Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus. The Judiciary Committee hearings are due to begin on October 3. Amy Coney Barrett has been nominated by Donald Trump for US Supreme Court.

Mitch McConnel, Senate majority leader, said that the Senate would proceed with Barrett's confirmation.

"I think we can move forward. Our biggest enemy, obviously, is ... the coronavirus, keeping everybody healthy and well and in place to do our job," McConnell told radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt.

"Full steam ahead," an aide to Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham told Reuters when asked if the schedule for hearings due to begin on Oct. 12 could change.

Graham spoke to Trump on Friday morning and said the first thing the president asked about was the Senate`s plan for Barrett`s confirmation, the aide added.

Barrett, who was last with Trump on Saturday, has tested negative for the coronavirus and is following government guidelines on social distancing and other best practices, according to a White House official.

Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate.

Why the hurry

Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal.

Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections.

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In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election.

It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020.

What options do Democrats have?

At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett.

Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans.

Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case.

Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives.

(With Reuters inputs)

Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus.

Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus. The Judiciary Committee hearings are due to begin on October 3. Amy Coney Barrett has been nominated by Donald Trump for US Supreme Court. Mitch McConnel, Senate majority leader, said that the Senate would proceed with Barrett's confirmation. "I think we can move forward. Our biggest enemy, obviously, is ... the coronavirus, keeping everybody healthy and well and in place to do our job," McConnell told radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt. "Full steam ahead," an aide to Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham told Reuters when asked if the schedule for hearings due to begin on Oct. 12 could change. Graham spoke to Trump on Friday morning and said the first thing the president asked about was the Senate`s plan for Barrett`s confirmation, the aide added. Barrett, who was last with Trump on Saturday, has tested negative for the coronavirus and is following government guidelines on social distancing and other best practices, according to a White House official. Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate. Why the hurry Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal. Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections. Also Read | Trump has the coronavirus. What risks does he face? In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election. It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020. What options do Democrats have? At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett. Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans. Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case. Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives. (With Reuters inputs)

Republicans to push Barrett's confirmation despite Trump's positive COVID-19 test

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar.

Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China.

Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. 
Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction.

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests.

"During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP.

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Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas.&nbsp;

Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat.

The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity.

"Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said.

"China is violating those rights."

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China. Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction. Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests. "During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP. Also Read | Internet explodes with memes after Trump, who called COVID-19 a 'hoax', tests positive Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas. Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat. The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity. "Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said. "China is violating those rights." (With AFP inputs)

Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit

Pakistan has refuted claims that its army was involved in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and fighting alongside Azerbaijan. Pakistan's Foreign Office has said that the claims were "irresponsible". He was quoted by Dawn.

On Thursday, Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Avet Adonts spoke exclusively with WION ands said that he "can't exclude the possibility" of Pakistani fighters fighting on ground alongside Azerbaijan along with "mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan". He also added that it would not be a surprise for them. He even recalled how Pakistani fighters were present in Nagorno-Karabakh when war erupted in 1990s.

Zahid Hafeez Chaudri, Spokesperson of Pakistan's Foreign Office said that the country remained deeply concerned over the conflict that has erupted in Nagorno Karabah region.

Pakistan supports position of Azerbaijan in the ongoing conflict. Armenian President Ilham Aliyev has even thanked Pakistan Turkey and Afghanistan for their support

The hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia have not ceased and tensions are high still.

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Azerbaijan said Friday that Armenia must withdraw troops from the disputed Nagorny Karabakh region in order to end days of fighting, after France, Russia and the United States urged a ceasefire.

"If Armenia wants to see an end of this escalation of the situation, the ball is in the court of Armenia," Hikmet Hajiyev, foreign affairs aide to the president of Azerbaijan, told reporters during an online press conference.

"Armenia must ends its occupation," of Karabakh, he said. "Enough is enough."

Fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces erupted Sunday over a longstanding territorial dispute centering around Karabakh.

Nearly 200 people including civilians have been killed in the fighting despite growing international calls for a ceasefire.

Pakistan has refuted claims that its army was involved in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and fighting alongside Azerbaijan. Pakistan's Foreign Office has said that the claims were "irresponsible".

Pakistan has refuted claims that its army was involved in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and fighting alongside Azerbaijan. Pakistan's Foreign Office has said that the claims were "irresponsible". He was quoted by Dawn. On Thursday, Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Avet Adonts spoke exclusively with WION ands said that he "can't exclude the possibility" of Pakistani fighters fighting on ground alongside Azerbaijan along with "mercenaries operating in Azerbaijan". He also added that it would not be a surprise for them. He even recalled how Pakistani fighters were present in Nagorno-Karabakh when war erupted in 1990s. Zahid Hafeez Chaudri, Spokesperson of Pakistan's Foreign Office said that the country remained deeply concerned over the conflict that has erupted in Nagorno Karabah region. Pakistan supports position of Azerbaijan in the ongoing conflict. Armenian President Ilham Aliyev has even thanked Pakistan Turkey and Afghanistan for their support The hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia have not ceased and tensions are high still. Also Read | Armenia says ready to engage with mediators for Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire Azerbaijan said Friday that Armenia must withdraw troops from the disputed Nagorny Karabakh region in order to end days of fighting, after France, Russia and the United States urged a ceasefire. "If Armenia wants to see an end of this escalation of the situation, the ball is in the court of Armenia," Hikmet Hajiyev, foreign affairs aide to the president of Azerbaijan, told reporters during an online press conference. "Armenia must ends its occupation," of Karabakh, he said. "Enough is enough." Fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces erupted Sunday over a longstanding territorial dispute centering around Karabakh. Nearly 200 people including civilians have been killed in the fighting despite growing international calls for a ceasefire.

Armenia-Azerbaijan clash: Pakistan refutes claims of its involvement

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The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore.

The ministry said the 'multi-mode' hand grenades will replace the "World War II vintage" grenades being used by the Indian Army.

"The Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), Nagpur, for supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore," the ministry said in a statement.

"These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army," it said.

The grenades to be supplied by Economic Explosive Ltd have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), officials said.

"The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both offensive and defensive modes. This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of government of India enabling 'Atmanirbharta' (self reliance) in cutting edge ammunition technologies," the ministry said.

The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore.

The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore. The ministry said the 'multi-mode' hand grenades will replace the "World War II vintage" grenades being used by the Indian Army. "The Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), Nagpur, for supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore," the ministry said in a statement. "These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army," it said. The grenades to be supplied by Economic Explosive Ltd have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), officials said. "The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both offensive and defensive modes. This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of government of India enabling 'Atmanirbharta' (self reliance) in cutting edge ammunition technologies," the ministry said.

Defence ministry seals Rs 409-crore contract to procure hand grenades for Indian Army

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage. Assange faces accuasations from US authorities of conspiring to hack government computers and violating espionage law in connection with the release of confidential cables. These cables were leaked by Wikileaks in 2010-2011.

Assange's lawyer say that the charges against the Australian-born are politically motivated. They also say that Assange's mental health is at risk and that conditions of US prisons are in violation of Britain's human rights laws. They also allege that Julian Assange and his lawyers were spied on while he was in Ecuaorian embassy in the UK.

The legal team representing the United States have countered that many of those arguments are issues which should be addressed in a trial, and have no bearing on extradition.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser told London`s Old Bailey Court at the conclusion of hearings from witnesses in the case that she would deliver her verdict on January 4.

(With Reuters inputs)

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage.

A British judge said on Thursday that she would give her decision on extradition of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to US early next year. In the US, Assange may face charges including espionage. Assange faces accuasations from US authorities of conspiring to hack government computers and violating espionage law in connection with the release of confidential cables. These cables were leaked by Wikileaks in 2010-2011. Assange's lawyer say that the charges against the Australian-born are politically motivated. They also say that Assange's mental health is at risk and that conditions of US prisons are in violation of Britain's human rights laws. They also allege that Julian Assange and his lawyers were spied on while he was in Ecuaorian embassy in the UK. The legal team representing the United States have countered that many of those arguments are issues which should be addressed in a trial, and have no bearing on extradition. Judge Vanessa Baraitser told London`s Old Bailey Court at the conclusion of hearings from witnesses in the case that she would deliver her verdict on January 4. (With Reuters inputs)

Julian Assange US extradition: UK judge to give verdict early next year

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'Stand down, let law enforcement do their work,' Donald Trump later issued a message for Proud Boys...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-backtracks-on-proud-boys-biden-calls-debate-national-embarrassment-331595">Read more</a>

<img alt="Proud boy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14327d62-8064-4873-9e30-ad64bfc0d1b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Proud%20boy.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passes-bill-requiring-firms-to-disclose-xinjiang-products-331737">US passes bill requiring firms to disclose Xinjiang products</a>

The bill follows a broader act approved a week earlier that aims to ban imports from Xinjiang, contending that abuses of the Uighur people are so widespread that all goods from the region should be considered made with slave labor...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passes-bill-requiring-firms-to-disclose-xinjiang-products-331737">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passes-bill-requiring-firms-to-disclose-xinjiang-products-331737"><img alt="Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d9443a4-1674-4e22-8ff7-1fda4cff8730" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/donald%20trump.JPG" /></a> 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-eu-takes-legal-action-against-uk-over-internal-market-bill-331695">Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill</a>

The move comes as British and EU negotiators struggle to close the gap on state aid in parallel trade negotiations that have been overshadowed by the new controversy over the Internal Market Bill.. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-eu-takes-legal-action-against-uk-over-internal-market-bill-331695">Read more</a>

<img alt="Boris Johnson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f30fcf8-87ae-4955-8a2c-6c131c6c62a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Johnson.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-behind-the-crime-alexei-navalny-claims-in-interview-331654">'Putin is behind the crime': Alexei Navalny claims in interview</a>

Navalny fell ill on a domestic flight and was later treated in a Germany hospital, where the doctors claimed that he was poisoned...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-behind-the-crime-alexei-navalny-claims-in-interview-331654">Read more</a>

<img alt="Navalny" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a70575b7-7715-4c0f-9ead-b798a4bf0552" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/navalny.JPG" />

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-to-pay-usd-1-billion-to-news-publishers-for-their-content-331748">Google to pay USD 1 billion to news publishers for their content</a>

This has marked a major step that appears to pacify news publishers around the world who have fought Google for compensation for using their content...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-to-pay-usd-1-billion-to-news-publishers-for-their-content-331748">Read more</a>

<img alt="Google" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc6c17dc-9edb-4793-b107-0f3482dadcbd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/google.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-high-court-slams-nawaz-sharif-for-failing-to-appear-before-court-331684">Pakistan High Court slams Nawaz Sharif for failing to appear before court</a>

Pakistan has fast-tracked the process to bring back PML-N leader from London, where he had been staying since November 2019 on medical grounds...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-high-court-slams-nawaz-sharif-for-failing-to-appear-before-court-331684">Read more</a>

<img alt="Nawaz Sharif" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ac85a62c-d3b8-4f8e-be58-71efc0aad948" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nawaz%20Sharif.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/getting-warmer-trump-acknowledges-human-role-in-climate-change-331687">'Getting warmer': Trump acknowledges human role in climate change</a>

Pressed repeatedly in Tuesday night's debate, Trump gave one of his fullest accountings yet of what scientists say is an escalating climate crisis threatening every aspect of life...<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/getting-warmer-trump-acknowledges-human-role-in-climate-change-331687">Read more</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ee9d681-f308-4e9b-8cb1-815bcd8c8706" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Trump_0.JPG" />

&nbsp;

Amid Armenia, Azerbaijan clash, US, Russia & UK urge 'immediate' ceasefire in Karabakh as fighting continues Amid the calls for peace, Armenian and Azerbaijani forces intensified shelling.

Amid Armenia, Azerbaijan clash, US, Russia & UK urge 'immediate' ceasefire in Karabakh as fighting continues Amid the calls for peace, Armenian and Azerbaijani forces intensified shelling..Read more Lebanon and Israel to hold UN-mediated talks on disputed borders Lebanon has technically been at war with neighbouring Israel for decades, with tensions sporadically flaring in the border area in Lebanon's south, stronghold of the Shiite Muslim Hezbollah movement...Read more After curbing COVID-19, China kicks off 'golden week' national holiday The Golden Week holiday marks the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and sees an astonishing annual movement of people trying to get home or take holidays..Read more Trump backtracks on Proud Boys; Biden calls debate 'national embarrassment' 'Stand down, let law enforcement do their work,' Donald Trump later issued a message for Proud Boys...Read more US passes bill requiring firms to disclose Xinjiang products The bill follows a broader act approved a week earlier that aims to ban imports from Xinjiang, contending that abuses of the Uighur people are so widespread that all goods from the region should be considered made with slave labor...Read more Brexit: EU takes legal action against UK over Internal Market Bill The move comes as British and EU negotiators struggle to close the gap on state aid in parallel trade negotiations that have been overshadowed by the new controversy over the Internal Market Bill.. Read more 'Putin is behind the crime': Alexei Navalny claims in interview Navalny fell ill on a domestic flight and was later treated in a Germany hospital, where the doctors claimed that he was poisoned...Read more Google to pay USD 1 billion to news publishers for their content This has marked a major step that appears to pacify news publishers around the world who have fought Google for compensation for using their content...Read more Pakistan High Court slams Nawaz Sharif for failing to appear before court Pakistan has fast-tracked the process to bring back PML-N leader from London, where he had been staying since November 2019 on medical grounds...Read more 'Getting warmer': Trump acknowledges human role in climate change Pressed repeatedly in Tuesday night's debate, Trump gave one of his fullest accountings yet of what scientists say is an escalating climate crisis threatening every aspect of life...Read more

Top 10 world news: Armenia-Azerbaijan clash, Navalny's allegations against Putin, and more

In a major development, Google &nbsp;has decided to pay USD 1 billion to publishers globally for their news content. The payment will be made over next three years. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said that the new product called Google News showcase will be launch first in Germany and in Brazil.

This has marked a major step that appears to pacify news publishers around the world who have fought Google for compensation for using their content.&nbsp;

Google showcase will be rolled out in Belgium, India, Netherlands and other countries. In Germany Google has signed up with German newspapers including Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, and in Brazil with Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae.

"This financial commitment - our biggest to date - will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," Pichai said in a blog post.

Google parent Alphabet reported a net profit of $34.3 billion on revenue of almost $162 billion last year. 
The product, which allows publishers to pick and present their stories, will launch on Google News on Android devices and eventually on Apple devices.

"This approach is distinct from our other news products because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them," Pichai said.

German publisher the Spiegel Group welcomed the project.

"With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content like from Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany. We are happy to be part of it from the start," said Stefan Ottlitz, managing director of the Spiegel Group.

The European Publishers Council (EPC), whose members include News UK, the Guardian, Pearson, the New York Times and Schibsted, however, was not enthusiastic.

"By launching a product, they (Google) can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production," said EPC Executive Director Angela Mills Wade.

The product builds on a licensing deal with media groups in Australia, Brazil and Germany in June, which also drew a lukewarm response from the EPC.

Google is negotiating with French publishers, among its most vocal critics, while Australia wants to force it and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups.

Google`s funding for news organisations has frustrated other internet publishers, such as weather websites and recipe tools, which say Google has hurt their revenue.

(With Reuters input) 
&nbsp;

In a major development, Google has decided to pay USD 1 billion to publishers globally for their news content. The payment will be made over next three years. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said that the new product called Google News showcase will be launch first in Germany and in Brazil.

In a major development, Google has decided to pay USD 1 billion to publishers globally for their news content. The payment will be made over next three years. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said that the new product called Google News showcase will be launch first in Germany and in Brazil. This has marked a major step that appears to pacify news publishers around the world who have fought Google for compensation for using their content. Google showcase will be rolled out in Belgium, India, Netherlands and other countries. In Germany Google has signed up with German newspapers including Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, and in Brazil with Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae. "This financial commitment - our biggest to date - will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," Pichai said in a blog post. Google parent Alphabet reported a net profit of $34.3 billion on revenue of almost $162 billion last year. The product, which allows publishers to pick and present their stories, will launch on Google News on Android devices and eventually on Apple devices. "This approach is distinct from our other news products because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them," Pichai said. German publisher the Spiegel Group welcomed the project. "With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content like from Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany. We are happy to be part of it from the start," said Stefan Ottlitz, managing director of the Spiegel Group. The European Publishers Council (EPC), whose members include News UK, the Guardian, Pearson, the New York Times and Schibsted, however, was not enthusiastic. "By launching a product, they (Google) can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production," said EPC Executive Director Angela Mills Wade. The product builds on a licensing deal with media groups in Australia, Brazil and Germany in June, which also drew a lukewarm response from the EPC. Google is negotiating with French publishers, among its most vocal critics, while Australia wants to force it and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups. Google`s funding for news organisations has frustrated other internet publishers, such as weather websites and recipe tools, which say Google has hurt their revenue. (With Reuters input)

Google to pay USD 1 billion to news publishers for their content

Interruptions, cross talk and what not marked the first US Presidential Debate. US President Donald Trump was seen by many to be the aggressor as he took on his Democratic Party rival Joe Biden.

"Joe Biden was certainly saying things that were not accurate," said Lt Steven Roger, who is working with Donald Trump's re-election campaign.&nbsp;

He said when you are trying to elect a person for the most important office in the US, it was unfair that the candidates were given little time to express their viewpoints.

"I think the President did pretty good in articulating law and order issue, the healthcare issue and also the issue whether Joe Biden really controls the party," he said.

At one point during the debate, Joe Biden told Donald Trump to "shut up".

"This debate was a complete disaster for Donald Trump," said Bernard Whitman, Democratic strategist. He had some strong words for the incumbent president.

"Everybody knows that Donald Trump is a bully, he cannot be trusted, that he is a liar and that he is not likable," said Whitman. He opined that Joe Biden put forth his opinions quite assertively and that Trump was not fit to run the country.

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"It was petty, non-substantive," said Arvin Vohra of the Libertarian Party. He felt that the debater did not stress enough on real issues that the USA faced.

"Half the time they were speaking about Joe Biden's son," said Vohra.

"I thought it was a horror-show," said Reena Shah, a political analyst. She said that it was hard to get true positions from the candidates during the debate.

The first presidential debate was characterised by Donald Trump repeatedly interrupting Joe Biden and even the moderator of the debate.

"Trump had no self-control", said Shah.

The moderator even had to remind Trump that he was not abiding by the rules.

"He is not just a toddler-in-chief he is a gaslighter-in-chief," said Reena Shah. She slammed Trump for continuously trying to set-up a false narrative. She particularly noted that Trump's behaviour during the presidential debate was a disservice to Joe Biden.

A count of Donald Trump's interruptions revealed that he interrupted speakers 73 times in the 90-minute debate.

Lt Steven Roger, who is involved with Donald Trump's re-election campaign conceded that the interruptions did lead the debate astray but he defended Trump by saying that he had many plans for the betterment of the country.

"Joe Biden supports higher taxes, he supports putting people out of work, he supports socialist agenda," said Roger.

Experts seemed to agree that this was the "worst debate" in history. David Whitman opined that Joe Biden won the debate while Lt. Steven Roger said that there was no winner, there was no loser. 
&nbsp;

Interruptions, cross talk and what not marked the first US Presidential Debate. US President Donald Trump was seen by many to be the aggressor as he took on his Democratic Party rival Joe Biden.

Interruptions, cross talk and what not marked the first US Presidential Debate. US President Donald Trump was seen by many to be the aggressor as he took on his Democratic Party rival Joe Biden. "Joe Biden was certainly saying things that were not accurate," said Lt Steven Roger, who is working with Donald Trump's re-election campaign. He said when you are trying to elect a person for the most important office in the US, it was unfair that the candidates were given little time to express their viewpoints. "I think the President did pretty good in articulating law and order issue, the healthcare issue and also the issue whether Joe Biden really controls the party," he said. At one point during the debate, Joe Biden told Donald Trump to "shut up". "This debate was a complete disaster for Donald Trump," said Bernard Whitman, Democratic strategist. He had some strong words for the incumbent president. "Everybody knows that Donald Trump is a bully, he cannot be trusted, that he is a liar and that he is not likable," said Whitman. He opined that Joe Biden put forth his opinions quite assertively and that Trump was not fit to run the country. × "It was petty, non-substantive," said Arvin Vohra of the Libertarian Party. He felt that the debater did not stress enough on real issues that the USA faced. "Half the time they were speaking about Joe Biden's son," said Vohra. "I thought it was a horror-show," said Reena Shah, a political analyst. She said that it was hard to get true positions from the candidates during the debate. The first presidential debate was characterised by Donald Trump repeatedly interrupting Joe Biden and even the moderator of the debate. "Trump had no self-control", said Shah. The moderator even had to remind Trump that he was not abiding by the rules. "He is not just a toddler-in-chief he is a gaslighter-in-chief," said Reena Shah. She slammed Trump for continuously trying to set-up a false narrative. She particularly noted that Trump's behaviour during the presidential debate was a disservice to Joe Biden. A count of Donald Trump's interruptions revealed that he interrupted speakers 73 times in the 90-minute debate. Lt Steven Roger, who is involved with Donald Trump's re-election campaign conceded that the interruptions did lead the debate astray but he defended Trump by saying that he had many plans for the betterment of the country. "Joe Biden supports higher taxes, he supports putting people out of work, he supports socialist agenda," said Roger. Experts seemed to agree that this was the "worst debate" in history. David Whitman opined that Joe Biden won the debate while Lt. Steven Roger said that there was no winner, there was no loser.

US Presidential Debates: Who won round one? Hear what experts say

Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed airlines to either provide refund of tickets purchased by travellers for flights cancelled during coronavirus lockdown or provide a credit shell. The decision is applicable to domestic as well as international flight.

Supreme Court accepted the Centre's proposal. The court said that if the tickets were booked through an agent for travel during the lockdown period, a full refund will be given to the agent and he will pass on the amount to the passengers.

Supreme Court also said that if the airlines were not able to make a refund due to financial distress, they can provide a credit shell to the passenger that can be utilised upto March 31, 2021.&nbsp;

It is open to passengers either to utilise such credit shell up to March 31, 2021 on any route of choice or transfer the credit shell to any person including the travel agent concerned, and the airlines shall honour such a transfer, the top court said.

A bench of Justices Ashok Bhushan, R Subhash Reddy and M R Shah said the suggestions and formulations arrived at the meeting held by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MCA), Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which are acceptable to the majority of stakeholders have to be implemented in letter and spirit.

"We also feel that such formulations are workable solutions in these peculiar circumstances which are prevailing in the country," the bench said, while passing a slew of directions for refund of air tickets to the hassled passengers, whose flights were cancelled due to the pandemic induced lockdown.

The top court's verdict came on a batch of petitions, including by NGOs and passengers associations, seeking complete refund of ticket fare for the flights cancelled.

It said that the court cannot lose sight of the present situation prevailing in the country and across the globe with regard to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and any strict enforcement action of Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) (aviation norms) against the airlines would further restrict their operations.

"It cannot be disputed that the civil aviation sector, which is one of the important sectors, is seriously affected in view of the ban imposed for operating flights. Added to the same, air passenger traffic has come down heavily and which is gradually being restored," the top court said.

It added that any such enforcement action may further jeopardise the possibilities of generation of cash by airlines which can further adversely affect/delay the refund cycle.

"Strict enforcement of Civil Aviation Requirements at this moment may not yield any meaningful result for any stakeholder," the bench said.

It said that the passengers who booked tickets at any period of time but for travel after May 24, then the refund of fares to the passengers covered under this category shall be governed by the provisions of CAR.

"Even for international travel, when the tickets have been booked on an Indian carrier and the booking is ex-India (flights originating from India), if the tickets have been booked during the lockdown period for travel within the lockdown period, immediate refund shall be made," the bench said in its order.

If the tickets are booked for international travel on a foreign carrier and the booking is ex-India during the lockdown period for travel within the lockdown period, full refund shall be given by the airlines and said amount shall be passed on immediately by the agent to the passengers, wherever such tickets are booked through agents, it added.

"In all other cases airline shall refund the collected amount to the passenger within a period of three weeks," the bench emphasised and added that the credit shell issued in the name of the passenger shall be transferable which can be utilized up to March 31, 2021 and the concerned airline shall honour such a transfer by devising a mechanism to facilitate such a transfer.

"It is also made clear that such a credit shell can be utilized by the concerned agent through whom the ticket is booked, for third party use. It is also made clear that even in cases where the credit shell is transferred to a third party; same is to be utilized only through the agent who has booked the ticket at the first instance," it directed.

Justice Reddy, who penned the verdict on behalf of the bench, said that in cases where passengers have purchased the ticket through an agent, and credit shell is issued in the name of passenger, such credit shell is to be utilized only through the agent who has booked the ticket.

It said that in cases where tickets are booked through agent and credit shell is issued in the name of the passenger remains unutilized till March 31, 2021, then the "refund of the fare collected shall be made to the same account from which account amount was received by the airline".

The bench said that in all cases where credit shell is issued there shall be an incentive to compensate the passenger from the date of cancellation up to June 30, 2020 in which event the credit shell shall be enhanced by 0.5 per cent of the face value (the amount of fare collected) for every month or part thereof between the date of cancellation and June 30, 2020.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed airlines to either provide refund of tickets purchased by travellers for flights cancelled during coronavirus lockdown or provide a credit shell.

Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed airlines to either provide refund of tickets purchased by travellers for flights cancelled during coronavirus lockdown or provide a credit shell. The decision is applicable to domestic as well as international flight. Supreme Court accepted the Centre's proposal. The court said that if the tickets were booked through an agent for travel during the lockdown period, a full refund will be given to the agent and he will pass on the amount to the passengers. Supreme Court also said that if the airlines were not able to make a refund due to financial distress, they can provide a credit shell to the passenger that can be utilised upto March 31, 2021. It is open to passengers either to utilise such credit shell up to March 31, 2021 on any route of choice or transfer the credit shell to any person including the travel agent concerned, and the airlines shall honour such a transfer, the top court said. A bench of Justices Ashok Bhushan, R Subhash Reddy and M R Shah said the suggestions and formulations arrived at the meeting held by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MCA), Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which are acceptable to the majority of stakeholders have to be implemented in letter and spirit. "We also feel that such formulations are workable solutions in these peculiar circumstances which are prevailing in the country," the bench said, while passing a slew of directions for refund of air tickets to the hassled passengers, whose flights were cancelled due to the pandemic induced lockdown. The top court's verdict came on a batch of petitions, including by NGOs and passengers associations, seeking complete refund of ticket fare for the flights cancelled. It said that the court cannot lose sight of the present situation prevailing in the country and across the globe with regard to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and any strict enforcement action of Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) (aviation norms) against the airlines would further restrict their operations. "It cannot be disputed that the civil aviation sector, which is one of the important sectors, is seriously affected in view of the ban imposed for operating flights. Added to the same, air passenger traffic has come down heavily and which is gradually being restored," the top court said. It added that any such enforcement action may further jeopardise the possibilities of generation of cash by airlines which can further adversely affect/delay the refund cycle. "Strict enforcement of Civil Aviation Requirements at this moment may not yield any meaningful result for any stakeholder," the bench said. It said that the passengers who booked tickets at any period of time but for travel after May 24, then the refund of fares to the passengers covered under this category shall be governed by the provisions of CAR. "Even for international travel, when the tickets have been booked on an Indian carrier and the booking is ex-India (flights originating from India), if the tickets have been booked during the lockdown period for travel within the lockdown period, immediate refund shall be made," the bench said in its order. If the tickets are booked for international travel on a foreign carrier and the booking is ex-India during the lockdown period for travel within the lockdown period, full refund shall be given by the airlines and said amount shall be passed on immediately by the agent to the passengers, wherever such tickets are booked through agents, it added. "In all other cases airline shall refund the collected amount to the passenger within a period of three weeks," the bench emphasised and added that the credit shell issued in the name of the passenger shall be transferable which can be utilized up to March 31, 2021 and the concerned airline shall honour such a transfer by devising a mechanism to facilitate such a transfer. "It is also made clear that such a credit shell can be utilized by the concerned agent through whom the ticket is booked, for third party use. It is also made clear that even in cases where the credit shell is transferred to a third party; same is to be utilized only through the agent who has booked the ticket at the first instance," it directed. Justice Reddy, who penned the verdict on behalf of the bench, said that in cases where passengers have purchased the ticket through an agent, and credit shell is issued in the name of passenger, such credit shell is to be utilized only through the agent who has booked the ticket. It said that in cases where tickets are booked through agent and credit shell is issued in the name of the passenger remains unutilized till March 31, 2021, then the "refund of the fare collected shall be made to the same account from which account amount was received by the airline". The bench said that in all cases where credit shell is issued there shall be an incentive to compensate the passenger from the date of cancellation up to June 30, 2020 in which event the credit shell shall be enhanced by 0.5 per cent of the face value (the amount of fare collected) for every month or part thereof between the date of cancellation and June 30, 2020.

Supreme Court orders refund of tickets of flights cancelled due to lockdown

US House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she was due to resume talks on COVID-19 relief with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Wednesday, as Democratic lawmakers prepared to move forward with a $2.2 trillion bill if no deal is reached.

The House Rules Committee is meeting to debate an updated Heroes Act coronavirus relief package, which House Democrats unveiled on Monday. The panel would set the parameters for a House floor debate and vote on passage, but much depended on the outcome of Pelosi`s conversation with Mnuchin.

"I`m hopeful. We`ll just see what they come back with today and how our negotiations go next," Pelosi, who had spoken to Mnuchin for about 50 minutes on Tuesday, told MSNBC in an interview.

"It`s a negotiation. We won`t get everything we want," she said. Pelosi spoke just before the House Committee met. She did not say when exactly she would speak to Mnuchin and her office did not respond to queries.

Formal talks between Pelosi, Mnuchin, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows broke down on Aug. 7 with the two sides far apart.

Pelosi has since taken the lead for Democrats in trying to reach a compromise with the Trump administration.

Pelosi and Schumer initially pressed for a $3.4 trillion relief package but scaled back their demands by over a $1 trillion. The White House began with a $1 trillion proposal and later said that Trump could agree to a $1.3 trillion package.

On Monday, Pelosi urged the Trump administration to raise its number.

A report from Height Securites said on Wednesday that Mnuchin could give Pelosi an offer of $1.5 trillion to $1.6 trillion on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

US House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she was due to resume talks on COVID-19 relief with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Wednesday, as Democratic lawmakers prepared to move forward with a $2.

US House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she was due to resume talks on COVID-19 relief with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Wednesday, as Democratic lawmakers prepared to move forward with a $2.2 trillion bill if no deal is reached. The House Rules Committee is meeting to debate an updated Heroes Act coronavirus relief package, which House Democrats unveiled on Monday. The panel would set the parameters for a House floor debate and vote on passage, but much depended on the outcome of Pelosi`s conversation with Mnuchin. "I`m hopeful. We`ll just see what they come back with today and how our negotiations go next," Pelosi, who had spoken to Mnuchin for about 50 minutes on Tuesday, told MSNBC in an interview. "It`s a negotiation. We won`t get everything we want," she said. Pelosi spoke just before the House Committee met. She did not say when exactly she would speak to Mnuchin and her office did not respond to queries. Formal talks between Pelosi, Mnuchin, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows broke down on Aug. 7 with the two sides far apart. Pelosi has since taken the lead for Democrats in trying to reach a compromise with the Trump administration. Pelosi and Schumer initially pressed for a $3.4 trillion relief package but scaled back their demands by over a $1 trillion. The White House began with a $1 trillion proposal and later said that Trump could agree to a $1.3 trillion package. On Monday, Pelosi urged the Trump administration to raise its number. A report from Height Securites said on Wednesday that Mnuchin could give Pelosi an offer of $1.5 trillion to $1.6 trillion on Wednesday.

Pelosi, Mnuchin to resume COVID-19 relief talks as Democrats mull new bill

Republican lawmakers are calling for the US to open trade talks with Taiwan in order to counter national security and economic threats from China. According to the Congressman who leads the group, a plan is "very much" on the radar screen of US Government.

Representative Michael McCaul, who chairs the China task force launched by Republicans said that negotiations for such a deal would be "an important foreign policy statement to make". He also said that this would help hold China accountable for how it handled the COVID-19 outbreak.

"It is very much on their radar screen," McCaul told Reuters, when asked if the Trump administration and its top trade negotiator, Robert Lighthizer, would pursue a deal. "I don`t think that Lighthizer has 100% approved it, but...it is one of the options on the table for them and I think a recommendation coming from the task force would carry a lot of weight."

The proposal is one of 400 recommendations outlined in a report set to be released later on Wednesday by the task force.

The report will also recommend bolstering U.S. medical supply chains, sanctioning Chinese telecoms companies engaged in economic or industrial espionage, and evaluating whether the Beijing`s repression of its Uigher Muslim minority amounts to genocide.

Taiwan has long sought a free trade agreement with the United States, its most important supporter on the international stage, but Washington has complained about barriers to access for U.S. pork and beef.

Last month, Taiwan paved the way for an eventual deal by announcing an easing of restrictions on the import of U.S. beef and pork that is expected to go into effect on Jan. 1.

Taiwan-U.S. trade last year was worth $85.5 billion, with the United States running a $23.1 billion deficit. Taiwan was the United States` 14th biggest export market in 2019.

The United States, like most countries, has no official relations with Taiwan, which is claimed by Beijing as sovereign Chinese territory. China has been stepping up its military activities near the island.

Republican lawmakers are calling for the US to open trade talks with Taiwan in order to counter national security and economic threats from China. According to the Congressman who leads the group, a plan is "very much" on the radar screen of US Government.

Republican lawmakers are calling for the US to open trade talks with Taiwan in order to counter national security and economic threats from China. According to the Congressman who leads the group, a plan is "very much" on the radar screen of US Government. Representative Michael McCaul, who chairs the China task force launched by Republicans said that negotiations for such a deal would be "an important foreign policy statement to make". He also said that this would help hold China accountable for how it handled the COVID-19 outbreak. "It is very much on their radar screen," McCaul told Reuters, when asked if the Trump administration and its top trade negotiator, Robert Lighthizer, would pursue a deal. "I don`t think that Lighthizer has 100% approved it, but...it is one of the options on the table for them and I think a recommendation coming from the task force would carry a lot of weight." The proposal is one of 400 recommendations outlined in a report set to be released later on Wednesday by the task force. The report will also recommend bolstering U.S. medical supply chains, sanctioning Chinese telecoms companies engaged in economic or industrial espionage, and evaluating whether the Beijing`s repression of its Uigher Muslim minority amounts to genocide. Taiwan has long sought a free trade agreement with the United States, its most important supporter on the international stage, but Washington has complained about barriers to access for U.S. pork and beef. Last month, Taiwan paved the way for an eventual deal by announcing an easing of restrictions on the import of U.S. beef and pork that is expected to go into effect on Jan. 1. Taiwan-U.S. trade last year was worth $85.5 billion, with the United States running a $23.1 billion deficit. Taiwan was the United States` 14th biggest export market in 2019. The United States, like most countries, has no official relations with Taiwan, which is claimed by Beijing as sovereign Chinese territory. China has been stepping up its military activities near the island.

Taiwan trade deal on Trump administration's radar, lawmaker says

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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