Tensions between US & China continue to escalate over Xinjiang. China has imposed sanctions on four US officials. This after US targeted Chinese officials and firms with curbs.

Tensions between US & China continue to escalate

After Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s support for extremist group Taliban at the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit in Islamabad, the new Afghanistan government were seen warning Pakistan’s forces as fresh clashes erupt at the border.

Tensions escalate between Afghanistan, Pakistan after latter convenes OIC meeting

European gas prices hit a new record high on Tuesday after a pipeline that brings Russian gas to Germany switched to flow east, a move the Kremlin said had no political implications, while two big German customers said Gazprom was meeting supply obligations.

EU gas prices hit new record high Russian gas pipeline switched to flow east

Afghanistan, Pakistan dispute escalates 2 days after OIC meet

A massive fancy shopping mall, i.e., the falcon mall in Karachi has now become a major source of embarrassment for the Pakistani military. Pakistan's Supreme Court has come down heavily on the country's military establishment, pointing out that land meant for defence purposes was being misused for commercial activities. The three-judge bench belonging to the country's top court was hearing a case relating to the illegal use of cantonment board lands in Karachi.

Pakistan's Supreme Court comes down on military for misusing land

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: During remarks at the White House, Biden outlined a plan to increase testing, speed up the vaccination campaign, and boost the capacity of hospitals that could be inundated in the coming weeks. At present, there are only "some weeks" left to revive the nuclear deal with Iran if it continues its nuclear activities at the current pace, US negotiator Rob Malley said on December&nbsp;21.

Click on the headlines to read more. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-should-be-concerned-about-omicron-not-panicked-biden-438876">We should be concerned about omicron, not panicked: Biden</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/11/03/219711-untitled-design-3.jpg" /> 
 
On Tuesday, US Vice President Joe Biden attempted to strike a balance between informing Americans about the impending surge of omicron infections while simultaneously attempting to persuade the public to take safeguards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-khan-regrets-joining-us-war-on-terror-says-did-it-for-dollars-438882">Pakistan PM Khan regrets joining US’ ‘war on terror’, says did it for ‘dollars’</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/03/224744-khan.jpg" /> 
Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed regret for Pakistan’s participation in US’ 20-year-long “war on terror” in Afghanistan, saying that the country joined only for “dollars” and not in the “public intertest.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-that-only-some-weeks-left-to-revive-iran-nuclear-deal-438880">US warns that only 'some weeks' left to revive Iran nuclear deal</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/17/187566-irr1.jpg" /> 
US negotiator Rob Malley said Tuesday that there may only be "some weeks" left to revive the nuclear deal with Iran if the country continues its nuclear activities at its current pace.

Watch | Gravitas: Is Indian Rupee 'Asia's worst-performing currency'?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-indian-rupee-asias-worst-performing-currency-438850/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Pakistan's Supreme Court comes down on military for misusing land

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistans-supreme-court-comes-down-on-military-for-misusing-land-438878/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Biden administration appoints Uzra Zeya ​as Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-administration-appoints-uzra-zeya-as-special-coordinator-for-tibetan-issues-438877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: During remarks at the White House, Biden outlined a plan to increase testing, speed up the vaccination campaign, and boost the capacity of hospitals that could be inundated in the coming weeks.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: During remarks at the White House, Biden outlined a plan to increase testing, speed up the vaccination campaign, and boost the capacity of hospitals that could be inundated in the coming weeks. At present, there are only "some weeks" left to revive the nuclear deal with Iran if it continues its nuclear activities at the current pace, US negotiator Rob Malley said on December 21. Click on the headlines to read more. We should be concerned about omicron, not panicked: Biden On Tuesday, US Vice President Joe Biden attempted to strike a balance between informing Americans about the impending surge of omicron infections while simultaneously attempting to persuade the public to take safeguards. Pakistan PM Khan regrets joining US’ ‘war on terror’, says did it for ‘dollars’ Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed regret for Pakistan’s participation in US’ 20-year-long “war on terror” in Afghanistan, saying that the country joined only for “dollars” and not in the “public intertest.” US warns that only 'some weeks' left to revive Iran nuclear deal US negotiator Rob Malley said Tuesday that there may only be "some weeks" left to revive the nuclear deal with Iran if the country continues its nuclear activities at its current pace. Watch | Gravitas: Is Indian Rupee 'Asia's worst-performing currency'? Watch | Pakistan's Supreme Court comes down on military for misusing land Watch | Biden administration appoints Uzra Zeya as Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues

Morning news brief: Omicron spread, Iran nuclear deal, and more

Rising temperatures are shrinking mighty peaks, the situation in Germany is no different. Its highest peak has been melting away, taking a toll on tourism and the environment.

Germany's highest peak Zugspitze is disappearing

Indian Foreign Secy Harsh Shringla is on a two-day visit to Myanmar. This is the first high-level outreach from India since the Myanmar military coup.

Indian Foreign Secy Harsh Shringla visits Myanmar

Is Pakistan military trying to hoodwink courts?

China imposes sanctions on US officials

A government minister in Madagascar has said he swam for 12 hours to safety after his helicopter crashed at sea during a rescue mission.

Madagascar minister swims for 12 hours after chopper crashes at sea

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day:&nbsp;Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, remarked, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled." The Omicron variant accounted for 73 per cent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States.UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided that no lockdown will be imposed in the country till Christmas.Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose. 
 
Click on headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-event-cancelled-is-better-than-a-life-cancelled-who-chief-438610">'An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled': WHO chief</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/21/227889-untitled-design-16.jpg" /> 
With the COVID-19 Omicron variant continuing to spread and relatives and friends intending to get together over the holidays, the head of the World Health Organization has cautioned that celebrations may need to be cancelled.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-within-a-week-the-strain-increased-from-3-to-73-of-us-covid-19-cases-438597">Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/21/227872-untitled-design-15.jpg" />According to the most recent federal estimates, the Omicron variant accounted for 73 percent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, up from about 3% last week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-decides-on-no-lockdown-before-christmas-438601">Boris Johnson decides on 'no lockdown' before Christmas</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/21/227875-coronavirus-in-uk.jpg" />The leader, who is battling personal controversies, decided that his officials will keep a close eye on the situation and the Covid surge will stay "under constant review".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-heckled-by-supporters-in-texas-after-revealing-he-took-covid-booster-dose-438604">Trump heckled by supporters in Texas after revealing he took Covid booster dose</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/29/193220-donald-trump.jpg" />Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose. 
 
Watch | Australia sets an ambitious target of making its beef industry carbon neutral by 2030

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-sets-an-ambitious-target-of-making-its-beef-industry-carbon-neutral-by-2030-438608/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Once a top producer, Nigeria aims to revive Palm oil industry &amp; create new jobs

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Watch | Pakistan PM Imran Khan defends &amp; justifies Taliban ban on girls' education

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Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, remarked, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, remarked, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled." The Omicron variant accounted for 73 per cent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States.UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided that no lockdown will be imposed in the country till Christmas.Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose. Click on headlines to read more. 'An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled': WHO chief With the COVID-19 Omicron variant continuing to spread and relatives and friends intending to get together over the holidays, the head of the World Health Organization has cautioned that celebrations may need to be cancelled. Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases According to the most recent federal estimates, the Omicron variant accounted for 73 percent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, up from about 3% last week. Boris Johnson decides on 'no lockdown' before Christmas The leader, who is battling personal controversies, decided that his officials will keep a close eye on the situation and the Covid surge will stay "under constant review". Trump heckled by supporters in Texas after revealing he took Covid booster dose Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose. Watch | Australia sets an ambitious target of making its beef industry carbon neutral by 2030 Watch | Once a top producer, Nigeria aims to revive Palm oil industry & create new jobs Watch | Pakistan PM Imran Khan defends & justifies Taliban ban on girls' education

Morning news brief: Omicron spread, WHO alert, and more

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day. The death toll from Super Typhoon Rai (also known as Odette), has risen to at least 208 people after the storm blew across the archipelago late last week, causing massive flooding and devastation. The UK government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, seems to be going through a rough phase lately as it has been getting embroiled in one or the other controversy for quite some time. As more and more reports come out about increasing domestic violence against women in Italy, Pope Francis has sent a strong message against it.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-typhoon-rai-climbs-to-208-in-philippines-over-50-missing-national-police-438246">Death toll from Typhoon Rai climbs to 208 in Philippines, over 50 missing: National Police</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/18/227444-arr11.jpg" />

The death toll from Super Typhoon Rai (also known as Odette), has risen to at least 208 people after the storm blew across the archipelago late last week, causing massive flooding and devastation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/downing-street-garden-gathering-during-may-2020-lockdown-returns-to-haunt-pm-after-uk-paper-publishes-photo-438252">Downing Street garden gathering during May 2020 lockdown returns to haunt PM after UK paper publishes photo</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/12/202107-uk1.jpg" />

UK government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson seem to be going through a rough phase lately as it has been getting embroiled in one or the other controversy for quite some time. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-satanic-pope-francis-condemns-rising-violence-against-women-438251">'Almost satanic': Pope Francis condemns rising violence against women</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/01/200623-untitled-design-19.jpg" />

As more and more reports come out about increasing domestic violence against women in Italy, Pope Francis has raised strong message against it. 
 
Watch | WION Speed News: Quick round-up of all top headlines

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-quick-round-up-of-all-top-headlines-438262/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Watch | Omicron found to spread at faster pace compared to other COVID variants

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-found-to-spread-at-faster-pace-compared-to-other-covid-variants-438245/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban leaders appeal for help as migrant crisis looms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-leaders-appeal-for-help-as-migrant-crisis-looms-438220/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day. The death toll from Super Typhoon Rai (also known as Odette), has risen to at least 208 people after the storm blew across the archipelago late last week, causing massive flooding and devastation.

Here are some of the top stories to start off your day. The death toll from Super Typhoon Rai (also known as Odette), has risen to at least 208 people after the storm blew across the archipelago late last week, causing massive flooding and devastation. The UK government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, seems to be going through a rough phase lately as it has been getting embroiled in one or the other controversy for quite some time. As more and more reports come out about increasing domestic violence against women in Italy, Pope Francis has sent a strong message against it. Click on headlines to read more Death toll from Typhoon Rai climbs to 208 in Philippines, over 50 missing: National Police The death toll from Super Typhoon Rai (also known as Odette), has risen to at least 208 people after the storm blew across the archipelago late last week, causing massive flooding and devastation. Downing Street garden gathering during May 2020 lockdown returns to haunt PM after UK paper publishes photo UK government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson seem to be going through a rough phase lately as it has been getting embroiled in one or the other controversy for quite some time. 'Almost satanic': Pope Francis condemns rising violence against women As more and more reports come out about increasing domestic violence against women in Italy, Pope Francis has raised strong message against it. Watch | WION Speed News: Quick round-up of all top headlines Watch | Omicron found to spread at faster pace compared to other COVID variants Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban leaders appeal for help as migrant crisis looms

Morning news brief: Super Typhoon Rai, Omicron spread and more

Iraq's security forces on Sunday released a statement saying that two rockets targetted Baghdad's highly secure Green Zone. US embassy is located in the Green Zone. Security forces said that the attack took place early Sunday. "The Green Zone in Baghdad was the target of two Katyusha rockets. The first was shot down in the air by C-RAM defence batteries, the second fell in a square, damaging two vehicles," the statement said.

Two Katyusha rockets fired at Baghdad's ultra-secure Green Zone

Children in Venezuela are taking to a game of speed that is being played in the country for more than a century. Our next report gets you the details.

Children in Venezuela take to wooden board racing

Foreign Ministers of five Central Asian countries -- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan have met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and emphasised the readiness of their leaderships to further strengthen relations with India.

PM Narendra Modi meets foreign ministers of 5 Central Asian countries; trade, connectivity top focus

Chile has elected its next president. The country witnessed fierce competition between Boric and Kast. The 35-year-old lawmaker Boric has now become the youngest-ever president.

Chile chooses youngest-ever president Gabriel Boric

Chile has chosen its next president. The country witnessed a fierce competition between Boric and Kast.

Gabriel Boric elected as new President of Chile

The number of Omicron cases rising in the United Kingdom has been enormously worrying for the authorities. Experts have warned that Omicron variant could become the dominant strain in the United Kingdom by the end of December.

United Kingdom reports rapid spread of the Omicron variant

Asian stock markets are trading in deep red after China slashed its benchmark lending rate for the first time in more than one-and-a-half years. Sensex earlier was trading with 1800 points in the red and Nifty had come below the 16500 mark.

Asian stock markets trade in deep red after China slashes its benchmark lending rate

The third edition of the Central Asia dialogue is underway in India. On second day of the dialogue, India's EAM S Jaishankar hosted the crucial meet between foreign ministers of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and others.

Third edition of India-Central Asia dialogue underway

To get your day started, here are some stories.&nbsp;Brexit Minister David Frost has resigned in a big blow to UK government while&nbsp;Britain's scientists said that&nbsp;many more have been infected with Omicron variant than reported.&nbsp;

You can also read about&nbsp;two Katyusha rockets targetting Iraq’s fortified Green Zone and&nbsp;guests being urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party.&nbsp;

Please click on the headline to read the full story.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-big-blow-to-uk-government-brexit-minister-david-frost-resigns-438073">In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b6dfe66-4d3a-4487-aa04-260e2d54a01a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Brexit_0.jpg" />

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday.&nbsp;This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-says-uk-scientists-438070">Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists</a>

<img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa23c40f-dbb5-45bb-abd9-a45af5414f20" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KS1.JPG" />

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-katyusha-rockets-target-iraqs-fortified-green-zone-says-report-438080">Two Katyusha rockets target Iraq’s fortified Green Zone, says report</a>

<img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e1ca183e-9fc5-45fd-89e0-72c02d53fd99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KS2.JPG" />

The spate of rocket attacks targetting the fortified Green Zone do not seem to end.&nbsp;In another attack, two Katyusha rockets hit the highly secured area in Baghdad, reported Iraq’s state news agency citing security forces. The C-RAM defence system destroyed one rocket in the air while the other landed near the area's festivals arena.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-it-on-wife-guests-urged-to-be-vaccinated-at-anti-vaxxers-party-438076">'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party</a>

<img alt="Brief 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b818aa17-3315-48e8-83f9-0c86c1a93a1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KS3.JPG" />

One of the leading anti-vaxxers of the US, Robert F Kennedy Jr, threw a party at his home but guests were urged to be fully vaccinated or tested negative for COVID-19.

To get your day started, here are some stories. Brexit Minister David Frost has resigned in a big blow to UK government while Britain's scientists said that many more have been infected with Omicron variant than reported.

To get your day started, here are some stories. Brexit Minister David Frost has resigned in a big blow to UK government while Britain's scientists said that many more have been infected with Omicron variant than reported. You can also read about two Katyusha rockets targetting Iraq’s fortified Green Zone and guests being urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party. Please click on the headline to read the full story. In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies. Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time. Two Katyusha rockets target Iraq’s fortified Green Zone, says report The spate of rocket attacks targetting the fortified Green Zone do not seem to end. In another attack, two Katyusha rockets hit the highly secured area in Baghdad, reported Iraq’s state news agency citing security forces. The C-RAM defence system destroyed one rocket in the air while the other landed near the area's festivals arena. 'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party One of the leading anti-vaxxers of the US, Robert F Kennedy Jr, threw a party at his home but guests were urged to be fully vaccinated or tested negative for COVID-19.

Morning news brief: UK minister resigns, Iraq rocket attack and more

The Indian Ocean is India's backyard. But, China wants to control the region and its waters. How will it do that? By establishing a permanent naval presence in the Indian Ocean. On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma tells you how China is weaponising the Belt and Road initiative.

Gravitas Plus: China is Weaponising the Belt and Road Initiative

To get your day started, here are some stories. US police officer testified at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright while the Iran deal talks hit pause as Tehran’s negotiator heads home for consultations. You can also read about Taliban managing to prepare new Afghan budget amid concerns of extreme poverty and Canada lifting travel ban as France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant.&nbsp;

Please click on the headline to read the full story.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-officer-testifies-at-manslaughter-trial-for-killing-daunte-wright-437812">US police officer testifies at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e9b44c4-faa1-4261-9d0b-36f242cdc3d6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Wright.jpg" />

In an emotional testimony, the police officer, who shot and killed Daunte Wright, testified at manslaughter trial in the United States.&nbsp;The suburban Minneapolis cop said that she didn't plan to use deadly force that day. Before the defence rested case, she was the final witness.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuke-deal-talks-hit-pause-again-as-tehrans-negotiator-heads-home-for-consultations-437819">Iran deal talks hit pause as Tehran’s negotiator heads home for consultations</a>

<img alt="Brief 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ad4b401-2999-4e6c-b79f-ef444d167d24" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Deal.jpg" />

Talks being held for reviving 2015 Iran nuclear deal have again hit the pause button as the crucial meeting had to be adjourned on Friday.&nbsp;After a round, which witnessed a hike in tensions as Iran raised new demands, the negotiator from Tehran returned home for consultations.&nbsp;According to European diplomats, it was ‘a disappointing pause'.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-concerns-of-extreme-poverty-taliban-manages-to-prepare-new-afghan-budget-437814">Amid concerns of extreme poverty, Taliban manages to prepare new Afghan budget</a>

<img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbcb3d6f-83ca-47a3-833a-70e0f4510ba0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HG1.JPG" />

Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging. However, in the latest development, Afghanistan's finance ministry has managed to draft a national budget under the Taliban government.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-france-fears-dominance-of-omicron-covid-variant-in-2022-canada-lifts-travel-ban-437815">As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban</a>

<img alt="Brief 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f35788b5-3905-4a4e-b85c-f09ed43b63e3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HG2.JPG" />

As the Omicron variant takes over the world, French Prime Minister has warned that the new variant can become the dominant one in France from the start of 2022.

&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Germany faces massive fifth wave of COVID-19 due to Omicron variant

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To get your day started, here are some stories. US police officer testified at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright while the Iran deal talks hit pause as Tehran’s negotiator heads home for consultations.

To get your day started, here are some stories. US police officer testified at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright while the Iran deal talks hit pause as Tehran’s negotiator heads home for consultations. You can also read about Taliban managing to prepare new Afghan budget amid concerns of extreme poverty and Canada lifting travel ban as France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant. Please click on the headline to read the full story. US police officer testifies at manslaughter trial for killing Daunte Wright In an emotional testimony, the police officer, who shot and killed Daunte Wright, testified at manslaughter trial in the United States. The suburban Minneapolis cop said that she didn't plan to use deadly force that day. Before the defence rested case, she was the final witness. Iran deal talks hit pause as Tehran’s negotiator heads home for consultations Talks being held for reviving 2015 Iran nuclear deal have again hit the pause button as the crucial meeting had to be adjourned on Friday. After a round, which witnessed a hike in tensions as Iran raised new demands, the negotiator from Tehran returned home for consultations. According to European diplomats, it was ‘a disappointing pause'. Amid concerns of extreme poverty, Taliban manages to prepare new Afghan budget Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging. However, in the latest development, Afghanistan's finance ministry has managed to draft a national budget under the Taliban government. As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban As the Omicron variant takes over the world, French Prime Minister has warned that the new variant can become the dominant one in France from the start of 2022. Watch: Germany faces massive fifth wave of COVID-19 due to Omicron variant ×

Morning news brief: Daunte Wright trial, Iran deal talks and more

An ageing dolphin is proving an ideal patient at Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo, where he’s been getting treatment for cancer since returning there from a facility in Florida in September.

Watch: Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo gives Dolphin cancer treatment

Since the Junta takeover in Myanmar, several pro-democracy protestors have been killed. Civilians in deep forest areas are now learning how to fire weapons in a makeshift camp. Here we bring you more on this.

Myanmar: People prepare fight against Junta

China has been forced to cancel a solar power project in Sri Lanka. Reports say there was pressure from India, others say the local population rejected it. China however has reacted with a publicity campaign.

China's project on Jaffna islands called off | Solar power project

To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. A panel of US government-appointed medical experts unanimously recommended Pfizer's and Moderna's mRNA Covid vaccines over Johnson &amp; Johnson's due to their weaker protection and greater risks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-us-president-warns-of-winter-with-severe-illness-and-death-437546">Omicron: US President warns of winter with 'severe illness and death'</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/10/26/218250-untitled-design-3.jpg" />Infections have grown by 40% across the country in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/citing-risk-of-clotting-us-expert-panel-votes-for-the-use-of-moderna-pfizer-vaccines-over-jj-437545">Citing risk of clotting, US expert panel votes for the use of Moderna, Pfizer vaccines, over J&amp;J</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/17/227089-stories.jpg" />In its discussion of risks and benefits, the CDC also said that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines carry risks, primarily for younger men who may in very rare cases develop myocarditis or pericarditis -- inflammation of or around the heart.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-the-pro-life-vs-pro-choice-fight-biden-administration-makes-access-to-abortion-pills-easier-437555">Amid the pro-life vs pro-choice fight, Biden administration makes access to abortion pills easier</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/08/26/107759-untitled-design-3.jpg" />

In a rare victory for the pro-choice movement in an increasingly bitter battle over reproductive rights, US President Joe Biden's administration ruled Thursday that abortion pills would be available by mail permanently, not just during the Covid pandemic. 
 
Watch | EU leaders warns of sanctions against Russia amid rising tensions at Ukraine border

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-warns-of-sanctions-against-russia-amid-rising-tensions-at-ukraine-border-437532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Watch | What moved Pakistan to skip US President Joe Biden's democracy summit?

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-moved-pakistan-to-skip-us-president-joe-bidens-democracy-summit-437552/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | EU wants 4-way talks between Paris, Berlin, Kyiv &amp; Moscow as it threatens Russia with sanctions

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-wants-4-way-talks-between-paris-berlin-kyiv-moscow-as-it-threatens-russia-with-sanctions-437549/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans.

To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. A panel of US government-appointed medical experts unanimously recommended Pfizer's and Moderna's mRNA Covid vaccines over Johnson & Johnson's due to their weaker protection and greater risks. Omicron: US President warns of winter with 'severe illness and death' Infections have grown by 40% across the country in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the coronavirus. Citing risk of clotting, US expert panel votes for the use of Moderna, Pfizer vaccines, over J&J In its discussion of risks and benefits, the CDC also said that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines carry risks, primarily for younger men who may in very rare cases develop myocarditis or pericarditis -- inflammation of or around the heart. Amid the pro-life vs pro-choice fight, Biden administration makes access to abortion pills easier In a rare victory for the pro-choice movement in an increasingly bitter battle over reproductive rights, US President Joe Biden's administration ruled Thursday that abortion pills would be available by mail permanently, not just during the Covid pandemic. Watch | EU leaders warns of sanctions against Russia amid rising tensions at Ukraine border Watch | What moved Pakistan to skip US President Joe Biden's democracy summit? Watch | EU wants 4-way talks between Paris, Berlin, Kyiv & Moscow as it threatens Russia with sanctions

Morning news brief: Omicron in US, COVID-19 vaccines and more

After harsh criticism from Brazil's economy Minister, IMF pulls out of the country altogether. IMF had earlier predicted contraction in the economy.

‘They can go take a walk’: IMF closes its Brazil office after criticism

At a time the world is facing an unprecedented semiconductor shortage, India has announced a ten billion dollar plan to attract manufacturers of chips and displays in the country.

India's $10 bn package for chip manufacturing

To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: COVID-19 was genetically created in China, according to Harvard scientist Dr. Alina Chan, who testified before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee.In an effort to curb the addiction epidemic that killed a record 100,000 Americans last year, the United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Chinese painkiller makers.US military commanders in the Pacific have developed a software tool that can predict how the Chinese government will react to US-backed activities in the region such as military sales.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-possibly-an-engineered-virus-and-leaked-from-wuhan-lab-harvard-scientist-437263">COVID-19 possibly an engineered virus and leaked from Wuhan lab: Harvard scientist</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/23/199508-wuhan-lab.jpg" />

Dr Alina Chan, a specialist in gene therapy and cell engineering at MIT and Harvard, made the claims when giving evidence to the UK Parliament's Science and Technology Select Committee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/painkiller-epidemic-us-targets-chinese-firms-for-addiction-that-claimed-100000-lives-last-year-437262">'Painkiller epidemic': the US targets Chinese firms for addiction that claimed 100,000 lives last year</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/16/226900-stories-13.jpg" />

Due to the increasing trend of people who are struggling with addiction, turning to cheaper drugs purchased online from overseas, President Joe Biden signed an executive order that makes it easier for the United States to target foreign drug traffickers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-develops-new-software-to-predict-actions-that-can-trigger-outsized-chinese-reactions-437252">US develops new software to predict actions that can trigger 'outsized' Chinese reactions</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/12/16/226891-stories-12.jpg" />

An official with the Defense Department said the tool calculates "strategic friction." It examines significant activities that have affected US-China relations since early 2020, based on data dating back to early 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-plans-to-attend-beijing-olympics-japanese-prime-minister-fumio-kishida-437249">'No plans to attend Beijing Olympics': Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/11/27/223727-untitled-design-12.jpg" />

His comments in parliament came after the US launched a diplomatic boycott of the games in response to mounting criticism of China's human rights record, a decision that has been echoed by other nations such as Australia and the United Kingdom. 
 
Watch | Gwadar Protest | Solidarity rallies held across Pakistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gwadar-protest-solidarity-rallies-held-across-pakistan-437264/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Watch | 50 years of liberation for Bangladesh: President Kovind in Dhaka to commemorate anniversary

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/50-years-of-liberation-for-bangladesh-president-kovind-in-dhaka-to-commemorate-anniversary-437254/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: COVID-19 was genetically created in China, according to Harvard scientist Dr. Alina Chan, who testified before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee.

To get your day started, here are some of the most important stories: COVID-19 was genetically created in China, according to Harvard scientist Dr. Alina Chan, who testified before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee.In an effort to curb the addiction epidemic that killed a record 100,000 Americans last year, the United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Chinese painkiller makers.US military commanders in the Pacific have developed a software tool that can predict how the Chinese government will react to US-backed activities in the region such as military sales. COVID-19 possibly an engineered virus and leaked from Wuhan lab: Harvard scientist Dr Alina Chan, a specialist in gene therapy and cell engineering at MIT and Harvard, made the claims when giving evidence to the UK Parliament's Science and Technology Select Committee. 'Painkiller epidemic': the US targets Chinese firms for addiction that claimed 100,000 lives last year Due to the increasing trend of people who are struggling with addiction, turning to cheaper drugs purchased online from overseas, President Joe Biden signed an executive order that makes it easier for the United States to target foreign drug traffickers. US develops new software to predict actions that can trigger 'outsized' Chinese reactions An official with the Defense Department said the tool calculates "strategic friction." It examines significant activities that have affected US-China relations since early 2020, based on data dating back to early 2020. 'No plans to attend Beijing Olympics': Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida His comments in parliament came after the US launched a diplomatic boycott of the games in response to mounting criticism of China's human rights record, a decision that has been echoed by other nations such as Australia and the United Kingdom. Watch | Gwadar Protest | Solidarity rallies held across Pakistan Watch | 50 years of liberation for Bangladesh: President Kovind in Dhaka to commemorate anniversary

Morning news brief: Wuhan lab leak, painkiller epidemic in US and more

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