President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe.

Deputy press secretary to the President, Dr Nimish Rustagi said, "The President looks forward to having an engagement with his counterparts and also engaging with the business community and students of these countries".&nbsp;

While he will be meeting with the top leadership of all the 3 countries, he will also be engaging with the students at universities of these countries and its business leadership.

Asked if Kashmir will be discussed during the meetings with the political leadership, secretary west Gitesh Sarma in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "When leaders meet, there is a structure in which regional, international, global multilateral issues of national concerns are discussed. We use this opportunity to brief each other. This is a very good setting to hear at the highest level what our perspective is".

On terror, "all 3 countries are very sympathetic to India and this year in the context of Pulwama attack, their sympathies have been with India. They are aware that there is a need to work closely with India", he said.

PM Modi's first leg of the visit will be to Iceland where the focus will be on dealing with climate change. He will deliver a lecture at the University of Iceland in the capital city Reykjaví on "India-Iceland partnership and towards making a greener planet". 80 per cent of Iceland works on geothermal energy, which can help India in its renewable energy programme.

The visit to Iceland is significant given the fact that it is the chair of the Arctic Council and is involved in the Arctic Circle Cooperation. New Delhi is an observer at the Arctic Council and is keen on increasing its engagement with that part of the world. This will be the first time when the president visits a Nordic country.

This will be followed by a visit to Switzerland from September 11 to 15. President Kovind will unveil a bust of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi in Villeneuve. Gandhi had visited the place in 1931. Kovind will also hold an address the University of Bern on the topic "India-Switzerland, new age partnership, connecting Himalayas with Alps".

On the issue of black money, both the countries started the automatic exchange of financial account information with India started receiving information from Sept 1 with respect to all financial accounts held by Indian residents in Switzerland. The President will visit Slovenia from September 15 to 19.

Interestingly, Bollywood is keen to tap the scenic beauty of these countries. While Switzerland is well known as a location to shoot Bollywood movies, Shah Rukh Khan's movie Dilwale's song 'Gerua' was shot in the south coast of Iceland.

This is for the eleventh time when the President will go abroad after taking charge. This will be his second foreign visit during the third year of his tenure. &nbsp;

President Kovind has been on a state visit to 23 countries in the 11 visits. After the 3-nation tour, the number of his foreign visits will go up to 26. Other European countries he has visited include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Croatia.

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe.

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe. Deputy press secretary to the President, Dr Nimish Rustagi said, "The President looks forward to having an engagement with his counterparts and also engaging with the business community and students of these countries". While he will be meeting with the top leadership of all the 3 countries, he will also be engaging with the students at universities of these countries and its business leadership. Asked if Kashmir will be discussed during the meetings with the political leadership, secretary west Gitesh Sarma in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "When leaders meet, there is a structure in which regional, international, global multilateral issues of national concerns are discussed. We use this opportunity to brief each other. This is a very good setting to hear at the highest level what our perspective is". On terror, "all 3 countries are very sympathetic to India and this year in the context of Pulwama attack, their sympathies have been with India. They are aware that there is a need to work closely with India", he said. PM Modi's first leg of the visit will be to Iceland where the focus will be on dealing with climate change. He will deliver a lecture at the University of Iceland in the capital city Reykjaví on "India-Iceland partnership and towards making a greener planet". 80 per cent of Iceland works on geothermal energy, which can help India in its renewable energy programme. The visit to Iceland is significant given the fact that it is the chair of the Arctic Council and is involved in the Arctic Circle Cooperation. New Delhi is an observer at the Arctic Council and is keen on increasing its engagement with that part of the world. This will be the first time when the president visits a Nordic country. This will be followed by a visit to Switzerland from September 11 to 15. President Kovind will unveil a bust of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi in Villeneuve. Gandhi had visited the place in 1931. Kovind will also hold an address the University of Bern on the topic "India-Switzerland, new age partnership, connecting Himalayas with Alps". On the issue of black money, both the countries started the automatic exchange of financial account information with India started receiving information from Sept 1 with respect to all financial accounts held by Indian residents in Switzerland. The President will visit Slovenia from September 15 to 19. Interestingly, Bollywood is keen to tap the scenic beauty of these countries. While Switzerland is well known as a location to shoot Bollywood movies, Shah Rukh Khan's movie Dilwale's song 'Gerua' was shot in the south coast of Iceland. This is for the eleventh time when the President will go abroad after taking charge. This will be his second foreign visit during the third year of his tenure. President Kovind has been on a state visit to 23 countries in the 11 visits. After the 3-nation tour, the number of his foreign visits will go up to 26. Other European countries he has visited include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Croatia.

President Kovind to visit Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia with focus on climate change

Switzerland's Belinda Bencic thrashed Croatian Donna Vekic 7-6, 6-3 in the quarterfinal match of the ongoing US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium here on Wednesday.

Bencic outclassed her opponent in two straight sets to enter the semifinals of the tournament.

The first set ended up on a tie-breaker and Bencic claimed the set by 7-6(5).

Vekic could not make a comeback in the second set and hence lost the match.&nbsp;

Switzerland's Belinda Bencic thrashed Croatian Donna Vekic 7-6, 6-3 in the quarterfinal match of the ongoing US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium here on Wednesday. Bencic outclassed her opponent in two straight sets to enter the semifinals of the tournament.

Switzerland's Belinda Bencic thrashed Croatian Donna Vekic 7-6, 6-3 in the quarterfinal match of the ongoing US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium here on Wednesday. Bencic outclassed her opponent in two straight sets to enter the semifinals of the tournament. The first set ended up on a tie-breaker and Bencic claimed the set by 7-6(5). Vekic could not make a comeback in the second set and hence lost the match.

US Open: Belinda Bencic thrashes Donna Vekic to reach semifinals

The Defence Ministry has suspended all business dealings with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-registers-corruption-case-in-pilatus-aircraft-deal-searches-sanjay-bhandaris-office-residence-229436">Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft </a>Limited for one year following charges of payment of kickbacks in the sale of 75 basic trainer aircraft for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satellites-spy-planes-roped-in-to-locate-indian-air-forces-missing-an-32-aircraft-224202">Indian Air Force</a>.

The order issued by the vigilance department of the ministry on July 12 said that business dealings with Pilatus with remain suspended for one year or until further orders for violation of the Pre-Contract Integrity Pact (PCIP).

It referred to the ongoing investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation, Delhi Police, Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax Department into "corrupt practices, unfair means, and illegal activities" by the company.

Under the PCIP of November 12, 2010, Pilatus had agreed that while presenting the bid or during pre-contract negotiation or before signing the contract, it shall disclose any payments made, committed or intended to be made to officials of the buyer or their family members, agents, brokers or any intermediaries in connection with the contract and the details of the services agreed upon such payments.

The Defence Ministry had received reports of engagement of agents by Pilatus for assistance in the sale of the basic trainer aircraft for the IAF on payment of a commission, according to the vigilance department order.

The ministry had written a letter to the company in December 2016 asking it to offer comments on the report along with details of any such engagement.

In its response submitted in January 2017, the company admitted engaging Offset India Solutions, a firm belonging to fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, for the successful resolution, approval or implementation of Pilatus offset proposals, plans and obligations.

Following the response by Pilatus, the ministry issued a show cause notice to the company and demanded an explanation. The reply by the Swiss firm in June 2017 was not found to be satisfactory.

The CBI registered a regular case on June 19 this year under sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code. The investigations by the ED and I-T Department are also underway.

The CBI filed the case against unknown officials of the IAF, Ministry of Defence, arms dealer Bhandari and Pilatus Aircraft Limited for alleged irregularities in the procurement of 75 basic trainer aircraft.

The agency has alleged that kickbacks to the tune of Rs 339 crore were paid in the 2012 deal. 
&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry has suspended all business dealings with Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft Limited for one year following charges of payment of kickbacks in the sale of 75 basic trainer aircraft for the Indian Air Force.

The Defence Ministry has suspended all business dealings with Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft Limited for one year following charges of payment of kickbacks in the sale of 75 basic trainer aircraft for the Indian Air Force. The order issued by the vigilance department of the ministry on July 12 said that business dealings with Pilatus with remain suspended for one year or until further orders for violation of the Pre-Contract Integrity Pact (PCIP). It referred to the ongoing investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation, Delhi Police, Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax Department into "corrupt practices, unfair means, and illegal activities" by the company. Under the PCIP of November 12, 2010, Pilatus had agreed that while presenting the bid or during pre-contract negotiation or before signing the contract, it shall disclose any payments made, committed or intended to be made to officials of the buyer or their family members, agents, brokers or any intermediaries in connection with the contract and the details of the services agreed upon such payments. The Defence Ministry had received reports of engagement of agents by Pilatus for assistance in the sale of the basic trainer aircraft for the IAF on payment of a commission, according to the vigilance department order. The ministry had written a letter to the company in December 2016 asking it to offer comments on the report along with details of any such engagement. In its response submitted in January 2017, the company admitted engaging Offset India Solutions, a firm belonging to fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, for the successful resolution, approval or implementation of Pilatus offset proposals, plans and obligations. Following the response by Pilatus, the ministry issued a show cause notice to the company and demanded an explanation. The reply by the Swiss firm in June 2017 was not found to be satisfactory. The CBI registered a regular case on June 19 this year under sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code. The investigations by the ED and I-T Department are also underway. The CBI filed the case against unknown officials of the IAF, Ministry of Defence, arms dealer Bhandari and Pilatus Aircraft Limited for alleged irregularities in the procurement of 75 basic trainer aircraft. The agency has alleged that kickbacks to the tune of Rs 339 crore were paid in the 2012 deal.

Defence Ministry suspends business dealings with Pilatus aircraft company over alleged corruption

UN ambassadors from 37 countries, including Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, have released a letter defending China's "contribution to the international <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-has-destroyed-graveyard-of-uighur-community-historian-226704">human rights cause</a>" in the Xinjiang region, in direct response to Western criticism earlier this week.

On July 10, a group of 22 countries, including the member states of the European Union, joined by Japan, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, issued a statement urging China to stop the mass detention and arbitrary incarceration of ethnic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uighur-wives-forced-to-drink-alcohol-and-eat-pork-in-chinas-re-education-camps-214757">Uighurs</a> and other Muslims in its western Xinjiang region, The New York Times reported.

On Friday a diverse group of states -- including Russia, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Algeria and North Korea -- replied on Beijing`s behalf, claiming China had faced terrorism, separatism and religious extremism in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-spies-tourists-in-xinjiang-232866&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjCnbaFrLHjAhUISY8KHQG-Bz4QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1hm9yJMhvV9x9Z2dKXq8Fk">Xinjiang</a>, the vast northwest region that is mainly Muslim.

But through counterterrorism measures and vocational training, these states said, China had restored peace and security there.

"We note with appreciation that human rights are respected and protected in China in the process of counterterrorism and de-radicalisation," they said in the letter to the UN.

China denounced the West`s letter as "distortions" and "hypocrisy" of the Western media, and insisted that the region`s people "feel much better and much more happy and secure.

"Chinese diplomats further suggested that China`s experience in tackling terrorism could even be usefully shared with other countries.

China has been condemned internationally for setting up detention camps, which it describes as "education training centres" helping to stamp out "extremism" and give people new skills.

UN ambassadors from 37 countries, including Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, have released a letter defending China's "contribution to the international human rights cause" in the Xinjiang region, in direct response to Western criticism earlier this week.

UN ambassadors from 37 countries, including Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, have released a letter defending China's "contribution to the international human rights cause" in the Xinjiang region, in direct response to Western criticism earlier this week. On July 10, a group of 22 countries, including the member states of the European Union, joined by Japan, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, issued a statement urging China to stop the mass detention and arbitrary incarceration of ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims in its western Xinjiang region, The New York Times reported. On Friday a diverse group of states -- including Russia, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Algeria and North Korea -- replied on Beijing`s behalf, claiming China had faced terrorism, separatism and religious extremism in Xinjiang, the vast northwest region that is mainly Muslim. But through counterterrorism measures and vocational training, these states said, China had restored peace and security there. "We note with appreciation that human rights are respected and protected in China in the process of counterterrorism and de-radicalisation," they said in the letter to the UN. China denounced the West`s letter as "distortions" and "hypocrisy" of the Western media, and insisted that the region`s people "feel much better and much more happy and secure. "Chinese diplomats further suggested that China`s experience in tackling terrorism could even be usefully shared with other countries. China has been condemned internationally for setting up detention camps, which it describes as "education training centres" helping to stamp out "extremism" and give people new skills.

37 countries, including Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, defend China in UN letter over Xinjiang

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-confirms-new-laws-will-not-be-implemented-at-nations-league-224205&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWxcuw-afjAhXVmeYKHVSsAKEQFjABegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ZMjbLwNsE_mvjZDONjryK">UEFA</a> said on Tuesday.

In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">Euro 2020</a>, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition.

European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations.

The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications.

The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday.

The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">tournament </a>draw takes place on November&nbsp;30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday. In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament. Euro 2020, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition. European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations. The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications. The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday. The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final tournament draw takes place on November 30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

UEFA: Record 14 million tickets requested for Euro 2020

Countries including France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and Portugal are experiencing a massive heat wave that began on Wednesday.

Spain on high alert as heatwave sweeps across the country

Fraudsters posing as police officers stole 3.3 million euros ($3.7 million) from a Swiss woman through an elaborate scam that involved a fake plot implicating the victim's bank, Swiss media reported Wednesday.

A female suspect first contacted the victim in Zurich in November, posing as an officer who claimed to be investigating a network of thieves, according to the ATS news agency.&nbsp;

The woman was told that employees at her bank were planning to rob her.

The suspects asked the woman to keep details of their investigation secret.&nbsp;

They then instructed her to transfer her assets to a new account through a series of payments, in order to protect her savings from being stolen by her own bank.&nbsp;

A police investigation into the scam, which cost the woman 3.6 million Swiss francs, is ongoing, ATS said.&nbsp;

Fraudsters posing as police officers stole 3.3 million euros ($3.7 million) from a Swiss woman through an elaborate scam that involved a fake plot implicating the victim's bank, Swiss media reported Wednesday.

Fraudsters posing as police officers stole 3.3 million euros ($3.7 million) from a Swiss woman through an elaborate scam that involved a fake plot implicating the victim's bank, Swiss media reported Wednesday. A female suspect first contacted the victim in Zurich in November, posing as an officer who claimed to be investigating a network of thieves, according to the ATS news agency. The woman was told that employees at her bank were planning to rob her. The suspects asked the woman to keep details of their investigation secret. They then instructed her to transfer her assets to a new account through a series of payments, in order to protect her savings from being stolen by her own bank. A police investigation into the scam, which cost the woman 3.6 million Swiss francs, is ongoing, ATS said.

Fake cops steal $3.7 million from Swiss woman

Swiss authorities are in process of sharing details of at least 50 Indian nationals having accounts in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/switzerland-steps-up-process-to-share-banking-information-11-indians-get-notices-in-a-day-221821">Switzerland-based banks</a>, with regulatory and enforcement agencies in the two countries tightening their noose on individuals suspected to have amassed illicit wealth.

These individuals largely include businessmen associated with companies, including the dummy ones, in sectors ranging from real estate, financial services, technology and telecom to paints, home decoration, textiles, engineering goods, gems and jewellery.

Officials involved in the process of mutual administrative assistance between the two countries said.

Switzerland has been striving hard for the past few years to shed a long-standing perception of it being a safe haven for black money, while the issue has been a politically sensitive one in India as well.

When the Modi government first came to power in 2014, it had termed the crackdown on the black money, including those allegedly parked in Swiss banks, as a key focus area.&nbsp;

Since then, the two countries have strengthened their framework for the exchange of information in cases of financial wrongdoings, including by signing the global automatic exchange of information framework.

The two countries have also strengthened their bilateral pact on this front and the economic considerations for boosting the bilateral economic ties have further helped increase the cooperation when it comes to bringing to book the people with dubious records, especially in amassing illicit wealth.

Citing the federal gazette notifications issued by the Swiss government to the concerned individuals, the officials said at least 50 Indian nationals have been issued notices in the past few weeks giving them one final opportunity to appeal against proposed sharing of their details with the Indian authorities.

Some of these notices have followed after the preliminary appeals by the concerned clients of Swiss banks have already been rejected due to inadequate supporting facts and documents, leaving a limited chance of their further pleas getting heard, officials said.

They said the sharing of details of Indian clients of Swiss banks with dubious records, showing suspected illegalities in amassing of funds deposited there, has been a continuing process in the recent months.

While details of more than 100 Indians nationals have been shared in the past one year by the Swiss government with the Indian authorities, there is a high chance that a large majority of the cases currently under scrutiny would result in the administrative assistance being provided in the coming months, officials said.

Under the Swiss laws, foreign clients of Swiss banks are given an opportunity to appeal against proposed sharing of their details within 30 days (only 10 days in some cases) after a country with a mutual assistance treaty, or party to the multilateral information exchange framework, seeks the details while giving sufficient proof of suspected financial wrongdoings.

While the Swiss government federal gazette notifications are made public when a foreign client is given an appealing opportunity, in some cases their full names are redacted due to some secrecy clauses and only a few details such as their initials, date of birth and the nationality are made public.

An analysis of such weekly notifications issued since the beginning of this year shows that Indian nationals have figured among these notices virtually every week, though full names have been redacted in a majority of the cases.

The full names that have been made public in recent weeks in the Swiss government federal gazette include Krishna Bhagwan Ramchand, Potluri Rajamohan Rao, Kalpesh Harshad Kinariwala, Kuldip Singh Dhingra, Bhaskaran Nalini, Lalitaben Chimanbhai Patel, Sanjay Dalmia, Pankaj Kumar Saraogi, Anil Bhardwaj, Tharani Renu Tikamdas, Mahesh Tikamdas Tharani, Savani Vijay Kanaiyalal, Bhaskaran Tharur, Kalpeshbhai Patel Mahendrabhai, Ajoy Kumar and Dinesh Kumar Himatsingka, Ratan Singh Chowdhury and Kathotia Rakesh Kumar.

However, there are many more cases where only initials have been disclosed for Indian nationals and these include NMA, MMA, PAS, RAS, ABKI, APS, ASBK, MLA, ADS, RPN, MCS, JNV, JD, AD, UG, YA, DM, SLS, UL, SS, RN, VL, UL, OPL, PM, PKK, BLS, SKN and JKJ.

Several of these persons and their companies are said to be based in Kolkata, Gujarat, Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai.

While a large number of Indians have been issued notices in recent weeks with Switzerland stepping up its process to share details of such individuals, many more such notices are in the offing in coming weeks as India has sought details about a large number of Indian clients of Swiss banks who are suspected to have indulged in illicit financial activities.

These include people whose names figured in the HSBC and Panama lists, as also those being probed by the Income Tax Department and the Enforcement Directorate among other agencies.

While Switzerland has always denied being a safe haven for black money, it has begun sharing details in recent years with several countries including India after submission of evidence about financial and tax-related wrongdoings of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/55-businessmen-of-nepal-have-stashed-billions-in-swiss-banks-cij-190961">Swiss bank</a> clients.

Besides, a new global framework of automatic information exchange is now in place, which Switzerland's State Secretariat for International Finance (SIF) believes will increase transparency and prevent cross-border tax evasion.

Swiss authorities are in process of sharing details of at least 50 Indian nationals having accounts in Switzerland-based banks, with regulatory and enforcement agencies in the two countries tightening their noose on individuals suspected to have amassed illicit wealth.

Swiss authorities are in process of sharing details of at least 50 Indian nationals having accounts in Switzerland-based banks, with regulatory and enforcement agencies in the two countries tightening their noose on individuals suspected to have amassed illicit wealth. These individuals largely include businessmen associated with companies, including the dummy ones, in sectors ranging from real estate, financial services, technology and telecom to paints, home decoration, textiles, engineering goods, gems and jewellery. Officials involved in the process of mutual administrative assistance between the two countries said. Switzerland has been striving hard for the past few years to shed a long-standing perception of it being a safe haven for black money, while the issue has been a politically sensitive one in India as well. When the Modi government first came to power in 2014, it had termed the crackdown on the black money, including those allegedly parked in Swiss banks, as a key focus area. Since then, the two countries have strengthened their framework for the exchange of information in cases of financial wrongdoings, including by signing the global automatic exchange of information framework. The two countries have also strengthened their bilateral pact on this front and the economic considerations for boosting the bilateral economic ties have further helped increase the cooperation when it comes to bringing to book the people with dubious records, especially in amassing illicit wealth. Citing the federal gazette notifications issued by the Swiss government to the concerned individuals, the officials said at least 50 Indian nationals have been issued notices in the past few weeks giving them one final opportunity to appeal against proposed sharing of their details with the Indian authorities. Some of these notices have followed after the preliminary appeals by the concerned clients of Swiss banks have already been rejected due to inadequate supporting facts and documents, leaving a limited chance of their further pleas getting heard, officials said. They said the sharing of details of Indian clients of Swiss banks with dubious records, showing suspected illegalities in amassing of funds deposited there, has been a continuing process in the recent months. While details of more than 100 Indians nationals have been shared in the past one year by the Swiss government with the Indian authorities, there is a high chance that a large majority of the cases currently under scrutiny would result in the administrative assistance being provided in the coming months, officials said. Under the Swiss laws, foreign clients of Swiss banks are given an opportunity to appeal against proposed sharing of their details within 30 days (only 10 days in some cases) after a country with a mutual assistance treaty, or party to the multilateral information exchange framework, seeks the details while giving sufficient proof of suspected financial wrongdoings. While the Swiss government federal gazette notifications are made public when a foreign client is given an appealing opportunity, in some cases their full names are redacted due to some secrecy clauses and only a few details such as their initials, date of birth and the nationality are made public. An analysis of such weekly notifications issued since the beginning of this year shows that Indian nationals have figured among these notices virtually every week, though full names have been redacted in a majority of the cases. The full names that have been made public in recent weeks in the Swiss government federal gazette include Krishna Bhagwan Ramchand, Potluri Rajamohan Rao, Kalpesh Harshad Kinariwala, Kuldip Singh Dhingra, Bhaskaran Nalini, Lalitaben Chimanbhai Patel, Sanjay Dalmia, Pankaj Kumar Saraogi, Anil Bhardwaj, Tharani Renu Tikamdas, Mahesh Tikamdas Tharani, Savani Vijay Kanaiyalal, Bhaskaran Tharur, Kalpeshbhai Patel Mahendrabhai, Ajoy Kumar and Dinesh Kumar Himatsingka, Ratan Singh Chowdhury and Kathotia Rakesh Kumar. However, there are many more cases where only initials have been disclosed for Indian nationals and these include NMA, MMA, PAS, RAS, ABKI, APS, ASBK, MLA, ADS, RPN, MCS, JNV, JD, AD, UG, YA, DM, SLS, UL, SS, RN, VL, UL, OPL, PM, PKK, BLS, SKN and JKJ. Several of these persons and their companies are said to be based in Kolkata, Gujarat, Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai. While a large number of Indians have been issued notices in recent weeks with Switzerland stepping up its process to share details of such individuals, many more such notices are in the offing in coming weeks as India has sought details about a large number of Indian clients of Swiss banks who are suspected to have indulged in illicit financial activities. These include people whose names figured in the HSBC and Panama lists, as also those being probed by the Income Tax Department and the Enforcement Directorate among other agencies. While Switzerland has always denied being a safe haven for black money, it has begun sharing details in recent years with several countries including India after submission of evidence about financial and tax-related wrongdoings of the Swiss bank clients. Besides, a new global framework of automatic information exchange is now in place, which Switzerland's State Secretariat for International Finance (SIF) believes will increase transparency and prevent cross-border tax evasion.

Black money chase: Noose tightens on Swiss accounts; 50 Indians get notices

Thousands of women across Switzerland held a strike to highlight the poor record on female rights., recreating the passion of the last such walkout in 1991. Watch this video to know more.

Gender pay gap widens in Switzerland

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-just-ronaldo-were-going-to-face-great-portugal-says-netherlands-virgil-van-dijk-225197">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>.

"I think we had a very good game. In my opinion, we were the better team but the difference is they have Ronaldo,'' Xhaka said.&nbsp;

''It's unbelievable what a player he is. He's one of the best players in the world," Goal.com quoted Xhaka as saying.

Portugal bigwig Ronaldo stunned the Switzerland side as he scored a hat-trick during the match to help his side secure a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">spot in the final.</a>

"He's special because he knows always where you have to go and to be. I think we had him in our hands but, in the end, he scored three times and we lost the game. I think we can be proud of how we play, against a very good team," he added while praising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Ronaldo</a>.

Xhaka also praised the 34-year-old for his 'unbelievable quality'.

"Those two are clear of the rest. If you play at 34 on this level you deserve a lot of respect. He shows in all the games - international and with Juventus - that he has unbelievable quality," Xhaka said.

Switzerland will now face England for the third position in the Nations League on June 9.

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had Cristiano Ronaldo.

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had Cristiano Ronaldo. "I think we had a very good game. In my opinion, we were the better team but the difference is they have Ronaldo,'' Xhaka said. ''It's unbelievable what a player he is. He's one of the best players in the world," Goal.com quoted Xhaka as saying. Portugal bigwig Ronaldo stunned the Switzerland side as he scored a hat-trick during the match to help his side secure a spot in the final. "He's special because he knows always where you have to go and to be. I think we had him in our hands but, in the end, he scored three times and we lost the game. I think we can be proud of how we play, against a very good team," he added while praising Ronaldo. Xhaka also praised the 34-year-old for his 'unbelievable quality'. "Those two are clear of the rest. If you play at 34 on this level you deserve a lot of respect. He shows in all the games - international and with Juventus - that he has unbelievable quality," Xhaka said. Switzerland will now face England for the third position in the Nations League on June 9.

Switzerland were better team, only difference was Portugal had Ronaldo, says Xhaka after facing defeat

Evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick, including two late goals, to give Portugal a 3-1 win over Switzerland in a Nations League semi-final featuring an extraordinary VAR incident on Wednesday.

Ronaldo blasted Portugal ahead from a free kick in the 25th minute, his first goal for his country for nearly a year, but the Swiss equalised with a penalty after halftime which will raise more questions over the use of the VAR system.

After a largely anonymous second half, Ronaldo&nbsp;suddenly sprang to life to by scoring twice in the last three minutes to complete the 53rd hat-trick of his career and the seventh for his country, showing that even at 34 he is always a threat.

His goals -- his first for his country since last year's World Cup in Russia - rescued Portugal after the Swiss had dominated for the final half hour and threatened to snatch a shock win.

"There's no adjective to describe him," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. "He's a genius. You can be a genius in art, and in sculpture and he is a football genius."

"It was an intense match, very hard-fought, against a very well-organised Swiss team," he added.

Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic was left to rue a missed opportunity.

"We had the chance to get a second but didn't take it. We got outnumbered at the back and conceded. Their top player made the difference," he said.

Switzerland created some early openings while Ronaldo missed a good early chance for Portugal when he dragged his shot wide after the Swiss gave away possession in defence.

But there was no mistake in the 25th minute when he went down under a challenge from Kevin Mbabu on the edge of the area, got up and sent his free kick fizzing past a wrong-footed Sommer and into the net.

Switzerland got back into the match in extraordinary circumstances after halftime

Swiss midfielder Steven Zuber went down under a challenge from Nelson Semedo as he ran onto Xherdan Shaqiri's through ball

and appealed for a penalty but play continued.

Portugal then went straight down the other end and were awarded a penalty for a foul on Silva.

The referee, after consulting the video assistant, then decided to review the Swiss incident on the pitchside monitor and awarded them the spot kick.

The incident seemed to unsettle Portugal and the Swiss took control with Shaqiri, looking to make an impression after getting limited playing time for Liverpool this season, at the centre of their best moves.

Steven Zuber and Haris Seferovic both missed chances and the Swiss were then destroyed by Ronaldo at his most deadly

Bernardo Silva produced a low cross from the right and Ronaldo swept the ball home with his first touch to rescue his side in the 88th minute.

Two minutes later, he collected the ball on the counter-attack, twisted past his marker and curled the ball into the far corner for his 88th international goal in 157 appearances.

Evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick, including two late goals, to give Portugal a 3-1 win over Switzerland in a Nations League semi-final featuring an extraordinary VAR incident on Wednesday.

Evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick, including two late goals, to give Portugal a 3-1 win over Switzerland in a Nations League semi-final featuring an extraordinary VAR incident on Wednesday. Ronaldo blasted Portugal ahead from a free kick in the 25th minute, his first goal for his country for nearly a year, but the Swiss equalised with a penalty after halftime which will raise more questions over the use of the VAR system. After a largely anonymous second half, Ronaldo suddenly sprang to life to by scoring twice in the last three minutes to complete the 53rd hat-trick of his career and the seventh for his country, showing that even at 34 he is always a threat. His goals -- his first for his country since last year's World Cup in Russia - rescued Portugal after the Swiss had dominated for the final half hour and threatened to snatch a shock win. "There's no adjective to describe him," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. "He's a genius. You can be a genius in art, and in sculpture and he is a football genius." "It was an intense match, very hard-fought, against a very well-organised Swiss team," he added. Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic was left to rue a missed opportunity. "We had the chance to get a second but didn't take it. We got outnumbered at the back and conceded. Their top player made the difference," he said. Switzerland created some early openings while Ronaldo missed a good early chance for Portugal when he dragged his shot wide after the Swiss gave away possession in defence. But there was no mistake in the 25th minute when he went down under a challenge from Kevin Mbabu on the edge of the area, got up and sent his free kick fizzing past a wrong-footed Sommer and into the net. Switzerland got back into the match in extraordinary circumstances after halftime Swiss midfielder Steven Zuber went down under a challenge from Nelson Semedo as he ran onto Xherdan Shaqiri's through ball and appealed for a penalty but play continued. Portugal then went straight down the other end and were awarded a penalty for a foul on Silva. The referee, after consulting the video assistant, then decided to review the Swiss incident on the pitchside monitor and awarded them the spot kick. The incident seemed to unsettle Portugal and the Swiss took control with Shaqiri, looking to make an impression after getting limited playing time for Liverpool this season, at the centre of their best moves. Steven Zuber and Haris Seferovic both missed chances and the Swiss were then destroyed by Ronaldo at his most deadly Bernardo Silva produced a low cross from the right and Ronaldo swept the ball home with his first touch to rescue his side in the 88th minute. Two minutes later, he collected the ball on the counter-attack, twisted past his marker and curled the ball into the far corner for his 88th international goal in 157 appearances.

Ronaldo's hat-trick against Switzerland sends Portugal to Nations League final

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Switzerland about its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-too-close-to-chinese-government-to-be-trusted-us-223309">close business ties with China</a>, telling a newspaper the neutral European country was exposing itself to privacy breaches if it let Chinese companies help build its infrastructure.

US President Donald Trump’s administration has told allies not to use <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-hopes-canada-understands-consequences-of-siding-with-us-223210">Huawei Technologies Co Ltd’s</a> next-generation mobile technology and equipment because of concerns it could allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence.

“The Swiss attach great importance to the protection of their privacy, and that for a long time,” Pompeo told the Neue Zuercher Zeitung. “But if you operate with Chinese technology, you supply your information to the Chinese Communist Party. There is no privacy.”

In the interview published on Tuesday, Pompeo praised Switzerland - which acts as a diplomatic conduit between the United States and Iran - as a country with deep democratic traditions, the rule of law and a similar view of how the world should work.

“But we also work together on important security issues,” he said of his four-day trip to Switzerland that ended on Monday.

Swiss President Ueli Mauer met Trump at the White House last month and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in April.

Maurer said in Washington that Switzerland had chosen a different path in dealing with China, preferring to advocate for its values directly with Beijing.

He said Switzerland had banned all foreign companies from providing services or hardware for its critical infrastructure, but Huawei was present in the private commercial market.

Trump, on an official visit to London, is expected on Tuesday to demand that Prime Minister Theresa May’s successor ban Huawei from UK 5G networks.

Security minister Ben Wallace said Britain has not made a final decision on whether to use Huawei technology. 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Switzerland about its close business ties with China, telling a newspaper the neutral European country was exposing itself to privacy breaches if it let Chinese companies help build its infrastructure.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Switzerland about its close business ties with China, telling a newspaper the neutral European country was exposing itself to privacy breaches if it let Chinese companies help build its infrastructure. US President Donald Trump’s administration has told allies not to use Huawei Technologies Co Ltd’s next-generation mobile technology and equipment because of concerns it could allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence. “The Swiss attach great importance to the protection of their privacy, and that for a long time,” Pompeo told the Neue Zuercher Zeitung. “But if you operate with Chinese technology, you supply your information to the Chinese Communist Party. There is no privacy.” In the interview published on Tuesday, Pompeo praised Switzerland - which acts as a diplomatic conduit between the United States and Iran - as a country with deep democratic traditions, the rule of law and a similar view of how the world should work. “But we also work together on important security issues,” he said of his four-day trip to Switzerland that ended on Monday. Swiss President Ueli Mauer met Trump at the White House last month and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in April. Maurer said in Washington that Switzerland had chosen a different path in dealing with China, preferring to advocate for its values directly with Beijing. He said Switzerland had banned all foreign companies from providing services or hardware for its critical infrastructure, but Huawei was present in the private commercial market. Trump, on an official visit to London, is expected on Tuesday to demand that Prime Minister Theresa May’s successor ban Huawei from UK 5G networks. Security minister Ben Wallace said Britain has not made a final decision on whether to use Huawei technology.

Huawei row: No privacy if Switzerland uses Chinese technology, warns Pompeo

Switzerland will sign an accord backing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-cpec-is-used-to-traffic-young-pakistani-women-to-china-210874">China's Belt and Road Initiative(BRI)</a> when President Ueli Maurer visits China this month, cementing ties with a major trading partner as other Western countries view the gargantuan project with scepticism.

President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-politicians-praise-china-proposed-belt-and-road-initiative-210416"> Xi Jinping's new Silk Road</a> initiative has been controversial particularly in Washington, which views it as a way to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt, a charge Beijing rejects.

Locked in a trade war with China, the United States has been particularly critical of Italy's decision to sign up to the plan, the first for a G7 nation. Others in the West are less keen to jump aboard, although many have kept an open mind.

Neutral Switzerland sees the BRI accord to be signed during Maurer's trip as a way to support economic development, especially in central Asia.

"The aim of the memorandum is for both parties to intensify cooperation on trade, investment and project financing in third markets along the routes of the Belt and Road Initiative", the finance ministry said on Tuesday without giving more details.

Maurer, who is also finance minister, will attend the second Belt and Road summit next week which is expected to draw around 40 foreign leaders.

The first summit for Belt and Road - which envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending - was in 2017.

Xi has also invited Maurer for a state visit on April 28 and 29, his ministry said. Swiss business and financial leaders will accompany Maurer on his eight-day China trip.

Switzerland, one of the first Western states to recognise the People's Republic, was the first country in continental Europe to reach a free trade agreement with China, its largest trade partner after the European Union and United States.

Xi made a state visit to Switzerland in 2017.

Switzerland will sign an accord backing China's Belt and Road Initiative(BRI) when President Ueli Maurer visits China this month, cementing ties with a major trading partner as other Western countries view the gargantuan project with scepticism.

Switzerland will sign an accord backing China's Belt and Road Initiative(BRI) when President Ueli Maurer visits China this month, cementing ties with a major trading partner as other Western countries view the gargantuan project with scepticism. President Xi Jinping's new Silk Road initiative has been controversial particularly in Washington, which views it as a way to spread Chinese influence abroad and saddle countries with unsustainable debt, a charge Beijing rejects. Locked in a trade war with China, the United States has been particularly critical of Italy's decision to sign up to the plan, the first for a G7 nation. Others in the West are less keen to jump aboard, although many have kept an open mind. Neutral Switzerland sees the BRI accord to be signed during Maurer's trip as a way to support economic development, especially in central Asia. "The aim of the memorandum is for both parties to intensify cooperation on trade, investment and project financing in third markets along the routes of the Belt and Road Initiative", the finance ministry said on Tuesday without giving more details. Maurer, who is also finance minister, will attend the second Belt and Road summit next week which is expected to draw around 40 foreign leaders. The first summit for Belt and Road - which envisions rebuilding the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond with massive infrastructure spending - was in 2017. Xi has also invited Maurer for a state visit on April 28 and 29, his ministry said. Swiss business and financial leaders will accompany Maurer on his eight-day China trip. Switzerland, one of the first Western states to recognise the People's Republic, was the first country in continental Europe to reach a free trade agreement with China, its largest trade partner after the European Union and United States. Xi made a state visit to Switzerland in 2017.

Will sign accord backing China's Belt and Road Initiative: Switzerland

Iran has appointed Majid Takht Ravanchi as its new envoy to the United Nations, state media reported on Tuesday.

Ravanchi has also served as ambassador to Switzerland. He is currently Iranian deputy foreign minister for European and American affairs.

The 61-year-old was among the negotiators who helped Tehran to reach a nuclear agreement in 2015 with the United States, Britain, France and other countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-designates-irans-revolutionary-guards-as-a-terrorist-organisation-donald-trump-208837">Also read:&nbsp;US designates Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, says Donald Trump</a>

The pact curbed Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for relief from international sanctions. However, US President Donald Trump last year pulled the United States out of the deal, which was concluded before he took office, saying it favoured Iran.

Other co-signatories are still trying to salvage the deal and shield Iran from US sanctions. President Hassan Rouhani, who could be weakened by damage to Iran’s economy if the deal falls apart, warned other signatories on Tuesday to honour their pledges before Tehran's patience runs out.

Trump on Monday designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a foreign terrorist organisation. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-calls-us-blacklisting-of-guards-a-vicious-move-209028">Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> termed this move as ''vicious''.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Iran has appointed Majid Takht Ravanchi as its new envoy to the United Nations, state media reported on Tuesday. Ravanchi has also served as ambassador to Switzerland.

Iran has appointed Majid Takht Ravanchi as its new envoy to the United Nations, state media reported on Tuesday. Ravanchi has also served as ambassador to Switzerland. He is currently Iranian deputy foreign minister for European and American affairs. The 61-year-old was among the negotiators who helped Tehran to reach a nuclear agreement in 2015 with the United States, Britain, France and other countries. Also read: US designates Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, says Donald Trump The pact curbed Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for relief from international sanctions. However, US President Donald Trump last year pulled the United States out of the deal, which was concluded before he took office, saying it favoured Iran. Other co-signatories are still trying to salvage the deal and shield Iran from US sanctions. President Hassan Rouhani, who could be weakened by damage to Iran’s economy if the deal falls apart, warned other signatories on Tuesday to honour their pledges before Tehran's patience runs out. Trump on Monday designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a foreign terrorist organisation. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei termed this move as ''vicious''. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran appoints Majid Takht Ravanchi as new UN ambassador

Saurav Ghosal scripted history by becoming the first Indian male squash player to enter the top 10 in the latest PSA world rankings.

Meanwhile, Indian women squash players - Joshna Chinappa and Dipika Pallikal - had earlier reached top-10 in the world rankings.

Ghosal, who made it to the quarter-finals of the 2018-2019 PSA World Championships in Chicago, USA for the first time in his career, has moved up two places to a career-high ranking of 10.

He was also a quarter-finalist at the prestigious Grasshopper Cup in Zurich, Switzerland.

Egypt's world champion Ali Farag, meanwhile, maintains his position at the top of the ladder.

Saurav Ghosal scripted history by becoming the first Indian male squash player to enter the top 10 in the latest PSA world rankings. Meanwhile, Indian women squash players - Joshna Chinappa and Dipika Pallikal - had earlier reached top-10 in the world rankings.

Saurav Ghosal scripted history by becoming the first Indian male squash player to enter the top 10 in the latest PSA world rankings. Meanwhile, Indian women squash players - Joshna Chinappa and Dipika Pallikal - had earlier reached top-10 in the world rankings. Ghosal, who made it to the quarter-finals of the 2018-2019 PSA World Championships in Chicago, USA for the first time in his career, has moved up two places to a career-high ranking of 10. He was also a quarter-finalist at the prestigious Grasshopper Cup in Zurich, Switzerland. Egypt's world champion Ali Farag, meanwhile, maintains his position at the top of the ladder.

Saurav Ghosal becomes first Indian male squash player to enter top 10 in PSA rankings

Thousands of students and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-at-anti-bouteflika-protest-in-algerian-capital-202213">public transport workers went on strike</a> in Algeria Sunday against Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, as the presidency confirmed the ailing leader had returned from Switzerland.

The plane carrying Bouteflika from Geneva -- where he has been in the hospital for the past two weeks -- landed at Boufarik military base south of Algiers late afternoon, several Algerian media outlets said.

The Ennahar TV channel broadcast pictures of a convoy of black cars, preceded by motorbikes with flashing lights, speeding towards Algiers on the main road that was closed to other traffic.

The head of state's return ahead of April 18 elections came as protest strikes shut down the capital's public transport system and many schools across the country.

The 82-year-old president, who suffered a stroke in 2013, left Algeria on February 24 for what the presidency on Sunday once again described as "routine medical checks".

Demonstrations against Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term have attracted tens of thousands of people in Algiers and across the country for each of the last three Fridays, with smaller demonstrations taking place on other days.

Algeria's army chief and deputy defence minister, Ahmed Gaid Salah, was silent on the upcoming elections Sunday but said the military and the people share "the same values and principles".

Together they hold "a unique vision of the future of Algeria," said Salah, considered to be within Bouteflika's inner circle, in an address to students from military schools.

Following the breakout of protests, the army chief earlier this month pledged to guarantee Algeria's security and criticised those he said want to return to the "painful years" of Algeria's 1992-2002 civil war.

Shops shut&nbsp; 
No trains, metros, trams or buses left or circulated within Algiers, employees of the companies running those networks told AFP on Sunday morning.

Around 1,000 high school students gathered peacefully in central Algiers, while others marched in cities elsewhere.

Bouteflika has been in power since 1999 and his rare public appearances since his stroke have been in a wheelchair.

Most shops in the capital's commercial centre were closed on Sunday, an AFP journalist said.

Residents said shops were also closed in the poor district of Bab el Oued and in the suburb of Zeralda, but they were open in other areas.

As the protest strike continued, students and teachers occupied a number of universities, defying the education ministry's ruling a day earlier to bring holidays forward.

'Free and democratic!'&nbsp; 
Students have been at the heart of protests and a decision to start spring break on Sunday -- instead of March 21 -- will affect many whose family homes are far from campuses which are set to close over the holidays.

"Algeria free and democratic!" cried students at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene in Algiers, where around 2,000 gathered to rally against the holiday decision and to keep up their protest against Bouteflika.

The opposition to the president shows that "the Bouteflika system is broken and that it will break up", said former prime minister Ali Benflis, in an interview with France's Le Journal du Dimanche newspaper.

But while businesses were shut and protests continued in Algiers, in the second city Oran all the shops in the commercial centre opened.

"We don't have the impression that there's a general strike," a journalist for Algerian media said from the city.

Another local reporter said half of the businesses were closed in Constantine, Algeria's third city, adding that high school students had taken to the streets there.

"Everything is closed" in the city of Bejaia in the Kabylie region, Achour Idir, a trade unionist in the education sector, told AFP.

He said the city was in "total paralysis" due to high schools, colleges, government offices and businesses closing.

Local news site TSA said strikes by workers had brought sugar and oil production "to a halt" at the privately-owned Cevital firm, and also hit several sectors at state-owned oil giant Sonatrach.

Thousands of students and public transport workers went on strike in Algeria Sunday against Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, as the presidency confirmed the ailing leader had returned from Switzerland.

Thousands of students and public transport workers went on strike in Algeria Sunday against Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, as the presidency confirmed the ailing leader had returned from Switzerland. The plane carrying Bouteflika from Geneva -- where he has been in the hospital for the past two weeks -- landed at Boufarik military base south of Algiers late afternoon, several Algerian media outlets said. The Ennahar TV channel broadcast pictures of a convoy of black cars, preceded by motorbikes with flashing lights, speeding towards Algiers on the main road that was closed to other traffic. The head of state's return ahead of April 18 elections came as protest strikes shut down the capital's public transport system and many schools across the country. The 82-year-old president, who suffered a stroke in 2013, left Algeria on February 24 for what the presidency on Sunday once again described as "routine medical checks". Demonstrations against Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term have attracted tens of thousands of people in Algiers and across the country for each of the last three Fridays, with smaller demonstrations taking place on other days. Algeria's army chief and deputy defence minister, Ahmed Gaid Salah, was silent on the upcoming elections Sunday but said the military and the people share "the same values and principles". Together they hold "a unique vision of the future of Algeria," said Salah, considered to be within Bouteflika's inner circle, in an address to students from military schools. Following the breakout of protests, the army chief earlier this month pledged to guarantee Algeria's security and criticised those he said want to return to the "painful years" of Algeria's 1992-2002 civil war. Shops shut No trains, metros, trams or buses left or circulated within Algiers, employees of the companies running those networks told AFP on Sunday morning. Around 1,000 high school students gathered peacefully in central Algiers, while others marched in cities elsewhere. Bouteflika has been in power since 1999 and his rare public appearances since his stroke have been in a wheelchair. Most shops in the capital's commercial centre were closed on Sunday, an AFP journalist said. Residents said shops were also closed in the poor district of Bab el Oued and in the suburb of Zeralda, but they were open in other areas. As the protest strike continued, students and teachers occupied a number of universities, defying the education ministry's ruling a day earlier to bring holidays forward. 'Free and democratic!' Students have been at the heart of protests and a decision to start spring break on Sunday -- instead of March 21 -- will affect many whose family homes are far from campuses which are set to close over the holidays. "Algeria free and democratic!" cried students at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene in Algiers, where around 2,000 gathered to rally against the holiday decision and to keep up their protest against Bouteflika. The opposition to the president shows that "the Bouteflika system is broken and that it will break up", said former prime minister Ali Benflis, in an interview with France's Le Journal du Dimanche newspaper. But while businesses were shut and protests continued in Algiers, in the second city Oran all the shops in the commercial centre opened. "We don't have the impression that there's a general strike," a journalist for Algerian media said from the city. Another local reporter said half of the businesses were closed in Constantine, Algeria's third city, adding that high school students had taken to the streets there. "Everything is closed" in the city of Bejaia in the Kabylie region, Achour Idir, a trade unionist in the education sector, told AFP. He said the city was in "total paralysis" due to high schools, colleges, government offices and businesses closing. Local news site TSA said strikes by workers had brought sugar and oil production "to a halt" at the privately-owned Cevital firm, and also hit several sectors at state-owned oil giant Sonatrach.

President Abdelaziz Bouteflika returns to Algeria amid protests

At least 2,000 demonstrators Sunday gathered in Paris and other French cities to protest Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid to stand for a fifth term in office.

The demonstrations coincide with large-scale rallies in Algeria to denounce the ailing president's bid to hang on to power.

Bouteflika, 82, who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, flew to Switzerland a week ago for what his office described as "routine medical checks".

An AFP journalist said hundreds of demonstrators from Algeria's large diaspora were gathered in the Place de la Republique, in central Paris, as they waved their national flag, many shouting, "out, out".&nbsp;

"No to the mandate of shame, 20 years is enough," proclaimed one placard speaking to Bouteflika's intention of standing in the April 18 elections after 20 years in power.

Since gaining independence from France in 1962, "Algeria has been run by the same group of men, the same system," 62-year-old Abderrahmane Hamirouche told AFP.

"Algeria is ruined while it's a country that potentially could be rich. What is there left for future generations?" the IT specialist asked.

Nadia Tamzali, a 62-year-old Franco-Algerian doctor, criticised the country's lack of free speech and dominance by the military.

"They have killed our culture -- nearly all the cinemas have disappeared," she said.

In the southern port city of Marseille, home to large numbers of Algerian immigrants, about 1,000 turned out, many wearing the Algerian flag over their shoulders, an AFP journalist reported.&nbsp;

In the southwestern city of Toulouse, about 100 people carrying placards saying "No to a fifth term" gathered in the centre of town.

"We want the 40 thieves to go. They have gone too far," said a 54-year-old Algerian who gave his name as Asri.

"We aren't opposed to the president, but he is unconscious, he doesn't exist anymore, his generals and those close to him are doing what they will behind his back," said Asri, who has lived in France for 31 years.

At least 2,000 demonstrators Sunday gathered in Paris and other French cities to protest Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid to stand for a fifth term in office.

At least 2,000 demonstrators Sunday gathered in Paris and other French cities to protest Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid to stand for a fifth term in office. The demonstrations coincide with large-scale rallies in Algeria to denounce the ailing president's bid to hang on to power. Bouteflika, 82, who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, flew to Switzerland a week ago for what his office described as "routine medical checks". An AFP journalist said hundreds of demonstrators from Algeria's large diaspora were gathered in the Place de la Republique, in central Paris, as they waved their national flag, many shouting, "out, out". "No to the mandate of shame, 20 years is enough," proclaimed one placard speaking to Bouteflika's intention of standing in the April 18 elections after 20 years in power. Since gaining independence from France in 1962, "Algeria has been run by the same group of men, the same system," 62-year-old Abderrahmane Hamirouche told AFP. "Algeria is ruined while it's a country that potentially could be rich. What is there left for future generations?" the IT specialist asked. Nadia Tamzali, a 62-year-old Franco-Algerian doctor, criticised the country's lack of free speech and dominance by the military. "They have killed our culture -- nearly all the cinemas have disappeared," she said. In the southern port city of Marseille, home to large numbers of Algerian immigrants, about 1,000 turned out, many wearing the Algerian flag over their shoulders, an AFP journalist reported. In the southwestern city of Toulouse, about 100 people carrying placards saying "No to a fifth term" gathered in the centre of town. "We want the 40 thieves to go. They have gone too far," said a 54-year-old Algerian who gave his name as Asri. "We aren't opposed to the president, but he is unconscious, he doesn't exist anymore, his generals and those close to him are doing what they will behind his back," said Asri, who has lived in France for 31 years.

At least 2,000 protest Algerian president in France

There are 46 days to go until the United Kingdom is set to exit the European Union and the secretary of state for international trade has on Monday signed the country's first bilateral trade deal for a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/post-brexit-britain-ready-to-use-hard-power-defence-minister-196748">post-Brexit commercial relationship</a>.

Liam Fox penned the agreement on behalf of the UK with Swiss Federal Councilor Guy Parmelin, in Bern, Switzerland, allowing for business to flow as usual and, due to the alpine country's existing treaties, the agreement also applies to Liechtenstein.

“Switzerland is one of the most valuable trading partners that we are seeking continuity for, accounting for more than 32 billion pounds worth of trade a year," Fox said. “This is of huge economic importance to UK businesses so I’m delighted to be here in Bern today, ensuring continuity for 15,000 British exporters," Fox added.

The deal, which is described as a trade continuity agreement, aims to guarantee trading terms between the two countries once the UK has left the EU.

Currently, the UK trades with Switzerland and Liechtenstein by relying on EU agreements.

The arrangement was designed to remove the threat of extra tariffs levied on trade between the countries and to avoid the likelihood of additional duties on a "vast majority" of goods, Fox said.

“Not only will this help to support jobs throughout the UK but it will also be a solid foundation for us to build an even stronger trading relationship with Switzerland as we leave the EU,” Fox said.

For Switzerland, the UK is the sixth-largest export market (10 billion euros in 2017) and the eighth-largest in the import market (5.2 billion euros), according to Swiss official figures.

The arrangement should avoid around 8 million pounds of tariffs being added to the price of cars exported from the UK to Switzerland, while UK purchasers should benefit from cheaper prices on Swiss goods, "such as clocks, watches and pharmaceutical products," Fox said.

Trading on such so-called "preferential terms" instead of falling back on those applicable through the World Trade Organization should "deliver significant savings and help to safeguard British jobs," the UK government has said.

According to Swiss official statistics, Switzerland is the EU’s fifth most important trading partner, only after the United States, China, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates.

There are 46 days to go until the United Kingdom is set to exit the European Union and the secretary of state for international trade has on Monday signed the country's first bilateral trade deal for a post-Brexit commercial relationship.

There are 46 days to go until the United Kingdom is set to exit the European Union and the secretary of state for international trade has on Monday signed the country's first bilateral trade deal for a post-Brexit commercial relationship. Liam Fox penned the agreement on behalf of the UK with Swiss Federal Councilor Guy Parmelin, in Bern, Switzerland, allowing for business to flow as usual and, due to the alpine country's existing treaties, the agreement also applies to Liechtenstein. “Switzerland is one of the most valuable trading partners that we are seeking continuity for, accounting for more than 32 billion pounds worth of trade a year," Fox said. “This is of huge economic importance to UK businesses so I’m delighted to be here in Bern today, ensuring continuity for 15,000 British exporters," Fox added. The deal, which is described as a trade continuity agreement, aims to guarantee trading terms between the two countries once the UK has left the EU. Currently, the UK trades with Switzerland and Liechtenstein by relying on EU agreements. The arrangement was designed to remove the threat of extra tariffs levied on trade between the countries and to avoid the likelihood of additional duties on a "vast majority" of goods, Fox said. “Not only will this help to support jobs throughout the UK but it will also be a solid foundation for us to build an even stronger trading relationship with Switzerland as we leave the EU,” Fox said. For Switzerland, the UK is the sixth-largest export market (10 billion euros in 2017) and the eighth-largest in the import market (5.2 billion euros), according to Swiss official figures. The arrangement should avoid around 8 million pounds of tariffs being added to the price of cars exported from the UK to Switzerland, while UK purchasers should benefit from cheaper prices on Swiss goods, "such as clocks, watches and pharmaceutical products," Fox said. Trading on such so-called "preferential terms" instead of falling back on those applicable through the World Trade Organization should "deliver significant savings and help to safeguard British jobs," the UK government has said. According to Swiss official statistics, Switzerland is the EU’s fifth most important trading partner, only after the United States, China, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates.

UK secures first trade deal 963 days after Brexit vote with Switzerland

Nearly 30 per cent of global business leaders believe that world economic growth will decline in the next 12 months -- a dip which roughly translates to six times the level of 5 per cent in 2018.&nbsp;

According to a survey conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, there prevails a gaping difference in the sentiment among global CEOs with regards to world economic growth. Over 1,300 CEOs were surveyed in September-October 2018, ahead of this year's&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/imf-ceos-sound-warnings-as-leaders-gather-in-davos-191910">World Economic Forum event in Davos</a>, Switzerland.&nbsp;

This year's pessimism is in "vivid contrast to last year’s record jump, 29% to 57%, in optimism about global economic growth prospects," the survey found.&nbsp;

"Overall, CEOs’ views on global economic growth are more polarised this year but trending downward," the report stated.&nbsp;

The survey highlighted the United States as the top market for growth at 27%, significantly down from 46% in 2018. The second most attractive market, China, also saw its popularity fall to 24%, down from 33% in 2018.&nbsp;

"India is the rising star on the list," the released stated.&nbsp;

Taking a closer look at some country-specific results, CEOs’ confidence reflected the global drop attributed primarily to slowing world economies and looming trade tensions.&nbsp;

To drive revenue this year, CEOs plan to rely primarily on operational efficiencies at 77% and organic growth at 71%.&nbsp;

US retains top market slot for growth&nbsp;

The US retains its lead as the top market for growth over the next 12 months. Other global favourites include China, Germany, Indian and the UK.&nbsp;

“The turn away from the US market and shift in Chinese investment to other countries are reactions to the uncertainty surrounding the ongoing trade dispute between the US and China,” &nbsp;Bob Moritz, Global Chairman, PwC noted.

Threats to growth

Trade conflicts, policy uncertainty, and protectionism have replaced terrorism, climate change, and increasing tax burden in the top ten list of threats to growth, the report stated.&nbsp;

"Of CEOs ‘extremely concerned’ about trade conflicts, 88% are specifically uneasy about the trade issues between China and the US. Ninety-eight per cent of US CEOs and 90% of China’s CEOs have voiced these concerns," the release read.&nbsp;

Artificial intelligence

Again, there is no denying that the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the future with AI, is bright. Global business leaders also resounded similar sentiment.&nbsp;

Eighty-five per cent of CEOs agree that AI will dramatically change their business over the next five years. Nearly two-thirds view it as something that will have a larger impact than the internet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), In its World Economic Outlook report released on Monday, predicted the global economy will grow at 3.5 per cent in 2019 and 3.6 per cent in 2020, down 0.2 and 0.1 percentage point respectively from last October's forecasts, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"After two years of solid expansion, the world economy is growing more slowly than expected and risks are rising," IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde told reporters.

"Does that mean a global recession is around the corner? No. But the risk of a sharper decline in global growth has certainly increased," she said, urging policymakers to brace for a "serious slowdown."

&nbsp;

Nearly 30 per cent of global business leaders believe that world economic growth will decline in the next 12 months -- a dip which roughly translates to six times the level of 5 per cent in 2018.

Nearly 30 per cent of global business leaders believe that world economic growth will decline in the next 12 months -- a dip which roughly translates to six times the level of 5 per cent in 2018. According to a survey conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, there prevails a gaping difference in the sentiment among global CEOs with regards to world economic growth. Over 1,300 CEOs were surveyed in September-October 2018, ahead of this year's World Economic Forum event in Davos, Switzerland. This year's pessimism is in "vivid contrast to last year’s record jump, 29% to 57%, in optimism about global economic growth prospects," the survey found. "Overall, CEOs’ views on global economic growth are more polarised this year but trending downward," the report stated. The survey highlighted the United States as the top market for growth at 27%, significantly down from 46% in 2018. The second most attractive market, China, also saw its popularity fall to 24%, down from 33% in 2018. "India is the rising star on the list," the released stated. Taking a closer look at some country-specific results, CEOs’ confidence reflected the global drop attributed primarily to slowing world economies and looming trade tensions. To drive revenue this year, CEOs plan to rely primarily on operational efficiencies at 77% and organic growth at 71%. US retains top market slot for growth The US retains its lead as the top market for growth over the next 12 months. Other global favourites include China, Germany, Indian and the UK. “The turn away from the US market and shift in Chinese investment to other countries are reactions to the uncertainty surrounding the ongoing trade dispute between the US and China,” Bob Moritz, Global Chairman, PwC noted. Threats to growth Trade conflicts, policy uncertainty, and protectionism have replaced terrorism, climate change, and increasing tax burden in the top ten list of threats to growth, the report stated. "Of CEOs ‘extremely concerned’ about trade conflicts, 88% are specifically uneasy about the trade issues between China and the US. Ninety-eight per cent of US CEOs and 90% of China’s CEOs have voiced these concerns," the release read. Artificial intelligence Again, there is no denying that the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the future with AI, is bright. Global business leaders also resounded similar sentiment. Eighty-five per cent of CEOs agree that AI will dramatically change their business over the next five years. Nearly two-thirds view it as something that will have a larger impact than the internet. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), In its World Economic Outlook report released on Monday, predicted the global economy will grow at 3.5 per cent in 2019 and 3.6 per cent in 2020, down 0.2 and 0.1 percentage point respectively from last October's forecasts, news agency Reuters reported. "After two years of solid expansion, the world economy is growing more slowly than expected and risks are rising," IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde told reporters. "Does that mean a global recession is around the corner? No. But the risk of a sharper decline in global growth has certainly increased," she said, urging policymakers to brace for a "serious slowdown."

Ahead of Davos, global CEOs believe world economic growth will fall: Report

Dispatch: Davos braces for World Economic Forum 2019

Europe battles snowfall; weather warnings issued in many areas

Roger Federer became the most successful player in&nbsp;Hopman&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;history when he led Switzerland to a 2-1 win in an enthralling final of the mixed teams tournament in Perth Saturday.

In what is tipped to be the final edition of the unique tournament, the best was saved for last as Federer became the first player to win three&nbsp;Hopman Cups, teaming with Belinda Bencic to make it successive titles in Perth.

For the second year in a row, the Swiss beat the German pairing of Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber by claiming a deciding mixed doubles rubber which was loaded with drama.

It was Switzerland's fourth title overall, behind only the United States with six, and Federer first won the&nbsp;Hopman&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;back in 2001 when he teamed with Martina Hingis.

The 37-year-old gave the Swiss the early ascendancy with a straight sets win against Zverev, before Kerber squared the tie by beating a dogged Bencic to set up the mixed doubles decider.

Federer was a dominant figure in an extraordinary doubles match as the Swiss claimed the abbreviated format 4-0, 1-4, 4-3 (5/4) to clinch the title despite Germany having two match points.

Fittingly, it was Federer who served out the match in the third set tie-break, having been unable to do so earlier in the set.

The tournament came down to a single point at 4-4 in the third set tie-break, with both teams holding match point and after an extended rally Zverev dumped a backhand into the net to hand the Swiss victory.

'What a thrill'

Federer also became the first player to win successive&nbsp;Hopman&nbsp;Cups and said the records were a nice bonus for winning the title.

"I am very happy for these records, although I didn’t come here for that," he said.

"Winning it back-to-back years, what a thrill it was, not just the match point but the whole week."

Zverev and Kerber were despondent after the loss and the former said it was a tough pill to swallow.

"We really wanted to win as a team," Zverev said.

"We came so close - we were one shot away."

In the men's singles, Federer bounced back from a November loss to Zverev in London to beat the big-serving German 6-4, 6-2 and make it a clean sweep of his singles matches in Perth for the second year running, less than two weeks before he defends his Australian Open title.

It was a high-octane match, with plenty of big serves and clean winners, but Federer was able to answer everything the 21-year-old threw at him.

He broke Zverev in the 10th game of the first set and then tightened the noose on the German, with two more breaks in the second set.

Federer, who also beat Zverev in three sets in last year's&nbsp;Hopman&nbsp;final, clinched the match with a typically crisp forehand volley.

He was pleased to maintain his unbeaten singles record during the week, during which he never dropped his serve.

World number two Kerber appeared set for an easy win in her singles match against Bencic, taking the first set and then claiming an early break in the second.

The German served for the match at 5-4, but the match took a dramatic twist as Bencic broke back, only for Kerber to immediately break again.

For a second time Kerber was unable to serve out the match, as Bencic forced it to a tie-break.

Kerber had two match points at 6-4 in the tie-break, but Bencic again hung on grimly and won the next two points.

It was not until Kerber's third match point that a backhand winner secured the 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) win.

Critical to the result was Kerber's ability to convert all four of her break points during the match, while Bencic was only successful on two of seven.

Roger Federer became the most successful player in Hopman Cup history when he led Switzerland to a 2-1 win in an enthralling final of the mixed teams tournament in Perth Saturday.

Roger Federer became the most successful player in Hopman Cup history when he led Switzerland to a 2-1 win in an enthralling final of the mixed teams tournament in Perth Saturday. In what is tipped to be the final edition of the unique tournament, the best was saved for last as Federer became the first player to win three Hopman Cups, teaming with Belinda Bencic to make it successive titles in Perth. For the second year in a row, the Swiss beat the German pairing of Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber by claiming a deciding mixed doubles rubber which was loaded with drama. It was Switzerland's fourth title overall, behind only the United States with six, and Federer first won the Hopman Cup back in 2001 when he teamed with Martina Hingis. The 37-year-old gave the Swiss the early ascendancy with a straight sets win against Zverev, before Kerber squared the tie by beating a dogged Bencic to set up the mixed doubles decider. Federer was a dominant figure in an extraordinary doubles match as the Swiss claimed the abbreviated format 4-0, 1-4, 4-3 (5/4) to clinch the title despite Germany having two match points. Fittingly, it was Federer who served out the match in the third set tie-break, having been unable to do so earlier in the set. The tournament came down to a single point at 4-4 in the third set tie-break, with both teams holding match point and after an extended rally Zverev dumped a backhand into the net to hand the Swiss victory. 'What a thrill' Federer also became the first player to win successive Hopman Cups and said the records were a nice bonus for winning the title. "I am very happy for these records, although I didn’t come here for that," he said. "Winning it back-to-back years, what a thrill it was, not just the match point but the whole week." Zverev and Kerber were despondent after the loss and the former said it was a tough pill to swallow. "We really wanted to win as a team," Zverev said. "We came so close - we were one shot away." In the men's singles, Federer bounced back from a November loss to Zverev in London to beat the big-serving German 6-4, 6-2 and make it a clean sweep of his singles matches in Perth for the second year running, less than two weeks before he defends his Australian Open title. It was a high-octane match, with plenty of big serves and clean winners, but Federer was able to answer everything the 21-year-old threw at him. He broke Zverev in the 10th game of the first set and then tightened the noose on the German, with two more breaks in the second set. Federer, who also beat Zverev in three sets in last year's Hopman final, clinched the match with a typically crisp forehand volley. He was pleased to maintain his unbeaten singles record during the week, during which he never dropped his serve. World number two Kerber appeared set for an easy win in her singles match against Bencic, taking the first set and then claiming an early break in the second. The German served for the match at 5-4, but the match took a dramatic twist as Bencic broke back, only for Kerber to immediately break again. For a second time Kerber was unable to serve out the match, as Bencic forced it to a tie-break. Kerber had two match points at 6-4 in the tie-break, but Bencic again hung on grimly and won the next two points. It was not until Kerber's third match point that a backhand winner secured the 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) win. Critical to the result was Kerber's ability to convert all four of her break points during the match, while Bencic was only successful on two of seven.

Roger Federer wins third Hopman in dramatic fashion

Roger Federer emerged triumphant from a historic first meeting with Serena Williams in the Hopman Cup on Tuesday (January 1), but tennis was the true winner as two of the game's greats treated fans worldwide to an unforgettable evening.

Defending champions Switzerland sealed a 2-1 victory over six-times winners United States that left them bottom of Group B but the result mattered little to over 14,000 fans in Perth and millions around the world who had eagerly awaited the contest.

Federer and Williams, holders of a combined 43 singles Grand Slam crowns, won their singles matches to keep the mixed doubles clash alive and the deciding match lived up to the hype it had generated as both players left the court with big smiles.

The contest had been described by local media as the most anticipated clash involving men and women since 1973's "Battle of the Sexes" where Billie Jean King beat Bobby Riggs in an exhibition match.

While that meeting between 39-times major winner King and former men's world number one Riggs was a grudge match, there was only mutual respect between Federer and Williams, who posed for selfies before indulging autograph hunters.

Serena said the match, which was full of laughter and had an exhibition feel to it, was a "great experience" and one she hoped would not end as quickly as it did.

Playing in front of the highest single session attendance in the tournament's history, the team of Federer and Belinda Bencic beat Williams and Frances Tiafoe 4-2 4-3(3) to clinch the tie to top the group.

Earlier, Federer hardly broke sweat in his singles match against Tiafoe, taking his game up a notch at 4-4 in the first set to win 6-4 6-1.

Williams, who had powered past Greece's Maria Sakkari in straight sets on Monday, then fought back from a set down to seal a 4-6 6-4 6-3 win over Bencic to level the contest at 1-1.

Switzerland have two wins from two games ahead of Thursday's meeting with Greece, while US&nbsp;take on Britain next.

Roger Federer emerged triumphant from a historic first meeting with Serena Williams in the Hopman Cup on Tuesday (January 1), but tennis was the true winner as two of the game's greats treated fans worldwide to an unforgettable evening.

Roger Federer emerged triumphant from a historic first meeting with Serena Williams in the Hopman Cup on Tuesday (January 1), but tennis was the true winner as two of the game's greats treated fans worldwide to an unforgettable evening. Defending champions Switzerland sealed a 2-1 victory over six-times winners United States that left them bottom of Group B but the result mattered little to over 14,000 fans in Perth and millions around the world who had eagerly awaited the contest. Federer and Williams, holders of a combined 43 singles Grand Slam crowns, won their singles matches to keep the mixed doubles clash alive and the deciding match lived up to the hype it had generated as both players left the court with big smiles. The contest had been described by local media as the most anticipated clash involving men and women since 1973's "Battle of the Sexes" where Billie Jean King beat Bobby Riggs in an exhibition match. While that meeting between 39-times major winner King and former men's world number one Riggs was a grudge match, there was only mutual respect between Federer and Williams, who posed for selfies before indulging autograph hunters. Serena said the match, which was full of laughter and had an exhibition feel to it, was a "great experience" and one she hoped would not end as quickly as it did. Playing in front of the highest single session attendance in the tournament's history, the team of Federer and Belinda Bencic beat Williams and Frances Tiafoe 4-2 4-3(3) to clinch the tie to top the group. Earlier, Federer hardly broke sweat in his singles match against Tiafoe, taking his game up a notch at 4-4 in the first set to win 6-4 6-1. Williams, who had powered past Greece's Maria Sakkari in straight sets on Monday, then fought back from a set down to seal a 4-6 6-4 6-3 win over Bencic to level the contest at 1-1. Switzerland have two wins from two games ahead of Thursday's meeting with Greece, while US take on Britain next.

Roger Federer emerges victorious in historic clash with Serena Williams

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday.&nbsp;

Gearing up for his Australian Open title defence, Federer overcame three break points in his opening service game before rediscovering his rhythm to race out to a 5-0 lead.&nbsp;

With 18 winners and four aces, Federer wrapped up the opening set in 31 minutes.&nbsp;

Norrie, who had defeated Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets on Saturday, struggled to match Federer's crisp stroke-making as the Swiss gave his team a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

Federer's playing partner Belinda Bencic beat Katie Boulter 6-2, 7-6(0) in the women's contest to clinch Switzerland's victory in the round-robin stage.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old Federer has won the last two Australian Open titles after taking part in the mixed-teams tournament in Perth.&nbsp;

"This was a great start but obviously a long way to go here and in Melbourne," Federer said. "It's nice that I'm feeling as good as I am and played a wonderful match against Cameron."&nbsp;

Last year's runners-up Germany made a triumphant return when Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber recorded hard-fought victories in their singles matches.&nbsp;

Coming off a title win at the season-ending ATP Finals in London, Zverev countered his 45 unforced errors with 39 winners and eight aces to beat Spanish veteran David Ferrer 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(0).&nbsp;

After the match, Zverev paid tribute to former world number three Ferrer, who will retire from the sport next year.&nbsp;

"All the credit is (to) David, coming back from a set down and break down," Zverev said.&nbsp;

"He is the greatest fighter, maybe, that we have ever seen in tennis. What he has done in tennis over the past 15 or 20 years has been absolutely amazing."&nbsp;

World number two Kerber beat Garbine Muguruza 6-2 3-6 6-3 to snap a five-match losing streak against the two-time Grand Slam winner.&nbsp;

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday.

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday. Gearing up for his Australian Open title defence, Federer overcame three break points in his opening service game before rediscovering his rhythm to race out to a 5-0 lead. With 18 winners and four aces, Federer wrapped up the opening set in 31 minutes. Norrie, who had defeated Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets on Saturday, struggled to match Federer's crisp stroke-making as the Swiss gave his team a 1-0 lead. Federer's playing partner Belinda Bencic beat Katie Boulter 6-2, 7-6(0) in the women's contest to clinch Switzerland's victory in the round-robin stage. The 37-year-old Federer has won the last two Australian Open titles after taking part in the mixed-teams tournament in Perth. "This was a great start but obviously a long way to go here and in Melbourne," Federer said. "It's nice that I'm feeling as good as I am and played a wonderful match against Cameron." Last year's runners-up Germany made a triumphant return when Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber recorded hard-fought victories in their singles matches. Coming off a title win at the season-ending ATP Finals in London, Zverev countered his 45 unforced errors with 39 winners and eight aces to beat Spanish veteran David Ferrer 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(0). After the match, Zverev paid tribute to former world number three Ferrer, who will retire from the sport next year. "All the credit is (to) David, coming back from a set down and break down," Zverev said. "He is the greatest fighter, maybe, that we have ever seen in tennis. What he has done in tennis over the past 15 or 20 years has been absolutely amazing." World number two Kerber beat Garbine Muguruza 6-2 3-6 6-3 to snap a five-match losing streak against the two-time Grand Slam winner.

Impressive Roger Federer gives Switzerland winning start at Hopman Cup

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