Lahore High Court on Tuesday issued notices to Counter Terrorism Department over a petition seeking to quash cases against UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-finds-hafiz-saeed-guilty-in-terror-financing-case-report-241330">Hafiz Saeed</a> and 65 others.

The court in its notices sought a reply over the matter from the parties within two weeks.

The petition was submitted by a JuD affiliate, Malik Zafar Iqbal. The High Court took up the matter for hearing on August 22.

Iqbal, in his petition, contended that the complaints are "without lawful authority and are of no legal effect", Dawn News reported.

Last month, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hafiz-saeeds-ninth-time-arrest-pakistans-bid-to-curb-terror-a-mere-eyewash-reveals-former-envoy-238300"> arrested Saeed in Gujranwala</a>, Punjab. The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits.

On July 3, top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab in Pakistan, had stated that JuD was involved in terror funding collected through organisations including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, and Muaz Bin Jabal Trust.

The terrorist was reportedly on his way to an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Gujranwalato seek bail when he was arrested.&nbsp;

Lahore High Court on Tuesday issued notices to Counter Terrorism Department over a petition seeking to quash cases against UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed and 65 others.

Lahore High Court on Tuesday issued notices to Counter Terrorism Department over a petition seeking to quash cases against UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed and 65 others. The court in its notices sought a reply over the matter from the parties within two weeks. The petition was submitted by a JuD affiliate, Malik Zafar Iqbal. The High Court took up the matter for hearing on August 22. Iqbal, in his petition, contended that the complaints are "without lawful authority and are of no legal effect", Dawn News reported. Last month, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials arrested Saeed in Gujranwala, Punjab. The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits. On July 3, top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab in Pakistan, had stated that JuD was involved in terror funding collected through organisations including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, and Muaz Bin Jabal Trust. The terrorist was reportedly on his way to an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Gujranwalato seek bail when he was arrested.

Pakistan court issues notices over petition to quash cases against Hafiz Saeed

Indian shares settled higher for a third straight session on Tuesday, led by auto and banking stocks, as ebbing global trade war worries and expectations of further stimulus supported by a huge dividend from the central bank boosted investor sentiment.

The broader NSE Nifty closed up 0.43 per cent at 11,105.35, while the benchmark BSE Sensex ended 0.39 per cent higher at 37,641.27. 
The Nifty auto index ended up 1.85 per cent, with Tata Motors Ltd settling nearly 9 per cent higher.

The Nifty PSU bank index, which tracks state-owned banks, settled up 2.5 per cent, with 11 out of 12 constituents in the green.

Telecom company Bharti Airtel was the top loser on the NSE index with a drop of 3.42 per cent. Earlier in the day, television channel reported that Kenya suspended a deal between the firm and Telekom Kenya.

Indian shares settled higher for a third straight session on Tuesday, led by auto and banking stocks, as ebbing global trade war worries and expectations of further stimulus supported by a huge dividend from the central bank boosted investor sentiment.

Indian shares settled higher for a third straight session on Tuesday, led by auto and banking stocks, as ebbing global trade war worries and expectations of further stimulus supported by a huge dividend from the central bank boosted investor sentiment. The broader NSE Nifty closed up 0.43 per cent at 11,105.35, while the benchmark BSE Sensex ended 0.39 per cent higher at 37,641.27. The Nifty auto index ended up 1.85 per cent, with Tata Motors Ltd settling nearly 9 per cent higher. The Nifty PSU bank index, which tracks state-owned banks, settled up 2.5 per cent, with 11 out of 12 constituents in the green. Telecom company Bharti Airtel was the top loser on the NSE index with a drop of 3.42 per cent. Earlier in the day, television channel reported that Kenya suspended a deal between the firm and Telekom Kenya.

Nifty, Sensex rise on receding trade worries, additional stimulus hopes

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday rejected the parole plea of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dera-chief-gurmeet-ram-rahim-cuts-grass-in-jail-gets-paid-rs-20-5175">Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh</a>, who is lodged in Rohtak jail for raping two of his followers.

The petition in this regard was filed by Ram Rahim's wife Harjit Kaur earlier this month on the grounds that his mother was ill.&nbsp;

Earlier in June, the Dera chief had applied for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gurmeet-ram-rahim-singh-seeks-over-month-long-parole-for-farming-229558">parole for farming in his fields</a> in Haryana's Sirsa. He, however, later withdrew his application.

Ram Rahim is currently lodged at Sunaria jail in Rohtak after being convicted in two rape cases and the murder of a journalist.&nbsp;

He was sentenced in August 2017 to 20 years imprisonment for raping two of his women followers.&nbsp;

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday rejected the parole plea of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who is lodged in Rohtak jail for raping two of his followers.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday rejected the parole plea of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who is lodged in Rohtak jail for raping two of his followers. The petition in this regard was filed by Ram Rahim's wife Harjit Kaur earlier this month on the grounds that his mother was ill. Earlier in June, the Dera chief had applied for parole for farming in his fields in Haryana's Sirsa. He, however, later withdrew his application. Ram Rahim is currently lodged at Sunaria jail in Rohtak after being convicted in two rape cases and the murder of a journalist. He was sentenced in August 2017 to 20 years imprisonment for raping two of his women followers.

Court rejects parole plea of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh

Kapil Sibal, a counsel appearing for the senior <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-setback-for-p-chidambaram-sent-to-extended-cbi-custody-till-august-30-245759">Congress leader P Chidambaram</a>, on Tuesday moved an application in the Supreme Court seeking direction to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to produce latter's statement recorded by it in the INX Media case.

The counsel sought the agency to produce the transcripts of the statement recorded by them on December 19, 2018, and January 1 and 21, 2019 before the apex court.

A bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna was hearing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) moved by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-supreme-court-dismisses-chidambarams-plea-against-cbi-arrest-245717">Chidambaram</a> against the Delhi High Court order denying him anticipatory bail in the money laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The apex court will continue to hear tomorrow plea of P Chidambaram against Delhi High Court&nbsp;order dismissing his anticipatory plea.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court today again&nbsp;extended the protection from arrest granted to P Chidambaram in the ED case. The senior Congress leader who is already being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation had sought&nbsp;protection from arrest in the ED case.

The top court had yesterday also extended for one day the protection from arrest granted to Chidambaram in the ED case, which ended today.

A Special court had also extended the CBI remand of the Congress leader by four days in a corruption case filed by the CBI in INX media scam.

The agency had sought an extension contending that they have to "unravel the larger conspiracy".

In 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister.

Following the FIR filed by CBI, ED had filed a case of money laundering against him.

Kapil Sibal, a counsel appearing for the senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, on Tuesday moved an application in the Supreme Court seeking direction to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to produce latter's statement recorded by it in the INX Media case.

Kapil Sibal, a counsel appearing for the senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, on Tuesday moved an application in the Supreme Court seeking direction to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to produce latter's statement recorded by it in the INX Media case. The counsel sought the agency to produce the transcripts of the statement recorded by them on December 19, 2018, and January 1 and 21, 2019 before the apex court. A bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna was hearing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) moved by Chidambaram against the Delhi High Court order denying him anticipatory bail in the money laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The apex court will continue to hear tomorrow plea of P Chidambaram against Delhi High Court order dismissing his anticipatory plea. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court today again extended the protection from arrest granted to P Chidambaram in the ED case. The senior Congress leader who is already being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation had sought protection from arrest in the ED case. The top court had yesterday also extended for one day the protection from arrest granted to Chidambaram in the ED case, which ended today. A Special court had also extended the CBI remand of the Congress leader by four days in a corruption case filed by the CBI in INX media scam. The agency had sought an extension contending that they have to "unravel the larger conspiracy". In 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister. Following the FIR filed by CBI, ED had filed a case of money laundering against him.

INX Media case: P Chidambaram's counsel seeks transcripts of statement recorded by ED

Sudan needs $8 billion (£6.5 billion) in foreign aid over the next two years to cover its import bill and help rebuild its ravaged economy after months of political turmoil, its new prime minister said on Saturday.

Sudan needs $8 billion (£6.5 billion) in foreign aid over the next two years to cover its import bill and help rebuild its ravaged economy after months of political turmoil, its new prime minister said on Saturday. Abdalla Hamdok, sworn in three days earlier to head a transitional government after the ousting of veteran leader Omar al-Bashir, said up to another $2 billion of foreign reserves deposits were needed in the next three months to halt a fall in the currency. The 61-year-old economist, who has worked for the UN Economic Commission for Africa, said he had started talks with the IMF and the World Bank to discuss restructuring Sudan's crippling debt and had approached friendly nations and funding bodies about the aid. Mounting public anger over shortages of food, fuel, and hard currency triggered mass demonstrations that eventually forced Bashir from power in April. "We are in communication to achieve this," Hamdok said in his first interview with a foreign media outlet. "The foreign reserves in the central bank are weak and very low." "However," he said, "there won't be a forced prescription from the IMF or the World Bank on Sudan." On the politically tricky topic of government subsidies for bread, fuel, electricity, and medicine, Hamdok said any changes would only be made after "deep discussions" with the people. "The people are the ones who will make the decision on this issue," he said. He also said he had been talking with the United States to remove Sudan from its list of state sponsors of terrorism - a designation that has left Khartoum isolated from most of the international financial system since 1993. There was no immediate comment from the US government, the IMF or the World Bank. DEVALUED CURRENCY Sudan has been in economic turmoil since it lost the bulk of its oil production in 2011 when South Sudan seceded after decades of civil war. It has devalued the pound several times but not been able to halt the fall. One dollar currently fetches 65 pounds on the black market versus the official rate of 45. "We will work to unify the exchange rate, and to manage the exchange rate using a flexible managed exchange rate," Hamdok said, without going into details. He said Sudan needed to restore trust in the banking system. Hamdok, who studied agricultural economics, has also worked at the African Development Bank and most recently as a special advisor at the Trade and Development Bank in Ethiopia. He said Sudan needed to tap its agricultural potential. Sudan is rich in agricultural resources but high taxes, corruption, and mismanagement have held back investment in the sector for decades. "We want to take the Sudanese economy from an economy based on consumption and imports to a productive economy, and stop exporting products such as livestock and agriculture as raw materials," Hamdok said. "Instead, we will aim to process them so as to create added value." He also said he wants to focus on peace-building in a nation that has seen conflicts flare in multiple parts of the country, and endured a civil war that ended in the succession of the South. "Stopping war, which represents 70 per cent of the expenditure in the budget, will create a surplus that can be invested in production and particularly agriculture, livestock, and related industries," he said. Shortly after Bashir was ousted, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia pledged $3 billion in aid to Sudan, in the form of a $500 million deposit in the central bank, which Sudan has already received, as well as fuel, wheat, and medicine. The generals who forced Bashir from power took over and then, after months of wrangling and further violent protests, agreed to set up a transitional body including civilians to pave the way to elections in three years. Many hope Hamdok can shepherd Sudan through the transitional period, but some opposition members and analysts worry that the power-sharing deal may fall short of expectations in a country where the military, backed by Islamists, has dominated for decades.

Sudan needs up to $10 billion in aid to rebuild the economy: PM Abdalla Hamdok

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-wont-host-us-missiles-prime-minister-says-244144">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a>, who is in France to take part in the G7 leader's forum, said the government intended to prevent extremists from exploiting digital platforms to post extremely violent content.

"We are doing everything we can to deny terrorists the opportunity to glorify their crimes," he said in a statement.

Australia and New Zealand have increased scrutiny of websites and social media companies in the wake of the Christchurch massacre in March when 51 worshippers were killed in attacks on two New Zealand mosques.

The attack was live-streamed by alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant over Facebook.

The government said it would establish a framework to block domains hosting such material.&nbsp;

Australia's eSafety Commissioner would determine on a case-by-case basis what should be censored and was working with industry on arrangements to quickly block access during an attack.

A 24/7 Crisis Coordination Centre would be established to monitor the online world for extreme violence or terrorist material.

The government did not elaborate on what legislative options would be used if digital platforms failed to improve safety.

Tech giants including Facebook, YouTube, Amazon, Microsoft, and Twitter, along with Telstra, Vodafone, TPG, and Optus are expected to provide details to the government by the end of next month on how they will carry out the recommendations.

The firms are all members of the Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online, which had recommended a clear framework to be established.

It was not immediately clear how the move would affect media reporting of terror attacks or civil unrest.

Sky News New Zealand was fined NZ$4,000 ($2,560) by New Zealand's Broadcasting Standards Authority earlier this month for showing several edited clips taken from the alleged Christchurch attacker's 17-minute live stream video during its news broadcast.

The regulator said in its judgment that, while the broadcast was newsworthy, the clips contained disturbing violent content which could cause distress, or glorify the alleged attacker and promote his messages.

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday.

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is in France to take part in the G7 leader's forum, said the government intended to prevent extremists from exploiting digital platforms to post extremely violent content. "We are doing everything we can to deny terrorists the opportunity to glorify their crimes," he said in a statement. Australia and New Zealand have increased scrutiny of websites and social media companies in the wake of the Christchurch massacre in March when 51 worshippers were killed in attacks on two New Zealand mosques. The attack was live-streamed by alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant over Facebook. The government said it would establish a framework to block domains hosting such material. Australia's eSafety Commissioner would determine on a case-by-case basis what should be censored and was working with industry on arrangements to quickly block access during an attack. A 24/7 Crisis Coordination Centre would be established to monitor the online world for extreme violence or terrorist material. The government did not elaborate on what legislative options would be used if digital platforms failed to improve safety. Tech giants including Facebook, YouTube, Amazon, Microsoft, and Twitter, along with Telstra, Vodafone, TPG, and Optus are expected to provide details to the government by the end of next month on how they will carry out the recommendations. The firms are all members of the Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online, which had recommended a clear framework to be established. It was not immediately clear how the move would affect media reporting of terror attacks or civil unrest. Sky News New Zealand was fined NZ$4,000 ($2,560) by New Zealand's Broadcasting Standards Authority earlier this month for showing several edited clips taken from the alleged Christchurch attacker's 17-minute live stream video during its news broadcast. The regulator said in its judgment that, while the broadcast was newsworthy, the clips contained disturbing violent content which could cause distress, or glorify the alleged attacker and promote his messages.

Australia to block internet domains hosting extremist content during terror attacks

Some 200,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/two-years-on-rohingyas-still-without-rights-status-or-justice-244567">Rohingya </a>rallied in a Bangladesh refugee camp to mark two years since they fled a violent crackdown by Myanmar forces, just days after a second failed attempt to repatriate the refugees.

Around 740,000<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-blames-rohingya-repatriation-failure-on-bangladesh-245158"> Rohingya</a> from Myanmar's Rakhine state escaped in August 2017 during the brutal offensive, joining another 200,000 who fled earlier persecution in vast camps in southeast Bangladesh.

Children, hijab-wearing women, and men in long-skirt lungis shouted "God is Great, Long Live Rohingya" as they marched at the heart of the world's largest refugee camp to commemorate what they described as "Genocide Day".

Under the scorching sun, thousands joined in a popular song with the lyrics "the world does not listen to the woes of Rohingya".

"I have come here to seek justice for the murder of my two sons. I will continue to seek justice till my last breath," 50-year-old Tayaba Khatun said as tears rolled down her cheeks.

Myanmar had said they were conducting counter-insurgency operations against Rohingya extremists after they attacked police posts, but the UN last year called for Myanmar's top generals to be prosecuted for genocide over the crisis.

Rohingya leader Mohib Ullah said the stateless minority wanted to return home, but only after they were granted citizenship, their security was ensured and they were allowed to settle back in their villages.

"We have asked the Burmese government for dialogue. But we haven't got any response from them yet," Ullah told the rally.

"We were beaten, killed and raped in Rakhine. But still, that is our home. And we want to go back."

Police officer Zakir Hassan told AFP some 200,000 Rohingya took part in the peaceful gathering.

Security has been tight across Kutupalang camp, the world's largest refugee settlement and home to more than 600,000 Rohingya.

"Hundreds of police, army and border guards have been deployed to prevent any violence," local police chief Abul Monsur told AFP.

The rally came three days after the failed attempt to repatriate the refugees, which saw not a single Rohingya turn up to return across the border.

On Saturday, Bangladesh police said they shot dead two refugees during a gunfight in a camp after the pair were accused of killing a ruling party official.

The Rohingya are not recognised as an official minority by the Myanmar government, which considers them Bengali interlopers despite many families having lived in the country for generations.

Some 200,000 Rohingya rallied in a Bangladesh refugee camp to mark two years since they fled a violent crackdown by Myanmar forces, just days after a second failed attempt to repatriate the refugees.

Some 200,000 Rohingya rallied in a Bangladesh refugee camp to mark two years since they fled a violent crackdown by Myanmar forces, just days after a second failed attempt to repatriate the refugees. Around 740,000 Rohingya from Myanmar's Rakhine state escaped in August 2017 during the brutal offensive, joining another 200,000 who fled earlier persecution in vast camps in southeast Bangladesh. Children, hijab-wearing women, and men in long-skirt lungis shouted "God is Great, Long Live Rohingya" as they marched at the heart of the world's largest refugee camp to commemorate what they described as "Genocide Day". Under the scorching sun, thousands joined in a popular song with the lyrics "the world does not listen to the woes of Rohingya". "I have come here to seek justice for the murder of my two sons. I will continue to seek justice till my last breath," 50-year-old Tayaba Khatun said as tears rolled down her cheeks. Myanmar had said they were conducting counter-insurgency operations against Rohingya extremists after they attacked police posts, but the UN last year called for Myanmar's top generals to be prosecuted for genocide over the crisis. Rohingya leader Mohib Ullah said the stateless minority wanted to return home, but only after they were granted citizenship, their security was ensured and they were allowed to settle back in their villages. "We have asked the Burmese government for dialogue. But we haven't got any response from them yet," Ullah told the rally. "We were beaten, killed and raped in Rakhine. But still, that is our home. And we want to go back." Police officer Zakir Hassan told AFP some 200,000 Rohingya took part in the peaceful gathering. Security has been tight across Kutupalang camp, the world's largest refugee settlement and home to more than 600,000 Rohingya. "Hundreds of police, army and border guards have been deployed to prevent any violence," local police chief Abul Monsur told AFP. The rally came three days after the failed attempt to repatriate the refugees, which saw not a single Rohingya turn up to return across the border. On Saturday, Bangladesh police said they shot dead two refugees during a gunfight in a camp after the pair were accused of killing a ruling party official. The Rohingya are not recognised as an official minority by the Myanmar government, which considers them Bengali interlopers despite many families having lived in the country for generations.

200,000 Rohingya rally to mark 'Genocide Day' in Bangladesh camps

Leaders of the Group of Seven wealthy nations will discuss global trade woes at their annual summit on Sunday, likely laying bare a yawning divide between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-would-tax-french-wine-in-response-to-digital-tax-245250">US President Donald Trump and his Western allies</a>.

The G7 gathering is taking place against a backdrop of growing worries about a global economic downturn and coincides with an era of international disunity across an array of issues that have strained decades-old allegiances.

Trump joined the leaders from France, Britain, Japan, Germany, Italy and Canada in the French coastal resort of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-water-cannons-at-anti-g7-protesters-245391">Biarritz</a> for three days of talks that kicked off on Saturday with an ambitious agenda that includes the defence of democracy, gender equality, education and climate change.

The delegations had barely arrived before divergences were exposed, with senior US officials accusing the host, French President Emmanuel Macron, of looking "to fracture the G7" by focusing on "niche issues" rather than major global concerns.

France denied this, pointing to Sunday's initial session covering the economy, trade and security - areas that used to draw easy consensus but are now sources of great friction.

Trump arrived in France just hours after escalating his trade war with China in a tit-for-tat battle between the world's two largest economies that has spooked financial markets.

"I am very worried about the way it's going, the growth of protectionism, of tariffs that we're seeing," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday.

"Those who support the tariffs are at risk of incurring the blame for the downturn in the global economy, irrespective of whether or not that is true."

Underlining the discord, Trump also threatened his host on the eve of the summit, saying the United States would tax French wine "like they've never seen before" unless Paris dropped a digital tax on US technology companies.

Leaping into the fray, European Council President Donald Tusk, who takes part in the G7 discussions, warned the EU would respond "in kind" if Trump acted on his threat.

"This may be the last moment to restore our political community," Tusk told reporters on Saturday, giving a bleak assessment of Western relations.

Looking to broaden the scope of the debate, Macron has invited several African leaders to discuss the problems facing their continent, while leaders from India, Australia, Chile and Spain are due to attend a dinner on Sunday where the focus will be on the environment among other issues.

Brexit squabbles

Trump up-ended last year's G7 summit in Canada, walking out of the meeting early and disassociating himself from the final communique having initially endorsed the document.

France has got around that problem by doing away with the time-honoured communique, deciding it was not worth even trying to find common language.

While the transatlantic rift is the most stark, there are also deep divisions within the European camp, with Johnson making his G7 debut at a time when he is struggling to persuade EU capitals to renegotiate Britain's divorce from the bloc.

Johnson and Tusk, who are due to talk on Sunday on the sidelines of the summit, sparred ahead of the meeting over who would take the blame if Britain leaves the EU on October 31 without a Brexit agreement acceptable to both sides.

"I still hope that PM Johnson will not like to go down in history as Mr No Deal," said Tusk, who leads the political direction of the 28-nation European Union.

Johnson later retorted that it would be Tusk himself who would carry the mantle if Britain could not secure a new withdrawal agreement.

Macron added to the internal EU strains by unexpectedly threatening on Friday to block an EU trade deal with a group of South American states over Brazil's handling of fires that are ravaging the Amazon rainforest.

Germany and Britain both voiced deep concern about the blazes, but disagreed with Macron on how to respond, saying shooting down the ambitious Mercosur trade accord would not help save the Amazon.

Leaders of the Group of Seven wealthy nations will discuss global trade woes at their annual summit on Sunday, likely laying bare a yawning divide between US President Donald Trump and his Western allies.

Leaders of the Group of Seven wealthy nations will discuss global trade woes at their annual summit on Sunday, likely laying bare a yawning divide between US President Donald Trump and his Western allies. The G7 gathering is taking place against a backdrop of growing worries about a global economic downturn and coincides with an era of international disunity across an array of issues that have strained decades-old allegiances. Trump joined the leaders from France, Britain, Japan, Germany, Italy and Canada in the French coastal resort of Biarritz for three days of talks that kicked off on Saturday with an ambitious agenda that includes the defence of democracy, gender equality, education and climate change. The delegations had barely arrived before divergences were exposed, with senior US officials accusing the host, French President Emmanuel Macron, of looking "to fracture the G7" by focusing on "niche issues" rather than major global concerns. France denied this, pointing to Sunday's initial session covering the economy, trade and security - areas that used to draw easy consensus but are now sources of great friction. Trump arrived in France just hours after escalating his trade war with China in a tit-for-tat battle between the world's two largest economies that has spooked financial markets. "I am very worried about the way it's going, the growth of protectionism, of tariffs that we're seeing," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday. "Those who support the tariffs are at risk of incurring the blame for the downturn in the global economy, irrespective of whether or not that is true." Underlining the discord, Trump also threatened his host on the eve of the summit, saying the United States would tax French wine "like they've never seen before" unless Paris dropped a digital tax on US technology companies. Leaping into the fray, European Council President Donald Tusk, who takes part in the G7 discussions, warned the EU would respond "in kind" if Trump acted on his threat. "This may be the last moment to restore our political community," Tusk told reporters on Saturday, giving a bleak assessment of Western relations. Looking to broaden the scope of the debate, Macron has invited several African leaders to discuss the problems facing their continent, while leaders from India, Australia, Chile and Spain are due to attend a dinner on Sunday where the focus will be on the environment among other issues. Brexit squabbles Trump up-ended last year's G7 summit in Canada, walking out of the meeting early and disassociating himself from the final communique having initially endorsed the document. France has got around that problem by doing away with the time-honoured communique, deciding it was not worth even trying to find common language. While the transatlantic rift is the most stark, there are also deep divisions within the European camp, with Johnson making his G7 debut at a time when he is struggling to persuade EU capitals to renegotiate Britain's divorce from the bloc. Johnson and Tusk, who are due to talk on Sunday on the sidelines of the summit, sparred ahead of the meeting over who would take the blame if Britain leaves the EU on October 31 without a Brexit agreement acceptable to both sides. "I still hope that PM Johnson will not like to go down in history as Mr No Deal," said Tusk, who leads the political direction of the 28-nation European Union. Johnson later retorted that it would be Tusk himself who would carry the mantle if Britain could not secure a new withdrawal agreement. Macron added to the internal EU strains by unexpectedly threatening on Friday to block an EU trade deal with a group of South American states over Brazil's handling of fires that are ravaging the Amazon rainforest. Germany and Britain both voiced deep concern about the blazes, but disagreed with Macron on how to respond, saying shooting down the ambitious Mercosur trade accord would not help save the Amazon.

Trade and economy in focus as G7 leaders get down to work

US space agency NASA is investigating what may be the first crime committed in outer space, The New York Times reported Saturday.

Astronaut Anne McClain is accused of identity theft and improperly accessing her estranged wife's private financial records while on a sixth-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the Times said.

The astronaut's spouse Summer Worden filed a complaint earlier this year with the Federal Trade Commission after learning McClain had accessed her bank account without permission, while Worden's family filed another with NASA's Office of Inspector General, according to the newspaper.

McClain's lawyer said the astronaut had done nothing wrong and accessed the bank records while aboard the ISS in order to monitor the couple's combined finances -- something she had done over the course of their relationship, the Times reported.

NASA investigators have contacted both women, according to the newspaper.

McClain, who returned to Earth in June, gained fame for being one of two women picked for a historic all-female spacewalk, but NASA scrapped the planned walk in March due to a lack of well-fitting spacesuits, sparking accusations of sexism.

Worden said the FTC has not responded to the identity theft report, but that an investigator specializing in criminal cases with NASA's Office of Inspector General has been looking into the accusation, according to the Times. 
&nbsp;

US space agency NASA is investigating what may be the first crime committed in outer space, The New York Times reported Saturday. Astronaut Anne McClain is accused of identity theft and improperly accessing her estranged wife's private financial records while on a sixth-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the Times said.

US space agency NASA is investigating what may be the first crime committed in outer space, The New York Times reported Saturday. Astronaut Anne McClain is accused of identity theft and improperly accessing her estranged wife's private financial records while on a sixth-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the Times said. The astronaut's spouse Summer Worden filed a complaint earlier this year with the Federal Trade Commission after learning McClain had accessed her bank account without permission, while Worden's family filed another with NASA's Office of Inspector General, according to the newspaper. McClain's lawyer said the astronaut had done nothing wrong and accessed the bank records while aboard the ISS in order to monitor the couple's combined finances -- something she had done over the course of their relationship, the Times reported. NASA investigators have contacted both women, according to the newspaper. McClain, who returned to Earth in June, gained fame for being one of two women picked for a historic all-female spacewalk, but NASA scrapped the planned walk in March due to a lack of well-fitting spacesuits, sparking accusations of sexism. Worden said the FTC has not responded to the identity theft report, but that an investigator specializing in criminal cases with NASA's Office of Inspector General has been looking into the accusation, according to the Times.

NASA investigating first crime committed in space: Report

Hong Kong police said on Sunday they arrested 29 people after clashes overnight in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hong-kong-police-use-tear-gas-to-counter-protest-petrol-bombs-245314">volleys of tear gas were fired</a> to disperse anti-government protesters, as the Asian financial hub braced for more demonstrations later in the day.

Activists threw petrol bombs and bricks on Saturday in the gritty industrial area of Kwun Tong, a densely populated area of the Chinese territory on the east of the Kowloon peninsula. Four MTR subway stations were closed due to the protests.

Police used tear gas after some protesters threw Molotov cocktails and bricks and others tore up "smart" lamp posts equipped with surveillance cameras. Other demonstrators had set up roadblocks with bamboo scaffolding.

It was the first use of tear gas in more than a week after a series of mostly peaceful demonstrations in the former British colony.

The protests, which started over a now-suspended extradition bill and have evolved into demands for greater democracy, have rocked Hong Kong for three months and plunged the city into its biggest political crisis since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

The wider calls for democracy pose a direct challenge for Communist Party leaders in Beijing, who are eager to quell the protests ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on October&nbsp;1.

Transport to the city's international airport appeared normal early on Sunday, despite protesters' plans for a day-long "stress test" of transport in the international aviation and financial hub.

The protest movement still appears to have broad support, with thousands, including families, lawyers, accountants and young and old people, taking to the streets in anti-government rallies.

Demonstrators' demands include an independent inquiry into what they describe as police brutality, a full withdrawal of the extradition bill and universal suffrage.

They say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrines a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong since the handover to China.

Police said in a statement on Sunday they strongly condemned protesters "breaching public peace" and that 19 men and 10 women had been arrested. More than 700 have been arrested since the demonstrations began in June.

Those arrested also included the organiser of Saturday's march, Ventus Lau, public broadcaster RTHK reported.

Another protest is planned for Sunday in the working class district of Tsuen Wan, while demonstrators also plan a city-wide strike and class boycotts at universities in coming weeks.

On Saturday, China freed British consulate worker Simon Cheng, whose detention had fuelled tensions.

Hong Kong police said on Sunday they arrested 29 people after clashes overnight in which volleys of tear gas were fired to disperse anti-government protesters, as the Asian financial hub braced for more demonstrations later in the day.

Hong Kong police said on Sunday they arrested 29 people after clashes overnight in which volleys of tear gas were fired to disperse anti-government protesters, as the Asian financial hub braced for more demonstrations later in the day. Activists threw petrol bombs and bricks on Saturday in the gritty industrial area of Kwun Tong, a densely populated area of the Chinese territory on the east of the Kowloon peninsula. Four MTR subway stations were closed due to the protests. Police used tear gas after some protesters threw Molotov cocktails and bricks and others tore up "smart" lamp posts equipped with surveillance cameras. Other demonstrators had set up roadblocks with bamboo scaffolding. It was the first use of tear gas in more than a week after a series of mostly peaceful demonstrations in the former British colony. The protests, which started over a now-suspended extradition bill and have evolved into demands for greater democracy, have rocked Hong Kong for three months and plunged the city into its biggest political crisis since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. The wider calls for democracy pose a direct challenge for Communist Party leaders in Beijing, who are eager to quell the protests ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1. Transport to the city's international airport appeared normal early on Sunday, despite protesters' plans for a day-long "stress test" of transport in the international aviation and financial hub. The protest movement still appears to have broad support, with thousands, including families, lawyers, accountants and young and old people, taking to the streets in anti-government rallies. Demonstrators' demands include an independent inquiry into what they describe as police brutality, a full withdrawal of the extradition bill and universal suffrage. They say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrines a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong since the handover to China. Police said in a statement on Sunday they strongly condemned protesters "breaching public peace" and that 19 men and 10 women had been arrested. More than 700 have been arrested since the demonstrations began in June. Those arrested also included the organiser of Saturday's march, Ventus Lau, public broadcaster RTHK reported. Another protest is planned for Sunday in the working class district of Tsuen Wan, while demonstrators also plan a city-wide strike and class boycotts at universities in coming weeks. On Saturday, China freed British consulate worker Simon Cheng, whose detention had fuelled tensions.

Hong Kong police arrest 29 after overnight clashes, more protests planned

Britain's Prince Andrew insisted on Saturday that "at no stage" during his friendship with convicted paedophile <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-wrote-will-two-days-before-death-puts-578-million-in-assets-into-trust-with-unnamed-beneficiaries-report-244262">Jeffrey Epstein</a> did he "witness... any behaviour of the sort that subsequently led to his arrest".

The prince, Queen Elizabeth II's second son, is under heavy fire over his relationship with the disgraced US financier, and admitted in a statement on Saturday that "it was a mistake and an error to see him after his release in 2010".

"At no stage during the limited time I spent with him did I see, witness or suspect any behaviour of the sort that subsequently led to his arrest and conviction."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/psychologist-approved-jeffreys-epsteins-removal-from-suicide-watch-245240">Epstein</a> was found dead in his cell earlier this month, and the prince was once more drawn into the story after a video was released purporting to show him at the criminal's home in 2010.

Epstein had pleaded guilty in 2008 to procuring for prostitution a girl under the age of 18 and served 13 months in prison before being released on probation.

"I was mistaken to think that what I thought I knew of him was evidently not the real person, given what we now know," said Andrew.

"This is a difficult time for everyone involved and I am at a loss to be able to understand or explain Mr Epstein's lifestyle," he added.

The video was the latest in a string of revelations about Prince Andrew's friendship with Epstein in British tabloids.

The Mail on Monday said the prince had hosted Epstein at Balmoral, Queen Elizabeth II's home in Scotland, in 1999 at a time when the monarch may have been in residence.

He also reportedly hosted Epstein at Sandringham, another royal residence in eastern England, a year later.

Epstein died in a federal jail in Manhattan on August 10 as he awaited trial charged with one count of sex trafficking of minors and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors.

A coroner ruled that he committed suicide by hanging.

Over the years, the financier hobnobbed with politicians, socialites and celebrities, including Donald Trump before he was president, and Bill Clinton.

Virginia Giuffre -- previously Virginia Roberts -- one of Epstein's alleged victims, has testified that she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew in London when she was 17. She said she had sex with him again in New York and on Epstein's private island in the Caribbean.

But the allegations were struck from the record by a US judge in 2015, who said the "lurid details" were not needed to decide a civil case concerning Epstein.

Buckingham Palace has repeatedly and strenuously denied the claims, calling them "false and without foundation".

The prince said he deplored "the exploitation of any human being and would not condone, participate in, or encourage any such behaviour."

Britain's Prince Andrew insisted on Saturday that "at no stage" during his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein did he "witness... any behaviour of the sort that subsequently led to his arrest".

Britain's Prince Andrew insisted on Saturday that "at no stage" during his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein did he "witness... any behaviour of the sort that subsequently led to his arrest". The prince, Queen Elizabeth II's second son, is under heavy fire over his relationship with the disgraced US financier, and admitted in a statement on Saturday that "it was a mistake and an error to see him after his release in 2010". "At no stage during the limited time I spent with him did I see, witness or suspect any behaviour of the sort that subsequently led to his arrest and conviction." Epstein was found dead in his cell earlier this month, and the prince was once more drawn into the story after a video was released purporting to show him at the criminal's home in 2010. Epstein had pleaded guilty in 2008 to procuring for prostitution a girl under the age of 18 and served 13 months in prison before being released on probation. "I was mistaken to think that what I thought I knew of him was evidently not the real person, given what we now know," said Andrew. "This is a difficult time for everyone involved and I am at a loss to be able to understand or explain Mr Epstein's lifestyle," he added. The video was the latest in a string of revelations about Prince Andrew's friendship with Epstein in British tabloids. The Mail on Monday said the prince had hosted Epstein at Balmoral, Queen Elizabeth II's home in Scotland, in 1999 at a time when the monarch may have been in residence. He also reportedly hosted Epstein at Sandringham, another royal residence in eastern England, a year later. Epstein died in a federal jail in Manhattan on August 10 as he awaited trial charged with one count of sex trafficking of minors and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors. A coroner ruled that he committed suicide by hanging. Over the years, the financier hobnobbed with politicians, socialites and celebrities, including Donald Trump before he was president, and Bill Clinton. Virginia Giuffre -- previously Virginia Roberts -- one of Epstein's alleged victims, has testified that she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew in London when she was 17. She said she had sex with him again in New York and on Epstein's private island in the Caribbean. But the allegations were struck from the record by a US judge in 2015, who said the "lurid details" were not needed to decide a civil case concerning Epstein. Buckingham Palace has repeatedly and strenuously denied the claims, calling them "false and without foundation". The prince said he deplored "the exploitation of any human being and would not condone, participate in, or encourage any such behaviour."

Britain's Prince Andrew denies witnessing Epstein abuse

South Korea Sunday began two days of war games to practise defending disputed islands off its east coast against an unlikely attack from Japan, further stoking tensions between the Asian neighbours.

The annual drills come just days after Seoul terminated a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-says-south-korea-fails-to-grasp-north-korea-threat-with-scrapping-of-pact-245084">military intelligence-sharing pact with Tokyo</a>, with the countries at loggerheads over Japan's use of forced labour during World War II.

The two-day exercise will involve warships and aircraft, the South Korean navy said in a text message without providing more detail.

The drill -- re-named "East Sea territory defence training" -- will solidify the military's resolve to defend the Dokdo islands and the area surrounding the Sea of Japan, the navy said.

While a Japanese attack is deemed highly unlikely, South Korea first staged the drills in 1986 and has conducted them twice a year -- usually in June and December.

The delayed exercise comes as tensions with neighbouring Japan continue.

Seoul has controlled the rocky islets in the Sea of Japan since 1945 when Tokyo's 35-year colonial rule over the Korean peninsula ended.

Tokyo also claims the islands and accuses South Korea of occupying them illegally.

The two nations are both market economies, democracies and US allies, and both are threatened by nuclear-armed North Korea.

But the two neighbours have been embroiled in intensifying trade and diplomatic disputes in recent weeks, following a run of South Korean court rulings ordering Japanese firms to pay for forced labour during World War II.

The series of tit-for-tat measures that began in July after Japan imposed new restrictions on exports crucial to South Korean tech firms has seen Seoul and Tokyo remove each other from their lists of trusted trade partners.

South Korea Sunday began two days of war games to practise defending disputed islands off its east coast against an unlikely attack from Japan, further stoking tensions between the Asian neighbours.

South Korea Sunday began two days of war games to practise defending disputed islands off its east coast against an unlikely attack from Japan, further stoking tensions between the Asian neighbours. The annual drills come just days after Seoul terminated a military intelligence-sharing pact with Tokyo, with the countries at loggerheads over Japan's use of forced labour during World War II. The two-day exercise will involve warships and aircraft, the South Korean navy said in a text message without providing more detail. The drill -- re-named "East Sea territory defence training" -- will solidify the military's resolve to defend the Dokdo islands and the area surrounding the Sea of Japan, the navy said. While a Japanese attack is deemed highly unlikely, South Korea first staged the drills in 1986 and has conducted them twice a year -- usually in June and December. The delayed exercise comes as tensions with neighbouring Japan continue. Seoul has controlled the rocky islets in the Sea of Japan since 1945 when Tokyo's 35-year colonial rule over the Korean peninsula ended. Tokyo also claims the islands and accuses South Korea of occupying them illegally. The two nations are both market economies, democracies and US allies, and both are threatened by nuclear-armed North Korea. But the two neighbours have been embroiled in intensifying trade and diplomatic disputes in recent weeks, following a run of South Korean court rulings ordering Japanese firms to pay for forced labour during World War II. The series of tit-for-tat measures that began in July after Japan imposed new restrictions on exports crucial to South Korean tech firms has seen Seoul and Tokyo remove each other from their lists of trusted trade partners.

South Korea begins annual war games to defend against Japan

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