bbc--2020-08-18--Malan & Jordan return to England squad for Pakistan T20 series

Last updated on .From the section Cricket Batsman Dawid Malan and pace bowler Chris Jordan have been named in England 's 14-player squad for the T20 series against Pakistan after recovering from injury .
Malan scored an unbeaten century against New Zealand in his last T20 match for England in November 2019 .
The first T20 of the three-match series starts on 28 August in Manchester .
Sussex bowler Jordan has taken 58 wickets in 46 T20 appearances for England .
No Test players have been named in the squad , with the final Test against Pakistan finishing three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trafford .
The second match of the series will be shown live on BBC TV .
`` We want to give multi-format players some opportunity to rest and refresh , while still selecting strong squads for every series , '' national selector Ed Smith said .
Top-order batsman James Vince , who struggled against Ireland , has not been included , while Reece Topley is named in the reserves .
Head coach Chris Silverwood will miss the series , with former England batsman Graham Thorpe overseeing the squad .
Ex-Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coaching staff .

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
Dawid Malan scored a century for England against New Zealand in Napier in November 2019
England v Pakistan T20 series Venue: Emirates Old Trafford Dates: 28 Aug, 30 Aug, 1 Sept Coverage: Ball-by-ball Test Match Special commentary on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra, Radio 4 LW, online, tablets, mobiles and BBC Sport app. Live text commentary on the BBC Sport website.
Batsman Dawid Malan and pace bowler Chris Jordan have been named in England's 14-player squad for the T20 series against Pakistan after recovering from injury.
Malan missed the one-day series against Ireland with a calf problem, while Jordan had surgery in July.
Malan scored an unbeaten century against New Zealand in his last T20 match for England in November 2019.
The first T20 of the three-match series starts on 28 August in Manchester.
Sussex bowler Jordan has taken 58 wickets in 46 T20 appearances for England.
No Test players have been named in the squad, with the final Test against Pakistan finishing three days before the first T20 at Emirates Old Trafford.
The second match of the series will be shown live on BBC TV.
"We want to give multi-format players some opportunity to rest and refresh, while still selecting strong squads for every series," national selector Ed Smith said.
Top-order batsman James Vince, who struggled against Ireland, has not been included, while Reece Topley is named in the reserves.
Head coach Chris Silverwood will miss the series, with former England batsman Graham Thorpe overseeing the squad.
Ex-Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood will also be part of England's coaching staff.
England's T20 squad: Eoin Morgan (capt), Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Tom Banton, Sam Billings (wk), Tom Curran, Joe Denly, Lewis Gregory, Chris Jordan, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, David Willey. Reserves: Pat Brown, Liam Livingstone, Reece Topley.
Pakistan's T20 squad: Babar Azam (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Khusdil Shah, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Wahab Riaz.


bbc--2020-08-18--Lions tour in 2021 could be postponed if travel restrictions remain

Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union The British and Irish Lions ' tour of South Africa could be postponed if restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic mean international fans can not attend , says South African Rugby chief executive Jurie Roux .
But Roux said it is not `` commercially viable '' if supporters can not travel .
`` There has been some talk of moving it out [ to a new date ] , '' Roux said .
`` But our travel advice is that by June/July we should be at what is deemed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are monitoring it on a monthly basis . ''
He added : `` Travelling for international events will likely still be under more pressure than pre-Covid [ in July 2021 ] .
`` No spectators and people not being able to travel would not make this commercially viable and then we would discuss how we continue with the tour . ''
Registration for the ticket ballot begins on 2 September , with Roux saying `` the bulk of the tickets '' will be for South Africa fans .
He added that full refunds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offered if the tour is cancelled .
`` As recently announced , we are fully intending for the Tour to go ahead as scheduled , but , as you would expect , SA Rugby , in conjunction with the Lions , are contingency planning for all eventualities , '' said a Lions spokesperson .
• None Rule change allows new signings to play in Champions Cup

Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
The British and Irish Lions' last tour was in 2017, when they tied the three-game series against New Zealand
The British and Irish Lions' tour of South Africa could be postponed if restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic mean international fans cannot attend, says South African Rugby chief executive Jurie Roux.
In July, organisers said the tour would go ahead as scheduled, with the first Test on 24 July 2021.
But Roux said it is not "commercially viable" if supporters cannot travel.
"There has been some talk of moving it out [to a new date]," Roux said.
"But our travel advice is that by June/July we should be at what is deemed to be normal international travel. But we are monitoring it on a monthly basis."
He added: "Travelling for international events will likely still be under more pressure than pre-Covid [in July 2021].
"No spectators and people not being able to travel would not make this commercially viable and then we would discuss how we continue with the tour."
A Lions spokesperson said: "As recently announced, we are fully intending for the Tour to go ahead as scheduled, but, as you would expect, SA Rugby, in conjunction with the Lions, are contingency planning for all eventualities."
Registration for the ticket ballot begins on 2 September, with Roux saying "the bulk of the tickets" will be for South Africa fans.
He added that full refunds for tickets and package tours would be offered if the tour is cancelled.
Full 2021 tour schedule:
Saturday 3 July: Lions v Stormers - Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Wednesday 7 July: Lions v South Africa 'Invitational' - Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Saturday 10 July: Lions v Sharks - Jonsson Kings Park, Durban
Wednesday 14 July: Lions v South Africa 'A' Team - Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
Saturday 17 July: Lions v Bulls - Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday 24 July (first Test): Springboks v Lions - FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday 31 July (second Test): Springboks v Lions - Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday 7 August (third Test): Springboks v Lions - Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg


bbc--2020-08-18--'Women's Super League gets better every year' - Man City sign World Cup winner Lavelle

World Cup winner Rose Lavelle says the `` idea of playing in the Champions League and competing for so many titles '' played a role in her move to Manchester City .
The 25-year-old United States midfielder joined OL Reign this week from Washington Spirit but immediately signed an agreement to play outside the National Women 's Soccer League ( NWSL ) .
OL Reign will control Lavelle 's future playing rights in the American league .
`` It will be a fun challenge , '' she said .
`` The [ Women 's Super League ] is a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is attracting a lot of really great players , '' Lavelle told BBC Sport .
`` Manchester City is obviously a great club in the men 's and the women 's side .
They have a lot of resources .
I do n't know much about the city yet but I know that the football culture is amazing so all of that was something I wanted to be a part of . ''
Lavelle has made 45 appearances for her country , scoring 12 times , One of those came in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the USA beat the Netherlands to retain their title .
She was named the third best player at the tournament , behind compatriot Megan Rapinoe and England 's Lucy Bronze .
• English coach who helped Lavelle fall in love with football Lavelle was also named in the NWSL Best XI in 2019 while playing for Washington Spirit .
She is City 's third summer signing , after USA team-mate Sam Mewis and England forward Chloe Kelly .
`` We [ Lavelle and Mewis ] were definitely keeping each other in the loop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision-making , '' Lavelle added .
`` It was n't the deciding factor but it is really nice to know that there is not just going to be a familiar face , but one of my best friends there too to experience it with . ''
City narrowly missed out on their second WSL title last season - they were top of the table when the campaign was suspended in March because of the coronavirus pandemic , but dropped to second spot when final positions were decided on a points-per-game basis .
Under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start the 2020-21 season with an away game at newly promoted Aston Villa on the weekend of 5-6 September .
'Looking to be the best version of myself' Lavelle says she is `` excited to learn from '' City 's group of midfielders , which includes England internationals Keira Walsh and Jill Scott , as well as Scotland 's Caroline Weir .
Lavelle played in the World Cup semi-final victory over England last year and a 2-0 win in the SheBelieves Cup in March .
`` I 've had the chance to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are all great players .
It will be such a fun midfield to be a part of and get the opportunity to train with them every day , not against them like usual , '' said Lavelle .
`` I have a lot to learn and I ca n't wait to do so with these players .
When I talked to [ Manchester City coach Gareth Taylor ] he made me really excited about it .
`` He was telling me about how he wanted the team to play and about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and how he saw me fitting into that .
He is somebody that will really help to elevate my game and make me more of a complete player . ''
Lavelle added she hoped to join `` an environment which makes me feel uncomfortable and pushes me '' .
She said : `` I am looking to be the best version of myself I can be .
I think pressure and expectation is a part of sports , especially if you make it to the professional level . ''
Analysis : 'Lavelle will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her as one of the best in the world .
She is very easy on the eye to watch .
She 's silky , has great vision , great passing and she scores goals .
She was outstanding at the last World Cup so she will bring a new dimension to that Manchester City side .
Sam Mewis is a brilliant attacking player too so that 's two of the best that they have signed .
It just goes to show the draw we now have in this country to bring the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again .
Manchester City is obviously a great club and they want to win trophies so they are going to be bringing the best players to their club to help them do that .
It 's really promising to see these players come over .
I 'm excited to watch them and to see how competitive it is because I do n't think it 's going to be easy .
It will be really interesting .
• DEVS : Mystery drama that will get you hooked • Watch the Small Axe trailer : @ @ @ @ @ @ @

World Cup winner Lavelle 'excited' to join Manchester City
World Cup winner Rose Lavelle says the "idea of playing in the Champions League and competing for so many titles" played a role in her move to Manchester City.
The 25-year-old United States midfielder joined OL Reign this week from Washington Spirit but immediately signed an agreement to play outside the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).
OL Reign will control Lavelle's future playing rights in the American league.
"It will be a fun challenge," she said.
"The [Women's Super League] is a great league that keeps getting better every year. It is attracting a lot of really great players," Lavelle told BBC Sport.
"Manchester City is obviously a great club in the men's and the women's side. They have a lot of resources. I don't know much about the city yet but I know that the football culture is amazing so all of that was something I wanted to be a part of."
Lavelle has made 45 appearances for her country, scoring 12 times,
One of those came in last year's World Cup final as the USA beat the Netherlands to retain their title. She was named the third best player at the tournament, behind compatriot Megan Rapinoe and England's Lucy Bronze.
Lavelle was also named in the NWSL Best XI in 2019 while playing for Washington Spirit.
She is City's third summer signing, after USA team-mate Sam Mewis and England forward Chloe Kelly.
"We [Lavelle and Mewis] were definitely keeping each other in the loop with where we were at in our decision-making," Lavelle added.
"It wasn't the deciding factor but it is really nice to know that there is not just going to be a familiar face, but one of my best friends there too to experience it with."
City narrowly missed out on their second WSL title last season - they were top of the table when the campaign was suspended in March because of the coronavirus pandemic, but dropped to second spot when final positions were decided on a points-per-game basis.
Under new boss Gareth Taylor, they will start the 2020-21 season with an away game at newly promoted Aston Villa on the weekend of 5-6 September.
'Looking to be the best version of myself'
Rose Lavelle was named the third-best player at the 2019 World Cup
Lavelle says she is "excited to learn from" City's group of midfielders, which includes England internationals Keira Walsh and Jill Scott, as well as Scotland's Caroline Weir.
Lavelle played in the World Cup semi-final victory over England last year and a 2-0 win in the SheBelieves Cup in March.
"I've had the chance to play against them on the international stage and they are all great players. It will be such a fun midfield to be a part of and get the opportunity to train with them every day, not against them like usual," said Lavelle.
"I have a lot to learn and I can't wait to do so with these players. When I talked to [Manchester City coach Gareth Taylor] he made me really excited about it.
"He was telling me about how he wanted the team to play and about the environment, how the girls are meshing and how he saw me fitting into that. He is somebody that will really help to elevate my game and make me more of a complete player."
Lavelle added she hoped to join "an environment which makes me feel uncomfortable and pushes me".
She said: "I am looking to be the best version of myself I can be. I think pressure and expectation is a part of sports, especially if you make it to the professional level."
Analysis: 'Lavelle will bring new dimension to City'
Former England and Arsenal striker Kelly Smith
I rate her as one of the best in the world. She is very easy on the eye to watch. She's silky, has great vision, great passing and she scores goals.
She was outstanding at the last World Cup so she will bring a new dimension to that Manchester City side. Sam Mewis is a brilliant attacking player too so that's two of the best that they have signed. It just goes to show the draw we now have in this country to bring the best over.
Former England and Chelsea midfielder Katie Chapman
It's raising the standards again. Manchester City is obviously a great club and they want to win trophies so they are going to be bringing the best players to their club to help them do that.
It's really promising to see these players come over. I'm excited to watch them and to see how competitive it is because I don't think it's going to be easy. It will be really interesting.


bbc--2020-08-18--What to watch for on day two

What to watch for on day two

Balloons .
Confetti .
Signs .
Big hats .
It 's the moment US election enthusiasts have been waiting four years for .
It 's convention season .
Day one of the Democratic National Convention is over - with Michelle Obama delivering the closing speech - but three more days of party events remain before the main moment - crowning the presidential nominee .
Of course this year , things are looking a bit different .
Here 's everything you need to know about this year 's convention , Covid-19 changes and all .
What is the Democratic National Convention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes together to formally name - and hype up - their candidates .
You may be thinking , 'is n't Joe Biden already the nominee ? '
Yes - and no .
He 's certainly the presumptive Democratic candidate , but things are n't party-official until they announce it at the convention .
Party members will also unveil the 2020 Democratic platform , the list of party values and policy priorities which they believe distinguish them from their rival Republicans .
OK , so where and when is the 2020 convention ?
Officially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convention centre in Milwaukee , in the Midwestern state of Wisconsin , from Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August .
But Covid-19 restrictions and concerns mean that the only people attending in-person will be those necessary to orchestrating the event .
Instead of 50,000 people gathering for the traditional calendar with days full of speeches , receptions and rallies , sessions will be streamed from the Democratic Party 's social media channels and aired live on most US news channels from 21:00 to 23:00 EDT each night .
How to follow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be a live page from 2130 BST/ 1630 EST which you will find on the BBC News front page .
All the latest developments will also be tweeted @ BBCNorthAmerica while you can see the main speeches and get analysis on BBC World News ( global ) and the BBC News Channel ( UK ) .
You can also watch the convention on the DNC website ( sessions from 21:00-23:00 ET ( 01:00-03:00 GMT the next day ) every night between 17 and 20 August ) .
More on Joe Biden and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What the US presidential hopeful wants to do POLLS : Who is ahead - Trump or Biden ?
US ELECTIONS 2020 : A really simple guide to the US election ELECTORAL COLLEGE : What is it ?
ONE-STOP-SHOP : All our US election coverage Will Joe Biden be there ?
Mr Biden will not be in Wisconsin .
The presumptive nominee will be dialling in from his home state of Delaware on Thursday night , and he will deliver his speech from the Chase Center , in Wilmington .
Ms Harris will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day earlier .
He already made an appearance on Monday in a couple of highly produced campaign videos as well as in a recorded conversation on race with politicians and activists .
• Where Joe Biden stands on the key issues Who are the speakers this year ?
Mrs Obama and Senator Bernie Sanders addressed the virtual crowds on Monday night .
Former President Bill Clinton and Jill Biden will be the final two speeches on Tuesday , after remarks from several lawmakers , including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
Hillary Clinton , former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will take a prime time slot on Wednesday night , as will Senator Elizabeth Warren .
• How Kamala Harris could help - or hurt - Joe Biden Biden 's vice-presidential pick Kamala Harris will also get a chance to address the nation with an acceptance speech on Wednesday , as will former President Barack Obama .
What to watch out for This political convention wo n't look like any we 've seen before but the stakes are as high as ever .
Here 's what I 'm looking out for : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foremost , this is Joe Biden 's moment in the spotlight .
He will attack President Trump not only for his policies - which he says have `` left the US in tatters '' - but for his behaviour in the White House .
Biden frames this election as a `` fight for the soul of the nation '' and will present himself as the candidate who can unite and heal America .
Signs of weakness : There have been doubts , encouraged by his political adversaries , that the 77-year-old has lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's traditionally been a compelling public speaker , and Democrats will be hoping he can rise to the moment and put doubts about his endurance and ability to bed for good .
An appeal to multiple audiences : Biden will use the convention to appeal to a national audience tuning into the campaign for the first time - especially independents and moderate Republicans - but he also needs to energise the base , including those on the left of the party .
Barack Obama was the last Democrat to build a winning coalition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife Michelle , closing out two nights , his campaign clearly hopes some of the Obama magic rubs off .
The rising stars : While Biden 's choice of Kamala Harris as his running mate has made her an heir apparent , there are other names on the speaking schedule who might someday challenge her .
That includes a gaggle of governors , such as New York 's Andrew Cuomo and Gavin Newsom of California , five of Biden 's 2020 campaign rivals and several members of his vice-presidential short list .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who at 30 is still several cycles away from a possible presidential bid but is already a power in the progressive wing of the party .
Will any of them follow in the steps of then-state senator Obama in 2004 , and seize the moment ?
Why is a Republican on the bill ?
It 's rare , though not unprecedented , to have members of the other party show up .
This time , former Ohio Governor John Kasich , a Republican and Trump critic , addressed the convention on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction the president has taken the Republican Party .
Will it just be politicians speaking ?
Not to worry - you 'll hear from ordinary , relatable Americans too .
Planners have promised `` fewer people behind podiums - and more people in living rooms , on factory floors , at small businesses , and in schools and town squares '' .
This line-up includes educators , gun safety advocates , healthcare workers and even some former Republicans .
We 'll hear from a Pennsylvania farmer , Rick Telesz , who voted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind after his family farm suffered amid the president 's trade war .
Another highlighted voice this year is gun safety advocate DeAndra Dycus , an Indiana mother whose 13-year-old son was shot and injured at a birthday party .
And it likely wo n't be just ordinary voters joining the e-party : expect appearances by celebrities .
In 2016 , we heard from actresses Meryl Streep and Lena Dunham , comedian Sarah Silverman and got a musical performance by Alicia Keys .
How is the candidate chosen ?
If you 've been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far , you know why the nomination vote is a formality for Biden .
Delegates from across the nation will vote at the convention for the candidate that won their state 's Democratic primary election or caucus .
They 're not obligated to do so , but at least this year , the options are limited with only Biden still in the running .
• How is Donald Trump doing in the polls ?
As for those delegates who were promised to other candidates who 've since withdrawn from the race , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will .
Usually delegates are in the convention hall when they vote , but this year planners say a `` re-imagined roll call process will take convention viewers to all 57 states and territories '' on Tuesday .
If you want to know more about the delegate system , you can read about it in our guide to primaries and caucuses .
What happens next ?
Do n't worry , convention season is n't over yet .
We 've got the Republican National Convention coming up from August 24-27 though the pandemic has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After that , presidential campaigning will be in full force until the general election on 3 November .
Make a note in your calendars for the debates too .
The first presidential debate is scheduled for 29 September with two more in October .
The US election process can be confusing .
The BBC is here to help make sense of it .
Please put your questions below .
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .

An appeal to multiple audiences: Biden will use the convention to appeal to a national audience tuning into the campaign for the first time - especially independents and moderate Republicans - but he also needs to energise the base, including those on the left of the party. Barack Obama was the last Democrat to build a winning coalition - with the former president, and his wife Michelle, closing out two nights, his campaign clearly hopes some of the Obama magic rubs off.


bbc--2020-08-19--US Election 2020: Biden is crowned as Democratic nominee

Joe Biden has been officially anointed the Democratic presidential candidate at the party 's convention , helped over the line with some glowing testimonials from elder statesmen .
Two Democratic former presidents , Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter , and former Secretary of State Colin Powell , a Republican , endorsed Mr Biden .
Mr Clinton said President Donald Trump had brought `` chaos '' to the Oval Office .
• What Biden wants to do • How is Trump doing in the polls ?
Mr Biden , the former vice-president under President Barack Obama , became his party 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roll call vote from delegates in all 50 states .
This is Mr Biden 's third White House bid , having formerly run in 1988 and 2008 .
The 77-year-old 's campaign appeared to be in danger of collapse back in February this year .
On the second night of the party convention on Tuesday , with the theme `` leadership matters , '' Mr Clinton delivered the key address .
`` Donald Trump says we 're leading the world , '' Mr Clinton said in his five-minute message pre-recorded from his home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Well , we are the only major industrial economy to have its unemployment rate triple .
`` At a time like this , the Oval Office should be a command centre .
Instead , it 's a storm centre .
There 's only chaos . ''
Following addresses from former First Lady Michelle Obama and Senator Bernie Sanders on Monday , Tuesday 's speeches aimed to persuade voters the Democratic party is the best suited to repair problems at home and abroad .
Mr Powell said Mr Biden shared `` the values I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and serving in uniform '' .
The decorated four-star general said he supported him for president because `` we need to restore those values to the White House '' .
In June , Mr Powell - who served under President George W Bush and has appeared at multiple Republican conventions in previous years - called President Trump a liar and endorsed Mr Biden .
He joins several Republicans who have endorsed Mr Biden , including former Ohio Governor John Kasich during the first night of the convention .
Cindy McCain , the widow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke about the friendship between her late husband and Mr Biden , though she stopped short of a formal endorsement .
Former Secretary of State John Kerry addressed the convention virtually to assail Mr Trump 's leadership .
`` When this president goes overseas , it is n't a goodwill mission , it 's a blooper reel , '' he said .
`` He breaks up with our allies and writes love letters to dictators .
America deserves a president who is looked up to , not laughed at . ''
The freshly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden , potentially the next US first lady , delivereWho is potential US first lady Jill Biden ?
d the night 's headline address , standing in an empty classroom at the Delaware high school where she taught English in the 1990s .
Urging everyone to vote for her husband , who joined her , she said : `` The burdens we carry are heavy , and we need someone with strong shoulders .
`` I know that if we entrust this nation to Joe , he will do for your family what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together and make us whole . ''
The convention is largely virtual , amid the coronavirus pandemic , and it is unclear whether a format of pre-recorded speeches and no live audience will generate the same levels of enthusiasm as the traditional party gatherings .
Next week 's Republican convention will also be mostly online .
The opening night drew 28 % fewer viewers than in 2016 , according to ratings from Nielsen , a global measurement and data analytics company .
Democrats said an additional 10m watched online , which if confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels that year .
Jill Biden 's speech was n't as polished as Michelle Obama 's , but it had a raw emotion of its own .
She stood in an empty classroom and spoke of students in the autumn whose learning would be confined to boxes on a computer screen , not bustling schools .
She talked about the fears - economic and health-related - created by the coronavirus pandemic .
The evening began with a keynote address delivered by a rotating collection of up-and-coming Democratic politicians .
It was a format @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but as a joint affair , it 's unlikely to be the kind of launching pad enjoyed by past keynotes Mario Cuomo , Julian Castro and , most notably , Barack Obama .
As on Monday night , there was once again a concerted effort to reach out to disaffected Republicans by using members of their party - this time , former Secretary of State Colin Powell and Cindy McCain , wife of former Senator John McCain .
Meanwhile , younger Democrats often billed as rising stars within the party , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were given just a few moments in the spotlight on Tuesday .
New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez used her 90 seconds to highlight the policies of the so-called progressive wing of the party , without mentioning Mr Biden .
She also used the procedural roll call to second the nomination of fellow left-winger Vermont Senator Sanders for president , although she later tweeted her `` deepest congratulations '' to Mr Biden , adding `` let 's go win in November '' .
Mr Trump is continuing to paint Mr Biden as a puppet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the president was in Arizona , his latest stop on a week-long campaign tour of key battleground states .
Most polls show Mr Biden in the lead thus far , though Mr Trump has tightened the margin in recent weeks and the election is still months away .
The Democratic convention , originally planned for Milwaukee , Wisconsin , will continue on Wednesday and Thursday , with speeches from vice-presidential pick Senator Kamala Harris , the party 's 2016 nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Obama .
The four nights will end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At next week 's Republican convention , Mr Trump will give his acceptance speech from the White House , brushing aside accusations that in doing so he is politicising the presidential seat of power .

"I know that if we entrust this nation to Joe, he will do for your family what he did for ours: bring us together and make us whole."


bbc--2020-08-19--Jill Biden: From teacher to possible US first lady

Standing in an empty classroom where she taught English in the 1990s , Jill Biden delivered the headline address at the Democratic Party 's convention on Tuesday after her husband was officially named presidential candidate .
After making the case for Joe Biden to be elected , she was joined by her husband who lauded her qualities as a potential first lady .
`` For all of you out there across the country , just think of your favourite educator who gave you the confidence to believe in yourself .
That 's the kind of first lady ... Jill Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But what do we know about the woman who could soon be joining her husband in the White House ?
Jill Jacobs was born in June 1951 in the US state of New Jersey .
The oldest of five sisters , she grew up in the Philadelphia suburb of Willow Grove .
Prior to marrying Joe , she was married to former college football player Bill Stevenson .
Joe Biden lost his first wife and his one-year-old daughter in a car accident in 1972 .
His sons Beau and Hunter both survived the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Joe through his brother in 1975 .
At that time , he was a senator , while she was still in college .
• What US presidential hopeful Joe Biden wants to do • How is Donald Trump doing in the polls ?
`` I was a senior , and I had been dating guys in jeans and clogs and T-shirts , he came to the door and he had a sport coat and loafers , and I thought : 'God , this is never going to work , not in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years older than I am !
`` But we went out to see A Man and a Woman at the movie theatre in Philadelphia , and we really hit it off , '' she told Vogue of the couple 's first date .
She said Joe proposed to her five times before she accepted .
`` I could n't have them [ Joe 's children ] lose another mother .
So I had to be 100 % sure , '' she explained .
The couple married in New York City in 1977 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 1981 .
Beau Biden died of brain cancer in May 2015 , at the age of 46 .
Mrs Biden talked about her family and the struggles they have faced as she endorsed her husband for president on Tuesday .
`` I know that if we entrust this nation to Joe , he will do for your family what he did for ours - bring us together and make us whole , carry us forward in our time of need , keep the promise of America for all of us , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's degree and two master 's degrees , and earned a doctorate of education from the University of Delaware in 2007 .
Prior to moving to Washington , DC , she taught at a community college in the US state of Delaware , at a public high school and at a psychiatric hospital for adolescents .
She gave her address on Tuesday at her old classroom at Delaware 's Brandywine High School , where she taught English from 1991 to 1993 .
Mrs Biden was professor of English at Northern Virginia Community College @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Teaching is not what I do .
It 's who I am , '' she tweeted ahead of Tuesday 's address .
Mrs Biden previously held the title of second lady , while her husband served as vice-president from 2009 to 2017 .
During this period , her work included promoting community colleges , advocating for military families and raising awareness about breast cancer prevention .
In 2010 , she hosted the White House Summit on Community Colleges , which sought to `` highlight community colleges ' role in developing America 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joining Forces initiative with Michelle Obama , which included helping military veterans and their families access education programmes and employment resources .
In 2012 , she published a children 's book called Do n't Forget , God Bless Our Troops based on her granddaughter 's experience of being in a military family .
She has been a prominent supporter of her husband during the 2020 campaign , appearing alongside him and holding events and fundraisers .

"I know that if we entrust this nation to Joe, he will do for your family what he did for ours - bring us together and make us whole, carry us forward in our time of need, keep the promise of America for all of us," she said.


bbc--2020-08-19--Berlin motorway crashes probed as terror attack

A man who rammed several vehicles on a motorway in Berlin is being investigated for what prosecutors say was `` an Islamist-motivated attack '' .
Three people were seriously injured when the suspect 's car collided with vehicles on the A100 motorway shortly before 19:00 ( 17:00 GMT ) on Tuesday evening .
Witnesses said the 30-year-old Iraqi suspect claimed to have a `` dangerous object '' in a box of ammunition .
Nothing was later found inside .
The man is said to have deliberately caused three crashes on the road near the centre of Berlin .
One involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a car .
The motorcyclist is reportedly in a life-threatening condition .
The three occupants of the car were also hurt .
Prosecutors are investigating the attack as having either a political or religious motive but they have not ruled out psychological issues .
`` Because of the circumstances we do n't see this as a random accident , '' the Berlin prosecutor 's spokesperson said on Wednesday .
`` Latest indications point to an Islamist-motivated attack . ''
After the crashes , the man was said to have placed a metal box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quoted by the Tagesspiegel website , he shouted `` Allahu Akbar '' ( God is greatest ) and `` Nobody come closer or else you 'll die . ''
Named by German media as Samrad A , the suspect lives in refugee accommodation and reports suggest he may have been radicalised there .
He is expected to face three charges of attempted murder .
The series of accidents on the A100 caused three hours of closures on the motorway on Tuesday , including on the central Kurfürstendamm .
The centre of Berlin was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ militant Anis Amri drove a truck into a crowded Christmas market , killing 12 people and leaving 49 others injured .
Amri fled to the northern Italian city of Milan , where he was shot dead by police .
Amri , a Tunisian , had spent several years in jail in Italy .

Police and prosecutors say the series of crashes in three separate places on the A100 near the centre of Berlin were being considered as "deliberate attacks on other road users". Berlin prosecutor's office spokesman Martin Steltner told reporters the man was suspected of "in effect hunting down motorcyclists".


bbc--2020-08-19--Trump campaign Russia contacts were 'grave threat', says Senate report

A Republican-led Senate panel has concluded that Trump campaign contacts with Russia in 2016 `` represented a grave counterintelligence threat '' .
The nearly 1,000-page intelligence committee report laid out links between President Donald Trump 's associates and Kremlin officials .
It is the fifth and probably final report into Russian meddling during the 2016 presidential election .
When asked about the report on Tuesday , Mr Trump said he `` did n't read it '' .
According to the committee , the expansive report is `` the most comprehensive description to date of Russia 's activities and the threat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interactions between Trump campaign staff and Russian operatives , including a Kremlin intelligence officer .
The findings also confirm aspects of the special counsel Robert Mueller 's report from his criminal probe into the Trump campaign and Russian election interference .
The bipartisan senate committee investigation was not a criminal inquiry , but was meant to offer recommendations to prevent future interference .
The report concluded that the Kremlin `` engaged in an aggressive , multifaceted effort to influence , or attempt to influence '' the 2016 election , and that some Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It said the Trump campaign , with many affiliates who had no government experience , were easy targets for foreign influence .
The committee also highlighted the role of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort , who was convicted of conspiracy and fraud charges during the Mueller inquiry .
Manafort 's contact with Russian oligarchs and intelligence affiliates - namely Konstantin Kilimnik- and his access to Mr Trump `` created opportunities for Russian intelligence services to exert influence over , and acquire confidential information on , the Trump Campaign , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Russian President Vladimir Putin was behind the WikiLeaks effort to hack Democratic Party officials and leak information to damage Hillary Clinton 's campaign .
The report confirmed the Kremlin used Manafort and WikiLeaks to help Mr Trump win the 2016 election , and that WikiLeaks was aware it was assisting Russian intelligence .
• All you need to know about Trump Russia story It also found that the Trump campaign tried to obtain information about the leak from Roger Stone - a longtime Trump ally and adviser .
The committee was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to WikiLeaks , however .
Mr Trump has said he does not recall speaking about WikiLeaks with Stone , but Tuesday 's report found that `` despite Trump 's recollection '' , he did speak to Stone and other campaign staff about the matter `` on multiple occasions '' .
Stone was convicted of lying to Congress , obstruction and witness tampering , but pardoned by Mr Trump in July .
What did Trump say ?
The president has long derided claims that his election victory was influenced by Russia , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In response to a question about the report , Mr Trump told reporters : `` I do n't know anything about it .
I did n't read it . ''
He added : `` It 's all a hoax . ''
White House spokesman Judd Deere , however , said the report was further confirmation that `` that there was absolutely no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia '' .

It also found that the Trump campaign tried to obtain information about the leak from Roger Stone - a longtime Trump ally and adviser. The committee was not able to determine how much access Stone had to WikiLeaks, however.


bbc--2020-08-19--Britney Spears asks court to remove dad's control over personal life

Britney Spears has asked a court not to return her father to a role that gave him control over many aspects of her life and career .
Jamie Spears has been his daughter 's legal conservator for 12 years , due to concerns around her mental health .
He temporarily stepped aside from the role overseeing her personal affairs in 2019 , citing his own health problems .
Some of Spears ' fans believe she was forced into the arrangement , and have been running a # FreeBritney campaign .
What has Britney now said ?
`` Britney is strongly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of her person , '' according to a court document filed to the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles .
It explained that the 38-year-old singer was in favour of the role , which she said had `` rescued her from a collapse , exploitation by predatory individuals and financial ruin '' and made her `` able to regain her position as a world class entertainer '' .
However , she wants her manager Jodi Montgomery , who stepped in for her father during his absence , to permanently oversee her personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for extension again after 22 August .
• What exactly is the # FreeBritney campaign ?
Mr Spears has also had oversight of her financial affairs .
He took sole control last year when his co-conservator , a lawyer , resigned .
However , the court has been told the singer would now like a `` qualified corporate fiduciary '' to take over her finances .
Her lawyer said he expected that Jamie Spears would `` aggressively '' contest the request to push him aside .
But the legal documents said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conservatorship must be changed substantially in order to reflect the major changes in her current lifestyle and her stated wishes . ''
It also revealed that Britney has no plans to perform again soon .
She last performed live in October 2018 , before cancelling a planned 2019 Las Vegas residency due to her father 's ill health , noting how `` it 's important to always put your family first '' .
A hearing in the conservatorship case is scheduled for Wednesday in Los Angeles .
What is the conservatorship and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spears has not controlled her financial or many of her career decisions since 2008 under this court-enacted agreement .
A conservatorship is usually granted for individuals who are unable to make their own decisions , like those with dementia or other mental illnesses .
Essentially , for the last dozen years , her father and attorney have managed her assets and personal life - including being able to restrict her visitors and communicate with doctors about her treatment .
• Britney comes back from the brink The star began behaving erratically in 2007 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she lost custody of their two children ( although she has frequent visits ) .
Her alleged mental breakdowns took place in the public eye - she made headlines for shaving her head and was photographed hitting a paparazzo 's car with an umbrella - and went to rehab facilities several times .
She was placed in psychiatric care after refusing to surrender her sons in a stand-off with the police , and the conservatorship was put in place in early 2008 .
In the years under the conservatorship , she has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Las Vegas residency , and served as a judge on The X Factor .
Why do fans want to # FreeBritney ?
What began as a hashtag in 2009 has mushroomed into an online campaign by fans who accuse Britney 's father and others of being overly and unnecessarily controlling .
Some protested outside the last court hearing in July , and an online petition has gained more than 100,000 signatures .
They believe they need to rescue their idol .
Those close to the star say the campaign is based on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not commented on the campaign .
She does post regular photos and videos on Instagram , mainly showing her dancing .
There have been claims that she does n't control her own posts and that old photos are being recycled .
But in an Instagram video in May , she said : `` For those of you who do n't think I post my own videos ... you 're wrong . ''
And last weekend , she posted a picture showing a time and date `` so you guys know these are n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message said : `` I get how some people might not like my posts or even understand them , but this is Me being happy ... this is Me being authentic and as real as it gets '' .
However , in April she revealed on Instagram that she accidentally burned down her home gym , which concerned some fans .
She has also recently appeared to respond to supporters who ask her to post a specific photo if she needs help - like wearing a yellow shirt or posting a painting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

Britney Spears asks court to remove dad's control over personal life Published 19 August 2020
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Britney Spears wants the legal guardianship to reflect "her current lifestyle and her stated wishes"
Britney Spears has asked a court not to return her father to a role that gave him control over many aspects of her life and career.
Jamie Spears has been his daughter's legal conservator for 12 years, due to concerns around her mental health.
He temporarily stepped aside from the role overseeing her personal affairs in 2019, citing his own health problems.
Some of Spears' fans believe she was forced into the arrangement, and have been running a #FreeBritney campaign.
What has Britney now said?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Jamie Spears has been Britney's conservator since 2008
"Britney is strongly opposed to James' return as conservator of her person," according to a court document filed to the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles.
It explained that the 38-year-old singer was in favour of the role, which she said had "rescued her from a collapse, exploitation by predatory individuals and financial ruin" and made her "able to regain her position as a world class entertainer".
However, she wants her manager Jodi Montgomery, who stepped in for her father during his absence, to permanently oversee her personal affairs, once the conservatorship is up for extension again after 22 August.
Mr Spears has also had oversight of her financial affairs. He took sole control last year when his co-conservator, a lawyer, resigned. However, the court has been told the singer would now like a "qualified corporate fiduciary" to take over her finances.
Her lawyer said he expected that Jamie Spears would "aggressively" contest the request to push him aside.
But the legal documents said: "We are now at a point where the conservatorship must be changed substantially in order to reflect the major changes in her current lifestyle and her stated wishes."
It also revealed that Britney has no plans to perform again soon. She last performed live in October 2018, before cancelling a planned 2019 Las Vegas residency due to her father's ill health, noting how "it's important to always put your family first".
A hearing in the conservatorship case is scheduled for Wednesday in Los Angeles.
What is the conservatorship and why was it set up?
Image source, Reuters
Britney Spears has not controlled her financial or many of her career decisions since 2008 under this court-enacted agreement.
A conservatorship is usually granted for individuals who are unable to make their own decisions, like those with dementia or other mental illnesses.
Essentially, for the last dozen years, her father and attorney have managed her assets and personal life - including being able to restrict her visitors and communicate with doctors about her treatment.
The star began behaving erratically in 2007 after her divorce from Kevin Federline, and she lost custody of their two children (although she has frequent visits).
Her alleged mental breakdowns took place in the public eye - she made headlines for shaving her head and was photographed hitting a paparazzo's car with an umbrella - and went to rehab facilities several times.
She was placed in psychiatric care after refusing to surrender her sons in a stand-off with the police, and the conservatorship was put in place in early 2008.
In the years under the conservatorship, she has released three albums, completed a two-year Las Vegas residency, and served as a judge on The X Factor.
Why do fans want to #FreeBritney?
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Fans protested outside a conservatorship hearing in July
What began as a hashtag in 2009 has mushroomed into an online campaign by fans who accuse Britney's father and others of being overly and unnecessarily controlling.
Some protested outside the last court hearing in July, and an online petition has gained more than 100,000 signatures. They believe they need to rescue their idol. Those close to the star say the campaign is based on a conspiracy theory.
The singer herself has not commented on the campaign. She does post regular photos and videos on Instagram, mainly showing her dancing.
There have been claims that she doesn't control her own posts and that old photos are being recycled. But in an Instagram video in May, she said: "For those of you who don't think I post my own videos... you're wrong."
And last weekend, she posted a picture showing a time and date "so you guys know these aren't old".
This Instagram post cannot be displayed in your browser. Please enable Javascript or try a different browser. View original content on Instagram The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Skip instagram post by britneyspears Allow Instagram content? This article contains content provided by Instagram. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Meta’s Instagram cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’. Accept and continue The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. End of instagram post by britneyspears
In July, another message said: "I get how some people might not like my posts or even understand them, but this is Me being happy... this is Me being authentic and as real as it gets".
However, in April she revealed on Instagram that she accidentally burned down her home gym, which concerned some fans. She has also recently appeared to respond to supporters who ask her to post a specific photo if she needs help - like wearing a yellow shirt or posting a painting with doves.


bbc--2020-08-19--China record floods wet feet of Leshan Giant Buddha

A giant statue of Buddha in China has had its toes dampened by floodwater for the first time since the 1940s .
The 71m-tall statue , a Unesco heritage site , was carved out of a rockface near Chengdu in Sichuan province around the eighth century AD .
It is normally high above the waterline , but the area has been hit by the worst flooding in 70 years .
More than 100,000 people have had to be moved to safety .
The statue is a hugely popular attraction and often included in cruises along the nearby Yangtze river and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tourists had be rescued from the site as waters rose .
According to the Xinhua state news agency , a traditional local saying holds that if the Buddha 's feet get wet , Chengdu - which has a population of 16 million people - will flood too .
Sichuan province has activated its highest level emergency response after weeks of heavy rain caused record high water levels , with no sign of it ending soon .
Flood alerts are in place for provinces around the Yangtze , Yellow , Hai , Songhua and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ landslides .
The statue , just outside Chengdu , is a hugely popular attraction and often included in cruises along the nearby Yangtze .
Officials have warned that huge volumes of water are building up behind the Three Gorges dam - a massive hydroelectric project on the Yangtze .
The Ministry of Water Resources has warned this could lead to severe flooding upstream , including the major city of Chongqing

It is normally high above the waterline, but the area has been hit by the worst flooding in 70 years.


bbc--2020-08-18--Beirut blast: Born without a father

Beirut blast: Born without a father

On 4 August a massive explosion devastated the Beirut port area , killing more than 200 people .
Two weeks @ @ @ @ @ Beirut , the BBC 's Tom Bateman meets families and individuals whose lives changed forever @

On 4 August, a massive explosion devastated the Beirut port area, killing more than 200 people.
Two weeks after the explosion that shattered Lebanon's capital, the BBC's Tom Bateman meets families and individuals whose lives have changed forever.
Correspondent: Tom Bateman
Filmed and edited by: Lee Durant
Produced by: Rachael Thorn
Fixer: Rabih El Zein


bbc--2020-08-19--Mali coup: Military promises elections after ousting president

The soldiers who ousted Mali 's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta say they plan to set up a civilian transitional government and hold new elections .
The spokesman for the soldiers said they acted to prevent the country falling further into chaos .
President Keïta resigned on Tuesday night saying he did not want `` blood to be spilled to keep me in power . ''
The African Union , regional leaders , and the UN have condemned the coup .
The soldiers , calling themselves the National Committee for the Salvation of the People , said they did not want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are keen on the stability of the country , which will allow us to organise general elections to allow Mali to equip itself with strong institutions within the reasonable time limit , '' said Col Ismaël Wagué , the group 's spokesman .
• Africa Live : Latest updates on this and other stories • Are coups on the rise in Africa ?
What did Mr Keïta say ?
On Tuesday night , wearing a surgical mask amid the coronavirus pandemic , Mr Keïta resigned in a brief address on state television .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our armed forces want this to end through their intervention , do I really have a choice ? ''
he asked .
`` I hold no hatred towards anyone , my love of my country does not allow me to , '' he added .
`` May God save us . ''
Mr Keïta won a second term in elections in 2018 , but there has been anger over corruption , the mismanagement of the economy and a dispute over legislative elections .
It has prompted several large protests in recent months .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about pay and over a continuing conflict with jihadists .
What have the soldiers said ?
A televised statement was read out early on Wednesday on behalf of the National Committee for the Salvation of the People .
`` Civil society and political social movements are invited to join us to create together the best conditions for a civil political transition leading to credible general elections for the exercise of democracy through a roadmap that will lay the foundations for a new Mali , '' said Col-Major Wagué .
He added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ land borders are closed until further notice .
A curfew is in place from 09:00 to 17:00 until further notice . ''
Flanked by soldiers , Col Wagué said : `` Our country is sinking into chaos , anarchy and insecurity mostly due to the fault of the people who are in charge of its destiny . ''
What do we know about the mutiny ?
It remains unclear who began the mutiny , how many soldiers took part or who will now take charge .
It appears to have started when mutinying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where the president and prime minister were later taken .
BBC Afrique 's Abdoul Ba in Bamako says it seems to have been led by Col Malick Diaw - deputy head of the Kati camp - and another commander , Gen Sadio Camara .
• Who is behind Mali 's coup ?
After taking over the camp , about 15km ( nine miles ) from Bamako , the mutineers marched on the capital , where they were cheered by crowds who had gathered to demand Mr Keïta 's resignation .
On Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president and his prime minister - who were both there .
The president 's son , the speaker of the National Assembly , the foreign and finance ministers were reported to be among the other officials detained .
Kati camp was the focus of a mutiny in 2012 , also by mid-ranking soldiers , who were angry at the inability of the senior commanders to stop jihadists and Tuareg rebels taking control of northern Mali .
What has the reaction been ?
When news first broke of the mutiny , the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the release of those held by the soldiers .
The Economic Community of West African States ( Ecowas ) , a regional body , also said its 15 member states had agreed to close their borders with Mali , suspend all financial flows to the country , and eject Mali from all Ecowas decision-making bodies .
In recent months , Ecowas has been trying to mediate between Mr Keïta 's government and opposition groups .
The UN Security Council is to meet on Wednesday to discuss the latest developments in Mali .
Mali @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was also quick to condemn the president 's detention , and Foreign Minister Jean Yves Le Drian urged the soldiers to return to barracks .
Mali is a key base for French troops fighting Islamist insurgents across the Sahel region .
A member of Mali 's opposition M5 movement , which has held protests against Mr Keïta for the past few weeks , welcomed his resignation .
Prof Ramata Sissoko Cisse told the BBC World Service : `` I think it 's a relief for the Malian people and for all the citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president that because of the lack of support of the Malian people he finally accepts to resign , to give back power to the people . ''
M5 is led by the conservative Imam , Mahmoud Dicko , who has called for reforms after rejecting concessions from Mr Keïta .
Why Mali matters to West Africa and beyond The desert regions of northern Mali are home to various militant groups , some of whom are linked to al-Qaeda , which have also spread into neighbouring Niger , Burkina Faso , Chad and Mauritania @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regional force known as G5 Sahel , and a 10,000-strong force of UN peacekeepers are based in Mali , trying to tackle the militants .
The French troops first intervened in 2013 to prevent an alliance of Islamist and separatist Tuareg fighters , who had taken control of northern Mali , from marching on the capital .
The rebels had taken advantage of a security vacuum following the country 's previous coup , when mutinous soldiers overthrew his predecessor , Amadou Toumani Toure .
Observers are worried that another round of instability in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Some of the militant groups are also linked to networks smuggling people and drugs into Europe .

Mali coup: Military promises elections after ousting president Published 19 August 2020
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, The mutinying soldiers were cheered by crowds as they reached the capital Bamako on Tuesday
Soldiers who ousted Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta say they plan to set up a civilian transitional government and hold new elections.
The spokesman for the soldiers said they had acted to prevent the country falling further into chaos.
President Keïta resigned on Tuesday night saying he did not want "blood to be spilled to keep me in power".
The UN Security Council condemned the "mutiny", urging the immediate release of the president and his officials.
All troops should "return to their barracks without delay", it said.
The African Union (AU) voted to suspend Mali. Its 15-member security council called for the "restoration of constitutional order" and the release of the president and other government officials.
Mali, a vast country stretching into the Sahara Desert is among the poorest countries in the world and has experienced several military takeovers. It is currently battling to contain a wave of jihadist attacks and ethnic violence.
What have the soldiers said?
The soldiers, calling themselves the National Committee for the Salvation of the People, said they did not want to stay in power.
"We are keen on the stability of the country, which will allow us to organise general elections to allow Mali to equip itself with strong institutions within the reasonable time limit," said the group's spokesman, Col Ismaël Wagué, the air force deputy chief of staff.
In a televised statement, flanked by soldiers, he urged Mali's civil and political groups to help create a "political transition leading to credible general elections for the exercise of democracy through a roadmap that will lay the foundations for a new Mali".
He also announced the closure of all air and land borders and a curfew from 21:00 to 05:00.
"Our country is sinking into chaos, anarchy and insecurity mostly due to the fault of the people who are in charge of its destiny," he said.
What did Mr Keïta say?
Wearing a surgical mask amid the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Keïta resigned in a brief address on state television on Tuesday evening.
"If today, certain elements of our armed forces want this to end through their intervention, do I really have a choice?" he asked. "I hold no hatred towards anyone, my love of my country does not allow me to. May God save us."
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta won a second term in 2018
Mr Keïta won a second term in elections in 2018, but since June has faced huge street protests over corruption, the mismanagement of the economy and a dispute over legislative elections.
There has also been anger among troops about pay and the conflict with jihadists.
It was the war in Libya, almost a decade ago, that nudged Mali along the path to chaos.
Weapons from Libya flooded across the Sahara Desert, fuelling a separatist conflict in northern Mali, which morphed into an Islamist militant offensive, which prompted a coup in the capital Bamako.
It's been a mess ever since, in a landlocked nation that had been a West African success story.
Today French troops, American drones, UN peacekeepers, and British helicopters are all trying - and largely failing - to strengthen security, not just in Mali, but across a vast region increasingly threatened by Islamist insurgencies and other conflicts.
This latest military coup in Bamako appears to be a reaction to those security challenges, but also to corruption, disputed elections, and political drift.
The coup itself seems unlikely to fix anything.
But it highlights a familiar truth - that while foreign intervention has its uses, the key to repairing a nation like Mali lies in its own hands, and with its own faltering democratic institutions.
What's the mood in Bamako?
Journalist Mohamed Salaha told the BBC that banks and offices were closed on Wednesday but some daily activities were slowly resuming.
A small group gathered outside the Independence Monument to celebrate, while some opposition activists detained during the recent street protests have been freed.
However, some people are also worried about the future as it is not clear who is in charge of the country, he said.
What do we know about the mutiny?
It appears that mutinying soldiers took control of the Kati army camp, about 15km (nine miles) from Bamako, on Tuesday. They then marched on the capital, cheered by crowds who had gathered to demand Mr Keïta's resignation.
The soldiers then stormed the presidential buildings, arresting Mr Keïta and his prime minister and taking them to Kati Camp. The president's son, the speaker of the National Assembly, the foreign and finance ministers were also reported to have been detained.
It remains unclear how many soldiers took part in the coup, although it seems to have been led by Col Malick Diaw - deputy head of the Kati camp - and another commander, Gen Sadio Camara, BBC Afrique's Abdoul Ba reports from Bamako.
What has the reaction been?
The AU's Commissioner for Peace and Security, Smail Chergui, said military coups were "something of the past which we cannot accept anymore".
"Whenever you have a crisis and the military people have a coup and say 'We are responding to the will of the people', this way of responding is not acceptable at all," he told BBC's Focus on Africa programme.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), a regional body, said its 15 member states had agreed to close their borders with Mali, suspend all financial flows to the country, and eject Mali from all Ecowas decision-making bodies. In recent months, Ecowas has been trying to mediate between Mr Keïta's government and opposition groups.
The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo tweeted his condemnation of the "mutiny":
This Twitter post cannot be displayed in your browser. Please enable Javascript or try a different browser. View original content on Twitter The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Skip twitter post by Secretary Pompeo Allow Twitter content? This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’. Accept and continue The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. End of twitter post by Secretary Pompeo
Mali's former colonial ruler, France, was also quick to condemn the president's detention, and Foreign Minister Jean Yves Le Drian urged the soldiers to return to barracks.
A member of Mali's opposition M5 movement, which has held protests against Mr Keïta for the past few weeks, welcomed his resignation.
Prof Ramata Sissoko Cisse told the BBC World Service: "I think it's a relief for the Malian people and for all the citizens of Mali to finally hear from the president that because of the lack of support of the Malian people he finally accepts to resign, to give back power to the people."
M5 is led by the conservative Imam, Mahmoud Dicko, who has called for reforms after rejecting concessions from Mr Keïta.
The events which led to the coup:


bbc--2020-08-19--South Korea tightens Covid-19 curbs amid warning of new 'crisis'

Museums , nightclubs and karaoke bars have closed in and around South Korea 's capital , Seoul , as Covid-19 cases reach a five-month high .
The country reported another 297 new cases on Wednesday - the highest daily figure since March .
South Korea is viewed as one of the world 's coronavirus success stories for its management of the disease .
But a spike in new cases linked mostly to a church has sparked concerns of a wider outbreak .
Wednesday saw a three-digit increase in cases for a sixth day after weeks with numbers generally around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 252 were in the greater Seoul area .
Many of the new cases have been linked to the Sarang Jeil Church , whose pastor has been a vocal critic of President Moon Jae-in .
It follows another outbreak at a different place of worship , the Shincheonji Church of Jesus , which was identified earlier this year as South Korea 's biggest virus cluster .
The controversial group was found to be linked to more than 5,200 cases .
• How South Korean life changed to contain the virus • Lessons for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spikes In total 623 members of Sarang Jeil Church have been infected so far , according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( KCDC ) .
Ten of these were people confirmed to have attended anti-government demonstrations on the past two weekends in Seoul , Reuters reported on Tuesday .
This is a moment of `` grave crisis '' in South Korea 's fight against coronavirus , say health officials .
There are two main concerns .
First that the outbreak is in the highly populated greater Seoul area , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another highly secretive church and hundreds of members have provided false contact details at gatherings .
Let 's not forget , South Korea has been in this position before and prevailed .
Its highly efficient track-and-trace system , paired with multiple testing facilities , has brought cluster outbreaks under control .
But Sarang Jeil church members rallied in the centre of Seoul at the weekend , ignoring warnings from health officials that they risked spreading the virus .
Domestic media has also shown footage of church members shouting and swearing at virus contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe that this is part of a conspiracy to close the right wing church , which is highly critical of President Moon 's administration .
They are also reluctant to comply with quarantine orders or get a test .
Authorities have the power to introduce stricter social distancing guidelines and they have shut down facilities such as karaoke rooms and nightclubs .
Most companies based in Seoul have also told their employees to work from home .
But tracking down reluctant church members who are most at risk of catching and spreading the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have already banned all in-person church services as they try to trace congregation members to ask them to self-quarantine and get tested .
`` We ’ re facing a crisis where if the current spread isn ’ t controlled , it would bring an exponential rise in cases , which could in turn lead to the collapse of our medical system and enormous economic damage , '' said Jeong Eun-kyeong , director of Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , earlier this week .
Starting from Wednesday , 12 high-risk business categories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants must cease operations in Seoul , Incheon and the neighbouring Gyeonggi province .
Museums have also been closed and indoor gatherings of more than 50 people , and outdoor ones of more than 100 , are banned .

Domestic media has also shown footage of church members shouting and swearing at virus contact tracers. It seems some of them believe that this is part of a conspiracy to close the right wing church, which is highly critical of President Moon's administration. They are also reluctant to comply with quarantine orders or get a test.


bbc--2020-08-19--Trump gives nod to Oracle buyout of TikTok in US

US President Donald Trump has said tech giant Oracle would be `` a great company '' to take over TikTok 's US operations .
It comes after Oracle was reported as a possible buyer of the Chinese social media app 's business in North America , Australia and New Zealand .
Last week Mr Trump ordered TikTok 's owner ByteDance to sell its US business within 90 days or face being shut down Oracle 's chairman Larry Ellison is a supporter of Mr Trump and held a fundraising event for him in February .
Mr Trump 's comments - during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came after reports that Oracle was working on an offer for some TikTok assets with a group of ByteDance 's investors .
According to those reports , Oracle was seriously considering buying TikTok 's businesses in the US , Canada , Australia and New Zealand with investment firms , including General Atlantic and Sequoia Capital .
In February , Oracle co-founder Larry Ellision held a high-profile fundraiser for Mr Trump at his private golf course and estate in California .
Earlier this month Mr Trump said the government should get a `` substantial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TikTok 's US unit if an American firm buys it .
• Twitter 'looking ' at a possible TikTok tie-up Where does TikTok currently stand in the US ?
Last week the White House said a government panel that vets foreign transactions - the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US - had recommended that ByteDance should divest TikTok 's US operations within 90 days .
Mr Trump said there was `` credible evidence '' that TikTok was being used by ByteDance to breach US security .
ByteDance has repeatedly denied that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington 's attacks on TikTok have been seen by many commentators as part of its ongoing trade conflict with Beijing .
Who are the rival bidders for TikTok ?
Microsoft has been the lead contender to purchase those TikTok businesses since it said publicly earlier this month that it had held talks with ByteDance .
Rival social media company Twitter has also reportedly approached TikTok 's owner ByteDance to express an interest in buying its US operations .
Meanwhile , Mr Trump has joined Triller , a New-York-based rival to TikTok .

Trump gives nod to Oracle buyout of TikTok in US Published 19 August 2020
Image source, Getty Images
US President Donald Trump has said tech giant Oracle would be "a great company" to take over TikTok's US operations.
It comes after Oracle was reported as a possible buyer of the Chinese social media app's business in North America, Australia and New Zealand.
Last week Mr Trump ordered TikTok's owner ByteDance to sell its US business within 90 days or face being shut down
Oracle's chairman Larry Ellison is a supporter of Mr Trump and held a fundraising event for him in February.
Mr Trump's comments - during a speech in Yuma, Arizona - came after reports that Oracle was working on an offer for some TikTok assets with a group of ByteDance's investors.
According to those reports, Oracle was seriously considering buying TikTok's businesses in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand with investment firms, including General Atlantic and Sequoia Capital.
In February, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellision held a high-profile fundraiser for Mr Trump at his private golf course and estate in California.
Earlier this month Mr Trump said the government should get a "substantial portion" of the sale price of TikTok's US unit if an American firm buys it.
Where does TikTok currently stand in the US?
Last week the White House said a government panel that vets foreign transactions - the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US - had recommended that ByteDance should divest TikTok's US operations within 90 days.
Mr Trump said there was "credible evidence" that TikTok was being used by ByteDance to breach US security.
ByteDance has repeatedly denied that it has improperly shared users' data.
Washington's attacks on TikTok have been seen by many commentators as part of its ongoing trade conflict with Beijing.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, What's going on with TikTok?
Who are the rival bidders for TikTok?
Microsoft has been the lead contender to purchase those TikTok businesses since it said publicly earlier this month that it had held talks with ByteDance.
Rival social media company Twitter has also reportedly approached TikTok's owner ByteDance to express an interest in buying its US operations.
This year the hugely popular short video sharing app reached 2bn downloads globally.


bbc--2020-08-19--US Postal Service: Democrats to press with bill despite U-turn on cutbacks

Democrats are to press on with a bill to fund the US Postal Service , despite the postmaster 's decision to suspend a controversial plan to cut it back .
Critics said the changes would have hampered postal voting , a key issue in November 's presidential election .
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy , a key ally of President Trump , who believes postal votes will harm his re-election , halted the cuts until after the poll .
Leading Democrat Nancy Pelosi said the service was still at risk .
• What is US row over postal service about ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the election , amid the coronavirus outbreak .
But President Trump strongly opposes them , saying they would lead to widespread voter fraud , although there is no evidence this would happen .
What changes had been planned ?
The US Postal Service ( USPS ) has been under financial pressure , which will only increase with the postal-voting burden .
Up to half of all votes could be postal ballots .
Under Mr DeJoy it had begun what it said were cost-cutting measures .
These included removing mail boxes , cancelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down sorting centres .
But opponents said this would slow down the handling of postal ballots .
Referring to postal ballots , Mr Trump said on Tuesday the election may `` never come out with an outcome '' and `` they 'll have to do it again , and nobody wants that '' .
He has not shown any desire to increase funding to the USPS .
The row has sparked allegations that the USPS , the most popular government agency , is being politicised .
What have the Democrats said ?
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House of Representatives , said it still planned to vote on a Postal Service bill that proposes a $ 25bn ( £19bn ) boost to funding and measures to halt organisational changes .
She said Mr DeJoy 's suspension `` only halts a limited number of the postmaster 's changes , does not reverse damage already done , and alone is not enough to ensure voters will not be disenfranchised by the president this fall .
`` The House will be moving ahead with our vote this Saturday . ''
Earlier she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... and that 's what we were trying to do , make it too hot for them to handle '' .
Democrat House majority leader Steny Hoyer said his party was `` going to make sure in law '' that the changes would be stopped .
If , as expected , the bill passes in the House of Representatives , it will go to the Republican-run Senate .
Some Republicans have also opposed the proposed USPS changes , but Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell said : `` I do n't think we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postal-only bill . ''
What did Mr DeJoy say ?
The former Republican donor said that post office hours would not now be cut , and post boxes and sorting machines would stop being removed .
He also said overtime pay would continue to be approved to ensure deliveries arrived on time .
`` To avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail , I am suspending these initiatives until after the election is concluded , '' Mr DeJoy said in a statement .
The U-turn came with Mr DeJoy due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 states preparing to sue .
Mr Trump said he was not involved in the decision and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said the president had never ordered postal operational changes to slow mail deliveries .
Postal voting in the US Voting by mail is not new to the US .
According to Reuters , approximately one in every four voters cast ballots by mail in 2016 .
• Does US postal voting lead to ‘ tremendous fraud ’ ?
Critics say people could vote more than once via absentee ballots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numerous nationwide and state-level studies over the years have found no evidence of widespread fraud .
The rate of voting fraud overall in the US is between 0.00004 % and 0.0009 % , according to a 2017 study by the Brennan Center for Justice .
You might be interested in watching :

"We are certainly open to looking at the $25bn [proposed by Democrats], but we want included in there relief for the American people that thus far speaker Pelosi has been entirely uninterested in," she said.


bbc--2020-08-19--Germany train incident: Eritrean on trial for boy's Frankfurt death

An Eritrean man is set to go on trial in Germany over the death of an eight-year-old boy who was thrown in front of a train last year .
Habte Araya , 41 , is accused of pushing the boy and his mother onto the tracks at Frankfurt 's main station during an episode of paranoid schizophrenia .
Mr Araya had `` at least a considerably reduced ability '' to control his actions , prosecutors say .
But he could also be found to have committed murder .
The charges could be raised if Mr Araya is deemed to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
At present the father of three is accused of manslaughter and attempted manslaughter , and prosecutors have applied for him to be placed in a psychiatric institution .
What do we know about the attack ?
Mr Araya is accused of pushing the pair onto the tracks in front of an arriving train during the incident on 29 July last year .
The mother was able to roll off them and escape , but the boy was killed instantly .
Mr Araya is also accused of attempting to push a 78-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman managed to survive .
Witnesses said a man was then chased and stopped by passers-by .
Mr Araya has no connection to the victims and did not have drugs or alcohol in his system , police say .
The case was widely covered in German media , and more than 100,000 euros ( £90,000 ; $ 120,000 ) was raised for the boy 's family in the days after the attack .
It also triggered a heated debate about immigration and crime in Germany .
While Mr Araya entered the country legally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asylum in 2009 , police said he was on the run following a violent incident in Zurich the previous week .
But he was not listed as wanted in European police databases and was able to cross borders freely , police say .
This prompted politicians from the nationalist Alternative for Germany ( AfD ) party to call for tighter border restrictions .
Others called for bolstered security at train stations , and last week a government spokesman said plans to introduce this were currently under review .

This prompted politicians from the nationalist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party to call for tighter border restrictions. Others called for bolstered security at train stations, and last week a government spokesman said plans to introduce this were currently under review.


bbc--2020-08-19--Sushant Singh Rajput: Federal probe ordered into Bollywood star's death

India 's Supreme Court has directed the country 's federal investigation agency to probe the death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput .
Rajput was found dead in his flat in Mumbai on 14 June .
Police said he had killed himself .
Since then , unverified details about his career , financial status and even mental health have dominated headlines .
It has led to a tussle over who has jurisdiction to investigate - police in Mumbai or his home state Bihar .
A single judge bench of the Supreme Court said that the Bihar government was competent to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI ) .
It has also asked the Mumbai police to hand over all evidence collected so far to the investigating agency .
His family , who have filed a case of abetment to suicide against his girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty , have also been asking for the case to be transferred away from Mumbai .
On social media , she has been called a `` gold digger '' who `` took away Sushant 's money '' .
She has denied any wrongdoing and issued a plea to Home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into Sushant 's death .
She had also moved the court asking that the case be heard in Mumbai .
She has since been questioned by various investigative agencies .
Sushant Singh Rajput lived an extraordinary life - just like some of the characters he played in his hit Bollywood films .
He grew up in Bihar , one of India 's poorest states .
He worked hard and was admitted to one of India 's top engineering colleges - a sure way of securing a bright future for middle class families .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So he dropped out of college and went to Mumbai - the home of Bollywood , India 's Hindi film industry .
He did small roles , took up odd jobs and worked in theatre for years until one of his TV shows became a hit .
Success on the big screen followed soon .
His story fired the ambitions of young people in small towns - it 's why many of his fans took his death as a personal loss .
Why has his death been so controversial ?
With heartbroken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may have taken such a drastic step , unverified details about Sushant 's career , financial status , relationships and even mental health started circulating on social media and in debates on news channels .
No-one has been spared by the voyeuristic coverage - his therapist , his former cook , his friends , his manager , his family , his colleagues have all been hounded for interviews and exclusives .
With police drip-feeding details to the media , the mystery around his death has only deepened .
Days after he died , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killed himself because a few powerful Bollywood families and directors had treated him unfairly .
They said he was an outsider who had no `` godfather '' in the industry , and that his rise was unacceptable to certain Bollywood dynasties .
They pointed to recent reports of him being side-lined after he was promised roles in big-budget films .
The Mumbai police has been investigating what led to the actor 's death .
They have interviewed more than 50 people from the film industry to find out if there is enough evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The officers are yet to file a final report .
The allegations led to a severe backlash on social media against some directors and producers .
While this debate raged , some channels turned their focus on Rhea Chakraborty , Sushant 's actress girlfriend .
If you or someone you know needs support for issues about emotional distress , these organisations may be able to help .

Allow Twitter content?
This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’.


bbc--2020-08-19--Mauritius oil spill: Satellite images show removal operation

Satellite images have captured tug boats trying to remove the wreckage of a Japanese-owned ship that ran aground off the coast of Mauritius , spilling tonnes of oil into pristine waters .
The MV Wakashio hit a coral reef , Pointe d'Esny , on 25 July while carrying 4,000 tonnes of fuel oil .
It is now being towed away from the reef , a sanctuary for rare wildlife .
Meanwhile , a team of experts from Japan is travelling to Mauritius to help with the clean-up .
Most of the oil on board was pumped out before the ship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,000 tonnes leaked into the sea causing damage to the rich marine ecosystem .
• Why the Mauritius oil spill is so serious • Why do oil spills keep happening ?
An environment ministry official in Tokyo said the Japanese team would assess the impact on coral reefs .
They will also take with them special materials designed to absorb oil .
`` The oil leak from the stranded ship has caused severe damage to the people of Mauritius , the economy of which largely relies on tourism and the beautiful ocean , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Japan International Cooperation Agency .
`` I am terribly distressed .
I would like to assess the situation and provide professional advice so that our contribution as an expert team will meet the demands of local people and the government . ''
The operation to remove the bow has so far been hampered by low tides , reports the BBC 's Yasine Mohabuth in Port Louis , but it should progress as surrounding waters deepen .
Meanwhile , experts are trying to decide how to remove the rear section of the vessel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The ship 's captain , 58-year-old Sunil Kumar Nandeshwar , has been arrested over the incident and charged with endangering safe navigation .
Police said crew members had told them there had been a birthday party on the ship the day it ran aground .
Another theory being investigated is that the ship navigated close to the shore in order to pick up WiFi signal .
All images are subject to copyright .

Most of the oil on board was pumped out before the ship broke apart at the weekend but nearly 1,000 tonnes leaked into the sea causing damage to the rich marine ecosystem.


bbc--2020-08-19--Can Harry Potter magic tourists back to Japan?

A new Harry Potter-themed tourist attraction is to be built in Japan for 2023 , when it is hoped travel will be back to normal .
The “ Warner Bros .
Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter ” will be the second such attraction following on from the original tour in the UK .
The US firm will be working alongside Japanese partners to create the tour .
They hope tourism will have recovered from the coronavirus pandemic slump by the time it opens .
• Pokémon : The Japanese game that went viral • Why are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Harry Potter tour will be in a public park currently being developed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government .
The plot already includes the Toshimaen Amusement Park which is scheduled to close at the end of August .
As part of the studio tour visitors will be able to see sets , costumes and props as well as experiencing scenes from the films first-hand .
The original Harry Potter tour in the UK has been a huge success since it opened in 2012 , with more than 14 million visitors .
Harry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world , along with the boy wizard films , which are based on the books written by JK Rowling .
Universal Studios features `` Wizarding World of Harry Potter '' attractions at its parks in the US and Japan .
“ The franchise is an enduring and much-loved one by multiple generations , as adults who grew up with Harry Potter now take their own families to the theatres , ” said a spokesman for Japan ’ s Itochu Corporation , which is helping to develop the park .
The tourist industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly Tokyo , which was scheduled to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer .
With the sharp fall in tourist numbers due to coronavirus-related travel restrictions , the Japanese government has encouraged its citizens to holiday within the country .
A national travel campaign offered subsidies of up to 50 % on trips to and from areas of the country excluding Tokyo .
However this was scrapped last month after a rise in infections .

“The franchise is an enduring and much-loved one by multiple generations, as adults who grew up with Harry Potter now take their own families to the theatres,” said a spokesman for Japan’s Itochu Corporation, which is helping to develop the park.


bbc--2020-08-18--Mpape Crushed Rock: Nigerians flock to new Abuja beauty spot

An abandoned quarry in Nigeria has been become a tourist hotspot after images were posted on social media earlier this month .
The rocky cliffs climbing into a blue sky , a moss-lined footpath , small green hills and a lake that shimmers in the sun are quite breath-taking and a set of images shared on Twitter at the beginning of August has been liked more than a thousand times .
In a matter of days of the post , the site , known as Crushed Rock , in Mpape - a poor neighbourhood on the outskirts of the capital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a DJ stand , food vendors , hundreds of sun-bathing selfie-takers - and even a band of classical musicians .
Nigerians are not generally known to be outdoor lovers - the weather is very hot in the north and quite humid in the south .
However , there is a burgeoning community of hikers around Abuja inspired by the many expatriates living in the political capital .
The coronavirus pandemic has also had a part to play in encouraging these young middle-class Nigerians to explore the hills in the country 's rocky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevented people from travelling elsewhere , has meant that places closer to home are being explored .
The area around Mpape , which means `` rock '' in the local Gwari language , supplied much of the stone used to transform Abuja from a small village in the 1980s into the country 's capital city .
`` The quarry has existed for more than 10 years , '' said Mpape resident Courage Ebenz , who is somewhat bemused by the sudden influx of city-dwellers .
Nigeria has an abundance of sites of natural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ location has its own appeal - with three main tiers that each give a stunning view of the water below .
Sightseers can choose a small winding footpath to the top terrace , where the grass is an ideal picnic location .
The more adventurous can continue down the path that circles and snakes down to the water 's edge .
But a warning for the brave who might want to plunge into the water - the locals say it is full of abandoned machinery .
According to Abraham Adepelumi , a geo-physicist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was formed as a result of the fracturing of an aquifer .
`` Once the rock got fractured , the water within the rock was under pressure , '' he told the BBC .
`` It is a natural phenomenon , Mpape is a fracture-prone area of Abuja and has experienced tremors as recent as 2018 . ''
You may also be interested in : The local emergency agency has warned amateurs against hiking at Mpape Crushed Rock , but fun-seekers seem not to be deterred .
`` I did n't know we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I wanted to see if it is real , '' Elizabeth Okute , who came with her friends after seeing pictures on Facebook , told the BBC .
`` I am surprised such a place exists in Abuja and I love what I am seeing , '' said Ann Chukwuka .
Emeka Uko , who kept straying to the edge much to the chagrin of his friends , added : `` I hope we put measures in place to preserve it . ''
This is exactly what some volunteers decided to do last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plastic waste around the quarry that has built up over the last few weeks .
They split into two groups to compete to see who could collect the most rubbish - updating social media as they went .
`` A lot of people felt it was their responsibility to clean up the place , '' Brandon Akume , whose group came second in the clean-up dash , told the BBC .
This was an alien concept to most Nigerians , he added .
He moved from one group of picnickers to the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to dispose of their litter .
`` They want to poison this place , it seems I have my work cut out for me , '' he said .
Photos by Fatima Muhammad and words by the BBC 's Nduka Orjinmo

The rocky cliffs climbing into a blue sky, a moss-lined footpath, small green hills and a lake that shimmers in the sun are quite breath-taking and a set of images shared on Twitter at the beginning of August has been liked more than a thousand times.