<p>Ahead of Pakistan's national elections scheduled for February 2024, former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday (Dec 13) was indicted on the charges of leaking state secrets. The cricketer-turned-politician&nbsp;is already&nbsp;imprisoned since August after being convicted of selling state gifts when he was prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Imran Khan is no longer the chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) after he was replaced by&nbsp;a barrister named Gohar Khan on Dec 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Imran Khan as well as his then foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi were indicted by a special court hearing the cypher case in Rawalpindi's Adiala jail.</p>

<p><em>More information will be added soon.&nbsp;</em></p>


Ahead of Pakistan's national elections scheduled for February 2024, former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday (Dec 13) was indicted on the charges of leaking state secrets.

Ahead of Pakistan's national elections scheduled for February 2024, former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday (Dec 13) was indicted on the charges of leaking state secrets. The cricketer-turned-politician is already imprisoned since August after being convicted of selling state gifts when he was prime minister. Imran Khan is no longer the chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) after he was replaced by a barrister named Gohar Khan on Dec 2. Imran Khan as well as his then foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi were indicted by a special court hearing the cypher case in Rawalpindi's Adiala jail. More information will be added soon.

No election for jailed Imran Khan? Former Pakistan PM indicted in cypher case

Poland's parliament has backed Donald Tusk to be the country's new prime minister, in a move that paves the way for better ties with the European Union. With votes of 248 lawmakers in favour as opposed to 201 against, Tusk will now address the parliament to lay out his government's plans and then face a vote of confidence.

Poland's parliament backs Donald Tusk to be next prime minister

<p>In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7).<br />
<br />
As the photographers continuously clicked the photos of the two leaders, they were forced to awkwardly fumble in front of the doors after some staff accidentally locked them outside the headquarters of the politician.<br />
<br />
In the hilarious video of the incident, Sunak is seen walking out of residence at 10 Downing Street in London to welcome Rutte. Just as Sunak left, the massive black door of the house, which had been adorned with a festive wreath, swiftly closed behind his back, literally leaving the conservative leader out in the cold.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-will-work-rishi-sunak-pleads-conservatives-to-support-his-rwanda-asylum-plan-667281">'It will work': Rishi Sunak pleads conservatives to support his Rwanda asylum plan</a></p>

<p>The politicians, unaware of the situation, posed for handshake shots and exchanged niceties on the doorstep before they turned to go inside and hold discussions, only to find the door locked.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">as well as everything else Rishi Sunak can’t open his own front door <a href="https://t.co/z9lC5K5Wwm">pic.twitter.com/z9lC5K5Wwm</a></p>
— dave ❄️ 🥕 🧻 (@mrdavemacleod) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrdavemacleod/status/1733261027473514653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Sunak pushes the door, but fails to open it</strong></h2>

<p>The two leaders uncomfortably continued chatting while facing the building and waiting for the custodian to open the door. Minutes later, 43-year-old Sunak was forced to push against the door but to no avail.<br />
<br />
Then, the two leaders swapped places on the doorstep and tried looking into two lower-level windows in the hope of catching the attention of someone present inside, as the media continued snapping them.<br />
<br />
Finally, the door was opened and the men got inside the house. Before getting inside, 56-year-old Rutte had a giant smile on his face and waved to the crowd of reporters before following Sunak.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;UK: Hardliners turn turn the screws on Rishi Sunak; Deep slits in Conservative Party?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-hardliners-turn-turn-the-screws-on-rishi-sunak-deep-slits-in-conservative-party-wion-667547/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>After the meeting, the Dutch prime minister wrote on X, “Naturally we also talked about the alarming situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.”<br />
<br />
The awkward encounter came just hours after it was proclaimed by Sunak that he would “do what is necessary” to revive a blocked deal so that asylum-seekers could be sent to Rwanda.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7).

In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7). As the photographers continuously clicked the photos of the two leaders, they were forced to awkwardly fumble in front of the doors after some staff accidentally locked them outside the headquarters of the politician. In the hilarious video of the incident, Sunak is seen walking out of residence at 10 Downing Street in London to welcome Rutte. Just as Sunak left, the massive black door of the house, which had been adorned with a festive wreath, swiftly closed behind his back, literally leaving the conservative leader out in the cold. Also read: 'It will work': Rishi Sunak pleads conservatives to support his Rwanda asylum plan The politicians, unaware of the situation, posed for handshake shots and exchanged niceties on the doorstep before they turned to go inside and hold discussions, only to find the door locked. as well as everything else Rishi Sunak can’t open his own front door pic.twitter.com/z9lC5K5Wwm — dave ❄️ 🥕 🧻 (@mrdavemacleod) December 8, 2023 × Sunak pushes the door, but fails to open it The two leaders uncomfortably continued chatting while facing the building and waiting for the custodian to open the door. Minutes later, 43-year-old Sunak was forced to push against the door but to no avail. Then, the two leaders swapped places on the doorstep and tried looking into two lower-level windows in the hope of catching the attention of someone present inside, as the media continued snapping them. Finally, the door was opened and the men got inside the house. Before getting inside, 56-year-old Rutte had a giant smile on his face and waved to the crowd of reporters before following Sunak. Watch: UK: Hardliners turn turn the screws on Rishi Sunak; Deep slits in Conservative Party? After the meeting, the Dutch prime minister wrote on X, “Naturally we also talked about the alarming situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.” The awkward encounter came just hours after it was proclaimed by Sunak that he would “do what is necessary” to revive a blocked deal so that asylum-seekers could be sent to Rwanda. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Sunak gets locked out of 10 Downing Street with Dutch PM in chilly weather

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Dubai on Thursday (Nov 30) where he is scheduled to take part in the World Climate Action Summit at the 28th Conference of&nbsp;Parties (COP28) on climate change. The prime minister will take part in the deliberations under the presidency of the United Arab Emirates on Friday (Dec 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before departing, PM Modi wrote on X, "Leaving for Dubai, where I will take part in the COP-28 Summit. This forum will witness important deliberations to strengthen the efforts to overcome climate change and further sustainable development. I will also be interacting with various world leaders on the sidelines of the Summit."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leaving for Dubai, where I will take part in the COP-28 Summit. This forum will witness important deliberations to strengthen the efforts to overcome climate change and further sustainable development. I will also be interacting with various world leaders on the sidelines of the…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1730222162588631463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi says concrete steps on climate action included in G20 Declaration &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Before his departure, PM Modi said that&nbsp;"India has always walked the talk when it comes to climate action", adding that climate crisis was a high priority even during the G20 Presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-cop28-implement-the-much-awaited-loss-and-damage-fund-663678">Explained: Will COP28 implement the much-awaited loss and damage fund?</a></p>

<p>In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "India has walked the talk when it comes to climate action. Our achievements in different sectors like renewable energy, energy efficiency, afforestation, energy conservation, and Mission LiFE are testament to the commitment of our people towards Mother Earth. In keeping with our civilizational ethos, India has always laid emphasis on climate action even as we pursue social and economic development. During our G20 presidency, climate was a high priority. The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration includes numerous concrete steps on climate action and sustainable development. I look forward to the COP-28 taking forward the consensus on these issues."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop28-president-optimistic-of-stopping-global-warming-664241/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>As per the departure statement, COP28 will be an opportunity to review the progress made under the Paris Agreement and create a plan for climate action in future. The Indian prime minister is visiting Dubai at the invitation of the President of UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.</p>

<p>"I am travelling to Dubai to attend the World Climate Action Summit of the COP-28 on December 1, 2023. I am happy to see that this significant event is being held under the Presidency of the UAE, which has been an important partner for India in the field of climate action," said the prime minister, in his departure statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"COP28 will also provide an opportunity to review progress made under the Paris Agreement, and chart a path for future course on climate action. At the Voice of Global South Summit convened by India, the Global South spoke for the need for climate action based on the principles of equity, climate justice, and common but differentiated responsibilities, as well as a greater focus on adaptation. It is important that efforts of the developing world be supported with adequate climate financing and technology transfer. They must have access to equitable carbon and development space to achieve sustainable development," PM Modi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Dubai on Thursday (Nov 30) where he is scheduled to take part in the World Climate Action Summit at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) on climate change.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Dubai on Thursday (Nov 30) where he is scheduled to take part in the World Climate Action Summit at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) on climate change. The prime minister will take part in the deliberations under the presidency of the United Arab Emirates on Friday (Dec 1). Before departing, PM Modi wrote on X, "Leaving for Dubai, where I will take part in the COP-28 Summit. This forum will witness important deliberations to strengthen the efforts to overcome climate change and further sustainable development. I will also be interacting with various world leaders on the sidelines of the Summit." Leaving for Dubai, where I will take part in the COP-28 Summit. This forum will witness important deliberations to strengthen the efforts to overcome climate change and further sustainable development. I will also be interacting with various world leaders on the sidelines of the… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 30, 2023 × PM Modi says concrete steps on climate action included in G20 Declaration Before his departure, PM Modi said that "India has always walked the talk when it comes to climate action", adding that climate crisis was a high priority even during the G20 Presidency. Also read: Explained: Will COP28 implement the much-awaited loss and damage fund? In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "India has walked the talk when it comes to climate action. Our achievements in different sectors like renewable energy, energy efficiency, afforestation, energy conservation, and Mission LiFE are testament to the commitment of our people towards Mother Earth. In keeping with our civilizational ethos, India has always laid emphasis on climate action even as we pursue social and economic development. During our G20 presidency, climate was a high priority. The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration includes numerous concrete steps on climate action and sustainable development. I look forward to the COP-28 taking forward the consensus on these issues." Watch: COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming As per the departure statement, COP28 will be an opportunity to review the progress made under the Paris Agreement and create a plan for climate action in future. The Indian prime minister is visiting Dubai at the invitation of the President of UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "I am travelling to Dubai to attend the World Climate Action Summit of the COP-28 on December 1, 2023. I am happy to see that this significant event is being held under the Presidency of the UAE, which has been an important partner for India in the field of climate action," said the prime minister, in his departure statement. "COP28 will also provide an opportunity to review progress made under the Paris Agreement, and chart a path for future course on climate action. At the Voice of Global South Summit convened by India, the Global South spoke for the need for climate action based on the principles of equity, climate justice, and common but differentiated responsibilities, as well as a greater focus on adaptation. It is important that efforts of the developing world be supported with adequate climate financing and technology transfer. They must have access to equitable carbon and development space to achieve sustainable development," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India has walked the talk in climate action, says PM Modi as he departs for COP28

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced his unease on Sunday regarding the growing trend of "big families" organizing weddings overseas. He encouraged individuals to opt for hosting such celebrations within India to prevent the outflow of the country's funds. During his Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast, PM Modi stressed the importance of exclusively choosing products made in India when shopping for weddings.</p>

<p>"The wedding season as well has commenced now. Some trade organisations estimate that there could be a business of around&nbsp;₹&nbsp;5 lakh crore during this wedding season. While shopping for weddings, all of you should give importance to products made in India only," he said.</p>

<p>"And yes, since the topic of marriage has come up, one thing has been troubling me off and on for a long time... and if I don't open up my heart's pain to my family members, who else do I do it with? Just ponder... these days a new milieu is being created by some families to go abroad and conduct weddings. Is this at all necessary?" PM Modi said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-machine-stuck-tunnel-blocked-whats-next-in-the-uttarakhand-tunnel-rescue-operation-662986">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Machine stuck, tunnel blocked: What's next in the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation?</a></p>

<h2><strong>A means of providing livelihood</strong></h2>

<p>He highlighted that hosting wedding celebrations on Indian soil, among the country's people, would ensure that the nation's finances remain within its borders. He pointed out that such weddings provide an opportunity for the people of the country to contribute various services.</p>

<p>"Even poor people will tell their children about your wedding. Can you expand this mission of 'Vocal for Local'? Why don't we hold such wedding ceremonies in our own country?" Modi said. "It is possible that the kind of system you want may not be there today, but if we organise such events, systems will also develop. This is a topic related to very big families. I hope this pain of mine will definitely reach those big families," the prime minister said.</p>

<p>In his speech, Prime Minister Modi also stressed&nbsp;that when the general populace actively participates in nation-building, no force in the world can hinder the progress of that nation. He pointed out that in India today, numerous changes are evidently being spearheaded by the country's 1.4 billion people.</p>

<p>"We have seen a direct example of this during this festive season. Last month in 'Mann Ki Baat' I had laid emphasis on 'Vocal for Local' i.e. buying local products. Within the last few days, business worth more than&nbsp;₹&nbsp;4 lakh crore has been done in the country on Diwali, Bhaiya Dooj and Chhath," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat on 26/11 anniversary: "People are now making more digital payments"</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-on-2611-anniversary-people-are-now-making-more-digital-payments-662993/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>PM Modi remarked that, similar to how the success of 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' serves as inspiration, the achievements of 'Vocal for Local' are paving the way for a 'developed and prosperous India.'</p>

<p>"This campaign of 'Vocal For Local' strengthens the economy of the entire country. The Vocal For Local campaign is a guarantee of employment. This is a guarantee of development; this is the guarantee of balanced development of the country," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced his unease on Sunday regarding the growing trend of "big families" organizing weddings overseas. He encouraged individuals to opt for hosting such celebrations within India to prevent the outflow of the country's funds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced his unease on Sunday regarding the growing trend of "big families" organizing weddings overseas. He encouraged individuals to opt for hosting such celebrations within India to prevent the outflow of the country's funds. During his Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast, PM Modi stressed the importance of exclusively choosing products made in India when shopping for weddings. "The wedding season as well has commenced now. Some trade organisations estimate that there could be a business of around ₹ 5 lakh crore during this wedding season. While shopping for weddings, all of you should give importance to products made in India only," he said. "And yes, since the topic of marriage has come up, one thing has been troubling me off and on for a long time... and if I don't open up my heart's pain to my family members, who else do I do it with? Just ponder... these days a new milieu is being created by some families to go abroad and conduct weddings. Is this at all necessary?" PM Modi said. Also read | Explained | Machine stuck, tunnel blocked: What's next in the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation? A means of providing livelihood He highlighted that hosting wedding celebrations on Indian soil, among the country's people, would ensure that the nation's finances remain within its borders. He pointed out that such weddings provide an opportunity for the people of the country to contribute various services. "Even poor people will tell their children about your wedding. Can you expand this mission of 'Vocal for Local'? Why don't we hold such wedding ceremonies in our own country?" Modi said. "It is possible that the kind of system you want may not be there today, but if we organise such events, systems will also develop. This is a topic related to very big families. I hope this pain of mine will definitely reach those big families," the prime minister said. In his speech, Prime Minister Modi also stressed that when the general populace actively participates in nation-building, no force in the world can hinder the progress of that nation. He pointed out that in India today, numerous changes are evidently being spearheaded by the country's 1.4 billion people. "We have seen a direct example of this during this festive season. Last month in 'Mann Ki Baat' I had laid emphasis on 'Vocal for Local' i.e. buying local products. Within the last few days, business worth more than ₹ 4 lakh crore has been done in the country on Diwali, Bhaiya Dooj and Chhath," he said. Also watch | PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat on 26/11 anniversary: "People are now making more digital payments" PM Modi remarked that, similar to how the success of 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' serves as inspiration, the achievements of 'Vocal for Local' are paving the way for a 'developed and prosperous India.' "This campaign of 'Vocal For Local' strengthens the economy of the entire country. The Vocal For Local campaign is a guarantee of employment. This is a guarantee of development; this is the guarantee of balanced development of the country," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Is it necessary?' PM Modi questions destination weddings abroad, advocates celebrating in India

The Netherlands is voting to elect a new Parliament the polls will also bring the Netherlands its first new prime minister in over a decade this after the outgoing prime minister Mark Rutt lost the popularity vote and in July he promised not to stand for elections again.

The Netherlands to get first new prime minister in 13 years

Pakistan where the ground is ready for the next general elections and so are the candidates taking a dig at their rival candidates. Pakistan People's Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recently said that the country should give a chance to someone new instead of choosing the same prime minister for the second time.

Pakistan: PPP Chairman takes a dig at his rivals ahead of general polls

<p>Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman announced Saturday (Nov 4) that she will propose new legislation aiming at limiting the use of tents by homeless individuals on streets. This came as she cited concerns that some view living in tents on streets as a "lifestyle choice."</p>

<p>She said that the tents on public streets are mostly occupied by individuals from abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But we cannot allow our streets to be taken over by rows of tents occupied by people, many of them from abroad, living on the streets as a lifestyle choice," she said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-hamburg-airport-closed-after-man-drives-onto-runway-to-create-hostage-situation-655214">Germany: Hamburg airport closed after man drives onto runway to create 'hostage situation'</a></p>

<p>While the minister teased the proposal she also claimed that the state is always there to address the issue of homelessness and support those who are genuinely forced to live on streets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Braverman also voiced her apprehension that if the government didn't take action, British cities could follow the example of cities in the United States, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, where "weak policies" contributed to increased crime and drug abuse.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Government support</strong></h2>

<p>The interior minister pointed out that there are alternatives available for people who do not wish to live on the streets. She also said that the government is collaborating with local authorities to enhance support systems for homeless people.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-shelling-claims-15-lives-in-khartoum-as-rsf-makes-advances-in-darfur-655194">Sudan shelling claims 15 lives in Khartoum as RSF makes advances in Darfur</a></p>

<p>"What I want to stop, and what the law abiding majority wants us to stop, is those who cause nuisance and distress to other people by pitching tents in public spaces, aggressively begging, stealing, taking drugs, littering, and blighting our communities," Braverman added.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition criticises Braverman</strong></h2>

<p>Angela Rayner, the deputy leader of the opposition Labour Party, criticised Braverman's statement, asserting that "rough sleeping is not a 'lifestyle choice'." He also attributed the rise in homelessness to the policies of the Conservative government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkish-president-denounces-israels-actions-in-gaza-655216">Turkish President denounces Israel's actions in Gaza</a></strong></p>

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<p>Homelessness charity Shelter also criticised Braverman's comments and said&nbsp;"Let's make it clear: living on the streets is not a ‘lifestyle choice’ - it is a sign of failed government policy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government's new legislative agenda will be presented in the King's Speech on Tuesday (Nov 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman announced Saturday (Nov 4) that she will propose new legislation aiming at limiting the use of tents by homeless individuals on streets.

Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman announced Saturday (Nov 4) that she will propose new legislation aiming at limiting the use of tents by homeless individuals on streets. This came as she cited concerns that some view living in tents on streets as a "lifestyle choice." She said that the tents on public streets are mostly occupied by individuals from abroad. "But we cannot allow our streets to be taken over by rows of tents occupied by people, many of them from abroad, living on the streets as a lifestyle choice," she said. Also Read | Germany: Hamburg airport closed after man drives onto runway to create 'hostage situation' While the minister teased the proposal she also claimed that the state is always there to address the issue of homelessness and support those who are genuinely forced to live on streets. Braverman also voiced her apprehension that if the government didn't take action, British cities could follow the example of cities in the United States, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, where "weak policies" contributed to increased crime and drug abuse. Government support The interior minister pointed out that there are alternatives available for people who do not wish to live on the streets. She also said that the government is collaborating with local authorities to enhance support systems for homeless people. Also Read | Sudan shelling claims 15 lives in Khartoum as RSF makes advances in Darfur "What I want to stop, and what the law abiding majority wants us to stop, is those who cause nuisance and distress to other people by pitching tents in public spaces, aggressively begging, stealing, taking drugs, littering, and blighting our communities," Braverman added. Opposition criticises Braverman Angela Rayner, the deputy leader of the opposition Labour Party, criticised Braverman's statement, asserting that "rough sleeping is not a 'lifestyle choice'." He also attributed the rise in homelessness to the policies of the Conservative government. Watch | Turkish President denounces Israel's actions in Gaza × Homelessness charity Shelter also criticised Braverman's comments and said "Let's make it clear: living on the streets is not a ‘lifestyle choice’ - it is a sign of failed government policy." The government's new legislative agenda will be presented in the King's Speech on Tuesday (Nov 7). (With inputs from agencies)

Cannot allow tents on streets as 'lifestyle choice': UK Interior Minister Suella Braverman

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Oct 20) announced that she had separated from her longtime beau and television journalist partner Andrea Giambruno, who recently was criticised for making sexist comments on air.<br />
<br />
“My relationship with Andrea Giambruno, which lasted almost ten years, ends here. I thank him for the splendid years we spent together, for the difficulties we went through, and for giving me the most important thing in my life, which is our daughter Ginevra,” Meloni wrote on X and Facebook.<br />
<br />
“Our paths have diverged for some time, and the time has come to acknowledge it. I will defend what we were, I will defend our friendship, and I will defend, at all costs, a seven-year-old girl who loves her mother and loves her father, as I was unable to love mine. I have nothing else to say about this. Ps. all those who hoped to weaken me by hitting me at home should know that however much the drop may hope to dig out the stone, the stone remains stone and the drop is only water," she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="it">La mia relazione con Andrea Giambruno, durata quasi dieci anni, finisce qui. Lo ringrazio per gli anni splendidi che abbiamo trascorso insieme, per le difficoltà che abbiamo attraversato, e per avermi regalato la cosa più importante della mia vita, che è nostra figlia Ginevra.… <a href="https://t.co/1IpvfN8MgA">pic.twitter.com/1IpvfN8MgA</a></p>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1715255386058506377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meloni and her partner have a young daughter together.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-and-giorgia-meloni-we-are-two-of-the-closest-friends-in-europe-today-643494">Rishi Sunak and Giorgia Meloni: 'We are two of the closest friends in Europe today'</a></p>

<h2><strong>Giambruno's sexist comments on air</strong></h2>

<p>Giambruno has been working as the presenter of a news programme which was aired by Mediaset. Mediaset is part of the MFE media group, which is owned by the heirs of the late Silvio Berlusconi, who is the country's former premier and Meloni ally.<br />
<br />
On two days of this week, off-air excerpts from the programme of Giambruno were broadcasted on another Mediaset show in which he was seen making use of foul language and appeared to make advances towards a female colleague.<br />
<br />
"Why didn't I meet you before?", he was seen telling her. In the second and more explicit recording which was aired on Thursday, Giambruno can be heard speaking with pride about an affair and saying to his female colleagues that they can work for him if they are willing to take part in group sex.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island</strong></p>

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<p>In August, the TV journalist was criticised widely for apparent victim-blaming comments after a gang rape case.<br />
<br />
"If you go dancing, you have every right to get drunk - there shouldn't be any kind of misunderstanding and any kind of problem - but if you avoid getting drunk and losing your senses, you might also avoid running into certain problems and coming across a wolf," he stated, during his programme.<br />
<br />
After that episode, Meloni stated that people should not judge her for the comments made by her partner and that she is not willing to answer any questions related to his behaviour in future.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Oct 20) announced that she had separated from her longtime beau and television journalist partner Andrea Giambruno, who recently was criticised for making sexist comments on air.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Oct 20) announced that she had separated from her longtime beau and television journalist partner Andrea Giambruno, who recently was criticised for making sexist comments on air. “My relationship with Andrea Giambruno, which lasted almost ten years, ends here. I thank him for the splendid years we spent together, for the difficulties we went through, and for giving me the most important thing in my life, which is our daughter Ginevra,” Meloni wrote on X and Facebook. “Our paths have diverged for some time, and the time has come to acknowledge it. I will defend what we were, I will defend our friendship, and I will defend, at all costs, a seven-year-old girl who loves her mother and loves her father, as I was unable to love mine. I have nothing else to say about this. Ps. all those who hoped to weaken me by hitting me at home should know that however much the drop may hope to dig out the stone, the stone remains stone and the drop is only water," she added. La mia relazione con Andrea Giambruno, durata quasi dieci anni, finisce qui. Lo ringrazio per gli anni splendidi che abbiamo trascorso insieme, per le difficoltà che abbiamo attraversato, e per avermi regalato la cosa più importante della mia vita, che è nostra figlia Ginevra.… pic.twitter.com/1IpvfN8MgA — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) October 20, 2023 × Meloni and her partner have a young daughter together. ALSO READ | Rishi Sunak and Giorgia Meloni: 'We are two of the closest friends in Europe today' Giambruno's sexist comments on air Giambruno has been working as the presenter of a news programme which was aired by Mediaset. Mediaset is part of the MFE media group, which is owned by the heirs of the late Silvio Berlusconi, who is the country's former premier and Meloni ally. On two days of this week, off-air excerpts from the programme of Giambruno were broadcasted on another Mediaset show in which he was seen making use of foul language and appeared to make advances towards a female colleague. "Why didn't I meet you before?", he was seen telling her. In the second and more explicit recording which was aired on Thursday, Giambruno can be heard speaking with pride about an affair and saying to his female colleagues that they can work for him if they are willing to take part in group sex. WATCH | Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island In August, the TV journalist was criticised widely for apparent victim-blaming comments after a gang rape case. "If you go dancing, you have every right to get drunk - there shouldn't be any kind of misunderstanding and any kind of problem - but if you avoid getting drunk and losing your senses, you might also avoid running into certain problems and coming across a wolf," he stated, during his programme. After that episode, Meloni stated that people should not judge her for the comments made by her partner and that she is not willing to answer any questions related to his behaviour in future. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni announces end of relationship with partner after his sexist comments

<p>Justin Trudeau was heckled by an outraged man when the Canadian prime minister was engaging with his supporters at an event. A video of the seething comments made by the man against the Canadian PM is now going viral on social media platforms. The footage showed that the Canadian PM was interacting cheerfully with people present there.</p>

<p>He was also&nbsp;seen chatting with a toddler in a stroller and smiling widely. But things soon took an ugly turn and got rather weird for the PM.</p>

<p>After greeting people on one side, Trudeau moved to address people standing on the other side. Then, angry man shouted, "I am not shaking your hand bro, you're a piece of sh*t man."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-strikes-ukraines-kharkiv-again-kills-10-year-old-boy-and-injures-others-643262">Russia strikes Ukraine's Kharkiv again, kills 10-year-old boy, injures others</a></p>

<p>Trudeau was taken aback and shocked at what just transpired amid a flurry of smiles and greetings. He quickly asked the man as to what led to the insult.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Standing defiant, the man made comments to embarrass the prime minister. "You f**ked up this entire country," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video was shaky and a bit unclear. From behind the camera, someone from the crowd said, "Bucktee".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Trudeau gets confronted by a Toronto mans: "I'm not shaking your hand... you f*cked up this entire country".<br />
<br />
What do you think? <a href="https://t.co/rvQux8VScn">pic.twitter.com/rvQux8VScn</a></p>
— Efrain Flores Monsanto 🇨🇦🚛 (@realmonsanto) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmonsanto/status/1710061405179683196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reports quoting a dictionary said "Bucktee" is a slang and is often used for "homeless crackhead who lives in Toronto".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-evacuates-diplomats-from-india-after-new-delhi-asks-for-staff-reduction-643197">Canada evacuates diplomats from India after New Delhi demands staff reduction</a></p>

<p>Trudeau, instead of escaping the clear tirade of embarrassment, continued on which only turned the situation even worse. “How did I mess up this country?” Trudeau questioned the man.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He drew Trudeau's attention to Canada's housing crisis. The man asked, “Can anybody afford a home?" &nbsp;</p>

<p>“You're charging people a carbon tax, you got 9 V8s here idling.”</p>

<p>The man's comments were trying to say how Trudeau's own actions, for instance, his motorcade, were far from his so-called advocacy for carbon tax.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-plans-bidens-face-to-face-meeting-with-chinas-xi-jinping-in-california-643240">White House plans Biden’s face-to-face meeting with china’s Xi Jinping in California</a></strong></p>

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<p>In a clear attempt to pacify the situation and clear his name of the allegations, Trudeau pointed, “You know what we're doing with that carbon tax?”&nbsp;</p>

<p>At this moment, the man who had the camera intervened and said, “We're getting charged for what?” Trudeau said that whatever is being taken as tax is being given back to families "like yours.”</p>

<h2><strong>Condemning Canadian aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Going away from the housing crisis, the man picked another fight with the Canadian prime minister by condemning the Canadian aid provided to Ukraine. Rebuking Canada's millions of dollars in aid to Ukraine, the man said, “You send it over to Ukraine, right? You send it over to the guy slaughtering his own country."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trudeau, during the encounter, rubbished away the comments as part of Russian propaganda.&nbsp;“You have been listening to Putin, have you?” he said, adding, “You know a lot of Russian disinformation,” before walking away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The viral video has garnered a deluge of comments on social media with many bashing the PM.</p>

<p>One user posted on X, “Everything is miss information if he doesn't agree eh!” while another wrote, “Using the Putin card is so lame by the PM.”</p>

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Justin Trudeau was heckled by an outraged man when the Canadian prime minister was engaging with his supporters at an event. A video of the seething comments made by the man against the Canadian PM is now going viral on social media platforms.

Justin Trudeau was heckled by an outraged man when the Canadian prime minister was engaging with his supporters at an event. A video of the seething comments made by the man against the Canadian PM is now going viral on social media platforms. The footage showed that the Canadian PM was interacting cheerfully with people present there. He was also seen chatting with a toddler in a stroller and smiling widely. But things soon took an ugly turn and got rather weird for the PM. After greeting people on one side, Trudeau moved to address people standing on the other side. Then, angry man shouted, "I am not shaking your hand bro, you're a piece of sh*t man." Also Read | Russia strikes Ukraine's Kharkiv again, kills 10-year-old boy, injures others Trudeau was taken aback and shocked at what just transpired amid a flurry of smiles and greetings. He quickly asked the man as to what led to the insult. Standing defiant, the man made comments to embarrass the prime minister. "You f**ked up this entire country," he said. The video was shaky and a bit unclear. From behind the camera, someone from the crowd said, "Bucktee". Trudeau gets confronted by a Toronto mans: "I'm not shaking your hand... you f*cked up this entire country". What do you think? pic.twitter.com/rvQux8VScn — Efrain Flores Monsanto 🇨🇦🚛 (@realmonsanto) October 5, 2023 × Reports quoting a dictionary said "Bucktee" is a slang and is often used for "homeless crackhead who lives in Toronto". Also Read | Canada evacuates diplomats from India after New Delhi demands staff reduction Trudeau, instead of escaping the clear tirade of embarrassment, continued on which only turned the situation even worse. “How did I mess up this country?” Trudeau questioned the man. He drew Trudeau's attention to Canada's housing crisis. The man asked, “Can anybody afford a home?" “You're charging people a carbon tax, you got 9 V8s here idling.” The man's comments were trying to say how Trudeau's own actions, for instance, his motorcade, were far from his so-called advocacy for carbon tax. Watch | White House plans Biden’s face-to-face meeting with china’s Xi Jinping in California × In a clear attempt to pacify the situation and clear his name of the allegations, Trudeau pointed, “You know what we're doing with that carbon tax?” At this moment, the man who had the camera intervened and said, “We're getting charged for what?” Trudeau said that whatever is being taken as tax is being given back to families "like yours.” Condemning Canadian aid to Ukraine Going away from the housing crisis, the man picked another fight with the Canadian prime minister by condemning the Canadian aid provided to Ukraine. Rebuking Canada's millions of dollars in aid to Ukraine, the man said, “You send it over to Ukraine, right? You send it over to the guy slaughtering his own country." Trudeau, during the encounter, rubbished away the comments as part of Russian propaganda. “You have been listening to Putin, have you?” he said, adding, “You know a lot of Russian disinformation,” before walking away. The viral video has garnered a deluge of comments on social media with many bashing the PM. One user posted on X, “Everything is miss information if he doesn't agree eh!” while another wrote, “Using the Putin card is so lame by the PM.” 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 | 'You're a piece of sh*t': Trudeau shockingly heckled by an outraged man

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province.<br />
<br />
China and Nepal will be working together for greater synergy between development strategies and to ensure the progress of their bilateral ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prachanda reached Hangzhou earlier on Saturday to attend the 19th Asian Games' opening ceremony which was held on Saturday evening.</p>

<p>Sharing details of the meeting on X, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal Chen Song wrote, “On September 23,&nbsp; Xi Jinping, Chinese President met with Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development strategies with Nepal to promote continuous new progress of the bilateral relations.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On September 23, H. E. Mr. Xi Jinping,Chinese President met with Rt. Hon. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development… <a href="https://t.co/nwegRCr3xN">pic.twitter.com/nwegRCr3xN</a></p>
— Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PRCAmbNepal/status/1705548803749609790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Prachanda said that Nepal supports a series of important concepts and initiatives proposed by President Xi and is willing to work with China to promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/president-xi-jinping-to-open-asian-games-as-china-targets-sporting-glory-in-hangzhou-638772">President Xi Jinping to open Asian Games as China targets sporting glory</a></p>

<h2><strong>Prachanda attends opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games</strong></h2>

<p>Welcoming the Nepalese PM in Hangzhou, the Chinese president said, “Welcome Prime Minister Prachanda to attend the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and pay an official visit to China. You've been committed to promoting the development of China-Nepal friendly relations, and firmly supporting the Belt and Road co-operation between the two countries, which I highly appreciate. This is your first visit to China since you took office as Prime Minister of Nepal for the third time, and I believe that this visit will yield fruitful results and inject new impetus into the friendly co-operation between our two countries.”<br />
<br />
"China and Nepal are connected by mountains and rivers, and have enjoyed an everlasting friendship. Over the 68 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, China and Nepal, on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have been respecting and supporting each other and treating each other as equals, which sets an example of equal treatment and win-win co-operation between big and small countries. China attaches great importance to its relationship with Nepal, and is willing to work with Nepal to seek greater synergy between our development strategies, deepen practical co-operation in various fields and strengthen experience-sharing on state governance, so as to keep making new progress in advancing the China-Nepal relationship," he added.</p>

<p>The Nepalese prime minister expressed his gratitude for receiving invitation&nbsp;to the opening ceremony of the Asian Games and said that the event will strengthen relations and promote understanding&nbsp;among Asian nations.</p>

<p>"It is my distinct honor to meet with you in this beautiful city of Hangzhou. This is my fifth meeting with you, Your Excellency. You are a visionary and great leader of our time, and a true friend of Nepal. I'm grateful to you for the invitation to be a part of the grand celebration of the Asian Games. The message of this event will go a long way in cementing ties and promoting understanding&nbsp;among Asian nations and people," stated Prachanda.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Nepal PM's visit to China: Lizi trade route for Nepal and China</strong></p>

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<p>The 19th Asian Games, which is being co-hosted by Hangzhou and five cities of Zhejiang - Ningbo, Wenzhou, Jinhua, Shaoxing, and Huzhou - officially opened on Saturday evening and will continue till October 8.</p>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province.

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province. China and Nepal will be working together for greater synergy between development strategies and to ensure the progress of their bilateral ties. Prachanda reached Hangzhou earlier on Saturday to attend the 19th Asian Games' opening ceremony which was held on Saturday evening. Sharing details of the meeting on X, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal Chen Song wrote, “On September 23, Xi Jinping, Chinese President met with Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development strategies with Nepal to promote continuous new progress of the bilateral relations.” On September 23, H. E. Mr. Xi Jinping,Chinese President met with Rt. Hon. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development… pic.twitter.com/nwegRCr3xN — Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) September 23, 2023 × “Prachanda said that Nepal supports a series of important concepts and initiatives proposed by President Xi and is willing to work with China to promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” he added. ALSO READ | President Xi Jinping to open Asian Games as China targets sporting glory Prachanda attends opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games Welcoming the Nepalese PM in Hangzhou, the Chinese president said, “Welcome Prime Minister Prachanda to attend the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and pay an official visit to China. You've been committed to promoting the development of China-Nepal friendly relations, and firmly supporting the Belt and Road co-operation between the two countries, which I highly appreciate. This is your first visit to China since you took office as Prime Minister of Nepal for the third time, and I believe that this visit will yield fruitful results and inject new impetus into the friendly co-operation between our two countries.” "China and Nepal are connected by mountains and rivers, and have enjoyed an everlasting friendship. Over the 68 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, China and Nepal, on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have been respecting and supporting each other and treating each other as equals, which sets an example of equal treatment and win-win co-operation between big and small countries. China attaches great importance to its relationship with Nepal, and is willing to work with Nepal to seek greater synergy between our development strategies, deepen practical co-operation in various fields and strengthen experience-sharing on state governance, so as to keep making new progress in advancing the China-Nepal relationship," he added. The Nepalese prime minister expressed his gratitude for receiving invitation to the opening ceremony of the Asian Games and said that the event will strengthen relations and promote understanding among Asian nations. "It is my distinct honor to meet with you in this beautiful city of Hangzhou. This is my fifth meeting with you, Your Excellency. You are a visionary and great leader of our time, and a true friend of Nepal. I'm grateful to you for the invitation to be a part of the grand celebration of the Asian Games. The message of this event will go a long way in cementing ties and promoting understanding among Asian nations and people," stated Prachanda. WATCH | Nepal PM's visit to China: Lizi trade route for Nepal and China The 19th Asian Games, which is being co-hosted by Hangzhou and five cities of Zhejiang - Ningbo, Wenzhou, Jinhua, Shaoxing, and Huzhou - officially opened on Saturday evening and will continue till October 8. 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

Nepal's PM Prachanda meets Chinese President Xi, attends Asian Games opening

<p>The leader of Thailand's reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), Pita Limjaroenrat, whose party clinched maximum seats in the national elections held in the country in May, submitted his resignation as the party leader on Friday (September 15).<br />
<br />
The Move Forward Party (MFP) was led to the top spot in the elections by the young challenger, capitalising on a number of voters who were disenchanted by the junta-backed rule which continued for a decade, before the conservatives blocked him and he was suspended as an MP.<br />
<br />
The MFP ended its partnership with opposition rivals Pheu Thai Party, after which it formed a coalition government with pro-military parties, and stated that they would go into opposition.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/thailands-economy-shows-little-signs-of-recovery-despite-increasing-tourism-630078">Thailand’s economy shows little signs of recovery, despite increasing tourism&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>"I resigned as the MFP's party leader to pave the way for an MP that is able to have a voice in parliament, be the opposition leader," wrote Pita, on his official Facebook page. As per the current rules, the leader of the opposition must remain as an MP.<br />
<br />
"Due to my MP suspension, I won't be able to get my MP position and be opposition leader in the near future," Pita stated.<br />
<br />
In July, Pita was suspended while he was waiting for the ruling of the Constitutional Court over his ownership of shares in a media company, which is now defunct.<br />
<br />
As per the Constitution of Thailand, MPs are not allowed to own media shares. Emphasising the importance of the role, Pita said that it was like "the prow (of a ship) that determines the direction of the opposition".<br />
<br />
"There will need to be a party general meeting to vote for the new leader," said MFP lawmaker Rangsiman Rome, while speaking to AFP.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Numerous legal and political challenges against Pita</strong></h2>

<p>A number of legal and political challenges were thrown against the 43-year-old since the shock success of MFP in the May polls.<br />
<br />
He left the race for the premiership after his first bid faltered because of the junta-appointed Senate, and the parliamentarians denied him a second chance.<br />
<br />
The Constitutional Court, outside the parliament, is considering a second case which alleges that the campaign of MFP which promised to amend the royal defamation law of Thailand is equivalent to the the scheme of overthrowing the monarchy.<br />
<br />
In his Facebook post, Pita said that he would remain closely involved, "no matter his role".<br />
<br />
Appealing to supporters to gather in central Bangkok on September 24, he stated that he would continue working with the MFP "so that we could achieve something together".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The leader of Thailand's reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), Pita Limjaroenrat, whose party clinched maximum seats in the national elections held in the country in May, submitted his resignation as the party leader on Friday (September 15).

The leader of Thailand's reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), Pita Limjaroenrat, whose party clinched maximum seats in the national elections held in the country in May, submitted his resignation as the party leader on Friday (September 15). The Move Forward Party (MFP) was led to the top spot in the elections by the young challenger, capitalising on a number of voters who were disenchanted by the junta-backed rule which continued for a decade, before the conservatives blocked him and he was suspended as an MP. The MFP ended its partnership with opposition rivals Pheu Thai Party, after which it formed a coalition government with pro-military parties, and stated that they would go into opposition. ALSO READ | Thailand’s economy shows little signs of recovery, despite increasing tourism "I resigned as the MFP's party leader to pave the way for an MP that is able to have a voice in parliament, be the opposition leader," wrote Pita, on his official Facebook page. As per the current rules, the leader of the opposition must remain as an MP. "Due to my MP suspension, I won't be able to get my MP position and be opposition leader in the near future," Pita stated. In July, Pita was suspended while he was waiting for the ruling of the Constitutional Court over his ownership of shares in a media company, which is now defunct. As per the Constitution of Thailand, MPs are not allowed to own media shares. Emphasising the importance of the role, Pita said that it was like "the prow (of a ship) that determines the direction of the opposition". "There will need to be a party general meeting to vote for the new leader," said MFP lawmaker Rangsiman Rome, while speaking to AFP. WATCH | Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM Numerous legal and political challenges against Pita A number of legal and political challenges were thrown against the 43-year-old since the shock success of MFP in the May polls. He left the race for the premiership after his first bid faltered because of the junta-appointed Senate, and the parliamentarians denied him a second chance. The Constitutional Court, outside the parliament, is considering a second case which alleges that the campaign of MFP which promised to amend the royal defamation law of Thailand is equivalent to the the scheme of overthrowing the monarchy. In his Facebook post, Pita said that he would remain closely involved, "no matter his role". Appealing to supporters to gather in central Bangkok on September 24, he stated that he would continue working with the MFP "so that we could achieve something together". (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thailand’s blocked PM challenger Pita Limjaroenrat resigns as party leader

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (September 14), slammed the opposition's INDIA alliance calling it 'ghamandia' (arrogant). He further said that the bloc wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma and push the country back into "a thousand years' slavery".&nbsp;</p>

<p>While addressing a massive gathering at Bina in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi dubbed the INDIA bloc as an “INDI alliance” that "does not have a leader" and also denounced it for having a hidden agenda of attacking Sanatan Dharma.</p>

<p>"The 'ghamandia' alliance met in Mumbai recently. They have neither any policies, nor issues, nor a leader. They have a hidden agenda of attacking Sanatan Dharma which they want to destroy," he said.</p>

<p>"They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries," the PM added.</p>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister then asserted that Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak also drew inspiration from Sanatan&nbsp;Dharma.</p>

<p>"The people of this INDIA alliance want to erase that 'Sanatan&nbsp;Dharma' which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak. Today they have openly started targeting Sanatan, tomorrow they will increase the attacks on us. All 'Sanatanis' across the country and the people who love our country will have to be alert," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bina, Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "The people of this INDIA alliance want to erase that 'Sanatana Dharma' which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak...This INDIA alliance wants to destroy 'Sanatana Dharma'. Today they have openly… <a href="https://t.co/wc0C2hBxtS">pic.twitter.com/wc0C2hBxtS</a></p>
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<p>He then said that Sanatan Dharma also inspired the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and that his struggle for freedom was centred around it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/india-demands-strong-action-as-us-cop-jokes-about-death-of-indian-student-635819">US assures India of strong action against cop who joked about Indian student's death</a></p>

<p>"Gandhi followed Sanatan Dharma all his life and his last words were, 'Hey Ram'", Modi noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was PM Modi's first public response to DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on Sanatana Dharma that courted controversy.</p>

<p>The son of the Tamil Nadu chief minister sparked a row on Saturday (September 2) by saying that Sanatan&nbsp;Dharma is against social justice and must be "eradicated".</p>

<p>He then compared it with diseases like dengue and malaria, inviting sharp criticism.</p>

<p>"Few things cannot be opposed; they should only be abolished. We can't oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or coronavirus, we have to eradicate them. In the same way, we have to eradicate Sanatana (Sanatan Dharma). Rather than merely opposing Sanatana, it should be eradicated," Stalin said.</p>

<p>His comments triggered severe backlash on social media and also invited sharp criticism from many political figures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (September 14), slammed the opposition's INDIA alliance calling it 'ghamandia' (arrogant). He further said that the bloc wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma and push the country back into "a thousand years' slavery".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (September 14), slammed the opposition's INDIA alliance calling it 'ghamandia' (arrogant). He further said that the bloc wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma and push the country back into "a thousand years' slavery". While addressing a massive gathering at Bina in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi dubbed the INDIA bloc as an “INDI alliance” that "does not have a leader" and also denounced it for having a hidden agenda of attacking Sanatan Dharma. "The 'ghamandia' alliance met in Mumbai recently. They have neither any policies, nor issues, nor a leader. They have a hidden agenda of attacking Sanatan Dharma which they want to destroy," he said. "They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries," the PM added. The Indian Prime Minister then asserted that Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak also drew inspiration from Sanatan Dharma. "The people of this INDIA alliance want to erase that 'Sanatan Dharma' which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak. Today they have openly started targeting Sanatan, tomorrow they will increase the attacks on us. All 'Sanatanis' across the country and the people who love our country will have to be alert," he said. #WATCH | Bina, Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "The people of this INDIA alliance want to erase that 'Sanatana Dharma' which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak...This INDIA alliance wants to destroy 'Sanatana Dharma'. Today they have openly… pic.twitter.com/wc0C2hBxtS — ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023 × He then said that Sanatan Dharma also inspired the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and that his struggle for freedom was centred around it. Also read: US assures India of strong action against cop who joked about Indian student's death "Gandhi followed Sanatan Dharma all his life and his last words were, 'Hey Ram'", Modi noted. This was PM Modi's first public response to DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on Sanatana Dharma that courted controversy. The son of the Tamil Nadu chief minister sparked a row on Saturday (September 2) by saying that Sanatan Dharma is against social justice and must be "eradicated". He then compared it with diseases like dengue and malaria, inviting sharp criticism. "Few things cannot be opposed; they should only be abolished. We can't oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or coronavirus, we have to eradicate them. In the same way, we have to eradicate Sanatana (Sanatan Dharma). Rather than merely opposing Sanatana, it should be eradicated," Stalin said. His comments triggered severe backlash on social media and also invited sharp criticism from many political figures. (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.

'INDIA alliance's agenda is to end country's ‘Sanatan’ culture', says PM Modi

<p>Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July.<br />
<br />
He stated that "contacts" were underway for French forces' "very swift" pullout from Niger as the relations with France went downhill after the military takeover.<br />
<br />
"We have not stopped contacts with ECOWAS, we are continuing contacts. We have good hopes of reaching an agreement in the coming days," said Prime Minister Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey.<br />
<br />
Hefty sanctions were slapped by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after the country's democratically-elected president Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the rebel soldiers on July 26.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-bans-ngos-un-agencies-from-working-in-military-operation-zones-631031">Niger bans NGOs, UN agencies from working in military 'operation zones'</a></p>

<p>EOWAS has also several times warned that it will intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum if the diplomatic attempts are not able to resolve the crisis.<br />
<br />
"We are bracing to be attacked at any time. Every preparation has been taken. It would be an unjust war. We are determined to defend ourselves if there is an attack," Zeine said while speaking to the reporters.</p>

<h2><strong>Spat with France</strong></h2>

<p>Without elaborating much on the withdrawal of the French forces, Prime Minister Zeine said that "contacts" were underway "that should enable a very swift withdrawal of French forces" from the country.<br />
<br />
However, he stated that Niger wished "to maintain co-operation with a country with which we have shared an enormous number of things." On August 3, the post-coup government renounced military accords with Paris, a step which has been ignored by France.<br />
<br />
Zeine stated that because of the renunciation, the French troops in Niger are now "in a position of illegality." As per military sources, one of the accords needed a notice period of one month.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation?</strong></p>

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<p><br />
Meanwhile, the air space was reopened by Niger on Monday after a flight ban was imposed by the government on August 6 in response to the threat of the ECOWAS, said the official news agency ANP.<br />
<br />
During this time, some flights to Niamey were allowed with special authorisations.<br />
<br />
Speaking to AFP, Air France said that it will resume flights over Nigerien territory from Tuesday morning, even though the suspension will remain imposed on its air services to and from Niamey until further notice.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July.

Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July. He stated that "contacts" were underway for French forces' "very swift" pullout from Niger as the relations with France went downhill after the military takeover. "We have not stopped contacts with ECOWAS, we are continuing contacts. We have good hopes of reaching an agreement in the coming days," said Prime Minister Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey. Hefty sanctions were slapped by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after the country's democratically-elected president Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the rebel soldiers on July 26. ALSO READ | Niger bans NGOs, UN agencies from working in military 'operation zones' EOWAS has also several times warned that it will intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum if the diplomatic attempts are not able to resolve the crisis. "We are bracing to be attacked at any time. Every preparation has been taken. It would be an unjust war. We are determined to defend ourselves if there is an attack," Zeine said while speaking to the reporters. Spat with France Without elaborating much on the withdrawal of the French forces, Prime Minister Zeine said that "contacts" were underway "that should enable a very swift withdrawal of French forces" from the country. However, he stated that Niger wished "to maintain co-operation with a country with which we have shared an enormous number of things." On August 3, the post-coup government renounced military accords with Paris, a step which has been ignored by France. Zeine stated that because of the renunciation, the French troops in Niger are now "in a position of illegality." As per military sources, one of the accords needed a notice period of one month. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation? Meanwhile, the air space was reopened by Niger on Monday after a flight ban was imposed by the government on August 6 in response to the threat of the ECOWAS, said the official news agency ANP. During this time, some flights to Niamey were allowed with special authorisations. Speaking to AFP, Air France said that it will resume flights over Nigerien territory from Tuesday morning, even though the suspension will remain imposed on its air services to and from Niamey until further notice. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Niger PM Zeine expresses hope for 'agreement' with ECOWAS

<p>Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency.<br />
<br />
The 74-year-old billionaire, who was elected as the prime minister twice and was ousted in a 2006 military coup, was imprisoned last week immediately after he returned to the country from 15 years of self-exile.<br />
<br />
The homecoming of the former prime minister coincided with the return of his Pheu Thai party to power after forming an alliance with many pro-military parties, which ignited speculation that an agreement was finalised to decrease his time in prison.<br />
<br />
Caretaker justice minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said an application was submitted by Thaksin for a pardon from the eight-year prison term which he was serving after he was convicted for abuse of power and graft.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-ex-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-shifted-to-hospital-after-spending-one-night-in-jail-628145">Thailand’s ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra shifted to hospital after spending one night in jail</a></p>

<p>"We have received (the request), the rest will be according to the procedure," said Wissanu, speaking to the reporters. When questioned how long the process takes, Wissanu said, "It is purely based on royal grace. The procedure from the government is not long, but it depends on the length of (the king's) consideration."<br />
<br />
As per the law of Thailand, prisoners are free to submit a pardon application which goes through the justice minister to the prime minister and then to the privy council before reaching King Maha Vajiralongkorn. As per the officials, the process will likely take one to two months, if all the paperwork is submitted in order.<br />
<br />
After landing in Bangkok last week, the first public act of Thaksin was to prostrate himself in homage before the king's portrait at the airport.</p>

<h2><strong>A hero's welcome</strong></h2>

<p>Hours after landing in Bangkok, Thaksin received a hero's welcome from his numerous supporters. Meanwhile, Pheu Thai's Srettha Thavisin was announced as the prime minister on Tuesday which marked the appointment of the first premier of the party since Thaksin's sister Yingluck was removed in a coup in 2014.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM</strong></p>

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<p>Hours after he was imprisoned, Thaksin was shifted to a police hospital as prison medical officers said that he needed close monitoring because of various health problems, which included heart trouble.<br />
<br />
As reported by Thai media, Thaksin was staying in a private VIP suite on the Police General Hospital's 14th floor in downtown Bangkok. On Thursday afternoon, a small anti-Thaksin group gathered in Bangkok to demand he serve his time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency.

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appealed for a royal pardon, a government minister confirmed on Thursday (August 31), amid spreading rumours of a backroom deal for clemency. The 74-year-old billionaire, who was elected as the prime minister twice and was ousted in a 2006 military coup, was imprisoned last week immediately after he returned to the country from 15 years of self-exile. The homecoming of the former prime minister coincided with the return of his Pheu Thai party to power after forming an alliance with many pro-military parties, which ignited speculation that an agreement was finalised to decrease his time in prison. Caretaker justice minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said an application was submitted by Thaksin for a pardon from the eight-year prison term which he was serving after he was convicted for abuse of power and graft. ALSO READ | Thailand’s ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra shifted to hospital after spending one night in jail "We have received (the request), the rest will be according to the procedure," said Wissanu, speaking to the reporters. When questioned how long the process takes, Wissanu said, "It is purely based on royal grace. The procedure from the government is not long, but it depends on the length of (the king's) consideration." As per the law of Thailand, prisoners are free to submit a pardon application which goes through the justice minister to the prime minister and then to the privy council before reaching King Maha Vajiralongkorn. As per the officials, the process will likely take one to two months, if all the paperwork is submitted in order. After landing in Bangkok last week, the first public act of Thaksin was to prostrate himself in homage before the king's portrait at the airport. A hero's welcome Hours after landing in Bangkok, Thaksin received a hero's welcome from his numerous supporters. Meanwhile, Pheu Thai's Srettha Thavisin was announced as the prime minister on Tuesday which marked the appointment of the first premier of the party since Thaksin's sister Yingluck was removed in a coup in 2014. WATCH | Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM Hours after he was imprisoned, Thaksin was shifted to a police hospital as prison medical officers said that he needed close monitoring because of various health problems, which included heart trouble. As reported by Thai media, Thaksin was staying in a private VIP suite on the Police General Hospital's 14th floor in downtown Bangkok. On Thursday afternoon, a small anti-Thaksin group gathered in Bangkok to demand he serve his time. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thailand's former PM Thaksin Shinawatra appeals for royal pardon

<p>Mission 'Chandrayaan-3' has emerged as the symbol of the spirit of a 'New India', which wants to emerge victorious under any circumstances, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the latest edition of his monthly radio broadcast — 'Mann Ki Baat' — on Sunday.</p>

<p>India entered record books as the first country to successfully place a lander on the moon's uncharted South Police on Wednesday, last week.</p>

<p>The successful conduct of what was the maiden lunar landing mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also put India in an elite club of nations featuring the US, Russia and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-killed-one-injured-after-russian-shelling-hits-cafe-in-ukraines-northeast-629482">At least two killed, one injured after Russian shelling hits cafe in Ukraine’s northeast</a></p>

<p>“On August 23, our Chandrayaan-3 mission proved to the world that the dawn of revolution and resolve can also light up the dark side of the moon. Mission Chandrayaan has become a symbol and the spirit of a new India. This is an India, which wants to emerge victorious at all costs. It wants to break new grounds regardless of the circumstances," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>He further said a discussion on India's maiden lunar landing mission would struggle to do justice to the enormity of its success.</p>

<p>"The success of Chandrayaan-3 has seen the entire country immerse itself in unbridled celebrations. It has been more than three days since our lunar lander, 'Vikram', touched down on the moon's surface. Such is the enormity of the mission's success that any discussion on it seems futile," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-police-experts-to-vanuatu-after-pro-west-pm-loses-power-629511">China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power</a></p>

<p>On the key role played by ISRO's women scientists in the successful conduct of the daunting lunar landing mission, PM Modi said the mission is a “classic illustration of women power”, adding that India's daughters are not only shattering glass ceilings but also challenging Space, which is considered ‘infinite.’</p>

<p>“India's Mission Chandrayaan is a classic illustration of our women power. Many women scientists and engineers were directly involved with this mission. They handled vital responsibilities such as those of a project director and project manager," he said.</p>

<p>“Our daughters are even challenging the limitless Space. When the daughters of a country chase such big dreams, is there any force that can stop them or the country from making forward strides?" PM Modi added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NASA's supersonic passenger flights are getting closer</strong></p>

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<p>Also lauding the contribution of other sectors to the success of the Chandrayaan-3, PM Modi said, "Today, our dreams are big and so are the efforts to realise them. Along with our scientists, other sectors also contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3. Many of my fellow countrymen contributed to the mission by meeting the technical requirements. It took everyone's efforts and contributions to make this mission a success. This is the biggest success of mission Chandrayaan-3."</p>

<p>Earlier, on Saturday, PM Modi announced that August 23 will, henceforth, be celebrated as 'National Space Day' to mark the success of India's maiden lunar landing mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also announced that the spot on the lunar South Pole where the Vikram lander touched down would be called the ‘Shiv Shakti Point' while the spot on the moon's surface where the Chandrayaan-2 left its mark would be known as the 'Tiranga Point'.</p>

<p>"This mission will be a source of inspiration for every effort that goes into taking this country forward in the coming days. It will remind us that a failure isn't the end of the world," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>On Saturday, PM Modi interacted with the women scientists of the ISRO, who were involved in the 'Chandrayaan-3' project, commending the key role they played in the successful culmination of India's maiden lunar landing mission.&nbsp;</p>

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Mission 'Chandrayaan-3' has emerged as the symbol of the spirit of a 'New India', which wants to emerge victorious under any circumstances, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the latest edition of his monthly radio broadcast — 'Mann Ki Baat' — on Sunday.

Mission 'Chandrayaan-3' has emerged as the symbol of the spirit of a 'New India', which wants to emerge victorious under any circumstances, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the latest edition of his monthly radio broadcast — 'Mann Ki Baat' — on Sunday. India entered record books as the first country to successfully place a lander on the moon's uncharted South Police on Wednesday, last week. The successful conduct of what was the maiden lunar landing mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also put India in an elite club of nations featuring the US, Russia and China. Also Read | At least two killed, one injured after Russian shelling hits cafe in Ukraine’s northeast “On August 23, our Chandrayaan-3 mission proved to the world that the dawn of revolution and resolve can also light up the dark side of the moon. Mission Chandrayaan has become a symbol and the spirit of a new India. This is an India, which wants to emerge victorious at all costs. It wants to break new grounds regardless of the circumstances," PM Modi said. He further said a discussion on India's maiden lunar landing mission would struggle to do justice to the enormity of its success. "The success of Chandrayaan-3 has seen the entire country immerse itself in unbridled celebrations. It has been more than three days since our lunar lander, 'Vikram', touched down on the moon's surface. Such is the enormity of the mission's success that any discussion on it seems futile," PM Modi said. Also Read | China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power On the key role played by ISRO's women scientists in the successful conduct of the daunting lunar landing mission, PM Modi said the mission is a “classic illustration of women power”, adding that India's daughters are not only shattering glass ceilings but also challenging Space, which is considered ‘infinite.’ “India's Mission Chandrayaan is a classic illustration of our women power. Many women scientists and engineers were directly involved with this mission. They handled vital responsibilities such as those of a project director and project manager," he said. “Our daughters are even challenging the limitless Space. When the daughters of a country chase such big dreams, is there any force that can stop them or the country from making forward strides?" PM Modi added. Watch | NASA's supersonic passenger flights are getting closer × Also lauding the contribution of other sectors to the success of the Chandrayaan-3, PM Modi said, "Today, our dreams are big and so are the efforts to realise them. Along with our scientists, other sectors also contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3. Many of my fellow countrymen contributed to the mission by meeting the technical requirements. It took everyone's efforts and contributions to make this mission a success. This is the biggest success of mission Chandrayaan-3." Earlier, on Saturday, PM Modi announced that August 23 will, henceforth, be celebrated as 'National Space Day' to mark the success of India's maiden lunar landing mission. He also announced that the spot on the lunar South Pole where the Vikram lander touched down would be called the ‘Shiv Shakti Point' while the spot on the moon's surface where the Chandrayaan-2 left its mark would be known as the 'Tiranga Point'. "This mission will be a source of inspiration for every effort that goes into taking this country forward in the coming days. It will remind us that a failure isn't the end of the world," PM Modi said. On Saturday, PM Modi interacted with the women scientists of the ISRO, who were involved in the 'Chandrayaan-3' project, commending the key role they played in the successful culmination of India's maiden lunar landing mission. 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. ×

Dawn of revolution lit up dark side of moon: PM Modi hails Chandrayaan-3 in 'Mann Ki Baat'

<p>Cambodia's parliament on Tuesday elected long-time ruler Hun Sen's eldest son as the country's new prime minister, sealing a dynastic handover of power after last month's one-sided election.</p>

<p>Heng Samrin, the lawmaker who chaired the meeting, announced that Hun Manet was elected unanimously.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-defence-intercepts-and-downs-two-attack-drones-near-moscow-627704">Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow</a></p>

<p>Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party (CPP) won all but five seats in the lower house in July polls that were widely decried as a sham after the main opposition party was barred from running.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-threatens-thermonuclear-war-over-camp-david-summit-and-us-south-korea-drills-627702">North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills</a></p>

<p>Days after the landslide victory, Hun Sen -- one of the world's longest-serving leaders -- announced he was stepping down and handing power to his eldest son, Hun Manet, after nearly four decades of iron-fisted rule.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes</strong></p>

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<p>The Cambodian king -- who holds a largely symbolic role -- convened parliament on Monday, paving the way for lawmakers to elect four-star general Hun Manet, 45, as the country's new leader on Tuesday.</p>

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Cambodia's parliament on Tuesday elected long-time ruler Hun Sen's eldest son as the country's new prime minister, sealing a dynastic handover of power after last month's one-sided election.

Cambodia's parliament on Tuesday elected long-time ruler Hun Sen's eldest son as the country's new prime minister, sealing a dynastic handover of power after last month's one-sided election. Heng Samrin, the lawmaker who chaired the meeting, announced that Hun Manet was elected unanimously. Also Read | Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party (CPP) won all but five seats in the lower house in July polls that were widely decried as a sham after the main opposition party was barred from running. Also Read | North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills Days after the landslide victory, Hun Sen -- one of the world's longest-serving leaders -- announced he was stepping down and handing power to his eldest son, Hun Manet, after nearly four decades of iron-fisted rule. Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes × The Cambodian king -- who holds a largely symbolic role -- convened parliament on Monday, paving the way for lawmakers to elect four-star general Hun Manet, 45, as the country's new leader on Tuesday. 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. ×

Hun Manet: Cambodian lawmakers elect Hun Sen's son as new PM

<p>Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported.&nbsp;Thaksin, known for his success in the telecommunications industry, arrived in Thailand via a private plane from Singapore. The plane landed at Bangkok's Don Mueang airport at around 9 am local time on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thailand has now been under a political impasse for the past three months post the May elections. Thailand's bicameral legislature&nbsp;is set to vote Tuesday to determine if the candidate from Shinawatra's&nbsp;Pheu Thai party, Srettha Thavisin, will be the next prime minister to lead the politically-divided country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sister of Thailand's former PM, Yingluck Shinawatra, who is also a former prime minister, shared a video on TikTok showing Thaksin leaving Singapore. As news of his arrival spread, supporters, all clad in red attire, celebrated his return with cheers, dancing, and singing.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-defence-intercepts-and-downs-two-attack-drones-near-moscow-627704">Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow</a></p>

<h2><strong>Political background and exile</strong></h2>

<p>Thaksin Shinawatra gained power in 2001. He was re-elected by securing a landslide victory in the following election five years later. However, in September 2006, while Thaksin was in New York preparing to address the United Nations, a military coup took control of the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, Thaksin faced legal repercussions, including a conviction for abuse of power. This led to his decision to go into self-exile, with Dubai as his primary residence.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-threatens-thermonuclear-war-over-camp-david-summit-and-us-south-korea-drills-627702">North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills</a></p>

<p>With the then-PM gone, Thailand plunged into a state of political instability, with both pro-Thaksin and rival pro-establishment groups engaging in street protests.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Thailand's current political impasse&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the most recent elections held in May, Thaksin's Pheu Thai party secured the second position. The progressive Move Forward party initially struggled to form a government due to the lack of support from military-appointed senators in the upper house. Subsequently, Pheu Thai managed to create a coalition comprising various parties, some with former military rivals.</p>

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Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported. Thaksin, known for his success in the telecommunications industry, arrived in Thailand via a private plane from Singapore. The plane landed at Bangkok's Don Mueang airport at around 9 am local time on Tuesday. Thailand has now been under a political impasse for the past three months post the May elections. Thailand's bicameral legislature is set to vote Tuesday to determine if the candidate from Shinawatra's Pheu Thai party, Srettha Thavisin, will be the next prime minister to lead the politically-divided country. The sister of Thailand's former PM, Yingluck Shinawatra, who is also a former prime minister, shared a video on TikTok showing Thaksin leaving Singapore. As news of his arrival spread, supporters, all clad in red attire, celebrated his return with cheers, dancing, and singing. Also Read | Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow Political background and exile Thaksin Shinawatra gained power in 2001. He was re-elected by securing a landslide victory in the following election five years later. However, in September 2006, while Thaksin was in New York preparing to address the United Nations, a military coup took control of the government. Subsequently, Thaksin faced legal repercussions, including a conviction for abuse of power. This led to his decision to go into self-exile, with Dubai as his primary residence. Also Read | North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills With the then-PM gone, Thailand plunged into a state of political instability, with both pro-Thaksin and rival pro-establishment groups engaging in street protests. Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes × Thailand's current political impasse In the most recent elections held in May, Thaksin's Pheu Thai party secured the second position. The progressive Move Forward party initially struggled to form a government due to the lack of support from military-appointed senators in the upper house. Subsequently, Pheu Thai managed to create a coalition comprising various parties, some with former military rivals. 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. ×

Fugitive ex-Thai PM, who arrived in Thailand after 15-year self-exile, jailed for 8 years

<p>After three months of political turmoil and on the same day former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile, Thai lawmakers on Tuesday (Aug 22) voted to approve tycoon Srettha Thavisin as Thailand's new prime minister.</p>

<p>This decision, which came as a surprise to many, marks the end of a prolonged deadlock in Thai politics. Despite his Pheu Thai party finishing second in the May election, Srettha secured a comfortable majority across both houses of parliament to become the 30th prime minister of Thailand.</p>

<h2><strong>Thavisin's&nbsp;resounding majority</strong></h2>

<p>Srettha Thavisin garnered more than the 374 votes required for a majority of elected lower house MPs and senators appointed by the previous junta. This victory was a clear demonstration of support for his leadership and policies.</p>

<p>Pheu Thai coalition, which includes approximately a dozen parties, controls 314 seats in the lower house out of a total of 500. However, this coalition raised eyebrows by forming partnerships with former political adversaries, including pro-military parties that had previously ousted a Pheu Thai prime minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Shinawatra's return and immediate detainment</strong></h2>

<p>The approval of Srettha Thavisin as prime minister coincided with the return of Thaksin Shinawatra to Thailand, marking his first visit since 2008.</p>

<p>However, Thaksin's return was short-lived as he was promptly detained upon arrival. His presence added a layer of complexity to the already intricate political landscape.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-thaksin-shinawatra-former-thai-pm-returns-to-country-after-15-years-in-self-exile-627898">Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM returns to country after 15 years in self-exile</a></p>

<h2><strong>Pheu Thai's emergence</strong></h2>

<p>Pheu Thai, despite finishing second in the May election, stepped in to form a government after the reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), which won the most seats, saw its leader denied the prime ministerial position due to opposition from conservative, pro-military factions.</p>

<p>Thavisin, formerly the head of Thai property giant Sansiri, made several promises upon assuming office.</p>

<p>He pledged to address poverty and inequality issues in Thailand, promising much-needed reforms.</p>

<p>Additionally, he staunchly rejected corruption allegations made by an anti-graft whistleblower.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand's Ex-PM Thaksin to serve 8 years in jail: Court statement</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>MFP's rise and challenges</strong></h2>

<p>The May election saw the unexpected rise of the Move Forward Party (MFP), fuelled by urban and youth discontent after nearly a decade of military-backed rule. While MFP secured the most seats, its commitment to reform royal insult laws and challenge powerful business monopolies encountered fierce resistance from the country's influential elite.</p>

<p>MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat's failure to secure support from pro-military and royalist senators in a previous prime ministerial vote led to his suspension from parliament by the Constitutional Court.</p>

<p>Srettha Thavisin's approval as prime minister represents a significant development in Thai politics, breaking a prolonged deadlock. However, this decision also raises questions about the future direction of Thai governance, especially in light of Thaksin Shinawatra's return and the political controversies that surround it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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After three months of political turmoil and on the same day former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile, Thai lawmakers on Tuesday (Aug 22) voted to approve tycoon Srettha Thavisin as Thailand's new prime minister.

After three months of political turmoil and on the same day former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile, Thai lawmakers on Tuesday (Aug 22) voted to approve tycoon Srettha Thavisin as Thailand's new prime minister. This decision, which came as a surprise to many, marks the end of a prolonged deadlock in Thai politics. Despite his Pheu Thai party finishing second in the May election, Srettha secured a comfortable majority across both houses of parliament to become the 30th prime minister of Thailand. Thavisin's resounding majority Srettha Thavisin garnered more than the 374 votes required for a majority of elected lower house MPs and senators appointed by the previous junta. This victory was a clear demonstration of support for his leadership and policies. Pheu Thai coalition, which includes approximately a dozen parties, controls 314 seats in the lower house out of a total of 500. However, this coalition raised eyebrows by forming partnerships with former political adversaries, including pro-military parties that had previously ousted a Pheu Thai prime minister. Shinawatra's return and immediate detainment The approval of Srettha Thavisin as prime minister coincided with the return of Thaksin Shinawatra to Thailand, marking his first visit since 2008. However, Thaksin's return was short-lived as he was promptly detained upon arrival. His presence added a layer of complexity to the already intricate political landscape. Also read | Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM returns to country after 15 years in self-exile Pheu Thai's emergence Pheu Thai, despite finishing second in the May election, stepped in to form a government after the reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), which won the most seats, saw its leader denied the prime ministerial position due to opposition from conservative, pro-military factions. Thavisin, formerly the head of Thai property giant Sansiri, made several promises upon assuming office. He pledged to address poverty and inequality issues in Thailand, promising much-needed reforms. Additionally, he staunchly rejected corruption allegations made by an anti-graft whistleblower. Also watch | Thailand's Ex-PM Thaksin to serve 8 years in jail: Court statement MFP's rise and challenges The May election saw the unexpected rise of the Move Forward Party (MFP), fuelled by urban and youth discontent after nearly a decade of military-backed rule. While MFP secured the most seats, its commitment to reform royal insult laws and challenge powerful business monopolies encountered fierce resistance from the country's influential elite. MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat's failure to secure support from pro-military and royalist senators in a previous prime ministerial vote led to his suspension from parliament by the Constitutional Court. Srettha Thavisin's approval as prime minister represents a significant development in Thai politics, breaking a prolonged deadlock. However, this decision also raises questions about the future direction of Thai governance, especially in light of Thaksin Shinawatra's return and the political controversies that surround it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thai parliament elects Srettha Thavisin as next PM, ending months of political deadlock

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission.</p>

<p>"The one thing that will take the country forward is women-led development. Today, we can proudly say that India has the maximum number of pilots in civil aviation. Women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"I want to tell the mothers, sisters and daughters that today the country has progressed due to the power of you all," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G20 countries are also recognising the importance of women-led development," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>He praised the role of women scientists in India's latest space mission, Chandrayaan-3. The craft is currently orbiting the moon and India is aiming to become&nbsp;the fourth country in the world to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon after the United States, former Soviet Union, and China.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-launch-of-vishwakarma-yojana-for-those-with-traditional-skills-625611">PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills</a></p>

<p>Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission and the second attempt at achieving a soft landing on the Moon's surface after the unsuccessful 2019 lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2.</p>

<p>The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was launched on GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota on July 14. It is scheduled to land on the surface of the moon on August 23.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi in his address also took the opportunity to thank the farmers for their efforts that helped India progress in the agriculture sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission. "The one thing that will take the country forward is women-led development. Today, we can proudly say that India has the maximum number of pilots in civil aviation. Women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission," PM Modi said. "I want to tell the mothers, sisters and daughters that today the country has progressed due to the power of you all," he said. "The G20 countries are also recognising the importance of women-led development," he added. VIDEO | "An additional force is going to take India forward and that is women-led development. Today, India can proudly say that it has the most number of women pilots. Whether it is Chandrayaan or Moon mission, women are leading the programmes," says PM Modi in his Independence… pic.twitter.com/2zvb39guwA — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 15, 2023 × He praised the role of women scientists in India's latest space mission, Chandrayaan-3. The craft is currently orbiting the moon and India is aiming to become the fourth country in the world to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon after the United States, former Soviet Union, and China. Also read: PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission and the second attempt at achieving a soft landing on the Moon's surface after the unsuccessful 2019 lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2. The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was launched on GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota on July 14. It is scheduled to land on the surface of the moon on August 23. Meanwhile, PM Modi in his address also took the opportunity to thank the farmers for their efforts that helped India progress in the agriculture sector. (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 Narendra Modi highlights significance of women-led development in Independence Day address

Nepal's Supreme Court has ordered the anti-graft body to start an investigation into a land "scam" in which the cabinets of two former prime ministers are reportedly engaged. This decision effectively exposes up policy decisions to scrutiny by government institutions.

Nepal initiates investigation against former Prime Ministers

<p>The Manipur violence has stirred a battle between the warring factions in India's politics and continues to remain a hot topic during the Monsoon Session of the parliament. The newly-formed opposition alliance INDIA is going&nbsp;all guns blazing to corner the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the lower house.&nbsp;Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), which is a coalition of 26 opposition parties, is planning to bring a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha on Tuesday against the central government.</p>

<p>As per media reports, the debate on the motion is scheduled to start on August 8 and is likely to extend over the following two days, August 9 and 10. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, whose membership in the House was reinstated on Monday, is expected to kick off the discussion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though the chances of a no-confidence motion turning out in favour of the opposition alliance parties are extremely slim, the opposition is vying to build pressure to push PM Modi to speak in the House over the Manipur issue.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is a no-confidence motion?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The no-confidence motion is a parliamentary way by which the opposition gets the ability to demonstrate that the government lacks the confidence of the House. In order to prove that it still retains the confidence of the MPs, the government must prove a majority in the House. In case the government fails to prove the majority, it falls. This is because the government is only authorised to govern as long as it enjoys a majority in the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To move the no-confidence motion, a Lok Sabha MP moving the motion needs the backing/signatures of at least 50 members of the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-urges-india-to-remove-restrictions-on-rice-exports-over-global-inflation-concerns-619573">IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns</a></p>

<p>Rule 198 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Lok Sabha lays out the procedure for moving a no-confidence motion. The member must first provide written notice of the motion to the Secretary-General before 10 am to be read by House Speaker.</p>

<p>The motion can only be introduced in Lok Sabha, not in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No-confidence motion accepted</strong></h2>

<p>The ethnic clashes in the Manipur violence have brought together a majority of opposition parties. They now stand ready to call out the Indian government for its alleged mishandling of the Manipur situation. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has moved the no-confidence motion on behalf of the opposition INDIA alliance. The information about the no-confidence motion having moved was given to media outlets by Lok Sabha Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Manipur has been suffering and we have tried for so many days to get a statement from the Prime Minister,” Chowdhury told media.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smartphones-should-be-banned-from-classrooms-says-un-619541">Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report</a></p>

<p>The motion was submitted on July 26 at 9.20 am at the Lok Sabha table office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the motion was moved by Gogoi, the Lok Sabha member from the Northeast, the House Speaker Om Birla accepted the same. As per the established procedure, the date and time of the debate is decided after consultation with all parties regarding the motion.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Scheduling of no-confidence motion</strong></h2>

<p>The monsoon session commenced on July 20 and will continue till August 11. As per the procedure, Lok Sabha Speaker has 10 days to schedule a no-confidence motion debate. This is because the date for the motion debate, as per the rules, must be scheduled within 10 days of its acceptance.</p>

<h2><strong>Support needed for adoption of the motion&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to the current numbers, the Lok Sabha majority mark is 272. National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has 331 members, which includes 303 BJP MPs. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA alliance has 144 MPs, while parties such as YS Jagan Reddy's YSRCP, KCR's BRS, and Naveen Patnaik's BJD together have 70 MPs.</p>

<h2><strong>When can the government fall?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In case the no-confidence motion moved by the opposition is passed, the President of India schedules one or more days to discuss the motion. The government also gets the chance to prove its majority. In case, it fails to do so, the Cabinet must resign or else it will be dismissed.</p>

<h2><strong>No-confidence motion in previous governments&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first time that the no-confidence motion is being moved in the lower house of the Indian Parliament. Modi government previously faced a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20, 2018. However, it failed as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) had 325 MPs voting against the motion and only 126 opposition MPs&nbsp;voting in favour. Therefore, the motion failed by 199 votes.</p>

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<p>India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru also faced a no-confidence motion which was moved by Congress leader Acharya Kripalani in August 1963. The motion was defeated. Governments led by former PM Morarji Desai, Charan Singh, VP Singh, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee collapsed due to no-confidence motions. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi is the one Indian leader who faced the most number of no-confidence motions, totalling 15.&nbsp;</p>

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The Manipur violence has stirred a battle between the warring factions in India's politics and continues to remain a hot topic during the Monsoon Session of the parliament.

The Manipur violence has stirred a battle between the warring factions in India's politics and continues to remain a hot topic during the Monsoon Session of the parliament. The newly-formed opposition alliance INDIA is going all guns blazing to corner the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the lower house. Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), which is a coalition of 26 opposition parties, is planning to bring a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha on Tuesday against the central government. As per media reports, the debate on the motion is scheduled to start on August 8 and is likely to extend over the following two days, August 9 and 10. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, whose membership in the House was reinstated on Monday, is expected to kick off the discussion. Even though the chances of a no-confidence motion turning out in favour of the opposition alliance parties are extremely slim, the opposition is vying to build pressure to push PM Modi to speak in the House over the Manipur issue. What is a no-confidence motion? The no-confidence motion is a parliamentary way by which the opposition gets the ability to demonstrate that the government lacks the confidence of the House. In order to prove that it still retains the confidence of the MPs, the government must prove a majority in the House. In case the government fails to prove the majority, it falls. This is because the government is only authorised to govern as long as it enjoys a majority in the House. To move the no-confidence motion, a Lok Sabha MP moving the motion needs the backing/signatures of at least 50 members of the House. Also Read | IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns Rule 198 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Lok Sabha lays out the procedure for moving a no-confidence motion. The member must first provide written notice of the motion to the Secretary-General before 10 am to be read by House Speaker. The motion can only be introduced in Lok Sabha, not in the Rajya Sabha. No-confidence motion accepted The ethnic clashes in the Manipur violence have brought together a majority of opposition parties. They now stand ready to call out the Indian government for its alleged mishandling of the Manipur situation. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has moved the no-confidence motion on behalf of the opposition INDIA alliance. The information about the no-confidence motion having moved was given to media outlets by Lok Sabha Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury. “Manipur has been suffering and we have tried for so many days to get a statement from the Prime Minister,” Chowdhury told media. Also Read | Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report The motion was submitted on July 26 at 9.20 am at the Lok Sabha table office. After the motion was moved by Gogoi, the Lok Sabha member from the Northeast, the House Speaker Om Birla accepted the same. As per the established procedure, the date and time of the debate is decided after consultation with all parties regarding the motion. Scheduling of no-confidence motion The monsoon session commenced on July 20 and will continue till August 11. As per the procedure, Lok Sabha Speaker has 10 days to schedule a no-confidence motion debate. This is because the date for the motion debate, as per the rules, must be scheduled within 10 days of its acceptance. Support needed for adoption of the motion According to the current numbers, the Lok Sabha majority mark is 272. National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has 331 members, which includes 303 BJP MPs. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA alliance has 144 MPs, while parties such as YS Jagan Reddy's YSRCP, KCR's BRS, and Naveen Patnaik's BJD together have 70 MPs. When can the government fall? In case the no-confidence motion moved by the opposition is passed, the President of India schedules one or more days to discuss the motion. The government also gets the chance to prove its majority. In case, it fails to do so, the Cabinet must resign or else it will be dismissed. No-confidence motion in previous governments This is not the first time that the no-confidence motion is being moved in the lower house of the Indian Parliament. Modi government previously faced a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20, 2018. However, it failed as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) had 325 MPs voting against the motion and only 126 opposition MPs voting in favour. Therefore, the motion failed by 199 votes. Watch | Doksuri super typhoon to hit Chinese mainland this week | WION Climate Tracker × India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru also faced a no-confidence motion which was moved by Congress leader Acharya Kripalani in August 1963. The motion was defeated. Governments led by former PM Morarji Desai, Charan Singh, VP Singh, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee collapsed due to no-confidence motions. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi is the one Indian leader who faced the most number of no-confidence motions, totalling 15. 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. ×

EXPLAINED | Can Modi government fall? Understanding no-confidence motion in Indian politics

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In my third term, India will be among the top three economies in the world...Yeh Modi ki guarantee hai (its a guarantee by Modi)," the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Preparations are in full swing at India's capital New Delhi as the country prepares to host the G20 summit in September. The complex is the venue for the upcoming G20 leaders' meet and has been redeveloped at a cost of about ₹2,700 crore (Rs. 27 billion).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-urges-india-to-remove-restrictions-on-rice-exports-over-global-inflation-concerns-619573">IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns</a></p>

<p>Terming the complex a "gateway to global opportunities," the Indian PM honoured the Shramiks (workers) who "toiled to build the impressive IECC complex" in the Indian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Seeing the hard work of every labourer brother and sister involved in the construction of 'Bharat Mandapam', the whole of India is amazed, astonished," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smartphones-should-be-banned-from-classrooms-says-un-619541">Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report</a></p>

<p>The "modern and futuristic" complex is set to give a push to conference tourism in India as it will serve as an umbrella bringing together people from all over the world. It is reportedly India’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) complex.</p>

<p>A government release said, "The Convention Centre is developed as the centrepiece of the Pragati Maidan complex. It is a grand architectural marvel, designed to host large-scale international exhibitions, trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and other prestigious events. It is equipped with multiple meeting rooms, lounges, auditoriums, an amphitheatre and a business centre, making it capable of hosting a wide range of events."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Doksuri super typhoon to hit Chinese mainland this week | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<p>During his address at the inauguration event of the International Convention Centre-Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi said that 'Bharat Mandapam' is a moment of pride and happiness for every Indian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As July 26 marks the Kargil Divas, PM Modi also paid his tribute to "each and every hero who sacrificed his life in the Kargil war."</p>

<p>"Today, when we are celebrating Amrit Mahotsav on 75 years of independence, this 'Bharat Mandapam' is a beautiful gift given by us Indians to our democracy," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM takes a dig at opposition&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian PM also took potshots at the opposition saying, "Some people have a tendency to comment and stop good works. When 'Kartavya Path' was being built, many things were running on the front page of newspapers as breaking news. It was raised in courts as well, but when it was constructed, the same people said that it is good. I am sure the 'Toli' (opposition alliance) will also accept 'Bharat Mandapam' and it is also possible that they might come here to deliver a lecture in a seminar."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi to get&nbsp;world's largest museum</strong></h2>

<p>Indian prime minister also promised that the world's largest museum will be constructed in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 5 years, 13.5 crore people have come out of poverty. International agencies are also saying that extreme poverty in India is on the verge of ending. This shows that the decisions and policies that have been made in the last 9 years, are taking the country in the right direction," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies. "In my third term, India will be among the top three economies in the world...Yeh Modi ki guarantee hai (its a guarantee by Modi)," the prime minister said. Preparations are in full swing at India's capital New Delhi as the country prepares to host the G20 summit in September. The complex is the venue for the upcoming G20 leaders' meet and has been redeveloped at a cost of about ₹2,700 crore (Rs. 27 billion). Also Read | IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns Terming the complex a "gateway to global opportunities," the Indian PM honoured the Shramiks (workers) who "toiled to build the impressive IECC complex" in the Indian capital. "Seeing the hard work of every labourer brother and sister involved in the construction of 'Bharat Mandapam', the whole of India is amazed, astonished," PM Modi said. Also Read | Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report The "modern and futuristic" complex is set to give a push to conference tourism in India as it will serve as an umbrella bringing together people from all over the world. It is reportedly India’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) complex. A government release said, "The Convention Centre is developed as the centrepiece of the Pragati Maidan complex. It is a grand architectural marvel, designed to host large-scale international exhibitions, trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and other prestigious events. It is equipped with multiple meeting rooms, lounges, auditoriums, an amphitheatre and a business centre, making it capable of hosting a wide range of events." Watch | Doksuri super typhoon to hit Chinese mainland this week | WION Climate Tracker × During his address at the inauguration event of the International Convention Centre-Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi said that 'Bharat Mandapam' is a moment of pride and happiness for every Indian. As July 26 marks the Kargil Divas, PM Modi also paid his tribute to "each and every hero who sacrificed his life in the Kargil war." "Today, when we are celebrating Amrit Mahotsav on 75 years of independence, this 'Bharat Mandapam' is a beautiful gift given by us Indians to our democracy," PM Modi said. PM takes a dig at opposition The Indian PM also took potshots at the opposition saying, "Some people have a tendency to comment and stop good works. When 'Kartavya Path' was being built, many things were running on the front page of newspapers as breaking news. It was raised in courts as well, but when it was constructed, the same people said that it is good. I am sure the 'Toli' (opposition alliance) will also accept 'Bharat Mandapam' and it is also possible that they might come here to deliver a lecture in a seminar." Delhi to get world's largest museum Indian prime minister also promised that the world's largest museum will be constructed in Delhi. "In the last 5 years, 13.5 crore people have come out of poverty. International agencies are also saying that extreme poverty in India is on the verge of ending. This shows that the decisions and policies that have been made in the last 9 years, are taking the country in the right direction," PM Modi said. 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. ×

'India to be in world's top 3 economies': PM Modi vows milestone in third term at IECC inauguration

Imran Khan's appeal against the corruption charge against him was rejected by a local court on Saturday. Imran Khan is the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Khan requested in his plea that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)'s Toshakhana case against him be dismissed as unreasonable by the Islamabad district and sessions court.

Setback for former Pakistan PM Imran Khan in Toshakhana case

<p>Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.</p>

<p>Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal.</p>

<p>They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres.</p>

<p>"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down.</p>

<p>"This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government."</p>

<p>The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday.</p>

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<p>The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues.</p>

<p>Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first.</p>

<p>The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said.</p>

<p>Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-prigozhin-never-went-to-belarus-used-body-double-to-appear-as-if-he-fled-us-official-613222">Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official</a></p>

<p>The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV".</p>

<p>ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan.</p>

<p>He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri</strong></p>

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<p>Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open.</p>

<p>"The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment".</p>

<p>Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable".</p>

<p>Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country".</p>

<p>The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years.</p>

<p>The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year.</p>

<p>Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party&nbsp;wins the most seats in the general election.</p>

<p>Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo.</p>

<p>And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders.</p>

<p>After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague.</p>

<p>"I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP.</p>

<p>"I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32.</p>

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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November. Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal. They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down. "This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government." The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday. Also Read | Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines? The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues. Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first. The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. Also Read | Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV". ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan. He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month. Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri × Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open. "The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment". Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable". Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country". The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years. The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year. Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party wins the most seats in the general election. Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo. And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders. After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague. "I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP. "I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32. 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. ×

Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns as coalition talks over policy to check migration fail

<p>Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his&nbsp;resignation,&nbsp;late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem&nbsp;as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the&nbsp;Dutch PM's&nbsp;meeting with the King, he is expected to&nbsp;discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask&nbsp;Rutte's coalition to continue as a&nbsp;caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rutte is the leader of&nbsp;the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why did Rutte resign?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Rutte's VVD and&nbsp;&nbsp;Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the&nbsp;centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures.</p>

<p>However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-ambassador-lectures-india-over-manipur-613260"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back.&nbsp;Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections.&nbsp;Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to&nbsp;Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-king-offers-apology-for-slavery-during-colonial-era-610902"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era</strong></a></p>

<p>After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent&nbsp;of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than&nbsp;17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year. During the Dutch PM's meeting with the King, he is expected to discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask Rutte's coalition to continue as a caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections. "This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added. Rutte is the leader of the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022. Why did Rutte resign? Notably, Rutte's VVD and Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision. Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures. However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition. WATCH | Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur × What next? The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections. Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government. Also read | Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition. Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than 17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Longest-serving Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns after talks on migration fail, to update king on govt collapse

The Lahore anti-terrorism court has issued a non-bailable warrant against the former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan. This is the most recent of almost a hundred cases that have been filed against the former Pakistani prime minister, ranging from corruption to terrorism. A non-bailable warrant has also been issued.

Pakistan: Non-bailable warrant issued against Imran Khan in case of attacking ruling party's office

<p>In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament. Orpo will lead a coalition government comprising four parties, including the far-right Finns Party, which intends to implement strict measures on immigration. This move comes after Orpo's victory in the April elections and subsequent negotiations to form a coalition government, as reported by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Election of Petteri Orpo</strong></h2>

<p>With 107 members in favour, 81 opposed, and 11 absent, the parliament expressed its support for Orpo, who emerged victorious in the April elections. His victory initiated negotiations for a coalition government, which have been ongoing since then.</p>

<p>Later today, President Sauli Niinisto is scheduled to formally appoint Orpo as the new prime minister, succeeding Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats finished third in the elections, trailing Orpo's National Coalition Party (NCP) and the Finns Party.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-liz-truss-to-sanna-marin-women-in-power-across-europe-519856">From Liz Truss to Sanna Marin: Women in power across Europe</a></p>

<h2><strong>Coalition composition and objectives</strong></h2>

<p>The coalition, in addition to the NCP and the Finns Party, includes the smaller Swedish People's Party (RKP) and the Christian Democrats. Orpo's campaign emphasised austerity, with a pledge to reduce spending by six billion euros over a four-year period.</p>

<h2><strong>Immigration reforms and potential challenges</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the newly formed coalition introduced a "paradigm shift" in immigration policy. The plan aims to reduce the number of refugees accepted through the UN refugee agency from 1,050 per year to 500 and to establish separate social security benefit systems for immigrants and permanent residents. Experts have raised concerns that these proposed changes may potentially violate the Constitution.</p>

<p>Finns Party leader Riikka Purra also highlighted plans to tighten the criteria for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. These reforms reflect the coalition's focus on addressing immigration-related challenges and enforcing stricter regulations in this domain.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Making a gradual ascent up the hierarchical ladder</strong></h2>

<p>Petteri Orpo, born in Köyliö in the southwestern region of Finland, holds a master's degree in social sciences from the nearby Turku University, as stated in his resume&nbsp;available on the parliament's website. He is married and has two children. In his personal profile, it is mentioned that his interests include cooking and fishing, as reported by Politico.</p>

<p>Orpo's involvement with the National Coalition Party (NCP) dates back to the 1990s. He served as the Minister of Agriculture under former NCP Prime Minister Stubb and later held positions as the Minister of Interior and Finance under Center Party Premier Juha Sipilä.</p>

<p>In 2016, Orpo contested the leadership of the NCP against Stubb, accusing him of causing a decline in voter support. Orpo campaigned on the promise of rebuilding unity within the party and leading it back to power. In a party vote, he convincingly defeated Stubb.</p>

<p>Following a narrow defeat in the 2019 elections, Orpo made the decision for his party to enter opposition rather than join a coalition with the Social Democrats. He embarked on the task of rebuilding the party's image as a traditional centre-right economic alternative, emphasising a willingness to reduce public spending and limit tax increases.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament.

In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament. Orpo will lead a coalition government comprising four parties, including the far-right Finns Party, which intends to implement strict measures on immigration. This move comes after Orpo's victory in the April elections and subsequent negotiations to form a coalition government, as reported by AFP. Election of Petteri Orpo With 107 members in favour, 81 opposed, and 11 absent, the parliament expressed its support for Orpo, who emerged victorious in the April elections. His victory initiated negotiations for a coalition government, which have been ongoing since then. Later today, President Sauli Niinisto is scheduled to formally appoint Orpo as the new prime minister, succeeding Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats finished third in the elections, trailing Orpo's National Coalition Party (NCP) and the Finns Party. Also read | From Liz Truss to Sanna Marin: Women in power across Europe Coalition composition and objectives The coalition, in addition to the NCP and the Finns Party, includes the smaller Swedish People's Party (RKP) and the Christian Democrats. Orpo's campaign emphasised austerity, with a pledge to reduce spending by six billion euros over a four-year period. Immigration reforms and potential challenges Last week, the newly formed coalition introduced a "paradigm shift" in immigration policy. The plan aims to reduce the number of refugees accepted through the UN refugee agency from 1,050 per year to 500 and to establish separate social security benefit systems for immigrants and permanent residents. Experts have raised concerns that these proposed changes may potentially violate the Constitution. Finns Party leader Riikka Purra also highlighted plans to tighten the criteria for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. These reforms reflect the coalition's focus on addressing immigration-related challenges and enforcing stricter regulations in this domain. Also watch | Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war? Making a gradual ascent up the hierarchical ladder Petteri Orpo, born in Köyliö in the southwestern region of Finland, holds a master's degree in social sciences from the nearby Turku University, as stated in his resume available on the parliament's website. He is married and has two children. In his personal profile, it is mentioned that his interests include cooking and fishing, as reported by Politico. Orpo's involvement with the National Coalition Party (NCP) dates back to the 1990s. He served as the Minister of Agriculture under former NCP Prime Minister Stubb and later held positions as the Minister of Interior and Finance under Center Party Premier Juha Sipilä. In 2016, Orpo contested the leadership of the NCP against Stubb, accusing him of causing a decline in voter support. Orpo campaigned on the promise of rebuilding unity within the party and leading it back to power. In a party vote, he convincingly defeated Stubb. Following a narrow defeat in the 2019 elections, Orpo made the decision for his party to enter opposition rather than join a coalition with the Social Democrats. He embarked on the task of rebuilding the party's image as a traditional centre-right economic alternative, emphasising a willingness to reduce public spending and limit tax increases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Finland: Parliament elects conservative leader Petteri Orpo as PM

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, spoke with WION's Anas Malik earlier today. When asked about the minus Imran formula and upcoming elections, he responded that there is no such thing as minus Iran unless voters choose to do so. He also made reference to defence minister Khwaja Asaf's comments on Pakistani expats.

Imran Khan: Only the voters can decide on the minus-Imran formula

<p>Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joined the UK Home Office enforcement officials on a raid as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal migration, which ended in the arrest of 105 foreign nationals from across 20 nationalities.</p>

<p>Sunak, 43, dressed in a bulletproof vest, attended one of the actions in Brent, north London, earlier this week to observe Immigration Enforcement officers at work as part of their “day of action”.</p>

<p>The British-Indian leader has made cracking down on illegal migration one of his government’s top priorities ahead of a General Election, expected next year.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>“Illegal working harms our communities, cheats honest workers out of employment and defrauds the public purse as no taxes are paid,” said UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman.</p>

<p>“As the Prime Minister has set out, we are committed to tackling the abuse of our laws and borders. We know the prospect of black-market employment is a significant attraction for migrants considering making dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK. Operations such as today send a clear message that we will not stand for this,” she said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>During the operation, which took place across the UK on Thursday, Immigration Enforcement officers arrested 105 foreign nationals found working without the right to do so during 159 raids on suspected illegal work establishments.</p>

<p>The arrests took place on commercial premises, including restaurants, car washes, nail bars, barber shops and convenience stores. Suspects were arrested for offences, including illegal working and possession of false documentation, with sums of cash also seized at some locations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>Of those arrested, over 40 were detained by the Home Office pending their removal from the UK, with the remaining suspects being released on immigration bail. It is also expected that a number of the arrests will result in a voluntary departure from the UK, the Home Office said.</p>

<p>“This result demonstrates the dedication and professionalism of our officers to take action against immigration offenders, as well as employers who are not complying with the rules. Our enforcement teams are working around the clock to deter immigration offending and help protect the public,” said Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office.</p>

<p>“Working closely with partners and agencies including the police and the National Crime Agency (NCA), we are tackling illegal work at every level. It is vital that we not only identify individuals in breach of immigration law but target the people smuggling networks behind this type of criminal activity,” he said.</p>

<p>While offenders of over 20 different nationalities were found to be working without proper visa rights to be in the UK, the countries involved have not been identified.</p>

<p>The Home Office said the operation builds on the ongoing work by Immigration Enforcement officers to clamp down on illegal working, which is a key part of the government’s approach to stopping the boats crossing the English Channel illegally. The operation is aimed at tackling illegal migration by breaking the business model of criminal gangs who use the offer of black market jobs as one way to draw people to the UK illegally, officials added.</p>

<p>In the first quarter of 2023, Immigration Enforcement teams claim they delivered 1,303 enforcement visits, a 57 per cent increase on the same period last year. And, since Sunak set out his plan in December last year to “stop the boats” crossing illegally into the UK, arrests are said to have doubled compared to the same period last year.</p>

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joined the UK Home Office enforcement officials on a raid as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal migration, which ended in the arrest of 105 foreign nationals from across 20 nationalities.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joined the UK Home Office enforcement officials on a raid as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal migration, which ended in the arrest of 105 foreign nationals from across 20 nationalities. Sunak, 43, dressed in a bulletproof vest, attended one of the actions in Brent, north London, earlier this week to observe Immigration Enforcement officers at work as part of their “day of action”. The British-Indian leader has made cracking down on illegal migration one of his government’s top priorities ahead of a General Election, expected next year. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges “Illegal working harms our communities, cheats honest workers out of employment and defrauds the public purse as no taxes are paid,” said UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman. “As the Prime Minister has set out, we are committed to tackling the abuse of our laws and borders. We know the prospect of black-market employment is a significant attraction for migrants considering making dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK. Operations such as today send a clear message that we will not stand for this,” she said. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign During the operation, which took place across the UK on Thursday, Immigration Enforcement officers arrested 105 foreign nationals found working without the right to do so during 159 raids on suspected illegal work establishments. The arrests took place on commercial premises, including restaurants, car washes, nail bars, barber shops and convenience stores. Suspects were arrested for offences, including illegal working and possession of false documentation, with sums of cash also seized at some locations. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × Of those arrested, over 40 were detained by the Home Office pending their removal from the UK, with the remaining suspects being released on immigration bail. It is also expected that a number of the arrests will result in a voluntary departure from the UK, the Home Office said. “This result demonstrates the dedication and professionalism of our officers to take action against immigration offenders, as well as employers who are not complying with the rules. Our enforcement teams are working around the clock to deter immigration offending and help protect the public,” said Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office. “Working closely with partners and agencies including the police and the National Crime Agency (NCA), we are tackling illegal work at every level. It is vital that we not only identify individuals in breach of immigration law but target the people smuggling networks behind this type of criminal activity,” he said. While offenders of over 20 different nationalities were found to be working without proper visa rights to be in the UK, the countries involved have not been identified. The Home Office said the operation builds on the ongoing work by Immigration Enforcement officers to clamp down on illegal working, which is a key part of the government’s approach to stopping the boats crossing the English Channel illegally. The operation is aimed at tackling illegal migration by breaking the business model of criminal gangs who use the offer of black market jobs as one way to draw people to the UK illegally, officials added. In the first quarter of 2023, Immigration Enforcement teams claim they delivered 1,303 enforcement visits, a 57 per cent increase on the same period last year. And, since Sunak set out his plan in December last year to “stop the boats” crossing illegally into the UK, arrests are said to have doubled compared to the same period last year. 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. ×

UK PM Rishi Sunak joins raid on illegal migrants, 105 arrested

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif&nbsp;has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-achieves-historic-milestone-launches-41-satellites-in-single-mission-setting-new-record-605522">China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record</a></p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz.</p>

<p>"You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said.</p>

<p>The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-25-students-killed-in-overnight-militant-attack-605495">Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack</a></p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party.</p>

<h2><strong>Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president</strong></h2>

<p>During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent.</p>

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Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him. Also Read | China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz. "You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said. The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well. Also Read | Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party. Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested. Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent. 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. ×

Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign

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