US President Donald Trump said Friday that he would not stand in the way of beleaguered Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell if he decided to quit.&nbsp;

Asked if he wants Powell to resign, Trump told reporters,&nbsp;"If he did, I wouldn't stop him."

Trump suggested earlier Friday that he regarded Powell as a bigger "enemy" than China, with whom he has been waging a trade war.

China announced Friday new tariffs on $75 billion in US products and President Donald Trump lashed out with threats of further retaliation, meaning the trade uncertainty that Powell said is exacerbating the global slowdown is unlikely to go away soon.

Trump lost no time in criticizing Powell -- and swiping at Beijing.

In a furious flurry of tweets, Trump attacked the Fed's stewardship of the world's biggest economy and vowed a quick response to China.

"As usual, the Fed did NOTHING! It is incredible that they can 'speak' without knowing or asking what I am doing, which will be announced shortly. We have a very strong dollar and a very weak Fed," Trump tweeted after Powell's comments.

"My only question is, who is our bigger enemy, Jay Powel or Chairman Xi?" Trump said, misspelling the Fed chief's name in an unprecedented attack on the independent central bank.

The Fed cut the benchmark interest rate last month for the first time in more than a decade, partly as insurance against the impact of trade uncertainties on the economy.

But in his hotly anticipated speech to an annual central banking conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Powell cautioned that the Fed has no "rulebook" for dealing with the trade war fallout.

"The three weeks since our July FOMC meeting have been eventful, beginning with the announcement of new tariffs on imports from China," he said.

"The global growth outlook has been deteriorating since the middle of last year. Trade policy uncertainty seems to be playing a role in the global slowdown and in weak manufacturing and capital spending in the United States."

While Powell said the US economy "is now in a favorable place," it faces "significant risks" and he again pledged that the Fed "will act as appropriate to sustain the expansion."&nbsp;

However, he warned that there is no "settled rulebook for international trade ... no recent precedents to guide any policy response to the current situation."

US President Donald Trump said Friday that he would not stand in the way of beleaguered Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell if he decided to quit. Asked if he wants Powell to resign, Trump told reporters, "If he did, I wouldn't stop him.

US President Donald Trump said Friday that he would not stand in the way of beleaguered Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell if he decided to quit. Asked if he wants Powell to resign, Trump told reporters, "If he did, I wouldn't stop him." Trump suggested earlier Friday that he regarded Powell as a bigger "enemy" than China, with whom he has been waging a trade war. China announced Friday new tariffs on $75 billion in US products and President Donald Trump lashed out with threats of further retaliation, meaning the trade uncertainty that Powell said is exacerbating the global slowdown is unlikely to go away soon. Trump lost no time in criticizing Powell -- and swiping at Beijing. In a furious flurry of tweets, Trump attacked the Fed's stewardship of the world's biggest economy and vowed a quick response to China. "As usual, the Fed did NOTHING! It is incredible that they can 'speak' without knowing or asking what I am doing, which will be announced shortly. We have a very strong dollar and a very weak Fed," Trump tweeted after Powell's comments. "My only question is, who is our bigger enemy, Jay Powel or Chairman Xi?" Trump said, misspelling the Fed chief's name in an unprecedented attack on the independent central bank. The Fed cut the benchmark interest rate last month for the first time in more than a decade, partly as insurance against the impact of trade uncertainties on the economy. But in his hotly anticipated speech to an annual central banking conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Powell cautioned that the Fed has no "rulebook" for dealing with the trade war fallout. "The three weeks since our July FOMC meeting have been eventful, beginning with the announcement of new tariffs on imports from China," he said. "The global growth outlook has been deteriorating since the middle of last year. Trade policy uncertainty seems to be playing a role in the global slowdown and in weak manufacturing and capital spending in the United States." While Powell said the US economy "is now in a favorable place," it faces "significant risks" and he again pledged that the Fed "will act as appropriate to sustain the expansion." However, he warned that there is no "settled rulebook for international trade ... no recent precedents to guide any policy response to the current situation."

Trump says he  'wouldn't stop' if beleaguered Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell decides to quit 

United States President Donald Trump called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-eu-threatens-trade-retaliation-brazil-sends-army-to-fight-amazon-fires-245212">Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro </a>on Friday (local time) and offered assistance, if needed, to tackle the raging wildfires in the Amazon rainforest.

"Just spoke with President @JairBolsonaro of Brazil. Our future Trade prospects are very exciting and our relationship is strong, perhaps stronger than ever before. I told him if the United States can help with the Amazon Rainforest fires, we stand ready to assist!" the president tweeted.

The far-right leader told reporters on Friday that he was inclined to deploy the troops using a presidential decree.&nbsp;

Brazil`s environmental agency, IBAMA, is also hiring hundreds of temporary firefighters to help fight the fires, CNN reported after quoting the agency on Friday.

The announcement came as political, civil society leaders and celebrities around the world stepped up their pressure on the Brazilian government over the blazing rainforest.

France and Ireland said they would block a trade deal between the European Union and Mercosur, the economic and political bloc comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, unless Brazil takes action on the Amazon forest.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the Amazon wildfires an "international crisis" that needed to be on the agenda at the G7 summit in Biarritz.

Bolsonaro denounced Macron`s offer as "sensationalist" and accused him of using the fires for "political gain."

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has reiterated Macron's stance and said international cooperation is needed to protect rainforests.&nbsp;

United States President Donald Trump called Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Friday (local time) and offered assistance, if needed, to tackle the raging wildfires in the Amazon rainforest.

United States President Donald Trump called Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Friday (local time) and offered assistance, if needed, to tackle the raging wildfires in the Amazon rainforest. "Just spoke with President @JairBolsonaro of Brazil. Our future Trade prospects are very exciting and our relationship is strong, perhaps stronger than ever before. I told him if the United States can help with the Amazon Rainforest fires, we stand ready to assist!" the president tweeted. The far-right leader told reporters on Friday that he was inclined to deploy the troops using a presidential decree. Brazil`s environmental agency, IBAMA, is also hiring hundreds of temporary firefighters to help fight the fires, CNN reported after quoting the agency on Friday. The announcement came as political, civil society leaders and celebrities around the world stepped up their pressure on the Brazilian government over the blazing rainforest. France and Ireland said they would block a trade deal between the European Union and Mercosur, the economic and political bloc comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, unless Brazil takes action on the Amazon forest. French President Emmanuel Macron called the Amazon wildfires an "international crisis" that needed to be on the agenda at the G7 summit in Biarritz. Bolsonaro denounced Macron`s offer as "sensationalist" and accused him of using the fires for "political gain." Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has reiterated Macron's stance and said international cooperation is needed to protect rainforests.

Trump calls Brazil President, offers assistance in tackling Amazon rainforest fires

A psychologist at the federal detention centre in New York City where<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-opens-epstein-linked-rape-abuse-probe-245196"> financier Jeffrey Epstein</a> was jailed on sex-trafficking charges had approved his removal from suicide watch before he killed himself, the US Justice Department said on Friday.

The disclosure came in a letter dated on Thursday from Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd and addressed to the leaders of the Judiciary Committee of the US House of Representatives, seeking details about the circumstances surrounding <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">Epstein`s death</a> earlier this month.

Epstein, who was 66, was found dead August 10 in his cell inside a segregated housing unit of the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Lower Manhattan. An autopsy concluded that he hanged himself. 
His death triggered investigations by the FBI, the Justice Department`s Office of Inspector General and the US Bureau of Prisons, which runs the detention facility.

The Boyd letter, provided to Reuters on Friday, confirmed that Epstein had been placed on suicide watch in July, a status under which the designated prisoner is held in a special cell under constant observation by staff or "inmate companions."

Epstein was "later removed from suicide watch after being evaluated by a doctoral-level psychologist who determined that a suicide watch was no longer warranted," Boyd wrote in the three-page letter.

The letter did not state precisely why a suicide watch had been ordered for Epstein. But Epstein in July had been found unconscious on the floor of his cell with marks on his neck, and officials had been investigating that incident as a possible suicide attempt or assault.

In addition to being housed in a special chamber affording an unobstructed view of the occupant and easy entry from the outside, inmates on suicide watch are evaluated daily by a psychologist, the letter said.

Typically imposed as a short-term restriction, suicide watch in Bureau of Prisons facilities can only be terminated by a bureau psychologist following a face-to-face evaluation of the inmate, Boyd wrote. No reason was given for Epstein`s removal.

At the MCC, two jail guards are required to make separate checks on all prisoners every 30 minutes, but that procedure was not followed overnight, a source has told Reuters.

US Attorney General William Barr last week ordered the reassignment of the warden in charge of the Lower Manhattan detention facility, along with a temporary replacement and the placement of two corrections officers assigned to Epstein`s unit on administrative leave for the duration of the probes.

The staff shakeup came hours after President Donald Trump called for a full investigation of the matter.

Epstein, who once counted Trump and former President Bill Clinton as friends, was arrested on July 6 and pleaded not guilty to federal charges of sex trafficking involving dozens of girls as young as 14.

Just two days before his death, Epstein had signed a will placing all of his property, worth more than $577 million, in a trust called the 1953 Trust, after the year of his birth, according to a copy of the document seen by Reuters.

A psychologist at the federal detention centre in New York City where financier Jeffrey Epstein was jailed on sex-trafficking charges had approved his removal from suicide watch before he killed himself, the US Justice Department said on Friday.

A psychologist at the federal detention centre in New York City where financier Jeffrey Epstein was jailed on sex-trafficking charges had approved his removal from suicide watch before he killed himself, the US Justice Department said on Friday. The disclosure came in a letter dated on Thursday from Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd and addressed to the leaders of the Judiciary Committee of the US House of Representatives, seeking details about the circumstances surrounding Epstein`s death earlier this month. Epstein, who was 66, was found dead August 10 in his cell inside a segregated housing unit of the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Lower Manhattan. An autopsy concluded that he hanged himself. His death triggered investigations by the FBI, the Justice Department`s Office of Inspector General and the US Bureau of Prisons, which runs the detention facility. The Boyd letter, provided to Reuters on Friday, confirmed that Epstein had been placed on suicide watch in July, a status under which the designated prisoner is held in a special cell under constant observation by staff or "inmate companions." Epstein was "later removed from suicide watch after being evaluated by a doctoral-level psychologist who determined that a suicide watch was no longer warranted," Boyd wrote in the three-page letter. The letter did not state precisely why a suicide watch had been ordered for Epstein. But Epstein in July had been found unconscious on the floor of his cell with marks on his neck, and officials had been investigating that incident as a possible suicide attempt or assault. In addition to being housed in a special chamber affording an unobstructed view of the occupant and easy entry from the outside, inmates on suicide watch are evaluated daily by a psychologist, the letter said. Typically imposed as a short-term restriction, suicide watch in Bureau of Prisons facilities can only be terminated by a bureau psychologist following a face-to-face evaluation of the inmate, Boyd wrote. No reason was given for Epstein`s removal. At the MCC, two jail guards are required to make separate checks on all prisoners every 30 minutes, but that procedure was not followed overnight, a source has told Reuters. US Attorney General William Barr last week ordered the reassignment of the warden in charge of the Lower Manhattan detention facility, along with a temporary replacement and the placement of two corrections officers assigned to Epstein`s unit on administrative leave for the duration of the probes. The staff shakeup came hours after President Donald Trump called for a full investigation of the matter. Epstein, who once counted Trump and former President Bill Clinton as friends, was arrested on July 6 and pleaded not guilty to federal charges of sex trafficking involving dozens of girls as young as 14. Just two days before his death, Epstein had signed a will placing all of his property, worth more than $577 million, in a trust called the 1953 Trust, after the year of his birth, according to a copy of the document seen by Reuters.

Psychologist approved Jeffrey's Epstein's removal from suicide watch

Regional leaders on Friday called for "shock" investment in infrastructure in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador to reduce the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/migrants-finally-disembark-open-arms-ship-in-italy-244628">migrants</a> flowing from the three economically fragile countries, bound for the United States.

Efforts to stem the flow of Central Americans, many <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/changes-for-a-landmark-agreement-mean-immigrant-children-face-harsher-treatment-in-us-245059">seeking legal asylum in the United States</a>, have gained impetus as US President Donald Trump continues to pursue a mix of threats and stepped-up immigration enforcement.

Poverty and rampant corruption that allows drug trafficking and criminal gangs to flourish in the so-called Northern Triangle have prompted many to seek a better life in the United States.

"The Northern Triangle region needs a shock of investment," said Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, host of a regional summit that wrapped up on Friday that also included political and business leaders from Mexico, Colombia and the Dominican Republic as well as all six Central American nations.

In the summit`s final declaration, the leaders signaled their "commitment to promote the formation of a great international initiative for the massive generation of jobs and productive investments in our countries."

The plan, which focused on infrastructure projects including railways, highways, pipelines, ports and airports, is needed to reduce the "migratory momentum," it said. 
Hernandez noted that the proposal will be submitted to the United Nations.

The summit was held in Honduras` second biggest city and industrial hub, San Pedro Sula, which has seen waves of migrants fleeing one of the world`s highest homicide rates at more than 47 per 100,000 residents, according to 2018 government data.

Regional leaders on Friday called for "shock" investment in infrastructure in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador to reduce the number of migrants flowing from the three economically fragile countries, bound for the United States.

Regional leaders on Friday called for "shock" investment in infrastructure in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador to reduce the number of migrants flowing from the three economically fragile countries, bound for the United States. Efforts to stem the flow of Central Americans, many seeking legal asylum in the United States, have gained impetus as US President Donald Trump continues to pursue a mix of threats and stepped-up immigration enforcement. Poverty and rampant corruption that allows drug trafficking and criminal gangs to flourish in the so-called Northern Triangle have prompted many to seek a better life in the United States. "The Northern Triangle region needs a shock of investment," said Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, host of a regional summit that wrapped up on Friday that also included political and business leaders from Mexico, Colombia and the Dominican Republic as well as all six Central American nations. In the summit`s final declaration, the leaders signaled their "commitment to promote the formation of a great international initiative for the massive generation of jobs and productive investments in our countries." The plan, which focused on infrastructure projects including railways, highways, pipelines, ports and airports, is needed to reduce the "migratory momentum," it said. Hernandez noted that the proposal will be submitted to the United Nations. The summit was held in Honduras` second biggest city and industrial hub, San Pedro Sula, which has seen waves of migrants fleeing one of the world`s highest homicide rates at more than 47 per 100,000 residents, according to 2018 government data.

'Shock' investment urged to stem flow of Central American migrants

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unions-urge-cathay-pacific-to-end-white-terror-244958">Hong Kong</a>'s airport and the roads and railways leading to it were operating normally early on Saturday despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-faces-renewed-protest-turbulence-after-last-weeks-fracas-245072">plans by protesters </a>to implement a "stress test" of transport links to the aviation hub early in the day.

Those seeking to enter the terminal had to show valid boarding passes and passports, Reuters witnesses said. Train stations feeding the airport, as well as roads to it, were largely clear, with a light police presence along some access routes.

Authorities had taken out a court order to prevent demonstrations at the airport, which was forced to close for part of last week after protesters thronged the main terminal for several days, grounding around 1000 flights and occasionally clashing with police.

Other protests are planned on Saturday in various districts, including Kwun Tong on the Kowloon peninsula.

The city`s train operator, the MTR Corporation, said in a statement on Friday that it had been granted an injunction to prevent protesters from disrupting train services. The operator also said that if "fights, vandalism or other acts of violence occur," train services at affected stations could be stopped immediately.

The protests, which began as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would have allowed suspects to be extradited to mainland China, have swelled into wider calls for democracy, plunging the city into an unprecedented crisis and posing a direct challenge to China`s leaders. 
&nbsp; 
Demonstrators say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrined a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong since it was handed back from British to Chinese rule in 1997.&nbsp;

Almost three months after the demonstrations began, there is no sign of let-up across the China-ruled territory.

On Friday night, thousands of chanting protesters formed human chains around the city in a peaceful protest dubbed the "Hong Kong Way".

Organisers said 135,000 people took part in the demonstration, inspired by one in 1989, when an estimated 2 million people joined arms across three Baltic states in a protest against then-Soviet rule that became known as the "Baltic Way" or "Baltic Chain".

Friday`s protest, which included people linking arms and shining lights on sidewalks and atop Kowloon`s Lion Rock mountain, followed warnings from Communist Party leaders in Beijing and city leader Carrie Lam to stop the demonstrations and restore order.

Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters` five key demands, including calls for an independent inquiry into police brutality, a full withdrawal of the extradition bill, and full democracy.

Organisers are planning a host of protests in the coming weeks including a mass march, a city-wide strike and class boycotts at the city`s universities.

Hong Kong's airport and the roads and railways leading to it were operating normally early on Saturday despite plans by protesters to implement a "stress test" of transport links to the aviation hub early in the day.

Hong Kong's airport and the roads and railways leading to it were operating normally early on Saturday despite plans by protesters to implement a "stress test" of transport links to the aviation hub early in the day. Those seeking to enter the terminal had to show valid boarding passes and passports, Reuters witnesses said. Train stations feeding the airport, as well as roads to it, were largely clear, with a light police presence along some access routes. Authorities had taken out a court order to prevent demonstrations at the airport, which was forced to close for part of last week after protesters thronged the main terminal for several days, grounding around 1000 flights and occasionally clashing with police. Other protests are planned on Saturday in various districts, including Kwun Tong on the Kowloon peninsula. The city`s train operator, the MTR Corporation, said in a statement on Friday that it had been granted an injunction to prevent protesters from disrupting train services. The operator also said that if "fights, vandalism or other acts of violence occur," train services at affected stations could be stopped immediately. The protests, which began as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would have allowed suspects to be extradited to mainland China, have swelled into wider calls for democracy, plunging the city into an unprecedented crisis and posing a direct challenge to China`s leaders. Demonstrators say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrined a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong since it was handed back from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Almost three months after the demonstrations began, there is no sign of let-up across the China-ruled territory. On Friday night, thousands of chanting protesters formed human chains around the city in a peaceful protest dubbed the "Hong Kong Way". Organisers said 135,000 people took part in the demonstration, inspired by one in 1989, when an estimated 2 million people joined arms across three Baltic states in a protest against then-Soviet rule that became known as the "Baltic Way" or "Baltic Chain". Friday`s protest, which included people linking arms and shining lights on sidewalks and atop Kowloon`s Lion Rock mountain, followed warnings from Communist Party leaders in Beijing and city leader Carrie Lam to stop the demonstrations and restore order. Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters` five key demands, including calls for an independent inquiry into police brutality, a full withdrawal of the extradition bill, and full democracy. Organisers are planning a host of protests in the coming weeks including a mass march, a city-wide strike and class boycotts at the city`s universities.

Hong Kong airport operating normally despite planned 'stress test' protest

US President Donald Trump on Friday lashed back at a new round of Chinese tariffs by heaping an additional 5 per cent duty on some $550 billion in targeted Chinese goods in the latest tit-for-tat trade war escalation by the world's two largest economies.

Trump's move, announced on Twitter, came hours after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-order-us-companies-to-immediately-look-for-an-alternative-to-china-trump-245191"> China unveiled retaliatory tariffs on $75 billion worth of US goods</a>, prompting the president earlier in the day to demand US companies move their operations out of China.

The intensifying US-China trade war stoked market fears that the global economy will tip into recession, sending US stocks into a tailspin, with the Nasdaq Composite down 3 per cent, and the S&amp;P 500 down 2.6 per cent.

US Treasury yields also fell as investors sought safe-haven assets, and crude oil, targeted for the first time by Chinese tariffs, fell sharply.

Trump's tariff response was announced after markets closed on Friday, leaving potentially more damage for next week.

"Sadly, past Administrations have allowed China to get so far ahead of Fair and Balanced Trade that it has become a great burden to the American Taxpayer," Trump said on Twitter. "As President, I can no longer allow this to happen!"

He said the United States would raise its existing tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports to 30 per cent&nbsp;from the current 25 per cent&nbsp;beginning October&nbsp;1.

At the same time, he announced an increase in planned tariffs on the remaining $300 billion worth of Chinese goods to 15 per cent&nbsp;from 10 per cent. The United States will begin imposing those tariffs on some products starting September&nbsp;1, but tariffs on about half of those goods have been delayed until December&nbsp;15.

The US Trade Representative's office confirmed the effective dates, but said it would conduct a public comment period before imposing the 30 per cent&nbsp;tariff rate on October&nbsp;1.

Trump has accused China of unfair trade practices and pushed for a deal that would rebalance the relationship in favour of US&nbsp;manufacturers and workers.

"We don’t need China and, frankly, would be far better off without them. The vast amounts of money made and stolen by China from the United States, year after year, for decades, will and must STOP," Trump tweeted earlier on Friday.

"Our great American companies are hereby ordered to immediately start looking for an alternative to China, including bringing your companies HOME and making your products in the USA."

It's unclear what legal authority Trump would be able to use to compel US companies to close operations in China or stop sourcing products from the country.

Trump also said he was ordering shippers including FedEx,&nbsp;Amazon.com, UPS&nbsp;and the US&nbsp;Postal Service to search out and refuse all deliveries of the opioid fentanyl to the United States.

US&nbsp;business groups reacted angrily to Trump's latest tariff escalation.

"It's impossible for businesses to plan for the future in this type of environment. The administration's approach clearly isn't working, and the answer isn't more taxes on American businesses and consumers. Where does this end?" said David French, a senior vice president for the National Retail Federation.

The US Chamber of Commerce rebuffed Trump's call, urging "continued, constructive engagement."

"Time is of the essence. We do not want to see a further deterioration of US-China relations," Myron Brilliant, executive vice president and head of the business group's international affairs, said in a statement.

China's Commerce Ministry said that on September&nbsp;1 and December&nbsp;15 it will impose additional tariffs of 5 per cent&nbsp;or 10 per cent&nbsp;on a total of 5,078 products originating from the United States including agricultural products such as soybeans, beef and pork, as well as small aircraft. Beijing is also reinstituting tariffs on cars and auto parts originating from the United States that it suspended last December as US-China trade talks accelerated.

"China's decision to implement additional tariffs was forced by the US's unilateralism and protectionism," the Commerce Ministry said in a statement.

"We want a deal, but it doesn't mean we want a deal that is not based on mutual respect or good for China's interests," a Chinese diplomatic source said. "If the United States levies tariffs, China will have counter-measures."

US President Donald Trump on Friday lashed back at a new round of Chinese tariffs by heaping an additional 5 per cent duty on some $550 billion in targeted Chinese goods in the latest tit-for-tat trade war escalation by the world's two largest economies.

US President Donald Trump on Friday lashed back at a new round of Chinese tariffs by heaping an additional 5 per cent duty on some $550 billion in targeted Chinese goods in the latest tit-for-tat trade war escalation by the world's two largest economies. Trump's move, announced on Twitter, came hours after China unveiled retaliatory tariffs on $75 billion worth of US goods, prompting the president earlier in the day to demand US companies move their operations out of China. The intensifying US-China trade war stoked market fears that the global economy will tip into recession, sending US stocks into a tailspin, with the Nasdaq Composite down 3 per cent, and the S&P 500 down 2.6 per cent. US Treasury yields also fell as investors sought safe-haven assets, and crude oil, targeted for the first time by Chinese tariffs, fell sharply. Trump's tariff response was announced after markets closed on Friday, leaving potentially more damage for next week. "Sadly, past Administrations have allowed China to get so far ahead of Fair and Balanced Trade that it has become a great burden to the American Taxpayer," Trump said on Twitter. "As President, I can no longer allow this to happen!" He said the United States would raise its existing tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports to 30 per cent from the current 25 per cent beginning October 1. At the same time, he announced an increase in planned tariffs on the remaining $300 billion worth of Chinese goods to 15 per cent from 10 per cent. The United States will begin imposing those tariffs on some products starting September 1, but tariffs on about half of those goods have been delayed until December 15. The US Trade Representative's office confirmed the effective dates, but said it would conduct a public comment period before imposing the 30 per cent tariff rate on October 1. Trump has accused China of unfair trade practices and pushed for a deal that would rebalance the relationship in favour of US manufacturers and workers. "We don’t need China and, frankly, would be far better off without them. The vast amounts of money made and stolen by China from the United States, year after year, for decades, will and must STOP," Trump tweeted earlier on Friday. "Our great American companies are hereby ordered to immediately start looking for an alternative to China, including bringing your companies HOME and making your products in the USA." It's unclear what legal authority Trump would be able to use to compel US companies to close operations in China or stop sourcing products from the country. Trump also said he was ordering shippers including FedEx, Amazon.com, UPS and the US Postal Service to search out and refuse all deliveries of the opioid fentanyl to the United States. US business groups reacted angrily to Trump's latest tariff escalation. "It's impossible for businesses to plan for the future in this type of environment. The administration's approach clearly isn't working, and the answer isn't more taxes on American businesses and consumers. Where does this end?" said David French, a senior vice president for the National Retail Federation. The US Chamber of Commerce rebuffed Trump's call, urging "continued, constructive engagement." "Time is of the essence. We do not want to see a further deterioration of US-China relations," Myron Brilliant, executive vice president and head of the business group's international affairs, said in a statement. China's Commerce Ministry said that on September 1 and December 15 it will impose additional tariffs of 5 per cent or 10 per cent on a total of 5,078 products originating from the United States including agricultural products such as soybeans, beef and pork, as well as small aircraft. Beijing is also reinstituting tariffs on cars and auto parts originating from the United States that it suspended last December as US-China trade talks accelerated. "China's decision to implement additional tariffs was forced by the US's unilateralism and protectionism," the Commerce Ministry said in a statement. "We want a deal, but it doesn't mean we want a deal that is not based on mutual respect or good for China's interests," a Chinese diplomatic source said. "If the United States levies tariffs, China will have counter-measures."

Trump heaps another 5% tariff on Chinese goods in latest tit-for-tat escalation

Fifteen years after her daughter's disappearance, 55-year-old Silvia Ortiz spends day after day raking through arid scrubland in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-inaugurates-its-new-national-guard-force-231955"> northern Mexico </a>hoping to find her remains.

Ortiz belongs to a group of families working to uncover graves of some of the 40,000 people who have gone missing in mounting lawlessness since the government sent in the armed forces to tackle Mexico's drug cartels at the end of 2006.

More than 200,000 people have been killed in the violence since then, and shedding light on the fate of the disappeared is one of the toughest challenges facing the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Criminal gangs often bury the bodies of victims in clandestine graves. Some have been known to try to minimize evidence by dismembering or dousing them in acid.

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-rise-and-fall-of-el-chapo-mexicos-most-wanted-kingpin-236726">Mexican criminal investigators</a> and forensic teams have struggled to keep up with the increased workload during the surge in killings. Fear of reprisals at the hands of perpetrators can also impede efforts to identify victims.

Decked out in surgical masks and sun hats, Ortiz's collective - Grupo Vida or "Life Group" - keep up a near-constant digging operation around the city of Torreon in the state of Coahuila.

The volunteer association made up of relatives of local missing people set out six years ago to uncover clandestine graves, saying government officials were not trying hard enough to find or identify human remains.

"This is why we say we're facing a forensic emergency," said Ortiz, sitting at home with her husband, Oscar Sanchez, surrounded by framed photos of their daughter Silvia Stephanie Sanchez before she disappeared in 2004, aged 16, she has not been heard from since.

Jose Angel Herrera, Coahuila's special prosecutor for disappeared people, said authorities are cooperating with Grupo Vida in the area around Torreon and conducting their missions in other parts of the state.

In Coahuila, 2,144 people reported missing have never been found, Herrera said. Many disappeared while the territory was ravaged by the Zetas, a notoriously brutal drug cartel.

The state has identified the remains of 235 missing people through digs, including those led by Grupo Vida.

The group works for a week at a time, and many members struggle to keep their jobs during digs, Ortiz said.

Two weeks ago, Grupo Vida opened a tortilleria, launched with a grant from the American Jewish World Service, a non-profit group.&nbsp;

They hope money from the enterprise can cover the operating costs of their community-led forensic digs.

Grupo Vida said since 2013 it has uncovered 27 sites with human remains, 10 full skeletons and hundreds of thousands of bone fragments, enabling over 100 disappeared to be identified.

Lopez Obrador has vowed to identify thousands of human remains in morgues and mass graves around the country, which he has called the "worst legacy" of past governments.

Members of Grupo Vida have yet to feel the benefits of his pledge, according to Ortiz, who said the result has been "working groups and photos, no real action on the searches."

Still, prosecutor Herrera said the new administration helped fund construction of a center that will work to establish the identities of the state`s backlog of human remains.&nbsp;

Regardless of the adversity, Ortiz said she would continue the search "until the last person is found."

 
&nbsp;

Fifteen years after her daughter's disappearance, 55-year-old Silvia Ortiz spends day after day raking through arid scrubland in northern Mexico hoping to find her remains.

Fifteen years after her daughter's disappearance, 55-year-old Silvia Ortiz spends day after day raking through arid scrubland in northern Mexico hoping to find her remains. Ortiz belongs to a group of families working to uncover graves of some of the 40,000 people who have gone missing in mounting lawlessness since the government sent in the armed forces to tackle Mexico's drug cartels at the end of 2006. More than 200,000 people have been killed in the violence since then, and shedding light on the fate of the disappeared is one of the toughest challenges facing the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Criminal gangs often bury the bodies of victims in clandestine graves. Some have been known to try to minimize evidence by dismembering or dousing them in acid. Meanwhile, Mexican criminal investigators and forensic teams have struggled to keep up with the increased workload during the surge in killings. Fear of reprisals at the hands of perpetrators can also impede efforts to identify victims. Decked out in surgical masks and sun hats, Ortiz's collective - Grupo Vida or "Life Group" - keep up a near-constant digging operation around the city of Torreon in the state of Coahuila. The volunteer association made up of relatives of local missing people set out six years ago to uncover clandestine graves, saying government officials were not trying hard enough to find or identify human remains. "This is why we say we're facing a forensic emergency," said Ortiz, sitting at home with her husband, Oscar Sanchez, surrounded by framed photos of their daughter Silvia Stephanie Sanchez before she disappeared in 2004, aged 16, she has not been heard from since. Jose Angel Herrera, Coahuila's special prosecutor for disappeared people, said authorities are cooperating with Grupo Vida in the area around Torreon and conducting their missions in other parts of the state. In Coahuila, 2,144 people reported missing have never been found, Herrera said. Many disappeared while the territory was ravaged by the Zetas, a notoriously brutal drug cartel. The state has identified the remains of 235 missing people through digs, including those led by Grupo Vida. The group works for a week at a time, and many members struggle to keep their jobs during digs, Ortiz said. Two weeks ago, Grupo Vida opened a tortilleria, launched with a grant from the American Jewish World Service, a non-profit group. They hope money from the enterprise can cover the operating costs of their community-led forensic digs. Grupo Vida said since 2013 it has uncovered 27 sites with human remains, 10 full skeletons and hundreds of thousands of bone fragments, enabling over 100 disappeared to be identified. Lopez Obrador has vowed to identify thousands of human remains in morgues and mass graves around the country, which he has called the "worst legacy" of past governments. Members of Grupo Vida have yet to feel the benefits of his pledge, according to Ortiz, who said the result has been "working groups and photos, no real action on the searches." Still, prosecutor Herrera said the new administration helped fund construction of a center that will work to establish the identities of the state`s backlog of human remains. Regardless of the adversity, Ortiz said she would continue the search "until the last person is found."

Mexican families scour arid plains for graves of disappeared

The police in Kathmandu have arrested two people from Birgunj for possessing<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-national-investigation-agency-amendment-bill-236691"> counterfeit Indian currencies</a> worth more than one lakh.

The police retrieved 95 counterfeit Indian banknotes of 2000 rupees from the two people who were arrested from Eidgaha Chowk in Birgunj.

The two arrested, identified as Jamil Akhtar (48) and Dilip Kumar Shah (34), are residents of the Parsa District in Nepal.

"Acting on a special tip-off, the Police Officers from District Police Office, Parsa found the counterfeit Indian notes from the nabbed accused," the Nepal Police Headquarter informed in a statement.

"Investigation in the case is underway," the statement added.

Nepal has always been the transit for the trade of counterfeit Indian currencies.

Previously,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-police-arrest-3-pakistani-nationals-with-fake-indian-currency-221937"> three Pakistani and three Nepali nationals were arrested </a>on May 24 from Tribhuwan International Airport with a large cache of fake Indian currencies worth more than seven crores.

The Pakistanis had arrived in Nepal via Qatar.

In December 2009, Kingpin of Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), Yunus Ansari, was arrested with 2.5 million fake Indian Bank Notes along with two Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;

He was once again arrested with 3.5 million fake Indian currency from Kathmandu in February 2014.

The police in Kathmandu have arrested two people from Birgunj for possessing counterfeit Indian currencies worth more than one lakh. The police retrieved 95 counterfeit Indian banknotes of 2000 rupees from the two people who were arrested from Eidgaha Chowk in Birgunj.

The police in Kathmandu have arrested two people from Birgunj for possessing counterfeit Indian currencies worth more than one lakh. The police retrieved 95 counterfeit Indian banknotes of 2000 rupees from the two people who were arrested from Eidgaha Chowk in Birgunj. The two arrested, identified as Jamil Akhtar (48) and Dilip Kumar Shah (34), are residents of the Parsa District in Nepal. "Acting on a special tip-off, the Police Officers from District Police Office, Parsa found the counterfeit Indian notes from the nabbed accused," the Nepal Police Headquarter informed in a statement. "Investigation in the case is underway," the statement added. Nepal has always been the transit for the trade of counterfeit Indian currencies. Previously, three Pakistani and three Nepali nationals were arrested on May 24 from Tribhuwan International Airport with a large cache of fake Indian currencies worth more than seven crores. The Pakistanis had arrived in Nepal via Qatar. In December 2009, Kingpin of Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), Yunus Ansari, was arrested with 2.5 million fake Indian Bank Notes along with two Pakistani nationals. He was once again arrested with 3.5 million fake Indian currency from Kathmandu in February 2014.

Nepal: Police arrest 2 with counterfeit Indian currencies

Condolences pour in for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">former finance minister Arun Jaitley </a>as he breathed his last in Delhi's AIIMS on Saturday.

Union Minister Rajnath Singh reacted to the demise of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-bjps-original-chanakya-245280">Jaitley </a>saying, "He was an asset to the government and the party organisation".

"Arun Jaitley ji served the nation in several &nbsp;capacities and he was an asset to the government and the party organisation. He always had a deep and clear understanding of the issues of the day. His knowledge and articulation won him several friends," &nbsp;he tweeted.

Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his pain over the death of the former leader. &nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind said, "Extremely saddened by the passing of Shri Arun Jaitley after battling a long illness with fortitude and dignity."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Extremely saddened by the passing of Shri Arun Jaitley after battling a long illness with fortitude and dignity. A brilliant lawyer, a seasoned parliamentarian, and a distinguished Minister, he contributed immensely to nation building.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1165167099976675329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Deeply pained by the demise of Arun Jaitley ji. It is like a personal loss for me. I have not only lost a senior party leader but also an important family member who will forever be a guiding light for me, " he said.

"Extremely sad to hear about passing away of our dear friend,legal brain,sharp mind,astute strategist,seasoned politician,exemplary Parliamentian,exceptional communicator,Sr leader,colleague of years Arun Jaitley will always feel void,could never forget him&amp;contribution Om Shanti, " Suresh Prabhu said.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal also tweeted saying, "Untimely demise of former FM and senior leader Sh Arun Jaitley ji is a huge loss to the nation. A legal luminary and an experienced political leader known for his governance skills will be missed by the country. Thoughts and prayers with his family in this moment of grief. RIP"

"A stalwart who paid tribute to his simple beginnings by helping those with meagre means . Orator par excellence, legal luminary @arunjaitleyji served the Nation and sangathan with dedication and zeal. My tributes to him. Condolences to loved ones. Om Shanti, " Smriti Irani tweeted.

Recalling his days at Delhi University, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend and DelhiUniv senior @arunjaitley. We first met when he was at DUSU&amp; I was President of StStephen’sCollegeUnion. Despite political differences we enjoyed a healthy mutual respect and debated his Budget often in LS. A great loss4India."

"Unimaginable loss for Indian Politics! Arun Jaitley a man who donned many Hats ..a man who mesmerised all around Him ..a man who mentored many ...a man for whom you felt knew almost about everything under the Sun ..is no more with us. His life was an inspiration indeed," Sambit Patra said.

Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his deep pain over the death and tweeted, "&nbsp;Shocked and deeply pained to know about our great leader Arun Jaitley ji. It is more painful as we lost another great leader after Sushma Swaraj ji in just a few days."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shocked and deeply pained to know about our great leader Arun Jaitley ji. It is more painful as we lost another great leader after Sushma Swaraj ji in just a few days. 
My deepest condolences to his family, friends and crore of <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> Karyakartas. 
This is my personal loss too! <a href="https://t.co/jc3mmwJLeW">pic.twitter.com/jc3mmwJLeW</a>
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1165172106025418752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata Banerjee said, "Extremely saddened at the passing away of Arun Jaitley Ji, after a battle bravely borne. An outstanding Parliamentarian &amp; a brilliant lawyer, appreciated across parties. His contribution to Indian polity will be remembered. My condolences to his wife, children, friends &amp; admirers".

Jaitley was admitted to the AIIMS on August 9. He was undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) at the country's premier medical institution.

He was not keeping well for some time. He did not even contest the 2019 Lok Sabha election citing health reasons. In February, Piyush Goyal had to present the interim budget as Jaitley was in&nbsp;US&nbsp;for treatment.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Condolences pour in for former finance minister Arun Jaitley as he breathed his last in Delhi's AIIMS on Saturday. Union Minister Rajnath Singh reacted to the demise of Jaitley saying, "He was an asset to the government and the party organisation".

Condolences pour in for former finance minister Arun Jaitley as he breathed his last in Delhi's AIIMS on Saturday. Union Minister Rajnath Singh reacted to the demise of Jaitley saying, "He was an asset to the government and the party organisation". "Arun Jaitley ji served the nation in several capacities and he was an asset to the government and the party organisation. He always had a deep and clear understanding of the issues of the day. His knowledge and articulation won him several friends," he tweeted. Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his pain over the death of the former leader. President Ram Nath Kovind said, "Extremely saddened by the passing of Shri Arun Jaitley after battling a long illness with fortitude and dignity." Extremely saddened by the passing of Shri Arun Jaitley after battling a long illness with fortitude and dignity. A brilliant lawyer, a seasoned parliamentarian, and a distinguished Minister, he contributed immensely to nation building. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 24, 2019 × "Deeply pained by the demise of Arun Jaitley ji. It is like a personal loss for me. I have not only lost a senior party leader but also an important family member who will forever be a guiding light for me, " he said. "Extremely sad to hear about passing away of our dear friend,legal brain,sharp mind,astute strategist,seasoned politician,exemplary Parliamentian,exceptional communicator,Sr leader,colleague of years Arun Jaitley will always feel void,could never forget him&contribution Om Shanti, " Suresh Prabhu said. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal also tweeted saying, "Untimely demise of former FM and senior leader Sh Arun Jaitley ji is a huge loss to the nation. A legal luminary and an experienced political leader known for his governance skills will be missed by the country. Thoughts and prayers with his family in this moment of grief. RIP" "A stalwart who paid tribute to his simple beginnings by helping those with meagre means . Orator par excellence, legal luminary @arunjaitleyji served the Nation and sangathan with dedication and zeal. My tributes to him. Condolences to loved ones. Om Shanti, " Smriti Irani tweeted. Recalling his days at Delhi University, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend and DelhiUniv senior @arunjaitley. We first met when he was at DUSU& I was President of StStephen’sCollegeUnion. Despite political differences we enjoyed a healthy mutual respect and debated his Budget often in LS. A great loss4India." "Unimaginable loss for Indian Politics! Arun Jaitley a man who donned many Hats ..a man who mesmerised all around Him ..a man who mentored many ...a man for whom you felt knew almost about everything under the Sun ..is no more with us. His life was an inspiration indeed," Sambit Patra said. Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his deep pain over the death and tweeted, " Shocked and deeply pained to know about our great leader Arun Jaitley ji. It is more painful as we lost another great leader after Sushma Swaraj ji in just a few days." Shocked and deeply pained to know about our great leader Arun Jaitley ji. It is more painful as we lost another great leader after Sushma Swaraj ji in just a few days. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and crore of @BJP4India Karyakartas. This is my personal loss too! pic.twitter.com/jc3mmwJLeW — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) August 24, 2019 × Mamata Banerjee said, "Extremely saddened at the passing away of Arun Jaitley Ji, after a battle bravely borne. An outstanding Parliamentarian & a brilliant lawyer, appreciated across parties. His contribution to Indian polity will be remembered. My condolences to his wife, children, friends & admirers". Jaitley was admitted to the AIIMS on August 9. He was undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) at the country's premier medical institution. He was not keeping well for some time. He did not even contest the 2019 Lok Sabha election citing health reasons. In February, Piyush Goyal had to present the interim budget as Jaitley was in US for treatment.

'Unimaginable loss for Indian Politics': Condolences pour in for former finance minister Arun Jaitley

The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-hear-p-chidambarams-bail-plea-today-244940"> P Chidambaram's bail plea petition</a> for Monday.

The plea was filed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-immediate-relief-for-p-chidambaram-his-plea-against-arrest-referred-to-chief-justice-of-india-244564">Chidambaram</a> challenging the Delhi High Court verdict of August 20 that dismissed his anticipatory bail plea in the INX Media case.

Speaking for his counsel Advocate Kapil Sibal said that the case against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-bow-down-to-orders-of-supreme-court-says-chidambaram-at-congress-headquarters-refuses-committing-any-offence-244664">Chidambaram</a> involved fundamental rights under Article 21 of the Constitution (right to liberty). 
"Going over facts of the case, he was not heard despite filing the petition in time before Supreme Court," he added.

The apex court also refused SG Tushar Mehta's suggestion to post the ED case also for Monday. Chidambaram's bail petition against the Enforcement Directorate will be heard by the Supreme Court on August 27. The court, however, agreed to hear his plea for protection from arrest by Enforcement Directorate.

The CBI court on Thursday ordered 5-day custody for Chidambaram who is accused in the INX media case.&nbsp;

During his remand with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-cbi-team-arrives-at-p-chidambarams-residence-244460">CBI</a>, Chidambaram will be allowed to meet with his lawyers and family members for 30 minutes every day. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Chidambaram's bail petition against the Enforcement Directorate will be heard by the Supreme Court on August 27.

The CBI court on Thursday began hearing the matter Chidambaram's bail plea at Rouse Avenue District Court in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing in P Chidambaram's bail plea petition for Monday. The plea was filed by Chidambaram challenging the Delhi High Court verdict of August 20 that dismissed his anticipatory bail plea in the INX Media case.

The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing in P Chidambaram's bail plea petition for Monday. The plea was filed by Chidambaram challenging the Delhi High Court verdict of August 20 that dismissed his anticipatory bail plea in the INX Media case. Speaking for his counsel Advocate Kapil Sibal said that the case against Chidambaram involved fundamental rights under Article 21 of the Constitution (right to liberty). "Going over facts of the case, he was not heard despite filing the petition in time before Supreme Court," he added. The apex court also refused SG Tushar Mehta's suggestion to post the ED case also for Monday. Chidambaram's bail petition against the Enforcement Directorate will be heard by the Supreme Court on August 27. The court, however, agreed to hear his plea for protection from arrest by Enforcement Directorate. The CBI court on Thursday ordered 5-day custody for Chidambaram who is accused in the INX media case. During his remand with the CBI, Chidambaram will be allowed to meet with his lawyers and family members for 30 minutes every day. Meanwhile, Chidambaram's bail petition against the Enforcement Directorate will be heard by the Supreme Court on August 27. The CBI court on Thursday began hearing the matter Chidambaram's bail plea at Rouse Avenue District Court in New Delhi.

INX Media case: Supreme Court postpones hearing in Chidambaram's bail plea for Monday

US President Donald Trump plans to hold discussions on Kashmir and human rights with Prime Minister Narendra Modi this weekend at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trump-set-to-meet-at-g7-summit-on-august-26-244877">G7 summit in Biarritz</a>.

A senior administration official who briefed reporters on Trump’s agenda for the upcoming summit on Saturday said the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan are expected to come up.

"President Trump will likely want to hear from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-defence-and-kashmir-in-the-spotlight-as-modi-meets-macron-ahead-of-g7-summit-244916">Prime Minister Modi</a> on how he plans to reduce regional tensions and uphold respect for human rights in Kashmir," the official said.

After a brief conversation with Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, the US President once again offered his proposal to mediate on Kashmir, despite making it clear before that the ongoing dispute in the region should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

Ramping up rhetoric against India, Pakistan is endlessly trying to involve the international community in the wake of New Delhi's historic decision to change the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. This move comes despite the latter's, time and again, reiteration that the matter is strictly "internal" to the country.

Following the initial quashing of his plans on mediation by New Delhi, Trump had reaffirmed his position that Kashmir remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

However, adhering to Khan's request on Tuesday, the US President changed his stance and offered to mediate on the issue once again.

Calling Kashmir a "complicated situation", Trump said, "A lot has to do with religion. You have the Hindus, and you have the Muslims. This has been going on for decades."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The president is also calling for Pakistan to prevent cross-border infiltration across the Line of Control and stop groups based on its soil that have attacked India in the past," the official added.

Tensions have simmered between India and Pakistan following the BJP-led Centre's decision to revoke Article 370 that guaranteed special status to Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, the Indian Parliament also passed a 'Reorganisation' bill that divided the region into Jammu and Kashmir--with a legislature and Ladakh-without a legislature.

Rattled by India's move, Pakistan, last week, sent its Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi to China to seek its help at the United Nations Security Council, urging it to call an emergency meeting on the issue. However, four out of five permanent members in the United Nations did not support Pakistan contentions over India's decision.

India, time and again, has also stated that Jammu and Kashmir is "entirely an internal matter" of the country and all steps were taken keeping in mind the bright future of people of the region.

Following Trump's initial offer to mediate on Kashmir, last month, New Delhi then had also categorically denied his request, saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had never requested the US president to meditate on the issue.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump plans to hold discussions on Kashmir and human rights with Prime Minister Narendra Modi this weekend at the G7 summit in Biarritz. A senior administration official who briefed reporters on Trump’s agenda for the upcoming summit on Saturday said the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan are expected to come up.

US President Donald Trump plans to hold discussions on Kashmir and human rights with Prime Minister Narendra Modi this weekend at the G7 summit in Biarritz. A senior administration official who briefed reporters on Trump’s agenda for the upcoming summit on Saturday said the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan are expected to come up. "President Trump will likely want to hear from Prime Minister Modi on how he plans to reduce regional tensions and uphold respect for human rights in Kashmir," the official said. After a brief conversation with Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, the US President once again offered his proposal to mediate on Kashmir, despite making it clear before that the ongoing dispute in the region should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. Ramping up rhetoric against India, Pakistan is endlessly trying to involve the international community in the wake of New Delhi's historic decision to change the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. This move comes despite the latter's, time and again, reiteration that the matter is strictly "internal" to the country. Following the initial quashing of his plans on mediation by New Delhi, Trump had reaffirmed his position that Kashmir remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. However, adhering to Khan's request on Tuesday, the US President changed his stance and offered to mediate on the issue once again. Calling Kashmir a "complicated situation", Trump said, "A lot has to do with religion. You have the Hindus, and you have the Muslims. This has been going on for decades." "The president is also calling for Pakistan to prevent cross-border infiltration across the Line of Control and stop groups based on its soil that have attacked India in the past," the official added. Tensions have simmered between India and Pakistan following the BJP-led Centre's decision to revoke Article 370 that guaranteed special status to Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, the Indian Parliament also passed a 'Reorganisation' bill that divided the region into Jammu and Kashmir--with a legislature and Ladakh-without a legislature. Rattled by India's move, Pakistan, last week, sent its Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi to China to seek its help at the United Nations Security Council, urging it to call an emergency meeting on the issue. However, four out of five permanent members in the United Nations did not support Pakistan contentions over India's decision. India, time and again, has also stated that Jammu and Kashmir is "entirely an internal matter" of the country and all steps were taken keeping in mind the bright future of people of the region. Following Trump's initial offer to mediate on Kashmir, last month, New Delhi then had also categorically denied his request, saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had never requested the US president to meditate on the issue.

Trump to discuss Kashmir, human rights with Modi at G7 Summit in France

Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy on Thursday urged the countrymen to first identify themselves as Indians and rise above states, religion and caste.

Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, Narayana Murthy said, " While it's easy to drape ourselves in our national flag and shout 'Mera Bharat Mahaan' or 'Jai Ho', it is difficult to practice values. We have to identify ourselves as Indians first and rise above states, religion and caste."

Speaking further he asked the people to shun away jingoism and added, "Our governments have to become more citizen-friendly and remove obstacles to entrepreneurs to create larger and larger number of jobs. Our economic policies have to be less populist and more based on expertise."

The Infosys co-founder also added that the investor's confidence was at a historic high in the country.

"Our economy is growing at 6 to 7 per cent this year. India has become the software development centre of the world. Our foreign exchange reserve has crossed 400 billion dollar. Investor confidence is at a historic high, " he said.

Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy on Thursday urged the countrymen to first identify themselves as Indians and rise above states, religion and caste. Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, Narayana Murthy said, " While it's easy to drape ourselves in our national flag and shout 'Mera Bharat Mahaan' or 'Jai Ho', it is difficult to practice values.

Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy on Thursday urged the countrymen to first identify themselves as Indians and rise above states, religion and caste. Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, Narayana Murthy said, " While it's easy to drape ourselves in our national flag and shout 'Mera Bharat Mahaan' or 'Jai Ho', it is difficult to practice values. We have to identify ourselves as Indians first and rise above states, religion and caste." Speaking further he asked the people to shun away jingoism and added, "Our governments have to become more citizen-friendly and remove obstacles to entrepreneurs to create larger and larger number of jobs. Our economic policies have to be less populist and more based on expertise." The Infosys co-founder also added that the investor's confidence was at a historic high in the country. "Our economy is growing at 6 to 7 per cent this year. India has become the software development centre of the world. Our foreign exchange reserve has crossed 400 billion dollar. Investor confidence is at a historic high, " he said.

Identify as Indians first and rise above states, religion, caste: Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy

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