Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei had a narrow escape after gunmen opened fire on soldiers guarding the leader at a town near the Mexican border. One of the guards is said to be injured.

The brazen attack took place on Saturday when military officials spotted a vehicle approaching the checkpoint that was being guarded during a visit by Giammattei to northwestern.

The occupants of the car&nbsp;launched the assault on the soldiers, who then retaliated. Giammattei was about two&nbsp;kilometres (a mile) away from the site at the time.

"We inform the people of Guatemala and the international community that the president is unharmed and was evacuated from the area in a timely manner," a government statement said, reports Reuters.

One of the gunmen suffered minor injuries during the confrontation. He was shot in the legs during the incident and was taken for medical treatment. He is a Mexican, the statement said.

While the others escaped in their car towards the Mexican border about 80 km (50 miles) away, it said.

According to reports, the area where the encounter took place is frequented by human traffickers and drug smugglers, many of whom work for Mexican gangs.

“Personnel of the Guatemalan army halted a vehicle that approached their location. But the occupants of the vehicle, upon seeing the presence of the military personnel, started firing, to which the soldiers responded, leaving one person wounded while the rest of the occupants of the vehicle escaped in the direction of Mexico,” Rubén Téllez, a spokesman for the Guatemalan army, told AP news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei had a narrow escape after gunmen opened fire on soldiers guarding the leader at a town near the Mexican border. One of the guards is said to be injured.

Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei had a narrow escape after gunmen opened fire on soldiers guarding the leader at a town near the Mexican border. One of the guards is said to be injured. The brazen attack took place on Saturday when military officials spotted a vehicle approaching the checkpoint that was being guarded during a visit by Giammattei to northwestern. The occupants of the car launched the assault on the soldiers, who then retaliated. Giammattei was about two kilometres (a mile) away from the site at the time. "We inform the people of Guatemala and the international community that the president is unharmed and was evacuated from the area in a timely manner," a government statement said, reports Reuters. One of the gunmen suffered minor injuries during the confrontation. He was shot in the legs during the incident and was taken for medical treatment. He is a Mexican, the statement said. While the others escaped in their car towards the Mexican border about 80 km (50 miles) away, it said. According to reports, the area where the encounter took place is frequented by human traffickers and drug smugglers, many of whom work for Mexican gangs. “Personnel of the Guatemalan army halted a vehicle that approached their location. But the occupants of the vehicle, upon seeing the presence of the military personnel, started firing, to which the soldiers responded, leaving one person wounded while the rest of the occupants of the vehicle escaped in the direction of Mexico,” Rubén Téllez, a spokesman for the Guatemalan army, told AP news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gunmen attack soldiers guarding Guatemalan president near Mexican border, 1 injured

Droupadi Murmu took oath as the 15th President of India today at the Central Hall of Parliament. Chief Justice of India NV Ramana administered the oath of office of the highest constitutional post of the country to Murmu.

Droupadi Murmu takes oath as India's 15th President

Sri Lanka lawmakers elect six-time former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as the new president, this decision is more likely to reignite protests in the island nation.

Sri Lanka Crisis Live Updates: Ranil Wickremesinghe elected as the new President

Sri Lanka is all set to get its new President today. The 225 parliament members will vote to elect one among the three candidates who filed the nomination yesterday as the country's new leader.

Sri Lanka Elections: 225 lawmakers to elect new President

Sri Lanka is all set to get its new President today. The 225 parliament members will vote to elect one among the three candidates who filed the nomination yesterday as the country's new leader. WION's correspondent Dasuni Athauda brings in all the latest information on this.

Sri Lanka Presidential Elections | Clear fight between Wickremesinghe and Alahapperuma: Experts

Sri Lanka lawmakers elect six-time former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as the new president. What key decisions are expected from Ranil Wickremesinghe to fight economic crisis in Sri Lanka?

What key decisions are expected from President Ranil Wickremesinghe to fight economic crisis in Sri Lanka?

The countdown for electing a new president in Sri Lanka has now begun and it's going to be a three-way fight as three candidates were nominated today to replace the former Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The Sri Lankan parliament will vote for a new leader of the country tomorrow.

Sri Lanka to elect new President, 3 candidates file nomination for Presidential race

Sri Lanka is in a mess. The President has resigned, the state machinery has crumbled, the political order has collapsed. Where is the country headed? How can the crisis be solved? What lessons should the world take? Palki Sharma Upadhyay explains on Gravitas Plus.

Gravitas Plus: Can Sri Lanka fix

Gravitas Plus: Can Sri Lanka fix itself?

After the current president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, left the nation this week, three candidates are fighting to become the next leader of Sri Lanka: a six-time prime minister, the head of the largest opposition party, and a journalist-turned-politician from the ruling party. Now that Gotabaya has resigned, the speaker of Sri Lanka's parliament will call the assembly to order, and its 225 members will vote to choose a new president, most likely the following week. The victorious candidate must obtain a simple majority in parliament in addition to the support of hundreds of thousands of Sri Lankans who took part in the anti-Rajapaksa protest movement, known as the "Aragalaya" or "battle" in Sinhala.

Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was elected acting president in May and became prime minister for the sixth time, is one among the candidates for the top position, according to two political sources.&nbsp; 
Despite having just one seat in parliament, Wickremesinghe's party is supported by some members of the country's ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), including the president's brother Basil Rajapaksa, according to the sources. Wickremesinghe participated in negotiations with the IMF for a bailout package and a new budget. But hundreds of protestors, who engaged in physical altercations with security personnel and occupied the politician's office this week, continue to hold a strong dislike for the 73-year-old.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scamster-to-murderer-south-carolina-legal-heir-charged-with-wife-and-sons-murder-497423">Scamster to murderer: South Carolina legal heir charged with wife and son's murder</a>

Another candidate is Sajith Premadasa, the 55-year-old leader of the main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party. But since there are only about 50 members of parliament, he will need to cultivate bipartisan support if he wants to succeed. Following the 1993 suicide attack that killed his father, President Ranasinghe Premadasa, Premadasa attended the London School of Economics and entered politics. He became a member of parliament in 2000 and later served as Sri Lanka's deputy minister of health. He was named minister of cultural affairs and housing building in 2018.

Dullas Alahapperuma, a prominent politician from the SLPP who has received support from some of his party's members, is the third front-runner and probable dark horse. According to SLPP MP Charitha Herath, the ruling party has roughly 117 votes that might be used to support a candidate like the 63-year-old former journalist and get him elected. After demonstrators besieged President Rajapaksa's private residence in April, Alahapperuma, who was elected to parliament in 1994, resigned as the minister of mass media and the spokesperson for the administration.

(with inputs from agencies)

 
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After the current president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, left the nation this week, three candidates are fighting to become the next leader of Sri Lanka: a six-time prime minister, the head of the largest opposition party, and a journalist-turned-politician from the ruling party.

After the current president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, left the nation this week, three candidates are fighting to become the next leader of Sri Lanka: a six-time prime minister, the head of the largest opposition party, and a journalist-turned-politician from the ruling party. Now that Gotabaya has resigned, the speaker of Sri Lanka's parliament will call the assembly to order, and its 225 members will vote to choose a new president, most likely the following week. The victorious candidate must obtain a simple majority in parliament in addition to the support of hundreds of thousands of Sri Lankans who took part in the anti-Rajapaksa protest movement, known as the "Aragalaya" or "battle" in Sinhala. Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was elected acting president in May and became prime minister for the sixth time, is one among the candidates for the top position, according to two political sources. Despite having just one seat in parliament, Wickremesinghe's party is supported by some members of the country's ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), including the president's brother Basil Rajapaksa, according to the sources. Wickremesinghe participated in negotiations with the IMF for a bailout package and a new budget. But hundreds of protestors, who engaged in physical altercations with security personnel and occupied the politician's office this week, continue to hold a strong dislike for the 73-year-old. Also Read: Scamster to murderer: South Carolina legal heir charged with wife and son's murder Another candidate is Sajith Premadasa, the 55-year-old leader of the main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party. But since there are only about 50 members of parliament, he will need to cultivate bipartisan support if he wants to succeed. Following the 1993 suicide attack that killed his father, President Ranasinghe Premadasa, Premadasa attended the London School of Economics and entered politics. He became a member of parliament in 2000 and later served as Sri Lanka's deputy minister of health. He was named minister of cultural affairs and housing building in 2018. Dullas Alahapperuma, a prominent politician from the SLPP who has received support from some of his party's members, is the third front-runner and probable dark horse. According to SLPP MP Charitha Herath, the ruling party has roughly 117 votes that might be used to support a candidate like the 63-year-old former journalist and get him elected. After demonstrators besieged President Rajapaksa's private residence in April, Alahapperuma, who was elected to parliament in 1994, resigned as the minister of mass media and the spokesperson for the administration. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka: Three frontrunners in race to become next president after Gotabaya resigned

Even as chaos and anarchy takes over Sri Lanka, there is still no sign of resignation from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Angry protesters stormed PM office; opposition targets President, PM and speaker.

Despite promising, Lankan President Rajapaksa did not resign; Opposition accuses PM, Prez of lying

In a first, the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdulla Shahid, has called for formalization or "text-based negotiations" when it comes to reforms at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). So far, no president of the UNGA has specifically mentioned about text-based negotiations in such clear terms when it comes to the reforms at the key UN body, which last saw a major expansion in 1965.

In his address on Tuesday at the inter-governmental negotiations (ING) meet, Abdulla Shahid said, "Would encourage all delegations to work tirelessly to further narrow down the divergences and gradually move the process towards text-based negotiations.”

What is significant this time is that his letter also, for the first time since the commencement of the IGN, makes a strong emphasis on the process to "gradually move" to "text-based negotiations using the Co-Chairs Elements Paper and the Framework Document of 2015."

Intergovernmental Negotiations Framework (IGN) is a group within the United Nations that looks into UNSC reforms but has made no significant progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversations are considered "informal" in nature, due to the lack of single text and thus, UNGA rules of procedure don't apply. But in 2015, a framework document was agreed when it comes to the reform&nbsp;which can be the basis for future talks.

The IGN during the 76th session ended with all member states joining consensus on the UNGA President's oral decision to roll over the text to the next session. During the address, he highlighted the need to "make the Security Council efficient, effective, representative and accountable" and member countries have a "collective responsibility to demonstrate that the IGN is working and not let the process turn into a Sisyphean exercise."

President Abdulla also pointed out that there was "no permanent representation for the entire African continent" and stressed the need for a "comprehensive reference to the Common African Position".

India has been backing the Common African Position as mentioned in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration call for at least two permanent seats and two to five non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.

Naturally, the development is music to ears for India which has been long calling for text-based negotiations for reforms, leading to more substantive discussion on the reforms.

India along with Japan, Germany and Brazil, part of the G4 countries, have been calling for urgent UN Reforms. The coffee group of Uniting for Consensus (UFC) group, led by Italy has Pakistan, Turkey as its members aims to counter bids by the G4 countries.

Interestingly, China, Pakistan, Italy, South Korea and Iran in their interventions targeted President Abdulla for calling for text-based negotiations.

China’s envoy to UN Ambassador Zhang Jun in his intervention said that letter circulating the oral decision was a clear break from the past. The letter to member states appears to have unruffled the calculations of these delegations with some of them plainly mentioning that the membership is not ready for text-based negotiation. In effect, it has made it clear who is in favour of reforms and who is against.

In a first, the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdulla Shahid, has called for formalization or "text-based negotiations" when it comes to reforms at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

In a first, the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdulla Shahid, has called for formalization or "text-based negotiations" when it comes to reforms at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). So far, no president of the UNGA has specifically mentioned about text-based negotiations in such clear terms when it comes to the reforms at the key UN body, which last saw a major expansion in 1965. In his address on Tuesday at the inter-governmental negotiations (ING) meet, Abdulla Shahid said, "Would encourage all delegations to work tirelessly to further narrow down the divergences and gradually move the process towards text-based negotiations.” What is significant this time is that his letter also, for the first time since the commencement of the IGN, makes a strong emphasis on the process to "gradually move" to "text-based negotiations using the Co-Chairs Elements Paper and the Framework Document of 2015." Intergovernmental Negotiations Framework (IGN) is a group within the United Nations that looks into UNSC reforms but has made no significant progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversations are considered "informal" in nature, due to the lack of single text and thus, UNGA rules of procedure don't apply. But in 2015, a framework document was agreed when it comes to the reform which can be the basis for future talks. The IGN during the 76th session ended with all member states joining consensus on the UNGA President's oral decision to roll over the text to the next session. During the address, he highlighted the need to "make the Security Council efficient, effective, representative and accountable" and member countries have a "collective responsibility to demonstrate that the IGN is working and not let the process turn into a Sisyphean exercise." President Abdulla also pointed out that there was "no permanent representation for the entire African continent" and stressed the need for a "comprehensive reference to the Common African Position". India has been backing the Common African Position as mentioned in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration call for at least two permanent seats and two to five non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. Naturally, the development is music to ears for India which has been long calling for text-based negotiations for reforms, leading to more substantive discussion on the reforms. India along with Japan, Germany and Brazil, part of the G4 countries, have been calling for urgent UN Reforms. The coffee group of Uniting for Consensus (UFC) group, led by Italy has Pakistan, Turkey as its members aims to counter bids by the G4 countries. Interestingly, China, Pakistan, Italy, South Korea and Iran in their interventions targeted President Abdulla for calling for text-based negotiations. China’s envoy to UN Ambassador Zhang Jun in his intervention said that letter circulating the oral decision was a clear break from the past. The letter to member states appears to have unruffled the calculations of these delegations with some of them plainly mentioning that the membership is not ready for text-based negotiation. In effect, it has made it clear who is in favour of reforms and who is against.

In a first, UNGA President calls for text-based negotiations on UNSC reforms process

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has been appointed as the country's acting President after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on a military jet.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe appointed as the country's acting President

Indian President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address Ashadha Purnima celebrations in Uttar Pradesh via video message on Wednesday. The celebrations will take place at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath in the north Indian state. For Buddhists, Ashadha Purnima is the second most sacred day after Buddha Purnima or the Vaishakha Purnima. The celebrations take place at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara which houses the holy relics of Lord Buddha.

The event will also see presence of Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Culture Gangapuram Kishan Reddy and Minister of State for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal. Governor Anandiben Patel will seek blessing from the Holy Buddha Relics with senior Venerable Monks before the commencement of the programme.

The event is being organised by International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and high-level representation shows India's continues outreach on Buddhism. Remember, PM Modi visited Lumbini in Nepal on Buddha Purnima, emphasising on the shared cultural linkages between the two countries. Prime minister participated in the "Shilanyas” ceremony for the construction of a centre for Buddhist culture and heritage at Lumbini which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a key pilgrimage site.

Not just visits but engagement has continued in other ways, including Indian govt co-hosting an event on Buddha Purnima which saw 24 Buddhist spiritual leaders, including Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai Lama participating. India also sent four Holy Kapilvastu Relics of Lord Buddha to Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar for an 11-day exposition. The Buddha Relics are also known as the ‘Kapilvastu Relics’ since they are from a site in Bihar first discovered in 1898 which is believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu.

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Indian President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address Ashadha Purnima celebrations in Uttar Pradesh via video message on Wednesday. The celebrations will take place at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath in the north Indian state.

Indian President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address Ashadha Purnima celebrations in Uttar Pradesh via video message on Wednesday. The celebrations will take place at Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath in the north Indian state. For Buddhists, Ashadha Purnima is the second most sacred day after Buddha Purnima or the Vaishakha Purnima. The celebrations take place at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara which houses the holy relics of Lord Buddha. The event will also see presence of Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Culture Gangapuram Kishan Reddy and Minister of State for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal. Governor Anandiben Patel will seek blessing from the Holy Buddha Relics with senior Venerable Monks before the commencement of the programme. The event is being organised by International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and high-level representation shows India's continues outreach on Buddhism. Remember, PM Modi visited Lumbini in Nepal on Buddha Purnima, emphasising on the shared cultural linkages between the two countries. Prime minister participated in the "Shilanyas” ceremony for the construction of a centre for Buddhist culture and heritage at Lumbini which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a key pilgrimage site. Not just visits but engagement has continued in other ways, including Indian govt co-hosting an event on Buddha Purnima which saw 24 Buddhist spiritual leaders, including Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai Lama participating. India also sent four Holy Kapilvastu Relics of Lord Buddha to Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar for an 11-day exposition. The Buddha Relics are also known as the ‘Kapilvastu Relics’ since they are from a site in Bihar first discovered in 1898 which is believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Buddhism outreach: Indian President, PM to address Ashadha Purnima celebrations at Sarnath

The Police Sergeant who extended his support to the people’s struggle at Maharagama Town on Saturday has been arrested on charges of possessing a sharp weapon while entering the President’s House in Colombo, early this morning. The suspect, who was wearing a pair of sandals and wearing a police uniform, came to enter the President's House and was stopped and searched by the security forces on duty for suspicious behaviour. A sharp weapon was recovered from the possession of the sergeant and was handed over to the Fort Police. The sergeant, attached to the Narahenpita Police Garage, is a resident of Homagama, as reported by Daily Mirror.

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A police officer supports the protest amidst loud applause from the protestors. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLankaCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLankaCrisis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/July9th?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#July9th</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ld9tgFS6Qi">pic.twitter.com/Ld9tgFS6Qi</a>
— Sri Lanka Tweet 🇱🇰 💉 (@SriLankaTweet) <a href="https://twitter.com/SriLankaTweet/status/1545645800281473026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As anti-government demonstrations spread across Sri Lanka amid the ongoing political instability and a worsening economic crisis, a man wearing a police uniform was spotted supporting the protesters in Kottawa town on Monday. In a video shared by a Sri Lankan journalist, the cop parks his bike throws away his helmet and starts raising slogans expressing support for the protesters. The police officer was welcomed by applause from the protesters who lauded his participation in the protests.

Sri Lankans have endured months of medicine and food shortages and electricity blackouts while fuel stations have run out of petrol and diesel despite pleas to Russia and others for discounted oil. Unofficial inflation rates are second only to those of Zimbabwe, making many goods -- if they can be found -- too expensive for many people to afford. The United Nations has warned that Sri Lanka is facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with millions already in need of aid. More than three-quarters of the population had reduced their food intake due to the country's severe food shortages, the UN says.

(with inputs from agencies)

 
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The Police Sergeant who extended his support to the people’s struggle at Maharagama Town on Saturday has been arrested on charges of possessing a sharp weapon while entering the President’s House in Colombo, early this morning.

The Police Sergeant who extended his support to the people’s struggle at Maharagama Town on Saturday has been arrested on charges of possessing a sharp weapon while entering the President’s House in Colombo, early this morning. The suspect, who was wearing a pair of sandals and wearing a police uniform, came to enter the President's House and was stopped and searched by the security forces on duty for suspicious behaviour. A sharp weapon was recovered from the possession of the sergeant and was handed over to the Fort Police. The sergeant, attached to the Narahenpita Police Garage, is a resident of Homagama, as reported by Daily Mirror. A police officer supports the protest amidst loud applause from the protestors. #LKA #SriLanka #SriLankaCrisis #July9th pic.twitter.com/Ld9tgFS6Qi — Sri Lanka Tweet 🇱🇰 💉 (@SriLankaTweet) July 9, 2022 × As anti-government demonstrations spread across Sri Lanka amid the ongoing political instability and a worsening economic crisis, a man wearing a police uniform was spotted supporting the protesters in Kottawa town on Monday. In a video shared by a Sri Lankan journalist, the cop parks his bike throws away his helmet and starts raising slogans expressing support for the protesters. The police officer was welcomed by applause from the protesters who lauded his participation in the protests. Sri Lankans have endured months of medicine and food shortages and electricity blackouts while fuel stations have run out of petrol and diesel despite pleas to Russia and others for discounted oil. Unofficial inflation rates are second only to those of Zimbabwe, making many goods -- if they can be found -- too expensive for many people to afford. The United Nations has warned that Sri Lanka is facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with millions already in need of aid. More than three-quarters of the population had reduced their food intake due to the country's severe food shortages, the UN says. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Protesting police sergeant of Sri Lanka arrested from President's house, here's why

On the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, through a personal letter to the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, extended on his own behalf &amp; People of India, warm greetings to the President &amp; People of Türkiye, as per a tweet by Indian Embassy in Turkey.

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On the occasion of holy festival of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EidAlAdha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EidAlAdha</a>; Prime Minister of India H.E. Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> through a personal letter to President of the Republic of Türkiye H.E. Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RTErdogan</a>, extended on his own behalf &amp; People of India, warm greetings to President &amp; People of Türkiye.
— India in Türkiye (@IndianEmbassyTR) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbassyTR/status/1546073453396107265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Indian and Turkish diplomats met after a four-year pause for political consultation in Ankara on June 10. For a long time, both countries have been looking at their relations only within their bilateral merits, but in recent years, India has become more active in the entire Indian Ocean region, including the Persian Gulf and Indo-Pacific. And, Turkiye&nbsp;has also been active in Central Asia and Eurasia, reconnecting with the Turkic population and cultures forming the Organization of Turkic States. India and Turkiye&nbsp;trade is reaching a nearly $10 billion benchmark, and India-Turkiye&nbsp;commercial and tourism relations have been increasing, therefore both countries cannot avoid a wider political consultation.

As reported by ANI, the Eleventh Session of India-Turkey Foreign Office Consultations (FOCs) was held in Ankara where both the countries agreed to hold the next round of consultations in the former country on mutually convenient dates next year. Minister of External Affairs Secretary (West), Sanjay Verma, led the Indian delegation for the FOC. During the consultations, both the countries exchanged their views on bilateral, multilateral and global issues including Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lgbt-community-parade-in-madrid-demanding-end-of-animal-cruelty-496131#they-are-not-as-difficult-496124">&nbsp;In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty</a>

&nbsp;"Both sides have also appreciated the commercial ties, which were on an upward trajectory with bilateral trade exceeding USD 10 billion in 2021-2022," the MA statement added.

They also agreed to commemorate 75 years of bilateral diplomatic relations in a befitting manner. The two sides had also reviewed the situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues. India and Turkiye&nbsp;enjoy close, friendly and deep-rooted ties dating back several centuries and share civilizational links. The recent political exchanges have&nbsp;imparted fresh momentum to our bilateral ties and opened several new avenues for cooperation.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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On the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, through a personal letter to the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, extended on his own behalf & People of India, warm greetings to the President & People of Türkiye, as per a tweet by Indian Embassy in Turkey.

On the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, through a personal letter to the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, extended on his own behalf & People of India, warm greetings to the President & People of Türkiye, as per a tweet by Indian Embassy in Turkey. On the occasion of holy festival of #EidAlAdha; Prime Minister of India H.E. Shri @narendramodi through a personal letter to President of the Republic of Türkiye H.E. Mr. @RTErdogan, extended on his own behalf & People of India, warm greetings to President & People of Türkiye. — India in Türkiye (@IndianEmbassyTR) July 10, 2022 × Indian and Turkish diplomats met after a four-year pause for political consultation in Ankara on June 10. For a long time, both countries have been looking at their relations only within their bilateral merits, but in recent years, India has become more active in the entire Indian Ocean region, including the Persian Gulf and Indo-Pacific. And, Turkiye has also been active in Central Asia and Eurasia, reconnecting with the Turkic population and cultures forming the Organization of Turkic States. India and Turkiye trade is reaching a nearly $10 billion benchmark, and India-Turkiye commercial and tourism relations have been increasing, therefore both countries cannot avoid a wider political consultation. As reported by ANI, the Eleventh Session of India-Turkey Foreign Office Consultations (FOCs) was held in Ankara where both the countries agreed to hold the next round of consultations in the former country on mutually convenient dates next year. Minister of External Affairs Secretary (West), Sanjay Verma, led the Indian delegation for the FOC. During the consultations, both the countries exchanged their views on bilateral, multilateral and global issues including Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific. Also Read: In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty "Both sides have also appreciated the commercial ties, which were on an upward trajectory with bilateral trade exceeding USD 10 billion in 2021-2022," the MA statement added. They also agreed to commemorate 75 years of bilateral diplomatic relations in a befitting manner. The two sides had also reviewed the situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues. India and Turkiye enjoy close, friendly and deep-rooted ties dating back several centuries and share civilizational links. The recent political exchanges have imparted fresh momentum to our bilateral ties and opened several new avenues for cooperation. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi wishes Eid al-Adha through personal letter to Turkish President

In Sri Lanka, angry protesters entered the President's official residence. Leaders of political parties in parliament met after the storming of the president’s residence and decided to request PM Ranil Wickremesinghe to step down.

Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa to respect any decision taken at party leaders' meeting

Burkina Faso's former president Blaise Compaore returned from exile, almost eight years after he was toppled in an uprising, to take part in a meeting with interim president and other former leaders.

Burkina Faso's former president returns, meets interim president & other leaders

A total of 115 nomination papers for the Presidential elections were filed out of which NDA’s candidate Droupadi Murmu and Opposition candidate Yashwant Sinha were found to fulfil all the requirements of a valid nomination. The announcement was made in a press briefing addressed by Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Modi.

The process of filing nomination papers, which had commenced on June 15, concluded on June 29.

“During the period of filing of nomination papers, I had received 115 nomination papers. Out of these, 28 nomination papers pertaining to 26 candidates were rejected at the time of presentation itself, under section 5B(4) of the Presidential and Vice Presidential Act, 1952, as they were not accompanied by a certified copy of the electoral roll,” Modi said.

“The remaining 87 Nomination papers pertaining to 72 candidates were taken up for scrutiny today, the 30th June, at 11 am by me. Out of the 87 nomination papers taken up for scrutiny, 79 were rejected during the course of the scrutiny under section 5B(1)(a) for want of a requisite number of proposers and seconders; and under section 5C, not accompanied by the requisite deposit of rupees fifteen thousand; of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952,” he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/every-day-i-was-praying-please-god-dont-let-anybody-try-to-kill-me-oleksandr-usyk-493657">&nbsp;Every day I was praying ‘Please, god, don’t let anybody try to kill me': Boxer Oleksandr Usyk</a>

Upon conclusion of the entire scrutiny process held today, the Secretary-General further said, the nomination papers for the Presidential elections filed by Murmu and Sinha were found to fulfil all the requirements of a valid nomination.

After the last date for withdrawal of candidature on July 2, a ‘List of Contesting Candidates’ containing the names of the candidates in alphabetical order together with their addresses will be prepared and published in the Gazette of India and also in the State Gazettes, said Modi.

He also mentioned that the poll will be held on July 18 and the counting of votes will take place on July 21.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A total of 115 nomination papers for the Presidential elections were filed out of which NDA’s candidate Droupadi Murmu and Opposition candidate Yashwant Sinha were found to fulfil all the requirements of a valid nomination.

A total of 115 nomination papers for the Presidential elections were filed out of which NDA’s candidate Droupadi Murmu and Opposition candidate Yashwant Sinha were found to fulfil all the requirements of a valid nomination. The announcement was made in a press briefing addressed by Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Modi. The process of filing nomination papers, which had commenced on June 15, concluded on June 29. “During the period of filing of nomination papers, I had received 115 nomination papers. Out of these, 28 nomination papers pertaining to 26 candidates were rejected at the time of presentation itself, under section 5B(4) of the Presidential and Vice Presidential Act, 1952, as they were not accompanied by a certified copy of the electoral roll,” Modi said. “The remaining 87 Nomination papers pertaining to 72 candidates were taken up for scrutiny today, the 30th June, at 11 am by me. Out of the 87 nomination papers taken up for scrutiny, 79 were rejected during the course of the scrutiny under section 5B(1)(a) for want of a requisite number of proposers and seconders; and under section 5C, not accompanied by the requisite deposit of rupees fifteen thousand; of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952,” he added. Also Read: Every day I was praying ‘Please, god, don’t let anybody try to kill me': Boxer Oleksandr Usyk Upon conclusion of the entire scrutiny process held today, the Secretary-General further said, the nomination papers for the Presidential elections filed by Murmu and Sinha were found to fulfil all the requirements of a valid nomination. After the last date for withdrawal of candidature on July 2, a ‘List of Contesting Candidates’ containing the names of the candidates in alphabetical order together with their addresses will be prepared and published in the Gazette of India and also in the State Gazettes, said Modi. He also mentioned that the poll will be held on July 18 and the counting of votes will take place on July 21. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Presidential election in India: 115 nominations filed, but only two candidates will contest for the post

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who earned international infamy for his deadly drug war and foul-mouthed tirades but remains hugely popular among Filipinos fed up with the country's dysfunction and political elite stepped down from his post yesterday, as reported by AFP.

A tough-talking populist and self-professed killer, Duterte launched an anti-crime campaign that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of alleged dealers and addicts while drawing global condemnation.

Duterte repeatedly said there was no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches included incitements to violence and he told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger.

"If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself, as getting their parents to do it would be too painful," Duterte said hours after being sworn in as president in June 2016.

Yet millions of Filipinos backed the 77-year-old's swift brand of justice, even as he joked about rape in his rambling speeches, locked up his critics and failed to root out the nation's entrenched corruption.

His daughter Sara's victory in the vice presidential race on May 9 showed his popularity remains sky-high, six years after being swept to power on a promise to rid the country of drugs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-would-halt-its-offensive-as-soon-as-ukraine-surrenders-kremlin-492727">Russia would halt its offensive as soon as Ukraine surrenders: Kremlin</a>

That trust was dented by the coronavirus pandemic, which plunged the country into its worst economic crisis in decades, leaving thousands dead and millions jobless amid a slow-paced vaccine rollout.

Duterte's woes deepened during his final year in office as International Criminal Court (ICC) judges authorised a full-blown investigation into a possible crime against humanity during his drug crackdown.

Duterte was rarely seen in public during the pandemic, apart from weekly appearances on television in pre-recorded meetings with his key advisers.

On occasion, he disappeared altogether, fuelling rumours about his health until loyal aides posted "proof of life" photos on social media, showing him playing golf, riding a motorbike or taking a walk.

(with inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who earned international infamy for his deadly drug war and foul-mouthed tirades but remains hugely popular among Filipinos fed up with the country's dysfunction and political elite stepped down from his post yesterday, as reported by AFP.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who earned international infamy for his deadly drug war and foul-mouthed tirades but remains hugely popular among Filipinos fed up with the country's dysfunction and political elite stepped down from his post yesterday, as reported by AFP. A tough-talking populist and self-professed killer, Duterte launched an anti-crime campaign that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of alleged dealers and addicts while drawing global condemnation. Duterte repeatedly said there was no official campaign to illegally kill addicts and dealers, but his speeches included incitements to violence and he told police to kill drug suspects if their lives were in danger. "If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself, as getting their parents to do it would be too painful," Duterte said hours after being sworn in as president in June 2016. Yet millions of Filipinos backed the 77-year-old's swift brand of justice, even as he joked about rape in his rambling speeches, locked up his critics and failed to root out the nation's entrenched corruption. His daughter Sara's victory in the vice presidential race on May 9 showed his popularity remains sky-high, six years after being swept to power on a promise to rid the country of drugs. Also Read: Russia would halt its offensive as soon as Ukraine surrenders: Kremlin That trust was dented by the coronavirus pandemic, which plunged the country into its worst economic crisis in decades, leaving thousands dead and millions jobless amid a slow-paced vaccine rollout. Duterte's woes deepened during his final year in office as International Criminal Court (ICC) judges authorised a full-blown investigation into a possible crime against humanity during his drug crackdown. Duterte was rarely seen in public during the pandemic, apart from weekly appearances on television in pre-recorded meetings with his key advisers. On occasion, he disappeared altogether, fuelling rumours about his health until loyal aides posted "proof of life" photos on social media, showing him playing golf, riding a motorbike or taking a walk. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte steps down

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: India: Opposition picks Prez candidate; Macron rejects PM's resignation

50 years ago, a foiled burglary in Washington DC went largely unnoticed by most of America. Two years later, that same event took down the Presidency of Richard Nixon. Palki Sharma tells you all about the Watergate scandal.

Gravitas: The scandal that took down a US President

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced to contest 2023 polls. He has been President since 2014. Watch this report.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to contest 2023 polls

South African President has suspended the country's public protector Ombudswoman Mkhwebane on grave charges.

South African public protector in the dock: President suspends Ombudswoman Mkhwebane

The allegations of corruption are again rife in South Africa. This time, it has hit the President Cyril Ramaphosa badly as reports of large sums of money allegedly being kept in foreign currency at his farm have surfaced, media reports said. In response, the President has rubbished the allegations and said, "Some are casting aspersions about me and money. I want to assure you that all this was money from proceeds from selling animals. I have never stolen money from anywhere. Be it from our taxpayers, be it from anyone. I have never done so. And will never do so." He made the statement while addressing the members of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party on Sunday. &nbsp;

The money, which has been estimated to be $80 million (R1.24 billion), was 'concealed' under mattress and couches at the farm in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, as per reports. According to the allegations made by former spy chief Arthur Fraser, the money was allegedly stolen in February 2020 by five Namibians, who were helped by a domestic worker.&nbsp;The president seems to have not reported the matter to cops and instead allegedly paid the suspects and domestic workers around R150,000 each to not reveal the incident to anyone when they were apprehended.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-gupta-brothers-arrested-in-dubai-on-corruption-charges-confirms-south-africa-485807" hreflang="en">Watch: Gupta brothers arrested in Dubai on corruption charges, confirms South Africa</a>

The allegations of improper conduct have also exposed the rift in the ruling party.&nbsp;Fraser claims to have evidence in the form of "photographs, bank accounts, video footage and names" related to wrongdoing like kidnapping of suspects and bribery. He has opened criminal charges against Ramaphosa, Fraser said. A case of money laundering and kidnapping has been registered at the police station in Rosebank, Johannesburg, police spokesperson said in a statement. &nbsp;

The President's office, in a statement, has also acknowledged that the theft from the farm of Ramaphosa took place. They said he was "not involved in any criminal conduct and once again pledges his full cooperation with any police investigation." At the time of the burglary, the president was out of the country, the spokesperson said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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In affidavit to the police, Fraser wrote, “President Ramaphosa instructed Major-General Wally Rhoode, head, Presidential Protection Unit, to investigate the incident immediately, apprehend the suspects, and retrieve the stolen money.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The allegations of corruption are again rife in South Africa. This time, it has hit the President Cyril Ramaphosa badly as reports of large sums of money allegedly being kept in foreign currency at his farm have surfaced, media reports said.

The allegations of corruption are again rife in South Africa. This time, it has hit the President Cyril Ramaphosa badly as reports of large sums of money allegedly being kept in foreign currency at his farm have surfaced, media reports said. In response, the President has rubbished the allegations and said, "Some are casting aspersions about me and money. I want to assure you that all this was money from proceeds from selling animals. I have never stolen money from anywhere. Be it from our taxpayers, be it from anyone. I have never done so. And will never do so." He made the statement while addressing the members of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party on Sunday. The money, which has been estimated to be $80 million (R1.24 billion), was 'concealed' under mattress and couches at the farm in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, as per reports. According to the allegations made by former spy chief Arthur Fraser, the money was allegedly stolen in February 2020 by five Namibians, who were helped by a domestic worker. The president seems to have not reported the matter to cops and instead allegedly paid the suspects and domestic workers around R150,000 each to not reveal the incident to anyone when they were apprehended. Also Read | Watch: Gupta brothers arrested in Dubai on corruption charges, confirms South Africa The allegations of improper conduct have also exposed the rift in the ruling party. Fraser claims to have evidence in the form of "photographs, bank accounts, video footage and names" related to wrongdoing like kidnapping of suspects and bribery. He has opened criminal charges against Ramaphosa, Fraser said. A case of money laundering and kidnapping has been registered at the police station in Rosebank, Johannesburg, police spokesperson said in a statement. The President's office, in a statement, has also acknowledged that the theft from the farm of Ramaphosa took place. They said he was "not involved in any criminal conduct and once again pledges his full cooperation with any police investigation." At the time of the burglary, the president was out of the country, the spokesperson said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE In affidavit to the police, Fraser wrote, “President Ramaphosa instructed Major-General Wally Rhoode, head, Presidential Protection Unit, to investigate the incident immediately, apprehend the suspects, and retrieve the stolen money.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa rubbishes allegations of improper conduct, claims innocence

Dozens of opposition supporters took to the streets in Tunisia's capital. Protests are being held against the possibility of a new constitution.

Judges in Tunisia are up in arms; Tunisian President sacked 57 Judges

Sri Lanka's president says choosing his nation over his brother was the most difficult decision of his life. Gotabaya Rajapaksa says he asked Mahinda to resign as the country's prime minister, a decision he took thinking about the future of the nation.

Economic Crisis: Sri Lankan President says he put his nation over his brother

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa aged 73 has died. Emirates is mourning the death. Now, British PM Boris Johnson will visit UAE to offer condolences.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed laid to rest: British PM Boris Johnson to visit UAE to offer condolences

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa aged 73 has died. Emirates is mourning the death. Now, British PM Boris Johnson, India's Vice President Naidu and French President Macron will visit UAE to offer condolences. Watch this report by Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Executive Editor, WION.

UAE bids goodbye to Sheikh Khalifa: World Leaders mourn President's demise

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa aged 73 has died. Emirates is mourning the death. Now, British PM Boris Johnson, India's Vice President Naidu and French President Macron will visit UAE to offer condolences.

Tributes pour in for Sheikh Khalifa: UK's Boris Johnson, France's Emmanuel Macron to visit UAE

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, considered the de-facto ruler of the United Arab Emirates, was elected as the new president of the oil-rich nation on Saturday after his half-brother and former ruler Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin al-Nahyan passed away.

UAE strongman Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed named new president

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