North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January.

In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development.

The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France.

The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement.

But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation".

"Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name.

"I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency.

North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives.

On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors.

Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb".

North Korea on Sunday slammed the UN Security Council for holding an emergency meeting over the country's latest missile tests, accusing the member states of toying with a "time-bomb". Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully fired an anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a series of tension-raising steps by the nuclear-armed state, which had until recently been biding its time since the change in US administrations in January. In September, it launched what it said was a long-range cruise missile, and earlier this week tested what it described as a hypersonic gliding vehicle, which South Korea's military said appeared to be in the early stages of development. The tests prompted UN Security Council member states to convene an emergency meeting on North Korea on Friday, called by the United States, Britain and France. The meeting was originally due to take place on Thursday but was delayed. It lasted just over an hour and ended without a statement. But it nonetheless angered Pyongyang, which called it a "wanton encroachment" on its sovereignty and a "serious intolerable provocation". "Demanding that we renounce our right to self-defence means an expression of its intention not to acknowledge the DPRK as a sovereign state," said Jo Chol Su, director of the Department of International Organisations at the foreign ministry, using the abbreviation for the country's official name. "I express strong concerns over the fact that the UNSC amused itself with the dangerous 'time-bomb' this time," he added in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency. North Korea has a long history of using weapons tests as part of a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives. On Wednesday, the country's leader Kim Jong Un decried Washington's repeated offers of talks without preconditions as a "petty trick", accusing the Biden administration of continuing the "hostile policy" of its predecessors. Under President Joe Biden, the United States has repeatedly declared its willingness to meet North Korean representatives, while saying it will seek denuclearisation.

North Korea slams UN over its meeting on missile test

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day".

Paying a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 152nd anniversary, Guterres urged that this is the time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance. "On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all," Guterres wrote on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

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Hatred, division and conflict have had their day. 
 
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On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all.
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The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.

According to the General Assembly resolution of June 15, 2007, which established the commemoration, International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness". The resolution reaffirms "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence" and the desire "to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-barack-obama-to-albert-einstein-mahatma-gandhi-inspired-famous-personalities-around-the-world-417515">Also read |&nbsp;From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world</a>

Earlier, in his address during the 76th Session of the UNGA, the Secretary-General had warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

"I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-as-a-journalist-what-the-father-of-nation-said-about-newspapers-417484">Also read |&nbsp;Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist: What the Father of Nation said about newspapers&nbsp;</a>

He further added, "I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes."

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day".

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day". Paying a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 152nd anniversary, Guterres urged that this is the time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance. "On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all," Guterres wrote on his official Twitter handle. Hatred, division and conflict have had their day. It is time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance. On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 2, 2021 × The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. According to the General Assembly resolution of June 15, 2007, which established the commemoration, International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness". The resolution reaffirms "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence" and the desire "to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence". Also read | From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world Earlier, in his address during the 76th Session of the UNGA, the Secretary-General had warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples. "I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said. Also read | Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist: What the Father of Nation said about newspapers He further added, "I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes."

UN Chief Antonio Guterres reiterates his call for peace on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary

Ethiopia has expelled 7 UN officials for 'meddling' in its internal affairs. The expulsion could hamper Humanitarian assistance to the Tigray region, but it also dents UN's credibility & effectiveness in solving armed conflicts. Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: Ethiopia expels 7 United Nations officials

A long-planned round of Australia-EU free trade talks have been postponed, a European official confirmed Friday, after fury over Canberra’s decision to cancel a major French submarine contract.

Free trade talks postponed between Australia and UN

Goldman Sachs has cut China’s economic growth forecast for 2021 to 7.8%, from 8.2%, as energy shortages and deep industrial output cuts add “significant downside pressures”, it said in a note on Tuesday. Watch this report for more details

Goldman cuts China GDP growth forecast on energy supply crunch

China’s energy crisis is beginning to hit people where they live, adding the risk of social instability to an economic slowdown and global supply chain disruptions. Watch this report for more details.

China's power crisis moves from factories to homes

United Nations spokesman said on Friday that no representative from Myanmar is scheduled to address United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This has come amid rival claims for Myanmar's UN seat after military coup that toppled the civilian government.

The Ambassador for the ousted government of Afghanistan will give his speech on Monday.

"At this point, Myanmar is not speaking," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Myanmar's current UN Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun - appointed by Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government - had initially been expected to address the 193-member General Assembly on Monday, the final day of the gathering.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-new-defence-minister-asks-taliban-soldiers-to-stop-taking-selfies-416274">Afghanistan's new defence minister asks Taliban soldiers to stop taking selfies</a>

But diplomats said China, Russia and the United States had reached an understanding, where Moscow and Beijing will not object to Kyaw Moe Tun remaining in Myanmar's U.N. seat for the moment as long as he does not speak during the high-level meeting.

"I withdrew from the speaker list, and will not speak at this general debate," Kyaw Moe Tun told Reuters, adding that he was aware of the understanding between some members of the UN credentials committee, which includes Russia, China and the United States.

Myanmar's junta has put forward military veteran Aung Thurein to be its UN envoy, while Kyaw Moe Tun has asked to renew his UN accreditation, despite being the target of a plot to kill or injure him over his opposition to the February coup.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-orders-barbers-in-helmand-province-not-to-shave-or-trim-beards-416272">Taliban orders barbers in Helmand province not to shave or trim beards</a>

Dujarric said that "for now, the Afghanistan representative inscribed on the list for Monday is Mr. Ghulam M. Isaczai." Isaczai is the current UN ambassador, who represents Afghanistan's government ousted by the Taliban.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Monday asked to address the gathering of world leaders at the United Nations and nominated the Islamist group's Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's UN ambassador.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-blames-internet-blackouts-on-anti-coup-fighters-416234">Myanmar junta blames internet blackouts on anti-coup fighters</a>

UN accreditation issues are dealt with by a nine-member committee, whose members include the United States, China and Russia. It traditionally meets in October or November so a decision would not be made in time that would allow Muttaqi to address the high-level General Assembly meeting this year.

Until a decision is made by the credentials committee on both Afghanistan and Myanmar, Isaczai and Kyaw Moe Tun will remain in the seats, according to the General Assembly rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations spokesman said on Friday that no representative from Myanmar is scheduled to address United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This has come amid rival claims for Myanmar's UN seat after military coup that toppled the civilian government.

United Nations spokesman said on Friday that no representative from Myanmar is scheduled to address United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This has come amid rival claims for Myanmar's UN seat after military coup that toppled the civilian government. The Ambassador for the ousted government of Afghanistan will give his speech on Monday. "At this point, Myanmar is not speaking," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Myanmar's current UN Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun - appointed by Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government - had initially been expected to address the 193-member General Assembly on Monday, the final day of the gathering. Also Read | Afghanistan's new defence minister asks Taliban soldiers to stop taking selfies But diplomats said China, Russia and the United States had reached an understanding, where Moscow and Beijing will not object to Kyaw Moe Tun remaining in Myanmar's U.N. seat for the moment as long as he does not speak during the high-level meeting. "I withdrew from the speaker list, and will not speak at this general debate," Kyaw Moe Tun told Reuters, adding that he was aware of the understanding between some members of the UN credentials committee, which includes Russia, China and the United States. Myanmar's junta has put forward military veteran Aung Thurein to be its UN envoy, while Kyaw Moe Tun has asked to renew his UN accreditation, despite being the target of a plot to kill or injure him over his opposition to the February coup. Also Read | Taliban orders barbers in Helmand province not to shave or trim beards Dujarric said that "for now, the Afghanistan representative inscribed on the list for Monday is Mr. Ghulam M. Isaczai." Isaczai is the current UN ambassador, who represents Afghanistan's government ousted by the Taliban. Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Monday asked to address the gathering of world leaders at the United Nations and nominated the Islamist group's Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's UN ambassador. Also Read | Myanmar junta blames internet blackouts on anti-coup fighters UN accreditation issues are dealt with by a nine-member committee, whose members include the United States, China and Russia. It traditionally meets in October or November so a decision would not be made in time that would allow Muttaqi to address the high-level General Assembly meeting this year. Until a decision is made by the credentials committee on both Afghanistan and Myanmar, Isaczai and Kyaw Moe Tun will remain in the seats, according to the General Assembly rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar won't address world at UN, ousted Afghan government will

Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou arrived in China on Saturday, ending her near three-year U.S. extradition fight, the same day two Canadians detained by Beijing for more than 1,000 days returned home, potentially paving the way for improved ties between China and the two western allies.

China welcomes Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou home

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made India's global leadership pitch at the UN. What is India's place in the new world order? What are the challenges to India's rise? Palki Sharma discusses with Suhag A Shukla and Vibhuti Jha.

Gravitas US Edition: India's path to global leadership

In the backdrop of WHO facing criticism over COVID-19 origins prorbe&nbsp;and the World Bank discontinuing its flagship Ease of Doing Business report following alleged irregularities, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday pointed to holes in the functioning of the United Nations, saying that the global body must rise up to the occasion and restore its credibility.

Addressing the 76th UN General Assembly, the prime minister, while quoting Indian diplomat Chanakya, said, “When the right action is not taken at the right time, then it is time itself that causes the action to fail.”

“If the United Nations wants to remain relevant. It will need to improve its effectiveness and enhance its reliability," he said.

The prime minister appeared to be referring to a report of independent scrutiny by leading US law firm WilmerHale which showed that China in 2017 manipulated its data to improve its ranking in the Ease of Doing Business index.

The UN’s health agency, World Health Organization, was also criticised for mishandling the COVID-19 outbreak --which first surfaced in China in December 2019-- due to Chinese interference..

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-at-unga-covid-taught-world-that-global-economy-should-be-more-diversified-415901">PM Modi at UNGA: Covid taught world that global economy should be more diversified</a>

Former US president Donald Trump had slammed the WHO as a “puppet” of China and accused it of covering up the start of the outbreak and allowing the virus to spread around the entire world.

Modi said that today, all kinds of questions have been raised about the UN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-of-a-tea-seller-is-addressing-un-for-fourth-time-pm-modi-hails-strength-of-indian-democracy-415903">Child of a tea seller is addressing UN for fourth time: PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy</a>

"We have seen such questions being raised, related to the climate crisis and during the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVE</a> | Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> speaks at the 76th session of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA76?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA76</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONatUNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONatUNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/sFMXkPrcr6">https://t.co/sFMXkPrcr6</a>
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“With regard to the origin of COVID-19 and the ease of doing business rankings, institutions of global governance have damaged the credibility they had built after decades of hard work," he said.

“It is essential that we constantly strengthen the UN, in order to safeguard global order, global laws and global values,” Modi said.

In a veiled reference to China’s military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region, Modi said, “We must protect them from the race for expansion. The international community must speak in one voice to strengthen a rule-based world order... Our oceans are also our shared heritage. That is why, we have to keep in mind that we use ocean resources, not abuse them.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In the backdrop of WHO facing criticism over COVID-19 origins prorbe and the World Bank discontinuing its flagship Ease of Doing Business report following alleged irregularities, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday pointed to holes in the functioning of the United Nations, saying that the global body must rise up to the occasion and restore its credibility.

In the backdrop of WHO facing criticism over COVID-19 origins prorbe and the World Bank discontinuing its flagship Ease of Doing Business report following alleged irregularities, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday pointed to holes in the functioning of the United Nations, saying that the global body must rise up to the occasion and restore its credibility. Addressing the 76th UN General Assembly, the prime minister, while quoting Indian diplomat Chanakya, said, “When the right action is not taken at the right time, then it is time itself that causes the action to fail.” “If the United Nations wants to remain relevant. It will need to improve its effectiveness and enhance its reliability," he said. The prime minister appeared to be referring to a report of independent scrutiny by leading US law firm WilmerHale which showed that China in 2017 manipulated its data to improve its ranking in the Ease of Doing Business index. The UN’s health agency, World Health Organization, was also criticised for mishandling the COVID-19 outbreak --which first surfaced in China in December 2019-- due to Chinese interference.. Also read | PM Modi at UNGA: Covid taught world that global economy should be more diversified Former US president Donald Trump had slammed the WHO as a “puppet” of China and accused it of covering up the start of the outbreak and allowing the virus to spread around the entire world. Modi said that today, all kinds of questions have been raised about the UN. Also read | Child of a tea seller is addressing UN for fourth time: PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy "We have seen such questions being raised, related to the climate crisis and during the COVID-19 pandemic," he said. #LIVE | Indian Prime Minister @narendramodi speaks at the 76th session of #UNGA #UNGA2021 #UNGA76 #WIONatUNGA https://t.co/sFMXkPrcr6 — WION (@WIONews) September 25, 2021 × “With regard to the origin of COVID-19 and the ease of doing business rankings, institutions of global governance have damaged the credibility they had built after decades of hard work," he said. “It is essential that we constantly strengthen the UN, in order to safeguard global order, global laws and global values,” Modi said. In a veiled reference to China’s military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region, Modi said, “We must protect them from the race for expansion. The international community must speak in one voice to strengthen a rule-based world order... Our oceans are also our shared heritage. That is why, we have to keep in mind that we use ocean resources, not abuse them.” (With inputs from agencies)

Covid origins, Ease of Business report: Modi attacks UN for loss of credibility, without naming China

More than 350,000 people have been killed in the decade-old war in Syria, the United Nations human rights office said on Friday in its first report since 2014 on the death toll, adding that the tally was an "undercount".

Syria war: UN says 350,000 death toll is an 'undercount'

President Jair Bolsonaro's lawmaker son said that he had contracted the coronavirus. He turns out to be the third member of Brazil's delegation to the UN General Assembly in New York to test positive.

Eduardo Bolsonaro on Twitter said that he was feeling well and had "started to treat myself" without specifying what he was using.

He cited his infection as evidence in his campaign against the coronavirus vaccine passport recently introduced in some Brazilian cities.

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Apesar do diagnóstico estou me sentindo bem e comecei a me tratar imediatamente 😉 
 
Obrigado pelas centenas de desejos de melhoras que já recebi. Logo estarei de volta. 
 
(Espero que este post não seja deletado)
— Eduardo Bolsonaro🇧🇷 (@BolsonaroSP) <a href="https://twitter.com/BolsonaroSP/status/1441385532584513537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"We know that the vaccines were developed faster than is usually the case. I received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine and I got Covid," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-health-minister-who-is-accompanying-bolsonaro-at-unga-tests-positive-for-covid-19-414925">Also read |&nbsp;Brazil’s health minister, who is accompanying Bolsonaro at UNGA, tests positive for COVID-19</a>

"Does this mean the vaccine is useless? No. But I believe it is another argument against the health passport."

Meanwhile, Brazil’s health minister Marcelo Queiroga has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the UN General Assembly in New York with President Jair Bolsonaro, according to an official statement.

The Brazilian government said on Tuesday that Queiroga, who had received a COVID-19 vaccine, was the second member of Bolsonaro’s entourage to test positive for the virus since arriving in New York for the 76th session of the UNGA.

“The other members of the delegation have been tested and are negative," said the official Brazilian government press release.

The 55-year-old health minister will remain quarantined in the United States, even as the rest of the delegation has returned to Brazil.

President Bolsonaro, who has survived Covid-19, appeared without a mask on several occasions during his UN trip despite refusing to get the vaccine.

President Jair Bolsonaro's lawmaker son said that he had contracted the coronavirus. He turns out to be the third member of Brazil's delegation to the UN General Assembly in New York to test positive.

President Jair Bolsonaro's lawmaker son said that he had contracted the coronavirus. He turns out to be the third member of Brazil's delegation to the UN General Assembly in New York to test positive. Eduardo Bolsonaro on Twitter said that he was feeling well and had "started to treat myself" without specifying what he was using. He cited his infection as evidence in his campaign against the coronavirus vaccine passport recently introduced in some Brazilian cities. Apesar do diagnóstico estou me sentindo bem e comecei a me tratar imediatamente 😉 Obrigado pelas centenas de desejos de melhoras que já recebi. Logo estarei de volta. (Espero que este post não seja deletado) — Eduardo Bolsonaro🇧🇷 (@BolsonaroSP) September 24, 2021 × "We know that the vaccines were developed faster than is usually the case. I received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine and I got Covid," he said. Also read | Brazil’s health minister, who is accompanying Bolsonaro at UNGA, tests positive for COVID-19 "Does this mean the vaccine is useless? No. But I believe it is another argument against the health passport." Meanwhile, Brazil’s health minister Marcelo Queiroga has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the UN General Assembly in New York with President Jair Bolsonaro, according to an official statement. The Brazilian government said on Tuesday that Queiroga, who had received a COVID-19 vaccine, was the second member of Bolsonaro’s entourage to test positive for the virus since arriving in New York for the 76th session of the UNGA. “The other members of the delegation have been tested and are negative," said the official Brazilian government press release. The 55-year-old health minister will remain quarantined in the United States, even as the rest of the delegation has returned to Brazil. President Bolsonaro, who has survived Covid-19, appeared without a mask on several occasions during his UN trip despite refusing to get the vaccine.

Back from UN, Bolsonaro's son tests positive for COVID-19

China on Thursday said it "strongly opposes" Taiwan's bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a day after Taipei applied for membership in the 11-country trade bloc.Watch this report for more details.

China opposes Taiwan's Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again raised the Kashmir issue at the UN. India has responded in kind, by calling world leaders to respect UN resolutions on the Cyprus dispute. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas US Edition: Erdogan raises Kashmir again at United Nations

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old.

Tom Andrews, on Wednesday, told the UN Human Rights Council that conditions in the country have deteriorated and that “current efforts by the international community to stop the downward spiral of events in Myanmar are simply not working”.

“I have received credible reports that junta forces have arbitrarily detained at least 177 individuals­ when the initial target of a raid had successfully eluded arrest. These victims include very young children as young as 20 weeks old,” he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-want-to-address-un-general-assembly-appoint-new-envoy-414770">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy</a>

He further added that the military was routinely abducting family members when it is unable to locate individuals it is seeking to arrest.

The military junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, he revealed. This includes dozen of children.&nbsp;

As of July, the junta had killed at least 75 children ranging in age from 14 months to 17 years.

Andrew called for a “change of course” by the international community. This will be done to avert further human rights abuses and deaths as he warned that there are now more than 230,000 civilians who have been displaced because of the junta.

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old.

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old. Tom Andrews, on Wednesday, told the UN Human Rights Council that conditions in the country have deteriorated and that “current efforts by the international community to stop the downward spiral of events in Myanmar are simply not working”. “I have received credible reports that junta forces have arbitrarily detained at least 177 individuals when the initial target of a raid had successfully eluded arrest. These victims include very young children as young as 20 weeks old,” he said. Also read | Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy He further added that the military was routinely abducting family members when it is unable to locate individuals it is seeking to arrest. The military junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, he revealed. This includes dozen of children. As of July, the junta had killed at least 75 children ranging in age from 14 months to 17 years. Andrew called for a “change of course” by the international community. This will be done to avert further human rights abuses and deaths as he warned that there are now more than 230,000 civilians who have been displaced because of the junta.

Myanmar junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, says UN expert

While addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Chinese President Xi Jinping says China is not seeking hegemony. Watch this report for more details.

President Xi Jinping says China is not seeking hegemony

The Taliban, which recently took power in Afghanistan, have reportedly asked the United Nations to allow their foreign minister to represent the country and deliver a speech at the UN General Assembly that is currently being held in New York.

Afghanistan's Taliban wants to address the UN General Assembly meeting this week

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body.

A nine-member credentials committee will now rule on the dueling requests, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told AFP, but it is unclear whether the committee will meet before the end of the convocation on Monday.

Dujarric said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received a letter from Taliban-appointed Amir Khan Muttaqi "requesting to participate" in the high-level debate.

The letter was dated Monday September 20, the day before the session got underway. The letter lists Muttaqi as "Minister of Foreign Affairs," said Dujarric.

The letter did not specify whether Muttaqi wanted to travel to New York to speak or whether the Taliban would submit a recorded video message, as many leaders are doing this year due to Covid-19.

The letter also indicated that Ghulam Isaczai "no longer represents" Afghanistan at the United Nations.

He was the ambassador to the UN of the Afghan government ousted from power in August as US military troops exited the country, ending their 20-year war.

The letter said that the Taliban had nominated their Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's permanent representative to the UN.

The note, which had the letterhead "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs," said that former president Ashraf Ghani was "ousted" on August 15, the day he fled the country.

"Countries across the world no longer recognize him as president," the letter said, according to the UN.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-first-address-at-un-general-assembly-2021-us-president-joe-biden-says-ended-afghan-war-to-enter-new-era-of-diplomacy-414726">UN General Assembly 2021: US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy</a>

The UN spokesman also said that Secretary-General Guterres had received a separate letter from Isaczai, dated September 15, containing the list of Afghanistan's delegation for the session.

That letter listed Isaczai as Afghanistan's permanent representative, Dujarric said.

"These two communications have been sent by the secretariat, after consultation with the office of the president of the General Assembly, to the members of the credentials committee of the 76th session of the General Assembly," he said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-alarm-to-wake-up-world-key-points-from-strong-speech-by-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-414680">Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres</a>

The committee is made up of Russia, China, the United States, Sweden, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Chile, Bhutan and the Bahamas.

The committee has in the past refrained from making a decision and instead referred it to the General Assembly for a vote, a diplomatic source told AFP.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-biden-raises-xinjiang-human-rights-abuse-issue-in-maiden-speech-414711">UN General Assembly 2021 | Biden raises Xinjiang human rights abuse issue in maiden speech</a>

No government has yet recognized the Taliban government, first demanding that it meet commitments on human rights, but some have made positive noises.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body.

The Taliban's foreign minister has asked to address world leaders at United Nations General Assembly, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday. The UN is yet to decide who will represent Afghanistan at the world body. A nine-member credentials committee will now rule on the dueling requests, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told AFP, but it is unclear whether the committee will meet before the end of the convocation on Monday. Dujarric said that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received a letter from Taliban-appointed Amir Khan Muttaqi "requesting to participate" in the high-level debate. The letter was dated Monday September 20, the day before the session got underway. The letter lists Muttaqi as "Minister of Foreign Affairs," said Dujarric. The letter did not specify whether Muttaqi wanted to travel to New York to speak or whether the Taliban would submit a recorded video message, as many leaders are doing this year due to Covid-19. The letter also indicated that Ghulam Isaczai "no longer represents" Afghanistan at the United Nations. He was the ambassador to the UN of the Afghan government ousted from power in August as US military troops exited the country, ending their 20-year war. The letter said that the Taliban had nominated their Doha-based spokesman Suhail Shaheen as Afghanistan's permanent representative to the UN. The note, which had the letterhead "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs," said that former president Ashraf Ghani was "ousted" on August 15, the day he fled the country. "Countries across the world no longer recognize him as president," the letter said, according to the UN. Also Read: UN General Assembly 2021: US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy The UN spokesman also said that Secretary-General Guterres had received a separate letter from Isaczai, dated September 15, containing the list of Afghanistan's delegation for the session. That letter listed Isaczai as Afghanistan's permanent representative, Dujarric said. "These two communications have been sent by the secretariat, after consultation with the office of the president of the General Assembly, to the members of the credentials committee of the 76th session of the General Assembly," he said. Also Read: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres The committee is made up of Russia, China, the United States, Sweden, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Chile, Bhutan and the Bahamas. The committee has in the past refrained from making a decision and instead referred it to the General Assembly for a vote, a diplomatic source told AFP. Also Read: UN General Assembly 2021 | Biden raises Xinjiang human rights abuse issue in maiden speech No government has yet recognized the Taliban government, first demanding that it meet commitments on human rights, but some have made positive noises. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy

While addressing UNGA, Xi Jinping says China will stop financing the construction of new coal-fired power plants abroad. Watch this report for more details.

Chinese President Xi Jinping pledges to cut carbon emissions

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all.

The statement was made in reference to the private space trips by three billionaire entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson as they are vying to usher in a new era of private commercial space travel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-alarm-to-wake-up-world-key-points-from-strong-speech-by-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-414680">Also read |&nbsp;UN General Assembly 2021 | Alarm to wake up world: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres</a>

Musk, Bezos and Branson have been investing billions of dollars into their space startups as they promised to ferry paying customers on rides to space.

Guterres also warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all. The statement was made in reference to the private space trips by three billionaire entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson as they are vying to usher in a new era of private commercial space travel. Also read | UN General Assembly 2021 | Alarm to wake up world: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres Musk, Bezos and Branson have been investing billions of dollars into their space startups as they promised to ferry paying customers on rides to space. Guterres also warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples. In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres says a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading as he talks about private space ventures

The 76th Session of the UN General Assembly is in progress from 14th September. Undoubtedly the event held annually is the largest gathering of world leaders, and provides a platform to discuss, debate, and identify the key issues of global concern. An attempt is also made to reach a consensus on the ways and means of addressing and resolving these issues.

This makes it a desirable global body that can set the basic norms of global governance. Opinions, however, differ on the effectiveness of the world body to translate the lofty declarations of intent into concrete actions and deliver as per the expectations of the global community.&nbsp;

When the Heads of State/Government from all over the world met last year on the landmark occasion of the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the United Nations, they were candid in admitting that the world envisaged by the UN’s founders 75 years ago has not yet been realised.

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Some of the important observations included that the world is plagued by growing inequality, poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism, insecurity, climate change, and pandemics, and the people are forced to make dangerous journeys in search of refuge and safety.&nbsp;

The world leaders, therefore, made twelve commitments: 1. Leave no one behind, 2. Protect our planet, 3. Promote peace and prevent conflicts, 4. Abide by international law and ensure justice. 5. Place women and girls at the center,6. Build trust, 7. Improve digital cooperation, 8. Upgrade the UN, 9.Ensure sustainable financing, 10 Boost partnerships,11. Listen to and work with youth, and 12. Be prepared.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-biden-pm-modis-meeting-will-strengthen-deep-ties-says-us-ahead-of-unga-414562">President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA</a> 
 
As a follow-up to the twelve commitments of the global leaders, the UN Secretary-General unveiled, on the eve of the inauguration of the current session, a &nbsp;report titled &nbsp;“Our Common Agenda”, said to have been prepared after extensive consultations. &nbsp;

Prima-facie, it is difficult to disagree on any of the twelve objectives identified by the global leaders. But as they say proverbially, the taste of the pudding is in eating it. We therefore need to wait for a while to see how much the UN will succeed in the realisation of these noble intentions.

Going by the past track record, the UN has to its credit some notable achievements in selected areas such as Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Change, monitoring the proliferation of nuclear weapons etc. However, the promotion of peace and security, prevention of conflicts, ensuring that all member states abide by the international law and the UN’s reform are some of the important areas where the UN’s delivery so far has been less than satisfactory.&nbsp;

<img alt="UN peacekeeping" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b684d16c-43d2-4cd3-af90-8715f2267d9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9KQ6UW.jpg" />

In the recent past, there have been at least three instances when the UN failed to prevent or halt the serious escalation in the historic on-going armed conflicts, which caused substantial loss of human lives and severe damage to property, besides rendering several thousand people as internally displaced or as refugees.&nbsp;

These conflicts include: the Armenia-Azerbaijan war over Nagorno-Karabakh, Israel-Palestine conflict, and most recently the takeover by force of Afghanistan by the Taliban some of whose “ministers” in the so-called interim government are UN-designated terrorists.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b35b4222-d70e-4794-a6d7-20350c7a9ee3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9N6786.jpg" />

In all these and many other similar cases the events were influenced or controlled and ultimately settled by a handful of global players outside the framework of the UN, while the world body and by implications the rest of the global community remained a silent spectator.&nbsp;

Take for instance the case of Afghanistan. After fighting the Taliban for nearly two decades the US- a world power and celebrated democracy- finally entered into a formal agreement (29th February 2020) with the Taliban– an ultra-conservative, fundamentalist, radical, extremist terror organisation.&nbsp;

What followed is now etched in world history the making of which was watched by the international community in silence, without shedding a tear over the victory of bullet over ballot. The UN Security Council Statements/Resolution (2593) issued/adopted since the Taliban’s take-over on 15th August are anything but critical of the Taliban.

There is no condemnation of the Taliban; instead, in an implied de-facto recognition of the Taliban, the UN appears to be pleading with the Taliban to comply with the expectations of the international community and form an inclusive government, not to allow the Afghan territory being used for terror activities, ensure observance of human rights etc.

No warning has been given as to what could be the consequences of non-observance of the UNSC resolution.

So the pertinent question that arises is: is the UN a too powerless and helpless body that it cannot prevent or resolve conflicts. The answer to this seemingly difficult question is rather simple: the UN is not a superstate presiding over 192 sovereign member states. It can be effective only to the extent it is allowed to be.&nbsp;

Often, the decisions of the UNGA/UNSC or other UN organs are overshadowed by the conflict of interests and proxy wars between a handful of international powers, particularly the five veto-wielding members of the UNSC, who more often pull in different directions rather than being on the same page on issues of strategic and security dimensions.&nbsp;

The UN has but only two weapons at its disposal: the punitive weapon of economic sanctions and the weapon for the positive intervention through International Peace Keeping Force. Once again, neither of these weapons can be deployed unless there is a consensus between these all-powerful players. Net result is the unilateral actions taken by certain individual countries which do not necessarily reflect the collective wish of the international community.

It is therefore not without a reason that India along with some other like-minded countries has repeatedly called for serious reforms in the UN and other global institutional mechanisms to make them truly representatives and relevant to the realities of the 21st century.

Notwithstanding the debatable issue of the usefulness or otherwise of the United Nations, all eyes are as usual now set on the General Debate, scheduled to take place from Tuesday, September 21 to Monday, September 27, including Saturday, September 25. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, over 100 Heads of State or Government are expected to travel to New York to address the UNGA. Many of them are very likely to &nbsp; go &nbsp;beyond &nbsp;the &nbsp;main theme:, “Building Resilience through Hope – to Recover from COVID-19, Rebuild Sustainably, Respond to the needs of the Planet, Respect the rights of people and Revitalize the United Nations.”&nbsp;

The leaders have traditionally used this opportunity to address both the domestic and international audience and reveal their priorities and policy approaches, besides messaging their friends, allies and adversaries. At the end of the day, each of the national statement will be assigned a reference number and added to the UN archives but for keen and interested observers there will be much to read between the lines to gauge the mind-set of those who matter in international affairs.&nbsp;

In short, the UN is a desirable world body which in present circumstances requires a complete overhauling so that it can deliver as per the expectations of the international community.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The 76th Session of the UN General Assembly is in progress from 14th September. Undoubtedly the event held annually is the largest gathering of world leaders, and provides a platform to discuss, debate, and identify the key issues of global concern.

The 76th Session of the UN General Assembly is in progress from 14th September. Undoubtedly the event held annually is the largest gathering of world leaders, and provides a platform to discuss, debate, and identify the key issues of global concern. An attempt is also made to reach a consensus on the ways and means of addressing and resolving these issues. This makes it a desirable global body that can set the basic norms of global governance. Opinions, however, differ on the effectiveness of the world body to translate the lofty declarations of intent into concrete actions and deliver as per the expectations of the global community. When the Heads of State/Government from all over the world met last year on the landmark occasion of the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the United Nations, they were candid in admitting that the world envisaged by the UN’s founders 75 years ago has not yet been realised. × Some of the important observations included that the world is plagued by growing inequality, poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism, insecurity, climate change, and pandemics, and the people are forced to make dangerous journeys in search of refuge and safety. The world leaders, therefore, made twelve commitments: 1. Leave no one behind, 2. Protect our planet, 3. Promote peace and prevent conflicts, 4. Abide by international law and ensure justice. 5. Place women and girls at the center,6. Build trust, 7. Improve digital cooperation, 8. Upgrade the UN, 9.Ensure sustainable financing, 10 Boost partnerships,11. Listen to and work with youth, and 12. Be prepared. Also Read | President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA As a follow-up to the twelve commitments of the global leaders, the UN Secretary-General unveiled, on the eve of the inauguration of the current session, a report titled “Our Common Agenda”, said to have been prepared after extensive consultations. Prima-facie, it is difficult to disagree on any of the twelve objectives identified by the global leaders. But as they say proverbially, the taste of the pudding is in eating it. We therefore need to wait for a while to see how much the UN will succeed in the realisation of these noble intentions. Going by the past track record, the UN has to its credit some notable achievements in selected areas such as Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Change, monitoring the proliferation of nuclear weapons etc. However, the promotion of peace and security, prevention of conflicts, ensuring that all member states abide by the international law and the UN’s reform are some of the important areas where the UN’s delivery so far has been less than satisfactory. In the recent past, there have been at least three instances when the UN failed to prevent or halt the serious escalation in the historic on-going armed conflicts, which caused substantial loss of human lives and severe damage to property, besides rendering several thousand people as internally displaced or as refugees. These conflicts include: the Armenia-Azerbaijan war over Nagorno-Karabakh, Israel-Palestine conflict, and most recently the takeover by force of Afghanistan by the Taliban some of whose “ministers” in the so-called interim government are UN-designated terrorists. In all these and many other similar cases the events were influenced or controlled and ultimately settled by a handful of global players outside the framework of the UN, while the world body and by implications the rest of the global community remained a silent spectator. Take for instance the case of Afghanistan. After fighting the Taliban for nearly two decades the US- a world power and celebrated democracy- finally entered into a formal agreement (29th February 2020) with the Taliban– an ultra-conservative, fundamentalist, radical, extremist terror organisation. What followed is now etched in world history the making of which was watched by the international community in silence, without shedding a tear over the victory of bullet over ballot. The UN Security Council Statements/Resolution (2593) issued/adopted since the Taliban’s take-over on 15th August are anything but critical of the Taliban. There is no condemnation of the Taliban; instead, in an implied de-facto recognition of the Taliban, the UN appears to be pleading with the Taliban to comply with the expectations of the international community and form an inclusive government, not to allow the Afghan territory being used for terror activities, ensure observance of human rights etc. No warning has been given as to what could be the consequences of non-observance of the UNSC resolution. So the pertinent question that arises is: is the UN a too powerless and helpless body that it cannot prevent or resolve conflicts. The answer to this seemingly difficult question is rather simple: the UN is not a superstate presiding over 192 sovereign member states. It can be effective only to the extent it is allowed to be. Often, the decisions of the UNGA/UNSC or other UN organs are overshadowed by the conflict of interests and proxy wars between a handful of international powers, particularly the five veto-wielding members of the UNSC, who more often pull in different directions rather than being on the same page on issues of strategic and security dimensions. The UN has but only two weapons at its disposal: the punitive weapon of economic sanctions and the weapon for the positive intervention through International Peace Keeping Force. Once again, neither of these weapons can be deployed unless there is a consensus between these all-powerful players. Net result is the unilateral actions taken by certain individual countries which do not necessarily reflect the collective wish of the international community. It is therefore not without a reason that India along with some other like-minded countries has repeatedly called for serious reforms in the UN and other global institutional mechanisms to make them truly representatives and relevant to the realities of the 21st century. Notwithstanding the debatable issue of the usefulness or otherwise of the United Nations, all eyes are as usual now set on the General Debate, scheduled to take place from Tuesday, September 21 to Monday, September 27, including Saturday, September 25. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, over 100 Heads of State or Government are expected to travel to New York to address the UNGA. Many of them are very likely to go beyond the main theme:, “Building Resilience through Hope – to Recover from COVID-19, Rebuild Sustainably, Respond to the needs of the Planet, Respect the rights of people and Revitalize the United Nations.” The leaders have traditionally used this opportunity to address both the domestic and international audience and reveal their priorities and policy approaches, besides messaging their friends, allies and adversaries. At the end of the day, each of the national statement will be assigned a reference number and added to the UN archives but for keen and interested observers there will be much to read between the lines to gauge the mind-set of those who matter in international affairs. In short, the UN is a desirable world body which in present circumstances requires a complete overhauling so that it can deliver as per the expectations of the international community. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | A reflection on effectiveness of UN as UNGA begins

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals. Bolsonaro is in New York for United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

Two Cabinet ministers in his delegation posted a photo in which Bolsonaro and his aides could be seen munching on slices of Pizza on Sunday night.

Bolsonaro's supporters praised the "simplicity" of their leader.

Asked by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at a meeting on Monday whether he had been vaccinated, Bolsonaro replied: "No. Not yet."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/bolsonaro-is-getting-desperate-and-its-clear-what-he-wants-413530">Bolsonaro is getting desperate, and it’s clear what he wants</a>

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio appealed to world leaders, "including most notably Bolsonaro from Brazil," to get vaccinated before attending the U.N. gathering in the city.

"If you don't want to be vaccinated, don't bother coming," de Blasio said at a news conference.

Last week, General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid notified the 193-member states that the U.N.'s COVID-19 vaccination honor system will remain in place for presidents, prime ministers and diplomats. They are not required to show proof of immunization.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-offers-olive-branch-in-his-feud-with-supreme-court-412013">Bolsonaro offers Olive branch in his feud with Supreme Court</a>

Some leaders are staying away and sending a video statement instead because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Brazil's mission to the United Nations declined to comment on reports a Brazilian diplomat had tested positive in New York.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said: "We are aware of the reports and are in contact with the Brazilian mission."

Bolsonaro will be the first head of state to address the annual U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday morning.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals.

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals. Bolsonaro is in New York for United Nations General Assembly. Two Cabinet ministers in his delegation posted a photo in which Bolsonaro and his aides could be seen munching on slices of Pizza on Sunday night. Bolsonaro's supporters praised the "simplicity" of their leader. Asked by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at a meeting on Monday whether he had been vaccinated, Bolsonaro replied: "No. Not yet." Also Read | Bolsonaro is getting desperate, and it’s clear what he wants New York Mayor Bill de Blasio appealed to world leaders, "including most notably Bolsonaro from Brazil," to get vaccinated before attending the U.N. gathering in the city. "If you don't want to be vaccinated, don't bother coming," de Blasio said at a news conference. Last week, General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid notified the 193-member states that the U.N.'s COVID-19 vaccination honor system will remain in place for presidents, prime ministers and diplomats. They are not required to show proof of immunization. Also Read | Bolsonaro offers Olive branch in his feud with Supreme Court Some leaders are staying away and sending a video statement instead because of the coronavirus pandemic. Brazil's mission to the United Nations declined to comment on reports a Brazilian diplomat had tested positive in New York. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said: "We are aware of the reports and are in contact with the Brazilian mission." Bolsonaro will be the first head of state to address the annual U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday morning. (With inputs from agencies)

Unvaccinated Bolsonaro forced to eat on sidewalk as New York eateries deny entry

US President Joe Biden will push back against the idea that the United States is plunging into a new Cold War with key rivals in his address to the UN General Assembly this week, a senior official said Monday.

"President Biden will communicate tomorrow that he does not believe in the notion of a new Cold War with the world divided into blocks. He believes in vigorous, intensive, principled competition," the official said, previewing the speech.

"The president will essentially drive home the message that ending the war in Afghanistan closed the chapter focused on war and opens a chapter focused on personal, purposeful, effective American diplomacy," the official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-elections-few-things-that-you-need-to-know-about-the-campaign-414449">Also read |&nbsp;Canada elections: Few things that you need to know about the campaign</a>

He further added that in his first address to the United Nations as president, Biden will stress that Washington will work with allies and partners "to solve problems that can't be solved by military force."

Biden will also issue an "all hands on deck" call for global cooperation to end the deadly pandemic that has ravaged the world.

US President Joe Biden will push back against the idea that the United States is plunging into a new Cold War with key rivals in his address to the UN General Assembly this week, a senior official said Monday.

US President Joe Biden will push back against the idea that the United States is plunging into a new Cold War with key rivals in his address to the UN General Assembly this week, a senior official said Monday. "President Biden will communicate tomorrow that he does not believe in the notion of a new Cold War with the world divided into blocks. He believes in vigorous, intensive, principled competition," the official said, previewing the speech. "The president will essentially drive home the message that ending the war in Afghanistan closed the chapter focused on war and opens a chapter focused on personal, purposeful, effective American diplomacy," the official said. Also read | Canada elections: Few things that you need to know about the campaign He further added that in his first address to the United Nations as president, Biden will stress that Washington will work with allies and partners "to solve problems that can't be solved by military force." Biden will also issue an "all hands on deck" call for global cooperation to end the deadly pandemic that has ravaged the world.

Biden to tell UN he does not believe in a 'New Cold War': US official

Gender inequality continues to be a fundamental impediment to human progress. Girls and women have made significant progress, but gender equality has yet to be achieved.

According to the United Nations, no country in the world has achieved gender equality, and no country will be able to achieve gender equality by 2030 based on current growth rates.

Twenty-five years after the United Nations' Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action pledged to "remove all barriers to gender equality and the advancement and empowerment of women," support for gender equality is strong around the world, but results are still lacking.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-have-to-wait-1356-years-to-be-on-equal-footing-with-men-world-economic-forum-374431">Also read | Women have to wait 135.6 years to be on equal footing with men: World Economic Forum</a> 
 
Simply put, women are caught in a vicious cycle of poor health, discrimination, and poverty. Their pain isn't over yet. 
&nbsp;

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"One in every five women and girls under the age of 50 reported experiencing physical and/or sexual assault by an intimate partner within the previous 12 months," according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

In September 2015, the United Nations created 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate global poverty, reduce gender inequality, and enhance literacy, among other things.

A total of 193 countries have pledged to work on it.

Despite the fact that a few governments and organisations claim to be tripling their efforts, 1.4 million women and girls are still victims of discrimination, abuse, and misogyny.

The UN said the "economic divide continues to reinforce the gender divide, contributing to higher rates of unemployment and illiteracy among women when compared to men,".

Facts and figures by the United Nations

At least 200 million women and girls in 30 countries have had FGM, and 750 million women and girls were married before the age of 18.

In the 30 nations where the practise is prevalent, the rate of girls aged 15 to 19 who are subjected to FGM (female genital mutilation) has decreased from one in every two girls in 2000 to one in every three girls in 2017.

Husbands can legally prevent their wives from working in 18 countries; daughters and sons do not have equal inheritance rights in 39 nations; and domestic abuse is illegal in 49 countries.&nbsp;

Within the last 12 months, one in five women and girls, including 19% of women and girls aged 15 to 49, had been subjected to physical and/or sexual assault by an intimate partner.

Despite this, there are no laws in 49 countries that particularly protect women from such assault.

Women have made significant gains in political office around the world, but their representation in national parliaments is still far from equal at 23.7 percent.

Women now hold more than 30% of seats in national parliaments in at least one chamber in 46 nations.

Only 52% of married or in a union women have the freedom to choose their own sexual interactions, contraception, and health care.

(With inputs from agencies)

Gender inequality continues to be a fundamental impediment to human progress. Girls and women have made significant progress, but gender equality has yet to be achieved.

Gender inequality continues to be a fundamental impediment to human progress. Girls and women have made significant progress, but gender equality has yet to be achieved. According to the United Nations, no country in the world has achieved gender equality, and no country will be able to achieve gender equality by 2030 based on current growth rates. Twenty-five years after the United Nations' Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action pledged to "remove all barriers to gender equality and the advancement and empowerment of women," support for gender equality is strong around the world, but results are still lacking. Also read | Women have to wait 135.6 years to be on equal footing with men: World Economic Forum Simply put, women are caught in a vicious cycle of poor health, discrimination, and poverty. Their pain isn't over yet. View this post on Instagram A post shared by United Nations (@unitednations) × "One in every five women and girls under the age of 50 reported experiencing physical and/or sexual assault by an intimate partner within the previous 12 months," according to the United Nations. In September 2015, the United Nations created 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate global poverty, reduce gender inequality, and enhance literacy, among other things. A total of 193 countries have pledged to work on it. Despite the fact that a few governments and organisations claim to be tripling their efforts, 1.4 million women and girls are still victims of discrimination, abuse, and misogyny. The UN said the "economic divide continues to reinforce the gender divide, contributing to higher rates of unemployment and illiteracy among women when compared to men,". Facts and figures by the United Nations At least 200 million women and girls in 30 countries have had FGM, and 750 million women and girls were married before the age of 18. In the 30 nations where the practise is prevalent, the rate of girls aged 15 to 19 who are subjected to FGM (female genital mutilation) has decreased from one in every two girls in 2000 to one in every three girls in 2017. Husbands can legally prevent their wives from working in 18 countries; daughters and sons do not have equal inheritance rights in 39 nations; and domestic abuse is illegal in 49 countries. Within the last 12 months, one in five women and girls, including 19% of women and girls aged 15 to 49, had been subjected to physical and/or sexual assault by an intimate partner. Despite this, there are no laws in 49 countries that particularly protect women from such assault. Women have made significant gains in political office around the world, but their representation in national parliaments is still far from equal at 23.7 percent. Women now hold more than 30% of seats in national parliaments in at least one chamber in 46 nations. Only 52% of married or in a union women have the freedom to choose their own sexual interactions, contraception, and health care. (With inputs from agencies)

Tongue in cheek: UN gives list with a twist for top 10 countries that achieved gender equality

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has warned that a failure to cut global emissions is setting the world on a “catastrophic” path to 2.7 degrees Celsius heating. Watch this video for more details.

UN warns nations over climate plans

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats.

"Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast. It will be "a calm speech, very objective, focused on the issues that interest us," added Bolsonaro, who said he would discuss Brazil's approach to the coronavirus pandemic, its agriculture business, and energy.

On Wednesday the New York mayor's office wrote the UNGA laying out the guidelines, including that delegates must show proof of vaccination to enter the debate hall.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-german-warship-entry-into-harbour-berlin-says-413624">Also read |&nbsp;China denies German warship entry into harbour, Berlin says</a>

The letter signed by New York City's health commissioner said the UN debate hall was classified as a "convention center," meaning all attendees must be vaccinated, just as other people participating in some indoor activities in the city.

Hours later the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he could not impose the requirement on heads of state.

Bolsonaro, who had the virus last year, has said he would be the "last Brazilian" to get vaccinated.

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats.

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats. "Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast. It will be "a calm speech, very objective, focused on the issues that interest us," added Bolsonaro, who said he would discuss Brazil's approach to the coronavirus pandemic, its agriculture business, and energy. On Wednesday the New York mayor's office wrote the UNGA laying out the guidelines, including that delegates must show proof of vaccination to enter the debate hall. Also read | China denies German warship entry into harbour, Berlin says The letter signed by New York City's health commissioner said the UN debate hall was classified as a "convention center," meaning all attendees must be vaccinated, just as other people participating in some indoor activities in the city. Hours later the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he could not impose the requirement on heads of state. Bolsonaro, who had the virus last year, has said he would be the "last Brazilian" to get vaccinated.

Brazil's Bolsonaro to attend UN meet despite being unvaccinated

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a&nbsp;'haste course of action'. India was among&nbsp;the 36 countries, including Russia and China,&nbsp;who abstained. In south Asia,&nbsp;Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained.&nbsp;

India's envoy to UN, TS&nbsp;Tirumurti&nbsp;speaking at UNGA said,&nbsp;"The fact that there is lack of support from all&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries as well as several&nbsp;countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those,&nbsp;who choose to pursue a hasty course of action".&nbsp;

The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being&nbsp;European.&nbsp;It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful&nbsp;resolution of the issue."&nbsp;

Since the coup in Myanmar on February&nbsp;1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even&nbsp;as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;address by Envoy&nbsp;Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative&nbsp;on Myanmar and called on&nbsp;'upholding&nbsp;the rule of law and release of detained&nbsp;leaders'.&nbsp;The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;

Expressing&nbsp;‘deep concern', he&nbsp;'strongly condemned the use of violence&nbsp;and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said,&nbsp;"We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and&nbsp;there can be no turning back on this."&nbsp;

Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership.&nbsp;

Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya&nbsp;refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh&nbsp;'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained.

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained. In south Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained. India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti speaking at UNGA said, "The fact that there is lack of support from all neighbouring countries as well as several countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those, who choose to pursue a hasty course of action". The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being European. It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution. The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the neighbouring countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful resolution of the issue." Since the coup in Myanmar on February 1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly. During the address by Envoy Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative on Myanmar and called on 'upholding the rule of law and release of detained leaders'. The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance. Expressing ‘deep concern', he 'strongly condemned the use of violence and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said, "We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and there can be no turning back on this." Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership. Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh 'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’. India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.

India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action' 

According to a report, Taliban fighters outside main towns in Afghanistan have little food to eat and sleep in trucks.&nbsp;

The New York Post article claimed local <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-indulging-in-infidelity-to-be-stoned-hands-to-be-chopped-for-theft-report-413021">Afghans</a> have been giving food to the Taliban even as major international donors have halted support for the country after the group took control of the country.

According to the World Bank, aid flows represented over 42 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP last year. The World Health Organization(WHO) had warned against stopping humanitarian aid to the country as the US exited the region.

The New York Post said most Taliban fighters have not received money in months as the country faces a cash crunch after Western nations hurriedly left the country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-the-taliban-swindle-afghan-aid-money-413162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sweden, Germany and Finland had said they would be temporarily stopping development aid to Afghanistan. The WHO had earlier informed that Afghanistan is suffering from an increase in diarrhoea and malnutrition cases.&nbsp;

The UN health body had earlier pleaded for health services to restart immediately across the country and to ensure&nbsp;women have access to female health workers.

Meanwhile, the Taliban thanked the world community after a donor conference in Geneva pledged $1.2 billion in aid for the country.

Amir Khan Muttaqi, Taliban's acting foreign minister urged America to show a "big heart" and promised to deliver the aid to the needy in a "completely transparent manner".

"We thank and welcome the world's pledge for about one billion dollars in aid and ask them to continue their assistance to Afghanistan," Muttaqi said.

Muttaqi informed that the country is facing a drought and had received aid from Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan. The foreign minister said China was willing to send coronavirus vaccine including &nbsp;$15 million in aid.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to a report, Taliban fighters outside main towns in Afghanistan have little food to eat and sleep in trucks. The New York Post article claimed local Afghans have been giving food to the Taliban even as major international donors have halted support for the country after the group took control of the country.

According to a report, Taliban fighters outside main towns in Afghanistan have little food to eat and sleep in trucks. The New York Post article claimed local Afghans have been giving food to the Taliban even as major international donors have halted support for the country after the group took control of the country. According to the World Bank, aid flows represented over 42 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP last year. The World Health Organization(WHO) had warned against stopping humanitarian aid to the country as the US exited the region. The New York Post said most Taliban fighters have not received money in months as the country faces a cash crunch after Western nations hurriedly left the country. Watch: Sweden, Germany and Finland had said they would be temporarily stopping development aid to Afghanistan. The WHO had earlier informed that Afghanistan is suffering from an increase in diarrhoea and malnutrition cases. The UN health body had earlier pleaded for health services to restart immediately across the country and to ensure women have access to female health workers. Meanwhile, the Taliban thanked the world community after a donor conference in Geneva pledged $1.2 billion in aid for the country. Amir Khan Muttaqi, Taliban's acting foreign minister urged America to show a "big heart" and promised to deliver the aid to the needy in a "completely transparent manner". "We thank and welcome the world's pledge for about one billion dollars in aid and ask them to continue their assistance to Afghanistan," Muttaqi said. Muttaqi informed that the country is facing a drought and had received aid from Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan. The foreign minister said China was willing to send coronavirus vaccine including $15 million in aid. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban fighters have little food to eat, haven't received any money in months: Report

The UN High Commissioner for refugees has said that the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is very deep. He said that the Afghans need urgent assistance.

Afghans need urgent assistance: UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi

After the withdrawal of US troops US, Afghanistan continues facing catastrophic humanitarian situation. To deal with this situation UN has granted $1 Billion as an humanitarian aid. Watch this video to know more details.

UNHCR warns of a mass exodus in Afghanistan

The United Nations which has warned of a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover is convening an aid conference in Geneva on Monday in an effort to raise more than $600 million for the Afghans.

UN hopes to raise over $600 million to avert humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

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