UK is not corrupt, PM Johnson says as parliament engulfed in sleaze row. Boris Johnson has told the world’s media that Britain is not a corrupt country despite the controversy over Conservative MPs’ paid lobbying and other second jobs.

Is United Kingdom, a corrupt nation?

On the one hand, country representatives gathered in Glasgow to finalise the details of a global campaign to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees Celsius.

Students in New Zealand, on the other end, are suing their government for allowing new oil and gas drilling.&nbsp;

Students for Climate Solutions served the lawsuit on Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods as the vital United Nations climate meeting in Glasgow neared its closing days.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glasgow-rainbow-lights-up-the-sky-during-climate-protest-427261">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow: Rainbow lights up the sky during climate protest</a>

“For so long, we have had indisputable science that extracting fossil fuels needs to stop now … The permits would allow drilling for another 10 years. That is just completely unreasonable,” said the group’s co-founder, Phoebe Nikolaou.

According to a major energy assessment released by the International Energy Agency (IEA), exploration licences must be terminated immediately in order to maintain global warming within the relatively safe zone of 1.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

According to the students, Megan Woods' June decision to issue exploration permits in the Taranaki area violates the government's legal obligations under the country's Zero Carbon Act and the Paris agreement, and she failed to consider key facts such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's recent warnings about the severity of climate change.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On the one hand, country representatives gathered in Glasgow to finalise the details of a global campaign to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees Celsius. Students in New Zealand, on the other end, are suing their government for allowing new oil and gas drilling.

On the one hand, country representatives gathered in Glasgow to finalise the details of a global campaign to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees Celsius. Students in New Zealand, on the other end, are suing their government for allowing new oil and gas drilling. Students for Climate Solutions served the lawsuit on Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods as the vital United Nations climate meeting in Glasgow neared its closing days. Also read | Glasgow: Rainbow lights up the sky during climate protest “For so long, we have had indisputable science that extracting fossil fuels needs to stop now … The permits would allow drilling for another 10 years. That is just completely unreasonable,” said the group’s co-founder, Phoebe Nikolaou. According to a major energy assessment released by the International Energy Agency (IEA), exploration licences must be terminated immediately in order to maintain global warming within the relatively safe zone of 1.5 degrees Celsius. According to the students, Megan Woods' June decision to issue exploration permits in the Taranaki area violates the government's legal obligations under the country's Zero Carbon Act and the Paris agreement, and she failed to consider key facts such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's recent warnings about the severity of climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: College students sue minister over oil and gas exploration

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998.

The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology.

According to the study's lead author Terry Hughes, ''Five bouts of mass bleaching since 1998 have turned the Great Barrier Reef into a checkerboard of reefs with very different recent histories, ranging from two percent of reefs that have escaped bleaching altogether, to 80 per cent that have now bleached severely at least once since 2016.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-world-heritage-list-and-why-is-great-barrier-reef-facing-a-downgrade-399810">Also read |&nbsp;What is World Heritage List and why is Great Barrier Reef facing a downgrade?</a>

He has warned that the reef will survive if global warming is kept to 1.5 degrees.

''If we go to 3, 4 degrees of global average warming which is tragically the trajectory we are currently on, then there won't be much left of the Great Barrier Reef or any other coral reefs throughout the tropics,'' Hughes said.

The findings come during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, where Australia committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 but failed to announce a more ambitious 2030 target.

Bleaching occurs when healthy corals become stressed by spikes in ocean temperatures, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues which drains them of their vibrant colours.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-at-cop26-vow-to-cut-methane-emissions-by-30-426203" hreflang="en">World leaders at COP26 vow to cut methane emissions by 30%</a>

Meanwhile, co-author Sean Connolly said, ''Corals still need time to recover before another round of heat stress so they can make babies that will disperse, settle and recover the depleted parts of the reef.''

"Action to curb climate change is crucial."

It comes after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison lobbied to keep the Great Barrier Reef off the 'in danger' list issued by the World Heritage Committee.

Eighty percent of the World Heritage-listed wonder has been bleached severely at least once since 2016.

In July, scientists working under the government said that corals have shown some signs of recovery since the last bleaching but admit the long-term outlook for the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile-long) ecosystem is "very poor".

Cyclones and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish also cause damage to the reef.

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998. The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology.

A new study has revealed that only two per cent of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has escaped bleaching since 1998. The research, conducted by the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology. According to the study's lead author Terry Hughes, ''Five bouts of mass bleaching since 1998 have turned the Great Barrier Reef into a checkerboard of reefs with very different recent histories, ranging from two percent of reefs that have escaped bleaching altogether, to 80 per cent that have now bleached severely at least once since 2016.'' Also read | What is World Heritage List and why is Great Barrier Reef facing a downgrade? He has warned that the reef will survive if global warming is kept to 1.5 degrees. ''If we go to 3, 4 degrees of global average warming which is tragically the trajectory we are currently on, then there won't be much left of the Great Barrier Reef or any other coral reefs throughout the tropics,'' Hughes said. The findings come during a landmark United Nations climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, where Australia committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 but failed to announce a more ambitious 2030 target. Bleaching occurs when healthy corals become stressed by spikes in ocean temperatures, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues which drains them of their vibrant colours. Also read | World leaders at COP26 vow to cut methane emissions by 30% Meanwhile, co-author Sean Connolly said, ''Corals still need time to recover before another round of heat stress so they can make babies that will disperse, settle and recover the depleted parts of the reef.'' "Action to curb climate change is crucial." It comes after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison lobbied to keep the Great Barrier Reef off the 'in danger' list issued by the World Heritage Committee. Eighty percent of the World Heritage-listed wonder has been bleached severely at least once since 2016. In July, scientists working under the government said that corals have shown some signs of recovery since the last bleaching but admit the long-term outlook for the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile-long) ecosystem is "very poor". Cyclones and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish also cause damage to the reef.

Research reveals only 2% of Australia's Great Barrier Reef escaped bleaching

All sides fighting in the war in Ethiopia's northern region of Tigray committed violations that may amount to war crimes, according to a joint investigation by the United Nations and Ethiopia published on Wednesday.

The report accuses all sides of torturing and killing civilians, carrying out gang-rapes and making arrests on the basis of ethnicity.

It was released the day after Ethiopia declared a state of emergency. Tigrayan forces said on Monday they might march on the capital to topple Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government.

The investigation was carried out by the UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.

It covers from November to June during the year-long conflict fought by Tigrayan forces against the Ethiopian military and its allies - forces from the Amhara region and soldiers from the neighbouring country of Eritrea.

"All parties to the Tigray conflict have committed violations of international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law. Some of these may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity," said Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Bachelet said most violations in the period covered by the report were committed by Ethiopian and Eritrean forces, but since then, they had seen an increase in reports by Tigrayan forces as well as continuing abuses by the Ethiopians and Eritreans.

Eritrean forces - either individually or collectively - had "huge responsibility" for many violations, she said.

The report draws on 269 interviews, many containing graphic details of rapes and mutilations by Eritrean soldiers on military bases.

Prime Minister Abiy said he accepted the report despite some "serious reservations" and said it did not accuse the government of genocide or using food as a weapon. He said a civil-military taskforce would be established to investigate all the allegations in the report. Ethiopia has said individual soldiers are on trial for rape and killing.

Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Meskel, who spent months denying Eritrean troops were in Tigray, called the report "fallacious ... utterly false" in a tweet.

The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) spokesperson Getachew Reda said the report "did not cover all the heinous crime spots" and accused Ethiopian investigators of bias.

Amhara regional spokesperson Gizachew Muluneh was unreachable but has previously denied abuses.

The report said Eritrean soldiers had killed around 100 civilians in the city of Axum, that Ethiopian soldiers had dragged about 70 men from their homes and killed them in three villages in southern Tigray, and that Tigrayan forces had killed around 200 Amhara civilians in the town of Mai Kadra, a crime followed by revenge killings of Tigrayans by Amhara.

Investigators said they did not travel to Sudan, where most Tigrayan victims of Mai Kadra fled, due to time constraints. The report noted around 600,000 Tigrayans fled Western Tigray after it fell under Amhara control.

Reuters and other news organisations, rights groups, and civil society groups have documented many more mass killings of civilians that were not mentioned in the report.

It was not clear whether the report's findings could form the basis for legal action. Ethiopia and Eritrea are not members of the International Criminal Court, so it has no jurisdiction.

YEAR OF CONFLICT

The report also accused Eritrean soldiers of forcing Eritrean refugees living in Tigray to return, in violation of international law.

The report accused all sides of blocking aid at different times and said it could not verify whether starvation was used as a weapon of war, as had been previously alleged by the United Nations aid chief. The United Nations has previously said the government operated a "de facto blockade" of food aid. The government denies this.

The report mentioned investigators were often hindered in their work, particularly areas controlled by Amhara forces, or unable to visit certain areas due to insecurity. It did not mention that Ethiopia deported a U.N. investigator working on the report in September.

The report said the Tigrayan leadership was reluctant to engage due to the presence of investigators from the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.

The war began a year ago after regional forces and Tigrayan soldiers in the national army seized control of military bases across Tigray. They said the central government was about to move against Tigray after the region held its own elections despite a government directive delaying them.

The conflict has left about 400,000 people in Tigray facing famine, killed thousands of civilians and forced more than 2.5 million people in northern Ethiopia to flee their homes.

All sides fighting in the war in Ethiopia's northern region of Tigray committed violations that may amount to war crimes, according to a joint investigation by the United Nations and Ethiopia published on Wednesday.

All sides fighting in the war in Ethiopia's northern region of Tigray committed violations that may amount to war crimes, according to a joint investigation by the United Nations and Ethiopia published on Wednesday. The report accuses all sides of torturing and killing civilians, carrying out gang-rapes and making arrests on the basis of ethnicity. It was released the day after Ethiopia declared a state of emergency. Tigrayan forces said on Monday they might march on the capital to topple Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government. The investigation was carried out by the UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights Commission. It covers from November to June during the year-long conflict fought by Tigrayan forces against the Ethiopian military and its allies - forces from the Amhara region and soldiers from the neighbouring country of Eritrea. "All parties to the Tigray conflict have committed violations of international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law. Some of these may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity," said Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Bachelet said most violations in the period covered by the report were committed by Ethiopian and Eritrean forces, but since then, they had seen an increase in reports by Tigrayan forces as well as continuing abuses by the Ethiopians and Eritreans. Eritrean forces - either individually or collectively - had "huge responsibility" for many violations, she said. The report draws on 269 interviews, many containing graphic details of rapes and mutilations by Eritrean soldiers on military bases. Prime Minister Abiy said he accepted the report despite some "serious reservations" and said it did not accuse the government of genocide or using food as a weapon. He said a civil-military taskforce would be established to investigate all the allegations in the report. Ethiopia has said individual soldiers are on trial for rape and killing. Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Meskel, who spent months denying Eritrean troops were in Tigray, called the report "fallacious ... utterly false" in a tweet. The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) spokesperson Getachew Reda said the report "did not cover all the heinous crime spots" and accused Ethiopian investigators of bias. Amhara regional spokesperson Gizachew Muluneh was unreachable but has previously denied abuses. The report said Eritrean soldiers had killed around 100 civilians in the city of Axum, that Ethiopian soldiers had dragged about 70 men from their homes and killed them in three villages in southern Tigray, and that Tigrayan forces had killed around 200 Amhara civilians in the town of Mai Kadra, a crime followed by revenge killings of Tigrayans by Amhara. Investigators said they did not travel to Sudan, where most Tigrayan victims of Mai Kadra fled, due to time constraints. The report noted around 600,000 Tigrayans fled Western Tigray after it fell under Amhara control. Reuters and other news organisations, rights groups, and civil society groups have documented many more mass killings of civilians that were not mentioned in the report. It was not clear whether the report's findings could form the basis for legal action. Ethiopia and Eritrea are not members of the International Criminal Court, so it has no jurisdiction. YEAR OF CONFLICT The report also accused Eritrean soldiers of forcing Eritrean refugees living in Tigray to return, in violation of international law. The report accused all sides of blocking aid at different times and said it could not verify whether starvation was used as a weapon of war, as had been previously alleged by the United Nations aid chief. The United Nations has previously said the government operated a "de facto blockade" of food aid. The government denies this. The report mentioned investigators were often hindered in their work, particularly areas controlled by Amhara forces, or unable to visit certain areas due to insecurity. It did not mention that Ethiopia deported a U.N. investigator working on the report in September. The report said the Tigrayan leadership was reluctant to engage due to the presence of investigators from the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights Commission. The war began a year ago after regional forces and Tigrayan soldiers in the national army seized control of military bases across Tigray. They said the central government was about to move against Tigray after the region held its own elections despite a government directive delaying them. The conflict has left about 400,000 people in Tigray facing famine, killed thousands of civilians and forced more than 2.5 million people in northern Ethiopia to flee their homes.

Joint UN, Ethiopia rights team: all sides committed abuses in Tigray

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised.

The latest report from the United Nations has said that climate-related hazards have cost developing and developed Asian economies billions of dollars.

The report said that such hazards cost China USD 238 billion. China was followed by India which had to bear the cost of USD 87 billion. Japan and South Korea were next with climate-related costs of USD 83 billion and USD 24 billion respectively.

The figures have been mentioned in UN's annual 'State of the Climate in Asia' report. The report also said that 2020 was the hottest year on record for Asia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-2020-asia-suffered-hottest-year-on-record-un-424202">In 2020, Asia suffered hottest year on record: UN</a>

Climate change does not just mean increase in global temperature. It also has effects on other natural phenomena like cyclones. Scientists say that climate change results in formation of higher intensity cyclones which in turn cause greater devastation.

Many weather and climate-related displacements in Asia are prolonged, with people unable to return home or integrate locally, the report said.

In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia, resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities.

Asia's warmest year on record saw the mean temperature 1.39 degrees Celsius above the 1981–2010 average. 
The 38.0 C registered at Verkhoyansk in Russia is provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle.

Shrinking glaciers

There are approximately 100,000 square kilometres of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas -- the largest volumes of ice outside the polar regions and the source of 10 major Asian rivers.

"Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region," the report said.

"This has major ramifications for global sea level, regional water cycles and local hazards such as landslides and avalanches."

A quarter of Asia's mangroves are in Bangladesh. However, the tropical storm-exposed country's mangroves decreased by 19 percent from 1992 to 2019, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised.

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised. The latest report from the United Nations has said that climate-related hazards have cost developing and developed Asian economies billions of dollars. The report said that such hazards cost China USD 238 billion. China was followed by India which had to bear the cost of USD 87 billion. Japan and South Korea were next with climate-related costs of USD 83 billion and USD 24 billion respectively. The figures have been mentioned in UN's annual 'State of the Climate in Asia' report. The report also said that 2020 was the hottest year on record for Asia. Also Read | In 2020, Asia suffered hottest year on record: UN Climate change does not just mean increase in global temperature. It also has effects on other natural phenomena like cyclones. Scientists say that climate change results in formation of higher intensity cyclones which in turn cause greater devastation. Many weather and climate-related displacements in Asia are prolonged, with people unable to return home or integrate locally, the report said. In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia, resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities. Asia's warmest year on record saw the mean temperature 1.39 degrees Celsius above the 1981–2010 average. The 38.0 C registered at Verkhoyansk in Russia is provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle. Shrinking glaciers There are approximately 100,000 square kilometres of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas -- the largest volumes of ice outside the polar regions and the source of 10 major Asian rivers. "Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region," the report said. "This has major ramifications for global sea level, regional water cycles and local hazards such as landslides and avalanches." A quarter of Asia's mangroves are in Bangladesh. However, the tropical storm-exposed country's mangroves decreased by 19 percent from 1992 to 2019, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change-related hazards have cost India and China billions, says UN

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations.<o:p></o:p>

China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations.<o:p></o:p>

"As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan," US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-cracks-down-on-skyscraper-vanity-projects-limits-construction-in-smaller-cities-424460">China cracks down on skyscraper 'vanity' projects</a></o:p>

"Taiwan's meaningful participation in the UN system is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one. That is why we encourage all UN member states to join us in supporting Taiwan's robust, meaningful participation throughout the UN system and in the international community," Blinken added.<o:p></o:p>

However, this angered China who do not consider Taiwan as an independent country. As per China, Taiwan is a province that needs reunification, even if it means by force.<o:p></o:p>

The US proposing more involvement of Taiwan in the United Nations does not make sense for Beijing as the Xi Jinping government considers Taiwan as a part of China. "Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations," Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing, told reporters. "The United Nations is an international governmental organisation composed of sovereign states... Taiwan is a part of China."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-revokes-top-chinese-telecom-firms-licence-over-national-security-concerns-424403">US revokes Chinese telecom firm's licence over 'national security' concerns</a></o:p>

This statement by China has come at a time when Taiwan and China have been on a verbal war for some time now. Recently, it had also been revealed that China is trying to build psychological pressure on Taiwan by sending warplane flights in the air defense identification zone of Taiwan.<o:p></o:p>

The US, however, is sticking to its opinion. "Taiwan has become a democratic success story," Blinken said. "We are among the many UN member states who view Taiwan as a valued partner and trusted friend."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has also thanked the US officials for his support. "Grateful for #US support for expanding #Taiwan's international participation," she said on Twitter.<o:p></o:p>

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations. China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations.

Adding on to the already existing tension between the two governments, China has now claimed that Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations. China’s displeasure with the probability of Taiwan getting a seat in the United Nations General Assembly came after the US said that Taiwan should have more involvement in the United Nations. "As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan," US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken said. Also read | China cracks down on skyscraper 'vanity' projects "Taiwan's meaningful participation in the UN system is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one. That is why we encourage all UN member states to join us in supporting Taiwan's robust, meaningful participation throughout the UN system and in the international community," Blinken added. However, this angered China who do not consider Taiwan as an independent country. As per China, Taiwan is a province that needs reunification, even if it means by force. The US proposing more involvement of Taiwan in the United Nations does not make sense for Beijing as the Xi Jinping government considers Taiwan as a part of China. "Taiwan has no right to join the United Nations," Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing, told reporters. "The United Nations is an international governmental organisation composed of sovereign states... Taiwan is a part of China." Also read | US revokes Chinese telecom firm's licence over 'national security' concerns This statement by China has come at a time when Taiwan and China have been on a verbal war for some time now. Recently, it had also been revealed that China is trying to build psychological pressure on Taiwan by sending warplane flights in the air defense identification zone of Taiwan. The US, however, is sticking to its opinion. "Taiwan has become a democratic success story," Blinken said. "We are among the many UN member states who view Taiwan as a valued partner and trusted friend." Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has also thanked the US officials for his support. "Grateful for #US support for expanding #Taiwan's international participation," she said on Twitter.

'Taiwan has no right to join United Nations,' China lashes out at US

The United States backed Taiwan’s inclusion in the United Nations system amid China's continued efforts to limit the island's international participation.

US backs Taiwan's attempt to expand UN participation, seeks bigger role

The United Nations report suggests that current commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions put the planet on track for a 2.7-degree Celsius temperature rise this century. This comes as another blaring warning ahead of the high-stakes COP26 climate summit.

UN sounds alarm on climate crisis ahead of high stakes COP26 summit

The United Nations said on Tuesday said that Asia suffered its hottest year on record in 2020. The statement has been made just ahead of the COP26 summit due to take place in Glasgow. UN said that the temperature rise and extreme weather are taking a heavy toll on continent's development.

UN's World Meteorological Organisation in its annual "State of the Climate in Asia" report has said that every part of the region had been affected.

"Extreme weather and climate change impacts across Asia in 2020 caused the loss of life of thousands of people, displaced millions of others and cost hundreds of billions of dollars, while wreaking a heavy toll on infrastructure and ecosystems," the WMO said.

"Sustainable development is threatened, with food and water insecurity, health risks and environmental degradation on the rise."

The report has come just days before COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference. The conference is due to be held in Glasgow from Sunday to November 12.

The report also mentioned total annual average losses suffered by Asian countries due to climate related hazards.

China suffered an estimated $238 billion, followed by India at $87 billion, Japan with $83 billion and South Korea on $24 billion.

But when the size of the economy is considered, the average annual losses are expected to be as high as 7.9 percent of gross domestic product for Tajikistan, 5.9 percent for Cambodia and 5.8 percent for Laos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations said on Tuesday said that Asia suffered its hottest year on record in 2020. The statement has been made just ahead of the COP26 summit due to take place in Glasgow.

The United Nations said on Tuesday said that Asia suffered its hottest year on record in 2020. The statement has been made just ahead of the COP26 summit due to take place in Glasgow. UN said that the temperature rise and extreme weather are taking a heavy toll on continent's development. UN's World Meteorological Organisation in its annual "State of the Climate in Asia" report has said that every part of the region had been affected. "Extreme weather and climate change impacts across Asia in 2020 caused the loss of life of thousands of people, displaced millions of others and cost hundreds of billions of dollars, while wreaking a heavy toll on infrastructure and ecosystems," the WMO said. "Sustainable development is threatened, with food and water insecurity, health risks and environmental degradation on the rise." The report has come just days before COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference. The conference is due to be held in Glasgow from Sunday to November 12. The report also mentioned total annual average losses suffered by Asian countries due to climate related hazards. China suffered an estimated $238 billion, followed by India at $87 billion, Japan with $83 billion and South Korea on $24 billion. But when the size of the economy is considered, the average annual losses are expected to be as high as 7.9 percent of gross domestic product for Tajikistan, 5.9 percent for Cambodia and 5.8 percent for Laos. (With inputs from agencies)

In 2020, Asia suffered hottest year on record: UN

Forty-three countries called on China to "ensure full respect for the rule of law" for the Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang.The statement was made at the United Nations on Thursday. The statement sparked outrage from Beijing. The statement has been signed by the United States along with several European and Asian member states and other countries.

The declaration accused China of human rights violations against the Uyghurs, including torture, forced sterilization and forced disappearances.

"We call on China to allow immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang for independent observers, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and her office," the countries said in a joint statement, read at the United Nations by France.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-compromise-on-sovereignty-act-with-caution-over-taiwan-china-warns-us-422916">'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US</a>

"We are particularly concerned about the situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region," the statement continued, citing "credible" reports that "indicate the existence of a large network of 'political reeducation' camps where over a million people have been arbitrarily detained."

China has long denied accusations of ethnic cleansing.

Its ambassador to the United Nations Zhang Jun furiously denounced Thursday what he termed the "lies" and "a plot to hurt China".

"Xinjiang enjoys development and the people are emancipating themselves every day and are proud of the progress made," he said.

And while Zhang told media that China was willing to host a "friendly" visit to the region, he did not agree to an inquiry by the UN human rights commissioner.&nbsp;

He accused Washington, Paris and London of having a "terrible human rights record."&nbsp;

In a statement to media, Beijing accused the US for "inhumane ethnic cleansing" against Native Americans and accused France of committing "crimes against humanity" in its former colonies.&nbsp;

Similar declarations in 2019 and 2020 condemned China for its policies in Xinjiang, where United States has accused Beijing of carrying out genocide.&nbsp;

China has in response upped pressure on UN member states not to support the declarations, according to diplomats.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Forty-three countries called on China to "ensure full respect for the rule of law" for the Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang.The statement was made at the United Nations on Thursday.

Forty-three countries called on China to "ensure full respect for the rule of law" for the Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang.The statement was made at the United Nations on Thursday. The statement sparked outrage from Beijing. The statement has been signed by the United States along with several European and Asian member states and other countries. The declaration accused China of human rights violations against the Uyghurs, including torture, forced sterilization and forced disappearances. "We call on China to allow immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang for independent observers, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and her office," the countries said in a joint statement, read at the United Nations by France. Also Read | 'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US "We are particularly concerned about the situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region," the statement continued, citing "credible" reports that "indicate the existence of a large network of 'political reeducation' camps where over a million people have been arbitrarily detained." China has long denied accusations of ethnic cleansing. Its ambassador to the United Nations Zhang Jun furiously denounced Thursday what he termed the "lies" and "a plot to hurt China". "Xinjiang enjoys development and the people are emancipating themselves every day and are proud of the progress made," he said. And while Zhang told media that China was willing to host a "friendly" visit to the region, he did not agree to an inquiry by the UN human rights commissioner. He accused Washington, Paris and London of having a "terrible human rights record." In a statement to media, Beijing accused the US for "inhumane ethnic cleansing" against Native Americans and accused France of committing "crimes against humanity" in its former colonies. Similar declarations in 2019 and 2020 condemned China for its policies in Xinjiang, where United States has accused Beijing of carrying out genocide. China has in response upped pressure on UN member states not to support the declarations, according to diplomats. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 countries ask China to respect rights of Uyghurs

The White House on Thursday condemned "in the strongest possible terms" Ethiopia's decision to expel senior UN officials at a time of looming humanitarian crisis and warned of sanctions.

US condemns Ethiopia's expulsion of UN staff

While cases of coronavirus are declining all over the world, the economic losses faced by the pandemic seem to be adding up.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to several other industries, the transport industry has urged global leaders and the United Nations (UN) to pay attention to their worsening situation.<o:p></o:p>

IRU, the world road transport organisation, IATA, the International Air Transport Association, ICS, the International Chamber of Shipping, and ITF, the International Transport Workers' Federation came together to draft this letter and make an urgent plea on behalf of the whole transport industry.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-lockdown-hits-iphone-delivery-shoe-car-companies-also-suffer-416794">Vietnam lockdown hits iPhone delivery; shoe &amp; car companies also suffer</a></o:p>

"Our collective industries account for more than $20 trillion of world trade annually, and represent 65 million global transport workers, and over 3.5 million road freight and airline companies, as well as more than 80% of the world merchant shipping fleet," the chiefs said in a joint letter.<o:p></o:p>

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a> took over the world in the beginning of 2019, all kinds of transportation came to a halt. This has negatively impacted the industry and companies have had to bear huge amount of losses.<o:p></o:p>

Calling for aid in these difficult times, the global transport chiefs have urged the UN to out an end to all travel bans and other Covid-related restrictions.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/are-virtual-classrooms-in-post-pandemic-world-turning-your-kids-into-introverts-than-extroverts-415167">Are virtual classrooms in post-pandemic world turning your kids into introverts than extroverts?</a></o:p>

The joint open letter by the global transport chiefs have alleged world leaders of not offering them enough support in these difficult times, especially since it is the transport industry that has been putting their lives in risk to ensure timely delivery of medicines, PPE kits, masks and much more.<o:p></o:p>

"Transport workers keep the world running and are vital for the free movement of products, including vaccines and PPE, but have been continually failed by governments and taken for granted by their officials," the letter reads.<o:p></o:p>

The chiefs have asked for freedom of movement for transport workers and have urged the world leaders to ensure that they follow protocols that have been set up and motivated by international bodies. <o:p></o:p>

Keeping their safety in mind, they have also requested governments to prioritise transport workers when it comes to Covid vaccinations.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-vitamin-a-help-in-treating-covid-caused-loss-of-smell-experts-answer-416845">Can Vitamin A help in treating Covid-caused loss of smell? Experts answer</a></o:p>

"We ask that our transport workers are given priority to receive WHO recognised vaccines and heads of government work together to create globally harmonised, digital, mutually recognised vaccination certificate and processes for demonstrating health credentials (including vaccination status and COVID-19 test results), which are paramount to ensure transport workers can cross international borders,"&nbsp;letter read.<o:p></o:p>

The industry has blamed world leaders of putting more strain on the transport workers by engaging in a blame game and failing to take quality decisions.<o:p></o:p>

"Heads of government have failed to listen, to end the blame-shifting within and between governments and take the decisive and coordinated action needed to resolve this crisis,"&nbsp;the letter accuses.<o:p></o:p>

They chiefs have also warned about an incoming massive delay in all sorts of transport deliveries as the consumer demand is alarming increasing and the trend is expected to get worse with Christmas right around the corner. This delay is expected to continue at least till 2022.<o:p></o:p>

"It is of great concern that we are also seeing shortages of workers and expect more to leave our industries as a result of the poor treatment they have faced during the pandemic, putting the supply chain under greater threat," the chiefs warned.<o:p></o:p>

While cases of coronavirus are declining all over the world, the economic losses faced by the pandemic seem to be adding up. In addition to several other industries, the transport industry has urged global leaders and the United Nations (UN) to pay attention to their worsening situation.

While cases of coronavirus are declining all over the world, the economic losses faced by the pandemic seem to be adding up. In addition to several other industries, the transport industry has urged global leaders and the United Nations (UN) to pay attention to their worsening situation. IRU, the world road transport organisation, IATA, the International Air Transport Association, ICS, the International Chamber of Shipping, and ITF, the International Transport Workers' Federation came together to draft this letter and make an urgent plea on behalf of the whole transport industry. Also read | Vietnam lockdown hits iPhone delivery; shoe & car companies also suffer "Our collective industries account for more than $20 trillion of world trade annually, and represent 65 million global transport workers, and over 3.5 million road freight and airline companies, as well as more than 80% of the world merchant shipping fleet," the chiefs said in a joint letter. As the coronavirus pandemic took over the world in the beginning of 2019, all kinds of transportation came to a halt. This has negatively impacted the industry and companies have had to bear huge amount of losses. Calling for aid in these difficult times, the global transport chiefs have urged the UN to out an end to all travel bans and other Covid-related restrictions. Also read | Are virtual classrooms in post-pandemic world turning your kids into introverts than extroverts? The joint open letter by the global transport chiefs have alleged world leaders of not offering them enough support in these difficult times, especially since it is the transport industry that has been putting their lives in risk to ensure timely delivery of medicines, PPE kits, masks and much more. "Transport workers keep the world running and are vital for the free movement of products, including vaccines and PPE, but have been continually failed by governments and taken for granted by their officials," the letter reads. The chiefs have asked for freedom of movement for transport workers and have urged the world leaders to ensure that they follow protocols that have been set up and motivated by international bodies. Keeping their safety in mind, they have also requested governments to prioritise transport workers when it comes to Covid vaccinations. Also read | Can Vitamin A help in treating Covid-caused loss of smell? Experts answer "We ask that our transport workers are given priority to receive WHO recognised vaccines and heads of government work together to create globally harmonised, digital, mutually recognised vaccination certificate and processes for demonstrating health credentials (including vaccination status and COVID-19 test results), which are paramount to ensure transport workers can cross international borders," letter read. The industry has blamed world leaders of putting more strain on the transport workers by engaging in a blame game and failing to take quality decisions. "Heads of government have failed to listen, to end the blame-shifting within and between governments and take the decisive and coordinated action needed to resolve this crisis," the letter accuses. They chiefs have also warned about an incoming massive delay in all sorts of transport deliveries as the consumer demand is alarming increasing and the trend is expected to get worse with Christmas right around the corner. This delay is expected to continue at least till 2022. "It is of great concern that we are also seeing shortages of workers and expect more to leave our industries as a result of the poor treatment they have faced during the pandemic, putting the supply chain under greater threat," the chiefs warned.

Transport chiefs warn world leaders and UN about incoming collapse of global supply chain

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka on Monday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction in a time-bound and verifiable manner. He was speaking at United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

In his first speech at the United Nation General Assembly, Khadka highlighted the importance of promotion and protection of human rights.

<img alt="Nepal UNGA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b4644e2-cabe-4fbe-9bde-0c3c98219efa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/6f5f5.jpg" />

Breaking silence by speaking on the recent development in Afghanistan, Nepal FM said, "Recent developments in Afghanistan are of common concerns to all of us. People of Afghanistan deserve better. We call for an unhindered humanitarian access and full resumption of public services, including health and education for all sections of Afghan society."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-india-agree-to-further-promote-existing-cooperation-between-countries-416464">Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries&nbsp;</a>

Khadka urged all parties involved to ensure peace, security, and stability so that the Afghan people can live in dignity and enjoy their fundamental rights and freedom.&nbsp;

"We also urge Afghanistan to engage with the international community on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter and norms of international law," he added.&nbsp;

<img alt="Nepal UNGA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b869e46-23b1-4745-be1f-0f6f48b1e5af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/mujmy5.jpg" />

“Nepal’s worldview is shaped by our adherence to the principle of ‘amity with all and enmity with none’. Principles and purposes of the UN Charter, non-alignment, international law and norms of world peace form the basis of our foreign policy,” FM Khadka stated.&nbsp;

Speaking on the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Foreign Minister, said, “The crisis has brought the world to a grinding halt, devastated the global economy, pushed an additional 150 million people into extreme poverty, and threatened to reverse hard-earned development gains.”

Khadka joined world leaders in expressing condolences to the people across the world, who have lost their loved ones due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-deuba-to-lead-a-delegation-to-cop26-in-november-415939">Nepal PM Deuba to lead a delegation to COP26 in November</a>

Calling for vaccines to be declared as public goods for the benefit of people’s lives, the Nepal Foreign Minister, said, “Deepening vaccine inequality is leaving adverse socio-economic impacts in many low-income countries. Despite constraints and challenges to access COVID-19 vaccines, we have been able to vaccinate close to 20 percent of our population.”&nbsp;

He appreciated the efforts made by the international community including the UN system to address the challenges posed by COVID-19 and underscores to ensure fair and equitable access to vaccines for everyone, everywhere.

Minister Khadka also said that as both an LDC (Least Developed Country) and LLDC (Landlocked Developing Country), Nepal’s structural challenges are unique.&nbsp;

“We see our plan to graduate from the LDC category by 2026 as an opportunity to bring structural transformation and make the long-held national aspiration of graduation smooth, sustainable, and irreversible,” FM said in his address to UNGA.&nbsp;

Reiterating country’s commitment to deliver climate-resilient development pathways by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, he said, “Nepal is at the sharp end of climate change despite its negligible share in greenhouse gas emissions.”

Khadka in his speech on the final day of UNGA, underlined Nepal’s 63 years of constant contribution to the UN peace operations “to promote peace, security, and stability.”

“As one of the largest troop-contributing countries, Nepal believes that such countries deserve more senior-level positions both at the UNHQ and in field,” FM added.

The Minister called for joint action to turn the crisis into opportunity, despair into hope, and risk into resilience, he said, “The time is now to build a stronger, interconnected, and inclusive multilateral system grounded in cooperation, solidarity and mutual trust.”

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka on Monday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction in a time-bound and verifiable manner.

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka on Monday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called for general and complete disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction in a time-bound and verifiable manner. He was speaking at United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) In his first speech at the United Nation General Assembly, Khadka highlighted the importance of promotion and protection of human rights. Breaking silence by speaking on the recent development in Afghanistan, Nepal FM said, "Recent developments in Afghanistan are of common concerns to all of us. People of Afghanistan deserve better. We call for an unhindered humanitarian access and full resumption of public services, including health and education for all sections of Afghan society." Also Read | Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries Khadka urged all parties involved to ensure peace, security, and stability so that the Afghan people can live in dignity and enjoy their fundamental rights and freedom. "We also urge Afghanistan to engage with the international community on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter and norms of international law," he added. “Nepal’s worldview is shaped by our adherence to the principle of ‘amity with all and enmity with none’. Principles and purposes of the UN Charter, non-alignment, international law and norms of world peace form the basis of our foreign policy,” FM Khadka stated. Speaking on the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Foreign Minister, said, “The crisis has brought the world to a grinding halt, devastated the global economy, pushed an additional 150 million people into extreme poverty, and threatened to reverse hard-earned development gains.” Khadka joined world leaders in expressing condolences to the people across the world, who have lost their loved ones due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also Read | Nepal PM Deuba to lead a delegation to COP26 in November Calling for vaccines to be declared as public goods for the benefit of people’s lives, the Nepal Foreign Minister, said, “Deepening vaccine inequality is leaving adverse socio-economic impacts in many low-income countries. Despite constraints and challenges to access COVID-19 vaccines, we have been able to vaccinate close to 20 percent of our population.” He appreciated the efforts made by the international community including the UN system to address the challenges posed by COVID-19 and underscores to ensure fair and equitable access to vaccines for everyone, everywhere. Minister Khadka also said that as both an LDC (Least Developed Country) and LLDC (Landlocked Developing Country), Nepal’s structural challenges are unique. “We see our plan to graduate from the LDC category by 2026 as an opportunity to bring structural transformation and make the long-held national aspiration of graduation smooth, sustainable, and irreversible,” FM said in his address to UNGA. Reiterating country’s commitment to deliver climate-resilient development pathways by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, he said, “Nepal is at the sharp end of climate change despite its negligible share in greenhouse gas emissions.” Khadka in his speech on the final day of UNGA, underlined Nepal’s 63 years of constant contribution to the UN peace operations “to promote peace, security, and stability.” “As one of the largest troop-contributing countries, Nepal believes that such countries deserve more senior-level positions both at the UNHQ and in field,” FM added. The Minister called for joint action to turn the crisis into opportunity, despair into hope, and risk into resilience, he said, “The time is now to build a stronger, interconnected, and inclusive multilateral system grounded in cooperation, solidarity and mutual trust.”

UNGA: Nepal condemns terrorism in all its forms, calls for complete disarmament 

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Naidu said, “We are here to be seized of issues erupting all over the world. We have to take care of member states’ concerns and specific areas.”

This is the first time that an Indian diplomat is helming the post. He will be holding the position for a period of one year.

The position is akin to the principal secretary, a top bureaucrat, serving to the prime minister in the Indian political system.

Naidu explained the work as, “A train that is running nonstop and we are at the 76th station and we just dropped at the 77th station, that is the work.”

The 77th session of the UNGA will begin next year in September.

Naidu is a 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, a fluent Chinese speaker, and an avid yoga practitioner. He has served in China and was also the National Coordinator for establishing the International Solar Alliance in India.

WION: What is your daily routine and how is the workflow?

Nagraj Naidu: The 76th session of the General Assembly kicked off recently, with only two more days to end. We just finished the high-level debate week, which is ending today. The work in the general assembly is such that we oversee all six committees. The work in those committees revolves around all the important initiatives and the pressing matters, which the President of the UNGA feels that needs to bring to the attention of the UN members. These can be issues such as climate change, Covid 19 vaccination and the inequity in distribution as we are seeing today, and all other issues that the member states think that needs to be deliberated upon in the general assembly. The office works for almost 24/7. We operate at every hour to enable virtual meetings to take place at any part of the day. Considering the time zones, we practically schedule meetings all the time. And, the PGA (president of the general assembly) has to be present in all the meetings, as there is massive coordination involved related to writing speeches, appointing co-facilitators, scheduling events and the plenaries throughout the year. It is like a train that is running non-stop, and we were at the 76th station, and we have just dropped at the 77th station, that is how hectic the work is.

WION: You are the first Indian diplomat to hold office. What are your thoughts?

Nagraj Naidu: It’s a privilege for India and I am delighted that I was chosen. It reflects the confidence of the PGA on what India brings to the table. The post of chef de cabinet is an important one, there is a lot of responsibility, and it requires to be in touch with all the UN member states. Handling the office brings its complexities, it is tremendously satisfying because once you are here, you manage all the processes. There is pressure from all the member states, which is good, and it also ensures that the president’s office works for the member states interests. Our work revolves around six different committees of the UN. The first committee is related to disarmament, the second committee deals with economic and social affairs, the third committee looks at the human rights issues, the fourth committee discusses the decolonisation issue, the five committees discusses the UN’s budget, like: What are the resources available for us, and how we can spread those resources to areas which are important to member states. And finally, the 6th committee looks after the legal issues. So, it’s an elaborate agenda and my responsibility as the chef de cabinet is that we run the agenda smoothly. The discussion happens in a very constructive atmosphere and it is deliberated upon. We bring the resolution and decisions of the general assembly to the broader UN membership.

WION: So, one has to put a lot of effort and diplomatic outreach, while also communicating with a lot of people.

Nagraj Naidu: Absolutely, you are firefighting from day one. It is the responsibility of the office to be ready at all times because we are here to handle the crisis situation. The PGA has to deliberate some of these issues and bring in his perspective that can reassure the member states that the important issues are getting the concerned attention and they are also getting resolved. The way we chart our calendar for the year is to seek what are these mandated events the president has to organise throughout the year. And then we work with a large number of teams to discuss requests made by the member states to the PGA. He delivers through the year. This is a massive exercise, and we have a very good team in place. We have a lot of guidance from PGA himself and we are looking at a very substantive and productive 76th session.

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”.

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Naidu said, “We are here to be seized of issues erupting all over the world. We have to take care of member states’ concerns and specific areas.” This is the first time that an Indian diplomat is helming the post. He will be holding the position for a period of one year. The position is akin to the principal secretary, a top bureaucrat, serving to the prime minister in the Indian political system. Naidu explained the work as, “A train that is running nonstop and we are at the 76th station and we just dropped at the 77th station, that is the work.” The 77th session of the UNGA will begin next year in September. Naidu is a 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, a fluent Chinese speaker, and an avid yoga practitioner. He has served in China and was also the National Coordinator for establishing the International Solar Alliance in India. WION: What is your daily routine and how is the workflow? Nagraj Naidu: The 76th session of the General Assembly kicked off recently, with only two more days to end. We just finished the high-level debate week, which is ending today. The work in the general assembly is such that we oversee all six committees. The work in those committees revolves around all the important initiatives and the pressing matters, which the President of the UNGA feels that needs to bring to the attention of the UN members. These can be issues such as climate change, Covid 19 vaccination and the inequity in distribution as we are seeing today, and all other issues that the member states think that needs to be deliberated upon in the general assembly. The office works for almost 24/7. We operate at every hour to enable virtual meetings to take place at any part of the day. Considering the time zones, we practically schedule meetings all the time. And, the PGA (president of the general assembly) has to be present in all the meetings, as there is massive coordination involved related to writing speeches, appointing co-facilitators, scheduling events and the plenaries throughout the year. It is like a train that is running non-stop, and we were at the 76th station, and we have just dropped at the 77th station, that is how hectic the work is. WION: You are the first Indian diplomat to hold office. What are your thoughts? Nagraj Naidu: It’s a privilege for India and I am delighted that I was chosen. It reflects the confidence of the PGA on what India brings to the table. The post of chef de cabinet is an important one, there is a lot of responsibility, and it requires to be in touch with all the UN member states. Handling the office brings its complexities, it is tremendously satisfying because once you are here, you manage all the processes. There is pressure from all the member states, which is good, and it also ensures that the president’s office works for the member states interests. Our work revolves around six different committees of the UN. The first committee is related to disarmament, the second committee deals with economic and social affairs, the third committee looks at the human rights issues, the fourth committee discusses the decolonisation issue, the five committees discusses the UN’s budget, like: What are the resources available for us, and how we can spread those resources to areas which are important to member states. And finally, the 6th committee looks after the legal issues. So, it’s an elaborate agenda and my responsibility as the chef de cabinet is that we run the agenda smoothly. The discussion happens in a very constructive atmosphere and it is deliberated upon. We bring the resolution and decisions of the general assembly to the broader UN membership. WION: So, one has to put a lot of effort and diplomatic outreach, while also communicating with a lot of people. Nagraj Naidu: Absolutely, you are firefighting from day one. It is the responsibility of the office to be ready at all times because we are here to handle the crisis situation. The PGA has to deliberate some of these issues and bring in his perspective that can reassure the member states that the important issues are getting the concerned attention and they are also getting resolved. The way we chart our calendar for the year is to seek what are these mandated events the president has to organise throughout the year. And then we work with a large number of teams to discuss requests made by the member states to the PGA. He delivers through the year. This is a massive exercise, and we have a very good team in place. We have a lot of guidance from PGA himself and we are looking at a very substantive and productive 76th session.

Here to be seized of issues erupting all over world: UNGA president’s Chef de Cabinet

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

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

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

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

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

Gravitas US Edition: Erdogan raises Kashmir again at United Nations

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

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

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

Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reprimanded the world on Tuesday for the inequitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, describing it as an 'obscenity' and giving the globe an 'F in Ethics.' Watch this report for more details.

WION-USA Direct: UN Chief laments wastage of vaccines

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

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

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

Opinion | A reflection on effectiveness of UN as UNGA begins

As the 76th edition of the UN General Assembly is kicked off today at New York, eyes of the entire world are focussed on United States. One reason is that this is the first formal meeting of UNGA after Taliban takeover in Afghanistan and second is that unlike the previous UNGA assembly held on 15th Sep 2020, this will be held in person and more than 100 world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are going to be present or address the meet physically. Another important fact is that this session is coinciding with the Quad meet to be held at White House with the leaders of four world powers- India, Japan, Australia, and United States. Since Quad is emerging as a major power block of 21st century, its effect on UN General Assembly will be inevitable. &nbsp;

As we can see the trends, the meet is likely to focus on three major issues- Climate Change, Covid pandemic and Afghanistan. There are many firsts with this session of UNGA. It is the first UNGA meet of Joe Biden as US President, it’s the first UNGA meet of its new president Mr Abdulla Shahid too, and it is the first physical meet since the pandemic swept the world. &nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-a-reflection-on-effectiveness-of-un-as-unga-begins-414573">Opinion | A reflection on effectiveness of UN as UNGA begins</a>

Let’s understand the issue of Covid Pandemic first. Ever since the Wuhan virus created havoc across the globe, countries are still struggling to find a relief. economies have been destroyed and scores of lives are lost. The biggest challenge is visible in developing or underdeveloped countries where there are no adequate healthcare facilities. Some of these countries like Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, and some states in Africa are active war zones.

 
WION USA Direct: India EAM S Jaishankar to meet UK counterpart, work closely on 'Roadmap 2030'

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Provision of healthcare and vaccination in these countries is a bigger challenge for UNGA. Although GAVI and other organisations are doing their bit in accordance with World Health Organization, yet UNGA must add value to their efforts by bringing the world together. Developed countries must contribute more so that poorer countries can be benefited. There is a need to rebuild, regenerate and prevent further damage and UNGA must play its role.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-as-chair-of-united-nations-security-council-creates-record-of-sorts-414157">India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts</a>

Similarly, climate change has been the hot topic in previous UN General Assemblies. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has been struggling hard to bring down the emission of greenhouse gases and reduce carbon footprints. &nbsp;Currently, United States has the highest per capita CO2 emissions in the world and other developed countries are following it closely. Ever since its inception, UNFCCC is struggling to make developed countries understand the need of the day. From the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, 2009 Copenhagen accord, 2015 Paris Agreement and 2016 Kigali amendment to Montreal protocol, all of them have emphasised the need for a change. There are biased opinions about the role of developed and developing countries in fighting climate change, so It is highly unlikely that a consensus is obtained. However the issue is very well pertinent to the current UN General Assembly. &nbsp;

The third and most important aspect will be Afghanistan. The way Uncle Sam moved out of the country giving it in a platter to Taliban, President Biden will have to justify his actions. So, when he will speak after few hours from now, eyes will be on his words. Afghanistan is going through worst humanitarian crisis with lack of funds, poor health care facilities and violation of women’s rights. Current power centre of Afghanistan, which has more than half of its members as designated terrorists, is deeply involved in suppression of minorities, gross violation of human rights, drug trade and international terrorism. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-initial-taliban-moves-fail-to-convince-afghanistans-neighbours-413032">Opinion | Initial Taliban moves fail to convince Afghanistan’s neighbours</a>

Taliban is desperate for legitimacy and countries like Pakistan and China are supporting it. Certainly, there will be voices in the assembly hall to grant legitimacy to Taliban, but UNGA must think of its repercussions too. &nbsp;During the current session, UNGA must look as how can it exercise its powers in Afghanistan. Since the bigger threat is terrorism and in the light of United Nations Security Council resolution 2593 on 26th August 2021 this issue becomes furthermore important. &nbsp;

The Indian Dilemma &nbsp;

India has its stakes in all the three major issues before the UNGA. Since it is a developing country, it must raise voice against biased approach by developed countries with respect to carbon footprints. Further, it has suffered a lot due to Covid pandemic and fought the battle alone with little support from world powers, so it needs an active participation of UNGA in providing a helping hand to developing economies. India has also been the victim of Islamic terrorism for over three decades and with ultra-fanatic Taliban controlling power corridors in Afghanistan, it must express its concerns to the UNGA in no uncertain words. Role of Pakistan in promoting global terrorism is not a secret for anyone so when Prime Minister Modi is expected to address the event on 25th September 2021, these issues will be raised. &nbsp;

Being the biggest economy of this region, onus lies on India to maintain peace and stability across Indian subcontinent. Taliban’s relations with global terror groups are not a secret anymore and their rule in Afghanistan will invariably threaten the entire world. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 
&nbsp;

As the 76th edition of the UN General Assembly is kicked off today at New York, eyes of the entire world are focussed on United States. One reason is that this is the first formal meeting of UNGA after Taliban takeover in Afghanistan and second is that unlike the previous UNGA assembly held on 15th Sep 2020, this will be held in person and more than 100 world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are going to be present or address the meet physically.

As the 76th edition of the UN General Assembly is kicked off today at New York, eyes of the entire world are focussed on United States. One reason is that this is the first formal meeting of UNGA after Taliban takeover in Afghanistan and second is that unlike the previous UNGA assembly held on 15th Sep 2020, this will be held in person and more than 100 world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are going to be present or address the meet physically. Another important fact is that this session is coinciding with the Quad meet to be held at White House with the leaders of four world powers- India, Japan, Australia, and United States. Since Quad is emerging as a major power block of 21st century, its effect on UN General Assembly will be inevitable. As we can see the trends, the meet is likely to focus on three major issues- Climate Change, Covid pandemic and Afghanistan. There are many firsts with this session of UNGA. It is the first UNGA meet of Joe Biden as US President, it’s the first UNGA meet of its new president Mr Abdulla Shahid too, and it is the first physical meet since the pandemic swept the world. Also Read: Opinion | A reflection on effectiveness of UN as UNGA begins Let’s understand the issue of Covid Pandemic first. Ever since the Wuhan virus created havoc across the globe, countries are still struggling to find a relief. economies have been destroyed and scores of lives are lost. The biggest challenge is visible in developing or underdeveloped countries where there are no adequate healthcare facilities. Some of these countries like Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, and some states in Africa are active war zones. WION USA Direct: India EAM S Jaishankar to meet UK counterpart, work closely on 'Roadmap 2030' × Provision of healthcare and vaccination in these countries is a bigger challenge for UNGA. Although GAVI and other organisations are doing their bit in accordance with World Health Organization, yet UNGA must add value to their efforts by bringing the world together. Developed countries must contribute more so that poorer countries can be benefited. There is a need to rebuild, regenerate and prevent further damage and UNGA must play its role. Also Read | India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts Similarly, climate change has been the hot topic in previous UN General Assemblies. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has been struggling hard to bring down the emission of greenhouse gases and reduce carbon footprints. Currently, United States has the highest per capita CO2 emissions in the world and other developed countries are following it closely. Ever since its inception, UNFCCC is struggling to make developed countries understand the need of the day. From the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, 2009 Copenhagen accord, 2015 Paris Agreement and 2016 Kigali amendment to Montreal protocol, all of them have emphasised the need for a change. There are biased opinions about the role of developed and developing countries in fighting climate change, so It is highly unlikely that a consensus is obtained. However the issue is very well pertinent to the current UN General Assembly. The third and most important aspect will be Afghanistan. The way Uncle Sam moved out of the country giving it in a platter to Taliban, President Biden will have to justify his actions. So, when he will speak after few hours from now, eyes will be on his words. Afghanistan is going through worst humanitarian crisis with lack of funds, poor health care facilities and violation of women’s rights. Current power centre of Afghanistan, which has more than half of its members as designated terrorists, is deeply involved in suppression of minorities, gross violation of human rights, drug trade and international terrorism. Also Read | Opinion | Initial Taliban moves fail to convince Afghanistan’s neighbours Taliban is desperate for legitimacy and countries like Pakistan and China are supporting it. Certainly, there will be voices in the assembly hall to grant legitimacy to Taliban, but UNGA must think of its repercussions too. During the current session, UNGA must look as how can it exercise its powers in Afghanistan. Since the bigger threat is terrorism and in the light of United Nations Security Council resolution 2593 on 26th August 2021 this issue becomes furthermore important. The Indian Dilemma India has its stakes in all the three major issues before the UNGA. Since it is a developing country, it must raise voice against biased approach by developed countries with respect to carbon footprints. Further, it has suffered a lot due to Covid pandemic and fought the battle alone with little support from world powers, so it needs an active participation of UNGA in providing a helping hand to developing economies. India has also been the victim of Islamic terrorism for over three decades and with ultra-fanatic Taliban controlling power corridors in Afghanistan, it must express its concerns to the UNGA in no uncertain words. Role of Pakistan in promoting global terrorism is not a secret for anyone so when Prime Minister Modi is expected to address the event on 25th September 2021, these issues will be raised. Being the biggest economy of this region, onus lies on India to maintain peace and stability across Indian subcontinent. Taliban’s relations with global terror groups are not a secret anymore and their rule in Afghanistan will invariably threaten the entire world. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | 76th United Nations General Assembly: Key issues and the Indian dilemma

Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that.&nbsp;

At the 2009 Copenhagen climate conference, rich nations promised to provide annual funding of $100 billion from 2020, for poorer nations to counteract the effects of climate change. &nbsp;

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has said progress has been "disappointing", with developing countries receiving $79.6 billion in 2019.

"I think getting it all done this week is going to be a stretch," Johnson told reporters as he travelled to New York on Sunday to attend the UN General Assembly (UNGA), according to PA news agency.&nbsp;

He added that he saw the chances of getting it done before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November as "six out of 10".&nbsp;

"It's going to be tough but people need to understand that this is crucial for the world," he said.&nbsp;

He added that there were "real signs of progress" from China, the world's biggest emitter of carbon dioxide, even as COP26 president Alok Sharma said Sunday that Chinese President Xi Jinping had not yet confirmed his attendance at the conference.

Johnson will convene Monday's meeting of leaders along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. &nbsp; 
"We only have a short time left. World leaders must deliver on their climate commitments ahead of @COP26," Johnson said in a tweet.

The UN climate fund is the main financing tool for the Paris Agreement, which calls for capping the rise in global temperatures at "well below" two degrees Celsius, and 1.5 C if possible.

The treaty calls for billions of dollars annually for poor nations already coping with floods, heatwaves, rising seas and superstorms made worse by climate change.

As well attending the UNGA, Johnson will visit the White House on his trip, days after the announcement of a new US-Australia-Britain security pact caused a deep rift with ally France.&nbsp;

He will also meet Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his scepticism on climate change, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.&nbsp;

Asked if he would challenge Bezos on how much tax Amazon pays in the United Kingdom and workers rights, Johnson said he "certainly" would.&nbsp;

"But I will also be congratulating him on his massive forestry initiative. He's putting a huge amount into planting trees around the world," he said.

Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that.

Forcing wealthy nations to honour their UN climate fund pledges this week will "be a stretch", British Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted ahead of a Monday meeting with global leaders aiming to do just that. At the 2009 Copenhagen climate conference, rich nations promised to provide annual funding of $100 billion from 2020, for poorer nations to counteract the effects of climate change. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has said progress has been "disappointing", with developing countries receiving $79.6 billion in 2019. "I think getting it all done this week is going to be a stretch," Johnson told reporters as he travelled to New York on Sunday to attend the UN General Assembly (UNGA), according to PA news agency. He added that he saw the chances of getting it done before COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November as "six out of 10". "It's going to be tough but people need to understand that this is crucial for the world," he said. He added that there were "real signs of progress" from China, the world's biggest emitter of carbon dioxide, even as COP26 president Alok Sharma said Sunday that Chinese President Xi Jinping had not yet confirmed his attendance at the conference. Johnson will convene Monday's meeting of leaders along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "We only have a short time left. World leaders must deliver on their climate commitments ahead of @COP26," Johnson said in a tweet. The UN climate fund is the main financing tool for the Paris Agreement, which calls for capping the rise in global temperatures at "well below" two degrees Celsius, and 1.5 C if possible. The treaty calls for billions of dollars annually for poor nations already coping with floods, heatwaves, rising seas and superstorms made worse by climate change. As well attending the UNGA, Johnson will visit the White House on his trip, days after the announcement of a new US-Australia-Britain security pact caused a deep rift with ally France. He will also meet Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his scepticism on climate change, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Asked if he would challenge Bezos on how much tax Amazon pays in the United Kingdom and workers rights, Johnson said he "certainly" would. "But I will also be congratulating him on his massive forestry initiative. He's putting a huge amount into planting trees around the world," he said.

Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges

The United Nations has called for a moratorium or artificial intelligence posing threat to Human Rights. The global agency has called on countries to ban AI applications that do not comply with international human rights law but there was a special mention of face-scanning systems.

UN: Ban technologies that don't comply with international law

In a strongly worded statement, Afghan envoy to United Nations Ghulam Isaczai has called the announcement by Taliban of the new Afghan govt "anything but inclusive", pointing out that the group must "realize that pacification of the country and true peace can only be established if they pursue an inclusive and participatory government" in the war-torn country.&nbsp;

Taliban on Tuesday announced a new government for the country, led by prime minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, two&nbsp;deputies, Abdul Ghani Bradar, Abdul Salam Hanafi, interior minister Siraj Haqqani, foreign minister Amir Muttaqi.

17 out of the 33 members of the new Afghan government are on the United Nations terror list.&nbsp;The Taliban government is dominated by Pashtuns and has no major representation of the country's major minority groups like Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks. There is also no representation of women in the cabinet, something which is on expected lines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-judge-taliban-by-its-actions-says-us-on-new-government-411468" hreflang="en">We will judge Taliban by its actions, says US on new government</a>

Speaking at High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace, Isaczai said,"&nbsp;Afghan people, especially our youth who have only known a free and democratic Afghanistan, will not accept a governing structure that excludes women and minorities, eliminates constitutional rights for all, and does not protect the gains of the past."

Calling the Taliban's regime as "repressive", the Afghan envoy highlighted that the group, "unseated the elected Government of Afghanistan and gained power through violence and are seeking to reinstate their so-called Islamic Emirate" which is "in violation of the resolution passed by this Assembly less than nine months ago."

August month saw rapid advancement by the Taliban, with Kabul falling on August 15. The pace of Taliban advancement shocked the international community. What followed was a mass exodus of people, foreigners, and Afghans alike leaving the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-pakistan-will-face-consequences-of-its-actions-in-afghanistan-warns-ex-iran-president-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-411375">EXCLUSIVE: Support to Taliban will haunt Pak, warns ex-Iran prez Ahmadinejad</a>

The envoy said, "Taliban may have won the war but have yet to win peace and the hearts of minds of millions of Afghans.". He also made a mention of the ongoing Taliban military offensive in Panjshir, saying, that the group, "continue to choose war over peace as a way of resolving their differences with those who oppose" which is witnessed in the "brutal offensive against the people of Panjshir and suppression of women peacefully demonstrating across cities in Afghanistan."

Tuesday saw massive protests in the Afghan capital Kabul, with protestors chanting anti-Pakistan slogans. Taliban was seen shooting in the air and beating women to disperse the crowd. The anti-Pakistani protests came days after chief of Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed was seen in a Kabul hotel lobby. He was in the country reports suggest to help the Taliban in the formation of an inclusive government.&nbsp;

He called on UN Member states to "reject the reinstatement of the Islamic Emirate" and hold "Taliban to account for their violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, insist on an inclusive government, and draw a fundamental red line regarding the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls, and respect for their rights."

Important to remember, Myanmar's envoy to UN Kyaw Moe Tun in February speaking on behalf of Aung San Suu Kyi govt called on the international community to end the military coup in his country. The country saw a coup on February 1.&nbsp;

This month will see significant developments on Afghanistan at the UN, which included a discussion on&nbsp;United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on September 9,&nbsp;a decision on its extension on September 17,&nbsp;and on September 21&nbsp;a&nbsp;decision&nbsp;on extension on continuing the relaxation or imposing a travel ban on Taliban leaders who are on UN terror list.

A key&nbsp;decision&nbsp;will be on who will represent Afghanistan at the high-level week of the UNGA later this month. A credential committee, whose new members will be announced on September 14 by President of the 76th session of UNGA Maldives foreign minister&nbsp;Abdulla Shahid will take the call. US, Russia, and China are permanent members of the credentials&nbsp;committee.

In a strongly worded statement, Afghan envoy to United Nations Ghulam Isaczai has called the announcement by Taliban of the new Afghan govt "anything but inclusive", pointing out that the group must "realize that pacification of the country and true peace can only be established if they pursue an inclusive and participatory government" in the war-torn country.

In a strongly worded statement, Afghan envoy to United Nations Ghulam Isaczai has called the announcement by Taliban of the new Afghan govt "anything but inclusive", pointing out that the group must "realize that pacification of the country and true peace can only be established if they pursue an inclusive and participatory government" in the war-torn country. Taliban on Tuesday announced a new government for the country, led by prime minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, two deputies, Abdul Ghani Bradar, Abdul Salam Hanafi, interior minister Siraj Haqqani, foreign minister Amir Muttaqi. 17 out of the 33 members of the new Afghan government are on the United Nations terror list. The Taliban government is dominated by Pashtuns and has no major representation of the country's major minority groups like Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks. There is also no representation of women in the cabinet, something which is on expected lines. Also read | We will judge Taliban by its actions, says US on new government Speaking at High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace, Isaczai said," Afghan people, especially our youth who have only known a free and democratic Afghanistan, will not accept a governing structure that excludes women and minorities, eliminates constitutional rights for all, and does not protect the gains of the past." Calling the Taliban's regime as "repressive", the Afghan envoy highlighted that the group, "unseated the elected Government of Afghanistan and gained power through violence and are seeking to reinstate their so-called Islamic Emirate" which is "in violation of the resolution passed by this Assembly less than nine months ago." August month saw rapid advancement by the Taliban, with Kabul falling on August 15. The pace of Taliban advancement shocked the international community. What followed was a mass exodus of people, foreigners, and Afghans alike leaving the country. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Support to Taliban will haunt Pak, warns ex-Iran prez Ahmadinejad The envoy said, "Taliban may have won the war but have yet to win peace and the hearts of minds of millions of Afghans.". He also made a mention of the ongoing Taliban military offensive in Panjshir, saying, that the group, "continue to choose war over peace as a way of resolving their differences with those who oppose" which is witnessed in the "brutal offensive against the people of Panjshir and suppression of women peacefully demonstrating across cities in Afghanistan." Tuesday saw massive protests in the Afghan capital Kabul, with protestors chanting anti-Pakistan slogans. Taliban was seen shooting in the air and beating women to disperse the crowd. The anti-Pakistani protests came days after chief of Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed was seen in a Kabul hotel lobby. He was in the country reports suggest to help the Taliban in the formation of an inclusive government. He called on UN Member states to "reject the reinstatement of the Islamic Emirate" and hold "Taliban to account for their violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, insist on an inclusive government, and draw a fundamental red line regarding the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls, and respect for their rights." Important to remember, Myanmar's envoy to UN Kyaw Moe Tun in February speaking on behalf of Aung San Suu Kyi govt called on the international community to end the military coup in his country. The country saw a coup on February 1. This month will see significant developments on Afghanistan at the UN, which included a discussion on United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on September 9, a decision on its extension on September 17, and on September 21 a decision on extension on continuing the relaxation or imposing a travel ban on Taliban leaders who are on UN terror list. A key decision will be on who will represent Afghanistan at the high-level week of the UNGA later this month. A credential committee, whose new members will be announced on September 14 by President of the 76th session of UNGA Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid will take the call. US, Russia, and China are permanent members of the credentials committee.

Taliban government is anything but inclusive says Afghan envoy to UN Isaczai

The United Nations was founded in 1945 just after the second world war. The organization was supposed to maintain international peace and security but looking at what is happening in Afghanistan it is safe to say that the country neither has peace nor security and now the secretary-general of the United Nations Antonio Guterres has called solving the Afghanistan crisis.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres takes a swipe at US & NATO

The citizens of Afghanistan have been facing a dire threat to their human rights. The essential services in the country are facing disruptions. United Nations has held a humanitarian conference on Afghanistan.

United Nations High Commissioner for refugees speaks to WION

United Nations holds humanitarian conference on Afghanistan

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely.

"It is hard to give humanitarian assistance within Afghanistan without engaging with the de facto authorities," Guterres told journalists on the sidelines of a donor conference, adding that working with the Taliban was "extremely necessary at the moment."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-cash-crunch-fleeing-afghans-sell-possessions-at-kabuls-busy-bazaars-412774">Also read | Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars</a>

The United Nations has requested the international community to contribute $606 million to Afghanistan, where poverty and hunger have increased dramatically since the Taliban took power, and billions in foreign aid have dried up due to Western mistrust of the new leadership.&nbsp; 
 
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-can-study-but-in-gender-segregated-classrooms-taliban-minister-412606">Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister</a>

After decades of war, suffering and insecurity, Afghans are facing "perhaps their most perilous hour", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday in his opening remarks to a conference in Geneva seeking aid for Afghanistan, adding that "the people of Afghanistan need a lifeline.

"Let us be clear: This conference is not simply about what we will give to the people of Afghanistan. It is about what we owe," he said.

Between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, prohibiting women from working and preventing young girls from attending school. They were deposed in an operation led by the United States, which accused them of sheltering al-Qaeda militants responsible for the September 11 attacks.

Last month, the Taliban surged back to power in a rapid sweep when the last US-led NATO troops withdrew and the Western-backed government's forces melted away.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely. "It is hard to give humanitarian assistance within Afghanistan without engaging with the de facto authorities," Guterres told journalists on the sidelines of a donor conference, adding that working with the Taliban was "extremely necessary at the moment." Also read | Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars The United Nations has requested the international community to contribute $606 million to Afghanistan, where poverty and hunger have increased dramatically since the Taliban took power, and billions in foreign aid have dried up due to Western mistrust of the new leadership. Also Read | Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister After decades of war, suffering and insecurity, Afghans are facing "perhaps their most perilous hour", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday in his opening remarks to a conference in Geneva seeking aid for Afghanistan, adding that "the people of Afghanistan need a lifeline. "Let us be clear: This conference is not simply about what we will give to the people of Afghanistan. It is about what we owe," he said. Between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, prohibiting women from working and preventing young girls from attending school. They were deposed in an operation led by the United States, which accused them of sheltering al-Qaeda militants responsible for the September 11 attacks. Last month, the Taliban surged back to power in a rapid sweep when the last US-led NATO troops withdrew and the Western-backed government's forces melted away. (With inputs from agencies)

Engage with Taliban to avert total collapse of Afghan economy: UN chief Antonio Guterres

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover.

More than half the population, or 18 million people were dependent on aid even before Taliban's seizure of Kabul last month. The number is likely to increase due to shortage of cash and food as well as drought, UN officials warned.

Abrupt end in foreign donations following collapse of Ashraf Ghani-led government has put pressure on UN programmes.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the organisation was struggling financially.

"At the present moment the U.N. is not even able to pay its salaries to its own workers," he told reporters on Friday.

The Geneva conference, due to begin on Monday afternoon, will be attended by top U.N. officials including Guterres, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer, as well as dozens of government representatives including German foreign minister Heiko Maas.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-can-study-but-in-gender-segregated-classrooms-taliban-minister-412606">Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister</a>

About a third of the $606 million being sought would be used by the U.N. World Food Programme which found that 93% of the 1,600 Afghans it surveyed in August and September were not consuming sufficient foods, mostly because they could not get access to cash to pay for it.

"It's now a race against time and the snow to deliver life-saving assistance to the Afghan people who need it most," said WFP deputy regional director Anthea Webb. "We are quite literally begging and borrowing to avoid food stocks running out."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover.

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover. More than half the population, or 18 million people were dependent on aid even before Taliban's seizure of Kabul last month. The number is likely to increase due to shortage of cash and food as well as drought, UN officials warned. Abrupt end in foreign donations following collapse of Ashraf Ghani-led government has put pressure on UN programmes. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the organisation was struggling financially. "At the present moment the U.N. is not even able to pay its salaries to its own workers," he told reporters on Friday. The Geneva conference, due to begin on Monday afternoon, will be attended by top U.N. officials including Guterres, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer, as well as dozens of government representatives including German foreign minister Heiko Maas. Also Read | Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister About a third of the $606 million being sought would be used by the U.N. World Food Programme which found that 93% of the 1,600 Afghans it surveyed in August and September were not consuming sufficient foods, mostly because they could not get access to cash to pay for it. "It's now a race against time and the snow to deliver life-saving assistance to the Afghan people who need it most," said WFP deputy regional director Anthea Webb. "We are quite literally begging and borrowing to avoid food stocks running out." (With inputs from agencies)

UN seeks to raise $600 million to avoid Afghan humanitarian crisis

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa.&nbsp;

"We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said.

"Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general.

He said that the world must avoid an "econnomic collapse" in Afghanistan.

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&nbsp;

Guterres said there were "no guarantees" about what might come out of talks but that discussions are a must "if we want Afghanistan not to be a center of terrorism, if we want women and girls to not lose all the rights acquired during the previous period, if we want different ethnic groups to be able to feel represented."

Without calling for the lifting of international sanctions or the release of Afghan funds frozen around the world, the UN head predicted that "financial instruments" would allow Afghanistan's economy "to breathe."

"Until now, in the discussions that we have had, there is at least a receptivity to talk," added Guterres, who does not rule out going to Afghanistan one day if conditions are right.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-20-changed-visas-painted-walls-new-airport-names-hint-at-changed-afghanistan-411938">Taliban 2.0? Changed visas, painted walls, new airport names hint at changed Afghanistan</a>

What the UN wishes is "an inclusive government," where all components of Afghan society are represented, and "this first preliminary government" announced a few days ago "does not give that impression," he added, regretfully.

He said Afghanistan must be governed "in peace and stability, with the rights of the people respected."

Guterres added that the Taliban wants recognition, financial support and sanctions to be abolished.&nbsp; 
"That gives a certain leverage to the international community," he said.

Asked about the risks of an Afghanistan-like scenario occurring in the Sahel, the secretary-general said he feared the "psychological and real impact" of what happened in recent weeks.

"There is a real danger. (Some) terrorist groups may feel enthusiastic about what happened and have ambitions beyond what they thought a few months ago," he warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa. "We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said. "Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general. He said that the world must avoid an "econnomic collapse" in Afghanistan. × Guterres said there were "no guarantees" about what might come out of talks but that discussions are a must "if we want Afghanistan not to be a center of terrorism, if we want women and girls to not lose all the rights acquired during the previous period, if we want different ethnic groups to be able to feel represented." Without calling for the lifting of international sanctions or the release of Afghan funds frozen around the world, the UN head predicted that "financial instruments" would allow Afghanistan's economy "to breathe." "Until now, in the discussions that we have had, there is at least a receptivity to talk," added Guterres, who does not rule out going to Afghanistan one day if conditions are right. Also Read | Taliban 2.0? Changed visas, painted walls, new airport names hint at changed Afghanistan What the UN wishes is "an inclusive government," where all components of Afghan society are represented, and "this first preliminary government" announced a few days ago "does not give that impression," he added, regretfully. He said Afghanistan must be governed "in peace and stability, with the rights of the people respected." Guterres added that the Taliban wants recognition, financial support and sanctions to be abolished. "That gives a certain leverage to the international community," he said. Asked about the risks of an Afghanistan-like scenario occurring in the Sahel, the secretary-general said he feared the "psychological and real impact" of what happened in recent weeks. "There is a real danger. (Some) terrorist groups may feel enthusiastic about what happened and have ambitions beyond what they thought a few months ago," he warned. (With inputs from agencies)

'Must maintain a dialogue with Taliban', says UN Secretary General

The UN special envoy for Afghanistan urged the world to unite to prevent the collapse of the Afghan economy, to address fears that the Taliban’s Islamic state may spread to its neighbours, and to fight terrorism.

UN envoy urges economic support to stop Afghanistan breakdown

Slamming Pakistan, India said the country continues to foment a "culture of violence" at home and across its borders as it hit out at Islamabad for using the platform of the United Nations for hate speech against it.

"A Culture of Peace is not just an abstract value or principle to be discussed and celebrated in conferences, but needs to be actively built into global relationships between and among member states," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Vidisha Maitra said in the UN General Assembly Tuesday during the high-level forum on the Culture of Peace 'Transformative role of the Culture of Peace: Promoting Resilience and Inclusion in Post-COVID Recovery'.

"We have witnessed yet another attempt today by the delegation of Pakistan to exploit a UN platform for hate speech against India, even as it continues to foment a 'culture of violence' at home and across its borders. We dismiss and condemn all such efforts," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-pakistan-will-face-consequences-of-its-actions-in-afghanistan-warns-ex-iran-president-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-411375" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Pakistan will face consequences of its actions in Afghanistan, warns ex-Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad</a>

India's strong response came after Islamabad's envoy to the UN Munir Akram raked up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir and spoke about the late pro-Pakistan leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani in his remarks in the General Assembly hall that focussed almost entirely on India and not on the forum's theme.

Maitra said there can be no doubt that terrorism, which is a manifestation of intolerance and violence, is the antithesis of all religions and cultures.

"The world should be concerned by terrorists who use religion to justify these acts and those who support them in this quest," she said.

Underlining that India will continue to spread the message of humanity, democracy and non-violence, she said India reiterates its call for the application of the principles of objectivity, non-selectivity and impartiality to form the basis of discussions in the United Nations especially on the issue of religion.

"The United Nations including UN Alliance of Civilizations and Member States should refrain from selectivity on such issues which hinders a Culture of Peace," she said.

While noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the interconnectedness and interdependence of humankind like never before, she said even during the pandemic, "we have witnessed an upsurge in intolerance, violence, and terrorism.?

"Even in the midst of the pandemic, we face the 'infodemic' challenge which has been responsible for a rise in hate speech and in seeding hatred within communities," she said.

Last year in June, India along with 12 countries had co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on "Infodemic" in the Context of COVID-19,&nbsp;a first of its kind statement by UN Member States.

Maitra told the high-level forum that the principles of democracy, pluralism, compassion, cultural diversity, dialogue and understanding form the basis of the Culture of Peace.

"India is called a country of 'unity in diversity'. Our concept of pluralism is based on our ancient ethos of 'Sarva Dharma Sambhav' which means 'equal respect for all faiths'," she said, as she referred to the 1893 speech by India's great philosopher Swami Vivekananda at the Parliament of World

Religions in Chicago where he had impressed upon India's civilisational ethos of accepting the greatness of all religions.

"India is not just the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, but is also the land where the teachings of Islam, Judaism, Christianity and Zoroastrianism have taken strong root," she said.

"Culture of Peace is the cornerstone of any global order to build inclusive and tolerant societies. Since the adoption of the UN Declaration and Programme of Action in 1999 at Bangladesh's behest, the Culture of Peace agenda has provided an effective blueprint for multilateral action to promote solidarity and understanding," she said.

Slamming Pakistan, India said the country continues to foment a "culture of violence" at home and across its borders as it hit out at Islamabad for using the platform of the United Nations for hate speech against it.

Slamming Pakistan, India said the country continues to foment a "culture of violence" at home and across its borders as it hit out at Islamabad for using the platform of the United Nations for hate speech against it. "A Culture of Peace is not just an abstract value or principle to be discussed and celebrated in conferences, but needs to be actively built into global relationships between and among member states," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Vidisha Maitra said in the UN General Assembly Tuesday during the high-level forum on the Culture of Peace 'Transformative role of the Culture of Peace: Promoting Resilience and Inclusion in Post-COVID Recovery'. "We have witnessed yet another attempt today by the delegation of Pakistan to exploit a UN platform for hate speech against India, even as it continues to foment a 'culture of violence' at home and across its borders. We dismiss and condemn all such efforts," she said. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Pakistan will face consequences of its actions in Afghanistan, warns ex-Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad India's strong response came after Islamabad's envoy to the UN Munir Akram raked up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir and spoke about the late pro-Pakistan leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani in his remarks in the General Assembly hall that focussed almost entirely on India and not on the forum's theme. Maitra said there can be no doubt that terrorism, which is a manifestation of intolerance and violence, is the antithesis of all religions and cultures. "The world should be concerned by terrorists who use religion to justify these acts and those who support them in this quest," she said. Underlining that India will continue to spread the message of humanity, democracy and non-violence, she said India reiterates its call for the application of the principles of objectivity, non-selectivity and impartiality to form the basis of discussions in the United Nations especially on the issue of religion. "The United Nations including UN Alliance of Civilizations and Member States should refrain from selectivity on such issues which hinders a Culture of Peace," she said. While noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the interconnectedness and interdependence of humankind like never before, she said even during the pandemic, "we have witnessed an upsurge in intolerance, violence, and terrorism.? "Even in the midst of the pandemic, we face the 'infodemic' challenge which has been responsible for a rise in hate speech and in seeding hatred within communities," she said. Last year in June, India along with 12 countries had co-sponsored the Cross-Regional Statement on "Infodemic" in the Context of COVID-19, a first of its kind statement by UN Member States. Maitra told the high-level forum that the principles of democracy, pluralism, compassion, cultural diversity, dialogue and understanding form the basis of the Culture of Peace. "India is called a country of 'unity in diversity'. Our concept of pluralism is based on our ancient ethos of 'Sarva Dharma Sambhav' which means 'equal respect for all faiths'," she said, as she referred to the 1893 speech by India's great philosopher Swami Vivekananda at the Parliament of World Religions in Chicago where he had impressed upon India's civilisational ethos of accepting the greatness of all religions. "India is not just the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, but is also the land where the teachings of Islam, Judaism, Christianity and Zoroastrianism have taken strong root," she said. "Culture of Peace is the cornerstone of any global order to build inclusive and tolerant societies. Since the adoption of the UN Declaration and Programme of Action in 1999 at Bangladesh's behest, the Culture of Peace agenda has provided an effective blueprint for multilateral action to promote solidarity and understanding," she said.

Pak continues to foment culture of violence at home, across its borders: India at UN

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