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The US aviation industry has requested the Biden administration to halt the approval of more flights to and from China, stating that China's unfair competition policies are hurting American airlines and workers.

According to a letter published on Thursday (April 11), addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, industry representatives from Airlines for America, along with unions like the Air Line Pilots Association, expressed concern about the impact on the approximately 315,000 US airline workers serving China.

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The letter highlights the risk of US workers and businesses losing out if the growth of China's aviation market isn't regulated properly. It emphasises the importance of fairness and equality in market access.

The letter was signed by industry lobby group Airlines for America — whose members include American Airlines (AAL), Delta (DAL) and United (UAL) — and other unions representing aviation workers, including the Air Line Pilots Association.

Earlier in February, Washington&nbsp;allowed Chinese airlines to increase their direct flights to the US to address pandemic-related disruptions.&nbsp;The letter argues that China's aviation market remains heavily restricted compared to pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;

Chinese carriers were given approval by US officials to make 50 weekly round trips to and from the United States, up from 35, from March 31, 2020.

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This, coupled with challenges like avoiding Russian airspace due to geopolitical tensions, is adding extra costs and time for US carriers.

“These actions shows the need for the US government to establish a policy that protects US aviation workers, industry and air travelers,” it further said.

However, China's Foreign Ministry said on Friday (April 12) that increasing direct flights was the consensus reached when Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden met in San Francisco in November.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US aviation industry has requested the Biden administration to halt the approval of more flights to and from China, stating that China's unfair competition policies are hurting American airlines and workers.

The US aviation industry has requested the Biden administration to halt the approval of more flights to and from China, stating that China's unfair competition policies are hurting American airlines and workers. According to a letter published on Thursday (April 11), addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, industry representatives from Airlines for America, along with unions like the Air Line Pilots Association, expressed concern about the impact on the approximately 315,000 US airline workers serving China. Also read: State ballot certification clashes with DNC convention, will Biden be omitted from their Nov ballot? The letter highlights the risk of US workers and businesses losing out if the growth of China's aviation market isn't regulated properly. It emphasises the importance of fairness and equality in market access. The letter was signed by industry lobby group Airlines for America — whose members include American Airlines (AAL), Delta (DAL) and United (UAL) — and other unions representing aviation workers, including the Air Line Pilots Association. Earlier in February, Washington allowed Chinese airlines to increase their direct flights to the US to address pandemic-related disruptions. The letter argues that China's aviation market remains heavily restricted compared to pre-pandemic levels. Chinese carriers were given approval by US officials to make 50 weekly round trips to and from the United States, up from 35, from March 31, 2020. Also read: Biden administration forgives an additional $7.4 billion in student loans This, coupled with challenges like avoiding Russian airspace due to geopolitical tensions, is adding extra costs and time for US carriers. “These actions shows the need for the US government to establish a policy that protects US aviation workers, industry and air travelers,” it further said. However, China's Foreign Ministry said on Friday (April 12) that increasing direct flights was the consensus reached when Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden met in San Francisco in November. (With inputs from agencies)

US airlines urge Biden administration to halt more flights to China

Russian missiles and drones destroyed a large electricity plant near Kyiv and hit power facilities in several regions of Ukraine on Thursday, officials said, ramping up pressure on the embattled energy system as Kyiv runs low on air defences. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Major Russian air strikes destroy Kyiv power plant, damage other stations

Greece has launched a free seven-day holiday programme for the tourists who fled Rhodes due to deadly wildfires in July 2023.

Over 25,000 tourists, mainly from Britain, who were evacuated from their hotels during the fires, are eligible for the latest compensation scheme by the government.

Under this initiative, those particular individuals can avail their e-vouchers worth 536.58 USD (€500).

The vouchers can be used to cover the cost of accommodation for a week-long stay in the country.

The programme is set to be executed in two phases, i.e. an initial phase that will run till May 31 starting from now, and a second phase that will run until Nov 15 starting from Oct 1.

“The scheme is up and running as the prime minister promised,” the Greek tourism ministry’s general secretary, Myron Flouris, told the Guardian. “It’s been a very complicated process not least, I think, because we’re the first country in the world to do this.”

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Over 5,000 travellers have already signed up for this programme, as per reports.

“Anyone who was staying in areas that were affected by the fires is eligible,” said Yannis Papavasiliou, the head of the island’s union of hoteliers.

“The response has been very good and we are told will be even stronger come the autumn,” he said.

“It will apply only to hotels, not Airbnb-style private accommodation. At the end of the day, Greece is making good on its promise to recompense all those who lost their holidays because of climate change,” he added.

Last year in the month of August, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the tourists who were forced to escape the island due to the wildfires would be given a free one-week holiday.

Speaking on a British morning show, Mitsotakis said the tourists could take up the offer in the spring or autumn of 2024.&nbsp;

“For all those whose holiday was cut short as a result of wildfires, the Greek government in cooperation with local authorities will offer one week of free holidays on Rhodes next spring, the next fall, so that we make sure they come back to the island and enjoy its natural beauty," Mitsotakis said.

"Not a single human life was lost in Rhodes, and no injuries were reported... We understand that guests have been inconvenienced, but I am happy to tell you that Rhodes is more welcoming than ever. The island is back to normal."

Local people as well as tourists were forced to flee their homes and hotels during the wildfires that ravaged the island in July 2023.&nbsp;

As many as 20,000 tourists were rescued from danger&nbsp;in what was the largest evacuation undertaken by the country.&nbsp;

Greece, whose economy has been heavily battered over the past decade, relies heavily on tourism to generate revenue. Rhodes, the ninth-largest island in the eastern Mediterranean, is a popular holiday spot and Mitsotakis wants tourism to quickly return to previous levels.

(With inputs from agencies)

Greece has launched a free seven-day holiday programme for the tourists who fled Rhodes due to deadly wildfires in July 2023. Over 25,000 tourists, mainly from Britain, who were evacuated from their hotels during the fires, are eligible for the latest compensation scheme by the government.

Greece has launched a free seven-day holiday programme for the tourists who fled Rhodes due to deadly wildfires in July 2023. Over 25,000 tourists, mainly from Britain, who were evacuated from their hotels during the fires, are eligible for the latest compensation scheme by the government. Under this initiative, those particular individuals can avail their e-vouchers worth 536.58 USD (€500). The vouchers can be used to cover the cost of accommodation for a week-long stay in the country. The programme is set to be executed in two phases, i.e. an initial phase that will run till May 31 starting from now, and a second phase that will run until Nov 15 starting from Oct 1. “The scheme is up and running as the prime minister promised,” the Greek tourism ministry’s general secretary, Myron Flouris, told the Guardian. “It’s been a very complicated process not least, I think, because we’re the first country in the world to do this.” Also read: FBI concerned over potential 'organised attack' in US after Russian concert hall shooting Over 5,000 travellers have already signed up for this programme, as per reports. “Anyone who was staying in areas that were affected by the fires is eligible,” said Yannis Papavasiliou, the head of the island’s union of hoteliers. “The response has been very good and we are told will be even stronger come the autumn,” he said. “It will apply only to hotels, not Airbnb-style private accommodation. At the end of the day, Greece is making good on its promise to recompense all those who lost their holidays because of climate change,” he added. Last year in the month of August, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the tourists who were forced to escape the island due to the wildfires would be given a free one-week holiday. Speaking on a British morning show, Mitsotakis said the tourists could take up the offer in the spring or autumn of 2024. “For all those whose holiday was cut short as a result of wildfires, the Greek government in cooperation with local authorities will offer one week of free holidays on Rhodes next spring, the next fall, so that we make sure they come back to the island and enjoy its natural beauty," Mitsotakis said. "Not a single human life was lost in Rhodes, and no injuries were reported... We understand that guests have been inconvenienced, but I am happy to tell you that Rhodes is more welcoming than ever. The island is back to normal." Local people as well as tourists were forced to flee their homes and hotels during the wildfires that ravaged the island in July 2023. As many as 20,000 tourists were rescued from danger in what was the largest evacuation undertaken by the country. Greece, whose economy has been heavily battered over the past decade, relies heavily on tourism to generate revenue. Rhodes, the ninth-largest island in the eastern Mediterranean, is a popular holiday spot and Mitsotakis wants tourism to quickly return to previous levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Greece launches free seven-day holiday programme for tourists who escaped 2023 Rhodes wildfires

The United Kingdom's immigration authorities arrested 11 men and one woman recently over allegedly being in breach of their visa conditions and working illegally at a cake factory and bedding and mattress factory.

The UK Home Office on Wednesday (Apr 10) released a statement saying that the Immigration Enforcement officers dismounted the bedding and mattress business in the West Midlands region of Britain after illegal work was being carried out on-site.

Seven men were arrested from there, all said to be Indian nationals over suspected illegal working, said the Home Office.

Later, four more Indian men were arrested at a cake factory over suspicion of being in breach of their visa conditions.

“Four more Indian men were arrested at a nearby cake factory. They were found to be in breach of their visa conditions, and one was also working illegally. An Indian woman was then arrested for immigration offences at a private home, with further raids planned throughout the afternoon,” it said.

The officials, according to news agency PTI, said that four of the offenders were detained pending review over removal from the UK or deportation to India.

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The other&nbsp;eight&nbsp;were sent out on bail on the condition that they will report regularly to the Home Office.

The two businesses under the radar could possibly face significant fines if it gets established that they did not conduct pre-employment checks or employed illegal workers.

“This operation is a clear example of the way we are stepping up immigration enforcement activity across the country,” said Michael Tomlinson, UK Minister for Countering Illegal Migration.

“Employers found to be breaching the rules can expect significantly increased fines, and if workers are found to have no right to live or work here, we will not hesitate to act and remove them from the country,” he said.

In the month of February, the Home Office raised the fines significantly to three times for employers who allowed illegal migrants to work for them.

“Illegal working causes serious harm to communities, puts vulnerable people at risk and defrauds the public purse. The arrests send a clear message that we are clamping down on this dangerous practice,” said Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office.

“People smugglers sell migrants the lie that they can work in the UK. The reality is that they can’t – and those found to be working illegally or facilitating this crime will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom's immigration authorities arrested 11 men and one woman recently over allegedly being in breach of their visa conditions and working illegally at a cake factory and bedding and mattress factory.

The United Kingdom's immigration authorities arrested 11 men and one woman recently over allegedly being in breach of their visa conditions and working illegally at a cake factory and bedding and mattress factory. The UK Home Office on Wednesday (Apr 10) released a statement saying that the Immigration Enforcement officers dismounted the bedding and mattress business in the West Midlands region of Britain after illegal work was being carried out on-site. Seven men were arrested from there, all said to be Indian nationals over suspected illegal working, said the Home Office. Later, four more Indian men were arrested at a cake factory over suspicion of being in breach of their visa conditions. “Four more Indian men were arrested at a nearby cake factory. They were found to be in breach of their visa conditions, and one was also working illegally. An Indian woman was then arrested for immigration offences at a private home, with further raids planned throughout the afternoon,” it said. The officials, according to news agency PTI, said that four of the offenders were detained pending review over removal from the UK or deportation to India. Also read: Rwanda genocide: Envoy Mukangira shares personal tale of loss, pays homage to victims in Delhi The other eight were sent out on bail on the condition that they will report regularly to the Home Office. The two businesses under the radar could possibly face significant fines if it gets established that they did not conduct pre-employment checks or employed illegal workers. “This operation is a clear example of the way we are stepping up immigration enforcement activity across the country,” said Michael Tomlinson, UK Minister for Countering Illegal Migration. “Employers found to be breaching the rules can expect significantly increased fines, and if workers are found to have no right to live or work here, we will not hesitate to act and remove them from the country,” he said. In the month of February, the Home Office raised the fines significantly to three times for employers who allowed illegal migrants to work for them. “Illegal working causes serious harm to communities, puts vulnerable people at risk and defrauds the public purse. The arrests send a clear message that we are clamping down on this dangerous practice,” said Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office. “People smugglers sell migrants the lie that they can work in the UK. The reality is that they can’t – and those found to be working illegally or facilitating this crime will face the full weight of the law,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

12 Indians arrested in UK over visa violation following raids on cake and bedding factories

WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal spoke with the Taiwan's foreign minister. The Taiwanese foreign minister spoke about the upcoming China-Taiwan relations, Indian elections and how New Delhi can replace Beijing as the new hub for semiconductors. Speaking to WION, Taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu warned about disinformation campaigns ahead of the Indian election. Watch in for more details!

Taiwan FM Jaushieh Joseph Wu on India-Taiwan ties, relations with China to WION

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Former NFL star O.J. Simpson, acquitted of murder charges, died at 76 after battling cancer. Simpson's life was known by both legal scandal and athletic success. Watch in for more details!

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Mark Ross-Smith, the CEO of a Singapore-based company, sparked a viral conversation on social media after sharing his six-year-old daughter's candid critique of Etihad Airways' business-class service.

While sharing an unfiltered account of her flight experience, the young reviewer gave a mere one-star rating to the renowned airline. Her ratings were based on what she said was a flaw that left her unimpressed.

"Etihad sent a survey to my 6-year-old daughter about her recent flight experience in business class. I let my daughter answer the survey without any influence. It was a bloodbath," Ross-Smith said on X social media platform.

According to the CEO's disclosure, his daughter expressed disappointment with the flight because her school friends were absent.

Moreover, she pointed out various shortcomings, including the absence of chocolates in the kids' meals.&nbsp;"Kids meal was not good, because it lacked chocolate. Hot towel service was not offered to kids. Biz + economy kids packs, identical... she wanted more. Videos didn't start until we take off, ie: IFE on Etihad doesn't start until airborne," the CEO's six-year-old reportedly wrote in the customer survey.&nbsp;To top it off, the absence of pyjamas sealed the deal on her unfavourable rating. "No pyjamas," she wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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When asked if she would recommend Etihad to friends and family, the critic delivered a resounding "1 out of 10."

Ross-Smith clarified that this scathing review boiled down to the Emirates' crew who offered her chocolates, while Etihad had not.

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Tagging Etihad Airlines, the father wrote, "My daughter likes chocolate... I'm Platinum, and we're flying again this Friday.... wow her and I promise you'll win the internet."

Taking note of the viral feedback, Etihad Airways responded while playfully suggesting a remedy for future flights.

"Hope we can get a 5-star review next time if we do a roll call: 'Calling all school buddies, please report to Etihad's boarding gate for a reunion in the sky and get lots of chocolate!' Please share your booking reference via direct message," Etihad quipped while also adding, "She is cute".

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The social media storm showed admiration for the CEO's daughter's candid feedback. "She is taught well," one user said. "Never under estimate kids, they are the future customers," another user said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mark Ross-Smith, the CEO of a Singapore-based company, sparked a viral conversation on social media after sharing his six-year-old daughter's candid critique of Etihad Airways' business-class service.

Mark Ross-Smith, the CEO of a Singapore-based company, sparked a viral conversation on social media after sharing his six-year-old daughter's candid critique of Etihad Airways' business-class service. While sharing an unfiltered account of her flight experience, the young reviewer gave a mere one-star rating to the renowned airline. Her ratings were based on what she said was a flaw that left her unimpressed. "Etihad sent a survey to my 6-year-old daughter about her recent flight experience in business class. I let my daughter answer the survey without any influence. It was a bloodbath," Ross-Smith said on X social media platform. According to the CEO's disclosure, his daughter expressed disappointment with the flight because her school friends were absent. Moreover, she pointed out various shortcomings, including the absence of chocolates in the kids' meals. "Kids meal was not good, because it lacked chocolate. Hot towel service was not offered to kids. Biz + economy kids packs, identical... she wanted more. Videos didn't start until we take off, ie: IFE on Etihad doesn't start until airborne," the CEO's six-year-old reportedly wrote in the customer survey. To top it off, the absence of pyjamas sealed the deal on her unfavourable rating. "No pyjamas," she wrote. Also Read | Sweden's earliest 'summer' recorded as temperatures surpass 10 degree mark When asked if she would recommend Etihad to friends and family, the critic delivered a resounding "1 out of 10." Ross-Smith clarified that this scathing review boiled down to the Emirates' crew who offered her chocolates, while Etihad had not. Also Read | A Russian woman was interrogated for wearing a yellow jacket on the beach. Know why Tagging Etihad Airlines, the father wrote, "My daughter likes chocolate... I'm Platinum, and we're flying again this Friday.... wow her and I promise you'll win the internet." Taking note of the viral feedback, Etihad Airways responded while playfully suggesting a remedy for future flights. "Hope we can get a 5-star review next time if we do a roll call: 'Calling all school buddies, please report to Etihad's boarding gate for a reunion in the sky and get lots of chocolate!' Please share your booking reference via direct message," Etihad quipped while also adding, "She is cute". Watch | Russia and Germany urge restraint | Raisi extends condolences to Haniyeh × The social media storm showed admiration for the CEO's daughter's candid feedback. "She is taught well," one user said. "Never under estimate kids, they are the future customers," another user said. (With inputs from agencies)

CEO's 6-year-old daughter rates Etihad on no pyjamas, chocolates. Here's how airline reacted

Ukraine's parliament passed a bill on Thursday to overhaul the rules governing how the military mobilises civilians into its ranks as the war rages on with no end in sight. The legislation, which must be signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy before it becomes law, is seen as crucial for Ukraine to address what military analysts say are major manpower problems as it fights a better armed and larger foe.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine parliament passes bill overhauling army mobilisation rules

Plans are to send the UK's high-readiness Littoral Response Group to the Indian Ocean region in 2024, as well as the Carrier Strike Group, for combined training in 2025. Both will visit and collaborate with the Indian military. The deployment of the UK's most modern naval capabilities is a significant step in strengthening UK-India security cooperation. Watch Commander Dalgleish, Commander, UK Navy, Amphibious Task Force's special interaction with WION's Sidharth M.P

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A strong wind swept through several states in the United States causing at least one death and spawning possible tornadoes. Thousands of homes and businesses were left without power in Southern Ohio as winds raged. Watch in for more details!

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Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel is keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas. Israel has been bracing for possible Iranian retaliation for the killing of a senior General and six officers in a strike on the Iranian Embassy compound in Damascus on the 1st of April. Watch to know more.

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Authorities in the Russian city of Orenburg called on thousands of residents to evacuate immediately on Friday due to rapidly rising flood waters after major rivers burst their banks due to a historic deluge of melting snow.

Water was also rising sharply in another Russian region - Kurgan - and in neighbouring Kazakhstan the authorities said 100,000 people had been evacuated so far, as rapidly warming temperatures melted heavy snow and ice.

The deluge of melt water has forced over 120,000 people from their homes in Russia's Ural Mountains, Siberia and Kazakhstan as major rivers such as the Ural, which flows through Kazakhstan into the Caspian, overwhelmed embankments.

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Regional authorities called for the mass evacuation of parts of Orenburg, a city of over half a million people about 1,200 km (750 miles) east of Moscow.

"There's a siren going off in the city. This is not a drill. There's a mass evacuation in progress!," Sergei Salmin, the city's mayor, said on the Telegram messenger app.

Emergency workers said water levels in the Ural river were more than 2 metres (6.5 ft) above what they regarded as a dangerous level. Water lapped at the windows of brick and timber houses in the city, and pet dogs perched on rooftops.

Salmin called on residents to gather their documents, medicine and essential items and to abandon their homes.

People living in flooded homes lamented the loss of their belongings.

"Judging by the water levels, all the furniture, some household appliances and interior decorating materials are ruined," local resident Vyacheslav told Reuters as he sat in an idling motorboat and gazed over his shoulder at his two-storey brick home, partially submerged in muddy water.

"It's a colossal amount of money."

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Alexei Kudinov, Orenburg's deputy mayor, had said earlier that over 360 houses and nearly 1,000 plots of land had been flooded overnight. He said the deluge was expected to reach its peak on Friday and start subsiding in two days' time.

Orenburg Governor Denis Pasler told President Vladimir Putin on Thursday that 11,972 homes had been flooded and if waters rose further 19,412 more people would be in danger.

The village of Kaminskoye in the Kurgan region was also being evacuated on Friday morning after the water level there rose 1.4 metres overnight, Kurgan's regional governor Vadim Shumkov said on the Telegram messaging app.

Kaminskoye is a settlement along the Tobol river which also flows through the regional centre Kurgan, a city of 300,000 people. Shumkov said a deluge could reach Kurgan in the coming days.

"We can only hope the floodplain stretches wide and the ground absorbs as much water as possible in its way," he said, adding that a dam was being reinforced in Kurgan.

Kurgan is home to a key part of Russia's military-industrial complex - a giant factory that produces infantry fighting vehicles for the army which are in high demand in Ukraine where the Russian military is on the offensive in some areas.

There were no reports that the factory, Kurganmashzavod, had so far been affected.

Rising water levels are also threatening southern parts of Western Siberia, the largest hydrocarbon basin in the world, and in areas near the Volga, Europe's biggest river.

Water levels in some other Russian regions are expected to peak within the next two weeks.

Authorities in the Russian city of Orenburg called on thousands of residents to evacuate immediately on Friday due to rapidly rising flood waters after major rivers burst their banks due to a historic deluge of melting snow.

Authorities in the Russian city of Orenburg called on thousands of residents to evacuate immediately on Friday due to rapidly rising flood waters after major rivers burst their banks due to a historic deluge of melting snow. Water was also rising sharply in another Russian region - Kurgan - and in neighbouring Kazakhstan the authorities said 100,000 people had been evacuated so far, as rapidly warming temperatures melted heavy snow and ice. The deluge of melt water has forced over 120,000 people from their homes in Russia's Ural Mountains, Siberia and Kazakhstan as major rivers such as the Ural, which flows through Kazakhstan into the Caspian, overwhelmed embankments. Also read: Russia: Thousands evacuated amid 'critical' flooding Regional authorities called for the mass evacuation of parts of Orenburg, a city of over half a million people about 1,200 km (750 miles) east of Moscow. "There's a siren going off in the city. This is not a drill. There's a mass evacuation in progress!," Sergei Salmin, the city's mayor, said on the Telegram messenger app. Emergency workers said water levels in the Ural river were more than 2 metres (6.5 ft) above what they regarded as a dangerous level. Water lapped at the windows of brick and timber houses in the city, and pet dogs perched on rooftops. Salmin called on residents to gather their documents, medicine and essential items and to abandon their homes. People living in flooded homes lamented the loss of their belongings. "Judging by the water levels, all the furniture, some household appliances and interior decorating materials are ruined," local resident Vyacheslav told Reuters as he sat in an idling motorboat and gazed over his shoulder at his two-storey brick home, partially submerged in muddy water. "It's a colossal amount of money." Also read: Dam bursts forcing thousands to evacuate flood-hit southern region Alexei Kudinov, Orenburg's deputy mayor, had said earlier that over 360 houses and nearly 1,000 plots of land had been flooded overnight. He said the deluge was expected to reach its peak on Friday and start subsiding in two days' time. Orenburg Governor Denis Pasler told President Vladimir Putin on Thursday that 11,972 homes had been flooded and if waters rose further 19,412 more people would be in danger. The village of Kaminskoye in the Kurgan region was also being evacuated on Friday morning after the water level there rose 1.4 metres overnight, Kurgan's regional governor Vadim Shumkov said on the Telegram messaging app. Kaminskoye is a settlement along the Tobol river which also flows through the regional centre Kurgan, a city of 300,000 people. Shumkov said a deluge could reach Kurgan in the coming days. "We can only hope the floodplain stretches wide and the ground absorbs as much water as possible in its way," he said, adding that a dam was being reinforced in Kurgan. Kurgan is home to a key part of Russia's military-industrial complex - a giant factory that produces infantry fighting vehicles for the army which are in high demand in Ukraine where the Russian military is on the offensive in some areas. There were no reports that the factory, Kurganmashzavod, had so far been affected. Rising water levels are also threatening southern parts of Western Siberia, the largest hydrocarbon basin in the world, and in areas near the Volga, Europe's biggest river. Water levels in some other Russian regions are expected to peak within the next two weeks.

Russian city calls for mass evacuations due to rapidly rising flood waters

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'Thailand's Foreign Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, embarked on a visit to the Myanmar border on Friday (Apr 12) in the aftermath of recent clashes between junta fighters and&nbsp;ethnic minority armed groups.&nbsp;During his visit, Foreign Minister Parnpree will assess the preparations for managing a potential influx of refugees from Myanmar.&nbsp;

The fighting have resulted in the displacement of junta troops from their stronghold in Myawaddy within Myanmar. It is located on the border with Thailand, opposite the Thai town of Mae Sot, and is a strategic location and an essential gateway for trade between Myanmar and Thailand as it facilitates the movement of goods, people, and services between the two countries.

The conflict has particularly impacted the border town of Myawaddy, with civilians fleeing into Thailand to seek refuge from the turmoil.

Karen National Union (KNU), one of the most prominent ethnic armed groups in Myanmar that advocates for the rights and autonomy of the Karen people, told AFP news agency that the displaced junta troops were spotted near the terminus of one of the Friendship bridges on the Myanmar side.

Despite the tense situation, reports from AFP suggested a semblance of calm along the Moei River.&nbsp;

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"Happy" sentiments were expressed by a truck driver arriving at a Thai checkpoint as he was relieved to have safely crossed back into Thailand.

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Meanwhile, the Myanmar junta has reportedly dispatched reinforcements towards Myawaddy in response to the escalating clashes.

<h2>Thai Prime Minister's Stance</h2>

Taking note of the ongoing crisis, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reaffirmed the nation's stance on border security. In connection to the recent clashes in Myawaddy, he said that Thailand "won't allow anyone to get in our airspace".

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Amid these developments, Thailand earlier said that the country stands ready to accommodate up to 100,000 individuals fleeing from Myanmar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

'Thailand's Foreign Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, embarked on a visit to the Myanmar border on Friday (Apr 12) in the aftermath of recent clashes between junta fighters and ethnic minority armed groups.

'Thailand's Foreign Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, embarked on a visit to the Myanmar border on Friday (Apr 12) in the aftermath of recent clashes between junta fighters and ethnic minority armed groups. During his visit, Foreign Minister Parnpree will assess the preparations for managing a potential influx of refugees from Myanmar. The fighting have resulted in the displacement of junta troops from their stronghold in Myawaddy within Myanmar. It is located on the border with Thailand, opposite the Thai town of Mae Sot, and is a strategic location and an essential gateway for trade between Myanmar and Thailand as it facilitates the movement of goods, people, and services between the two countries. The conflict has particularly impacted the border town of Myawaddy, with civilians fleeing into Thailand to seek refuge from the turmoil. Karen National Union (KNU), one of the most prominent ethnic armed groups in Myanmar that advocates for the rights and autonomy of the Karen people, told AFP news agency that the displaced junta troops were spotted near the terminus of one of the Friendship bridges on the Myanmar side. Despite the tense situation, reports from AFP suggested a semblance of calm along the Moei River. Also Read | Biden administration forgives an additional $7.4 billion in student loans "Happy" sentiments were expressed by a truck driver arriving at a Thai checkpoint as he was relieved to have safely crossed back into Thailand. Also Read | Planning a Brazil trip in 2025? New visa needs proof of funds for US visitors Meanwhile, the Myanmar junta has reportedly dispatched reinforcements towards Myawaddy in response to the escalating clashes. Thai Prime Minister's Stance Taking note of the ongoing crisis, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reaffirmed the nation's stance on border security. In connection to the recent clashes in Myawaddy, he said that Thailand "won't allow anyone to get in our airspace". Watch | UK rushes to install laser on warships × Amid these developments, Thailand earlier said that the country stands ready to accommodate up to 100,000 individuals fleeing from Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai foreign minister visits Myanmar border amid rising tensions, prepares for possible refugee influx

WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal spoke with the Taiwan's foreign minister. The Taiwanese foreign minister spoke about the upcoming Indian elections and how New Delhi can replace Beijing as the new hub for semiconductors. Watch in for more details!

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu talks about India elections, Taiwan & China relations to WION

China's military aggression and dominance in the Indo-Pacific region have brought together the US, Japan and the Philippines. White House hosted the first trilateral meeting between the leaders of these nations. Keep watching to know more!

US: Biden vows 'ironclad' support to Tokyo, Manila

The Rishi Sunak government on Thursday increased the minimum income threshold required to sponsor a family member’s visa in the United Kingdom. The move is seen as a step towards Britain’s plan to cut down immigration levels in the country.

The minimum annual income benchmark which was earlier £18,600 has now been increased to £29,000 - a hike of more than 55 per cent. The reform in the income benchmark is effective immediately, said the UK government in an official statement.

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"Today's change comes as the Home Secretary meets his commitment to implement his major package of reforms to the immigration system within weeks of announcing them - which came following the unveiling of measures to tighten the student visa route in May 2023," the UK government’s statement read.

The&nbsp;government's official website also mentioned, that by early 2025, the minimum required income will increase 2 more times, rising to £38,700 – to meet the new salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa.

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The new changes in the UK visa norms are a part of immigration system reforms of the Rishi Sunak government announced last year. In May 2023, the UK government tightened the student visa route as well.&nbsp;

With the new update, approximately 300,000 people arriving in the UK last year would no longer be able to.

<h2>New update on UK family visa: Details</h2>

A UK family visa is required if you want to live with a relative who has the right to be in the UK for more than six months. The family visa is applicable for your spouse or partner, child, parent, fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner and relative who will provide long-term care for you.

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To acquire the family visa, you have to demonstrate a good knowledge of the English language and meet the minimum income threshold, which was earlier £18,600. This income benchmark has now been increased to £29,000, and will systematically increase further as well.&nbsp;

Anyone renewing an existing family visa will not have to meet the new earnings threshold, the Home Office has confirmed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Rishi Sunak government on Thursday increased the minimum income threshold required to sponsor a family member’s visa in the United Kingdom. The move is seen as a step towards Britain’s plan to cut down immigration levels in the country.

The Rishi Sunak government on Thursday increased the minimum income threshold required to sponsor a family member’s visa in the United Kingdom. The move is seen as a step towards Britain’s plan to cut down immigration levels in the country. The minimum annual income benchmark which was earlier £18,600 has now been increased to £29,000 - a hike of more than 55 per cent. The reform in the income benchmark is effective immediately, said the UK government in an official statement. Also Read | Planning a Brazil trip in 2025? New visa needs proof of funds for US visitors "Today's change comes as the Home Secretary meets his commitment to implement his major package of reforms to the immigration system within weeks of announcing them - which came following the unveiling of measures to tighten the student visa route in May 2023," the UK government’s statement read. The government's official website also mentioned, that by early 2025, the minimum required income will increase 2 more times, rising to £38,700 – to meet the new salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa. Also Read | Who is Gopi Thotakura, first Indian ‘space tourist’ to fly with Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin? The new changes in the UK visa norms are a part of immigration system reforms of the Rishi Sunak government announced last year. In May 2023, the UK government tightened the student visa route as well. With the new update, approximately 300,000 people arriving in the UK last year would no longer be able to. New update on UK family visa: Details A UK family visa is required if you want to live with a relative who has the right to be in the UK for more than six months. The family visa is applicable for your spouse or partner, child, parent, fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner and relative who will provide long-term care for you. Also Read | Biden administration forgives an additional $7.4 billion in student loans To acquire the family visa, you have to demonstrate a good knowledge of the English language and meet the minimum income threshold, which was earlier £18,600. This income benchmark has now been increased to £29,000, and will systematically increase further as well. Anyone renewing an existing family visa will not have to meet the new earnings threshold, the Home Office has confirmed. (With inputs from agencies)

UK hikes minimum annual income threshold for family visas | New visa rule details

Sebastian Stan's portrayal of Donald Trump, George Miller's most recent "Mad Max" film, and Francis Ford Coppola's eagerly anticipated passion project are all scheduled to screen at the Cannes Film Festival.

Cannes Film Festival: Trump film to premiere at Cannes Film Festival

- France urges citizens not to travel to West Asia - Iran to attack Israel in 48 hours: Intelligence - China willing to raise strategic trust level with Vietnam - Biden tops Trump in blacklisting Chinese entities - Kazakhstan on high alert amid flooding - Biden: Trilateral summit a 'new era of partnership'

France urges citizens not to travel to West Asia

The father of a 20-year-old man from Florida who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last week believes that his son is alive. Levion Parker, reportedly drunk, jumped off the cruise ship in the early hours of April 4, off the Bahamas.

The father of a 20-year-old man from Florida who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last week believes that his son is alive. Levion Parker, reportedly drunk, jumped off the cruise ship in the early hours of April 4, off the Bahamas. His father Francel said on Wednesday (Apr 10) that contrary to some media reports, it was not a suicide, and the family believes that Levion is alive. Speaking to a local newspaper The Daily Sun, Francel said that his son was a master diver who worked on a commercial fishing boat. “As soon as he went off the side, I prayed over him. I was confident the prayers I said over my son were heard. I stand on the word of God. I believe he is alive,” he added. What happened? On April 4, Levion jumped off the 18-storey cruise ship in front of his father and younger brother. Speaking to the New York Post, witnesses said that the 20-year-old got into an argument with his father before the incident. A passenger aboard the ship said that Francel was fussing at Levion for being drunk. However, Francel told The Daily Sun he was not arguing with his son and the 20-year-old was not trying to take his own life. Francel is also demanding to know how his son was given alcohol on the four-day cruise to Cuba and the Bahamas’ Grand Inagua Island. "We don’t drink. I’d like to know how my son was served so much alcohol," he told the newspaper. After the 20-year-old jumped, Francel threw six life rings into the ocean below in hopes of saving his son until the ship could come to a halt and a rescue mission could begin. Royal Caribbean said it “immediately” launched search boats and alerted the US Coast Guard, which on Wednesday called off the search. (With inputs from agencies)

Father of Florida man who jumped from cruise ship believes his son is alive: Report

The United Kingdom has appointed its first woman High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said she's expected to assume her new role later. This month her appointment comes at a time when India and the UK are negotiating a Free Trade Agreement both sides have expressed intent and interest in wrapping up the negotiations by the end of the year.

UK appoints Lindy Cameron, to India to be next UK High Commissioner to India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a massive election rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur region on Friday. He was campaigning for Union Minister Jitender Singh who is contesting the upcoming polls from the Udhampur Lok Sabha elections 2024.

Indian PM addresses rally in J&K's Udhampur, says assembly polls soon

In an apparent attempt to entice Indian tourists back to the Maldives, a prominent tourism organization has announced that it will organize road shows in important Indian towns. Watch to know more.

Maldives to hold road shows in India to woo tourists back

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