Spanish fashion giant index parent company to Zara and other popular brands is facing protests from its workforce. This comes after the company reported record profits of $38 billion yet workers claim they aren't seeing a fair share of their success.

Fashion giant Zara faces workers' protests

The exiled Cataline separatist Carles Puigdemont has announced that he will be contesting upcoming elections in the month of May. Puigdemont seeks to lead the northeastern region elections in May. Watch in for more details!

Spain: Carles Puigdemont to contest upcoming Catalan elections

The Spanish region of Catalonia is facing an unprecedented crisis, as it grapples with its worst drought in history. Last month, officials in Catalonia declared a drought emergency. Spain has endured three consecutive years of below-average rainfall amidst a record-breaking temperature that has worsened the situation. Watch to know more!

Spain: Ahead of world water day Catalonia struggles with drought

Real Madrid midfield Jude Bellingham has hit back at the Spanish&nbsp;Football Federation (RFEF) for imposing a two-match ban on him for dissent during the La Liga match against Valencia over the weekend.&nbsp;

After the UEFA Champions League match against RB Leipzig on Wednesday (Mar 6), Bellingham termed the suspension as "ridiculous".&nbsp;

"I didn't say anything offensive, I didn't say anything different to what my team-mates said and I think that sometimes because I'm new they want to make an example of me," said Bellingham.&nbsp;

"In the end I have to be responsible for my actions and I'm not proud, but I think two matches for that is a bit ridiculous, but if it's two matches I have to take my responsibility and I'll cheer from the stands," he added.&nbsp;

Apart from the ban, the English player was fined&nbsp;$652 (£513) while Madrid was asked to fork out&nbsp; $760&nbsp;(£598).&nbsp;

Bellingham was handed the punishment despite Madrid appealing the red card. RFEF in its statement said Bellingham showed&nbsp;"contempt or&nbsp;disregard" towards referee&nbsp;Gil Manzano when Madrid players and staff surrounded him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-controversy-unfolds-in-real-madrids-la-liga-match-as-bellingham-is-red-carded-696058">Watch | Controversy erupts during Real Madrid's La Liga match as Bellingham gets red-carded</a>

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The controversy erupted after&nbsp;Bellingham scored the supposed winner, deep into stoppage time, only for the referee to disallow it saying he had blown the whistle before the ball went into the back of the net.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anguished that the goal was chalked off, Bellingham lost his temper and charged alongside his teammates at the referee and allegedly mouthed:&nbsp;"It’s a f*cking goal, the ball is in the air. What the f*ck is that!"

Manzano didn't like what he heard and reached for his back pocket, flashing a red card in the direction of the England international.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-manager-carlo-ancelotti-facing-five-years-in-prison-over-tax-fraud-697211">Also read |&nbsp;Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti facing five years in prison over tax fraud</a>

In a post-match interview, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti provided full support to his midfield star, saying he had not insulted the referee.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

“He didn’t insult the referee. He was respectful. He spoke in English and just said: ‘It was a f***ing goal," said Ancelotti.&nbsp;

While Bellingham's absence is a big blow, Madrid might not feel the ill affects as they have an eight-point cushion in the league.

(With inputs from agencies)

Real Madrid midfield Jude Bellingham has hit back at the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for imposing a two-match ban on him for dissent during the La Liga match against Valencia over the weekend.

Real Madrid midfield Jude Bellingham has hit back at the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for imposing a two-match ban on him for dissent during the La Liga match against Valencia over the weekend. After the UEFA Champions League match against RB Leipzig on Wednesday (Mar 6), Bellingham termed the suspension as "ridiculous". "I didn't say anything offensive, I didn't say anything different to what my team-mates said and I think that sometimes because I'm new they want to make an example of me," said Bellingham. "In the end I have to be responsible for my actions and I'm not proud, but I think two matches for that is a bit ridiculous, but if it's two matches I have to take my responsibility and I'll cheer from the stands," he added. Apart from the ban, the English player was fined $652 (£513) while Madrid was asked to fork out $760 (£598). Bellingham was handed the punishment despite Madrid appealing the red card. RFEF in its statement said Bellingham showed "contempt or disregard" towards referee Gil Manzano when Madrid players and staff surrounded him. Watch | Controversy erupts during Real Madrid's La Liga match as Bellingham gets red-carded What happened? The controversy erupted after Bellingham scored the supposed winner, deep into stoppage time, only for the referee to disallow it saying he had blown the whistle before the ball went into the back of the net. Anguished that the goal was chalked off, Bellingham lost his temper and charged alongside his teammates at the referee and allegedly mouthed: "It’s a f*cking goal, the ball is in the air. What the f*ck is that!" Manzano didn't like what he heard and reached for his back pocket, flashing a red card in the direction of the England international. Also read | Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti facing five years in prison over tax fraud In a post-match interview, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti provided full support to his midfield star, saying he had not insulted the referee. “He didn’t insult the referee. He was respectful. He spoke in English and just said: ‘It was a f***ing goal," said Ancelotti. While Bellingham's absence is a big blow, Madrid might not feel the ill affects as they have an eight-point cushion in the league. (With inputs from agencies)

'A bit ridiculous': Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham hits back at Spanish FA for two-match ban

In a new study, it has been found that Spain has remained prone to rare and deep earthquakes because of a capsized tectonic plate beneath the Earth's surface.&nbsp;

As per the seismographic reports, when Africa and Eurasia slowly collided, a piece of the surface of the planet went upside down deep beneath the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

"Since 1954, there have been five closely located large deep‐focus earthquakes with depths greater than 600 kilometres beneath [the Spanish city of] Granada," said geologists Daoyuan Sun from the University of Science and Technology of China as well as Meghan Miller from Australian National University, in a statement.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-plan-to-suck-out-water-from-earths-atmosphere-to-fight-climate-change-695106">Scientists plan to suck out water from Earth's atmosphere to fight climate change</a>

<h2>Here's what experts found after examining Spain's 2010 earthquake</h2>

Generally, earthquakes which occur at such deep depths are&nbsp;followed by major aftershocks. However, when seismic data collected from Spain's 2010 earthquake was examined by Sun and Miller, there were no aftershocks found.

When the tectonic plates underneath the surface of the Earth get pushed into each other, they are generally displaced so that one slides beneath the other in a process which is called subduction.&nbsp;

These collisions sometimes destroy the plate's sinking part and raise the crust which creates mountains and interlocks the two plates.

At other times, the wrestling crusts remain separate but stacked as one slab slowly sinks further towards the mantle of Earth.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Asteroid flew past Earth in near miss

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-asteroid-flew-past-earth-in-near-miss-690710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is what took place at the border between the African and Eurasian plates where the Mediterranean floor is slowly sinking beneath Europe.

During the 2010 Granada earthquake, the seismic waves lasted unusually long and had an extra phase of activity. This happened because the seismic waves were moving slower and that too at the bottom of the Alboran slab and not the top.

"A significant amount of water has been carried down to the mantle transition zone, indicating a relatively cold slab," said geologists Daoyuan Sun.

"Considering a relatively young seafloor age in the western Mediterranean, for the slab to remain cool, the subduction speed must be quite fast, such as a moderate speed of about 70 millimetres per year," he explained.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, it has been found that Spain has remained prone to rare and deep earthquakes because of a capsized tectonic plate beneath the Earth's surface. As per the seismographic reports, when Africa and Eurasia slowly collided, a piece of the surface of the planet went upside down deep beneath the Mediterranean.

In a new study, it has been found that Spain has remained prone to rare and deep earthquakes because of a capsized tectonic plate beneath the Earth's surface. As per the seismographic reports, when Africa and Eurasia slowly collided, a piece of the surface of the planet went upside down deep beneath the Mediterranean. "Since 1954, there have been five closely located large deep‐focus earthquakes with depths greater than 600 kilometres beneath [the Spanish city of] Granada," said geologists Daoyuan Sun from the University of Science and Technology of China as well as Meghan Miller from Australian National University, in a statement. Also Read: Scientists plan to suck out water from Earth's atmosphere to fight climate change Here's what experts found after examining Spain's 2010 earthquake Generally, earthquakes which occur at such deep depths are followed by major aftershocks. However, when seismic data collected from Spain's 2010 earthquake was examined by Sun and Miller, there were no aftershocks found. When the tectonic plates underneath the surface of the Earth get pushed into each other, they are generally displaced so that one slides beneath the other in a process which is called subduction. These collisions sometimes destroy the plate's sinking part and raise the crust which creates mountains and interlocks the two plates. At other times, the wrestling crusts remain separate but stacked as one slab slowly sinks further towards the mantle of Earth. Watch: Gravitas: Asteroid flew past Earth in near miss This is what took place at the border between the African and Eurasian plates where the Mediterranean floor is slowly sinking beneath Europe. During the 2010 Granada earthquake, the seismic waves lasted unusually long and had an extra phase of activity. This happened because the seismic waves were moving slower and that too at the bottom of the Alboran slab and not the top. "A significant amount of water has been carried down to the mantle transition zone, indicating a relatively cold slab," said geologists Daoyuan Sun. "Considering a relatively young seafloor age in the western Mediterranean, for the slab to remain cool, the subduction speed must be quite fast, such as a moderate speed of about 70 millimetres per year," he explained. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain prone to deep earthquakes due to Earth's crust lying upside down under Mediterranean: Study

Spain's top ports experienced a notable upsurge in goods traffic during January, with volumes increasing by up to 25 per cent, propelled by disruptions in shipping routes caused by ongoing crises in the Red Sea region. <o:p></o:p>

This is based on a Reuters report.<o:p></o:p>

As attacks on vessels navigating the Red Sea prompt companies to reroute shipments via southern Africa, Spain emerges as a crucial transit hub, witnessing a substantial influx of maritime activity.<o:p></o:p>

According to insights provided by the Spanish retail and food industry association Aecoc, northern ports in Spain observed a surge in transit volumes, with some experiencing triple the usual traffic. <o:p></o:p>

This spike comes as traders seek alternative routes to circumvent widespread blockades by farmers across Europe, opting for maritime transportation over land routes. <o:p></o:p>

Key ports such as Las Palmas in the Canary Islands and Barcelona reported significant increases in merchandise volume, recording jumps of 25.4 per cent and 7.6 per cent respectively in January. <o:p></o:p>

Spain's geographical position makes its ports integral to shipping routes, especially for vessels opting to bypass the Red Sea and sail around southern Africa to mitigate risks posed by Houthi rebel attacks off the coast of Yemen. <o:p></o:p>

While the exact impact of the Red Sea crisis on Spanish port traffic requires further assessment, authorities acknowledge its role in influencing maritime logistics. <o:p></o:p>

Notably, the surge in transit volumes extends beyond southern ports, with northern counterparts like Santander and Bilbao witnessing exponential increases in goods traffic. <o:p></o:p>

The port of Santander attributes part of this rise to the expansion of its container terminal, enhancing its capacity to handle growing volumes of merchandise.<o:p></o:p>

Amid increased shipping activity, operators at the port of Santander have reported heightened interest from traders looking to send goods to Britain in recent weeks. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Spain's top ports experienced a notable upsurge in goods traffic during January, with volumes increasing by up to 25 per cent, propelled by disruptions in shipping routes caused by ongoing crises in the Red Sea region.

Spain's top ports experienced a notable upsurge in goods traffic during January, with volumes increasing by up to 25 per cent, propelled by disruptions in shipping routes caused by ongoing crises in the Red Sea region. This is based on a Reuters report. As attacks on vessels navigating the Red Sea prompt companies to reroute shipments via southern Africa, Spain emerges as a crucial transit hub, witnessing a substantial influx of maritime activity. According to insights provided by the Spanish retail and food industry association Aecoc, northern ports in Spain observed a surge in transit volumes, with some experiencing triple the usual traffic. This spike comes as traders seek alternative routes to circumvent widespread blockades by farmers across Europe, opting for maritime transportation over land routes. Key ports such as Las Palmas in the Canary Islands and Barcelona reported significant increases in merchandise volume, recording jumps of 25.4 per cent and 7.6 per cent respectively in January. Spain's geographical position makes its ports integral to shipping routes, especially for vessels opting to bypass the Red Sea and sail around southern Africa to mitigate risks posed by Houthi rebel attacks off the coast of Yemen. While the exact impact of the Red Sea crisis on Spanish port traffic requires further assessment, authorities acknowledge its role in influencing maritime logistics. Notably, the surge in transit volumes extends beyond southern ports, with northern counterparts like Santander and Bilbao witnessing exponential increases in goods traffic. The port of Santander attributes part of this rise to the expansion of its container terminal, enhancing its capacity to handle growing volumes of merchandise. Amid increased shipping activity, operators at the port of Santander have reported heightened interest from traders looking to send goods to Britain in recent weeks. (With inputs from Reuters)

Spain's ports witness surge in goods traffic amid Red Sea crisis

Spain's ports are bustling with activity as they navigate through a surge in shipping volume. In January alone, traffic through the country's top ports skyrocketed by as much as 25%.

Spain's top ports experience up to 25% volume increase in January

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha on Thursday demanded Haryana Chief Minister and the Haryana Home Minister be booked for the "murder" of a protesting farmer on the Punjab-Haryana border and announced a tractor march next week.

Farmers' Protest | Farmer death: SKM demands FIR against Haryana Chief Minister

The death toll from a devastating fire that tore through a 14-storey block of flats in Valencia in eastern Spain has risen to 10, local authorities have said, as firefighters continue to search for several others are missing.

Spain: At least 10 killed after fire guts Spanish apartment block

Farmers' Protest: 21-year old farmer's death triggers outrage, SKM demands FIR against Haryana CM

A Spanish priest has been arrested under suspicion of illegally selling Viagra and other potent aphrodisiac substances from his residence. The arrest, which took place in Spain's Extremadura region, involved another person as well.

The priest, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested in the town of Don Benito and subsequently charged with criminal offenses. His lawyer has refuted the allegations, asserting their lack of foundation.

Local reports indicate that the priest's arrest followed an extensive investigation into the purported sale of controlled substances, including Viagra. Spanish news outlets suggest that the second individual detained alongside the priest was his romantic partner. Allegedly, the duo conducted sales from their home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mystery-genetic-material-in-butterflies-moths-has-not-changed-for-over-250-mn-years-692522">Also read |&nbsp;Mystery? Genetic material in butterflies, moths has not changed for over 250 mn years!</a>

<h2>Police surveillance and action</h2>

On Monday (Feb 19), authorities placed the suspects' property under surveillance before conducting a raid led by the Civil Guard.

While Viagra is legally obtainable from pharmacies in Spain, the nature of the additional substances sold by the accused remains unclear.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabamas-largest-hospital-pauses-ivf-after-sc-says-frozen-embryos-are-children-692515">Also read |&nbsp;Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children</a>

The Diocese of Plasencia, to which the priest's church is affiliated, issued a statement expressing its readiness for further investigation and clarification of the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

It said the church "certainly regret(s) the events described by the pain, suffering and scandal they entail".

(With inputs from agencies)

A Spanish priest has been arrested under suspicion of illegally selling Viagra and other potent aphrodisiac substances from his residence. The arrest, which took place in Spain's Extremadura region, involved another person as well.

A Spanish priest has been arrested under suspicion of illegally selling Viagra and other potent aphrodisiac substances from his residence. The arrest, which took place in Spain's Extremadura region, involved another person as well. The priest, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested in the town of Don Benito and subsequently charged with criminal offenses. His lawyer has refuted the allegations, asserting their lack of foundation. Local reports indicate that the priest's arrest followed an extensive investigation into the purported sale of controlled substances, including Viagra. Spanish news outlets suggest that the second individual detained alongside the priest was his romantic partner. Allegedly, the duo conducted sales from their home. Also read | Mystery? Genetic material in butterflies, moths has not changed for over 250 mn years! Police surveillance and action On Monday (Feb 19), authorities placed the suspects' property under surveillance before conducting a raid led by the Civil Guard. While Viagra is legally obtainable from pharmacies in Spain, the nature of the additional substances sold by the accused remains unclear. Also read | Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children The Diocese of Plasencia, to which the priest's church is affiliated, issued a statement expressing its readiness for further investigation and clarification of the circumstances surrounding the arrest. It said the church "certainly regret(s) the events described by the pain, suffering and scandal they entail". (With inputs from agencies)

Spanish priest held for selling illegal Viagra from home

In India, protesting farmers, as per reports, have temporarily suspended their 'Delhi Chalo' march for two days, as of Wednesday evening (Feb 21st).

Farmers protest: 'Delhi Chalo' protest march to be suspended for 2 days, announces farmer leader

Indian farmers suspend protest march for two days

From Greece, France to Spain, and more, farmers are demanding fairness and better prices. What are their demands and why are they up in arms? Find out here.

Gravitas | India To Spain: Why Farmers Across Borders Are Protesting

Indian farmers are set to resume their 'Delhi Chalo' protest march from the Punjab-Haryana border today (February 21), following the failure of talks with the Centre over minimum support price (MSP) guarantees.

Farmers' Protest: Farmers to resume march to Delhi, govt stresses on resolution through dialogue

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers reject gov’t offer, to continue protest march in New Delhi

The protesting farmers in India have decided to pause their 'Delhi Chalo' March. This, after days of negotiations with the government, finally resulted in some headway. During the fourth round of talks with the farm leaders, the government proposed a five-year MSP plan. The farmers say they are seeking advice on the latest measures announced by the government.

Farmers Protest: Farmers reject govt's proposal over MSP, to go ahead with 'Delhi Chalo' march

Farmers Protest: Farmers reject Centre's new proposal on MSP, to resume march to Delhi on Feb 21

Indian farmers' unions have declined the government's proposition of guaranteed support prices for pulses, corn, and cotton. However, the question remains: does the demand for a guaranteed MSP hold sufficient viability to address all underlying issues? Or are there additional factors that necessitate consideration? Take a look at our next report.

Can MSP ensure farmer income while keeping food affordable?

A winery in Spain lost around 60,000 liters of expensive red wine valued at about 2.5 million euros ($2.7 million) after someone broke in and opened the vats this past weekend, the winery reported on Tuesday.

A man in a hoodie was seen going from one enormous vat to another and turning on the taps, which caused wine to spill over the floor, according to security camera footage. The footage was made public by the well-known Cepa 21 winery in the Ribera del Duero region of central Spain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/study-shows-how-paracetamol-a-common-painkiller-may-affect-the-liver-692043">Study shows how paracetamol, a common painkiller, may affect the liver</a>

The winery stated that the event occurred on Sunday at around 3.30 am and that the quantity of the wine that was lost may have filled 80,000 bottles.

Jose Moro, the establishment's head, told a Spanish public television station, that since nothing was taken during the break-in, it was obvious the intruder's only intent was to cause damage to the company.

The incident happened at around 3:30 am on Sunday, the winery said, adding that the amount of high-end wine lost could have filled 80,000 bottles.

"It's an instance of harm being done for the purpose of damage, by someone who lacks equilibrium, common sense, and is acting out of hatred," he stated to the station.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/esa-releases-pics-of-dead-satellite-tumbling-to-earth-can-it-fall-on-someones-head-all-you-need-to-know-691984">ESA shares pics of dead satellite tumbling towards Earth; can it fall on someone’s head? All you need to know</a>

According to Moro, in order to open the vats, the intruder would have needed to know how to operate the system.

He continued, "Everything suggests the individual knew where they were."&nbsp;

The police have received a complaint from the winery, and they have opened an investigation, they confirmed to AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

A winery in Spain lost around 60,000 liters of expensive red wine valued at about 2.5 million euros ($2.7 million) after someone broke in and opened the vats this past weekend, the winery reported on Tuesday.

A winery in Spain lost around 60,000 liters of expensive red wine valued at about 2.5 million euros ($2.7 million) after someone broke in and opened the vats this past weekend, the winery reported on Tuesday. A man in a hoodie was seen going from one enormous vat to another and turning on the taps, which caused wine to spill over the floor, according to security camera footage. The footage was made public by the well-known Cepa 21 winery in the Ribera del Duero region of central Spain. Also read: Study shows how paracetamol, a common painkiller, may affect the liver The winery stated that the event occurred on Sunday at around 3.30 am and that the quantity of the wine that was lost may have filled 80,000 bottles. Jose Moro, the establishment's head, told a Spanish public television station, that since nothing was taken during the break-in, it was obvious the intruder's only intent was to cause damage to the company. The incident happened at around 3:30 am on Sunday, the winery said, adding that the amount of high-end wine lost could have filled 80,000 bottles. "It's an instance of harm being done for the purpose of damage, by someone who lacks equilibrium, common sense, and is acting out of hatred," he stated to the station. Also read: ESA shares pics of dead satellite tumbling towards Earth; can it fall on someone’s head? All you need to know According to Moro, in order to open the vats, the intruder would have needed to know how to operate the system. He continued, "Everything suggests the individual knew where they were." The police have received a complaint from the winery, and they have opened an investigation, they confirmed to AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Intruder at Spain winery pours away wine worth $2.7 million

India Farmers Protest: Proposals not in interest of farmers, they have rejected offer: Union Leaders

Farmers Protest: Farmers reject Centre's proposal; Will restart Delhi Chalo March on Wednesday

<o:p></o:p>

Microsoft, the US software giant, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative in Spain, injecting $2.1 billion into the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure over the next two years. <o:p></o:p>

Brad Smith, Microsoft's Vice Chair and President, revealed this ambitious plan on the social media platform X. <o:p></o:p>

This move follows Microsoft's recent announcement of a 3.2 billion euros ($3.45 billion) investment in AI in Germany, solidifying its position as a major player in Europe's tech landscape. <o:p></o:p>

At the core of Microsoft's investment lies a vision to spearhead Spain's digital transformation journey. <o:p></o:p>

Beyond merely enhancing cloud and AI capabilities, this initiative seeks to foster a culture of innovation and digital literacy across the nation. <o:p></o:p>

By infusing funds into Spain's tech infrastructure, Microsoft aims to empower businesses, public administrations, and individuals alike, paving the way for a future driven by cutting-edge technology and responsible AI deployment.<o:p></o:p>

Brad Smith's announcement on X resonates with Microsoft's longstanding relationship with Spain, spanning over 37 years. <o:p></o:p>

He emphasised that the investment signifies more than just financial support; it embodies Microsoft's dedication to Spain's security, development, and digital progress.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I’m thrilled to announce that we will expand our AI and cloud infrastructure in Spain by $2.1B USD in the next two years. Our investment is beyond just building data centers, it’s a testament to our 37-year commitment to Spain, its security, and development and digital… <a href="https://t.co/arJnZzyDpc">https://t.co/arJnZzyDpc</a>
— Brad Smith (@BradSmi) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradSmi/status/1759696070270189778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to reports, Microsoft's monumental investment in Spain's AI and cloud sectors transcends national borders, signalling a broader shift in Europe's tech landscape.

As AI and cloud technologies emerge as linchpins of future economies, Microsoft's initiative is poised to fuel innovation and inspire similar advancements across the continent. <o:p></o:p>

By establishing Spain as a pivotal hub for digital innovation, Microsoft aims to catalyse progress in security, development, and digital transformation across government, business, and society.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Microsoft, the US software giant, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative in Spain, injecting $2.1 billion into the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure over the next two years.

Microsoft, the US software giant, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative in Spain, injecting $2.1 billion into the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure over the next two years. Brad Smith, Microsoft's Vice Chair and President, revealed this ambitious plan on the social media platform X. This move follows Microsoft's recent announcement of a 3.2 billion euros ($3.45 billion) investment in AI in Germany, solidifying its position as a major player in Europe's tech landscape. At the core of Microsoft's investment lies a vision to spearhead Spain's digital transformation journey. Beyond merely enhancing cloud and AI capabilities, this initiative seeks to foster a culture of innovation and digital literacy across the nation. By infusing funds into Spain's tech infrastructure, Microsoft aims to empower businesses, public administrations, and individuals alike, paving the way for a future driven by cutting-edge technology and responsible AI deployment. Brad Smith's announcement on X resonates with Microsoft's longstanding relationship with Spain, spanning over 37 years. He emphasised that the investment signifies more than just financial support; it embodies Microsoft's dedication to Spain's security, development, and digital progress. I’m thrilled to announce that we will expand our AI and cloud infrastructure in Spain by $2.1B USD in the next two years. Our investment is beyond just building data centers, it’s a testament to our 37-year commitment to Spain, its security, and development and digital… https://t.co/arJnZzyDpc — Brad Smith (@BradSmi) February 19, 2024 × According to reports, Microsoft's monumental investment in Spain's AI and cloud sectors transcends national borders, signalling a broader shift in Europe's tech landscape. As AI and cloud technologies emerge as linchpins of future economies, Microsoft's initiative is poised to fuel innovation and inspire similar advancements across the continent. By establishing Spain as a pivotal hub for digital innovation, Microsoft aims to catalyse progress in security, development, and digital transformation across government, business, and society. (With inputs from agencies)

Microsoft commits $2.1 billion to boost AI and cloud infrastructure in Spain

Farmer leaders on Sunday announced that the Delhi Chalo march has been put on hold since they will study the Centre's new plan for the minimum support price (MSP) for crops. They, however, said that the Delhi Chalo march could resume on February 21 if all the issues are not resolved.

India Farmers' Protest: 'Delhi chalo' march on hold after meeting with govt

The fourth round of talks in Chandigarh between the farmers and the government in a bid to end the deadlock over the demand for MSP guarantee of crops for farmers ended. The government proposed a new scheme for MSPs and the farmers will discuss the proposal and reply on Monday.

India Farmers' Protest: Fourth round of Govt-farmers' talk concludes

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP.

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers to stage 'dharna' in 4 states on Feb 21, demand ordinance over MSP

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP.

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers to stage 'dharna' in 4 states on Feb 21

Spanish emergency services said that a fire that broke out in a Madrid nursing home early Sunday (Feb 18) killed two women and injured at least 10 other people.&nbsp;

In a video posted on X, Isabel Casado, who is a supervisor with Madrid's emergency services, said, "The blaze broke out at around 7 am (0600 GMT) at the residence which was home to around 40 people."&nbsp;

She further added that one of the injured, a woman, was in critical condition due to burns while the others needed treatment for smoke inhalation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trouble-for-sunak-over-100-mps-could-resign-to-avoid-election-embarrassment-report-691373">Trouble for Sunak? Over 100 MPs could resign to avoid election embarrassment</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency AFP, firefighter Jose Luis Castillo said that the fire started in a room on the first floor and the second floor became "flooded with smoke".&nbsp;

"We had to evacuate the residents to a secure place," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-congratulates-military-as-russia-assumes-full-control-of-ukraines-avdiivka-691344">Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka</a>&nbsp;

Isabel Diaz Ayuso, the head of the regional government of Madrid, said she "deeply regretted the death of two women" at the residence.&nbsp;

"Our support for the deceased, the injured and the workers of the residence. We are available for all that they need. RIP," she wrote on X.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Spanish emergency services said that a fire that broke out in a Madrid nursing home early Sunday (Feb 18) killed two women and injured at least 10 other people. In a video posted on X, Isabel Casado, who is a supervisor with Madrid's emergency services, said, "The blaze broke out at around 7 am (0600 GMT) at the residence which was home to around 40 people.

Spanish emergency services said that a fire that broke out in a Madrid nursing home early Sunday (Feb 18) killed two women and injured at least 10 other people. In a video posted on X, Isabel Casado, who is a supervisor with Madrid's emergency services, said, "The blaze broke out at around 7 am (0600 GMT) at the residence which was home to around 40 people." She further added that one of the injured, a woman, was in critical condition due to burns while the others needed treatment for smoke inhalation. Also read: Trouble for Sunak? Over 100 MPs could resign to avoid election embarrassment As quoted by the news agency AFP, firefighter Jose Luis Castillo said that the fire started in a room on the first floor and the second floor became "flooded with smoke". "We had to evacuate the residents to a secure place," he added. Also read: Putin congratulates military as Russia assumes 'full control' of Ukraine's Avdiivka Isabel Diaz Ayuso, the head of the regional government of Madrid, said she "deeply regretted the death of two women" at the residence. "Our support for the deceased, the injured and the workers of the residence. We are available for all that they need. RIP," she wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Fire in Madrid nursing home kills two women, injures at least 10 others

India Farmers protest: Protesters to launch tractor march if demands not met

The Gautam Buddh Nagar Police on Thursday said restrictions under CrPC Section 144, including a ban on unauthorised public assemblies, would be enforced across the district in view of Bharat Bandh called by farmers' unions on Friday.

Indian Farmers' protest: Noida Police invokes CrPC 144 on February 16 due to 'Bharat Bandh'

Protests by farmers, primarily from Punjab and Haryana, have intensified at the Shambhu border as they clashed with the police in an attempt to cross over to Delhi. The farmers are demanding that the Centre guarantee minimum support prices (MSP) for their crops. These protests have seen escalating tensions, with instances of violence breaking out as farmers clashed with law enforcement.

Indian Farmers' unions call nationwide strike, Bharat bandh to affect various sectors

spain

Spain, News on Spain, stories on Spain, articles on Spain, Spain stories at Wion, Spain news, Spain latest news