The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit is scheduled to take place on September 15 and 16 in Uzbekistan's Samarkand. A total of 15 leaders have been invited to participate in the geopolitical event, which is held once every year.

Here are five key things to look for in this year's SCO summit:

First in-person SCO summit after 2019

This will be the first in-person summit since June 2019, when the SCO summit was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The 2020 Moscow summit was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the 2021 summit at Dushanbe was conducted in a hybrid mode.

This is the first time that Xi Jinping will attend a multilateral summit where PM Modi will also be present in three years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco-summit-live-updates-515964">Also read |&nbsp;SCO Summit 2022 in Uzbekistan live updates | Xi Jinping to meet Putin, no clarity on India-China talks</a>

What’s there for India?

The SCO is important for India because of its growing trade relations with several Central Asian economies that are also members of the summit.

India can address issues related to terrorism as many of these SCO members want to fight terrorism, cross-border organised crime, illegal migration, and human trafficking. India also has close strategic, cultural, and economic ties with Russia, which is a major player in the SCO.

Important Bilaterals for India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet Xi in person for the first time since the 2019 BRICS Summit in Brazil. Since then, Indian and Chinese troops have faced off in a series of deadly skirmishes as a result of multiple Chinese intrusions in Ladakh and Sikkim.

PM Modi is also expected to hold his first ever bilateral meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisiand and meet Russian PM Putin on the sidelines of the geopolitical event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspense-remains-on-bilateral-meeting-between-indias-modi-and-chinas-xi-on-sidleines-of-sco-meet-516004">Also read |&nbsp;Suspense remains on bilateral meeting between India's Modi and China's Xi on sidelines of SCO</a>

Iran to partake in 2023 SCO summit as full member

At the SCO's upcoming summit, Iran is set to become the ninth member state of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will discuss its SCO membership as well as meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin for discussions on the Iran nuclear deal.

Ukraine Conflict

The biggest challenge to Uzbekistan’s big summit lies to the west—in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In the wake of the Ukraine crisis, China and Russia are likely to unveil their response to the rapidly changing world order. Issues of regional and global importance, such as the Ukraine conflict and its fallout on the global economy, are expected to come up at the meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit is scheduled to take place on September 15 and 16 in Uzbekistan's Samarkand. A total of 15 leaders have been invited to participate in the geopolitical event, which is held once every year.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit is scheduled to take place on September 15 and 16 in Uzbekistan's Samarkand. A total of 15 leaders have been invited to participate in the geopolitical event, which is held once every year. Here are five key things to look for in this year's SCO summit: First in-person SCO summit after 2019 This will be the first in-person summit since June 2019, when the SCO summit was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The 2020 Moscow summit was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the 2021 summit at Dushanbe was conducted in a hybrid mode. This is the first time that Xi Jinping will attend a multilateral summit where PM Modi will also be present in three years. Also read | SCO Summit 2022 in Uzbekistan live updates | Xi Jinping to meet Putin, no clarity on India-China talks What’s there for India? The SCO is important for India because of its growing trade relations with several Central Asian economies that are also members of the summit. India can address issues related to terrorism as many of these SCO members want to fight terrorism, cross-border organised crime, illegal migration, and human trafficking. India also has close strategic, cultural, and economic ties with Russia, which is a major player in the SCO. Important Bilaterals for India Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet Xi in person for the first time since the 2019 BRICS Summit in Brazil. Since then, Indian and Chinese troops have faced off in a series of deadly skirmishes as a result of multiple Chinese intrusions in Ladakh and Sikkim. PM Modi is also expected to hold his first ever bilateral meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisiand and meet Russian PM Putin on the sidelines of the geopolitical event. Also read | Suspense remains on bilateral meeting between India's Modi and China's Xi on sidelines of SCO Iran to partake in 2023 SCO summit as full member At the SCO's upcoming summit, Iran is set to become the ninth member state of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will discuss its SCO membership as well as meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin for discussions on the Iran nuclear deal. Ukraine Conflict The biggest challenge to Uzbekistan’s big summit lies to the west—in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In the wake of the Ukraine crisis, China and Russia are likely to unveil their response to the rapidly changing world order. Issues of regional and global importance, such as the Ukraine conflict and its fallout on the global economy, are expected to come up at the meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

SCO summit: Five key things to look for this year

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

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As the global agencies continue to ring warning bells over the condition of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reportedly offered to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow.

As the global agencies continue to ring warning bells over the condition of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reportedly offered to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow. Referring to Türkiye acting as a guarantor when the two countries signed a grain export agreement with the United Nations, the Turkish presidency stated: "President Erdogan stated that Turkey can play a facilitator role in the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, as they did in the grain deal." Last month, Erdogan met his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky and sounded similar concerns regarding the nuclear plant. "While continuing our efforts to find a solution (to the conflict), we remain on the side of our Ukraine friends. We are worried. We don't want another Chernobyl," Erdogan said at the time. WATCH | International Atomic Energy Agency team inspects Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant × As reported by WION, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Friday stated that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station had sustained major damages to its “physical integrity” due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. “It is obvious that the physical integrity of the plant has been violated several times. I worried, I worry and I will continue to be worried about the plant. We spent there four or five hours. I have seen a lot, and I have my people there, we were able to tour the whole site,” said Rafael Grossi, the director general of IAEA. Read more: As Turkey warns of 'another Chernobyl', Zelensky says 'no peace' until Russia withdraws its troops It is pertinent to note that the world's worst nuclear disaster, the 'Chernobyl Catastrophe' took place in Ukraine only, 110 kilometres away from the capital city of Kyiv. If another nuclear disaster takes place, it could practically affect the entire planet this time, forget only Europe. As reported by WION, Russian forces took control of the nuclear power plant in March this year. The plant generates 40-42 billion kWh which accounts for one-fifth (20 per cent) of the average annual electricity production in Ukraine and for almost 47 per cent of electricity generated by Ukrainian nuclear power plants. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey ready to mediate in Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant crisis, Erdogan tells Putin

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Trending on WION: Italian man detected with Covid-19, Monkeypox and HIV at the same time

For a new kind of Jurassic experience for fans, a high-tech Jurassic World exhibition has opened up in London. The exhibition is running at London's ExCel arena from 25 August through November.

High-tech Jurassic World exhibition kicks off in London with animatronic dinosaurs

While being lazy isn't exactly perceived as a virtue, Colombians seem to disagree. They have dedicated an entire festival to being lazy and they celebrate it in style.

Colombians celebrate World Day of Laziness with colourful procession

In today's deeply divided world, there is something uniting everyone and it is inflation. A rising number of people are battling the cost of living crisis with soaring inflation.

Online opportunities help make extra income, renting clothes online

Going swimming would be a great way to cool off while the UK swelters in heatwaves, but if playing chess is one of your favourite pastimes, why not mix the two? On August 14, competitors in the Dive Chess World Championships in London did something similar.

Dive Chess World Championships: The ultimate battle of body & mind

India is home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Last year, the number increased from 38 to 40. In total, the UNESCO list includes 1,155 sites in 167 countries. After Italy, China, Germany, Spain and France, India has the highest number of world heritage sites in the world. This makes the country a great place for travellers.

India@75: 40 World Heritage Sites located in India

The world affairs were progressing normally till the COVID pandemic and Ukraine-Russian conflict shattered the dynamics of geopolitics. 
&nbsp; 
The pandemic put severe stress on all nations as fingers were pointed at China for the origin of the virus which claimed millions of lives. The subsequent developments led to a shift in geo-politics and led to the demand for UN reforms and more accountability.&nbsp;

China’s aggression on Hong Kong and Taiwan and its border clashes with India further exposed chinks in the world order. India adopted a tough stance that reflected in the Galwan clash and resisted consistent pressure to take sides in the Russia-Ukrainian war and kept abstaining from voting against Russia while reiterating that the war needs to stop.&nbsp;

Strategic readjustments in geopolitics

The deepening partnership between India and the US created a robust power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region to keep a check on China.&nbsp;

Besides, India’s regular engagements with France, Germany, Britain helped it strengthen its ties in the west. 
For a long time, India was seen as a nation with huge consumer base but it is now seen as an influencing power.

The European way

India’s relations with Europe are also undergoing a change and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) will open the gateway to Latvia and the Baltic region and provide seamless connectivity.&nbsp; 
The proposed INSTC crosses Iran (through Chabahar), Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, via central Asia to Russia and then finally to Europe and will double the cargo speed as compared to the current Suez Canal route.&nbsp;

India had been eyeing market in Baltic nations for long but the long sea route had been a hindrance.&nbsp; 
The ongoing greenfield Rail Baltica project will connect the Baltic States to the existing European rail network, by linking Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania with Poland and from there with the European rail network, further enhancing trade opportunities and ties.

Besides, India and European nations are collaborating in the field of science and technology, marine research, and artificial intelligence.

West Asia consensus

India also has strategic, economic relations with nations in the Gulf region, including reliance for energy security. Countries in West Asia are diversifying their economies and opening new areas of engagement and India is keen on increasing trade ties.

African axis

India-Africa relations, both economic &amp; cultural, date back to the pre-colonial era and were strengthened during the national independence movement due to the success of M K Gandhi’s non-violent methods.&nbsp; 
India started engaging actively with African nations from 2014 onwards, as a result of which it opened 18 new Indian Missions in Africa.

India had announced a line of credit to finance capacity building, IT education, and higher education projects in African countries.&nbsp;

Indian Navy’s 2021 Maritime Strategy document and the African Union’s 2050 Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS 2050) aim for a free and open Indian ocean for the benefit of all nations and can be a game-changer in the region.

Russia beyond defence

Ties between India and Russia had waned since the USSR split, but in the past two years, both countries set out to correct them and are ramping up economic ties.&nbsp;

The China conundrum 
&nbsp; 
For the last 6-7 years, the Indian Ocean region has been the centre of tussle between India and China. India came up with its necklace of diamonds strategy to counter to counter China’s string of pearls scheme. 
Two-thirds of the world’s oil, a third of the bulk cargo and half of all container traffic travel through IOR, that’s the reason why it’s important to expand India’s reach.&nbsp; 
India wants peace and stability in the Indian Ocean since it is vital for its economic transformation and has been improving relations with Vietnam, Mauritius and other nations in the region to counter the growing Chinese influence.

Island connect

India has also been increasing interaction with island states under Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Pacific Island Forum (PIF) which contribute for more than 40 members at the UN. Their impact on voting in the UN and other multilateral forums draws even major powers to these island states. India has also pledged financial support to each island country and is increasing cultural and people to people connections with these nations.

Under its Neighbourhood First Policy, India has been supplying power to Bangladesh and Nepal while championing a South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation electricity grid. Besides, India has been liberal in extending aid to its neighbours whenever required. 
India must work to a well thought out strategy to achieve its well-deserved place in the emerging world order.

(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;

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The world affairs were progressing normally till the COVID pandemic and Ukraine-Russian conflict shattered the dynamics of geopolitics. The pandemic put severe stress on all nations as fingers were pointed at China for the origin of the virus which claimed millions of lives.

The world affairs were progressing normally till the COVID pandemic and Ukraine-Russian conflict shattered the dynamics of geopolitics. The pandemic put severe stress on all nations as fingers were pointed at China for the origin of the virus which claimed millions of lives. The subsequent developments led to a shift in geo-politics and led to the demand for UN reforms and more accountability. China’s aggression on Hong Kong and Taiwan and its border clashes with India further exposed chinks in the world order. India adopted a tough stance that reflected in the Galwan clash and resisted consistent pressure to take sides in the Russia-Ukrainian war and kept abstaining from voting against Russia while reiterating that the war needs to stop. Strategic readjustments in geopolitics The deepening partnership between India and the US created a robust power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region to keep a check on China. Besides, India’s regular engagements with France, Germany, Britain helped it strengthen its ties in the west. For a long time, India was seen as a nation with huge consumer base but it is now seen as an influencing power. The European way India’s relations with Europe are also undergoing a change and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) will open the gateway to Latvia and the Baltic region and provide seamless connectivity. The proposed INSTC crosses Iran (through Chabahar), Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, via central Asia to Russia and then finally to Europe and will double the cargo speed as compared to the current Suez Canal route. India had been eyeing market in Baltic nations for long but the long sea route had been a hindrance. The ongoing greenfield Rail Baltica project will connect the Baltic States to the existing European rail network, by linking Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania with Poland and from there with the European rail network, further enhancing trade opportunities and ties. Besides, India and European nations are collaborating in the field of science and technology, marine research, and artificial intelligence. West Asia consensus India also has strategic, economic relations with nations in the Gulf region, including reliance for energy security. Countries in West Asia are diversifying their economies and opening new areas of engagement and India is keen on increasing trade ties. African axis India-Africa relations, both economic & cultural, date back to the pre-colonial era and were strengthened during the national independence movement due to the success of M K Gandhi’s non-violent methods. India started engaging actively with African nations from 2014 onwards, as a result of which it opened 18 new Indian Missions in Africa. India had announced a line of credit to finance capacity building, IT education, and higher education projects in African countries. Indian Navy’s 2021 Maritime Strategy document and the African Union’s 2050 Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS 2050) aim for a free and open Indian ocean for the benefit of all nations and can be a game-changer in the region. Russia beyond defence Ties between India and Russia had waned since the USSR split, but in the past two years, both countries set out to correct them and are ramping up economic ties. The China conundrum For the last 6-7 years, the Indian Ocean region has been the centre of tussle between India and China. India came up with its necklace of diamonds strategy to counter to counter China’s string of pearls scheme. Two-thirds of the world’s oil, a third of the bulk cargo and half of all container traffic travel through IOR, that’s the reason why it’s important to expand India’s reach. India wants peace and stability in the Indian Ocean since it is vital for its economic transformation and has been improving relations with Vietnam, Mauritius and other nations in the region to counter the growing Chinese influence. Island connect India has also been increasing interaction with island states under Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Pacific Island Forum (PIF) which contribute for more than 40 members at the UN. Their impact on voting in the UN and other multilateral forums draws even major powers to these island states. India has also pledged financial support to each island country and is increasing cultural and people to people connections with these nations. Under its Neighbourhood First Policy, India has been supplying power to Bangladesh and Nepal while championing a South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation electricity grid. Besides, India has been liberal in extending aid to its neighbours whenever required. India must work to a well thought out strategy to achieve its well-deserved place in the emerging world order. (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India emerging as ‘influencing power’ in new world order

The Henley Passport Index 2022 revealed nations with the strongest and weakest passports in the world. The strongest passport countries continue to be granted visa-free arrival by more than 190 nations.

World’s most powerful and least powerful passports

So we all know about the Oil Crisis (1973–74, 1979, Gulf War, etc.). But what if someone says water is going to be a new cause for Rebel and Tussle? Well, the statistics provide a hint at this. Even countries like India are suffering from severe water shortages, with Central India being particularly hard hit. There are parameters to account for: turbidity, conductivity, Nitrate-N, Nitrite-N, ammonia, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), etc. 5 basins face an absolute water crisis and 5 suffer from a water shortage median. India stands at 120 out of 122 on the Water Quality Index. Not only in India but in regions in Africa, about two billion people live in water-stressed countries. Draughts are responsible for &gt; 90 per cent of Sub-Saharan deaths. People generally spend about 40 billion hours a year just collecting water.

Madagascar is estimated to hold 21 billion cubic metres of natural water resources, but due to extreme rain weather conditions, has changed its expectations. People rely on wastewater to purify it, and, moreover, industries are not helping at all.

Other such instances include Lake Victoria, well after Djibouti, which has become a base for 14 countries. Pollution is not even a question here.

The megadrought in Chile is the longest and most severe in centuries. The California region in the US is suffering from a historic drought.

A state of emergency has been declared in Northern Italy as they face a situation of drought. Europe is currently facing a strong heat wave in different regions and states.

Another component is pollution. The Nairobi River in Kenya is full of plastic. The Cerro Prieto dam will no longer be able to supply water to the people of Nuevo León, which is initially practically empty. Tunisia is suffering from water scarcity due to a lack of governance over water resources.

But now the question that arises is, are we even thinking of this or just neglecting it because our priorities are set? Carbon emissions, overconsumption, affordability, ecotoxicity, biodiversity loss, and so on.

There will be a time when everyone will start fetching their own water, and then they'll know the value of each ounce of water. Millions of lives are at stake in regions of Mena, especially in Lebanon.

It is better to make yearly plans just like what we've seen in COP 26 Glasgow.

So, in the end, the fate of this crisis lies in our hands.

Remember, "Be an exception in this world rather than waiting for someone." Humanity shall prevail!

So we all know about the Oil Crisis (1973–74, 1979, Gulf War, etc.). But what if someone says water is going to be a new cause for Rebel and Tussle? Well, the statistics provide a hint at this.

So we all know about the Oil Crisis (1973–74, 1979, Gulf War, etc.). But what if someone says water is going to be a new cause for Rebel and Tussle? Well, the statistics provide a hint at this. Even countries like India are suffering from severe water shortages, with Central India being particularly hard hit. There are parameters to account for: turbidity, conductivity, Nitrate-N, Nitrite-N, ammonia, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), etc. 5 basins face an absolute water crisis and 5 suffer from a water shortage median. India stands at 120 out of 122 on the Water Quality Index. Not only in India but in regions in Africa, about two billion people live in water-stressed countries. Draughts are responsible for > 90 per cent of Sub-Saharan deaths. People generally spend about 40 billion hours a year just collecting water. Madagascar is estimated to hold 21 billion cubic metres of natural water resources, but due to extreme rain weather conditions, has changed its expectations. People rely on wastewater to purify it, and, moreover, industries are not helping at all. Other such instances include Lake Victoria, well after Djibouti, which has become a base for 14 countries. Pollution is not even a question here. The megadrought in Chile is the longest and most severe in centuries. The California region in the US is suffering from a historic drought. A state of emergency has been declared in Northern Italy as they face a situation of drought. Europe is currently facing a strong heat wave in different regions and states. Another component is pollution. The Nairobi River in Kenya is full of plastic. The Cerro Prieto dam will no longer be able to supply water to the people of Nuevo León, which is initially practically empty. Tunisia is suffering from water scarcity due to a lack of governance over water resources. But now the question that arises is, are we even thinking of this or just neglecting it because our priorities are set? Carbon emissions, overconsumption, affordability, ecotoxicity, biodiversity loss, and so on. There will be a time when everyone will start fetching their own water, and then they'll know the value of each ounce of water. Millions of lives are at stake in regions of Mena, especially in Lebanon. It is better to make yearly plans just like what we've seen in COP 26 Glasgow. So, in the end, the fate of this crisis lies in our hands. Remember, "Be an exception in this world rather than waiting for someone." Humanity shall prevail!

Is water going to be the next reason for global crisis?

According to a media report, Saudi Arabia is embarking on an ambitious plan to build the world’s largest structure in the northwest of the kingdom.

What is Saudi Arabia’s $1 trillion mirrored skyscraper plan in Neom?

The outbreak of monkeypox, which has afflicted nearly 16,000 people in 72 countries, was classified as a global health emergency on Saturday by the World Health Organization, the highest alert it can issue. According to a count released on July 20 by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), monkeypox has afflicted over 15,800 persons in 72 countries. Since early May, there has been an increase in monkeypox cases outside of the West and Central African nations where the illness has long been endemic. On June 23, the WHO established an emergency committee (EC) of experts to determine if monkeypox qualifies as a PHEIC, the highest degree of alert recognised by the UN health organisation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-virus-in-semen-who-probes-if-its-a-sexually-transmitted-disease-488597">Monkeypox virus in semen? WHO probes if it's a sexually transmitted disease</a>

<h2>What is Monkeypox and what are the latest symptoms of Monkeypox?</h2>

According to CDC of the US,&nbsp;Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the Monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus belongs to the&nbsp;Orthopoxvirus&nbsp;genus in the family&nbsp;Poxviridae.&nbsp;The first human case of Monkeypox was recorded in 1970. Since then, Monkeypox virus has been reported in people in several central and western African countries. The latest symptoms of Monkeypox include fever, rashes all over the body, severe headache, fatigue, and enlarged lymph nodes. The incubation period&nbsp;of Monkeypox virus is usually from 6 to 13 days, but it can range from five to 21 days. The skin eruption usually begins within 1–3 days of appearance of fever.&nbsp;The rash tends to be more concentrated on the face and extremities rather than on the trunk.

Watch |&nbsp;WHO to rename Monkeypox, scientists call for a non discriminatory name

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&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Monkeypox virus&nbsp;spreading so fast?</h2>

The main reason for the Monkeypox outbreak and the virus spreading&nbsp;so fast is the carelessness of people. Even after the cases increasing day by day, people are not taking the required precautions. Currently, no countries have applied any travel restrictions. These were also one of the reason in the increase in number of Covid-19&nbsp;cases earlier, and the same case is seen in Monkeypox.

<h2>Spread through sexual activity: Report</h2>

The largest study to date, involving 528 individuals in 16 nations, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and found that 95% of cases were spread through sexual activity.&nbsp;

Approximately a third of those affected were known to have gone to sex-on-site locations like sex parties or saunas within the previous month. Overall, 98 percent of those infected were gay or bisexual men.

&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-monkeypox-cases-rise-in-us-cdc-issues-new-guidance-488894">&nbsp;As monkeypox cases rise in US, CDC issues new guidance</a>

<h2>CDC Sex Guidelines related to Monkeypox</h2>

Yes, you heard it right! Monkeypox can spread through&nbsp;sexual intercourse or direct physical contact. Though CDC suggests to avoid direct physical contact, it has&nbsp;given some sex guidelines to prevent the spread of Monkeypox.&nbsp;Here are some of them:

1.&nbsp;Have virtual sex with no in-person contact.

2.&nbsp;Masturbate together at a distance of at least 6 feet, without touching each other and without touching any rash or sores.

3. Consider having intercourse&nbsp;with your clothes on or covering areas where rash or sores are present, reducing as much skin-to-skin contact as possible.

4.Avoid kissing.

5. Remember to wash your hands, bed sheets and other things used.&nbsp;

6. Limit your number of partners to avoid opportunities for Monkeypox to spread.

See the infographic below,

<img alt="Sexual guidelines by CDC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c73ba9f-e267-4901-9d98-1b160b3b6f82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/monkeypox.jpg" />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Why should India get battle-ready for Monkeypox?</h2>

Many new countries like South Korea and Singapore have started to report cases of Monkeypox.&nbsp;According to latest reports, the virus is now spreading from person to person even in non-endemic countries. India should also get ready and take the necessary precautions as the Monkeypox virus can also enter India any day. The government should apply necessary travel restrictions. Vaccines should be given to the one's who have not got it yet and senior citizens and small children should try to stay indoors. India has to prepare itself to not face situations like it did in the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The outbreak of monkeypox, which has afflicted nearly 16,000 people in 72 countries, was classified as a global health emergency on Saturday by the World Health Organization, the highest alert it can issue.

The outbreak of monkeypox, which has afflicted nearly 16,000 people in 72 countries, was classified as a global health emergency on Saturday by the World Health Organization, the highest alert it can issue. According to a count released on July 20 by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), monkeypox has afflicted over 15,800 persons in 72 countries. Since early May, there has been an increase in monkeypox cases outside of the West and Central African nations where the illness has long been endemic. On June 23, the WHO established an emergency committee (EC) of experts to determine if monkeypox qualifies as a PHEIC, the highest degree of alert recognised by the UN health organisation. Also read | Monkeypox virus in semen? WHO probes if it's a sexually transmitted disease What is Monkeypox and what are the latest symptoms of Monkeypox? According to CDC of the US, Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the Monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The first human case of Monkeypox was recorded in 1970. Since then, Monkeypox virus has been reported in people in several central and western African countries. The latest symptoms of Monkeypox include fever, rashes all over the body, severe headache, fatigue, and enlarged lymph nodes. The incubation period of Monkeypox virus is usually from 6 to 13 days, but it can range from five to 21 days. The skin eruption usually begins within 1–3 days of appearance of fever. The rash tends to be more concentrated on the face and extremities rather than on the trunk. Watch | WHO to rename Monkeypox, scientists call for a non discriminatory name Why is Monkeypox virus spreading so fast? The main reason for the Monkeypox outbreak and the virus spreading so fast is the carelessness of people. Even after the cases increasing day by day, people are not taking the required precautions. Currently, no countries have applied any travel restrictions. These were also one of the reason in the increase in number of Covid-19 cases earlier, and the same case is seen in Monkeypox. Spread through sexual activity: Report The largest study to date, involving 528 individuals in 16 nations, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and found that 95% of cases were spread through sexual activity. Approximately a third of those affected were known to have gone to sex-on-site locations like sex parties or saunas within the previous month. Overall, 98 percent of those infected were gay or bisexual men. Also read | As monkeypox cases rise in US, CDC issues new guidance CDC Sex Guidelines related to Monkeypox Yes, you heard it right! Monkeypox can spread through sexual intercourse or direct physical contact. Though CDC suggests to avoid direct physical contact, it has given some sex guidelines to prevent the spread of Monkeypox. Here are some of them: 1. Have virtual sex with no in-person contact. 2. Masturbate together at a distance of at least 6 feet, without touching each other and without touching any rash or sores. 3. Consider having intercourse with your clothes on or covering areas where rash or sores are present, reducing as much skin-to-skin contact as possible. 4.Avoid kissing. 5. Remember to wash your hands, bed sheets and other things used. 6. Limit your number of partners to avoid opportunities for Monkeypox to spread. See the infographic below, Why should India get battle-ready for Monkeypox? Many new countries like South Korea and Singapore have started to report cases of Monkeypox. According to latest reports, the virus is now spreading from person to person even in non-endemic countries. India should also get ready and take the necessary precautions as the Monkeypox virus can also enter India any day. The government should apply necessary travel restrictions. Vaccines should be given to the one's who have not got it yet and senior citizens and small children should try to stay indoors. India has to prepare itself to not face situations like it did in the COVID-19 outbreak. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Monkeypox: WHO declares global health emergency; why India should get battle ready?

The world is moving toward a recession. IMF chief warned that the outlook for the global economy has darkened significantly, which means output and earnings are falling. Then, how are some countries experiencing job growth?

How are some countries experiencing 'job miracle' when world is moving towards recession?

It's not just record inflation that is proving to be a headache for global economists, analysis are also afraid of stagflation. The S&P global market intelligence has issued a warning on the potential rise in corporate defaults if stack stagnation strikes.

World turns to Stagflation from Inflation?

The world is reporting a fresh surge in COVID-19 outbreaks driven by the Omicron variant. China has recorded 450 local infections in a day. Meanwhile, Macao has decided to keep its casinos shut till Friday.

Omicron variant driving fresh COVID-19 outbreaks worldwide

It's not just America that is recording high costs. We take a look at some of the other countries also fighting soaring inflation.

The Full Context: The countries with high inflation right now

Many parts of the US, especially Texas are suffering from the scorching heat. It was so intense that, at least 10 heat records were broken in&nbsp;cities across the central and Southwest&nbsp;US over the weekend. A few weeks back also, the US suffered from a heat wave with rapidly rising temperatures. According to the National Weather Service, heat kills more people in the US than any other type of severe weather condition does. It is also expected that the high temperatures will continue this week as well. This time, the records have shattered those set even a decade ago, while some rose to six degrees more than the records. The respective authorities have advised people to not go out unless it is important and to keep themselves hydrated to prevent heat strokes and dehydration.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is it so hot in Texas right now?</h2>

According to the National Weather Service, the heatwave this time is "oppressive and dangerous". According to a report by Weather Service, Frank Pereira, who is a meteorologist, said that "about 50 million people in the nation are under heat warnings or advisories". The heat conditions are so intense that they have created drought conditions in much of East Texas with 100-plus degree temperatures. The reason for this is considered to be a "heat dome", according to experts, which&nbsp;occurs when the&nbsp;atmosphere traps hot ocean air&nbsp;like a lid or cap. The conditions even remind some of the extreme Texas summers in 2011. According to a report by KLTV,&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;John Nielsen-Gammon, who is a Texas A&amp;M climatologist, said, “We get the super-hot summertime temperatures when the ground dries out, and&nbsp;it’s dried out early".&nbsp;

<h2>Do heat wave sunglasses work?</h2>

As heat is gripping in the United States, people have started to take measures to keep themselves protected as well. Though the authorities have advised people to stay indoors if possible, large crowds can be seen on beaches and other areas to minimize the effect of the heat. With applying sunscreens and drinking enough water, heat sunglasses are gaining popularity in the US. They are super light in weight and built from&nbsp;special materials&nbsp;to protect our eyes from heat and harmful UV rays. Most people say that these sunglasses do work and have helped them a lot when they go out. Sales of the sunglasses are also increasing.&nbsp;

<h2>Heat waves in other areas of the US&nbsp;</h2>

Not just Texas but many parts of the US are suffering from extreme heat conditions. A record-breaking temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit&nbsp;was reported in Colorado. It&nbsp;surpassed the record of 98 degrees last year. While, at Tulsa,&nbsp;the temperature was recorded at 105 degrees, and surpassed&nbsp;the 2001 high of 99 degrees. Other cities like Muskogee, McAlester,&nbsp;Fayetteville, and Fort Smith&nbsp;also recorded record-breaking temperatures.&nbsp;

<h2>When will this heatwave end?</h2>

According to a report by&nbsp;Bauer, a cold front is moving towards North and South Dakota, as of Sunday, i.e., July 10, and this could bring&nbsp;relief in areas like Denver. However, no official information is given by experts or authorities regarding the end of the heatwave in other areas, especially in Texas. The strength of the heat dome is much more this time, hence it will take some time for the temperatures to decrease. Everyone hopes that the conditions become normal soon.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Many parts of the US, especially Texas are suffering from the scorching heat. It was so intense that, at least 10 heat records were broken in cities across the central and Southwest US over the weekend.

Many parts of the US, especially Texas are suffering from the scorching heat. It was so intense that, at least 10 heat records were broken in cities across the central and Southwest US over the weekend. A few weeks back also, the US suffered from a heat wave with rapidly rising temperatures. According to the National Weather Service, heat kills more people in the US than any other type of severe weather condition does. It is also expected that the high temperatures will continue this week as well. This time, the records have shattered those set even a decade ago, while some rose to six degrees more than the records. The respective authorities have advised people to not go out unless it is important and to keep themselves hydrated to prevent heat strokes and dehydration. Why is it so hot in Texas right now? According to the National Weather Service, the heatwave this time is "oppressive and dangerous". According to a report by Weather Service, Frank Pereira, who is a meteorologist, said that "about 50 million people in the nation are under heat warnings or advisories". The heat conditions are so intense that they have created drought conditions in much of East Texas with 100-plus degree temperatures. The reason for this is considered to be a "heat dome", according to experts, which occurs when the atmosphere traps hot ocean air like a lid or cap. The conditions even remind some of the extreme Texas summers in 2011. According to a report by KLTV, Dr John Nielsen-Gammon, who is a Texas A&M climatologist, said, “We get the super-hot summertime temperatures when the ground dries out, and it’s dried out early". Do heat wave sunglasses work? As heat is gripping in the United States, people have started to take measures to keep themselves protected as well. Though the authorities have advised people to stay indoors if possible, large crowds can be seen on beaches and other areas to minimize the effect of the heat. With applying sunscreens and drinking enough water, heat sunglasses are gaining popularity in the US. They are super light in weight and built from special materials to protect our eyes from heat and harmful UV rays. Most people say that these sunglasses do work and have helped them a lot when they go out. Sales of the sunglasses are also increasing. Heat waves in other areas of the US Not just Texas but many parts of the US are suffering from extreme heat conditions. A record-breaking temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit was reported in Colorado. It surpassed the record of 98 degrees last year. While, at Tulsa, the temperature was recorded at 105 degrees, and surpassed the 2001 high of 99 degrees. Other cities like Muskogee, McAlester, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith also recorded record-breaking temperatures. When will this heatwave end? According to a report by Bauer, a cold front is moving towards North and South Dakota, as of Sunday, i.e., July 10, and this could bring relief in areas like Denver. However, no official information is given by experts or authorities regarding the end of the heatwave in other areas, especially in Texas. The strength of the heat dome is much more this time, hence it will take some time for the temperatures to decrease. Everyone hopes that the conditions become normal soon.

US heatwave: Know about heatwave in Texas and other areas. When will this end?

Thousand of people from across the globe are celebrating Eid al-Adha today. Watch this special report on WION.

Eid celebrations across the globe: Thousands offer prayers

Sri Lanka has become synonymous with economic disasters. Now, the question is are there any other countries that might go Lanka way? 1.2 billion people live in severely vulnerable economies, watch this report!

Are others staring at Sri Lanka's fate? WION studies 7 vulnerable economies

Thousands offer prayers as world celebrates Eid al-Adha

Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting.

A missile strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv wounded three civilians, its governor said, though Russia's main attacks appeared focused southeast of there in Luhansk and Donetsk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pledges-to-send-400-million-in-weapons-to-ukraine-including-more-himars-systems-495716">US pledges to send $400 million in weapons to Ukraine, including more HIMARS systems</a>

The two provinces, swathes of which were already held by pro-Russian separatists before Russia's invasion in February, comprise the eastern industrial region of the Donbas.

Ukrainian officials reported strikes in both on Saturday, while Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a regular bulletin that Moscow was assembling reserve forces from across Russia near Ukraine.

Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on the Telegram messaging service that a Russian missile had struck Druzhkivka, a town behind the front line, and reported shelling of other population centres.

Luhansk Governor Serhiy Gaidai said on Telegram that Russian forces were "firing along the entire front line", but later said a Ukrainian counter-attack had hit Russian weapons and ammunition stores and forced Moscow to halt its offensive.

Russia, which claimed control over all of Luhansk province last weekend, denies targeting civilians.

Watch |&nbsp;No end to the Ukraine-Russia war in sight as Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Dnipro

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-end-to-the-ukraine-russia-war-in-sight-as-ukrainian-president-zelensky-visits-dnipro-495781/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Friday, Ukraine had pleaded for more of the high-end weapons from the West that Kyiv said had thus far enabled it to slow Russia's advance.

Hours later, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden signed a new weapons package for Ukraine worth up to 400 million dollars, including four additional high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS).&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for armaments he said were priority needs. "It is what helps us press on the enemy", he said on Twitter.

Commenting on the supply of weapons, the Russian embassy in Washington said the United States wanted to "prolong the conflict at all costs" and compensate for Ukrainian military losses.

<h2>"SANCTIONS MUST BE STEPPED UP"</h2>

On Saturday US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging the international community to condemn Russian aggression, said he had raised concerns with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, over Beijing's alignment with Moscow, during talks that lasted over five hours.

Blinken spoke to journalists from the Indonesian island of Bali after a gathering on Friday of G20 foreign ministers. Russia's Sergei Lavrov had walked out of a meeting there, denouncing the West for its "frenzied criticism".

Shortly before the Feb&nbsp;24 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Beijing and Moscow announced a "no limits" partnership, although US&nbsp;officials have said they have not seen China evade tough U.S.-led sanctions on Russia or provide it with military equipment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-signs-russia-ready-to-engage-after-g20-snub-says-us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-495891">'No signs' Russia ready to engage after G20 snub, says US Secretary of State Antony Blinken</a>

Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that, as well as the missile strike on the city, fighters had repulsed two Russian attacks near Dementiivka, a town situated between the city and the border with Russia.

Russia's defence ministry said its forces hit two "bases of foreign mercenaries deployed near Kharkiv".

Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov also said two Ukrainian Su-25 aircraft had been shot down in the southern Mykolaiv region, and that it had destroyed five ammunition depots there and in the eastern regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk.

Russian-backed forces on the territory of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said three people died and 17 were wounded there in the past 24 hours. It said Ukrainian forces had shelled 10 locations in the region.

<h2>SANCTIONS PLEA</h2>

Following Friday's testy G20 meeting, President Vladimir Putin also signalled that the Kremlin was in no mood for compromise, saying sanctions against Russia risked causing "catastrophic" energy price rises.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Saturday that sanctions were working, and echoed calls for more deliveries of high-precision Western weapons.

"Russians desperately try to lift those sanctions which proves that they do hurt them. Therefore, sanctions must be stepped up until Putin drops his aggressive plans or simply loses resources to fill or execute them", he told a forum in Dubrovnik by videolink.

Russia's ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, on Friday offered little prospect of a pullback from parts of Ukraine under Russian control and said Russian troops would capture the rest of Donbas.

Russia, which has also seized a big chunk of territory across Ukraine's south, says it wants to wrest control of the Donbas.

Since Russia started what it calls a special operation to demilitarize Ukraine, cities have been bombed to rubble, thousands have been killed, and millions displaced.

Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia is engaged in an unprovoked land grab.

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Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting.

Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting. A missile strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv wounded three civilians, its governor said, though Russia's main attacks appeared focused southeast of there in Luhansk and Donetsk. Also read | US pledges to send $400 million in weapons to Ukraine, including more HIMARS systems The two provinces, swathes of which were already held by pro-Russian separatists before Russia's invasion in February, comprise the eastern industrial region of the Donbas. Ukrainian officials reported strikes in both on Saturday, while Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a regular bulletin that Moscow was assembling reserve forces from across Russia near Ukraine. Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on the Telegram messaging service that a Russian missile had struck Druzhkivka, a town behind the front line, and reported shelling of other population centres. Luhansk Governor Serhiy Gaidai said on Telegram that Russian forces were "firing along the entire front line", but later said a Ukrainian counter-attack had hit Russian weapons and ammunition stores and forced Moscow to halt its offensive. Russia, which claimed control over all of Luhansk province last weekend, denies targeting civilians. Watch | No end to the Ukraine-Russia war in sight as Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Dnipro On Friday, Ukraine had pleaded for more of the high-end weapons from the West that Kyiv said had thus far enabled it to slow Russia's advance. Hours later, US President Joe Biden signed a new weapons package for Ukraine worth up to 400 million dollars, including four additional high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for armaments he said were priority needs. "It is what helps us press on the enemy", he said on Twitter. Commenting on the supply of weapons, the Russian embassy in Washington said the United States wanted to "prolong the conflict at all costs" and compensate for Ukrainian military losses. "SANCTIONS MUST BE STEPPED UP" On Saturday US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging the international community to condemn Russian aggression, said he had raised concerns with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, over Beijing's alignment with Moscow, during talks that lasted over five hours. Blinken spoke to journalists from the Indonesian island of Bali after a gathering on Friday of G20 foreign ministers. Russia's Sergei Lavrov had walked out of a meeting there, denouncing the West for its "frenzied criticism". Shortly before the Feb 24 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Beijing and Moscow announced a "no limits" partnership, although US officials have said they have not seen China evade tough U.S.-led sanctions on Russia or provide it with military equipment. Also read | 'No signs' Russia ready to engage after G20 snub, says US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that, as well as the missile strike on the city, fighters had repulsed two Russian attacks near Dementiivka, a town situated between the city and the border with Russia. Russia's defence ministry said its forces hit two "bases of foreign mercenaries deployed near Kharkiv". Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov also said two Ukrainian Su-25 aircraft had been shot down in the southern Mykolaiv region, and that it had destroyed five ammunition depots there and in the eastern regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk. Russian-backed forces on the territory of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said three people died and 17 were wounded there in the past 24 hours. It said Ukrainian forces had shelled 10 locations in the region. SANCTIONS PLEA Following Friday's testy G20 meeting, President Vladimir Putin also signalled that the Kremlin was in no mood for compromise, saying sanctions against Russia risked causing "catastrophic" energy price rises. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Saturday that sanctions were working, and echoed calls for more deliveries of high-precision Western weapons. "Russians desperately try to lift those sanctions which proves that they do hurt them. Therefore, sanctions must be stepped up until Putin drops his aggressive plans or simply loses resources to fill or execute them", he told a forum in Dubrovnik by videolink. Russia's ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, on Friday offered little prospect of a pullback from parts of Ukraine under Russian control and said Russian troops would capture the rest of Donbas. Russia, which has also seized a big chunk of territory across Ukraine's south, says it wants to wrest control of the Donbas. Since Russia started what it calls a special operation to demilitarize Ukraine, cities have been bombed to rubble, thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia is engaged in an unprovoked land grab. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia threatens broad Ukraine offensive as US presses China over war stance

Rogers&nbsp;Telecommunications said its&nbsp;network&nbsp;was beginning to recover late on Friday&nbsp;after&nbsp;a 19-hour service&nbsp;outage&nbsp;at one of Canada's biggest telecom operators shut banking, transport, and government access for&nbsp;millions, drawing outrage from customers and adding to criticism over its industry dominance.

Nearly every facet of life has been disrupted, with the&nbsp;outage&nbsp;affecting internet access, cell phone, and landline phone connections. Some callers could not reach emergency services via 911 calls, police across Canada said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-concerned-as-canadas-national-police-force-admits-use-of-spyware-to-hack-phones-495602">Experts concerned as Canada's national police force admits use of spyware to hack phones</a>

Canadians&nbsp;crowded into cafes and public libraries that still had internet access and hovered outside hotels to catch a signal. Canada's border services agency said the&nbsp;outage&nbsp;affected its mobile app for incoming travelers. Retailers&nbsp;cashless pay systems went down and&nbsp;banks reported issues with ATM services.

Rogers said in a statement&nbsp;that "our wireless services are starting to recover&nbsp;and workers are trying to get people back online as quickly as possible".

In a separate statement,&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;President and Chief Executive Officer Tony Staffieri apologized for the&nbsp;outage, saying,&nbsp;"Today we let you down. We can and will do better".

He added that the company doesn't have a timeline on when the&nbsp;networks will be fully restored, "but we will continue to share information with our customers as we restore full services".

He said a credit would be applied to affected customers.

A spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino said Friday evening that the&nbsp;outage&nbsp;was not the result of a cyber attack.

Rogers' shares closed down 73 cents at C$61.54 ($47.53)&nbsp;on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

The disruption also made transport and flight bookings more difficult at the height of the summer travel season.

So far, Transport Canada has not received reports of direct safety or security impacts to any flights, marine, or rail services as part of this&nbsp;outage, according to spokesperson Sau Liu.

The interruption was&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;second in 15 months. It began around 4:30 am&nbsp;ET (0830 GMT) and knocked out a quarter of Canada's observable internet connectivity, said the NetBlocks monitoring group.

Watch |&nbsp;Canada: Network outage draws customer criticism as Rogers telecom faces network failure

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With about 10 million wireless subscribers and 2.25 million retail internet subscribers,&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;is the top provider in Ontario, Canada's most populous province and home to its biggest city, Toronto.&nbsp;Rogers, BCE Inc, and Telus Corp control 90% of the market share in Canada.

Canadian Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne in a tweet called the situation "unacceptable" and said he was in communication with telecom CEOs, including those from&nbsp;Rogers, Bell, and Telus, to find a solution.

Canadian financial institutions and banks, including Toronto-Dominion Bank and Bank Of Montreal, said the&nbsp;outage&nbsp;disrupted services. Royal Bank of Canada said its ATMs and online banking services were affected.

A spokesperson for Vancouver International airport, among Canada's busiest, said travelers could not pay for parking, use terminal ATMs, or purchase items at airport retailers.

Air Canada, the country's largest airline, said its call center had been affected. Airlines in Canada, like those in Europe and the United States, have been experiencing high call volume amid flight cancellations and delays due to pandemic staffing shortages.

Pop star the Weeknd on Friday evening announced that his tour stop at the&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;Centre stadium had been postponed due to service&nbsp;outages affecting venue operations.

"I'm crushed &amp; heartbroken. Been at the venue all day but it's out of our hands because of the&nbsp;Rogers&nbsp;outage", the singer wrote in a tweet.

<h2>COMPETITION</h2>

Critics said the&nbsp;outage&nbsp;demonstrated a need for more competition in telecom.

Earlier this year, Canada's competition bureau blocked&nbsp;Rogers' attempt to take over rival Shaw Communications in a C$20 billion deal, saying it would hamper competition in a country where telecom rates are some of the world's highest. The merger still awaits a final verdict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-takers-for-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-canada-will-throw-away-136-million-expired-doses-494935">No takers for AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Canada will throw away 13.6 million expired doses</a>

"Today's&nbsp;outage&nbsp;illustrates the need for more independent competition that will drive more&nbsp;network&nbsp;investment so&nbsp;outages are far less likely", said Anthony Lacavera, managing director of Globalive, an investment firm that had bid for a wireless provider involved in the&nbsp;Rogers/Shaw deal.

On Friday, some government agencies canceled services&nbsp;after&nbsp;losing internet access, including Canada's passport offices and the telecoms regulator. The Canada Revenue Agency, the country's tax collection body, lost telephone service.

<h2>"CASH WILL BE KING"</h2>

Shops and restaurants in Toronto put "Cash Only" signs on their doors. Residents crowded into and around a nearby Starbucks coffee shop offering free Wi-Fi on an unaffected&nbsp;network.

"There are tons of people here with their laptops just working away ferociously, the same as they would at home because they've got no service at home", said Starbucks customer Ken Rosenstein.

In downtown Ottawa, Canada's capital, cafes including Tim Hortons were not accepting debit and credit cards and were turning away customers who did not have cash.

Michelle Wasylyshen, the spokeswoman for the Retail Council of Canada, said&nbsp;outages would vary from one retailer to the next and that&nbsp;"cash will most certainly be king at many stores today".

While the disruptions were widespread, several companies and transport points said their services were unaffected. The Port of Montreal reported no disruptions. The Calgary Airport Authority said it had "no&nbsp;major&nbsp;operational impacts".

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Rogers Telecommunications said its network was beginning to recover late on Friday after a 19-hour service outage at one of Canada's biggest telecom operators shut banking, transport, and government access for millions, drawing outrage from customers and adding to criticism over its industry dominance.

Rogers Telecommunications said its network was beginning to recover late on Friday after a 19-hour service outage at one of Canada's biggest telecom operators shut banking, transport, and government access for millions, drawing outrage from customers and adding to criticism over its industry dominance. Nearly every facet of life has been disrupted, with the outage affecting internet access, cell phone, and landline phone connections. Some callers could not reach emergency services via 911 calls, police across Canada said. Also read | Experts concerned as Canada's national police force admits use of spyware to hack phones Canadians crowded into cafes and public libraries that still had internet access and hovered outside hotels to catch a signal. Canada's border services agency said the outage affected its mobile app for incoming travelers. Retailers cashless pay systems went down and banks reported issues with ATM services. Rogers said in a statement that "our wireless services are starting to recover and workers are trying to get people back online as quickly as possible". In a separate statement, Rogers President and Chief Executive Officer Tony Staffieri apologized for the outage, saying, "Today we let you down. We can and will do better". He added that the company doesn't have a timeline on when the networks will be fully restored, "but we will continue to share information with our customers as we restore full services". He said a credit would be applied to affected customers. A spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino said Friday evening that the outage was not the result of a cyber attack. Rogers' shares closed down 73 cents at C$61.54 ($47.53) on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The disruption also made transport and flight bookings more difficult at the height of the summer travel season. So far, Transport Canada has not received reports of direct safety or security impacts to any flights, marine, or rail services as part of this outage, according to spokesperson Sau Liu. The interruption was Rogers second in 15 months. It began around 4:30 am ET (0830 GMT) and knocked out a quarter of Canada's observable internet connectivity, said the NetBlocks monitoring group. Watch | Canada: Network outage draws customer criticism as Rogers telecom faces network failure With about 10 million wireless subscribers and 2.25 million retail internet subscribers, Rogers is the top provider in Ontario, Canada's most populous province and home to its biggest city, Toronto. Rogers, BCE Inc, and Telus Corp control 90% of the market share in Canada. Canadian Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne in a tweet called the situation "unacceptable" and said he was in communication with telecom CEOs, including those from Rogers, Bell, and Telus, to find a solution. Canadian financial institutions and banks, including Toronto-Dominion Bank and Bank Of Montreal, said the outage disrupted services. Royal Bank of Canada said its ATMs and online banking services were affected. A spokesperson for Vancouver International airport, among Canada's busiest, said travelers could not pay for parking, use terminal ATMs, or purchase items at airport retailers. Air Canada, the country's largest airline, said its call center had been affected. Airlines in Canada, like those in Europe and the United States, have been experiencing high call volume amid flight cancellations and delays due to pandemic staffing shortages. Pop star the Weeknd on Friday evening announced that his tour stop at the Rogers Centre stadium had been postponed due to service outages affecting venue operations. "I'm crushed & heartbroken. Been at the venue all day but it's out of our hands because of the Rogers outage", the singer wrote in a tweet. COMPETITION Critics said the outage demonstrated a need for more competition in telecom. Earlier this year, Canada's competition bureau blocked Rogers' attempt to take over rival Shaw Communications in a C$20 billion deal, saying it would hamper competition in a country where telecom rates are some of the world's highest. The merger still awaits a final verdict. Also read | No takers for AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Canada will throw away 13.6 million expired doses "Today's outage illustrates the need for more independent competition that will drive more network investment so outages are far less likely", said Anthony Lacavera, managing director of Globalive, an investment firm that had bid for a wireless provider involved in the Rogers/Shaw deal. On Friday, some government agencies canceled services after losing internet access, including Canada's passport offices and the telecoms regulator. The Canada Revenue Agency, the country's tax collection body, lost telephone service. "CASH WILL BE KING" Shops and restaurants in Toronto put "Cash Only" signs on their doors. Residents crowded into and around a nearby Starbucks coffee shop offering free Wi-Fi on an unaffected network. "There are tons of people here with their laptops just working away ferociously, the same as they would at home because they've got no service at home", said Starbucks customer Ken Rosenstein. In downtown Ottawa, Canada's capital, cafes including Tim Hortons were not accepting debit and credit cards and were turning away customers who did not have cash. Michelle Wasylyshen, the spokeswoman for the Retail Council of Canada, said outages would vary from one retailer to the next and that "cash will most certainly be king at many stores today". While the disruptions were widespread, several companies and transport points said their services were unaffected. The Port of Montreal reported no disruptions. The Calgary Airport Authority said it had "no major operational impacts". 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Rogers network resuming after major outage hits millions of Canadians

Australian Foreign Minister Penny&nbsp;Wong&nbsp;said a&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;with her Chinese counterpart was "a&nbsp;first step&nbsp;towards&nbsp;stabilising&nbsp;the&nbsp;relationship" but it would take time for Beijing to remove trade "blockages" on Australia.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met&nbsp;Wong&nbsp;on the sidelines of the G20&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;in Bali on Friday evening, the first&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;between foreign ministers of the major trading partners in three years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australia-to-offer-fourth-jab-amid-new-omicron-variants-threat-495305">COVID-19: Australia to offer fourth shot amid new Omicron variants threat</a>

"We both recognised it is the&nbsp;first step", Wong&nbsp;told reporters after the&nbsp;meeting.

She had raised the cases of detained Australian journalists Cheng Lei and Yang Hengjun, and the "trade blockages"&nbsp;China&nbsp;has imposed on Australian products, she said.

"It remains the government's position that those trade blockages should be removed",&nbsp;she said.

China&nbsp;is&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;largest trading partner and the biggest customer for its iron ore, but relations have deteriorated in recent years.

China&nbsp;imposed trade sanctions on Australian products ranging from coal to seafood and wine in response to policies and decisions such as Canberra's call for an investigation into the origins of Covid-19, its 5G network ban on Huawei, and foreign interference investigations.

Watch |&nbsp;US-China relations: A Biden-Xi meeting possible this year? Blinken &amp; Wang call for 'normal ties'

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Beijing has called for Australia to take "concrete actions" to restart the&nbsp;relationship.

"We are a government that has made certain decisions on the basis of our national interests and our national security and our sovereignty and we won't be resiling from those", Wong&nbsp;said.

It was in&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;and&nbsp;China's interests for the&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;to be stabilised, however "that's going to take time", she added.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters ahead of the&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;on Friday that "a sound and steady&nbsp;China-Australia&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;is in the interests of both peoples".

"A steady and healthy political&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;is the prerequisite and guarantee for practical cooperation. There is no auto-pilot mode for improving&nbsp;China-Australia relations", he said at a regular briefing in Beijing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-subvariants-driving-fresh-covid-wave-in-australia-495285">Omicron subvariants driving fresh Covid wave in Australia</a>

The&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;between Australia and&nbsp;China&nbsp;in Bali comes days ahead of a Pacific islands leaders&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;in Fiji.&nbsp;China's push to extend its security ties in the South Pacific, which is opposed by Australia, will be discussed at the&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;in Fiji.

The "frank" discussion with Wang also covered the security and stability of the region,&nbsp;Wong&nbsp;said.

On Friday,&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Pacific region was in a period of strategic competition and&nbsp;China&nbsp;had become "more aggressive".

"Australia’s position is that we will continue to engage and co-operate, we want to co-operate with&nbsp;China&nbsp;where we can. But we will stand up for Australian values when we must", he told reporters in Sydney.

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Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said a meeting with her Chinese counterpart was "a first step towards stabilising the relationship" but it would take time for Beijing to remove trade "blockages" on Australia.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said a meeting with her Chinese counterpart was "a first step towards stabilising the relationship" but it would take time for Beijing to remove trade "blockages" on Australia. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Wong on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Bali on Friday evening, the first meeting between foreign ministers of the major trading partners in three years. Also read | COVID-19: Australia to offer fourth shot amid new Omicron variants threat "We both recognised it is the first step", Wong told reporters after the meeting. She had raised the cases of detained Australian journalists Cheng Lei and Yang Hengjun, and the "trade blockages" China has imposed on Australian products, she said. "It remains the government's position that those trade blockages should be removed", she said. China is Australia's largest trading partner and the biggest customer for its iron ore, but relations have deteriorated in recent years. China imposed trade sanctions on Australian products ranging from coal to seafood and wine in response to policies and decisions such as Canberra's call for an investigation into the origins of Covid-19, its 5G network ban on Huawei, and foreign interference investigations. Watch | US-China relations: A Biden-Xi meeting possible this year? Blinken & Wang call for 'normal ties' Beijing has called for Australia to take "concrete actions" to restart the relationship. "We are a government that has made certain decisions on the basis of our national interests and our national security and our sovereignty and we won't be resiling from those", Wong said. It was in Australia's and China's interests for the relationship to be stabilised, however "that's going to take time", she added. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters ahead of the meeting on Friday that "a sound and steady China-Australia relationship is in the interests of both peoples". "A steady and healthy political relationship is the prerequisite and guarantee for practical cooperation. There is no auto-pilot mode for improving China-Australia relations", he said at a regular briefing in Beijing. Also read | Omicron subvariants driving fresh Covid wave in Australia The meeting between Australia and China in Bali comes days ahead of a Pacific islands leaders meeting in Fiji. China's push to extend its security ties in the South Pacific, which is opposed by Australia, will be discussed at the meeting in Fiji. The "frank" discussion with Wang also covered the security and stability of the region, Wong said. On Friday, Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Pacific region was in a period of strategic competition and China had become "more aggressive". "Australia’s position is that we will continue to engage and co-operate, we want to co-operate with China where we can. But we will stand up for Australian values when we must", he told reporters in Sydney. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia's Wong says China meeting a 'first step' in stabilising relationship

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