In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people. The fate of these structures and homes is intertwined with the state-run company LKAB which is the largest iron ore mine in the world and produces 80 per cent of the European Union’s supply, said a report by the Guardian.

What will happen to the town?

In the upcoming years, Kiruna is about to witness one of the world’s most radical relocation projects as the local iron ore mine is threatening to swallow the town, as per the Guardian, after cracks emerged in hospitals and school buildings. At least 6,000 are set to move from the sinking town and will also face a gradual rise in their rent, over eight years to a cap of 25 per cent higher than the old rate.&nbsp;

Kiruna church

In 1912, the town became home to the 600-tonne wooden building with no religious symbol which was once described by the vicar, Lena Tjärnberg, as “the living room of the community”. In the next three years, after more than a century, the most beautiful old building in Sweden will be moved. According to the report, the terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people, will be relocated some three km east of the old town to near the local graveyard.&nbsp;

The LKAB

Founded in 1900 the mine in question is run by the Swedish state-owned company LKAB which is also the largest iron ore mine in the world. However, moving forward the company hopes to be at the forefront of Europe’s green industrial revolution and drive autonomy for natural resources, as per the Guardian. In 2021, the company also began producing fossil-free sponge iron which was done by replacing coal with hydrogen produced from green electricity.&nbsp;

Last month, the company also announced that it was sitting on the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in Europe, some of which are important for producing electric car batteries and wind turbines. Subsequently, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister as well as the one in charge of climate and business, Ebba Busch said, “Sweden is literally a goldmine…Europe needs to learn the lesson, to not be so highly dependent on one single country for gas in the way we were (on) Russia.”&nbsp;

Speaking to the reporters from inside the mine, Busch at the time had said that this discovery of rare earth metals also gives Europe a chance to be less dependent on China which is the source of 86 per cent of the global supply, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

How will it affect the local community?

The kind of transformation Kiruna is going through has raised alarms among many as the entire town is going to be relocated due to the mining activity in the region and the risk it poses to the town’s residents including the Sami people. Centuries before the LKAB began their mining operations in the region, the Sami people would herd reindeer throughout the Arctic lands, however, reports suggest that their way of life is under threat.&nbsp;

In addition, the mining and human activities which have consequently led to the fragmentation of the land make reindeer herding ever more difficult while the climate crisis was already threatening the main winter food source for reindeer which is lichen. The Sami people also fear that any disruptions to such an “ancient activity” would compromise their rights to the land, reported the Guardian.

An LKAB spokesperson, Anders Lindberg, said that two Sami villages have already changed their herding routes since the mine opened while the company has become better at listening to the herders’ issues and is working on minimising the impact of their work. However, according to the report, another Sami village named Gabna might have to change their herding routes since the discovery of the new rare earth elements.&nbsp; 
 
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In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people.

In northern Sweden, some 125 miles (200 km) above the Arctic Circle, a town named Kiruna is witnessing subsidence due to the world’s biggest iron ore mine. Among several buildings, the city of 18,000 people is also home to a culturally significant, 600-tonne wooden, cosy terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people. The fate of these structures and homes is intertwined with the state-run company LKAB which is the largest iron ore mine in the world and produces 80 per cent of the European Union’s supply, said a report by the Guardian. What will happen to the town? In the upcoming years, Kiruna is about to witness one of the world’s most radical relocation projects as the local iron ore mine is threatening to swallow the town, as per the Guardian, after cracks emerged in hospitals and school buildings. At least 6,000 are set to move from the sinking town and will also face a gradual rise in their rent, over eight years to a cap of 25 per cent higher than the old rate. Kiruna church In 1912, the town became home to the 600-tonne wooden building with no religious symbol which was once described by the vicar, Lena Tjärnberg, as “the living room of the community”. In the next three years, after more than a century, the most beautiful old building in Sweden will be moved. According to the report, the terracotta-coloured church, designed to resemble a hut of the indigenous Sami people, will be relocated some three km east of the old town to near the local graveyard. The LKAB Founded in 1900 the mine in question is run by the Swedish state-owned company LKAB which is also the largest iron ore mine in the world. However, moving forward the company hopes to be at the forefront of Europe’s green industrial revolution and drive autonomy for natural resources, as per the Guardian. In 2021, the company also began producing fossil-free sponge iron which was done by replacing coal with hydrogen produced from green electricity. Last month, the company also announced that it was sitting on the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in Europe, some of which are important for producing electric car batteries and wind turbines. Subsequently, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister as well as the one in charge of climate and business, Ebba Busch said, “Sweden is literally a goldmine…Europe needs to learn the lesson, to not be so highly dependent on one single country for gas in the way we were (on) Russia.” Speaking to the reporters from inside the mine, Busch at the time had said that this discovery of rare earth metals also gives Europe a chance to be less dependent on China which is the source of 86 per cent of the global supply, reported the Guardian. How will it affect the local community? The kind of transformation Kiruna is going through has raised alarms among many as the entire town is going to be relocated due to the mining activity in the region and the risk it poses to the town’s residents including the Sami people. Centuries before the LKAB began their mining operations in the region, the Sami people would herd reindeer throughout the Arctic lands, however, reports suggest that their way of life is under threat. In addition, the mining and human activities which have consequently led to the fragmentation of the land make reindeer herding ever more difficult while the climate crisis was already threatening the main winter food source for reindeer which is lichen. The Sami people also fear that any disruptions to such an “ancient activity” would compromise their rights to the land, reported the Guardian. An LKAB spokesperson, Anders Lindberg, said that two Sami villages have already changed their herding routes since the mine opened while the company has become better at listening to the herders’ issues and is working on minimising the impact of their work. However, according to the report, another Sami village named Gabna might have to change their herding routes since the discovery of the new rare earth elements. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why this town in Sweden is being moved one building at a time

Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire.&nbsp;Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc. "If you absolutely want to join Nato, you will return these terrorists to us," said Erdogan in his bold remarks.

This poses another major roadblock for Sweden as Türkiye holds the power to influence NATO's decisions and without its nod, Stockholm's bid will continue to remain in a stalemate.&nbsp;

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During his speech, Erdogan said Türkiye might now "give a different response concerning Finland," but added that "Sweden will be shocked". Nordic countries, Sweden and Finland, applied for NATO membership last year as Russia rolled its tanks inside Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;

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Türkiye&nbsp;has demanded from Sweden and it seems like without these demands being met, common ground is hard to come by. "We gave Sweden a list of 120 persons and told them to extradite those terrorists in their country," said Erdogan. "If you don't extradite them, then sorry about that."

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Though Finland also has Kurds, Sweden's Kurdish diaspora is larger. This is playing a significant factor in Nato membership talks which Türkiye has put in a deadlock presently.&nbsp;Things only got worse with the latest Turkish protests after Rasmus Paludan, a politician from the Danish far-right Stram Kurs party, burnt a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.

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Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire. Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc.

Sweden's NATO membership bid, which a couple of months ago seemed slightly possible has now gone completely haywire. Condemning Sweden's refusal to extradite people allegedly tied to Kurdish militant groups, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that Ankara may agree to Finland joining Nato, but will not agree to Sweden's membership of the bloc. "If you absolutely want to join Nato, you will return these terrorists to us," said Erdogan in his bold remarks. This poses another major roadblock for Sweden as Türkiye holds the power to influence NATO's decisions and without its nod, Stockholm's bid will continue to remain in a stalemate. Also Read | 'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin During his speech, Erdogan said Türkiye might now "give a different response concerning Finland," but added that "Sweden will be shocked". Nordic countries, Sweden and Finland, applied for NATO membership last year as Russia rolled its tanks inside Ukrainian territory. Also Read | Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all Türkiye has demanded from Sweden and it seems like without these demands being met, common ground is hard to come by. "We gave Sweden a list of 120 persons and told them to extradite those terrorists in their country," said Erdogan. "If you don't extradite them, then sorry about that." Watch | UK: Nadhim Zahawi sacked as Conservative party chief Though Finland also has Kurds, Sweden's Kurdish diaspora is larger. This is playing a significant factor in Nato membership talks which Türkiye has put in a deadlock presently. Things only got worse with the latest Turkish protests after Rasmus Paludan, a politician from the Danish far-right Stram Kurs party, burnt a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Türkiye sways towards Finland in its NATO membership bid, but says 'Sweden will be shocked'

Turkiye strongly condemned&nbsp;the burning of Quran&nbsp;and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27). 
This comes after a week the leader of the Danish right-wing political party Stram Kurs or Hard Line who also holds citizenship of Sweden, staged a Quran-burning protest in Sweden.&nbsp;

As per media reports, Paludan, on Friday, burned copies of the Quran near a Copenhagen mosque and outside the Turkish embassy in Denmark. He did something similar on January 21 outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm, Sweden which drew widespread condemnation and triggered counter-protests in Turkiye. Additionally, he vowed to do so every Friday until Sweden is admitted into NATO which requires Ankara’s approval.

Turkiye has previously blocked Sweden and neighbouring Finland’s bid to join the military alliance that the two countries have sought following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the membership requires approval from all NATO members, including Ankara, which has indicated that it would block Sweden’s bid partially after Paludan’s stunt in Stockholm last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-pm-kristersson-calls-burning-of-koran-deeply-disrespectful-554906">Swedish PM Kristersson calls burning of Koran ‘deeply disrespectful’</a>

The protests in Sweden also led to counter-protests in Istanbul where at least 200 people gathered outside the Swedish consulate in the city and burned Sweden’s flag in response to Paludan’s burning of the Quran.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry called the Danish politician an “Islamophobic charlatan” and said, “Showing tolerance towards such heinous acts that offend the sensitivities of millions of people living in Europe threatens the practice of peaceful coexistence and provokes racist, xenophobic and anti-Muslim attacks,”&nbsp;reported Al Jazeera. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-cancels-swedish-defence-minister-visit-over-planned-protest-554716">Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader</a>

Additionally, according to Ankara’s state-run Anadolu Agency, the Danish ambassador was summoned to the Turkish foreign ministry where officials “strongly condemned the permission given for this provocative act which clearly constitutes a hate crime”. The media report also said that the ambassador was also told that “Denmark’s attitude is unacceptable”, as Turkiye expected the permission to be revoked.&nbsp;

According to a report by the&nbsp;Associated Press,&nbsp;Paludan was seen with a protective helmet and surrounded by riot police during the recent protest&nbsp;in Copenhagen which he live-streamed on Facebook and said, “This mosque has no place in Denmark”. Subsequently, Paludan was driven away in a police car.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-escalate-between-turkiye-sweden-far-right-politician-burns-quran-in-stockholm-554809">Tensions escalate between Turkiye, Sweden; far-right politician burns Quran in Stockholm</a>

Later, he said, “Once he (President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan) has let Sweden into NATO, I promise that I will not burn the Quran outside the Turkish Embassy. Otherwise, I will do so every Friday at 2 pm,”&nbsp;reported the AP. Aside from the recent incidents, Ankara has also blocked Finland and Sweden’s bid to join NATO demanding a crackdown on Kurdish armed groups and others that it considers “terrorists”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkiye strongly condemned the burning of Quran and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27).

Turkiye strongly condemned the burning of Quran and summoned the Danish ambassador to the Turkish Foreign Ministry as it accused Denmark of endorsing a “hate crime” after Rasmus Paludan, a right-wing activist burned copies of the Muslim holy book on Friday (January 27). This comes after a week the leader of the Danish right-wing political party Stram Kurs or Hard Line who also holds citizenship of Sweden, staged a Quran-burning protest in Sweden. As per media reports, Paludan, on Friday, burned copies of the Quran near a Copenhagen mosque and outside the Turkish embassy in Denmark. He did something similar on January 21 outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm, Sweden which drew widespread condemnation and triggered counter-protests in Turkiye. Additionally, he vowed to do so every Friday until Sweden is admitted into NATO which requires Ankara’s approval. Turkiye has previously blocked Sweden and neighbouring Finland’s bid to join the military alliance that the two countries have sought following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the membership requires approval from all NATO members, including Ankara, which has indicated that it would block Sweden’s bid partially after Paludan’s stunt in Stockholm last week. ALSO READ | Swedish PM Kristersson calls burning of Koran ‘deeply disrespectful’ The protests in Sweden also led to counter-protests in Istanbul where at least 200 people gathered outside the Swedish consulate in the city and burned Sweden’s flag in response to Paludan’s burning of the Quran. In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry called the Danish politician an “Islamophobic charlatan” and said, “Showing tolerance towards such heinous acts that offend the sensitivities of millions of people living in Europe threatens the practice of peaceful coexistence and provokes racist, xenophobic and anti-Muslim attacks,” reported Al Jazeera. ALSO READ | Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader Additionally, according to Ankara’s state-run Anadolu Agency, the Danish ambassador was summoned to the Turkish foreign ministry where officials “strongly condemned the permission given for this provocative act which clearly constitutes a hate crime”. The media report also said that the ambassador was also told that “Denmark’s attitude is unacceptable”, as Turkiye expected the permission to be revoked. According to a report by the Associated Press, Paludan was seen with a protective helmet and surrounded by riot police during the recent protest in Copenhagen which he live-streamed on Facebook and said, “This mosque has no place in Denmark”. Subsequently, Paludan was driven away in a police car. ALSO WATCH | Tensions escalate between Turkiye, Sweden; far-right politician burns Quran in Stockholm Later, he said, “Once he (President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan) has let Sweden into NATO, I promise that I will not burn the Quran outside the Turkish Embassy. Otherwise, I will do so every Friday at 2 pm,” reported the AP. Aside from the recent incidents, Ankara has also blocked Finland and Sweden’s bid to join NATO demanding a crackdown on Kurdish armed groups and others that it considers “terrorists”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkiye summons Danish ambassador after Quran-burning protest outside its embassy, mosque

The US has reiterated its support for Sweden and Finland's NATO entry after Stockholm's recent tensions with Ankara put the accession in apparel.

Finland, Sweden's NATO future in peril; US reiterates support for the countries to join NATO

The Biden administration reiterated its support for both Finland and Sweden joining NATO at the earliest opportunity. Turkiye's president said Sweden should not expect his country's support after a protest near the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm at the weekend.

US reiterates support for Sweden, Finland joining NATO

Tensions between Turkiye and Sweden climaxed when the leader of a Danish far-right political party burned the Quran while protesting in front of Turkey’s embassy in Stockholm. Political Analyst Stephen Golub talks more on Turkiye and Sweden tensions.

Political Analyst Stephen Golub talks more on Turkiye, Sweden tensions

Tensions between Turkiye and Sweden climaxed when the leader of a Danish far-right political party burned the Quran while protesting in front of Turkey’s embassy in Stockholm.

Tensions simmer between Turkiye and Sweden

The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds.

Sweden's bid to join NATO continues to lurk in dark. Amid this stalemate, Sweden gets another jolt as Turkey is now outraged&nbsp;after Danish activist Rasmus Paludan set Quran, the holy book of Islam, on fire outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm on 21 January.

On Monday, Turkish&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn't support Sweden&nbsp;for NATO membership and slammed Rasmus Paludan’s Quran-burning protest, saying it was an insult to everyone, especially to Muslims.

He also criticised Swedish authorities for allowing the demonstration to take place outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm.

“So you will let terror organizations run wild and then expect our support for getting into NATO. That’s not happening,” Erdogan said, referring to Sweden and Finland’s accession bids for the military alliance. He said if Sweden won’t show respect to Turkey or Muslims, then “they won’t see any support from us on the NATO issue.”

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NATO membership approval by Turkey looks&nbsp;grim, and the stalemate, which continues since the Russia-Ukraine war started, seems to hold on for a further while.&nbsp;

While at one end, US continues to urge Turkey to ratify the accession of Sweden and Finland in NATO, Turkey seems relentless in its pursuit. Turkey is extremely important as a NATO member as the bloc requires unanimous approval from all existing member states to ratify any accession of other non-NATO members into it.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

On January 22, while condemning Sweden for “state-supported Islamophobia”, Turkish people carried green flags in a display of their proclamation in their faith. These bitter ripples were seen in the diplomatic engagements as well as Turkey cancelled a planned visit by Swedish defence minister Pal Jonson to Ankara.&nbsp;

However, the friction was no less than a double-edged sword, as protests also erupted in Sweden where demonstrators hung the Turkish President's effigy.&nbsp;

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"Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act. I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said over the Quran-burning incident.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

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The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds.

The chance of Turkey's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership appears thin after the protests following the Quran-burning incident in the Scandinavian nation. Even as most of the NATO membership welcomed the move of Sweden and Finland's accession to NATO, Turkey has been in a diplomatic stand-off with the nations over several issues and has been demanding concessions from Sweden, one of which is the extradition of Kurds. Sweden's bid to join NATO continues to lurk in dark. Amid this stalemate, Sweden gets another jolt as Turkey is now outraged after Danish activist Rasmus Paludan set Quran, the holy book of Islam, on fire outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm on 21 January. On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they wouldn't support Sweden for NATO membership and slammed Rasmus Paludan’s Quran-burning protest, saying it was an insult to everyone, especially to Muslims. He also criticised Swedish authorities for allowing the demonstration to take place outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm. “So you will let terror organizations run wild and then expect our support for getting into NATO. That’s not happening,” Erdogan said, referring to Sweden and Finland’s accession bids for the military alliance. He said if Sweden won’t show respect to Turkey or Muslims, then “they won’t see any support from us on the NATO issue.” ALSO READ | US military captures IS members in Syrian helicopter raid NATO membership approval by Turkey looks grim, and the stalemate, which continues since the Russia-Ukraine war started, seems to hold on for a further while. While at one end, US continues to urge Turkey to ratify the accession of Sweden and Finland in NATO, Turkey seems relentless in its pursuit. Turkey is extremely important as a NATO member as the bloc requires unanimous approval from all existing member states to ratify any accession of other non-NATO members into it. ALSO READ | US: Investigators find six more classified documents at President Biden’s home in Delaware On January 22, while condemning Sweden for “state-supported Islamophobia”, Turkish people carried green flags in a display of their proclamation in their faith. These bitter ripples were seen in the diplomatic engagements as well as Turkey cancelled a planned visit by Swedish defence minister Pal Jonson to Ankara. However, the friction was no less than a double-edged sword, as protests also erupted in Sweden where demonstrators hung the Turkish President's effigy. WATCH | Israel sacks cabinet minister Aryeh Deri as Netanyahu complies with Supreme Court order "Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act. I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said over the Quran-burning incident. (With input from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan

Tension in Sweden and Turkey are worsening just hors after Turkey called off a visit by Sweden's Defence Minister to the country. They called it off over a planned demonstration by a right-wing extremist in Stockholm. Watch the video to know more.

Turkiye-Sweden Clash: Crisis deepens over Quran-burning by Paludan

Tensions escalate between Turkiye, Sweden; far-right politician burns Quran in Stockholm

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said that the burning of a Koran which took place in Stockholm was "deeply disrespectful", as the act increased tensions with Turkiye as the country continues to get its NATO bid cleared from Ankara.&nbsp;A copy of the Koran, the holy book of Islam, was set fire by far-right politician Rasmus Paludan in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm on Saturday.&nbsp;

Expressing its anger over permission granted by the Swedish police to Paludan for carrying out the protest, the Swedish defence minister's visit was cancelled by Ankara and the ambassador of Stockholm was summoned.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-cancels-swedish-defence-minister-visit-over-planned-protest-554716">Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader</a>

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Saturday tweeted: "Freedom of expression is a fundamental part of democracy. But what is legal is not necessarily appropriate. Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act."

“I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, condemning the act, the Turkish foreign ministry stated, “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the vile attack on our holy book ... Permitting this anti-Islam act, which targets Muslims and insults our sacred values, under the guise of freedom of expression is completely unacceptable.”&nbsp;

WATCH | Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO

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The political relations between Turkiye and Sweden have suffered due to the demonstration staged by Paludan as Stockholm has been making efforts to get Turkiye's approval for joining NATO along with Finland.&nbsp;

The NATO bid of Sweden has been stalled amid Ankara's demands of handing over Kurdish activists and preventing any rallies against the leadership of Turkiye.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said that the burning of a Koran which took place in Stockholm was "deeply disrespectful", as the act increased tensions with Turkiye as the country continues to get its NATO bid cleared from Ankara.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said that the burning of a Koran which took place in Stockholm was "deeply disrespectful", as the act increased tensions with Turkiye as the country continues to get its NATO bid cleared from Ankara. A copy of the Koran, the holy book of Islam, was set fire by far-right politician Rasmus Paludan in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm on Saturday. Expressing its anger over permission granted by the Swedish police to Paludan for carrying out the protest, the Swedish defence minister's visit was cancelled by Ankara and the ambassador of Stockholm was summoned. ALSO READ | Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Saturday tweeted: "Freedom of expression is a fundamental part of democracy. But what is legal is not necessarily appropriate. Burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act." “I want to express my sympathy for all Muslims who are offended by what has happened in Stockholm today,” he added. Meanwhile, condemning the act, the Turkish foreign ministry stated, “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the vile attack on our holy book ... Permitting this anti-Islam act, which targets Muslims and insults our sacred values, under the guise of freedom of expression is completely unacceptable.” WATCH | Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO The political relations between Turkiye and Sweden have suffered due to the demonstration staged by Paludan as Stockholm has been making efforts to get Turkiye's approval for joining NATO along with Finland. The NATO bid of Sweden has been stalled amid Ankara's demands of handing over Kurdish activists and preventing any rallies against the leadership of Turkiye. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Swedish PM Kristersson calls burning of Koran ‘deeply disrespectful’

In pics | Politician burns Quran during protests in Sweden draws condemnation from Turkiye

The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm.&nbsp;Turkiye expressed its anger over the permission granted to Rasmus Paludan, a Swedish-Danish politician who had sparked riots with his anti-Islamist actions across Sweden last year, to stage a demonstration in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.&nbsp;

A day after the Swedish ambassador was summoned over the issue, Turkiye announced that the Swedish defence minister's visit aimed at resolving objections raised by Ankara over Sweden's bid to join the NATO alliance was being cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-opens-investigation-into-erdogan-effigy-burning-incident-sweden-calls-it-an-act-of-sabotage-552479">Türkiye opens investigation into Erdogan effigy burning incident in Sweden</a>

"At this point, Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson's visit to Turkiye on January 27 has lost its significance and meaning, so we cancelled the visit," stated Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.

Paludan has claimed that he intends to "burn the Koran", which is a holy book of Islam while holding the protest on Saturday.

In April 2022, the announcement made by Paludan of burning the Koran sparked riots in Sweden.&nbsp;

'Not freedom but modern barbarism'

Turkiye's presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin on Saturday condemned the protests planned by Rasmus Paludan, calling it a "clear crime of hatred".&nbsp;

"Allowing this action despite all our warnings is encouraging hate crimes and Islamophobia," Kalin tweeted.

WATCH | Erdogan says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden &amp; Finland's NATO bid

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"The attack on sacred values is not freedom but modern barbarism,” he added.&nbsp;

On Friday, Sweden's ambassador had been summoned by Turkiye to "condemn this provocative action which is clearly a hate crime — in strongest terms," stated a diplomatic source.&nbsp;

The ambassador was told by the officials of the foreign ministry that the permission granted by Sweden for staging the protest, under the pretext of protecting democratic values, was "unacceptable", added the source.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm.

The Turkish government on Saturday cancelled the upcoming visit of the Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson in the wake of right-wing extremist planning a demonstration in Stockholm. Turkiye expressed its anger over the permission granted to Rasmus Paludan, a Swedish-Danish politician who had sparked riots with his anti-Islamist actions across Sweden last year, to stage a demonstration in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. A day after the Swedish ambassador was summoned over the issue, Turkiye announced that the Swedish defence minister's visit aimed at resolving objections raised by Ankara over Sweden's bid to join the NATO alliance was being cancelled. ALSO READ | Türkiye opens investigation into Erdogan effigy burning incident in Sweden "At this point, Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson's visit to Turkiye on January 27 has lost its significance and meaning, so we cancelled the visit," stated Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar. Paludan has claimed that he intends to "burn the Koran", which is a holy book of Islam while holding the protest on Saturday. In April 2022, the announcement made by Paludan of burning the Koran sparked riots in Sweden. 'Not freedom but modern barbarism' Turkiye's presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin on Saturday condemned the protests planned by Rasmus Paludan, calling it a "clear crime of hatred". "Allowing this action despite all our warnings is encouraging hate crimes and Islamophobia," Kalin tweeted. WATCH | Erdogan says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden & Finland's NATO bid "The attack on sacred values is not freedom but modern barbarism,” he added. On Friday, Sweden's ambassador had been summoned by Turkiye to "condemn this provocative action which is clearly a hate crime — in strongest terms," stated a diplomatic source. The ambassador was told by the officials of the foreign ministry that the permission granted by Sweden for staging the protest, under the pretext of protecting democratic values, was "unacceptable", added the source. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest planned by right-wing leader

Turkiye recently called off a visit by Sweden's defence minister over a planned demonstration by a right-wing extremist in Stockholm. Watch video to know more.

Turkiye cancels Swedish defence minister’s visit over protest permit

Further straining the ties between Türkiye and Sweden, the former on Friday opened up an inquiry into an incident in Stockholm where an effigy of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was burnt by Kurdish elements.

Further straining the ties between Türkiye and Sweden, the former on Friday opened up an inquiry into an incident in Stockholm where an effigy of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was burnt by Kurdish elements. Trying to pacify Ankara, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson released a statement denouncing the Kurds behind the effigy burning and called it an act of 'sabotage' against Sweden's bid to join North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). “People tried to show their views on the Swedish NATO accession through a disgusting way of portraying president Erdogan in almost something looking like an execution," said Kristersson. WATCH | Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO × The Swedish PM was referring to Ankara once again halting its bid to join the powerful military alliance. Türkiye holds Sweden's fortunes in its hands. The Nordic country has been seeking a NATO spot since last year. So far, not much progress has been made on the issue as Ankara has refused to ratify Sweden's application. Erdogan continues to blast Sweden for providing a safe haven to Kurdish 'terrorists'. The Turkish leader is also cross with the Nordic countries for imposing an arms embargo on Ankara after Türkiye's intervention in the Syrian conflict in 2019. Read more: Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid "Until the promises made to our country are kept, we will maintain our principled position. We are closely following whether the promises made by Sweden and Finland are kept or not, and of course, the final decision will be up to our great parliament," Erdogan had said in the country's parliament last year. A few days back, Kristersson said Sweden cannot accept some demands of Erdogan for NATO membership. "From time to time, Türkiye mentions individuals that they want to see extradited from Sweden. To that I have said that those issues are handled within Swedish law," Kristersson said. Read more: Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM Notably, Sweden sped up its process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, last year. It submitted the official application in May but to become a member, all 30 NATO allies need to sign the ratification document. So far, 28 out of 30 countries have signed the document. Only Türkiye and Hungary are yet to put pen to paper. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Türkiye opens investigation into Erdogan effigy burning incident in Sweden

Turkiye has urged Sweden to take steps against terrorism and handover of individuals it considers linked to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), considered a terror group by the EU, US and UK.

Turkiye urges Sweden to take steps against terrorists

In what can raise Europe's hopes of cutting it dependence on China, continent's largest known deposit of rare-earth elements has been found in Sweden. Rare-Earth elements are absolutely essential for the manufacture of electric vehicles and other products that are important in today's tech driven world.

LKAB, the Swedish mining group, said on Thursday (January 12) that the deposit contained more than one million tonnes of rare earth oxides. The deposit was found right next to LKAB's iron ore mine.

"This is the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in our part of the world, and it could become a significant building block for producing the critical raw materials that are absolutely crucial to enable the green transition," LKAB's chief executive Jan Mostrom said in a statement.

"We face a supply problem. Without mines, there can be no electric vehicles," Mostrom added.

Though this deposit is biggest in Europe, it is small compared to global deposits. The US Geological Survey has estimated that this deposit is less than one per cent of 120 million tonnes estimated to be present worldwide.

In 2021, the European Commission said that 98 percent of the rare earths used in the EU were imported from China, prompting Brussels to urge member states to develop their own extraction capacities.

LKAB's find was presented as a delegation from the European Commission visited Sweden, which took over the rotating EU presidency at the start of the year.

"Today, the EU is way too dependent on other countries for these materials," Swedish Energy Minister Ebba Busch told a press conference, pointing specifically to Russia and China.

"This must change. We must take responsibility for the raw material supply needed for the (green) transition," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what can raise Europe's hopes of cutting it dependence on China, continent's largest known deposit of rare-earth elements has been found in Sweden. Rare-Earth elements are absolutely essential for the manufacture of electric vehicles and other products that are important in today's tech driven world.

In what can raise Europe's hopes of cutting it dependence on China, continent's largest known deposit of rare-earth elements has been found in Sweden. Rare-Earth elements are absolutely essential for the manufacture of electric vehicles and other products that are important in today's tech driven world. LKAB, the Swedish mining group, said on Thursday (January 12) that the deposit contained more than one million tonnes of rare earth oxides. The deposit was found right next to LKAB's iron ore mine. "This is the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in our part of the world, and it could become a significant building block for producing the critical raw materials that are absolutely crucial to enable the green transition," LKAB's chief executive Jan Mostrom said in a statement. "We face a supply problem. Without mines, there can be no electric vehicles," Mostrom added. Though this deposit is biggest in Europe, it is small compared to global deposits. The US Geological Survey has estimated that this deposit is less than one per cent of 120 million tonnes estimated to be present worldwide. In 2021, the European Commission said that 98 percent of the rare earths used in the EU were imported from China, prompting Brussels to urge member states to develop their own extraction capacities. LKAB's find was presented as a delegation from the European Commission visited Sweden, which took over the rotating EU presidency at the start of the year. "Today, the EU is way too dependent on other countries for these materials," Swedish Energy Minister Ebba Busch told a press conference, pointing specifically to Russia and China. "This must change. We must take responsibility for the raw material supply needed for the (green) transition," she added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Sweden: One million tonnes of rare earths deposit found, largest in Europe

Swedish mining company LKAB said Thursday (January 12) that they have discovered Europe's largest known deposit of rare earth elements. The mining company noted that the earth elements are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicles.&nbsp;The discovery is deemed a massive boost as it is expected to cut dependence on China. The mining group said that the deposit was right next to its iron ore mine, and it contained more than one million tonnes of rare earth oxides.&nbsp;

In a statement, LKAB's chief executive, Jan Mostrom said: "This is the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in our part of the world."&nbsp;

Mostrom further mentioned in the statement that the "rare earth" could become a significant building block for producing the "critical raw materials" that are absolutely crucial to enable the green transition.&nbsp;

The definition of "rare earth" is—any of a group of chemically similar metallic elements comprising 17 metals: scandium, yttrium, and the fifteen lanthanides. Despite the name, they are not especially rare, but they tend to occur together in nature and are difficult to separate from one another.&nbsp;

Mostrom added that "we face a supply problem. Without mines, there can be no electric vehicles". But the use of "rare earth" in batteries is the subject of much debate.&nbsp;

But will it really help in reducing the dependence on China? Maybe not. The European Commission said in 2021 that 98 per cent of the "rare earth" used in the EU were imported from China. Brussels then urged member states to develop their extraction capacities.&nbsp;

The recent find in Europe is said to be the biggest in Europe. But it remains small on a global scale. Overall, it represents less than one per cent of the 120 million tonnes estimated worldwide by the US Geological Survey.&nbsp;

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Swedish mining company LKAB said Thursday (January 12) that they have discovered Europe's largest known deposit of rare earth elements. The mining company noted that the earth elements are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicles.

Swedish mining company LKAB said Thursday (January 12) that they have discovered Europe's largest known deposit of rare earth elements. The mining company noted that the earth elements are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicles. The discovery is deemed a massive boost as it is expected to cut dependence on China. The mining group said that the deposit was right next to its iron ore mine, and it contained more than one million tonnes of rare earth oxides. In a statement, LKAB's chief executive, Jan Mostrom said: "This is the largest known deposit of rare earth elements in our part of the world." Mostrom further mentioned in the statement that the "rare earth" could become a significant building block for producing the "critical raw materials" that are absolutely crucial to enable the green transition. The definition of "rare earth" is—any of a group of chemically similar metallic elements comprising 17 metals: scandium, yttrium, and the fifteen lanthanides. Despite the name, they are not especially rare, but they tend to occur together in nature and are difficult to separate from one another. Mostrom added that "we face a supply problem. Without mines, there can be no electric vehicles". But the use of "rare earth" in batteries is the subject of much debate. But will it really help in reducing the dependence on China? Maybe not. The European Commission said in 2021 that 98 per cent of the "rare earth" used in the EU were imported from China. Brussels then urged member states to develop their extraction capacities. The recent find in Europe is said to be the biggest in Europe. But it remains small on a global scale. Overall, it represents less than one per cent of the 120 million tonnes estimated worldwide by the US Geological Survey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swedish company finds Europe's largest 'rare earth' deposit, to cut dependence on China

Sweden is confident that Turkey will approve its application to join the NATO military alliance, but it will not meet all the conditions that Ankara has set for its support, Sweden’s prime minister has said.

Sweden awaits Turkiye's approval to join NATO

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted.&nbsp;"Turkiye has confirmed that we have done what we said we would do, but it also says that it wants things that we can't, that we don't want to, give it," said PM Ulf Kristersson, while speaking at a security conference where NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg was also present.&nbsp;

"We are convinced that Turkiye will make a decision, we just don't know when," he stated, further saying that the decision will depend on Turkiye's internal politics along with "Sweden's capacity to show its seriousness".&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-russia-continue-discussion-on-gas-payment-deferral-says-energy-minister-550280">Turkiye, Russia continue discussion on gas payment deferral, says energy minister</a>

The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February.&nbsp;

However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants.&nbsp;

The major demands of Turkiye involve the participation of Sweden because the nation shares robust relations with the Kurdish diaspora.

WATCH|&nbsp;Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks

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The foreign minister of Finland is not in a hurry to join NATO and is ready to wait for Sweden to get the green light for joining the alliance.

"Finland is not in such a rush to join NATO that we can't wait until Sweden gets the green light," said Pekka Haavisto, while addressing reporters at Sunday's conference.&nbsp;

Turkiye had praised Sweden in late December for giving a response to its security concerns but emphasised that more efforts were needed to win Ankara's support for getting the stalled NATO membership bid sanctioned for Stockholm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted.

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Sunday said that the demands made by Turkiye, which has kept the NATO membership bids of Finland and Sweden blocked for months, cannot be accepted. "Turkiye has confirmed that we have done what we said we would do, but it also says that it wants things that we can't, that we don't want to, give it," said PM Ulf Kristersson, while speaking at a security conference where NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg was also present. "We are convinced that Turkiye will make a decision, we just don't know when," he stated, further saying that the decision will depend on Turkiye's internal politics along with "Sweden's capacity to show its seriousness". ALSO READ| Turkiye, Russia continue discussion on gas payment deferral, says energy minister The military non-alignment of a decade was broken by Sweden and Finland as they applied for joining NATO, the US-led defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. However, their bids have been blocked by Turkiye which insists that both countries must join Ankara in its fight against banned Kurdish militants. The major demands of Turkiye involve the participation of Sweden because the nation shares robust relations with the Kurdish diaspora. WATCH| Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks The foreign minister of Finland is not in a hurry to join NATO and is ready to wait for Sweden to get the green light for joining the alliance. "Finland is not in such a rush to join NATO that we can't wait until Sweden gets the green light," said Pekka Haavisto, while addressing reporters at Sunday's conference. Turkiye had praised Sweden in late December for giving a response to its security concerns but emphasised that more efforts were needed to win Ankara's support for getting the stalled NATO membership bid sanctioned for Stockholm. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden cannot accept some demands of Turkiye for NATO membership: PM

Under the Instagram handle 'crossfitpriest', Swedish hospital chaplain Oskar Arngarden shares fitness and spiritual guidance with his 30,000 followers, with a view of helping them heal body, mind and soul.

WION Fineprint: Sweden's 'Crossfit Priest' wins hearts on Instagram

Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.S. green subsidies. The biggest concerns for Stockholm as it assumes leadership of the 27-nation bloc at this turbulent moment might be how new dynamics in its own domestic politics play out in the European arena.

After eight years of centre-left dominance, the conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's cabinet, which was founded in October, is reliant on an unusual coalition with the far-right Sweden Democrats to win a majority in parliament.

Despite rejecting previous calls for Sweden to leave the EU, the populist party's uncompromising position on issues like immigration appears certain to spark domestic conflict and reduce the amount of leeway for manoeuvre.

There have been "plenty of lovely words" from the Swedish government on its plans, according to Helene Fritzon, a member of the opposition Social Democrats in the European Parliament.

Stockholm has underlined climate change and defending EU "basic values" in the face of disagreements with Hungary and Poland as priority, in addition to Russia's aggressiveness and trade.

"But there is great concern when, in practice, it is the Sweden Democrats who have the whip hand," Fritzon said.&nbsp;

Others, though, are less concerned about the possibility that the far-right party may interfere with Stockholm's moment in the limelight on its European tour.

The Sweden Democrats must formally be notified of any decisions made regarding the EU as a result of the agreement reached to form the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.

Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.S. green subsidies. The biggest concerns for Stockholm as it assumes leadership of the 27-nation bloc at this turbulent moment might be how new dynamics in its own domestic politics play out in the European arena. After eight years of centre-left dominance, the conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's cabinet, which was founded in October, is reliant on an unusual coalition with the far-right Sweden Democrats to win a majority in parliament. Despite rejecting previous calls for Sweden to leave the EU, the populist party's uncompromising position on issues like immigration appears certain to spark domestic conflict and reduce the amount of leeway for manoeuvre. There have been "plenty of lovely words" from the Swedish government on its plans, according to Helene Fritzon, a member of the opposition Social Democrats in the European Parliament. Stockholm has underlined climate change and defending EU "basic values" in the face of disagreements with Hungary and Poland as priority, in addition to Russia's aggressiveness and trade. "But there is great concern when, in practice, it is the Sweden Democrats who have the whip hand," Fritzon said. Others, though, are less concerned about the possibility that the far-right party may interfere with Stockholm's moment in the limelight on its European tour. The Sweden Democrats must formally be notified of any decisions made regarding the EU as a result of the agreement reached to form the government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sweden takes over rotating EU presidency amid turbulent times, concerns over domestic politics

People only imagine living like the queens and kings from Disney movies in their castle made of snow. Well Sweden is making dreams come true. At this time of the year, an ice hotel is carved into Perfection for visitors to stay in while it lasts.

Sweden: The 'ice hotel' is carved from snow and ice every year in winters

In the latest,&nbsp;Hundreds of people took to the streets in Beijing and Shanghai on Sunday to protest against China's zero-Covid policy in a rare outburst&nbsp;of public anger against the state regime. In connection with this, Tibet has also been suffering under China's stringent zero-Covid policy. In Iran,&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been&nbsp;detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship." In the realm of climate change, activist, Greta Thunberg has made headlines by suing her native Sweden over climate inaction.&nbsp;

For more, click on the headlines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-stringent-zero-covid-policy-sparks-protests-across-the-country-537832">China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country</a>

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Protests against China’s stringent COVID-19 restrictions erupted across the country including the financial hub Shanghai where hundreds of people hit the streets and reportedly chanted, “Down with the Chinese Communist Party, down with Xi Jinping”. This comes after a deadly fire in a high-rise building in China’s Xinjiang region on Thursday&nbsp;killed at least 10 people as curbs allegedly obstructed escape and rescue operations.

I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-announces-state-of-emergency-after-ischia-landslide-537935">taly Ischia landslide: State of emergency announced; death toll rises to two</a>

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Italy has declared a state of emergency following the Ischia landslide that has reportedly killed two people, while another ten&nbsp;are still missing.&nbsp;At the conclusion of the emergency cabinet meeting that imposed the state of emergency, Nello Musumeci, the minister for civil protection, said that the first tranche of the two million euro relief funds had been released.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-bank-manager-sacked-for-providing-service-to-unveiled-woman-537886">Iran: Bank manager sacked for providing service to woman without veil</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d946aeb-f1ad-422a-b996-a5f531de74bd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2022-11-26t092553z2021087rc26tx9p2qtvrtrmadp3soccer-worldcup-wal-irn-reportjpg-1166149-1669543436.jpg" />

An Iranian bank manager who served a lady who was not wearing a head covering has been sacked as protests over the requirement to cover one's head rock the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;The 80 million&nbsp;nation has a legislation requiring women to cover their heads, necks, and hair, which is upheld by the morality police.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibetans-face-torture-abuse-under-chinas-zero-covid-restrictions-537914">Tibetans face torture, abuse under China's zero-Covid restrictions</a>

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Local Tibetans' lives are a living misery as a result of China's zero-Covid policy. Tibetans are subjected to inhumane Covid restrictions that leave them abused, traumatised, harassed, and powerless because they aren't even permitted to express their outrage or make contact with their family outside Tibet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-and-600-other-activists-sue-sweden-over-climate-inaction-537900">Greta Thunberg, 600 other environmental activists sue Sweden over climate inaction</a>

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Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famous for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation,&nbsp;joined hundreds of other youths in suing the Swedish government for what they claim is inaction on climate change on Friday in Stockholm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-detained-khameneis-niece-after-she-criticised-regime-confirms-brother-537931">Iran detained Khamenei's niece after she criticised regime, confirms brother</a>

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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been&nbsp;detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video in which she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship."&nbsp;She was previously imprisoned in Iran and hails from a family line with a history of criticising the country's Islamic rulers.

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-foreign-minister-vladimir-makei-dies-at-the-age-of-64-537798">Belarus foreign minister Vladimir Makei dies at the age of 64</a></div>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Vladimir Makei, the long-standing foreign minister of Belarus has passed away suddenly at the age of 64, the state news agency Belta reported on Saturday (November 26).&nbsp;Makei, who held his post since 2012, was supposed to meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in Minsk on Monday.&nbsp;</div>

In the latest, Hundreds of people took to the streets in Beijing and Shanghai on Sunday to protest against China's zero-Covid policy in a rare outburst of public anger against the state regime.

In the latest, Hundreds of people took to the streets in Beijing and Shanghai on Sunday to protest against China's zero-Covid policy in a rare outburst of public anger against the state regime. In connection with this, Tibet has also been suffering under China's stringent zero-Covid policy. In Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship." In the realm of climate change, activist, Greta Thunberg has made headlines by suing her native Sweden over climate inaction. For more, click on the headlines. China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country Protests against China’s stringent COVID-19 restrictions erupted across the country including the financial hub Shanghai where hundreds of people hit the streets and reportedly chanted, “Down with the Chinese Communist Party, down with Xi Jinping”. This comes after a deadly fire in a high-rise building in China’s Xinjiang region on Thursday killed at least 10 people as curbs allegedly obstructed escape and rescue operations. Italy Ischia landslide: State of emergency announced; death toll rises to two Italy has declared a state of emergency following the Ischia landslide that has reportedly killed two people, while another ten are still missing. At the conclusion of the emergency cabinet meeting that imposed the state of emergency, Nello Musumeci, the minister for civil protection, said that the first tranche of the two million euro relief funds had been released. Iran: Bank manager sacked for providing service to woman without veil An Iranian bank manager who served a lady who was not wearing a head covering has been sacked as protests over the requirement to cover one's head rock the Islamic Republic. The 80 million nation has a legislation requiring women to cover their heads, necks, and hair, which is upheld by the morality police. Tibetans face torture, abuse under China's zero-Covid restrictions Local Tibetans' lives are a living misery as a result of China's zero-Covid policy. Tibetans are subjected to inhumane Covid restrictions that leave them abused, traumatised, harassed, and powerless because they aren't even permitted to express their outrage or make contact with their family outside Tibet. Greta Thunberg, 600 other environmental activists sue Sweden over climate inaction Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famous for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation, joined hundreds of other youths in suing the Swedish government for what they claim is inaction on climate change on Friday in Stockholm. Iran detained Khamenei's niece after she criticised regime, confirms brother Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video in which she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship." She was previously imprisoned in Iran and hails from a family line with a history of criticising the country's Islamic rulers. WATCH | US, NATO scramble to supply arms to Ukraine, the west tries to refill emptied arsenals WATCH Pakistan's Interior Minister says, 'PTI won't be able to dissolve Punjab Assembly' WATCH | Taiwan local elections: China reacts to ruling party's loss as Tsai quits as DPP Party Chief Belarus foreign minister Vladimir Makei dies at the age of 64 Vladimir Makei, the long-standing foreign minister of Belarus has passed away suddenly at the age of 64, the state news agency Belta reported on Saturday (November 26). Makei, who held his post since 2012, was supposed to meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in Minsk on Monday.

Top 10 world news: Anti-lockdown protests spread in China, Iran detains Khamenei's niece, and more

Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famous for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation,&nbsp;joined hundreds of other youths in suing the Swedish government for what they claim is inaction on climate change on Friday in Stockholm.

“Today on Black Friday is the perfect day to sue the state over its insufficient climate policies,” Thunberg said on Twitter. “So that’s what we did. See you in court!”

The case was planned and submitted by the Swedish youth-led group Aurora, and the 19-year-old was one of more than 600 young people to sign on. To file the lawsuit, the group marched to Stockholm District Court on Friday.

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We are suing the Swedish state, because climate action is a legal duty.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aurora?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aurora</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateTrials?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateTrials</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UprootTheSystem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UprootTheSystem</a> <a href="https://t.co/sOSQX8hzjJ">pic.twitter.com/sOSQX8hzjJ</a>
— Auroramålet (@auroramalet) <a href="https://twitter.com/auroramalet/status/1596406831332704257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“Sweden has never treated the climate crisis like a crisis,” Aurora spokesperson Anton Foley said in a statement as&nbsp;reported by&nbsp;The Associated Press. “Sweden is failing in its responsibility and breaking the law.”

Earlier this month, during the COP27 summit hosted by the United Nations, world leaders gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to tackle the climate problem.

WION Climate Tracker: Climate activists target Berlin airport

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Some campaigners bemoaned the lack of progress made in the battle to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, despite the fact that the summit ended on Sunday with an agreement to pay impoverished nations for harm caused by climate change.

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“Without any binding commitments to rapidly and immediately reduce greenhouse gases, the world stands no chance to deliver on the 1,5°C limit, and by doing so minimising risks of uprooting the life supporting systems we all depend on and endangering countless human lives,” Thunberg said in a tweet on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famous for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation, joined hundreds of other youths in suing the Swedish government for what they claim is inaction on climate change on Friday in Stockholm.

Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famous for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation, joined hundreds of other youths in suing the Swedish government for what they claim is inaction on climate change on Friday in Stockholm. “Today on Black Friday is the perfect day to sue the state over its insufficient climate policies,” Thunberg said on Twitter. “So that’s what we did. See you in court!” The case was planned and submitted by the Swedish youth-led group Aurora, and the 19-year-old was one of more than 600 young people to sign on. To file the lawsuit, the group marched to Stockholm District Court on Friday. We are suing the Swedish state, because climate action is a legal duty.#Aurora #ClimateTrials #UprootTheSystem pic.twitter.com/sOSQX8hzjJ — Auroramålet (@auroramalet) November 26, 2022 × “Sweden has never treated the climate crisis like a crisis,” Aurora spokesperson Anton Foley said in a statement as reported by The Associated Press. “Sweden is failing in its responsibility and breaking the law.” Earlier this month, during the COP27 summit hosted by the United Nations, world leaders gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to tackle the climate problem. WION Climate Tracker: Climate activists target Berlin airport Some campaigners bemoaned the lack of progress made in the battle to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, despite the fact that the summit ended on Sunday with an agreement to pay impoverished nations for harm caused by climate change. Also read | NASA’s Orion spacecraft has entered lunar orbit, to return on December 11 “Without any binding commitments to rapidly and immediately reduce greenhouse gases, the world stands no chance to deliver on the 1,5°C limit, and by doing so minimising risks of uprooting the life supporting systems we all depend on and endangering countless human lives,” Thunberg said in a tweet on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Greta Thunberg, 600 other environmental activists sue Sweden over climate inaction

On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation.&nbsp;

While the country’s security agency, SAPO, gave few details about the case, media reports citing witnesses described elite police arriving in two Black Hawk helicopters to arrest the&nbsp; couple that had allegedly spied for Russia, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;According to the court documents, the two had been gathering intelligence since 2013.&nbsp;

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The police spokesperson also said that the two arrested were not connected to any other ongoing investigations and asserted, “Sweden must not be a platform for foreign powers to conduct unlawful intelligence activities, either against Sweden or against other countries.” They added that several houses were searched during the investigation and a third person had also been brought in for questioning by the police.&nbsp;

Sharing details of the operation, head of the Swedish police national operative department, Stefan Hector said that the raid&nbsp;took place in the business south of Stockholm and took under a minute. He added that they had to be swift with their approach so that the suspects did not have time to “flush anything in the toilet or destroy computers.”

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Furthermore, the Swedish Security Service in a statement, said that the main suspect had allegedly committed, “gross illegal intelligence activities against Sweden and against a foreign power.” However, they did not identify the second country which was allegedly spied on. The spy agency also said that the investigation has been going on for some time now.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-refuses-to-ratify-sweden-and-finlands-nato-membership-bid-521606">Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid</a>

Meanwhile, media reports suggest that the duo was a married couple in their 60s. They were reportedly Russians who entered Sweden in the late 90s, said the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. This comes days after two Iranian brothers were charged for allegedly spying for Russia in Sweden. One of the suspects had worked in the Swedish intelligence agency and the duo was charged with spying for Moscow’s military intelligence for nearly a decade.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation.

On Tuesday, authorities in Sweden said that they had detained two people — one on the suspicion of espionage and the other for supposedly being an accomplice with the suspected crimes, in Stockholm area in a dramatic predawn operation. While the country’s security agency, SAPO, gave few details about the case, media reports citing witnesses described elite police arriving in two Black Hawk helicopters to arrest the couple that had allegedly spied for Russia, reported the Associated Press. According to the court documents, the two had been gathering intelligence since 2013. ALSO READ: One killed, 22 injured after multiple explosions near bus stops in Jerusalem The police spokesperson also said that the two arrested were not connected to any other ongoing investigations and asserted, “Sweden must not be a platform for foreign powers to conduct unlawful intelligence activities, either against Sweden or against other countries.” They added that several houses were searched during the investigation and a third person had also been brought in for questioning by the police. Sharing details of the operation, head of the Swedish police national operative department, Stefan Hector said that the raid took place in the business south of Stockholm and took under a minute. He added that they had to be swift with their approach so that the suspects did not have time to “flush anything in the toilet or destroy computers.” ALSO WATCH | Nord Stream sabotage: European leaders see Russia as main suspect Furthermore, the Swedish Security Service in a statement, said that the main suspect had allegedly committed, “gross illegal intelligence activities against Sweden and against a foreign power.” However, they did not identify the second country which was allegedly spied on. The spy agency also said that the investigation has been going on for some time now. ALSO READ: Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid Meanwhile, media reports suggest that the duo was a married couple in their 60s. They were reportedly Russians who entered Sweden in the late 90s, said the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. This comes days after two Iranian brothers were charged for allegedly spying for Russia in Sweden. One of the suspects had worked in the Swedish intelligence agency and the duo was charged with spying for Moscow’s military intelligence for nearly a decade. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sweden arrests two suspect spies for ‘gross illegal intelligence activities’ in dramatic predawn raid

A couple has been arrested by the Swedish security forces in Stockholm as the married couple in their 60s are suspected of spying for Russia, according to authorities local media reported. Reportedly, the couple belongs to Russia and had moved to Sweden shortly before 2000.

Sweden: Couple arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia; third suspect bought in for questioning

Sweden: Couple arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia; third suspect bought in

The Swedish authorities say that the damages in the Nord Stream pipeline are caused by a sabotage. They have found traces of explosions at the site. Sweden and Denmark are investigating the damages caused to the pipeline which connects Russia and Germany through the Baltic Sea.

Nord Stream sabotage: European leaders see Russia as main suspect

From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar

In a rare discovery, Swedish maritime archaeologists have found the wreck of Applet, the long-lost sister ship of Vasa, a 17th-century warship. The discovery has elated the archaeologists who believe that Applet could provide more answers regarding the history of Swedish ship making.

In a rare discovery, Swedish maritime archaeologists have found the wreck of Applet, the long-lost sister ship of Vasa, a 17th-century warship. The discovery has elated the archaeologists who believe that Applet could provide more answers regarding the history of Swedish ship making. “With Applet, we can add another key piece of the puzzle in the development of Swedish shipbuilding,” said Jim Hansson, a maritime archaeologist at the Swedish Museum of Wrecks. Another archeologist added the discovery of the ship will "help us understand how the large warships evolved, from the unstable Vasa to seaworthy behemoths that could control the Baltic Sea." According to the museum, the 225-foot Vasa sunk on its maiden voyage in 1628. The shipbuilder who built Vasa also constructed Applet which was launched a year later. The archeologists found that the ship had an uncanny resemblance to Vasa. Although most of the ship had been destroyed, the hull was preserved up to the ground deck and parts that had tapered off to the ground showed gunports on two levels. "Our pulses raced when we saw how similar the wreck was to Vasa," added Hansson. Notably, Vasa was salvaged from the sea bed in 1961 and has been on display at the Vasa Museum in Stockholm ever since. In pics - Ruins of hidden 3,400-year-old city found after severe drought in Iraq As reported by WION, earlier this month, a local Baton Rouge resident in Louisana had also unearthed the wreck of a historical 19th-century ship lying at the seabed of the Mississippi river which has shrunk to record levels due to severe drought across the US Midwest. “This past Sunday I was out here looking and realized the rest of the shore had washed away and there was an entire ship there. I immediately texted friends and was like, 'holy moly, I think I found a ship, a sunken ship!'" said the man who discovered the ship. Read more: Louisiana man discovers a 19th-century boat as Mississippi river runs dry (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wreckage of the sister ship of 17th-century Vesa warship discovered in Sweden

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