france24--2020-08-16--Indian cricket star Dhoni's five notable innings

Indian cricket superstar M.S .
Dhoni enjoyed success in every format of the game Indian cricket superstar M.S .
Dhoni has called time on his illustrious international career , which included success in every format and two limited-overs World Cups as captain .
The 39-year-old played 90 Tests , 350 one-day internationals and 98 Twenty20s for India since his debut in 2004 .
AFP takes a look at five notable Dhoni innings : Dhoni put aside scores of zero , 12 , seven and three to announce himself in his fifth ODI with a match-winning 148 against India 's arch-rivals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team that included Sachin Tendulkar , Sourav Ganguly and Virender Sehwag , Dhoni stole the limelight with his 123-ball blitz .
The wicketkeeper-batsman smashed 15 fours and four sixes to guide India to 356 and a 58-run win in Visakhapatnam .
It was never easy to take the crease after Tendulkar in an Indian stadium .
But after the superstar fell for just two during a Jaipur ODI , a young Dhoni tore into the Sri Lankan attack with an unbeaten 183 .
The devastating knock helped India chase a target of 299 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With India chasing Sri Lanka 's 275 on home soil in the ODI World Cup final , Dhoni -- who had earned the nickname `` Captain Cool '' -- soaked in the pressure to hit an unbeaten 91 .
He whacked Nuwan Kulasekara for six to win the final in Mumbai , triggering wild celebrations in cricket-mad India whose fans had waited 28 years for an ODI World Cup .
The innings , and the final shot over the fence , cemented Dhoni 's status as one of India 's greatest ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ batting in limited-overs formats , Dhoni often stamped his authority in Tests too .
In the first match of a four-Test home series , Dhoni hammered the Aussie attack led by Mitchell Starc for 224 at Chennai in an innings that lasted more than six hours .
India won the Test , and went on to whitewash the visitors as Dhoni established himself as one of India 's most successful captains .
Dhoni led India to victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup , beating Pakistan in the final at Johannesburg .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he made a difference with numerous key knocks .
Among the most memorable Dhoni T20 innings is the 56 against England in Bangalore in 2017 -- his highest T20 score .
With wristy flicks and big hits down the ground , the skipper guided India to 202 and a comfortable win .

New Delhi (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Indian cricket superstar M.S. Dhoni has called time on his illustrious international career, which included success in every format and two limited-overs World Cups as captain.
The 39-year-old played 90 Tests, 350 one-day internationals and 98 Twenty20s for India since his debut in 2004.
AFP takes a look at five notable Dhoni innings:
Early impression: Visakhapatnam, 2005
Dhoni put aside scores of zero, 12, seven and three to announce himself in his fifth ODI with a match-winning 148 against India's arch-rivals Pakistan.
Coming in one-down in a team that included Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and Virender Sehwag, Dhoni stole the limelight with his 123-ball blitz. The wicketkeeper-batsman smashed 15 fours and four sixes to guide India to 356 and a 58-run win in Visakhapatnam.
Rise of the Ranchi star: Jaipur, 2005
It was never easy to take the crease after Tendulkar in an Indian stadium. But after the superstar fell for just two during a Jaipur ODI, a young Dhoni tore into the Sri Lankan attack with an unbeaten 183.
The devastating knock helped India chase a target of 299 and made the cricket world take notice.
It remains his highest-ever ODI score.
History: Mumbai, 2011
With India chasing Sri Lanka's 275 on home soil in the ODI World Cup final, Dhoni -- who had earned the nickname "Captain Cool" -- soaked in the pressure to hit an unbeaten 91.
He whacked Nuwan Kulasekara for six to win the final in Mumbai, triggering wild celebrations in cricket-mad India whose fans had waited 28 years for an ODI World Cup.
The innings, and the final shot over the fence, cemented Dhoni's status as one of India's greatest ever cricketers.
Marathon man: Chennai, 2013
While best-known for his explosive batting in limited-overs formats, Dhoni often stamped his authority in Tests too.
In the first match of a four-Test home series, Dhoni hammered the Aussie attack led by Mitchell Starc for 224 at Chennai in an innings that lasted more than six hours.
India won the Test, and went on to whitewash the visitors as Dhoni established himself as one of India's most successful captains.
T20 Glory: Bangalore, 2017
Dhoni led India to victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup, beating Pakistan in the final at Johannesburg. And while he never scored a T20 hundred, he made a difference with numerous key knocks.
Among the most memorable Dhoni T20 innings is the 56 against England in Bangalore in 2017 -- his highest T20 score. With wristy flicks and big hits down the ground, the skipper guided India to 202 and a comfortable win.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--New Israeli strikes on Gaza over balloon bombs, rockets

Smoke and flames rise after Israeli army war planes carried out airstrikes over Khan Yunis , Gaza Strip on August 16 Israel 's army launched new air strikes Sunday against Hamas positions in Gaza and closed the fishing zone around the Palestinian enclave in response to rockets and firebombs sent into Israeli territory .
The measures came after a week of heightened tensions , including clashes on Saturday evening along the Gaza-Israeli border , the army said .
Dozens of Palestinian `` rioters burned tyres , hurled explosive devices and grenades towards the security fence and attempted to approach it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IDF ) said in a statement .
Long simmering Palestinian anger has flared further since Israel and the UAE on Thursday agreed to normalise relations , a move Palestinians saw as a betrayal of their cause by the Gulf country .
Over the past week Israeli forces have carried out repeated night-time strikes on targets linked to the Islamist group Hamas , which controls the Gaza Strip .
The army says they were carried out in response to makeshift firebombs attached to balloons and kites which have been sent into southern Israel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and communities .
There were 19 such Palestinian attacks on Saturday alone , according to Israeli rescue services .
In response , `` IDF fighter jets and aircraft struck a number of Hamas military targets in the Gaza Strip , '' the army said , adding that among the targets hit were a Hamas `` military compound and underground infrastructure '' .
Early Sunday the IDF said two nore rockets had been fired into Israel from Gaza and intercepted by its Iron Dome defence system .
`` In response , our Air Force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including a military compound used to store rocket ammunition , '' it said .
Following rocket and incendiary balloon attacks earlier this week , Israel on Wednesday slashed Gaza 's permitted coastal fishing zone from 15 nautical miles to eight , a punitive move often used by the Jewish state in response to Gaza unrest .
Following Saturday 's clashes and rocket-fire , Israel 's military decided `` to entirely shut down the fishing zone of the Gaza Strip , immediately and until further notice , starting this morning ( Sunday ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Israel has also closed its Kerem Shalom goods crossing with the Gaza Strip .
Despite a truce last year backed by the UN , Egypt and Qatar , the two sides clash sporadically with rockets , mortar fire or incendiary balloons .
The Gaza Strip has a population of two million , more than half of whom live in poverty , according to the World Bank .
The IDF said Hamas `` is responsible for all events transpiring in the Gaza Strip and emanating from it , and will bear the consequences for @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Gaza City (Palestinian Territories) (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Israel's army launched new air strikes Sunday against Hamas positions in Gaza and closed the fishing zone around the Palestinian enclave in response to rockets and firebombs sent into Israeli territory.
The measures came after a week of heightened tensions, including clashes on Saturday evening along the Gaza-Israeli border, the army said.
Dozens of Palestinian "rioters burned tyres, hurled explosive devices and grenades towards the security fence and attempted to approach it," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.
Long simmering Palestinian anger has flared further since Israel and the UAE on Thursday agreed to normalise relations, a move Palestinians saw as a betrayal of their cause by the Gulf country.
Over the past week Israeli forces have carried out repeated night-time strikes on targets linked to the Islamist group Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip.
The army says they were carried out in response to makeshift firebombs attached to balloons and kites which have been sent into southern Israel, causing thousands of fires on Israeli farms and communities.
There were 19 such Palestinian attacks on Saturday alone, according to Israeli rescue services.
In response, "IDF fighter jets and aircraft struck a number of Hamas military targets in the Gaza Strip," the army said, adding that among the targets hit were a Hamas "military compound and underground infrastructure".
Early Sunday the IDF said two nore rockets had been fired into Israel from Gaza and intercepted by its Iron Dome defence system.
"In response, our Air Force just struck Hamas terror targets in Gaza, including a military compound used to store rocket ammunition," it said.
- Total fishing ban -
Following rocket and incendiary balloon attacks earlier this week, Israel on Wednesday slashed Gaza's permitted coastal fishing zone from 15 nautical miles to eight, a punitive move often used by the Jewish state in response to Gaza unrest.
Following Saturday's clashes and rocket-fire, Israel's military decided "to entirely shut down the fishing zone of the Gaza Strip, immediately and until further notice, starting this morning (Sunday)," a military statement said.
Israel has also closed its Kerem Shalom goods crossing with the Gaza Strip.
Despite a truce last year backed by the UN, Egypt and Qatar, the two sides clash sporadically with rockets, mortar fire or incendiary balloons.
The Gaza Strip has a population of two million, more than half of whom live in poverty, according to the World Bank.
The IDF said Hamas "is responsible for all events transpiring in the Gaza Strip and emanating from it, and will bear the consequences for terror activity against Israeli civilians".
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Algerians pack beaches after lifting of five-month Covid-19 lockdown

A policeman watches as people cool off in the water at el-Kettani beach in the Bab el-Oued suburb of Algeria 's capital Algiers on August 15 , 2020 , as the country eases pandemic restrictions .
Algerians hit the beaches on Saturday after authorities lifted some restrictions imposed five months ago to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus , as cafes , restaurants and large mosques also reopened .
The third worst affected country in Africa after Egypt and South Africa , Algeria has officially reported a total of more than 38,000 cases of the COVID-19 , including 1,360 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the first infection was recorded at the end of February .
A partial lockdown remains in force in 29 of the country 's 48 wilayas , or administrative councils , which also must observe a night-time curfew .
`` The atmosphere at home was unbearable .
The children were bored and I was fed up , '' said Soraya , a mother who was among the first to head to the beach with her children .
Her friend Fatima , children in tow , joined carrying a sun umbrella and sandwiches for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home so that we could spend the whole day at the beach , '' Fatima said , as one of her children tugged on her hand to make her stop talking and start walking towards the sea .
Despite the relaxed virus restrictions , Algerians must still wear masks outdoors or risk steep fines , and social distancing in the sea is compulsory .
Policemen wearing shorts patrolled the beaches on Saturday on foot or on quad bikes to make sure beachgoers followed the rules , and mounted police were due to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of beaches `` is very good news for a population that has been suffocating and who could lose its psychological balance '' , said a petition on social networks .
The petition urged authorities to open up to the general public two large Algiers beaches which in the past had restricted access .
Large mosques -- closed since March 19 -- were also allowed to reopen on the condition social distancing could be maintained , but worshippers must wear masks and bring their own prayer rugs .
Women , children under the age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not allowed to enter .
The weekly Friday prayer , however , remains prohibited for all .
`` Thank God , '' pensioner Abdelmalek said as he came out of a mosque .
`` I noticed that people were respecting hygiene rules .
It is a good thing because when we come to pray , we mean to do good ... not something bad like contaminating others , '' he said .
Sociologist Zoubir Arous warned of the risk of a new spike in infections and said the reopening of beaches , mosques @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Authorities have warned they will reimpose restrictions if the number of cases rises .

Algerians hit the beaches on Saturday after authorities lifted some restrictions imposed five months ago to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, as cafes, restaurants and large mosques also reopened.
A policeman watches as people cool off in the water at el-Kettani beach in the Bab el-Oued suburb of Algeria's capital Algiers on August 15, 2020, as the country eases pandemic restrictions.
Advertising Read more
The third worst affected country in Africa after Egypt and South Africa, Algeria has officially reported a total of more than 38,000 cases of the COVID-19, including 1,360 deaths.
It imposed a strict lockdown after the first infection was recorded at the end of February.
A partial lockdown remains in force in 29 of the country's 48 wilayas, or administrative councils, which also must observe a night-time curfew.
"The atmosphere at home was unbearable. The children were bored and I was fed up," said Soraya, a mother who was among the first to head to the beach with her children.
Her friend Fatima, children in tow, joined carrying a sun umbrella and sandwiches for everyone.
"I prepared everything at home so that we could spend the whole day at the beach," Fatima said, as one of her children tugged on her hand to make her stop talking and start walking towards the sea.
Despite the relaxed virus restrictions, Algerians must still wear masks outdoors or risk steep fines, and social distancing in the sea is compulsory.
Policemen wearing shorts patrolled the beaches on Saturday on foot or on quad bikes to make sure beachgoers followed the rules, and mounted police were due to keep watch throughout the summer.
The reopening of beaches "is very good news for a population that has been suffocating and who could lose its psychological balance", said a petition on social networks.
The petition urged authorities to open up to the general public two large Algiers beaches which in the past had restricted access.
Large mosques -- closed since March 19 -- were also allowed to reopen on the condition social distancing could be maintained, but worshippers must wear masks and bring their own prayer rugs.
Women, children under the age of 15 and people deemed vulnerable are not allowed to enter.
The weekly Friday prayer, however, remains prohibited for all.
"Thank God," pensioner Abdelmalek said as he came out of a mosque.
"I noticed that people were respecting hygiene rules. It is a good thing because when we come to pray, we mean to do good... not something bad like contaminating others," he said.
Sociologist Zoubir Arous warned of the risk of a new spike in infections and said the reopening of beaches, mosques, restaurants and cafes was "hasty".
Authorities have warned they will reimpose restrictions if the number of cases rises.
(AFP)
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe


france24--2020-08-17--New Zealand PM delays election after virus return

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had been under pressure from political opponents to shift New Zealand 's vote Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday delayed New Zealand 's looming election by four weeks to October 17 after a renewed coronavirus outbreak hampered campaigning .
Ardern was under pressure from political opponents and her coalition partners to shift the original September 19 vote after COVID-19 was detected in Auckland last week , sending the country 's largest city into lockdown .
She said the return of the virus after 102 days without community transmission had rattled Kiwis and could have discouraged some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election .
The centre-left leader , who is riding high in opinion polls , also acknowledged concerns from rivals that curbs on campaigning would unfairly weigh the election in favour of her government .
After spending the weekend consulting with party leaders and the Electoral Commission , she chose October 17 , the earliest delayed date available to her .
Ardern said the change meant all parties would be campaigning under the same conditions and she would not move the date again regardless of the situation .
`` I have absolutely no intention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said .
`` This decision gives all parties time over the next nine weeks to campaign and the Electoral Commission enough time to ensure an election can go ahead . ''
All parties temporarily suspended campaigning in the wake of last week 's outbreak , the source of which remains unknown .
The virus was first detected in four family members in Auckland last Tuesday and by Sunday the cluster had grown to 49 confirmed cases .
The South Pacific nation is following the same strategy that helped contain coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- isolating positive cases , contact tracing and extensive testing .
The earlier success has helped lift Ardern 's personal popularity rating to a record 60 percent , along with her leadership during last year 's Christchurch mosque attacks and the White Island volcano eruption .
Ardern 's Labour Party is on track to win office in its own right , without the minor party coalition partners -- the Greens and New Zealand First ( NZF ) -- it needed during its first term .
The main opposition National Party last week demanded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or preferably next year , saying September 19 was untenable .
Ardern 's coalition partner NZF backed the delay Monday after earlier saying the September option had been `` fatally compromised '' by the outbreak .
`` Common sense has prevailed , '' said NZF leader and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters , whose populist party faces an election wipeout on current polling .
Labour 's other coalition partner , the Greens , said the four-week delay should give health authorities time to contain the Auckland cluster .
But co-leader James Shaw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political self-interest '' in demanding a delay , saying they hoped the pandemic 's economic impact would dent the government 's popularity in the meantime .
`` We have been incredibly disappointed to see the National and other small parties continue to use the weekend to bang on about what would suit them best politically , '' he said .

Wellington (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday delayed New Zealand's looming election by four weeks to October 17 after a renewed coronavirus outbreak hampered campaigning.
Ardern was under pressure from political opponents and her coalition partners to shift the original September 19 vote after COVID-19 was detected in Auckland last week, sending the country's largest city into lockdown.
She said the return of the virus after 102 days without community transmission had rattled Kiwis and could have discouraged some from casting their ballots in a September election.
The centre-left leader, who is riding high in opinion polls, also acknowledged concerns from rivals that curbs on campaigning would unfairly weigh the election in favour of her government.
After spending the weekend consulting with party leaders and the Electoral Commission, she chose October 17, the earliest delayed date available to her.
Ardern said the change meant all parties would be campaigning under the same conditions and she would not move the date again regardless of the situation.
"I have absolutely no intention at all to change from this point," she said.
"This decision gives all parties time over the next nine weeks to campaign and the Electoral Commission enough time to ensure an election can go ahead."
All parties temporarily suspended campaigning in the wake of last week's outbreak, the source of which remains unknown.
The virus was first detected in four family members in Auckland last Tuesday and by Sunday the cluster had grown to 49 confirmed cases.
- 'Common sense' -
The South Pacific nation is following the same strategy that helped contain coronavirus during a seven-week lockdown earlier this year -- isolating positive cases, contact tracing and extensive testing.
The earlier success has helped lift Ardern's personal popularity rating to a record 60 percent, along with her leadership during last year's Christchurch mosque attacks and the White Island volcano eruption.
Ardern's Labour Party is on track to win office in its own right, without the minor party coalition partners -- the Greens and New Zealand First (NZF) -- it needed during its first term.
The main opposition National Party last week demanded the election be postponed until late November, or preferably next year, saying September 19 was untenable.
Ardern's coalition partner NZF backed the delay Monday after earlier saying the September option had been "fatally compromised" by the outbreak.
"Common sense has prevailed," said NZF leader and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters, whose populist party faces an election wipeout on current polling.
Labour's other coalition partner, the Greens, said the four-week delay should give health authorities time to contain the Auckland cluster.
But co-leader James Shaw accused some parties of displaying "naked political self-interest" in demanding a delay, saying they hoped the pandemic's economic impact would dent the government's popularity in the meantime.
"We have been incredibly disappointed to see the National and other small parties continue to use the weekend to bang on about what would suit them best politically," he said.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Spaniards hold anti-mask protest in Madrid as Covid-19 cases rise

A man smokes a cigarette with his eyes covered by a face mask as he takes part in a protest against the use of protective masks during the coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) pandemic , in Madrid , Spain August 16 , 2020 .
Chanting `` freedom '' , hundreds of people rallied Sunday in Madrid to protest against the mandatory use of facemasks and other restrictions imposed by the Spanish government to contain the coronavirus pandemic .
A crowd of clapping and cheering people gathered beneath an enormous yellow and red Spanish flag that stands in the Plaza Colon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to calls on social media .
Protesters held up home-made placards featuring slogans that included `` The virus does not exist '' , `` Masks kill '' and `` We are not afraid '' .
The demonstration drew a variety of attendees , including conspiracy theorists , libertarians and opponents of vaccination .
Pilar Martin , a 58-year-old housewife from the northeastern city of Zaragoza , said she had come to Madrid for the rally because she believed governments around the world were exaggerating the number of infections to curb people 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use a mask , they want us to stay home practically locked up .
It 's obvious that they are continuously tricking us with talk of outbreaks .
It 's all a lie , '' she told AFP at the rally .
A number of participants cited a slickly edited documentary dubbed `` Plandemic '' which has been removed from several social media platforms including YouTube and Facebook because it was found to have false claims , such as that wearing masks can cause harm or that vaccines have `` killed millions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mask even though it is required by law in public across Spain , which has seen a surge in new infections since it lifted its three-month lockdown measures on June 21 .
Mask-wearing was initially imposed in early May as a requirement for those using public transport , and was later expanded in a country where the virus has killed nearly 29,000 people .
The protest comes two days after the government announced new restrictions to curb the spread of the virus , including the closure of discos and a ban on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not possible to keep at least two metres from other people .

Chanting "freedom", hundreds of people rallied Sunday in Madrid to protest against the mandatory use of facemasks and other restrictions imposed by the Spanish government to contain the coronavirus pandemic.
A man smokes a cigarette with his eyes covered by a face mask as he takes part in a protest against the use of protective masks during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Madrid, Spain August 16, 2020.
Advertising Read more
A crowd of clapping and cheering people gathered beneath an enormous yellow and red Spanish flag that stands in the Plaza Colon in the centre of the city in response to calls on social media.
Protesters held up home-made placards featuring slogans that included "The virus does not exist", "Masks kill" and "We are not afraid".
The demonstration drew a variety of attendees, including conspiracy theorists, libertarians and opponents of vaccination.
Pilar Martin, a 58-year-old housewife from the northeastern city of Zaragoza, said she had come to Madrid for the rally because she believed governments around the world were exaggerating the number of infections to curb people's freedoms.
"They are forcing us to use a mask, they want us to stay home practically locked up. It's obvious that they are continuously tricking us with talk of outbreaks. It's all a lie," she told AFP at the rally.
A number of participants cited a slickly edited documentary dubbed "Plandemic" which has been removed from several social media platforms including YouTube and Facebook because it was found to have false claims, such as that wearing masks can cause harm or that vaccines have "killed millions".
Many protesters did not wear a mask even though it is required by law in public across Spain, which has seen a surge in new infections since it lifted its three-month lockdown measures on June 21.
Mask-wearing was initially imposed in early May as a requirement for those using public transport, and was later expanded in a country where the virus has killed nearly 29,000 people.
The protest comes two days after the government announced new restrictions to curb the spread of the virus, including the closure of discos and a ban on smoking in public areas when it is not possible to keep at least two metres from other people.
(AFP)
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe


france24--2020-08-16--New Zealand delays election after return of Covid-19

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks during a press conference at Admiralty House in Sydney , Australia , February 28 , 2020 .
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday delayed New Zealand 's looming election by four weeks to October 17 after a renewed coronavirus outbreak hampered campaigning .
New Zealand , whose original election date had been set for September 19 , is battling a return of Covid-19 which last week forced the country 's largest city Auckland into lockdown and ended 102 days without community transmission .
`` This decision gives all parties time over the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission enough time to ensure an election can go ahead , '' Ardern said .
The centre-left leader came under pressure to change the date after all parties suspended campaigning in the wake of last week 's outbreak , the source of which remains unknown .
Ardern acknowledged there was widespread anxiety in the community over the virus 's return , which was first detected in four family members in Auckland last Tuesday .
By Sunday , the Auckland cluster had grown to 49 confirmed cases and Ardern said she spent the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission over the vote 's date .
She said the change meant all parties would be campaigning under the same conditions and she would not move the date from October 17 regardless of the situation .
`` I have absolutely no intention at all to change from this point , '' she said .
Ardern is riding high in the polls , with a record personal popularity rating of about 60 percent due to her leadership during the pandemic , last year 's Christchurch mosque attacks and the White Island volcanic eruption .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ win office in its own right , without the minor party coalition partners -- the Greens and New Zealand First ( NZF ) -- it needed during its first term .

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday delayed New Zealand's looming election by four weeks to October 17 after a renewed coronavirus outbreak hampered campaigning.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks during a press conference at Admiralty House in Sydney, Australia, February 28, 2020.
Advertising Read more
New Zealand, whose original election date had been set for September 19, is battling a return of Covid-19 which last week forced the country's largest city Auckland into lockdown and ended 102 days without community transmission.
"This decision gives all parties time over the next nine weeks to campaign and the Electoral Commission enough time to ensure an election can go ahead," Ardern said.
The centre-left leader came under pressure to change the date after all parties suspended campaigning in the wake of last week's outbreak, the source of which remains unknown.
Ardern acknowledged there was widespread anxiety in the community over the virus's return, which was first detected in four family members in Auckland last Tuesday.
By Sunday, the Auckland cluster had grown to 49 confirmed cases and Ardern said she spent the weekend consulting with party leaders and the Electoral Commission over the vote's date.
She said the change meant all parties would be campaigning under the same conditions and she would not move the date from October 17 regardless of the situation.
"I have absolutely no intention at all to change from this point," she said.
Ardern is riding high in the polls, with a record personal popularity rating of about 60 percent due to her leadership during the pandemic, last year's Christchurch mosque attacks and the White Island volcanic eruption.
Her Labour Party is on track to win office in its own right, without the minor party coalition partners -- the Greens and New Zealand First (NZF) -- it needed during its first term.
(AFP)
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe


france24--2020-08-16--Italy shuts nightclubs as Covid-19 cases rise among young

A woman has her nose swabbed during a test for the new coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) at Rome 's Fiumicino airport , Italy , August 16 , 2020 .
Italy is to close discos and clubs and make it compulsory to wear a mask outdoors in some areas during the night-time in the first reimposition of restrictions as cases of coronavirus pick up across the country , especially among younger people .
New cases in the past week in Italy , the first European country to be hit hard by the coronavirus , were more than double those registered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people contracting the virus has dropped below 40 , data showed .
The new rules will start on Monday - two days after an Italian holiday when many young Italians go out dancing - and will run until early September .
Masks will be required between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. in areas close to bars and pubs and where gatherings are more likely .
`` We can not nullify the sacrifices made in past months .
Our priority must be that of opening schools in September , in full safety , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook .
Speranza on Saturday urged young people to be as cautious as possible as `` if they infect their parents and their grandparents , they risk creating real damage '' .
The government had kept clubs open despite mounting criticism that they attracted large crowds , that social distancing was not being respected and masks were not being worn .
The industry has yearly revenues of 4 billion euros , the sector 's lobby group Silb said , calling on the government for support .
Industry Minister Stefano Patuanelli conceded there would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw no alternative .
On Sunday , 479 new cases were confirmed , down from 629 on Saturday , with nightlife , the return of holidaymakers , and younger generations flouting social distancing rules being blamed by medical experts for the recent hike .
Since its outbreak came to light on Feb. 21 , Italy has recorded more than 35,000 deaths .
Testing on holidaymakers landing in Rome 's airports began on Sunday after the government said on Wednesday that people travelling from Croatia , Greece , Malta and Spain must be screened @ @ @ @

Italy is to close discos and clubs and make it compulsory to wear a mask outdoors in some areas during the night-time in the first reimposition of restrictions as cases of coronavirus pick up across the country, especially among younger people.
Advertising Read more
New cases in the past week in Italy, the first European country to be hit hard by the coronavirus, were more than double those registered three weeks ago and the median age of people contracting the virus has dropped below 40, data showed.
The new rules will start on Monday - two days after an Italian holiday when many young Italians go out dancing - and will run until early September.
Masks will be required between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. in areas close to bars and pubs and where gatherings are more likely.
"We cannot nullify the sacrifices made in past months. Our priority must be that of opening schools in September, in full safety," Health Minister Roberto Speranza said on Facebook.
Speranza on Saturday urged young people to be as cautious as possible as "if they infect their parents and their grandparents, they risk creating real damage".
The government had kept clubs open despite mounting criticism that they attracted large crowds, that social distancing was not being respected and masks were not being worn.
The industry has yearly revenues of 4 billion euros, the sector's lobby group Silb said, calling on the government for support.
Industry Minister Stefano Patuanelli conceded there would be economic damage, but said he saw no alternative.
On Sunday, 479 new cases were confirmed, down from 629 on Saturday, with nightlife, the return of holidaymakers, and younger generations flouting social distancing rules being blamed by medical experts for the recent hike.
Since its outbreak came to light on Feb. 21, Italy has recorded more than 35,000 deaths.
Testing on holidaymakers landing in Rome's airports began on Sunday after the government said on Wednesday that people travelling from Croatia, Greece, Malta and Spain must be screened for the virus.
(REUTERS)
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe


france24--2020-08-16--Herman edges Horschel to capture third career US PGA title

Jim Herman fired an eagle and seven birdies in a seven-under par 63 on Sunday to capture his third US PGA Tour title at the Wyndham Championship in Greensboro , North Carolina .
Herman followed up his career-low round of 61 with another sparkling effort at Sedgefield Country Club , where his 21-under par total of 259 gave him a one-stroke triumph over former FedEx Cup champion Billy Horschel .
The win in the final regular-season event before the US tour 's playoffs begin also vaulted Herman from 192nd -- outside the playoff field -- to 54th in the FedEx @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 125-man Northern Trust at TPC Boston next week with room to spare .
`` Oh my gosh , obviously ( I 'm ) ecstatic , '' said the 42-year-old Herman , his voice breaking .
`` It 's tough to put into words what this means . ''
Herman picked up where he left off on Saturday with 29-foot birdie putt at the first , followed by a tap-in birdie at the fourth and a 60-foot eagle putt at the fifth .
After his lone bogey at the sixth , he rolled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a five-footer at 13 .
Another birdie at the par-five 15th moved him to 20-under .
But Horschel , who also eagled the fifth , rolled in his fifth birdie of the day at the 15th to reach 21-under .
Herman seized the lead with a three-foot birdie at the 17th as Horschel bogeyed 16 .
Horschel had birdie looks of 12 and nine feet at the last two holes but could n't get either putt to drop .
Herman added a third title to those he won at the 2016 Houston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he certainly did n't see a victory coming after a tough weekend at the PGA Championship at Harding Park last week -- nor after he needed to birdie three of his last four holes at Sedgefield on Friday just to make the cut .
`` I came here with no expectations , pretty much , '' said Herman , who had missed the cut in eight of his last 11 starts .
`` After four holes I had missed every fairway , '' he added , saying he told his caddie it looked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It just shows that in golf anything is possible , '' Herman said .
`` If you get your attitude right and make a few putts , anything can happen . ''
Horschel , who out-dueled Rory McIlroy to win the 2014 Tour Championship and claim that year 's FedEx Cup title , was chasing a sixth career crown .
`` It 's a little disappointing , '' the 33-year-old said .
`` I had two good looks on the last two holes -- I thought I would make one of them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Korea , who was seeking a third tour title after he won the 2016 Wyndham and the 2017 Players Championship , carded an even par 70 to share third on 262 with Americans Kevin Kisner , Webb Simpson and Doc Redman .

Washington (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Jim Herman fired an eagle and seven birdies in a seven-under par 63 on Sunday to capture his third US PGA Tour title at the Wyndham Championship in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Herman followed up his career-low round of 61 with another sparkling effort at Sedgefield Country Club, where his 21-under par total of 259 gave him a one-stroke triumph over former FedEx Cup champion Billy Horschel.
The win in the final regular-season event before the US tour's playoffs begin also vaulted Herman from 192nd -- outside the playoff field -- to 54th in the FedEx Cup standings.
That gets him into the 125-man Northern Trust at TPC Boston next week with room to spare.
"Oh my gosh, obviously (I'm) ecstatic," said the 42-year-old Herman, his voice breaking. "It's tough to put into words what this means."
Herman picked up where he left off on Saturday with 29-foot birdie putt at the first, followed by a tap-in birdie at the fourth and a 60-foot eagle putt at the fifth.
After his lone bogey at the sixth, he rolled in a 14-foot birdie at the 14th and a five-footer at 13. Another birdie at the par-five 15th moved him to 20-under.
But Horschel, who also eagled the fifth, rolled in his fifth birdie of the day at the 15th to reach 21-under.
Herman seized the lead with a three-foot birdie at the 17th as Horschel bogeyed 16.
Horschel had birdie looks of 12 and nine feet at the last two holes but couldn't get either putt to drop.
Herman added a third title to those he won at the 2016 Houston Open and 2019 Barbasol Championship.
But he certainly didn't see a victory coming after a tough weekend at the PGA Championship at Harding Park last week -- nor after he needed to birdie three of his last four holes at Sedgefield on Friday just to make the cut.
"I came here with no expectations, pretty much," said Herman, who had missed the cut in eight of his last 11 starts.
"After four holes I had missed every fairway," he added, saying he told his caddie it looked like being a short week.
"It just shows that in golf anything is possible," Herman said. "If you get your attitude right and make a few putts, anything can happen."
Horschel, who out-dueled Rory McIlroy to win the 2014 Tour Championship and claim that year's FedEx Cup title, was chasing a sixth career crown.
"It's a little disappointing," the 33-year-old said. "I had two good looks on the last two holes -- I thought I would make one of them."
Overnight leader Kim Si-woo of South Korea, who was seeking a third tour title after he won the 2016 Wyndham and the 2017 Players Championship, carded an even par 70 to share third on 262 with Americans Kevin Kisner, Webb Simpson and Doc Redman.
Kisner fired a 64, Simpson signed for a 65 and Redman posted a 68.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--'Killer' bikes, 'dazed' drivers, Pep minds 'the gap': Sports weekend in quotes

Tough job : Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola stands on the sideline during the Champions League quarter-final Who said what over the sporting weekend : '' One day we 'll break this gap to the quarter-finals . ''
-- Man City coach Pep Guardiola after his team were knocked out of the Champions League by Lyon , 3-1 .
Guardiola is yet to get beyond the last eight in his four years in charge of City .
`` Different year , same stuff .
We need to learn , it 's not good enough . ''
`` We eliminated a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contenders to win the Champions League , and a Manchester City side who were contenders to win the Champions League .
Bayern will be exactly the same . ''
-- Lyon coach Rudi Garcia on facing Bayern Munich for a place in the final .
`` Losing is not acceptable .
Getting to semi-finals is n't acceptable but the best team lost . ''
-- Manchester United defender Harry Maguire after the 2-1 loss to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals .
`` Thanks a lot for your love and support throughout .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' -- India cricket icon MS Dhoni announces his retirement from the international game .
`` What you 've done for the country will always remain in everyone 's heart . ''
`` I was in a daze , just another zone . ''
-- Lewis Hamilton after winning the Spanish Grand Prix for a record 156th podium finish .
It was his 88th victory .
`` At the moment , I have to say that he drives in a league of his own . ''
`` Morbidelli 's bike nearly killed me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a really great job , it was a very dangerous thing . ''
-- Valentino Rossi , who escaped serious injury or worse at the Austrian Grand Prix , when the bike of the unseated Franco Morbidelli flew past him at 300kmh and missed him by just centimetres .
`` We have hit rock bottom .
Tonight was unacceptable for Barcelona .
It was a disgrace . ''
-- Barcelona defender Gerard Pique after the 8-2 Champions League humiliation at the hands of Bayern Munich .
`` It 's done my swede in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jimmy White after the world championship semi-final between Kyren Wilson and Anthony McGill .
Wilson won 17-16 after McGill missed a snooker eight times in a row before Wilson fluked a green to effectively seal victory .

Paris (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Who said what over the sporting weekend:
"One day we'll break this gap to the quarter-finals."
-- Man City coach Pep Guardiola after his team were knocked out of the Champions League by Lyon, 3-1. Guardiola is yet to get beyond the last eight in his four years in charge of City.
"Different year, same stuff. We need to learn, it's not good enough."
-- City's Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne.
"We eliminated a Juventus side who were one of the contenders to win the Champions League, and a Manchester City side who were contenders to win the Champions League. Bayern will be exactly the same."
-- Lyon coach Rudi Garcia on facing Bayern Munich for a place in the final.
"Losing is not acceptable. Getting to semi-finals isn't acceptable but the best team lost."
-- Manchester United defender Harry Maguire after the 2-1 loss to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals.
"Thanks a lot for your love and support throughout. From 1929hrs consider me as retired."
-- India cricket icon MS Dhoni announces his retirement from the international game.
"What you've done for the country will always remain in everyone's heart."
-- Current India captain Virat Kohli on Dhoni.
"I was in a daze, just another zone."
-- Lewis Hamilton after winning the Spanish Grand Prix for a record 156th podium finish. It was his 88th victory.
"At the moment, I have to say that he drives in a league of his own."
-- Mercedes chief Toto Wolff on Hamilton.
"Morbidelli's bike nearly killed me. The saint of motorcyclists today did a really great job, it was a very dangerous thing."
-- Valentino Rossi, who escaped serious injury or worse at the Austrian Grand Prix, when the bike of the unseated Franco Morbidelli flew past him at 300kmh and missed him by just centimetres.
"We have hit rock bottom. Tonight was unacceptable for Barcelona. It was a disgrace."
-- Barcelona defender Gerard Pique after the 8-2 Champions League humiliation at the hands of Bayern Munich.
"It's done my swede in!"
-- Veteran English snooker player Jimmy White after the world championship semi-final between Kyren Wilson and Anthony McGill. Wilson won 17-16 after McGill missed a snooker eight times in a row before Wilson fluked a green to effectively seal victory.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--'Best team lost': United's Maguire devastated by Europa League exit

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire insisted the `` best side lost '' after the English giants were beaten 2-1 by Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals on Sunday .
`` The boys are devastated .
We created numerous chances .
The best team lost .
They punished us for missing chances .
They did n't make many chances to be honest , '' Maguire told broadcaster BT Sport .
Bruno Fernandes 's early penalty was cancelled out by Suso 's strike for five-time winners Sevilla .
But United made and wasted almost all the big chances after the break as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until substitute Luuk De Jong turned home a Jesus Navas cross 12 minutes from time .
`` We worked our socks off and deserved to win and get through .
We fell short in a semi-final for the third time this year , '' added Maguire .
`` Losing is not acceptable .
Getting to semi-finals is n't acceptable .
We have to take it to the next step . ''
The defeat means United are now without a trophy in three seasons while Sevilla go on to face either Inter Milan or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We want to win silverware as soon as possible , '' added Maguire .
`` Tonight we turned up and the best team lost .
Perhaps that bit of inexperience cost us - we should n't have conceded that second goal . ''

Cologne (Germany) (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire insisted the "best side lost" after the English giants were beaten 2-1 by Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals on Sunday.
"The boys are devastated. We created numerous chances. The best team lost. They punished us for missing chances. They didn't make many chances to be honest," Maguire told broadcaster BT Sport.
Bruno Fernandes's early penalty was cancelled out by Suso's strike for five-time winners Sevilla.
But United made and wasted almost all the big chances after the break as Bono produced a string of stunning saves until substitute Luuk De Jong turned home a Jesus Navas cross 12 minutes from time.
"We worked our socks off and deserved to win and get through. We fell short in a semi-final for the third time this year," added Maguire.
"Losing is not acceptable. Getting to semi-finals isn't acceptable. We have to take it to the next step."
The defeat means United are now without a trophy in three seasons while Sevilla go on to face either Inter Milan or Shakhtar Donetsk in the final.
"We want to win silverware as soon as possible," added Maguire.
"Tonight we turned up and the best team lost. Perhaps that bit of inexperience cost us - we shouldn't have conceded that second goal."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--White Sox blast four straight homers in win over Cardinals

Chicago White Sox hitters joined an exclusive Major League Baseball club Sunday , belting four straight home runs on the way to a 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday .
The White Sox became just the 10th team to go back-to-back-to-back-to-back in a major league game as they pummelled Cards relief pitcher Roel Ramirez in the fifth inning .
Ramirez was making his major league debut as he replaced Dakota Hudson to open the fifth with the Sox leading 1-0 on an Eloy Jimenez RBI single in the first .
With two outs in the frame , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moncada -- who came into the game on a 7-for-42 hitting slump .
Yasmani Grandal followed with his first homer in a White Sox uniform -- smacking it 425 feet into the right field seats .
It was Jose Abreu 's turn next -- making it three straight homers by three straight Cuban-born White Sox hitters .
Jiminez made it four in a row .
It was the second time in White Sox history that a side recorded four straight homers in a game .
On August 14 , 2008 Chicago 's Jim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Juan Uribe went deep against the Kansas City Royals .
The Washington Nationals hit four consecutive on June 9 of last season in a 5-2 road victory over the San Diego Padres when Howie Kendrick , Trea Turner , Adam Eaton , and Anthony Rendon hit eighth-inning back-to-back-to-back-to-back homers against Craig Stammen .
The offensive outburst was a turnaround for the White Sox , who had three hits in each of their losses to the Cardinals in a doubleheader on Saturday .

Los Angeles (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Chicago White Sox hitters joined an exclusive Major League Baseball club Sunday, belting four straight home runs on the way to a 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday.
The White Sox became just the 10th team to go back-to-back-to-back-to-back in a major league game as they pummelled Cards relief pitcher Roel Ramirez in the fifth inning.
Ramirez was making his major league debut as he replaced Dakota Hudson to open the fifth with the Sox leading 1-0 on an Eloy Jimenez RBI single in the first.
With two outs in the frame, Ramirez surrendered a three-run homer to Yoan Moncada -- who came into the game on a 7-for-42 hitting slump.
Yasmani Grandal followed with his first homer in a White Sox uniform -- smacking it 425 feet into the right field seats.
It was Jose Abreu's turn next -- making it three straight homers by three straight Cuban-born White Sox hitters.
Jiminez made it four in a row.
It was the second time in White Sox history that a side recorded four straight homers in a game.
On August 14, 2008 Chicago's Jim Thome, Paul Konerko, Alexi Ramirez and Juan Uribe went deep against the Kansas City Royals.
The Washington Nationals hit four consecutive on June 9 of last season in a 5-2 road victory over the San Diego Padres when Howie Kendrick, Trea Turner, Adam Eaton, and Anthony Rendon hit eighth-inning back-to-back-to-back-to-back homers against Craig Stammen.
The offensive outburst was a turnaround for the White Sox, who had three hits in each of their losses to the Cardinals in a doubleheader on Saturday.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Sevilla stun wasteful Man Utd to reach Europa League final

Manchester United were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal as Sevilla enjoyed another special night in the Europa League by coming from behind to reach Friday 's final with a 2-1 win in Cologne .
Bruno Fernandes 's early penalty was cancelled out by Suso 's strike for Sevilla in a fiercely contested first half .
But United made and wasted almost all the big chances after the break as Bono produced a string of stunning saves until substitute Luuk De Jong turned home Jesus Navas cross 12 minutes from time .
United had already secured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season by finishing third in the Premier League , but their three-year wait for a trophy continues and a third semi-final defeat of the season exposed the work that still lies ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to restore the Red Devils to their former glories .
Sevilla have now won 25 of their last 26 Europa League knockout ties and will believe they are destined to win the competition for a sixth time when they face Inter Milan or Shakhtar Donetsk in the final after riding their luck .
Julen Lopetegui 's men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 games , but were unsettled by the pace and movement of United 's front four early as Marcus Rashford was wiped out by Diego Carlos after his initial effort was saved by Bono .
Fernandes has ensured United 's early season woes from the spot are long forgotten as the Portuguese converted his eighth penalty for the club and the 22nd the Red Devils have been awarded in a 13-month long campaign .
Fred then fired wide with just Bono to beat and United were made to regret not making more of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game as Sevilla knocked United out of the Champions League two years ago and the Argentine began to take a hold once more as Sevilla grew back into the game and levelled with a fine team goal on 19 minutes .
On-loan Real Madrid left-back Sergio Reguilon is in demand from a host of top European clubs and his run opened up the United defence before his cross was swept home by former Liverpool winger Suso .
Despite the lack of a crowd in Cologne there was no lack of passion or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exchanging words .
United rode out the Sevilla storm to end the first half as they started on the front foot as Anthony Martial fired over from the edge of the area before Bono parried long-range efforts from Rashford and Fernandes .
Even better chances were to come for English giants after the break , but a combination of Bono , poor finishing and brave last-ditch defending kept them at bay .
Martial was the biggest culprit as three times the Sevilla 's second-choice stopper denied the Frenchman one-on-one as United began to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responded by sacrificing top scorer Lucas Ocampos and Youssef El-Nesyri for De Jong and Munir El Haddadi and the former Spain and Madrid coach 's changes worked to perfection as Sevilla regained their composure before landing the sucker punch .
De Jong has had a difficult first season in Spain , but went a long way to redeeming himself as he was alive to turn home former Manchester City winger Navas 's cross with the United defence sleeping .

Cologne (Germany) (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Manchester United were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal as Sevilla enjoyed another special night in the Europa League by coming from behind to reach Friday's final with a 2-1 win in Cologne.
Bruno Fernandes's early penalty was cancelled out by Suso's strike for Sevilla in a fiercely contested first half.
But United made and wasted almost all the big chances after the break as Bono produced a string of stunning saves until substitute Luuk De Jong turned home Jesus Navas cross 12 minutes from time.
United had already secured their place in the Champions League next season by finishing third in the Premier League, but their three-year wait for a trophy continues and a third semi-final defeat of the season exposed the work that still lies ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to restore the Red Devils to their former glories.
Sevilla have now won 25 of their last 26 Europa League knockout ties and will believe they are destined to win the competition for a sixth time when they face Inter Milan or Shakhtar Donetsk in the final after riding their luck.
Julen Lopetegui's men are now unbeaten in a club record 20 games, but were unsettled by the pace and movement of United's front four early as Marcus Rashford was wiped out by Diego Carlos after his initial effort was saved by Bono.
Fernandes has ensured United's early season woes from the spot are long forgotten as the Portuguese converted his eighth penalty for the club and the 22nd the Red Devils have been awarded in a 13-month long campaign.
Fred then fired wide with just Bono to beat and United were made to regret not making more of their bright start.
Ever Banega ran the game as Sevilla knocked United out of the Champions League two years ago and the Argentine began to take a hold once more as Sevilla grew back into the game and levelled with a fine team goal on 19 minutes.
On-loan Real Madrid left-back Sergio Reguilon is in demand from a host of top European clubs and his run opened up the United defence before his cross was swept home by former Liverpool winger Suso.
Despite the lack of a crowd in Cologne there was no lack of passion or tension as tempers flared with both benches exchanging words.
United rode out the Sevilla storm to end the first half as they started on the front foot as Anthony Martial fired over from the edge of the area before Bono parried long-range efforts from Rashford and Fernandes.
Even better chances were to come for English giants after the break, but a combination of Bono, poor finishing and brave last-ditch defending kept them at bay.
Martial was the biggest culprit as three times the Sevilla's second-choice stopper denied the Frenchman one-on-one as United began to cut through Sevilla at will.
Lopetegui responded by sacrificing top scorer Lucas Ocampos and Youssef El-Nesyri for De Jong and Munir El Haddadi and the former Spain and Madrid coach's changes worked to perfection as Sevilla regained their composure before landing the sucker punch.
De Jong has had a difficult first season in Spain, but went a long way to redeeming himself as he was alive to turn home former Manchester City winger Navas's cross with the United defence sleeping.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Rival rallies face off in Warsaw over gay rights

A gay rights activist was held for two months in pre-trial detention for allegedly vandalising a truck carrying homophobic slogans , sparking a string of protests Hundreds of supporters and opponents of gay rights faced off in Warsaw at angry rival rallies on Sunday , with lines of police keeping the two sides apart .
`` Down with Deviation ! ''
chanted participants at the anti-LGBT rally near Warsaw University , as a series of speakers railed against `` LGBT aggression '' .
One speaker , anti-abortion campaigner Kaja Godek , said she would propose a citizens ' draft law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop homo-propaganda '' .
On the opposite side of the street , participants in a counter-demonstration waved LGBT and anarchist flags , sang and held up banners reading : `` We Are People '' and `` Orientation Is not a Choice , Homophobia Is a Choice '' .
Gay rights have become a flashpoint issue in Poland in recent years under the governing Law and Justice ( Pis ) party , which campaigns against what it calls `` LGBT ideology '' likening it to a form of communism .
Thousands of protesters have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this month over a gay rights activist being held for two months in pre-trial detention for allegedly vandalising a truck carrying homophobic slogans .

Warsaw (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Hundreds of supporters and opponents of gay rights faced off in Warsaw at angry rival rallies on Sunday, with lines of police keeping the two sides apart.
"Down with Deviation!" chanted participants at the anti-LGBT rally near Warsaw University, as a series of speakers railed against "LGBT aggression".
One speaker, anti-abortion campaigner Kaja Godek, said she would propose a citizens' draft law to ban gay pride marches "to stop homo-propaganda".
On the opposite side of the street, participants in a counter-demonstration waved LGBT and anarchist flags, sang and held up banners reading: "We Are People" and "Orientation Is not a Choice, Homophobia Is a Choice".
Gay rights have become a flashpoint issue in Poland in recent years under the governing Law and Justice (Pis) party, which campaigns against what it calls "LGBT ideology" likening it to a form of communism.
Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets at several rallies this month over a gay rights activist being held for two months in pre-trial detention for allegedly vandalising a truck carrying homophobic slogans.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--US convention season set to begin, with (virtual) spotlight on Biden

Joe Biden and his newly named running mate Kamala Harris will be the focus of the Democrats ' virtual convention starting August 17 As Democrats on Monday open an unprecedented virtual convention , the party 's disparate factions are projecting a united front behind Joe Biden , brought together by their common determination to defeat Donald Trump in November 's election .
`` It is absolutely imperative that Donald Trump be defeated , '' Bernie Sanders , a former Biden rival and a keynote speaker on the convention 's opening night , told ABC 's `` This Week . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ convention -- originally planned to be held in the Midwestern city of Milwaukee but forced to go online by the COVID-19 pandemic -- takes place amid a furor over Trump 's efforts to limit mail-in voting .
The president , insisting without proof that mail-in voting fosters fraud , has threatened to block extra funding that Democrats say is urgently needed to allow the postal service to process millions of ballots .
In normal election years , nominating conventions draw tens of thousands of party faithful for festive events designed to shine a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the party 's rising stars , inspire its base and , hopefully , lure independents and the undecided .
Trump 's Republicans will also hold a virtual convention after their attempts to salvage the traditional format failed .
Democrats had picked Milwaukee largely for its location in the important swing state of Wisconsin .
The city had spent millions to prepare for the occasion .
But planners have been struggling to find virtual replacements for the usual roaring applause , silly hats , circus-like atmosphere and balloon drops .
Viewers are expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Democratic `` watch parties '' across the country , some even live-streamed from drive-in theaters .
Several of the groups will be led by Democratic luminaries including other erstwhile Biden rivals Senator Amy Klobuchar and Andrew Yang .
The experimental format will give speakers a chance to address American voters unfiltered , largely shorn of the usual distractions , overwrought stagecraft and screaming delegates .
Or , some fear , it could make for a far more boring show .
Biden enters the convention with poll leads of around nine or 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his history-making pick of Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate -- the first woman of color on a major party presidential ticket -- is widely popular in the party .
Harris , a former prosecutor and the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants , has been promoted by Biden as the `` American Dream '' incarnate .
At 55 , she brings some relatively youthful energy to bolster the 77-year-old Biden .
Democrats hope keynote speakers on each of the four evenings will draw viewers to the evening time slot that networks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top speakers will be Sanders , a leader of the party 's most progressive wing , and widely-admired former first lady Michelle Obama ; Tuesday will see former president Bill Clinton and Jill Biden , the candidate 's wife .
On Wednesday , former president Barack Obama will speak , and Harris will have her moment in the spotlight before the convention culminates Thursday when Biden formally accepts the party 's nomination and delivers his acceptance speech -- via videolink from his home state of Delaware .
With the virus-hit US economy shedding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his $ 700 billion `` Build Back Better '' plan to invest in new technologies and create some five million jobs , an aggressive challenge to Trump .
Earlier speakers will have laid the groundwork for Biden , highlighting `` Donald Trump 's failed leadership and the promise of what we can and should be with Joe Biden as president , '' said senior party official Stephanie Cutter .
In a move to soothe raw feelings over a rough Democratic primary season , progressives were given considerable voice in drafting the platform .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Ohio governor John Kasich -- a moderate Republican -- has been given a speaking spot on Monday .
Judging by history , Democrats will get at least a slight bounce from the convention -- and Republicans can expect the same after theirs , beginning the following Monday .
But whether history is an accurate guide is unclear .
`` We really do n't know whether this sort of 'non-convention , ' or virtual convention plus a speech , will have anything like the kind of short-term impacts that we 've seen in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Marquette University professor and pollster .

Milwaukee (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
As Democrats on Monday open an unprecedented virtual convention, the party's disparate factions are projecting a united front behind Joe Biden, brought together by their common determination to defeat Donald Trump in November's election.
"It is absolutely imperative that Donald Trump be defeated," Bernie Sanders, a former Biden rival and a keynote speaker on the convention's opening night, told ABC's "This Week."
Adding to the drama, the four-day convention -- originally planned to be held in the Midwestern city of Milwaukee but forced to go online by the COVID-19 pandemic -- takes place amid a furor over Trump's efforts to limit mail-in voting.
The president, insisting without proof that mail-in voting fosters fraud, has threatened to block extra funding that Democrats say is urgently needed to allow the postal service to process millions of ballots.
In normal election years, nominating conventions draw tens of thousands of party faithful for festive events designed to shine a national spotlight on the candidates, introduce the party's rising stars, inspire its base and, hopefully, lure independents and the undecided.
- Virtual atmosphere -
Trump's Republicans will also hold a virtual convention after their attempts to salvage the traditional format failed.
Democrats had picked Milwaukee largely for its location in the important swing state of Wisconsin. The city had spent millions to prepare for the occasion.
But planners have been struggling to find virtual replacements for the usual roaring applause, silly hats, circus-like atmosphere and balloon drops.
Viewers are expected to be treated to live feeds from hundreds of Democratic "watch parties" across the country, some even live-streamed from drive-in theaters.
Several of the groups will be led by Democratic luminaries including other erstwhile Biden rivals Senator Amy Klobuchar and Andrew Yang.
The experimental format will give speakers a chance to address American voters unfiltered, largely shorn of the usual distractions, overwrought stagecraft and screaming delegates.
Or, some fear, it could make for a far more boring show.
- Two former presidents -
Biden enters the convention with poll leads of around nine or 10 points over Trump and amid signs that his history-making pick of Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate -- the first woman of color on a major party presidential ticket -- is widely popular in the party.
Harris, a former prosecutor and the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, has been promoted by Biden as the "American Dream" incarnate. At 55, she brings some relatively youthful energy to bolster the 77-year-old Biden.
Democrats hope keynote speakers on each of the four evenings will draw viewers to the evening time slot that networks have committed to airing.
Monday's top speakers will be Sanders, a leader of the party's most progressive wing, and widely-admired former first lady Michelle Obama; Tuesday will see former president Bill Clinton and Jill Biden, the candidate's wife.
On Wednesday, former president Barack Obama will speak, and Harris will have her moment in the spotlight before the convention culminates Thursday when Biden formally accepts the party's nomination and delivers his acceptance speech -- via videolink from his home state of Delaware.
- A 'non-convention' -
With the virus-hit US economy shedding millions of jobs, Biden will tout his $700 billion "Build Back Better" plan to invest in new technologies and create some five million jobs, an aggressive challenge to Trump.
Earlier speakers will have laid the groundwork for Biden, highlighting "Donald Trump's failed leadership and the promise of what we can and should be with Joe Biden as president," said senior party official Stephanie Cutter.
In a move to soothe raw feelings over a rough Democratic primary season, progressives were given considerable voice in drafting the platform.
And in a nod to inclusivity, former Ohio governor John Kasich -- a moderate Republican -- has been given a speaking spot on Monday.
Judging by history, Democrats will get at least a slight bounce from the convention -- and Republicans can expect the same after theirs, beginning the following Monday.
But whether history is an accurate guide is unclear.
"We really don't know whether this sort of 'non-convention,' or virtual convention plus a speech, will have anything like the kind of short-term impacts that we've seen in previous elections," said Charles Franklin, a Marquette University professor and pollster.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--'Almost killed me': Rossi fumes after miracle escape in 300 km/h Austrian MotoGP crash

World motorcycling superstar Valentino Rossi said a rival 's stray bike , travelling at around 300 km/h ( 187mph ) , almost `` killed me '' in a horrifying near-miss at the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday .
The 41-year-old Italian , a nine-time world champion , was left badly shaken after Franco Morbidelli 's Yamaha flew across the track just centimetres in front of him .
Morbidelli and the Ducati of Johann Zarco had collided just seconds before the riders slipped through turn four at Spielberg on lap eight of the race .
Both men were unseated .
Zarco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hitting Rossi as well as his Yamaha factory teammate Maverick Vinales who was just ahead of him .
`` Even Zarco 's Ducati passed a few metres over me , it was a very dangerous moment . ''
Incredibly , Rossi managed to compose himself and after the race was restarted came home in fifth place .
`` I was so scared .
I am shaken , resuming the race was tough .
I took the biggest risk of my career , '' Rossi told Sky Italia .
`` I saw a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helicopter from above , sometimes it happens during the race that the helicopter passes over and casts a shadow .
Instead , two 'bullets ' arrived .
`` The saint of motorcyclists today did a really great job , it was a very dangerous thing . ''
Morbidelli , possibly a teammate of Rossi 's next season at the Yamaha satellite team , did not mince his words .
`` Braking like this at 300 km/h means having little love for yourself or for those you are racing against .
`` I hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was really dangerous for me , him , for Rossi and Vinales who were up front and saw a bike coming at them at 280 per hour . ''
Rossi insisted that too many MotoGP riders take too many risks and fail to understand that `` our bikes , at these speeds , are bullets '' .
He added : `` We 're competing in a very dangerous sport , you have to have respect for those who run on the track with you , '' added Rossi after a race won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrea Dovizioso on a factory Ducati .
`` Zarco is not new to these things , what happened is very clear : Zarco overtook Morbidelli on the straight and then did n't want to be overtaken by Franco , so he specifically went to brake in front of him .
`` But at 300 km/h , being a MotoGP , Morbidelli was unable to do anything .
Zarco braked in front of him , Franco could n't do anything . ''
Zarco , the 30-year-old French rider , said he was unsure what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed he was innocent of any wrongdoing .
`` I feel like Morbidelli 's bike pushed me .
I was able to overtake him in the straight line , I was already well ahead and , when braking , I swerved to the right and that 's where we hit , '' he said .
`` It was not a manoeuvre done on purpose and I explained it to Franco and Valentino .
But seeing the two motorcycles completely destroyed was scary .
`` We must have been at 270 km/h at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eventually finished 10th and is third in the championship standings , 19 points behind series leader Fabio Quartararo .
`` I just heard the scratching sound of crashed bikes and then I felt the impact of Johann 's bike hitting the wall , '' said the Spaniard .
`` Then , when I looked , I saw one bike coming towards me and I covered my head and the bike jumped up .
For sure we were very lucky today , someone saved us , and this is the most important . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Malaysia 's Hafizh Syahrin also had a narrow escape when he crashed into the bike of Italian Enea Bastianini which was lying in the middle of the track after a fall .
Syahrin hit the machine at full speed , sending him through the air , smashing his bike into pieces .
The stricken Syahrin was treated on the track and rushed into an ambulance with his team saying the rider was conscious .
He only suffered an injured hip .

Spielberg bei Knittelfeld (Austria) (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
World motorcycling superstar Valentino Rossi said a rival's stray bike, travelling at around 300 km/h (187mph), almost "killed me" in a horrifying near-miss at the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday.
The 41-year-old Italian, a nine-time world champion, was left badly shaken after Franco Morbidelli's Yamaha flew across the track just centimetres in front of him.
Morbidelli and the Ducati of Johann Zarco had collided just seconds before the riders slipped through turn four at Spielberg on lap eight of the race. Both men were unseated.
Zarco's free-wheeling Ducati also came desperately close to hitting Rossi as well as his Yamaha factory teammate Maverick Vinales who was just ahead of him.
"Morbidelli's bike nearly killed me," fumed Rossi.
"Even Zarco's Ducati passed a few metres over me, it was a very dangerous moment."
Incredibly, Rossi managed to compose himself and after the race was restarted came home in fifth place.
"I was so scared. I am shaken, resuming the race was tough. I took the biggest risk of my career," Rossi told Sky Italia.
"I saw a shadow, I thought it was the helicopter from above, sometimes it happens during the race that the helicopter passes over and casts a shadow. Instead, two 'bullets' arrived.
"The saint of motorcyclists today did a really great job, it was a very dangerous thing."
Morbidelli, possibly a teammate of Rossi's next season at the Yamaha satellite team, did not mince his words.
- 'Like a murderer' -
"Zarco is almost a murderer," Morbidelli told Sky Sport Italia.
"Braking like this at 300 km/h means having little love for yourself or for those you are racing against.
"I hope this major incident makes Zarco think. It was really dangerous for me, him, for Rossi and Vinales who were up front and saw a bike coming at them at 280 per hour."
Rossi insisted that too many MotoGP riders take too many risks and fail to understand that "our bikes, at these speeds, are bullets".
He added: "We're competing in a very dangerous sport, you have to have respect for those who run on the track with you," added Rossi after a race won for the second year in succession by Andrea Dovizioso on a factory Ducati.
"Zarco is not new to these things, what happened is very clear: Zarco overtook Morbidelli on the straight and then didn't want to be overtaken by Franco, so he specifically went to brake in front of him.
"But at 300 km/h, being a MotoGP, Morbidelli was unable to do anything. Zarco braked in front of him, Franco couldn't do anything."
Zarco, the 30-year-old French rider, said he was unsure what caused the crash.
However, he claimed he was innocent of any wrongdoing.
"I feel like Morbidelli's bike pushed me. I was able to overtake him in the straight line, I was already well ahead and, when braking, I swerved to the right and that's where we hit," he said.
"It was not a manoeuvre done on purpose and I explained it to Franco and Valentino. But seeing the two motorcycles completely destroyed was scary.
"We must have been at 270 km/h at the time of the accident."
Vinales eventually finished 10th and is third in the championship standings, 19 points behind series leader Fabio Quartararo.
"I just heard the scratching sound of crashed bikes and then I felt the impact of Johann's bike hitting the wall," said the Spaniard.
"Then, when I looked, I saw one bike coming towards me and I covered my head and the bike jumped up. For sure we were very lucky today, someone saved us, and this is the most important."
Earlier, in the Moto2 race, Malaysia's Hafizh Syahrin also had a narrow escape when he crashed into the bike of Italian Enea Bastianini which was lying in the middle of the track after a fall.
Syahrin hit the machine at full speed, sending him through the air, smashing his bike into pieces.
The stricken Syahrin was treated on the track and rushed into an ambulance with his team saying the rider was conscious. He only suffered an injured hip.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--O'Sullivan rockets to sixth snooker world title

Ronnie O'Sullivan eased to his sixth world snooker title with an 18-8 victory over Kyren Wilson and within one of equalling Scotsman Stephen Hendry 's all-time record Ronnie O'Sullivan eased to his sixth snooker world title on Sunday , and first since 2013 , defeating fellow Englishman Kyren Wilson 18-8 in the best-of-35 frames final .
The 44-year-old wasted little time in securing the one frame he required after a dominant afternoon session in which he won seven of the eight frames .
Around 300 fans were able to watch at the Crucible in Sheffield due to the British Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into selected sporting events provided they were socially distanced due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Victory moves the enigmatic Englishman to within one of equalling the modern day record of seven world crowns held by Scotsman Stephen Hendry .
O'Sullivan , who reached his first world semi-final back in 1996 , set a new record for victories in ranking tournaments of 37 .
The Englishman , whose recent record had been poor by his standards , failing to reach the semi-finals since losing to Mark Selby in the 2014 final , said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but never expected to win '' .
`` Any world title you win has to be up there , '' he told the BBC .
`` I never really think about titles .
When I was a kid I never really dreamed I would be here .
`` To be here and have had all those victories is a dream that has become a reality . ''
O'Sullivan said he had never believed he could win such a marathon event -- his first world title came in 2003 .
`` There was part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play enough to justify winning a tournament of this stature which is an endurance test , '' he said .
`` I am not really an endurance type player because I do n't compete enough . ''
O'Sullivan , unconventional as ever , revealed his preparations had required the aid of a friend .
`` Believe it or not I do n't even have a practice facility , '' he said .
`` A friend installed a couple of tables for me to come here feeling comfortable with my tools . ''
Despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest in the sport and does not enjoy playing lower ranked players fellow six-time champion Steve Davis believes he can remain at the top for a while to come .
`` He 's still there at the top and I 'm sure he 's capable of going even further , '' Davis told the BBC .
`` Certainly into his 50s , should he so wish . ''
Wilson said he regretted the session on Saturday evening , when he pulled to within three frames , had not gone on longer .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Sunday afternoon 's session as his hopes of winning the title in his first world final evaporated .
`` I am not going to beat myself up too much I am playing the greatest of all time , '' the 28-year-old told the BBC .
`` It was a dream come true knowing I was playing Ronnie in the final .
`` You ca n't respect him too much or he 'll walk right over me , which is what happened today .
`` I am a fighter , I always will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first session and I just relaxed and let the shackles off .
`` I 'm just annoyed they would not let me play the whole match last night . ''
O'Sullivan had words of encouragement for Wilson despite having a negative overall opinion of young players .
`` I just want to say for Kyren , he is a top player who is improving all the time , '' said O'Sullivan .
`` He fell off the tour but he was always going to get back on .
`` When you have that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability you might have to work in a bar for a bit , you might have to do bits and pieces but deep down that fire is burning bright and you will get there in the end .
`` He will win this tournament one day .
He is a country mile better than anyone else around his age . ''

London (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Ronnie O'Sullivan eased to his sixth snooker world title on Sunday, and first since 2013, defeating fellow Englishman Kyren Wilson 18-8 in the best-of-35 frames final.
The 44-year-old wasted little time in securing the one frame he required after a dominant afternoon session in which he won seven of the eight frames.
Around 300 fans were able to watch at the Crucible in Sheffield due to the British Government reviving their pilot scheme to allow spectators into selected sporting events provided they were socially distanced due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Victory moves the enigmatic Englishman to within one of equalling the modern day record of seven world crowns held by Scotsman Stephen Hendry.
O'Sullivan, who reached his first world semi-final back in 1996, set a new record for victories in ranking tournaments of 37.
The Englishman, whose recent record had been poor by his standards, failing to reach the semi-finals since losing to Mark Selby in the 2014 final, said he thought he had "half a chance but never expected to win".
"Any world title you win has to be up there," he told the BBC.
"I never really think about titles. When I was a kid I never really dreamed I would be here.
"To be here and have had all those victories is a dream that has become a reality."
O'Sullivan said he had never believed he could win such a marathon event -- his first world title came in 2003.
"There was part of me that decided I didn't play enough to justify winning a tournament of this stature which is an endurance test," he said.
"I am not really an endurance type player because I don't compete enough."
O'Sullivan, unconventional as ever, revealed his preparations had required the aid of a friend.
"Believe it or not I don't even have a practice facility," he said.
"A friend installed a couple of tables for me to come here feeling comfortable with my tools."
- 'Fire is burning' -
Despite his habit of saying he is losing interest in the sport and does not enjoy playing lower ranked players fellow six-time champion Steve Davis believes he can remain at the top for a while to come.
"He's still there at the top and I'm sure he's capable of going even further," Davis told the BBC.
"Certainly into his 50s, should he so wish."
Wilson said he regretted the session on Saturday evening, when he pulled to within three frames, had not gone on longer.
However, he admitted he had wilted completely in Sunday afternoon's session as his hopes of winning the title in his first world final evaporated.
"I am not going to beat myself up too much I am playing the greatest of all time," the 28-year-old told the BBC.
"It was a dream come true knowing I was playing Ronnie in the final.
"You can't respect him too much or he'll walk right over me, which is what happened today.
"I am a fighter, I always will be. I really struggled in the first session and I just relaxed and let the shackles off.
"I'm just annoyed they would not let me play the whole match last night."
O'Sullivan had words of encouragement for Wilson despite having a negative overall opinion of young players.
"I just want to say for Kyren, he is a top player who is improving all the time," said O'Sullivan.
"He fell off the tour but he was always going to get back on.
"When you have that desire, hunger and belief in your ability you might have to work in a bar for a bit, you might have to do bits and pieces but deep down that fire is burning bright and you will get there in the end.
"He will win this tournament one day. He is a country mile better than anyone else around his age."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Saudi appoints 10 women in senior roles in holy mosques

Conservative Saudi Arabia is seeking to boost female employment and has appointed 10 women in senior roles at Islam 's holiest sites , according to authorities Saudi Arabia has appointed 10 women in senior roles at Islam 's two holiest sites , authorities said Sunday , as the conservative petro-state seeks to boost female employment .
The appointment of women in senior positions at religious institutions is rare in the Islamic kingdom , which is in the midst of a wide-ranging liberalisation drive spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman .
The women were appointed in the two holy mosques @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including administrative and technical , according to statement released by the general presidency for the affairs of the two holy mosques .
The recruitment drive was aimed at `` empowering Saudi women with high qualifications and capabilities '' , the statement said .
The two holy mosques previously recruited 41 women in leadership positions in 2018 , according to Saudi media .
Prince Mohammed has sought to boost employment for women as part of his `` Vision 2030 '' plan , which is aimed at diversifying the kingdom 's economy and ending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of working women in Saudi Arabia reached 1.03 million in the third quarter of 2019 , 35 percent of the total workforce , compared to 816,000 in 2015 , according to official figures .
In other reforms , women in the kingdom are now allowed to drive cars , cinemas have reopened and genders are permitted to mix at events , including concerts , and in public places .
But the reforms have also been accompanied by a crackdown on dissent .
Saudi Arabia has detained and put on trial a dozen women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to drive , sparking widespread condemnation .
Some of the activists allege they were tortured and sexually harassed by interrogators .

Riyadh (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Saudi Arabia has appointed 10 women in senior roles at Islam's two holiest sites, authorities said Sunday, as the conservative petro-state seeks to boost female employment.
The appointment of women in senior positions at religious institutions is rare in the Islamic kingdom, which is in the midst of a wide-ranging liberalisation drive spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The women were appointed in the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina across various departments, including administrative and technical, according to statement released by the general presidency for the affairs of the two holy mosques.
The recruitment drive was aimed at "empowering Saudi women with high qualifications and capabilities", the statement said.
The two holy mosques previously recruited 41 women in leadership positions in 2018, according to Saudi media.
Prince Mohammed has sought to boost employment for women as part of his "Vision 2030" plan, which is aimed at diversifying the kingdom's economy and ending its addiction to oil.
The number of working women in Saudi Arabia reached 1.03 million in the third quarter of 2019, 35 percent of the total workforce, compared to 816,000 in 2015, according to official figures.
In other reforms, women in the kingdom are now allowed to drive cars, cinemas have reopened and genders are permitted to mix at events, including concerts, and in public places.
But the reforms have also been accompanied by a crackdown on dissent.
Saudi Arabia has detained and put on trial a dozen women activists who long campaigned for the right to drive, sparking widespread condemnation.
Some of the activists allege they were tortured and sexually harassed by interrogators.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-16--Jazz guard Conley leaves NBA bubble for son's birth

Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley will miss at least two NBA playoff games after leaving the league 's quarantine bubble @ @ @ @ @ a son , the team announced .
Conley left the Disney World campus in Orlando @ @ @ @ @ , Ohio , on the eve of Utah 's opening playoff game against the Denver @ @ @ @ @ the Orlando bubble , NBA players must quarantine a minimum of four days , based @ @ @ @ @ and Denver meet in the first NBA playoff game Monday afternoon then play again Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ in a Western Conference first round best-of-seven matchup .
Conley has averaged 18.0 points , @ @ @ @ @ and 5.0 assists a game in six appearances since the NBA resumed the regular-season July @ @ @ @ @ 11 when Utah 's Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19 .
Utah went 3-5 in @ @ @ @ @ 44-28 and sixth in the West to book a first-round matchup against the Nuggets , @ @ @ @ @ the bubble for a 46-27 mark and third in the West .

Miami (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley will miss at least two NBA playoff games after leaving the league's quarantine bubble Sunday for the birth of a son, the team announced.
Conley left the Disney World campus in Orlando, Florida, for Columbus, Ohio, on the eve of Utah's opening playoff game against the Denver Nuggets.
Upon returning to the Orlando bubble, NBA players must quarantine a minimum of four days, based upon testing standards.
Utah and Denver meet in the first NBA playoff game Monday afternoon then play again Wednesday, Friday and next Sunday in a Western Conference first round best-of-seven matchup.
Conley has averaged 18.0 points, second on the Jazz, and 5.0 assists a game in six appearances since the NBA resumed the regular-season July 30 after shutting down March 11 when Utah's Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19.
Utah went 3-5 in Orlando to finish the season 44-28 and sixth in the West to book a first-round matchup against the Nuggets, who were also 3-5 in the bubble for a 46-27 mark and third in the West.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-17--Bottas says overalls and underwear cost in in the heat

Valtteri Bottas said the hat in Spain left him drained , hurting his chances of catching Max Verstappen Valtteri Bottas complained that Mercedes ' decision to wear black overalls as a political statement weakened him as a driver at the torrid Spanish Grand Prix .
After the race , he also let off steam about a new rule requiring drivers to wear thicker underwear .
Mercedes has switched from white overalls to a black to match the 'end racism ' livery of their cars .
With track heat measured at 50 degrees Celsius , the Finn told his team in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that `` the black overalls are ... hot '' .
As Bottas perspired , his team-mate Lewis Hamilton remained largely serene en route to a career 88th triumph .
After a poor start , the Finnish driver , still chasing his first world title , mounted a strong comeback , but was unable to catch Hamilton , a six-time champion , or second-placed Max Verstappen of Red Bull .
Bottas finished third , but said the effort he put in combined with the heat and the black overalls had drained him .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the overalls and it 's known that black takes more of the heat , especially when there 's direct sun , '' he said .
`` I do n't know any numbers or facts , or how much it is actually black versus white , in terms of temperature difference , but this year it 's been really hot in the car , '' Bottas said .
`` Also there 's new homologation this year for the overalls so they are thicker and the underwear is thicker .
I do n't know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was just so hot . ''
`` I lost three kilos in the race , which is quite a lot , '' he said .
`` So that already can start to affect performance .
I know that , from the all the drivers , I 'm one of the fittest , so I can take it , but it 's never comfortable and there 's always things that we can improve .
`` It was really hot in the car and I felt that since this year it 's been even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won by 24 seconds ahead of Verstappen and afterwards said he had felt as if in a trance as he drove to victory .
`` It 's not an out of body experience , '' he said .
`` I just think I was in my highest form , I would say . ''

Barcelona (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Valtteri Bottas complained that Mercedes' decision to wear black overalls as a political statement weakened him as a driver at the torrid Spanish Grand Prix.
After the race, he also let off steam about a new rule requiring drivers to wear thicker underwear.
Mercedes has switched from white overalls to a black to match the 'end racism' livery of their cars.
With track heat measured at 50 degrees Celsius, the Finn told his team in a radio message laced with an obscenity that "the black overalls are...hot".
As Bottas perspired, his team-mate Lewis Hamilton remained largely serene en route to a career 88th triumph.
After a poor start, the Finnish driver, still chasing his first world title, mounted a strong comeback, but was unable to catch Hamilton, a six-time champion, or second-placed Max Verstappen of Red Bull.
Bottas finished third, but said the effort he put in combined with the heat and the black overalls had drained him.
"Obviously, we have changed the colour of the overalls and it's known that black takes more of the heat, especially when there's direct sun," he said.
"I don't know any numbers or facts, or how much it is actually black versus white, in terms of temperature difference, but this year it's been really hot in the car," Bottas said.
"Also there's new homologation this year for the overalls so they are thicker and the underwear is thicker. I don't know how much affect that has, but it was just so hot."
"I lost three kilos in the race, which is quite a lot," he said. "So that already can start to affect performance. I know that, from the all the drivers, I'm one of the fittest, so I can take it, but it's never comfortable and there's always things that we can improve.
"It was really hot in the car and I felt that since this year it's been even hotter," he said.
Hamilton won by 24 seconds ahead of Verstappen and afterwards said he had felt as if in a trance as he drove to victory.
"It's not an out of body experience," he said. "I just think I was in my highest form, I would say."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-17--Klopp might quit football post Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp says he will take a year off when his contract ends with Liverpool in 2024 and may never return to football Jurgen Klopp says he might turn his back on football once his present contract with Premier League champions Liverpool ends in 2024 .
The 53-year-old German had wanted to take a year off after he left Borussia Dortmund in 2015 but Liverpool came calling that October asking him to replace Brendan Rodgers .
Since then he has guided them to the Champions League trophy in 2019 and this year ended a 30-year wait for the league title @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sportbuzzer that taking a year out in 2024 will give him time to reflect on what he wants to do next .
`` I will take a year off and ask myself if I miss football , '' Klopp said .
`` If the answer is in the negative , then that will be it for Jurgen Klopp as a coach . ''
Klopp -- who broke Bayern Munich 's stranglehold on the German title winning it with Dortmund two years running ( 2010/11 , 2011/12 ) -- also revealed what he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football management .
`` If one day I 'm not a coach anymore , there 's one thing I wo n't miss : The brutal tension just before the game , '' he said .
Having landed the first English league title for Liverpool in 30 years , Klopp said the new champions are eager for more silverware .
The task facing Liverpool in defending the league crown is formidable as only Manchester City in the past 11 years has achieved that ( 2017/18 , 2018/19 ) .
`` The whole club is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do it even better , '' said Klopp .
`` We want to chase our opponents and continue to be a super unpleasant team that is not fun to play against .
`` We 're not defending any titles , we want to get new ones , we 've only just started winning . ''

London (AFP) –
Advertising Read more
Jurgen Klopp says he might turn his back on football once his present contract with Premier League champions Liverpool ends in 2024.
The 53-year-old German had wanted to take a year off after he left Borussia Dortmund in 2015 but Liverpool came calling that October asking him to replace Brendan Rodgers.
Since then he has guided them to the Champions League trophy in 2019 and this year ended a 30-year wait for the league title.
However, he told German website Sportbuzzer that taking a year out in 2024 will give him time to reflect on what he wants to do next.
"I will take a year off and ask myself if I miss football," Klopp said.
"If the answer is in the negative, then that will be it for Jurgen Klopp as a coach."
Klopp -- who broke Bayern Munich's stranglehold on the German title winning it with Dortmund two years running (2010/11, 2011/12) -- also revealed what he would miss least about the high-pressure business of football management.
"If one day I'm not a coach anymore, there's one thing I won't miss: The brutal tension just before the game," he said.
"That's no laughing matter."
Having landed the first English league title for Liverpool in 30 years, Klopp said the new champions are eager for more silverware.
The task facing Liverpool in defending the league crown is formidable as only Manchester City in the past 11 years has achieved that (2017/18, 2018/19).
"The whole club is up for the new season and wants to do it even better," said Klopp.
"We want to chase our opponents and continue to be a super unpleasant team that is not fun to play against.
"We're not defending any titles, we want to get new ones, we've only just started winning."
© 2020 AFP