In an attempt to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with the Taliban in the future, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for lifting of several unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan.

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In a statement, the Chinese foreign ministry said, economic sanctions on Afghanistan must end. It cited the foreign minister at a virtual G20 foreign ministers' meeting on Afghanistan on Wednesday. &nbsp;

The minister said, Afghanistan's foreign exchange reserves are national assets, which should belong to the country's people and be used by its own people, and not be used as a bargaining chip to exert pressure on the country. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-new-kernel-estimation-chinese-scientists-conclude-coronavirus-first-appeared-in-us-415168" hreflang="en">In new 'Kernel estimation', Chinese scientists conclude coronavirus first appeared in US</a>

Earlier, Beijing said it welcomed the end of "three weeks of anarchy" in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, calling on the Taliban to restore order in the country. It also said the new government would help bring stability. &nbsp;

At a press briefing, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said, "China attaches great importance to the announcement by the Taliban of the establishment of an interim government and some important personnel arrangements." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-security-council-extends-talibans-travel-ban-waiver-415118" hreflang="en">United Nations Security Council extends Taliban's travel ban waiver</a>&nbsp;

"This has ended more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan and is a necessary step to restore order and rebuild the country," added Wenbin. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an attempt to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with the Taliban in the future, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for lifting of several unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan.

In an attempt to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with the Taliban in the future, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for lifting of several unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan. Watch: × In a statement, the Chinese foreign ministry said, economic sanctions on Afghanistan must end. It cited the foreign minister at a virtual G20 foreign ministers' meeting on Afghanistan on Wednesday. The minister said, Afghanistan's foreign exchange reserves are national assets, which should belong to the country's people and be used by its own people, and not be used as a bargaining chip to exert pressure on the country. Also Read: In new 'Kernel estimation', Chinese scientists conclude coronavirus first appeared in US Earlier, Beijing said it welcomed the end of "three weeks of anarchy" in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, calling on the Taliban to restore order in the country. It also said the new government would help bring stability. At a press briefing, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin had said, "China attaches great importance to the announcement by the Taliban of the establishment of an interim government and some important personnel arrangements." Also Read: United Nations Security Council extends Taliban's travel ban waiver "This has ended more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan and is a necessary step to restore order and rebuild the country," added Wenbin. (With inputs from agencies)

Lift unilateral sanctions or restrictions on Afghanistan, says Chinese FM Wang Yi

The Biden administration will lift travel restrictions starting in November on foreigners who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, reopening the country to thousands of people, including those who have been separated from family in the United States during the pandemic.

The foreign travelers will need to show proof of vaccination before boarding and a negative test for the coronavirus within three days before coming to the United States, Jeff Zients, the White House pandemic coordinator, said Monday.

“International travel is critical to connecting families and friends, to fueling small and large businesses, to promoting the open exchange" of ideas and culture, Zients said. “That’s why, with science and public health as our guide, we have developed a new international air travel system that both enhances the safety of Americans here at home and enhances the safety of international air travel.”

The administration has restricted travel for foreigners looking to fly to the United States from a group of European countries, Iran and China for more than a year.

Unvaccinated Americans overseas aiming to travel home will have to clear stricter testing requirements. They will need to test negative for the coronavirus one day before traveling to the United States and show proof that they have bought a test to take after arriving in the United States, Zients said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will also soon issue an order directing airlines to collect phone numbers and email addresses of travelers for a new contact-tracing system. Authorities will then follow up with the travelers after arrival to ask whether they are experiencing symptoms of the virus.

The changes announced Monday only apply to air travel and do not affect restrictions along the land border, Zients said.

The Trump administration began implementing the travel bans against foreign travelers in January 2020 in the hopes of preventing the spread of disease. The effort was largely unsuccessful. The prior administration’s mangled announcements over the restrictions also led to exoduses of American citizens, with packed, chaotic airports that had porous screenings.

President Joe Biden has kept the restrictions against potential travelers from the European Union, Britain, India and others, despite pleas from business leaders in need of profits from tourism, immigrant workers who traveled overseas to renew work visas to work in the United States only to be left stranded and citizens left separated from their romantic partners abroad.

The White House maintained the restrictions were necessary, particularly after the spread of the contagious delta variant this summer fueled a rise of coronavirus cases and undermined the central theme of Biden’s presidency — vaccinating Americans and getting the pandemic under control.

Zients cited the pace of vaccinations administered globally as a reason for the administration’s pivot. The decision also comes on the eve of a visit by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was expected to press Biden to lift the ban. British officials had hoped the president would announce a relaxation of restrictions when he came to Cornwall, England, in June for the Group of 7 summit and were disappointed when he did not. Their frustration has only deepened since then.

The easing of the travel restrictions also comes as the administration has sought to reduce tensions with another ally in France after the United States kept Paris in the dark as it secretly negotiated an agreement with Australia to build nuclear submarines.

British officials note that the United States had not imposed a similar ban on people from Caribbean nations, which had a higher rate of infection than Britain, or from Argentina, which had lower percentage of its population vaccinated. About 82% of people in Britain older than 16 have had two shots.

Britain and several European Union countries allow fully vaccinated people from the United States to travel without quarantining, and officials there were annoyed when the United States did not reciprocate.

The ban, European officials point out, has kept families separated since early 2020, as the coronavirus was erupting across Europe. European countries have weathered a third wave of infections propelled by the delta variant. But in several countries, including Britain, infection rates have begun to level off and even decline.

After the announcement, Giovanni Vincenti, 42, an Italian professor who lives in Baltimore, thought about how his grandparents abroad would finally get to meet his daughter, who was born last May.

“I am trying not to cry because it’s such a beautiful day,” Vincenti said. On Monday, Vincenti’s wife, who is a Polish researcher on vaccines, was already on her computer trying to book a flight for her mother.

The Biden administration will lift travel restrictions starting in November on foreigners who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, reopening the country to thousands of people, including those who have been separated from family in the United States during the pandemic.

The Biden administration will lift travel restrictions starting in November on foreigners who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, reopening the country to thousands of people, including those who have been separated from family in the United States during the pandemic. The foreign travelers will need to show proof of vaccination before boarding and a negative test for the coronavirus within three days before coming to the United States, Jeff Zients, the White House pandemic coordinator, said Monday. “International travel is critical to connecting families and friends, to fueling small and large businesses, to promoting the open exchange" of ideas and culture, Zients said. “That’s why, with science and public health as our guide, we have developed a new international air travel system that both enhances the safety of Americans here at home and enhances the safety of international air travel.” The administration has restricted travel for foreigners looking to fly to the United States from a group of European countries, Iran and China for more than a year. Unvaccinated Americans overseas aiming to travel home will have to clear stricter testing requirements. They will need to test negative for the coronavirus one day before traveling to the United States and show proof that they have bought a test to take after arriving in the United States, Zients said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will also soon issue an order directing airlines to collect phone numbers and email addresses of travelers for a new contact-tracing system. Authorities will then follow up with the travelers after arrival to ask whether they are experiencing symptoms of the virus. The changes announced Monday only apply to air travel and do not affect restrictions along the land border, Zients said. The Trump administration began implementing the travel bans against foreign travelers in January 2020 in the hopes of preventing the spread of disease. The effort was largely unsuccessful. The prior administration’s mangled announcements over the restrictions also led to exoduses of American citizens, with packed, chaotic airports that had porous screenings. President Joe Biden has kept the restrictions against potential travelers from the European Union, Britain, India and others, despite pleas from business leaders in need of profits from tourism, immigrant workers who traveled overseas to renew work visas to work in the United States only to be left stranded and citizens left separated from their romantic partners abroad. The White House maintained the restrictions were necessary, particularly after the spread of the contagious delta variant this summer fueled a rise of coronavirus cases and undermined the central theme of Biden’s presidency — vaccinating Americans and getting the pandemic under control. Zients cited the pace of vaccinations administered globally as a reason for the administration’s pivot. The decision also comes on the eve of a visit by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was expected to press Biden to lift the ban. British officials had hoped the president would announce a relaxation of restrictions when he came to Cornwall, England, in June for the Group of 7 summit and were disappointed when he did not. Their frustration has only deepened since then. The easing of the travel restrictions also comes as the administration has sought to reduce tensions with another ally in France after the United States kept Paris in the dark as it secretly negotiated an agreement with Australia to build nuclear submarines. British officials note that the United States had not imposed a similar ban on people from Caribbean nations, which had a higher rate of infection than Britain, or from Argentina, which had lower percentage of its population vaccinated. About 82% of people in Britain older than 16 have had two shots. Britain and several European Union countries allow fully vaccinated people from the United States to travel without quarantining, and officials there were annoyed when the United States did not reciprocate. The ban, European officials point out, has kept families separated since early 2020, as the coronavirus was erupting across Europe. European countries have weathered a third wave of infections propelled by the delta variant. But in several countries, including Britain, infection rates have begun to level off and even decline. After the announcement, Giovanni Vincenti, 42, an Italian professor who lives in Baltimore, thought about how his grandparents abroad would finally get to meet his daughter, who was born last May. “I am trying not to cry because it’s such a beautiful day,” Vincenti said. On Monday, Vincenti’s wife, who is a Polish researcher on vaccines, was already on her computer trying to book a flight for her mother.

US to lift restrictions on vaccinated international travelers

Schools reopened in&nbsp;India's Himalayan desert town of Leh and IT hub Bengaluru for students belonging to classes 6 to 8 on Monday&nbsp;as the number of coronavirus cases declined.

India, in March last year, had ordered the closure of schools, colleges, and other educational institutions, and pushed for classes to move online, to curb the spread of the deadly virus.

But with COVID-19 cases declining, many schools were reopened for higher classes earlier in some states, as part of the unlocking process.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-over-38000-covid-19-cases-lowest-daily-fatalities-in-167-days-411079">Also read |&nbsp;India reports over 38,000 COVID-19 cases; lowest daily fatalities in 167 days</a>

Students had to go through thermal scanning and sanitisation as they reached school to attend classes in Ladakh and Bengaluru after studying online for months due to coronavirus.

Classes for higher secondary final year and some courses in colleges also commenced in northeastern Guwahati city on Monday.

India&nbsp;reported 38,948 new COVID-19 infections and 219 deaths in the past 24 hours.

Schools reopened in India's Himalayan desert town of Leh and IT hub Bengaluru for students belonging to classes 6 to 8 on Monday as the number of coronavirus cases declined.

Schools reopened in India's Himalayan desert town of Leh and IT hub Bengaluru for students belonging to classes 6 to 8 on Monday as the number of coronavirus cases declined. India, in March last year, had ordered the closure of schools, colleges, and other educational institutions, and pushed for classes to move online, to curb the spread of the deadly virus. But with COVID-19 cases declining, many schools were reopened for higher classes earlier in some states, as part of the unlocking process. Also read | India reports over 38,000 COVID-19 cases; lowest daily fatalities in 167 days Students had to go through thermal scanning and sanitisation as they reached school to attend classes in Ladakh and Bengaluru after studying online for months due to coronavirus. Classes for higher secondary final year and some courses in colleges also commenced in northeastern Guwahati city on Monday. India reported 38,948 new COVID-19 infections and 219 deaths in the past 24 hours.

Schools reopen in parts of India in further easing of restrictions

US President Joe Biden said on Friday "in all probability" new guidelines or restrictions would be imposed in the United States in response to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Asked if Americans should expect new recommendations from health authorities or new restrictive measures, the president responded, "in all probability," before leaving the White House by helicopter for the weekend.

He did not specify what steps could be taken.&nbsp;

US federal authorities, local officials and businesses have boosted health protocols in recent days in the face of surging cases spurred by the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant.&nbsp;

Biden added, however, that the country had had "a good day" on Thursday in terms of vaccinations.&nbsp;

<a href="wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-top-cuban-police-for-suppressing-protests-401871">Also read |US sanctions top Cuban police for suppressing protests</a>

"Almost a million people got vaccinated," he said, as his administration works to revive a sluggish inoculation campaign.&nbsp;

"I am hopeful people are beginning to realize how essential it is."

US health authorities this week recommended that even vaccinated Americans again wear masks indoors in areas with high infection rates.

The federal government has also tightened health regulations for its millions of employees, who must now either be vaccinated or wear masks and be tested regularly, even in areas with low case numbers.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden said on Friday "in all probability" new guidelines or restrictions would be imposed in the United States in response to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

US President Joe Biden said on Friday "in all probability" new guidelines or restrictions would be imposed in the United States in response to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. Asked if Americans should expect new recommendations from health authorities or new restrictive measures, the president responded, "in all probability," before leaving the White House by helicopter for the weekend. He did not specify what steps could be taken. US federal authorities, local officials and businesses have boosted health protocols in recent days in the face of surging cases spurred by the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant. Biden added, however, that the country had had "a good day" on Thursday in terms of vaccinations. Also read |US sanctions top Cuban police for suppressing protests "Almost a million people got vaccinated," he said, as his administration works to revive a sluggish inoculation campaign. "I am hopeful people are beginning to realize how essential it is." US health authorities this week recommended that even vaccinated Americans again wear masks indoors in areas with high infection rates. The federal government has also tightened health regulations for its millions of employees, who must now either be vaccinated or wear masks and be tested regularly, even in areas with low case numbers.

Biden says US to see new COVID-19 restrictions 'in all probability'

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out. &nbsp;Given the possibility of intimacy, condoms have been introduced by the organisers.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-tokyo-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400698" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Condoms have been distributed since the 1988 Olympics, which was to raise awareness about HIV, this marked a start of a tradition that would be followed in the years to come.

The tradition of handing out condoms to athletes began in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The organisers distributed 8,500 condoms in the competition which was held in a decade where the world witnessed an alarming surge in HIV AIDS cases. However, several hundreds of condoms were found on the roofs of the athletes’ quarters in the Olympic Village, due to which a ban was placed on outdoor sex.&nbsp;

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Athletes having sex during the Olympics became an open secret by the time the 2000 Sydney Olympics arrived. The organisers planned to distribute 70,000 condoms to the athletes participating in the mega tournament. However, they were forced to send an extra 20,000 condoms, realising that they were underestimating the actual figures.&nbsp;

The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City witnessed protests after the conservatives found out that over 100,000 condoms were distributed among the athletes.

<img alt="ss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d9100fe-577f-45bd-830b-fdceb542b035" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2855%29.jpg" />

2012 London Olympics is considered to be the raunchiest of all. The organisers distributed 150,000 condoms during the games and a website called Grindr (which is now also an app) crashed when athletes began arriving.

Brazil broke an Olympic record, not in the games, but as Games organisers as they decided to distribute a record 450,000 condoms to the athletes.&nbsp;

In the times of COVID-19, the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics promoted the idea of social distancing. However, the organisers made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village.&nbsp;

“The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out.

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out. Given the possibility of intimacy, condoms have been introduced by the organisers. IN PICS| Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Condoms have been distributed since the 1988 Olympics, which was to raise awareness about HIV, this marked a start of a tradition that would be followed in the years to come. The tradition of handing out condoms to athletes began in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The organisers distributed 8,500 condoms in the competition which was held in a decade where the world witnessed an alarming surge in HIV AIDS cases. However, several hundreds of condoms were found on the roofs of the athletes’ quarters in the Olympic Village, due to which a ban was placed on outdoor sex. Athletes having sex during the Olympics became an open secret by the time the 2000 Sydney Olympics arrived. The organisers planned to distribute 70,000 condoms to the athletes participating in the mega tournament. However, they were forced to send an extra 20,000 condoms, realising that they were underestimating the actual figures. The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City witnessed protests after the conservatives found out that over 100,000 condoms were distributed among the athletes. 2012 London Olympics is considered to be the raunchiest of all. The organisers distributed 150,000 condoms during the games and a website called Grindr (which is now also an app) crashed when athletes began arriving. Brazil broke an Olympic record, not in the games, but as Games organisers as they decided to distribute a record 450,000 condoms to the athletes. In the times of COVID-19, the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics promoted the idea of social distancing. However, the organisers made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village. “The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs.&nbsp;

Dozens of protesters were arrested after an unauthorised march in Sydney, with the city's police minister branding those who took part as "morons".

Organisers had dubbed the protest a "freedom" rally.&nbsp;Attendees carried signs and banners reading "Wake up Australia" and "Drain the Swamp".&nbsp;

In France, where police deployed teargas and water cannon against some protesters, an estimated 160,000 took to the streets in nationwide&nbsp;protests&nbsp;against President Emmanuel Macron's health pass that will drastically curtail access to restaurants and public spaces for unvaccinated people.

'Don't touch our children'

"Freedom, freedom", chanted demonstrators in France, carrying placards denouncing "Macron, Tyrant", "Big Pharma shackles freedom" or saying "No to the pass of shame".

The demonstrations highlight the conflict globally between people caught between the advice of the World Health Organization and other public health agencies and the need to earn a living -- or simply to return to a pre-pandemic lifestyle.

In Indonesia and the UK, governments have pressed ahead with easing of restrictions even in the face of surging.

Meanwhile, around 5,000 people demonstrated in Athens, carrying placards touting slogans such as, "Don't touch our children", according to an AFP journalist at the scene.

And in Italy protesters gathered in Rome to demonstrate against a mandatory "green pass" for indoor dining and entertainment.

Earlier in Sydney, demonstrators pelted officers with pot plants and bottles of water as they defied a month-long stay-at-home order, a day after authorities suggested the restrictions could remain in place until October.

New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she was "utterly disgusted" by the protesters whose "selfish actions have compromised the safety of all of us".

Police said they issued nearly 100 fines and arrested 57 people.

In Melbourne, meanwhile, six people were arrested. police said.

'Morons'

New South Wales Police Minister David Elliott said a team of detectives would be scouring footage to identify and charge as many people as possible in the coming days.

"Sydney isn't immune from morons," he said.

Sydney, a city of over five million people, is struggling to contain an outbreak of the Delta variant, first identified in India and now spreading globally.

After escaping much of the early pandemic unscathed, around half of Australia's 25 million people are now in lockdown across several cities.

There is growing anger at the restrictions and the conservative government's failure to provide adequate vaccine supplies.

Just 11 percent of the population is fully vaccinated.

In France, as elsewhere in Europe, the government is making it harder for reluctant citizens to put off getting the jabs.

Legislation now being considered by lawmakers will make vaccinations compulsory for certain professions, while the controversial health pass will severely restrict social life for holdouts from the end of July.&nbsp;

There were signs the tougher measures announced on July 13 were having the desired effect: 48 percent of the population were fully vaccinated as of Friday, up eight percentage points from July 10.

While more than three-quarters of French people backed Macron's measures, according to a July 13 Elabe poll for BFMTV, a sizeable and vocal minority do not. Elodie, 34, a care assistant at a Strasbourg nursing home, denounced "the blackmail of caregivers who were at the front line" during the first wave and who are now threatened" with "no more pay" and even being fired.

"They've been lying to us since the beginning," she said.&nbsp;

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs.

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs. Dozens of protesters were arrested after an unauthorised march in Sydney, with the city's police minister branding those who took part as "morons". Organisers had dubbed the protest a "freedom" rally. Attendees carried signs and banners reading "Wake up Australia" and "Drain the Swamp". In France, where police deployed teargas and water cannon against some protesters, an estimated 160,000 took to the streets in nationwide protests against President Emmanuel Macron's health pass that will drastically curtail access to restaurants and public spaces for unvaccinated people. 'Don't touch our children' "Freedom, freedom", chanted demonstrators in France, carrying placards denouncing "Macron, Tyrant", "Big Pharma shackles freedom" or saying "No to the pass of shame". The demonstrations highlight the conflict globally between people caught between the advice of the World Health Organization and other public health agencies and the need to earn a living -- or simply to return to a pre-pandemic lifestyle. In Indonesia and the UK, governments have pressed ahead with easing of restrictions even in the face of surging. Meanwhile, around 5,000 people demonstrated in Athens, carrying placards touting slogans such as, "Don't touch our children", according to an AFP journalist at the scene. And in Italy protesters gathered in Rome to demonstrate against a mandatory "green pass" for indoor dining and entertainment. Earlier in Sydney, demonstrators pelted officers with pot plants and bottles of water as they defied a month-long stay-at-home order, a day after authorities suggested the restrictions could remain in place until October. New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she was "utterly disgusted" by the protesters whose "selfish actions have compromised the safety of all of us". Police said they issued nearly 100 fines and arrested 57 people. In Melbourne, meanwhile, six people were arrested. police said. 'Morons' New South Wales Police Minister David Elliott said a team of detectives would be scouring footage to identify and charge as many people as possible in the coming days. "Sydney isn't immune from morons," he said. Sydney, a city of over five million people, is struggling to contain an outbreak of the Delta variant, first identified in India and now spreading globally. After escaping much of the early pandemic unscathed, around half of Australia's 25 million people are now in lockdown across several cities. There is growing anger at the restrictions and the conservative government's failure to provide adequate vaccine supplies. Just 11 percent of the population is fully vaccinated. In France, as elsewhere in Europe, the government is making it harder for reluctant citizens to put off getting the jabs. Legislation now being considered by lawmakers will make vaccinations compulsory for certain professions, while the controversial health pass will severely restrict social life for holdouts from the end of July. There were signs the tougher measures announced on July 13 were having the desired effect: 48 percent of the population were fully vaccinated as of Friday, up eight percentage points from July 10. While more than three-quarters of French people backed Macron's measures, according to a July 13 Elabe poll for BFMTV, a sizeable and vocal minority do not. Elodie, 34, a care assistant at a Strasbourg nursing home, denounced "the blackmail of caregivers who were at the front line" during the first wave and who are now threatened" with "no more pay" and even being fired. "They've been lying to us since the beginning," she said.

Big protests mark global anger at COVID-19 restrictions

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of &nbsp;infections.

At the end of June,&nbsp;Iceland&nbsp;lifted rules around social distancing, mask-wearing, limits on public gatherings and the opening hours of bars and restaurants after introducing virus restrictions in March last year.

Starting from midnight on Sunday until August 13, public gatherings will be restricted to 200, the one-metre social distancing rule will be reimposed and bars and restaurants will have to close at 11:00 pm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/four-day-workweek-trial-an-overwhelming-success-in-iceland-396160">Also read |&nbsp;Four-day workweek trial an 'overwhelming success' in Iceland</a>

Swimming pools and indoor sports facilities can only operate to 75 percent of capacity and masks will be mandatory indoors.

Although over 85 percent of the population above 16 have received two vaccine doses,&nbsp;Iceland&nbsp;has seen infections spurt with 355 new cases since July 12.

The majority of cases are due to the Delta variant, which was first detected in India.

Iceland&nbsp;will resume restrictions at its borders, requiring a negative PCR test less than 72 hours old for travellers who are fully vaccinated.

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of infections.

Iceland, one of the first nations in the world to lift all Covid restrictions for vaccinated tourists, on Friday announced new curbs following a spate of infections. At the end of June, Iceland lifted rules around social distancing, mask-wearing, limits on public gatherings and the opening hours of bars and restaurants after introducing virus restrictions in March last year. Starting from midnight on Sunday until August 13, public gatherings will be restricted to 200, the one-metre social distancing rule will be reimposed and bars and restaurants will have to close at 11:00 pm. Also read | Four-day workweek trial an 'overwhelming success' in Iceland Swimming pools and indoor sports facilities can only operate to 75 percent of capacity and masks will be mandatory indoors. Although over 85 percent of the population above 16 have received two vaccine doses, Iceland has seen infections spurt with 355 new cases since July 12. The majority of cases are due to the Delta variant, which was first detected in India. Iceland will resume restrictions at its borders, requiring a negative PCR test less than 72 hours old for travellers who are fully vaccinated.

Iceland reimposes COVID-19 restrictions after cases surge

Scientific advisers have warned UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson that he should be prepared to act in the first week of August to prevent the NHS from becoming overwhelmed by the end of that month with Covid cases spiraling out of control.

Scientific advisers have warned UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson that he should be prepared to act in the first week of August to prevent the NHS from becoming overwhelmed by the end of that month with Covid cases spiraling out of control. They cautioned that the restrictions could be reimposed in just three weeks if cases continue to soar. It has been suggested that UK daily hospitalisations at the peak of the third wave, which is expected at the end of August, could be between 1,000 and 2,000, with deaths predicted to be between 100 and 200 per day. However, six weeks before the peak, in July, there were 745 patients admitted to hospitals in the UK in a day. The figure continued to rise even before the day all restrictions were lifted. Also read | Vaccination proof to be mandatory in nightclubs from September: UK government The scientists have also advised that some non-pharmaceutical measures should be reintroduced. This includes mandatory face masks and advice to work from home. Meanwhile, Johnson said the government is planning to make proof of vaccination mandatory for people to enter nightclubs and other crowded places from September. "Proof of a negative test will no longer be enough," PM Johnson said while referring to entry requirements for nightclubs in England from September. "We're planning to make full vaccination the condition of entry to nightclubs and other venues where large crowds gather," Johnson added.

Scientists warn that UK COVID-19 restrictions could return after three weeks

London clubbers on Monday flocked to one of the first rule-free live music events since the pandemic began last year, dancing through the night and rejoicing in human interaction as England lifted most COVID-19 restrictions at midnight. 
 
Britain, which has one of the world's highest death tolls from COVID-19, is facing a new wave of cases, but Prime Minister Boris Johnson is lifting most restrictions in England in what some have dubbed "Freedom Day". 
 
Epidemiologists are generally skeptical that lifting restrictions is the right thing to do, but many young British people have had enough of more than 1 1/2 years of lockdowns, say they and crave a party. 
 
"I have not been allowed to dance for like what seems like forever," said Georgia Pike, 31, at the Oval Space in Hackney, east London. "I want to dance, I want to hear live music, I want the vibe of being at a gig, of being around other people." 
 
Beside the zest for fun, though, there was also clear concern about a wave of new cases - more than 50,000 per day across the United Kingdom. 
 
"I am so excited - but its mixed with the sense of impending doom," said Gary Cartmill, 26. 
 
After rushing to vaccinate its population faster than almost all other European countries, Johnson`s government is betting that England can reopen as fully vaccinated people are less likely to get seriously ill with COVID-19. 
 
Promoters of the event, Rob Broadbent and Max Wheeler-Bowden put up a video of themselves getting a COVID-19 test and urged those told to isolate to do so. 
 
They said they reduced the number of bands and the number of venues and lost money on the event because fewer people than expected attended. 
 
British society appears split on the restrictions: some want tough rules to continue as they fear the virus will keep killing people, but others have chafed at the most onerous restrictions in peacetime history. 
 
Business owners, including nightclubs, travel companies and the hospitality industry, have been desperate to reopen the economy while many students, young people and parents have quietly disregarded many of the most onerous rules. 
 
Artists say the lockdown has been tough. 
 
James Cox, the 32-year-old lead singer of Crows, a post-punk band playing at The Oval Space, said the last time he had performed live was on Halloween 2020.

London clubbers on Monday flocked to one of the first rule-free live music events since the pandemic began last year, dancing through the night and rejoicing in human interaction as England lifted most COVID-19 restrictions at midnight.

London clubbers on Monday flocked to one of the first rule-free live music events since the pandemic began last year, dancing through the night and rejoicing in human interaction as England lifted most COVID-19 restrictions at midnight. Britain, which has one of the world's highest death tolls from COVID-19, is facing a new wave of cases, but Prime Minister Boris Johnson is lifting most restrictions in England in what some have dubbed "Freedom Day". Epidemiologists are generally skeptical that lifting restrictions is the right thing to do, but many young British people have had enough of more than 1 1/2 years of lockdowns, say they and crave a party. "I have not been allowed to dance for like what seems like forever," said Georgia Pike, 31, at the Oval Space in Hackney, east London. "I want to dance, I want to hear live music, I want the vibe of being at a gig, of being around other people." Beside the zest for fun, though, there was also clear concern about a wave of new cases - more than 50,000 per day across the United Kingdom. "I am so excited - but its mixed with the sense of impending doom," said Gary Cartmill, 26. After rushing to vaccinate its population faster than almost all other European countries, Johnson`s government is betting that England can reopen as fully vaccinated people are less likely to get seriously ill with COVID-19. Promoters of the event, Rob Broadbent and Max Wheeler-Bowden put up a video of themselves getting a COVID-19 test and urged those told to isolate to do so. They said they reduced the number of bands and the number of venues and lost money on the event because fewer people than expected attended. British society appears split on the restrictions: some want tough rules to continue as they fear the virus will keep killing people, but others have chafed at the most onerous restrictions in peacetime history. Business owners, including nightclubs, travel companies and the hospitality industry, have been desperate to reopen the economy while many students, young people and parents have quietly disregarded many of the most onerous rules. Artists say the lockdown has been tough. James Cox, the 32-year-old lead singer of Crows, a post-punk band playing at The Oval Space, said the last time he had performed live was on Halloween 2020.

'I want to dance': London clubbers cheer end of COVID-19 restrictions

End of COVID-19 restrictions make London clubbers go gaga

Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause.

The group left Austin, Texas, in midafternoon on a pair of chartered flights that arrived at Dulles International Airport just before sunset. Fifty-one of the 67 state House Democrats flew on the planes, leaders of the delegation said, and several others arrived separately in Washington; that’s enough to prevent Texas Republicans from attaining a quorum, which is required to conduct state business.

The hastily arranged departure added a cinematic element to the partisan wrangling in a state with a colorful political history. Democrats have fled to neighboring states in the past to try to block legislation, including in 2003, when they traveled to New Mexico and Oklahoma in an effort to avoid Republican attempts to redraw congressional districts.

The move could paralyze the Legislature for weeks if Democrats remain out of state until this special session ends in August. Still, it lays bare their limited options long term in a Legislature where the Republicans hold the majority in both chambers. Parliamentary procedures and efforts to add amendments can delay the process but not derail it. Republicans said Monday the Democrats’ gambit would ultimately fail.

State Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee, said Democrats’ departure “slows things down” but would not prevent Republicans from prevailing.

“It’s just delaying the inevitable,” said State Representative Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee. He described the move as “political theater.”

“We will eventually get it done, this special or another,” he added.

Nevertheless, by traveling en masse to Washington, the Texas Democrats were hoping to apply pressure to Democrats in the U.S. Senate who so far have been unable to pass federal legislation to address the issue.

On Monday night, members of the Texas delegation reiterated their resolve in a 15-minute news conference from an airport parking lot, which concluded with members singing the chorus of “We Shall Overcome.”

The group has scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Capitol, but has no concrete plans in Washington beyond that.

Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause.

Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause. The group left Austin, Texas, in midafternoon on a pair of chartered flights that arrived at Dulles International Airport just before sunset. Fifty-one of the 67 state House Democrats flew on the planes, leaders of the delegation said, and several others arrived separately in Washington; that’s enough to prevent Texas Republicans from attaining a quorum, which is required to conduct state business. The hastily arranged departure added a cinematic element to the partisan wrangling in a state with a colorful political history. Democrats have fled to neighboring states in the past to try to block legislation, including in 2003, when they traveled to New Mexico and Oklahoma in an effort to avoid Republican attempts to redraw congressional districts. The move could paralyze the Legislature for weeks if Democrats remain out of state until this special session ends in August. Still, it lays bare their limited options long term in a Legislature where the Republicans hold the majority in both chambers. Parliamentary procedures and efforts to add amendments can delay the process but not derail it. Republicans said Monday the Democrats’ gambit would ultimately fail. State Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee, said Democrats’ departure “slows things down” but would not prevent Republicans from prevailing. “It’s just delaying the inevitable,” said State Representative Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee. He described the move as “political theater.” “We will eventually get it done, this special or another,” he added. Nevertheless, by traveling en masse to Washington, the Texas Democrats were hoping to apply pressure to Democrats in the U.S. Senate who so far have been unable to pass federal legislation to address the issue. On Monday night, members of the Texas delegation reiterated their resolve in a 15-minute news conference from an airport parking lot, which concluded with members singing the chorus of “We Shall Overcome.” The group has scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Capitol, but has no concrete plans in Washington beyond that.

Texas Democrats flee state to block voting restriction legislation

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say. 
 
With a truce between Israel and Gaza's Hamas largely holding, Israel on Monday allowed a limited resumption of exports from the enclave. 
 
But it has kept in place tightened measures on raw material imports, including carbon dioxide gas and syrup that the bottling company's factory needs to produce Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda soda, said Pepsi Gaza's Hamam al-Yazeji. 
 
"Yesterday, we completely ran out of raw materials, and unfortunately, we had to shut down the factory, sending home 250 workers," Yazeji said. Before the May fighting, he said, Pepsi Gaza was generally allowed to import needed materials. 
 
Asked for comment, COGAT, a branch of Israel's defence ministry, said: "Due to the security situation, the import of industrial raw materials from the State of Israel into the Gaza Strip is not possible." 
 
COGAT said Israel was allowing other imports into Gaza, including fuel, food, medicine and medical equipment. 
 
Israel and neighbouring Egypt keep tight control over Gaza's borders, and say the restrictions are necessary to stop weapons reaching Hamas and prevent them from being produced locally. 
 
Egypt and the United Nations stepped up mediation last week after incendiary balloons launched from Gaza drew retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, challenging the fragile ceasefire. 
 
Shutdowns could also occur in other Gaza factories if Israeli restrictions are kept up, analysts say. Manufacturing makes up around 10 per cent of Gaza's service sector-dominated economy, according to UN&nbsp;data. 
 
Pepsi Gaza's factory has operated continuously since 1961, when the Gaza-based Yazeji Soft Drinks Company acquired rights to produce 7UP and other types of soda in the enclave. 
 
Worth about $15 million, the owners say, the factory's products are distributed locally. A separate branch operates in the occupied West Bank, worth about $30 million, which serves the territory as well as East Jerusalem. 
 
Company officials had made plans to celebrate 60 years of operations before the shutdown on Sunday. 
 
Yazeji had tears in his eyes as he walked through his empty factory on Monday. The shutdown was 'catastrophic', he said. 
 
"This year should have been exceptional, celebrating 60 years since we began production. 
 
"We are deprived of marking this anniversary." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say.

Gaza's Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to Israeli import restrictions that were tightened during an 11-day conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants last month, the company's owners say. With a truce between Israel and Gaza's Hamas largely holding, Israel on Monday allowed a limited resumption of exports from the enclave. But it has kept in place tightened measures on raw material imports, including carbon dioxide gas and syrup that the bottling company's factory needs to produce Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda soda, said Pepsi Gaza's Hamam al-Yazeji. "Yesterday, we completely ran out of raw materials, and unfortunately, we had to shut down the factory, sending home 250 workers," Yazeji said. Before the May fighting, he said, Pepsi Gaza was generally allowed to import needed materials. Asked for comment, COGAT, a branch of Israel's defence ministry, said: "Due to the security situation, the import of industrial raw materials from the State of Israel into the Gaza Strip is not possible." COGAT said Israel was allowing other imports into Gaza, including fuel, food, medicine and medical equipment. Israel and neighbouring Egypt keep tight control over Gaza's borders, and say the restrictions are necessary to stop weapons reaching Hamas and prevent them from being produced locally. Egypt and the United Nations stepped up mediation last week after incendiary balloons launched from Gaza drew retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, challenging the fragile ceasefire. Shutdowns could also occur in other Gaza factories if Israeli restrictions are kept up, analysts say. Manufacturing makes up around 10 per cent of Gaza's service sector-dominated economy, according to UN data. Pepsi Gaza's factory has operated continuously since 1961, when the Gaza-based Yazeji Soft Drinks Company acquired rights to produce 7UP and other types of soda in the enclave. Worth about $15 million, the owners say, the factory's products are distributed locally. A separate branch operates in the occupied West Bank, worth about $30 million, which serves the territory as well as East Jerusalem. Company officials had made plans to celebrate 60 years of operations before the shutdown on Sunday. Yazeji had tears in his eyes as he walked through his empty factory on Monday. The shutdown was 'catastrophic', he said. "This year should have been exceptional, celebrating 60 years since we began production. "We are deprived of marking this anniversary." (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza Pepsi factory shuts down, owners blame Israeli restrictions

US&nbsp;and Canadian officials are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss how to eventually lift pandemic-related border restrictions between the two countries, but no immediate action is expected, media reports said citing sources briefed on the matter. 
 
US&nbsp;and Canadian business leaders have voiced increasing concern about the ban on non-essential travel at land borders because of COVID-19 that was imposed in March 2020 and has been renewed on a monthly basis since. The measures, which also apply to the US-Mexico border, do not affect trade or other essential travel. 
 
The current restrictions are set to expire on June 21, but US&nbsp;and industry officials expect they will be extended again. 
 
On June 8, it was&nbsp;reported that the Biden administration was forming expert working groups with Canada, Mexico, the European Union and the United Kingdom to determine how best to safely restart travel after 15 months of pandemic restrictions. 
 
A meeting is expected to occur with Mexico later this week and meetings with the United Kingdom and EU are currently set for next week, but the timing could still shift, three people briefed on the meetings said. 
 
US&nbsp;restrictions prevent most non-US&nbsp;citizens, who have been in the United Kingdom, the 26 Schengen nations in Europe without border controls, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil within the last 14 days from traveling to the United States. 
 
It was previously reported that US&nbsp;and airline officials do not think US&nbsp;restrictions will be lifted until around July 4 at the earliest. 
 
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Sunday, he has spoken with US&nbsp;President Joe Biden about how to lift the restrictions, but made clear no breakthrough has been achieved. 
 
Two officials said the working groups are each expected to meet twice a month. 
 
Canada last week took a cautious first step, saying it was prepared to relax quarantine protocols for fully vaccinated citizens returning home starting in early July. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

US and Canadian officials are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss how to eventually lift pandemic-related border restrictions between the two countries, but no immediate action is expected, media reports said citing sources briefed on the matter.

US and Canadian officials are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss how to eventually lift pandemic-related border restrictions between the two countries, but no immediate action is expected, media reports said citing sources briefed on the matter. US and Canadian business leaders have voiced increasing concern about the ban on non-essential travel at land borders because of COVID-19 that was imposed in March 2020 and has been renewed on a monthly basis since. The measures, which also apply to the US-Mexico border, do not affect trade or other essential travel. The current restrictions are set to expire on June 21, but US and industry officials expect they will be extended again. On June 8, it was reported that the Biden administration was forming expert working groups with Canada, Mexico, the European Union and the United Kingdom to determine how best to safely restart travel after 15 months of pandemic restrictions. A meeting is expected to occur with Mexico later this week and meetings with the United Kingdom and EU are currently set for next week, but the timing could still shift, three people briefed on the meetings said. US restrictions prevent most non-US citizens, who have been in the United Kingdom, the 26 Schengen nations in Europe without border controls, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil within the last 14 days from traveling to the United States. It was previously reported that US and airline officials do not think US restrictions will be lifted until around July 4 at the earliest. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Sunday, he has spoken with US President Joe Biden about how to lift the restrictions, but made clear no breakthrough has been achieved. Two officials said the working groups are each expected to meet twice a month. Canada last week took a cautious first step, saying it was prepared to relax quarantine protocols for fully vaccinated citizens returning home starting in early July. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Canada set to discuss lifting of border restrictions: Report

Parisians returned to their beloved cafe terraces and museums on Wednesday after a six-month Covid-forced hiatus, a glimmer of normal life resuming but India grappled with a record daily number of coronavirus deaths. &nbsp;

As health workers administered the world's 1.5 billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose, Europeans and Americans continued to climb out from under long months of restrictions. &nbsp;

In recent days, Britons have hugged their loved ones and streamed into pubs, gyms and other indoor venues. Italy has relaxed curfews, Dutch music fans have readied for the Eurovision Song Contest and Portugal has welcomed returning tourists.&nbsp;

"It's nice to get away and be back here," said Barry Thompson, a 63-year-old retired policeman from Manchester, who landed in the sun-kissed southern Portuguese town of Faro with his wife and son.&nbsp;

In New York, an early virus epicentre rules requiring masks and social distancing are also set to ease, although some residents remain cautious about a disease that has upended life in almost every corner of the globe.&nbsp;

Manhattan restaurant manager Juan Rosas plans to still require masks, even for vaccinated patrons.&nbsp;

"I think it is too early," he said. "I think they rushed the decision."&nbsp;

In Paris, the terraces and rooftop gardens that define the city for many visitors have been booked out as outdoor dining returns across France, with a few lingering restrictions.&nbsp;

"Like a diesel engine, we'll be warming up slowly," bistro owner Stephanie Mathey said.&nbsp;

The City of Light's museums, cinemas and theatres are also reopening ahead of a full-scale unlocking of the economy on June 30.&nbsp;

"We are glad to be able to welcome you again," staff of the Louvre, the world's most visited museum, wrote on its website, where demand for tickets to a Renaissance sculpture show was brisk.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Parisians returned to their beloved cafe terraces and museums on Wednesday after a six-month Covid-forced hiatus, a glimmer of normal life resuming but India grappled with a record daily number of coronavirus deaths.

Parisians returned to their beloved cafe terraces and museums on Wednesday after a six-month Covid-forced hiatus, a glimmer of normal life resuming but India grappled with a record daily number of coronavirus deaths. As health workers administered the world's 1.5 billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose, Europeans and Americans continued to climb out from under long months of restrictions. In recent days, Britons have hugged their loved ones and streamed into pubs, gyms and other indoor venues. Italy has relaxed curfews, Dutch music fans have readied for the Eurovision Song Contest and Portugal has welcomed returning tourists. "It's nice to get away and be back here," said Barry Thompson, a 63-year-old retired policeman from Manchester, who landed in the sun-kissed southern Portuguese town of Faro with his wife and son. In New York, an early virus epicentre rules requiring masks and social distancing are also set to ease, although some residents remain cautious about a disease that has upended life in almost every corner of the globe. Manhattan restaurant manager Juan Rosas plans to still require masks, even for vaccinated patrons. "I think it is too early," he said. "I think they rushed the decision." In Paris, the terraces and rooftop gardens that define the city for many visitors have been booked out as outdoor dining returns across France, with a few lingering restrictions. "Like a diesel engine, we'll be warming up slowly," bistro owner Stephanie Mathey said. The City of Light's museums, cinemas and theatres are also reopening ahead of a full-scale unlocking of the economy on June 30. "We are glad to be able to welcome you again," staff of the Louvre, the world's most visited museum, wrote on its website, where demand for tickets to a Renaissance sculpture show was brisk. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris cafes reopen as virus restrictions ease 

Air travel in the US hit its highest mark since COVID-19 took hold more than 13 months ago, while European Union officials are proposing to ease restrictions on visitors to the continent as the vaccine sends new cases and deaths tumbling in more affluent countries.&nbsp;

The improving picture in many places contrasts with the worsening disaster in India.&nbsp;

In the US, the average number of new cases per day fell below 50,000 for the first time since October. &nbsp;

And nearly 1.67 million people were screened at US Airport checkpoints on Sunday, according to the Transportation Security Administration, the highest number since mid-March of last year.&nbsp;

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation giving him sweeping powers to invalidate local emergency measures put in place during the outbreak. &nbsp;

While the law doesn't go into effect until July, the Republican governor said he will issue an executive order to more quickly get rid of local mask mandates.&nbsp;

"I think this creates a structure that's going to be a little bit more respectful, I think, of people's businesses, jobs, schools and personal freedom," he said.&nbsp;

Las Vegas is bustling again after casino capacity limits were raised Saturday to 80% and person-to-person distancing was dropped to 3 feet (0.9 meters). &nbsp;

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that New York City's subways will begin running all night again and capacity restrictions on most businesses will end statewide in mid-May. &nbsp;

And Los Angeles County reported no coronavirus deaths on Sunday and Monday, some of which may be attributable to a lag in reporting but was nevertheless a hopeful sign that could move the county to allow an increase in capacity at events and venues, and indoor-service at bars.&nbsp;

EU officials also announced a proposal on Monday to relax restrictions on travel to the 27-nation bloc this summer, though the final decision is up to its member countries.&nbsp;

"Time to revive EU tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindle safely," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. “We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors and those from countries with a good health situation."&nbsp;

Air travel in the US hit its highest mark since COVID-19 took hold more than 13 months ago, while European Union officials are proposing to ease restrictions on visitors to the continent as the vaccine sends new cases and deaths tumbling in more affluent countries.

Air travel in the US hit its highest mark since COVID-19 took hold more than 13 months ago, while European Union officials are proposing to ease restrictions on visitors to the continent as the vaccine sends new cases and deaths tumbling in more affluent countries. The improving picture in many places contrasts with the worsening disaster in India. In the US, the average number of new cases per day fell below 50,000 for the first time since October. And nearly 1.67 million people were screened at US Airport checkpoints on Sunday, according to the Transportation Security Administration, the highest number since mid-March of last year. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation giving him sweeping powers to invalidate local emergency measures put in place during the outbreak. While the law doesn't go into effect until July, the Republican governor said he will issue an executive order to more quickly get rid of local mask mandates. "I think this creates a structure that's going to be a little bit more respectful, I think, of people's businesses, jobs, schools and personal freedom," he said. Las Vegas is bustling again after casino capacity limits were raised Saturday to 80% and person-to-person distancing was dropped to 3 feet (0.9 meters). New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that New York City's subways will begin running all night again and capacity restrictions on most businesses will end statewide in mid-May. And Los Angeles County reported no coronavirus deaths on Sunday and Monday, some of which may be attributable to a lag in reporting but was nevertheless a hopeful sign that could move the county to allow an increase in capacity at events and venues, and indoor-service at bars. EU officials also announced a proposal on Monday to relax restrictions on travel to the 27-nation bloc this summer, though the final decision is up to its member countries. "Time to revive EU tourism industry and for cross-border friendships to rekindle safely," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. “We propose to welcome again vaccinated visitors and those from countries with a good health situation."

COVID-19: Restrictions easing in US, Europe amid disaster in India 

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships.&nbsp;

The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.&nbsp;

"Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger.&nbsp;

"As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin.

“We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea.&nbsp;

The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry. "Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger. "As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin. “We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea. The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany condemns Russian naval restrictions in Black Sea 

Domestic travel restrictions imposed to tackle the spread of the Covid-19 virus are expected to be lifted on May 3, the government said on Wednesday after a cabinet meeting.&nbsp;

Government spokesman Gabriel Attal also said that President Emmanuel Macron's administration was sticking to a base case scenario of bars and restaurants to re-open outdoor&nbsp;seatings&nbsp;by mid-May.&nbsp;

"On May 3, it is expected that travel restrictions will be lifted", he told reporters.&nbsp;

The French government has also decided to order Covid-19 tests for&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;coming from India, Attal said, in a bid to prevent the spread of a coronavirus variant.&nbsp;

The prime minister's office on Saturday said the country would order a strict 10-day quarantine for all&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;coming from Brazil starting April 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The office added that same measures would gradually be put in place by April 24 for people returning from Argentina, Chile and South Africa, where the presence of other coronavirus variants were detected.&nbsp;

Domestic travel restrictions imposed to tackle the spread of the Covid-19 virus are expected to be lifted on May 3, the government said on Wednesday after a cabinet meeting.

Domestic travel restrictions imposed to tackle the spread of the Covid-19 virus are expected to be lifted on May 3, the government said on Wednesday after a cabinet meeting. Government spokesman Gabriel Attal also said that President Emmanuel Macron's administration was sticking to a base case scenario of bars and restaurants to re-open outdoor seatings by mid-May. "On May 3, it is expected that travel restrictions will be lifted", he told reporters. The French government has also decided to order Covid-19 tests for travellers coming from India, Attal said, in a bid to prevent the spread of a coronavirus variant. The prime minister's office on Saturday said the country would order a strict 10-day quarantine for all travellers coming from Brazil starting April 24. The office added that same measures would gradually be put in place by April 24 for people returning from Argentina, Chile and South Africa, where the presence of other coronavirus variants were detected.

France expects to lift domestic travel restrictions on May 3 

In January this year, as Christmas &amp; New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. &nbsp;

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The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched.

Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose.

Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. &nbsp;

Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom.

The mood is festive. A customer&nbsp;said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it."&nbsp;

The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time."&nbsp;

The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.”&nbsp;

The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing."&nbsp;

Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..."&nbsp;

And the drinks are flowing.&nbsp;

Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers."&nbsp;

After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy.&nbsp;

Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally."&nbsp;

In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints.&nbsp;

Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic."&nbsp;

And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. &nbsp;

George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat."&nbsp;

At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising.&nbsp;

The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February.&nbsp;

Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated,&nbsp;32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose.&nbsp;

&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." &nbsp;

The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown."&nbsp;

As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. &nbsp;

Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that." &nbsp;

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK.

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched. Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose. Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom. The mood is festive. A customer said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it." The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time." The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.” The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing." Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..." And the drinks are flowing. Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers." After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy. Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally." In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints. Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic." And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat." At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising. The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February. Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated, 32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown." As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that."

UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease 

New restrictions are set to come in force in Hong Kong this Thursday as the city prepares to stem fourth wave of coronavirus infections. Under these restrictions evening dining at restaurants will be prohibited and fitness centres will be closed. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the rules aim to reduce "number of people on the streets", echoing moves taken by authorities when cases spiked earlier this year.

Under the new restrictions, dining will be banned after 6 pm. Beauty and massage parlors will be forced to close, civil servants will be asked to work from home.

Hong Kong's strict social distancing measures have largely helped keep infections to under 7000 in the city of 7.5 million, with 112 deaths.

But daily recorded cases have risen again to more than 100 on several occasions in recent weeks, the highest level since July.

Speaking ahead of a weekly meeting with policy advisers, Lam said "the strictness of social distancing measures must at least return to the level" of the outbreak's peak in the city in July and August.

Schools, bars and nightclubs have already been ordered to close.

The city's health minister Sophia Chan, speaking later on Tuesday, said the measures would last for two weeks from Thursday until December 23.

Fines for breaching mask-wearing or social gathering rules will be increased to HK$5,000 ($645) from Friday, she said.

Authorities fought the spread of Hong Kong's initial outbreak at the start of the year by shutting schools and restricting travel across the city's border with mainland China, where the virus was first detected.

The territory endured two more Covid-19 infection spikes over the spring and summer, prompting tighter quarantine protocols and economically painful social distancing rules for restaurants and other businesses.

(With AFP inputs)

New restrictions are set to come in force in Hong Kong this Thursday as the city prepares to stem fourth wave of coronavirus infections. Under these restrictions evening dining at restaurants will be prohibited and fitness centres will be closed.

New restrictions are set to come in force in Hong Kong this Thursday as the city prepares to stem fourth wave of coronavirus infections. Under these restrictions evening dining at restaurants will be prohibited and fitness centres will be closed. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said the rules aim to reduce "number of people on the streets", echoing moves taken by authorities when cases spiked earlier this year. Under the new restrictions, dining will be banned after 6 pm. Beauty and massage parlors will be forced to close, civil servants will be asked to work from home. Hong Kong's strict social distancing measures have largely helped keep infections to under 7000 in the city of 7.5 million, with 112 deaths. But daily recorded cases have risen again to more than 100 on several occasions in recent weeks, the highest level since July. Speaking ahead of a weekly meeting with policy advisers, Lam said "the strictness of social distancing measures must at least return to the level" of the outbreak's peak in the city in July and August. Schools, bars and nightclubs have already been ordered to close. The city's health minister Sophia Chan, speaking later on Tuesday, said the measures would last for two weeks from Thursday until December 23. Fines for breaching mask-wearing or social gathering rules will be increased to HK$5,000 ($645) from Friday, she said. Authorities fought the spread of Hong Kong's initial outbreak at the start of the year by shutting schools and restricting travel across the city's border with mainland China, where the virus was first detected. The territory endured two more Covid-19 infection spikes over the spring and summer, prompting tighter quarantine protocols and economically painful social distancing rules for restaurants and other businesses. (With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong to impose fresh restrictions to curb latest coronavirus wave

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high.&nbsp;

The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm.

Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kong-activist-nathan-law-moves-to-uk-vows-fight-will-continue-313144" hreflang="en">Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue</a>

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday the government would limit group gatherings to four people from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave in March.&nbsp;

Twelve types of establishments including gyms and places of amusement must shut for a week.

"The recent emergence of local cases of unknown infection source indicates the existence of sustained silent transmission in the community," the government said in a statement late on Monday.

The Chinese-ruled city recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, health authorities said. Since late January,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/beijings-hong-kong-office-warns-pro-democracy-poll-could-violate-new-security-law-313130" hreflang="en">Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law</a>

The government said it is very concerned about the high number of imported cases and planned to impose further measures on travellers from high-risk places, including securing mandatory negative test results before arrival.&nbsp;

Lam said the measures were the result of a three-way tug of war between considerations related to public health, economic impact and social acceptability and that the city may need to co-exist with the virus for a period of time.

More than 13.02 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 569,336​ have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019.

Hong Kong will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high.

Hong Kong will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high. The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm. Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645). Also read: Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday the government would limit group gatherings to four people from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave in March. Twelve types of establishments including gyms and places of amusement must shut for a week. "The recent emergence of local cases of unknown infection source indicates the existence of sustained silent transmission in the community," the government said in a statement late on Monday. The Chinese-ruled city recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, health authorities said. Since late January, Hong Kong has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday. Also read: Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law The government said it is very concerned about the high number of imported cases and planned to impose further measures on travellers from high-risk places, including securing mandatory negative test results before arrival. Lam said the measures were the result of a three-way tug of war between considerations related to public health, economic impact and social acceptability and that the city may need to co-exist with the virus for a period of time. More than 13.02 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 569,336 have died, according to a Reuters tally. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019.

Hong Kong to impose most severe social distancing restrictions

Life for New Zealanders returned to normal on Tuesday (June 9) as the government lifted all social distancing restrictions except for border controls, after declaring it was free of the coronavirus.

New Zealanders enjoy life back to normal after social distancing restrictions lifted

The US&nbsp;Supreme Court on Monday left in place a&nbsp;Kentucky&nbsp;restriction requiring doctors to show and describe ultrasound images to women seeking an abortion, turning away a challenge arguing that the measure violates the free speech rights of physicians.

The justices declined without comment to hear an appeal by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of a lower court ruling that upheld the law after a federal judge previously had struck it down as a violation of the US&nbsp;Constitution's First Amendment guarantee of free speech.

The Supreme Court has a 5-4 conservative majority and is closely divided on abortion rights.

On March 4, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arms-sales-worldwide-up-by-nearly-5-report-267299">the court</a> is scheduled to hear its first major abortion case in three years in a dispute over the legality of a Republican-backed Louisiana law that imposes restrictions on abortion doctors.

The ACLU said the&nbsp;Kentucky&nbsp;law has no medical basis and that its sole purpose is to coerce a woman into not getting an abortion.

The ACLU filed the lawsuit on behalf of EMW Women's Surgical Center,&nbsp;Kentucky's only licensed abortion clinic, as well as physicians who work there shortly after the law was passed in 2017.

Kentucky&nbsp;requires a physician or qualified technician to perform the ultrasound and position the screen so the woman can view the images of the fetus. The medical staff are required to describe what the images show, including the size of the fetus and any organs or appendages visible. They are also required to make audible the sound of the fetal heartbeat.

The law requires the physicians to continue with the process even if the patient objects and shows signs of distress. Doctors can be fined and referred to the state's medical licensing board if they fail to comply with the&nbsp;Kentucky&nbsp;law.

On the Louisiana law case next year, the high court's ruling could lead to new curbs on access to abortion. Numerous Republican-backed measures restricting abortion have been passed at the state level in recent years.&nbsp;

The Louisiana case will test the willingness of the court, which includes two conservative justices appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, to uphold laws that lower courts have ruled unconstitutional. The court has shifted to the right after Justice Anthony Kennedy, a decisive vote in favour of abortion rights, retired in 2018 and was replaced by Trump appointee Brett Kavanaugh, who has a thin judicial record on the issue.

In 2018, the Supreme Court blocked a California law requiring clinics that counsel women against abortion to notify clients of the availability of abortions paid for by the state, finding that it violated the free speech rights of the facilities. In that 5-4 ruling along ideological grounds, the court's conservative justices were in the majority.

A federal judge in 2017 struck down the law but in an April 2019 ruling the Cincinnati-based 6th US&nbsp;Circuit Court of Appeals declared it lawful. The 6th Circuit found that because the law "requires the disclosure of truthful, non-misleading and relevant information about an abortion, we hold that it does not violate a doctor's right to free speech under the First Amendment."

In 2015, the Supreme Court rejected a bid by North Carolina to revive a similar law that had been struck down. A similar law in Texas was upheld by a federal appeals court in 2012.

The US Supreme Court on Monday left in place a Kentucky restriction requiring doctors to show and describe ultrasound images to women seeking an abortion, turning away a challenge arguing that the measure violates the free speech rights of physicians.

The US Supreme Court on Monday left in place a Kentucky restriction requiring doctors to show and describe ultrasound images to women seeking an abortion, turning away a challenge arguing that the measure violates the free speech rights of physicians. The justices declined without comment to hear an appeal by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of a lower court ruling that upheld the law after a federal judge previously had struck it down as a violation of the US Constitution's First Amendment guarantee of free speech. The Supreme Court has a 5-4 conservative majority and is closely divided on abortion rights. On March 4, the court is scheduled to hear its first major abortion case in three years in a dispute over the legality of a Republican-backed Louisiana law that imposes restrictions on abortion doctors. The ACLU said the Kentucky law has no medical basis and that its sole purpose is to coerce a woman into not getting an abortion. The ACLU filed the lawsuit on behalf of EMW Women's Surgical Center, Kentucky's only licensed abortion clinic, as well as physicians who work there shortly after the law was passed in 2017. Kentucky requires a physician or qualified technician to perform the ultrasound and position the screen so the woman can view the images of the fetus. The medical staff are required to describe what the images show, including the size of the fetus and any organs or appendages visible. They are also required to make audible the sound of the fetal heartbeat. The law requires the physicians to continue with the process even if the patient objects and shows signs of distress. Doctors can be fined and referred to the state's medical licensing board if they fail to comply with the Kentucky law. On the Louisiana law case next year, the high court's ruling could lead to new curbs on access to abortion. Numerous Republican-backed measures restricting abortion have been passed at the state level in recent years. The Louisiana case will test the willingness of the court, which includes two conservative justices appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, to uphold laws that lower courts have ruled unconstitutional. The court has shifted to the right after Justice Anthony Kennedy, a decisive vote in favour of abortion rights, retired in 2018 and was replaced by Trump appointee Brett Kavanaugh, who has a thin judicial record on the issue. In 2018, the Supreme Court blocked a California law requiring clinics that counsel women against abortion to notify clients of the availability of abortions paid for by the state, finding that it violated the free speech rights of the facilities. In that 5-4 ruling along ideological grounds, the court's conservative justices were in the majority. A federal judge in 2017 struck down the law but in an April 2019 ruling the Cincinnati-based 6th US Circuit Court of Appeals declared it lawful. The 6th Circuit found that because the law "requires the disclosure of truthful, non-misleading and relevant information about an abortion, we hold that it does not violate a doctor's right to free speech under the First Amendment." In 2015, the Supreme Court rejected a bid by North Carolina to revive a similar law that had been struck down. A similar law in Texas was upheld by a federal appeals court in 2012.

United States Supreme Court leaves Kentucky abortion restriction in place

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-closer-military-coordination-with-united-states-despite-disagreements-defence-minister-257203">The United States hopes Beijing will ease restrictions</a> on meetings between US diplomats and local officials after Washington imposed reciprocal measures against China, the US ambassador said Monday.

Washington angered Beijing last week after it announced that Chinese diplomats will now have to notify the State Department before meeting with American officials.

In China, US diplomats have to get permission from several levels of the Chinese government to meet local officials or academics, only to see such requests often denied.

"Even if we get permission sometimes it can get cancelled at the last minute. That's been frustration over a long period of time," US ambassador Terry Branstad said at a press briefing&nbsp;with a group of foreign journalists.

"We hope that the outcome (of the reciprocal measures) will be to get better access for US diplomats here in China," he said.

The US counter-measure comes as diplomatic tensions between China and the United States have risen over a host of issues, including a protracted trade war.

The US measure is a "very modest" step, Branstad said, noting that Washington is only asking Chinese diplomats to notify the US government about their meetings while their US counterparts in China must secure official permission.

Branstad was himself denied access to Tibet twice before finally getting permission to go in May.

But when he went to a coffee shop in Qinghai province on his way to Tibet, officials told people inside not to talk to the diplomats, Branstad said, recalling an example of the impediments US diplomats can face.

Branstad also cited the case of US consulate officials trying to meet Chinese students in the southern city of Guangzhou.

The foreign ministry initially said no student applied for the meeting and then said that none was available. The ministry later said students were "too shy" to meet with US officials, Branstad said.

Asked whether the US was also mulling restrictions on Chinese journalists in response to the difficulties foreign media face in China, Branstad said: "I think there has been some discussion about Chinese that are working for (Communist) Party-controlled entities and whether they should be treated as foreign agents."

Visa delays, detentions and suspected phone-bugging are among the challenges faced by foreign journalists in China.

US law requires people who do publicity for foreign governments or parties to register as foreign agents with the Justice Department and make periodic public disclosures about their activities.

The United States hopes Beijing will ease restrictions on meetings between US diplomats and local officials after Washington imposed reciprocal measures against China, the US ambassador said Monday.

The United States hopes Beijing will ease restrictions on meetings between US diplomats and local officials after Washington imposed reciprocal measures against China, the US ambassador said Monday. Washington angered Beijing last week after it announced that Chinese diplomats will now have to notify the State Department before meeting with American officials. In China, US diplomats have to get permission from several levels of the Chinese government to meet local officials or academics, only to see such requests often denied. "Even if we get permission sometimes it can get cancelled at the last minute. That's been frustration over a long period of time," US ambassador Terry Branstad said at a press briefing with a group of foreign journalists. "We hope that the outcome (of the reciprocal measures) will be to get better access for US diplomats here in China," he said. The US counter-measure comes as diplomatic tensions between China and the United States have risen over a host of issues, including a protracted trade war. The US measure is a "very modest" step, Branstad said, noting that Washington is only asking Chinese diplomats to notify the US government about their meetings while their US counterparts in China must secure official permission. Branstad was himself denied access to Tibet twice before finally getting permission to go in May. But when he went to a coffee shop in Qinghai province on his way to Tibet, officials told people inside not to talk to the diplomats, Branstad said, recalling an example of the impediments US diplomats can face. Branstad also cited the case of US consulate officials trying to meet Chinese students in the southern city of Guangzhou. The foreign ministry initially said no student applied for the meeting and then said that none was available. The ministry later said students were "too shy" to meet with US officials, Branstad said. Asked whether the US was also mulling restrictions on Chinese journalists in response to the difficulties foreign media face in China, Branstad said: "I think there has been some discussion about Chinese that are working for (Communist) Party-controlled entities and whether they should be treated as foreign agents." Visa delays, detentions and suspected phone-bugging are among the challenges faced by foreign journalists in China. US law requires people who do publicity for foreign governments or parties to register as foreign agents with the Justice Department and make periodic public disclosures about their activities.

United States hopes China will ease restrictions on diplomats

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chief-justice-of-india-gogoi-stops-short-of-fining-petitioner-challenging-article-370-adjourns-hearing-243274">Jammu and Kashmir </a>Governor, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-incomplete-without-kashmiri-pandits-governor-satya-pal-malik-243141">Satya Pal Mal</a>ik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday.

Schools and other educational institutions are scheduled to reopen in Kashmir valley from August 19, News agency ANI reported citing government sources.

The decision to lift the restrictions in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-letter-on-kashmir-united-nations-security-council-to-hold-closed-door-talks-on-kashmir-today-243241">J&amp;K</a> comes three days after the Supreme Court&nbsp;said it will wait for the normalcy to return in the valley.

The court had earlier on Tuesday refused to ease restrictions in the state after the abrogation of Article 370. The petition, filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala, sought lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday that the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were being "eased out in a phased manner in the Valley".

Restrictions were eased out from Jammu&nbsp;division on Tuesday after assessment by relevant local authorities.

Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Satya Pal Malik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Satya Pal Malik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday. Schools and other educational institutions are scheduled to reopen in Kashmir valley from August 19, News agency ANI reported citing government sources. The decision to lift the restrictions in J&K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return in the valley. The court had earlier on Tuesday refused to ease restrictions in the state after the abrogation of Article 370. The petition, filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala, sought lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels. The Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday that the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were being "eased out in a phased manner in the Valley". Restrictions were eased out from Jammu division on Tuesday after assessment by relevant local authorities. Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security. (With inputs from agencies)

Governor Satya Pal Malik directs government officers to resume normal functioning in Jammu and Kashmir from today

The US Commerce Department on Monday targeted a Chinese tech company with restrictions to cut off access to US technology, saying the firm could harm US security.

President Donald Trump has painted China as an economic threat to the United States and American companies and based his aggressive tariff strategy on the goal of preventing the country from becoming dominant in key technology sectors.

The new restrictions mean US firms will need special approval to export products intended for use by state-owned Fujian Jinhua Integrated Circuit Company, Ltd., according to a statement.

The firm is nearing completion of substantial production capacity for dynamic random access memory (DRAM) integrated circuits, likely to be based on US-technology.

However, that production "threatens the long term economic viability of US suppliers of these essential components of US military systems," the Commerce Department said.

"When a foreign company engages in activity contrary to our national security interests, we will take strong action to protect our national security," Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement.

He said the export restrictions would limit Jinhua's "ability to threaten the supply chain for essential components in our military systems."

China established Jinhua in February 2016 in a bid to make its own home-produced chips, with the firm investing 37 billion yuan ($5.6 billion) that year to build a production line.

Semiconductors are among China's biggest imports, rivaling oil, and have become a stark reminder of its dependence on US technology.

Earlier this year, Washington banned Chinese telecom and smartphone giant ZTE from purchasing crucial US components for seven years, threatening its survival, as punishment for breaking US export controls.

In a politically charged settlement, Washington then allowed ZTE to resume imports under tough conditions.

The US Commerce Department on Monday targeted a Chinese tech company with restrictions to cut off access to US technology, saying the firm could harm US security.

The US Commerce Department on Monday targeted a Chinese tech company with restrictions to cut off access to US technology, saying the firm could harm US security. President Donald Trump has painted China as an economic threat to the United States and American companies and based his aggressive tariff strategy on the goal of preventing the country from becoming dominant in key technology sectors. The new restrictions mean US firms will need special approval to export products intended for use by state-owned Fujian Jinhua Integrated Circuit Company, Ltd., according to a statement. The firm is nearing completion of substantial production capacity for dynamic random access memory (DRAM) integrated circuits, likely to be based on US-technology. However, that production "threatens the long term economic viability of US suppliers of these essential components of US military systems," the Commerce Department said. "When a foreign company engages in activity contrary to our national security interests, we will take strong action to protect our national security," Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement. He said the export restrictions would limit Jinhua's "ability to threaten the supply chain for essential components in our military systems." China established Jinhua in February 2016 in a bid to make its own home-produced chips, with the firm investing 37 billion yuan ($5.6 billion) that year to build a production line. Semiconductors are among China's biggest imports, rivaling oil, and have become a stark reminder of its dependence on US technology. Earlier this year, Washington banned Chinese telecom and smartphone giant ZTE from purchasing crucial US components for seven years, threatening its survival, as punishment for breaking US export controls. In a politically charged settlement, Washington then allowed ZTE to resume imports under tough conditions.

US imposes restrictions on Chinese tech firm

Restrictions in parts of Srinagar continued for the second day today in view of a strike called by separatists against the recent anti-militancy operations conducted by security forces in the valley.

Restrictions in eight police station areas continued for the second day today, a police official said.

He said the curbs were in force in Khanyar, M R Gunj, Nowahtta, Rainawari, Safakadal, Maisuma, Kralkhud and Parimpora police station areas of the city.

The restrictions were imposed as a preventive measure to maintain law and order in view of the strike called by the separatists.

The restrictions were first imposed yesterday in the wake of the killing of a militant in a shootout with police in the outskirts of the city on Friday.

Three militants travelling in a car opened fire on a police team at the Zakura crossing on the Srinagar-Ganderbal road, killing sub-inspector Imran Tak and injuring a special police officer (SPO) on Friday evening.

The police team managed to intercept the car and apprehended one militant, but two others fled the scene. Later, police came to know that Mugees Ahmad Mir, one of the two militants who had managed to escape, was brought home dead.

Mir, a resident of Parimpora in the city, was brought home dead last evening after he was injured in the shoot-out. The slain militant was an associate of Zakir Musa, who left the Hizbul Mujahideen to float an IS affiliate in Kashmir.

Mir&#39;s killing was followed by the killing of six LeT militants in Hajin area of north Kashmir&#39;s Bandipora district in an encounter yesterday.

Later in the night, the separatists called for a shutdown today against these killings.

In a joint statement, the separatists, comprising chairmen of both factions of Hurriyat Conference - Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq - and JKLF Mohammad Yasin Malik, called for a complete shutdown for today against the cordon and search operations being carried out by armed forces in the Valley.

The separatist troika said, &quot;section of youth feels forced to find expression to their political aspirations and will by resorting to armed means because of stubbornness on the part of Government of India with regard to the resolution of the Kashmir dispute?

Most of the shops, fuel stations, and other business establishments were shut in Srinagar due to the strike, the police official said. However, he said, the weekly flea market, along with the TRC Chowk-Batamaloo axis through Lal Chowk city center, was open.

The official said public transport was sparse, but private cars, cabs, and auto-rickshaws were seen plying in many areas of the city.

Similar reports were received from other district headquarters of the valley, he said.

Restrictions in Srinagar continued for the second day today in view of a strike called by separatists against the recent anti-militancy operations conducted by security forces in the valley

Restrictions in parts of Srinagar continued for the second day today in view of a strike called by separatists against the recent anti-militancy operations conducted by security forces in the valley. Restrictions in eight police station areas continued for the second day today, a police official said. He said the curbs were in force in Khanyar, M R Gunj, Nowahtta, Rainawari, Safakadal, Maisuma, Kralkhud and Parimpora police station areas of the city. The restrictions were imposed as a preventive measure to maintain law and order in view of the strike called by the separatists. The restrictions were first imposed yesterday in the wake of the killing of a militant in a shootout with police in the outskirts of the city on Friday. Three militants travelling in a car opened fire on a police team at the Zakura crossing on the Srinagar-Ganderbal road, killing sub-inspector Imran Tak and injuring a special police officer (SPO) on Friday evening. The police team managed to intercept the car and apprehended one militant, but two others fled the scene. Later, police came to know that Mugees Ahmad Mir, one of the two militants who had managed to escape, was brought home dead. Mir, a resident of Parimpora in the city, was brought home dead last evening after he was injured in the shoot-out. The slain militant was an associate of Zakir Musa, who left the Hizbul Mujahideen to float an IS affiliate in Kashmir. Mir's killing was followed by the killing of six LeT militants in Hajin area of north Kashmir's Bandipora district in an encounter yesterday. Later in the night, the separatists called for a shutdown today against these killings. In a joint statement, the separatists, comprising chairmen of both factions of Hurriyat Conference - Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq - and JKLF Mohammad Yasin Malik, called for a complete shutdown for today against the cordon and search operations being carried out by armed forces in the Valley. The separatist troika said, "section of youth feels forced to find expression to their political aspirations and will by resorting to armed means because of stubbornness on the part of Government of India with regard to the resolution of the Kashmir dispute? Most of the shops, fuel stations, and other business establishments were shut in Srinagar due to the strike, the police official said. However, he said, the weekly flea market, along with the TRC Chowk-Batamaloo axis through Lal Chowk city center, was open. The official said public transport was sparse, but private cars, cabs, and auto-rickshaws were seen plying in many areas of the city. Similar reports were received from other district headquarters of the valley, he said.

Restrictions in parts of Srinagar continue for second day today

Authorities Sunday&nbsp;imposed curfew-like restrictions in many parts of Kashmir and partially cut telephone services, pre-empting&nbsp;protests following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhat in an encounter with security forces. 
 
The lockdown in the mainly Muslim region crippled life on the first day of the Muslim Ramadan festival&nbsp;after widespread violence on Saturday over the killing of Sabzar Bhat.

Government forces in riot gear erected barricades in the main city, Srinagar, and other towns in southern Kashmir to prevent people from reaching Sabzar Bhatt&#39;s funeral.

But thousands of mourners defied the security curbs Sunday to attended the burial of the rebel commander in his hometown amid anti-India and pro-Independence slogans.

Chairman of the separatist Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Yasin Malik was arrested from his residence in Srinagar, police said. He had visited the residences of the slain Hizbul Mujahideen militants on Saturday.

Yasin Malik along with chairmen of both factions of Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, have called for a two-day shutdown in the Valley to protest the killing of the two militants and the use of &quot;brute force&quot; against the protestors.

In Srinagar, the restrictions have been imposed in seven police station areas, officials said.&nbsp;However, the district administration has said that the admit cards of students appearing in competitive examinations today would be treated as curfew passes, while the staff posted as invigilators can use their identity cards as curfew passes.

The district administration has also ordered closure of all colleges and higher secondary schools in Srinagar tomorrow.

Restrictions have also been imposed in Anantnag, Pulwama and Shopian districts in south Kashmir and in the township of Sopore in north Kashmir,&nbsp;officials said.

They said restrictions on movement of people under Section 144 CrPc have been imposed in the districts of Budgam and Ganderbal in central Kashmir to maintain law and order.

Elsewhere in the valley, normal life was hit due to strike called by separatist groups.

A civilian was killed and at least 30 persons were injured in violent clashes between protestors and security forces in various parts of the valley on Saturday following the killing of the two Hizbul Mujahideen militants.

Sabzar Bhat was buried this morning at a graveyard in Ratsuna area of Tral where hundreds of people had gathered.

The separatists have called for a two-day shutdown to protest the killing of the two militants.

The authorities have suspended mobile Internet services in the valley, while the outgoing call facility on prepaid numbers has also been snapped as a precautionary measure.

(WION with inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The lockdown in the mainly Muslim region crippled life on the first day of the Muslim Ramadan festival?after widespread violence on Saturday

Authorities Sunday imposed curfew-like restrictions in many parts of Kashmir and partially cut telephone services, pre-empting protests following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhat in an encounter with security forces. The lockdown in the mainly Muslim region crippled life on the first day of the Muslim Ramadan festival after widespread violence on Saturday over the killing of Sabzar Bhat. Government forces in riot gear erected barricades in the main city, Srinagar, and other towns in southern Kashmir to prevent people from reaching Sabzar Bhatt's funeral. But thousands of mourners defied the security curbs Sunday to attended the burial of the rebel commander in his hometown amid anti-India and pro-Independence slogans. Chairman of the separatist Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Yasin Malik was arrested from his residence in Srinagar, police said. He had visited the residences of the slain Hizbul Mujahideen militants on Saturday. Yasin Malik along with chairmen of both factions of Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, have called for a two-day shutdown in the Valley to protest the killing of the two militants and the use of "brute force" against the protestors. In Srinagar, the restrictions have been imposed in seven police station areas, officials said. However, the district administration has said that the admit cards of students appearing in competitive examinations today would be treated as curfew passes, while the staff posted as invigilators can use their identity cards as curfew passes. The district administration has also ordered closure of all colleges and higher secondary schools in Srinagar tomorrow. Restrictions have also been imposed in Anantnag, Pulwama and Shopian districts in south Kashmir and in the township of Sopore in north Kashmir, officials said. They said restrictions on movement of people under Section 144 CrPc have been imposed in the districts of Budgam and Ganderbal in central Kashmir to maintain law and order. Elsewhere in the valley, normal life was hit due to strike called by separatist groups. A civilian was killed and at least 30 persons were injured in violent clashes between protestors and security forces in various parts of the valley on Saturday following the killing of the two Hizbul Mujahideen militants. Sabzar Bhat was buried this morning at a graveyard in Ratsuna area of Tral where hundreds of people had gathered. The separatists have called for a two-day shutdown to protest the killing of the two militants. The authorities have suspended mobile Internet services in the valley, while the outgoing call facility on prepaid numbers has also been snapped as a precautionary measure. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Kashmir under curfew after Sabzar Bhatt killing, separatist Yasin Malik arrested

The world`s top 20 economies will work to boost sluggish global trade despite growing protectionism, overcapacity concerns, and uncertainty over Brexit, G20 trade ministers said today at a meeting in Shanghai. 
 
&quot;The global recovery continues, but it remains uneven and falls short of our ambition for strong, sustainable and balanced growth. Downside risks and vulnerabilities persist,&quot; the trade ministers said in a joint statement, adding that trade should remain &quot;an important engine&quot; to spur global growth. 
 
Protectionism has been rising, G20 nations acknowledge&nbsp; 
 
The G20 nations, which account for 85 per cent of global trade, admitted that protectionism has been rising since the financial crisis, and said that new trade restrictions in the group had reached the highest monthly average registered since the&nbsp;World Trade Organisation (WTO) began monitoring in 2009. 
 
&quot;We note with concern that despite the G20&#39;s repeated pledge, the stock of restrictive measure affecting trade in goods and services has continued to rise,&quot; they said in the statement. 
 
Ahead of the meeting, WTO chief economist Robert Koopman warned that restrictive measures could affect industries including air freight cargo, sea based cargo, automobile sales and production, electronics trade, and agricultural raw materials. 
 
The world&#39;s leading economies over the weekend pledged to oppose trade protectionism and reiterated a promise not to add new protective measures until 2018. 
 
Global trade governance to be improve to combat slowdown 
 
Pertinent to mention that global trade is expected to grow at a tepid 2.8 per cent in 2016, the WTO had said in April. 
 
And this year is expected to be the fifth in a row where trade grew at less than three per cent, its weakest sustained level in 30 years, WTO Director-General Roberto Azevedo said on Friday ahead of the talks. 
 
To combat the global slowdown, the ministers said they agreed to improve global trade governance and to work towards easing and liberalising trade.Concerns over China&#39;s production overcapacity in steel have led to trade disputes with the EU and US, and China`s vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen said today that the G20 economies &quot;have realised the necessity to take global cooperation to handle the challenge caused by production overcapacity&quot;. 
 
But despite claims that China is dumping steel in foreign markets, he said &quot;China&#39;s effort in (handling) over capacity has been highly recognised&quot; by the group. 
 
&quot;While some other countries are talking about how to cut down production, Chinese government has already taken measures which have been effective.&quot; 
 
Meanwhile Britain&#39;s referendum vote to leave the European Union (EU) has added new concerns for the recovery of global economic and trade growth. 
 
&quot;Britain leaving the European Union will definitely have some impact on global trade, especially short-term investment,&quot; China&#39;s Wang commented today. 
 
Britain&#39;s trade minister Mark Price told the Financial Times in Beijing ahead of the weekend talk that tariffs would jump to an average level of at least three per cent after its exit from the EU. 
 
He said it&#39;s time to &quot;start exploring options&quot; on trade agreements and &quot;China is making very positive noises at the moment&quot;, the report said. 
 
(AFP)

Britain's referendum vote to leave the European Union has added new concerns for the recovery of global economic and trade growth

The world`s top 20 economies will work to boost sluggish global trade despite growing protectionism, overcapacity concerns, and uncertainty over Brexit, G20 trade ministers said today at a meeting in Shanghai. "The global recovery continues, but it remains uneven and falls short of our ambition for strong, sustainable and balanced growth. Downside risks and vulnerabilities persist," the trade ministers said in a joint statement, adding that trade should remain "an important engine" to spur global growth. Protectionism has been rising, G20 nations acknowledge The G20 nations, which account for 85 per cent of global trade, admitted that protectionism has been rising since the financial crisis, and said that new trade restrictions in the group had reached the highest monthly average registered since the World Trade Organisation (WTO) began monitoring in 2009. "We note with concern that despite the G20's repeated pledge, the stock of restrictive measure affecting trade in goods and services has continued to rise," they said in the statement. Ahead of the meeting, WTO chief economist Robert Koopman warned that restrictive measures could affect industries including air freight cargo, sea based cargo, automobile sales and production, electronics trade, and agricultural raw materials. The world's leading economies over the weekend pledged to oppose trade protectionism and reiterated a promise not to add new protective measures until 2018. Global trade governance to be improve to combat slowdown Pertinent to mention that global trade is expected to grow at a tepid 2.8 per cent in 2016, the WTO had said in April. And this year is expected to be the fifth in a row where trade grew at less than three per cent, its weakest sustained level in 30 years, WTO Director-General Roberto Azevedo said on Friday ahead of the talks. To combat the global slowdown, the ministers said they agreed to improve global trade governance and to work towards easing and liberalising trade.Concerns over China's production overcapacity in steel have led to trade disputes with the EU and US, and China`s vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen said today that the G20 economies "have realised the necessity to take global cooperation to handle the challenge caused by production overcapacity". But despite claims that China is dumping steel in foreign markets, he said "China's effort in (handling) over capacity has been highly recognised" by the group. "While some other countries are talking about how to cut down production, Chinese government has already taken measures which have been effective." Meanwhile Britain's referendum vote to leave the European Union (EU) has added new concerns for the recovery of global economic and trade growth. "Britain leaving the European Union will definitely have some impact on global trade, especially short-term investment," China's Wang commented today. Britain's trade minister Mark Price told the Financial Times in Beijing ahead of the weekend talk that tariffs would jump to an average level of at least three per cent after its exit from the EU. He said it's time to "start exploring options" on trade agreements and "China is making very positive noises at the moment", the report said. (AFP)

G20 nations pledge to boost sluggish global trade

The United States is seeking trade sanctions against India after winning a dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding Indian restrictions on imports of US poultry meat, eggs and live pigs, the WTO said on Friday. 
 
The United States has requested a WTO meeting on July 19 to launch the claim for compensation, according to an agenda circulated by the WTO. 
 
The agenda did not give any details, but the US trade representative&#39;s office has previously said US annual exports of poultry meat to India could exceed $300 million once the restrictions are removed, and are likely to grow substantially in the future as Indian diets and pockets grow richer. 
 
The United States won the dispute in June last year, when the WTO&#39;s appellate body ruled that India&#39;s restrictions were discriminatory and based on unsubstantiated fears over bird flu. India had 12 months to comply with the ruling. 
 
At the time, US secretary of agriculture Tom Vilsack called it a &quot;major win for US agriculture&quot; and said it would help keep markets open based on international standards. 
 
The United States argued that it had not had an outbreak of high pathogenic avian flu since 2004, while India had 90 such outbreaks between 2004 and 2014. 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

India's restrictions on imports of US poultry, eggs and pigs were discriminatory and based on unsubstantiated fears over bird flu: US

The United States is seeking trade sanctions against India after winning a dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding Indian restrictions on imports of US poultry meat, eggs and live pigs, the WTO said on Friday. The United States has requested a WTO meeting on July 19 to launch the claim for compensation, according to an agenda circulated by the WTO. The agenda did not give any details, but the US trade representative's office has previously said US annual exports of poultry meat to India could exceed $300 million once the restrictions are removed, and are likely to grow substantially in the future as Indian diets and pockets grow richer. The United States won the dispute in June last year, when the WTO's appellate body ruled that India's restrictions were discriminatory and based on unsubstantiated fears over bird flu. India had 12 months to comply with the ruling. At the time, US secretary of agriculture Tom Vilsack called it a "major win for US agriculture" and said it would help keep markets open based on international standards. The United States argued that it had not had an outbreak of high pathogenic avian flu since 2004, while India had 90 such outbreaks between 2004 and 2014. (Reuters)

US seeks trade sanctions in India poultry dispute: WTO

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