase," said the KCNA statement. (AFP)

North Korea: US is planning 'pre-emptive nuclear strike'

US and Australian troops plan to step up training so they are &quot;fully prepared&quot; to answer challenges in the Pacific, US Vice President Joe Biden said today amid rising tensions over Beijing&#39;s claims in the South China Sea.&nbsp; 
 
Speaking in Sydney after meeting Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Biden said the two nations were a &quot;genuine brotherhood&quot; committed to &quot;making sure the sea lanes are open and the skies are free for navigation&quot;.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;They are the life bloodlines of commerce and the economic growth worldwide,&quot; Biden said in the wake of last weeks ruling by a UN-backed tribunal against Beijings claims in the disputed waters. 
 
Beijing asserts sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, despite rival claims from its Southeast Asian neighbours -- most notably US ally the Philippines, which took the case to the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration.&nbsp; 
 
The United States, like Australia, has no claims of its own in the South China Sea, but insists that all shipping has a right to pass through seas it regards as international waters.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;We also discussed the steps that Australia and the United States are taking so our troops can train more together and increase our interoperability so that we are fully prepared to respond to any challenges, any challenges, in the Pacific with a united front,&quot; Biden said. 
 
&quot;It is important we stand together,&quot; he added, as he stressed that the United States was a Pacific power and intended to remain so. 
 
Turnbull used a short media briefing alongside Biden to announce that Australia was expanding its role in Iraq to include the training of law enforcement officers and police as well as its current training of the Iraqi army. 
 
Australia has been a staunch ally of the United States in Iraq and in the fight against the Islamic State group. 
 
Biden&#39;s visit, which comes as President Barack Obama enters the final months of his administration, ends on Wednesday when he travels to New Zealand. 
 
(AFP)&nbsp;

Australia has been a staunch ally of the United States in Iraq and in the fight against the Islamic State group?

US and Australian troops plan to step up training so they are "fully prepared" to answer challenges in the Pacific, US Vice President Joe Biden said today amid rising tensions over Beijing's claims in the South China Sea. Speaking in Sydney after meeting Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Biden said the two nations were a "genuine brotherhood" committed to "making sure the sea lanes are open and the skies are free for navigation". "They are the life bloodlines of commerce and the economic growth worldwide," Biden said in the wake of last weeks ruling by a UN-backed tribunal against Beijings claims in the disputed waters. Beijing asserts sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, despite rival claims from its Southeast Asian neighbours -- most notably US ally the Philippines, which took the case to the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration. The United States, like Australia, has no claims of its own in the South China Sea, but insists that all shipping has a right to pass through seas it regards as international waters. "We also discussed the steps that Australia and the United States are taking so our troops can train more together and increase our interoperability so that we are fully prepared to respond to any challenges, any challenges, in the Pacific with a united front," Biden said. "It is important we stand together," he added, as he stressed that the United States was a Pacific power and intended to remain so. Turnbull used a short media briefing alongside Biden to announce that Australia was expanding its role in Iraq to include the training of law enforcement officers and police as well as its current training of the Iraqi army. Australia has been a staunch ally of the United States in Iraq and in the fight against the Islamic State group. Biden's visit, which comes as President Barack Obama enters the final months of his administration, ends on Wednesday when he travels to New Zealand. (AFP)

South China Sea dispute: US, Australia a 'united front' in Pacific, says Biden?

Speaker of the US House of Representatives,&nbsp;Paul Ryan, has said that the Indian government is going to be America&#39;s &quot;great ally&quot;, and there is a need to nurture this relationship.
In a major foreign policy speech in which he was highly critical of President Barack Obama&#39;s policies, the US-India relationship was the only aspect of it which was appreciated by Ryan.
&quot;I think you need, in particular, specifically under Modi&#39;s leadership, and he and I have discussed this at great length yesterday, (US-India) have a great potential for the future. Particularly with the seas, in the Pacific and in the Indian Ocean, making sure that we help police the global commons and international order. Namely China building, you know, runways on islands in contested areas,&quot; Ryan said.

He said this in the speech at the Council on Foreign Relations on Thursday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress at his invitation.
Modi was the first foreign leader to be invited to address a joint sitting of the Congress under Ryan&#39;s speakership.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Modi and Ryan had a one-on-one interaction before the Prime Minister&#39;s address. Ryan also hosted a lunch for the visiting leader.

A day later, Ryan was all in praise for Modi.&nbsp;&quot;I think the Indian (government), the new Indian government, is going to be a great ally of ours and we have better security cooperation with them. That&#39;s one thing that we need to nurture and grow,&quot; Ryan told the audience at the Council on Foreign Relations, a top American think tank.

&quot;And those of us who are fans of Modi, you know, he&#39;s a conservative who wants, who embraces, free enterprise. He&#39;s bringing needed reform to the country,&quot; Ryan said, according to the remarks released by his office.

&quot;That&#39;s the kind of an alliance that we need to forge and build upon. That stands in stark contrast, I would argue, to the Obama foreign policy of the last eight years where we have neglected our allies and we have basically rewarded our enemies, our adversaries,&quot; said the Speaker of the US House of Representatives.

Except for his comments on India, Ryan slammed Obama&#39;s foreign policy.&nbsp;&quot;We know that this new Obama foreign policy concept, leading from behind, can now be declared an unambiguous failure. It is making us unprepared. It is reducing our military capability and strength,&quot; he alleged.

Though Ryan, Speaker of the US House of Representatives, criticised most of Obama's policies, he appreciated the US-India relationship

Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, has said that the Indian government is going to be America's "great ally", and there is a need to nurture this relationship. In a major foreign policy speech in which he was highly critical of President Barack Obama's policies, the US-India relationship was the only aspect of it which was appreciated by Ryan. "I think you need, in particular, specifically under Modi's leadership, and he and I have discussed this at great length yesterday, (US-India) have a great potential for the future. Particularly with the seas, in the Pacific and in the Indian Ocean, making sure that we help police the global commons and international order. Namely China building, you know, runways on islands in contested areas," Ryan said. He said this in the speech at the Council on Foreign Relations on Thursday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress at his invitation. Modi was the first foreign leader to be invited to address a joint sitting of the Congress under Ryan's speakership. On Wednesday, Modi and Ryan had a one-on-one interaction before the Prime Minister's address. Ryan also hosted a lunch for the visiting leader. A day later, Ryan was all in praise for Modi. "I think the Indian (government), the new Indian government, is going to be a great ally of ours and we have better security cooperation with them. That's one thing that we need to nurture and grow," Ryan told the audience at the Council on Foreign Relations, a top American think tank. "And those of us who are fans of Modi, you know, he's a conservative who wants, who embraces, free enterprise. He's bringing needed reform to the country," Ryan said, according to the remarks released by his office. "That's the kind of an alliance that we need to forge and build upon. That stands in stark contrast, I would argue, to the Obama foreign policy of the last eight years where we have neglected our allies and we have basically rewarded our enemies, our adversaries," said the Speaker of the US House of Representatives. Except for his comments on India, Ryan slammed Obama's foreign policy. "We know that this new Obama foreign policy concept, leading from behind, can now be declared an unambiguous failure. It is making us unprepared. It is reducing our military capability and strength," he alleged.

Paul Ryan believes Indian government is going to be America's 'great ally'

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