Tag Archives: Germany

World

Germany suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 60

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Newsroom24x7 Network

Healthcare and frontline workers got priority in the first phase and have recived shots of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, known as Covishield in India. Now people over 60 and those who are between 45 and 59 but have other illnesses are getting covered by this vaccine.

India launched the first phase of its vaccine drive against COVID-19, the largest such effort in the world, in early January. The second phase of vaccination targeting senior citizens began on March 1.

People in India are getting vaccinated with Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, known as Covishield and India’s homegrown government backed Covaxin, which was given emergency approval earlier this year.

What comes as a matter of serious concern for people in India is the latest news that Germany has taken a U-turn from its policy to only give the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab to younger people and decided to suspend the use of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine in Germany from Wednesday for those under the age of 60. The German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Health Minister Jens Spahn made this announcement late Tuesday on the advice of the Federal Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) (Merkel and Spahn: No more Oxford/AstraZeneca jabs for under 60s)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said at her press conference “We have to be able to trust the vaccines.” She went on to assert that for citizens’ trust it is necessary to ensure that every case is investigated.

Focusing on data from the Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, which pointed to 31 suspected cases of blood clots in the brain after vaccination with the jab in the 20 to 63 age group and reports of abnormally low platelets, that help blood clot, in 19 cases, and the death of 9 people, Merkel observed, these were “findings that we cannot ignore”.

This week, France and Italy also have blocked AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccines.

Brushing aside the concern in India vis-a-vis AstraZenca/Covishield following the latest decision by Germany, France and Italy, a keen observer told Newsroom24x7: “One is not sure if its Scientific or pure politics between UK-EU-USA, and AstraZeneca. It is important to note that on the other hand EU has asked AstraZeneca to supply more vaccines to them first and export later.”

On being contacted, another person remarked, “Largest vaccination with AstraZenaca has been given in India and no such complaint is there. it is pure European politics”.

Last week on March 25, AstraZeneca in a statement.announced the following:

  • 76% vaccine efficacy against symptomatic COVID-19
  • 100% efficacy against severe or critical disease and hospitalisation
  • 85% efficacy against symptomatic COVID-19 in participants aged 65

Mene Pangalos, Executive Vice President, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, said: “The primary analysis is consistent with our previously released interim analysis, and confirms that our COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective in adults, including those aged 65 years and over. We look forward to filing our regulatory submission for Emergency Use Authorization in the US and preparing for the rollout of millions of doses across America.”

World

Investment from Germany for the “Make in India” initiative is rising: Narendra Modi

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Newsroom24x7 Network

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel witnessing the signing of MoUs/JDIs between India and Germany, in Berlin, Germany on May 30, 2017.

Berlin: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said here that foreign investment from Germany to India is rising, especially for the “Make in India” initiative and the German partnership is important for the “Skill India Mission” as German parameters being “global benchmarks” are crucial for India.

Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Angela Merkel today co-chaired the 4th India Germany Inter-Govermental Consultations in Berlin.

On this occasion, the Indian Prime Minister said that cooperation is also envisaged in the sports arena, particularly in football. Outcome oriented momentum is perceptible in relations between the two countries, he added.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chancellor Merkel’s vision for Europe and for the world.

The Prime Minister spoke of themes such as climate protection and smart cities, which came up for discussion. He said German innovation and Indian youth could together add great dynamism in the start-up space.

The Prime Minister said a global order based on democracy is the need of the hour, in an interconnected and interdependent world.

Responding to a question, he said Germany and India are “made for each other.” He explained the huge synergy that exists between German capabilities and Indian requirements. He spoke of India’s pursuit of excellence in areas such as engineering, infrastructure and skill development. Describing the values of innovation and democracy, as a blessing for mankind, he said India and Germany share these values.

In response to a question on climate change, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s timeless values of nurturing and protecting nature. He recalled India’s commitment to generate 175 GigaWatts of energy from renewable sources by 2022. Emphasizing the importance of protecting nature, the Prime Minister said “playing with the well-being of future generations would be an immoral and criminal act.”

Earlier, during the IGC, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the big role that the European Union has to play in nurturing a rule-based global order. Both leaders shared deep concern over the global menace of terrorism, and decided to strengthen mutual counter-terrorism initiatives.

The Prime Minister thanked Germany for support of Indian membership of export control regimes. Themes such as clean coal, electric mobility, science and technology cooperation, cyber-security and aviation security came up for discussion. The consultations also touched upon Afghanistan and other global matters.

Both countries signed 12 agreements. A comprehensive joint statement was also issued, covering various aspects of the negotiations.

The Prime MInister, after concluding the first leg of his four nation visit, left Germany for Spain on May 30, 2017.

World

Six Western powers condemn attacks on Libya’s energy infrastructure

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Newsroom24x7 Staff

libya-energy-infrastructureWashington: Condemning this weekend’s attacks on Zueitina, Ras Lanuf, Es Sider, and Brega oil terminals in Libya, the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States have asked all parties to undertake an immediate ceasefire and to refrain from any further hostilities.

The western powers, along with the US, have called on all forces to avoid any action that could damage Libya’s energy infrastructure or further disrupt its exports. Libya’s oil belongs to the Libyan people, they have underscored adding the Presidency Council (PC) is the sole steward of these resources. The PC and other Government of National Accord (GNA) institutions have an obligation to ensure oil revenues are used to provide essential services for the Libyan people. Oil infrastructure, production, and export must remain under the exclusive control of the National Oil Corporation (NOC) acting under the GNA’s authority. We call for all military forces that have moved into the oil crescent to withdraw immediately, without preconditions.

The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States have reaffirmed their full support for the GNA as Libya’s sole executive authority. They have further asked the Libyan forces to unite in fighting Da’esh and other UN-designated terrorist groups.

In an official statement, the US Department of State has said that violence against fellow Libyans undermines Libya’s stability and encourages division. Political agreements, not conflicts, must determine Libya’s future. Creating a unified, capable national security force under GNA authority is Libya’s best hope for protecting its resources for the benefit of all its people. We urge peaceful cooperation among Libya’s armed forces and immediate efforts to unify into one professional military force. All Libyan forces have a responsibility to serve the entire nation, and to act on behalf of all Libyans. We welcome efforts by partners to encourage all forces to avoid further clashes.

The US spokesperson has also reiterated the intent to enforce UNSCR 2259, including measures concerning illicit oil exports, activities that could damage the integrity and unity of Libyan State financial institutions and the NOC, and individuals and entities engaging in or providing support for acts that threaten the unity, peace, stability or security of Libya.

World

Your Phone Was Made By Slaves: A Primer on the Secret Economy — Discover

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Some of the best and cheapest tombstones come from India. In 2013 India produced 35,342 million tons of granite, making it the world’s largest producer. Add to this a growing demand for granite kitchen countertops in America and Europe, and business is booming. There are more precious minerals of course, but fortunes can be made in granite

On the new triangle trade, and the surprising connection between modern slavery and ecological disaster.

Click here to read: Your Phone Was Made By Slaves: A Primer on the Secret Economy — Discover