Amazon&nbsp;has offered to share marketplace data with sellers and boost the visibility of rival products on its platform, trying to persuade EU antitrust regulators to close their investigations without a fine by the end of the year, people familiar with the matter said.

The world's largest online retailer is hoping its concessions will stave off a potential European Union fine that could be as much as 10 per cent&nbsp;of its global turnover.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-pull-the-plug-on-kindle-in-china-amid-growing-coemption-harsh-data-privacy-rules-484631">Amazon to pull the plug on Kindle in China amid growing coemption, harsh data privacy rules</a>

The European Commission 2020 charged&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;with using its size, power and data to push its own products and gain an unfair advantage over rival merchants that sell on its online platform.

It also launched an investigation into&nbsp;Amazon's possible preferential treatment of its own retail offers and those of marketplace sellers that use its logistics and delivery services.

Watch |&nbsp;Amazon stocks plunge as it reports $3.8 billion quarterly loss

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Amazon's process for choosing which retailer appears in the "buy box" on its website and which generates the bulk of its sales also came under the spotlight.

Amazon&nbsp;has now proposed to allow sellers access to some marketplace data while its commercial arm will not be able to use seller data collected by its retail unit, the people said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/employee-sues-amazon-after-being-fired-for-contracting-long-covid-and-asked-to-repay-12273-476148">Employee sues Amazon after being fired for contracting 'long Covid' and asked to repay $12,273</a>

The company will also create a second buy box for rival products in the event an&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;product appears in the first buy box, the people said.

The EU competition enforcer is expected to seek feedback from rivals and users in the coming weeks, which could lead to tweaks in the proposal and a final decision by the end of the year, the people said.

The Commission and&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;declined to comment.

The company had previously said it disagreed with the watchdog's assertions and that it represents less than 1 per cent&nbsp;of the global retail market.

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Amazon has offered to share marketplace data with sellers and boost the visibility of rival products on its platform, trying to persuade EU antitrust regulators to close their investigations without a fine by the end of the year, people familiar with the matter said.

Amazon has offered to share marketplace data with sellers and boost the visibility of rival products on its platform, trying to persuade EU antitrust regulators to close their investigations without a fine by the end of the year, people familiar with the matter said. The world's largest online retailer is hoping its concessions will stave off a potential European Union fine that could be as much as 10 per cent of its global turnover. Also read | Amazon to pull the plug on Kindle in China amid growing coemption, harsh data privacy rules The European Commission 2020 charged Amazon with using its size, power and data to push its own products and gain an unfair advantage over rival merchants that sell on its online platform. It also launched an investigation into Amazon's possible preferential treatment of its own retail offers and those of marketplace sellers that use its logistics and delivery services. Watch | Amazon stocks plunge as it reports $3.8 billion quarterly loss Amazon's process for choosing which retailer appears in the "buy box" on its website and which generates the bulk of its sales also came under the spotlight. Amazon has now proposed to allow sellers access to some marketplace data while its commercial arm will not be able to use seller data collected by its retail unit, the people said. Also read | Employee sues Amazon after being fired for contracting 'long Covid' and asked to repay $12,273 The company will also create a second buy box for rival products in the event an Amazon product appears in the first buy box, the people said. The EU competition enforcer is expected to seek feedback from rivals and users in the coming weeks, which could lead to tweaks in the proposal and a final decision by the end of the year, the people said. The Commission and Amazon declined to comment. The company had previously said it disagreed with the watchdog's assertions and that it represents less than 1 per cent of the global retail market. Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Amazon offers to share data, boost rivals to dodge EU antitrust fines

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI),&nbsp;the UK's leading business organisation&nbsp;has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s". It has&nbsp;warned the government that a stagnant economy will be 'set in stone' if it fails to take action ahead of the summer recess.&nbsp;The CBI further said that -&nbsp;"the countdown is&nbsp;on for the Prime Minister and the Chancellor to take necessary “critical action” to avoid the meltdown".&nbsp;CBI had lowered&nbsp;its growth outlook for this year from 5.1 per cent to 3.7 per cent while warning Britain about the possible threats, reports DailyMail.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rishi-sunak-accused-of-wasting-14-billion-in-debt-interest-payments-486795">UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments</a>

The agency also warned that with&nbsp;the cost of living crisis, airports straining to cope, and nationwide rail strikes planned and timed to coincide with Groundhog Day EU on Fighting Northern Ireland Protocol, the economy would be a distant second place for politics in the coming months.

It added that&nbsp;"we&nbsp;believe&nbsp;that inflation is expected to remain high in autumn, rising to 8.7 per cent in October, leading to a historic squeeze&nbsp;in household income, which will impact consumer spending".

CBI Director-General Tony Danker said,&nbsp;"Let me be clear – we are expecting the economy to be quite stable. It won’t take long for us to hit a recession, and even if we don’t, it will feel the same for many people".

He even asked the ministers&nbsp;to ‘stop taking unilateral action’ to fix trade problems in Northern Ireland.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mr Danker openly criticised the government saying that “You have conservative politicians pushing for their own ideological favourite in return for supporting the PM”.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK economy contracts in April: Economic output declined for the second month

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The agency further&nbsp;warned that Britain was headed for a ‘domestic recession’ as the citizens are facing problems due to the&nbsp;cost of living crisis.

The new Northern&nbsp;Ireland protocol upgrades the European Court of Justice to an advisory role and also focuses on&nbsp;repealing&nbsp;most EU checks on goods shipped to the province.

However, CBI also criticised this move, saying that "it may lead to trade disputes".

The CBI has called for measures, including measures to address the labour and skill shortage to overcome the situation and protect the future.&nbsp;

CBI Chief Economist Rain Newton-Smith said, "This is a tough set of figures to stomach. The war in Ukraine, a global pandemic, continued tensions on supply chains – all before Brexit – have proven to be a toxic recipe for the UK’s growth".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-largest-trade-union-warns-healthcare-staff-calling-in-sick-as-they-cannot-afford-to-cars-with-petrol-486938">UK's largest trade union warns healthcare staff calling in sick as they cannot afford to fill cars with petrol</a>

"The bottom line is that the outlook for UK exports is far worse than that of our worldwide competitors. It has to be changed for the better. ‘Business and government must work together to seek development globally", he added.

In a separate warning, the CBI said that the UK is headed for a ‘domestic recession’ in which people’s spending will fall from the second quarter of this year to 2023. It said it could leave the entire economy on the "brink of a crisis&nbsp;recession".

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the UK's leading business organisation has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s".

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the UK's leading business organisation has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s". It has warned the government that a stagnant economy will be 'set in stone' if it fails to take action ahead of the summer recess. The CBI further said that - "the countdown is on for the Prime Minister and the Chancellor to take necessary “critical action” to avoid the meltdown". CBI had lowered its growth outlook for this year from 5.1 per cent to 3.7 per cent while warning Britain about the possible threats, reports DailyMail. Also read | UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments The agency also warned that with the cost of living crisis, airports straining to cope, and nationwide rail strikes planned and timed to coincide with Groundhog Day EU on Fighting Northern Ireland Protocol, the economy would be a distant second place for politics in the coming months. It added that "we believe that inflation is expected to remain high in autumn, rising to 8.7 per cent in October, leading to a historic squeeze in household income, which will impact consumer spending". CBI Director-General Tony Danker said, "Let me be clear – we are expecting the economy to be quite stable. It won’t take long for us to hit a recession, and even if we don’t, it will feel the same for many people". He even asked the ministers to ‘stop taking unilateral action’ to fix trade problems in Northern Ireland. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mr Danker openly criticised the government saying that “You have conservative politicians pushing for their own ideological favourite in return for supporting the PM”. Watch | UK economy contracts in April: Economic output declined for the second month The agency further warned that Britain was headed for a ‘domestic recession’ as the citizens are facing problems due to the cost of living crisis. The new Northern Ireland protocol upgrades the European Court of Justice to an advisory role and also focuses on repealing most EU checks on goods shipped to the province. However, CBI also criticised this move, saying that "it may lead to trade disputes". The CBI has called for measures, including measures to address the labour and skill shortage to overcome the situation and protect the future. CBI Chief Economist Rain Newton-Smith said, "This is a tough set of figures to stomach. The war in Ukraine, a global pandemic, continued tensions on supply chains – all before Brexit – have proven to be a toxic recipe for the UK’s growth". Also read | UK's largest trade union warns healthcare staff calling in sick as they cannot afford to fill cars with petrol "The bottom line is that the outlook for UK exports is far worse than that of our worldwide competitors. It has to be changed for the better. ‘Business and government must work together to seek development globally", he added. In a separate warning, the CBI said that the UK is headed for a ‘domestic recession’ in which people’s spending will fall from the second quarter of this year to 2023. It said it could leave the entire economy on the "brink of a crisis recession". (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s, industry body warns

Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday.

The sacred "Kapilvastu relics"&nbsp;were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft and will be displayed for 11 days at the Ganden Tegchenling Monastery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dalai-lama-buddhist-spiritual-leaders-from-12-countries-participate-in-indian-govt-co-hosted-event-479318">Dalai Lama, Buddhist spiritual leaders from 12 countries participate in Indian govt co-hosted event</a>

The relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered as one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju who led an Indian delegation accompanying the relics, said it is a historic milestone in the India-Mongolia relations aimed at further boosting cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries.

India's relations with Mongolia got a boost after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mongolia in 2015.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world

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He had visited the Ganden Monastery, where the relics will now be displayed for the common people.

"This will give a message of peace to the world. The friendship between India and Mongolia is very old. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mongolia in 2015, the bond between both countries have become very strong", Rijiju earlier said.

Recalling the visit of the Prime Minister to Mongolia in 2015, the Union Minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties since centuries ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mongolias-east-west-balancing-act-buffeted-by-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-458389">Mongolia's East-West balancing act buffeted by Russian invasion of Ukraine</a>

The relics are part of the collection on display at the National Museum in New Delhi.

They will be displayed in Mongolia in an 11-day exposition as part of celebrations of the Mongolian Buddh Purnima falling on June 14.

While Rijiju will return to India on June 16 after attending the Buddha Purnima celebrations on June 14, a team of officials from the National Museum will remain in Mongolia through the 11-day period during which the relics will be on display and will bring them back to India.&nbsp;

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Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday.

Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday. The sacred "Kapilvastu relics" were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft and will be displayed for 11 days at the Ganden Tegchenling Monastery. Also read | Dalai Lama, Buddhist spiritual leaders from 12 countries participate in Indian govt co-hosted event The relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered as one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju who led an Indian delegation accompanying the relics, said it is a historic milestone in the India-Mongolia relations aimed at further boosting cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries. India's relations with Mongolia got a boost after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mongolia in 2015. Watch | Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world He had visited the Ganden Monastery, where the relics will now be displayed for the common people. "This will give a message of peace to the world. The friendship between India and Mongolia is very old. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mongolia in 2015, the bond between both countries have become very strong", Rijiju earlier said. Recalling the visit of the Prime Minister to Mongolia in 2015, the Union Minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties since centuries ago. Also read | Mongolia's East-West balancing act buffeted by Russian invasion of Ukraine The relics are part of the collection on display at the National Museum in New Delhi. They will be displayed in Mongolia in an 11-day exposition as part of celebrations of the Mongolian Buddh Purnima falling on June 14. While Rijiju will return to India on June 16 after attending the Buddha Purnima celebrations on June 14, a team of officials from the National Museum will remain in Mongolia through the 11-day period during which the relics will be on display and will bring them back to India. 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.

People in Mongolia wait eagerly to pay homage to Lord Buddha's relics from India

12th WTO ministerial conference has kicked off in Geneva. Meeting is set to take a call on at least 6 crucial issues impacting trade and livelihood. India's Union Minister Piyush Goyal said India is fighting for its farmers and the poor and for food security.

12th WTO Ministerial conference: India's Union Minister Piyush Goyal attends meet

The American and Chinese defense ministers have held their first face-to-face talks in Singapore. Beijing has said that it will not hesitate to start a war if Taiwan declares independence. Now, US said, we do not support Taiwan independence. For more perspective on this, we're joined by Edward P. Joseph, faculty of Johns Hopkins School.

War of words over Taiwan: 'We do not support Taiwan independence,' says US

12th WTO (World Trade Organisation) ministerial conference has kicked off in Geneva. Meeting is set to take a call on at least 6 crucial issues impacting trade and livelihood.

Leaders gather in Geneva for 12th WTO ministerial conference

Taiwan&nbsp;Health Minister Chen Shih-chung has contracted COVID-19, and is feeling fine and isolating at home, the government said on Sunday.

Taiwan&nbsp;has been dealing with a surge of COVID-19 cases since the start of the year, driven by the more infectious Omicron variant, though numbers are beginning to level off.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/mass-covid-testing-announced-for-beijings-chaoyang-district-amid-ferocious-outbreak-487540">Mass COVID-19 testing announced for Beijing's Chaoyang district amid 'ferocious' outbreak</a>

Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Centre, which Chen is also the head of, said that on Sunday morning he began feeling symptoms and carried out a home test, which was positive.

Chen has been the public face of the fight against COVID-19, appearing almost daily at news conferences.

While he is feeling fine he will remain at home, and his position as head of the command centre will temporarily be taken by Deputy Interior Minister Chen Tsung-yen, it added.

Watch |&nbsp;Mainland China sees surge in COVID cases

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The two Chens are not related.

Taiwan's presidential office said President Tsai Ing-wen had not recently met with Health Minister Chen, instead speaking with him by telephone, and wished him a speedy recovery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-delays-school-reopenings-after-new-covid-outbreak-487229">Beijing delays school reopenings after new Covid outbreak</a>

With more than 99 per cent&nbsp;of those infected with COVID-19 this year exhibiting no or mild symptoms, the government has relaxed rather than tightened restrictions in what it calls the "new&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;model".

On Saturday, the government said it would be reducing to three days from seven the mandatory quarantine for all arrivals into&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as it looks to gradually fully re-open the borders.

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Taiwan Health Minister Chen Shih-chung has contracted COVID-19, and is feeling fine and isolating at home, the government said on Sunday. Taiwan has been dealing with a surge of COVID-19 cases since the start of the year, driven by the more infectious Omicron variant, though numbers are beginning to level off.

Taiwan Health Minister Chen Shih-chung has contracted COVID-19, and is feeling fine and isolating at home, the government said on Sunday. Taiwan has been dealing with a surge of COVID-19 cases since the start of the year, driven by the more infectious Omicron variant, though numbers are beginning to level off. Also read | Mass COVID-19 testing announced for Beijing's Chaoyang district amid 'ferocious' outbreak Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Centre, which Chen is also the head of, said that on Sunday morning he began feeling symptoms and carried out a home test, which was positive. Chen has been the public face of the fight against COVID-19, appearing almost daily at news conferences. While he is feeling fine he will remain at home, and his position as head of the command centre will temporarily be taken by Deputy Interior Minister Chen Tsung-yen, it added. Watch | Mainland China sees surge in COVID cases The two Chens are not related. Taiwan's presidential office said President Tsai Ing-wen had not recently met with Health Minister Chen, instead speaking with him by telephone, and wished him a speedy recovery. Also read | Beijing delays school reopenings after new Covid outbreak With more than 99 per cent of those infected with COVID-19 this year exhibiting no or mild symptoms, the government has relaxed rather than tightened restrictions in what it calls the "new Taiwan model". On Saturday, the government said it would be reducing to three days from seven the mandatory quarantine for all arrivals into Taiwan as it looks to gradually fully re-open the borders. 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.

Taiwan's health minister contracts COVID-19, feeling fine

Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend.

The first round is for the&nbsp;577 seats in the lower-house National Assembly.&nbsp;It is a two-round process and&nbsp;the second round will begin on June 19.&nbsp;These elections will determine the future of the country for the next 5 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-frances-parliamentary-elections-are-important-to-macron-487378" hreflang="en">Why France’s parliamentary elections are important to Macron</a>

Nupes, an&nbsp;alliance of&nbsp;left-wing parties, comprised of&nbsp;La France Insoumise,&nbsp;Socialist, Green&nbsp;and Communist parties,&nbsp;is expected to mount a serious challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's&nbsp;Ensemble&nbsp;alliance.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

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Projections&nbsp;show that Macron and his allies, including the new party of his former prime minister Edouard Philippe, could fall short of a majority of 289 by as many as 40 seats.

Some 14 of Macron's ministers are competing in local races and could lose their job if they fail to win a seat.

On the other hand, Marine Le Pen, the right-leader could win a seat in her northern constituency from the first round, by gaining over 50 per cent&nbsp;of the votes.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend.

Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend. The first round is for the 577 seats in the lower-house National Assembly. It is a two-round process and the second round will begin on June 19. These elections will determine the future of the country for the next 5 years. Also read | Why France’s parliamentary elections are important to Macron Nupes, an alliance of left-wing parties, comprised of La France Insoumise, Socialist, Green and Communist parties, is expected to mount a serious challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's Ensemble alliance. Watch | France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight Projections show that Macron and his allies, including the new party of his former prime minister Edouard Philippe, could fall short of a majority of 289 by as many as 40 seats. Some 14 of Macron's ministers are competing in local races and could lose their job if they fail to win a seat. On the other hand, Marine Le Pen, the right-leader could win a seat in her northern constituency from the first round, by gaining over 50 per cent of the votes. (with inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Polls open in French parliamentary election

Chinese&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to&nbsp;improve&nbsp;the&nbsp;bilateral&nbsp;relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture.

Repeating several times at an Asian security meeting that China only sought peace and stability, and was not an aggressor, he called on the United States to "strengthen solidarity and oppose confrontation and division".

He said China firmly rejected "US&nbsp;smearing, accusations and even threats" in Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue meeting on Saturday.

"We request the US&nbsp;side to stop smearing and containing China. Stop interfering in&nbsp;China's&nbsp;internal affairs. The&nbsp;bilateral&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;improve&nbsp;unless the US&nbsp;side can do that", Wei, dressed in the uniform of a general in the People's Liberation Army, told delegates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strategy-for-indo-pacific-region-fueling-future-conflict-china-487354">Also read |&nbsp;US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China</a>

Austin said on Saturday there had been an "alarming" increase in the number of unsafe and unprofessional encounters between Chinese planes and vessels with those of other countries. He added that the United States would stand by its allies, including Taiwan.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken centre stage at the meeting, and Wei made a point of saying China supported peace talks and opposed "providing weapons, applying maximum pressure". He said China had not provided any material support to Russia.

"What is the root cause of this crisis? Who is the mastermind behind this? Who loses the most? And who stands to gain the most? Who is promoting peace and who is adding fuel to the fire? I think we all know the answers to these questions", he said, without addressing them or stating&nbsp;China's&nbsp;position.

Meia Nouwens, a Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Wei’s speech was consistent with Beijing’s official line on Russia-Ukraine issues.

"He did also underline that China is a partner of Russia and not an ally of Russia and that they do not have an alliance", she said. "They're underlining that at the end of the day, Chinese policy&nbsp;has&nbsp;always been to pursue&nbsp;China's&nbsp;own interests and not tie itself to those other countries”.

Watch |&nbsp;The final day of security summit underway: China remains firm on Taiwan issue

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In an address via video link on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned delegates that the invasion of his nation threatened the rules-based order and put the entire world in danger of famine and food crises.

UNCHANGED ON TAIWAN

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a “special operation” that it&nbsp;says&nbsp;is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous&nbsp;nationalists.

Addressing the issue of Taiwan, Wei said&nbsp;China's&nbsp;position on the island, which Beijing views as a province, was unchanged. He said the Chinese government sought "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan but reserved "other options".

"China will definitely realise its reunification", Wei said. "Those who pursue Taiwan independence in an attempt to split China will definitely come to no good end".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-restaurant-attack-nine-people-arrested-over-violence-against-women-487159">Also read |&nbsp;China restaurant attack: Nine people arrested over violence against women</a>

In Taiwan, Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Sunday that the island does not want to close the door to China and is willing to engage in the spirit of goodwill, but on an equal basis and without political preconditions.

South Korean&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Lee Jong-sup said at the Singapore meeting that his country would enhance its&nbsp;defence&nbsp;capabilities and work closely with the United States and Japan to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threat. The South would also help North Korea if it denuclearised, he said.

Fiji's&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister Inia Seruiratu said that for all the focus&nbsp;on military matters at Shangri-La Dialogue, more pressing threats were being ignored.

"In our blue Pacific continent, machine guns, fighter jets, grey ships and green battalions are not our primary security concern," Seruiratu said.

"The single greatest threat to our very existence is climate change. It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity", he added.

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Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to improve the bilateral relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture.

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that it was up to the United States to improve the bilateral relationship, as ties were at a critical juncture. Repeating several times at an Asian security meeting that China only sought peace and stability, and was not an aggressor, he called on the United States to "strengthen solidarity and oppose confrontation and division". He said China firmly rejected "US smearing, accusations and even threats" in Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue meeting on Saturday. "We request the US side to stop smearing and containing China. Stop interfering in China's internal affairs. The bilateral relationship cannot improve unless the US side can do that", Wei, dressed in the uniform of a general in the People's Liberation Army, told delegates. Also read | US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China Austin said on Saturday there had been an "alarming" increase in the number of unsafe and unprofessional encounters between Chinese planes and vessels with those of other countries. He added that the United States would stand by its allies, including Taiwan. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has taken centre stage at the meeting, and Wei made a point of saying China supported peace talks and opposed "providing weapons, applying maximum pressure". He said China had not provided any material support to Russia. "What is the root cause of this crisis? Who is the mastermind behind this? Who loses the most? And who stands to gain the most? Who is promoting peace and who is adding fuel to the fire? I think we all know the answers to these questions", he said, without addressing them or stating China's position. Meia Nouwens, a Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Wei’s speech was consistent with Beijing’s official line on Russia-Ukraine issues. "He did also underline that China is a partner of Russia and not an ally of Russia and that they do not have an alliance", she said. "They're underlining that at the end of the day, Chinese policy has always been to pursue China's own interests and not tie itself to those other countries”. Watch | The final day of security summit underway: China remains firm on Taiwan issue In an address via video link on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned delegates that the invasion of his nation threatened the rules-based order and put the entire world in danger of famine and food crises. UNCHANGED ON TAIWAN Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a “special operation” that it says is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists. Addressing the issue of Taiwan, Wei said China's position on the island, which Beijing views as a province, was unchanged. He said the Chinese government sought "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan but reserved "other options". "China will definitely realise its reunification", Wei said. "Those who pursue Taiwan independence in an attempt to split China will definitely come to no good end". Also read | China restaurant attack: Nine people arrested over violence against women In Taiwan, Premier Su Tseng-chang said on Sunday that the island does not want to close the door to China and is willing to engage in the spirit of goodwill, but on an equal basis and without political preconditions. South Korean Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup said at the Singapore meeting that his country would enhance its defence capabilities and work closely with the United States and Japan to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threat. The South would also help North Korea if it denuclearised, he said. Fiji's Defence Minister Inia Seruiratu said that for all the focus on military matters at Shangri-La Dialogue, more pressing threats were being ignored. "In our blue Pacific continent, machine guns, fighter jets, grey ships and green battalions are not our primary security concern," Seruiratu said. "The single greatest threat to our very existence is climate change. It threatens our very hopes and dreams of prosperity", he added. Watch WION's live TV here:

China's defence chief says US has to improve bilateral relationship

Have a look at the world's most expensive cities. Asian cities have dominated the list this year. Meanwhile, New York and Geneva have taken second and third spots.

Asian cities dominate the list of world's most expensive cities

On 13th November 2015&nbsp;Paris, the capital of France was under a&nbsp;series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin&nbsp;at 9:15&nbsp;pm and were on the&nbsp;Stade de France stadium,&nbsp;bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan&nbsp;concert hall.

As the biggest criminal trial&nbsp;ever held in France has entered its final weeks,&nbsp;French prosecutors have demanded&nbsp;life sentences for the 12 men at trial for the attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-attacks-suspect-says-he-changed-his-mind-at-last-moment-470966">Paris attacks suspect says he changed his mind at last moment</a>

All the evidences are reviewed but still many questions remain unanswered.&nbsp;

The attacks killed 130 people and injured more than 490.

The key accused, Salah Abdeslam, is believed to be the last survivor from the 10 men who struck the city. Most of them killed themselves or were killed by police.

Watch |&nbsp;Paris attack suspect in trial

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The prosecutor Camille Hennetier told the court of the “cruelty of the terrorists who fired again and again and took pleasure in killing”, and said the attacks were mostly prepared outside France.

Abdeslam, 32, a Brussels-born French citizen, who is also alleged to be a part of the attack, told the court that he had backed out of the attack at a bar, however the&nbsp;prosecutors said his explosive belt simply malfunctioned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-accused-of-stealing-banksy-tribute-to-bataclan-victims-go-on-trial-486280">Also read |&nbsp;Eight accused of stealing Banksy tribute to Bataclan victims go on trial</a>

Many prosecutors believe that many things "still remain in the dark".

Mohammed Abrini, another accused had also been part of the group in Paris, after which he returned to Belgium.&nbsp;He was later arrested after the March 2016 attacks in the Brussels airport and subway.&nbsp;

“Salah Abdeslam and Mohammed Abrini made no mystery of their jihadi engagement, but both tried to cover the tracks about their ideas”, the Paris prosecutor Nicolas Le Bris told the court.

The verdict is expected on 29 June.

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On 13th November 2015 Paris, the capital of France was under a series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin at 9:15 pm and were on the Stade de France stadium, bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan concert hall.

On 13th November 2015 Paris, the capital of France was under a series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin at 9:15 pm and were on the Stade de France stadium, bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan concert hall. As the biggest criminal trial ever held in France has entered its final weeks, French prosecutors have demanded life sentences for the 12 men at trial for the attack. Also read | Paris attacks suspect says he changed his mind at last moment All the evidences are reviewed but still many questions remain unanswered. The attacks killed 130 people and injured more than 490. The key accused, Salah Abdeslam, is believed to be the last survivor from the 10 men who struck the city. Most of them killed themselves or were killed by police. Watch | Paris attack suspect in trial The prosecutor Camille Hennetier told the court of the “cruelty of the terrorists who fired again and again and took pleasure in killing”, and said the attacks were mostly prepared outside France. Abdeslam, 32, a Brussels-born French citizen, who is also alleged to be a part of the attack, told the court that he had backed out of the attack at a bar, however the prosecutors said his explosive belt simply malfunctioned. Also read | Eight accused of stealing Banksy tribute to Bataclan victims go on trial Many prosecutors believe that many things "still remain in the dark". Mohammed Abrini, another accused had also been part of the group in Paris, after which he returned to Belgium. He was later arrested after the March 2016 attacks in the Brussels airport and subway. “Salah Abdeslam and Mohammed Abrini made no mystery of their jihadi engagement, but both tried to cover the tracks about their ideas”, the Paris prosecutor Nicolas Le Bris told the court. The verdict is expected on 29 June. 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.

Prosecutors ask for life sentences for 12 men at trial for Paris terror attack

Ukraine says that&nbsp;it has almost run out of ammunition and is now heavily dependant on weapons from the West.

Ukraine&nbsp;pleaded to Western countries for faster deliveries of&nbsp;weapons&nbsp;as better-armed Russian forces pounded the east of the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-still-in-shock-a-month-trapped-by-russian-forces-in-a-basement-486971">‘We are still in shock’: A month trapped by Russian forces in a basement</a>

In Sievierodonetsk, the small city that has become the focus of Russia's advance in eastern&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and one of the bloodiest flashpoints in a war well into its fourth month, further heavy fighting was reported.

The war in the east, where Russia is focusing its attention, is now primarily an artillery battle in which Kyiv is severely outgunned, Ukrainian officials say. That means the tide of events could be turned only if Washington and others fulfil promises to send&nbsp;more&nbsp;and better weaponry, including rocket systems.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky calls for more arms supplies

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"This is an artillery war now",&nbsp;Vadym Skibitsky,&nbsp;Ukraine's deputy head of military intelligence said.

He further added that, "we are losing in terms of artillery”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-official-says-russia-wants-to-use-captured-fighters-in-ukraine-as-hostages-486998">Ukrainian official says Russia wants to use captured fighters as ‘hostages’</a>

"Everything now depends on what the West gives us.&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;has one artillery piece to 10 to 15 Russian artillery pieces".

Germany is&nbsp;among the largest suppliers of&nbsp;weapons&nbsp;since Russia invaded but is criticised for being slow to supply the heavy weaponry Kyiv says it needs, plans to revise its rules on arms exports to make it easier to arm democracies like&nbsp;Ukraine.

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Ukraine says that it has almost run out of ammunition and is now heavily dependant on weapons from the West. Ukraine pleaded to Western countries for faster deliveries of weapons as better-armed Russian forces pounded the east of the country.

Ukraine says that it has almost run out of ammunition and is now heavily dependant on weapons from the West. Ukraine pleaded to Western countries for faster deliveries of weapons as better-armed Russian forces pounded the east of the country. Also read | ‘We are still in shock’: A month trapped by Russian forces in a basement In Sievierodonetsk, the small city that has become the focus of Russia's advance in eastern Ukraine and one of the bloodiest flashpoints in a war well into its fourth month, further heavy fighting was reported. The war in the east, where Russia is focusing its attention, is now primarily an artillery battle in which Kyiv is severely outgunned, Ukrainian officials say. That means the tide of events could be turned only if Washington and others fulfil promises to send more and better weaponry, including rocket systems. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky calls for more arms supplies "This is an artillery war now", Vadym Skibitsky, Ukraine's deputy head of military intelligence said. He further added that, "we are losing in terms of artillery”. Also read | Ukrainian official says Russia wants to use captured fighters as ‘hostages’ "Everything now depends on what the West gives us. Ukraine has one artillery piece to 10 to 15 Russian artillery pieces". Germany is among the largest suppliers of weapons since Russia invaded but is criticised for being slow to supply the heavy weaponry Kyiv says it needs, plans to revise its rules on arms exports to make it easier to arm democracies like Ukraine. 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.

We’re almost out of ammunition, says Ukraine

Stock markets plunged deeper into the red on Friday after data showed US inflation soared to the highest level in more than 40 years in May, far outpacing analyst's&nbsp;expectations.&nbsp;

On&nbsp;Wall&nbsp;Street, stocks were deep in negative territory after US government data showed inflation reached 8.6 percent in the 12 months ended in May, the steepest rise in consumer prices since December 1981, on the back of surging energy and food prices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asian-shares-fall-as-oil-lingers-above-usd-120-yen-sinks-486499">Asian shares fall as oil lingers above USD 120, yen sinks</a>

The S&amp;P 500 dropped 2.9%, closing out its ninth losing week in the last 10.

The data had been eagerly anticipated as investors hungrily look for clues as to the direction of US interest rates at next week's meeting of the Federal Reserve.

"The market had expected that we'd see at least a plateauing or flattening out of inflation but it seems that inflation pressures continue to build and we've seen a further broadening of price pressures", said Shaun Osborne, a foreign exchange specialist at Scotiabank.&nbsp;

"So it seems more entrenched, stickier kind of price or inflation situation", he further added.

Watch |&nbsp;Bitcoin: World's largest cryptocurrency drops as Wall Street shares tumble

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Osborne said the report will encourage investor debate on whether the US central bank will shift to a 75 basis point interest rate hike next week instead of the planned half-point increase.

But Osborne believes the Fed will go with its original plan, considering a bigger increase would look "panicky".

Adding to the unease was news that officials in China had once again locked down millions of people for Covid testing owing to another flare-up in cases, dealing a blow to hopes for an economic reopening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dollar-gains-as-us-stocks-fall-ecb-decision-on-tap-486375">Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap</a>

"Warning signs about the economy are emerging as weekly (US) jobless claims are starting to rise, China's Covid situation will prove troublesome for supply chains over the next couple of quarters, and as inflationary pressures broaden and show no sign of easing", said Edward Moya, analyst at OANDA trading group.

"It seems reductions in global growth forecasts will become a steady theme over the next few months and that should complicate how much more tightening we see from central banks", he said.

The World Bank and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development this week each lowered their global economic growth forecasts for 2022.

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Stock markets plunged deeper into the red on Friday after data showed US inflation soared to the highest level in more than 40 years in May, far outpacing analyst's expectations.

Stock markets plunged deeper into the red on Friday after data showed US inflation soared to the highest level in more than 40 years in May, far outpacing analyst's expectations. On Wall Street, stocks were deep in negative territory after US government data showed inflation reached 8.6 percent in the 12 months ended in May, the steepest rise in consumer prices since December 1981, on the back of surging energy and food prices. Also read | Asian shares fall as oil lingers above USD 120, yen sinks The S&P 500 dropped 2.9%, closing out its ninth losing week in the last 10. The data had been eagerly anticipated as investors hungrily look for clues as to the direction of US interest rates at next week's meeting of the Federal Reserve. "The market had expected that we'd see at least a plateauing or flattening out of inflation but it seems that inflation pressures continue to build and we've seen a further broadening of price pressures", said Shaun Osborne, a foreign exchange specialist at Scotiabank. "So it seems more entrenched, stickier kind of price or inflation situation", he further added. Watch | Bitcoin: World's largest cryptocurrency drops as Wall Street shares tumble Osborne said the report will encourage investor debate on whether the US central bank will shift to a 75 basis point interest rate hike next week instead of the planned half-point increase. But Osborne believes the Fed will go with its original plan, considering a bigger increase would look "panicky". Adding to the unease was news that officials in China had once again locked down millions of people for Covid testing owing to another flare-up in cases, dealing a blow to hopes for an economic reopening. Also read | Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap "Warning signs about the economy are emerging as weekly (US) jobless claims are starting to rise, China's Covid situation will prove troublesome for supply chains over the next couple of quarters, and as inflationary pressures broaden and show no sign of easing", said Edward Moya, analyst at OANDA trading group. "It seems reductions in global growth forecasts will become a steady theme over the next few months and that should complicate how much more tightening we see from central banks", he said. The World Bank and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development this week each lowered their global economic growth forecasts for 2022. 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.

Wall Street stocks sank after inflation hit a 40-year high

Brazilian search teams have&nbsp;found&nbsp;"apparently&nbsp;human"&nbsp;remains&nbsp;in the river where a British&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;was last seen in the Amazon rainforest, police said on Friday, in what may be the biggest break yet for the five-day investigation.

The "organic material" is being sent for forensic analysis, federal police said, along with blood&nbsp;found&nbsp;on a suspect's boat that will be compared with genetic material from&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;Dom Phillips and travel companion, indigenous expert Bruno Pereira.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-of-british-man-missing-in-amazon-call-for-deeper-search-486687">Family of a British journalist who has gone missing in Amazon calls&nbsp;for deeper search</a>

A Brazilian judge had ordered the suspect, a fisherman charged with illegal possession of restricted ammunition, to be held for another 30 days while police investigate whether he is involved, according to a lawyer for a local indigenous group.

State Judge Jacinta Silva dos Santos said the proceedings are under seal and she could not comment on whether other audiences are planned for the fisherman Amarildo da Costa, known locally as "Pelado".

Police have said Costa was one of the last people to see Phillips and Pereira on Sunday, when they went missing after visiting the fisherman's riverside community of Sao Gabriel.

Eliesio Morubo, the lawyer for the Union of Indigenous Peoples of the Javari Valley (UNIVAJA), said the judge agreed to keep the fisherman jailed for 30 days because the case involved a&nbsp;possible&nbsp;"heinous crime" such as murder and hiding bodies.

Watch |&nbsp;Joe Biden meets Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of Americas summit

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State police detectives involved in the investigation said that they are focusing on poachers and illegal fisherman in the area, who clashed often with Pereira as he organised indigenous patrols of the local reservation.

Costa's lawyers and family have said he fished legally on the river and denied he had any role in the men's disappearance.

The state public defender's office confirmed Costa was being kept in police custody while authorities investigate whether he was involved in the case.

Witnesses said they last saw Phillips, a freelance reporter who has written for the Guardian and the Washington Post, on Sunday. His companion Pereira, an expert on local tribes, had been a senior official with government indigenous agency Funai.

The two men were on a reporting trip in the remote jungle area on the border between Peru and Colombia that is home to the world's largest number of uncontacted indigenous people. The wild and lawless region has lured cocaine-smuggling gangs, along with illegal loggers, miners and&nbsp;hunters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-presidential-election-front-runner-lula-isolated-after-he-tested-positive-for-covid-19-485434">Also read |&nbsp;Brazil presidential election: Front-runner Lula isolated after he tested positive for COVID-19</a>

The pair's disappearance has echoed globally, with Brazilian icons from soccer great Pele to singer Caetano Veloso joining politicians, environmentalists and&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights activists in urging President Jair Bolsonaro to step up the search for them.

After criticism that the government had dragged its feet in the crucial first days of the case, Bolsonaro told the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles on Friday that the Brazilian armed forces were working "tirelessly" to find the two men.

The streets of Atalaia do Norte, the largest riverside town near where the men were last seen, have grown busy in recent days with soldiers in camouflaged trucks, along with the distant sound of helicopters absent earlier this week.

By Friday, some 150 soldiers had been deployed via riverboats to&nbsp;hunt&nbsp;for the missing men and interview locals.

Indigenous search teams have been looking for the pair since Sunday, Marubo said.

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Brazilian search teams have found "apparently human" remains in the river where a British journalist was last seen in the Amazon rainforest, police said on Friday, in what may be the biggest break yet for the five-day investigation.

Brazilian search teams have found "apparently human" remains in the river where a British journalist was last seen in the Amazon rainforest, police said on Friday, in what may be the biggest break yet for the five-day investigation. The "organic material" is being sent for forensic analysis, federal police said, along with blood found on a suspect's boat that will be compared with genetic material from journalist Dom Phillips and travel companion, indigenous expert Bruno Pereira. Also read | Family of a British journalist who has gone missing in Amazon calls for deeper search A Brazilian judge had ordered the suspect, a fisherman charged with illegal possession of restricted ammunition, to be held for another 30 days while police investigate whether he is involved, according to a lawyer for a local indigenous group. State Judge Jacinta Silva dos Santos said the proceedings are under seal and she could not comment on whether other audiences are planned for the fisherman Amarildo da Costa, known locally as "Pelado". Police have said Costa was one of the last people to see Phillips and Pereira on Sunday, when they went missing after visiting the fisherman's riverside community of Sao Gabriel. Eliesio Morubo, the lawyer for the Union of Indigenous Peoples of the Javari Valley (UNIVAJA), said the judge agreed to keep the fisherman jailed for 30 days because the case involved a possible "heinous crime" such as murder and hiding bodies. Watch | Joe Biden meets Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of Americas summit State police detectives involved in the investigation said that they are focusing on poachers and illegal fisherman in the area, who clashed often with Pereira as he organised indigenous patrols of the local reservation. Costa's lawyers and family have said he fished legally on the river and denied he had any role in the men's disappearance. The state public defender's office confirmed Costa was being kept in police custody while authorities investigate whether he was involved in the case. Witnesses said they last saw Phillips, a freelance reporter who has written for the Guardian and the Washington Post, on Sunday. His companion Pereira, an expert on local tribes, had been a senior official with government indigenous agency Funai. The two men were on a reporting trip in the remote jungle area on the border between Peru and Colombia that is home to the world's largest number of uncontacted indigenous people. The wild and lawless region has lured cocaine-smuggling gangs, along with illegal loggers, miners and hunters. Also read | Brazil presidential election: Front-runner Lula isolated after he tested positive for COVID-19 The pair's disappearance has echoed globally, with Brazilian icons from soccer great Pele to singer Caetano Veloso joining politicians, environmentalists and human rights activists in urging President Jair Bolsonaro to step up the search for them. After criticism that the government had dragged its feet in the crucial first days of the case, Bolsonaro told the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles on Friday that the Brazilian armed forces were working "tirelessly" to find the two men. The streets of Atalaia do Norte, the largest riverside town near where the men were last seen, have grown busy in recent days with soldiers in camouflaged trucks, along with the distant sound of helicopters absent earlier this week. By Friday, some 150 soldiers had been deployed via riverboats to hunt for the missing men and interview locals. Indigenous search teams have been looking for the pair since Sunday, Marubo said. 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.

Possible human remains found in hunt for journalist

A&nbsp;government-commissioned review which came on&nbsp;Thursday (June 9) recommended, that the age at which people can buy tobacco in England should rise by one each year, as this would be the first step in moving towards a&nbsp;"smoke-free" society.

In England, the minimum age today is 18.&nbsp;

Javed Khan, who is the&nbsp;former head of children's charity Barnardo's, advised that the age should be increased annually so that one-day no one can buy tobacco.

"Without immediate and sustained action, England will miss the smoke-free target by many years and most likely decades", said Khan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-india-pil-seeks-increase-of-smoking-age-from-18-to-21-says-youngsters-start-to-smoke-to-look-cool-484824">In India PIL seeks increase of smoking age from 18 to 21, says youngsters start to smoke to look 'cool'</a>

Watch |&nbsp;At least 183 Monkeypox cases confirmed in England

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The review also recommends 15 suggestions to help the government build a smoke-free by 2030.

"A smoke-free society should be a social norm,&nbsp;but to achieve this, we must do more to stop people taking up smoking, help those who already smoke and support those who are disproportionately impacted by smoking", he further added.

Notably, almost six million people in England smoke. It is the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death, with around one in four deaths because of smoking, according to the official figures.

A similar plan was introduced by New Zealand as well in 2021.

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A government-commissioned review which came on Thursday (June 9) recommended, that the age at which people can buy tobacco in England should rise by one each year, as this would be the first step in moving towards a "smoke-free" society.

A government-commissioned review which came on Thursday (June 9) recommended, that the age at which people can buy tobacco in England should rise by one each year, as this would be the first step in moving towards a "smoke-free" society. In England, the minimum age today is 18. Javed Khan, who is the former head of children's charity Barnardo's, advised that the age should be increased annually so that one-day no one can buy tobacco. "Without immediate and sustained action, England will miss the smoke-free target by many years and most likely decades", said Khan. Also read | In India PIL seeks increase of smoking age from 18 to 21, says youngsters start to smoke to look 'cool' Watch | At least 183 Monkeypox cases confirmed in England The review also recommends 15 suggestions to help the government build a smoke-free by 2030. "A smoke-free society should be a social norm, but to achieve this, we must do more to stop people taking up smoking, help those who already smoke and support those who are disproportionately impacted by smoking", he further added. Notably, almost six million people in England smoke. It is the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death, with around one in four deaths because of smoking, according to the official figures. A similar plan was introduced by New Zealand as well in 2021. 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.

England's smoking age limit should be raised every year: Study

Labour strife and staffing shortages have&nbsp;European&nbsp;airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season.

Workers at France's Charles De Gaulle&nbsp;airport&nbsp;are striking on Thursday for more pay, with a quarter of flights cancelled. In Italy, crews from budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet and Volotea walked off the job on Wednesday.

On Wednesday evening, German flag carrier Lufthansa and its subsidiary Eurowings said they were scrapping over 1,000 flights in July, or 5 per cent&nbsp;of their planned weekend capacity, due to staff shortages amid the busy vacation period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/double-standards-haunt-us-and-europe-in-nato-dispute-with-turkey-486083">Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey</a>

Ryanair cabin crew could strike in Europe this summer, after talks ended with two Spanish unions, according to a statement by unions SITCPLA and USO.

Airport&nbsp;managers are struggling to quickly recruit and process new hires, as a rebound in air travel from a pandemic-induced slump leads to cancelled flights and hours-long lines.

Airlines, battered by slumping travel during the pandemic, have been counting on a strong summer, as fares rise to offset higher fuel costs. Some countries are also banking on tourism to revive hard-hit economies.

The head of airline trade group International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said heavy congestion also occurred before the pandemic and is now limited to certain&nbsp;airports, aggravated by delays to get security badges required for newly-hired staff.

In North America, Canada's busiest&nbsp;airport&nbsp;is allowing some staff who have not yet obtained their badges to work temporarily under supervision by vetted employees, said Tori Gass, a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto&nbsp;Airports Authority.

Watch |&nbsp;Decoding the Pros &amp; Cons of EU's 'Universal Charger' move

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The temporary pass was recently introduced at Toronto Pearson International&nbsp;Airport&nbsp;in response to the large volume of appointments for restricted area identity cards (RAIC), Gass said. It takes roughly 45 days to get the cards.

Transport Canada said it received 13,722 applications nationally for clearances required for employees like&nbsp;airport&nbsp;ramp agents or baggage handlers in the first quarter of 2022, up from 5,968 requests during the same period in 2021.

Pearson is wrestling with planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines due to staffing shortages.

Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Wednesday said he is working with partners to bring in more screening officers.

"We're acting", Alghabra told reporters.

In Europe, Dublin and Heathrow&nbsp;airports are recruiting screeners, while Schipol&nbsp;Airport&nbsp;in Amsterdam is raising wages for staff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-lawmakers-pass-ban-on-new-petrol-diesel-cars-by-2035-486537">European Union lawmakers pass ban on new petrol, diesel cars by 2035</a>

Spain on Tuesday announced the hiring of 500 additional police to staff passport controls at busy&nbsp;airports and tourist destinations including Madrid.

In the United States,&nbsp;airports are generally avoiding such heavy congestion. Still, a staffing crunch has forced airlines to cancel flights and trim summer schedules.

Alaska Air Group Inc last month was forced to cancel 4 per cent&nbsp;of its flights because of staffing woes. Delta Air Lines, which cancelled about 700 flights over the four-day Memorial Day holiday, plans to cut flights through August.

Spain's interior minister attributed reports of congestion at border controls to multiple flights arriving at the same time. But CEHAT, the country's largest business group for hotels and lodging, said the delays could have been prevented since they are related to the end of free travel of British citizens to Spain due to Brexit.

"This situation should not have caught us off guard", CEHAT president Jorge Marichal said in a statement on Wednesday.

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Labour strife and staffing shortages have European airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season.

Labour strife and staffing shortages have European airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season. Workers at France's Charles De Gaulle airport are striking on Thursday for more pay, with a quarter of flights cancelled. In Italy, crews from budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet and Volotea walked off the job on Wednesday. On Wednesday evening, German flag carrier Lufthansa and its subsidiary Eurowings said they were scrapping over 1,000 flights in July, or 5 per cent of their planned weekend capacity, due to staff shortages amid the busy vacation period. Also read | Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey Ryanair cabin crew could strike in Europe this summer, after talks ended with two Spanish unions, according to a statement by unions SITCPLA and USO. Airport managers are struggling to quickly recruit and process new hires, as a rebound in air travel from a pandemic-induced slump leads to cancelled flights and hours-long lines. Airlines, battered by slumping travel during the pandemic, have been counting on a strong summer, as fares rise to offset higher fuel costs. Some countries are also banking on tourism to revive hard-hit economies. The head of airline trade group International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said heavy congestion also occurred before the pandemic and is now limited to certain airports, aggravated by delays to get security badges required for newly-hired staff. In North America, Canada's busiest airport is allowing some staff who have not yet obtained their badges to work temporarily under supervision by vetted employees, said Tori Gass, a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. Watch | Decoding the Pros & Cons of EU's 'Universal Charger' move The temporary pass was recently introduced at Toronto Pearson International Airport in response to the large volume of appointments for restricted area identity cards (RAIC), Gass said. It takes roughly 45 days to get the cards. Transport Canada said it received 13,722 applications nationally for clearances required for employees like airport ramp agents or baggage handlers in the first quarter of 2022, up from 5,968 requests during the same period in 2021. Pearson is wrestling with planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines due to staffing shortages. Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Wednesday said he is working with partners to bring in more screening officers. "We're acting", Alghabra told reporters. In Europe, Dublin and Heathrow airports are recruiting screeners, while Schipol Airport in Amsterdam is raising wages for staff. Also read | European Union lawmakers pass ban on new petrol, diesel cars by 2035 Spain on Tuesday announced the hiring of 500 additional police to staff passport controls at busy airports and tourist destinations including Madrid. In the United States, airports are generally avoiding such heavy congestion. Still, a staffing crunch has forced airlines to cancel flights and trim summer schedules. Alaska Air Group Inc last month was forced to cancel 4 per cent of its flights because of staffing woes. Delta Air Lines, which cancelled about 700 flights over the four-day Memorial Day holiday, plans to cut flights through August. Spain's interior minister attributed reports of congestion at border controls to multiple flights arriving at the same time. But CEHAT, the country's largest business group for hotels and lodging, said the delays could have been prevented since they are related to the end of free travel of British citizens to Spain due to Brexit. "This situation should not have caught us off guard", CEHAT president Jorge Marichal said in a statement on Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

European airport labour strife, staff shortages disrupt summer travel

Gold inched lower on Thursday pressured by elevated US&nbsp;Treasury yields as the focus turned to US inflation data for the Federal Reserve's interest rate hike plan after the European Central Bank signalled a July increase.

The&nbsp;ECB&nbsp;said it will end bond buys on July 1 then raise rates by 25 basis points later that month. It will hike again in September and may opt for a bigger move then if the inflation outlook fails to improve.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dollar-gains-as-us-stocks-fall-ecb-decision-on-tap-486375">Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap</a>

Spot gold fell 0.3 per cent&nbsp;to 1,847.59 dollars per ounce by 1249 GMT, little changed after the&nbsp;ECB&nbsp;decision.

US gold futures shed 0.3 per cent&nbsp;to 1,850.00 dollars.

"It seems to be that the&nbsp;ECB&nbsp;are willing to raise rates, but not go particularly aggressive and that's the sentiment the (gold) market's taking away", said Nitesh Shah, analyst at WisdomTree.

Watch |&nbsp;Oil hovers near 13-week high, China optimism backs price surge

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"Inflation upside surprises are always a catalyst for gold price moves. But on the flip side, you got the Fed reacting to these numbers,&nbsp;the market right now is expecting back to back 50 bps rate increases that will act as a headwind", Shah added.

The monthly US&nbsp;consumer price index data on Friday could signal whether the Fed will continue its aggressive policy tightening post July.

The benchmark US&nbsp;10-year Treasury yields held steady near the key 3 per cent&nbsp;threshold, eroding gold's appeal.&nbsp;

Rising interest rates increase the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion, even though the metal is considered a safe haven amid political and economic uncertainties.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shrinkflation-is-on-the-rise-companies-reducing-package-size-without-lowering-price-486505">‘Shrinkflation’ is on the rise: Companies reducing package size, without lowering price</a>

"We'll probably have to wait until tomorrow's CPI report before we see a sustainable move in either direction, but we've taken comfort that ETF (exchange-traded fund) flows into gold yesterday were their strongest in a month", City Index senior market analyst Matt Simpson said.

Spot silver dipped 0.5 per cent&nbsp;to 21.92 dollars per ounce, while platinum shed 2.1 per cent, to 984.71 dollars. Palladium fell 0.8 per cent&nbsp;to 1,927.59 dollars.

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Gold inched lower on Thursday pressured by elevated US Treasury yields as the focus turned to US inflation data for the Federal Reserve's interest rate hike plan after the European Central Bank signalled a July increase.

Gold inched lower on Thursday pressured by elevated US Treasury yields as the focus turned to US inflation data for the Federal Reserve's interest rate hike plan after the European Central Bank signalled a July increase. The ECB said it will end bond buys on July 1 then raise rates by 25 basis points later that month. It will hike again in September and may opt for a bigger move then if the inflation outlook fails to improve. Also read | Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap Spot gold fell 0.3 per cent to 1,847.59 dollars per ounce by 1249 GMT, little changed after the ECB decision. US gold futures shed 0.3 per cent to 1,850.00 dollars. "It seems to be that the ECB are willing to raise rates, but not go particularly aggressive and that's the sentiment the (gold) market's taking away", said Nitesh Shah, analyst at WisdomTree. Watch | Oil hovers near 13-week high, China optimism backs price surge "Inflation upside surprises are always a catalyst for gold price moves. But on the flip side, you got the Fed reacting to these numbers, the market right now is expecting back to back 50 bps rate increases that will act as a headwind", Shah added. The monthly US consumer price index data on Friday could signal whether the Fed will continue its aggressive policy tightening post July. The benchmark US 10-year Treasury yields held steady near the key 3 per cent threshold, eroding gold's appeal. Rising interest rates increase the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion, even though the metal is considered a safe haven amid political and economic uncertainties. Also read | ‘Shrinkflation’ is on the rise: Companies reducing package size, without lowering price "We'll probably have to wait until tomorrow's CPI report before we see a sustainable move in either direction, but we've taken comfort that ETF (exchange-traded fund) flows into gold yesterday were their strongest in a month", City Index senior market analyst Matt Simpson said. Spot silver dipped 0.5 per cent to 21.92 dollars per ounce, while platinum shed 2.1 per cent, to 984.71 dollars. Palladium fell 0.8 per cent to 1,927.59 dollars. 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.

Gold subdued on firm yields with US inflation in focus

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States conducted&nbsp;a joint&nbsp;air&nbsp;power&nbsp;demonstration on Tuesday during a visit by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman.&nbsp;

The demonstration&nbsp;involved 20 warplanes including F-35A stealth fighter jets.&nbsp;

North Korea on Sunday, fired eight&nbsp;short-range ballistic missiles.&nbsp;The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said that the&nbsp;launches were detected from 9.08 am to 9.43 am&nbsp;from areas.&nbsp;

In response to North Korea's firing of missiles, South Korea and the US also fired eight&nbsp;surface-to-surface missiles off&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's east coast.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-south-korea-unleash-air-power-is-it-a-deterrent-against-north-koreas-missiles-485966#us-south-korea-military-excercise-485938">US, South Korea unleash air power: Is it a deterrent against North Korea's missiles?</a>&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US vows forceful response if North Korea tests nuke&nbsp;

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Deputy Secretary of State&nbsp;of&nbsp;US, Wendy R Sherman met Cho Hyun-dong, South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister in&nbsp;Seoul&nbsp;to discuss North&nbsp;Korea.&nbsp;

After the meeting, a news conference was conducted in which Sherman said, "Any nuclear test would be in complete violation of UN Security Council resolutions and there would be a swift and forceful response to such a test".&nbsp;

She further added, "I believe that not only ROK, United States and Japan but the entire world will respond in a strong and clear manner".&nbsp;

A statement from the South Korean military read: "South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States demonstrated their strong ability and determination to quickly and accurately strike any North&nbsp;Korean provocation".&nbsp;

It added, "The allies are closely monitoring and preparing for any further provocation by the North".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-not-responding-to-multiple-calls-for-talks-says-us-486096">North Korea not responding to multiple calls for talks, says US</a>

However, authorities and North&nbsp;Korean experts have been confirming&nbsp;for quite a long time&nbsp;that there are signs of new construction at Punggye-ri, which is North&nbsp;Korea's only known nuclear test site.&nbsp;

Even the&nbsp;International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said that "North&nbsp;Korean building work expanding key facilities at its main nuclear facility at Yongbyon is advancing".&nbsp;

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has also been suffering from its first-ever outbreak of COVID-19, reporting a total of 4,198,890 people with symptoms, as of Monday.&nbsp;

But still, Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea has&nbsp;refused any help that Washington and Seoul offered.&nbsp;

(with inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

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South Korea and the United States conducted a joint air power demonstration on Tuesday during a visit by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. The demonstration involved 20 warplanes including F-35A stealth fighter jets.

South Korea and the United States conducted a joint air power demonstration on Tuesday during a visit by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. The demonstration involved 20 warplanes including F-35A stealth fighter jets. North Korea on Sunday, fired eight short-range ballistic missiles. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said that the launches were detected from 9.08 am to 9.43 am from areas. In response to North Korea's firing of missiles, South Korea and the US also fired eight surface-to-surface missiles off South Korea's east coast. Also read | US, South Korea unleash air power: Is it a deterrent against North Korea's missiles? Watch | US vows forceful response if North Korea tests nuke Deputy Secretary of State of US, Wendy R Sherman met Cho Hyun-dong, South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister in Seoul to discuss North Korea. After the meeting, a news conference was conducted in which Sherman said, "Any nuclear test would be in complete violation of UN Security Council resolutions and there would be a swift and forceful response to such a test". She further added, "I believe that not only ROK, United States and Japan but the entire world will respond in a strong and clear manner". A statement from the South Korean military read: "South Korea and the United States demonstrated their strong ability and determination to quickly and accurately strike any North Korean provocation". It added, "The allies are closely monitoring and preparing for any further provocation by the North". Also read | North Korea not responding to multiple calls for talks, says US However, authorities and North Korean experts have been confirming for quite a long time that there are signs of new construction at Punggye-ri, which is North Korea's only known nuclear test site. Even the International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said that "North Korean building work expanding key facilities at its main nuclear facility at Yongbyon is advancing". North Korea has also been suffering from its first-ever outbreak of COVID-19, reporting a total of 4,198,890 people with symptoms, as of Monday. But still, Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea has refused any help that Washington and Seoul offered. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea, US showcase air power during US official's Seoul visit

As the world marks World Environment Day today, the impact of climate change can be felt all around us. It is time to make the sustainability switch.

World Environment Day: Impact of climate change all around us

Supply disruption has sent global food prices soaring. Russia has now decided to free up the maritime blockade as the global food security crisis looms.

World's food supplies in peril, Ukraine war leads to food crisis

The world is observing no tobacco day. WHO has outlined the negative impact of the tobacco industry. It said that smoking kills 8 million people every year.

WHO outlines the negative impact of the tobacco industry on world no tobacco day

Cambodia is celebrating world turtle day by releasing Hundreds of endangered turtles into the Mekong. Watch this report to know more.

Cambodia celebrates world turtle day: Hundreds of endangered turtles released into the Mekong

The&nbsp;World&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;on Wednesday announced an additional $12 billion in funding for projects to address the global food security crisis, bringing the total to $30 billion.

Amid the growing shortages exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a key grain producer, the new funding will finance projects over the next 15 months to boost food and fertilizer production, facilitate greater trade and support vulnerable households and producers, the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;said.

"Food price increases are having devastating effects on the poorest and most vulnerable,"&nbsp;World&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;President David Malpass said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-indias-wheat-export-ban-causes-ripples-in-global-markets-chinese-media-backs-move-479564">As India’s wheat export ban causes ripples in global markets, Chinese media backs move</a>

"It is critical that countries make clear statements now of future output increases in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine."

The&nbsp;bank&nbsp;previously announced $18.7 billion in funding for projects to be implemented over the next 15 months in Africa and the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and South Asia.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and international economic sanctions on Moscow have disrupted supplies of wheat and other food supplies from both countries and pushed up fuel and diesel prices, especially in developing nations.

Watch |&nbsp;Global food security crisis: UN holds special meet, warns that food crisis could last decades

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And India over the weekend banned wheat exports, which sent prices for the grain soaring.

"Countries should make concerted efforts to increase the supply of energy and fertilizer, help farmers increase plantings and crop yields, and remove policies that block exports and imports, divert food to biofuel, or encourage unnecessary storage," Malpass said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-could-cause-mass-hunger-and-famine-due-to-food-insecurity-un-warns-480297">Russia-Ukraine war could cause mass hunger and famine due to food insecurity, UN warns</a>

Washington welcomed the decision, which is part of a joint action plan by multilateral lenders and regional development banks to address the food crisis.

"The Russian war against Ukraine is the latest global shock that is exacerbating the sharp increase in both acute and chronic food insecurity in recent years driven by conflict, climate change and economic downturns, such as those associated with the Covid-19 pandemic," the Treasury Department said, applauding the institutions for working swiftly to address the issues.

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The World Bank on Wednesday announced an additional $12 billion in funding for projects to address the global food security crisis, bringing the total to $30 billion.

The World Bank on Wednesday announced an additional $12 billion in funding for projects to address the global food security crisis, bringing the total to $30 billion. Amid the growing shortages exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a key grain producer, the new funding will finance projects over the next 15 months to boost food and fertilizer production, facilitate greater trade and support vulnerable households and producers, the World Bank said. "Food price increases are having devastating effects on the poorest and most vulnerable," World Bank President David Malpass said in a statement. Also read | As India’s wheat export ban causes ripples in global markets, Chinese media backs move "It is critical that countries make clear statements now of future output increases in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine." The bank previously announced $18.7 billion in funding for projects to be implemented over the next 15 months in Africa and the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and South Asia. Russia's invasion of Ukraine and international economic sanctions on Moscow have disrupted supplies of wheat and other food supplies from both countries and pushed up fuel and diesel prices, especially in developing nations. Watch | Global food security crisis: UN holds special meet, warns that food crisis could last decades And India over the weekend banned wheat exports, which sent prices for the grain soaring. "Countries should make concerted efforts to increase the supply of energy and fertilizer, help farmers increase plantings and crop yields, and remove policies that block exports and imports, divert food to biofuel, or encourage unnecessary storage," Malpass said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war could cause mass hunger and famine due to food insecurity, UN warns Washington welcomed the decision, which is part of a joint action plan by multilateral lenders and regional development banks to address the food crisis. "The Russian war against Ukraine is the latest global shock that is exacerbating the sharp increase in both acute and chronic food insecurity in recent years driven by conflict, climate change and economic downturns, such as those associated with the Covid-19 pandemic," the Treasury Department said, applauding the institutions for working swiftly to address the issues. 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.

World Bank to provide additional $12 billion to address global food crisis

A Kent student, Callum Pettit, 11, caught a seven stone pound fish; a common carp in a lake near Reims, France establishing&nbsp;a new record for catching the largest one by a junior angler.

The boy has been fishing with his father since he was a toddler. His previous largest catch was a 29-pound mirror carp, reports Metro.

It took him 23 minutes to catch the fish, and once it got on the scales, he along with his father Stuart realised they were creating a record. This massive catch, weighed 96 pounds 10 ounces and was only a few pounds lighter than Callum himself.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaky-sun-umbrellas-worth-1642-adidas-gucci-slammed-in-china-480301">Leaky 'sun umbrellas' worth $1642: Adidas, Gucci slammed in China</a>

‘Big Girl,’ as the fish was nicknamed, went for Callum’s unique banoffee-flavoured bait.

In the year 2019, Ian Burton caught the biggest carp ever caught by a British angler at the same lake weighing 105 pounds and 14 ounces.&nbsp;

In the year 2018, a mirror carp captured at a fishery in Hungary by Dutchman Michel Schoenmakers holds the world record for carp at 112 pounds and 14 ounces.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Over 20,000 cancer cases in UK attributed to obesity

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Surprisingly, it wasn’t until Callum’s father, Stuart, 40 proceeded to pull the fish and dragged it to the land that, they realised that it’s amongst Europe’s largest carp fishes.

‘He played the fish for about 20 minutes, slowly pulling it up and winding it towards him,’ reported by Metro.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/expensive-coffee-customer-at-italy-coffee-bar-calls-police-over-price-of-espresso-480334">Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso</a>

‘We didn’t have any idea of the size of it until we got it into the net and even then, we thought it could have been a 60lbs or 70lbs fish.

‘The owner of the fishery came out and identified it as the Big Girl. It was the biggest fish I have ever set eyes on.’

Other fishermen, gathered to witness the historic catch by the young boy and his father.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

A Kent student, Callum Pettit, 11, caught a seven stone pound fish; a common carp in a lake near Reims, France establishing a new record for catching the largest one by a junior angler.

A Kent student, Callum Pettit, 11, caught a seven stone pound fish; a common carp in a lake near Reims, France establishing a new record for catching the largest one by a junior angler. The boy has been fishing with his father since he was a toddler. His previous largest catch was a 29-pound mirror carp, reports Metro. It took him 23 minutes to catch the fish, and once it got on the scales, he along with his father Stuart realised they were creating a record. This massive catch, weighed 96 pounds 10 ounces and was only a few pounds lighter than Callum himself. Also read | Leaky 'sun umbrellas' worth $1642: Adidas, Gucci slammed in China ‘Big Girl,’ as the fish was nicknamed, went for Callum’s unique banoffee-flavoured bait. In the year 2019, Ian Burton caught the biggest carp ever caught by a British angler at the same lake weighing 105 pounds and 14 ounces. In the year 2018, a mirror carp captured at a fishery in Hungary by Dutchman Michel Schoenmakers holds the world record for carp at 112 pounds and 14 ounces. Watch | Over 20,000 cancer cases in UK attributed to obesity Surprisingly, it wasn’t until Callum’s father, Stuart, 40 proceeded to pull the fish and dragged it to the land that, they realised that it’s amongst Europe’s largest carp fishes. ‘He played the fish for about 20 minutes, slowly pulling it up and winding it towards him,’ reported by Metro. Also read | Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso ‘We didn’t have any idea of the size of it until we got it into the net and even then, we thought it could have been a 60lbs or 70lbs fish. ‘The owner of the fishery came out and identified it as the Big Girl. It was the biggest fish I have ever set eyes on.’ Other fishermen, gathered to witness the historic catch by the young boy and his father. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

11-year-old UK child breaks the world record by catching a 96 pound fish, almost as heavy as him

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