france24--2020-11-12--Bombs away for DeChambeau with back-nine Masters start

US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau was set for an early morning showdown with Augusta National 's Amen Corner on Thursday in the opening round of the 84th Masters golf tournament .
Long-driving DeChambeau overwhelmed Winged Foot in September with brute force on the way to his first major title , proving his style of maximizing distance and location without regard to rough could produce a major victory .
`` I 'm playing the best I 've ever played , '' DeChambeau said .
`` I 've won a major .
There 's a lot of opportunity out there now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ talk of using a maximum 48-inch driver stoked fears the 27-year-old American would overpower Augusta National with his length and dominate his way to the green jacket symbolic of Masters supremacy .
`` Pretty much every hole , he 's going to have a pretty distinct advantage over everybody , '' third-ranked Justin Thomas said of DeChambeau .
`` He still has to execute , hit the shots and make the putts , but I sure would like to be hitting from his tee shots as opposed to mine distance wise . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ speedy and undulating Augusta greens can only help DeChambeau .
`` A short iron into the green is always going to be an advantage , especially at Augusta where the greens are so severe , '' said Thomas , who warned , `` Augusta is never defenseless . ''
DeChambeau joins world number two Jon Rahm of Spain and South Africa 's Louis Oosthuizen , the 2010 British Open champion , in the fourth group off the 10th tee at 7:33 a.m. ( 1233 GMT ) .
Defending champion Tiger Woods tees off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major winner looking to match Jack Nicklaus with a record sixth Masters crown and break the mark he shares with Sam Snead of 82 career US PGA title .
Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy , trying to complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters victory , starts off the first tee at noon alongside world number one Dustin Johnson , the 2020 PGA Player of the Year and Tour Championship winner .
McIlroy could join Woods , Jack Nicklaus , Gary Player , Ben Hogan and Gene Srazen as the only career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serve as honorary starters .
Showers and thunderstorms are in Thursday 's forecast before conditions clear , setting up a soggy course that could play into the hands of McIlroy , whose major triumphs all featured a rain delay .
Johnson is trying to win his second major title and become the first top-ranked player to win the Masters since Woods in 2002 .
A field of 92 starters from 23 nations includes a record 26 players making Masters debuts , two more than the prior record set in 2014 .
The Masters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first major title in August at the PGA Championship .
`` Experience never hurts , '' Morikawa said .
`` But I have to feel like I can still compete with these guys . ''
Threesomes will use both tees in a nod to the lesser daylight hours of autumn after the Masters was postponed from its normal April slot due to the Covid-19 pandemic that also resulted in no spectators being allowed to attend .

Augusta (United States) (AFP) –
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US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau was set for an early morning showdown with Augusta National's Amen Corner on Thursday in the opening round of the 84th Masters golf tournament.
Long-driving DeChambeau overwhelmed Winged Foot in September with brute force on the way to his first major title, proving his style of maximizing distance and location without regard to rough could produce a major victory.
"I'm playing the best I've ever played," DeChambeau said. "I've won a major. There's a lot of opportunity out there now."
DeChambeau's huge practice drives and talk of using a maximum 48-inch driver stoked fears the 27-year-old American would overpower Augusta National with his length and dominate his way to the green jacket symbolic of Masters supremacy.
"Pretty much every hole, he's going to have a pretty distinct advantage over everybody," third-ranked Justin Thomas said of DeChambeau.
"He still has to execute, hit the shots and make the putts, but I sure would like to be hitting from his tee shots as opposed to mine distance wise."
Wedges and short irons into the notoriously speedy and undulating Augusta greens can only help DeChambeau.
"A short iron into the green is always going to be an advantage, especially at Augusta where the greens are so severe," said Thomas, who warned, "Augusta is never defenseless."
DeChambeau joins world number two Jon Rahm of Spain and South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen, the 2010 British Open champion, in the fourth group off the 10th tee at 7:33 a.m. (1233 GMT).
Defending champion Tiger Woods tees off two groups behind DeChambeau, the 15-time major winner looking to match Jack Nicklaus with a record sixth Masters crown and break the mark he shares with Sam Snead of 82 career US PGA title.
Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy, trying to complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters victory, starts off the first tee at noon alongside world number one Dustin Johnson, the 2020 PGA Player of the Year and Tour Championship winner.
McIlroy could join Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan and Gene Srazen as the only career Slam winners. Nicklaus and Player will serve as honorary starters.
Showers and thunderstorms are in Thursday's forecast before conditions clear, setting up a soggy course that could play into the hands of McIlroy, whose major triumphs all featured a rain delay.
Johnson is trying to win his second major title and become the first top-ranked player to win the Masters since Woods in 2002.
A field of 92 starters from 23 nations includes a record 26 players making Masters debuts, two more than the prior record set in 2014.
The Masters newcomers include Collin Morikawa, who won his first major title in August at the PGA Championship.
"Experience never hurts," Morikawa said. "But I have to feel like I can still compete with these guys."
Threesomes will use both tees in a nod to the lesser daylight hours of autumn after the Masters was postponed from its normal April slot due to the Covid-19 pandemic that also resulted in no spectators being allowed to attend.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--US hospitals again under pressure with Covid on the rise

After several weeks of rapidly rising coronavirus cases , hospitals around the United States are once again overwhelmed , forcing local authorities to take new measures to cope with the pandemic .
On Tuesday a record 61,964 people were hospitalized with Covid-19 across the country , marking the first time the case tally passed the 60,000 mark , according to the Covid Tracking Project .
The situation is particularly worrying in the border city of El Paso in western Texas , a state where coronavirus cases have exceeded one million .
More than 1,000 people are hospitalized in El Paso @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state 's 6,170 hospitalizations .
`` These are dark times , '' Ogechika Alozie , chief medical officer at the city 's Del Sol Medical Center , told CNN Wednesday .
`` I think the biggest word is just fatigue .
And there 's frustration . ''
Cases are so high that Texas Governor Greg Abbott has requested a military medical center be converted for intake of non-Covid patients in order to free up space in hospitals .
County officials , meanwhile , have requested additional mobile morgues .
The situation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local governments are facing in the United States , where President Donald Trump has downplayed the epidemic and left handling of the health crisis to state , county and city officials .
In late October an El Paso County judge ordered non-essential businesses closed for two weeks , a measure fought by El Paso 's mayor and the state attorney general .
Trump has placed much of his hopes of fighting the coronavirus pandemic on rapid development of a vaccine .
Positive Phase 3 trials of a vaccine developed by Pfizer mean inoculations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the year or in early 2021 .
But with no vaccine at present , the US is facing troubling circumstances .
The number of deaths each day is still far from levels seen in the spring , however the US recorded more than 1,500 fatalities in 24 hours on Tuesday .
The coronavirus death rate has `` declined since the spring partly because hospitals and staff were so overstretched back then .
As cases take off across the country , we will increasingly start seeing those limitations again , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Twitter .
The US contamination curve has undergone three notable waves : a first in the spring with an epicenter in New York , a second in the summer that hit the US south particularly hard , and a third since mid-October with records being set in the Midwest .
In North and South Dakota , more than one in 2,000 residents is currently hospitalized with Covid-19 , according to the Covid Tracking Project .
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum this week authorized health workers who test positive to continue working in Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` enormous pressure '' on the state healthcare system .
In Minnesota , Governor Tim Walz ordered bars and restaurants to close at 10:00 pm and placed a 10-person limit on gatherings .
Restrictions are popping up beyond the Midwest as well , such as in Utah , where wearing a mask in public is now mandatory statewide .
And in New York state , restaurants , bars and gyms will have to close at 10:00 pm starting Friday .
President-elect Joe Biden pleaded Monday once again for Americans to wear face coverings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that `` a mask is not a political statement , but it is a good way to start putting the country together . ''
He has pledged to tackle the health crisis from day one of his administration , which begins January 20 .

Washington (AFP) –
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After several weeks of rapidly rising coronavirus cases, hospitals around the United States are once again overwhelmed, forcing local authorities to take new measures to cope with the pandemic.
On Tuesday a record 61,964 people were hospitalized with Covid-19 across the country, marking the first time the case tally passed the 60,000 mark, according to the Covid Tracking Project.
The situation is particularly worrying in the border city of El Paso in western Texas, a state where coronavirus cases have exceeded one million.
More than 1,000 people are hospitalized in El Paso County alone, a substantial portion of the state's 6,170 hospitalizations.
"These are dark times," Ogechika Alozie, chief medical officer at the city's Del Sol Medical Center, told CNN Wednesday. "I think the biggest word is just fatigue. And there's frustration."
Cases are so high that Texas Governor Greg Abbott has requested a military medical center be converted for intake of non-Covid patients in order to free up space in hospitals. County officials, meanwhile, have requested additional mobile morgues.
- Deaths on the rise -
The situation in El Paso is typical of the difficulties local governments are facing in the United States, where President Donald Trump has downplayed the epidemic and left handling of the health crisis to state, county and city officials.
In late October an El Paso County judge ordered non-essential businesses closed for two weeks, a measure fought by El Paso's mayor and the state attorney general.
Trump has placed much of his hopes of fighting the coronavirus pandemic on rapid development of a vaccine.
Positive Phase 3 trials of a vaccine developed by Pfizer mean inoculations are likely to begin rolling out by the end of the year or in early 2021.
But with no vaccine at present, the US is facing troubling circumstances.
The number of deaths each day is still far from levels seen in the spring, however the US recorded more than 1,500 fatalities in 24 hours on Tuesday.
The coronavirus death rate has "declined since the spring partly because hospitals and staff were so overstretched back then. As cases take off across the country, we will increasingly start seeing those limitations again," said emergency medicine specialist Craig Spencer on Twitter.
- New restrictions -
The US contamination curve has undergone three notable waves: a first in the spring with an epicenter in New York, a second in the summer that hit the US south particularly hard, and a third since mid-October with records being set in the Midwest.
In North and South Dakota, more than one in 2,000 residents is currently hospitalized with Covid-19, according to the Covid Tracking Project.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum this week authorized health workers who test positive to continue working in Covid units in order to cope with the "enormous pressure" on the state healthcare system.
In Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz ordered bars and restaurants to close at 10:00 pm and placed a 10-person limit on gatherings.
Restrictions are popping up beyond the Midwest as well, such as in Utah, where wearing a mask in public is now mandatory statewide. And in New York state, restaurants, bars and gyms will have to close at 10:00 pm starting Friday.
President-elect Joe Biden pleaded Monday once again for Americans to wear face coverings, telling viewers in a televised speech that "a mask is not a political statement, but it is a good way to start putting the country together."
He has pledged to tackle the health crisis from day one of his administration, which begins January 20.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--New York imposes new Covid-19 restrictions as hospital admissions mount

A woman takes a test for the coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) in Staten Island , New York , U.S. , November 10 , 2020 .
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday imposed a new round of restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus as the infection rate climbed and hospitalisations soared in the state that was the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak in its early stages .
Cuomo ordered bars , restaurants and gyms in the state to shut down on-premises services at 10 p.m. nightly , and capped the number of people who could attend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re seeing a national and global COVID surge , and New York is a ship on the COVID tide , '' the governor told reporters , adding that contact tracing identified late-night gatherings at bars , restaurants and gyms as key virus spreaders in the state .
The new measures , which take effect on Friday , came a day after California and several states across the Midwest tightened restrictions on residents to try to curb the rapid spread of the virus .
`` This is our LAST chance to stop a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted on Wednesday , as he announced the city-wide seven-day average rate of coronavirus tests coming back positive had hit 2.52 % .
The city 's public school system , the nation 's largest , would be shut to in-person learning if that figure reaches 3 % .
As COVID-19 infections , hospitalisations and deaths surge across the United States , more signs emerged that a second wave could engulf areas of the Northeast , which had managed to bring the pandemic under control after being battered last spring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported more than 1,450 deaths on Tuesday , the highest single-day count since mid-August , according to a Reuters analysis .
U.S. COVID-19 cases climbed for seven consecutive days to reach more than 136,000 as of late Tuesday , while hospitalizations crossed 60,000 for the first time since the pandemic began , threatening to overwhelm systems in many parts of the country .
In New Jersey , one of the early U.S. hotspots , a spike in cases in Newark - the state 's largest city - prompted Mayor Ras Baraka to implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for certain areas .
The positivity rate in Newark hovered at 19 % , more than double the state 's 7.74 % seven-day average , Baraka said in a statement on Tuesday .
The World Health Organization has said anything over 5 % is concerning .
`` Stricter measures are required in the city 's hotspots in order to contain the virus and limit the spread , '' he said .
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy on Monday announced restrictions similar to those in New York in response to a rise in COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among bartenders .
In Maryland , where the positivity rate stood at 5.6 % on Wednesday , officials warned about rising COVID-19 hospitalisations .
More than 800 people were being treated for COVID-19 at state hospitals as of Wednesday , according to Mike Ricci , the communications director of Governor Larry Hogan .
That is Maryland 's highest daily count since April .
A record number of people died of COVID-19 in several Midwest and western states on Tuesday , including in Alaska , Indiana , Missouri , North Dakota , Wisconsin and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rise in cases and large number of cases across the state , '' Dr. Chris Weaver , an emergency medicine physician and senior vice president of clinical effectiveness at Indiana University Health , told Reuters .
`` We are in a good place now to manage all the patients that we have but , as volumes increase quickly , it 's going to fill up everything , '' he added .
In Texas , officials in the county of El Paso have brought in 10 temporary refrigerated morgue trailers to contend with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States .
Officials in states hardest-hit by the virus pleaded with residents to stay home as much as possible and heed the advice of experts by wearing masks , washing their hands and social distancing .
`` It 's not safe to go out , it ’ s not safe to have others over , it 's just not safe .
And it might not be safe for a while yet , '' Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said , as he issued new mitigation measures .
`` So , please , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sleepovers and playdates at your home . ''

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday imposed a new round of restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus as the infection rate climbed and hospitalisations soared in the state that was the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak in its early stages.
A woman takes a test for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Staten Island, New York, U.S., November 10, 2020.
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Cuomo ordered bars, restaurants and gyms in the state to shut down on-premises services at 10 p.m. nightly, and capped the number of people who could attend private parties at 10.
"We’re seeing a national and global COVID surge, and New York is a ship on the COVID tide," the governor told reporters, adding that contact tracing identified late-night gatherings at bars, restaurants and gyms as key virus spreaders in the state.
The new measures, which take effect on Friday, came a day after California and several states across the Midwest tightened restrictions on residents to try to curb the rapid spread of the virus.
"This is our LAST chance to stop a second wave," New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted on Wednesday, as he announced the city-wide seven-day average rate of coronavirus tests coming back positive had hit 2.52%.
The city's public school system, the nation's largest, would be shut to in-person learning if that figure reaches 3%.
As COVID-19 infections, hospitalisations and deaths surge across the United States, more signs emerged that a second wave could engulf areas of the Northeast, which had managed to bring the pandemic under control after being battered last spring.
The United States as a whole reported more than 1,450 deaths on Tuesday, the highest single-day count since mid-August, according to a Reuters analysis.
U.S. COVID-19 cases climbed for seven consecutive days to reach more than 136,000 as of late Tuesday, while hospitalizations crossed 60,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, threatening to overwhelm systems in many parts of the country.
In New Jersey, one of the early U.S. hotspots, a spike in cases in Newark - the state's largest city - prompted Mayor Ras Baraka to implement aggressive measures, including a mandatory curfew for certain areas.
The positivity rate in Newark hovered at 19%, more than double the state's 7.74% seven-day average, Baraka said in a statement on Tuesday. The World Health Organization has said anything over 5% is concerning.
"Stricter measures are required in the city's hotspots in order to contain the virus and limit the spread," he said.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy on Monday announced restrictions similar to those in New York in response to a rise in COVID-19 cases in the state, and outbreaks among bartenders.
Refrigerated morgue trucks
In Maryland, where the positivity rate stood at 5.6% on Wednesday, officials warned about rising COVID-19 hospitalisations.
More than 800 people were being treated for COVID-19 at state hospitals as of Wednesday, according to Mike Ricci, the communications director of Governor Larry Hogan. That is Maryland's highest daily count since April.
A record number of people died of COVID-19 in several Midwest and western states on Tuesday, including in Alaska, Indiana, Missouri, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
"We are definitely seeing a rise in cases and large number of cases across the state," Dr. Chris Weaver, an emergency medicine physician and senior vice president of clinical effectiveness at Indiana University Health, told Reuters.
"We are in a good place now to manage all the patients that we have but, as volumes increase quickly, it's going to fill up everything," he added.
In Texas, officials in the county of El Paso have brought in 10 temporary refrigerated morgue trailers to contend with one of the worst COVID-19 spikes in the United States.
Officials in states hardest-hit by the virus pleaded with residents to stay home as much as possible and heed the advice of experts by wearing masks, washing their hands and social distancing.
"It's not safe to go out, it’s not safe to have others over, it's just not safe. And it might not be safe for a while yet," Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said, as he issued new mitigation measures. "So, please, cancel the happy hours, dinner parties, sleepovers and playdates at your home."
(REUTERS)
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france24--2020-11-11--White House warns of further China sanctions over Hong Kong moves

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france24--2020-11-11--Finland ruin Thuram's France bow, Ronaldo inches towards international goals record

Marcus Thuram impressed in his France debut despite a 2-0 defeat to Finland Finland spoiled Marcus Thuram 's party on Wednesday after beating France 2-0 on the day the Borussia Moenchengladbach attacker emulated his father Lilian Thuram by making his debut for Les Bleus .
Thuram was picked by Didier Deschamps for the friendly at the Stade de France over 22 years after his dad won the World Cup at the same ground , but despite a strong performance on the left wing could not stop the Finns from coming out on top .
The 23-year-old hit the bar with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flashed a difficult volley over as he and Lucas Digne caused continual problems down the left flank for the away side .
However , Marcus Forss stunned the hosts when he collected the ball after a Moussa Sissoko mistake and rammed home at Steve Mandanda 's near post .
France barely had any time to react before Onni Valakari doubled the away side 's lead with a stunning effort after being left to stroll towards goal .
Deschamps brought on Antoine Griezmann , Anthony Martial and N'Golo Kante just before the hour mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Finns .
The result will disappoint Deschamps but he will likely have been happy with the performance of Thuram , who made more of an impression than some of the more established international players on display , including Paul Pogba and Olivier Giroud .
`` It was a good first half despite the goals , '' Thuram told TV channel M6 .
`` I 'm trying to learn a lot alongside the other internationals ... and to gain as much experience as possible .
I hope that will continue . ''
He could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ France 's upcoming Nations League matches against European champions Portugal and Sweden .
Deschamps said last week that the son of his old France teammate had `` gone up a level '' since joining Moenchengladbach from French side Guingamp in July 2019 .
Thuram has scored three times in 11 appearances for the Bundesliga side this season and was the first footballer in Germany to take a knee in protest following the death of the 46-year-old African American George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis .
Lilian Thuram is the most-capped player in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with 142 appearances and as well as winning the '98 World Cup also triumphed alongside Deschamps at Euro 2000 .
Cristiano Ronaldo continued his quest to snatch the all-time record for most international goals when he struck his 102nd Portugal goal in their in a 7-0 win over Andorra .
France 's opponents on Saturday in what could be a Nations League A , Group 3 decider strolled post their weak opponents in Lisbon despite not starting a single player from the team that beat Sweden 3-0 last month .
Ronaldo missed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was introduced at half-time on Wednesday , but had to wait until there were only five minutes remaining to boost his record bid with a close-range header .
Former Iran striker Ali Daei holds the record on 109 goals .
Italy extended their unbeaten streak to 20 games after a second-string line-up comfortably beat Estonia a 4-0 .
Vincenzo Grifo scored his first senior international goal with a long-range drive in the 14th minute and Federico Bernardeschi put the hosts two goals ahead 13 minutes later when he drifted in from the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meerits in the Estonia goal .
Grifo stepped up and scored his second from the penalty spot when Roberto Gagliardini was tripped with 15 minutes remaining and Riccardo Orsolini added a fourth also from the spot four minutes from the end to complete the rout .
Frank de Boer 's wait for a first win as Netherlands coach goes on after his team drew 1-1 with Spain in a friendly in Amsterdam on Wednesday .
De Boer has now gone four matches without a victory since being appointed in September to succeed Ronald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Barcelona .
A first-half goal by Benfica striker Luca Waldschmidt sealed Germany a 1-0 win over the Czech Republic , while two Michy Batshuayi goals helped Belgium to a 2-1 victory over Switzerland .

Paris (AFP) –
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Finland spoiled Marcus Thuram's party on Wednesday after beating France 2-0 on the day the Borussia Moenchengladbach attacker emulated his father Lilian Thuram by making his debut for Les Bleus.
Thuram was picked by Didier Deschamps for the friendly at the Stade de France over 22 years after his dad won the World Cup at the same ground, but despite a strong performance on the left wing could not stop the Finns from coming out on top.
The 23-year-old hit the bar with less 15 minutes gone and soon after flashed a difficult volley over as he and Lucas Digne caused continual problems down the left flank for the away side.
However, Marcus Forss stunned the hosts when he collected the ball after a Moussa Sissoko mistake and rammed home at Steve Mandanda's near post.
France barely had any time to react before Onni Valakari doubled the away side's lead with a stunning effort after being left to stroll towards goal.
Deschamps brought on Antoine Griezmann, Anthony Martial and N'Golo Kante just before the hour mark but could not break down the well-organised Finns.
The result will disappoint Deschamps but he will likely have been happy with the performance of Thuram, who made more of an impression than some of the more established international players on display, including Paul Pogba and Olivier Giroud.
"It was a good first half despite the goals," Thuram told TV channel M6.
"I'm trying to learn a lot alongside the other internationals... and to gain as much experience as possible. I hope that will continue."
He could be in contention for World Cup holders France's upcoming Nations League matches against European champions Portugal and Sweden.
Deschamps said last week that the son of his old France teammate had "gone up a level" since joining Moenchengladbach from French side Guingamp in July 2019.
Thuram has scored three times in 11 appearances for the Bundesliga side this season and was the first footballer in Germany to take a knee in protest following the death of the 46-year-old African American George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis.
Lilian Thuram is the most-capped player in the history of the French national team with 142 appearances and as well as winning the '98 World Cup also triumphed alongside Deschamps at Euro 2000.
- Ronaldo continues goal quest -
Cristiano Ronaldo continued his quest to snatch the all-time record for most international goals when he struck his 102nd Portugal goal in their in a 7-0 win over Andorra.
France's opponents on Saturday in what could be a Nations League A, Group 3 decider strolled post their weak opponents in Lisbon despite not starting a single player from the team that beat Sweden 3-0 last month.
Ronaldo missed that match after testing positive for coronavirus and was introduced at half-time on Wednesday, but had to wait until there were only five minutes remaining to boost his record bid with a close-range header.
Former Iran striker Ali Daei holds the record on 109 goals.
Italy extended their unbeaten streak to 20 games after a second-string line-up comfortably beat Estonia a 4-0.
Vincenzo Grifo scored his first senior international goal with a long-range drive in the 14th minute and Federico Bernardeschi put the hosts two goals ahead 13 minutes later when he drifted in from the right and crashed a low shot past Marko Meerits in the Estonia goal.
Grifo stepped up and scored his second from the penalty spot when Roberto Gagliardini was tripped with 15 minutes remaining and Riccardo Orsolini added a fourth also from the spot four minutes from the end to complete the rout.
Frank de Boer's wait for a first win as Netherlands coach goes on after his team drew 1-1 with Spain in a friendly in Amsterdam on Wednesday.
De Boer has now gone four matches without a victory since being appointed in September to succeed Ronald Koeman, who left to take over at Barcelona.
A first-half goal by Benfica striker Luca Waldschmidt sealed Germany a 1-0 win over the Czech Republic, while two Michy Batshuayi goals helped Belgium to a 2-1 victory over Switzerland.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--England's Youngs sets his sights on 2023 World Cup

Scrum-half Ben Youngs ( C ) marked his 100th Test for England with two tries in a win over Italy as his side clinched the Six Nations title Ben Youngs may have won 100 England caps but the scrum-half now wants to mentally start all over again with a `` clean slate '' in the hope of playing at the 2023 World Cup in France .
Youngs became only the second player after retired prop Jason Leonard to make a century of England international appearances when he reached the landmark last month .
And he then marked the occasion in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ display as England beat Italy 34-5 in Rome , a result that proved sufficient to secure the Six Nations title .
England coach Eddie Jones will name his side to play Georgia in their Autumn Nations Cup opener at Twickenham this weekend on Thursday , with the 31-year-old Youngs approaching the match as if he were an aspiring international .
`` The short-term goal is Georgia .
Long-term , I want to be part of the World Cup in 2023 , '' Youngs , a member of the England side beaten by South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final in Japan , told a conference call .
Youngs added a previous landmark had helped him to put his 100th cap in perspective .
`` I remember distinctly when I played my 50th that I made it into something that it was n't in going out there , playing really well and justifying why I got 50 .
`` So I guess experience helped when I got to 100 because I treated it like another game , I just played .
`` Afterwards I allowed myself to absorb everything and appreciate what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a clean slate , start again and envision that I 'm starting from one again . ''
Youngs has been England 's first-choice scrum-half for much of the past decade , but he still believes he 's some way short of veteran status .
`` I got experience at Test level at a young age , '' he explained .
`` You can get out there a bit earlier as a scrum-half .
`` I do n't see myself yet as the guy who is mid-30s and still trying to figure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I still see myself as the 31-year-old that is full of enthusiasm and desire to get better .
`` You can look anywhere for athletes who are still at the top of their game -- Roger Federer , Richard Wigglesworth , ( Cristiano ) Ronaldo -- but I do n't feel right now that is something I need to focus on .
I 'm not at that stage yet . ''

London (AFP) –
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Ben Youngs may have won 100 England caps but the scrum-half now wants to mentally start all over again with a "clean slate" in the hope of playing at the 2023 World Cup in France.
Youngs became only the second player after retired prop Jason Leonard to make a century of England international appearances when he reached the landmark last month.
And he then marked the occasion in style with two tries in a man-of-the-match display as England beat Italy 34-5 in Rome, a result that proved sufficient to secure the Six Nations title.
England coach Eddie Jones will name his side to play Georgia in their Autumn Nations Cup opener at Twickenham this weekend on Thursday, with the 31-year-old Youngs approaching the match as if he were an aspiring international.
"The short-term goal is Georgia. Long-term, I want to be part of the World Cup in 2023," Youngs, a member of the England side beaten by South Africa in last year's Word Cup final in Japan, told a conference call.
Youngs added a previous landmark had helped him to put his 100th cap in perspective.
"I remember distinctly when I played my 50th that I made it into something that it wasn't in going out there, playing really well and justifying why I got 50.
"So I guess experience helped when I got to 100 because I treated it like another game, I just played.
"Afterwards I allowed myself to absorb everything and appreciate what I had done. I then wanted to have a clean slate, start again and envision that I'm starting from one again."
Youngs has been England's first-choice scrum-half for much of the past decade, but he still believes he's some way short of veteran status.
"I got experience at Test level at a young age," he explained. "You can get out there a bit earlier as a scrum-half.
"I don't see myself yet as the guy who is mid-30s and still trying to figure out ways of staying at the top. I still see myself as the 31-year-old that is full of enthusiasm and desire to get better.
"You can look anywhere for athletes who are still at the top of their game -- Roger Federer, Richard Wigglesworth, (Cristiano) Ronaldo -- but I don't feel right now that is something I need to focus on. I'm not at that stage yet."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--Referee of infamous West Germany v France World Cup semi dies aged 84

Battiston was knocked out in the 1982 World Cup semi-final Former referee Charles Corver , who officiated the notorious 1982 World Cup semi-final between West Germany and France , has died aged 84 , Dutch football officials announced Wednesday .
`` Corver died on Tuesday evening after an illness , '' the Royal Dutch Football Federation ( KNVB ) said .
`` Few Dutch referees have officiated such important matches ... and in the 1970s and 1980s Corver belonged to the top echelon of the refereeing fraternity . ''
Corver will most likely be remembered for an infamous moment during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between France and West Germany .
The Dutchman missed a wild challenge by German goalkeeper Harald `` Toni '' Schumacher on Patrick Battiston which knocked out the French defender .
Battiston fell down with his teeth knocked out , suffering damaged vertebrae .
Emergency medics had to administer oxygen on the pitch .
`` I simply did n't see it ( until watching a replay two days later ) , '' Corver told Dutch football magazine Voetbal International in an interview six years ago .
`` FIFA never held it against me and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from his World Cup appearances in 1978 and 1982 , Corver also oversaw the 1977 and 1983 UEFA Cup finals and the 1978 European Cup final between Liverpool and Club Brugge .
He was also awarded a Dutch knighthood in 2006 .

The Hague (AFP) –
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Former referee Charles Corver, who officiated the notorious 1982 World Cup semi-final between West Germany and France, has died aged 84, Dutch football officials announced Wednesday.
"Corver died on Tuesday evening after an illness," the Royal Dutch Football Federation (KNVB) said.
"Few Dutch referees have officiated such important matches... and in the 1970s and 1980s Corver belonged to the top echelon of the refereeing fraternity."
Corver will most likely be remembered for an infamous moment during the 1982 World Cup semi-final in Seville between France and West Germany.
The Dutchman missed a wild challenge by German goalkeeper Harald "Toni" Schumacher on Patrick Battiston which knocked out the French defender.
Battiston fell down with his teeth knocked out, suffering damaged vertebrae. Emergency medics had to administer oxygen on the pitch.
"I simply didn't see it (until watching a replay two days later)," Corver told Dutch football magazine Voetbal International in an interview six years ago.
"FIFA never held it against me and never let me down."
Apart from his World Cup appearances in 1978 and 1982, Corver also oversaw the 1977 and 1983 UEFA Cup finals and the 1978 European Cup final between Liverpool and Club Brugge.
He was also awarded a Dutch knighthood in 2006.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--NFL's Vikings won't bring back fans as Covid cases surge

The NFL 's Minnesota Vikings said Wednesday they wo n't try to bring fans back to their US Bank Stadium this year as Covid-19 cases rise in the United States .
`` Closing the final four home games to fans is the right decision to help protect our community , '' the team said in a statement on Wednesday .
Minnesota governor Tim Walz on Tuesday imposed new restrictions on gatherings in bars , restaurants and even homes to contain the virus that has left the Minneapolis area in danger of a shortage of intensive care hospital beds .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had only allowed 250 friends and family members of players into the stadium that seats 67,200 .
They had hoped , however , to sell a limited number of tickets to games before the season ended .
While some NFL teams have been able to welcome a limited number of fans , depending on local coronavirus restrictions , the Vikings joined the New England Patriots who announced on Monday that spectators would not be allowed at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough , Massachusetts , for the rest of the season .
Meanwhile teams continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Colts announced Wednesday they have placed linebacker and special teams player Matthew Adams on the Reserve/Covid-19 list .
He 's the first Colts player to be put on the list since the start of the regular season .
The Indianapolis Star reported Adams was considered a high-risk close contact to somebody outside of the Colts facility who had been exposed to the virus .
A Cincinnati Bengals practice squad player tested positive for Covid-19 and the team told its defensive backs to skip Wednesday practice , NFL Network reported .
But the Bengals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players from the reserve/Covid-19 list as they prepare to face the unbeaten Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday .
The Steelers said Tuesday that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and three other players were in isolation and undergoing daily testing after a Covid case involving team-mate Vance McDonald .

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The NFL's Minnesota Vikings said Wednesday they won't try to bring fans back to their US Bank Stadium this year as Covid-19 cases rise in the United States.
"Closing the final four home games to fans is the right decision to help protect our community," the team said in a statement on Wednesday.
Minnesota governor Tim Walz on Tuesday imposed new restrictions on gatherings in bars, restaurants and even homes to contain the virus that has left the Minneapolis area in danger of a shortage of intensive care hospital beds.
For the season to date, the Vikings had only allowed 250 friends and family members of players into the stadium that seats 67,200.
They had hoped, however, to sell a limited number of tickets to games before the season ended.
While some NFL teams have been able to welcome a limited number of fans, depending on local coronavirus restrictions, the Vikings joined the New England Patriots who announced on Monday that spectators would not be allowed at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, for the rest of the season.
Meanwhile teams continue to navigate the pandemic.
The Indianapolis Colts announced Wednesday they have placed linebacker and special teams player Matthew Adams on the Reserve/Covid-19 list. He's the first Colts player to be put on the list since the start of the regular season.
The Indianapolis Star reported Adams was considered a high-risk close contact to somebody outside of the Colts facility who had been exposed to the virus.
A Cincinnati Bengals practice squad player tested positive for Covid-19 and the team told its defensive backs to skip Wednesday practice, NFL Network reported.
But the Bengals have reportedly been able to remove two players from the reserve/Covid-19 list as they prepare to face the unbeaten Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
The Steelers said Tuesday that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and three other players were in isolation and undergoing daily testing after a Covid case involving team-mate Vance McDonald.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--Ronaldo scores 102nd international goal as Portugal thrash Andorra

Ronaldo is closing on the record for most international goals Cristiano Ronaldo edged closer to the all-time record for most @ @ @ @ @ Portugal thrashed Andorra 7-0 in a friendly on Wednesday .
The Juventus star came on @ @ @ @ @ 102nd goal for Portugal in the 85th minute .
Former Iran striker Ali Daei holds @ @ @ @ @ .
Portugal , who continue the preparations for their European Championship title defence next year @ @ @ @ @ with France on Saturday , cruised past Andorra .
Wolves winger Pedro Neto gave them @ @ @ @ @ a double from Paulinho , either side of a Renato Sanches strike , made it @ @ @ @ @ an own goal with 14 minutes to play .
Ronaldo was introduced at half-time but @ @ @ @ @ were only five minutes remaining to boost his record bid , before Atletico Madrid forward @ @ @ @ @ scoring .
The 35-year-old Ronaldo tested positive for coronavirus on October 13 when last with @ @ @ @ @ on to miss the 3-0 victory over Sweden .

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Cristiano Ronaldo edged closer to the all-time record for most international goals as European champions Portugal thrashed Andorra 7-0 in a friendly on Wednesday.
The Juventus star came on a substitute to net his 102nd goal for Portugal in the 85th minute.
Former Iran striker Ali Daei holds the record on 109 goals.
Portugal, who continue the preparations for their European Championship title defence next year with a Nations League game with France on Saturday, cruised past Andorra.
Wolves winger Pedro Neto gave them an early lead, before a double from Paulinho, either side of a Renato Sanches strike, made it four.
Emili Garcia scored an own goal with 14 minutes to play.
Ronaldo was introduced at half-time but had to wait until there were only five minutes remaining to boost his record bid, before Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix wrapped up the scoring.
The 35-year-old Ronaldo tested positive for coronavirus on October 13 when last with the Portugal squad, going on to miss the 3-0 victory over Sweden.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--Finland beat France to ruin Marcus Thuram's debut

Finland spoiled Marcus Thuram 's party on Wednesday after beating France 2-0 on the day the Borussia Moenchengladbach attacker emulated his father Lilian Thuram by making his debut for Les Bleus .
Thuram was picked by Didier Deschamps for the friendly at the Stade de France over 22 years after his dad won the World Cup at the same ground , but despite a strong performance on the left wing could not stop the Finns from coming out on top .
The 23-year-old hit the bar with less 15 minutes gone and soon after flashed a difficult volley over as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down the left flank for the away side .
However , Marcus Forss stunned the home side when he collected the ball after a Moussa Sissoko mistake and rammed home at Steve Mandanda 's near post .
France barely had any time to react before Onni Valakari doubled the away side 's lead with a stunning effort after being left to stroll towards goal .
Deschamps brought on Antoine Griezmann , Anthony Martial and N'Golo Kante just before the hour mark but could not break down the well-organised Finns .
The result will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been happy with the performance of Thuram , who made more of an impression than some of the more established international players on display , including Paul Pogba and Olivier Giroud .
He could be in contention for World Cup holders France 's upcoming Nations League matches against European champions Portugal and Sweden .
Deschamps said last week that the son of his old France teammate had `` gone up a level '' since joining Moenchengladbach from French side Guingamp in July 2019 .
Thuram has scored three times in 11 appearances for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first footballer in Germany to take a knee in protest following the death of the 46-year-old African American George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis .
Lilian Thuram is the most-capped player in the history of the French national team with 142 appearances and as well as winning the '98 World Cup also triumphed alongside Deschamps at Euro 2000 .

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Finland spoiled Marcus Thuram's party on Wednesday after beating France 2-0 on the day the Borussia Moenchengladbach attacker emulated his father Lilian Thuram by making his debut for Les Bleus.
Thuram was picked by Didier Deschamps for the friendly at the Stade de France over 22 years after his dad won the World Cup at the same ground, but despite a strong performance on the left wing could not stop the Finns from coming out on top.
The 23-year-old hit the bar with less 15 minutes gone and soon after flashed a difficult volley over as he and Lucas Digne caused continual problems down the left flank for the away side.
However, Marcus Forss stunned the home side when he collected the ball after a Moussa Sissoko mistake and rammed home at Steve Mandanda's near post.
France barely had any time to react before Onni Valakari doubled the away side's lead with a stunning effort after being left to stroll towards goal.
Deschamps brought on Antoine Griezmann, Anthony Martial and N'Golo Kante just before the hour mark but could not break down the well-organised Finns.
The result will disappoint Deschamps but he will likely have been happy with the performance of Thuram, who made more of an impression than some of the more established international players on display, including Paul Pogba and Olivier Giroud.
He could be in contention for World Cup holders France's upcoming Nations League matches against European champions Portugal and Sweden.
Deschamps said last week that the son of his old France teammate had "gone up a level" since joining Moenchengladbach from French side Guingamp in July 2019.
Thuram has scored three times in 11 appearances for the Bundesliga side this season and was the first footballer in Germany to take a knee in protest following the death of the 46-year-old African American George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis.
Lilian Thuram is the most-capped player in the history of the French national team with 142 appearances and as well as winning the '98 World Cup also triumphed alongside Deschamps at Euro 2000.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-11--New coronavirus case in White House

New coronavirus case in White House


france24--2020-11-12--RB Leipzig branch into India by partnering ISL side FC Goa

RB Leipzig are branching into India after signing a three-year partnership deal with FC Goa Last season 's Champions League semi-finalists RB Leipzig are branching into India after announcing on a three-year partnership with Indian Super League ( ISL ) side FC Goa on Thursday .
The Red Bull-backed German club have been in talks since 2018 with Goa , who finished top of the ISL league last season , but lost in the play-offs .
The deal , which runs until June 2023 , includes holding football training camps for young players in India , which for the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
It also involves the training of coaches and exchange of know-how regarding club structures .
FC Goa co-owner and president Akshay Tandon said Leipzig are the `` perfect partner '' given their experience of climbing the German football pyramid since their formation in 2009 .
`` They have shown the world of football how to build from the ground up ... and that ’ s something we resonate with , '' he added .
Leipzig 's CEO Oliver Mintzlaff hinted that the partnership could result in an Indian player @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
RB Leipzig shook up German football by climbing from the fifth tier to reach the Bundesliga in 2017/18 when they finished runners up behind Bayern Munich to qualify for the Champions League .
Last season , they reached the knock-out stages of Europe for the first time , beating Tottenham and Atletico Madrid before losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals .
Mintzlaff said that as Bundesliga 's international TV revenues have been declining recently , this was a good opportunity to bring German league football to the Indian market .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it a `` perfect fit '' for the ambitious German club , he added .
Founded in 2014 , Goa won the Indian Super Cup in 2019 and finished top of the ISL table last season under Spanish coach Juan Ferrando .
Leipzig are the latest European club to branch into India .

Berlin (AFP) –
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Last season's Champions League semi-finalists RB Leipzig are branching into India after announcing on a three-year partnership with Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa on Thursday.
The Red Bull-backed German club have been in talks since 2018 with Goa, who finished top of the ISL league last season, but lost in the play-offs.
The deal, which runs until June 2023, includes holding football training camps for young players in India, which for the moment may have to happen online due to the coronavirus pandemic.
It also involves the training of coaches and exchange of know-how regarding club structures.
FC Goa co-owner and president Akshay Tandon said Leipzig are the "perfect partner" given their experience of climbing the German football pyramid since their formation in 2009.
"They have shown the world of football how to build from the ground up... and that’s something we resonate with," he added.
Leipzig's CEO Oliver Mintzlaff hinted that the partnership could result in an Indian player coming to Germany "at some point".
RB Leipzig shook up German football by climbing from the fifth tier to reach the Bundesliga in 2017/18 when they finished runners up behind Bayern Munich to qualify for the Champions League.
Last season, they reached the knock-out stages of Europe for the first time, beating Tottenham and Atletico Madrid before losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.
Mintzlaff said that as Bundesliga's international TV revenues have been declining recently, this was a good opportunity to bring German league football to the Indian market.
Goa's "innovative approach" makes it a "perfect fit" for the ambitious German club, he added.
Founded in 2014, Goa won the Indian Super Cup in 2019 and finished top of the ISL table last season under Spanish coach Juan Ferrando.
Leipzig are the latest European club to branch into India.
Last year, English Premier League side Manchester City's parent company bought a majority 65 percent stake in ISL franchise Mumbai City FC.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Prince Charles backs new sustainable fashion range

Britain 's Prince Charles is well-known for wearing timeless double-breasted suits and was once voted GQ magazine 's Best Dressed Man .
Global online fashion retailer Yoox Net-A-Porter on Thursday launched a new sustainable menswear and womenswear range , supported by Prince Charles ' charitable foundation .
Queen Elizabeth II 's eldest son and heir , who has long been known for his strong views on the environment , said he was `` extremely impressed '' by the 18-piece ready-to-wear collection .
The Yoox Net-A-Porter For The Prince 's Foundation collaboration gave students from Britain and Italy the chance to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The clothes -- in natural fibres including cashmere , wool and organic silk -- were inspired by the designs of Leonardo da Vinci and cost from £395 to £1,295 ( $ 520- $ 1705 , 440-1,444 euros ) .
They are designed to last a lifetime , with profits going to the foundation to support its training programme and help preserve traditional skills .
`` The key it seems to me is to rediscover the importance that nature plays in all this and where the natural materials come from , '' said Charles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have this approach which takes , makes and throws away . ''
Charles , 71 , earlier this week said he believed that achieving a sustainable future was `` the growth story of our time '' and could help economies recover from the coronavirus pandemic .
He has set up a Sustainable Markets Initiative with the World Economic Forum to help businesses to put green initiatives into practice .
The prince is well-known for wearing timeless double-breasted suits and was once voted GQ magazine 's Best Dressed Man .
He said in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vogue magazine : `` I happen to be one of those people who 'd get shoes -- or any item of clothing -- repaired if I can , rather than just throw it away . ''
On his own sense of style , he said he was `` like a stopped clock -- I 'm right twice every 24 hours '' .

London (AFP) –
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Global online fashion retailer Yoox Net-A-Porter on Thursday launched a new sustainable menswear and womenswear range, supported by Prince Charles' charitable foundation.
Queen Elizabeth II's eldest son and heir, who has long been known for his strong views on the environment, said he was "extremely impressed" by the 18-piece ready-to-wear collection.
The Yoox Net-A-Porter For The Prince's Foundation collaboration gave students from Britain and Italy the chance to design and make the limited-edition line.
The clothes -- in natural fibres including cashmere, wool and organic silk -- were inspired by the designs of Leonardo da Vinci and cost from £395 to £1,295 ($520-$1705, 440-1,444 euros).
They are designed to last a lifetime, with profits going to the foundation to support its training programme and help preserve traditional skills.
"The key it seems to me is to rediscover the importance that nature plays in all this and where the natural materials come from," said Charles.
"It seems utter madness to have this approach which takes, makes and throws away."
Charles, 71, earlier this week said he believed that achieving a sustainable future was "the growth story of our time" and could help economies recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
He has set up a Sustainable Markets Initiative with the World Economic Forum to help businesses to put green initiatives into practice.
The prince is well-known for wearing timeless double-breasted suits and was once voted GQ magazine's Best Dressed Man.
He said in an interview in the December issue of British Vogue magazine: "I happen to be one of those people who'd get shoes -- or any item of clothing -- repaired if I can, rather than just throw it away."
On his own sense of style, he said he was "like a stopped clock -- I'm right twice every 24 hours".
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Women, Islamists lose seats in Jordan vote

Jordan 's parliamentary election held on October 10 , 2020 was overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic Women and Islamists lost out in Jordan 's parliamentary vote this week , according to results announced Thursday by the electoral commission .
The election for the 130-seat parliament -- 15 of which are reserved for women -- was marked by low turnout and overshadowed by the novel coronavirus pandemic , which has dealt a heavy blow to the Arab country 's already debt-ridden economy .
Only 29.9 percent of the around 4.5 million eligible voters cast ballots in Tuesday 's election , choosing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were women .
The last election in 2016 saw a turnout of 36 percent .
Parliament has limited authority in Jordan , where the king has wide powers to rule by decree , but it has provided a platform for the opposition when it has not boycotted elections .
Only the requisite 15 women were elected , down from 20 in the outgoing parliament , Independent Election Commission chairman Khaled al-Kalaldeh told a news conference in Amman .
A hundred newcomers will join the new parliament , including around 20 retired senior military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by businessmen and representatives of powerful tribes .
Kalaldeh said the Islamic Action Front , the political arm of the Muslim Brotherhood and largest opposition faction , took eight seats , half the number it held in the previous parliament .
But IAF secretary general Mourad al-Adayleh told AFP his party had in fact won 10 seats , including two on another list .
The IAF fielded candidates this year in some seats despite the banning of its parent organisation in a Saudi-backed move earlier this year .
In 2010 and 2013 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead despite a rise in novel coronavirus cases in the kingdom , but measures were imposed to combat the virus ' spread during polling , including mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing .
A curfew was put in place after the poll aimed at reducing celebratory gatherings that could spread the virus .
But images on social media showed rallies were held in various parts of the country in honour of winning candidates .
Supporters of losing candidates also flouted the curfew , according to social media posts , which showed people attempting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rubbish bins .
Security forces said some 10 people who took part were arrested .
Resource-poor and dependent on foreign aid , Jordan has built up a public debt that exceeds 100 percent of gross domestic product .
Unemployment stood at 23 percent in the first quarter , before the pandemic fully hit .

Amman (AFP) –
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Women and Islamists lost out in Jordan's parliamentary vote this week, according to results announced Thursday by the electoral commission.
The election for the 130-seat parliament -- 15 of which are reserved for women -- was marked by low turnout and overshadowed by the novel coronavirus pandemic, which has dealt a heavy blow to the Arab country's already debt-ridden economy.
Only 29.9 percent of the around 4.5 million eligible voters cast ballots in Tuesday's election, choosing among 1,674 candidates, of which 360 were women.
The last election in 2016 saw a turnout of 36 percent.
Parliament has limited authority in Jordan, where the king has wide powers to rule by decree, but it has provided a platform for the opposition when it has not boycotted elections.
Only the requisite 15 women were elected, down from 20 in the outgoing parliament, Independent Election Commission chairman Khaled al-Kalaldeh told a news conference in Amman.
A hundred newcomers will join the new parliament, including around 20 retired senior military officers, though the house remains dominated by businessmen and representatives of powerful tribes.
Kalaldeh said the Islamic Action Front, the political arm of the Muslim Brotherhood and largest opposition faction, took eight seats, half the number it held in the previous parliament.
But IAF secretary general Mourad al-Adayleh told AFP his party had in fact won 10 seats, including two on another list.
The IAF fielded candidates this year in some seats despite the banning of its parent organisation in a Saudi-backed move earlier this year. In 2010 and 2013, it boycotted polls.
The election went ahead despite a rise in novel coronavirus cases in the kingdom, but measures were imposed to combat the virus' spread during polling, including mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing.
A curfew was put in place after the poll aimed at reducing celebratory gatherings that could spread the virus.
But images on social media showed rallies were held in various parts of the country in honour of winning candidates.
Supporters of losing candidates also flouted the curfew, according to social media posts, which showed people attempting to close off roads with burning tyres and rubbish bins.
Security forces said some 10 people who took part were arrested.
Resource-poor and dependent on foreign aid, Jordan has built up a public debt that exceeds 100 percent of gross domestic product.
Unemployment stood at 23 percent in the first quarter, before the pandemic fully hit.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Argentina prop Juan Figallo forced to retire after head injury

Injury has forced Argentina prop Juan Figallo to retire from rugby Saracens and Argentina prop Juan Figallo has been forced @ @ @ @ @ medical advice due to a head injury .
Figallo suffered the injury during a pool @ @ @ @ @ 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and did not feature for Saracens last season .
@ @ @ @ @ for Argentina , playing at three World Cups .
He joined Saracens from Top 14 @ @ @ @ @ made 96 appearances for the club , winning four Premiership titles and three European Champions @ @ @ @ @ everything it takes to be a good team-mate , '' Saracens director of rugby Mark @ @ @ @ @ `` A brilliant performer on the field , he has led the way in what @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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Saracens and Argentina prop Juan Figallo has been forced to retire from rugby on medical advice due to a head injury.
Figallo suffered the injury during a pool match against England at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and did not feature for Saracens last season.
The 32-year-old made 33 appearances for Argentina, playing at three World Cups.
He joined Saracens from Top 14 side Montpellier in 2014 and made 96 appearances for the club, winning four Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups.
"Juan epitomises everything it takes to be a good team-mate," Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall said on Thursday. "A brilliant performer on the field, he has led the way in what tighthead props are capable of."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Coronavirus: Latest global developments

Coronavirus: Latest global developments

Stock markets are down , deaths are up , and fans at the Tokyo Olympics may be asked to avoid cheering to prevent the virus spreading .
Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus crisis : After a rally on vaccine hopes and Joe Biden 's election , Europe and Asia markets sink as investors fret that surging global infection and death rates could damage economic recovery .
The International Energy Agency cuts its 2020 global oil demand forecast , citing a resurgence of the pandemic .
It expects full-year 2020 global oil demand to come in at 91.3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- down by 8.8 mbpd compared with the drop of 8.4 mbpd given in last month 's regular report .
Dubai-based Emirates airline posts its first loss in more than three decades , saying it has been badly hit by the lockdown that has brought air transport to `` a literal standstill '' .
The virus has claimed at least 1,285,160 lives worldwide since it first emerged in China late last year , according to an AFP tally on Thursday at 1100 GMT based on official sources .
More than 52,151,589 cases have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United States is the worst-affected country with 241,808 deaths , followed by Brazil with 163,373 , India with 128,121 , Mexico with 96,430 and the United Kingdom with 50,365 deaths .
Germany is seeing tentative signs that a surge in new cases may be easing , the head of the country 's disease control agency says .
The key reproduction figure has fallen below 1 to 0.89 , meaning that 100 people are infecting 89 others -- a sign that the new infections are falling .
- One more at the White House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's administration , CNN and the New York Times report that political director Brian Jack received a positive diagnosis over the weekend , after he attended a November 3 election day event at the White House .
Another advisor also tested positive , according to the New York Times , but was not identified nor was it stated if the person attended election night events at the president 's residence .
The Argentine government announces President Alberto Fernandez is self-isolating despite testing negative after coming into contact with a confirmed case .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not bring fans back to their stadium this year as cases rise in the United States .
Organisers of the French Paris Peace Forum say several countries and foundations are set to pledge more than $ 500 million for a global pool aimed at ensuring equitable access to coronavirus tests , treatment and vaccines for all nations .
A top official says fans at the delayed Tokyo Olympics next year may be asked not to cheer to avoid the risk of spreading the virus following a test event where mask-wearing spectators , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confined themselves to polite applause and murmurs of approval .
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen says his country will not go into lockdown , despite growing concerns after senior officials tested positive following a meeting with Hungary 's foreign minister .
As a precaution , the government has closed entertainment venues such as karaoke bars , nightclubs , cinemas and museums nationwide .

Paris (AFP) –
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Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus crisis:
- Markets sink again -
After a rally on vaccine hopes and Joe Biden's election, Europe and Asia markets sink as investors fret that surging global infection and death rates could damage economic recovery.
- Oil drop -
The International Energy Agency cuts its 2020 global oil demand forecast, citing a resurgence of the pandemic. It expects full-year 2020 global oil demand to come in at 91.3 million barrels per day (mbpd) -- down by 8.8 mbpd compared with the drop of 8.4 mbpd given in last month's regular report.
- Emirates loss -
Dubai-based Emirates airline posts its first loss in more than three decades, saying it has been badly hit by the lockdown that has brought air transport to "a literal standstill".
- More than 1.2 million deaths -
The virus has claimed at least 1,285,160 lives worldwide since it first emerged in China late last year, according to an AFP tally on Thursday at 1100 GMT based on official sources.
More than 52,151,589 cases have been registered across the globe.
The United States is the worst-affected country with 241,808 deaths, followed by Brazil with 163,373, India with 128,121, Mexico with 96,430 and the United Kingdom with 50,365 deaths.
- German curve flattening? -
Germany is seeing tentative signs that a surge in new cases may be easing, the head of the country's disease control agency says.
The key reproduction figure has fallen below 1 to 0.89, meaning that 100 people are infecting 89 others -- a sign that the new infections are falling.
- One more at the White House -
In the latest case among Donald Trump's administration, CNN and the New York Times report that political director Brian Jack received a positive diagnosis over the weekend, after he attended a November 3 election day event at the White House.
Another advisor also tested positive, according to the New York Times, but was not identified nor was it stated if the person attended election night events at the president's residence.
- Argentina president -
The Argentine government announces President Alberto Fernandez is self-isolating despite testing negative after coming into contact with a confirmed case.
- Vikings keep fans out -
The NFL's Minnesota Vikings say they will not bring fans back to their stadium this year as cases rise in the United States.
- Push for access -
Organisers of the French Paris Peace Forum say several countries and foundations are set to pledge more than $500 million for a global pool aimed at ensuring equitable access to coronavirus tests, treatment and vaccines for all nations.
- Silent support -
A top official says fans at the delayed Tokyo Olympics next year may be asked not to cheer to avoid the risk of spreading the virus following a test event where mask-wearing spectators, urged not to shout or cheer, confined themselves to polite applause and murmurs of approval.
- No Cambodia lockdown -
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen says his country will not go into lockdown, despite growing concerns after senior officials tested positive following a meeting with Hungary's foreign minister.
As a precaution, the government has closed entertainment venues such as karaoke bars, nightclubs, cinemas and museums nationwide.
burs-nrh/eab/adp
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--How to escape from your echo chamber?

How to escape from your echo chamber?

How to escape from your echo chamber ?
Did you know that social media and search engines use algorithms to @ @ @ @ @ you want to see - increasingly trapping us in our own echo chambers filled with @ @ @ @ @ .
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How to escape from your echo chamber?
Did you know that social media and search engines use algorithms to artificially promote content they think you want to see - increasingly trapping us in our own echo chambers filled with people holding the same opinions. Want to broaden your horizons and challenge yourself to consider new ideas? France 24 wants to help you break out!
Europe Talks - Echo chamber © france24
Text by: Céline SCHMITT
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france24--2020-11-12--Former FA chairman Clarke resigns from FIFA Council

Former English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke has resigned from his role as a FIFA vice-president Former Football Association chairman Greg Clarke resigned from his role as a FIFA vice-president on Thursday , two days after he left the FA over a series of offensive remarks .
Clarke quit his role at the English governing body on Tuesday after making a series of `` unacceptable '' comments to a committee of lawmakers , including referring to `` coloured footballers '' in reference to black players .
The 63-year-old was also criticised for describing homosexuality as a `` life choice '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Committee , for referring to the `` different career interests '' of people from ethnic minorities and for controversial remarks about girls ' football .
European football 's governing body UEFA said in a statement on Thursday : `` Following a telephone call this morning between the UEFA president ( Aleksander Ceferin ) and Greg Clarke , they agreed with Greg Clarke 's proposal that he should step down with immediate effect from his position as a UEFA representative on the FIFA Council . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Clarke had had `` no alternative '' but to step down from the FA , while former England Women captain Casey Stoney added the comments were `` completely unacceptable '' .
The FA appointed Peter McCormick as interim chairman following Clarke 's departure , and said it hoped to appoint a new chairman by the end of March .
Paul Elliott , the chairman of the FA 's inclusion advisory board , and Bobby Barnes , the deputy chief executive of the Professional Footballers ' Association , have both been mooted as @ @ @

London (AFP) –
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Former Football Association chairman Greg Clarke resigned from his role as a FIFA vice-president on Thursday, two days after he left the FA over a series of offensive remarks.
Clarke quit his role at the English governing body on Tuesday after making a series of "unacceptable" comments to a committee of lawmakers, including referring to "coloured footballers" in reference to black players.
The 63-year-old was also criticised for describing homosexuality as a "life choice" in the comments to the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, for referring to the "different career interests" of people from ethnic minorities and for controversial remarks about girls' football.
European football's governing body UEFA said in a statement on Thursday: "Following a telephone call this morning between the UEFA president (Aleksander Ceferin) and Greg Clarke, they agreed with Greg Clarke's proposal that he should step down with immediate effect from his position as a UEFA representative on the FIFA Council."
England boss Gareth Southgate said on Wednesday that Clarke had had "no alternative" but to step down from the FA, while former England Women captain Casey Stoney added the comments were "completely unacceptable".
The FA appointed Peter McCormick as interim chairman following Clarke's departure, and said it hoped to appoint a new chairman by the end of March.
Paul Elliott, the chairman of the FA's inclusion advisory board, and Bobby Barnes, the deputy chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, have both been mooted as strong contenders.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Ethiopia rallies public support as Tigray conflict escalates

A crowd stands to sing the Ethiopian national anthem during a blood donation rally in Addis Ababa Hundreds of Ethiopians gathered Thursday to donate blood for troops fighting in the northern Tigray region , as officials tried to rally support for a week-old conflict Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said was going his way .
The government also announced that police had arrested 150 people in the capital suspected of trying to carry out `` terror attacks '' on the orders of Tigray 's ruling party , which Abiy blames for a conflict that analysts fear could spiral into a protracted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands have fled the country since Abiy , last year 's Nobel Peace Prize winner , sent troops and warplanes into Tigray last week after a months-long feud with the Tigray People 's Liberation Front ( TPLF ) .
Abiy said the TPLF -- which dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades before he took office in 2018 -- had crossed a `` red line '' and attacked two federal military bases , which the party denies .
Thursday 's blood drive was organised by the office of Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the TPLF while donating blood herself .
`` The aim of this blood donation is to express our respect for our army , '' she told AFP as a nurse drew blood from her left arm .
`` The attack done by TPLF to our army is shameful for Ethiopia .
Never happened in our history .
We want to condemn this . ''
Tigray has been under a communications blackout since the military operation was launched on November 4 , making it difficult to verify the situation on the ground as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Facebook post Thursday , Abiy said government forces had `` liberated '' the western zone of Tigray -- made up of six zones , plus the capital and surrounds .
Abiy also accused TPLF-aligned fighters of `` cruelty '' , saying that when the army took control of the town of Sheraro they `` found bodies of executed defence force personnel whose hands and feet were tied '' .
There was no immediate reaction from the TPLF .
Under Abiy , Tigray 's leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tensions soared as Tigray defiantly held its own elections in September , insisting Abiy was an illegitimate leader after national polls were postponed due to the coronavirus .
The conflict has seen multiple rounds of airstrikes targeting arms and fuel depots along with heavy fighting in western Tigray .
The UN said Wednesday some 11,000 Ethiopians had sought refuge in neighbouring Sudan , and Ethiopia has acknowledged some of its troops at one point retreated into neighbouring Eritrea , highlighting the conflict 's potential to draw in the wider Horn of Africa region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quoted by state news agency SUNA as he hosted Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh , on Wednesday called for a `` stop to the fighting as soon as possible '' and a return to the negotiating table .
The African Union has also called for an immediate stop to fighting and for dialogue , as international concern mounts over the prospects of a long and bloody war in Africa 's second most populous country .
But Ethiopia reiterated Thursday that the `` cruelty '' of the TPLF `` can not be addressed or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a negotiation '' .
`` Negotiation makes sense only when there is good faith and a desire for peace , '' it said in a `` context document '' distributed by Abiy 's office .
`` The federal government is determined to enforce the rule of law in the region . ''
Lawmakers have approved a plan to install a `` caretaker administration '' in Tigray assuming the federal government can assert control over the region .
On Thursday they voted to lift the immunity of 39 TPLF members including Tigray regional president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the move was unclear given that TPLF MPs resigned en masse last month .
There are mounting worries about how Tigray 's population is faring .
In a report published Wednesday , the UN 's humanitarian affairs office warned that lack of relief access in Tigray means `` food , health and other emergency supplies have no way to make it into the region '' .
It also noted `` increasing concern for the protection of civilians against hostilities '' .
Abiy said on Facebook that `` the army is giving humanitarian aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood drive in Addis Ababa , donor Addisu Tsehay said he was saddened by the conflict but insisted the TPLF 's provocations made fighting inevitable .
`` Waging war at this time is not proper .
War has no benefit for us .
It hurts our economy , our country , '' he said , adding that those who die `` would have contributed a lot to the country '' .

Addis Ababa (AFP) –
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Hundreds of Ethiopians gathered Thursday to donate blood for troops fighting in the northern Tigray region, as officials tried to rally support for a week-old conflict Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said was going his way.
The government also announced that police had arrested 150 people in the capital suspected of trying to carry out "terror attacks" on the orders of Tigray's ruling party, which Abiy blames for a conflict that analysts fear could spiral into a protracted civil war.
Hundreds have died and thousands have fled the country since Abiy, last year's Nobel Peace Prize winner, sent troops and warplanes into Tigray last week after a months-long feud with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).
Abiy said the TPLF -- which dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades before he took office in 2018 -- had crossed a "red line" and attacked two federal military bases, which the party denies.
Thursday's blood drive was organised by the office of Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebe, who claimed the population was unified against the TPLF while donating blood herself.
"The aim of this blood donation is to express our respect for our army," she told AFP as a nurse drew blood from her left arm.
"The attack done by TPLF to our army is shameful for Ethiopia. Never happened in our history. We want to condemn this."
Tigray has been under a communications blackout since the military operation was launched on November 4, making it difficult to verify the situation on the ground as both sides make conflicting claims.
In a Facebook post Thursday, Abiy said government forces had "liberated" the western zone of Tigray -- made up of six zones, plus the capital and surrounds.
Abiy also accused TPLF-aligned fighters of "cruelty", saying that when the army took control of the town of Sheraro they "found bodies of executed defence force personnel whose hands and feet were tied".
There was no immediate reaction from the TPLF.
Under Abiy, Tigray's leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption prosecutions and removed from top positions.
Tensions soared as Tigray defiantly held its own elections in September, insisting Abiy was an illegitimate leader after national polls were postponed due to the coronavirus.
-'Rule of law'-
The conflict has seen multiple rounds of airstrikes targeting arms and fuel depots along with heavy fighting in western Tigray.
The UN said Wednesday some 11,000 Ethiopians had sought refuge in neighbouring Sudan, and Ethiopia has acknowledged some of its troops at one point retreated into neighbouring Eritrea, highlighting the conflict's potential to draw in the wider Horn of Africa region.
Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, quoted by state news agency SUNA as he hosted Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh, on Wednesday called for a "stop to the fighting as soon as possible" and a return to the negotiating table.
The African Union has also called for an immediate stop to fighting and for dialogue, as international concern mounts over the prospects of a long and bloody war in Africa's second most populous country.
But Ethiopia reiterated Thursday that the "cruelty" of the TPLF "cannot be addressed or redressed by sitting at a table for a negotiation".
"Negotiation makes sense only when there is good faith and a desire for peace," it said in a "context document" distributed by Abiy's office.
"The federal government is determined to enforce the rule of law in the region."
Lawmakers have approved a plan to install a "caretaker administration" in Tigray assuming the federal government can assert control over the region.
On Thursday they voted to lift the immunity of 39 TPLF members including Tigray regional president Debretsion Gebremichael, though the significance of the move was unclear given that TPLF MPs resigned en masse last month.
- Humanitarian worries -
There are mounting worries about how Tigray's population is faring.
In a report published Wednesday, the UN's humanitarian affairs office warned that lack of relief access in Tigray means "food, health and other emergency supplies have no way to make it into the region".
It also noted "increasing concern for the protection of civilians against hostilities".
Abiy said on Facebook that "the army is giving humanitarian aid" in western Tigray.
At the blood drive in Addis Ababa, donor Addisu Tsehay said he was saddened by the conflict but insisted the TPLF's provocations made fighting inevitable.
"Waging war at this time is not proper. War has no benefit for us. It hurts our economy, our country," he said, adding that those who die "would have contributed a lot to the country".
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Hong Kong lawmaker resignations a 'challenge' to authority: China

Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo holds a yellow umbrella and her resignation letter at the Legislative Council in Hong Kong on November 12 , 2020 China warned Thursday the mass resignations of pro-democracy lawmakers in Hong Kong were a `` blatant challenge '' to its authority over the city .
Fifteen legislators were set to quit the chamber in protest at the Beijing-sanctioned ousting of four colleagues , leaving the assembly a muted gathering of government loyalists .
The resignations come with the city 's beleaguered pro-democracy movement and avenues of dissent already under sustained attack since Beijing imposed a sweeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the group had made good on their pledge by Thursday afternoon , which sparked a furious response from Beijing 's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office .
`` It once again showed their stubborn confrontation against the central government and a blatant challenge to the power of the central government .
We severely condemn this , '' a statement said .
`` We have to tell these opposition lawmakers , that if they want to use this to advocate a radical fight , and beg for foreign forces to interfere , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that 's a wrong calculation . ''
Inside the chamber , government loyalists discussed a transport bill , but without any of the rambunctious debate that has been the mark of Hong Kong 's semi-democracy in recent years .
`` Hong Kongers -- prepare for a long , long time where there is only one voice in society , '' pro-democracy lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting told reporters outside .
`` If you are a dissident , get ready for even more pressure . ''
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam , a Beijing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power to turf out any legislator who she deems insufficiently patriotic , without recourse to the city 's courts .
She immediately made use of those powers , kicking out four lawmakers she said were a threat to national security , and sparking criticism both at home and abroad , with the United States threatening further sanctions on regime figures .
Chris Patten , the city 's last colonial governor , said the move demonstrated Beijing 's `` total hostility to democratic accountability , and those who wish to stand up for it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to strictly abide by the basic norms of international law and international relations , stop any form of interference into China 's internal affairs , of which Hong Kong affairs are a part , '' he said .
The exodus of opposition lawmakers neuters one of the last forums for dissent in Hong Kong , as its once-boisterous media reels under a crackdown unleashed by the national security law .
Restrictions on gatherings , partly because of the coronavirus , have also put the lid on the kind of huge rallies that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took to the streets in largely peaceful protests over a lack of political accountability and what demonstrators saw as overbearing policing .
Violence and vandalism erupted at some demonstrations , and more than 10,000 people were arrested .
Ivan Choy , senior lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong said pro-Beijing figures would now take advantage of the absence of an opposition in the legislature `` to pass many draconian laws . ''
Hong Kong 's leader is chosen by pro-Beijing committees , but half of the legislature 's 70 seats are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7.5 million residents a rare chance to have their voices heard at the ballot box .
Scuffles and protests would routinely break out in the chamber , with the out-gunned pro-democracy minority often resorting to filibustering and other tactics to try to halt bills they opposed .
The expulsions and resignations will leave just two legislators outside the pro-Beijing camp , both of them unaligned with either bloc .
The move by Beijing `` has put the final nail in the coffin , '' Claudia Mo , one of the lawmakers who resigned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule by decree . ''
`` What 's the point of going to work every morning thinking 'am I going to be kicked out ' ? ''

Hong Kong (AFP) –
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China warned Thursday the mass resignations of pro-democracy lawmakers in Hong Kong were a "blatant challenge" to its authority over the city.
Fifteen legislators were set to quit the chamber in protest at the Beijing-sanctioned ousting of four colleagues, leaving the assembly a muted gathering of government loyalists.
The resignations come with the city's beleaguered pro-democracy movement and avenues of dissent already under sustained attack since Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law this year.
Half of the group had made good on their pledge by Thursday afternoon, which sparked a furious response from Beijing's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office.
"It once again showed their stubborn confrontation against the central government and a blatant challenge to the power of the central government. We severely condemn this," a statement said.
"We have to tell these opposition lawmakers, that if they want to use this to advocate a radical fight, and beg for foreign forces to interfere, and once again drag Hong Kong into chaos, that's a wrong calculation."
Inside the chamber, government loyalists discussed a transport bill, but without any of the rambunctious debate that has been the mark of Hong Kong's semi-democracy in recent years.
"Hong Kongers -- prepare for a long, long time where there is only one voice in society," pro-democracy lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting told reporters outside.
"If you are a dissident, get ready for even more pressure."
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, a Beijing appointee, on Wednesday was granted the power to turf out any legislator who she deems insufficiently patriotic, without recourse to the city's courts.
She immediately made use of those powers, kicking out four lawmakers she said were a threat to national security, and sparking criticism both at home and abroad, with the United States threatening further sanctions on regime figures.
Chris Patten, the city's last colonial governor, said the move demonstrated Beijing's "total hostility to democratic accountability, and those who wish to stand up for it".
China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin rejected the international criticism.
"We urge the relevant people to strictly abide by the basic norms of international law and international relations, stop any form of interference into China's internal affairs, of which Hong Kong affairs are a part," he said.
The exodus of opposition lawmakers neuters one of the last forums for dissent in Hong Kong, as its once-boisterous media reels under a crackdown unleashed by the national security law.
Restrictions on gatherings, partly because of the coronavirus, have also put the lid on the kind of huge rallies that roiled the city last year.
Millions took to the streets in largely peaceful protests over a lack of political accountability and what demonstrators saw as overbearing policing.
Violence and vandalism erupted at some demonstrations, and more than 10,000 people were arrested.
Ivan Choy, senior lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong said pro-Beijing figures would now take advantage of the absence of an opposition in the legislature "to pass many draconian laws."
- 'Final nail in coffin' -
Hong Kong's leader is chosen by pro-Beijing committees, but half of the legislature's 70 seats are directly elected, offering the city's 7.5 million residents a rare chance to have their voices heard at the ballot box.
Scuffles and protests would routinely break out in the chamber, with the out-gunned pro-democracy minority often resorting to filibustering and other tactics to try to halt bills they opposed.
The expulsions and resignations will leave just two legislators outside the pro-Beijing camp, both of them unaligned with either bloc.
The move by Beijing "has put the final nail in the coffin," Claudia Mo, one of the lawmakers who resigned, told AFP. "It's rule by decree."
"What's the point of going to work every morning thinking 'am I going to be kicked out'?"
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-11-12--Now is not the time to ease Covid-19 restrictions, says French PM

It is too early to relax lockdown measures imposed to curb a galloping second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic , French Prime Minister Jean Castex told Le Monde newspaper ahead of a keynote speech later on Thursday .
Castex , who will hold a news conference at 6pm local time ( GMT+1 ) , said there were early signs of a tapering in the Covid-19 figures in France .
However , he told the French daily , `` it is certainly not the moment to loosen the reins . ''
France reported 35,879 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday , taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the fourth-highest tally in the world .
The number of French deaths from Covid-19 also rose by 328 to reach a total of 42,535 .
New infections in the first three days of this week totalled just over 78,000 , compared with over 129,000 in the first three days of last week .
France is almost two weeks into a new , national lockdown , which has hit the economy , but some politicians are hoping that if the country 's Covid-19 figures improve , the country may be able to re-open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On Thursday , Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire said the crucial Christmas season could be saved , provided people abide by the restrictions until then .
`` What I wish is that we can save December for retailers ... What will dictate the decision of the prime minister and of the president is the protection of the safety of the French population , '' Le Maire told BFM Business radio .
`` We could have a dynamic December '' if the population sticks to current guidelines , he added .

Two weeks into a second lockdown aimed at stemming the spread of Covid-19, French Prime Minister Jean Castex told a news conference Thursday that lockdown measures would remain in place until December as scheduled. Any loosening of restrictions after December 1 would be "strictly limited" to certain businesses, he said.
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Castex said there were early signs of a tapering in the Covid-19 figures in France but that current lockdown measures, set to last until December 1, would remain in place.
Any loosening of restrictions after that date would be "strictly limited" to certain businesses and would exclude bars, restaurants and sports halls, Castex said.
One in four deaths in France were now due to Covid-19, he said. The number of people in hospital care for Covid-19 in France is now higher than during a previous peak in April.
There were now more than 32,000 Covid patients in hospitals, Castex told the news briefing, adding that a new Covid-19 case was admitted to hospital every 30 seconds and one into intensive care every three minutes.
The government will impose further restrictions if the coronavirus outbreak worsens in the coming days but could also decide to loosen restrictions over the holidays if the situations warrants it.
France is two weeks into a new national lockdown that has hit the economy but some politicians are hoping that if the country's Covid-19 figures improve the country may be able to re-open major shops and businesses for Christmas.
Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire said earlier Thursday that the economic boost provided by the crucial Christmas shopping season could be salvaged — provided people abide by the health restrictions until then.
"What I wish is that we can save December for retailers ... What will dictate the decision of the prime minister and of the president is the protection of the safety of the French population," Le Maire told BFM Business radio.
"We could have a dynamic December" if the population sticks to current guidelines, he added.
(FRANCE 24 with REUTERS)
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