Portgual has expressed dismay over the killings of more than 500 wild boar and deer and said the crime should be prosecuted.&nbsp;

Environment Minister João Fernandes called the massacre allegedly by 16 hunters as "vile" and an "environmental crime".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-stunning-animals-before-slaughter-will-not-make-a-difference-350858">Why stunning animals before slaughter will not make a difference</a>

As many as 540 deer and wild boar were killed during the mass hunting on Dec 17-18 and images of the dead animals were posted on Twitter by Portuguese journalist Alberto Mancebo that showed several dead animals lying in rows at the hunting farm.

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👮🏻‍♂️Portugal investigará a morte de 540 veados e xabarís 🦌🐗 a mans de 16 cazadores españois en Azambuja, Lisboa. 
Segundo as primeiras investigacións os animais foron acurralados nunha finca e masacrados. 
Logo, pendurárono todo nas redes sociais para indignación dos portugueses <a href="https://t.co/RfRY6oj2jN">pic.twitter.com/RfRY6oj2jN</a>
— Alberto Mancebo (@AlbertoMancebo) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlbertoMancebo/status/1341391239577538561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One of the images also showed eight men photographing with the hunted animals.&nbsp;

The killing is thought to have committed in the Torrebela tourist hunting zone, near Azambuja, about 40 kms from the Portuguese capital Lisbon, reports BBC.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The reports and news about the indiscriminate slaughter of animals... have nothing to do with hunting, understood as a practice that can contribute to the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystems," the Portuguese Environment Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

It was also reported that the 2,700-acre farm was walled in, suggesting that animals had no means to escape the slaughter.&nbsp;

The incident also led to the announcement by Portugal's Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests to suspend the hunting permit for the Torrebela hunting zone, Portugal News Online reported.

The institute also said that it will submit the report of the killing to the prosecutors.&nbsp;

Portgual has expressed dismay over the killings of more than 500 wild boar and deer and said the crime should be prosecuted. Environment Minister João Fernandes called the massacre allegedly by 16 hunters as "vile" and an "environmental crime".

Portgual has expressed dismay over the killings of more than 500 wild boar and deer and said the crime should be prosecuted. Environment Minister João Fernandes called the massacre allegedly by 16 hunters as "vile" and an "environmental crime". Also read | Why stunning animals before slaughter will not make a difference As many as 540 deer and wild boar were killed during the mass hunting on Dec 17-18 and images of the dead animals were posted on Twitter by Portuguese journalist Alberto Mancebo that showed several dead animals lying in rows at the hunting farm. 👮🏻‍♂️Portugal investigará a morte de 540 veados e xabarís 🦌🐗 a mans de 16 cazadores españois en Azambuja, Lisboa. Segundo as primeiras investigacións os animais foron acurralados nunha finca e masacrados. Logo, pendurárono todo nas redes sociais para indignación dos portugueses pic.twitter.com/RfRY6oj2jN — Alberto Mancebo (@AlbertoMancebo) December 22, 2020 × One of the images also showed eight men photographing with the hunted animals. The killing is thought to have committed in the Torrebela tourist hunting zone, near Azambuja, about 40 kms from the Portuguese capital Lisbon, reports BBC. "The reports and news about the indiscriminate slaughter of animals... have nothing to do with hunting, understood as a practice that can contribute to the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystems," the Portuguese Environment Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. It was also reported that the 2,700-acre farm was walled in, suggesting that animals had no means to escape the slaughter. The incident also led to the announcement by Portugal's Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests to suspend the hunting permit for the Torrebela hunting zone, Portugal News Online reported. The institute also said that it will submit the report of the killing to the prosecutors.

'Environmental crime': Spanish hunters slaughter over 500 deer, wild boar in Portugal

Every holiday season thousands of children rush to Portugal's largest indoor shopping mall in Lisbon to sit on Santa's lap and ask for gifts, but coronavirus changed Father Christmas' plans this year.

Father Christmas greets Portuguese children online

World Cup champions France defeated Portugal in Nations League to book a place in next year's finals.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-here-to-win-the-league-and-we-have-that-mentality-manchester-uniteds-bruno-fernandes-343273" hreflang="en">'We're here to win the league and we have that mentality': Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes</a>

Chelsea star N'Golo Kante helped France towards 1-0 victory over table-toppers Portugal.&nbsp;

Kante's second international goal came in the 53rd minute. France leads Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal by three points ahead of Tuesday's clash with Sweden in Paris but is guaranteed first place by their superior head-to-head record.

"It's very nice to see them snatch the win. It's deserved. We've fulfilled our objective of finishing first," France coach Didier Deschamps said after the win over a Portuguese side which had won the inaugural Nations League title on home soil in 2019.

Earlier, Mbappe's injury was a major hit to the French side before the Portugal clash. The PSG star was ruled out of Finland clash, where France was beaten 2-0 at home, due to a thigh injury which made his availability for Portugal match uncertain.&nbsp;

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo is just seven goals shy of the men’s national team record held by former Iran striker Ali Daei with his 109 goals. He had two best scoring chances once it fell behind.

World Cup champions France defeated Portugal in Nations League to book a place in next year's finals. Also read: 'We're here to win the league and we have that mentality': Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes Chelsea star N'Golo Kante helped France towards 1-0 victory over table-toppers Portugal.

World Cup champions France defeated Portugal in Nations League to book a place in next year's finals. Also read: 'We're here to win the league and we have that mentality': Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes Chelsea star N'Golo Kante helped France towards 1-0 victory over table-toppers Portugal. Kante's second international goal came in the 53rd minute. France leads Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal by three points ahead of Tuesday's clash with Sweden in Paris but is guaranteed first place by their superior head-to-head record. "It's very nice to see them snatch the win. It's deserved. We've fulfilled our objective of finishing first," France coach Didier Deschamps said after the win over a Portuguese side which had won the inaugural Nations League title on home soil in 2019. Earlier, Mbappe's injury was a major hit to the French side before the Portugal clash. The PSG star was ruled out of Finland clash, where France was beaten 2-0 at home, due to a thigh injury which made his availability for Portugal match uncertain. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo is just seven goals shy of the men’s national team record held by former Iran striker Ali Daei with his 109 goals. He had two best scoring chances once it fell behind.

Nations League: France beat Portugal 1-0 to book finals spot

French national team coach Didier Deschamps on Friday said that their star striker Kylian Mbappe will face a late fitness test ahead of their Nations League A Group 3 clash away to Portugal.

French national team coach Didier Deschamps on Friday said that their star striker Kylian Mbappe will face a late fitness test ahead of their Nations League A Group 3 clash away to Portugal. Also read: Liverpool star Mohamed Salah tests positive for COVID-19 The PSG star was ruled out of Finland clash, where France was beaten 2-0 at home, due to a thigh injury which made his availability for Portugal clash uncertain. "He's going to do the first part of the training session tonight on his own and for him, and others, we'll assess tomorrow morning," Deschamps told a news conference. Finland's win ended France's 12-match unbeaten streak. Les Bleus defenders Presnel Kimpembe, Lucas Hernandez and Benjamin Pavard and forward Kinglsey Coman missed the match. World Cup-winners France are second in the table on 10 points, behind Europan champions Portugal on goal difference. Both teams shared the points in a goalless stalemate in the first group meeting at the Stade de France last month. (Inputs from Reuters)

Nations League: Kylian Mbappe's availability for Portugal clash still uncertain

Portugal Footwear Industry is in big loss due to the pandemic, the demand for Portugal's high and leather footwear has gone down because of the COVID-19 pandemic as everyone prefer comfortable footwears nowadays.

Portugal's luxury footwear industry hit hard by COVID-19 pandemic

Portugal’s government on Saturday announced new lockdown restrictions from November&nbsp;4 for most of the country, telling people to stay at home except for outings for work, school or shopping, and ordering companies to switch to remote working.

A day after daily coronavirus infections hit a record high, Prime Minister Antonio Costa said the measures would cover 121 municipalities, including the key regions of Lisbon and Porto. The affected areas are home to about 70 per cent of Portugal’s population of roughly 10 million.

The lockdown list includes municipalities where more than 240 new infections have been registered per 100,000 people for the past 14 days, and will be reviewed every 15 days, Costa said in a televised news conference.

“If nothing is done, the rise in infections will inevitably lead us to a situation of failure of our health system,” he said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-against-covid-19-restrictions-clash-with-police-in-spanish-cities-339392" hreflang="en">Protesters against COVID-19 restrictions clash with police in Spanish cities</a>

“We have a very tough month ahead of us. It is more likely we will add more municipalities than we drop from that list next time,” he said.

Portugal has recorded a comparatively low 141,279 infections and 2,507 deaths, but daily cases hit a record 4,656 on Friday before retreating to 4,007 on Saturday, when the death toll rose by 39.

A total of 1,972 people are in hospital after a non-stop increase in hospitalisations over the past two weeks, with 286 people in intensive care units.

The health system, which prior to the pandemic had the lowest number of critical care beds per 100,000 inhabitants in Europe, can accommodate 800 COVID-19 patients in ICUs.

Movement between Portugal’s municipalities had already been prohibited between Friday and Nov. 3 to reduce risk of virus transmission during the All Saints holiday.

Portugal’s government on Saturday announced new lockdown restrictions from November 4 for most of the country, telling people to stay at home except for outings for work, school or shopping, and ordering companies to switch to remote working.

Portugal’s government on Saturday announced new lockdown restrictions from November 4 for most of the country, telling people to stay at home except for outings for work, school or shopping, and ordering companies to switch to remote working. A day after daily coronavirus infections hit a record high, Prime Minister Antonio Costa said the measures would cover 121 municipalities, including the key regions of Lisbon and Porto. The affected areas are home to about 70 per cent of Portugal’s population of roughly 10 million. The lockdown list includes municipalities where more than 240 new infections have been registered per 100,000 people for the past 14 days, and will be reviewed every 15 days, Costa said in a televised news conference. “If nothing is done, the rise in infections will inevitably lead us to a situation of failure of our health system,” he said. Also read| Protesters against COVID-19 restrictions clash with police in Spanish cities “We have a very tough month ahead of us. It is more likely we will add more municipalities than we drop from that list next time,” he said. Portugal has recorded a comparatively low 141,279 infections and 2,507 deaths, but daily cases hit a record 4,656 on Friday before retreating to 4,007 on Saturday, when the death toll rose by 39. A total of 1,972 people are in hospital after a non-stop increase in hospitalisations over the past two weeks, with 286 people in intensive care units. The health system, which prior to the pandemic had the lowest number of critical care beds per 100,000 inhabitants in Europe, can accommodate 800 COVID-19 patients in ICUs. Movement between Portugal’s municipalities had already been prohibited between Friday and Nov. 3 to reduce risk of virus transmission during the All Saints holiday.

Portugal reimposes partial lockdown in most of the country

Standing in circles marked to keep social distance, thousands of faithful gathered and held candles at one of Catholicism’s most famous sanctuaries in Portugal on Monday evening, with many praying for the end of the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Thousands pray in Portugal's main catholic site

Standing in circles marked to keep social distance, thousands of faithful gathered and held candles at one of Catholicism's most famous sanctuaries in Portugal on Monday (October 12) evening, with many praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic.

Keeping the faith: Thousands pray in Portugal's main Catholic site for end to pandemic

Portugal's bicycle makers feared for their future when the coronavirus pandemic forced them in March to shut for two months but 2020 now looks set to be a bumper year as people shun public transport and opt for healthier ways of getting around.

'A blessing in disguise': COVID gives boost to Portugal's bicycle makers

Thousands of workers protested across Portugal on Saturday (September 26) demanding higher wages and more government action to protect jobs threatened by the coronavirus pandemic.

Angry Portuguese workers demand better wages amid pandemic

Thousands of workers protested across Portugal on Saturday as they demanded higher wages and more government action to protect jobs currently being threatened by the pandemic.

Protests continue across Europe as global deaths near 1 million

Happy to have you back: Countries offering incentives to lure travellers

Cristiano Ronaldo on Tuesday scored a brace against Sweden to take his international tally for Portugal to 101.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-saga-campaign-to-remove-barcelona-boss-josep-bartomeu-gathers-pace-326063" hreflang="en">Messi saga: Campaign to remove Barcelona boss Josep Bartomeu gathers pace</a>

The&nbsp;100-mark was broken by the 35-year-old in style after he curled in a free-kick from 25 yards over the wall and into the far left corner beyond Sweden's stranded goalkeeper Robin Olsen for a memorable milestone in his trophy-laden career.&nbsp;

The second goal came in the 72nd minute, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player cutting back inside the Swedish defence and producing a deft finish into the far corner from 20 yards.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-sign-james-rodriguez-from-real-madrid-325919" hreflang="en">Everton sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid</a>

In 2003, Ronaldo debut for his international team at the age of 18.&nbsp;

In 2004, he scored it notched up his first goal for Portugal in a 2-1 defeat by eventual winners Greece at Euro.&nbsp;

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner capped 165 times by Portugal, is second only to Iran's Ali Daei, on 109, in the list of top men's international goal scorers.

17 of his 100, have come during the friendly fixtures. He has scored nine hat-tricks and all came in FIFA or UEFA tournaments or qualifying games.

Cristiano Ronaldo on Tuesday scored a brace against Sweden to take his international tally for Portugal to 101. Also read: Messi saga: Campaign to remove Barcelona boss Josep Bartomeu gathers pace The 100-mark was broken by the 35-year-old in style after he curled in a free-kick from 25 yards over the wall and into the far left corner beyond Sweden's stranded goalkeeper Robin Olsen for a memorable milestone in his trophy-laden career.

Cristiano Ronaldo on Tuesday scored a brace against Sweden to take his international tally for Portugal to 101. Also read: Messi saga: Campaign to remove Barcelona boss Josep Bartomeu gathers pace The 100-mark was broken by the 35-year-old in style after he curled in a free-kick from 25 yards over the wall and into the far left corner beyond Sweden's stranded goalkeeper Robin Olsen for a memorable milestone in his trophy-laden career. The second goal came in the 72nd minute, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player cutting back inside the Swedish defence and producing a deft finish into the far corner from 20 yards. Also read: Everton sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid In 2003, Ronaldo debut for his international team at the age of 18. In 2004, he scored it notched up his first goal for Portugal in a 2-1 defeat by eventual winners Greece at Euro. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner capped 165 times by Portugal, is second only to Iran's Ali Daei, on 109, in the list of top men's international goal scorers. 17 of his 100, have come during the friendly fixtures. He has scored nine hat-tricks and all came in FIFA or UEFA tournaments or qualifying games.

Cristiano Ronaldo's brace against Sweden breaks 100-mark in international goals

The transport secretary acknowledged people's frustrations, as Scotland and Wales asked arrivals from Portugal and parts of Greece to isolate, but England and Northern Ireland held off. Travel firms asked government for more clarity over this.

Travellers confused due to varying quarantine rules across UK

Britain on Thursday said it was expanding trials of a new rapid test to detect coronavirus cases, and flagged potential travel restrictions on the popular holiday destination of Portugal.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock defended the government's testing approach for Covid-19, after the BBC reported that some people were being directed to centres more than 100 miles (160 kilometres) from their homes.

"Of course there are operational challenges from time to time but it (the system) works well," he told Sky News television.&nbsp;

"Being able to expand mass testing with these new technologies is a huge positive step forward in our battle against the virus," he added, announcing new funding of £500 million ($665 million, 560 million euros).

The package will go to enlarging existing trials of a 20-minute saliva test around the southern port of Southampton, and new trials in Salford, near Manchester in northern England.

The government, anxious about the mounting economic toll of the outbreak and nearly three months of lockdown, has been urging Britons to return to work and school this week.&nbsp;

But its testing approach, and a programme to track and trace new Covid-19 cases via mobile app, have hit repeated snags.

Local flare-ups required new lockdowns this week in parts of northern England and in the Scottish city of Glasgow.

Travel sites meanwhile reported a rush on flights back to Britain from Portugal following a surge in infection rates in the southern European country.

Hancock appeared to indicate that Portugal would soon be added to a list of Covid-19 hotspots such as France and Spain, from where all travellers returning to England must self-isolate for 14 days.

An announcement will come on Friday, he said, after Portugal's weekly rate of infection climbed over a British government threshold.

"Everybody has seen that we are prepared to take decisions to put individual countries back on the quarantine list if that's what is necessary," Hancock said.

"So people should look at the data but also should only travel if they are prepared to quarantine, if the virus goes up when they are in that country."&nbsp;

The devolved government in Scotland meanwhile said travellers from Greece would have to quarantine from Thursday but the country remained on England's separate safe list for now.

Britain on Thursday said it was expanding trials of a new rapid test to detect coronavirus cases, and flagged potential travel restrictions on the popular holiday destination of Portugal.

Britain on Thursday said it was expanding trials of a new rapid test to detect coronavirus cases, and flagged potential travel restrictions on the popular holiday destination of Portugal. Health Secretary Matt Hancock defended the government's testing approach for Covid-19, after the BBC reported that some people were being directed to centres more than 100 miles (160 kilometres) from their homes. "Of course there are operational challenges from time to time but it (the system) works well," he told Sky News television. "Being able to expand mass testing with these new technologies is a huge positive step forward in our battle against the virus," he added, announcing new funding of £500 million ($665 million, 560 million euros). The package will go to enlarging existing trials of a 20-minute saliva test around the southern port of Southampton, and new trials in Salford, near Manchester in northern England. The government, anxious about the mounting economic toll of the outbreak and nearly three months of lockdown, has been urging Britons to return to work and school this week. But its testing approach, and a programme to track and trace new Covid-19 cases via mobile app, have hit repeated snags. Local flare-ups required new lockdowns this week in parts of northern England and in the Scottish city of Glasgow. Travel sites meanwhile reported a rush on flights back to Britain from Portugal following a surge in infection rates in the southern European country. Hancock appeared to indicate that Portugal would soon be added to a list of Covid-19 hotspots such as France and Spain, from where all travellers returning to England must self-isolate for 14 days. An announcement will come on Friday, he said, after Portugal's weekly rate of infection climbed over a British government threshold. "Everybody has seen that we are prepared to take decisions to put individual countries back on the quarantine list if that's what is necessary," Hancock said. "So people should look at the data but also should only travel if they are prepared to quarantine, if the virus goes up when they are in that country." The devolved government in Scotland meanwhile said travellers from Greece would have to quarantine from Thursday but the country remained on England's separate safe list for now.

UK ramps up virus tests, mulls Portugal arrivals quarantine

Three companies that dominate Portugal's mobile phone market said that they would not use Huawei technology in their core 5G network. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Three firms dominate mobile firm market, No govt ban on Huawei so far

Tired of being stuck inside, Portugal's movie-lovers are eager to grab some popcorn, sit back, relax and enjoy the show but many venues remain shut - so tickets quickly sold out when a pop-up drive-in cinema launched on Monday (June 1) evening.

Movie-lovers sit back, enjoy the show as drive-in cinema launches near Lisbon

Portugal is now well ahead in its plan to ease lockdown restrictions. It started on 3 May with the reopening of small shops, hairdressers, beauty salons, bookstores and libraries.

Portugal announces credit line worth just 3% of its GDP

Portuguese return to beaches on first state-sanctioned weekend

India has sent 15 tonnes of protective items to Lisbon from Banglore, other than providing 2.5 million tablets of HCQ as part of the ongoing cooperation between the 2 countries.

India sends 15 tonnes of protective items to Lisbon. Exclusive conversation with Indian envoy to Portugal

India's envoy to Portugal has lauded the "very courageous and very generous people" from the Indian Sikh community who "bravely" went to quarantine centres to deliver supplies to Indians quarantined.

India's envoy to Portugal has lauded the "very courageous and very generous people" from the Indian Sikh community who "bravely" went to quarantine centres to deliver supplies to Indians quarantined. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Lisbon, India's envoy to Portugal Nandini Singla said, "volunteers in the Indian community we were able to arrange free food and deliver food kit rations to more than 1800 stranded Indians". Hundred Indians were quarantined in the country and 55 Indians tested COVID-19 positive, all of whom have recovered. India is in the process of planning a special flight from Lisbon to Goa to bring back around 190 Indian seafarers stuck in a cruise liner. India has also sent 15 tonnes of protective items to Lisbon from Banglore, other than providing 2.5 million tablets of HCQ. WION: How have both the countries working together? Nandini Singla: Both India and Portugal have been cooperating very closely. In fact, our 2 PMs spoke on May 5 and Portuguese PM thanked our PM for repatriation of Portuguese Citizens. He also congratulated our PM for the success they had, even as a large and populous country in containing the Pandemic. Both PMs continued to work together and support each other. India, for instance, waved the export ban, on 2.5 million tablets of HCQ at Portugal's request. We also had 15 tons of protective items like gloves being flown in from Bangalore. As far as Portugal is concerned, the country's health service, the local authorities, the red cross, they have been outstanding in the support to the embassy in terms of taking care of Indians impacted by COVID, Indians who had to be quarantined in schools etc. They have been incredibly supportive and at a policy level, the Portuguese govt announced that all visas and work permits will be automatically extended till the end of June and every foreigner in Portugal will be treated by like Portuguese citizens in terms of health care and other facilities. This has been very welcome to many Indians whose visas have expired and they were anxious if they can go to a public hospital for treatment. Both countries are working very closely, and if I may add, we have also agreed to do joint research on COVID and we plan to anchor a youth hackathon on the theme of COVID. WION: How has the Indian mission reached out to stranded Indians? Nandini Singla: We have an Indian diaspora that is 1.2 lakh strong, it Includes economic migrants, people who work on agriculture farms, in the construction industry many such workers were left jobless because of the pandemic. Many of them didn't have food or shelter. We had stranded Indian students and seafarers, people who were on a cruise ship that is currently anchored in Lisbon. We had a large number of Indians here and with the support of the Gurudwaras, the Sikh community, the Indians diaspora, many volunteers in the Indian community we were able to arrange free food and deliver food kit rations to more than 1800 stranded Indians so far. We have also arranged shelter for those who needed, so all the Indians who were stranded or distressed are being fully taken care of and an important thing we realised, it is the importance of communication itself. Because we were getting many anxious questions and people calling and worried about when they can go back home, what health advice and precautions to follow and pleased to share with you since the pandemic began we have answered 3000 phone calls on 24/7 emergency helpline. We have responded to 2000 messages on emails, WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter. Just last week, we have sent 1100 messages. We are also uploaded audiovisual messages because that is easy to connect especially with the workers who are in a different part of Portugal. We have given different advisories, reassuring words and messages to the diaspora here and happy to tell u, no casualties so far, although 55 Indians tested positive and they have all recovered. All Indians are healthy, thriving and doing well. WION: Any details on the repatriation? Nandini Singla: We have more than 250 people who have registered with the Indian embassy for repatriation. They want to go back to India and a large part of this is crewmen, seafarers who are on board a cruise liner ship. They are 191 of them and we got anxious calls from our seafarers that they do not have the mask, they were not sure about being tested, not having quarantine facilities. We reached out to the cruise ship company and they were very responsive and we now have wifi facility and Indian food being given to our seafarers who are on board the ship. They are happy and well taken care of but they want to go back to India. We are in touch with Indian authorities for a special flight from Lisbon to Goa because a lot of the seafarers are from Goa. Govt of Goa has expressed its willingness to receive them and we are waiting for scheduling for a special flight by Air India and we hope to have some good news soon. WION: Anything to learn from Portugal? How has been the ground situation? Nandini Singla: Portugal has been a success story as you may have heard. They have only about 1231 deaths as of today which is less than 1/5 of per capita mortality rate in the neighbouring country Spain. Less than 65 per cent of Portugal's hospital bed capacity has been used and the recovery rate, people recovering from infection has risen steeply signalling normalcy can be expected soon. So, Portugal is recovering very rapidly, and we have now the second phase of the easing of the lockdown which began on Monday. The 3rd phase will begin on June 1 if everything goes well. So the situation in Portugal is looking good, as far as best practices from Portugal, I think India and Portugal have adopted similar models based on science and empirical data. Both countries heeded early signs and took decisive steps to have the firm and timely lockdown measures. People of 2 countries also complied and both governments have announced generous economic packages to help the jobless and revive the economy. I would say both countries have followed similar tracks and they seem to be based on sensible best practices. As far as distinct things India can pick up, size and population of both countries is vastly different, I am not sure if it will be comparable in terms of the scale of the 2 countries. WION: How have the Indian diplomats been faring? Has it been tough? Nandini Singla: Even for Indian embassies and diplomats, this has been a time of adaption and change and we are very lucky that in Portugal some of us could work from home, some of us came to office. We made sure all services continued, for example, all consular services are being delivered by the embassy by post and in case of emergencies, it is delivered physically. We had a very generous pharma company, Generis which is a subsidiary of Aurobindo pharma, they came forward to provide masks and sanitizers at a time when they were not available in any pharmacy in Portugal. We are very grateful to them and with these masks and sanitizers we have been able to come to the embassy and we can work. Right now you are interviewing me in the embassy and we had a video conference with MEA earlier today. Work is not impacted and we are observing precautions, we are maintaining social distancing, we are observing all the rules and regulations laid by Portuguese govt. WION: How has the Indian community helped in the mission's efforts? Nandini Singla: I don't think, the embassy would have been able to reach out to needy Indians, the way it has, had it not been the Indian community. I would like to place on record, the special thanks to the Sikh community, and the Gurudwaras for doing a fantastic job of helping us reach food and essential supplies to people who needed them. In fact, while I mentioned 55 Indians tested positive, there were more than hundred who were quarantined by the local authorities in schools etc and these people had nothing with them, so the embassy had to supply things like footwear, Indian food, shampoo, stuff like that. No one was willing to go there because the place was quarantined. Very courageous and very generous people from the Indian community bravely went there and delivered the embassy supplies. It was 350 km away from Lisbon, the embassy was in no position to go there and I would like to salute these members of the Indian community and call them COVID-19 warriors who rose to the occasion and helped the Indian embassy in the time of need.

'Brave' Indian Sikh community members went to quarantine centers to deliver mission's supplies: Indian envoy to Portugal

Portugal's lawmakers on Thursday approved a set of bills aimed at decriminalisation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/euthanasia-becomes-legal-in-the-australian-state-of-victoria-228565">euthanasia</a> amid protests from religious groups.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-parliament-backs-euthanasia-referendum-257711">Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum</a>

The vote was approved with 127 votes in favour, 86 votes against and 10 abstentions in the 230 member Parliament as several hundred &nbsp;Portuguese protested outside the House.

The vote comes two years after parliament rejected a bill to legalise voluntary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahadayi-river-dispute-karnataka-farmers-to-boycott-state-polls-will-protest-in-delhi-131799">euthanasia </a>for terminally ill patients.

Euthanasia involves a process in which a physician takes part in ending a patient's life. In &nbsp;assisted suicide, the doctor provides a lethal substance for the patient to self-administer.

Both practices are allowed in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Belgium.

However, the bill was passed after a big debate.

"Prosecuting someone who helps a patient with an incurable disease is a form of intolerance," socialist MP Isabel Moreira said in Parliament.

Portugal's Social Democratic Party, Communist Party, CDS-PP voted against all of the proposals.

The five proposals will now be put into a single draft bill for a final vote, expected to take place before the summer. 
&nbsp;

Portugal's lawmakers on Thursday approved a set of bills aimed at decriminalisation of euthanasia amid protests from religious groups. Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum The vote was approved with 127 votes in favour, 86 votes against and 10 abstentions in the 230 member Parliament as several hundred Portuguese protested outside the House.

Portugal's lawmakers on Thursday approved a set of bills aimed at decriminalisation of euthanasia amid protests from religious groups. Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum The vote was approved with 127 votes in favour, 86 votes against and 10 abstentions in the 230 member Parliament as several hundred Portuguese protested outside the House. The vote comes two years after parliament rejected a bill to legalise voluntary euthanasia for terminally ill patients. Euthanasia involves a process in which a physician takes part in ending a patient's life. In assisted suicide, the doctor provides a lethal substance for the patient to self-administer. Both practices are allowed in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Belgium. However, the bill was passed after a big debate. "Prosecuting someone who helps a patient with an incurable disease is a form of intolerance," socialist MP Isabel Moreira said in Parliament. Portugal's Social Democratic Party, Communist Party, CDS-PP voted against all of the proposals. The five proposals will now be put into a single draft bill for a final vote, expected to take place before the summer.

Portuguese lawmakers take first step to decriminalise euthanasia amid protests

The decriminalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide is a step closer to becoming a reality in Portugal after lawmakers approved a set of bills on Thursday (February 20), a move applauded by many but opposed by religious groups and conservatives.

Pro-euthanasia bills get green light in Portugal, negotiations ahead

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-lazio-fined-after-fans-racially-insult-balotelli-273162">Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli</a>

Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal. FC Porto's players tried to console the Malian player, but the 28-year-old pushed his teammates aside to leave the ground.

Moussa Marega was playing against his former club as he played on loan for Vitoria during the 2016-2017 season. After his goal in the 60th minute, a section of the crowd threw objects at the player. According to reports, monkey chants were heard in the stadium.

"I felt like shit, it was a huge embarrassment for me, it affected me," Marega said.

"It started during the warm-up, but during the warm-up, it was just three people.

"Three people shouting monkey chants and racist insults I think it happens to everyone in the world of football.

"When it's just three people you don't care. When it's a whole stadium, it's impossible to stay on the pitch."

In the 69th minute, Moussa looked distressed and he was substituted after he walked off the field.

While walking out the Porto striker showed middle fingers to the section of the crowd as he was being booed off the ground.

"With all the insults I received, with the monkey chants targeted at me, I couldn't stay on the pitch," Marega told French radio station RMC.

"You can't stay like that and keep playing a match when people mock your skin colour."

Portuguese police are said to be looking into the matter, they said is taking the necessary steps to identify the suspects who committed the criminal offences and administrative offences.

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday. Also read- Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal.

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday. Also read- Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal. FC Porto's players tried to console the Malian player, but the 28-year-old pushed his teammates aside to leave the ground. Moussa Marega was playing against his former club as he played on loan for Vitoria during the 2016-2017 season. After his goal in the 60th minute, a section of the crowd threw objects at the player. According to reports, monkey chants were heard in the stadium. "I felt like shit, it was a huge embarrassment for me, it affected me," Marega said. "It started during the warm-up, but during the warm-up, it was just three people. "Three people shouting monkey chants and racist insults I think it happens to everyone in the world of football. "When it's just three people you don't care. When it's a whole stadium, it's impossible to stay on the pitch." In the 69th minute, Moussa looked distressed and he was substituted after he walked off the field. While walking out the Porto striker showed middle fingers to the section of the crowd as he was being booed off the ground. "With all the insults I received, with the monkey chants targeted at me, I couldn't stay on the pitch," Marega told French radio station RMC. "You can't stay like that and keep playing a match when people mock your skin colour." Portuguese police are said to be looking into the matter, they said is taking the necessary steps to identify the suspects who committed the criminal offences and administrative offences.

FC Porto striker Moussa Marega leaves ground after racist chants

Portugal on Saturday called for enhancing bilateral trade, saying the two countries have the potential to take it to the next level.

The trade between India and Portugal stood at $876 million in 2019-20, according to industry estimates.

"I would like to say that the prospects of our relation are very positive. We have historical and political relations. Still, the trade between the two countries could be much bigger and we have to double or triple the figures of our bilateral trade that counts for one year nowadays," Portuguese Foreign Affairs Minister Augusto Santos Silva said at India-Portugal Business Forum here.

The investments by the companies from the two countries were improving, but we need much more investment, he noted.

"I think the political framework is clear. Don't forget that whenever you invest in Portugal, you are investing in your gateway to the European Union to Euro area..," the minister said.

Silva, who is also in charge of the foreign investment and foreign trade, said that Portugal this year in June will hold the second United Nations Ocean Conference in Lisbon, which will be a very important activity to push the global economy.

Portugal is considered as the third most secure country in the world by the global peace index, he said, adding "we all know how security is important for investment".

"Secondly, we are also characterised by solid political stability. This is also a crucial variable.

"I think there is a lot to work on in terms of our bilateral cooperation. And of course, the role of the governments what we expect from the government is to facilitate this...How are we facilitating the improvement of economic relations between India and Portugal," Silva noted.

He also said that at the highest political level there have been visits by the Prime Ministers of both India and Portugal, besides the ongoing visit of Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, while President Ram Nath Kovind is scheduled to visit Portugal next year.

"So, the development, the improvement of political relationships is occurring at the highest level. But its important that this is the consolidation of a framework for the improvement of people-to-people and business to business cooperation," he said.

The two countries have already inked an agreement in the tourism sector and for startups.

"We have a joint programme with financing, in order to leverage capital, the ideas and the business models of young entrepreneurs in startups and of course, we are increasing our cooperation in other sectors -- public works, construction industry and real estate business.

"We have an interesting visa programme. If you invest in real estates, if you transfer capital for Portugal, if you invest in Portugal, you are allowed to get in a very quick way residence permits," the minister said.

"We are now trying to enlarge the scope of these programmes to the whole of the country because it was too concentrated in Lisbon," he said, adding ICT is one domain in which Portugal can learn a lot from India, but also can exchange rapidly with India.

Portugal on Saturday called for enhancing bilateral trade, saying the two countries have the potential to take it to the next level. The trade between India and Portugal stood at $876 million in 2019-20, according to industry estimates.

Portugal on Saturday called for enhancing bilateral trade, saying the two countries have the potential to take it to the next level. The trade between India and Portugal stood at $876 million in 2019-20, according to industry estimates. "I would like to say that the prospects of our relation are very positive. We have historical and political relations. Still, the trade between the two countries could be much bigger and we have to double or triple the figures of our bilateral trade that counts for one year nowadays," Portuguese Foreign Affairs Minister Augusto Santos Silva said at India-Portugal Business Forum here. The investments by the companies from the two countries were improving, but we need much more investment, he noted. "I think the political framework is clear. Don't forget that whenever you invest in Portugal, you are investing in your gateway to the European Union to Euro area..," the minister said. Silva, who is also in charge of the foreign investment and foreign trade, said that Portugal this year in June will hold the second United Nations Ocean Conference in Lisbon, which will be a very important activity to push the global economy. Portugal is considered as the third most secure country in the world by the global peace index, he said, adding "we all know how security is important for investment". "Secondly, we are also characterised by solid political stability. This is also a crucial variable. "I think there is a lot to work on in terms of our bilateral cooperation. And of course, the role of the governments what we expect from the government is to facilitate this...How are we facilitating the improvement of economic relations between India and Portugal," Silva noted. He also said that at the highest political level there have been visits by the Prime Ministers of both India and Portugal, besides the ongoing visit of Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, while President Ram Nath Kovind is scheduled to visit Portugal next year. "So, the development, the improvement of political relationships is occurring at the highest level. But its important that this is the consolidation of a framework for the improvement of people-to-people and business to business cooperation," he said. The two countries have already inked an agreement in the tourism sector and for startups. "We have a joint programme with financing, in order to leverage capital, the ideas and the business models of young entrepreneurs in startups and of course, we are increasing our cooperation in other sectors -- public works, construction industry and real estate business. "We have an interesting visa programme. If you invest in real estates, if you transfer capital for Portugal, if you invest in Portugal, you are allowed to get in a very quick way residence permits," the minister said. "We are now trying to enlarge the scope of these programmes to the whole of the country because it was too concentrated in Lisbon," he said, adding ICT is one domain in which Portugal can learn a lot from India, but also can exchange rapidly with India.

Portugal pitches for enhancing bilateral trade with India

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights.

Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years.

In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges.

Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education.

Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation.

Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education.

In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport.

President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks. The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights. Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years. In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges. Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education. Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation. Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education. In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport. President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India, Portugal ink seven pacts after Modi-Sousa talks

Institute for Economics and Peace ranks the most peaceful countries

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942">Vietnam</a> in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad.

The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire.

The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world.

Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country.

Not surprisingly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuela-france-wests-duplicity-196078">France</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ambassador-to-spain-hurt-in-barcelona-mugging-244352">Spain</a> were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa.

Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot.

The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine".

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire. The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world. Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. Not surprisingly France and Spain were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa. Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot. The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

Portugal best country to retire; Malaysia, Vietnam top in Asia: Study

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;met US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-pompeo-in-portugal-amid-attempts-to-improve-ties-with-arab-world-266105">in Portugal</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday and called for increased&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the "tottering" Iranian government.

"I think we have been fortunate that President Trump has led a consistent policy of&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;against&nbsp;Iran. Iran’s aggression is growing, but its empire is&nbsp;tottering,"&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said in Lisbon.

"And I say, let’s make it totter even further," he added.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;stressed that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;was the main subject of his meeting with&nbsp;Pompeo, adding "the second subject is&nbsp;Iran, and so is the third".

Pompeo, in a tweet, said it had been a "productive meeting".

"We discussed efforts to counter&nbsp;Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region, the importance of economic cooperation with regional partners and other issues related to Israel’s security," he added.

The question of how to create Middle East stability when "there are anti-Iran&nbsp;protests taking place in Baghdad, anti-Iranian protests taking place in Beirut," was a key issue in talks held&nbsp;on&nbsp;the margins of a NATO summit which ended in London earlier Wednesday,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;told reporters before leaving Lisbon.

Israel, which is widely believed to have the Middle East's sole but undeclared nuclear arsenal, has for years accused&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;of seeking to obtain nuclear weapons and strongly opposed a 2015 agreement designed to address the concerns of major powers.

'Should be ashamed'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-discusses-iran-with-israeli-pm-netanyahu-265644">Trump, a strong&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;ally</a>, unilaterally pulled the United States out of the deal in May last year and reimposed crippling sanctions.

Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment&nbsp;on&nbsp;graft charges, has hailed the Trump sanctions.

Israel believes they have squeezed the Iranian economy, prompting the government to raise fuel prices -- sparking nationwide protests.

Lebanon and Iraq, both countries where&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has significant influence, have also seen major demonstrations.

Netanyahu&nbsp;criticised European governments that have signed up to a barter system that would allow&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to trade without fear of US sanctions.

Six new European countries agreed to support the Instex system and&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;said that "instead of supporting American sanctions, they are weakening them. That's not right.

"They should be ashamed of themselves. While people are risking their lives and dying&nbsp;on&nbsp;the streets of Tehran, they are giving sustenance and support to this tyrannical regime," he said before meeting with&nbsp;Pompeo.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-netanyahu-agrees-for-party-election-264411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Graft charges

Netanyahu, who was last month <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">indicted&nbsp;on&nbsp;a variety of graft charges</a> and faces a third election within a year after deadlocked polls in April and September, has been bolstered by a number of landmark steps taken by Trump.

He is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he is serving in a caretaker capacity after the inconclusive elections.

Wednesday's meeting was the first between the two men since&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;announced last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal.

The announcement broke with decades of international consensus that the settlements are illegal and a major barrier to peace with the Palestinians.

The US position offered a boost to&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state.

More&nbsp;than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside around three million Palestinians.

Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Pompeo&nbsp;is due to meet his Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa and Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva before flying&nbsp;on&nbsp;to Morocco&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal on Wednesday and called for increased pressure on the "tottering" Iranian government.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal on Wednesday and called for increased pressure on the "tottering" Iranian government. "I think we have been fortunate that President Trump has led a consistent policy of pressure against Iran. Iran’s aggression is growing, but its empire is tottering," Netanyahu said in Lisbon. "And I say, let’s make it totter even further," he added. Netanyahu stressed that Iran was the main subject of his meeting with Pompeo, adding "the second subject is Iran, and so is the third". Pompeo, in a tweet, said it had been a "productive meeting". "We discussed efforts to counter Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region, the importance of economic cooperation with regional partners and other issues related to Israel’s security," he added. The question of how to create Middle East stability when "there are anti-Iran protests taking place in Baghdad, anti-Iranian protests taking place in Beirut," was a key issue in talks held on the margins of a NATO summit which ended in London earlier Wednesday, Pompeo told reporters before leaving Lisbon. Israel, which is widely believed to have the Middle East's sole but undeclared nuclear arsenal, has for years accused Iran of seeking to obtain nuclear weapons and strongly opposed a 2015 agreement designed to address the concerns of major powers. 'Should be ashamed' Trump, a strong Netanyahu ally, unilaterally pulled the United States out of the deal in May last year and reimposed crippling sanctions. Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, has hailed the Trump sanctions. Israel believes they have squeezed the Iranian economy, prompting the government to raise fuel prices -- sparking nationwide protests. Lebanon and Iraq, both countries where Iran has significant influence, have also seen major demonstrations. Netanyahu criticised European governments that have signed up to a barter system that would allow Iran to trade without fear of US sanctions. Six new European countries agreed to support the Instex system and Netanyahu said that "instead of supporting American sanctions, they are weakening them. That's not right. "They should be ashamed of themselves. While people are risking their lives and dying on the streets of Tehran, they are giving sustenance and support to this tyrannical regime," he said before meeting with Pompeo. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections Graft charges Netanyahu, who was last month indicted on a variety of graft charges and faces a third election within a year after deadlocked polls in April and September, has been bolstered by a number of landmark steps taken by Trump. He is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he is serving in a caretaker capacity after the inconclusive elections. Wednesday's meeting was the first between the two men since Pompeo announced last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal. The announcement broke with decades of international consensus that the settlements are illegal and a major barrier to peace with the Palestinians. The US position offered a boost to Netanyahu as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state. More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside around three million Palestinians. Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees. Pompeo is due to meet his Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa and Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva before flying on to Morocco on Thursday.

Netanyahu pushes Pompeo for more pressure on Iran in Portugal

Israel's embattled Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-discusses-iran-with-israeli-pm-netanyahu-265644">Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;will&nbsp;meet&nbsp;this week with US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;in&nbsp;Portugal&nbsp;as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Pompeo&nbsp;will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with&nbsp;Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details.

A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;would fly to Lisbon to see&nbsp;Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;separately with the two men on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-deadlock-in-israel-benjamin-netanyahu-running-out-of-options-264457">Netanyahu</a>, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel.

The State Department earlier said that&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States.&nbsp;

"Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week.

Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state.

Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">Netanyahu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pompeo</a>&nbsp;are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions.

Netanyahu&nbsp;is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections.

In a new pro-Israel shift,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations.

The US position offers a boost to&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state.

Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday. Pompeo will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details. A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that Netanyahu would fly to Lisbon to see Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would meet separately with the two men on Thursday. Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel. The State Department earlier said that Pompeo would meet in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States. "Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week. Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state. Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world. Netanyahu and Pompeo are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions. Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections. In a new pro-Israel shift, Pompeo said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations. The US position offers a boost to Netanyahu as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state. Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Netanyahu to meet Pompeo in Portugal amid attempts to improve ties with Arab world

France face a major hurdle if they are to add the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wales-qualifies-for-euro-2020-belgium-netherlands-germany-secure-victories-in-final-qualifying-clash-263291">European Championship </a>to their World Cup crown after coming out in the same Euro 2020 group as Germany and reigning European champions Portugal in Saturday's draw in Bucharest.

Neither France nor Portugal were in Pot One for the 24-team competition being held in 12 cities across Europe, making them the dangerous teams to avoid for the top seeds.

In the event, they were all put together in a high-calibre Group F alongside Germany, who will play all their group games in Munich. That is where Joachim Loew's team will face France in their first match on June 16 and then Portugal on June 20.

"It is the hardest group, but we must accept it. It means we will have to be ready right away," said France coach Didier Deschamps.

Group F will be completed by one of the winners of the play-offs to be played next March, leaving open several possibilities including Hungary, who will play two games in Budapest should they make it.

France beat Germany in the semi-finals of Euro 2016 on home soil, before slumping in the final against Portugal.

With the four best third-placed sides all going through, it is very possible all three will progress to the last 16, but Loew is in no doubt France -- who followed their 1998 World Cup triumph by winning Euro 2000 -- are the strongest team.

"They are the world champions and have been getting stronger for the last three or four years. They are the group favourites," he said.

Home advantage?&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England were drawn with Croatia and the Czech Republic in Group D, with Gareth Southgate's team to play group games at Wembley, which will also host the semi-finals and the July 12 final.

That group will be completed by the team to emerge victorious from Path C in the play-offs -- either Serbia, Norway, Israel and Scotland. The latter have the added incentive of knowing they will play two games in Glasgow in the group stage should they qualify.

England faced the Czechs in qualifying, winning 5-0 at Wembley but suffering their only defeat of the campaign in Prague, losing 2-1 in October.

England will kick off at home to Croatia on June 14 in a repeat of the 2018 World Cup semi-final, which was won by the Croatians.

However, should England win their group they will have to play the Group F runners-up, setting up a possible clash with Germany, France or Portugal in the last 16.

Even if they win that, the draw is such that they could end up facing Spain in the quarter-finals.

When asked about the advantage of playing at Wembley, Southgate said: "Obviously eight or 10 teams have the advantage of home group matches, and we have only ever been to one semi-final so that doesn't become an advantage unless we get through two very complicated knockout matches as well. That is a long way down the line."

Southgate famously missed a penalty when England lost to Germany in a shootout at Wembley in the Euro 96 semi-finals, the last time they played a match at home in the tournament.

Wales head to Baku&nbsp;

Italy will face Turkey in Rome in the tournament's opening game on June 12, with Switzerland and Euro 2016 semi-finalists Wales also in that section, Group A.

Wales will play two matches in far-flung Baku, starting with Switzerland on June 13. They played there this month, and won, against Azerbaijan in a qualifier.

"Obviously come the championships it will be six or seven months down the line but we know what to expect, the facilities were fantastic there, and I think it's also great for the fans that they have got two games there," said Wales boss Ryan Giggs.

Spain will play Sweden and Poland as well as a play-off winner in Group E, with Luis Enrique's team playing in Bilbao.

Finland will face two hosts, Denmark and Russia, as well as much-fancied Belgium in Group B at what will be their first Euro.

The Netherlands, on the rise after missing Euro 2016 and the last World Cup, face Ukraine and Austria along with another play-off winner in Group C.

Saint Petersburg, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Bucharest and Dublin will also host matches after UEFA decided to spread the Euro across the continent to mark the 60th anniversary of the first tournament in 1960. 
&nbsp;

France face a major hurdle if they are to add the European Championship to their World Cup crown after coming out in the same Euro 2020 group as Germany and reigning European champions Portugal in Saturday's draw in Bucharest.

France face a major hurdle if they are to add the European Championship to their World Cup crown after coming out in the same Euro 2020 group as Germany and reigning European champions Portugal in Saturday's draw in Bucharest. Neither France nor Portugal were in Pot One for the 24-team competition being held in 12 cities across Europe, making them the dangerous teams to avoid for the top seeds. In the event, they were all put together in a high-calibre Group F alongside Germany, who will play all their group games in Munich. That is where Joachim Loew's team will face France in their first match on June 16 and then Portugal on June 20. "It is the hardest group, but we must accept it. It means we will have to be ready right away," said France coach Didier Deschamps. Group F will be completed by one of the winners of the play-offs to be played next March, leaving open several possibilities including Hungary, who will play two games in Budapest should they make it. France beat Germany in the semi-finals of Euro 2016 on home soil, before slumping in the final against Portugal. With the four best third-placed sides all going through, it is very possible all three will progress to the last 16, but Loew is in no doubt France -- who followed their 1998 World Cup triumph by winning Euro 2000 -- are the strongest team. "They are the world champions and have been getting stronger for the last three or four years. They are the group favourites," he said. Home advantage? Meanwhile, England were drawn with Croatia and the Czech Republic in Group D, with Gareth Southgate's team to play group games at Wembley, which will also host the semi-finals and the July 12 final. That group will be completed by the team to emerge victorious from Path C in the play-offs -- either Serbia, Norway, Israel and Scotland. The latter have the added incentive of knowing they will play two games in Glasgow in the group stage should they qualify. England faced the Czechs in qualifying, winning 5-0 at Wembley but suffering their only defeat of the campaign in Prague, losing 2-1 in October. England will kick off at home to Croatia on June 14 in a repeat of the 2018 World Cup semi-final, which was won by the Croatians. However, should England win their group they will have to play the Group F runners-up, setting up a possible clash with Germany, France or Portugal in the last 16. Even if they win that, the draw is such that they could end up facing Spain in the quarter-finals. When asked about the advantage of playing at Wembley, Southgate said: "Obviously eight or 10 teams have the advantage of home group matches, and we have only ever been to one semi-final so that doesn't become an advantage unless we get through two very complicated knockout matches as well. That is a long way down the line." Southgate famously missed a penalty when England lost to Germany in a shootout at Wembley in the Euro 96 semi-finals, the last time they played a match at home in the tournament. Wales head to Baku Italy will face Turkey in Rome in the tournament's opening game on June 12, with Switzerland and Euro 2016 semi-finalists Wales also in that section, Group A. Wales will play two matches in far-flung Baku, starting with Switzerland on June 13. They played there this month, and won, against Azerbaijan in a qualifier. "Obviously come the championships it will be six or seven months down the line but we know what to expect, the facilities were fantastic there, and I think it's also great for the fans that they have got two games there," said Wales boss Ryan Giggs. Spain will play Sweden and Poland as well as a play-off winner in Group E, with Luis Enrique's team playing in Bilbao. Finland will face two hosts, Denmark and Russia, as well as much-fancied Belgium in Group B at what will be their first Euro. The Netherlands, on the rise after missing Euro 2016 and the last World Cup, face Ukraine and Austria along with another play-off winner in Group C. Saint Petersburg, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Bucharest and Dublin will also host matches after UEFA decided to spread the Euro across the continent to mark the 60th anniversary of the first tournament in 1960.

Heavyweights France, Germany and Portugal drawn together for Euro 2020

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