News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

Protests block parts of Bangkok

Tens of thousands of protestors in Thailand have been blocking roads in parts of Bangkok as part of their bid to bring the government down. They're demanding the government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra be replaced with an unelected "People's Council". Elections had been scheduled for February 2nd. Protest leaders have been invited for talks with the government on Wednesday.

Iran nuclear deal date announced

It's been announced that an interim agreement to curb Iran's nuclear programme will enter into force on 20th January. The deal envisages the easing of some international sanctions on Tehran which has been accused of seeking to build nuclear weapons - a charge it denies. The EU's foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton says the UN's nuclear watchdog the IAEA will verify the deal's implementation.

Memorial service for Ariel Sharon

A state memorial service has been held for Israel's former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon outside the country's parliament the Knesset in Jerusalem. The controversial military and political leader died on Saturday at the age of 85 after 8 years in a coma. Sharon was widely hated in much of the Arab world for his involvement in four conflicts and his ordering of the invasion of Lebanon in 1982 in which hundreds of Palestinians were killed by Israel's Christian militia allies. Speaking at today's ceremony, President Shimon Peres said he was a "military legend" who also dreamed of peace for Israel. The US Vice-President Joe Biden was also among the speakers: "like all historic leaders, Prime Minister Sharon was a complex man who engendered strong opinions - from everyone. But like all historic leaders, he had a north star. His north star was the survival of the state of Israel and the Jewish people."

India marks polio-free milestone

India has marked three years since its last reported case of polio. The World Health Organisation says the development means that the country - which has carried out a huge immunisation programme - could soon be officially declared free of the disease.

New ten Euro note unveiled

The European Central Bank is unveiling the new ten Euro banknote today following last year's introduction of the re-designed five Euro note. The ten Euro one will come into circulation this coming Autumn. The ECB says it'll have stronger anti-counterfeiting security features.

American Hustle wins 3 Globes

The film "American Hustle" has won three awards at the Golden Globes including best film comedy. The top honour of the night went to "12 Years a Slave" which won the award for best film drama.

The Weather

Frequent sunshine but some persistent fog in some places, especially in Upper Austria and parts of Carinthia. There’ll be increasing cloud in the West. Highs mostly between minus 2 and plus 11 degrees.

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