Switzerland's capital city, Bern, is contemplating a pilot programme that would test the legal sale of drugs&nbsp;for recreational use. This unprecedented initiative is aimed at addressing the country's widespread drug use by providing a regulated and safer alternative.

The proposal has gained support from Bern's parliament, although it requires a change in federal law for implementation.

Advocates are reportedly arguing that the traditional "war on drugs" has failed, and innovative approaches such as legalisation could offer better control over the market and promote safer usage.

"The war on drugs has failed, and we have to look at new ideas," said Eva Chen, a Bern council member from the Alternative Left Party. "Control and legalisation can do better than mere repression."

This move is aligned with a global shift in drug policies, with an increasing number of countries and US states adopting measures such as decriminalisation and the legal recreational use of marijuana.

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Several European countries, including Spain, Italy, and Portugal, have already moved away from issuing prison sentences for drug possession charges.

Wastewater studies analysing illicit drug presence reportedly revealed that wealthy Swiss cities, including Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, rank among the top European cities for drug use.

The prevalence of drug use in these cities, as well as in Bern, has surged in recent years due to a dramatic drop in prices.

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Despite the support for the proposal, critics are reportedly arguing against legalising a drug with known health risks. Drugs can be highly addictive and pose severe health complications, including heart damage, strokes, depression, and anxiety.

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However, proponents of the pilot programme are saying that there is a&nbsp;need to acknowledge the reality of widespread drug use.&nbsp;

"We can't change that, so we should try to ensure people use it in the safest, least damaging way," stated Thilo Beck from the Arud Zentrum for Addiction Medicine.

The pilot programme is still in the early stages, with crucial details such as the source and distribution of the drug under development. The education, social affairs, and sports directorate are currently preparing a report on the potential pilot project.

(With inputs from agencies)

Switzerland's capital city, Bern, is contemplating a pilot programme that would test the legal sale of drugs for recreational use. This unprecedented initiative is aimed at addressing the country's widespread drug use by providing a regulated and safer alternative.

Switzerland's capital city, Bern, is contemplating a pilot programme that would test the legal sale of drugs for recreational use. This unprecedented initiative is aimed at addressing the country's widespread drug use by providing a regulated and safer alternative. The proposal has gained support from Bern's parliament, although it requires a change in federal law for implementation. Advocates are reportedly arguing that the traditional "war on drugs" has failed, and innovative approaches such as legalisation could offer better control over the market and promote safer usage. "The war on drugs has failed, and we have to look at new ideas," said Eva Chen, a Bern council member from the Alternative Left Party. "Control and legalisation can do better than mere repression." This move is aligned with a global shift in drug policies, with an increasing number of countries and US states adopting measures such as decriminalisation and the legal recreational use of marijuana. Also Read | Toyota initiates global recall of 1.12 million vehicles over airbag concerns Several European countries, including Spain, Italy, and Portugal, have already moved away from issuing prison sentences for drug possession charges. Wastewater studies analysing illicit drug presence reportedly revealed that wealthy Swiss cities, including Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, rank among the top European cities for drug use. The prevalence of drug use in these cities, as well as in Bern, has surged in recent years due to a dramatic drop in prices. Also Read | Mid-air heist: Man charged with stealing $23,000 from three fellow passengers Despite the support for the proposal, critics are reportedly arguing against legalising a drug with known health risks. Drugs can be highly addictive and pose severe health complications, including heart damage, strokes, depression, and anxiety. Watch | Lincoln Memorial vandalized with red paint and 'Free Gaza', ‘Free Palestine' messages × However, proponents of the pilot programme are saying that there is a need to acknowledge the reality of widespread drug use. "We can't change that, so we should try to ensure people use it in the safest, least damaging way," stated Thilo Beck from the Arud Zentrum for Addiction Medicine. The pilot programme is still in the early stages, with crucial details such as the source and distribution of the drug under development. The education, social affairs, and sports directorate are currently preparing a report on the potential pilot project. (With inputs from agencies)

Switzerland city considers legalising drugs for recreation, pilot scheme in pipeline

Cows grazing on lush pastures with ornate metal bells gently tinkling around their necks may be one of the ultimate symbols of Switzerland, but not everyone is enchanted by such traditional scenes.

In the village of Aarwangen in central Switzerland, a complaint was filed earlier this year over the noise levels from a herd of around 15 cows grazing overnight on a field next to a residential area.

Two couples in rental apartments overlooking the field asked authorities to intervene to make the farmer remove the bells at night.&nbsp;

The reaction was swift and fierce, with overwhelming demands for a local vote to protect the traditional use of bells.

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"My first reaction when I heard about the complaint was one of surprise," Aarwangen's Mayor Niklaus Lundsgaard-Hansen, who lives near the field in question, told AFP.

"I wasn't aware that cows made a lot of noise, but I have learned that they can disturb some people."

He was even more surprised at the massive response.

Petitioners needed to gather backing from just 10 per cent of those eligible to vote in the village of 4,800 people -- about 380 signatures -- to push the issue to a vote under Switzerland's direct democracy system.

Instead, they showed up with 1,099 signatures for the "Bell Initiative", aimed at maintaining the right of farmers to use cowbells at all hours.

"That's enormous," Lundsgaard-Hansen said.

The initiative was officially presented at a municipal assembly Monday evening, and the village decided it should be put to a popular vote that is expected to take place in June.

The backing was "overwhelming", Andreas Baumann, a neurologist who spearheaded the initiative, told AFP, adding that only four of the 166 people present at the meeting had opposed moving ahead with a vote.

<h2>- 'About tradition' -</h2>

Cowbells were once indispensable for keeping track of herds grazing on Alpine pastures, and while their usefulness has waned with the emergence of GPS trackers, they remain a powerful symbol of idyllic Swiss rural life.

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Last week, rituals related to Alpine farming, including driving cattle up to high mountain pastures for the summer wearing the decorative bells, were added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

But with many urbanites seeking tranquil havens in the countryside, often within commuter distance from cities and towns, the charm of cowbells sometimes wears thin.

A growing number of complaints have been lodged in recent years over noise levels from cowbells.

There have also been protests about churches ringing out the time every 15 minutes, night and day, as is typical in many Swiss communities -- something the "Bell Initiative" also aims to defend.&nbsp;

Such complaints frequently spark heated reactions in defence of traditions feared under attack in Switzerland -- a country of high immigration where foreigners make up a quarter of the population.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/your-anxiety-is-lying-to-you-saying-no-to-plans-isnt-all-that-bad-finds-study-668806">&nbsp;Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study</a>

"It's about our tradition," Baumann said. "Do we want to preserve what our ancestors created, or do we just put that into a museum?"

"The bells are in the DNA of Swiss people, and here in Aarwangen we want to preserve that."

Set on the banks of the Aare river against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, Aarwangen counts 19 working farms, according to Lundsgaard-Hansen.&nbsp;

But the village, half an hour's drive from Bern and about an hour to both Zurich and Basel, "is not really a farming community", he said.

<h2>- 'Gives me hope' -</h2>

The couples who filed the complaints about the cowbells likely had not expected such an overwhelming pushback.

One decided to withdraw their complaint, while the other is looking to move out of the village, the mayor said.

Regardless of which way the village votes, the farmer in question could still be ordered to remove the cowbells at night if authorities find they surpass acceptable noise levels.

A judicial ruling is expected soon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/end-fossil-fuels-12-year-old-indian-climate-activist-licypriya-kangujam-storms-cop28-stage-watch-668823">‘End fossil fuels’: 12-year-old Indian climate activist storms COP28 stage. Watch</a>

Rolf Rohrbach, who runs a nearby cattle farm, said he loved the tradition.

"It gives me hope," he told AFP, insisting that the bells are needed to keep track of young cows.

Personally, he said he could think of nothing better than to hear the gentle ringing at night.

"When I sleep, I like it," he said. "I know my cows are home."

Cows grazing on lush pastures with ornate metal bells gently tinkling around their necks may be one of the ultimate symbols of Switzerland, but not everyone is enchanted by such traditional scenes.

Cows grazing on lush pastures with ornate metal bells gently tinkling around their necks may be one of the ultimate symbols of Switzerland, but not everyone is enchanted by such traditional scenes. In the village of Aarwangen in central Switzerland, a complaint was filed earlier this year over the noise levels from a herd of around 15 cows grazing overnight on a field next to a residential area. Two couples in rental apartments overlooking the field asked authorities to intervene to make the farmer remove the bells at night. The reaction was swift and fierce, with overwhelming demands for a local vote to protect the traditional use of bells. ALSO READ | Less diverse nature emojis are affecting conservation efforts, say scientists "My first reaction when I heard about the complaint was one of surprise," Aarwangen's Mayor Niklaus Lundsgaard-Hansen, who lives near the field in question, told AFP. "I wasn't aware that cows made a lot of noise, but I have learned that they can disturb some people." He was even more surprised at the massive response. Petitioners needed to gather backing from just 10 per cent of those eligible to vote in the village of 4,800 people -- about 380 signatures -- to push the issue to a vote under Switzerland's direct democracy system. Instead, they showed up with 1,099 signatures for the "Bell Initiative", aimed at maintaining the right of farmers to use cowbells at all hours. "That's enormous," Lundsgaard-Hansen said. The initiative was officially presented at a municipal assembly Monday evening, and the village decided it should be put to a popular vote that is expected to take place in June. The backing was "overwhelming", Andreas Baumann, a neurologist who spearheaded the initiative, told AFP, adding that only four of the 166 people present at the meeting had opposed moving ahead with a vote. - 'About tradition' - Cowbells were once indispensable for keeping track of herds grazing on Alpine pastures, and while their usefulness has waned with the emergence of GPS trackers, they remain a powerful symbol of idyllic Swiss rural life. ALSO READ | New Hampshire man arrested for threatening to kill Vivek Ramaswamy Last week, rituals related to Alpine farming, including driving cattle up to high mountain pastures for the summer wearing the decorative bells, were added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. But with many urbanites seeking tranquil havens in the countryside, often within commuter distance from cities and towns, the charm of cowbells sometimes wears thin. A growing number of complaints have been lodged in recent years over noise levels from cowbells. There have also been protests about churches ringing out the time every 15 minutes, night and day, as is typical in many Swiss communities -- something the "Bell Initiative" also aims to defend. Such complaints frequently spark heated reactions in defence of traditions feared under attack in Switzerland -- a country of high immigration where foreigners make up a quarter of the population. ALSO READ | Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study "It's about our tradition," Baumann said. "Do we want to preserve what our ancestors created, or do we just put that into a museum?" "The bells are in the DNA of Swiss people, and here in Aarwangen we want to preserve that." Set on the banks of the Aare river against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, Aarwangen counts 19 working farms, according to Lundsgaard-Hansen. But the village, half an hour's drive from Bern and about an hour to both Zurich and Basel, "is not really a farming community", he said. - 'Gives me hope' - The couples who filed the complaints about the cowbells likely had not expected such an overwhelming pushback. One decided to withdraw their complaint, while the other is looking to move out of the village, the mayor said. Regardless of which way the village votes, the farmer in question could still be ordered to remove the cowbells at night if authorities find they surpass acceptable noise levels. A judicial ruling is expected soon. ALSO READ | ‘End fossil fuels’: 12-year-old Indian climate activist storms COP28 stage. Watch Rolf Rohrbach, who runs a nearby cattle farm, said he loved the tradition. "It gives me hope," he told AFP, insisting that the bells are needed to keep track of young cows. Personally, he said he could think of nothing better than to hear the gentle ringing at night. "When I sleep, I like it," he said. "I know my cows are home."

Swiss village set to vote to keep cowbells ringing following 'noise' complaints

Reigning champions Switzerland suffered a 3-0 defeat by Czech Republic in their opening match of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals after last year's runners-up Australia also lost their opening group match in Seville on Tuesday. It always looked like being a tough start for the Swiss against the 11-time winning nation and so it proved.

A gripping battle between two 18-year-olds ended with Czech Linda Noskova edging out Celine Naef 7-6(2) 4-6 6-4 after recovering from 4-1 down in the deciding set. World number 23 Marie Bouzkova then beat Viktorija Golubic 6-4 6-4 in the second singles to give the Czechs a decisive lead in the Group A clash.

Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova rounded off a 3-0 win with a doubles triumph against Golubic and Jil Teichmann. The Czechs rested Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova after her late arrival from the WTA Finals in Cancun.

The United States are the other team in Group A. The competition began earlier in the day with Slovenia beating Australia 2-1 in Group B. Kaja Juvan got outsiders Slovenia off to a flyer with a 6-4 6-1 defeat of a rusty Ajla Tomljanovic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-time-major-winner-minjee-lee-and-her-brother-min-woo-target-unique-sweep-of-dual-gender-at-aus-open-664635">Two-time major winner Minjee Lee and her brother Min Woo target unique sweep of dual gender at Aus Open</a>

Former French Open semi-finalist Tamara Zidansek then overcame Daria Saville 6-1 6-4 to give Slovenia an unassailable lead. "It's really special to share this moment with the team," Zidansek said. "I'm really, really happy with how composed Kaja and I stayed on court today. We both showed a great level."

The Australian pairing of Storm Hunter and Kimberly Birrell did win the doubles rubber against Veronika Erjavec and Ela Milic but they are already up against it in the group. "I mean, it's a do-or-die isn't it? It's all or nothing," Australia captain Alicia Molik said of Thursday's clash with Kazakhstan who are the other nation in Group B. The 12 qualifying nations are split into four sections of three with the group winners progressing to the semi-finals.

Reigning champions Switzerland suffered a 3-0 defeat by Czech Republic in their opening match of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals after last year's runners-up Australia also lost their opening group match in Seville on Tuesday.

Reigning champions Switzerland suffered a 3-0 defeat by Czech Republic in their opening match of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals after last year's runners-up Australia also lost their opening group match in Seville on Tuesday. It always looked like being a tough start for the Swiss against the 11-time winning nation and so it proved. A gripping battle between two 18-year-olds ended with Czech Linda Noskova edging out Celine Naef 7-6(2) 4-6 6-4 after recovering from 4-1 down in the deciding set. World number 23 Marie Bouzkova then beat Viktorija Golubic 6-4 6-4 in the second singles to give the Czechs a decisive lead in the Group A clash. Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova rounded off a 3-0 win with a doubles triumph against Golubic and Jil Teichmann. The Czechs rested Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova after her late arrival from the WTA Finals in Cancun. The United States are the other team in Group A. The competition began earlier in the day with Slovenia beating Australia 2-1 in Group B. Kaja Juvan got outsiders Slovenia off to a flyer with a 6-4 6-1 defeat of a rusty Ajla Tomljanovic. Also Read: Two-time major winner Minjee Lee and her brother Min Woo target unique sweep of dual gender at Aus Open Former French Open semi-finalist Tamara Zidansek then overcame Daria Saville 6-1 6-4 to give Slovenia an unassailable lead. "It's really special to share this moment with the team," Zidansek said. "I'm really, really happy with how composed Kaja and I stayed on court today. We both showed a great level." The Australian pairing of Storm Hunter and Kimberly Birrell did win the doubles rubber against Veronika Erjavec and Ela Milic but they are already up against it in the group. "I mean, it's a do-or-die isn't it? It's all or nothing," Australia captain Alicia Molik said of Thursday's clash with Kazakhstan who are the other nation in Group B. The 12 qualifying nations are split into four sections of three with the group winners progressing to the semi-finals.

Tennis: Czech Republic stun champions Switzerland in opening match of Billie Jean Cup

Denied relief in Italy, Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland. As per vanity fair Italy, the actress was suffering from terminal cancer for 10 years. Sibilla Barbieri was completely dependent on oxygen therapy and pain medications, which, if interrupted, would have led to a painful death.

Gravitas: Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland

In a Sotomo Research Institute survey, 36 percent of participants cited climate change as a significant policy concern, surpassed only by health insurance rates, which represent pressures associated with the rising cost of living.

Switzerland Parliamentary Elections: 36% of voters say climate change a big election issue

More than 60,000 people gathered in the Swiss capital Bern to protest against climate change. Demonstrators demanded tougher policies to combat climate change. the protests come less than a month ahead of a national election.

60,000 people protest against climate change in Switzerland

In pics | More than 60,000 people demand climate action in Swiss capital in 'rare protest'

The glaciers in Switzerland, this year, suffered their second worst melt rate after record depletion in 2022, lessening their comprehensive volume by 10% in the last two years, a report said on Thursday (Sept 28).

In 2022, Switzerland's glaciers shed six per cent of their overall volume and this year, they lost another four per cent, "representing the second largest decline since measurements began", the Cryospheric Commission of the Swiss Academy of Sciences found in a new study.

The study further warned that the situation could only worsen in the coming years.

"Swiss glaciers are melting at a rapidly increasing rate," it said in a statement.

"The acceleration is dramatic, with as much ice being lost in only two years as was the case between 1960 and 1990," it added.

The result of two consecutive extreme years had been collapsing glacier tongues and some smaller glaciers disappearing altogether.

"All glaciers melted a lot," news agency AFP quoted Matthias Huss, head of Glacier Monitoring in Switzerland (GLAMOS) as saying.

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"But for the small glaciers, (the) melting is especially dramatic because these small glaciers are really disappearing right now."

<h2>Glaciers could all but disappear if no action taken: Scientists</h2>

GLAMOS, which monitors 176 of Switzerland's nearly 1,400 glaciers, recently paused measurements at the St. Annafirn glacier in the central Swiss canton of Uri since it had all but vanished.

"We just had some dead ice left," Huss lamented.

The massive glacier loss witnessed in Switzerland was linked in large part to a winter with very low snow volumes, as well as soaring summer temperatures.

"It's a combination of climate change that makes such extreme events more likely, and the very bad combination of meteorological extremes," Huss explained.

"If we continue at this rate... we will see every year such bad years."

Scientists have already cautioned that the Swiss glaciers could all but vanish by the end of the century if no action is taken to control global warming.

"We have seen such strong climate changes in the last years that it's really possible to imagine this country without any glaciers," Huss said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The glaciers in Switzerland, this year, suffered their second worst melt rate after record depletion in 2022, lessening their comprehensive volume by 10% in the last two years, a report said on Thursday (Sept 28).

The glaciers in Switzerland, this year, suffered their second worst melt rate after record depletion in 2022, lessening their comprehensive volume by 10% in the last two years, a report said on Thursday (Sept 28). In 2022, Switzerland's glaciers shed six per cent of their overall volume and this year, they lost another four per cent, "representing the second largest decline since measurements began", the Cryospheric Commission of the Swiss Academy of Sciences found in a new study. The study further warned that the situation could only worsen in the coming years. "Swiss glaciers are melting at a rapidly increasing rate," it said in a statement. "The acceleration is dramatic, with as much ice being lost in only two years as was the case between 1960 and 1990," it added. The result of two consecutive extreme years had been collapsing glacier tongues and some smaller glaciers disappearing altogether. "All glaciers melted a lot," news agency AFP quoted Matthias Huss, head of Glacier Monitoring in Switzerland (GLAMOS) as saying. Also read: France: Six migrant women trapped in lorry rescued after distress texts to reporter "But for the small glaciers, (the) melting is especially dramatic because these small glaciers are really disappearing right now." Glaciers could all but disappear if no action taken: Scientists GLAMOS, which monitors 176 of Switzerland's nearly 1,400 glaciers, recently paused measurements at the St. Annafirn glacier in the central Swiss canton of Uri since it had all but vanished. "We just had some dead ice left," Huss lamented. The massive glacier loss witnessed in Switzerland was linked in large part to a winter with very low snow volumes, as well as soaring summer temperatures. "It's a combination of climate change that makes such extreme events more likely, and the very bad combination of meteorological extremes," Huss explained. "If we continue at this rate... we will see every year such bad years." Scientists have already cautioned that the Swiss glaciers could all but vanish by the end of the century if no action is taken to control global warming. "We have seen such strong climate changes in the last years that it's really possible to imagine this country without any glaciers," Huss said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Switzerland glaciers’ overall volume shrinks by 10% in last two years, small ones may disappear: Study

The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat.

"E. coli can grow on a wide range of sources, which allowed us to produce electricity in a wide range of environments, including from wastewater," senior author and chemical engineer Ardemis Boghossian was quoted as saying by Science Alert.

<h2>Why is it significant?</h2>

As per Ardemis, scientists have already identified some exotic microbes that can naturally produce electricity. However, they can do so only in the presence of some special elements.&nbsp;

But, the new bacteria engineered by the Swiss researchers can produce electricity in different kinds of atmospheres, making it viable for extensive and practical use.

Watch:&nbsp;Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place?

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To better engineer the bacteria, the scientists modified its genome to include instructions for protein complexes found in Shewanella oneidensis, one of the best-known bacterial electricity generators.

By doing so, scientists were able to ramp up E. coli’s electro-activity two-fold.

However, it must be noted that those experiments were done under lab conditions, and it remains to be seen whether or not the same results can be achieved in industrial settings.

<h2>E. coli better suited for treating wastewater</h2>

Researchers have also found that E. coli is better suited to treat industrial wastewater rather than Shewanella oneidensis.

Breweries are generally required to treat the water they use for cleaning grains and rinsing tanks before disposing it of, as it contains a complex mixture of sugars, starches, alcohols, and yeast. If left untreated, this wastewater could lead to undesirable microbial growth.

To demonstrate their solution, the team conducted experiments using their engineered E. coli system, using a sample of wastewater obtained from a local brewery in Lausanne, Switzerland. Remarkably, the modified bacteria efficiently consumed this wastewater within 50 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-hints-of-life-on-this-distant-alien-planet-study-635424">Also read:&nbsp;Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study</a>

"Our bioengineered electric bacteria were able to flourish exponentially by feeding off this waste," says Boghossian, whereas S. oneidensis, used as a comparator, wasn't able to digest the mixed effluent.

This development highlights the potential of engineered E. coli for industrial wastewater treatment, even though it generates electricity at a slightly slower rate compared to S. oneidensis, according to the researchers.

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The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat.

The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat. "E. coli can grow on a wide range of sources, which allowed us to produce electricity in a wide range of environments, including from wastewater," senior author and chemical engineer Ardemis Boghossian was quoted as saying by Science Alert. Why is it significant? As per Ardemis, scientists have already identified some exotic microbes that can naturally produce electricity. However, they can do so only in the presence of some special elements. But, the new bacteria engineered by the Swiss researchers can produce electricity in different kinds of atmospheres, making it viable for extensive and practical use. Watch: Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place? × To better engineer the bacteria, the scientists modified its genome to include instructions for protein complexes found in Shewanella oneidensis, one of the best-known bacterial electricity generators. By doing so, scientists were able to ramp up E. coli’s electro-activity two-fold. However, it must be noted that those experiments were done under lab conditions, and it remains to be seen whether or not the same results can be achieved in industrial settings. E. coli better suited for treating wastewater Researchers have also found that E. coli is better suited to treat industrial wastewater rather than Shewanella oneidensis. Breweries are generally required to treat the water they use for cleaning grains and rinsing tanks before disposing it of, as it contains a complex mixture of sugars, starches, alcohols, and yeast. If left untreated, this wastewater could lead to undesirable microbial growth. To demonstrate their solution, the team conducted experiments using their engineered E. coli system, using a sample of wastewater obtained from a local brewery in Lausanne, Switzerland. Remarkably, the modified bacteria efficiently consumed this wastewater within 50 hours. Also read: Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study "Our bioengineered electric bacteria were able to flourish exponentially by feeding off this waste," says Boghossian, whereas S. oneidensis, used as a comparator, wasn't able to digest the mixed effluent. This development highlights the potential of engineered E. coli for industrial wastewater treatment, even though it generates electricity at a slightly slower rate compared to S. oneidensis, according to the researchers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

E Coli can be used to generate electricity, Swiss researchers say

After acquiring its struggling rival Credit Suisse, UBS announced on Thursday that it will eliminate 3,000 jobs in Switzerland alone as part of a $10 billion cost-cutting program.

The newly-expanded bank giant’s intention to eliminate one in every twelve Swiss positions provides a sense of the magnitude of the restructuring as UBS struggles to merge a rival that collapsed after terrified customers withdrew billions from their accounts.

The majority of savings are anticipated to come from personnel reductions, and analysts predict that between 30,000 and 35,000 jobs might be lost internationally.

The layoffs come after the largest wealth manager in the world chose to absorb Credit Suisse's local branch, which was its only successful division last year, rather than split it off, as UBS also thought about doing.

“Our analysis clearly shows that a full integration is the best outcome for UBS ... and the Swiss economy,” UBS Chief Executive Sergio Ermotti told Reuters.

3,000 Swiss positions would be lost, according to a memo from Ermotti to the workforce, although more workers are likely to leave on their own, perhaps through retirement. Credit Suisse had previously reported that 8,000 individuals left the bank in recent months, before Thursday’s layoffs, so the actual number could be far higher.

In contrast to an earlier estimate of $8 billion by 2027, the UBS forecast more than $10 billion in cost reductions by the end of 2026.

The cuts, disclosed alongside the first financial figures published since the acquisition, led to UBS shares rising six per cent in late afternoon trade, reaching highs not seen since 2008.

UBS, which has a market value of 77 billion Swiss francs, has also expressed optimism about its near-term prospects. Rich clients’ attitudes are improving, and the firm anticipates that better financial markets will increase the amount it earns through fees.

However, there is controversy in Switzerland over the choice to acquire Credit Suisse’s local unit. Swiss pension funds and foundations that owned stock in both banks, represented by proxy adviser Ethos, said that a spinoff would have prevented “a major systemic risk for Switzerland, an important negative impact on employment, and issues for the fair competition.”

Ethos has supported a class-action lawsuit that is suing UBS for the buyout at a lower price.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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After acquiring its struggling rival Credit Suisse, UBS announced on Thursday that it will eliminate 3,000 jobs in Switzerland alone as part of a $10 billion cost-cutting program.

After acquiring its struggling rival Credit Suisse, UBS announced on Thursday that it will eliminate 3,000 jobs in Switzerland alone as part of a $10 billion cost-cutting program. The newly-expanded bank giant’s intention to eliminate one in every twelve Swiss positions provides a sense of the magnitude of the restructuring as UBS struggles to merge a rival that collapsed after terrified customers withdrew billions from their accounts. The majority of savings are anticipated to come from personnel reductions, and analysts predict that between 30,000 and 35,000 jobs might be lost internationally. The layoffs come after the largest wealth manager in the world chose to absorb Credit Suisse's local branch, which was its only successful division last year, rather than split it off, as UBS also thought about doing. “Our analysis clearly shows that a full integration is the best outcome for UBS ... and the Swiss economy,” UBS Chief Executive Sergio Ermotti told Reuters. 3,000 Swiss positions would be lost, according to a memo from Ermotti to the workforce, although more workers are likely to leave on their own, perhaps through retirement. Credit Suisse had previously reported that 8,000 individuals left the bank in recent months, before Thursday’s layoffs, so the actual number could be far higher. In contrast to an earlier estimate of $8 billion by 2027, the UBS forecast more than $10 billion in cost reductions by the end of 2026. The cuts, disclosed alongside the first financial figures published since the acquisition, led to UBS shares rising six per cent in late afternoon trade, reaching highs not seen since 2008. UBS, which has a market value of 77 billion Swiss francs, has also expressed optimism about its near-term prospects. Rich clients’ attitudes are improving, and the firm anticipates that better financial markets will increase the amount it earns through fees. However, there is controversy in Switzerland over the choice to acquire Credit Suisse’s local unit. Swiss pension funds and foundations that owned stock in both banks, represented by proxy adviser Ethos, said that a spinoff would have prevented “a major systemic risk for Switzerland, an important negative impact on employment, and issues for the fair competition.” Ethos has supported a class-action lawsuit that is suing UBS for the buyout at a lower price. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UBS to cut 3,000 jobs to save costs after taking over Credit Suisse: Report 

Thieves in Switzerland have managed to not only conquer one of the country’s most challenging protected climbing routes but also robbed a collection used to fund the maintenance of said route, while they were at it.&nbsp;

The incident has since sparked outrage from the local climbing group which took to social media to say what kind of people would do this along with an image of the smashed donation box.&nbsp;

<h2>About the high-altitude heist</h2>

It is worth noting that the heist was conducted by robbers who ascended to an altitude of 2,350 metres passing the traversed gorges on narrow steel cables, reported BBC.&nbsp;

The donation box from where the money was stolen belonged to the local climbing club and what shocked them was that the box was only accessible to the most experienced climbers.&nbsp;

The club maintains Switzerland’s longest protected climbing route known as via ferrata, on the Gemmi pass above Leukerbad village and does not receive any salary for the work.&nbsp;

The route is classed as level 5 (most difficult) and as per BBC involves serious climbing, ascending ladders bolted into the vertical rock face and crossing steep gorges on narrow steel cables.

In a post on Facebook, the group expressed their shock and outrage and said, “What kind of people are these??? The members of the IG climbing platform maintain the climbing platform without pay and different compensation.”&nbsp;

Given the difficulty of the route and the requirement to be equipped with necessary mountaineering gear for the climb, the theft is believed to have been carefully planned well in advance, as per the people who discovered the smashed donation box.&nbsp;

The thieves were also seemingly equipped with the tools that allowed them to break open the donation box “with brute force,” said the climbing club, as per the British media report. It also appears that they continued their ascent, with the money, to the top of the Dauberhorn, at 2941 metres.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

<h2>How much money did they steal?</h2>

While the climbing club is not sure exactly how much money the thieves took, club member and mountain guide Richard Werlen told the BBC it was likely to be at least 400-500 Swiss francs ($450-560)

The club also said that it might be difficult to find the perpetrator considering the last few days have been perfect climbing weather and they have received a large number of mountaineers at via ferrata.

The club has since received some 500 francs to replace the stolen donations by a local benefactor, reported BBC.&nbsp; 
 
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Thieves in Switzerland have managed to not only conquer one of the country’s most challenging protected climbing routes but also robbed a collection used to fund the maintenance of said route, while they were at it.

Thieves in Switzerland have managed to not only conquer one of the country’s most challenging protected climbing routes but also robbed a collection used to fund the maintenance of said route, while they were at it. The incident has since sparked outrage from the local climbing group which took to social media to say what kind of people would do this along with an image of the smashed donation box. About the high-altitude heist It is worth noting that the heist was conducted by robbers who ascended to an altitude of 2,350 metres passing the traversed gorges on narrow steel cables, reported BBC. The donation box from where the money was stolen belonged to the local climbing club and what shocked them was that the box was only accessible to the most experienced climbers. The club maintains Switzerland’s longest protected climbing route known as via ferrata, on the Gemmi pass above Leukerbad village and does not receive any salary for the work. The route is classed as level 5 (most difficult) and as per BBC involves serious climbing, ascending ladders bolted into the vertical rock face and crossing steep gorges on narrow steel cables. In a post on Facebook, the group expressed their shock and outrage and said, “What kind of people are these??? The members of the IG climbing platform maintain the climbing platform without pay and different compensation.” Given the difficulty of the route and the requirement to be equipped with necessary mountaineering gear for the climb, the theft is believed to have been carefully planned well in advance, as per the people who discovered the smashed donation box. The thieves were also seemingly equipped with the tools that allowed them to break open the donation box “with brute force,” said the climbing club, as per the British media report. It also appears that they continued their ascent, with the money, to the top of the Dauberhorn, at 2941 metres. How much money did they steal? While the climbing club is not sure exactly how much money the thieves took, club member and mountain guide Richard Werlen told the BBC it was likely to be at least 400-500 Swiss francs ($450-560) The club also said that it might be difficult to find the perpetrator considering the last few days have been perfect climbing weather and they have received a large number of mountaineers at via ferrata. The club has since received some 500 francs to replace the stolen donations by a local benefactor, reported BBC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘What kind of people…’: High-altitude heist on climbing route shocks Switzerland

The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier.

Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by. &nbsp;

A DNA test confirmed that the remains belonged to a 38-year-old hiker from Germany who went missing near the Matterhorn mountain, Switzerland’s most famous peak, around four decades ago.

Police in the Valais canton said: “DNA analysis enabled the identification of a mountain climber who had been missing since 1986."

“In September 1986, a German climber, who was 38 at the time, had been reported missing after not returning from a hike,” the statement added.

<h2>Not an isolated incident</h2>

As the planet heats up due to climate change, glaciers in Switzerland are unveiling secrets long hidden beneath the snow.

In 2015, the remains of two Japanese hikers were recovered who went missing on the Matterhorn in a 1970 snowstorm. Their identities were confirmed after DNA tests.

Watch:&nbsp;Switzerland works to slash dependence on imported oil &amp; gas

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Similarly, in 2014, the remains of British climber Jonathan Conville were recovered, who vanished on the Matterhorn in 1979. His remains were spotted by a helicopter pilot.

Last year, plane parts were found on the Aletsch glacier from a Piper Cherokee that crashed in 1968.

<h2>Climate change leading to record glacier melting</h2>

Switzerland, with 1,400 glaciers, possesses the highest number in Europe, representing approximately half of all European Alps glaciers.

Last year, Swiss glaciers experienced a worrying record melting, losing over 6 per cent of their volume, a level previously considered extreme by experts at the Swiss Academy of Sciences.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-tourist-plane-crash-near-french-border-leaves-several-dead-594537">Also read:&nbsp;Switzerland: Tourist plane crash near French border leaves several dead</a>

Additional research revealed that since the early 1930s, the country's glaciers have lost more than half of their total volume, far surpassing scientists' predictions for their shrinkage rate. If this trend continues, nearly all Alpine glaciers may vanish by the end of this century.

“Glacier retreat is accelerating. Closely observing this phenomenon and quantifying its historical dimensions is important because it allows us to infer the glaciers’ responses to a changing climate,” said Daniel Farinotti, a co-author of the study.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier. Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by.

The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier. Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by. A DNA test confirmed that the remains belonged to a 38-year-old hiker from Germany who went missing near the Matterhorn mountain, Switzerland’s most famous peak, around four decades ago. Police in the Valais canton said: “DNA analysis enabled the identification of a mountain climber who had been missing since 1986." “In September 1986, a German climber, who was 38 at the time, had been reported missing after not returning from a hike,” the statement added. Not an isolated incident As the planet heats up due to climate change, glaciers in Switzerland are unveiling secrets long hidden beneath the snow. In 2015, the remains of two Japanese hikers were recovered who went missing on the Matterhorn in a 1970 snowstorm. Their identities were confirmed after DNA tests. Watch: Switzerland works to slash dependence on imported oil & gas × Similarly, in 2014, the remains of British climber Jonathan Conville were recovered, who vanished on the Matterhorn in 1979. His remains were spotted by a helicopter pilot. Last year, plane parts were found on the Aletsch glacier from a Piper Cherokee that crashed in 1968. Climate change leading to record glacier melting Switzerland, with 1,400 glaciers, possesses the highest number in Europe, representing approximately half of all European Alps glaciers. Last year, Swiss glaciers experienced a worrying record melting, losing over 6 per cent of their volume, a level previously considered extreme by experts at the Swiss Academy of Sciences. Also read: Switzerland: Tourist plane crash near French border leaves several dead Additional research revealed that since the early 1930s, the country's glaciers have lost more than half of their total volume, far surpassing scientists' predictions for their shrinkage rate. If this trend continues, nearly all Alpine glaciers may vanish by the end of this century. “Glacier retreat is accelerating. Closely observing this phenomenon and quantifying its historical dimensions is important because it allows us to infer the glaciers’ responses to a changing climate,” said Daniel Farinotti, a co-author of the study. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986

In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield. The Germany-led efforts come amid threats highlighted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago and in a bid to strengthen Europe’s air defences.&nbsp;

<h2>Switzerland and Austria intend to join defence initiative</h2>

The Swiss and Austrian defence ministers, Viola Amherd and Klaudia Tanner signed a memorandum of understanding to join the air defence system known as Sky Shield, in Bern, during a meeting with their German counterpart, Boris Pistorius. &nbsp;

So far, 19 countries, including Bern and Vienna, have joined the Europe-wide defence system which also involves countries including the United Kingdom, the Nordic and Baltic countries, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria.

The initiative includes procurement and an agreement to promote research cooperation in the field of armaments, said the Swiss government. The German-led initiative which began in August, last year, is designed to allow European countries to buy defence systems together and train together.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neutral-switzerland-blocks-big-arms-sale-to-ukraine-boosts-russian-fortunes-in-ongoing-war-609887">'Neutral' Switzerland blocks big arms sale to Ukraine, boosts Russian fortunes in ongoing war</a>

In line with the initiative to strengthen and bridge the gap in Europe’s air defences, Germany proposed Sky Shield as a fast and cost-efficient plan which involves the procurement of available systems off-the-shelf from suppliers like the United States and others.&nbsp;

<h2>Swiss and Austrians move away from ‘neutrality’?</h2>

Both Switzerland and Austria have stressed their neutrality remains unchanged. In a statement, the Swiss government said, “It is in Switzerland’s interest to gear its security and defense policy more consistently towards international cooperation, and to increase its contributions.”&nbsp;

The Swiss government also said, “Switzerland and Austria also set out the terms regarding neutrality, in an additional declaration,” adding that it includes terms like “they will not participate or be involved in international military conflicts.”

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Switzerland signs up for Sky Shield project

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Meanwhile, Austria has argued that by pooling military resources it is able to maintain its neutral status.

<h2>Russia-Ukraine war affects Switzerland’s historic neutral stance</h2>

The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Switzerland’s recent moves have led many to question the viability of its traditionally strict neutrality. Since the beginning of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, Switzerland has joined the European Union-led (EU) efforts to impose sanctions against Moscow.&nbsp;

While the Swiss, whose neutrality dates back to the 19th century, were able to defend their borders during World War II by making compromises with both Allied and Axis powers, it will be difficult to do so now. Since Switzerland is a member of the United Nations and the Russian invasion of Ukraine is seen as a violation of the UN charter.&nbsp;

“For the first time in a long time we are facing a conflict in which a country has clearly violated the UN Charter as an aggressor and which activates the right to collective defense, and the question as to whether Switzerland should participate is very controversial,” Thomas Cottier, professor emeritus of European and international economic law at the University of Bern told Spanish newspaper El País.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-exports-to-russia-dropped-marginally-while-pharma-registered-strong-growth-despite-sanctions-581005">Swiss exports to Russia dropped marginally, while pharma registered strong growth despite sanctions</a>&nbsp;

“Traditional neutrality is not sustainable, it’s not morally acceptable in my view,” said Social Democrat MP Jon Pult, earlier this year, as quoted by BBC. He added, “If Swiss neutrality means we’re somehow the advocates of international law and of the UN charter then I’m ok with neutrality, because then Switzerland can be a power of peace and freedom and rules-based world order.”

Last month, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard-1 tanks to Kyiv, which the Swiss cabinet said would go against the country’s laws. However, it was not related to a separate sale of Leopard-1 tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG. Under the proposed terms of the sale, these tanks cannot be sent to Ukraine but could be used to replace tanks that Germany is sending from its own stock.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield.

In what is being viewed as a historic move for Switzerland, which is known for its foreign-policy neutrality, along with Austria signed a declaration of intent, on Friday (July 7), to join the European air defence system Sky Shield. The Germany-led efforts come amid threats highlighted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine which began over a year ago and in a bid to strengthen Europe’s air defences. Switzerland and Austria intend to join defence initiative The Swiss and Austrian defence ministers, Viola Amherd and Klaudia Tanner signed a memorandum of understanding to join the air defence system known as Sky Shield, in Bern, during a meeting with their German counterpart, Boris Pistorius. So far, 19 countries, including Bern and Vienna, have joined the Europe-wide defence system which also involves countries including the United Kingdom, the Nordic and Baltic countries, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. The initiative includes procurement and an agreement to promote research cooperation in the field of armaments, said the Swiss government. The German-led initiative which began in August, last year, is designed to allow European countries to buy defence systems together and train together. ALSO READ | 'Neutral' Switzerland blocks big arms sale to Ukraine, boosts Russian fortunes in ongoing war In line with the initiative to strengthen and bridge the gap in Europe’s air defences, Germany proposed Sky Shield as a fast and cost-efficient plan which involves the procurement of available systems off-the-shelf from suppliers like the United States and others. Swiss and Austrians move away from ‘neutrality’? Both Switzerland and Austria have stressed their neutrality remains unchanged. In a statement, the Swiss government said, “It is in Switzerland’s interest to gear its security and defense policy more consistently towards international cooperation, and to increase its contributions.” The Swiss government also said, “Switzerland and Austria also set out the terms regarding neutrality, in an additional declaration,” adding that it includes terms like “they will not participate or be involved in international military conflicts.” ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Switzerland signs up for Sky Shield project Meanwhile, Austria has argued that by pooling military resources it is able to maintain its neutral status. Russia-Ukraine war affects Switzerland’s historic neutral stance The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Switzerland’s recent moves have led many to question the viability of its traditionally strict neutrality. Since the beginning of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, Switzerland has joined the European Union-led (EU) efforts to impose sanctions against Moscow. While the Swiss, whose neutrality dates back to the 19th century, were able to defend their borders during World War II by making compromises with both Allied and Axis powers, it will be difficult to do so now. Since Switzerland is a member of the United Nations and the Russian invasion of Ukraine is seen as a violation of the UN charter. “For the first time in a long time we are facing a conflict in which a country has clearly violated the UN Charter as an aggressor and which activates the right to collective defense, and the question as to whether Switzerland should participate is very controversial,” Thomas Cottier, professor emeritus of European and international economic law at the University of Bern told Spanish newspaper El País. ALSO READ | Swiss exports to Russia dropped marginally, while pharma registered strong growth despite sanctions “Traditional neutrality is not sustainable, it’s not morally acceptable in my view,” said Social Democrat MP Jon Pult, earlier this year, as quoted by BBC. He added, “If Swiss neutrality means we’re somehow the advocates of international law and of the UN charter then I’m ok with neutrality, because then Switzerland can be a power of peace and freedom and rules-based world order.” Last month, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard-1 tanks to Kyiv, which the Swiss cabinet said would go against the country’s laws. However, it was not related to a separate sale of Leopard-1 tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG. Under the proposed terms of the sale, these tanks cannot be sent to Ukraine but could be used to replace tanks that Germany is sending from its own stock. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Neutral Switzerland, Austria to join German-led European Sky Shield defence initiative

Switzerland has signed up for the Sky shield project, a body formed after the Ukraine war to promote defence cooperation. Does this move undermine Switzerland's policy of neutrality? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Switzerland signs up for Sky Shield project

Rainforests are one of the most effective tools in mitigating global heating and halting biodiversity loss. But as per reports, in 2022, an area the size of Switzerland was cleared from Earth’s most pristine rainforests. This comes despite world leaders' promise to halt the destruction of forests and reverse deforestation by 2030. As per reports, the equivalents of 11 football pitches of primary rainforest were destroyed every minute last year. Tropical areas lost 4.1 million hectares of primary rainforest in 2022, an increase of around 10% from 2021.

Rainforests the size of Switzerland were destroyed in 2022, says report

In a major snub to Ukraine's war effort against Russia, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine, it was revealed on Wednesday. The blocking of the sale, however, is not related to a separate sale of 25 Leopard 1&nbsp;tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

The Swiss cabinet said that such a sale would be contrary to the country's War Material Act and would entail an adjustment of Switzerland's neutrality policy. The country’s current rules don’t allow for weapons manufactured in Switzerland to be delivered to countries at war or in an armed conflict.

In November 2022,&nbsp;the country&nbsp;imposed an embargo on Swiss munitions being sent to either Russia or Ukraine.

<h2>What exactly does Switzerland's blocking of Leopard 1&nbsp;tanks entail?</h2>

The rejection reportedly applies to 96 non-operational Leopard 1 tanks. These tanks, while belonging to the Swiss arms manufacturer Ruag AG, are currently stored at a facility in Italy.&nbsp;

It was proposed that the tanks would be refurbished in Germany and then sent to Ukraine.

<h2>Switzerland blocks arms sale to Ukraine: Why?</h2>

The Swiss government said that the arms sale request to Ukraine from a country-headquartered manufacturer is "inconsistent with applicable law", pointing to the principle of the Swiss neutrality — one of the main principles of Switzerland's foreign policy which dictates that Switzerland is not to be involved in armed or political conflicts between other states.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-get-at-least-100-leopard-1-tanks-in-coming-months-559755">Ukraine to get at least 100 Leopard 1 tanks in 'coming months'</a>

This policy is self-imposed and designed to ensure external security and promote peace.

But the Swiss are some of the world's biggest arms manufacturers and suppliers.

Also watch |&nbsp;West mulls over giving German Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine

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There are about 1,000 Swiss defence manufacturers and suppliers, many owned by the US and European entities that annually sold some $2.57 billion worth of equipment annually, according to the Swiss ASD (Aeronautics, Security and Defence) figures cited by Breakingdefense&nbsp;portal.

Over the past many decades, the Swiss government has been cautious of ensuring that it is not seen as taking sides. The country has been neutral for about 208 years since the 1815 Treaty of Paris, signed after the second abdication of Napoleon Bonaparte that guaranteed Switzerland neutrality and &nbsp;perpetual independence from the French sphere of influence.

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In a major snub to Ukraine's war effort against Russia, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine, it was revealed on Wednesday.

In a major snub to Ukraine's war effort against Russia, Switzerland blocked Bern-headquartered Ruag AG from selling nearly 100 Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine, it was revealed on Wednesday. The blocking of the sale, however, is not related to a separate sale of 25 Leopard 1 tanks of the Swiss army to the German company Rheinmetall AG, Bloomberg reported. The Swiss cabinet said that such a sale would be contrary to the country's War Material Act and would entail an adjustment of Switzerland's neutrality policy. The country’s current rules don’t allow for weapons manufactured in Switzerland to be delivered to countries at war or in an armed conflict. In November 2022, the country imposed an embargo on Swiss munitions being sent to either Russia or Ukraine. What exactly does Switzerland's blocking of Leopard 1 tanks entail? The rejection reportedly applies to 96 non-operational Leopard 1 tanks. These tanks, while belonging to the Swiss arms manufacturer Ruag AG, are currently stored at a facility in Italy. It was proposed that the tanks would be refurbished in Germany and then sent to Ukraine. Switzerland blocks arms sale to Ukraine: Why? The Swiss government said that the arms sale request to Ukraine from a country-headquartered manufacturer is "inconsistent with applicable law", pointing to the principle of the Swiss neutrality — one of the main principles of Switzerland's foreign policy which dictates that Switzerland is not to be involved in armed or political conflicts between other states. Also read | Ukraine to get at least 100 Leopard 1 tanks in 'coming months' This policy is self-imposed and designed to ensure external security and promote peace. But the Swiss are some of the world's biggest arms manufacturers and suppliers. Also watch | West mulls over giving German Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine × There are about 1,000 Swiss defence manufacturers and suppliers, many owned by the US and European entities that annually sold some $2.57 billion worth of equipment annually, according to the Swiss ASD (Aeronautics, Security and Defence) figures cited by Breakingdefense portal. Over the past many decades, the Swiss government has been cautious of ensuring that it is not seen as taking sides. The country has been neutral for about 208 years since the 1815 Treaty of Paris, signed after the second abdication of Napoleon Bonaparte that guaranteed Switzerland neutrality and perpetual independence from the French sphere of influence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Neutral' Switzerland blocks big arms sale to Ukraine, boosts Russian fortunes in ongoing war

Seven most liveable cities of 2023

The voters in Switzerland extended their overwhelming support to increasing the global minimum tax rate to 15 per cent for multinational corporations, as 79 per cent of people voted in favour, showed projections published shortly after polls ended. The polls were carried out by gfs.bern institute. 
 
The vote will permit an amendment to the constitution so that the country can join an international agreement, mooted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), for imposing 15 per cent of the global minimum tax rate for multinational corporations. 
 
The plan is to introduce the new rate on all Swiss-based companies which have a turnover above €750 million ($818mn). Until now, some of the lowest corporate tax rates across the world have been imposed by many of the country's 26 cantons, for which they gave reason for the need to attract more businesses in the face of high location costs and wages. 
 
The government of Switzerland has estimated that the revenue generated from the supplementary tax would amount to between 1.0 and 2.5 billion Swiss francs in the first year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rammstein-fans-sex-assault-protesters-face-off-at-swiss-concert-605650">Rammstein fans, sex assault protesters face off at Swiss concert</a>

<h2 lang="en-US">Swiss voters back net-zero climate law</h2>

The people in Switzerland, keeping in mind the drastic impact of global warming on their rapidly melting glaciers, on Sunday supported a new climate bill which is aimed at taking the country towards carbon neutrality by 2050, as per the early estimates. 
 
The gfs.bern institute's initial projections showed that 58 per cent of Swiss people voted yes in the referendum on the new law. If the law comes into force, the country will need to cut down its dependence on imported gas and oil and scale up the use and development of greener and homegrown alternatives. 
 
In the opinion polls held recently, strong but slipping support was indicated for the climate bill amid a campaign around economic ruin and electricity shortages, which was infused with anxiety and driven by the populist right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP). 
 
The supporters had stated the "Federal Act on Climate Protection Targets, Innovation and Strengthening Energy Security" is required to ensure energy security.

WATCH |&nbsp;Switzerland: Women stage 'feminist strike,' a scream for equality

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They added that it will help address the issues arising from climate change which has been highlighted by the drastic melting of glaciers in the Swiss Alps, resulting in it losing a third of its ice volume between 2001 and 2022. 
 
Around three-quarters of its energy is imported by Switzerland as all the oil and natural gas consumed by the people come from abroad. Initially, climate activists wanted to place a total ban on all gas and oil consumption in Switzerland by 2050. 
 
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The voters in Switzerland extended their overwhelming support to increasing the global minimum tax rate to 15 per cent for multinational corporations, as 79 per cent of people voted in favour, showed projections published shortly after polls ended.

The voters in Switzerland extended their overwhelming support to increasing the global minimum tax rate to 15 per cent for multinational corporations, as 79 per cent of people voted in favour, showed projections published shortly after polls ended. The polls were carried out by gfs.bern institute. The vote will permit an amendment to the constitution so that the country can join an international agreement, mooted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), for imposing 15 per cent of the global minimum tax rate for multinational corporations. The plan is to introduce the new rate on all Swiss-based companies which have a turnover above €750 million ($818mn). Until now, some of the lowest corporate tax rates across the world have been imposed by many of the country's 26 cantons, for which they gave reason for the need to attract more businesses in the face of high location costs and wages. The government of Switzerland has estimated that the revenue generated from the supplementary tax would amount to between 1.0 and 2.5 billion Swiss francs in the first year. ALSO READ | Rammstein fans, sex assault protesters face off at Swiss concert Swiss voters back net-zero climate law The people in Switzerland, keeping in mind the drastic impact of global warming on their rapidly melting glaciers, on Sunday supported a new climate bill which is aimed at taking the country towards carbon neutrality by 2050, as per the early estimates. The gfs.bern institute's initial projections showed that 58 per cent of Swiss people voted yes in the referendum on the new law. If the law comes into force, the country will need to cut down its dependence on imported gas and oil and scale up the use and development of greener and homegrown alternatives. In the opinion polls held recently, strong but slipping support was indicated for the climate bill amid a campaign around economic ruin and electricity shortages, which was infused with anxiety and driven by the populist right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP). The supporters had stated the "Federal Act on Climate Protection Targets, Innovation and Strengthening Energy Security" is required to ensure energy security. WATCH | Switzerland: Women stage 'feminist strike,' a scream for equality They added that it will help address the issues arising from climate change which has been highlighted by the drastic melting of glaciers in the Swiss Alps, resulting in it losing a third of its ice volume between 2001 and 2022. Around three-quarters of its energy is imported by Switzerland as all the oil and natural gas consumed by the people come from abroad. Initially, climate activists wanted to place a total ban on all gas and oil consumption in Switzerland by 2050. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Switzerland: People vote for 15 per cent tax rate hike for multinationals

The teachers in schools in Switzerland have raised alarm about many children coming to class wearing diapers because they have not been trained on how to use the toilet. 
 
“Kids are going to school as early as four years old now, so yeah, you might actually find some still in diapers,” said Dagmar Rosler, head of the Swiss Federation of Teachers, while speaking to the Swiss newspaper 20 Minuten. “When 11-year-olds come to school in diapers, that’s a worrying trend,” she added. 
 
Many children have become so much accustomed to wearing diapers that they are not interested in changing the convenient but unsanitary method. As per Mayo Clinic, the average age of children who receive toilet training is between 18 months and 24 months, however many parents have been avoiding the training session.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-people-vote-for-15-per-cent-tax-rate-hike-for-multinationals-605792">Switzerland: People vote for 15 per cent tax rate hike for multinationals</a>

“Some parents let it slide because diapers are a convenient relief. It’s not seen as a problem these days,” stated educational scientist Margrit Stamm. “That sends a totally wrong message,” she added. 
 
Child development expert Rita Messmer said that the number of children wearing diapers in school has “skyrocketed”, as she emphasised her 11-year-old patient who had not learned how to use the toilet on their own.

<h2 lang="en-US">Burden for teachers</h2>

The lack of knowledge of children has become a burden for a lot of teachers who are forced to assist them with soaked diapers. 
 
“Parents have a responsibility to make sure their school-aged kids aren’t wearing diapers anymore. Teachers aren’t there to change their students’ diapers. That’s crossing a line,” said Rosler. 
 
Although the issue is rampant in Switzerland, similar problems have emerged in Buffalo, New York where parents have not been teaching their children how to use the toilet. 
 
“Teacher aides here say that it’s not their responsibility (to change diapers),” Phil Rumore, president of the Buffalo Teachers Federation, said.

WATCH |&nbsp;Switzerland: Women stage 'feminist strike,' a scream for equality

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“There is no policy in place, or procedure in place, to work with the child to either potty train them, to clean them when they have an accident. “The teacher can’t do it because it takes away from the class,” Rumore said. 
 
The Buffalo Teachers Federation stated that 43 children were not efficiently trained to use toilets, which led to accidents and teasing from classmates. 
 
“I’m not blaming the parents … because in some cases we have an autistic child, or we have a child with emotional problems or physical problems,” Rumore stated.

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The teachers in schools in Switzerland have raised alarm about many children coming to class wearing diapers because they have not been trained on how to use the toilet.

The teachers in schools in Switzerland have raised alarm about many children coming to class wearing diapers because they have not been trained on how to use the toilet. “Kids are going to school as early as four years old now, so yeah, you might actually find some still in diapers,” said Dagmar Rosler, head of the Swiss Federation of Teachers, while speaking to the Swiss newspaper 20 Minuten. “When 11-year-olds come to school in diapers, that’s a worrying trend,” she added. Many children have become so much accustomed to wearing diapers that they are not interested in changing the convenient but unsanitary method. As per Mayo Clinic, the average age of children who receive toilet training is between 18 months and 24 months, however many parents have been avoiding the training session. ALSO READ | Switzerland: People vote for 15 per cent tax rate hike for multinationals “Some parents let it slide because diapers are a convenient relief. It’s not seen as a problem these days,” stated educational scientist Margrit Stamm. “That sends a totally wrong message,” she added. Child development expert Rita Messmer said that the number of children wearing diapers in school has “skyrocketed”, as she emphasised her 11-year-old patient who had not learned how to use the toilet on their own. Burden for teachers The lack of knowledge of children has become a burden for a lot of teachers who are forced to assist them with soaked diapers. “Parents have a responsibility to make sure their school-aged kids aren’t wearing diapers anymore. Teachers aren’t there to change their students’ diapers. That’s crossing a line,” said Rosler. Although the issue is rampant in Switzerland, similar problems have emerged in Buffalo, New York where parents have not been teaching their children how to use the toilet. “Teacher aides here say that it’s not their responsibility (to change diapers),” Phil Rumore, president of the Buffalo Teachers Federation, said. WATCH | Switzerland: Women stage 'feminist strike,' a scream for equality “There is no policy in place, or procedure in place, to work with the child to either potty train them, to clean them when they have an accident. “The teacher can’t do it because it takes away from the class,” Rumore said. The Buffalo Teachers Federation stated that 43 children were not efficiently trained to use toilets, which led to accidents and teasing from classmates. “I’m not blaming the parents … because in some cases we have an autistic child, or we have a child with emotional problems or physical problems,” Rumore stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Worrying trend in Switzerland: 11-year-old kids wear diapers to school as teachers remain concerned

Renowned Islamic scholar and former professor at Oxford University, Tariq Ramadan, was acquitted of rape and sexual coercion charges by a Geneva Criminal Court on Wednesday (May 24). He was accused by a Swiss woman who has asked to be identified by an alias ‘Brigitte.’&nbsp;

<h2>About the case</h2>

The 60-year-old was accused of rape by a Swiss woman who alleged that the incident took place in a Geneva hotel in 2008 where she was subjected to&nbsp;brutal sexual assault, beatings and insults.&nbsp;

The alleged abuse took place on the night of October 28, 2008, when Brigitte, a fan of Ramadan, was invited by him for coffee after a conference. Ramadan, who is also a Swiss citizen, would have faced up to three years in prison if he was convicted. &nbsp;

<h2>What happened in the court?</h2>

In court, Brigitte also requested that a screen be put up so that she would not have to look at the man she claimed raped her. She also went on to detail the alleged attack in detail and how the two had exchanged messages before their meeting&nbsp;at the conference and book signing.&nbsp;

The Swiss woman also spoke about how she feared that she was going to die. Brigitte said she filed the lawsuit nearly a decade later after multiple allegations emerged against Ramadan in France. While he had also previously denied all the charges, the 60-year-old did admit that he had met the woman before and invited him to his hotel room.

The 60-year-old has since rejected these claims and said he is the victim of a “trap” and called the accusations against him politically motivated. Meanwhile, his French and Swiss lawyers questioned the Swiss woman about the inconsistencies around the dates of the alleged attack.&nbsp;

The prosecution argued that she could not have made up the alleged attack as Brigitte gave details to the judges which she would not have been able to do otherwise.&nbsp;Ramadan’s lawyer also called the charges against his client “crazy”.&nbsp;

During his final statements in court last week, Ramadan asked not to be tried on his “real or supposed ideology” and urged the judges not to be “influenced by the media and political noise”.

The verdict was announced following a week’s deliberation by the three judges in the court in Geneva.&nbsp;Brigitte's&nbsp;lawyers have said that they will appeal the verdict. 
 
More cases to follow? 
 
This case could just be one of many against Ramadan as French prosecutors are still assessing if the charges brought against the Islamic scholar should be taken to court.&nbsp; 
 
He was first accused of rape in 2017&nbsp;by a French woman and after the case went public, more&nbsp;women came forward. As of 2020, Ramadan is facing at least five charges of rape, one of which was in Switzerland, while others are in France.&nbsp;

As per media reports, investigators have found hundreds of text messages he had sent to the women, some of which detail violent sexual fantasies. He also reportedly faces criminal rape complaints made by women in the United States. Notably, he had also spent nine months in detention in France before he was released&nbsp;in 2018.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Renowned Islamic scholar and former professor at Oxford University, Tariq Ramadan, was acquitted of rape and sexual coercion charges by a Geneva Criminal Court on Wednesday (May 24).

Renowned Islamic scholar and former professor at Oxford University, Tariq Ramadan, was acquitted of rape and sexual coercion charges by a Geneva Criminal Court on Wednesday (May 24). He was accused by a Swiss woman who has asked to be identified by an alias ‘Brigitte.’ About the case The 60-year-old was accused of rape by a Swiss woman who alleged that the incident took place in a Geneva hotel in 2008 where she was subjected to brutal sexual assault, beatings and insults. The alleged abuse took place on the night of October 28, 2008, when Brigitte, a fan of Ramadan, was invited by him for coffee after a conference. Ramadan, who is also a Swiss citizen, would have faced up to three years in prison if he was convicted. What happened in the court? In court, Brigitte also requested that a screen be put up so that she would not have to look at the man she claimed raped her. She also went on to detail the alleged attack in detail and how the two had exchanged messages before their meeting at the conference and book signing. The Swiss woman also spoke about how she feared that she was going to die. Brigitte said she filed the lawsuit nearly a decade later after multiple allegations emerged against Ramadan in France. While he had also previously denied all the charges, the 60-year-old did admit that he had met the woman before and invited him to his hotel room. The 60-year-old has since rejected these claims and said he is the victim of a “trap” and called the accusations against him politically motivated. Meanwhile, his French and Swiss lawyers questioned the Swiss woman about the inconsistencies around the dates of the alleged attack. The prosecution argued that she could not have made up the alleged attack as Brigitte gave details to the judges which she would not have been able to do otherwise. Ramadan’s lawyer also called the charges against his client “crazy”. During his final statements in court last week, Ramadan asked not to be tried on his “real or supposed ideology” and urged the judges not to be “influenced by the media and political noise”. The verdict was announced following a week’s deliberation by the three judges in the court in Geneva. Brigitte's lawyers have said that they will appeal the verdict. More cases to follow? This case could just be one of many against Ramadan as French prosecutors are still assessing if the charges brought against the Islamic scholar should be taken to court. He was first accused of rape in 2017 by a French woman and after the case went public, more women came forward. As of 2020, Ramadan is facing at least five charges of rape, one of which was in Switzerland, while others are in France. As per media reports, investigators have found hundreds of text messages he had sent to the women, some of which detail violent sexual fantasies. He also reportedly faces criminal rape complaints made by women in the United States. Notably, he had also spent nine months in detention in France before he was released in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Islamic scholar Tariq Ramadan acquitted in Swiss rape trial

A tourist plane crash in western Switzerland on Saturday left several dead, reports said.

Regional police confirmed that a plane had crashed near Franco-Swiss border at&nbsp;Ponts-De-Martel in the Swiss canton of Neuchatel, about 150 km west of Zurich.

The plane crash reportedly happened around 10:20 am (0820 GMT) in a steep and forested area in the Neuchatel Mountains.

Police said they would hold off on providing information on the plane that crashed, how many people who had been onboard and how many who may have perished or been injured until their families had been informed of the accident.

Rescue services and police are at the scene of the wreckage, and authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, the RTN broadcaster reported.

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A tourist plane crash in western Switzerland on Saturday left several dead, reports said. Regional police confirmed that a plane had crashed near Franco-Swiss border at Ponts-De-Martel in the Swiss canton of Neuchatel, about 150 km west of Zurich.

A tourist plane crash in western Switzerland on Saturday left several dead, reports said. Regional police confirmed that a plane had crashed near Franco-Swiss border at Ponts-De-Martel in the Swiss canton of Neuchatel, about 150 km west of Zurich. The plane crash reportedly happened around 10:20 am (0820 GMT) in a steep and forested area in the Neuchatel Mountains. Police said they would hold off on providing information on the plane that crashed, how many people who had been onboard and how many who may have perished or been injured until their families had been informed of the accident. Rescue services and police are at the scene of the wreckage, and authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, the RTN broadcaster reported. More information to be added soon... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Switzerland: Tourist plane crash near French border leaves several dead

Credit Suisse, one of the leading banks in Switzerland, faced a significant "bank run" ahead of its collapse in March 2023, a Reuters report indicated on Monday.&nbsp;

The Swiss bank announced that it experienced a significant outflow of assets totaling 61 billion Swiss francs ($68 billion) in the first three months of 2023,&nbsp;with the bank's wealth management division being the hardest hit.&nbsp;

A bank run takes place&nbsp;when a large number of customers of a bank withdraw their deposits at the same time over fears about the bank's solvency.

Depositors began withdrawing their funds from the scandal-plagued Credit Suisse after it became entangled in the market upheaval caused by the failures of US lenders Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.

As a result, Swiss authorities scrambled to create a rescue package in which UBS agreed to buy Credit Suisse for 3 billion Swiss francs in equity and accept up to 5 billion Swiss francs in damages. It also included state financial guarantees worth 200 billion francs.

A Tricky Position

Despite&nbsp;a major bank run, the Swiss banking giant also reported&nbsp;a net profit of 12.8 billion Swiss francs ($14 billion)&nbsp;for the first quarter ending March 2023. This was a notable increase compared to the significant loss incurred in the same period last year. The bank attributed the positive net profit mainly to the emergency takeover deal that wiped out high-risk debtors.

The significant asset outflows along with a&nbsp;rise in net profit&nbsp;was met with mixed reactions in the market. While the increase in net profit was viewed positively, the persistent outflows of assets raised concerns about the bank's ability to overcome its challenges.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Credit Suisse's ability to generate revenue appeared to be impaired. London-based KBW analyst Thomas Hallett told&nbsp;Reuters that the "rescue deal could well remain a drag on UBS operating results unless a deeper restructuring plan is announced."

Credit Suisse also cancelled the planned $175 million acquisition of Michael Klein's investment banking business, which it had planned to spin alongside its own investment banking division.

According to RBC Capital Markets analysts,&nbsp;the results show&nbsp;the difficult work ahead for UBS in acquiring&nbsp;its rival.&nbsp;UBS is yet to announce how many Credit Suisse jobs will be cut. Following the takeover, UBS executives stated that the deal will result in $8 billion in cost savings by 2027, $6 billion of which will come from reducing the number of full-time employees.

Credit Suisse, one of the leading banks in Switzerland, faced a significant "bank run" ahead of its collapse in March 2023, a Reuters report indicated on Monday.

Credit Suisse, one of the leading banks in Switzerland, faced a significant "bank run" ahead of its collapse in March 2023, a Reuters report indicated on Monday. The Swiss bank announced that it experienced a significant outflow of assets totaling 61 billion Swiss francs ($68 billion) in the first three months of 2023, with the bank's wealth management division being the hardest hit. A bank run takes place when a large number of customers of a bank withdraw their deposits at the same time over fears about the bank's solvency. Depositors began withdrawing their funds from the scandal-plagued Credit Suisse after it became entangled in the market upheaval caused by the failures of US lenders Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. As a result, Swiss authorities scrambled to create a rescue package in which UBS agreed to buy Credit Suisse for 3 billion Swiss francs in equity and accept up to 5 billion Swiss francs in damages. It also included state financial guarantees worth 200 billion francs. A Tricky Position Despite a major bank run, the Swiss banking giant also reported a net profit of 12.8 billion Swiss francs ($14 billion) for the first quarter ending March 2023. This was a notable increase compared to the significant loss incurred in the same period last year. The bank attributed the positive net profit mainly to the emergency takeover deal that wiped out high-risk debtors. The significant asset outflows along with a rise in net profit was met with mixed reactions in the market. While the increase in net profit was viewed positively, the persistent outflows of assets raised concerns about the bank's ability to overcome its challenges. Meanwhile, Credit Suisse's ability to generate revenue appeared to be impaired. London-based KBW analyst Thomas Hallett told Reuters that the "rescue deal could well remain a drag on UBS operating results unless a deeper restructuring plan is announced." Credit Suisse also cancelled the planned $175 million acquisition of Michael Klein's investment banking business, which it had planned to spin alongside its own investment banking division. According to RBC Capital Markets analysts, the results show the difficult work ahead for UBS in acquiring its rival. UBS is yet to announce how many Credit Suisse jobs will be cut. Following the takeover, UBS executives stated that the deal will result in $8 billion in cost savings by 2027, $6 billion of which will come from reducing the number of full-time employees.

Credit Suisse faced 'bank run', depositors withdrew $68 billion ahead of UBS takeover

Swiss President Alain Berset on Tuesday (April 11) defended Credit Suisse takeover by UBS saying that letting Credit Suisse fall would have triggered a catastrophe. He was addressing an extraordinary session of Swiss parliament. The session was called to debate the controversial March 19 deal that was arranged by the government quickly behind closed doors.

Letting Credit Suisse go bankrupt once the stock markets reopened on March 20 "would potentially have created an international financial crisis with devastating effects for Switzerland, for companies, for private customers but also for the reputation of our country", the president said.

"The demise of Credit Suisse is not the demise of Switzerland. It is the loss of a bank; a large bank but only a bank. Nothing more, nothing less."

Watch | Saudi Prince Fahad to pay Credit Suisse $41 million

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The three-day session at the Federal Assembly in Bern was called after lawmakers found themselves before a fait accompli.

Credit Suisse takeover by UBS has dramatically changed financial landscape of Switzerland. The Alpine country stakes much of its national prestige on sound banking.

The takeover triggered unease among the public and lawmakers alike, with the country's second-largest bank rapidly imploding after 167 years, during which it helped finance Switzerland's industrial growth.

"Without intervention, Credit Suisse would have found itself, in all likelihood, in default on March 20 or 21," Berset said. 
Rather than bankruptcy, nationalisation or attempting to restructure a bank in which confidence was shot, the takeover was considered the most likely option to restore market confidence, the president told the 46-member Council of States, the upper house of parliament.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Swiss President Alain Berset on Tuesday (April 11) defended Credit Suisse takeover by UBS saying that letting Credit Suisse fall would have triggered a catastrophe.

Swiss President Alain Berset on Tuesday (April 11) defended Credit Suisse takeover by UBS saying that letting Credit Suisse fall would have triggered a catastrophe. He was addressing an extraordinary session of Swiss parliament. The session was called to debate the controversial March 19 deal that was arranged by the government quickly behind closed doors. Letting Credit Suisse go bankrupt once the stock markets reopened on March 20 "would potentially have created an international financial crisis with devastating effects for Switzerland, for companies, for private customers but also for the reputation of our country", the president said. "The demise of Credit Suisse is not the demise of Switzerland. It is the loss of a bank; a large bank but only a bank. Nothing more, nothing less." Watch | Saudi Prince Fahad to pay Credit Suisse $41 million × The three-day session at the Federal Assembly in Bern was called after lawmakers found themselves before a fait accompli. Credit Suisse takeover by UBS has dramatically changed financial landscape of Switzerland. The Alpine country stakes much of its national prestige on sound banking. The takeover triggered unease among the public and lawmakers alike, with the country's second-largest bank rapidly imploding after 167 years, during which it helped finance Switzerland's industrial growth. "Without intervention, Credit Suisse would have found itself, in all likelihood, in default on March 20 or 21," Berset said. Rather than bankruptcy, nationalisation or attempting to restructure a bank in which confidence was shot, the takeover was considered the most likely option to restore market confidence, the president told the 46-member Council of States, the upper house of parliament. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fall of Credit Suisse not a fall of Switzerland, says president

Despite sanctions imposed by the European Union, Switzerland’s exports to Russia have dropped only marginally, while pharmaceutical exports continued to soar,&nbsp;a study has said.&nbsp;

Swiss exports to Russia in other sectors like machines and watches have come to a standstill, but pharma continued to rise exponentially since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Neue Zurcher Zeitung am Sonntag newspaper reported citing figures from the&nbsp;Federal Office&nbsp;for Customs and Border Security.&nbsp;

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, pharma exports rose by about 40 per cent, from around $1.54 billion to around $2.2 billion. It now accounts for about a third of all Swiss exports to Russia.&nbsp;

This is because medicines are considered humanitarian goods, and hence it doesn’t fall under the ambit of sanctions.&nbsp;

Switzerland hosts many large pharmaceutical companies, including Novartis and Roche.&nbsp;

“Sales in Russia were driven by a number of factors, including the influx of patients who had delayed medical treatment due to the pandemic,” Novartis told the paper while talking about the rise of pharma exports to Russia.&nbsp;

“One factor was the stockpiling by patients and hospitals in anticipation of possible bottlenecks,” the company added, regarding the war.&nbsp;

Between March 2022 and February 2023, Switzerland exported goods worth $3.2 billion to Russia, which was marginally lower than $3.8 billion in the previous year.&nbsp;

“Given the long list of goods that can no longer be shipped to the warring country, the impact seems soberingly small,” the weekly said.&nbsp;

Though it has honoured EU sanctions on Russia, Switzerland remained strictly neutral.&nbsp;

It has also been facing pressure from Kyiv and its allies to allow countries holding Swiss-made weaponry to re-export it to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Despite sanctions imposed by the European Union, Switzerland’s exports to Russia have dropped only marginally, while pharmaceutical exports continued to soar, a study has said.

Despite sanctions imposed by the European Union, Switzerland’s exports to Russia have dropped only marginally, while pharmaceutical exports continued to soar, a study has said. Swiss exports to Russia in other sectors like machines and watches have come to a standstill, but pharma continued to rise exponentially since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Neue Zurcher Zeitung am Sonntag newspaper reported citing figures from the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, pharma exports rose by about 40 per cent, from around $1.54 billion to around $2.2 billion. It now accounts for about a third of all Swiss exports to Russia. This is because medicines are considered humanitarian goods, and hence it doesn’t fall under the ambit of sanctions. Switzerland hosts many large pharmaceutical companies, including Novartis and Roche. “Sales in Russia were driven by a number of factors, including the influx of patients who had delayed medical treatment due to the pandemic,” Novartis told the paper while talking about the rise of pharma exports to Russia. “One factor was the stockpiling by patients and hospitals in anticipation of possible bottlenecks,” the company added, regarding the war. Between March 2022 and February 2023, Switzerland exported goods worth $3.2 billion to Russia, which was marginally lower than $3.8 billion in the previous year. “Given the long list of goods that can no longer be shipped to the warring country, the impact seems soberingly small,” the weekly said. Though it has honoured EU sanctions on Russia, Switzerland remained strictly neutral. It has also been facing pressure from Kyiv and its allies to allow countries holding Swiss-made weaponry to re-export it to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Swiss exports to Russia dropped marginally, while pharma registered strong growth despite sanctions 

Switzerland's Federal Prosecutor has opened an investigation into the state-backed takeover of Credit Suisse&nbsp;by UBS Group, the office of the attorney general said on Sunday.

The prosecutor, based in the Swiss capital Bern, is looking into potential breaches of the country's criminal law by government officials, regulators and executives at the two banks, which&nbsp;agreed on an emergency merger&nbsp;last month to avoid a meltdown in the country's financial system.

There were "numerous aspects of events around Credit Suisse" that warranted investigation and which needed to be analysed to "identify any criminal offences that could fall within the competence of the [prosecutor]", it said in a statement.

"The Office of the Attorney General wants to proactively fulfil its mandate and responsibility to contribute to a clean Swiss financial centre and has set up a monitoring system so that it can take action immediately on any issues that fall within its area of responsibility," it added.

It gave no indication of any specific aspects of the merger agreement it might look into or how long the investigation might last.

Both UBS and Credit Suisse declined to comment.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Out of ordinary</h2>

"It's astonishing that the prosecutor would comment," said Mark Pieth, professor emeritus of the University of Basel, where he has taught criminal law and criminology. But the rescue "is so out of the ordinary that they had to say something."

Pieth said the prosecutor could be probing breaches of secrecy provisions by officials, or the trading on inside information, adding that the wiping out of some bondholders as planned under the deal is also problematic.

In the deal announced on March 19 and orchestrated by the Swiss government, the central bank and market regulator, UBS would acquire rival Credit Suisse for 3 billion Swiss francs ($3.3 billion). The bank is trying to close the deal by as soon as the end of April, sources have told Reuters.

The Swiss public and politicians have voiced concerns about the level of state support, with nearly 260 billion Swiss francs in liquidity and guarantees offered by the government and Swiss National Bank.

A poll of Swiss economists&nbsp;found that nearly half think the takeover of Credit Suisse was not the best solution, and warned that the situation had dented Switzerland's reputation as a banking centre.

The takeover, which was also designed to help secure financial stability globally during a period of turmoil, has sparked concern among critics about the size of the merged bank, with $1.6 trillion in assets and more than 120,000 staff worldwide.

Up to 30% of staff&nbsp;could lose their jobs due to the takeover, according to an unnamed senior UBS manager quoted in Swiss media.

Switzerland's Federal Prosecutor has opened an investigation into the state-backed takeover of Credit Suisse by UBS Group, the office of the attorney general said on Sunday.

Switzerland's Federal Prosecutor has opened an investigation into the state-backed takeover of Credit Suisse by UBS Group, the office of the attorney general said on Sunday. The prosecutor, based in the Swiss capital Bern, is looking into potential breaches of the country's criminal law by government officials, regulators and executives at the two banks, which agreed on an emergency merger last month to avoid a meltdown in the country's financial system. There were "numerous aspects of events around Credit Suisse" that warranted investigation and which needed to be analysed to "identify any criminal offences that could fall within the competence of the [prosecutor]", it said in a statement. "The Office of the Attorney General wants to proactively fulfil its mandate and responsibility to contribute to a clean Swiss financial centre and has set up a monitoring system so that it can take action immediately on any issues that fall within its area of responsibility," it added. It gave no indication of any specific aspects of the merger agreement it might look into or how long the investigation might last. Both UBS and Credit Suisse declined to comment. Out of ordinary "It's astonishing that the prosecutor would comment," said Mark Pieth, professor emeritus of the University of Basel, where he has taught criminal law and criminology. But the rescue "is so out of the ordinary that they had to say something." Pieth said the prosecutor could be probing breaches of secrecy provisions by officials, or the trading on inside information, adding that the wiping out of some bondholders as planned under the deal is also problematic. In the deal announced on March 19 and orchestrated by the Swiss government, the central bank and market regulator, UBS would acquire rival Credit Suisse for 3 billion Swiss francs ($3.3 billion). The bank is trying to close the deal by as soon as the end of April, sources have told Reuters. The Swiss public and politicians have voiced concerns about the level of state support, with nearly 260 billion Swiss francs in liquidity and guarantees offered by the government and Swiss National Bank. A poll of Swiss economists found that nearly half think the takeover of Credit Suisse was not the best solution, and warned that the situation had dented Switzerland's reputation as a banking centre. The takeover, which was also designed to help secure financial stability globally during a period of turmoil, has sparked concern among critics about the size of the merged bank, with $1.6 trillion in assets and more than 120,000 staff worldwide. Up to 30% of staff could lose their jobs due to the takeover, according to an unnamed senior UBS manager quoted in Swiss media.

Swiss prosecutor probes state-backed Credit Suisse takeover of UBS

Switzerland faced two separate train derailment incidents on Friday in which several people are reported to have been injured. Both derailments took place in the northwestern part of the country located in the European Alps.&nbsp;

In one incident, the rear carriages of a train derailed, while the other derailment took place around 40 kilometres away. A Bern canton police spokeswoman told news agency&nbsp;AFP: "There are injuries in both trains", adding that police, firefighters and ambulance workers were still at the scene.

The first incident happened in the lakeside town of Luscherz, 110km northwest of the capital Bern, at around 4:30 pm (1430 GMT), the Bern cantonal police said. The train was travelling between Luscherz and Bienne.

"A train derailed. The rear part of the train fell on the right side," a Bern cantonal police spokeswoman told AFP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-worlds-longest-passenger-train-passes-through-swiss-alps-529880">WATCH: World’s longest passenger train passes through Swiss Alps</a>

"There are several injured," she said, without being able to give more details on the condition of those involved.

"Rescue interventions -- police, ambulance and firefighters -- are still in progress," she added.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: UN report accuses Switzerland of racial discrimination

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Police said they do not yet know why the train derailed.

Regional rail operator Aare Seeland Mobil said that services were cancelled on the line due to "a derailment caused by a storm", with the duration of the disruption "unknown". The second incident took place around 20 minutes later at Buren zum Hof.

The Regionalverkehr Bern-Solothurn regional rail operator said some services had been suspended "as a result of the storm".

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Switzerland faced two separate train derailment incidents on Friday in which several people are reported to have been injured. Both derailments took place in the northwestern part of the country located in the European Alps.

Switzerland faced two separate train derailment incidents on Friday in which several people are reported to have been injured. Both derailments took place in the northwestern part of the country located in the European Alps. In one incident, the rear carriages of a train derailed, while the other derailment took place around 40 kilometres away. A Bern canton police spokeswoman told news agency AFP: "There are injuries in both trains", adding that police, firefighters and ambulance workers were still at the scene. The first incident happened in the lakeside town of Luscherz, 110km northwest of the capital Bern, at around 4:30 pm (1430 GMT), the Bern cantonal police said. The train was travelling between Luscherz and Bienne. "A train derailed. The rear part of the train fell on the right side," a Bern cantonal police spokeswoman told AFP. ALSO READ | WATCH: World’s longest passenger train passes through Swiss Alps "There are several injured," she said, without being able to give more details on the condition of those involved. "Rescue interventions -- police, ambulance and firefighters -- are still in progress," she added. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: UN report accuses Switzerland of racial discrimination × Police said they do not yet know why the train derailed. Regional rail operator Aare Seeland Mobil said that services were cancelled on the line due to "a derailment caused by a storm", with the duration of the disruption "unknown". The second incident took place around 20 minutes later at Buren zum Hof. The Regionalverkehr Bern-Solothurn regional rail operator said some services had been suspended "as a result of the storm". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Switzerland: Several hurt in two separate train derailment incidents; rescue ops underway

IN PICS | 67-million-year-old T-Rex skeleton on display ahead of auction

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is hearing climate cases against the governments of France and Switzerland over the alleged failings to protect the environment. On Wednesday, the ECHR said the case against Switzerland is based on a complaint by the Club of Climate Seniors (an association of elderly people) concerned with the consequences of global warming on their living conditions and health, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

The association, backed by Greenpeace Switzerland, has accused Swiss authorities of various climate change failings which they say amount to the violation of the government's obligation to protect life and homes and families of the citizens.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-climate-change-what-are-its-consequences-a-lowdown-574727">Explained: What is climate change? What are its consequences? | A lowdown</a>

Jessica Simor, the plaintiffs' lawyer, said that her clients were already suffering the effects of climate change that Switzerland was not doing enough to stop. Simor added that temperatures were rising twice as quickly in the country as the global average.&nbsp;

Alain Chablais, representing the Swiss government, told the ECHR that it was baseless to claim or suggest that the government was doing nothing. Chablais added that the ECHR had no business becoming the place where national climate protection policy is decided, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the case against France was brought by Damien Careme, the former mayor of Grande-Synthe, who argued that the government failed to meet its obligation to protect life by taking insufficient steps to prevent climate change.&nbsp;

When Careme was serving as the mayor, he brought the case to the French judiciary not only on behalf of his town but also on his own behalf, saying climate change was raising the risk of his home being flooded. In 2021, the country's highest administrative court ruled in favour of Grande-Synthe against the central government.&nbsp;

However, the court threw out the individual case brought by Careme, which he then took to the ECHR.

Speaking to the news agency on Wednesday, Corinne Lepag, one of Careme's lawyers, said the stakes were extremely high. Lepag, the former ecology minister of France, said, "European court recognises that climate failings violate the rights of individuals to life and a normal family life, then that becomes precedent in all of the council's member states and potentially in the whole world."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is hearing climate cases against the governments of France and Switzerland over the alleged failings to protect the environment.

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is hearing climate cases against the governments of France and Switzerland over the alleged failings to protect the environment. On Wednesday, the ECHR said the case against Switzerland is based on a complaint by the Club of Climate Seniors (an association of elderly people) concerned with the consequences of global warming on their living conditions and health, the news agency AFP reported. The association, backed by Greenpeace Switzerland, has accused Swiss authorities of various climate change failings which they say amount to the violation of the government's obligation to protect life and homes and families of the citizens. ALSO READ | Explained: What is climate change? What are its consequences? | A lowdown Jessica Simor, the plaintiffs' lawyer, said that her clients were already suffering the effects of climate change that Switzerland was not doing enough to stop. Simor added that temperatures were rising twice as quickly in the country as the global average. Alain Chablais, representing the Swiss government, told the ECHR that it was baseless to claim or suggest that the government was doing nothing. Chablais added that the ECHR had no business becoming the place where national climate protection policy is decided, AFP reported. Meanwhile, the case against France was brought by Damien Careme, the former mayor of Grande-Synthe, who argued that the government failed to meet its obligation to protect life by taking insufficient steps to prevent climate change. When Careme was serving as the mayor, he brought the case to the French judiciary not only on behalf of his town but also on his own behalf, saying climate change was raising the risk of his home being flooded. In 2021, the country's highest administrative court ruled in favour of Grande-Synthe against the central government. However, the court threw out the individual case brought by Careme, which he then took to the ECHR. Speaking to the news agency on Wednesday, Corinne Lepag, one of Careme's lawyers, said the stakes were extremely high. Lepag, the former ecology minister of France, said, "European court recognises that climate failings violate the rights of individuals to life and a normal family life, then that becomes precedent in all of the council's member states and potentially in the whole world." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

European human rights court hears climate cases against France, Switzerland

Swiss professional skier Andri Ragetti, in a new video posted by him, performed famous Cristiano Ronaldo celebration mid-air.&nbsp;Ragetti, who is known for this many stunts, is a huge football fan and this time he chose CR7's Siiuuu as his new act.

The video, posted by Ragetti on Monday, shows the freestyle skier maneuvering on snow before being air-borne and doing the 'Siiuuu' celebration. The video further shows Ragetti doing a complete turn as well.

He captioned the video, writing, “SIIIUUUU!Ronaldo celebration on skis!” Have a look at the video here:

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SIIIUUUU!🗣️ 
Ronaldo celebration on skis!😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ronaldo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ronaldo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cr7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cr7</a> <a href="https://t.co/9WsQGAQ03o">pic.twitter.com/9WsQGAQ03o</a>
— Andri ragettli (@Andriragettli) <a href="https://twitter.com/Andriragettli/status/1632814394424938497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The skier is also&nbsp;a fan of football club Real Madrid and last year he had gone viral for a video which even Los Blancos had shared on its Instagram handle.

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Notably, Portugal and Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo does the same celebration after scoring a goal. Ronaldo, however, didn't have many chances to do that in recent times as he had a moderate year.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ronaldo-invites-young-boy-who-lost-his-father-in-syria-and-turkey-earthquake-to-al-nassr-tie-569461">Ronaldo invites young boy, who lost his father in Syria and Turkey earthquake, to Al-Nassr tie</a>

The footballer star although made the news when he invited a young boy, who is his fan, to one of his games in Saudi Arabia. The boy had lost his father in the deadly Syria and Turkey earthquake.

Ronaldo, who holds the record for maximum number of goals at the international level, met the young boy -- named Nabil Saeed from Syria -- and his friend, spoke and invited him for Al-Nassr's home match. His adorable gesture has won hearts on social media platforms.

At present, Al-Nassr is at the top spot in the overall standings in the Saudi Pro League with 14 wins from 19 games. They next face Al-Ittihand on March 09.

In 2022, he led Portugal in the Qatar World Cup but the national side bowed out in the quarter-finals. However, things have changed for him since joining the Riyadh-based club, Al-Nassr.

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Swiss professional skier Andri Ragetti, in a new video posted by him, performed famous Cristiano Ronaldo celebration mid-air. Ragetti, who is known for this many stunts, is a huge football fan and this time he chose CR7's Siiuuu as his new act.

Swiss professional skier Andri Ragetti, in a new video posted by him, performed famous Cristiano Ronaldo celebration mid-air. Ragetti, who is known for this many stunts, is a huge football fan and this time he chose CR7's Siiuuu as his new act. The video, posted by Ragetti on Monday, shows the freestyle skier maneuvering on snow before being air-borne and doing the 'Siiuuu' celebration. The video further shows Ragetti doing a complete turn as well. He captioned the video, writing, “SIIIUUUU!Ronaldo celebration on skis!” Have a look at the video here: SIIIUUUU!🗣️ Ronaldo celebration on skis!😂#Ronaldo #Cr7 pic.twitter.com/9WsQGAQ03o — Andri ragettli (@Andriragettli) March 6, 2023 × The skier is also a fan of football club Real Madrid and last year he had gone viral for a video which even Los Blancos had shared on its Instagram handle. Notably, Portugal and Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo does the same celebration after scoring a goal. Ronaldo, however, didn't have many chances to do that in recent times as he had a moderate year. WATCH: Ronaldo invites young boy, who lost his father in Syria and Turkey earthquake, to Al-Nassr tie The footballer star although made the news when he invited a young boy, who is his fan, to one of his games in Saudi Arabia. The boy had lost his father in the deadly Syria and Turkey earthquake. Ronaldo, who holds the record for maximum number of goals at the international level, met the young boy -- named Nabil Saeed from Syria -- and his friend, spoke and invited him for Al-Nassr's home match. His adorable gesture has won hearts on social media platforms. At present, Al-Nassr is at the top spot in the overall standings in the Saudi Pro League with 14 wins from 19 games. They next face Al-Ittihand on March 09. In 2022, he led Portugal in the Qatar World Cup but the national side bowed out in the quarter-finals. However, things have changed for him since joining the Riyadh-based club, Al-Nassr. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

INCREDIBLE: Swiss skier Andri Ragetti does Ronaldo's SIIUUU celebration mid-air | WATCH

Singapore became the second member country of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to ratify its agreement which sets global rules that ban harmful fishing subsidies in a bid to protect the world’s oceans, on Friday (February 10). In a statement, the country’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said that Singapore’s permanent representative ambassador Tan Hung Seng has formally submitted an instrument of acceptance of the WTO’s agreement on fisheries subsidies to Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva, Switzerland.&nbsp;

The submission makes Singapore the second member nation after Switzerland which ratified the agreement in January and the first coastal state to do so. It is also the first multilateral trade agreement that focuses on environmental sustainability which requires the acceptance of two-thirds of WTO’s 164 members to come into effect. The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies sets curbs on harmful subsidies, which are a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world's fish stocks, said the WTO, in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/wion-insights/what-did-wto-ministerial-agree-on-and-why-are-these-agreements-historic-489400">What did WTO ministerial agree on? And why are these agreements historic?&nbsp;</a>

Additionally, the multilateral agreement prohibits support for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing as well as bans support for fishing overfished stocks and calls for an end to subsidies for fishing on the unregulated high seas. “Singapore's formal acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is an important step towards its entry into force. It adds to the diversity of economies needed for the collective effort to uphold ocean sustainability worldwide,” said the WTO director-general.&nbsp;

She also called Singapore a “stalwart supporter” of the multilateral trading system and an active participant in both the fisheries subsidies negotiations and ongoing discussions on trade and the environment. Notably, the agreement also recognises the needs of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs) and will establish a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity building to help them end harmful fisheries subsidies and support sustainable fishing practices.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fisheries-subsidies-divides-wto-members-487919">Fisheries subsidies divides WTO members</a> 
 
So far, countries like Japan, Australia and the European Union have pledged millions to help developing and least-developed countries implement the obligations of the agreement. Subsequently, in a post on Facebook, Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said, “As a firm supporter of the rules-based multilateral trading system, Singapore welcomes this landmark agreement – the first WTO agreement with an environmental focus.”&nbsp; 
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Singapore became the second member country of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to ratify its agreement which sets global rules that ban harmful fishing subsidies in a bid to protect the world’s oceans, on Friday (February 10).

Singapore became the second member country of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to ratify its agreement which sets global rules that ban harmful fishing subsidies in a bid to protect the world’s oceans, on Friday (February 10). In a statement, the country’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said that Singapore’s permanent representative ambassador Tan Hung Seng has formally submitted an instrument of acceptance of the WTO’s agreement on fisheries subsidies to Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva, Switzerland. The submission makes Singapore the second member nation after Switzerland which ratified the agreement in January and the first coastal state to do so. It is also the first multilateral trade agreement that focuses on environmental sustainability which requires the acceptance of two-thirds of WTO’s 164 members to come into effect. The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies sets curbs on harmful subsidies, which are a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world's fish stocks, said the WTO, in a statement. ALSO READ | What did WTO ministerial agree on? And why are these agreements historic? Additionally, the multilateral agreement prohibits support for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing as well as bans support for fishing overfished stocks and calls for an end to subsidies for fishing on the unregulated high seas. “Singapore's formal acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is an important step towards its entry into force. It adds to the diversity of economies needed for the collective effort to uphold ocean sustainability worldwide,” said the WTO director-general. She also called Singapore a “stalwart supporter” of the multilateral trading system and an active participant in both the fisheries subsidies negotiations and ongoing discussions on trade and the environment. Notably, the agreement also recognises the needs of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs) and will establish a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity building to help them end harmful fisheries subsidies and support sustainable fishing practices. ALSO WATCH | Fisheries subsidies divides WTO members So far, countries like Japan, Australia and the European Union have pledged millions to help developing and least-developed countries implement the obligations of the agreement. Subsequently, in a post on Facebook, Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said, “As a firm supporter of the rules-based multilateral trading system, Singapore welcomes this landmark agreement – the first WTO agreement with an environmental focus.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore becomes second member country of WTO to sign agreement banning harmful fishing subsidies

The people living in the Swiss canton of Valais have been habituated to seeing snow-clad mountainsides in winter and ones filled with edelweiss flowers in summer.&nbsp;However, with the intensifying global warming, the slopes seem to be getting strangely colonised by an invasive species – cacti, commonly known to survive in hot and dry regions.

According to the authorities, species of cactus which belong to the genus Opuntia, commonly called prickly pears, have been proliferating in various parts of Valais and encroaching on the region's natural reserves and becoming a threat to biodiversity.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-propose-mining-moon-dust-spreading-around-earth-to-fight-global-warming-560270">Scientists propose mining Moon dust, using it to shield Earth from harsh Sun to curb global warming</a>

“A lover of dry and hot climates, this invasive and non-native plant is not welcome in the perimeter of prairies and dry pastures of national importance,” stated the municipality of Fully in the Rhone valley, in the press release issued to announce the uprooting campaign.

Opuntia species and similar kinds of cacti have also grown on a few hills around Sion, the capital of Valais, where it is estimated that Opuntia plants now fall in 23-30 per cent part of the low vegetation cover.

Their growth has also been reported in neighbouring Alpine regions, which include Grisons and Ticino in Switzerland, and Italy's Aosta valley and Valtellina.

Biologist Yann Triponez, who works in the nature protection service of the canton of Valais, said, “In some parts of Valais, we estimate that the cacti can occupy one-third of the available surface.”

He stated that Opuntia has been growing in Valais at least since the late 18th century when it travelled all the way from North America.

WATCH | Climate crisis puts marine ecosystem in peril

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However, the authorities feel that the warmer climate in the Alps, longer vegetation periods and declining snow cover have been creating ideal environmental conditions for them to grow.

“These species bear -10C or -15C without any problem,” Peter Oliver Baumgartner, a retired geology professor, said.

“But they want to be in a dry place and don’t like snow cover,” he added. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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The people living in the Swiss canton of Valais have been habituated to seeing snow-clad mountainsides in winter and ones filled with edelweiss flowers in summer.

The people living in the Swiss canton of Valais have been habituated to seeing snow-clad mountainsides in winter and ones filled with edelweiss flowers in summer. However, with the intensifying global warming, the slopes seem to be getting strangely colonised by an invasive species – cacti, commonly known to survive in hot and dry regions. According to the authorities, species of cactus which belong to the genus Opuntia, commonly called prickly pears, have been proliferating in various parts of Valais and encroaching on the region's natural reserves and becoming a threat to biodiversity. ALSO READ | Scientists propose mining Moon dust, using it to shield Earth from harsh Sun to curb global warming “A lover of dry and hot climates, this invasive and non-native plant is not welcome in the perimeter of prairies and dry pastures of national importance,” stated the municipality of Fully in the Rhone valley, in the press release issued to announce the uprooting campaign. Opuntia species and similar kinds of cacti have also grown on a few hills around Sion, the capital of Valais, where it is estimated that Opuntia plants now fall in 23-30 per cent part of the low vegetation cover. Their growth has also been reported in neighbouring Alpine regions, which include Grisons and Ticino in Switzerland, and Italy's Aosta valley and Valtellina. Biologist Yann Triponez, who works in the nature protection service of the canton of Valais, said, “In some parts of Valais, we estimate that the cacti can occupy one-third of the available surface.” He stated that Opuntia has been growing in Valais at least since the late 18th century when it travelled all the way from North America. WATCH | Climate crisis puts marine ecosystem in peril However, the authorities feel that the warmer climate in the Alps, longer vegetation periods and declining snow cover have been creating ideal environmental conditions for them to grow. “These species bear -10C or -15C without any problem,” Peter Oliver Baumgartner, a retired geology professor, said. “But they want to be in a dry place and don’t like snow cover,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Global warming: Cacti colonise Swiss mountainsides as snow cover recedes, threaten biodiversity

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