Amazon has reported its first quarterly loss since 2015, its money-making juggernaut stalled by a slowdown in pandemic-induced online shopping and a huge write-down of its investment in an electric-vehicle startup.

The Seattle-based e-commerce giant's stock fell 9 per cent&nbsp;on Thursday in after-hours trading.

Amazon reported a loss of $3.84 billion, or $7.56 a share, for the first three months of the year. A year ago, it reported a profit of $8.1 billion, or $15.79 a share, for the first quarter. Wall Street analysts expected a profit of $8.35 a share in the latest quarter, according to FactSet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-workers-in-small-new-jersey-facility-file-for-union-election-472118">Amazon workers in small New Jersey facility file for union election</a>

The ocean of red ink in Amazon's report came mostly from the company's accounting for a $7.6 billion loss in value of its stock investment in Rivian Automotive. Rivian went public in late 2021 and its stock traded at close $180 at one point. It closed Thursday at $32.18. Ford Motor Co reported a similar write-down of the value of its Rivian investment Wednesday.

Amazon's e-commerce business also reported an operating loss of $1.57 billion in North America and $1.28 billion internationally.

Meanwhile, sales at Amazon's cloud-computing business, which helps power the online operations of Netflix, McDonald's and other companies, grew 37 per cent in the quarter. And sales in its advertising business, where brands pay to get their products to show up first when shoppers search on Amazon's site, rose 25 per cent.

Still, the slowdown in online spending is real and broad-based. While in-store sales rose, March is the first month to show decline in online sales since the pandemic began, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse, which tracks spending made over the Mastercard payments network and survey estimates for other payments made with cash and checks.

Amazon prospered during the COVID-19 pandemic as homebound people eager to limit human contact turned online to purchase what they need. But growth has slowed as vaccinated Americans feel more comfortable going out. According to the e-commerce research firm MarketPlace Pulse, the value of goods sold on Amazon last year grew by half the rate compared to 2020.

Watch |&nbsp;Amazon's new union demands company start bargaining in early May

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Like many others, Amazon is dealing with pressure from inflation and supply-chain issues. In the past two years, Amazon's Chief Financial Officer Brian Olsavsky said the company has doubled the size of its operations and nearly doubled its workforce.

He said labour shortages and a lack of physical space are no longer major issues, but the company continues to face a variety of pressures such as increased shipping costs.

Inflation-related expenses added roughly $2 billion of incremental costs when compared to last year, Olsavsky said, adding that the company also incurred another $4 billion in costs related to productivity loss and other inefficiencies.

The pandemic and subsequent war in Ukraine have brought unusual growth and challenges,&nbsp;said Amazon CEO Andy Jassy in a statement. Our teams are squarely focused on improving productivity and cost efficiencies throughout our fulfillment network. We know how to do this and have done it before.

To offset rising fuel costs and inflation, the retail giant has added a 5 per cent&nbsp;surcharge to fees it charges third-party sellers who use its fulfillment services. Last quarter, Amazon also hiked its annual Prime membership fee by $20, a first since 2018. Despite the fee hike, Olsavsky said millions of new Prime members have enrolled during the quarter.

Revenue rose 7 per cent&nbsp;to $116.44 billion, compared with $108.52 billion in first quarter 2021, representing the company's sixth consecutive quarter of revenue topping $100 billion. Amazon had projected sales between $112 billion and $117 billion. Analysts surveyed by FactSet were expecting $116.5 billion.

WATCH&nbsp;WION LIVE HERE:

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Given the pace at which the business grew over the past few years this shift is hardly surprising," said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail.

"It represents more of a post pandemic reset than catastrophic failure. Nevertheless, the slowdown raises important questions over how Amazon can restore momentum and regain its leadership position as one of the primary drivers of online growth.

Amazon said it forecasts sales for the current quarter to range between $116 billion and $121 billion, below the $125.33 billion that analysts are forecasting.

The results come as Amazon is closing all of its brick-and-mortar bookstores, as well as its 4-star shops and pop up locations, as the online retail behemoth reworks its physical footprint. The company also faces a growing unionisation push from inside its workforce.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-calls-for-election-re-run-after-workers-voted-for-first-us-union-469893">Amazon calls for election re-run after workers voted for first US union</a>

A second union election is currently underway at a company warehouse on Staten Island, New York, the same borough where workers at a nearby facility voted to unionise earlier this month. Amazon has filed objections over the election with the National

Labour Relations Board and is seeking to re-do the vote.

The final outcome of a separate union election in Bessemer, Alabama, is still up in the air with 416 outstanding challenged ballots hanging in the balance. Hearings to review the ballots are expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Amazon has reported its first quarterly loss since 2015, its money-making juggernaut stalled by a slowdown in pandemic-induced online shopping and a huge write-down of its investment in an electric-vehicle startup.

Amazon has reported its first quarterly loss since 2015, its money-making juggernaut stalled by a slowdown in pandemic-induced online shopping and a huge write-down of its investment in an electric-vehicle startup. The Seattle-based e-commerce giant's stock fell 9 per cent on Thursday in after-hours trading. Amazon reported a loss of $3.84 billion, or $7.56 a share, for the first three months of the year. A year ago, it reported a profit of $8.1 billion, or $15.79 a share, for the first quarter. Wall Street analysts expected a profit of $8.35 a share in the latest quarter, according to FactSet. Also read | Amazon workers in small New Jersey facility file for union election The ocean of red ink in Amazon's report came mostly from the company's accounting for a $7.6 billion loss in value of its stock investment in Rivian Automotive. Rivian went public in late 2021 and its stock traded at close $180 at one point. It closed Thursday at $32.18. Ford Motor Co reported a similar write-down of the value of its Rivian investment Wednesday. Amazon's e-commerce business also reported an operating loss of $1.57 billion in North America and $1.28 billion internationally. Meanwhile, sales at Amazon's cloud-computing business, which helps power the online operations of Netflix, McDonald's and other companies, grew 37 per cent in the quarter. And sales in its advertising business, where brands pay to get their products to show up first when shoppers search on Amazon's site, rose 25 per cent. Still, the slowdown in online spending is real and broad-based. While in-store sales rose, March is the first month to show decline in online sales since the pandemic began, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse, which tracks spending made over the Mastercard payments network and survey estimates for other payments made with cash and checks. Amazon prospered during the COVID-19 pandemic as homebound people eager to limit human contact turned online to purchase what they need. But growth has slowed as vaccinated Americans feel more comfortable going out. According to the e-commerce research firm MarketPlace Pulse, the value of goods sold on Amazon last year grew by half the rate compared to 2020. Watch | Amazon's new union demands company start bargaining in early May Like many others, Amazon is dealing with pressure from inflation and supply-chain issues. In the past two years, Amazon's Chief Financial Officer Brian Olsavsky said the company has doubled the size of its operations and nearly doubled its workforce. He said labour shortages and a lack of physical space are no longer major issues, but the company continues to face a variety of pressures such as increased shipping costs. Inflation-related expenses added roughly $2 billion of incremental costs when compared to last year, Olsavsky said, adding that the company also incurred another $4 billion in costs related to productivity loss and other inefficiencies. The pandemic and subsequent war in Ukraine have brought unusual growth and challenges, said Amazon CEO Andy Jassy in a statement. Our teams are squarely focused on improving productivity and cost efficiencies throughout our fulfillment network. We know how to do this and have done it before. To offset rising fuel costs and inflation, the retail giant has added a 5 per cent surcharge to fees it charges third-party sellers who use its fulfillment services. Last quarter, Amazon also hiked its annual Prime membership fee by $20, a first since 2018. Despite the fee hike, Olsavsky said millions of new Prime members have enrolled during the quarter. Revenue rose 7 per cent to $116.44 billion, compared with $108.52 billion in first quarter 2021, representing the company's sixth consecutive quarter of revenue topping $100 billion. Amazon had projected sales between $112 billion and $117 billion. Analysts surveyed by FactSet were expecting $116.5 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Given the pace at which the business grew over the past few years this shift is hardly surprising," said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail. "It represents more of a post pandemic reset than catastrophic failure. Nevertheless, the slowdown raises important questions over how Amazon can restore momentum and regain its leadership position as one of the primary drivers of online growth. Amazon said it forecasts sales for the current quarter to range between $116 billion and $121 billion, below the $125.33 billion that analysts are forecasting. The results come as Amazon is closing all of its brick-and-mortar bookstores, as well as its 4-star shops and pop up locations, as the online retail behemoth reworks its physical footprint. The company also faces a growing unionisation push from inside its workforce. Also read | Amazon calls for election re-run after workers voted for first US union A second union election is currently underway at a company warehouse on Staten Island, New York, the same borough where workers at a nearby facility voted to unionise earlier this month. Amazon has filed objections over the election with the National Labour Relations Board and is seeking to re-do the vote. The final outcome of a separate union election in Bessemer, Alabama, is still up in the air with 416 outstanding challenged ballots hanging in the balance. Hearings to review the ballots are expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Amazon reports rare quarterly loss as online shopping slows

Extreme heat waves: Here is how to keep yourself protected

When in love is it okay to marry your pet?&nbsp;

With immense love for her pet cat India, UK woman Deborah Hodge tied the knot in a civil ceremony. This was the best plan the 49-year-old managed to devise after facing eviction a couple of times. After having had to vacate multiple homes as landlords had objections over pets, the mother of two now considered marrying her 5-year-old pet cat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kelloggs-launches-legal-challenge-to-counter-new-rules-in-uk-to-limit-sugary-foods-474449">Kellogg's launches legal challenge against UK's new rules to limit sugary foods &nbsp;</a>

The move also comes after she had to let go off two of her pet dogs and a cat in the past. If a marriage can save you from eviction and ensure the company of your beloved pet, isn't it a good idea?

Hodge and India's wedding took place earlier this month and was ordained by the former's friend, there were guests who witnessed this union as well. At the ceremony, India sported a tuxedo and was draped in gold lamé.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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“I recited vows under the universe that no man will ever tear myself and India apart," Hodge told The Post. 5-year-old India was meowing as the vows were being recited, she added.

“I refuse to be parted with her. I'd rather live on the streets than be without her," Hodge expressed. Conveying the message to her future landlords that they are now inseparable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-defence-ministry-investigating-russian-hack-targeting-its-army-recruits-473963">United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits</a>

Her kids and India are the most important to Hodge and this union is testimony to the fact.

Now, Hodge fears eviction yet again this time as she unexpectedly lost her job as a life coach.

(With inputs from Agencies)

When in love is it okay to marry your pet? With immense love for her pet cat India, UK woman Deborah Hodge tied the knot in a civil ceremony. This was the best plan the 49-year-old managed to devise after facing eviction a couple of times.

When in love is it okay to marry your pet? With immense love for her pet cat India, UK woman Deborah Hodge tied the knot in a civil ceremony. This was the best plan the 49-year-old managed to devise after facing eviction a couple of times. After having had to vacate multiple homes as landlords had objections over pets, the mother of two now considered marrying her 5-year-old pet cat. Also read | Kellogg's launches legal challenge against UK's new rules to limit sugary foods The move also comes after she had to let go off two of her pet dogs and a cat in the past. If a marriage can save you from eviction and ensure the company of your beloved pet, isn't it a good idea? Hodge and India's wedding took place earlier this month and was ordained by the former's friend, there were guests who witnessed this union as well. At the ceremony, India sported a tuxedo and was draped in gold lamé. WATCH WION LIVE HERE “I recited vows under the universe that no man will ever tear myself and India apart," Hodge told The Post. 5-year-old India was meowing as the vows were being recited, she added. “I refuse to be parted with her. I'd rather live on the streets than be without her," Hodge expressed. Conveying the message to her future landlords that they are now inseparable. Also read | United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits Her kids and India are the most important to Hodge and this union is testimony to the fact. Now, Hodge fears eviction yet again this time as she unexpectedly lost her job as a life coach. (With inputs from Agencies)

Fearing separation, UK woman marries pet cat

Anime and Manga are synonymous to Japan and that fixation has gone to a whole new level. 38-year-old Akihiko Kondo, who unofficially married fictional character Hatsune Miku in 2018, now, seems to be going through a turbulent phase.

This comes after a decade-long relationship with the computer-synthesized pop singer who had shared stage with Lady Gaga. Crediting his partner, Kondo said that she helped him pave his way out of depression.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-europe-japan-reports-first-case-of-mysterious-hepatitis-474195">After US &amp; Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis</a>

Kondo, who has a regular job and enjoys the company of friends, while speaking to news agencies spoke of his emotions for the character to be genuine and true. This isn't an unusual relationship, in fact there are thousands of fictosexuals in Japan.

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How did he document his marriage?

It was a boon in 2017, when a company name Gatebox introduced a device that let people interact with these anime and Manga figures. And to authenticate the bond the company had introduced unofficial weddings with certificates. That's how Kondo celebrated his union with Miku in an intimate ceremony attended by close friends.

Watch |&nbsp;Tech Talk: Would you quit Instagram for BeReal? Why it's attracting Gen Z?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-talk-would-you-quit-instagram-for-bereal-why-its-attracting-gen-z-473044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, when everything about their relationship was so good then what really went wrong?

It was the ripples of the pandemic that the company Gatebox had to discontinue this special service. And with this Miku's image from the device also disappeared. The day the service snapped Kondo said his last goodbye to Miku as he left for office.

Though he hopes to meet her again, maybe on another system. What's perfect about their love story is that he says he will love her till the end of time.

 
(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Anime and Manga are synonymous to Japan and that fixation has gone to a whole new level. 38-year-old Akihiko Kondo, who unofficially married fictional character Hatsune Miku in 2018, now, seems to be going through a turbulent phase.

Anime and Manga are synonymous to Japan and that fixation has gone to a whole new level. 38-year-old Akihiko Kondo, who unofficially married fictional character Hatsune Miku in 2018, now, seems to be going through a turbulent phase. This comes after a decade-long relationship with the computer-synthesized pop singer who had shared stage with Lady Gaga. Crediting his partner, Kondo said that she helped him pave his way out of depression. Also read | After US & Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis Kondo, who has a regular job and enjoys the company of friends, while speaking to news agencies spoke of his emotions for the character to be genuine and true. This isn't an unusual relationship, in fact there are thousands of fictosexuals in Japan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 近藤 顕彦 (@akihikokondosk) × How did he document his marriage? It was a boon in 2017, when a company name Gatebox introduced a device that let people interact with these anime and Manga figures. And to authenticate the bond the company had introduced unofficial weddings with certificates. That's how Kondo celebrated his union with Miku in an intimate ceremony attended by close friends. Watch | Tech Talk: Would you quit Instagram for BeReal? Why it's attracting Gen Z? Now, when everything about their relationship was so good then what really went wrong? It was the ripples of the pandemic that the company Gatebox had to discontinue this special service. And with this Miku's image from the device also disappeared. The day the service snapped Kondo said his last goodbye to Miku as he left for office. Though he hopes to meet her again, maybe on another system. What's perfect about their love story is that he says he will love her till the end of time. (With inputs from Agencies)

Trouble in paradise for Japanese man who married a fictional character

World Malaria Day 2022: From causes to who all are at risk, here's all you need to know

Toll in Japan boat accident rises as officials confirm death of a child

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were&nbsp;rescued&nbsp;after&nbsp;an overloaded&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat capsized off&nbsp;north&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said.

The boat carrying nearly 60 people capsized on Saturday night near the port city of Tripoli, the departure point for a growing number of people attempting a potentially lethal sea escape.

The deadly accident, weeks ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for May 15, is not the first of its kind for the crisis-hit country grappling with its worst-ever financial crash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-hands-over-337-ancient-artifacts-to-iraq-451135">Lebanon hands over 337 ancient artifacts to Iraq</a>

But it marks a grim reminder of the suffering behind a growing number of people, including Lebanese nationals and Syrian refugees, risking their lives at sea in search of a future abroad.

"The army's naval forces managed to rescue&nbsp;48&nbsp;people and retrieve the body of a&nbsp;dead&nbsp;girl... from a boat that sank while trying to illegally smuggle them out," the army said in a statement.

"Most people on board were&nbsp;rescued," the army said, without specifying their nationalities.

The army retrieved five corpses&nbsp;off&nbsp;Tripoli's coast on Sunday, the state-run National News Agency reported, hours&nbsp;after&nbsp;the body of a little girl was returned to shore.

Wails of relatives rang out from a Tripoli morgue where the corpses were being kept, according to an AFP correspondent.

Dozens looked on as a group of men stormed into the morgue and pulled out the corpse of a victim for burial, the correspondent said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Migrant boat capsizes of Lebanon, Lebanese officials rescue 50 migrants

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/migrant-boat-capsizes-of-lebanon-lebanese-officials-rescue-50-migrants-473438/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nearby dozens of young men lobbed stones at two army tanks, to vent their anger at the sea tragedy.

At Tripoli's port, relatives of the missing impatiently waited for news of their loved ones.

"My nephew, he has five children and his wife is pregnant with twins. He was trying to escape hunger and poverty," one man told AFP at the dockside harbour.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Sunk in seconds&nbsp;

Haissam Dannaoui, the head of&nbsp;Lebanon's naval forces, said the 10-meter (33-foot) boat built in 1974 was designed to only accomodate six passengers.

But it was crammed with nearly 60 would-be migrants and took to sea without any safety precautions, he told a news conference.

Dannaoui said the army tried to thwart the smuggling operation before the&nbsp;ship&nbsp;sailed out of the Qalamoun region, south of Tripoli, but could not reach the departure point in time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-you-in-your-madness-lebanon-changes-slogan-to-attract-tourists-427041">‘I love you in your madness’: Lebanon changes slogan to attract tourists</a>

An ensuing sea chase saw two naval patrols trying to force the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat to turn back.

"Unfortunately, the captain (of the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat) decided to carry out manoeuvres to escape," leading to the vessel crashing into the patrol ships, Dannaoui said.

The impact cracked the hull of the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat, which quickly submerged, he said.

"In less than five seconds, the boat was under water," Dannaoui said, adding that passengers were quickly handed life jackets.

But one of the survivors said a naval&nbsp;ship&nbsp;had deliberately crashed into the&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;boat to force it back.

"Tho patrol boat crashed into us twice... to drown us," the man told AFP at the port, before he was silenced and carried&nbsp;off&nbsp;by a crowd of survivors' relatives.

The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;Najat Rochdi called for an end to these repeated tragedies.&nbsp;

"It's horrific to see deprivation still pushing people to take a perilous journey across the seas," she said on Twitter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-says-government-cant-afford-to-resign-as-saudi-rift-widens-425326">Lebanon says government can't afford to resign as Saudi rift widens</a>

Death catches up

The latest incident stoked public anger in Tripoli,&nbsp;Lebanon's second city and one of its poorest.

Growing poverty and unemployment rates have turned Tripoli into a launchpad for illegal migrants.

Calls circulated on social media networks for protests outside the Tripoli home of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who declared Monday a day of national mourning to grieve the victims.

The relatives of the victims and the missing lashed out at the country's leaders.

"Even when we are trying to run away from the filth of politicians and their corruption... death catches up with us," said Nissrine Merheb who hasn't heard from her two cousins and their three children since they embarked on the deadly voyage.&nbsp;

Lebanon&nbsp;is in the grips of an unprecedented financial crisis, with the currency losing more than 90 percent of its value and the majority of the population living below the poverty line.

The economic crash has spurred an uptick in illegal sea crossings, with Lebanese nationals increasingly featuring among the Syrian and Palestinian refugees attempting sea escapes.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-loses-electricity-as-2-power-stations-face-shut-down-amid-fuel-crisis-419481">Lebanon loses electricity as 2 power stations face shut down amid fuel crisis</a>

The UN refugee agency says at&nbsp;least&nbsp;1,570 people, 186 of them Lebanese, left or tried to leave illegally by sea from&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;between January and November 2021.

Most were hoping to reach European Union member Cyprus, an island 175 kilometres (110 miles) away.

In the second half of 2021,&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;stopped around 500 would-be migrants from crossing out of the country, the country's naval chief said Saturday.

At least six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were rescued after an overloaded migrant boat capsized off north Lebanon during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said.

At least six people died, including a little girl, and almost 50 others were rescued after an overloaded migrant boat capsized off north Lebanon during a chase by naval forces, Lebanese officials said. The boat carrying nearly 60 people capsized on Saturday night near the port city of Tripoli, the departure point for a growing number of people attempting a potentially lethal sea escape. The deadly accident, weeks ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for May 15, is not the first of its kind for the crisis-hit country grappling with its worst-ever financial crash. Also read | Lebanon hands over 337 ancient artifacts to Iraq But it marks a grim reminder of the suffering behind a growing number of people, including Lebanese nationals and Syrian refugees, risking their lives at sea in search of a future abroad. "The army's naval forces managed to rescue 48 people and retrieve the body of a dead girl... from a boat that sank while trying to illegally smuggle them out," the army said in a statement. "Most people on board were rescued," the army said, without specifying their nationalities. The army retrieved five corpses off Tripoli's coast on Sunday, the state-run National News Agency reported, hours after the body of a little girl was returned to shore. Wails of relatives rang out from a Tripoli morgue where the corpses were being kept, according to an AFP correspondent. Dozens looked on as a group of men stormed into the morgue and pulled out the corpse of a victim for burial, the correspondent said. Watch | Migrant boat capsizes of Lebanon, Lebanese officials rescue 50 migrants Nearby dozens of young men lobbed stones at two army tanks, to vent their anger at the sea tragedy. At Tripoli's port, relatives of the missing impatiently waited for news of their loved ones. "My nephew, he has five children and his wife is pregnant with twins. He was trying to escape hunger and poverty," one man told AFP at the dockside harbour. Sunk in seconds Haissam Dannaoui, the head of Lebanon's naval forces, said the 10-meter (33-foot) boat built in 1974 was designed to only accomodate six passengers. But it was crammed with nearly 60 would-be migrants and took to sea without any safety precautions, he told a news conference. Dannaoui said the army tried to thwart the smuggling operation before the ship sailed out of the Qalamoun region, south of Tripoli, but could not reach the departure point in time. Also read | ‘I love you in your madness’: Lebanon changes slogan to attract tourists An ensuing sea chase saw two naval patrols trying to force the migrant boat to turn back. "Unfortunately, the captain (of the migrant boat) decided to carry out manoeuvres to escape," leading to the vessel crashing into the patrol ships, Dannaoui said. The impact cracked the hull of the migrant boat, which quickly submerged, he said. "In less than five seconds, the boat was under water," Dannaoui said, adding that passengers were quickly handed life jackets. But one of the survivors said a naval ship had deliberately crashed into the migrant boat to force it back. "Tho patrol boat crashed into us twice... to drown us," the man told AFP at the port, before he was silenced and carried off by a crowd of survivors' relatives. The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon Najat Rochdi called for an end to these repeated tragedies. "It's horrific to see deprivation still pushing people to take a perilous journey across the seas," she said on Twitter. Also read | Lebanon says government can't afford to resign as Saudi rift widens Death catches up The latest incident stoked public anger in Tripoli, Lebanon's second city and one of its poorest. Growing poverty and unemployment rates have turned Tripoli into a launchpad for illegal migrants. Calls circulated on social media networks for protests outside the Tripoli home of Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who declared Monday a day of national mourning to grieve the victims. The relatives of the victims and the missing lashed out at the country's leaders. "Even when we are trying to run away from the filth of politicians and their corruption... death catches up with us," said Nissrine Merheb who hasn't heard from her two cousins and their three children since they embarked on the deadly voyage. Lebanon is in the grips of an unprecedented financial crisis, with the currency losing more than 90 percent of its value and the majority of the population living below the poverty line. The economic crash has spurred an uptick in illegal sea crossings, with Lebanese nationals increasingly featuring among the Syrian and Palestinian refugees attempting sea escapes. Also read | Lebanon loses electricity as 2 power stations face shut down amid fuel crisis The UN refugee agency says at least 1,570 people, 186 of them Lebanese, left or tried to leave illegally by sea from Lebanon between January and November 2021. Most were hoping to reach European Union member Cyprus, an island 175 kilometres (110 miles) away. In the second half of 2021, Lebanon stopped around 500 would-be migrants from crossing out of the country, the country's naval chief said Saturday.

At least 6 dead, 48 rescued after migrant ship capsizes off Lebanon

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday.

The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement.

He said police were informed about a hideout where the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) "are manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices used in attacking police stations and government facilities in the state".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-claims-nigeria-bombing-says-about-30-killed-or-hurt-472676">Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt</a>

"In the course of the raid, one Simeon Onigbo, 50 years, was arrested. On interrogation, the suspect admitted being the manufacturer of most of the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) used in attacking police stations in the state and outside the state."

Abattam said items recovered included one IED, cannon steel piping, bags of potassium nitrate, sulphur, sand and gunpowder.

"Investigation is ongoing. The suspect has made useful statement and mentioned members of his gang outside the state," he added.

Southeast Nigeria has seen a surge in violence, with more than 130 police and other security personnel killed by gunmen since last year, according to local media tallies.

Authorities have blamed attacks on either IPOB, which is campaigning for a separate state for the ethnic Igbo people, or ESN.

Watch |&nbsp;African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-students-allege-hostilities-nigerian-medical-students-return-home-459211/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The group has denied responsibility for the violence.&nbsp;

IPOB said on Saturday, "Those behind these atrocities are not IPOB members nor are they Eastern Security Network operatives."

"The perpetrators are criminals recruited by our enemies to demonise us," an IPOB statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-seminary-student-dies-while-re-enacting-jesus-christs-crucifixion-471916">Nigeria: Seminary student&nbsp;dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion</a>

"No member of IPOB will engage in acts inimical to the people we are struggling to liberate. We are not terrorists and we cannot suddenly resort to terrorism."&nbsp;

Last month, gunmen using dynamite attacked two police stations in Imo.

Separatist movements in Nigeria are a particularly sensitive issue, after a 1967 unilateral declaration of an independent Biafra republic by dissident Igbo army officers sparked a 30-month civil war.

More than one million people,&nbsp;mostly Igbos, died from the conflict, hunger and disease.

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday. The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement.

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday. The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement. He said police were informed about a hideout where the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) "are manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices used in attacking police stations and government facilities in the state". Also read | Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt "In the course of the raid, one Simeon Onigbo, 50 years, was arrested. On interrogation, the suspect admitted being the manufacturer of most of the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) used in attacking police stations in the state and outside the state." Abattam said items recovered included one IED, cannon steel piping, bags of potassium nitrate, sulphur, sand and gunpowder. "Investigation is ongoing. The suspect has made useful statement and mentioned members of his gang outside the state," he added. Southeast Nigeria has seen a surge in violence, with more than 130 police and other security personnel killed by gunmen since last year, according to local media tallies. Authorities have blamed attacks on either IPOB, which is campaigning for a separate state for the ethnic Igbo people, or ESN. Watch | African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home The group has denied responsibility for the violence. IPOB said on Saturday, "Those behind these atrocities are not IPOB members nor are they Eastern Security Network operatives." "The perpetrators are criminals recruited by our enemies to demonise us," an IPOB statement said. Also read | Nigeria: Seminary student dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion "No member of IPOB will engage in acts inimical to the people we are struggling to liberate. We are not terrorists and we cannot suddenly resort to terrorism." Last month, gunmen using dynamite attacked two police stations in Imo. Separatist movements in Nigeria are a particularly sensitive issue, after a 1967 unilateral declaration of an independent Biafra republic by dissident Igbo army officers sparked a 30-month civil war. More than one million people, mostly Igbos, died from the conflict, hunger and disease.

Nigerian police raid bomb factory in restive southeast

Venice imposes tax and reservation system for travellers

An 11-year-old boy named CJ Jasme miraculously escaped an extremely dangerous landslide in the Baybay area of the Philippines by staying in a refrigerator for a whole day.

A video went viral of his unusual life preserver when the authorities found him, and called it nothing less than a miracle, as reported by the New York Post.

Jasme was with his family when the landslide struck, generated by the tropical storm Megi, which led to the deaths of hundreds of people. As Jasme saw the mudslide approach, the 11-year-old jumped into the family refrigerator.

He then hunkered down inside the appliance for nearly 20 hours to protect himself from the storm. The moment authorities found the refrigerator, they immediately sent out an SOS because another landslide was approaching.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/death-toll-from-tropical-storm-megi-in-philippines-reaches-133-470898">Death toll from tropical storm 'Megi' in Philippines reaches 133</a>

The boy, who was thankfully awake, just suffered a broken leg as a result of this event. He was first given the required assistance and then underwent surgery to repair his broken leg.

As per the authorities, the boy is currently in stable condition, though his family was unlucky as his mother and younger siblings are still missing, and his father died in another landslide the day before his house was destroyed.

His older sibling is thought to have missed this incident.

Watch |&nbsp;Tropical storm 'Megi' leaves trail of destruction in Philippines, claims 148 lives

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tropical-storm-megi-leaves-trail-of-destruction-in-philippines-claims-148-lives-471259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Police officer Jonas Etis stated that the boy was rescued by the rescue crew and was then carried on stretcher after dragging the broken appliance out of the dirt like a coffin. The boy’s first word was ‘I’m hungry,’ reported New York Post.</div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-president-rodrigo-duterte-chinese-president-xi-call-for-restraint-in-south-china-sea-469720">Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte and China's Xi call for restraint in South China Sea</a>

Furthermore, the storm has resulted in nearly 200 local residents being hurt and 172 people being dead in the Baybay area alone. The search for those who have gone missing is still ongoing.

An 11-year-old boy named CJ Jasme miraculously escaped an extremely dangerous landslide in the Baybay area of the Philippines by staying in a refrigerator for a whole day.

An 11-year-old boy named CJ Jasme miraculously escaped an extremely dangerous landslide in the Baybay area of the Philippines by staying in a refrigerator for a whole day. A video went viral of his unusual life preserver when the authorities found him, and called it nothing less than a miracle, as reported by the New York Post. Jasme was with his family when the landslide struck, generated by the tropical storm Megi, which led to the deaths of hundreds of people. As Jasme saw the mudslide approach, the 11-year-old jumped into the family refrigerator. He then hunkered down inside the appliance for nearly 20 hours to protect himself from the storm. The moment authorities found the refrigerator, they immediately sent out an SOS because another landslide was approaching. Also read | Death toll from tropical storm 'Megi' in Philippines reaches 133 The boy, who was thankfully awake, just suffered a broken leg as a result of this event. He was first given the required assistance and then underwent surgery to repair his broken leg. As per the authorities, the boy is currently in stable condition, though his family was unlucky as his mother and younger siblings are still missing, and his father died in another landslide the day before his house was destroyed. His older sibling is thought to have missed this incident. Watch | Tropical storm 'Megi' leaves trail of destruction in Philippines, claims 148 lives Police officer Jonas Etis stated that the boy was rescued by the rescue crew and was then carried on stretcher after dragging the broken appliance out of the dirt like a coffin. The boy’s first word was ‘I’m hungry,’ reported New York Post. Also read | Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte and China's Xi call for restraint in South China Sea Furthermore, the storm has resulted in nearly 200 local residents being hurt and 172 people being dead in the Baybay area alone. The search for those who have gone missing is still ongoing.

11-year-old boy survives landslide by staying inside fridge for 20 hours in Philippines

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence.

In a series of tweets, Gadkari said, "We have constituted an expert committee to enquire into these incidents and make recommendations on remedial steps.

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"Based on the reports, we will issue necessary orders on the defaulting companies," the road transport and highways minister said.

The transport minister said that the government will soon issue quality-centric guidelines for electric vehicles.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kartarpur Pilgrimage under scanner

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-kartarpur-pilgrimage-under-scanner-472817/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Gadkari has asked the companies to recall all defective batches of vehicles immediately, adding, "If any company is found negligent in their processes, a heavy penalty will be imposed."

"Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, our government is committed to ensure safety of each and every commuter," he tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/home-guard-snatches-citizens-vehicle-for-cm-gets-suspended-472680">Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister</a>

The government had ordered a probe last month after an e-scooter launched by ride-hailing operator Ola's electric mobility arm caught fire in Pune.

The Centre for Fire Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES) had been asked to probe the circumstances that led to the incident and also suggest remedial measures, according to the road transport ministry. The ministry had also asked CFEES to share the findings along with its suggestions on measures to prevent such incidents.

So far, three incidents have come to the fore where Pure EV, one Ola, two Okinawa, and 20 Jitendra EV scooters have caught fire.

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence.

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence. In a series of tweets, Gadkari said, "We have constituted an expert committee to enquire into these incidents and make recommendations on remedial steps. Also read | ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath recalls his early days at ISRO, what it takes to be a space scientist "Based on the reports, we will issue necessary orders on the defaulting companies," the road transport and highways minister said. The transport minister said that the government will soon issue quality-centric guidelines for electric vehicles. Watch | Gravitas: Kartarpur Pilgrimage under scanner Gadkari has asked the companies to recall all defective batches of vehicles immediately, adding, "If any company is found negligent in their processes, a heavy penalty will be imposed." "Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, our government is committed to ensure safety of each and every commuter," he tweeted. Also read | Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister The government had ordered a probe last month after an e-scooter launched by ride-hailing operator Ola's electric mobility arm caught fire in Pune. The Centre for Fire Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES) had been asked to probe the circumstances that led to the incident and also suggest remedial measures, according to the road transport ministry. The ministry had also asked CFEES to share the findings along with its suggestions on measures to prevent such incidents. So far, three incidents have come to the fore where Pure EV, one Ola, two Okinawa, and 20 Jitendra EV scooters have caught fire.

After EV battery explosion claims 1 life, Indian minister takes tough stand on companies

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country.

Northeast Nigeria, especially the states of Borno and Yobe, have been in the grip of Islamist insurgencies for over a decade, but Taraba, located at the eastern end of Nigeria's Middle Belt central region, has not previously been attacked.

The explosion took place on Tuesday in Iware, a rural town, and local police initially said three people were killed and 19 injured. They could not immediately be reached on Thursday to comment on the Islamic State claim or casualty count.

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In a statement posted late on Wednesday on a Telegram messaging channel used by Islamic State to distribute its propaganda, the group described those who detonated the bomb in the market as "soldiers of the caliphate in central Nigeria".

The statement said the attack had struck "a gathering of infidel Christians" and expressed satisfaction that the drinking spot had been damaged. It did not break down the casualty figure into dead and injured.

Watch |&nbsp;Social enterprise in Kenya treats human waste, turns waste into fuel

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/social-enterprise-in-kenya-treats-human-waste-turns-waste-into-fuel-471906/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The whole of Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has been suffering from a rise in crime and violence, exacerbated by the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</div>

Armed robberies are rife everywhere, kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common, and the northwest has been hit by mass abductions of children from schools as well as indiscriminate attacks on towns and village by armed gangs.

The worst and longest-running crisis, however, is in the northeast, where rival Islamist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have killed, abducted and looted on a massive scale whilst fighting against the Nigerian military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-condemns-reports-of-racism-at-ukraine-border-457416">Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border</a>

In the latest attack, on the town of Geidam in Yobe State, Boko Haram fighters came in the early hours of Thursday and burnt down a school and several private buildings, according to two residents and two security sources.

The residents said a local drinking spot selling beer had been attacked. One said he had seen nine dead bodies, while the other said he had seen several dead including two women. The authorities were yet to release a death toll.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country. Northeast Nigeria, especially the states of Borno and Yobe, have been in the grip of Islamist insurgencies for over a decade, but Taraba, located at the eastern end of Nigeria's Middle Belt central region, has not previously been attacked. The explosion took place on Tuesday in Iware, a rural town, and local police initially said three people were killed and 19 injured. They could not immediately be reached on Thursday to comment on the Islamic State claim or casualty count. Also read | Nigeria: Seminary student dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion In a statement posted late on Wednesday on a Telegram messaging channel used by Islamic State to distribute its propaganda, the group described those who detonated the bomb in the market as "soldiers of the caliphate in central Nigeria". The statement said the attack had struck "a gathering of infidel Christians" and expressed satisfaction that the drinking spot had been damaged. It did not break down the casualty figure into dead and injured. Watch | Social enterprise in Kenya treats human waste, turns waste into fuel The whole of Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has been suffering from a rise in crime and violence, exacerbated by the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Armed robberies are rife everywhere, kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common, and the northwest has been hit by mass abductions of children from schools as well as indiscriminate attacks on towns and village by armed gangs. The worst and longest-running crisis, however, is in the northeast, where rival Islamist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have killed, abducted and looted on a massive scale whilst fighting against the Nigerian military. Also read | Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border In the latest attack, on the town of Geidam in Yobe State, Boko Haram fighters came in the early hours of Thursday and burnt down a school and several private buildings, according to two residents and two security sources. The residents said a local drinking spot selling beer had been attacked. One said he had seen nine dead bodies, while the other said he had seen several dead including two women. The authorities were yet to release a death toll.

Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt

Sri Lankan authorities on Thursday lifted the curfew imposed in the southwestern region of Rambukkana where one person was killed and 13 others were injured in violence after the police opened fire at unarmed anti-government protestors demonstrating against the latest fuel price hike.

The curfew was lifted at 5 AM (local time) on Wednesday, police said.

At least three of the 14 hospitalised protesters at Rambukkana, some 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo, were critical at the Kegalle hospital, according to an official. Fifteen police personnel have also been injured.

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Foreign Minister G L Peiris told reporters: We have requested the Human Rights Commission to conduct an impartial inquiry. We want to be honest and we do not want to sweep anything under the carpet.

Chaminda Lakshan, a 41-year-old man who died of gunshot wounds, is survived by two children.

I want justice for my father's death. I do not want money or any other help, his 16-year-old daughter Piyumi Lakshani told reporters.

She said that her father was not a protester and had gone to buy petrol for his motorcycle.

The death of a protester was the first during the ongoing protests over the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history.

Top bureaucrat of the public security ministry Jagath Alwis said the protesters tried to set on fire a fuel tanker having 33,000 liters of fuel.

The police were forced to open fire to prevent a fuel bowser being set in flames by the protesters.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Killing of a protester sparks outrage in Sri Lanka

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-killing-of-a-protester-sparks-outrage-in-sri-lanka-472528/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Alwis said a three-member probe committee has been appointed to probe if the police had used excessive power in opening the fire at protesters.</div>

The embassies of the US, the EU, and the UN resident coordinator have issued statements condemning the police shooting.

The latest fuel price hike on Monday night triggered street protests in many areas on Tuesday.

Oil entities in the island nation have been hiking the price regularly due to the shortage of fuel.

Kegalle Magistrate Wasana Navaratne visited the site of the shooting and ordered the police not to intimidate witnesses. The police had produced one protester in court.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-shot-dead-by-cops-at-anti-govt-protest-as-fury-grows-over-economic-crisis-472189">&nbsp;Sri Lankan shot dead by cops at anti-govt protest as fury grows over economic crisis</a>

Meanwhile, the police said that a 20-member panel has been appointed to investigate the shooting incident.

Protests continued in most parts of the island nation against the government for its mishandling of the economic crisis.

The main protest near President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's secretariat enters its 13th day on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka is grappling with unprecedented economic turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948. The crisis is caused in part by a lack of foreign currency, which has meant that the country cannot afford to pay for imports of staple foods and fuel, leading to acute shortages and very high prices.

The island nation is witnessing large-scale protests against the government's handling of the debt-ridden economy - the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-president-appoints-17-cabinet-ministers-amid-calls-for-govt-ouster-471796">Sri Lankan president appoints 17 cabinet ministers amid calls for govt ouster</a>

Protests demanding the resignation of President Rajapaksa and his Sri Lanka Podujana (Peramuna)-led government have intensified as shortages continued and prices soared.

Last week, the Sri Lankan government said it would temporarily default on USD 35.5 billion in foreign debt as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine made it impossible to make payments to overseas creditors.

Sri Lankan authorities on Thursday lifted the curfew imposed in the southwestern region of Rambukkana where one person was killed and 13 others were injured in violence after the police opened fire at unarmed anti-government protestors demonstrating against the latest fuel price hike.

Sri Lankan authorities on Thursday lifted the curfew imposed in the southwestern region of Rambukkana where one person was killed and 13 others were injured in violence after the police opened fire at unarmed anti-government protestors demonstrating against the latest fuel price hike. The curfew was lifted at 5 AM (local time) on Wednesday, police said. At least three of the 14 hospitalised protesters at Rambukkana, some 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo, were critical at the Kegalle hospital, according to an official. Fifteen police personnel have also been injured. Also read | India urges IMF to provide urgent bailout to Sri Lanka Foreign Minister G L Peiris told reporters: We have requested the Human Rights Commission to conduct an impartial inquiry. We want to be honest and we do not want to sweep anything under the carpet. Chaminda Lakshan, a 41-year-old man who died of gunshot wounds, is survived by two children. I want justice for my father's death. I do not want money or any other help, his 16-year-old daughter Piyumi Lakshani told reporters. She said that her father was not a protester and had gone to buy petrol for his motorcycle. The death of a protester was the first during the ongoing protests over the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history. Top bureaucrat of the public security ministry Jagath Alwis said the protesters tried to set on fire a fuel tanker having 33,000 liters of fuel. The police were forced to open fire to prevent a fuel bowser being set in flames by the protesters. Watch | Gravitas: Killing of a protester sparks outrage in Sri Lanka Alwis said a three-member probe committee has been appointed to probe if the police had used excessive power in opening the fire at protesters. The embassies of the US, the EU, and the UN resident coordinator have issued statements condemning the police shooting. The latest fuel price hike on Monday night triggered street protests in many areas on Tuesday. Oil entities in the island nation have been hiking the price regularly due to the shortage of fuel. Kegalle Magistrate Wasana Navaratne visited the site of the shooting and ordered the police not to intimidate witnesses. The police had produced one protester in court. Also read | Sri Lankan shot dead by cops at anti-govt protest as fury grows over economic crisis Meanwhile, the police said that a 20-member panel has been appointed to investigate the shooting incident. Protests continued in most parts of the island nation against the government for its mishandling of the economic crisis. The main protest near President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's secretariat enters its 13th day on Wednesday. Sri Lanka is grappling with unprecedented economic turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948. The crisis is caused in part by a lack of foreign currency, which has meant that the country cannot afford to pay for imports of staple foods and fuel, leading to acute shortages and very high prices. The island nation is witnessing large-scale protests against the government's handling of the debt-ridden economy - the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history. Also read | Sri Lankan president appoints 17 cabinet ministers amid calls for govt ouster Protests demanding the resignation of President Rajapaksa and his Sri Lanka Podujana (Peramuna)-led government have intensified as shortages continued and prices soared. Last week, the Sri Lankan government said it would temporarily default on USD 35.5 billion in foreign debt as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine made it impossible to make payments to overseas creditors.

Sri Lanka lifts curfew in Rambukkana; probe begins on police firing at unarmed protesters

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid&nbsp;restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses.

Many restaurants reported full bookings for the coming weeks as&nbsp;dining&nbsp;out has been extended until 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) from 6 p.m. and group gatherings have been expanded to four people, from two previously. Many schools have also resumed in-person learning after months of online classes.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has eased the measures as Shanghai authorities said tough coronavirus restrictions would remain in place for now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/plastic-everywhere-chinas-zero-covid-facilities-causing-environmental-problems-472088">Plastic everywhere: Hong Kong's zero-Covid facilities have become an environmental nightmare</a>

Residents flocked to gyms, salons and massage parlours, while others visited temples and churches which had also been shut.

"Everyone has things to do and be able to make money. It's excellent and people can come out for activities again, everyone is happy," said Idy Lee, 44, who owns a hair salon in the city's bustling Mong Kok district.

The easing comes as the number of daily&nbsp;COVID-19 infections in the global financial hub dropped below 1,000 for the past six days from a peak of more than 70,000 on March 3.

While many residents are relieved at the relaxation of rules, scores of businesses have already closed and tens of thousands of people have fled the city as authorities re-imposed measures in January that were first implemented in 2020.

Watch |&nbsp;Plastic waste surges amid COVID crisis: Hong Kong landfills run out of space

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/plastic-waste-surges-amid-covid-crisis-hong-kong-landfills-run-out-of-space-472197/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has grappled to impose a "dynamic zero" covid&nbsp;policy similar to mainland China, which aims to quash all outbreaks versus living with the virus as many countries are doing.

Hong&nbsp;Kong's borders have been effectively sealed since 2020 with few flights able to land and hardly any passengers allowed to transit, isolating a city that had built a reputation as a global hub.

Swimming pools and beaches remain shut, frustrating many athletes and residents. Bars, nightclubs and saunas are also still closed, with many unable to stay afloat and others on borrowed time.

"The reopening of gyms is a happy thing, but I hope the government will give us some subsidies because we have been closed on and off for a year and a half and lost a lot of customers," Parker Chan, a 25-year-old coach at Fitness Formula.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-as-infections-fall-470984">Hong Kong to ease COVID-19 restrictions as infections fall</a>

While&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;managed to keep the coronavirus at bay for much of 2021, a surge of the highly contagious Omicron variant brought the former British colony to its knees in February, swamping its world-class medical system as&nbsp;cases&nbsp;ripped through the densely-packed city.

It has recorded more than 1.1 million infections and 8,963 deaths.

Hong Kong reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses.

Hong Kong reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses. Many restaurants reported full bookings for the coming weeks as dining out has been extended until 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) from 6 p.m. and group gatherings have been expanded to four people, from two previously. Many schools have also resumed in-person learning after months of online classes. Hong Kong has eased the measures as Shanghai authorities said tough coronavirus restrictions would remain in place for now. Also read | Plastic everywhere: Hong Kong's zero-Covid facilities have become an environmental nightmare Residents flocked to gyms, salons and massage parlours, while others visited temples and churches which had also been shut. "Everyone has things to do and be able to make money. It's excellent and people can come out for activities again, everyone is happy," said Idy Lee, 44, who owns a hair salon in the city's bustling Mong Kok district. The easing comes as the number of daily COVID-19 infections in the global financial hub dropped below 1,000 for the past six days from a peak of more than 70,000 on March 3. While many residents are relieved at the relaxation of rules, scores of businesses have already closed and tens of thousands of people have fled the city as authorities re-imposed measures in January that were first implemented in 2020. Watch | Plastic waste surges amid COVID crisis: Hong Kong landfills run out of space Hong Kong has grappled to impose a "dynamic zero" covid policy similar to mainland China, which aims to quash all outbreaks versus living with the virus as many countries are doing. Hong Kong's borders have been effectively sealed since 2020 with few flights able to land and hardly any passengers allowed to transit, isolating a city that had built a reputation as a global hub. Swimming pools and beaches remain shut, frustrating many athletes and residents. Bars, nightclubs and saunas are also still closed, with many unable to stay afloat and others on borrowed time. "The reopening of gyms is a happy thing, but I hope the government will give us some subsidies because we have been closed on and off for a year and a half and lost a lot of customers," Parker Chan, a 25-year-old coach at Fitness Formula. Also read | Hong Kong to ease COVID-19 restrictions as infections fall While Hong Kong managed to keep the coronavirus at bay for much of 2021, a surge of the highly contagious Omicron variant brought the former British colony to its knees in February, swamping its world-class medical system as cases ripped through the densely-packed city. It has recorded more than 1.1 million infections and 8,963 deaths.

Hong Kong reopens venues, extends dining hours as covid cases fall

When Ghada Sabatien set out to visit her uncle in a village near Bethlehem, she was not expecting to be caught up in the spike in violence between Israelis and&nbsp;Palestinians.

But the&nbsp;unarmed&nbsp;45-year-old, who was partially sighted and understood little Hebrew, bled to death in the street after "mistakenly" being&nbsp;shot&nbsp;by an&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;soldier.

She leaves behind six orphans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-months-of-peace-tensions-flare-up-between-israel-palestine-rockets-fired-472017">Israel-Palestine conflict: After rocket fire, Israel conducts airstrikes on Gaza</a>

The West Bank village of Husan is usually a quiet backwater, despite being close to a major crossing into Israel.

The shops have signs in both Arabic and Hebrew, and even&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;settlers regularly stop there to buy groceries, with few tensions.

At the entrance to the village,&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;soldiers sit guard on a concrete island that serves as a checkpoint.

On April 10, Ghada set out to visit her uncle, wearing a hijab and long gown.

On the way back, the walk took her past the makeshift checkpoint.&nbsp;

As she approached, a&nbsp;soldier&nbsp;fired warning shots and shouted.&nbsp;

Ghada has "eye problems", her family said, adding that she did not speak Hebrew as she had spent years abroad.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Israelis &amp; Palestinians clash at Jerusalem's holy site

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israelis-palestinians-clash-at-jerusalems-holy-site-471323/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In footage caught by a Palestinian TV crew that happened to be filming nearby, she appeared to panic.

But she kept walking. The&nbsp;soldier&nbsp;opened fire at her legs, and she fell to the floor.

It took several minutes for an ambulance to arrive. By the time she reached a hospital in the nearby town of Beit Jala, she had lost catastrophic amounts of blood.

She died in the hospital.

She cannot be replaced

Ghada was not wearing an explosive vest or carrying any kind of weapon.

Her family have been in shock and anger ever since she was killed.

"My sister went there and asked a&nbsp;soldier&nbsp;in Hebrew: 'Did she do anything wrong?'," Ghada's&nbsp;mother&nbsp;Houria Sabatien, 69, told AFP.

"He answered: 'No'. 'So why did you shoot at her?' she asked. The&nbsp;soldier&nbsp;said: 'Sorry'."

Around her sat her grandchildren, four of Ghada's orphans: Omar, Jamila, Mohammed and Moustafa, their eyes glued to the floor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-police-arrests-nine-palestinians-over-violence-at-al-aqsa-mosque-471689">Israeli police arrest nine Palestinians over violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque</a>

"They've become orphans. And me, I'm old, I'm afraid for them when they go out, I'm afraid for them because of the army," Houria said.&nbsp;

"I would like to feed them and show them life. But I'm afraid for their future."

Moustafa, 15, is struggling to comprehend the tragedy.

"When I lost my&nbsp;mother, it was as if life no longer had any meaning. She was the one who woke us up in the morning, she was the one who welcomed us back from school, she was the one who took care of us," he said.

"She was everything, she cannot be replaced."

He reminisced about Ghada's delicious maqloubeh, a Palestinian dish of rice and meat, and how she would help with his mathematics homework.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-police-palestinians-clash-in-al-aqsa-mosque-59-injured-471116">&nbsp;Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured</a>

"She made me understand straight away," he said.

Mistake

Born into a family of scientists, Ghada Sabatien graduated with a degree in mathematics at Bethlehem University and spent 15 years in Jordan, where she was a teacher. &nbsp;

After her husband died four years ago, Ghada returned to Husan with the children.&nbsp;

She prepared meals, helped with homework, read the Koran, visited extended family members, and occasionally gave private lessons.

"She was an independent, peaceful, educated woman who was not interested in politics at all," says Rafat, her brother.

He said he had received an apology from the&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;army for their "mistake".

AFP approached the army for comment on Ghada's killing.

It said she had run "suspiciously" towards the checkpoint and that soldiers had fired at her legs.

"The suspect received initial medical treatment by IDF soldiers at the scene," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-kill-two-palestinians-in-west-bank-clashes-health-officials-471023">Israeli forces kill two Palestinians in West Bank clashes: health officials</a>

"The circumstances of the case are being reviewed."

The tragedy sparked anger, both among&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;and overseas.

In a rare move, Washington's envoy to the&nbsp;Palestinians, George Noll, called the family to express his condolences.&nbsp;

The Husan area saw a spike in night-time protests. One young man, Qusay Hamamra, was killed by&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;forces after throwing a Molotov cocktail at them.

But Houria said she would teach Ghada's children a different path.

"If we want to fight against Israel, we must do it through education, culture (...) we cannot stay in hatred," she said.

"If I love Ghada, I must teach this to her children."

When Ghada Sabatien set out to visit her uncle in a village near Bethlehem, she was not expecting to be caught up in the spike in violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

When Ghada Sabatien set out to visit her uncle in a village near Bethlehem, she was not expecting to be caught up in the spike in violence between Israelis and Palestinians. But the unarmed 45-year-old, who was partially sighted and understood little Hebrew, bled to death in the street after "mistakenly" being shot by an Israeli soldier. She leaves behind six orphans. Also read | Israel-Palestine conflict: After rocket fire, Israel conducts airstrikes on Gaza The West Bank village of Husan is usually a quiet backwater, despite being close to a major crossing into Israel. The shops have signs in both Arabic and Hebrew, and even Israeli settlers regularly stop there to buy groceries, with few tensions. At the entrance to the village, Israeli soldiers sit guard on a concrete island that serves as a checkpoint. On April 10, Ghada set out to visit her uncle, wearing a hijab and long gown. On the way back, the walk took her past the makeshift checkpoint. As she approached, a soldier fired warning shots and shouted. Ghada has "eye problems", her family said, adding that she did not speak Hebrew as she had spent years abroad. Watch | Gravitas: Israelis & Palestinians clash at Jerusalem's holy site In footage caught by a Palestinian TV crew that happened to be filming nearby, she appeared to panic. But she kept walking. The soldier opened fire at her legs, and she fell to the floor. It took several minutes for an ambulance to arrive. By the time she reached a hospital in the nearby town of Beit Jala, she had lost catastrophic amounts of blood. She died in the hospital. She cannot be replaced Ghada was not wearing an explosive vest or carrying any kind of weapon. Her family have been in shock and anger ever since she was killed. "My sister went there and asked a soldier in Hebrew: 'Did she do anything wrong?'," Ghada's mother Houria Sabatien, 69, told AFP. "He answered: 'No'. 'So why did you shoot at her?' she asked. The soldier said: 'Sorry'." Around her sat her grandchildren, four of Ghada's orphans: Omar, Jamila, Mohammed and Moustafa, their eyes glued to the floor. Also read | Israeli police arrest nine Palestinians over violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque "They've become orphans. And me, I'm old, I'm afraid for them when they go out, I'm afraid for them because of the army," Houria said. "I would like to feed them and show them life. But I'm afraid for their future." Moustafa, 15, is struggling to comprehend the tragedy. "When I lost my mother, it was as if life no longer had any meaning. She was the one who woke us up in the morning, she was the one who welcomed us back from school, she was the one who took care of us," he said. "She was everything, she cannot be replaced." He reminisced about Ghada's delicious maqloubeh, a Palestinian dish of rice and meat, and how she would help with his mathematics homework. Also read | Watch: Israel police, Palestinians clash at Al-Aqsa mosque, 117 injured "She made me understand straight away," he said. Mistake Born into a family of scientists, Ghada Sabatien graduated with a degree in mathematics at Bethlehem University and spent 15 years in Jordan, where she was a teacher. After her husband died four years ago, Ghada returned to Husan with the children. She prepared meals, helped with homework, read the Koran, visited extended family members, and occasionally gave private lessons. "She was an independent, peaceful, educated woman who was not interested in politics at all," says Rafat, her brother. He said he had received an apology from the Israeli army for their "mistake". AFP approached the army for comment on Ghada's killing. It said she had run "suspiciously" towards the checkpoint and that soldiers had fired at her legs. "The suspect received initial medical treatment by IDF soldiers at the scene," it said. Also read | Israeli forces kill two Palestinians in West Bank clashes: health officials "The circumstances of the case are being reviewed." The tragedy sparked anger, both among Palestinians and overseas. In a rare move, Washington's envoy to the Palestinians, George Noll, called the family to express his condolences. The Husan area saw a spike in night-time protests. One young man, Qusay Hamamra, was killed by Israeli forces after throwing a Molotov cocktail at them. But Houria said she would teach Ghada's children a different path. "If we want to fight against Israel, we must do it through education, culture (...) we cannot stay in hatred," she said. "If I love Ghada, I must teach this to her children."

Orphaned Palestinians mourn unarmed mother shot by Israeli soldier

No time for the dead: Japan embraces modern cemeteries with QR codes and cranes

The Ukrainian army has&nbsp;repelled&nbsp;nine&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;by the Russian&nbsp;army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;said on Thursday (April 21).

A&nbsp;military&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units&nbsp;and&nbsp;two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system&nbsp;and&nbsp;an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-russias-donbas-offensive-us-sends-warplanes-to-ukraine-472278">Amid Russia's Donbas offensive, US sends warplanes to Ukraine</a>

In the east,&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;said on Wednesday (April 20), it had held off an assault by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;forces attempting to advance in what Kyiv calls the Battle of the Donbas, a new campaign to seize two eastern provinces Moscow claims on behalf of separatists.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine refugee crisis | Mariupol could fall within hours

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-ukraine-refugee-crisis-mariupol-could-fall-within-hours-472533/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia's forces had carried out strikes on dozens of&nbsp;military&nbsp;facilities in the east&nbsp;and&nbsp;had shot down a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter near the village of Koroviy Yar, its defence ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeks-india-drug-imports-as-pharmacies-run-short-of-medicines-amid-ukraine-war-sanctions-472245">Russia seeks India drug imports as pharmacies run short of medicines amid Ukraine war, sanctions</a>

Russia calls its incursion a "special&nbsp;military&nbsp;operation" to demilitarise&nbsp;and&nbsp;"denazify"&nbsp;Ukraine. Kyiv&nbsp;and&nbsp;its Western allies reject that as a false pretext for a war of choice.

The West has imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;given&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;extensive support, including arms.

The Ukrainian army has repelled nine attacks by the Russian army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military spokesman said on Thursday (April 21). A military spokesman for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units and two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system and an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours.

The Ukrainian army has repelled nine attacks by the Russian army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military spokesman said on Thursday (April 21). A military spokesman for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units and two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system and an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours. Also read | Amid Russia's Donbas offensive, US sends warplanes to Ukraine In the east, Ukraine said on Wednesday (April 20), it had held off an assault by Russian forces attempting to advance in what Kyiv calls the Battle of the Donbas, a new campaign to seize two eastern provinces Moscow claims on behalf of separatists. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine refugee crisis | Mariupol could fall within hours Russia's forces had carried out strikes on dozens of military facilities in the east and had shot down a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter near the village of Koroviy Yar, its defence ministry said. Also read | Russia seeks India drug imports as pharmacies run short of medicines amid Ukraine war, sanctions Russia calls its incursion a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" Ukraine. Kyiv and its Western allies reject that as a false pretext for a war of choice. The West has imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia and given Ukraine extensive support, including arms.

Ukraine repelled nine Russian attacks in Donetsk and Luhansk: Military spokesman

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days.

The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022."

It has been decided to extend the policy so as to continue to provide a safety net for the dependents of health workers who are deputed to take care of COVID-19 patients. 
 
The insurance policy PMGKP was launched on March 30, 2020 to give assistance of Rs 5 million in complete personal accident insurance to 2.1 million health care providers, including all health workers who might have direct contact and treatment of a COVID patient and are at risk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/delhi-records-over-500-covid-19-cases-no-mandatory-rtpcr-required-for-domestic-air-travel-472034">Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel</a>

A letter to this effect was sent to all Additional Chief Secretaries (Health), Principal Secretaries (Health) and Health Secretaries of all state and Union territories on April 19,2022, requesting widespread exposure among health personnel in their own respective states and Union territories.

The government said, private hospital staffs, volunteers, local urban bodies, daily wages outsourced staff requisitioned by state or central hospitals, AIIMS and Institute of National Importance (INI) of the central ministries specifically drafted for the care of covid patients.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/what-caused-90-jump-in-covid-cases-in-india-kerala-govt-reacts-to-data-discrepancies-reports-472103">What caused 90% jump in Covid cases in India? Central, Kerala state govts in tussle over 'late reporting'</a> 
 
So far, 1905 claims of health workers who died during COVID-related duties have been settled since the scheme’s inception.

However, the country has recently reported 1247 new COVID cases in the last 24 hours, which is roughly 43 per cent down from the previous day. As per the ministry, 928 patients have recovered from the last 24 hours.

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days. The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022.

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days. The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022." It has been decided to extend the policy so as to continue to provide a safety net for the dependents of health workers who are deputed to take care of COVID-19 patients. The insurance policy PMGKP was launched on March 30, 2020 to give assistance of Rs 5 million in complete personal accident insurance to 2.1 million health care providers, including all health workers who might have direct contact and treatment of a COVID patient and are at risk. Also read | Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel A letter to this effect was sent to all Additional Chief Secretaries (Health), Principal Secretaries (Health) and Health Secretaries of all state and Union territories on April 19,2022, requesting widespread exposure among health personnel in their own respective states and Union territories. The government said, private hospital staffs, volunteers, local urban bodies, daily wages outsourced staff requisitioned by state or central hospitals, AIIMS and Institute of National Importance (INI) of the central ministries specifically drafted for the care of covid patients. Also read | What caused 90% jump in Covid cases in India? Central, Kerala state govts in tussle over 'late reporting' So far, 1905 claims of health workers who died during COVID-related duties have been settled since the scheme’s inception. However, the country has recently reported 1247 new COVID cases in the last 24 hours, which is roughly 43 per cent down from the previous day. As per the ministry, 928 patients have recovered from the last 24 hours.

India extends Covid medical insurance policy for health workers for 6 months

Thousands of&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;soldiers will help with relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal&nbsp;province, where more than 440 people have died in&nbsp;floods and mudslides and dozens more are missing.

A week after the torrential rains began, the&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Monday it had been instructed to activate 10,000 troops for tasks including mop-up work and transporting aid.

The SANDF would also provide medical support and helicopters for rescue and reconnaissance missions.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unprecented-floods-battter-south-africa-death-toll-rises-to-443-471722">&nbsp;'Unprecedented' floods battter South Africa, death toll rises to 443</a>

The&nbsp;floods have left thousands homeless, knocked out power and water services and disrupted operations at one of Africa's busiest ports, Durban.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a televised speech that his Cabinet had declared a national state of disaster because of the&nbsp;floods and extreme weather in several other&nbsp;provinces, which would allow for a more effective response to the crisis.

He said the finance minister would approach parliament over additional spending, beyond the 1 billion rand ($68 million) which he has said is immediately available.

Watch |&nbsp;South African President Ramaphosa declares national state of disaster over heavy floods

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-african-president-ramaphosa-declares-national-state-of-disaster-over-heavy-floods-472094/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Outside the town of Umbumbulu about 45 km (28 miles)&nbsp;southwest of Durban, herdsman Mbukeni Khwela accompanied police officers and sniffer dogs to scour a river for a missing neighbour who had been swept away.

"We have found her son, but we haven't found her," the 59-year-old said.

The latest death toll from the&nbsp;floods stands at 443, with 48 people still unaccounted for, Ramaphosa said.

Police said they were mourning two officers and a sniffer dog killed in the&nbsp;floods, among the worst to affect the east coast&nbsp;province&nbsp;in recorded history.

Thousands of South African soldiers will help with relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal province, where more than 440 people have died in floods and mudslides and dozens more are missing.

Thousands of South African soldiers will help with relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal province, where more than 440 people have died in floods and mudslides and dozens more are missing. A week after the torrential rains began, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Monday it had been instructed to activate 10,000 troops for tasks including mop-up work and transporting aid. The SANDF would also provide medical support and helicopters for rescue and reconnaissance missions. Also read | 'Unprecedented' floods battter South Africa, death toll rises to 443 The floods have left thousands homeless, knocked out power and water services and disrupted operations at one of Africa's busiest ports, Durban. President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a televised speech that his Cabinet had declared a national state of disaster because of the floods and extreme weather in several other provinces, which would allow for a more effective response to the crisis. He said the finance minister would approach parliament over additional spending, beyond the 1 billion rand ($68 million) which he has said is immediately available. Watch | South African President Ramaphosa declares national state of disaster over heavy floods Outside the town of Umbumbulu about 45 km (28 miles) southwest of Durban, herdsman Mbukeni Khwela accompanied police officers and sniffer dogs to scour a river for a missing neighbour who had been swept away. "We have found her son, but we haven't found her," the 59-year-old said. The latest death toll from the floods stands at 443, with 48 people still unaccounted for, Ramaphosa said. Police said they were mourning two officers and a sniffer dog killed in the floods, among the worst to affect the east coast province in recorded history.

South African military deployed to flood-ravaged province

Johnson&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;sales&nbsp;forecasts for its&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;during the American pharmaceutical giant's quarterly earnings call Tuesday, as demand lags behind that of shots by Moderna and Pfizer.

"Given global supply surplus and demand uncertainty, the Company is suspending&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;Vaccine&nbsp;sales&nbsp;guidance," J&amp;J said in a statement, adding that the move will have "no impact to adjusted operational earnings per share."

The company's chief executive Joaquin Duato said the first quarter results,&nbsp;in which estimated reported&nbsp;sales&nbsp;excluding&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;sales&nbsp;figures were up 3.8 to 4.8 percent over the same period one year ago,&nbsp;"demonstrate strong performance across the enterprise, despite macro-economic headwinds."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-global-covid-summit-may-12-471896">United States announces global covid summit May 12</a>

On Wall Street, J&amp;J's stock was down 0.4 to $177 in electronic trading before the New York Stock Exchange opening bell.

Back in February The New York Times reported that&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;had temporarily suspended production at a key plant manufacturing its&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine, although the company stressed it was still fulfilling its delivery commitments.

J&amp;J said at the time it was projecting&nbsp;sales&nbsp;of $3 billion to $3.5 billion in 2022 for its&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;shot, much less than the $32 billion&nbsp;forecast&nbsp;by Pfizer for the same period.

Watch |&nbsp;China's zero-covid policy impacts economy, analysts predict lowest GDP in decades

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-zero-covid-policy-impacts-economy-analysts-predict-lowest-gdp-in-decades-471638/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A US government-appointed panel of medical experts on Thursday unanimously recommended mRNA&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;made by Pfizer and Moderna over J&amp;J's shot.

J&amp;J's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;was initially praised because it could be stored at fridge temperature and offered good efficacy against earlier strains of the coronavirus after just one shot.

But evidence later emerged linking it to a rare form of clotting, particularly among women of child-bearing age, causing authorities to briefly halt and then resume its use in April last year.

Johnson & Johnson suspended sales forecasts for its Covid-19 vaccine during the American pharmaceutical giant's quarterly earnings call Tuesday, as demand lags behind that of shots by Moderna and Pfizer.

Johnson & Johnson suspended sales forecasts for its Covid-19 vaccine during the American pharmaceutical giant's quarterly earnings call Tuesday, as demand lags behind that of shots by Moderna and Pfizer. "Given global supply surplus and demand uncertainty, the Company is suspending COVID-19 Vaccine sales guidance," J&J said in a statement, adding that the move will have "no impact to adjusted operational earnings per share." The company's chief executive Joaquin Duato said the first quarter results, in which estimated reported sales excluding Covid-19 vaccine sales figures were up 3.8 to 4.8 percent over the same period one year ago, "demonstrate strong performance across the enterprise, despite macro-economic headwinds." Also read | United States announces global covid summit May 12 On Wall Street, J&J's stock was down 0.4 to $177 in electronic trading before the New York Stock Exchange opening bell. Back in February The New York Times reported that Johnson & Johnson had temporarily suspended production at a key plant manufacturing its Covid-19 vaccine, although the company stressed it was still fulfilling its delivery commitments. J&J said at the time it was projecting sales of $3 billion to $3.5 billion in 2022 for its Covid shot, much less than the $32 billion forecast by Pfizer for the same period. Watch | China's zero-covid policy impacts economy, analysts predict lowest GDP in decades A US government-appointed panel of medical experts on Thursday unanimously recommended mRNA Covid vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna over J&J's shot. J&J's vaccine was initially praised because it could be stored at fridge temperature and offered good efficacy against earlier strains of the coronavirus after just one shot. But evidence later emerged linking it to a rare form of clotting, particularly among women of child-bearing age, causing authorities to briefly halt and then resume its use in April last year.

Johnson & Johnson suspends sales forecast for Covid vaccine

People across&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent&nbsp;president&nbsp;-- as their&nbsp;next&nbsp;leader.

Frontrunner Jose Ramos-Horta has pledged to break a longstanding deadlock between the two main political parties in Southeast Asia's youngest country should he win the run-off election against&nbsp;President&nbsp;Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres.

"If I win ... I will hold a dialogue with political parties, including (Guterres') Fretilin, so they can work together to maintain stability and peace in&nbsp;Timor-Leste," the Nobel peace prize winner told journalists Tuesday, holding aloft a finger stained purple after casting his vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stung-by-the-poison-pill-elon-musk-takes-a-dig-at-twitter-boards-salaries-472114">Stung by the 'poison' pill, Elon Musk takes a dig at Twitter board's salaries</a>

Former guerilla leader Guterres, meanwhile, promised "to ensure national stability, and to adhere to the mission as&nbsp;president&nbsp;of the republic, which is inseparable from the constitution", at a polling station in the capital Dili.

Both candidates have pledged to respect the election results regardless of the outcome.

The poll is a rematch of a 2007 election won handily by Ramos-Horta, a former revolutionary hero.&nbsp;

Nearly 860,000 of&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor's 1.3 million citizens are eligible to vote, and ballot counting could take several days.

Ramos-Horta was dominant in the election's first round on March 19, winning 46 percent of&nbsp;votes&nbsp;versus&nbsp;President&nbsp;Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres' 22 percent, but failed to secure the needed majority.

Participation across the nation reached 77 percent as voters chose between 16 candidates.&nbsp;

The winner will take office for five years from May 20 -- the 20th anniversary of&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor's independence from Indonesia, which occupied the former Portuguese colony for 24 years.

The election is seen as a chance to reset a political deadlock between the National Congress of the Reconstruction of&nbsp;Timor-Leste&nbsp;(CNRT) and Guterres' Revolutionary Front for an Independent&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;(Fretilin).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Egypt approves India as wheat supplier

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-egypt-approves-india-as-wheat-supplier-471328/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Guterres, 67, was elected as the country's leader in 2017 with the support of former rebel Xanana Gusmao, the country's first&nbsp;president&nbsp;and current CNRT leader.

But Gusmao has this time thrown his party's weight behind Ramos-Horta, who won the Nobel peace prize in 1996 for his efforts towards ending the conflict in&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;and was the main spokesperson of the independence movement.

The 72-year-old, who survived an assassination attempt in 2008, served as the country's first prime minister before his presidential term from 2007 to 2012. He came out of retirement to challenge Guterres after accusing him of violating the constitution.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;has refused to endorse CNRT ministers since 2018, plunging the country into political paralysis.

Ramos-Horta indicated he could dissolve the parliament if elected to end the deadlock.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/one-of-the-most-mysterious-buildings-in-us-to-open-for-public-after-almost-half-a-century-472112">One of the most mysterious buildings in US to open for public after almost half a century</a>

In the 2007 presidential election, Ramos-Horta won by 69 percent while Guterres gained 31 percent of the&nbsp;votes.

The tiny nation is still grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on its economy.

Speaking to AFP outside a polling station, university student Lizia Bahkita de Araujo, 27, said she hoped whoever won would focus on education.

"During the Covid-19 pandemic, students faced a difficult situation because their classes were moved online, and it did not go well because of the bad internet," de Araujo said, adding jobs for the country's young were also a pressing concern.

According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the population lives in poverty.

People across East Timor went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent president -- as their next leader.

People across East Timor went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent president -- as their next leader. Frontrunner Jose Ramos-Horta has pledged to break a longstanding deadlock between the two main political parties in Southeast Asia's youngest country should he win the run-off election against President Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres. "If I win ... I will hold a dialogue with political parties, including (Guterres') Fretilin, so they can work together to maintain stability and peace in Timor-Leste," the Nobel peace prize winner told journalists Tuesday, holding aloft a finger stained purple after casting his vote. Also read | Stung by the 'poison' pill, Elon Musk takes a dig at Twitter board's salaries Former guerilla leader Guterres, meanwhile, promised "to ensure national stability, and to adhere to the mission as president of the republic, which is inseparable from the constitution", at a polling station in the capital Dili. Both candidates have pledged to respect the election results regardless of the outcome. The poll is a rematch of a 2007 election won handily by Ramos-Horta, a former revolutionary hero. Nearly 860,000 of East Timor's 1.3 million citizens are eligible to vote, and ballot counting could take several days. Ramos-Horta was dominant in the election's first round on March 19, winning 46 percent of votes versus President Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres' 22 percent, but failed to secure the needed majority. Participation across the nation reached 77 percent as voters chose between 16 candidates. The winner will take office for five years from May 20 -- the 20th anniversary of East Timor's independence from Indonesia, which occupied the former Portuguese colony for 24 years. The election is seen as a chance to reset a political deadlock between the National Congress of the Reconstruction of Timor-Leste (CNRT) and Guterres' Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (Fretilin). Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Egypt approves India as wheat supplier Guterres, 67, was elected as the country's leader in 2017 with the support of former rebel Xanana Gusmao, the country's first president and current CNRT leader. But Gusmao has this time thrown his party's weight behind Ramos-Horta, who won the Nobel peace prize in 1996 for his efforts towards ending the conflict in East Timor and was the main spokesperson of the independence movement. The 72-year-old, who survived an assassination attempt in 2008, served as the country's first prime minister before his presidential term from 2007 to 2012. He came out of retirement to challenge Guterres after accusing him of violating the constitution. The president has refused to endorse CNRT ministers since 2018, plunging the country into political paralysis. Ramos-Horta indicated he could dissolve the parliament if elected to end the deadlock. Also read | One of the most mysterious buildings in US to open for public after almost half a century In the 2007 presidential election, Ramos-Horta won by 69 percent while Guterres gained 31 percent of the votes. The tiny nation is still grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on its economy. Speaking to AFP outside a polling station, university student Lizia Bahkita de Araujo, 27, said she hoped whoever won would focus on education. "During the Covid-19 pandemic, students faced a difficult situation because their classes were moved online, and it did not go well because of the bad internet," de Araujo said, adding jobs for the country's young were also a pressing concern. According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the population lives in poverty.

East Timor votes to pick next president

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases.

This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-rejects-biden-administrations-mask-mandate-for-public-transport-472024">US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport</a>

Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country.

Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights.

However,&nbsp;they along with United Airlines have&nbsp;warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions&nbsp;when they arrive&nbsp;at their respective destinations.

As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official.

Watch |&nbsp;US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-judge-strikes-down-cdc-mask-mandate-amid-covid-19-surge-472036/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline.

"We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ba2-covid-variant-driving-new-infections-in-some-parts-of-us-471264">BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US</a>

This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern.

Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier.

(with input from agencies)US

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority. CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases. This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end. Also read | US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country. Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights. However, they along with United Airlines have warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions when they arrive at their respective destinations. As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official. Watch | US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline. "We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline. Also read | BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern. Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier. (with input from agencies)US

US airlines announce plan to drop mask mandates

China&nbsp;on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging&nbsp;security&nbsp;pact&nbsp;with the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific.

"The foreign ministers of&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;officially&nbsp;signed&nbsp;the framework agreement on&nbsp;security&nbsp;cooperation recently," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular press briefing.

A draft version of the agreement, leaked last month, sent shockwaves across the region over provisions allowing Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-minister-marise-payne-says-australia-will-continue-defence-cooperation-with-solomon-islands-471646">Australia will continue defence cooperation with Solomon Islands despite China pact: Marise Payne</a>

According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' request to maintain "social order".

Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's assurances that he does not intend to allow&nbsp;China&nbsp;to build a military base there has done little to alleviate concerns in Washington.

"The broad nature of the&nbsp;security&nbsp;agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC military forces to the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday.

The signing of the&nbsp;pact&nbsp;"could increase destabilisation within the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;and will set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific Island region", he added.

The White House is sending a high-level delegation to the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;this week to discuss its concerns as well as the reopening of the US embassy in the former British protectorate's capital, Honiara.

Earlier this month, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja travelled to Honiara to ask the prime minister in person not to ink the deal.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Chinese companies acquiring Islands for PLA?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-companies-acquiring-islands-for-pla-470833/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang on Tuesday accused Western powers of "deliberately exaggerating tensions" over the&nbsp;pact.

Security&nbsp;cooperation between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;is "normal exchange and cooperation between two sovereign and independent countries," he said.

The United States and its Asian allies have voiced growing concern about&nbsp;China's assertiveness in the Pacific, where it is locked in several territorial disputes with neighbouring countries.

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands, a World War II battlefront, recognised&nbsp;China&nbsp;only in 2019 after switching from ties with Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that Beijing claims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-companies-eyeing-strategic-pieces-of-land-worldwide-report-470671">Chinese companies buying up 'strategic' pieces of land worldwide: Report</a>

The island nation of 800,000 has been wracked by political and social unrest, and many of its people live in poverty.

In November, protesters tried to storm the parliament and went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Honiara's Chinatown.

The unrest was sparked by opposition to Sogavare's rule and fuelled by unemployment, while anti-China&nbsp;sentiment also played a role.

China on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging security pact with the Solomon Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific.

China on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging security pact with the Solomon Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific. "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular press briefing. A draft version of the agreement, leaked last month, sent shockwaves across the region over provisions allowing Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation. Also read | Australia will continue defence cooperation with Solomon Islands despite China pact: Marise Payne According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order". Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's assurances that he does not intend to allow China to build a military base there has done little to alleviate concerns in Washington. "The broad nature of the security agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC military forces to the Solomon Islands," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday. The signing of the pact "could increase destabilisation within the Solomon Islands and will set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific Island region", he added. The White House is sending a high-level delegation to the Solomon Islands this week to discuss its concerns as well as the reopening of the US embassy in the former British protectorate's capital, Honiara. Earlier this month, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja travelled to Honiara to ask the prime minister in person not to ink the deal. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese companies acquiring Islands for PLA? Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang on Tuesday accused Western powers of "deliberately exaggerating tensions" over the pact. Security cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands is "normal exchange and cooperation between two sovereign and independent countries," he said. The United States and its Asian allies have voiced growing concern about China's assertiveness in the Pacific, where it is locked in several territorial disputes with neighbouring countries. The Solomon Islands, a World War II battlefront, recognised China only in 2019 after switching from ties with Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that Beijing claims. Also read | Chinese companies buying up 'strategic' pieces of land worldwide: Report The island nation of 800,000 has been wracked by political and social unrest, and many of its people live in poverty. In November, protesters tried to storm the parliament and went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Honiara's Chinatown. The unrest was sparked by opposition to Sogavare's rule and fuelled by unemployment, while anti-China sentiment also played a role.

China says it has signed security pact with Solomon Islands

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after&nbsp;hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown.

It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll&nbsp;bringing the total&nbsp;to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-data-hints-at-cost-of-zero-covid-strategy-471860">China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy</a>

According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems.

As per&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases".

Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said&nbsp;that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shanghai-reports-first-covid-deaths-since-start-of-covid-19-lockdown-471768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official&nbsp;figures.

AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet.

Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police&nbsp;handling&nbsp;policing on the internet.&nbsp;

The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-covid-19-deaths-in-shanghai-russia-ukraine-updates-and-more-471767">&nbsp;Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more</a>

Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle.

Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported. Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll bringing the total to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures. Also read | China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems. As per Shanghai Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases". Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster. On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official figures. AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet. Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police handling policing on the internet. The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them. Also read | Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle. Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Shanghai reports seven deaths as the virus toll rises

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress.

The virtual gathering will be co-chaired by the United States, along with current G7 president Germany, G20 president Indonesia, African Union chair Senegal, and Belize, the current chair of the CARICOM Caribbean grouping.

"The summit will redouble our collective efforts to end the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and prepare for future health threats," the countries said in a joint statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-vignettes-covid-cases-are-soaring-in-china-so-is-its-inflation-471872">Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation</a>

This will be the second global huddle on the pandemic, which has killed more than six million people and triggered profound disruption to leading economies and trading patterns in the two years since it began to spread.

Biden hosted a similar summit last September, at which he urged partners to surge vaccines and ensure that 70 per cent of every country has been vaccinated by September this year.

Although death rates are plummeting world wide, the virus continues to spread, preventing many leading countries from fully lifting restrictions, while Shanghai in China is in the midst of a draconian lockdown.

Summit hosts appealed for maintaining the sense of urgency.

"In advance of the May 12 summit, we are calling on world leaders, members of civil society, non-governmental organizations, philanthropists, and the private sector to make new commitments and bring solutions to vaccinate the world, save lives now, and build better health security -- for everyone, everywhere," the joint statement said.

"The emergence and spread of new variants, like Omicron, have reinforced the need for a strategy aimed at controlling Covid-19 worldwide," it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shanghai-reports-first-covid-deaths-since-start-of-covid-19-lockdown-471768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

And while the latest variants are less lethal, the summit statement stressed there must be a focus on stopping similar future catastrophes from taking the world by surprise.

"We know we must prepare now to build, sustain, and finance the global capacity we need, not only for emerging Covid-19 variants, but also future health crises," the statement said.

Biden goals face headwinds

Biden took office in 2021 promising to overcome the pandemic at home but also putting a heavy accent on efforts to vaccinate poor areas of the world.&nbsp;

The United States has pledged to deliver at least 1.1 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses&nbsp;for global use before 2023 and has so far shipped around half of that.

However, Biden's ambition to make the United States an "arsenal for vaccines" similar to US leadership in World War II now faces political headwinds.

A package ensuring $10 billion in continued funding for the domestic Covid response has yet to be passed by Congress, while there is no agreement at all on more funding for vaccine donations abroad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-europe-uk-report-severe-cases-of-hepatitis-among-children-471770">US, Europe, UK report severe cases of hepatitis among children</a>

"It's vital Congress acts now so the US can continue our momentum in the international effort to get shots in arms in every part of the world, no matter how remote, and to prevent the spread of the next Covid variant with our international allies and partners," a senior administration official told AFP.

Also muddying the waters is the war in Ukraine, which is sapping diplomatic attention in the world's most powerful countries. A source familiar with the issue told AFP that nevertheless the pandemic response remains seen as fundamentally important.

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress.

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress. The virtual gathering will be co-chaired by the United States, along with current G7 president Germany, G20 president Indonesia, African Union chair Senegal, and Belize, the current chair of the CARICOM Caribbean grouping. "The summit will redouble our collective efforts to end the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and prepare for future health threats," the countries said in a joint statement. Also read | Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation This will be the second global huddle on the pandemic, which has killed more than six million people and triggered profound disruption to leading economies and trading patterns in the two years since it began to spread. Biden hosted a similar summit last September, at which he urged partners to surge vaccines and ensure that 70 per cent of every country has been vaccinated by September this year. Although death rates are plummeting world wide, the virus continues to spread, preventing many leading countries from fully lifting restrictions, while Shanghai in China is in the midst of a draconian lockdown. Summit hosts appealed for maintaining the sense of urgency. "In advance of the May 12 summit, we are calling on world leaders, members of civil society, non-governmental organizations, philanthropists, and the private sector to make new commitments and bring solutions to vaccinate the world, save lives now, and build better health security -- for everyone, everywhere," the joint statement said. "The emergence and spread of new variants, like Omicron, have reinforced the need for a strategy aimed at controlling Covid-19 worldwide," it said. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown And while the latest variants are less lethal, the summit statement stressed there must be a focus on stopping similar future catastrophes from taking the world by surprise. "We know we must prepare now to build, sustain, and finance the global capacity we need, not only for emerging Covid-19 variants, but also future health crises," the statement said. Biden goals face headwinds Biden took office in 2021 promising to overcome the pandemic at home but also putting a heavy accent on efforts to vaccinate poor areas of the world. The United States has pledged to deliver at least 1.1 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses for global use before 2023 and has so far shipped around half of that. However, Biden's ambition to make the United States an "arsenal for vaccines" similar to US leadership in World War II now faces political headwinds. A package ensuring $10 billion in continued funding for the domestic Covid response has yet to be passed by Congress, while there is no agreement at all on more funding for vaccine donations abroad. Also read | US, Europe, UK report severe cases of hepatitis among children "It's vital Congress acts now so the US can continue our momentum in the international effort to get shots in arms in every part of the world, no matter how remote, and to prevent the spread of the next Covid variant with our international allies and partners," a senior administration official told AFP. Also muddying the waters is the war in Ukraine, which is sapping diplomatic attention in the world's most powerful countries. A source familiar with the issue told AFP that nevertheless the pandemic response remains seen as fundamentally important.

United States announces global covid summit May 12

More&nbsp;than&nbsp;4.9&nbsp;million&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;have fled their country following the Russian invasion, the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;said Monday as it warned of the risks of women and child refugees being exploited.

UNHCR, the United Nations' refugee agency, said 4,934,415&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;had left the country since Russia invaded on February 24 -- a figure up 65,396 on Sunday's total.

The&nbsp;UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) says nearly 215,000 third-country nationals -- largely students and migrant workers -- have also escaped to neighbouring countries, meaning&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;five&nbsp;million&nbsp;people in all have fled Ukraine since the&nbsp;war&nbsp;began.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-fighters-who-fought-against-islamic-state-sign-up-to-fight-alongside-russian-troops-in-ukraine-report-471848">Syrian fighters who fought against Islamic State sign up to fight alongside Russian troops in Ukraine: Report</a>

It is one of the fastest-growing displacement and humanitarian crises ever.

Women and children account for 90 percent of those who escaped, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave.

Nearly two-thirds of all Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes, including those still inside the country.

"Refugees from Ukraine, the vast majority women and children, face increased risks of sexual exploitation, abuse and human trafficking," UNHCR said.&nbsp;

"We're on the ground at the border points and beyond, taking preventive measures."

More&nbsp;than&nbsp;2.75&nbsp;million&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees have fled to Poland. Nearly 740,000 reached Romania.

UNHCR figures show nearly 645,000&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;fled in February, with nearly 3.4&nbsp;million&nbsp;doing so in March and nearly 900,000 leaving so far this month.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine ignores Russia's surrender call for Mariupol

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-ignores-russias-surrender-call-for-mariupol-471839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Beyond the refugees, the IOM estimates 7.1&nbsp;million&nbsp;people have left their homes but are still in Ukraine.

"In this season of renewal, our thoughts are with all those who have been forced to&nbsp;flee&nbsp;their homes and have had to rebuild the life they left behind," the UNHCR said.

Before the invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37&nbsp;million&nbsp;in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist-controlled regions in the east.

Here is a breakdown of how many Ukrainian refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR:

Poland&nbsp;

Nearly six out of 10 Ukrainian refugees -- 2,780,913 so far -- have crossed into Poland.

Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone.

Romania

A total of 743,880&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-calls-for-anti-radiation-medicine-amid-russian-nuclear-threat-471761">Zelensky calls for 'anti-radiation medicine' amid Russian nuclear threat</a>

&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;

Another 522,404 refugees have sought shelter in Russia.

In addition, 105,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 18 and 23.

Hungary

A total of 461,539&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;have entered Hungary.

Moldova&nbsp;

The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa.&nbsp;A total of 423,852&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe.

Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6&nbsp;million&nbsp;people have moved on but an estimated 100,000 remain, including 50,000 children -- of whom only 1,800 are enrolled in schools.

Slovakia&nbsp;

A total of 337,311 people crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia.

Belarus

Another 23,469 refugees have made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus.

More than 4.9 million Ukrainians have fled their country following the Russian invasion, the UN said Monday as it warned of the risks of women and child refugees being exploited.

More than 4.9 million Ukrainians have fled their country following the Russian invasion, the UN said Monday as it warned of the risks of women and child refugees being exploited. UNHCR, the United Nations' refugee agency, said 4,934,415 Ukrainians had left the country since Russia invaded on February 24 -- a figure up 65,396 on Sunday's total. The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) says nearly 215,000 third-country nationals -- largely students and migrant workers -- have also escaped to neighbouring countries, meaning more than five million people in all have fled Ukraine since the war began. Also read | Syrian fighters who fought against Islamic State sign up to fight alongside Russian troops in Ukraine: Report It is one of the fastest-growing displacement and humanitarian crises ever. Women and children account for 90 percent of those who escaped, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave. Nearly two-thirds of all Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes, including those still inside the country. "Refugees from Ukraine, the vast majority women and children, face increased risks of sexual exploitation, abuse and human trafficking," UNHCR said. "We're on the ground at the border points and beyond, taking preventive measures." More than 2.75 million Ukrainian refugees have fled to Poland. Nearly 740,000 reached Romania. UNHCR figures show nearly 645,000 Ukrainians fled in February, with nearly 3.4 million doing so in March and nearly 900,000 leaving so far this month. Watch | Ukraine ignores Russia's surrender call for Mariupol Beyond the refugees, the IOM estimates 7.1 million people have left their homes but are still in Ukraine. "In this season of renewal, our thoughts are with all those who have been forced to flee their homes and have had to rebuild the life they left behind," the UNHCR said. Before the invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37 million in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist-controlled regions in the east. Here is a breakdown of how many Ukrainian refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR: Poland Nearly six out of 10 Ukrainian refugees -- 2,780,913 so far -- have crossed into Poland. Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone. Romania A total of 743,880 Ukrainians entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine. The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries. Also read | Zelensky calls for 'anti-radiation medicine' amid Russian nuclear threat Russia Another 522,404 refugees have sought shelter in Russia. In addition, 105,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 18 and 23. Hungary A total of 461,539 Ukrainians have entered Hungary. Moldova The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa. A total of 423,852 Ukrainians have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe. Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people have moved on but an estimated 100,000 remain, including 50,000 children -- of whom only 1,800 are enrolled in schools. Slovakia A total of 337,311 people crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia. Belarus Another 23,469 refugees have made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus.

Ukraine war: More than 4.9 million Ukrainians flee war, says UN

A week after deadly storms started lashing&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa's east coast, the army said Monday&nbsp;10,000&nbsp;troops were on the ground to help restore key services and aid the search for 63 people who remain missing.

The death toll stands at 443, but with each passing day, hopes diminish of finding more survivors.

"The tragedy currently unfolding in our province is one of the worst natural disasters in the recorded history of our country," KwaZulu-Natal provincial government said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unprecented-floods-battter-south-africa-death-toll-rises-to-443-471722">'Unprecedented' floods battter South Africa, death toll rises to 443</a>

Funerals were being held across the city of Durban, which bore the brunt of the storms, as grim tales of the catastrophe continued to emerge.

One woman was found dead with her three grandchildren after their car was washed away, while rescuers reported finding bodies washed into dams, local media reported.

Swathes of eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban, remain without power or water, and the province said it could take time before services are restored.

"There are areas that have suffered extensive damage which will take longer to repair," it said in a statement.

Many streets remain slathered with mud, although the main roads have been cleared enough to allow water tankers to the hardest-hit areas.

But eThekwini deputy mayor Philani Mavundla said in a television interview that 80 percent of the city's water works were down, making it difficult to even fill the tankers.

Some of the troops include plumbers and electricians who joined the mammoth task of trying to get life back to normal.

Watch |&nbsp;Flash floods wreak havoc in South Africa, govt announces $68 mn of funding

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/flash-floods-wreak-havoc-in-south-africa-govt-announces-68-mn-of-funding-471705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Soldiers&nbsp;are also providing field accommodation and water purification systems, the army said.

The deadliest storm on record dumped apocalyptic levels of rain on Durban and surrounding areas of KwaZulu-Natal.

Some 40,000&nbsp;people were left homeless and more than 550 schools and nearly 60 health care facilities have been damaged, according to government tallies.

South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;is winding down a long weekend for the Easter holidays. Many children are due to return to school on Tuesday, but authorities warned that 271,000&nbsp;students may not be able to attend due to damaged schools.

The government has announced an immediate one billion rand ($68 million) in emergency&nbsp;relief.

Nearly three dozen search teams were deployed across the region Monday, said coordinator Dave Steyn.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-flood-toll-nears-400-as-rescuers-search-for-missing-471292">South Africa flood toll nears 400 as rescuers search for missing</a>

"The rescue operations have stopped. It's now more of a search and recovery," he told&nbsp;AFP.

Shock

Blue skies finally reappeared Monday, giving hope that the rains have at last subsided.

But the normally azure waters at Durban's famed beaches have been turned a muddy brown by the mountains of earth and debris washed to the shore.

The intensity of the floods took&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa, the most economically advanced African country, by surprise.

While the southeastern region has suffered some flooding before, the devastation&nbsp;has never been so severe.&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africans have previously watched similar tragedies hit neighbouring countries such as cyclone-prone Mozambique.

The country is still struggling to recover from the Covid pandemic and deadly riots last year that killed more than 350 people, mostly in the now&nbsp;flood-struck southeastern region.

A week after deadly storms started lashing South Africa's east coast, the army said Monday 10,000 troops were on the ground to help restore key services and aid the search for 63 people who remain missing.

A week after deadly storms started lashing South Africa's east coast, the army said Monday 10,000 troops were on the ground to help restore key services and aid the search for 63 people who remain missing. The death toll stands at 443, but with each passing day, hopes diminish of finding more survivors. "The tragedy currently unfolding in our province is one of the worst natural disasters in the recorded history of our country," KwaZulu-Natal provincial government said. Also read | 'Unprecedented' floods battter South Africa, death toll rises to 443 Funerals were being held across the city of Durban, which bore the brunt of the storms, as grim tales of the catastrophe continued to emerge. One woman was found dead with her three grandchildren after their car was washed away, while rescuers reported finding bodies washed into dams, local media reported. Swathes of eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban, remain without power or water, and the province said it could take time before services are restored. "There are areas that have suffered extensive damage which will take longer to repair," it said in a statement. Many streets remain slathered with mud, although the main roads have been cleared enough to allow water tankers to the hardest-hit areas. But eThekwini deputy mayor Philani Mavundla said in a television interview that 80 percent of the city's water works were down, making it difficult to even fill the tankers. Some of the troops include plumbers and electricians who joined the mammoth task of trying to get life back to normal. Watch | Flash floods wreak havoc in South Africa, govt announces $68 mn of funding Soldiers are also providing field accommodation and water purification systems, the army said. The deadliest storm on record dumped apocalyptic levels of rain on Durban and surrounding areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Some 40,000 people were left homeless and more than 550 schools and nearly 60 health care facilities have been damaged, according to government tallies. South Africa is winding down a long weekend for the Easter holidays. Many children are due to return to school on Tuesday, but authorities warned that 271,000 students may not be able to attend due to damaged schools. The government has announced an immediate one billion rand ($68 million) in emergency relief. Nearly three dozen search teams were deployed across the region Monday, said coordinator Dave Steyn. Also read | South Africa flood toll nears 400 as rescuers search for missing "The rescue operations have stopped. It's now more of a search and recovery," he told AFP. Shock Blue skies finally reappeared Monday, giving hope that the rains have at last subsided. But the normally azure waters at Durban's famed beaches have been turned a muddy brown by the mountains of earth and debris washed to the shore. The intensity of the floods took South Africa, the most economically advanced African country, by surprise. While the southeastern region has suffered some flooding before, the devastation has never been so severe. South Africans have previously watched similar tragedies hit neighbouring countries such as cyclone-prone Mozambique. The country is still struggling to recover from the Covid pandemic and deadly riots last year that killed more than 350 people, mostly in the now flood-struck southeastern region.

10,000 soldiers in South Africa flood relief effort

Last year, India was at the centre of the global Covid outbreak, but the situation&nbsp;has seen significant improvement since then, as most of the precautions have now been lifted.

But on Monday, India's daily COVID-19 cases nearly doubled compared to the previous day. On Monday, more than 2,000 cases were registered for the first time this month with southern Kerala state recording&nbsp;a spike in mortality.

With the Covid marking a slight return in India,&nbsp;here are some of the techniques that you can follow if you get infected with COVID-19 and also ensure that others around you are safe.

1. Distance yourself from everyone:&nbsp;Keep your belongings away. Prefer to wear an N95 mask even if you are alone in the room, use gloves and disposables as it reduces the chances of transmission to others.

2. Stay hydrated:&nbsp;Drinking plenty of water is very essential for the body but it’s even more important when you’re sick. Your body loses water as a result of symptoms like fever, sweating, vomiting, which leads to dehydration. It's okay to hydrate yourself with water, but your body will absorb the fluid better if either salt or sugar is added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reports-increase-in-covid-19-cases-weekly-cases-rise-in-haryana-kerala-and-gujarat-471815">Delhi reports increase in COVID-19 cases; weekly cases rise in Haryana, Kerala and Gujarat</a>

3. It’s very common that when you’re sick, especially during an upset stomach, you may not feel like having anything. During Covid, there are high chances of passing out. So, your body needs proper nourishment to feel great. Eat nutritious foods&nbsp;that help in boosting your immunity. Incorporate fresh citrus fruits and vegetables like spinach into your diet. Even intake of vitamin supplements can help in building immunity.

4. It is strongly advised to lie face down if faced with shortness of breath,&nbsp;as it helps improve&nbsp;oxygen levels in the blood.

5. Keep a regular check on your oxygen level using a pulse oximeter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-covid-19-more-dangerous-than-driving-how-scientists-are-parsing-coronavirus-risks-471747">Is COVID-19 more dangerous than driving? How scientists are parsing coronavirus risks.</a>

6. Practice breathing exercises.&nbsp;

7. Taking medicines like paracetamol might help you in alleviating symptoms like body aches, fever, but if you are at a higher risk of developing severe infection, such as those who are unvaccinated, ages or people with medical issues, doctors might prescribe you oral antiviral medicines.

Last year, India was at the centre of the global Covid outbreak, but the situation has seen significant improvement since then, as most of the precautions have now been lifted.

Last year, India was at the centre of the global Covid outbreak, but the situation has seen significant improvement since then, as most of the precautions have now been lifted. But on Monday, India's daily COVID-19 cases nearly doubled compared to the previous day. On Monday, more than 2,000 cases were registered for the first time this month with southern Kerala state recording a spike in mortality. With the Covid marking a slight return in India, here are some of the techniques that you can follow if you get infected with COVID-19 and also ensure that others around you are safe. 1. Distance yourself from everyone: Keep your belongings away. Prefer to wear an N95 mask even if you are alone in the room, use gloves and disposables as it reduces the chances of transmission to others. 2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is very essential for the body but it’s even more important when you’re sick. Your body loses water as a result of symptoms like fever, sweating, vomiting, which leads to dehydration. It's okay to hydrate yourself with water, but your body will absorb the fluid better if either salt or sugar is added. Also read | Delhi reports increase in COVID-19 cases; weekly cases rise in Haryana, Kerala and Gujarat 3. It’s very common that when you’re sick, especially during an upset stomach, you may not feel like having anything. During Covid, there are high chances of passing out. So, your body needs proper nourishment to feel great. Eat nutritious foods that help in boosting your immunity. Incorporate fresh citrus fruits and vegetables like spinach into your diet. Even intake of vitamin supplements can help in building immunity. 4. It is strongly advised to lie face down if faced with shortness of breath, as it helps improve oxygen levels in the blood. 5. Keep a regular check on your oxygen level using a pulse oximeter. Also read | Is COVID-19 more dangerous than driving? How scientists are parsing coronavirus risks. 6. Practice breathing exercises. 7. Taking medicines like paracetamol might help you in alleviating symptoms like body aches, fever, but if you are at a higher risk of developing severe infection, such as those who are unvaccinated, ages or people with medical issues, doctors might prescribe you oral antiviral medicines.

Here are some simple tips to help you ease your Covid symptoms at home

International cruise ships return to Australia after two-year Covid ban - see pics

China's economic growth accelerated in the first quarter of the year to 4.8 per cent, official data showed Monday, but the government warned of "significant challenges" ahead while massive Covid-19 lockdowns started to bite.

The world's second-biggest&nbsp;economy&nbsp;had lost steam in the latter half of last year with a property slump and regulatory crackdowns, pulling down growth.

But it exceeded expectations in the first three months of 2022, growing 4.8 per cent on-year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said, with Lunar New Year spending and factory production cajoling growth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-first-covid-19-deaths-reported-in-shanghai-since-start-of-lockdown-471757">China: First COVID-19 deaths reported in Shanghai since start of lockdown</a>

The weeks ahead, however, appear treacherous for the&nbsp;economy&nbsp;with Beijing's unrelenting zero-Covid approach to outbreaks clogging supply chains and locking down tens of millions of people -- including in the economic dynamos of Shanghai and Shenzhen as well as the northeastern grain basket of Jilin.

Virus restrictions in March have already gouged at retail sales, as consumers shied away from shopping, and drove up unemployment.

"With the domestic and international environment becoming increasingly complicated and uncertain, economic development is facing significant difficulties and challenges," NBS spokesman Fu Linghui said on Monday.

The pandemic rebound -- as well as the sanctions binding Russia's&nbsp;economy&nbsp;-- ups the ante on officials to deliver Beijing's full-year growth target of around 5.5 per cent.

The target comes in a pivotal political year for President Xi Jinping who is eyeing another term in power at the Party Congress to be held this autumn.

Watch |&nbsp;China's zero-covid policy impacts economy, analysts predict lowest GDP in decades

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-zero-covid-policy-impacts-economy-analysts-predict-lowest-gdp-in-decades-471638/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The current virus outbreak is the worst since the peak of the first wave which emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, and the&nbsp;economy&nbsp;is beginning to weaken.&nbsp;

Industrial production growth eased to 5.0 per cent in March, NBS data showed, down from the January-February period.

Meanwhile, retail sales sank 3.5 per cent and the urban unemployment rate ticked up to a 22-month high of 5.8 per cent last month.

"March activity data suggests that&nbsp;China's&nbsp;economy&nbsp;slowed, especially in household consumption," Tommy Wu, lead&nbsp;China&nbsp;economist at Oxford Economics, said in a note.

Worse to come

China's government is trying to balance "minimising disruption against controlling the latest wave of Covid infections", Wu said, but he warned of a drag on economic activity into May or beyond.

Last week, carmakers including XPeng and Volkswagen warned of severe disruptions to supply chains and possibly even a halt on production completely if the lockdown on Shanghai's 25 million inhabitants persisted.

Already, goods are piling up at the world's busiest container port in Shanghai, prompting shipping giant Maersk to say it will stop taking new bookings for refrigerated containers into the city.

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"Further impacts&nbsp;from lockdowns are imminent," said Iris Pang, chief economist for Greater&nbsp;China&nbsp;at ING.

As Shanghai struggles to rein in an outbreak that has seen tens of thousands of daily cases, Pang said other cities may attempt to replicate Shenzhen's success in reopening swiftly by resorting to strict measures with just a few Covid patients.

The southern tech powerhouse went into full lockdown for almost a week in March, but has since eased restrictions.

Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics cautioned that "the worst is still to come".

Fu of the NBS warned of high commodity prices on Monday with the Russia-Ukraine conflict leading to a decline in the availability of commodities such as corn and wheat.

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Although&nbsp;China's central bank has announced a reserve ratio cut, lowering the amount of cash banks must hold in a push to support small businesses, experts say officials were taking a restrained approach to stimulus.

But economists expect officials will eventually publish a growth figure consistent with official targets, as part of doubts that the numbers may be massaged for political reasons.

China's economic growth accelerated in the first quarter of the year to 4.8 per cent, official data showed Monday, but the government warned of "significant challenges" ahead while massive Covid-19 lockdowns started to bite.

China's economic growth accelerated in the first quarter of the year to 4.8 per cent, official data showed Monday, but the government warned of "significant challenges" ahead while massive Covid-19 lockdowns started to bite. The world's second-biggest economy had lost steam in the latter half of last year with a property slump and regulatory crackdowns, pulling down growth. But it exceeded expectations in the first three months of 2022, growing 4.8 per cent on-year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said, with Lunar New Year spending and factory production cajoling growth. Also read | China: First COVID-19 deaths reported in Shanghai since start of lockdown The weeks ahead, however, appear treacherous for the economy with Beijing's unrelenting zero-Covid approach to outbreaks clogging supply chains and locking down tens of millions of people -- including in the economic dynamos of Shanghai and Shenzhen as well as the northeastern grain basket of Jilin. Virus restrictions in March have already gouged at retail sales, as consumers shied away from shopping, and drove up unemployment. "With the domestic and international environment becoming increasingly complicated and uncertain, economic development is facing significant difficulties and challenges," NBS spokesman Fu Linghui said on Monday. The pandemic rebound -- as well as the sanctions binding Russia's economy -- ups the ante on officials to deliver Beijing's full-year growth target of around 5.5 per cent. The target comes in a pivotal political year for President Xi Jinping who is eyeing another term in power at the Party Congress to be held this autumn. Watch | China's zero-covid policy impacts economy, analysts predict lowest GDP in decades The current virus outbreak is the worst since the peak of the first wave which emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, and the economy is beginning to weaken. Industrial production growth eased to 5.0 per cent in March, NBS data showed, down from the January-February period. Meanwhile, retail sales sank 3.5 per cent and the urban unemployment rate ticked up to a 22-month high of 5.8 per cent last month. "March activity data suggests that China's economy slowed, especially in household consumption," Tommy Wu, lead China economist at Oxford Economics, said in a note. Worse to come China's government is trying to balance "minimising disruption against controlling the latest wave of Covid infections", Wu said, but he warned of a drag on economic activity into May or beyond. Last week, carmakers including XPeng and Volkswagen warned of severe disruptions to supply chains and possibly even a halt on production completely if the lockdown on Shanghai's 25 million inhabitants persisted. Already, goods are piling up at the world's busiest container port in Shanghai, prompting shipping giant Maersk to say it will stop taking new bookings for refrigerated containers into the city. Also read | Japan scrambled jets over 1,000 times amid Chinese, Russian air activity "Further impacts from lockdowns are imminent," said Iris Pang, chief economist for Greater China at ING. As Shanghai struggles to rein in an outbreak that has seen tens of thousands of daily cases, Pang said other cities may attempt to replicate Shenzhen's success in reopening swiftly by resorting to strict measures with just a few Covid patients. The southern tech powerhouse went into full lockdown for almost a week in March, but has since eased restrictions. Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics cautioned that "the worst is still to come". Fu of the NBS warned of high commodity prices on Monday with the Russia-Ukraine conflict leading to a decline in the availability of commodities such as corn and wheat. Also read | China begins sending its most advanced fighter plane to patrol disputed seas Although China's central bank has announced a reserve ratio cut, lowering the amount of cash banks must hold in a push to support small businesses, experts say officials were taking a restrained approach to stimulus. But economists expect officials will eventually publish a growth figure consistent with official targets, as part of doubts that the numbers may be massaged for political reasons.

China economy accelerates in Q1 but virus stalks outlook

Long lines of COVID-19 tests, empty streets and closed storefronts: a now familiar sight in&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;as the financial hub reported over 27,000 coronavirus cases on Thursday (April 14).

Shanghai&nbsp;is battling China's worst covid outbreak since the virus first emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, with the city's 25 million residents remaining largely under lockdown, though restrictions were partially eased in some areas this week. However, while some people were allowed out on Tuesday (April 12), there was still confusion about how freely they could move, with many awaiting permission from their residential committees.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Shanghai Covid Outbreak: Indian consulate "inaccessible"

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On Thursday,&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;reported a record 2,573 symptomatic cases for the previous day, up from 1,189 a day earlier, while asymptomatic cases reached 25,146, up from 25,141.

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A city official said that cases continued to rise despite the lockdown in part because of a backlog of test results and because of ongoing transmission among family members.

Long lines of COVID-19 tests, empty streets and closed storefronts: a now familiar sight in Shanghai as the financial hub reported over 27,000 coronavirus cases on Thursday (April 14).

Long lines of COVID-19 tests, empty streets and closed storefronts: a now familiar sight in Shanghai as the financial hub reported over 27,000 coronavirus cases on Thursday (April 14). Shanghai is battling China's worst covid outbreak since the virus first emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, with the city's 25 million residents remaining largely under lockdown, though restrictions were partially eased in some areas this week. However, while some people were allowed out on Tuesday (April 12), there was still confusion about how freely they could move, with many awaiting permission from their residential committees. Watch | Gravitas: Shanghai Covid Outbreak: Indian consulate "inaccessible" On Thursday, Shanghai reported a record 2,573 symptomatic cases for the previous day, up from 1,189 a day earlier, while asymptomatic cases reached 25,146, up from 25,141. Also read | Another iPhone supplier ceases operations as China’s Covid lockdown bites A city official said that cases continued to rise despite the lockdown in part because of a backlog of test results and because of ongoing transmission among family members.

Life in a city under lockdown as Shanghai's covid cases hit new peak

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