Serbia has showcased its new Chinese missile system in a show of military might. This comes at a time when Russia has invaded Ukraine.

Serbia showcases new Chinese missile system in a show of military might

'Display of military power': Serbia shows off new Chinese missiles amid concerns in Balkans

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has declared victory in 1st round of polls. What will Vucic's victory mean for Europe? Watch this report to know more.

Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic declares victory in 1st round

Eight&nbsp;miners were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;and 18 injured on Friday when a&nbsp;shaft&nbsp;collapsed at a state-owned&nbsp;coal&nbsp;mine&nbsp;in southern&nbsp;Serbia.

The Mining and Energy ministry said the accident at the Soko&nbsp;mine, about 250 kilometres south of Belgrade, happened when&nbsp;coal&nbsp;collapsed in an excavation chamber, leading to "a sudden penetration of methane into the working space."

There were 49&nbsp;miners on the rota at the time of the accident, most of them from the nearby town of Aleksinac.

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None of the injured&nbsp;miners, suffering fractures and the effects of gas inhalation, was in a life-threatening condition, health authorities said.

At the site,&nbsp;miners were seen milling behind the gate as vans took away bodies, a Reuters witness said. Police patrols were in the area.

In a statement, the ministry quoted&nbsp;mine&nbsp;director Drago Milinkovic as saying security measures were in place at the time of the accident.

"There was a sudden release of methane and there was nothing we could do," the statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cancer-rates-quadrupled-in-this-serbian-town-due-to-red-dust-from-a-chinese-owned-steel-mill-428009">Cancer rates quadrupled in this Serbian town due to red dust from a Chinese-owned steel mill</a>

Zorana Mihajlovic, the outgoing mining and energy minister, said police and other relevant bodies had launched an investigation.

"In the early morning hours at 4.10 am they (the&nbsp;miners) got suffocated ... the increase of methane (gas levels) was so high, that they got suffocated," she told Reuters.

The so-called Aleksinac&nbsp;coal&nbsp;mining area is prone to methane saturation and in 1998 27&nbsp;miners died in an explosion in the Soko&nbsp;mine. In November 1989, 90&nbsp;miners died in a fire in a&nbsp;mine&nbsp;close to the nearby town of Aleksinac.

Serbia&nbsp;produces two thirds of its electric power in ageing and polluting&nbsp;coal-fired plants. In 2020, the country produced around 43.4 million short tons of&nbsp;coal, mainly from open pits.

Watch |&nbsp;Heavy snowfall wreaks havoc in Serbia as thousands remain without electricity

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-snowfall-wreaks-havoc-in-serbia-as-thousands-remain-without-electricity-436804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Eight miners were killed and 18 injured on Friday when a shaft collapsed at a state-owned coal mine in southern Serbia. The Mining and Energy ministry said the accident at the Soko mine, about 250 kilometres south of Belgrade, happened when coal collapsed in an excavation chamber, leading to "a sudden penetration of methane into the working space.

Eight miners were killed and 18 injured on Friday when a shaft collapsed at a state-owned coal mine in southern Serbia. The Mining and Energy ministry said the accident at the Soko mine, about 250 kilometres south of Belgrade, happened when coal collapsed in an excavation chamber, leading to "a sudden penetration of methane into the working space." There were 49 miners on the rota at the time of the accident, most of them from the nearby town of Aleksinac. Also read | Serbia president praises World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's 'great fight' in Australia None of the injured miners, suffering fractures and the effects of gas inhalation, was in a life-threatening condition, health authorities said. At the site, miners were seen milling behind the gate as vans took away bodies, a Reuters witness said. Police patrols were in the area. In a statement, the ministry quoted mine director Drago Milinkovic as saying security measures were in place at the time of the accident. "There was a sudden release of methane and there was nothing we could do," the statement said. Also read | Cancer rates quadrupled in this Serbian town due to red dust from a Chinese-owned steel mill Zorana Mihajlovic, the outgoing mining and energy minister, said police and other relevant bodies had launched an investigation. "In the early morning hours at 4.10 am they (the miners) got suffocated ... the increase of methane (gas levels) was so high, that they got suffocated," she told Reuters. The so-called Aleksinac coal mining area is prone to methane saturation and in 1998 27 miners died in an explosion in the Soko mine. In November 1989, 90 miners died in a fire in a mine close to the nearby town of Aleksinac. Serbia produces two thirds of its electric power in ageing and polluting coal-fired plants. In 2020, the country produced around 43.4 million short tons of coal, mainly from open pits. Watch | Heavy snowfall wreaks havoc in Serbia as thousands remain without electricity

Eight miners killed as coal mine shaft in Serbia collapses

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic.

The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1.

Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-andrey-rublev-eases-past-bulgarias-grigor-dimitrov-to-enter-semi-finals-463666">Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals</a>

A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two.

The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win.

World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final.

Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-world-no-4-iga-swiatek-beats-romanias-simona-halep-to-book-final-berth-463662">Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth</a>

The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form.

The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021.

He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian. The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1. Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two. The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win. World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final. Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form. The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021. He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz beat Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic to set up semi-final clash with Andrey Rublev

From the world of sports, the International Tennis federation has suspended Russia from international sporting competition. Serbia and Australia have taken their place in the in the Davis Cup finals and Billie Jean Cup. In another story, F1 star Lewis Hamilton will change his name to incorporate mother's surname.

Russia-Ukraine war: Serbia and Australia replace Russia in Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup

World number one Novak Djokovic belatedly began his 2022 campaign with a convincing 6-3 6-3 defeat of Italian teenager Lorenzo Musetti at the Dubai Championships on Monday.

The 34-year-old showed no sign of rust or mental baggage from the Australian Open visa saga that rocked the sports world, producing a polished display to ease into the second round, afterwards describing it as a "pleasant experience."

It was Djokovic's first match this year after his Australian Open hopes were dashed when he was deported following an 11-day saga revolving around his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination and a controversial exemption he had been granted to play in the event.

Two court hearings were required before Djokovic was expelled on Jan. 16 having spent several days in a hotel, with the country's immigration minister ruling he could fuel anti-vaccine sentiment if allowed to compete.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-how-indias-16-year-old-praggnanandhaa-prepared-to-beat-world-no1-magnus-carlsen-455320">Exclusive! How India's 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa prepared to beat World No.1 Magnus Carlsen</a>

Back on a tennis court of Dubai`s Aviation Club, Djokovic showed just why he would have been favourite to win a 10th Australian Open crown and beat Rafa Nadal to a men's record 21st Grand Slam title.

After being cheered on to court by the late night crowd, he moved through the gears, breaking Musetti's serve in the fourth game of a routine first set.

Djokovic, watched by his entourage including wife Jelena, got an early break in the second set with a forehand winner.

He briefly wavered when serving at 3-2 and was forced to save break points, but never looked threatened as his supporters, many with Serbian flags, cheered his winners.

Djokovic crunched a superb forehand winner in the final game and claimed victory on his first match point.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christian-eriksen-steps-up-comeback-with-two-assists-in-brentford-friendly-455310">Christian Eriksen steps up comeback with two assists in Brentford friendly</a>

Even if he wins the Dubai title for a sixth time, he could lose his world number one ranking this week should Russian Daniil Medvedev win the Acapulco title.

But for Djokovic, enjoying an ATP record 361st week as number one, that was the last thing on his mind as he put one of the darkest episodes of his career behind him.

"I couldn't ask for a better reception. It's been a while since I played the last match and I couldn`t pick a better place to kick-start the season," Djokovic, who had not played since the Davis Cup Finals in November, told fans after performing his trademark salute to all sides of the arena.

Djokovic, who last week said in a BBC he was not against vaccines but was prepared to miss major tournaments rather than have one, will have a day off before facing either Russian Karen Khachanov or Australian Alex de Minaur.

Asked by reporters later how he had been received by his fellow players, he said they had been "very friendly."

"Majority of them actually welcomed me and said it's nice to see me back on the tour," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-was-absolutely-honest-aakash-chopra-feels-head-coachs-chat-with-wriddhiman-saha-was-twisted-455324">Rahul Dravid was absolutely honest: Aakash Chopra feels head coach's chat with Wriddhiman Saha was 'twisted'</a>

"That makes me feel great. I'm very thankful for that because having the kind of an understanding at least I would say, if not support from my peers and my colleagues, is very important to me because they are the people that I get to see sometimes more than my family."

"I care greatly about the relationships that we have."

While Djokovic has had no issues being allowed to play in Dubai, he said he currently will not be able to play at Indian Wells, because of strict vaccine laws in the United States.

"As of today I'm not able to play. But let's see what happens. Maybe things change in the next few weeks."

World number one Novak Djokovic belatedly began his 2022 campaign with a convincing 6-3 6-3 defeat of Italian teenager Lorenzo Musetti at the Dubai Championships on Monday.

World number one Novak Djokovic belatedly began his 2022 campaign with a convincing 6-3 6-3 defeat of Italian teenager Lorenzo Musetti at the Dubai Championships on Monday. The 34-year-old showed no sign of rust or mental baggage from the Australian Open visa saga that rocked the sports world, producing a polished display to ease into the second round, afterwards describing it as a "pleasant experience." It was Djokovic's first match this year after his Australian Open hopes were dashed when he was deported following an 11-day saga revolving around his decision not to have a COVID-19 vaccination and a controversial exemption he had been granted to play in the event. Two court hearings were required before Djokovic was expelled on Jan. 16 having spent several days in a hotel, with the country's immigration minister ruling he could fuel anti-vaccine sentiment if allowed to compete. ALSO READ: Exclusive! How India's 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa prepared to beat World No.1 Magnus Carlsen Back on a tennis court of Dubai`s Aviation Club, Djokovic showed just why he would have been favourite to win a 10th Australian Open crown and beat Rafa Nadal to a men's record 21st Grand Slam title. After being cheered on to court by the late night crowd, he moved through the gears, breaking Musetti's serve in the fourth game of a routine first set. Djokovic, watched by his entourage including wife Jelena, got an early break in the second set with a forehand winner. He briefly wavered when serving at 3-2 and was forced to save break points, but never looked threatened as his supporters, many with Serbian flags, cheered his winners. Djokovic crunched a superb forehand winner in the final game and claimed victory on his first match point. ALSO READ: Christian Eriksen steps up comeback with two assists in Brentford friendly Even if he wins the Dubai title for a sixth time, he could lose his world number one ranking this week should Russian Daniil Medvedev win the Acapulco title. But for Djokovic, enjoying an ATP record 361st week as number one, that was the last thing on his mind as he put one of the darkest episodes of his career behind him. "I couldn't ask for a better reception. It's been a while since I played the last match and I couldn`t pick a better place to kick-start the season," Djokovic, who had not played since the Davis Cup Finals in November, told fans after performing his trademark salute to all sides of the arena. Djokovic, who last week said in a BBC he was not against vaccines but was prepared to miss major tournaments rather than have one, will have a day off before facing either Russian Karen Khachanov or Australian Alex de Minaur. Asked by reporters later how he had been received by his fellow players, he said they had been "very friendly." "Majority of them actually welcomed me and said it's nice to see me back on the tour," he said. ALSO READ: Rahul Dravid was absolutely honest: Aakash Chopra feels head coach's chat with Wriddhiman Saha was 'twisted' "That makes me feel great. I'm very thankful for that because having the kind of an understanding at least I would say, if not support from my peers and my colleagues, is very important to me because they are the people that I get to see sometimes more than my family." "I care greatly about the relationships that we have." While Djokovic has had no issues being allowed to play in Dubai, he said he currently will not be able to play at Indian Wells, because of strict vaccine laws in the United States. "As of today I'm not able to play. But let's see what happens. Maybe things change in the next few weeks."

Novak Djokovic returns to action, beats Lorenzo Musetti in opening game at Dubai Championships

UN&nbsp;Security Council members&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;rights&nbsp;expert&nbsp;said Tuesday.

United Nations Special Rapporteur on the&nbsp;rights&nbsp;situation in&nbsp;Myanmar, Tom Andrews, urged the Security Council to convene an emergency session "to debate and vote on a resolution to, at a minimum, ban those arms transfers that the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military are known to use to attack and kill&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;civilians."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-defector-recounts-heavy-losses-inflicted-by-chin-rebels-452562">Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels</a>

He released a long-awaited report Tuesday detailing where the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;is getting its weapons from, highlighting that two permanent members of the Security Council itself, who hold veto power over its decisions, remain among the main suppliers.

"Despite the evidence of the military&nbsp;junta's atrocity crimes being committed with impunity since launching a coup last year,&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Security Council members&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;China&nbsp;continue to provide the Myanmar military junta with numerous fighter jets, armoured vehicles, and in the case of&nbsp;Russia, the promise of further arms," Andrews said in a statement.

"During this same period, Serbia has authorised rockets and artillery for export to the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military," said Andrews, who is an independent&nbsp;expert&nbsp;appointed by the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Human Rights&nbsp;Council, but who does not speak on behalf of the world body.

'Crimes against humanity'

In his report, he maintained that the arms transfers by the three countries had "occurred with the full knowledge that they would be used to attack civilians, in probable violation of international law."

Myanmar&nbsp;has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to the&nbsp;UN.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-asean-myanmar-envoy-says-wants-to-meet-junta-opponents-454056">&nbsp;New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents</a>

Since the February 1, 2021 coup, at least 12,000 people have been detained, including the de facto head of the civilian government, Aung San Suu Kyi, while more than 440,000 people have been forcibly displaced.

Andrews reiterated in his report that "there is strong evidence the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity," including murder, sexual violence and torture.&nbsp;

"The situation of&nbsp;human rights&nbsp;in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;is dire and deteriorating," it said.&nbsp;

The report provides an overview of countries that have authorised the transfer of weapons to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;since 2018, when the military's attacks on the Rohingya ethnic minority were widely documented and after a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fact-finding mission had urged an arms embargo.

Israel, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Belarus and Ukraine also figure on that list, although only&nbsp;China,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Serbia have continued their transfers since the coup.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-accused-of-burning-hundreds-of-homes-451051">Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes</a>

'Imperative'

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;General Assembly adopted a resolution last June calling for countries to prevent the flow of arms to&nbsp;Myanmar, but Andrews said that it had failed to have "any discernible impact on the crisis and the capacity of the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;to launch attacks on civilians."

He pointed out that while none of the Security Council members had voted against that resolution, the council had also not even considered voting to make the text binding for member states.

"It is imperative that member states and the Security Council act urgently to stop weapons sales to the military&nbsp;junta. Human lives, and Security Council credibility, are on the line," he said.

The report acknowledges that&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;might very well use their veto power to block any such text, but stressed that this "should not deter other members from placing a resolution before the Council for consideration, debate and a vote."&nbsp;

"The people of&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;deserve to have a strong resolution."

"The Security Council should consider, at the very least, a resolution to ban weapons that are being used by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military to kill innocent people," Andrews said.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar junta driving drug trade | Narcotics

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-junta-driving-drug-trade-narcotics-441027/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

UN Security Council members China and Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a UN rights expert said Tuesday.

UN Security Council members China and Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a UN rights expert said Tuesday. United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights situation in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, urged the Security Council to convene an emergency session "to debate and vote on a resolution to, at a minimum, ban those arms transfers that the Myanmar military are known to use to attack and kill Myanmar civilians." Also read | Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels He released a long-awaited report Tuesday detailing where the junta is getting its weapons from, highlighting that two permanent members of the Security Council itself, who hold veto power over its decisions, remain among the main suppliers. "Despite the evidence of the military junta's atrocity crimes being committed with impunity since launching a coup last year, UN Security Council members Russia and China continue to provide the Myanmar military junta with numerous fighter jets, armoured vehicles, and in the case of Russia, the promise of further arms," Andrews said in a statement. "During this same period, Serbia has authorised rockets and artillery for export to the Myanmar military," said Andrews, who is an independent expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, but who does not speak on behalf of the world body. 'Crimes against humanity' In his report, he maintained that the arms transfers by the three countries had "occurred with the full knowledge that they would be used to attack civilians, in probable violation of international law." Myanmar has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to the UN. Also read | New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents Since the February 1, 2021 coup, at least 12,000 people have been detained, including the de facto head of the civilian government, Aung San Suu Kyi, while more than 440,000 people have been forcibly displaced. Andrews reiterated in his report that "there is strong evidence the junta has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity," including murder, sexual violence and torture. "The situation of human rights in Myanmar is dire and deteriorating," it said. The report provides an overview of countries that have authorised the transfer of weapons to Myanmar since 2018, when the military's attacks on the Rohingya ethnic minority were widely documented and after a UN fact-finding mission had urged an arms embargo. Israel, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Belarus and Ukraine also figure on that list, although only China, Russia and Serbia have continued their transfers since the coup. Also read | Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes 'Imperative' The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution last June calling for countries to prevent the flow of arms to Myanmar, but Andrews said that it had failed to have "any discernible impact on the crisis and the capacity of the junta to launch attacks on civilians." He pointed out that while none of the Security Council members had voted against that resolution, the council had also not even considered voting to make the text binding for member states. "It is imperative that member states and the Security Council act urgently to stop weapons sales to the military junta. Human lives, and Security Council credibility, are on the line," he said. The report acknowledges that China and Russia might very well use their veto power to block any such text, but stressed that this "should not deter other members from placing a resolution before the Council for consideration, debate and a vote." "The people of Myanmar deserve to have a strong resolution." "The Security Council should consider, at the very least, a resolution to ban weapons that are being used by the Myanmar military to kill innocent people," Andrews said. Watch | Myanmar junta driving drug trade | Narcotics

UN rights expert says China and Russia arming Myanmar junta

World No. 1 player Novak Djokovic had created a huge storm ahead of the 2022 Australian Open. The Serbian had arrived in Australia with a Covid-19 vaccine exemption, however, landed in a huge controversy when he was sent to an immigration hotel in Melbourne (for not taking a jab). After he won the first legal battle versus the Australian government&nbsp;by confirming he had tested positive for Covid-19 recently in December 2021 --&nbsp;medical policies in Australia allowed the ones who have contracted the deadly virus to get an exemption from&nbsp;the vaccine for a period of 6 months -- he was eventually deported back to his country courtesy the immigration minister Alex&nbsp;Hawke.

Hawke used his powers to revoke Djokovic's visa&nbsp;suggesting that Djokovic staying in the country could lead to 'civil unrest' and harm the nation's relentless&nbsp;vaccination drive.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;the three-judge panel unanimously decided to reject the tennis superstar's appeal against visa cancellation and he was forced to return back home.

Following all this, the Serbian missed the Aus Open 2022 and has now broken his silence on the vaccine row. The 34-year-old has stated that he is not against vaccination but is ready to miss the French Open and Wimbledon this year if taking the jab becomes mandatory for participation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbia-president-praises-world-no-1-novak-djokovics-great-fight-in-australia-450238">Serbia president praises World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's 'great fight' in Australia</a>

Speaking to BBC, Djokovic said, "I was never against vaccination but I've always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body."

"Because the principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else. I'm trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-serbias-pride-and-controversys-favourite-child-444855">Novak Djokovic: Serbia's pride and controversy's favourite child</a>

On his criticism, Djokovic stated, "I understand that there is a lot of criticism, and I understand that people come out with different theories on how lucky I was or how convenient it is.&nbsp;But no one is lucky and convenient of getting Covid. Millions of people have and are still struggling with Covid around the world. So I take this very seriously, I really don't like someone thinking I've misused something or in my own favour, in order to, you know, get a positive PCR test and eventually go to Australia,"&nbsp;the 34-year old further said.

On his return to Serbia, Djokovic had met President Aleksandar Vucic&nbsp;on February 3. The President lauded the athlete and had said, "Thank you for the great fight you fought in Australia," Aleksandar Vucic told Djokovic during a meeting in Belgrade." He added, "And then I saw how ... he was ready to fight not only for himself, but for his country."

World No. 1 player Novak Djokovic had created a huge storm ahead of the 2022 Australian Open. The Serbian had arrived in Australia with a Covid-19 vaccine exemption, however, landed in a huge controversy when he was sent to an immigration hotel in Melbourne (for not taking a jab).

World No. 1 player Novak Djokovic had created a huge storm ahead of the 2022 Australian Open. The Serbian had arrived in Australia with a Covid-19 vaccine exemption, however, landed in a huge controversy when he was sent to an immigration hotel in Melbourne (for not taking a jab). After he won the first legal battle versus the Australian government by confirming he had tested positive for Covid-19 recently in December 2021 -- medical policies in Australia allowed the ones who have contracted the deadly virus to get an exemption from the vaccine for a period of 6 months -- he was eventually deported back to his country courtesy the immigration minister Alex Hawke. Hawke used his powers to revoke Djokovic's visa suggesting that Djokovic staying in the country could lead to 'civil unrest' and harm the nation's relentless vaccination drive. Thus, the three-judge panel unanimously decided to reject the tennis superstar's appeal against visa cancellation and he was forced to return back home. Following all this, the Serbian missed the Aus Open 2022 and has now broken his silence on the vaccine row. The 34-year-old has stated that he is not against vaccination but is ready to miss the French Open and Wimbledon this year if taking the jab becomes mandatory for participation. ALSO READ | Serbia president praises World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's 'great fight' in Australia Speaking to BBC, Djokovic said, "I was never against vaccination but I've always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body." "Because the principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else. I'm trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can," he added. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic: Serbia's pride and controversy's favourite child On his criticism, Djokovic stated, "I understand that there is a lot of criticism, and I understand that people come out with different theories on how lucky I was or how convenient it is. But no one is lucky and convenient of getting Covid. Millions of people have and are still struggling with Covid around the world. So I take this very seriously, I really don't like someone thinking I've misused something or in my own favour, in order to, you know, get a positive PCR test and eventually go to Australia," the 34-year old further said. On his return to Serbia, Djokovic had met President Aleksandar Vucic on February 3. The President lauded the athlete and had said, "Thank you for the great fight you fought in Australia," Aleksandar Vucic told Djokovic during a meeting in Belgrade." He added, "And then I saw how ... he was ready to fight not only for himself, but for his country."

Principles of decision making on my body more important than any title, says Novak Djokovic

Serbia`s president on Thursday praised tennis star Novak Djokovic`s "great fight" over his bid to play at the Australia Open despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19. An Australian Federal Court last month decided to cancel the world number one`s visa after days of wrangling over the country`s COVID-19 entry rules, forcing him to miss the Grand Slam tournament and return to Serbia. "Thank you for the great fight you fought in Australia," Aleksandar Vucic told Djokovic during a meeting in Belgrade.

Vucic, a populist who is bidding for re-election in April, said he spoke with Djokovic as soon as he heard about the problems in Australia and told him to come home. "And then I saw how ... he was ready to fight not only for himself, but for his country," Vucic said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-novak-djokovics-covid-19-test-was-valid-claim-serbian-prosecutors-450111">World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's COVID-19 test was valid, claim Serbian prosecutors</a>

Djokovic, who previously refused to speak about the events in Australia, told Vucic he was grateful for the support, adding he that he will address the public within seven to 10 days. "You have stood behind me and placed yourself in a compromised political position in international relations, and I am ... extremely grateful. I will remember that," Djokovic said. Djokovic`s treatment has been described as "scandalous" by the government in Belgrade and has soured relations between Serbia and Australia.

Serbia`s president on Thursday praised tennis star Novak Djokovic`s "great fight" over his bid to play at the Australia Open despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Serbia`s president on Thursday praised tennis star Novak Djokovic`s "great fight" over his bid to play at the Australia Open despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19. An Australian Federal Court last month decided to cancel the world number one`s visa after days of wrangling over the country`s COVID-19 entry rules, forcing him to miss the Grand Slam tournament and return to Serbia. "Thank you for the great fight you fought in Australia," Aleksandar Vucic told Djokovic during a meeting in Belgrade. Vucic, a populist who is bidding for re-election in April, said he spoke with Djokovic as soon as he heard about the problems in Australia and told him to come home. "And then I saw how ... he was ready to fight not only for himself, but for his country," Vucic said. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's COVID-19 test was valid, claim Serbian prosecutors Djokovic, who previously refused to speak about the events in Australia, told Vucic he was grateful for the support, adding he that he will address the public within seven to 10 days. "You have stood behind me and placed yourself in a compromised political position in international relations, and I am ... extremely grateful. I will remember that," Djokovic said. Djokovic`s treatment has been described as "scandalous" by the government in Belgrade and has soured relations between Serbia and Australia.

Serbia president praises World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's 'great fight' in Australia

Serbia's state prosecutors have rejected suggestions that Novak Djokovic used a fake positive test for COVID-19 to try to enter Australia and compete in the Australian Open.

The prosecution office on Wednesday said in a statement that it had received a request for criminal proceedings against unnamed individuals who allegedly forged two PCR certificates, which were later used by Djokovic to apply for a medical exemption from vaccination when entering Australia.

The prosecution acted according to the regulations, checks were performed, and it was determined that Novak Djokovic was tested several times and that the certificates on the test results from December 16, 2021 and December 22, 2021 are valid, the statement said.

Foreign media, including Der Spiegel and the BBC, have reported discrepancies in the serial numbers of the tests Serbian authorities administered to the top-ranked Djokovic ahead of his trip to Australia, suggesting possible irregularities in the way they were issued.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/exclusive-fans-love-big-three-aslan-karatsev-on-lack-of-support-for-daniil-medvedev-in-aus-open-final-450040">EXCLUSIVE | 'Fans love Big Three': Aslan Karatsev on lack of support for Daniil Medvedev in Aus Open final</a>

Djokovic's media team and Serbian health authorities did not respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press. Senior Serbian health officials have previously said that Djokovic's test was valid.

Djokovic was deported from Australia and barred from playing in the Australian Open last month after an 11-day visa saga on the eve of the tournament because he failed to meet Australia's strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

To enter Australia, Djokovic submitted a positive COVID-19 test issued in Serbia on Dec. 16 for a visa exemption on the grounds that he had recently recovered from the virus.

The 34-year-old player is not vaccinated and the Australian government later decided to cancel his visa and deport Djokovic, saying his presence in Australia could stir anti-vaccination sentiments.

Djokovic's rival Rafael Nadal won the Australian Open for a record 21st men's Grand Slam title. Djokovic and Roger Federer both have 20 major titles.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/roger-federer-novak-djokovic-and-i-have-understood-our-rivalry-in-positive-way-says-rafael-nadal-449491">Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and I have understood our rivalry in positive way, says Rafael Nadal</a>

Djokovic is adored in his native Serbia. Since he returned home, Djokovic was seen visiting churches and attending liturgies in both Serbia and neighboring Montenegro.

On Thursday, Djokovic is set to visit Serbia's populist President Aleksandar Vucic who has been vocal in denouncing the Australian authorities for deporting the tennis star.

Serbia's state prosecutors have rejected suggestions that Novak Djokovic used a fake positive test for COVID-19 to try to enter Australia and compete in the Australian Open.

Serbia's state prosecutors have rejected suggestions that Novak Djokovic used a fake positive test for COVID-19 to try to enter Australia and compete in the Australian Open. The prosecution office on Wednesday said in a statement that it had received a request for criminal proceedings against unnamed individuals who allegedly forged two PCR certificates, which were later used by Djokovic to apply for a medical exemption from vaccination when entering Australia. The prosecution acted according to the regulations, checks were performed, and it was determined that Novak Djokovic was tested several times and that the certificates on the test results from December 16, 2021 and December 22, 2021 are valid, the statement said. Foreign media, including Der Spiegel and the BBC, have reported discrepancies in the serial numbers of the tests Serbian authorities administered to the top-ranked Djokovic ahead of his trip to Australia, suggesting possible irregularities in the way they were issued. Read Also | EXCLUSIVE | 'Fans love Big Three': Aslan Karatsev on lack of support for Daniil Medvedev in Aus Open final Djokovic's media team and Serbian health authorities did not respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press. Senior Serbian health officials have previously said that Djokovic's test was valid. Djokovic was deported from Australia and barred from playing in the Australian Open last month after an 11-day visa saga on the eve of the tournament because he failed to meet Australia's strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements. To enter Australia, Djokovic submitted a positive COVID-19 test issued in Serbia on Dec. 16 for a visa exemption on the grounds that he had recently recovered from the virus. The 34-year-old player is not vaccinated and the Australian government later decided to cancel his visa and deport Djokovic, saying his presence in Australia could stir anti-vaccination sentiments. Djokovic's rival Rafael Nadal won the Australian Open for a record 21st men's Grand Slam title. Djokovic and Roger Federer both have 20 major titles. Read Also | Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and I have understood our rivalry in positive way, says Rafael Nadal Djokovic is adored in his native Serbia. Since he returned home, Djokovic was seen visiting churches and attending liturgies in both Serbia and neighboring Montenegro. On Thursday, Djokovic is set to visit Serbia's populist President Aleksandar Vucic who has been vocal in denouncing the Australian authorities for deporting the tennis star.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's COVID-19 test was valid, claim Serbian prosecutors

Seeking escape from grinding poverty in northern Vietnam, the 43-year-old farmer labored for years on construction sites in Kuwait and Uzbekistan before being offered a ticket to what he was told would be “the promised land” — Europe, and a job with a good salary.

“I wanted to go to the West to change my life,” the farmer, a father of three who asked that his name not be used to avoid retribution from his employer, recalled in an interview.

His life certainly changed: It got much worse.

The job turned out to be in Serbia, one of Europe’s poorest nations, with a Chinese company whose gigantic tire factory under construction in the northern city of Zrenjanin has become a symbol of the chasm between the alluring promise of investment from China and the sometimes grim reality on the ground.

Touted as China’s biggest industrial investment in Europe, the $900 million Ling Long Tire factory is a magnet of criticism for a Serbian government that opponents accuse of no-questions-asked subservience to China. Workers and activists say problems like human trafficking, prisonlike working conditions and environmental abuse are endemic.

About 400 Vietnamese work in Zrenjanin, along with hundreds more Chinese, who get higher salaries and better living conditions, according to the workers and local labor activists. The former farmer from Vietnam described his work conditions in Serbia as “miserable and dangerous” and said he was housed in a decrepit shack crammed with other Vietnamese workers and bullied by Chinese supervisors.

The Ling Long Tire project first took shape in September 2018 during meetings in Beijing between Serbia’s populist president, Aleksandar Vucic, and Xi Jinping, China’s leader.

Xi, who has looked to Serbia as China’s most dependable European friend at a time when other nations are souring on his country, praised the Balkan nation as a “good, honest friend and good partner.”

Vucic predicted that the tire factory, which plans to produce more than 130 million tires a year in Zrenjanin, and other planned ventures would make Serbia “the port for Chinese investments throughout the region.”

Serbia said Chinese investment helped it achieve economic growth of over 7% last year, among the highest in Europe.

But the furor over working conditions has set back Serbia’s yearslong effort to join the European Union, whose view of China has become increasingly jaundiced. The European Parliament last month demanded an investigation into treatment of Vietnamese laborers in Zrenjanin and voiced alarm “over China’s increasing influence in Serbia and across the Western Balkans.”

It has also aggravated what has become Vucic’s biggest political headache: public anger over damage to the environment widely blamed on the government’s drive to juice the economy at all costs. Tens of thousands of people gathered late last year for weeks of street protests across Serbia against the development of a lithium mine project by the Anglo-Australian company Rio Tinto. The protests forced a rare retreat by the government, which on Jan. 20 canceled licenses for the project.

Chinese ventures in Serbia, which include a smoke-belching steel works near Belgrade, the capital, and a copper mine and smelter in the southern town of Bor, have helped stoke this anger. Despite gushing praise of Beijing in the pro-government Serbian media, they have made China synonymous in the minds of many Serbs with environmental degradation.

Unlike Rio Tinto, highly vulnerable because of its links to Australia, a country widely reviled in Serbia after the recent expulsion of tennis star Novak Djokovic, Chinese companies have enjoyed unwavering support from Vucic as indispensable for the creation of jobs and economic growth.

But Marina Tepic, a leader of the main opposition party, said in an interview that the tire factory would “provide a few jobs to Serbs but kill many more with its pollution.”

Strong support from the leaders of both Serbia and China, she added, has put the project largely off limits for government regulators and allowed construction workers there — deprived for a time of their passports, housed in squalor and fearful of retribution — to be kept in “modern slavery.”

The government denies protecting the Chinese project from scrutiny, with the construction minister, Tomislav Momirovic, declaring on a recent visit to Zrenjanin that the Chinese factory was Serbia’s most closely monitored building site. Officials say that Vietnamese workers have all been given their passports back and are now free to leave if they want.

A few of the workers have fled. But for most of them, leaving would mean breaking their contracts and leaving family members in Vietnam in hock to labor brokers and loan sharks who paid their way to Serbia, the workers say.

A statement from Ling Long Tire cited in Serbian media said the company was “committed to full respect for and a humane and dignified approach to all employees.” Yet it stressed that none of the construction workers are employees, and work for subcontractors. Ling Long said it had asked the contractors to provide better accommodations. The tire company did not immediately respond to requests for comment at its head office in China.

The Serbian government, which granted 240 acres of farmland free of charge to Ling Long Tire for its factory and pledged $85 million in state subsidies, says the factory will eventually generate 1,200 jobs. It declared the venture a “project of national importance,” a classification that critics see as a move to shield the venture from environmental and other inspectors.

“They behave as if the Chinese factory were a military site,” said Ivan Zivkov, a member of a network of activist groups in Zrenjanin that has been pressing authorities, mostly unsuccessfully, to release information about the factory and its likely impact on the environment.

Zoran Dedic, a retiree in Zrenjanin who attended a recent public meeting hosted by Zivkov, said he did not object to foreign investment. But he expressed alarm that so much information about the Chinese tire factory, particularly future levels of pollution, had not been made public and that Ling Long, while donating money to send local children to soccer camp, had not engaged in serious discussion with residents.

“We know nothing about what is going on over there,” he said.

Marija Andjelkovic, the head of Astra, an independent group in Belgrade that monitors and lobbies against human trafficking, said she visited the construction site late last year and found Vietnamese workers sleeping in hovels without heat or clean water. “It was like a prison camp,” she said.

Labor contracts signed by Vietnamese workers with China Energy Engineering Group, a Ling Long subcontractor overseeing construction, commit each worker not to engage in trade union activities, and to “refrain from anything that would detract from his reputation or the reputation” of the Chinese company.

Even more restrictive are the terms set by recruitment agencies in Vietnam. One agency, Song Hy Gia Lai International, demanded that all workers going to Europe sign a document pledging never to go on strike or protest.

The document appears to have been copied and pasted from agreements originally drafted for laborers recruited in Vietnam for work in the Middle East: It warns that workers going to Serbia risk having their hands cut off if they steal.

Danilo Curkic, program director for A11, a Belgrade research group, said contracts signed by Vietnamese workers were “far away from anything that is legal under Serbian law” and left them in indentured servitude. “It is impossible that Serbian state authorities did not know what was happening,” he said.

One Vietnamese worker who spoke to a Serbian TV station in November about what he described as inhumane living conditions was taken in for questioning by the Serbian police and released after signing a statement asserting that he had no complaints. Another who spoke to a Serbian media outlet was fired.

“This is all part of the process of intimidation,” Curkic said.

Vietnamese workers who agreed to be interviewed by The Times through an interpreter said they had lived for months in squalid barracklike shelters previously used by a local farm to raise pigs and chickens.

The former farmer from northern Vietnam said conditions had improved somewhat in recent weeks. Many workers now live in a two-story concrete block surrounded by a metal fence and watched over by Serbian security guards who bar entry to outsiders.

One resident, a 40-year-old Vietnamese construction worker who requested anonymity, said he shared a tiny room with seven others and that their kitchen was crawling with rats. Salaries of about $900 per month, higher than what he could earn in Vietnam, were often paid late and slashed for days not worked because of sickness or inclement weather, he said.

He previously worked for different Chinese companies for 15 years in Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia and Taiwan, but said he had never endured conditions as bad as at the Ling Long Tire construction site in Serbia.

“It’s like hell on Earth here,” he said.

Seeking escape from grinding poverty in northern Vietnam, the 43-year-old farmer labored for years on construction sites in Kuwait and Uzbekistan before being offered a ticket to what he was told would be “the promised land” — Europe, and a job with a good salary.

Seeking escape from grinding poverty in northern Vietnam, the 43-year-old farmer labored for years on construction sites in Kuwait and Uzbekistan before being offered a ticket to what he was told would be “the promised land” — Europe, and a job with a good salary. “I wanted to go to the West to change my life,” the farmer, a father of three who asked that his name not be used to avoid retribution from his employer, recalled in an interview. His life certainly changed: It got much worse. The job turned out to be in Serbia, one of Europe’s poorest nations, with a Chinese company whose gigantic tire factory under construction in the northern city of Zrenjanin has become a symbol of the chasm between the alluring promise of investment from China and the sometimes grim reality on the ground. Touted as China’s biggest industrial investment in Europe, the $900 million Ling Long Tire factory is a magnet of criticism for a Serbian government that opponents accuse of no-questions-asked subservience to China. Workers and activists say problems like human trafficking, prisonlike working conditions and environmental abuse are endemic. About 400 Vietnamese work in Zrenjanin, along with hundreds more Chinese, who get higher salaries and better living conditions, according to the workers and local labor activists. The former farmer from Vietnam described his work conditions in Serbia as “miserable and dangerous” and said he was housed in a decrepit shack crammed with other Vietnamese workers and bullied by Chinese supervisors. The Ling Long Tire project first took shape in September 2018 during meetings in Beijing between Serbia’s populist president, Aleksandar Vucic, and Xi Jinping, China’s leader. Xi, who has looked to Serbia as China’s most dependable European friend at a time when other nations are souring on his country, praised the Balkan nation as a “good, honest friend and good partner.” Vucic predicted that the tire factory, which plans to produce more than 130 million tires a year in Zrenjanin, and other planned ventures would make Serbia “the port for Chinese investments throughout the region.” Serbia said Chinese investment helped it achieve economic growth of over 7% last year, among the highest in Europe. But the furor over working conditions has set back Serbia’s yearslong effort to join the European Union, whose view of China has become increasingly jaundiced. The European Parliament last month demanded an investigation into treatment of Vietnamese laborers in Zrenjanin and voiced alarm “over China’s increasing influence in Serbia and across the Western Balkans.” It has also aggravated what has become Vucic’s biggest political headache: public anger over damage to the environment widely blamed on the government’s drive to juice the economy at all costs. Tens of thousands of people gathered late last year for weeks of street protests across Serbia against the development of a lithium mine project by the Anglo-Australian company Rio Tinto. The protests forced a rare retreat by the government, which on Jan. 20 canceled licenses for the project. Chinese ventures in Serbia, which include a smoke-belching steel works near Belgrade, the capital, and a copper mine and smelter in the southern town of Bor, have helped stoke this anger. Despite gushing praise of Beijing in the pro-government Serbian media, they have made China synonymous in the minds of many Serbs with environmental degradation. Unlike Rio Tinto, highly vulnerable because of its links to Australia, a country widely reviled in Serbia after the recent expulsion of tennis star Novak Djokovic, Chinese companies have enjoyed unwavering support from Vucic as indispensable for the creation of jobs and economic growth. But Marina Tepic, a leader of the main opposition party, said in an interview that the tire factory would “provide a few jobs to Serbs but kill many more with its pollution.” Strong support from the leaders of both Serbia and China, she added, has put the project largely off limits for government regulators and allowed construction workers there — deprived for a time of their passports, housed in squalor and fearful of retribution — to be kept in “modern slavery.” The government denies protecting the Chinese project from scrutiny, with the construction minister, Tomislav Momirovic, declaring on a recent visit to Zrenjanin that the Chinese factory was Serbia’s most closely monitored building site. Officials say that Vietnamese workers have all been given their passports back and are now free to leave if they want. A few of the workers have fled. But for most of them, leaving would mean breaking their contracts and leaving family members in Vietnam in hock to labor brokers and loan sharks who paid their way to Serbia, the workers say. A statement from Ling Long Tire cited in Serbian media said the company was “committed to full respect for and a humane and dignified approach to all employees.” Yet it stressed that none of the construction workers are employees, and work for subcontractors. Ling Long said it had asked the contractors to provide better accommodations. The tire company did not immediately respond to requests for comment at its head office in China. The Serbian government, which granted 240 acres of farmland free of charge to Ling Long Tire for its factory and pledged $85 million in state subsidies, says the factory will eventually generate 1,200 jobs. It declared the venture a “project of national importance,” a classification that critics see as a move to shield the venture from environmental and other inspectors. “They behave as if the Chinese factory were a military site,” said Ivan Zivkov, a member of a network of activist groups in Zrenjanin that has been pressing authorities, mostly unsuccessfully, to release information about the factory and its likely impact on the environment. Zoran Dedic, a retiree in Zrenjanin who attended a recent public meeting hosted by Zivkov, said he did not object to foreign investment. But he expressed alarm that so much information about the Chinese tire factory, particularly future levels of pollution, had not been made public and that Ling Long, while donating money to send local children to soccer camp, had not engaged in serious discussion with residents. “We know nothing about what is going on over there,” he said. Marija Andjelkovic, the head of Astra, an independent group in Belgrade that monitors and lobbies against human trafficking, said she visited the construction site late last year and found Vietnamese workers sleeping in hovels without heat or clean water. “It was like a prison camp,” she said. Labor contracts signed by Vietnamese workers with China Energy Engineering Group, a Ling Long subcontractor overseeing construction, commit each worker not to engage in trade union activities, and to “refrain from anything that would detract from his reputation or the reputation” of the Chinese company. Even more restrictive are the terms set by recruitment agencies in Vietnam. One agency, Song Hy Gia Lai International, demanded that all workers going to Europe sign a document pledging never to go on strike or protest. The document appears to have been copied and pasted from agreements originally drafted for laborers recruited in Vietnam for work in the Middle East: It warns that workers going to Serbia risk having their hands cut off if they steal. Danilo Curkic, program director for A11, a Belgrade research group, said contracts signed by Vietnamese workers were “far away from anything that is legal under Serbian law” and left them in indentured servitude. “It is impossible that Serbian state authorities did not know what was happening,” he said. One Vietnamese worker who spoke to a Serbian TV station in November about what he described as inhumane living conditions was taken in for questioning by the Serbian police and released after signing a statement asserting that he had no complaints. Another who spoke to a Serbian media outlet was fired. “This is all part of the process of intimidation,” Curkic said. Vietnamese workers who agreed to be interviewed by The Times through an interpreter said they had lived for months in squalid barracklike shelters previously used by a local farm to raise pigs and chickens. The former farmer from northern Vietnam said conditions had improved somewhat in recent weeks. Many workers now live in a two-story concrete block surrounded by a metal fence and watched over by Serbian security guards who bar entry to outsiders. One resident, a 40-year-old Vietnamese construction worker who requested anonymity, said he shared a tiny room with seven others and that their kitchen was crawling with rats. Salaries of about $900 per month, higher than what he could earn in Vietnam, were often paid late and slashed for days not worked because of sickness or inclement weather, he said. He previously worked for different Chinese companies for 15 years in Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia and Taiwan, but said he had never endured conditions as bad as at the Ling Long Tire construction site in Serbia. “It’s like hell on Earth here,” he said.

'Miserable and dangerous': A failed Chinese promise in Serbia

Serbia`s premier on Sunday denounced as "scandalous" Australia`s decision to deport tennis superstar Novak Djokovic over his decision not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and the Serbian president said he would always be welcome in his homeland.

A unanimous ruling by a three-judge bench rejecting Djokovic`s appeal against the cancellation of his visa dealt a final blow to his hopes of chasing a record 21st Grand Slam win at the Australian Open.

"I think the court decision is scandalous...I find it unbelievable that we have two completely contradictory court decisions within the span of just a few days," Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told reporters in Belgrade.

"I am disappointed...I think it demonstrated how the rule of law is functioning or better to say not functioning in some other countries. In any case, I can hardly wait to see Novak Djokovic in our own country, in Serbia."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/novak-djokovic-boards-plane-bound-for-dubai-after-australian-court-upholds-visa-cancellation-445194">Novak Djokovic boards plane bound for Dubai after Australian court upholds visa cancellation</a>

Djokovic, 34, flew out of Australia bound for Dubai on Sunday evening after saying in a brief statement that he was extremely disappointed by the court ruling and would respect it.

Djokovic, the world`s top men`s tennis player, was first detained by Australian immigration authorities on Jan. 6, ordered released by a court on Jan. 10 and then detained again on Saturday, after Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke used discretionary powers to cancel his visa.

The three-judge Federal Court panel upheld Hawke`s decision, which cited grounds that Djokovic could post a threat to public order because his presence would encourage anti-vaccination sentiment amidst Australia`s worst outbreak of the virus. 
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said he had spoken to Djokovic after the court decision. "I told him he is always welcome in Serbia," Vucic told reporters.

The Serbian Tennis Association (TSS) said the "farce is over" and "politics has beaten sports" with Australia`s decision to deport Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open nine times.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/lucky-loser-salvatore-caruso-replaces-defending-champion-novak-djokovic-in-australian-open-draw-445184">'Lucky loser' Salvatore Caruso replaces defending champion Novak Djokovic in Australian Open draw</a>

“Novak Djokovic...has been denied an opportunity to win a milestone 10th title (in Australia). Political pressure has led to the revocation of his visa to satisfy ‘public interest’," the TSS said in a statement. 
"...It begs the question whether athletes will from now on be incarcerated like criminals and deported when it suits the political interests of powerful individuals," it said.

Sports Minister Vanja Udovicic, a former professional water polo player, said Djokovic was the best tennis player ever. "Everything else is nonsense and shame, absurdity and hypocrisy! Legend, pride of Serbia, we are with you," she said.

In the Serbian capital Belgrade, Djokovic`s hometown, many support him though some felt he should have been vaccinated. 
"I think Australia should be ashamed of itself and that the decision was not a just one. I am sorry for Novak as a tennis player and as a person," said Danilo Mircic, a student.

"If I were him, I would get vaccinated and avoid problems in the future," said Aleksandar Janjic, a middle-aged computer programmer.

Serbia`s premier on Sunday denounced as "scandalous" Australia`s decision to deport tennis superstar Novak Djokovic over his decision not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and the Serbian president said he would always be welcome in his homeland.

Serbia`s premier on Sunday denounced as "scandalous" Australia`s decision to deport tennis superstar Novak Djokovic over his decision not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and the Serbian president said he would always be welcome in his homeland. A unanimous ruling by a three-judge bench rejecting Djokovic`s appeal against the cancellation of his visa dealt a final blow to his hopes of chasing a record 21st Grand Slam win at the Australian Open. "I think the court decision is scandalous...I find it unbelievable that we have two completely contradictory court decisions within the span of just a few days," Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told reporters in Belgrade. "I am disappointed...I think it demonstrated how the rule of law is functioning or better to say not functioning in some other countries. In any case, I can hardly wait to see Novak Djokovic in our own country, in Serbia." Read Also | Novak Djokovic boards plane bound for Dubai after Australian court upholds visa cancellation Djokovic, 34, flew out of Australia bound for Dubai on Sunday evening after saying in a brief statement that he was extremely disappointed by the court ruling and would respect it. Djokovic, the world`s top men`s tennis player, was first detained by Australian immigration authorities on Jan. 6, ordered released by a court on Jan. 10 and then detained again on Saturday, after Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke used discretionary powers to cancel his visa. The three-judge Federal Court panel upheld Hawke`s decision, which cited grounds that Djokovic could post a threat to public order because his presence would encourage anti-vaccination sentiment amidst Australia`s worst outbreak of the virus. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said he had spoken to Djokovic after the court decision. "I told him he is always welcome in Serbia," Vucic told reporters. The Serbian Tennis Association (TSS) said the "farce is over" and "politics has beaten sports" with Australia`s decision to deport Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open nine times. Read Also | 'Lucky loser' Salvatore Caruso replaces defending champion Novak Djokovic in Australian Open draw “Novak Djokovic...has been denied an opportunity to win a milestone 10th title (in Australia). Political pressure has led to the revocation of his visa to satisfy ‘public interest’," the TSS said in a statement. "...It begs the question whether athletes will from now on be incarcerated like criminals and deported when it suits the political interests of powerful individuals," it said. Sports Minister Vanja Udovicic, a former professional water polo player, said Djokovic was the best tennis player ever. "Everything else is nonsense and shame, absurdity and hypocrisy! Legend, pride of Serbia, we are with you," she said. In the Serbian capital Belgrade, Djokovic`s hometown, many support him though some felt he should have been vaccinated. "I think Australia should be ashamed of itself and that the decision was not a just one. I am sorry for Novak as a tennis player and as a person," said Danilo Mircic, a student. "If I were him, I would get vaccinated and avoid problems in the future," said Aleksandar Janjic, a middle-aged computer programmer.

Australia's deportation of Novak Djokovic is scandalous, says Serbian Prime Minister

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport.

Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/feel-sorry-for-him-but-he-rafael-nadal-opines-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-2022-saga-442633">'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga</a>

"Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him."

Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t."

She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-delays-novak-djokovics-deportation-whats-next-for-world-no-1-and-his-bid-for-aus-open-title-442621">Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title?</a>

On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." 
 
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar&nbsp;Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination. As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport. Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events. ALSO READ | 'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga "Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him." Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t." She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible." ALSO READ | Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title? On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father

Heavy snowfall brings daily lives to a standstill in Serbia. Thousands of people are struggling without electricity. Several flights have also been cancelled out.

Heavy snowfall wreaks havoc in Serbia as thousands remain without electricity

Heavy snowfall has covered Serbia's capital Belgrade, hampering traffic, canceling flights at the main airport and disrupting public transportation.

Heavy snowfall wreaks havoc in Belgrade and much of Serbia

Novak Djokovic was named in Serbia`s team for the men`s season-opening ATP Cup in January in Sydney, although the world number one has yet to commit to the Australian Open following the organisers` mandate for COVID-19 vaccinations. 
 
Djokovic, who has won a record nine titles at Melbourne Park including the last three, has repeatedly declined to reveal whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19, with Australian Open organisers Tennis Australia confirming that all players would have to be vaccinated to compete in Melbourne. 
 
To play without being vaccinated in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales state, the state government would have to apply for an exemption for Djokovic and the 34-year-old would have to undergo 14 days quarantine upon arrival.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-want-to-punish-a-billion-people-says-intl-tennis-federation-chief-amid-call-for-china-boycott-434577">'We don't want to punish a billion people', says Int'l Tennis Federation chief amid call for China boycott</a>

That same option was also open to Australian Open organisers but the government in Victoria, of which Melbourne is the capital, has said it would not apply for exemptions. The draw for the third edition of the ATP Cup team event was held in Sydney on Tuesday and organisers said top seed Serbia, headlined by Djokovic, would be in Group A along with Norway, Chile and Spain. 
 
While Djokovic`s participation will be a huge boost for Serbia and the tournament, Rafa Nadal will not feature for Spain. The 20-times major champion struggled with back issues at the start of 2021 before pulling out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics with a foot problem. 
 
The 35-year-old Spaniard, who last played in August at the Citi Open, is aiming to return at an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi this month before playing another tournament in his buildup to the Australian Open. 
 
The 2022 ATP Cup will feature 16 teams and be hosted across two venues at the Sydney Olympic Park from Jan. 1-9 with the players vying for $10 million in prize money. 
 
Defending champions Russia, led by world number two and U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev, were grouped with this year`s finalists Italy, Austria and hosts Australia, who will not have maverick Nick Kyrgios in their team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-spends-350th-week-atop-eyes-wta-legend-steffi-grafs-all-time-record-434612">Novak Djokovic spends 350th week atop, eyes WTA legend Steffi Graf's all-time record</a>

The winners of each of the four groups will advance to the semi-finals. 
 
Group A - Serbia, Norway, Chile, Spain 
 
Group B - Russia, Italy, Austria, Australia 
 
Group C - Germany, Canada, Britain, United States 
 
Group D - Greece, Poland, Argentina, Georgia

Novak Djokovic was named in Serbia`s team for the men`s season-opening ATP Cup in January in Sydney, although the world number one has yet to commit to the Australian Open following the organisers` mandate for COVID-19 vaccinations.

Novak Djokovic was named in Serbia`s team for the men`s season-opening ATP Cup in January in Sydney, although the world number one has yet to commit to the Australian Open following the organisers` mandate for COVID-19 vaccinations. Djokovic, who has won a record nine titles at Melbourne Park including the last three, has repeatedly declined to reveal whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19, with Australian Open organisers Tennis Australia confirming that all players would have to be vaccinated to compete in Melbourne. To play without being vaccinated in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales state, the state government would have to apply for an exemption for Djokovic and the 34-year-old would have to undergo 14 days quarantine upon arrival. ALSO READ | 'We don't want to punish a billion people', says Int'l Tennis Federation chief amid call for China boycott That same option was also open to Australian Open organisers but the government in Victoria, of which Melbourne is the capital, has said it would not apply for exemptions. The draw for the third edition of the ATP Cup team event was held in Sydney on Tuesday and organisers said top seed Serbia, headlined by Djokovic, would be in Group A along with Norway, Chile and Spain. While Djokovic`s participation will be a huge boost for Serbia and the tournament, Rafa Nadal will not feature for Spain. The 20-times major champion struggled with back issues at the start of 2021 before pulling out of Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics with a foot problem. The 35-year-old Spaniard, who last played in August at the Citi Open, is aiming to return at an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi this month before playing another tournament in his buildup to the Australian Open. The 2022 ATP Cup will feature 16 teams and be hosted across two venues at the Sydney Olympic Park from Jan. 1-9 with the players vying for $10 million in prize money. Defending champions Russia, led by world number two and U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev, were grouped with this year`s finalists Italy, Austria and hosts Australia, who will not have maverick Nick Kyrgios in their team. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic spends 350th week atop, eyes WTA legend Steffi Graf's all-time record The winners of each of the four groups will advance to the semi-finals. Group A - Serbia, Norway, Chile, Spain Group B - Russia, Italy, Austria, Australia Group C - Germany, Canada, Britain, United States Group D - Greece, Poland, Argentina, Georgia

Novak Djokovic named in Serbia team for 2022 ATP Cup in Sydney; yet to commit to Australian Open

A tweet by Pakistan's Embassy in Serbia has left Islamabad embarrassed. The post slammed Imran Khan for not paying salaries on time. How did Pak respond? Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: Pak Embassy exposes Imran Khan govt

Thousands of people gathered to protest against increasing levels of air pollution in Belgrade, Serbia. Protesters marched through the city centre carrying banners and signs.

Serbia: Protesters in Belgrade demand end to air pollution

Union Minister of State for External Affairs (MoS) Meenakashi Lekhi on Sunday said that she will pay an official visit to Serbia from October 10-13.

Lekhi will attend the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement in Serbia, as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"I will pay an official visit to Serbia from 10-13 October 2021, as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister to attend the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement," the Union Minister tweeted.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-made-electric-vehicles-should-not-be-sold-in-india-modi-govt-to-elon-musk-419293">&nbsp;China-made electric vehicles should not be sold in India: Modi govt to Elon Musk</a>

According to the Ministry of External Affairs statement, Lekhi is likely to attend the Meeting of Women Heads of Delegations and Ministers of Foreign Affairs being hosted by the President of the 76th United Nations General Assembly at the UN House in Belgrade.

The 60th Anniversary of the NAM Commemorative Meeting is being jointly co-hosted by Alexsander Vucic who is the President of Serbia and NAM Chair President Aliyev of Azerbaijan.

During the visit, MoS will also hold bilateral discussions with Branislav Nedimovic who is the Deputy PM and Minister of Agriculture, Nebojsa Stefanovic, Deputy PM and Minister of Defence, Maja Gojkovic, Deputy PM and Minister of Culture and Information, and Tatjana Matic, who is the Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications, the statement said.

The first NAM Conference was held in Belgrade in 1961 and it provides an opportunity to reflect on how the Movement can respond to complex global challenges more effectively, guided by its founding principles of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-october-10-to-13-jaishankar-to-visit-kyrgyzstan-kazakhstan-armenia-419497">From October 10 to 13, Jaishankar to visit Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia</a>

India and Serbia historically enjoy close and friendly relations. A bilateral Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) will also be signed during the visit to further strengthen cooperation in the fields of Culture and Arts. The MoS will be delivering a lecture on 'Structure of Judiciary in India'&nbsp;at the Law Faculty of the University of Belgrade, the statement informed.

During the visit, Lekhi will also formally unveil the bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore in Belgrade. In addition, she will interact with members of the Indian community and friends of India, and also visit Matica Srpska, the oldest Serbian literary, cultural and scientific society, and discuss ways for greater cooperation with institutions in India.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs (MoS) Meenakashi Lekhi on Sunday said that she will pay an official visit to Serbia from October 10-13. Lekhi will attend the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement in Serbia, as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs (MoS) Meenakashi Lekhi on Sunday said that she will pay an official visit to Serbia from October 10-13. Lekhi will attend the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement in Serbia, as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "I will pay an official visit to Serbia from 10-13 October 2021, as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister to attend the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement," the Union Minister tweeted. Also Read | China-made electric vehicles should not be sold in India: Modi govt to Elon Musk According to the Ministry of External Affairs statement, Lekhi is likely to attend the Meeting of Women Heads of Delegations and Ministers of Foreign Affairs being hosted by the President of the 76th United Nations General Assembly at the UN House in Belgrade. The 60th Anniversary of the NAM Commemorative Meeting is being jointly co-hosted by Alexsander Vucic who is the President of Serbia and NAM Chair President Aliyev of Azerbaijan. During the visit, MoS will also hold bilateral discussions with Branislav Nedimovic who is the Deputy PM and Minister of Agriculture, Nebojsa Stefanovic, Deputy PM and Minister of Defence, Maja Gojkovic, Deputy PM and Minister of Culture and Information, and Tatjana Matic, who is the Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications, the statement said. The first NAM Conference was held in Belgrade in 1961 and it provides an opportunity to reflect on how the Movement can respond to complex global challenges more effectively, guided by its founding principles of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation. Also Read | From October 10 to 13, Jaishankar to visit Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia India and Serbia historically enjoy close and friendly relations. A bilateral Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) will also be signed during the visit to further strengthen cooperation in the fields of Culture and Arts. The MoS will be delivering a lecture on 'Structure of Judiciary in India' at the Law Faculty of the University of Belgrade, the statement informed. During the visit, Lekhi will also formally unveil the bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore in Belgrade. In addition, she will interact with members of the Indian community and friends of India, and also visit Matica Srpska, the oldest Serbian literary, cultural and scientific society, and discuss ways for greater cooperation with institutions in India.

As special envoy of PM Modi, MoS Lekhi to visit Serbia to attend 60th anniversary of NAM

Serbians lift a road blockade near the border with Kosovo as NATO troops took control of the area under an EU-mediated deal, ending a long stand-off between the two administrations.

NATO takes control of Serbia-Kosovo border

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. &nbsp;

Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. 
 
Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. 
 
Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. <a href="https://t.co/n7pNmL1d7K">pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439614842843717637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/a-day-after-bitter-power-tussle-indias-northern-punjab-state-gets-new-cm-414241" hreflang="en">A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM</a>

The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 19, 2021 × The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” Watch: × In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." Also Read: A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian external affairs minister meets Serbian foreign minister, holds talks

Almost twenty years ago, Panta Petrovic made social distancing a lifestyle choice when he moved into a tiny&nbsp;Serbian&nbsp;mountain&nbsp;cave&nbsp;to avoid society.

Last year, on one of his visits to town, the dreadlocked man with a long beard found out there was a pandemic raging. After vaccines against&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;became available, he got jabbed and&nbsp;urges&nbsp;everyone to do the same.

"It (the virus) does not pick. It will come here, to my&nbsp;cave, too", the 70-year-old told AFP in his&nbsp;cave&nbsp;on the forested Stara Planina mountain in southern Serbia.

The&nbsp;cave&nbsp;Petrovic calls home is accessible only by a steep climb that is not for the fainthearted.

It is equipped with an old rusty bathtub which he uses as a toilet, some benches and a stack of hay that serves as a bed.

Petrovic hails from the nearby town of Pirot where he worked as a labourer on the black market, as he did abroad for some time. He remarried on multiple occasions, a life he called "hectic".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-9000-anti-asian-incidents-reported-in-us-since-start-of-covid-19-pandemic-405162">Also read | Over 9,000 anti-Asian incidents reported in US since start of COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Always a nature lover, he gradually found out that isolating from society brings him freedom he never tasted before.

"I was not free in the city. There is always someone in your way – you either argue with your wife, neighbours, or the police", Petrovic told AFP while peeling vegetables for lunch.

"Here, nobody is hassling me", the man added with a smile, revealing his decaying teeth.

'Money is cursed'

Petrovic mostly feeds on mushrooms and fish from the local creek, but also hikes downtown in search of leftover food in the bins.

And his visits to the town have become more regular recently.

After wolves slaughtered some of the animals he kept near the&nbsp;cave, Petrovic decided to move them to a shack he assembled in the outskirts of the town where he thought they would be safe.

The gang includes several goats, a flock of chickens, some thirty dogs and cats and his favourite -- an adult wild boar named Mara.

Petrovic found her eight years ago as a helpless piglet entangled in the bushes, and bottle-fed her until she recovered.

Now, the intimidating 200-kilogram&nbsp;(440 pound) animal playfully rolls in the creek and eats apples from Petrovic's hand.

"She means everything to me, I love her and she listens to me. There is no money that can buy such a thing. A true pet", Petrovic said.

Among the animals, there are three kittens whose mother was killed by a wolf, which he now feeds through a syringe.

Petrovic receives welfare, but also relies on donations for food and supplies for the animals.

After the vaccines became available, he rolled up his sleeve and got jabbed.

Petrovic said he "doesn't understand the fuss" some vaccine sceptics make, and underlined that he believes in a process that aims to eradicate diseases.

"I want to get all three doses, including the extra one. I urge every citizen to get vaccinated, every single one of them."

Before isolating, Petrovic donated all the money he had made abroad to the community by funding the construction of three small bridges in the town.

"Money is cursed, it spoils people. I think nothing can corrupt a human like money", Petrovic told AFP.

On top of one of the bridges, Petrovic built a pigeon loft which he, despite his advancing age, effortlessly climbs in order to stock them with pieces of bread he found while searching the bins.

Almost twenty years ago, Panta Petrovic made social distancing a lifestyle choice when he moved into a tiny Serbian mountain cave to avoid society. Last year, on one of his visits to town, the dreadlocked man with a long beard found out there was a pandemic raging.

Almost twenty years ago, Panta Petrovic made social distancing a lifestyle choice when he moved into a tiny Serbian mountain cave to avoid society. Last year, on one of his visits to town, the dreadlocked man with a long beard found out there was a pandemic raging. After vaccines against COVID-19 became available, he got jabbed and urges everyone to do the same. "It (the virus) does not pick. It will come here, to my cave, too", the 70-year-old told AFP in his cave on the forested Stara Planina mountain in southern Serbia. The cave Petrovic calls home is accessible only by a steep climb that is not for the fainthearted. It is equipped with an old rusty bathtub which he uses as a toilet, some benches and a stack of hay that serves as a bed. Petrovic hails from the nearby town of Pirot where he worked as a labourer on the black market, as he did abroad for some time. He remarried on multiple occasions, a life he called "hectic". Also read | Over 9,000 anti-Asian incidents reported in US since start of COVID-19 pandemic Always a nature lover, he gradually found out that isolating from society brings him freedom he never tasted before. "I was not free in the city. There is always someone in your way – you either argue with your wife, neighbours, or the police", Petrovic told AFP while peeling vegetables for lunch. "Here, nobody is hassling me", the man added with a smile, revealing his decaying teeth. 'Money is cursed' Petrovic mostly feeds on mushrooms and fish from the local creek, but also hikes downtown in search of leftover food in the bins. And his visits to the town have become more regular recently. After wolves slaughtered some of the animals he kept near the cave, Petrovic decided to move them to a shack he assembled in the outskirts of the town where he thought they would be safe. The gang includes several goats, a flock of chickens, some thirty dogs and cats and his favourite -- an adult wild boar named Mara. Petrovic found her eight years ago as a helpless piglet entangled in the bushes, and bottle-fed her until she recovered. Now, the intimidating 200-kilogram (440 pound) animal playfully rolls in the creek and eats apples from Petrovic's hand. "She means everything to me, I love her and she listens to me. There is no money that can buy such a thing. A true pet", Petrovic said. Among the animals, there are three kittens whose mother was killed by a wolf, which he now feeds through a syringe. Petrovic receives welfare, but also relies on donations for food and supplies for the animals. After the vaccines became available, he rolled up his sleeve and got jabbed. Petrovic said he "doesn't understand the fuss" some vaccine sceptics make, and underlined that he believes in a process that aims to eradicate diseases. "I want to get all three doses, including the extra one. I urge every citizen to get vaccinated, every single one of them." Before isolating, Petrovic donated all the money he had made abroad to the community by funding the construction of three small bridges in the town. "Money is cursed, it spoils people. I think nothing can corrupt a human like money", Petrovic told AFP. On top of one of the bridges, Petrovic built a pigeon loft which he, despite his advancing age, effortlessly climbs in order to stock them with pieces of bread he found while searching the bins.

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