The UN&nbsp;General Assembly approved a seasoned Austrian diplomat on Thursday to serve as the organization's human rights chief and its spokesperson for upholding universal rights at a time when the office is facing harsh criticism from China for charging Beijing with mistreating Muslim minorities.

Volker Türk was proposed as the top policy advisor by Secretary-General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-secretary-general-calls-for-demilitarisation-zone-around-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-513608">Antonio Guterres</a> on Wednesday, and the 193-member assembly swiftly confirmed the appointment by consensus with a bang of the gavel from its acting president, which was followed by a round of applause.

Türk will take over from Michelle Bachelet of Chile as the Geneva-based high commissioner for human rights.

With the last-minute publication of her harshly critical report on China's incarceration of Uyghurs and other primarily <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-countries-asks-netflix-to-take-down-offensive-content-or-risk-facing-legal-action-513603">Muslim ethnic groups</a> in the western province of Xinjiang, which she claimed may constitute crimes against humanity, Bachelet's four-year mandate came to an end on August 31. The UN&nbsp;rights agency was criticised by China for allegedly fabricating the report and allowing Western countries to take advantage of it.

Additionally, Tuerk should anticipate pressure from advocates for human rights.

Amnesty International’s secretary general, Agnes Callamard, said he is being appointed “at a time of considerable threats to human rights around the world.”

“Immediately, he has to help shape an effective human rights response and accountability for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, China’s persecution of millions of Uyghurs, and far too many forgotten crises,” she said in a statement, pointing to Yemen, Congo and Myanmar as examples. “His agenda should also include strengthening the human rights response to climate change and rising inequality.”

Before holding important posts at the UNHCR headquarters in Geneva, Türk, who has a doctorate in international law from the University of Vienna, worked for the UN&nbsp;high commissioner for refugees all over the world, including in Malaysia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Congo, and Kuwait. He served as the assistant high commissioner for protection from 2015 to 2019, where he concentrated on creating the Global Compact on Refugees.

Türk worked in Guterres' office as the assistant secretary-general for strategic coordination from 2019 to January 2022. He was then given the position of undersecretary-general for policy in the executive office by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tajikistan-deporting-afghan-refugees-despite-being-granted-asylum-in-other-countries-514593">UN</a>&nbsp;head.

This year, Türk has been focusing on the follow-up to Guterres’ September 2021 report called “Our Common Agenda” outlining his vision for the “breakthrough scenario” to a greener and safer world. He was also tasked with conducting UN&nbsp;system-wide coordination including on the secretary-general’s “Call to Action for Human Rights.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-passes-law-that-makes-nuclear-status-irreversible-kim-says-wont-give-up-nukes-514369">North Korea passes law that makes nuclear status ‘irreversible’; Kim says won’t give up nukes</a>

Tirana Hassan, interim executive director of Human Rights Watch, responded to the nomination saying: “The new high commissioner will have his work cut out combating a difficult human rights environment across the globe.”

“Whether it’s confronting crimes against humanity in Xinjiang, war crimes in Ukraine and Ethiopia, or racism in the United States, the rights chief’s most effective tools are robust investigations and a strong voice,” she said, adding that a top priority must be to immediately follow up on Bachelet’s report on the Uyghurs.

“What’s needed by the millions of people around the world whose rights are being violated every day is an advocate in their corner who will take on abusive governments large and small without fear and without hesitation,” Hassan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION live here:&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The UN General Assembly approved a seasoned Austrian diplomat on Thursday to serve as the organization's human rights chief and its spokesperson for upholding universal rights at a time when the office is facing harsh criticism from China for charging Beijing with mistreating Muslim minorities.

The UN General Assembly approved a seasoned Austrian diplomat on Thursday to serve as the organization's human rights chief and its spokesperson for upholding universal rights at a time when the office is facing harsh criticism from China for charging Beijing with mistreating Muslim minorities. Volker Türk was proposed as the top policy advisor by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday, and the 193-member assembly swiftly confirmed the appointment by consensus with a bang of the gavel from its acting president, which was followed by a round of applause. Türk will take over from Michelle Bachelet of Chile as the Geneva-based high commissioner for human rights. With the last-minute publication of her harshly critical report on China's incarceration of Uyghurs and other primarily Muslim ethnic groups in the western province of Xinjiang, which she claimed may constitute crimes against humanity, Bachelet's four-year mandate came to an end on August 31. The UN rights agency was criticised by China for allegedly fabricating the report and allowing Western countries to take advantage of it. Additionally, Tuerk should anticipate pressure from advocates for human rights. Amnesty International’s secretary general, Agnes Callamard, said he is being appointed “at a time of considerable threats to human rights around the world.” “Immediately, he has to help shape an effective human rights response and accountability for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, China’s persecution of millions of Uyghurs, and far too many forgotten crises,” she said in a statement, pointing to Yemen, Congo and Myanmar as examples. “His agenda should also include strengthening the human rights response to climate change and rising inequality.” Before holding important posts at the UNHCR headquarters in Geneva, Türk, who has a doctorate in international law from the University of Vienna, worked for the UN high commissioner for refugees all over the world, including in Malaysia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Congo, and Kuwait. He served as the assistant high commissioner for protection from 2015 to 2019, where he concentrated on creating the Global Compact on Refugees. Türk worked in Guterres' office as the assistant secretary-general for strategic coordination from 2019 to January 2022. He was then given the position of undersecretary-general for policy in the executive office by the UN head. This year, Türk has been focusing on the follow-up to Guterres’ September 2021 report called “Our Common Agenda” outlining his vision for the “breakthrough scenario” to a greener and safer world. He was also tasked with conducting UN system-wide coordination including on the secretary-general’s “Call to Action for Human Rights.” Also read | North Korea passes law that makes nuclear status ‘irreversible’; Kim says won’t give up nukes Tirana Hassan, interim executive director of Human Rights Watch, responded to the nomination saying: “The new high commissioner will have his work cut out combating a difficult human rights environment across the globe.” “Whether it’s confronting crimes against humanity in Xinjiang, war crimes in Ukraine and Ethiopia, or racism in the United States, the rights chief’s most effective tools are robust investigations and a strong voice,” she said, adding that a top priority must be to immediately follow up on Bachelet’s report on the Uyghurs. “What’s needed by the millions of people around the world whose rights are being violated every day is an advocate in their corner who will take on abusive governments large and small without fear and without hesitation,” Hassan said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION live here:

UN appoints Austria’s Volker Türk as new human rights chief

North Korea's foreign ministry slammed the United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres' recent remarks on his support for the nation's total denuclearisation. The North claims that the remarks lacked "objectivity" and "fairness".

United Nations chief&nbsp;Guterres on Friday while&nbsp;in a meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said&nbsp;that he fully supports efforts to completely denuclearise North Korea.

"I would like to reaffirm our clear commitment to the full, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, of the DPRK."

Watch |&nbsp;Kim Jong Un visits war cemetery, says ready to mobilize nuclear war deterrent

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-visits-war-cemetery-says-ready-to-mobilize-nuclear-war-deterrent-501424/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Guterres' remarks came as authorities in Washington and Seoul repeatedly warn that the North is planning its seventh nuclear test in light of a record number of missile tests by the nation.

As per a report by North Korea's state news agency KCNA, vice-minister for international organisations in Pyongyang's foreign ministry, Kim Son Gyong, in a statement said, "I cannot but express deep regret over the said remarks of the UN secretary-general that grossly lack impartiality and fairness and go against the obligations of his duty, specified in the UN Charter, as regards the issue of the Korean peninsula."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-ready-for-clash-with-the-united-states-kim-jong-un-501317">North Korea ready to use nukes against the United States: Kim Jong Un</a>

Cautioning&nbsp;the UN secretary-general Kim said he should not request or accept orders from a specific country's government and should refrain from doing anything that could jeopardise his position as an international official who is solely accountable to the United Nations.

As per an AFP report, the foreign ministry official&nbsp;called the North's "complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearisation" (CVID) an "infringement" of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) sovereignty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-kim-jong-un-declares-gravest-national-emergency-485133">North Korea: Kim Jong-Un declares 'Gravest national emergency'</a>

Kim remarked that Guterres should exercise caution while saying "dangerous words" under the highly tense situation on the Korean peninsula, adding that CVID "demands the unilateral disarmament, and Secretary-General Guterres perhaps knows well that the DPRK has totally rejected it without any toleration."

Pyongyang has undertaken a record-breaking flurry of weapons tests this year, including the first full-range intercontinental ballistic missile test since 2017.

Last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had stated that his country was "ready to mobilise" its nuclear deterrent in the event of a future armed clash with the US and South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

North Korea's foreign ministry slammed the United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres' recent remarks on his support for the nation's total denuclearisation.

North Korea's foreign ministry slammed the United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres' recent remarks on his support for the nation's total denuclearisation. The North claims that the remarks lacked "objectivity" and "fairness". United Nations chief Guterres on Friday while in a meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said that he fully supports efforts to completely denuclearise North Korea. "I would like to reaffirm our clear commitment to the full, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, of the DPRK." Watch | Kim Jong Un visits war cemetery, says ready to mobilize nuclear war deterrent Guterres' remarks came as authorities in Washington and Seoul repeatedly warn that the North is planning its seventh nuclear test in light of a record number of missile tests by the nation. As per a report by North Korea's state news agency KCNA, vice-minister for international organisations in Pyongyang's foreign ministry, Kim Son Gyong, in a statement said, "I cannot but express deep regret over the said remarks of the UN secretary-general that grossly lack impartiality and fairness and go against the obligations of his duty, specified in the UN Charter, as regards the issue of the Korean peninsula." Also read | North Korea ready to use nukes against the United States: Kim Jong Un Cautioning the UN secretary-general Kim said he should not request or accept orders from a specific country's government and should refrain from doing anything that could jeopardise his position as an international official who is solely accountable to the United Nations. As per an AFP report, the foreign ministry official called the North's "complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearisation" (CVID) an "infringement" of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) sovereignty. Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong-Un declares 'Gravest national emergency' Kim remarked that Guterres should exercise caution while saying "dangerous words" under the highly tense situation on the Korean peninsula, adding that CVID "demands the unilateral disarmament, and Secretary-General Guterres perhaps knows well that the DPRK has totally rejected it without any toleration." Pyongyang has undertaken a record-breaking flurry of weapons tests this year, including the first full-range intercontinental ballistic missile test since 2017. Last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had stated that his country was "ready to mobilise" its nuclear deterrent in the event of a future armed clash with the US and South Korea. (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.

North Korea slams UN chief over 'biased' support for its denuclearisation

A team of international experts headed by Cambridge University in England have issued a warning stating that even as nations set goals to reduce emissions, we should be prepared for failure in the future. They have cautioned that the world needs to start preparing for the possibility of a "climate endgame" as extreme weather events keep destroying the planet.&nbsp;This report highlights “four horsemen” of the climate endgame: extreme weather, conflict, infectious diseases and famine. According to this report, world leaders need to investigate the possible outcomes of climate change, ranging from a loss of 10 per cent of the global population to gradual human extinction.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-sheds-light-on-big-brands-like-coca-cola-and-how-they-greenwash-their-products-493289">Report sheds light on big brands like Coca Cola and how they 'greenwash' their products</a>

Scientists have further noted that with the current level of emissions and population trends, two billion people could live in places with an annual average temperature of more than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme temperature trend is found in less than one per cent of Earth’s land surface area and is likely to happen within fifty years.&nbsp;

The ill effects of climate change have taken the world by storm. Across the globe, countries are battling wildfires, droughts and catastrophic flooding. Though the conversation has always been around preventing the situation from getting worse, the United Nations has issued a dire warning that requests all the nations to dig deeper into the issue.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/australias-great-barrier-reef-is-recovering-from-bleaching-events-but-still-very-vulnerable-survey-503633">Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is recovering from bleaching events but still 'very vulnerable': Survey</a>

Reportedly, in a recent conference at Petersberg on Climate Dialogue, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that "Half of humanity is in the danger zone from floods, droughts, extreme storms and wildfires. No nation is immune.”

A similar statement was given by Luke Kemp, PhD, with Cambridge's Centre for the Study of Existential Risk. Emphasizing the need of focusing on worst-case scenarios, he said, "Right now, I think we're being naive. We're not looking at the worst-case scenarios at all, really."

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Turtle numbers dwindling because of rising temperatures

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-turtle-numbers-dwindling-because-of-rising-temperatures-503324/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The authors of this report have also said that climate change has played a role in every mass extinction event. While climate change is triggered by various events, the burning of fossil fuels is a major concern. The interaction of climate change with threats of rising inequality, geo-political conflicts, demographic stresses, and weapons can be a huge global challenge that requires immediate attention.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A team of international experts headed by Cambridge University in England have issued a warning stating that even as nations set goals to reduce emissions, we should be prepared for failure in the future.

A team of international experts headed by Cambridge University in England have issued a warning stating that even as nations set goals to reduce emissions, we should be prepared for failure in the future. They have cautioned that the world needs to start preparing for the possibility of a "climate endgame" as extreme weather events keep destroying the planet. This report highlights “four horsemen” of the climate endgame: extreme weather, conflict, infectious diseases and famine. According to this report, world leaders need to investigate the possible outcomes of climate change, ranging from a loss of 10 per cent of the global population to gradual human extinction. Also read | Report sheds light on big brands like Coca Cola and how they 'greenwash' their products Scientists have further noted that with the current level of emissions and population trends, two billion people could live in places with an annual average temperature of more than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme temperature trend is found in less than one per cent of Earth’s land surface area and is likely to happen within fifty years. The ill effects of climate change have taken the world by storm. Across the globe, countries are battling wildfires, droughts and catastrophic flooding. Though the conversation has always been around preventing the situation from getting worse, the United Nations has issued a dire warning that requests all the nations to dig deeper into the issue. Also read | Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is recovering from bleaching events but still 'very vulnerable': Survey Reportedly, in a recent conference at Petersberg on Climate Dialogue, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that "Half of humanity is in the danger zone from floods, droughts, extreme storms and wildfires. No nation is immune.” A similar statement was given by Luke Kemp, PhD, with Cambridge's Centre for the Study of Existential Risk. Emphasizing the need of focusing on worst-case scenarios, he said, "Right now, I think we're being naive. We're not looking at the worst-case scenarios at all, really." Watch | WION Climate Tracker | Turtle numbers dwindling because of rising temperatures The authors of this report have also said that climate change has played a role in every mass extinction event. While climate change is triggered by various events, the burning of fossil fuels is a major concern. The interaction of climate change with threats of rising inequality, geo-political conflicts, demographic stresses, and weapons can be a huge global challenge that requires immediate attention. (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.

The world needs to think about worst case scenario as extreme weather conditions become a global challenge

La Nina climate cycle could last into 2023: UN - see pics

A&nbsp;record&nbsp;number of international patents were filed last year, indicating that innovation had not been stymied by the pandemic, the United Nations said Thursday.

Even as Covid-19 took a vast human and economic toll, international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;applications continued to grow, with Asia, and China in particular, cementing their leading positions.

A&nbsp;record&nbsp;277,500 international patents were filed in&nbsp;2021, marking a 0.9-percent increase from 2020, the&nbsp;UN's World Intellectual Property Organisation said in its annual overview.

"These figures show that human ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit remain strong despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic." WIPO Director-General Daren Tang said in a statement.

Last year marked the 12th consecutive year of growth in international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;filings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tsirkon-serial-production-russias-race-for-hypersonic-missiles-revealed-452075">Tsirkon 'serial production': Russia's race for hypersonic missiles revealed</a>

WIPO's chief economist Carsten Fink highlighted how remarkable it was that "international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;filings&nbsp;continued to grow in 2020 and&nbsp;2021&nbsp;as the&nbsp;global&nbsp;pandemic unfolded and upended economies around the world."

"This experience is notably different compared to previous economic crises," he told reporters, pointing to how international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;filings&nbsp;fell during the&nbsp;global&nbsp;financial crisis in 2009.

WIPO's complex system of registering international patents involves multiple categories, including&nbsp;global&nbsp;trademarks and design filing systems.

China on top

In the main category -- the&nbsp;Patent&nbsp;Cooperation Treaty, or PCT -- China remained at the top of the rankings with 69,540&nbsp;filings.

That marks a mere 0.9-percent increase over 2020.&nbsp;

But a year earlier, China registered a 16-percent jump over 2019, when it for the first time overtook the United States as the world's top international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;filer.

The United States remained in second place in&nbsp;2021, with 59,570&nbsp;filings, followed by Japan with 50,260, South Korea with 20,678 and Germany with 17,322.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;agency highlighted significant growth in applications by several smaller filers as well.

Singapore, for instance, saw its international&nbsp;patent&nbsp;applications swell by 23 percent to 1,617, while Finland and Turkey each saw jumps of over 13 percent.

WIPO's report showed that Asia-based applicants accounted for 54.1 percent of all&nbsp;filings&nbsp;last year, up from 38.5 percent a decade earlier.

For the fifth consecutive year, China-based telecoms giant Huawei Technologies topped the&nbsp;global&nbsp;ranking in&nbsp;2021, with 6,952 PCT applications.

The company thus applied for more international patents than all the&nbsp;filings&nbsp;out of Britain in&nbsp;2021, Fink pointed out.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-menacing-call-after-another-threats-against-lawmakers-surge-452046">&nbsp;One menacing call after another: Threats against lawmakers surge</a>

It was followed by US firm Qualcomm Inc at 3,931; South Korea's Samsung Electronics at 3,041 and LG Electronics at 2,855; and Mitsubishi Electric Corp of Japan at 2,673.

Computer technology accounted for the largest share of published PCT applications, making up 9.9 percent of the total, followed by digital communication and medical technology.

The pharmaceutical field recorded the strongest growth rate for&nbsp;filings, seeing a 12.8-percent jump, followed by biotechnology, which was up 9.5 percent.

Fink pointed out that it takes around 18 months for patents to be published after they are filed, warning that the official&nbsp;2021&nbsp;figures might not yet completely reflect pandemic-fuelled technology trends.

However, he said, "we have definitely seen greater dynamism in the health-related technology fields."

A record number of international patents were filed last year, indicating that innovation had not been stymied by the pandemic, the United Nations said Thursday.

A record number of international patents were filed last year, indicating that innovation had not been stymied by the pandemic, the United Nations said Thursday. Even as Covid-19 took a vast human and economic toll, international patent applications continued to grow, with Asia, and China in particular, cementing their leading positions. A record 277,500 international patents were filed in 2021, marking a 0.9-percent increase from 2020, the UN's World Intellectual Property Organisation said in its annual overview. "These figures show that human ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit remain strong despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic." WIPO Director-General Daren Tang said in a statement. Last year marked the 12th consecutive year of growth in international patent filings. Also read | Tsirkon 'serial production': Russia's race for hypersonic missiles revealed WIPO's chief economist Carsten Fink highlighted how remarkable it was that "international patent filings continued to grow in 2020 and 2021 as the global pandemic unfolded and upended economies around the world." "This experience is notably different compared to previous economic crises," he told reporters, pointing to how international patent filings fell during the global financial crisis in 2009. WIPO's complex system of registering international patents involves multiple categories, including global trademarks and design filing systems. China on top In the main category -- the Patent Cooperation Treaty, or PCT -- China remained at the top of the rankings with 69,540 filings. That marks a mere 0.9-percent increase over 2020. But a year earlier, China registered a 16-percent jump over 2019, when it for the first time overtook the United States as the world's top international patent filer. The United States remained in second place in 2021, with 59,570 filings, followed by Japan with 50,260, South Korea with 20,678 and Germany with 17,322. The UN agency highlighted significant growth in applications by several smaller filers as well. Singapore, for instance, saw its international patent applications swell by 23 percent to 1,617, while Finland and Turkey each saw jumps of over 13 percent. WIPO's report showed that Asia-based applicants accounted for 54.1 percent of all filings last year, up from 38.5 percent a decade earlier. For the fifth consecutive year, China-based telecoms giant Huawei Technologies topped the global ranking in 2021, with 6,952 PCT applications. The company thus applied for more international patents than all the filings out of Britain in 2021, Fink pointed out. Also read | One menacing call after another: Threats against lawmakers surge It was followed by US firm Qualcomm Inc at 3,931; South Korea's Samsung Electronics at 3,041 and LG Electronics at 2,855; and Mitsubishi Electric Corp of Japan at 2,673. Computer technology accounted for the largest share of published PCT applications, making up 9.9 percent of the total, followed by digital communication and medical technology. The pharmaceutical field recorded the strongest growth rate for filings, seeing a 12.8-percent jump, followed by biotechnology, which was up 9.5 percent. Fink pointed out that it takes around 18 months for patents to be published after they are filed, warning that the official 2021 figures might not yet completely reflect pandemic-fuelled technology trends. However, he said, "we have definitely seen greater dynamism in the health-related technology fields."

Global patent filings surged to record high in 2021: UN

A high-ranking United Nation’s official says he is “horrified” by reports that at least 35 civilians have been killed and their bodies burned in eastern Myanmar, demanding the government to launch a probe.

UN horrified by massacre of 35 civilians in Myanmar

New York police officers are in a stand-off after a lone man believed to be holding a gun was spotted outside the United Nations headquarters in New York on Thursday.The police have cordoned off the premises and surrounded the man.

According to an official speaking on condition of anonymity, the man threatened to kill himself in front of one of the building's entrances, reports AFP

“The UN headquarters is closed, there is police activity,” a UN spokesman told AFP.

Images and videos went viral on social media which showed armed police surrounding the man standing on a sidewalk.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Stand-off --Man with gun pacing in front of the United Nations. Police saying "put down the guy. There are better ways to get your message out." White male. Grey hair. Red sweater tan jacket. <a href="https://t.co/qOB5NACBne">pic.twitter.com/qOB5NACBne</a>
— Greg Kelly-Ripped in 2022. (@gregkellyusa) <a href="https://twitter.com/gregkellyusa/status/1466437329506217992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Man appears to be holding a long gun pointed at his chin. NYPD appears to be trying to defuse situation. <a href="https://t.co/6vibIy1v0D">pic.twitter.com/6vibIy1v0D</a>
— Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sherwiebp/status/1466449956525547523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Put down the gun. There are better ways to get your message out,” a police officer was heard was saying to the unidentified man.

So far, the identity and the motive behind such an extreme move has not been ascertained.

According to reports, the man is a middle-aged white male with grey hair wearing a red sweater and tan jacket.

The avenue along the UN headquarters was closed to traffic, but meetings inside were not immediately affected.

“Due to a police investigation, avoid the area of 42 Street and 1st Avenue. Expect emergency vehicles in the surrounding area,” the New York police department said on Twitter.

(With inputs from agencies)

New York police officers are in a stand-off after a lone man believed to be holding a gun was spotted outside the United Nations headquarters in New York on Thursday.

New York police officers are in a stand-off after a lone man believed to be holding a gun was spotted outside the United Nations headquarters in New York on Thursday.The police have cordoned off the premises and surrounded the man. According to an official speaking on condition of anonymity, the man threatened to kill himself in front of one of the building's entrances, reports AFP “The UN headquarters is closed, there is police activity,” a UN spokesman told AFP. Images and videos went viral on social media which showed armed police surrounding the man standing on a sidewalk. Stand-off --Man with gun pacing in front of the United Nations. Police saying "put down the guy. There are better ways to get your message out." White male. Grey hair. Red sweater tan jacket. pic.twitter.com/qOB5NACBne — Greg Kelly-Ripped in 2022. (@gregkellyusa) December 2, 2021 × Man appears to be holding a long gun pointed at his chin. NYPD appears to be trying to defuse situation. pic.twitter.com/6vibIy1v0D — Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) December 2, 2021 × “Put down the gun. There are better ways to get your message out,” a police officer was heard was saying to the unidentified man. So far, the identity and the motive behind such an extreme move has not been ascertained. According to reports, the man is a middle-aged white male with grey hair wearing a red sweater and tan jacket. The avenue along the UN headquarters was closed to traffic, but meetings inside were not immediately affected. “Due to a police investigation, avoid the area of 42 Street and 1st Avenue. Expect emergency vehicles in the surrounding area,” the New York police department said on Twitter. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | New York Police in standoff with gun-wielding man outside UN headquarters

World leaders will start descending on the Scottish city of Glasgow on Sunday for the United Nations COP26 summit, billed as a make-or-break chance to save the planet from the most calamitous effects of climate change.

Delayed by a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, COP26 aims to keep alive a target of capping global warming at 1.5C above pre-industrial levels - the limit scientists say would avoid its most destructive consequences.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-climate-activists-demand-action-ahead-of-cop26-summit-425249">In pics: Climate activists demand action ahead of COP26 summit</a>

Meeting that goal, agreed in Paris to much fanfare in 2015, will require a surge in political momentum and diplomatic heavy-lifting to make up for the insufficient action and empty pledges that have characterised much of global climate politics.

The conference needs to secure more ambitious pledges to further cut emissions, lock in billions in climate finance, and finish the rules to implement the Paris Agreement with the unanimous consent of the nearly 200 countries that signed it.

"Let’s be clear - there is a serious risk that Glasgow will not deliver," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) rich nations last week.

"Even if recent pledges were clear and credible — and there are serious questions about some of them — we are still careening towards climate catastrophe."

Countries&nbsp;existing pledges to cut emissions would see the planet's average temperature rise 2.7C this century, which the UN says would supercharge the destruction that climate change is already causing by intensifying storms, exposing more people to deadly heat and floods, killing coral reefs and destroying natural habitats.

The signals ahead of COP26 have been mixed. A new pledge last week from China, the world's biggest polluter, was labelled a missed opportunity that will cast a shadow over the two-week summit. Announcements from Russia and Saudi Arabia were also lacklustre.

The return of the United States, the world's biggest economy, to UN&nbsp;climate talks will be a boon to the conference, after a four-year absence under President Donald Trump.

But like many world leaders, President Joe Biden will arrive at COP26 without firm legislation in place to deliver his own climate pledge as Congress wrangles over how to finance it and new uncertainty about whether US&nbsp;agencies can even regulate greenhouse gas emissions.

Leaders of the G20 meeting in Rome this weekend will say they aim to cap global warming at 1.5C, but will largely avoid firm commitments, according to a draft statement seen by Reuters.

The joint statement reflects tough negotiations, but details few concrete actions to limit carbon emissions.&nbsp;

The G20, which includes Brazil, China, India, Germany and the United States, accounts for about 80 per cent&nbsp;of global greenhouse gas emissions, but hopes the Rome meeting might pave the way to success in Scotland have dimmed considerably.

Shadow of COVID-19

Adding to the challenging geopolitical backdrop, a global energy crunch has prompted China to turn to highly polluting coal to avert power shortages, and left Europe seeking more gas, another fossil fuel.

Ultimately, negotiations will boil down to questions of fairness and trust between rich countries whose greenhouse gas emissions caused climate change, and poor countries being asked to de-carbonise their economies with insufficient financial support.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/boris-johnson-is-playing-another-trick-422142">Boris Johnson is playing another trick</a>

COVID-19 has exacerbated the divide between rich and poor. A lack of vaccines and travel curbs mean some representatives from the poorest countries cannot attend the meeting.

Other obstacles - not least, sky-high hotel rates in Glasgow - have stoked concerns that civil society groups from the poorest nations which are also most at risk from global warming will be under-represented.

COVID-19 will make this UN&nbsp;climate conference different from any other, as 25,000 delegates from governments, companies, civil society, indigenous peoples, and the media will fill Glasgow's cavernous Scottish Event Campus.

All must wear masks, socially distance and produce a negative COVID-19 test to enter each day - meaning the final-hour "huddles" of negotiatiors that clinched deals at past climate talks are off the table.

Attendees who test positive must quarantine for 10 days - potentially missing most of the conference.

World leaders will kick start COP26 on Monday with two days of speeches that could include some new emissions-cutting pledges, before technical negotiators lock horns over the Paris accord rules. Any deal is likely to be struck hours or even days after the event's November&nbsp;12 finish date.

Outside, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to take to the streets to demand urgent climate action.

Assessing progress will be complex. Unlike past climate summits, the event won't deliver a new treaty or a big "win" but seeks to secure smaller but vital victories on emission-cutting pledges, climate finance and investment.

Ultimately success will be judged on whether those deals add up to enough progress to keep the 1.5C goal alive - still a long way off.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-to-snub-crucial-climate-conference-cop26-report-420893">Chinese President Xi Jinping to snub crucial climate conference COP26: Report</a>

Since the Paris accord in 2015, scientists have issued increasingly urgent warnings that the 1.5C goal is slipping out of reach. To meet it, global emissions must plummet 45 per cent&nbsp;by 2030 from 2010 levels, and reach net zero by 2050 - requiring huge changes to countries&nbsp;systems of transport, energy production, manufacturing and farming. Countries&nbsp;current pledges would see global emissions soar by 16 per cent&nbsp;by 2030.

"The way I think about this is, there is a meteor coming at our planet and it has the very real potential of wiping out humanity," said Christiana Figueres, the former UN&nbsp;climate diplomat who led the talks that yielded the Paris Agreement.

World leaders will start descending on the Scottish city of Glasgow on Sunday for the United Nations COP26 summit, billed as a make-or-break chance to save the planet from the most calamitous effects of climate change.

World leaders will start descending on the Scottish city of Glasgow on Sunday for the United Nations COP26 summit, billed as a make-or-break chance to save the planet from the most calamitous effects of climate change. Delayed by a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, COP26 aims to keep alive a target of capping global warming at 1.5C above pre-industrial levels - the limit scientists say would avoid its most destructive consequences. Also Read | In pics: Climate activists demand action ahead of COP26 summit Meeting that goal, agreed in Paris to much fanfare in 2015, will require a surge in political momentum and diplomatic heavy-lifting to make up for the insufficient action and empty pledges that have characterised much of global climate politics. The conference needs to secure more ambitious pledges to further cut emissions, lock in billions in climate finance, and finish the rules to implement the Paris Agreement with the unanimous consent of the nearly 200 countries that signed it. "Let’s be clear - there is a serious risk that Glasgow will not deliver," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) rich nations last week. "Even if recent pledges were clear and credible — and there are serious questions about some of them — we are still careening towards climate catastrophe." Countries existing pledges to cut emissions would see the planet's average temperature rise 2.7C this century, which the UN says would supercharge the destruction that climate change is already causing by intensifying storms, exposing more people to deadly heat and floods, killing coral reefs and destroying natural habitats. The signals ahead of COP26 have been mixed. A new pledge last week from China, the world's biggest polluter, was labelled a missed opportunity that will cast a shadow over the two-week summit. Announcements from Russia and Saudi Arabia were also lacklustre. The return of the United States, the world's biggest economy, to UN climate talks will be a boon to the conference, after a four-year absence under President Donald Trump. But like many world leaders, President Joe Biden will arrive at COP26 without firm legislation in place to deliver his own climate pledge as Congress wrangles over how to finance it and new uncertainty about whether US agencies can even regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Leaders of the G20 meeting in Rome this weekend will say they aim to cap global warming at 1.5C, but will largely avoid firm commitments, according to a draft statement seen by Reuters. The joint statement reflects tough negotiations, but details few concrete actions to limit carbon emissions. The G20, which includes Brazil, China, India, Germany and the United States, accounts for about 80 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, but hopes the Rome meeting might pave the way to success in Scotland have dimmed considerably. Shadow of COVID-19 Adding to the challenging geopolitical backdrop, a global energy crunch has prompted China to turn to highly polluting coal to avert power shortages, and left Europe seeking more gas, another fossil fuel. Ultimately, negotiations will boil down to questions of fairness and trust between rich countries whose greenhouse gas emissions caused climate change, and poor countries being asked to de-carbonise their economies with insufficient financial support. Also Read | Boris Johnson is playing another trick COVID-19 has exacerbated the divide between rich and poor. A lack of vaccines and travel curbs mean some representatives from the poorest countries cannot attend the meeting. Other obstacles - not least, sky-high hotel rates in Glasgow - have stoked concerns that civil society groups from the poorest nations which are also most at risk from global warming will be under-represented. COVID-19 will make this UN climate conference different from any other, as 25,000 delegates from governments, companies, civil society, indigenous peoples, and the media will fill Glasgow's cavernous Scottish Event Campus. All must wear masks, socially distance and produce a negative COVID-19 test to enter each day - meaning the final-hour "huddles" of negotiatiors that clinched deals at past climate talks are off the table. Attendees who test positive must quarantine for 10 days - potentially missing most of the conference. World leaders will kick start COP26 on Monday with two days of speeches that could include some new emissions-cutting pledges, before technical negotiators lock horns over the Paris accord rules. Any deal is likely to be struck hours or even days after the event's November 12 finish date. Outside, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to take to the streets to demand urgent climate action. Assessing progress will be complex. Unlike past climate summits, the event won't deliver a new treaty or a big "win" but seeks to secure smaller but vital victories on emission-cutting pledges, climate finance and investment. Ultimately success will be judged on whether those deals add up to enough progress to keep the 1.5C goal alive - still a long way off. Also Read | Chinese President Xi Jinping to snub crucial climate conference COP26: Report Since the Paris accord in 2015, scientists have issued increasingly urgent warnings that the 1.5C goal is slipping out of reach. To meet it, global emissions must plummet 45 per cent by 2030 from 2010 levels, and reach net zero by 2050 - requiring huge changes to countries systems of transport, energy production, manufacturing and farming. Countries current pledges would see global emissions soar by 16 per cent by 2030. "The way I think about this is, there is a meteor coming at our planet and it has the very real potential of wiping out humanity," said Christiana Figueres, the former UN climate diplomat who led the talks that yielded the Paris Agreement.

COP26: World makes new bid to avert climate disaster

One of the main pillars of the United Nations, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is considered as a forum of equal representation. It is also widely known as the main debating chamber of the United Nations (UN).

The UNGA debates are one of the most awaited debates of the world that take place annually in the United States. Last year, for the first time ever, the world leaders were unable to gather face-to-face to discuss on important matters due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, this is not the only first that has happened in the UNGA. Over the years there have been several instances where people have left their seats for a standing ovation… or sometimes to leave the room out of anger. The speeches, well-delivered by experts and world leaders, can make or break relations, bring light and justice to important topics and hope for peaceful mediation of disputes&nbsp;between governments and leaders.

Here are five of the most memorable speeches and their impact:

<h2>Nikita Khrushchev</h2>

The former Premier of the Soviet Union made it to the history of the UNGA speeches through his actions, and not words.

In 1960, Khrushchev was angered when the head of the&nbsp;Filipino&nbsp;delegation&nbsp;Lorenzo Sumulong&nbsp;referred to "the peoples of Eastern Europe and elsewhere which have been deprived of the free exercise of their civil and political rights and which have been swallowed up, so to speak, by the Soviet Union".

<img alt="Nikita Khrushchev" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73c452b0-7a00-4670-ba67-8d6a2d0e8929" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nikita%20Khrushchev.jpg" />

This statement angered the Soviet leader who then went on to label Sumulong as "a jerk, a stooge, and a lackey". after brushing him off from the spotlight.

The debate got heated and the room burst into murmurs. Khrushchev continued making his point and started banging his fist on the podium to get the room quiet, but when all things failed, at one point, as per several reports, the Soviet leader took off his shoe and banged it on his podium.

Even in his memoir, Khrushchev made mentions of the incident, but till this date there has been no conclusion of whether or not the narrative is true to its happenings.

However, Khrushchev’s angered gesture did make it to the history and became a famous gesture of overheated conversations.

<h2>Hugo Chavez</h2>

Former Venezuela President, Hugo Chavez, took the&nbsp;spotlight when he compared the then-US President George W Bush to Satan.

"The devil came here yesterday, and it smells of sulfur still," Chavez said. "Right here! And it smells of sulfur still today. Yesterday, ladies and gentlemen, from this rostrum, the president of the United States, the gentleman I refer to as the devil came here, talking as if he owned the world."

<img alt="Hugo Chavez" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40c04de9-b117-4347-82f3-a690a663bbaa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hugo%20Chavez.jpg" />

Chavez has been openly against the United States since the beginning of his days in the office and he made sure he reiterated&nbsp;that in front of the world in the UNGA. The Venezuelan leader known for his theatrics took to the stage a day after Bush addressed the assembly and compared the POTUS and his actions to Satan.

The incident took place in 2006 and Chavez referred back to his comment in 2009 when Barack Obama had come to power. Putting himself in the spotlight again, Chavez said it "no longer smells like sulfur" now that Obama is the POTUS.

<h2>Mu'ammar Al-Qadhdhāfī</h2>

Popularly known as Colonel Qadhdhāfī, the Libyan leader made his debut in the UNGA in 2009. Qadhdhāfī had been in power for nearly 40 years but had not even once addressed the assembly.

<img alt="Colonel Gaddafi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e289bd72-5bdc-43a6-9ca2-40b7643948be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Colonel%20Gaddafi.jpg" />

However, in 2009 the strongman decided to make up for all the lost time and delivered a 100 minutes-long speech where everyone was shocked as well as surprised, among other emotions.

In his famous 100-minutes-long speech, Qadhdhāfī raised questions about several issues such as poverty, injustice, racism and more. He also accused the United States of developing the deadly Swine Flu for personal gains, and even questioned the official records of the assassination of John F. Kennedy — the 35th President of the US.

He hit the ceiling when he attacked the United Nations by likening it to the notorious and infamous terrorist organisation, al Qaeda. "It should not be called a security council, it should be called a terror council," the Libyan leader said.

<h2>Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

The former Israeli leader's name goes down in history of UNGA as the leader who used one of the most controversial virtual aid/props in the assembly.

<img alt="Benjamin Netanyahu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d92a6618-dc19-4d29-bd37-8e87da0cdf83" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Benjamin%20Netanyahu.jpg" />

In 2012, Netanyahu took to the podium to convince the world leaders that Iran was very close to developing a nuclear weapon. In a bid to make leaders understand his point clearly, the controversial Israeli leader took out a white board which had an illustration of a cartoon-style fizzing bomb. This bomb was divided into three parts: 70 per cent, 90 per cent and the 'final stage'. Netanyahu, with a red marking on the drawing, claimed Iran was 90 per cent ready with the nuclear weapon.

However, Tehran has always rubbished Netanyahu's claims and has reiterated time and again that it was never developing a nuclear weapon.

<h2>Donald Trump</h2>

The infamous former President of the United States, Donald Trump, has always managed to stay in the headlines. However, in the 2017 UNGA speech, he attracted eyeballs when he threatened to "totally destroy" North Korea.

Trump started his speech by aiming directly at North Korea. He stressed on the tainted history of the country which is infamous for dictatorships, kidnapping, missile and nuclear tests, limited rights and oppression on citizens.

<img src="https://cdn.theatlantic.com/thumbor/vCUJ5ymymH5qU5Y3ER6X8OmLjAA=/0x0:3500x1969/960x540/media/img/mt/2018/09/RTS22REA/original.jpg" />

Reminding the world about the immoral decisions of North Korea, Trump boasted that the US will defend itself if the two countries face each other and "we will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea".

The sentence was followed by murmurs around the whole assembly as the leaders looked at each other, shocked by this strong statement of Trump.

However, the former reality TV star did not stop there. Labelling the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as the 'rocket man', Trump continued, "Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime".

After North Korea, he went to attack Iran by claiming the government had robbed the 'good people of Iran' of their destiny. "The entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Iran’s people are what their leaders fear the most," he claimed on behalf of Iran citizens.

Trump’s attack was supported by Israel’s then-Prime Minister, Netanyahu.

One of the main pillars of the United Nations, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is considered as a forum of equal representation. It is also widely known as the main debating chamber of the United Nations (UN).

One of the main pillars of the United Nations, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is considered as a forum of equal representation. It is also widely known as the main debating chamber of the United Nations (UN). The UNGA debates are one of the most awaited debates of the world that take place annually in the United States. Last year, for the first time ever, the world leaders were unable to gather face-to-face to discuss on important matters due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, this is not the only first that has happened in the UNGA. Over the years there have been several instances where people have left their seats for a standing ovation… or sometimes to leave the room out of anger. The speeches, well-delivered by experts and world leaders, can make or break relations, bring light and justice to important topics and hope for peaceful mediation of disputes between governments and leaders. Here are five of the most memorable speeches and their impact: Nikita Khrushchev The former Premier of the Soviet Union made it to the history of the UNGA speeches through his actions, and not words. In 1960, Khrushchev was angered when the head of the Filipino delegation Lorenzo Sumulong referred to "the peoples of Eastern Europe and elsewhere which have been deprived of the free exercise of their civil and political rights and which have been swallowed up, so to speak, by the Soviet Union". This statement angered the Soviet leader who then went on to label Sumulong as "a jerk, a stooge, and a lackey". after brushing him off from the spotlight. The debate got heated and the room burst into murmurs. Khrushchev continued making his point and started banging his fist on the podium to get the room quiet, but when all things failed, at one point, as per several reports, the Soviet leader took off his shoe and banged it on his podium. Even in his memoir, Khrushchev made mentions of the incident, but till this date there has been no conclusion of whether or not the narrative is true to its happenings. However, Khrushchev’s angered gesture did make it to the history and became a famous gesture of overheated conversations. Hugo Chavez Former Venezuela President, Hugo Chavez, took the spotlight when he compared the then-US President George W Bush to Satan. "The devil came here yesterday, and it smells of sulfur still," Chavez said. "Right here! And it smells of sulfur still today. Yesterday, ladies and gentlemen, from this rostrum, the president of the United States, the gentleman I refer to as the devil came here, talking as if he owned the world." Chavez has been openly against the United States since the beginning of his days in the office and he made sure he reiterated that in front of the world in the UNGA. The Venezuelan leader known for his theatrics took to the stage a day after Bush addressed the assembly and compared the POTUS and his actions to Satan. The incident took place in 2006 and Chavez referred back to his comment in 2009 when Barack Obama had come to power. Putting himself in the spotlight again, Chavez said it "no longer smells like sulfur" now that Obama is the POTUS. Mu'ammar Al-Qadhdhāfī Popularly known as Colonel Qadhdhāfī, the Libyan leader made his debut in the UNGA in 2009. Qadhdhāfī had been in power for nearly 40 years but had not even once addressed the assembly. However, in 2009 the strongman decided to make up for all the lost time and delivered a 100 minutes-long speech where everyone was shocked as well as surprised, among other emotions. In his famous 100-minutes-long speech, Qadhdhāfī raised questions about several issues such as poverty, injustice, racism and more. He also accused the United States of developing the deadly Swine Flu for personal gains, and even questioned the official records of the assassination of John F. Kennedy — the 35th President of the US. He hit the ceiling when he attacked the United Nations by likening it to the notorious and infamous terrorist organisation, al Qaeda. "It should not be called a security council, it should be called a terror council," the Libyan leader said. Benjamin Netanyahu The former Israeli leader's name goes down in history of UNGA as the leader who used one of the most controversial virtual aid/props in the assembly. In 2012, Netanyahu took to the podium to convince the world leaders that Iran was very close to developing a nuclear weapon. In a bid to make leaders understand his point clearly, the controversial Israeli leader took out a white board which had an illustration of a cartoon-style fizzing bomb. This bomb was divided into three parts: 70 per cent, 90 per cent and the 'final stage'. Netanyahu, with a red marking on the drawing, claimed Iran was 90 per cent ready with the nuclear weapon. However, Tehran has always rubbished Netanyahu's claims and has reiterated time and again that it was never developing a nuclear weapon. Donald Trump The infamous former President of the United States, Donald Trump, has always managed to stay in the headlines. However, in the 2017 UNGA speech, he attracted eyeballs when he threatened to "totally destroy" North Korea. Trump started his speech by aiming directly at North Korea. He stressed on the tainted history of the country which is infamous for dictatorships, kidnapping, missile and nuclear tests, limited rights and oppression on citizens. Reminding the world about the immoral decisions of North Korea, Trump boasted that the US will defend itself if the two countries face each other and "we will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea". The sentence was followed by murmurs around the whole assembly as the leaders looked at each other, shocked by this strong statement of Trump. However, the former reality TV star did not stop there. Labelling the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as the 'rocket man', Trump continued, "Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime". After North Korea, he went to attack Iran by claiming the government had robbed the 'good people of Iran' of their destiny. "The entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Iran’s people are what their leaders fear the most," he claimed on behalf of Iran citizens. Trump’s attack was supported by Israel’s then-Prime Minister, Netanyahu.

From shoe thumping to bomb drawings: Most controversial speeches at UNGA

Iran's underground Natanz nuclear facility lost power just hours after starting up new advanced centrifuges. A spokesman for Iran's civilian nuclear program says an incident has struck the electrical distribution grid of the country's Natanz nuclear facility.

US-Iran Nuclear Deal: Accident at nuclear plant after centrifuge activation

Fifteen people have so far been confirmed dead and 400 are still missing in a huge blaze at the Rohingya refugee camp in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, the United Nations said Tuesday.

"What we have seen in this fire is something we have never seen before in these camps. It is massive. It is devastating," Johannes van der Klaauw, the UN Refugee Agency's representative in Bangladesh, told reporters in Geneva via video-link from Dhaka.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-of-homes-burn-as-fire-sweeps-rohingya-camp-372453/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bangladeshi officials are investigating the cause of the blaze even as officials, aid workers and families sift through the debris looking for further victims. The fire ripped through the Balukhali camp near the southeastern town of Cox's Bazar late on Monday, burning through thousands of shanties as people scrambled to save their meagre possessions.

Sanjeev Kafley, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies's delegation head in Bangladesh, said more than 17,000 shelters had been destroyed and tens of thousands of people displaced.

More than a thousand Red Cross staff and volunteers worked with fire services to extinguish the blaze, spread over four sections of the camp containing roughly 124,000 people, he said. That represents around one-tenth of an estimated 1 million&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugees in the area, Kafley said.

The UN's International Organization for Migration said it has pledged $1 million to relief efforts but a further $20 million would be required to react to the most urgent needs.

IOM spokeswoman Angela Wells said the fire had caused "catastrophic damage", and the health clinic run by the IOM, the camp's largest, was completely destroyed.

"The fire has since subsided, but not before consuming essential facilities in the camps, shelters and the personal belongings of tens of thousands of refugees.&nbsp;The cause of the fire is still unknown as are the exact number of casualties," she said.

Wells said the first responders were Rohingya volunteers who helped people to safety, supporting the fire response efforts and helping the relief efforts.&nbsp;

IOM teams worked through the night to help those who fled the scene.

"Today, families have begun to return to their plots of land," Wells told reporters.

"IOM is distributing emergency assistance to all those affected. This assistance includes shelter kits that will allow people to begin to rebuild their homes, as well as emergency items such as blankets, solar lights, mosquito nets, and jerry cans.&nbsp;

"With the start of the monsoon looming, rebuilding is critical.&nbsp;IOM will continue to help people reconstruct&nbsp;durable shelters,&nbsp;emergency latrines and the vital&nbsp;health facility."

Fifteen people have so far been confirmed dead and 400 are still missing in a huge blaze at the Rohingya refugee camp in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, the United Nations said Tuesday.

Fifteen people have so far been confirmed dead and 400 are still missing in a huge blaze at the Rohingya refugee camp in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, the United Nations said Tuesday. "What we have seen in this fire is something we have never seen before in these camps. It is massive. It is devastating," Johannes van der Klaauw, the UN Refugee Agency's representative in Bangladesh, told reporters in Geneva via video-link from Dhaka. Bangladeshi officials are investigating the cause of the blaze even as officials, aid workers and families sift through the debris looking for further victims. The fire ripped through the Balukhali camp near the southeastern town of Cox's Bazar late on Monday, burning through thousands of shanties as people scrambled to save their meagre possessions. Sanjeev Kafley, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies's delegation head in Bangladesh, said more than 17,000 shelters had been destroyed and tens of thousands of people displaced. More than a thousand Red Cross staff and volunteers worked with fire services to extinguish the blaze, spread over four sections of the camp containing roughly 124,000 people, he said. That represents around one-tenth of an estimated 1 million Rohingya refugees in the area, Kafley said. The UN's International Organization for Migration said it has pledged $1 million to relief efforts but a further $20 million would be required to react to the most urgent needs. IOM spokeswoman Angela Wells said the fire had caused "catastrophic damage", and the health clinic run by the IOM, the camp's largest, was completely destroyed. "The fire has since subsided, but not before consuming essential facilities in the camps, shelters and the personal belongings of tens of thousands of refugees. The cause of the fire is still unknown as are the exact number of casualties," she said. Wells said the first responders were Rohingya volunteers who helped people to safety, supporting the fire response efforts and helping the relief efforts. IOM teams worked through the night to help those who fled the scene. "Today, families have begun to return to their plots of land," Wells told reporters. "IOM is distributing emergency assistance to all those affected. This assistance includes shelter kits that will allow people to begin to rebuild their homes, as well as emergency items such as blankets, solar lights, mosquito nets, and jerry cans. "With the start of the monsoon looming, rebuilding is critical. IOM will continue to help people reconstruct durable shelters, emergency latrines and the vital health facility."

15 dead, 400 missing in fire at Rohingya camp in Bangladesh, says UN

The number of people fleeing violence in the Central African Republic has doubled in just a week to nearly 60,000, the U.N. refugee agency said on Friday, as post-electoral violence intensifies.

UN: Nearly 60,000 have fled Central African Republic violence

India’s economy could prove to be the “most resilient” in the subregion of South and South-West Asia over the long term, according to a report by the UN, which says a positive but lower economic growth post-COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s large market will continue to attract investments.

The report titled ‘Foreign Direct Investment Trends And Outlook In Asia And The Pacific 2020/2021’, and compiled by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), stated that inward FDI flows to South and South-West Asia slightly decreased by 2 per cent in 2019, from USD 67 billion in 2018 to USD 66 billion in 2019.

The growth, however, was mainly driven by India, which accounted for 77 per cent of the total inflows to the subregion and received USD 51 billion in 2019, up 20 per cent from the previous year.

The report, released last week, said the majority of these flows were destined for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the construction of sub-sector.

Regarding the ICT sector, the report said the investment to India has evolved from information technology services for Multinational enterprises (MNEs) to the thriving local digital ecosystem where many domestic players, especially in e-commerce, have attracted considerable international investment.

The report added that FDI outflows from South and South-West Asia increased for the fourth consecutive year, modestly growing from USD 14.8 billion in 2018 to USD 15.1 billion in 2019.

The geographical spread of FDI outflows from the subregion remained uneven, with just two countries (India and Turkey) accounting for the vast majority of outflows in 2019, it said.

“As such, the slight increase in outward FDI was predominantly due to an increase in outflows from India, which accounted for 80 per cent of total outward investment from the subregion,” the report said, adding that in 2019, India invested USD 12.1 billion abroad, a 10 per cent increase compared with the previous year.

The report noted that in the short term, both inflows and outflows from and to the subregion are expected to decline.

In the first three quarters of 2020, the value of greenfield FDI inflows declined by 43 per cent compared to the same period last year, signaling a reversal of the growth trend in the subregion.

Most of the greenfield flows (87 per cent) were destined for India, although the overall greenfield inflows to the country declined by 29 per cent. Equally, FDI from India is projected to decline in 2020, with the largest MNEs revising their earnings down by 25 per cent in early 2020 due to the impacts of the pandemic.

“However, India’s economy could prove the most resilient in the subregion over the long term. FDI inflows have been steadily increasing and positive, albeit lower, economic growth after the pandemic and India’s large market will continue to attract market-seeking investment,” the report said.

India’s fast-growing telecom and digital space, in particular, could see a faster rebound as global venture capital firms and technology companies continue to show interest in the country’s market through acquisitions, it said.

It noted that Facebook and Google’s investment in Jio Platforms in 2020 worth USD 5.7 billion and USD 4.5 billion respectively were testaments to this trend.

“Estimates suggest that by 2025, core digital sectors such as IT and business process management, digital communication services, and electronics manufacturing could double in size.

“In addition, the pandemic has only further increased the tendency of many sectors such as agriculture, education, energy, financial services, logistics to digitalise, as COVID-19 has pushed many individual and companies to adopt digital solutions and processes,” the report said.

India has implemented a number of noteworthy investment policies and measures since 2019. Some of them include the relaxation of limits to FDI in the insurance sector, liberalisation of FDI rules which ended equity caps in several sectors including coal and lignite mining, contract manufacturing and single brand retail trading and increase in ceiling for FDI into the defense sector to 74 per cent via automatic approval route, it said.

In addition to these measures, and in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government also introduced intensified FDI screening procedures from neighbouring countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China and Nepal, it said.

The report said that as in previous years, inflows of greenfield investments have been unevenly distributed across the Asia-Pacific region. In 2019, Vietnam received the second largest share of inward greenfield investment (11 per cent), followed by India (10 per cent), and Sri Lanka (8 per cent).

Looking ahead, in the short-term investment in pharmaceutical manufacturing is forecast to decrease as many European and United States pharmaceutical companies may switch partly to more localised sourcing owing to supply-chain disruptions in the pharmaceuticals sector during COVID-19 pandemic.

“This will be important for pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs in the region, particularly in India,” the report said.

The report said that Asia-Pacific’s share in global FDI inflows dropped from 45 per cent in 2018 to 35 per cent in 2019, and its share in global FDI outflows decelerated from 52 per cent to 41 per cent.&nbsp;

India’s economy could prove to be the “most resilient” in the subregion of South and South-West Asia over the long term, according to a report by the UN, which says a positive but lower economic growth post-COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s large market will continue to attract investments.

India’s economy could prove to be the “most resilient” in the subregion of South and South-West Asia over the long term, according to a report by the UN, which says a positive but lower economic growth post-COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s large market will continue to attract investments. The report titled ‘Foreign Direct Investment Trends And Outlook In Asia And The Pacific 2020/2021’, and compiled by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), stated that inward FDI flows to South and South-West Asia slightly decreased by 2 per cent in 2019, from USD 67 billion in 2018 to USD 66 billion in 2019. The growth, however, was mainly driven by India, which accounted for 77 per cent of the total inflows to the subregion and received USD 51 billion in 2019, up 20 per cent from the previous year. The report, released last week, said the majority of these flows were destined for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the construction of sub-sector. Regarding the ICT sector, the report said the investment to India has evolved from information technology services for Multinational enterprises (MNEs) to the thriving local digital ecosystem where many domestic players, especially in e-commerce, have attracted considerable international investment. The report added that FDI outflows from South and South-West Asia increased for the fourth consecutive year, modestly growing from USD 14.8 billion in 2018 to USD 15.1 billion in 2019. The geographical spread of FDI outflows from the subregion remained uneven, with just two countries (India and Turkey) accounting for the vast majority of outflows in 2019, it said. “As such, the slight increase in outward FDI was predominantly due to an increase in outflows from India, which accounted for 80 per cent of total outward investment from the subregion,” the report said, adding that in 2019, India invested USD 12.1 billion abroad, a 10 per cent increase compared with the previous year. The report noted that in the short term, both inflows and outflows from and to the subregion are expected to decline. In the first three quarters of 2020, the value of greenfield FDI inflows declined by 43 per cent compared to the same period last year, signaling a reversal of the growth trend in the subregion. Most of the greenfield flows (87 per cent) were destined for India, although the overall greenfield inflows to the country declined by 29 per cent. Equally, FDI from India is projected to decline in 2020, with the largest MNEs revising their earnings down by 25 per cent in early 2020 due to the impacts of the pandemic. “However, India’s economy could prove the most resilient in the subregion over the long term. FDI inflows have been steadily increasing and positive, albeit lower, economic growth after the pandemic and India’s large market will continue to attract market-seeking investment,” the report said. India’s fast-growing telecom and digital space, in particular, could see a faster rebound as global venture capital firms and technology companies continue to show interest in the country’s market through acquisitions, it said. It noted that Facebook and Google’s investment in Jio Platforms in 2020 worth USD 5.7 billion and USD 4.5 billion respectively were testaments to this trend. “Estimates suggest that by 2025, core digital sectors such as IT and business process management, digital communication services, and electronics manufacturing could double in size. “In addition, the pandemic has only further increased the tendency of many sectors such as agriculture, education, energy, financial services, logistics to digitalise, as COVID-19 has pushed many individual and companies to adopt digital solutions and processes,” the report said. India has implemented a number of noteworthy investment policies and measures since 2019. Some of them include the relaxation of limits to FDI in the insurance sector, liberalisation of FDI rules which ended equity caps in several sectors including coal and lignite mining, contract manufacturing and single brand retail trading and increase in ceiling for FDI into the defense sector to 74 per cent via automatic approval route, it said. In addition to these measures, and in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government also introduced intensified FDI screening procedures from neighbouring countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China and Nepal, it said. The report said that as in previous years, inflows of greenfield investments have been unevenly distributed across the Asia-Pacific region. In 2019, Vietnam received the second largest share of inward greenfield investment (11 per cent), followed by India (10 per cent), and Sri Lanka (8 per cent). Looking ahead, in the short-term investment in pharmaceutical manufacturing is forecast to decrease as many European and United States pharmaceutical companies may switch partly to more localised sourcing owing to supply-chain disruptions in the pharmaceuticals sector during COVID-19 pandemic. “This will be important for pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs in the region, particularly in India,” the report said. The report said that Asia-Pacific’s share in global FDI inflows dropped from 45 per cent in 2018 to 35 per cent in 2019, and its share in global FDI outflows decelerated from 52 per cent to 41 per cent.

India's economy could prove to be 'most resilient' in subregion over long term: UN

United Nation’s Human Rights Commission condemns violation in Belarus calling out unlawful arrests, torture and sexual violence. Watch video.

Video: New iron curtain falling across the Europe?

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus.

"Let's not allow another iron curtain to descend on the European continent," said Anaïs Marin, UN special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus.

The statement was issued in an urgent debate that was called in the UN by Germany on&nbsp;behalf of the European Union (EU) to discuss the&nbsp;"catastrophic" conditions in Belarus.

As&nbsp;Anaïs Marin described the tortures and violent behaviour portrayed by the Belrusian government, delegates of Russia and Belrus made several attempts of objecting her speech.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/belarus-president-closes-western-borders-puts-army-on-high-alert-328302/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The United Nations, however, has now agreed to step up monitoring of reported rights abuses during Belarus handling of protests that were held against the&nbsp;President Alexander Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994 and denies accusations of rigging elections that were held on August 09.

The protests were attended by masses and were spread all across the country for several weeks. The government has been accused of violently beating the protestors and holding them in jail in inhumane conditions without any charges.

“We demand to immediately cease violence against peaceful citizens. We demand immediate release of all political prisoners,”&nbsp;Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya requested in front of the&nbsp;47-member state forum.&nbsp;“I once again emphasize our willingness to talk with the authorities and look for peaceful solution to the crisis that has affected our nation."

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus.

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus. "Let's not allow another iron curtain to descend on the European continent," said Anaïs Marin, UN special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus. The statement was issued in an urgent debate that was called in the UN by Germany on behalf of the European Union (EU) to discuss the "catastrophic" conditions in Belarus. As Anaïs Marin described the tortures and violent behaviour portrayed by the Belrusian government, delegates of Russia and Belrus made several attempts of objecting her speech. × The United Nations, however, has now agreed to step up monitoring of reported rights abuses during Belarus handling of protests that were held against the President Alexander Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994 and denies accusations of rigging elections that were held on August 09. The protests were attended by masses and were spread all across the country for several weeks. The government has been accused of violently beating the protestors and holding them in jail in inhumane conditions without any charges. “We demand to immediately cease violence against peaceful citizens. We demand immediate release of all political prisoners,” Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya requested in front of the 47-member state forum. “I once again emphasize our willingness to talk with the authorities and look for peaceful solution to the crisis that has affected our nation."

'Don't let iron curtain fall': Opposition warns against human rights violation in Belarus

The UN on Thursday called for an immediate "quantum leap" in funding to fight the new coronavirus as the death toll crossed 900,000 six months after the pandemic broke out.

Alarming figures cropped up, with France registering a record of almost 10,000 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours ahead of a key meeting to decide a toughening of coronavirus measures.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged countries to find $15 billion over the next three months to fund the ACT-Accelerator programme, a global collaboration to hunt for a vaccine and treatments led by the UN's World Health Organization (WHO).

"Either we stand together or we will be doomed," Guterres said, calling the virus the "number one global security threat".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-700-million-raised-so-far-for-covid-19-vaccines-initiative-for-poor-326651">Also read|&nbsp;WHO says $700 million raised so far for COVID-19 vaccines initiative for poor</a>

"We need a quantum leap in funding to increase the chances of a global solution to get the world moving, working and prospering again," he said.

He said the near $3 billion contributed so far had been critical but $35 billion more was needed to shift from start-up to scale-up — beginning with $15 billion in the next three months.

Tightened restrictions

He said typical aid budgets would not cover the costs, urging donors to "go deep" into money set aside for combating coronavirus.

As the infections burgeoned, countries began to scale up restrictions.

Portugal tightened curbs ahead of the start of the school year, limiting gatherings to 10 people rather than 20 previously -- a cap already in force in the capital Lisbon since late June.&nbsp;

Sales of alcohol will be barred from 8 pm as will drinking in public spaces.

Britain said it was reinstating mainland Portugal and adding Hungary to its coronavirus quarantine list, while Spain's Balearic Islands region said it will impose restrictions on over 20,000 people in tourism hotspot Palma de Mallorca due to a surge in infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-child-mortality-rate-declined-between-1990-and-2019-united-nations-326259">Also read|&nbsp;India's child mortality rate declined between 1990 and 2019: United Nations</a>

People living in four working class neighbourhoods of Palma will not be allowed out from 10 pm Friday except to go to work or school or seek medical care.

Gyms and parks in the areas must close, while the capacity at bars, cafes and restaurants will be capped at 50 percent. Gatherings will be limited to a maximum of five people.

A new study by US health authorities meanwhile provided more data showing that Covid-19 spread far more easily at bars and restaurants than going shopping, working from an office or using public transport.

The new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed the participants who tested positive and those who tested negative reported similar mask-wearing behaviour and similar levels of exposure in all the settings, except bars and restaurants.

'Start saving lives'

The virus has killed more than 904,500 people and infected at least 27.9 million since the outbreak emerged in China last December.

According to the WHO's latest overview, 35 candidate vaccines for the virus are being tested on humans, of which nine have reached Phase III trials where they are tested on tens of thousands of people.

A further 145 candidate vaccines are in earlier testing phases. Typically only about 10 percent of candidate vaccines succeed.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the speed at which vaccines, diagnostics and treatments were being developed but said much more needed to be done.

"We need to rapidly scale up our clinical trials, manufacturing, licensing and regulation capacity so that these products can get to people and start saving lives," he said.

"Fully financing the ACT-Accelerator would shorten the pandemic and pay back this investment rapidly as the global economy recovers."

The pandemic has continued to wreak economic mayhem.

Europe's top economy Germany said it would see a massive drop in tax revenue this year and next due to the impact of the coronavirus and won't return to pre-pandemic federal intake until 2023.

It will take in 275 billion euros ($327 billion) in federal tax revenues in 2020, down from 329 billion euros last year, Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said.&nbsp;

Airline giant IAG, the owner of British Airways and Spanish carrier Iberia, said it was cutting more flights because of coronavirus restrictions and quarantine rules.

IAG expects to operate 60 percent less capacity in the three months to the end of December from a year earlier.

Singapore Airlines, the city-state's official carrier, said it was cutting about 4,300 jobs -- around 20 percent of its workforce.

The UN on Thursday called for an immediate "quantum leap" in funding to fight the new coronavirus as the death toll crossed 900,000 six months after the pandemic broke out.

The UN on Thursday called for an immediate "quantum leap" in funding to fight the new coronavirus as the death toll crossed 900,000 six months after the pandemic broke out. Alarming figures cropped up, with France registering a record of almost 10,000 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours ahead of a key meeting to decide a toughening of coronavirus measures. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged countries to find $15 billion over the next three months to fund the ACT-Accelerator programme, a global collaboration to hunt for a vaccine and treatments led by the UN's World Health Organization (WHO). "Either we stand together or we will be doomed," Guterres said, calling the virus the "number one global security threat". Also read| WHO says $700 million raised so far for COVID-19 vaccines initiative for poor "We need a quantum leap in funding to increase the chances of a global solution to get the world moving, working and prospering again," he said. He said the near $3 billion contributed so far had been critical but $35 billion more was needed to shift from start-up to scale-up — beginning with $15 billion in the next three months. Tightened restrictions He said typical aid budgets would not cover the costs, urging donors to "go deep" into money set aside for combating coronavirus. As the infections burgeoned, countries began to scale up restrictions. Portugal tightened curbs ahead of the start of the school year, limiting gatherings to 10 people rather than 20 previously -- a cap already in force in the capital Lisbon since late June. Sales of alcohol will be barred from 8 pm as will drinking in public spaces. Britain said it was reinstating mainland Portugal and adding Hungary to its coronavirus quarantine list, while Spain's Balearic Islands region said it will impose restrictions on over 20,000 people in tourism hotspot Palma de Mallorca due to a surge in infections. Also read| India's child mortality rate declined between 1990 and 2019: United Nations People living in four working class neighbourhoods of Palma will not be allowed out from 10 pm Friday except to go to work or school or seek medical care. Gyms and parks in the areas must close, while the capacity at bars, cafes and restaurants will be capped at 50 percent. Gatherings will be limited to a maximum of five people. A new study by US health authorities meanwhile provided more data showing that Covid-19 spread far more easily at bars and restaurants than going shopping, working from an office or using public transport. The new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed the participants who tested positive and those who tested negative reported similar mask-wearing behaviour and similar levels of exposure in all the settings, except bars and restaurants. 'Start saving lives' The virus has killed more than 904,500 people and infected at least 27.9 million since the outbreak emerged in China last December. According to the WHO's latest overview, 35 candidate vaccines for the virus are being tested on humans, of which nine have reached Phase III trials where they are tested on tens of thousands of people. A further 145 candidate vaccines are in earlier testing phases. Typically only about 10 percent of candidate vaccines succeed. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the speed at which vaccines, diagnostics and treatments were being developed but said much more needed to be done. "We need to rapidly scale up our clinical trials, manufacturing, licensing and regulation capacity so that these products can get to people and start saving lives," he said. "Fully financing the ACT-Accelerator would shorten the pandemic and pay back this investment rapidly as the global economy recovers." The pandemic has continued to wreak economic mayhem. Europe's top economy Germany said it would see a massive drop in tax revenue this year and next due to the impact of the coronavirus and won't return to pre-pandemic federal intake until 2023. It will take in 275 billion euros ($327 billion) in federal tax revenues in 2020, down from 329 billion euros last year, Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said. Airline giant IAG, the owner of British Airways and Spanish carrier Iberia, said it was cutting more flights because of coronavirus restrictions and quarantine rules. IAG expects to operate 60 percent less capacity in the three months to the end of December from a year earlier. Singapore Airlines, the city-state's official carrier, said it was cutting about 4,300 jobs -- around 20 percent of its workforce.

UN seeks 'quantum leap' in funding for virus fight

India has put on record with UN, Pakistan saying it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council, which turned out to be a fake claim. A note was sent by Indian mission to the UN headquarters over the development and Pakistani action.

This is not for the first time Pakistan has made a fake claim at the UN, it has made fake statement in the past as well. In 2017, Pakistan's then envoy to UN Maleeha Lodhi made a fake claim at the UN General Assembly by displaying a picture from Gaza claiming it to be from India's Kashmir.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-and-tripura-to-be-connected-through-gumti-river-from-september-323214">ALso read:&nbsp;Bangladesh and Tripura to be connected through Gumti river from September</a>

On Monday, Pakistani mission to UN tweeted a statement of Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram claiming that it was presented at UNSC. A claim that was fake, given the Security council's session was not open to non-members of the body and Pakistan is not a member of UNSC, and thus cannot&nbsp;make the statement.

The Pakistani Mission to United Nations, in a tweet said, Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram made the statement at the open debate of the security council on the report of the secretary-general on the "threats to international peace and security posed by terrorism actions." The statement largely was focused on raking up Kashmir and blaming India for "terror" incidents in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moscow-hopes-agreement-on-igla-missile-new-delhi-to-manufacture-spare-parts-of-russian-equipment-323227">Also read:&nbsp;Moscow hopes agreement on IGLA missile, New Delhi to manufacture spare parts of Russian equipment</a>

Indian mission in the UN was quick to point out that no such statement has been delivered. In a tweet it said, "We have seen a statement put out by the Pakistani mission to the UN, claiming that these remarks were made by the Permanent Representative of Pakistan at the UNSC"

The mission asked, "We failed to comprehend where exactly did the permanent representative of Pakistan make his statement since the security council session today was not open to non-members of the security council."

In fact, the German mission to the security council had put out a picture of the meet and Pakistani envoy was absent at the meet. German is a non-permanent member of the UNSC.

India gave a point by point reply to Pakistan's&nbsp;statement, and highlighted how Pakistan is the "biggest sponsor of cross border terrorism against India" and now "masquerade itself as a victim of terrorism by India!"

India has put on record with UN, Pakistan saying it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council, which turned out to be a fake claim. A note was sent by Indian mission to the UN headquarters over the development and Pakistani action.

India has put on record with UN, Pakistan saying it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council, which turned out to be a fake claim. A note was sent by Indian mission to the UN headquarters over the development and Pakistani action. This is not for the first time Pakistan has made a fake claim at the UN, it has made fake statement in the past as well. In 2017, Pakistan's then envoy to UN Maleeha Lodhi made a fake claim at the UN General Assembly by displaying a picture from Gaza claiming it to be from India's Kashmir. ALso read: Bangladesh and Tripura to be connected through Gumti river from September On Monday, Pakistani mission to UN tweeted a statement of Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram claiming that it was presented at UNSC. A claim that was fake, given the Security council's session was not open to non-members of the body and Pakistan is not a member of UNSC, and thus cannot make the statement. The Pakistani Mission to United Nations, in a tweet said, Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram made the statement at the open debate of the security council on the report of the secretary-general on the "threats to international peace and security posed by terrorism actions." The statement largely was focused on raking up Kashmir and blaming India for "terror" incidents in the country. Also read: Moscow hopes agreement on IGLA missile, New Delhi to manufacture spare parts of Russian equipment Indian mission in the UN was quick to point out that no such statement has been delivered. In a tweet it said, "We have seen a statement put out by the Pakistani mission to the UN, claiming that these remarks were made by the Permanent Representative of Pakistan at the UNSC" The mission asked, "We failed to comprehend where exactly did the permanent representative of Pakistan make his statement since the security council session today was not open to non-members of the security council." In fact, the German mission to the security council had put out a picture of the meet and Pakistani envoy was absent at the meet. German is a non-permanent member of the UNSC. India gave a point by point reply to Pakistan's statement, and highlighted how Pakistan is the "biggest sponsor of cross border terrorism against India" and now "masquerade itself as a victim of terrorism by India!"

India puts on record with UN- Pakistan's fake statement to UNSC

The United States President Donald Trump may address the&nbsp;UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday.

While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly.

“We’re hoping that President Trump will actually be speaking in person in the General Assembly. He will be the only world leader to be speaking in person,” US Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-dominates-un-resolution-for-75th-anniversary-calls-for-reforms-300707">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19 dominates UN resolution for 75th anniversary; calls for reforms</a>

“Obviously we’re going to be focused on human rights issues, on transparency, on accountability,” she added.

The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. However, considering the travel restrictions, the&nbsp;UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres suggested in May that leaders send video statements.

The 193-member General Assembly agreed last week to the special measures, which allow one - possibly two - New York-based representatives for each country to be in the General Assembly hall for the speeches.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States President Donald Trump may address the UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday. While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly.

The United States President Donald Trump may address the UN General Assembly in person in September this year, Trump's UN envoy said on Thursday. While all the other world leaders will be sending in videos instead of travelling to the New York headquarters due to the novel coronavirus, Trump may present himself at the General Assembly. “We’re hoping that President Trump will actually be speaking in person in the General Assembly. He will be the only world leader to be speaking in person,” US Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft said. Also read: COVID-19 dominates UN resolution for 75th anniversary; calls for reforms “Obviously we’re going to be focused on human rights issues, on transparency, on accountability,” she added. The annual high-level gathering this year was supposed to be a week-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. However, considering the travel restrictions, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres suggested in May that leaders send video statements. The 193-member General Assembly agreed last week to the special measures, which allow one - possibly two - New York-based representatives for each country to be in the General Assembly hall for the speeches. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump to address UN in person this September: UN envoy

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year.

The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-veto-syria-aid-via-turkey-for-second-time-this-week-312460">Also read:&nbsp;Russia, China veto Syria aid via Turkey for second time this week</a>

Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia.

With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021.

This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-veto-un-extension-of-aid-deliveries-to-syria-from-turkey-311484">Also read: Russia, China veto UN extension of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey</a>

For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria.&nbsp;

European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points.

"Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

"The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP.

The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line."

UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission.

But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities.

Lifesaving assistance 
Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime.

Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need."

"Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said.

The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points.

In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year.

This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue.

Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country. Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year. The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said. Also read: Russia, China veto Syria aid via Turkey for second time this week Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia. With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021. This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control. Also read: Russia, China veto UN extension of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria. European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points. "Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank. "The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP. The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line." UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission. But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities. Lifesaving assistance Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime. Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need." "Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said. The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points. In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year. This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue. Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

UN restarts cross-border aid to Syria but shuts access point

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13&nbsp;around 8.45 pm (IST).

Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July.

During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. &nbsp;

The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels."

It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)."

Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India).

The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR.

Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on.

In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13 around 8.45 pm (IST). Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July. During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels." It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)." Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India). The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR. Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on. In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

At UN, India to highlight localisation of SDGs

With the governments imposing large-scale restrictions on economic activities to halt the spread of coronavirus, the global economy has come to a virtual standstill. A report by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs has projected that the world economy is set to lose nearly $8.5 trillion over the next 2 years.

UN Predicts slowing down of India’s growth

Coronavirus maybe more lethal to the men but the chaos has taken a toll at women's sexual and reproductive health around the world.&nbsp;

After a study carried out by United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA), has estimated that more than 47 million women across 114 low-income nations will not access modern contraceptions if the pandemic continues for next six months.&nbsp;

According to researchers, it is predicted that there will be seven million unintended pregnancies and 31 million cases of gender-based violence.&nbsp;

Dr Natalia Kanem, executive director of the UNFPA, said: “This new data shows the catastrophic impact that Covid-19 could soon have on women and girls globally. The pandemic is deepening inequalities, and millions more women and girls now risk losing the ability to plan their families and protect their bodies and their health.

“Women’s reproductive health and rights must be safeguarded at all costs. The services must continue, the supplies must be delivered and the vulnerable must be protected and supported.”

At least 4,093 people were arrested from across London for domestic abuse offences -- nearly 100 a day on an average -- during the coronavirus lockdown in the UK. The period accounted for here is from March 9 till April 19.

The Metropolitan Police has revealed that charges and cautions have increased by 24 per cent since March 9, when people with COVID-19 symptoms were asked to self-isolate, compared to last year.

Domestic incidents have seen a 3 per cent increase since last year and jumped by 9 per cent between March 9 and April 19.

The Met Police gave examples of some of the cases it has dealt with in recent weeks, including one in which police discovered that a man reported by a victim was linked to firearms.

Coronavirus maybe more lethal to the men but the chaos has taken a toll at women's sexual and reproductive health around the world. After a study carried out by United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA), has estimated that more than 47 million women across 114 low-income nations will not access modern contraceptions if the pandemic continues for next six months.

Coronavirus maybe more lethal to the men but the chaos has taken a toll at women's sexual and reproductive health around the world. After a study carried out by United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA), has estimated that more than 47 million women across 114 low-income nations will not access modern contraceptions if the pandemic continues for next six months. According to researchers, it is predicted that there will be seven million unintended pregnancies and 31 million cases of gender-based violence. Dr Natalia Kanem, executive director of the UNFPA, said: “This new data shows the catastrophic impact that Covid-19 could soon have on women and girls globally. The pandemic is deepening inequalities, and millions more women and girls now risk losing the ability to plan their families and protect their bodies and their health. “Women’s reproductive health and rights must be safeguarded at all costs. The services must continue, the supplies must be delivered and the vulnerable must be protected and supported.” At least 4,093 people were arrested from across London for domestic abuse offences -- nearly 100 a day on an average -- during the coronavirus lockdown in the UK. The period accounted for here is from March 9 till April 19. The Metropolitan Police has revealed that charges and cautions have increased by 24 per cent since March 9, when people with COVID-19 symptoms were asked to self-isolate, compared to last year. Domestic incidents have seen a 3 per cent increase since last year and jumped by 9 per cent between March 9 and April 19. The Met Police gave examples of some of the cases it has dealt with in recent weeks, including one in which police discovered that a man reported by a victim was linked to firearms.

Lockdown expected to see millions of cases of unwanted pregnancy and domestic abuse: UN

TODAY IN HISTORY: 8 MARCH

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has recommended that ministers and diplomats skip travelling to a meeting in New York of the Commission on the Status of Women due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Friday.&nbsp;

More than 7,000 people usually attend the annual meeting, officials said, which is dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. It is due to be held from&nbsp;March 9 to 20.

However, in a letter to U.N. member states from the chair of the commission, Armenia’s U.N. Ambassador Mher Margaryan said Guterres had recommended that member states “shorten and scale down the session” and cancel dozens of side events.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/europes-worst-affected-country-by-covid-19-outbreak-283261">Europe's worst affected country by COVID-19 outbreak</a>

<div>“He also strongly recommended that capital-based representatives refrain from travelling to headquarters for the session,” Margaryan wrote.&nbsp;</div>

The bureau of the Commission on the Status of Women proposed that member states agree to Guterres’ recommendations at a meeting on Monday.&nbsp;

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Guterres made the recommendations given the “fast-evolving situation” with the coronavirus and the need to “balance the UN’s critical work and public health concerns”.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-chief-slams-gender-inequality-283358">UN Chief Slams Gender Inequality</a>

“The advice given by the secretary-general is based on inputs from the Senior Emergency Policy Team and very close consultations between the U.N. Medical Services and the World Health Organization,” Dujarric said.&nbsp;

The flu-like virus that emerged from central China late last year has spread to about 60 countries, infected more than 85,000 people and killed almost 3,000, mostly in China.

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has recommended that ministers and diplomats skip travelling to a meeting in New York of the Commission on the Status of Women due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Friday.

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has recommended that ministers and diplomats skip travelling to a meeting in New York of the Commission on the Status of Women due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Friday. More than 7,000 people usually attend the annual meeting, officials said, which is dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. It is due to be held from March 9 to 20. However, in a letter to U.N. member states from the chair of the commission, Armenia’s U.N. Ambassador Mher Margaryan said Guterres had recommended that member states “shorten and scale down the session” and cancel dozens of side events. Also read: Europe's worst affected country by COVID-19 outbreak “He also strongly recommended that capital-based representatives refrain from travelling to headquarters for the session,” Margaryan wrote. The bureau of the Commission on the Status of Women proposed that member states agree to Guterres’ recommendations at a meeting on Monday. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Guterres made the recommendations given the “fast-evolving situation” with the coronavirus and the need to “balance the UN’s critical work and public health concerns”. Also see: UN Chief Slams Gender Inequality “The advice given by the secretary-general is based on inputs from the Senior Emergency Policy Team and very close consultations between the U.N. Medical Services and the World Health Organization,” Dujarric said. The flu-like virus that emerged from central China late last year has spread to about 60 countries, infected more than 85,000 people and killed almost 3,000, mostly in China.

U.N. chief recommends ministers, diplomats skip travelling to meeting due to coronavirus risks

A motion for Iran to quit the nuclear <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-must-sign-npt-to-gain-entry-into-nsg-patient-negotiations-required-china-194132">Non-Proliferation Treaty</a> (NPT) was introduced in parliament on Tuesday, the assembly's news site ICANA reported, in a move that appears to raise the stakes in Tehran's confrontation with the West.

The report did not say when parliament might vote on the motion.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-consider-withdrawing-from-npt-if-nuclear-dispute-referred-to-unsc-zarif-275493">Iran could consider withdrawing from NPT if nuclear dispute referred to UNSC: Zarif</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-sounds-alarm-for-democracy-after-candidates-barred-276882">Iran</a>'s Supreme Leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-stands-by-revolutionary-guards-after-unrest-over-downed-plane-275015">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>, the highest authority in the Islamic Republic, makes the final decisions regarding the country's nuclear policy.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-consider-withdrawing-from-npt-if-nuclear-dispute-referred-to-unsc-zarif-275493">Javad Zarif </a>said last week that Iran could withdraw from the NPT if European countries refer it to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-says-six-civilians-killed-in-afghanistan-airstrike-276918">UN</a>&nbsp;Security Council over a nuclear agreement, a move that would overturn diplomacy in Tehran's turbulent relations with Western powers.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-must-sign-npt-to-gain-entry-into-nsg-patient-negotiations-required-china-194132">India must sign NPT to gain entry into NSG, patient negotiations required: China</a>

The 1968 NPT has been the foundation of global nuclear arms control since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-koreas-cold-war-about-to-end-178133">Cold War</a>, including a 2015 deal Iran signed with world powers that offered it access to global trade in return for accepting curbs to its atomic program.

The fate of the 2015 pact has been in doubt since US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-trial-of-donald-trump-all-star-defence-team-scared-of-going-near-bolton-276987">Donald Trump</a> pulled the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-top-court-sides-with-trump-on-immigrant-welfare-benefits-276959">United States</a> out of it in 2018 and reimposed sanctions. Iran has responded by scaling back its commitments, although it says it wants the pact to survive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-not-to-ban-huawei-in-europe-but-to-impose-strict-rules-european-commissioner-breton-277078">Britain</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">France </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-deadly-virus-continues-to-spread-outside-china-276966">Germany</a> declared Iran in violation of the nuclear deal two weeks ago and have launched a dispute mechanism that could eventually see the matter referred back to the Security Council and the reimposition of UN&nbsp;sanctions.

A motion for Iran to quit the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was introduced in parliament on Tuesday, the assembly's news site ICANA reported, in a move that appears to raise the stakes in Tehran's confrontation with the West.

A motion for Iran to quit the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was introduced in parliament on Tuesday, the assembly's news site ICANA reported, in a move that appears to raise the stakes in Tehran's confrontation with the West. The report did not say when parliament might vote on the motion. Also read: Iran could consider withdrawing from NPT if nuclear dispute referred to UNSC: Zarif Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the highest authority in the Islamic Republic, makes the final decisions regarding the country's nuclear policy. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said last week that Iran could withdraw from the NPT if European countries refer it to the UN Security Council over a nuclear agreement, a move that would overturn diplomacy in Tehran's turbulent relations with Western powers. Also read: India must sign NPT to gain entry into NSG, patient negotiations required: China The 1968 NPT has been the foundation of global nuclear arms control since the Cold War, including a 2015 deal Iran signed with world powers that offered it access to global trade in return for accepting curbs to its atomic program. The fate of the 2015 pact has been in doubt since US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of it in 2018 and reimposed sanctions. Iran has responded by scaling back its commitments, although it says it wants the pact to survive. Britain, France and Germany declared Iran in violation of the nuclear deal two weeks ago and have launched a dispute mechanism that could eventually see the matter referred back to the Security Council and the reimposition of UN sanctions.

Motion for Iran to quit nuclear proliferation treaty enters parliament

Seventeen civilians were killed in an attack in a market in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/in-yemen-a-child-dies-every-10-minutes-from-easily-preventable-diseases-175690">Yemen</a>'s northern Saada governorate, the United Nations said, the third deadly assault on the same location in just over a month.

The attacks come despite relative calm in Yemen, where large-scale combat between government troops backed by a Saudi-led military coalition and the Iran-aligned Huthi rebels has largely subsided.&nbsp;

The UN said 12 Ethiopian migrants were among the 17 civilians killed in the incident on Tuesday at the Al-Raqw market in Saada governorate, a Huthi rebel stronghold.&nbsp;

At least 12 people were wounded, it said, without saying who was responsible or what weaponry was used.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Saudi-led coalition acknowledged on Thursday it had carried out an operation in Monabbih, a Saada district where the market is located.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-france-britain-may-be-complicit-in-yemen-war-crimes-un-report-247434">Joint Incident Assessment Team</a> (JIAT) which the coalition established but says operates independently&nbsp;will investigate "the possibility of collateral damage", coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said in a statement.

The coalition did not provide further details.&nbsp;

An attack on the Al-Raqw market on November 22 killed 10 civilians, again including Ethiopian nationals, and just days later, at least another 10 civilians were killed and 22 wounded in a second such incident.

"The attacks on Al-Raqw market raise deeply troubling questions about the commitment of the parties to the conflict to uphold international humanitarian law," Lise Grande, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, said Wednesday.&nbsp;

"Every attack of this kind is a gross violation," she said in a statement.

The UN says 89 civilians have either been killed or wounded in the attacks on the market.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and millions displaced since March 2015, when the Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen's conflict.&nbsp;

Seventeen civilians were killed in an attack in a market in Yemen's northern Saada governorate, the United Nations said, the third deadly assault on the same location in just over a month.

Seventeen civilians were killed in an attack in a market in Yemen's northern Saada governorate, the United Nations said, the third deadly assault on the same location in just over a month. The attacks come despite relative calm in Yemen, where large-scale combat between government troops backed by a Saudi-led military coalition and the Iran-aligned Huthi rebels has largely subsided. The UN said 12 Ethiopian migrants were among the 17 civilians killed in the incident on Tuesday at the Al-Raqw market in Saada governorate, a Huthi rebel stronghold. At least 12 people were wounded, it said, without saying who was responsible or what weaponry was used. The Saudi-led coalition acknowledged on Thursday it had carried out an operation in Monabbih, a Saada district where the market is located. The Joint Incident Assessment Team (JIAT) which the coalition established but says operates independently will investigate "the possibility of collateral damage", coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said in a statement. The coalition did not provide further details. An attack on the Al-Raqw market on November 22 killed 10 civilians, again including Ethiopian nationals, and just days later, at least another 10 civilians were killed and 22 wounded in a second such incident. "The attacks on Al-Raqw market raise deeply troubling questions about the commitment of the parties to the conflict to uphold international humanitarian law," Lise Grande, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, said Wednesday. "Every attack of this kind is a gross violation," she said in a statement. The UN says 89 civilians have either been killed or wounded in the attacks on the market. Tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and millions displaced since March 2015, when the Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen's conflict.

17 civilians killed in 3rd attack on Yemen market: United Nations

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet.&nbsp;

UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16.

While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965.

The record said: "the following list sets out those items of which the security council was seized that have not been considered by the council at a formal meeting during the period 1 Jan 2016 to 7th Dec 2019....The India Pakistan Question (6th Jan 1948, 5th Nov 1965".

China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16. The Consultative meet happened at the request of China who took up the letter of Pakistani foreign minister in the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

India's permanent envoy to United Nation Syed Akbaruddin after the meet speaking to the press that day said, "Article 370 is internal matter.. these have no external ramifications"

Russia, France, UK and US, backed India at the consultations. The outcome was considered a big diplomatic victory for India as consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have.&nbsp;

A few days ago, China had again planned to rake up Kashmir after Pakistani PM Imran Khan had written to UNSC, but the attempt again failed after it found no support at the body.

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet. UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16.

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet. UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16. While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965. The record said: "the following list sets out those items of which the security council was seized that have not been considered by the council at a formal meeting during the period 1 Jan 2016 to 7th Dec 2019....The India Pakistan Question (6th Jan 1948, 5th Nov 1965". China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16. The Consultative meet happened at the request of China who took up the letter of Pakistani foreign minister in the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. India's permanent envoy to United Nation Syed Akbaruddin after the meet speaking to the press that day said, "Article 370 is internal matter.. these have no external ramifications" Russia, France, UK and US, backed India at the consultations. The outcome was considered a big diplomatic victory for India as consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have. A few days ago, China had again planned to rake up Kashmir after Pakistani PM Imran Khan had written to UNSC, but the attempt again failed after it found no support at the body.

UNSC sets the record straight, makes no mention of formal discussion on Kashmir 

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pervez-musharraf-an-army-general-dictator-and-convict-268670">dictator Pervez Musharraf</a> in a high treason case.

The Prime Minister was in Geneva on Tuesday to attend the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-once-again-issues-nuclear-threat-to-india-this-time-over-citizenship-amendment-act-268834">"Global Refugee Forum"</a> when the special court formed to try the ex-president announced its verdict awarding him the death penalty for imposing a state of emergency in 2007 and suspending the Constitution.

Khan had to cut short his visit to the European country in the wake of the verdict, according to The News International.

The verdict, announced by a three-member bench of the special tribunal, was received with a 'lot of pain and anguish' by the Pakistan Army.

The government, too, expressed its reservations to the verdict, saying that the requirements for a fair trial under Article 10-A were not fulfilled in the case.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Musharraf has right to appeal within 30 days, currently in a Dubai hospital

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-musharraf-has-right-to-appeal-within-30-days-currently-in-a-dubai-hospital-268672/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan has already made it clear that the government will not oppose an appeal against the special court's verdict.

In the meeting today, the ruling party is further expected to discuss matters related to legislation regarding the extension of services of the army chief and the appointment of a chief election commissioner and other members of the electoral body.

The PTI's legal team will brief the members about the extension issue after the detailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/musharrafs-sentence-received-with-pain-anguish-he-can-never-be-a-traitor-pak-army-268772">verdict of the Supreme Court</a> in this regard.

Meanwhile, UK-based Barrister Toby Cadman, a former representative of Musharraf at the United Nations, on Tuesday pointed out what he deemed 'flaws' in the capital punishment handed to the former president in a high treason case and called for a full review of the case.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf in a high treason case.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf in a high treason case. The Prime Minister was in Geneva on Tuesday to attend the "Global Refugee Forum" when the special court formed to try the ex-president announced its verdict awarding him the death penalty for imposing a state of emergency in 2007 and suspending the Constitution. Khan had to cut short his visit to the European country in the wake of the verdict, according to The News International. The verdict, announced by a three-member bench of the special tribunal, was received with a 'lot of pain and anguish' by the Pakistan Army. The government, too, expressed its reservations to the verdict, saying that the requirements for a fair trial under Article 10-A were not fulfilled in the case. Also Watch: Musharraf has right to appeal within 30 days, currently in a Dubai hospital × Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan has already made it clear that the government will not oppose an appeal against the special court's verdict. In the meeting today, the ruling party is further expected to discuss matters related to legislation regarding the extension of services of the army chief and the appointment of a chief election commissioner and other members of the electoral body. The PTI's legal team will brief the members about the extension issue after the detailed verdict of the Supreme Court in this regard. Meanwhile, UK-based Barrister Toby Cadman, a former representative of Musharraf at the United Nations, on Tuesday pointed out what he deemed 'flaws' in the capital punishment handed to the former president in a high treason case and called for a full review of the case.

Imran Khan cuts short Geneva visit, calls emergency meeting to discuss Musharraf verdict

Greece will shut down <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-camps-near-capacity-as-refugees-face-long-wait-for-asylum-259734">overcrowded refugee camps</a> on its outlying islands and replace them with more restrictive holding centres, authorities said on Wednesday.

Living conditions for thousands of people in camps on five Aegean islands have been decried by aid groups as appalling. The country is currently struggling with a resurgence in migrant and refugee arrivals.

Greece's newly-elected conservative government has vowed to tighten its borders and clear away bottlenecks in asylum vetting procedures. Parliament approved tougher asylum guidelines this month.

Government spokesman Stelios Petsas said authorities would create "closed pre-departure centres", which would make it easier to control the movements of asylum seekers and prevent them from slipping across to the mainland undetected.

"They cannot circulate in the country without restrictions, and because a clear message should be sent to those planning, or thinking of coming to the country illegally when they aren't entitled to asylum," he said.

"They should realise ... if they give money to a trafficker to bring them to Greece they will lose it."

The numbers of refugees and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrants-on-greek-islands-on-edge-of-catastrophe-council-of-europe-259062">migrants arriving in Greece</a> this year has been the highest since 2015-2016, when more than a million people fleeing conflict arrived in Europe, mainly using the sea route between Turkey and Greece.

The centres that will close include the notorious Moria camp on the island of Lesbos. Created to accommodate 3,000 people, more than 15,000 people are crammed into the facility. It will be replaced with a closed facility that will process new arrivals and people whose asylum applications were rejected.

Greek Deputy Defence Minister 0 said authorities would also create a single agency tasked with border protection.

About 36,400 asylum seekers and refugees were being held in overcrowded camps on the Aegean islands close to Turkey as of November&nbsp;17, according to data from the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR.

Greek authorities say they hope to move up to 20,000 people to the mainland by the end of the year.

Greece will shut down overcrowded refugee camps on its outlying islands and replace them with more restrictive holding centres, authorities said on Wednesday. Living conditions for thousands of people in camps on five Aegean islands have been decried by aid groups as appalling.

Greece will shut down overcrowded refugee camps on its outlying islands and replace them with more restrictive holding centres, authorities said on Wednesday. Living conditions for thousands of people in camps on five Aegean islands have been decried by aid groups as appalling. The country is currently struggling with a resurgence in migrant and refugee arrivals. Greece's newly-elected conservative government has vowed to tighten its borders and clear away bottlenecks in asylum vetting procedures. Parliament approved tougher asylum guidelines this month. Government spokesman Stelios Petsas said authorities would create "closed pre-departure centres", which would make it easier to control the movements of asylum seekers and prevent them from slipping across to the mainland undetected. "They cannot circulate in the country without restrictions, and because a clear message should be sent to those planning, or thinking of coming to the country illegally when they aren't entitled to asylum," he said. "They should realise ... if they give money to a trafficker to bring them to Greece they will lose it." The numbers of refugees and migrants arriving in Greece this year has been the highest since 2015-2016, when more than a million people fleeing conflict arrived in Europe, mainly using the sea route between Turkey and Greece. The centres that will close include the notorious Moria camp on the island of Lesbos. Created to accommodate 3,000 people, more than 15,000 people are crammed into the facility. It will be replaced with a closed facility that will process new arrivals and people whose asylum applications were rejected. Greek Deputy Defence Minister 0 said authorities would also create a single agency tasked with border protection. About 36,400 asylum seekers and refugees were being held in overcrowded camps on the Aegean islands close to Turkey as of November 17, according to data from the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR. Greek authorities say they hope to move up to 20,000 people to the mainland by the end of the year.

Struggling with influx, Greece to shut down three refugee camps

The United States has the highest rate of children in detention centres.

This includes more than a hundred thousand children in immigration-related custody. That violates international law.

Worldwide, more than seven million people under the age of eighteen are being held in jails.

A United Nations study suggests that children should be detained as a measure of last resort and for the shortest time possible.

Remember, Donald Trump's administration has been criticized for separating children from their parents, especially at the US-Mexico border.

This is in clear violation of the convention on the rights of the child.

However, the US has completely denied this accusation.

At least twenty-nine thousand children mainly linked to Islamic state fighters are held in northern Syria and Iraq.

Experts suggest that even if children had been child soldiers, they should be mainly treated as victims and not perpetrators.

They should be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society.

The United States has the highest rate of children in detention centres. This includes more than a hundred thousand children in immigration-related custody. That violates international law.

The United States has the highest rate of children in detention centres. This includes more than a hundred thousand children in immigration-related custody. That violates international law. Worldwide, more than seven million people under the age of eighteen are being held in jails. A United Nations study suggests that children should be detained as a measure of last resort and for the shortest time possible. Remember, Donald Trump's administration has been criticized for separating children from their parents, especially at the US-Mexico border. This is in clear violation of the convention on the rights of the child. However, the US has completely denied this accusation. At least twenty-nine thousand children mainly linked to Islamic state fighters are held in northern Syria and Iraq. Experts suggest that even if children had been child soldiers, they should be mainly treated as victims and not perpetrators. They should be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society.

US has the highest rate of children in detention centres: UN study

A short walk from the Eiffel Tower, Fatih Birol oversees the world’s energy watchdog, whose analyses of fuel demand have long been viewed as the gold standard by government officials, energy executives and investors.

But now, the Turkish economist and the International Energy Agency (IEA) he heads are facing mounting pressure from groups concerned about climate change – including investors, scientists and former United Nations diplomats - over the organisation's widely watched annual outlook.

The World Energy Outlook, due to be published Wednesday, shapes expectations among governments, companies and investors over the future use of coal, oil and gas.

The critics say it underplays the speed at which the world could switch to renewable sources of energy. The result, they say, is to bolster the case for continued investment in fossil fuel companies, undermining the fight against climate change.

"The IEA is effectively creating its own reality. They project ever-increasing demand for fossil fuels, which in turn justifies greater investments in supply, making it harder for the energy system to change," said Andrew Logan, senior director of oil and gas at Ceres, a US&nbsp;non-profit group that promotes environmentally-friendly business.

Senior IEA officials say they share concerns over climate change but defend their organisation's work, saying the criticism is based on a misunderstanding of what the World Energy Outlook intends to show. They say the goal of the publication is to help governments assess the likely consequences of existing energy policies, not forecast what the world’s energy system will look like decades into the future.

The IEA,&nbsp;which is mainly funded by industrialized nations including the United States, Germany and Japan, advises governments on energy policy.

“If they criticise us, the only option that comes to my mind is that they don’t know exactly what we are doing,” said 61-year old Birol during an interview at the IEA’s headquarters in Paris last week. “They must be misunderstood, or they must have been misled.”

IEA officials also say there is also some wishful thinking about how quickly the transition to cleaner energy could happen.

"A lot of times people want to believe there's some simple lever that you push: 'change the IEA and the world will be better,"&nbsp;said David Turk, who had been a senior climate official in former US&nbsp;President Barack Obama’s administration and now heads the IEA's strategic initiatives office.

The IEA has long faced criticism from other energy analysts who say the outlook has failed to capture dramatic falls in the cost of solar power. Tim Buckley, a Sydney-based analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis think tank, said the cost in the United States had fallen to below $40 per megawatt-hour this year but the last World Energy Outlook implied a current figure closer to $90.

The IEA says much of the dramatic expansion of the solar industry has been driven by policy changes in China, which the outlook was not designed to predict, and that projections in other areas had proved accurate.

The increased scrutiny of the World Energy Outlook shows how the once esoteric subject of energy modelling is becoming a focus of the mainstream investment community as worries over climate change intensify.

Concerns among fund managers about the implications for their investments escalated after the world’s climate scientists issued a landmark U.N.-backed report late last year offering a stark assessment of the likely consequences of rising global temperatures.

The report said the worst effects could be averted by limiting the temperature increase to 1.5 degree Celsius above the levels of pre-industrial times. That target is the most ambitious goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the global pact to curb global warming.

Birol was instrumental in developing the models used to compile the World Energy Outlook during his previous role as the agency’s chief economist. The outlook is published each year with a different cover featuring the yellow and red colours of Birol's favourite soccer club, Istanbul-based Galatasaray.

The publication’s main report, or scenario, maps how demand for different forms of energy would evolve over the next couple of decades based on existing government policy commitments. Some critics say that because it doesn’t take account of the likelihood that governments will take more drastic action to curb emissions, it means projections will inevitably be conservative.

IEA officials emphasised that the outlook is not a forecast, rather it explores the implications of existing policies, which is made clear in the introduction.

Another scenario, called the Sustainable Development Scenario, aims to show how the global balance of renewable energy and fossil fuel would need to change to meet the temperature goals of the Paris accord, cut air pollution and expand access to electricity for the world’s poor.

Investors and climate activists are lobbying Birol to include a scenario that uses the most ambitious Paris Agreement target of a 1.5 Celsius increase. In the last outlook, the Sustainable Development Scenario implied warming of about 1.7 to 1.8 degree Celsius.

Investors say using the more ambitious target could spur a faster switch to renewables by showing the financial markets a path for meeting the goal.

Among those pressing Birol for that change is a group of institutional investors representing $30 trillion of assets under management, called the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change.

In a previously unreported letter sent to Birol earlier this year, the group said that appropriate scenarios are important to institutional investors for understanding their exposure to climate risks and deciding how to allocate capital. The IEA’s scenarios “materially impact expectations for future investment returns,” the investors wrote.

Birol, who downplays the extent to which the outlook guides investment decisions, said the next World Energy Outlook takes the latest findings of climate science into account. The IEA in comments on its website last month said that it will explore a path with a 50 per cent&nbsp;chance of stabilising warming at 1.5 degree Celsius without relying heavily on still early-stage techniques for sucking carbon from the atmosphere.

The Sustainable Development Scenario will be “more stringent” than in the previous outlook, Laura Cozzi, the IEA’s chief energy modeller, told Reuters. IEA officials said it was very challenging to model a scenario of a 1.5 degree Celsius rise given the amount of existing fossil fuel infrastructure.

In April, Birol received a separate letter expressing similar demands from more than 60 signatories, including leading climate scientists and former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres as well as several large asset managers, including UK-based asset manager Legal &amp; General Investment Management Ltd. and Sarasin &amp; Partners LLP.

The letter also urged Birol to make clear that the outlook’s main scenario, which had been called the New Policies Scenario and reflects governments’ existing climate pledges, is a “business as usual scenario” that would lead to a rise of between 2.7 and 3 degree Celsius.

In the comments on its website, the IEA said it would rename its main report the Stated Policies Scenario to clarify it reflected existing commitments.

The groups pushing for change welcomed the name change but said they would study the new outlook when it is published to reach firmer conclusions.

A short walk from the Eiffel Tower, Fatih Birol oversees the world’s energy watchdog, whose analyses of fuel demand have long been viewed as the gold standard by government officials, energy executives and investors.

A short walk from the Eiffel Tower, Fatih Birol oversees the world’s energy watchdog, whose analyses of fuel demand have long been viewed as the gold standard by government officials, energy executives and investors. But now, the Turkish economist and the International Energy Agency (IEA) he heads are facing mounting pressure from groups concerned about climate change – including investors, scientists and former United Nations diplomats - over the organisation's widely watched annual outlook. The World Energy Outlook, due to be published Wednesday, shapes expectations among governments, companies and investors over the future use of coal, oil and gas. The critics say it underplays the speed at which the world could switch to renewable sources of energy. The result, they say, is to bolster the case for continued investment in fossil fuel companies, undermining the fight against climate change. "The IEA is effectively creating its own reality. They project ever-increasing demand for fossil fuels, which in turn justifies greater investments in supply, making it harder for the energy system to change," said Andrew Logan, senior director of oil and gas at Ceres, a US non-profit group that promotes environmentally-friendly business. Senior IEA officials say they share concerns over climate change but defend their organisation's work, saying the criticism is based on a misunderstanding of what the World Energy Outlook intends to show. They say the goal of the publication is to help governments assess the likely consequences of existing energy policies, not forecast what the world’s energy system will look like decades into the future. The IEA, which is mainly funded by industrialized nations including the United States, Germany and Japan, advises governments on energy policy. “If they criticise us, the only option that comes to my mind is that they don’t know exactly what we are doing,” said 61-year old Birol during an interview at the IEA’s headquarters in Paris last week. “They must be misunderstood, or they must have been misled.” IEA officials also say there is also some wishful thinking about how quickly the transition to cleaner energy could happen. "A lot of times people want to believe there's some simple lever that you push: 'change the IEA and the world will be better," said David Turk, who had been a senior climate official in former US President Barack Obama’s administration and now heads the IEA's strategic initiatives office. The IEA has long faced criticism from other energy analysts who say the outlook has failed to capture dramatic falls in the cost of solar power. Tim Buckley, a Sydney-based analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis think tank, said the cost in the United States had fallen to below $40 per megawatt-hour this year but the last World Energy Outlook implied a current figure closer to $90. The IEA says much of the dramatic expansion of the solar industry has been driven by policy changes in China, which the outlook was not designed to predict, and that projections in other areas had proved accurate. The increased scrutiny of the World Energy Outlook shows how the once esoteric subject of energy modelling is becoming a focus of the mainstream investment community as worries over climate change intensify. Concerns among fund managers about the implications for their investments escalated after the world’s climate scientists issued a landmark U.N.-backed report late last year offering a stark assessment of the likely consequences of rising global temperatures. The report said the worst effects could be averted by limiting the temperature increase to 1.5 degree Celsius above the levels of pre-industrial times. That target is the most ambitious goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the global pact to curb global warming. Birol was instrumental in developing the models used to compile the World Energy Outlook during his previous role as the agency’s chief economist. The outlook is published each year with a different cover featuring the yellow and red colours of Birol's favourite soccer club, Istanbul-based Galatasaray. The publication’s main report, or scenario, maps how demand for different forms of energy would evolve over the next couple of decades based on existing government policy commitments. Some critics say that because it doesn’t take account of the likelihood that governments will take more drastic action to curb emissions, it means projections will inevitably be conservative. IEA officials emphasised that the outlook is not a forecast, rather it explores the implications of existing policies, which is made clear in the introduction. Another scenario, called the Sustainable Development Scenario, aims to show how the global balance of renewable energy and fossil fuel would need to change to meet the temperature goals of the Paris accord, cut air pollution and expand access to electricity for the world’s poor. Investors and climate activists are lobbying Birol to include a scenario that uses the most ambitious Paris Agreement target of a 1.5 Celsius increase. In the last outlook, the Sustainable Development Scenario implied warming of about 1.7 to 1.8 degree Celsius. Investors say using the more ambitious target could spur a faster switch to renewables by showing the financial markets a path for meeting the goal. Among those pressing Birol for that change is a group of institutional investors representing $30 trillion of assets under management, called the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change. In a previously unreported letter sent to Birol earlier this year, the group said that appropriate scenarios are important to institutional investors for understanding their exposure to climate risks and deciding how to allocate capital. The IEA’s scenarios “materially impact expectations for future investment returns,” the investors wrote. Birol, who downplays the extent to which the outlook guides investment decisions, said the next World Energy Outlook takes the latest findings of climate science into account. The IEA in comments on its website last month said that it will explore a path with a 50 per cent chance of stabilising warming at 1.5 degree Celsius without relying heavily on still early-stage techniques for sucking carbon from the atmosphere. The Sustainable Development Scenario will be “more stringent” than in the previous outlook, Laura Cozzi, the IEA’s chief energy modeller, told Reuters. IEA officials said it was very challenging to model a scenario of a 1.5 degree Celsius rise given the amount of existing fossil fuel infrastructure. In April, Birol received a separate letter expressing similar demands from more than 60 signatories, including leading climate scientists and former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres as well as several large asset managers, including UK-based asset manager Legal & General Investment Management Ltd. and Sarasin & Partners LLP. The letter also urged Birol to make clear that the outlook’s main scenario, which had been called the New Policies Scenario and reflects governments’ existing climate pledges, is a “business as usual scenario” that would lead to a rise of between 2.7 and 3 degree Celsius. In the comments on its website, the IEA said it would rename its main report the Stated Policies Scenario to clarify it reflected existing commitments. The groups pushing for change welcomed the name change but said they would study the new outlook when it is published to reach firmer conclusions.

World's energy watchdog is undermining climate change battle, critics say

united-nation

United Nation, News on United Nation, stories on United Nation, articles on United Nation, United Nation stories at Wion, United Nation news, United Nation latest news

united nation