China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22). 
 
The meeting of the two leaders in the Chinese city of Hangzhou gave a boost to the campaign of Assad to come back to the global stage while permitting China to advance its strategic interests in the Middle East, where the country is already aligned with Saudi Arabia and Iran. 
 
"China opposes interference by external forces in Syria's internal affairs... and urges all relevant countries to lift illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria," stated a readout of the talks which was published by Chinese state media. 
 
Assad was also informed by Xi that China will extend help to Syria in countering domestic unrest and rebuilding its ruined economy and even by upgrading ties to a "strategic partnership".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-metoo-journalist-and-labour-rights-activists-secret-trial-begins-in-guangzhou-638615">China: Secret trials of #MeToo journalist and labour rights activist begin in Guangzhou</a>

The endorsement of Xi should strengthen the efforts of Assad to plot a way back from what can be called a pariah status. In 2022, Syria joined China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Arab League welcomed it back in May.

<h2>China's comprehensive strategic partnership</h2>

In the diplomatic language of China, a "strategic partnership" implies closer co-ordination on international and regional affairs, which includes the military sphere. 
 
This is one grade below what China calls a "comprehensive strategic partnership". 
 
Since the civil war started in 2011 with a crackdown on protests, killing of hundreds of people and displacement of millions, western sanctions have been steadily tightened on Syria. 
 
The government of Assad, supported by Iran and Russia, now controls most of the territory of Syria and has re-established ties with Arab neighbours, which once supported his opponents, in recent years.

WATCH |&nbsp;China working on its own maritime spy project

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Syria is in desperate need of foreign investment for its industry and infrastructure. Its dire economic situation has led to protests in southern Syria in which people appealed for the removal of the president. 
 
"China is reinforcing its message that it is there to try and help countries resolve their disputes and that peace stems from economic development," stated Matteo Legrenzi, professor of international relations at Ca'Foscari, University of Venice. 
 
"(China) is trying to perform a useful role from a distance. As they did with the Iran-Saudi Arabia rapprochement deal," he further said.

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China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22).

China's President Xi Jinping appealed to the West to lift sanctions imposed by them on Syria and offered help to the war-ravaged country, when the Chinese president held rare talks with Syria's leader Bashar al-Assad on Friday (September 22). The meeting of the two leaders in the Chinese city of Hangzhou gave a boost to the campaign of Assad to come back to the global stage while permitting China to advance its strategic interests in the Middle East, where the country is already aligned with Saudi Arabia and Iran. "China opposes interference by external forces in Syria's internal affairs... and urges all relevant countries to lift illegal unilateral sanctions against Syria," stated a readout of the talks which was published by Chinese state media. Assad was also informed by Xi that China will extend help to Syria in countering domestic unrest and rebuilding its ruined economy and even by upgrading ties to a "strategic partnership". ALSO READ | China: Secret trials of #MeToo journalist and labour rights activist begin in Guangzhou The endorsement of Xi should strengthen the efforts of Assad to plot a way back from what can be called a pariah status. In 2022, Syria joined China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Arab League welcomed it back in May. China's comprehensive strategic partnership In the diplomatic language of China, a "strategic partnership" implies closer co-ordination on international and regional affairs, which includes the military sphere. This is one grade below what China calls a "comprehensive strategic partnership". Since the civil war started in 2011 with a crackdown on protests, killing of hundreds of people and displacement of millions, western sanctions have been steadily tightened on Syria. The government of Assad, supported by Iran and Russia, now controls most of the territory of Syria and has re-established ties with Arab neighbours, which once supported his opponents, in recent years. WATCH | China working on its own maritime spy project Syria is in desperate need of foreign investment for its industry and infrastructure. Its dire economic situation has led to protests in southern Syria in which people appealed for the removal of the president. "China is reinforcing its message that it is there to try and help countries resolve their disputes and that peace stems from economic development," stated Matteo Legrenzi, professor of international relations at Ca'Foscari, University of Venice. "(China) is trying to perform a useful role from a distance. As they did with the Iran-Saudi Arabia rapprochement deal," he further said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's Xi holds rare talks with Syria's Assad, appeals West to lift sanctions against latter

In this episode, we tell you the harrowing experiences of Hindus in Canada as they face threats, following Canada PM Justin Trudeau's baseless allegations against India.

Gravitas Plus: Hindus in Canada Under Threat: Trudeau's Risky Khalistan Gamble

Tropical Storm Ophelia made landfall on North Carolina's coast near Emerald Isle early on Saturday (September 23) as it moved north along the east coast of the United States. 
 
Before the storm made landfall, the governors of North Carolina, Maryland and Virginia declared a state of emergency. It was predicted that Storm Ophelia would bring heavy rainfall as well as tropical-storm-force winds and could lead to minor flooding along the coasts of the states throughout the weekend. 
 
The forecasters had stated that North Carolina and Virginia are likely to receive heavy rainfall of up to 7 inches and the mid-Atlantic region will be getting 2-4 inches of rainfall in the weekend because of the storm. 
 
The officials also placed a warning of tropical storm in places from Cape Fear, North Carolina, to Fenwick Island, Delaware. Around 70,000 homes and businesses faced power outages in Virginia and North Carolina as the storm made landfall.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-at-least-15-killed-after-storm-daniel-brings-most-intense-rainstorms-since-1930-634668">Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930</a>

“When you have that slow-moving storm with several inches of rain, coupled with a gust that gets to 30, 40 miles per hour, that’s enough to bring down a tree or to bring down limbs,” said Duke Energy spokesperson Jeff Brooks, while speaking to WTVD-TV on Saturday. “And that’s what we’ve seen in most of the areas where we’ve experienced outages,” he added. 
 
The Major League Baseball match between the host Washington Nationals and the visiting Atlanta Braves which was scheduled on Saturday (September 23) was postponed to Sunday due to the storm.

<h2>Storm likely to weaken towards east coast of US</h2>

As per the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm carried maximum sustained winds of 65mph as of 8 am Saturday. Gradually, the storm is likely to weaken as it travels north along the east coast of the United States, reaching Maryland by Sunday. 
 
Hurricane specialist with the National Hurricane Centre Philippe Papin said that in the next couple of days, the primary risk carried by the storm system will be the threat of floods due to the rain.

WATCH |&nbsp;Deadly storm sweeps across Greece killing six

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“There have been tropical storm-force winds observed, but those are starting to gradually subside as the system moves further inland,” said Papin, in an interview on Saturday. “However, there is a significant flooding rainfall threat for a large portion of eastern North Carolina into southern Virginia over the next 12 to 24 hours,” he added.

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Tropical Storm Ophelia made landfall on North Carolina's coast near Emerald Isle early on Saturday (September 23) as it moved north along the east coast of the United States.

Tropical Storm Ophelia made landfall on North Carolina's coast near Emerald Isle early on Saturday (September 23) as it moved north along the east coast of the United States. Before the storm made landfall, the governors of North Carolina, Maryland and Virginia declared a state of emergency. It was predicted that Storm Ophelia would bring heavy rainfall as well as tropical-storm-force winds and could lead to minor flooding along the coasts of the states throughout the weekend. The forecasters had stated that North Carolina and Virginia are likely to receive heavy rainfall of up to 7 inches and the mid-Atlantic region will be getting 2-4 inches of rainfall in the weekend because of the storm. The officials also placed a warning of tropical storm in places from Cape Fear, North Carolina, to Fenwick Island, Delaware. Around 70,000 homes and businesses faced power outages in Virginia and North Carolina as the storm made landfall. ALSO READ | Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930 “When you have that slow-moving storm with several inches of rain, coupled with a gust that gets to 30, 40 miles per hour, that’s enough to bring down a tree or to bring down limbs,” said Duke Energy spokesperson Jeff Brooks, while speaking to WTVD-TV on Saturday. “And that’s what we’ve seen in most of the areas where we’ve experienced outages,” he added. The Major League Baseball match between the host Washington Nationals and the visiting Atlanta Braves which was scheduled on Saturday (September 23) was postponed to Sunday due to the storm. Storm likely to weaken towards east coast of US As per the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm carried maximum sustained winds of 65mph as of 8 am Saturday. Gradually, the storm is likely to weaken as it travels north along the east coast of the United States, reaching Maryland by Sunday. Hurricane specialist with the National Hurricane Centre Philippe Papin said that in the next couple of days, the primary risk carried by the storm system will be the threat of floods due to the rain. WATCH | Deadly storm sweeps across Greece killing six “There have been tropical storm-force winds observed, but those are starting to gradually subside as the system moves further inland,” said Papin, in an interview on Saturday. “However, there is a significant flooding rainfall threat for a large portion of eastern North Carolina into southern Virginia over the next 12 to 24 hours,” he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tropical Storm Ophelia makes landfall in North Carolina, moves north along east coast

The Biden administration is in talks with Vietnam over an agreement for the largest arms transfer in history between the ex-Cold War adversaries, according to two people familiar with a deal that could irk China and sideline Russia.

A package, which could come together within the next year, could consummate the newly upgraded partnership between Washington and Hanoi with the sale of a fleet of American F-16 fighter jets as the Southeast Asian nation faces tensions with Beijing in the disputed South China Sea, one of the people said.

The deal is still in its early stages, with exact terms yet to be worked out, and may not come together. But it was a key topic of Vietnamese-U.S. official talks in Hanoi, New York and Washington over the past month.

Washington is considering structuring special financing terms for the pricey equipment that could help cash-strapped Hanoi steer away from its traditional reliance on lower-cost, Russian-made arms, according to the other source, who declined to be named.

Spokespersons for the White House and Vietnamese foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

"We have a very productive and promising security relationship with the Vietnamese and we do see interesting movement from them in some U.S. systems, in particular anything that can help them better monitor their maritime domain, perhaps transport aircraft and some other platforms," said a U.S. official.

"Part of what we're working on internally as the U.S. government is being creative about how we could try to provide better financing options to Vietnam to get them things that might be really useful to them."

A major U.S.-Vietnam arms deal could aggravate China, Vietnam's larger neighbour, which is wary of Western efforts to box in Beijing. A long-simmering territorial dispute between Vietnam and China is heating up in the South China Sea and explains why Vietnam is looking to build up maritime defences.

"They are developing asymmetric defensive capabilities, but (want) to do so without triggering a response from China," said Jeffrey Ordaniel, associate professor of international security studies at Tokyo International University and director for maritime security at Pacific Forum International, a think tank. "It is a delicate balancing act."

Ordaniel said Washington should shift funds set aside for financing militaries in the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific region "so partners like Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan can afford the weapons they need to resist Beijing."

The Biden administration has said it is trying to balance geopolitical competition with China, including in the Pacific, and responsibly managing the two superpowers' relationship.

Earlier this month, Vietnam upgraded Washington to Hanoi's highest diplomatic status, alongside China and Russia, when U.S. President Joe Biden visited the country.

The diplomatic turnaround marks a sharp pivot nearly a half-century after the end of the Vietnam War.

Since an arms embargo was lifted in 2016, U.S. defence exports to Vietnam have been limited to coast guard ships and trainer aircraft, while Russia has supplied about 80% of the country's arsenal.

Vietnam spends an estimated $2 billion annually in arms imports, and Washington is optimistic that they can shift a share of that budget over the long term to weapons from the United States or its allies and partners, especially South Korea and India.

The cost of U.S. weaponry is a major obstacle, as is training on the equipment, and is among the reasons the country has taken in less than $400 million of American arms over the past decade.

"Vietnamese officials are well aware that they need to spread the wealth," the U.S. official said. "We need to lead the charge in helping Vietnam get what it needs."

Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine has complicated Hanoi's longstanding relationship with Moscow, making supplies and spare parts for Russian-made arms harder to acquire. Nonetheless, Vietnam is also actively in talks with Moscow over a new arms supply deal that could trigger U.S. sanctions, Reuters has reported.

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The Biden administration is in talks with Vietnam over an agreement for the largest arms transfer in history between the ex-Cold War adversaries, according to two people familiar with a deal that could irk China and sideline Russia.

The Biden administration is in talks with Vietnam over an agreement for the largest arms transfer in history between the ex-Cold War adversaries, according to two people familiar with a deal that could irk China and sideline Russia. A package, which could come together within the next year, could consummate the newly upgraded partnership between Washington and Hanoi with the sale of a fleet of American F-16 fighter jets as the Southeast Asian nation faces tensions with Beijing in the disputed South China Sea, one of the people said. The deal is still in its early stages, with exact terms yet to be worked out, and may not come together. But it was a key topic of Vietnamese-U.S. official talks in Hanoi, New York and Washington over the past month. Washington is considering structuring special financing terms for the pricey equipment that could help cash-strapped Hanoi steer away from its traditional reliance on lower-cost, Russian-made arms, according to the other source, who declined to be named. Spokespersons for the White House and Vietnamese foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. "We have a very productive and promising security relationship with the Vietnamese and we do see interesting movement from them in some U.S. systems, in particular anything that can help them better monitor their maritime domain, perhaps transport aircraft and some other platforms," said a U.S. official. "Part of what we're working on internally as the U.S. government is being creative about how we could try to provide better financing options to Vietnam to get them things that might be really useful to them." A major U.S.-Vietnam arms deal could aggravate China, Vietnam's larger neighbour, which is wary of Western efforts to box in Beijing. A long-simmering territorial dispute between Vietnam and China is heating up in the South China Sea and explains why Vietnam is looking to build up maritime defences. "They are developing asymmetric defensive capabilities, but (want) to do so without triggering a response from China," said Jeffrey Ordaniel, associate professor of international security studies at Tokyo International University and director for maritime security at Pacific Forum International, a think tank. "It is a delicate balancing act." Ordaniel said Washington should shift funds set aside for financing militaries in the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific region "so partners like Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan can afford the weapons they need to resist Beijing." The Biden administration has said it is trying to balance geopolitical competition with China, including in the Pacific, and responsibly managing the two superpowers' relationship. Earlier this month, Vietnam upgraded Washington to Hanoi's highest diplomatic status, alongside China and Russia, when U.S. President Joe Biden visited the country. The diplomatic turnaround marks a sharp pivot nearly a half-century after the end of the Vietnam War. Since an arms embargo was lifted in 2016, U.S. defence exports to Vietnam have been limited to coast guard ships and trainer aircraft, while Russia has supplied about 80% of the country's arsenal. Vietnam spends an estimated $2 billion annually in arms imports, and Washington is optimistic that they can shift a share of that budget over the long term to weapons from the United States or its allies and partners, especially South Korea and India. The cost of U.S. weaponry is a major obstacle, as is training on the equipment, and is among the reasons the country has taken in less than $400 million of American arms over the past decade. "Vietnamese officials are well aware that they need to spread the wealth," the U.S. official said. "We need to lead the charge in helping Vietnam get what it needs." Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine has complicated Hanoi's longstanding relationship with Moscow, making supplies and spare parts for Russian-made arms harder to acquire. Nonetheless, Vietnam is also actively in talks with Moscow over a new arms supply deal that could trigger U.S. sanctions, Reuters has reported. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Joe Biden aides in talks with Vietnam for arms deal that could irk China

The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area. 
 
The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June. 
 
The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region. 
 
"On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN. 
 
He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-senior-leadership-among-dead-injured-in-ukraine-strike-on-black-sea-fleet-638887">Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine</a> 
 
"Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview. 
 
However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne. 
 
Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line.

He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea. 
 
"I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there." 
 
Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter. 
 
"The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated.

<h2>Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell'</h2>

The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters.

WATCH |&nbsp;Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky?

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Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun. 
 
"Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

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The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area.

The army of Ukraine crossed the Russian lines in southern Ukraine, said the general who is leading the counteroffensive while speaking to the US media this weekend amid the latest claims made by Ukraine that it is making progress in the Zaporizhzhia area. The counteroffensive was launched by Ukraine to take back territory from Russian forces in June. The progress of the Ukrainian army has been slower than expected because of the heavily mined territory, however, in recent weeks Kyiv reported making strategic advances in the Zaporizhzhia region. "On the left flank (near the village of Verbove) we have a breakthrough and we continue to advance further," said General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, while speaking to CNN. He further acknowledged that the army's advance has been slower than what was hoped by Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine "Not as fast as it was expected, not like in the movies about the Second World War," he stated in the CNN interview. However, he stated that it is important "not to lose this initiative". A strategic victory was declared by Kyiv last month when it successfully recaptured the southern village of Robotyne. Tarnavskiy stated that the counteroffensive's major breakthrough will be when Kyiv recaptures the city of Tokmak, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line. He added that retaking Tokmak would help Ukrainian forces in pushing towards occupied Melitopol and annexed Crimea. "I think it (a breakthrough) would happen after Tokmak," he stated, further warning, "At the moment (Russian forces) are relying on the depth of their defensive line there." Tarnavskiy then disagreed with a few predictions that the push by Ukraine could sloe down more in the coming months due to winter. "The weather can be a serious obstacle during the advance, but considering how we move forward, mostly without vehicles, I don't think (it) will heavily influence the counteroffensive," he stated. Ukraine's heavy artillery inflicting 'hell' The heavy weapons, which were supplied by the West, in the battle taking place on the outskirts of Bakhmut, has led to a significant toll on Russia's lines, said Ukrainian commanders while speaking to Reuters. WATCH | Are Ukraine's allies abandoning Zelensky? Unit commander Oleksandr said that the armed forces of Ukraine "very much rely" on heavy artillery, which includes the U.S.-made M109 self-propelled howitzer and the Polish-made Krab gun. "Even one gun can completely turn the situation around. An attack can be stopped with one such gun. The main thing is to aim where needed. They (the Russians) hate our hardware. That's what we gather from our intercepts. We hear that we keep giving them hell and they keep wondering how much ammunition we have left,” he said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province. 
 
China and Nepal will be working together for greater synergy between development strategies and to ensure the progress of their bilateral ties.&nbsp;

Prachanda reached Hangzhou earlier on Saturday to attend the 19th Asian Games' opening ceremony which was held on Saturday evening.

Sharing details of the meeting on X, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal Chen Song wrote, “On September 23,&nbsp; Xi Jinping, Chinese President met with Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development strategies with Nepal to promote continuous new progress of the bilateral relations.”

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On September 23, H. E. Mr. Xi Jinping,Chinese President met with Rt. Hon. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development… <a href="https://t.co/nwegRCr3xN">pic.twitter.com/nwegRCr3xN</a>
— Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PRCAmbNepal/status/1705548803749609790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Prachanda said that Nepal supports a series of important concepts and initiatives proposed by President Xi and is willing to work with China to promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/president-xi-jinping-to-open-asian-games-as-china-targets-sporting-glory-in-hangzhou-638772">President Xi Jinping to open Asian Games as China targets sporting glory</a>

<h2>Prachanda attends opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games</h2>

Welcoming the Nepalese PM in Hangzhou, the Chinese president said, “Welcome Prime Minister Prachanda to attend the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and pay an official visit to China. You've been committed to promoting the development of China-Nepal friendly relations, and firmly supporting the Belt and Road co-operation between the two countries, which I highly appreciate. This is your first visit to China since you took office as Prime Minister of Nepal for the third time, and I believe that this visit will yield fruitful results and inject new impetus into the friendly co-operation between our two countries.” 
 
"China and Nepal are connected by mountains and rivers, and have enjoyed an everlasting friendship. Over the 68 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, China and Nepal, on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have been respecting and supporting each other and treating each other as equals, which sets an example of equal treatment and win-win co-operation between big and small countries. China attaches great importance to its relationship with Nepal, and is willing to work with Nepal to seek greater synergy between our development strategies, deepen practical co-operation in various fields and strengthen experience-sharing on state governance, so as to keep making new progress in advancing the China-Nepal relationship," he added.

The Nepalese prime minister expressed his gratitude for receiving invitation&nbsp;to the opening ceremony of the Asian Games and said that the event will strengthen relations and promote understanding&nbsp;among Asian nations.

"It is my distinct honor to meet with you in this beautiful city of Hangzhou. This is my fifth meeting with you, Your Excellency. You are a visionary and great leader of our time, and a true friend of Nepal. I'm grateful to you for the invitation to be a part of the grand celebration of the Asian Games. The message of this event will go a long way in cementing ties and promoting understanding&nbsp;among Asian nations and people," stated Prachanda.

WATCH |&nbsp;Nepal PM's visit to China: Lizi trade route for Nepal and China

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The 19th Asian Games, which is being co-hosted by Hangzhou and five cities of Zhejiang - Ningbo, Wenzhou, Jinhua, Shaoxing, and Huzhou - officially opened on Saturday evening and will continue till October 8.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province.

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Saturday (September 23) in Hangzhou, the capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province. China and Nepal will be working together for greater synergy between development strategies and to ensure the progress of their bilateral ties. Prachanda reached Hangzhou earlier on Saturday to attend the 19th Asian Games' opening ceremony which was held on Saturday evening. Sharing details of the meeting on X, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal Chen Song wrote, “On September 23, Xi Jinping, Chinese President met with Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development strategies with Nepal to promote continuous new progress of the bilateral relations.” On September 23, H. E. Mr. Xi Jinping,Chinese President met with Rt. Hon. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Prime Minister of Nepal in Hangzhou. Xi stressed that China attaches great importance to China-Nepal relations and is willing to strengthen the docking of development… pic.twitter.com/nwegRCr3xN — Ambassador Chen Song (@PRCAmbNepal) September 23, 2023 × “Prachanda said that Nepal supports a series of important concepts and initiatives proposed by President Xi and is willing to work with China to promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” he added. ALSO READ | President Xi Jinping to open Asian Games as China targets sporting glory Prachanda attends opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games Welcoming the Nepalese PM in Hangzhou, the Chinese president said, “Welcome Prime Minister Prachanda to attend the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou and pay an official visit to China. You've been committed to promoting the development of China-Nepal friendly relations, and firmly supporting the Belt and Road co-operation between the two countries, which I highly appreciate. This is your first visit to China since you took office as Prime Minister of Nepal for the third time, and I believe that this visit will yield fruitful results and inject new impetus into the friendly co-operation between our two countries.” "China and Nepal are connected by mountains and rivers, and have enjoyed an everlasting friendship. Over the 68 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, China and Nepal, on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have been respecting and supporting each other and treating each other as equals, which sets an example of equal treatment and win-win co-operation between big and small countries. China attaches great importance to its relationship with Nepal, and is willing to work with Nepal to seek greater synergy between our development strategies, deepen practical co-operation in various fields and strengthen experience-sharing on state governance, so as to keep making new progress in advancing the China-Nepal relationship," he added. The Nepalese prime minister expressed his gratitude for receiving invitation to the opening ceremony of the Asian Games and said that the event will strengthen relations and promote understanding among Asian nations. "It is my distinct honor to meet with you in this beautiful city of Hangzhou. This is my fifth meeting with you, Your Excellency. You are a visionary and great leader of our time, and a true friend of Nepal. I'm grateful to you for the invitation to be a part of the grand celebration of the Asian Games. The message of this event will go a long way in cementing ties and promoting understanding among Asian nations and people," stated Prachanda. WATCH | Nepal PM's visit to China: Lizi trade route for Nepal and China The 19th Asian Games, which is being co-hosted by Hangzhou and five cities of Zhejiang - Ningbo, Wenzhou, Jinhua, Shaoxing, and Huzhou - officially opened on Saturday evening and will continue till October 8. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nepal's PM Prachanda meets Chinese President Xi, attends Asian Games opening

The United States, for the first time since diplomatic tensions escalated between India and Canada over Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, confirmed officially that there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" which informed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the murder. 
 
During an interview with CTV News, a Canadian news network, United States Ambassador to Canada David Cohen said that "there was shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners that helped lead Canada to making the statements that the PM (Trudeau) made". 
 
However, he did not clarify if the intelligence which informed about the investigation of the Canadian government was both human and surveillance-based, or if it had signals intelligence of Indian diplomats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-nijjar-row-india-suspends-visas-for-canadians-as-tensions-rise-between-the-two-countries-638125">As India-Canada ties sour, New Delhi suspends visa services for Canadians</a>

"This was a matter of shared intelligence information. There was a lot of communication between Canada and the US about this, and I think that's as far as I'm comfortable going," he said.

<h2>US, Canada discussed Nijjar's killing</h2>

The ambassador further confirmed that a lot of communication took place between the United States and Canada regarding the issue. 
 
"Look, I will say this was a matter of shared intelligence information. There was a lot of communication between Canada and the United States about this, and I think that's as far as I'm comfortable going,” he added. 
 
Further speaking about how the diplomatic escalation between India and China is being interpreted by the US, Cohen said that the US "takes very seriously these allegations." 
 
"And, you know, if they prove to be true, it is a potentially very serious breach of the rules-based international order in which we like to function," he stated.

WATCH |&nbsp;Khalistan terrorist Sukha Duneke killed in gang war in Canada | BREAKING

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As per the ambassador, the US officials have informed how US President Joe Biden expressed his concern over the allegations to India and asked the country to co-operate in Canada's investigation. 
 
"We think it's very important to get to the bottom of it," Cohen stated. 
 
Trudeau had earlier informed reporters that the Canadian government officials had been working closely with intelligence agencies since the summer to "make sure that we had a solid grounding in understanding what was going on". 
 
The accusations have been called serious by the members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance - comprising the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

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The United States, for the first time since diplomatic tensions escalated between India and Canada over Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, confirmed officially that there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" which informed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the murder.

The United States, for the first time since diplomatic tensions escalated between India and Canada over Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, confirmed officially that there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" which informed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the murder. During an interview with CTV News, a Canadian news network, United States Ambassador to Canada David Cohen said that "there was shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners that helped lead Canada to making the statements that the PM (Trudeau) made". However, he did not clarify if the intelligence which informed about the investigation of the Canadian government was both human and surveillance-based, or if it had signals intelligence of Indian diplomats. ALSO READ | As India-Canada ties sour, New Delhi suspends visa services for Canadians "This was a matter of shared intelligence information. There was a lot of communication between Canada and the US about this, and I think that's as far as I'm comfortable going," he said. US, Canada discussed Nijjar's killing The ambassador further confirmed that a lot of communication took place between the United States and Canada regarding the issue. "Look, I will say this was a matter of shared intelligence information. There was a lot of communication between Canada and the United States about this, and I think that's as far as I'm comfortable going,” he added. Further speaking about how the diplomatic escalation between India and China is being interpreted by the US, Cohen said that the US "takes very seriously these allegations." "And, you know, if they prove to be true, it is a potentially very serious breach of the rules-based international order in which we like to function," he stated. WATCH | Khalistan terrorist Sukha Duneke killed in gang war in Canada | BREAKING As per the ambassador, the US officials have informed how US President Joe Biden expressed his concern over the allegations to India and asked the country to co-operate in Canada's investigation. "We think it's very important to get to the bottom of it," Cohen stated. Trudeau had earlier informed reporters that the Canadian government officials had been working closely with intelligence agencies since the summer to "make sure that we had a solid grounding in understanding what was going on". The accusations have been called serious by the members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance - comprising the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Shared intel among Five Eyes helped Trudeau make allegations against India: US

Taiwan is working towards developing a suicide drone which can carry out autonomous and manual attacks as the country aims to bolster its asymmetric warfare capabilities amid the increasing pressure from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), as per a report published in the South China Morning Post. 
 
The aerial weapon which is being developed will turn out to be a more powerful variant of the Loitering Unmanned Aircraft Type 1. 
 
Loitering Unmanned Aircraft Type 1 was inspired by the US-made Switchblade 300, a drone which proved effective in neutralising ground targets and destroying Russian tanks in the war in Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-flags-abnormal-chinese-movements-rise-in-military-activity-around-island-638625">Taiwan flags ‘abnormal’ Chinese movements, rise in military activity around island</a>

The aerial weapon which has been tentatively named the “Loitering Missile II”, will be the Type 2 suicide drone which will be equipped with built-in warheads and will be able to linger near a target till the moment it strikes - by flying into the target.

<h2>Destructive aerial weapons can be launched from different platforms</h2>

Type 2, which is a miniature of Type 1's much larger version, can be launched from various platforms with the aim of amplifying its destructive power, as per the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, the top weapons builder of the country. 
 
“Type 2 is a high mobility munition that can be easily repositioned because its foldable wings allow for efficient transport,” stated Chi Li-pin, director of the Institute’s aeronautical systems research division, while speaking to South China Morning Post. 
 
The weapon has the ability to abort or change its attack missions mid-flight as required, Chi emphasised. 
 
Since the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been configured for multi-tube launches from various platforms like trucks, planes, unmanned aerial vehicles and ships, the officials can dispatch the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from land, air and sea, said Chi in his presentation before the defence technology show held last week in Taipei.

WATCH |&nbsp;Chinese activist Chen Siming asks Taiwan not to deport him

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“Also, multiple layers of tubes can be mounted at the launching platforms, allowing a number of the munitions to be ejected at the same time,” said Chi, adding that the officials can use the drones day or night. 
 
“The munition is suitable for saturation attacks and precise, beyond-visual-range strikes on fixed and mobile targets using its multi-module seeker,” Chi stated, speaking about the Type 2’s artificial intelligence-guided capability, smart-recognition and anti-radiation features, and electro-optic and infrared image tracking systems.

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Taiwan is working towards developing a suicide drone which can carry out autonomous and manual attacks as the country aims to bolster its asymmetric warfare capabilities amid the increasing pressure from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), as per a report published in the South China Morning Post.

Taiwan is working towards developing a suicide drone which can carry out autonomous and manual attacks as the country aims to bolster its asymmetric warfare capabilities amid the increasing pressure from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), as per a report published in the South China Morning Post. The aerial weapon which is being developed will turn out to be a more powerful variant of the Loitering Unmanned Aircraft Type 1. Loitering Unmanned Aircraft Type 1 was inspired by the US-made Switchblade 300, a drone which proved effective in neutralising ground targets and destroying Russian tanks in the war in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Taiwan flags ‘abnormal’ Chinese movements, rise in military activity around island The aerial weapon which has been tentatively named the “Loitering Missile II”, will be the Type 2 suicide drone which will be equipped with built-in warheads and will be able to linger near a target till the moment it strikes - by flying into the target. Destructive aerial weapons can be launched from different platforms Type 2, which is a miniature of Type 1's much larger version, can be launched from various platforms with the aim of amplifying its destructive power, as per the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, the top weapons builder of the country. “Type 2 is a high mobility munition that can be easily repositioned because its foldable wings allow for efficient transport,” stated Chi Li-pin, director of the Institute’s aeronautical systems research division, while speaking to South China Morning Post. The weapon has the ability to abort or change its attack missions mid-flight as required, Chi emphasised. Since the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been configured for multi-tube launches from various platforms like trucks, planes, unmanned aerial vehicles and ships, the officials can dispatch the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from land, air and sea, said Chi in his presentation before the defence technology show held last week in Taipei. WATCH | Chinese activist Chen Siming asks Taiwan not to deport him “Also, multiple layers of tubes can be mounted at the launching platforms, allowing a number of the munitions to be ejected at the same time,” said Chi, adding that the officials can use the drones day or night. “The munition is suitable for saturation attacks and precise, beyond-visual-range strikes on fixed and mobile targets using its multi-module seeker,” Chi stated, speaking about the Type 2’s artificial intelligence-guided capability, smart-recognition and anti-radiation features, and electro-optic and infrared image tracking systems. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwan develops destructive suicide drone amid harassment from China: Report

Pope Francis on Saturday (September 23) appealed to the European governments to welcome migrants in their countries and not to consider them as “invaders”, as the religious leader stepped his foot into a very sensitive political debate which has been inflamed by mass arrivals. 
 
"Those who risk their lives at sea do not invade, they look for welcome," said Francis in a speech during a conference of bishops and young people from the Mediterranean in the French port city of Marseille.

<h2>Mediterranean turning into a 'sea of death': Pope</h2>

"There is a cry of pain that resonates most of all, and it is turning the Mediterranean, the 'mare nostrum', from the cradle of civilization into the 'mare mortuum', the graveyard of dignity: it is the stifled cry of migrant brothers and sisters," he stated, as he used Latin terms meaning "our sea" and "sea of death". 
 
Migration is "a reality of our times, a process that involves three continents around the Mediterranean and that must be governed with wise foresight, including a European response," said the pontiff.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-begins-low-key-visit-to-catholics-in-buddhist-mongolia-631140">Pope Francis begins low-key visit to Catholics in Buddhist Mongolia</a>

The 35-minute speech of Pope Francis got a standing ovation from his audience, however, his stance on migration may have not pleased French President Emmanuel Macron and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who were present at the event and have been planning tougher measures for controlling arrivals. 
 
The forceful interventions of the pope come as mass arrivals ignited the migration debate on the Italian island of Lampedusa last week. 
 
Speaking at a monument to people lost at sea on his arrival in Marseille on Friday, the pontiff had insisted that "people who are at risk of drowning when abandoned on the waves must be rescued". 
 
He said that migrants who face the risk of drowning at sea "must be rescued" because doing so is "a duty of humanity" and that those who avoid rescuing such people commit "a gesture of hate".

WATCH |&nbsp;Pope Francis becomes first pontiff to visit Mongolia

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He thanked aid groups for rescuing migrants in danger at sea, condemning efforts to prevent their work as "gestures of hate".

<h2>Pope holds talks with French President Macron</h2>

On Saturday, Pope Francis also met French President Emmanuel Macron in Marseille. He started his day with a visit to the centre for the needy in the Saint Mauront district of Marseilles, which is being run by the order of nuns founded by Saint Mother Teresa. 
 
The issues related to migration have dominated his 27-hour trip.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis on Saturday (September 23) appealed to the European governments to welcome migrants in their countries and not to consider them as “invaders”, as the religious leader stepped his foot into a very sensitive political debate which has been inflamed by mass arrivals.

Pope Francis on Saturday (September 23) appealed to the European governments to welcome migrants in their countries and not to consider them as “invaders”, as the religious leader stepped his foot into a very sensitive political debate which has been inflamed by mass arrivals. "Those who risk their lives at sea do not invade, they look for welcome," said Francis in a speech during a conference of bishops and young people from the Mediterranean in the French port city of Marseille. Mediterranean turning into a 'sea of death': Pope "There is a cry of pain that resonates most of all, and it is turning the Mediterranean, the 'mare nostrum', from the cradle of civilization into the 'mare mortuum', the graveyard of dignity: it is the stifled cry of migrant brothers and sisters," he stated, as he used Latin terms meaning "our sea" and "sea of death". Migration is "a reality of our times, a process that involves three continents around the Mediterranean and that must be governed with wise foresight, including a European response," said the pontiff. ALSO READ | Pope Francis begins low-key visit to Catholics in Buddhist Mongolia The 35-minute speech of Pope Francis got a standing ovation from his audience, however, his stance on migration may have not pleased French President Emmanuel Macron and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who were present at the event and have been planning tougher measures for controlling arrivals. The forceful interventions of the pope come as mass arrivals ignited the migration debate on the Italian island of Lampedusa last week. Speaking at a monument to people lost at sea on his arrival in Marseille on Friday, the pontiff had insisted that "people who are at risk of drowning when abandoned on the waves must be rescued". He said that migrants who face the risk of drowning at sea "must be rescued" because doing so is "a duty of humanity" and that those who avoid rescuing such people commit "a gesture of hate". WATCH | Pope Francis becomes first pontiff to visit Mongolia He thanked aid groups for rescuing migrants in danger at sea, condemning efforts to prevent their work as "gestures of hate". Pope holds talks with French President Macron On Saturday, Pope Francis also met French President Emmanuel Macron in Marseille. He started his day with a visit to the centre for the needy in the Saint Mauront district of Marseilles, which is being run by the order of nuns founded by Saint Mother Teresa. The issues related to migration have dominated his 27-hour trip. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope Francis says migration a reality, urges Europe to not consider migrants as ‘invaders’

In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press. It was the same house where the pilot had landed safely using a parachute after ejecting. 
 
In the four-minute recording, the bizarre circumstances in which three unidentified people were involved - a North Charleston resident who was explaining calmly how a pilot just landed in his backyard, the pilot who is worried about his F-35 jet and a puzzled dispatcher who is not being able to make sense of the conversation at all – have been recorded. 
 
“We got a pilot in the house, and I guess he landed in my backyard, and we’re trying to see if we could get an ambulance to the house, please,” the resident stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-35b-plane-suspected-to-be-in-air-after-pilot-safely-ejects-after-mishap-637014">US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects</a>

The pilot, who confirmed that he was 47 years old, reported that he was feeling “ok” after landing from an estimated height of 2,000ft. He said that only his back was hurt. The resident said the pilot appeared fine. 
 
“Ma’am, a military jet crashed. I’m the pilot. We need to get the rescue rolling. I’m not sure where the airplane is. It would have crash landed somewhere. I ejected,” said the pilot. Later in the telephone call, the pilot made another plea for medical help. 
 
“Ma’am, I’m a pilot in a military aircraft, and I ejected. So I just rode a parachute down to the ground. Can you please send an ambulance?” the pilot stated. The pilot was described by the Marines as an experienced aviator who had decades of experience in the cockpit.

<h2>F-35 prompted pilot to eject over Charleston</h2>

On Sunday, the F-35 crashed after the pilot was prompted to eject over Charleston due to a malfunction and land in the residential backyard which was not far from Charleston International Airport. 
 
The fighter jet which was reported to be at an altitude of only about 1,000ft (300 metres) by the Marine Corps continued flying for 60 miles (100 km) until it crashed in a rural area. In more than a day's time, the officials were able to locate the wreckage.

WATCH |&nbsp;US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap'

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The news agency also released a separate eight-minute dispatch call in which an unidentified official was heard explaining that they had “a pilot with his parachute” but no information was shared regarding his plane or the crash. He stated that “the pilot lost sight of it on his way down due to the weather”.

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In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press.

In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press. It was the same house where the pilot had landed safely using a parachute after ejecting. In the four-minute recording, the bizarre circumstances in which three unidentified people were involved - a North Charleston resident who was explaining calmly how a pilot just landed in his backyard, the pilot who is worried about his F-35 jet and a puzzled dispatcher who is not being able to make sense of the conversation at all – have been recorded. “We got a pilot in the house, and I guess he landed in my backyard, and we’re trying to see if we could get an ambulance to the house, please,” the resident stated. ALSO READ | US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects The pilot, who confirmed that he was 47 years old, reported that he was feeling “ok” after landing from an estimated height of 2,000ft. He said that only his back was hurt. The resident said the pilot appeared fine. “Ma’am, a military jet crashed. I’m the pilot. We need to get the rescue rolling. I’m not sure where the airplane is. It would have crash landed somewhere. I ejected,” said the pilot. Later in the telephone call, the pilot made another plea for medical help. “Ma’am, I’m a pilot in a military aircraft, and I ejected. So I just rode a parachute down to the ground. Can you please send an ambulance?” the pilot stated. The pilot was described by the Marines as an experienced aviator who had decades of experience in the cockpit. F-35 prompted pilot to eject over Charleston On Sunday, the F-35 crashed after the pilot was prompted to eject over Charleston due to a malfunction and land in the residential backyard which was not far from Charleston International Airport. The fighter jet which was reported to be at an altitude of only about 1,000ft (300 metres) by the Marine Corps continued flying for 60 miles (100 km) until it crashed in a rural area. In more than a day's time, the officials were able to locate the wreckage. WATCH | US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap' The news agency also released a separate eight-minute dispatch call in which an unidentified official was heard explaining that they had “a pilot with his parachute” but no information was shared regarding his plane or the crash. He stated that “the pilot lost sight of it on his way down due to the weather”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘We got a pilot in the house’: Bizarre 911 call reveals details of events before F-35 crash

New Jersey Democratic Senator&nbsp;Bob Menendez along with his wife on Friday (September 22) faced charges of corruption-related offences for the second time in a time span of 10 years. 
 
Menendez, along with his wife Nadine Arslanian Menendez, have been accused of accepting “hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes” in exchange for the influence of the senator, as per the newly unsealed federal indictment. 
 
As per prosecutors, the bribes accepted by the couple included gold, cash, compensation for a “low-or-no-show job”, home mortgage payments and a luxury vehicle. Meanwhile, Will Hana, Jose Uribe and Fred Daibes also faced the charges. 
 
This is the second set of corruption charges levied by the Justice Department against Menendez in a decade. 
 
Previously, the senator fought off honest services fraud, bribery and corruption charges which were related to the alleged personal favours taken by him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-another-gaffe-biden-praises-black-caucus-while-speaking-to-hispanic-caucus-638603">In another gaffe, Biden praises 'Black Caucus’ while addressing 'Hispanic Caucus'</a>

Next year, Menendez will be going for a re-election. Since 2006, he has been in the senate.

<h2>Menendez may have to step aside as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee</h2>

As per Senate Democratic Caucus rules, Menendez will have to step aside as the Foreign Relations Committee’s chairman, however, he can still serve on the panel. 
 
In a statement, Menendez slammed the indictment. 
 
“For years, forces behind the scenes have repeatedly attempted to silence my voice and dig my political grave. Since this investigation was leaked nearly a year ago, there has been an active smear campaign of anonymous sources and innuendos to create an air of impropriety where none exists,” he stated. 
 
“The excesses of these prosecutors is apparent. They have misrepresented the normal work of a Congressional office. On top of that, not content with making false claims against me, they have attacked my wife for the longstanding friendships she had before she and I even met," the senator added.

WATCH |&nbsp;US to protect nearly 500,000 Venezuelans, migrants can work in US for 18 months

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All the allegations of wrongdoing have been vigorously denied by Menendez. 
 
Speaking to CNN, he said in April, “This inquiry will end up, I believe, in absolutely nothing.” 
 
The federal prosecutors from the office of the US attorney in New Jersey charged Menendez in 2015 with the multiple charges and he was alleged of abusing his power. 
 
Prosecutors stated that the senator had allegedly taken a luxurious hotel suite at the Park Hyatt in Paris, more than $600,000 in political contributions and free rides on a private jet from a wealthy ophthalmologist Dr. Salomon Melgen and had provided political favours in exchange. 
 
Menendez's corruption trial ended in a mistrial in November 2017 after the jury stated that it was deadlocked. All the charges were denied by both men.

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New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez along with his wife on Friday (September 22) faced charges of corruption-related offences for the second time in a time span of 10 years.

New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez along with his wife on Friday (September 22) faced charges of corruption-related offences for the second time in a time span of 10 years. Menendez, along with his wife Nadine Arslanian Menendez, have been accused of accepting “hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes” in exchange for the influence of the senator, as per the newly unsealed federal indictment. As per prosecutors, the bribes accepted by the couple included gold, cash, compensation for a “low-or-no-show job”, home mortgage payments and a luxury vehicle. Meanwhile, Will Hana, Jose Uribe and Fred Daibes also faced the charges. This is the second set of corruption charges levied by the Justice Department against Menendez in a decade. Previously, the senator fought off honest services fraud, bribery and corruption charges which were related to the alleged personal favours taken by him. ALSO READ | In another gaffe, Biden praises 'Black Caucus’ while addressing 'Hispanic Caucus' Next year, Menendez will be going for a re-election. Since 2006, he has been in the senate. Menendez may have to step aside as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee As per Senate Democratic Caucus rules, Menendez will have to step aside as the Foreign Relations Committee’s chairman, however, he can still serve on the panel. In a statement, Menendez slammed the indictment. “For years, forces behind the scenes have repeatedly attempted to silence my voice and dig my political grave. Since this investigation was leaked nearly a year ago, there has been an active smear campaign of anonymous sources and innuendos to create an air of impropriety where none exists,” he stated. “The excesses of these prosecutors is apparent. They have misrepresented the normal work of a Congressional office. On top of that, not content with making false claims against me, they have attacked my wife for the longstanding friendships she had before she and I even met," the senator added. WATCH | US to protect nearly 500,000 Venezuelans, migrants can work in US for 18 months All the allegations of wrongdoing have been vigorously denied by Menendez. Speaking to CNN, he said in April, “This inquiry will end up, I believe, in absolutely nothing.” The federal prosecutors from the office of the US attorney in New Jersey charged Menendez in 2015 with the multiple charges and he was alleged of abusing his power. Prosecutors stated that the senator had allegedly taken a luxurious hotel suite at the Park Hyatt in Paris, more than $600,000 in political contributions and free rides on a private jet from a wealthy ophthalmologist Dr. Salomon Melgen and had provided political favours in exchange. Menendez's corruption trial ended in a mistrial in November 2017 after the jury stated that it was deadlocked. All the charges were denied by both men. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Court indicts Senator Bob Menendez and his wife on bribery charges

The strike of the US auto workers union expanded against two of Detroit's "Big Three" on Friday (September 22), as they invited President Joe Biden to extend support to workers on the picket line.

The strike of all 38 US parts and distribution centres at Stellantis and General Motors was announced by UAW President Shawn Fain, as the negotiations remain stalled. &nbsp;

The strike was not expanded by Fain at Ford, where significant gaps are still there, which has offered important concessions after the strike started a week ago.

"As we have said for weeks, we're not going to wait around forever for fair contracts at the Big Three," said Fain, in a press briefing.

"We invite and encourage anyone who supports our cause to join us on the picket line, from friends and family all the way up to the president of the United States," stated Fain, as he extended an invitation which will further entangle the White House into a more politically treacherous issue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-auto-workers-threaten-to-amp-up-historic-strike-if-wage-offers-do-not-improve-637162">US auto workers threaten to 'amp up' historic strike if wage offers do not improve</a>

"The way you can help is to build our movement and show the companies that the public stands with us," he added.&nbsp;

Fain said that earlier proposals were improved by Ford by reinstating a cost-of-living measure, which was suspended in 2009. An enhanced profit-sharing system was also offered by Ford and the union was granted the right to strike over plant closures.

"We're not done at Ford," Fain stated. However, "we do recognise that Ford is serious about reaching a deal. At GM and Stellantis, it's a different story," he said.&nbsp;

The strategy of UAW of slowly expanding its action is part of what Fain has called the "stand-up strike" -- an allusion to the landmark "sitdown" strike of UAW held in the 1930s which is aimed at maximising the bargaining leverage of the union because of the risk of additional plants to be taken down.

<h2>UAW adopts aggressive posture</h2>

Under the leadership of Fain, an aggressive posture has been adopted by the UAW in the talks as the companies have been accused of "corporate greed" and lambasting Big Three CEO salaries of more than $20 million each.

Fain has further shelved the convention of UAW of selecting one of the three companies as a strike target and not launching three independent series of talks which have kept the companies off guard.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US: United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories

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The UAW has been seeking a hike of 40 per cent in the wage which will match the average increases by CEOs in the last four years.

Their other key demands include the elimination of various worker pay and benefit "tiers", the re-establishment of retiree medical benefits, a cost-of-living adjustment, and a pension for junior employees. So far, the one-week-old strike had limited effect on company profits, while new pressures were introduced on auto parts suppliers to the Big Three. However, the expanded strike will now pose new challenges for General Motors and Stellantis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The strike of the US auto workers union expanded against two of Detroit's "Big Three" on Friday (September 22), as they invited President Joe Biden to extend support to workers on the picket line.

The strike of the US auto workers union expanded against two of Detroit's "Big Three" on Friday (September 22), as they invited President Joe Biden to extend support to workers on the picket line. The strike of all 38 US parts and distribution centres at Stellantis and General Motors was announced by UAW President Shawn Fain, as the negotiations remain stalled. The strike was not expanded by Fain at Ford, where significant gaps are still there, which has offered important concessions after the strike started a week ago. "As we have said for weeks, we're not going to wait around forever for fair contracts at the Big Three," said Fain, in a press briefing. "We invite and encourage anyone who supports our cause to join us on the picket line, from friends and family all the way up to the president of the United States," stated Fain, as he extended an invitation which will further entangle the White House into a more politically treacherous issue. ALSO READ | US auto workers threaten to 'amp up' historic strike if wage offers do not improve "The way you can help is to build our movement and show the companies that the public stands with us," he added. Fain said that earlier proposals were improved by Ford by reinstating a cost-of-living measure, which was suspended in 2009. An enhanced profit-sharing system was also offered by Ford and the union was granted the right to strike over plant closures. "We're not done at Ford," Fain stated. However, "we do recognise that Ford is serious about reaching a deal. At GM and Stellantis, it's a different story," he said. The strategy of UAW of slowly expanding its action is part of what Fain has called the "stand-up strike" -- an allusion to the landmark "sitdown" strike of UAW held in the 1930s which is aimed at maximising the bargaining leverage of the union because of the risk of additional plants to be taken down. UAW adopts aggressive posture Under the leadership of Fain, an aggressive posture has been adopted by the UAW in the talks as the companies have been accused of "corporate greed" and lambasting Big Three CEO salaries of more than $20 million each. Fain has further shelved the convention of UAW of selecting one of the three companies as a strike target and not launching three independent series of talks which have kept the companies off guard. WATCH | US: United Auto Workers Union launch strikes at three factories The UAW has been seeking a hike of 40 per cent in the wage which will match the average increases by CEOs in the last four years. Their other key demands include the elimination of various worker pay and benefit "tiers", the re-establishment of retiree medical benefits, a cost-of-living adjustment, and a pension for junior employees. So far, the one-week-old strike had limited effect on company profits, while new pressures were introduced on auto parts suppliers to the Big Three. However, the expanded strike will now pose new challenges for General Motors and Stellantis. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Strike of US auto workers reaches General Motors, Stellantis; Ford remains unaffected

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