WORLD

Asia, Pacific may achieve SDGs by 2065 only, warns new UN report
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The 2022 Asia and the Pacific Sustainable Development Goals Progress Report, released by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), finds that those furthest behind, including women, persons with disabilities, rural populations and poorer households, are also facing increased vulnerabilities.
'CJI Ramana discusses expats' issues in first visit to UAE
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Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana, who is on his maiden visit to the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday held talks with the UAE Justice Minister and the head of the Emirates Supreme Court. The discussion was focused on the Indian expatriates in the Gulf country and for closer judicial cooperation between the two nations.
Former President Medvedev says Russia is strong enough to defeat its enemies
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According to the former President, the reason for the ever-growing anti-Russian sentiment is that Moscow has become a strong power in the world, capable of standing up for its interests and protecting its citizens abroad. He also believes the West wants to "make (Russia) weak and completely submissive. Better yet, tear it apart".
US-backed Ukraine secret project studied ways in which bats can infect humans
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The Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday that it will soon release additional documents pertaining to the operation of Pentagon-funded biolabs in Ukraine. Moscow believes they have been involved in bioweapons research, RT reported. Russian military specialists in weapons of mass destruction are analysing documents obtained from staff members of the Ukrainian labs, ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said in a daily briefing.
Russia denies 'significant progress' in talks with Ukraine
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The Kremlin has termed a report in the Financial Times about a supposed 15-point draft peace plan with Ukraine as false. The sides held several rounds of talks after Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24, later switching to regular discussions via video link. Replying to a reporter's question on Thursday as to if Russia and Ukraine were close to signing a peace deal, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "No, the work continues [on the matter]."
India, Australia leaders to hold virtual summit on March 21
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External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India and Australia virtual summit will be held on March 21 where Indian and Australian leaders will hold the summit. "This summit follows the historic first virtual summit which was held on June 4, 2020 when our bilateral relationship was elevated to comprehensive strategic partnership," Bagchi said. He also said that during this forthcoming virtual summit the leaders will take stock of progress made on various initiates under the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Amid war, Ukraine sees surge in HIV, TB, Covid cases
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Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24. While many have fled the country, those remaining are huddled in basements, subway stations and temporary shelters to protect themselves from bombardment, increasing the risk of Covid spread. Besides, with lack of water and sanitation, cases of diarrhoeal diseases are certain to rise, and the risk of polio and measles outbreaks is also high.
Two dozen disgruntled lawmakers of Pak ruling party aim to vote against Imran Khan
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Raja Riaz claimed that if Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan assures all MNAs that no action will be taken against those who decided to vote against him on the day of the no-confidence motion, they are ready to go back to the Parliament Lodges. PTI MNAs Malik Nawab Sher Waseer and Riaz said that around 24 PTI members have been staying in the Sindh House right now.
Japanese PM to visit India on March 19, discuss global, regional issues
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Kishida is coming to India for two days on the invitation of Modi. Both the leaders are expected to hold deliberation over the situation in Ukraine. The war has entered into 22nd day with Russia making all efforts to take over cities after cities. President Vladimir Putin has said Russia was ready to discuss Ukraine's neutral status but that Moscow would still achieve the goals of its military operation.
Pakistan's democratic institutions facing a new threat
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Pakistan's democratic institutions are facing a new threat, Human Rights Watch has said. On march 8, opposition political parties sought a no-confidence motion in parliament to remove Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan. Government officials responded by threatening violence and briefly detaining two members of parliament (MPs). The situation risks spiraling into a dangerous confrontation.
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