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Added on the 09/02/2021 12:04:10 - Copyright : AFPTV - First images
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo renews his widely contested charge that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a Chinese laboratory, but acknowledges there was no certainty. "We don't have certainty, and there is significant evidence that this came from the laboratory. Those statements can both be true," Pompeo tells reporters. SOUNDBITE
A large plume of smoke rises over Gaza City, seen from Jabalia, as Israeli bombardment continues to rock the Gaza Strip. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says that at least 40,819 people have been killed in the war between Israel and Palestinian militants, now nearing its 12th month. IMAGES
A large crowd of people rallies against racism during a counter-protest in London's Walthamstow area as Britain remains on high alert for more violent far-right protests across the country. Protesters hold signs reading "Refugees welcome, stop the far right" after nightly riots, during which mosques and migrant targets have been attacked, have erupted in English towns and cities since three children were murdered on July 29. IMAGES
The European Central Bank (ECB) announces its first interest rate cut since 2019, reducing borrowing costs from record highs, but giving few clues about its next move while warning of continuing inflation pressures. "The governing council today decided to lower the three key ECB interest rates by 25 basis points," says Christine Lagarde, ECB President. SOUNDBITE
South Africa's electoral commission chief Sy Mamabolo says it is "difficult to call" the election turnout until vote count is completed, adding that it will likely be "well beyond" the 66 percent of the 2019 vote. SOUNDBITE