Venus Williams bowed out of the US Open in the first round for the first time in her professional career on Tuesday, losing in straight sets to Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic.

The 40-year-old Williams, making her 22nd appearance at Flushing Meadows in a career that has spanned four decades, was beaten 6-3, 7-5.

It marked Williams' second consecutive first round defeat at a Grand Slam event after exiting the Australian Open at the same stage in January.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion has not been past the third round at a Slam event since 2017.

Muchova -- who was only one when Williams was playing in her first US Open final in 1997, where she lost to Martina Hingis -- always had the veteran American star on the back foot on Tuesday.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/us-open-serena-continues-bid-for-24th-grand-slam-title-after-round-one-victory-324621">US Open: Serena continues bid for 24th Grand Slam title after round one victory</a>

After losing the first set, Williams rallied in the second and opened up a 5-3 lead, seemingly poised to force a third set.

But a string of unforced errors allowed Muchova to roar back into the match and she reeled off four consecutive games to close out the win.

Muchova, the 20th seed, will play unseeded Russian Anna Kalinskaya in the second round. 
&nbsp;

Venus Williams bowed out of the US Open in the first round for the first time in her professional career on Tuesday, losing in straight sets to Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic.

Venus Williams bowed out of the US Open in the first round for the first time in her professional career on Tuesday, losing in straight sets to Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic. The 40-year-old Williams, making her 22nd appearance at Flushing Meadows in a career that has spanned four decades, was beaten 6-3, 7-5. It marked Williams' second consecutive first round defeat at a Grand Slam event after exiting the Australian Open at the same stage in January. The seven-time Grand Slam champion has not been past the third round at a Slam event since 2017. Muchova -- who was only one when Williams was playing in her first US Open final in 1997, where she lost to Martina Hingis -- always had the veteran American star on the back foot on Tuesday. Also Read | US Open: Serena continues bid for 24th Grand Slam title after round one victory After losing the first set, Williams rallied in the second and opened up a 5-3 lead, seemingly poised to force a third set. But a string of unforced errors allowed Muchova to roar back into the match and she reeled off four consecutive games to close out the win. Muchova, the 20th seed, will play unseeded Russian Anna Kalinskaya in the second round.

Venus out of US Open in first round for first time

Serena Williams took her first step toward a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title on Tuesday (September 1), defeating Kristie Ahn 7-5 6-3 in the first round of the U.S. Open.

Williams got off to a slow start, showing signs of nervousness early in the first set, but kicked her game into high gear in the second, firing off 13 aces and 28 winners during the match and harnessing her powerful return to keep her opponent on the run.

A final serve forced Ahn into an error, as Williams claimed a record 102nd U.S. Open match victory, as she scored her first straight-sets win since the sport was put on a coronavirus hiatus.

Williams, who reached the final of the U.S. Open in her last two campaigns, is gunning for her first Grand Slam title since 2017 to equal Margaret Court's record in a depleted field in which six of the top 10 players are not competing this year.

She next faces Margarita Gasparyan of Russia in the second round.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/venus-out-of-us-open-in-first-round-for-first-time-324619">Venus out of US Open in first round for first time</a>

Williams' U.S. compatriot Madison Keys needed just 55 minutes to beat Timea Babos 6-1 6-1 to advance in her opening match as the 2017 finalist looks to claim her elusive first Grand Slam title.

The hard-hitting American won 92% of her first serve points and never faced a break point while playing smothering defense against the overmatched Hungarian.

The 25-year-old Keys, who drew comparisons to 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams when she joined the tour in 2009, has been consistently ranked in the top 25 and won five titles.

But the lack of a Grand Slam title has cast a shadow over her career.

She fell to fellow American and friend Sloane Stephens in the final at Flushing Meadows three years ago, her closest brush with Grand Slam glory.

This year's depleted field could open the door for the seventh seeded Keys, who will face either Jil Teichmann of Switzerland or Aliona Bolsova of Spain in the second round. 
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Serena Williams took her first step toward a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title on Tuesday (September 1), defeating Kristie Ahn 7-5 6-3 in the first round of the U.

Serena Williams took her first step toward a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title on Tuesday (September 1), defeating Kristie Ahn 7-5 6-3 in the first round of the U.S. Open. Williams got off to a slow start, showing signs of nervousness early in the first set, but kicked her game into high gear in the second, firing off 13 aces and 28 winners during the match and harnessing her powerful return to keep her opponent on the run. A final serve forced Ahn into an error, as Williams claimed a record 102nd U.S. Open match victory, as she scored her first straight-sets win since the sport was put on a coronavirus hiatus. Williams, who reached the final of the U.S. Open in her last two campaigns, is gunning for her first Grand Slam title since 2017 to equal Margaret Court's record in a depleted field in which six of the top 10 players are not competing this year. She next faces Margarita Gasparyan of Russia in the second round. Also Read: Venus out of US Open in first round for first time Williams' U.S. compatriot Madison Keys needed just 55 minutes to beat Timea Babos 6-1 6-1 to advance in her opening match as the 2017 finalist looks to claim her elusive first Grand Slam title. The hard-hitting American won 92% of her first serve points and never faced a break point while playing smothering defense against the overmatched Hungarian. The 25-year-old Keys, who drew comparisons to 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams when she joined the tour in 2009, has been consistently ranked in the top 25 and won five titles. But the lack of a Grand Slam title has cast a shadow over her career. She fell to fellow American and friend Sloane Stephens in the final at Flushing Meadows three years ago, her closest brush with Grand Slam glory. This year's depleted field could open the door for the seventh seeded Keys, who will face either Jil Teichmann of Switzerland or Aliona Bolsova of Spain in the second round.

US Open: Serena continues bid for 24th Grand Slam title after round one victory

No price is too high for those keen of mind and with an eye for detail. For lesser mortals like all of us, there is always an upper financial cap for our aspirations. We may have wanderlust and passion and whatnot while posing for our perfect Instagram pics. But when it comes to real world, even those raking in moolah plan their finances properly.

So given all this, when a guy shells out $5300 (Almost Rs 4 lakh) for a plant, we are bound to think that it has leaves of gold or something. But that's not the case here.

A man in New Zealand set a record when he shelled out this much money for a Rhaphidophora tetrasperma.

That is the scientific name for mini Monstera, a plant that this guy was digging.

Why&nbsp;the price tag?

The plant is rare and desirable by plant collectors all over the world.

New York Post quoted Trade Me to say that between end of May and the beginning of June, 33 thousand searches were recorded for mini Monstera online.

Monsteras are a pleasant sight yes. The leaves come in colours like yellow, pink, white and even purple.

“A plant will grow a leaf that looks a little bit different because those leaves don’t have chlorophyll,” Jesse Waldman, the director of marketing and e-commerce at Pistils Nursery in Oregon was quoted by Vice.

However, with all things costly, these plant too are delicate and to grow them in a normal household needs great efforts. Sometimes, the leaves lose their distinctive colour and return to being green. So special care needs to be taken.

Plant sellers in the US say that sale of plants has increased during the coronavirus pandemic.

No price is too high for those keen of mind and with an eye for detail. For lesser mortals like all of us, there is always an upper financial cap for our aspirations.

No price is too high for those keen of mind and with an eye for detail. For lesser mortals like all of us, there is always an upper financial cap for our aspirations. We may have wanderlust and passion and whatnot while posing for our perfect Instagram pics. But when it comes to real world, even those raking in moolah plan their finances properly. So given all this, when a guy shells out $5300 (Almost Rs 4 lakh) for a plant, we are bound to think that it has leaves of gold or something. But that's not the case here. A man in New Zealand set a record when he shelled out this much money for a Rhaphidophora tetrasperma. That is the scientific name for mini Monstera, a plant that this guy was digging. Why the price tag? The plant is rare and desirable by plant collectors all over the world. New York Post quoted Trade Me to say that between end of May and the beginning of June, 33 thousand searches were recorded for mini Monstera online. Monsteras are a pleasant sight yes. The leaves come in colours like yellow, pink, white and even purple. “A plant will grow a leaf that looks a little bit different because those leaves don’t have chlorophyll,” Jesse Waldman, the director of marketing and e-commerce at Pistils Nursery in Oregon was quoted by Vice. However, with all things costly, these plant too are delicate and to grow them in a normal household needs great efforts. Sometimes, the leaves lose their distinctive colour and return to being green. So special care needs to be taken. Plant sellers in the US say that sale of plants has increased during the coronavirus pandemic.

Will you spend $5300 to buy a plant? This guy did!

The flooding in rivers and water channels caused due to torrential rains in northwest Pakistan has killed ten people, injured 20 others, and damaged nearly 50 houses, an official said on Wednesday.

People in the affected areas have been alerted in the wake of high water flow in rivers for adopting precautionary measures. Tourists have also been asked to take extra care and not to stay alongside rivers and water channels.

People living in many villages situated in danger zones have been vacated by the rescue authorities, the official said.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said three people have been washed away in the Swat River. The body of one person has been retrieved while search for two others was underway. A police official was also among those drowned in River Swat.

In Balakot area, three people were washed away in flash floods.

In Oogi area of Mansehra, a house collapsed during torrential rains, killing at least four people. 
The PDMA said that 20 people have been injured in rain-related incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while 46 houses were partially damaged and 4 totally destroyed.

The flooding in rivers and water channels caused due to torrential rains in northwest Pakistan has killed ten people, injured 20 others, and damaged nearly 50 houses, an official said on Wednesday.

The flooding in rivers and water channels caused due to torrential rains in northwest Pakistan has killed ten people, injured 20 others, and damaged nearly 50 houses, an official said on Wednesday. People in the affected areas have been alerted in the wake of high water flow in rivers for adopting precautionary measures. Tourists have also been asked to take extra care and not to stay alongside rivers and water channels. People living in many villages situated in danger zones have been vacated by the rescue authorities, the official said. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said three people have been washed away in the Swat River. The body of one person has been retrieved while search for two others was underway. A police official was also among those drowned in River Swat. In Balakot area, three people were washed away in flash floods. In Oogi area of Mansehra, a house collapsed during torrential rains, killing at least four people. The PDMA said that 20 people have been injured in rain-related incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while 46 houses were partially damaged and 4 totally destroyed.

10 people die in rain-related incidents in northwest Pakistan

When it comes to prevention of sexual harassment, everybody agrees that strong efforts are need of the hour. But when it comes to deciding what may prevent sexual harassment, the opinions differ. Words like "asking for it", "immoral,"too short" are casually flung around and it leaves many of us exasperated.

But its doubly disturbing when a university makes use of similar phrases in the 'guidlines' it issues to prevent sexual harassment.

Guanxi University in China is in line of fire lately. The 'guidelines' issues by the university appear completely directed at women rather than men. It advices women on what choices they need to make in order to "avoid temptation"

Sample this

“Don’t wear overly revealing tops or skirts. Don’t wear low-cut dresses or expose your waist or back, to avoid creating temptation,” the guide said.&nbsp;

The guidelines have been issued on August 1. Reuters confirmed that spaghetti-strap tops had been banned in the library of the University.

What is peculiar about such guidelines or general discussion around sexual harassment is that it almost always targets women. Usual descriptions of women's clothes follow and they prescribed to avoid (a long list of things)

Wouldn't the issue be solved if men are taught to not make unwanted sexual advances? Won't it create a difference if men are taught to accord basic respect to women. But men are seldom at the receiving end during conversation on sexual harassment.

Guanxi University is receiving flak on social media ever since the news about the guidelines broke. There has not been any clarification or response reported from the side of the university. 
&nbsp;

When it comes to prevention of sexual harassment, everybody agrees that strong efforts are need of the hour. But when it comes to deciding what may prevent sexual harassment, the opinions differ.

When it comes to prevention of sexual harassment, everybody agrees that strong efforts are need of the hour. But when it comes to deciding what may prevent sexual harassment, the opinions differ. Words like "asking for it", "immoral,"too short" are casually flung around and it leaves many of us exasperated. But its doubly disturbing when a university makes use of similar phrases in the 'guidlines' it issues to prevent sexual harassment. Guanxi University in China is in line of fire lately. The 'guidelines' issues by the university appear completely directed at women rather than men. It advices women on what choices they need to make in order to "avoid temptation" Sample this “Don’t wear overly revealing tops or skirts. Don’t wear low-cut dresses or expose your waist or back, to avoid creating temptation,” the guide said. The guidelines have been issued on August 1. Reuters confirmed that spaghetti-strap tops had been banned in the library of the University. What is peculiar about such guidelines or general discussion around sexual harassment is that it almost always targets women. Usual descriptions of women's clothes follow and they prescribed to avoid (a long list of things) Wouldn't the issue be solved if men are taught to not make unwanted sexual advances? Won't it create a difference if men are taught to accord basic respect to women. But men are seldom at the receiving end during conversation on sexual harassment. Guanxi University is receiving flak on social media ever since the news about the guidelines broke. There has not been any clarification or response reported from the side of the university.

Avoid 'overly revealing' clothes to 'avoid temptation': Chinese university guidelines spark debate

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning.

Mukherjee's mortal remains were brought to his residence, 10, Rajaji Marg, earlier today from the army hospital where he breathed his last on Monday.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen M M Naravane, Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh were among others who paid homage to him.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, BJP president J P Nadda, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Harsh Vardhan, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPI's D Raja also paid their respects to him.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pranab-mukherjee-rise-of-the-political-president-324344">Pranab Mukherjee: Rise of the political President</a>

Cremation is scheduled in the afternoon.

The union government had on Monday announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the former president.

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Mukherjee died following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He was 84.

A seven-time parliamentarian and recipient of Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, he was one of the most admired and respected political figures.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chiefs of three defence services were among the dignitaries who paid their last respects to former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday morning. Mukherjee's mortal remains were brought to his residence, 10, Rajaji Marg, earlier today from the army hospital where he breathed his last on Monday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen M M Naravane, Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh were among others who paid homage to him. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, BJP president J P Nadda, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Harsh Vardhan, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPI's D Raja also paid their respects to him. Also Read: Pranab Mukherjee: Rise of the political President Cremation is scheduled in the afternoon. The union government had on Monday announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the former president. × Mukherjee died following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He was 84. A seven-time parliamentarian and recipient of Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, he was one of the most admired and respected political figures.

PM Modi, President Kovind pay last respects to Pranab Mukherjee

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.Before entering the exam halls, the temperature of students was checked and sanitisers were also given to them in Delhi.

"I am carrying my own sanitiser and I had also undergone a temperature check," said Pranjal while speaking to ANI outside his examination centre at Arwachin Bharti Bhawan Sr Sec School in Vivek Vihar in New Delhi.

Even in Kolkata, candidates appearing for the exam were seen standing in queues while abiding by the social distancing norm at TCS Gitobitan.In Gorakhpur as well, announcements were being made for the candidates to maintain social distancing and other measures in the wake of COVID 19 spread.

In Kaluchal Chenab College of Education in Jammu, the candidates appearing for the JEE Main exam were standing at a distance for the temperature check and had covered their faces with a mask to contain the spread of the deadly virus.While JEE has been held today, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test will take place on September 13.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.

The Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) Main for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has begun with precautions amid COVID-19 on Tuesday, despite protests by Opposition parties and some students.Before entering the exam halls, the temperature of students was checked and sanitisers were also given to them in Delhi. "I am carrying my own sanitiser and I had also undergone a temperature check," said Pranjal while speaking to ANI outside his examination centre at Arwachin Bharti Bhawan Sr Sec School in Vivek Vihar in New Delhi. Even in Kolkata, candidates appearing for the exam were seen standing in queues while abiding by the social distancing norm at TCS Gitobitan.In Gorakhpur as well, announcements were being made for the candidates to maintain social distancing and other measures in the wake of COVID 19 spread. In Kaluchal Chenab College of Education in Jammu, the candidates appearing for the JEE Main exam were standing at a distance for the temperature check and had covered their faces with a mask to contain the spread of the deadly virus.While JEE has been held today, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test will take place on September 13.

JEE main begins across India with COVID-19 precautions

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday.

The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Australia was informed on August 14 that Cheng was being held by Beijing authorities.

Australian consular officials spoke to Cheng in her detention facility via video link on August 27 and were in touch with her family, Payne said in a statement.

She provided no further details, but public broadcaster ABC said Cheng's friends became concerned after she stopped responding to messages in recent weeks.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-lacks-formal-combat-capability-to-assault-us-taiwan-324271">China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan</a>

The CGTN website page which described Cheng as an anchor on the network's Global Business programme was no longer available after news of her detention emerged.

The ABC said Cheng was being held under "residential surveillance at a designated location", a form of detention that allows investigators to hold and question a suspect for up to six months without them being formally arrested.

The broadcaster published a statement by Cheng's family in Melbourne expressing confidence that "In China, due process will be observed and we look forward to a satisfactory and timely conclusion to the matter."

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"We ask that you respect that process and understand there will be no further comment at this time," the statement said.

Ties began to sour between Australia and China -- its biggest trading partner -- more than two years ago when Australian authorities began to move against what was seen as China's growing political interference and influence peddling in the country.

Beijing was particularly infuriated by Australia's leading role in international calls earlier this year for an investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Since then, China has taken steps to curb key Australian imports and encouraged Chinese students and tourists to avoid the country.&nbsp;

Cheng is the second high-profile Australian citizen to be detained in Beijing after writer Yang Hengjun was arrested in January 2019 on suspicion of espionage.

Earlier this year Australia warned its citizens they faced the risk of arbitrary detention if they traveled to China.

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday. The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa.

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday. The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa. Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Australia was informed on August 14 that Cheng was being held by Beijing authorities. Australian consular officials spoke to Cheng in her detention facility via video link on August 27 and were in touch with her family, Payne said in a statement. She provided no further details, but public broadcaster ABC said Cheng's friends became concerned after she stopped responding to messages in recent weeks. Also Read: China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan The CGTN website page which described Cheng as an anchor on the network's Global Business programme was no longer available after news of her detention emerged. The ABC said Cheng was being held under "residential surveillance at a designated location", a form of detention that allows investigators to hold and question a suspect for up to six months without them being formally arrested. The broadcaster published a statement by Cheng's family in Melbourne expressing confidence that "In China, due process will be observed and we look forward to a satisfactory and timely conclusion to the matter." × "We ask that you respect that process and understand there will be no further comment at this time," the statement said. Ties began to sour between Australia and China -- its biggest trading partner -- more than two years ago when Australian authorities began to move against what was seen as China's growing political interference and influence peddling in the country. Beijing was particularly infuriated by Australia's leading role in international calls earlier this year for an investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Since then, China has taken steps to curb key Australian imports and encouraged Chinese students and tourists to avoid the country. Cheng is the second high-profile Australian citizen to be detained in Beijing after writer Yang Hengjun was arrested in January 2019 on suspicion of espionage. Earlier this year Australia warned its citizens they faced the risk of arbitrary detention if they traveled to China.

China detains Australian journalist, allows consular access

The United States said on Monday it was establishing a new bilateral economic dialogue with Taiwan, an initiative it said was aimed at strengthening ties with Taipei and supporting it in the face of increasing pressure from Beijing.

Washington also said it had declassified six Reagan-era security assurances given to Taiwan, a move analysts said appeared intended to show further support for Taipei.

The announcements come at a time of increasing Chinese threats towards Taiwan, and when relations between Washington and Beijing have sunk to their lowest level in decades. U.S. President Donald Trump is campaigning for re-election in November with a tough approach to China among his key foreign policy platforms.

The State Department`s top diplomat for East Asia, David Stilwell, told a virtual forum hosted by the conservative Heritage Foundation the latest U.S. moves were not a policy shift, but part of a set of "significant adjustments" within Washington`s longstanding "one-China" policy.

Washington felt compelled to make these given the "increasing threat posed by Beijing to peace and stability" in a vitally important region and Beijing`s attempts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically while subjecting it to military threats.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-lacks-formal-combat-capability-to-assault-us-taiwan-324271">China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan</a>

"We will continue to help Taipei resist the Chinese Communist Party’s campaign to pressure, intimidate, and marginalize Taiwan," Stilwell said.

Taiwan`s Foreign Ministry expressed thanks for the show of support at a time when it said China was using military intimidation to damage peace and stability near Taiwan, and said it would continue to strengthen its defence capabilities.

The United States, like most countries, has official relations with Beijing, but not Taiwan, which is claimed by Beijing as Chinese territory. However, Washington is bound by law to help Taiwan defend itself and is its main arms supplier.

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Daniel Russel, a predecessor of Stilwell until early in the Trump administration, said the "Six Assurances" made to Taipei by the administration of former President Ronald Reagan had been a "loosely-kept secret" at best.

He said the decision to publish them looked like a compromise response to pressure from administration hawks to abandon "strategic ambiguity" — a long-standing policy of withholding a clear-cut U.S. commitment to defend Taiwan while still showing sufficient support to deter any Chinese military adventurism.

Among the assurances made in 1982, but never formally made public, are statements that the United States has not set a date for ending arms sales to Taiwan, nor agreed to prior consultation with Beijing on such sales, or to revise the Taiwan Relations Act that underpins U.S. policy towards the island.

The assurances, Stilwell said, "endure today."

Douglas Paal, a former U.S. representative to Taiwan, said the move appeared largely for show.

"My guess at this time is that Stilwell and the administration want to look tough ... So they are walking close to China`s red lines, but remain unwilling to cross them."

Stilwell said the economic dialogue would "explore the full spectrum of our economic relationship - semiconductors, healthcare, energy, and beyond, with technology at the core."

"While they may be interrelated, our relationship with Taiwan is not a subset of our bilateral relationship with the PRC," he said, referring to mainland China.

Monday`s announcements come several months after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd , the world`s biggest contract chipmaker, announced plans to build a $12 billion factory in Arizona as the Trump administration stepped up efforts to cut back supply chains dependency on China.

Taiwan has been keen to negotiate a free trade agreement with the United States, but a large U.S. trade deficit, which Trump has been determined to reduce along with those of other trading partners, including China, has been an obstacle to this. 
&nbsp;

The United States said on Monday it was establishing a new bilateral economic dialogue with Taiwan, an initiative it said was aimed at strengthening ties with Taipei and supporting it in the face of increasing pressure from Beijing.

The United States said on Monday it was establishing a new bilateral economic dialogue with Taiwan, an initiative it said was aimed at strengthening ties with Taipei and supporting it in the face of increasing pressure from Beijing. Washington also said it had declassified six Reagan-era security assurances given to Taiwan, a move analysts said appeared intended to show further support for Taipei. The announcements come at a time of increasing Chinese threats towards Taiwan, and when relations between Washington and Beijing have sunk to their lowest level in decades. U.S. President Donald Trump is campaigning for re-election in November with a tough approach to China among his key foreign policy platforms. The State Department`s top diplomat for East Asia, David Stilwell, told a virtual forum hosted by the conservative Heritage Foundation the latest U.S. moves were not a policy shift, but part of a set of "significant adjustments" within Washington`s longstanding "one-China" policy. Washington felt compelled to make these given the "increasing threat posed by Beijing to peace and stability" in a vitally important region and Beijing`s attempts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically while subjecting it to military threats. Also Read: China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan "We will continue to help Taipei resist the Chinese Communist Party’s campaign to pressure, intimidate, and marginalize Taiwan," Stilwell said. Taiwan`s Foreign Ministry expressed thanks for the show of support at a time when it said China was using military intimidation to damage peace and stability near Taiwan, and said it would continue to strengthen its defence capabilities. The United States, like most countries, has official relations with Beijing, but not Taiwan, which is claimed by Beijing as Chinese territory. However, Washington is bound by law to help Taiwan defend itself and is its main arms supplier. × Daniel Russel, a predecessor of Stilwell until early in the Trump administration, said the "Six Assurances" made to Taipei by the administration of former President Ronald Reagan had been a "loosely-kept secret" at best. He said the decision to publish them looked like a compromise response to pressure from administration hawks to abandon "strategic ambiguity" — a long-standing policy of withholding a clear-cut U.S. commitment to defend Taiwan while still showing sufficient support to deter any Chinese military adventurism. Among the assurances made in 1982, but never formally made public, are statements that the United States has not set a date for ending arms sales to Taiwan, nor agreed to prior consultation with Beijing on such sales, or to revise the Taiwan Relations Act that underpins U.S. policy towards the island. The assurances, Stilwell said, "endure today." Douglas Paal, a former U.S. representative to Taiwan, said the move appeared largely for show. "My guess at this time is that Stilwell and the administration want to look tough ... So they are walking close to China`s red lines, but remain unwilling to cross them." Stilwell said the economic dialogue would "explore the full spectrum of our economic relationship - semiconductors, healthcare, energy, and beyond, with technology at the core." "While they may be interrelated, our relationship with Taiwan is not a subset of our bilateral relationship with the PRC," he said, referring to mainland China. Monday`s announcements come several months after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd , the world`s biggest contract chipmaker, announced plans to build a $12 billion factory in Arizona as the Trump administration stepped up efforts to cut back supply chains dependency on China. Taiwan has been keen to negotiate a free trade agreement with the United States, but a large U.S. trade deficit, which Trump has been determined to reduce along with those of other trading partners, including China, has been an obstacle to this.

US increases support for Taiwan, says to counter rising China pressure

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August.

Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people.

 
Macron tweets in Arabic:

Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability".

Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma.

Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/lebanon-names-mustapha-adib-its-germany-envoy-as-new-prime-minister-324276">Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister</a> 
 
Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib.

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"It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said.

 
New Lebanese PM:

Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast.

The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker.

Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, &nbsp;who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah.

"The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lebanon on early hours of Tuesday as Lebanese political parties reached consensus on the next Prime Minister of Lebanon. France spent its political capital in Lebanon that is reeling from a financial crisis even as swathes of Beirut lay in waste due to a devastating blast that took place in August. Macron is visiting Beirut for the second time in less than a month to press for a new government made up of experts untainted by corruption and capable of rooting out graft, waste and negligence as well as rebuilding after the August 4 explosion that wrecked large areas of Beirut, killing 190 people. Macron tweets in Arabic: Emmanuel Macron addressed the Lebanese people in an Arabic-language tweet, saying he had returned as promised to "work together to create necessary conditions for reconstruction and stability". Macron began his trip to Beirut on Monday by visiting Fairouz, one of the Arab world`s most famous singers whose haunting voice has been Lebanon`s soundtrack from its glamorous heyday through its conflicts and latest trauma. Anger at Lebanon`s political elite over an economic meltdown and this month`s devastating port blast was evident as Macron arrived at the home of the 85-year old artist, feted as a national treasure and symbol of peace, transcending factional and sectarian divides in Lebanon and beyond. Also Read: Lebanon names Mustapha Adib, its Germany envoy, as new prime minister Macron`s visit coincides with Lebanon`s centenary, at a time of profound doubts that it has a future as a viable state under the sway of former warlords and sectarian leaders loyal to different regional masters, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Macron made a series of phone calls to Lebanese leaders at the weekend that were vital to securing consensus on Adib. × "It was the pressure of his calls to everyone, the pressure of his coming to Lebanon, the pressure of everyone not wanting to upset him," a senior Lebanese politician said. New Lebanese PM: Lebanese political parties on Monday reached a consensus and the name of Mustapha Adib has been finalised as the country's next prime minister. Adib, who has Doctorate in Law and Political Science, later visited parts of Beirut that were devasted by the blast. The explosion, in which volatile chemicals stored unsafely for years detonated, led to the resignation of the previous government, now acting as caretaker. Mustapha Adib's name was suggested by previous prime ministers including Saad al-Hariri, who heads the biggest Sunni Muslim party. Mustapha Adib has also won the support of the Hezbollah. "The opportunity for our country is small and the mission I have accepted is based on all the political forces acknowledging that," said Adib

French President Macron arrives in Lebanon as Mustapha Adib named next PM

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand.

Lakshman Jhoola is a Holy bridge crissing the sacred Ganga River. Hindus believe that it was here Lakshmana, the mythical warrior and a deity crossed the river using Jute ropes.

Police have told the media that the woman, identified as Marie-Helene, shot the video on the bridge.

"She shot the video at Lakshman Jhula -- it is considered a holy bridge. She then did an obscene photoshoot at her hotel.The photos she shot were nude and she posted them on Instagram," said senior police officer RK Saklani. He was quoted by the CNN.

It is being reportedt that local followers of the woman's Instagram account alerted the authorities after they spotted the video and photos on Instagram.

Marie-Helene has apologised for her actions. She has been quoted in the media for being sorry for causing "...hurt to the local community". She has added that she was "lacking awareness on cultural specificities" 
&nbsp;

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand.

A French woman was arrested after she made what was called a 'nude' video at Lakshman Jhoola, a place sacred in Hinduism. The woman is currently out on bail. She was approached by the police on August 27 in Uttarakhand. Lakshman Jhoola is a Holy bridge crissing the sacred Ganga River. Hindus believe that it was here Lakshmana, the mythical warrior and a deity crossed the river using Jute ropes. Police have told the media that the woman, identified as Marie-Helene, shot the video on the bridge. "She shot the video at Lakshman Jhula -- it is considered a holy bridge. She then did an obscene photoshoot at her hotel.The photos she shot were nude and she posted them on Instagram," said senior police officer RK Saklani. He was quoted by the CNN. It is being reportedt that local followers of the woman's Instagram account alerted the authorities after they spotted the video and photos on Instagram. Marie-Helene has apologised for her actions. She has been quoted in the media for being sorry for causing "...hurt to the local community". She has added that she was "lacking awareness on cultural specificities"

Frenchwoman arrested for making 'nude' video on Lakshman Jhoola, the Holy bridge on river Ganga

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites.

WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY?

<ul>
	<li>The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough.</li>
	<li>If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties.</li>
	<li>The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites.</li>
	<li>The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament.</li>
	<li>While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform.</li>
</ul>

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/facebook-to-conduct-research-on-its-impact-on-us-elections-324424">Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections</a> 
&nbsp;

WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED?

<ul>
	<li>In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said.</li>
	<li>Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers.</li>
	<li>The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN?

<ul>
	<li>The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year.</li>
	<li>Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms.</li>
	<li>Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law.</li>
</ul>

($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars) 
&nbsp;

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms. The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites. WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY? The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough. If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties. The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament. While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform. Also Read: Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED? In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said. Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers. The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary. WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN? The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year. Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms. Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law. ($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars)

Facebook to Australians: Will block news sharing if government passes proposed law

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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