Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-braces-for-another-weekend-of-protests-241947">anti-government protesters on Saturday</a>, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend.&nbsp;

Weeks of increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-step-up-war-of-words-over-hong-kong-241944">US, China step up war of words over Hong Kong</a>

On Saturday activists rallied across the city - with thousands thronging the airport arrivals hall for a second day - while elsewhere police displayed a new willingness to quickly and forcibly clear them from the streets.&nbsp;

Tear gas was used with little warning not long after several hundred activists who had marched through Tai Po in the north of the territory had barricaded an intersection in the Tai Wai neighbourhood.

They dispersed, as noxious smoke also filled the underground station there, bringing train passengers to tears.&nbsp;

"If the government thinks we`ll give up and not come out anymore they`re wrong," said student Chris Wong, 20, at Tai Po.

"Carrie Lam is now spreading lies and blaming us for destroying Hong Kong`s economy. But she`s the one who is destroying Hong Kong," he said. "We`ll continue to fight...but we`re also going to be smart and wear them down."

Lam, Hong Kong`s leader, said on Friday the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June.

China, meanwhile, demanded that the city`s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations. One of its pilots was arrested last week.&nbsp;

Lam`s warning about the economy and China`s targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with the crisis.

"We are very angry"

It did not deter thousands of demonstrators.

Leung Wai Man, a housewife in her 60s, said she had been motivated to march in Tai Po because she was angry about what she saw as the violent response by police at some protests.

"We are very angry about the police over arresting our teenagers," she said. She said she was worried about escalating violence, but added that "the protesters were just trying to protect themselves against police violence."&nbsp;

Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as wealth disparities in the city. However, older people have also been appearing.

Earlier on Saturday, in two separate protests, small groups of elderly Hong Kongers and families marched near the financial centre`s business district. Both marches were peaceful.

"There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organising committee for what was billed as the family protest.

"The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns."

Thousands of activists also filled the airport`s arrivals hall for a second day, some sitting and shouting slogans, while others drew protest posters and greeted arriving passengers.

There were no reports of flight disruptions.

The protests began after Hong Kong`s government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to mainland China for trial.

The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam`s resignation.

The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest. 
Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997.&nbsp;

On Friday, the US State department spokeswoman, Morgan Ortagus, said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop.

Ortagus earlier called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat.

More protests are planned for Sunday, including one in Sham Shui Po, a working class neighbourhood that has been the scene of violent confrontations between activists and police. The government announced that public buildings there such as pools and libraries would be shut on Sunday afternoon.

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse anti-government protesters on Saturday, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend.

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse anti-government protesters on Saturday, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend. Weeks of increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing. Also read: US, China step up war of words over Hong Kong On Saturday activists rallied across the city - with thousands thronging the airport arrivals hall for a second day - while elsewhere police displayed a new willingness to quickly and forcibly clear them from the streets. Tear gas was used with little warning not long after several hundred activists who had marched through Tai Po in the north of the territory had barricaded an intersection in the Tai Wai neighbourhood. They dispersed, as noxious smoke also filled the underground station there, bringing train passengers to tears. "If the government thinks we`ll give up and not come out anymore they`re wrong," said student Chris Wong, 20, at Tai Po. "Carrie Lam is now spreading lies and blaming us for destroying Hong Kong`s economy. But she`s the one who is destroying Hong Kong," he said. "We`ll continue to fight...but we`re also going to be smart and wear them down." Lam, Hong Kong`s leader, said on Friday the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June. China, meanwhile, demanded that the city`s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations. One of its pilots was arrested last week. Lam`s warning about the economy and China`s targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with the crisis. "We are very angry" It did not deter thousands of demonstrators. Leung Wai Man, a housewife in her 60s, said she had been motivated to march in Tai Po because she was angry about what she saw as the violent response by police at some protests. "We are very angry about the police over arresting our teenagers," she said. She said she was worried about escalating violence, but added that "the protesters were just trying to protect themselves against police violence." Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as wealth disparities in the city. However, older people have also been appearing. Earlier on Saturday, in two separate protests, small groups of elderly Hong Kongers and families marched near the financial centre`s business district. Both marches were peaceful. "There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organising committee for what was billed as the family protest. "The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns." Thousands of activists also filled the airport`s arrivals hall for a second day, some sitting and shouting slogans, while others drew protest posters and greeted arriving passengers. There were no reports of flight disruptions. The protests began after Hong Kong`s government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to mainland China for trial. The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam`s resignation. The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest. Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997. On Friday, the US State department spokeswoman, Morgan Ortagus, said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop. Ortagus earlier called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat. More protests are planned for Sunday, including one in Sham Shui Po, a working class neighbourhood that has been the scene of violent confrontations between activists and police. The government announced that public buildings there such as pools and libraries would be shut on Sunday afternoon.

Hong Kong police fire tear gas during another weekend of protests

Fifty-seven people perished in Tanzania on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded after overturning on a road west of the capital Dar Es Salaam, police said.

The disaster took place near the town of Morogoro, with police saying the blaze may have been sparked by a cigarette as people rushed to collect leaking fuel from the stricken truck.

"There was a huge blast which has so far killed at least 57 people," regional police chief Willbrod Mtafungwa told reporters,.

Witnesses said they saw the charred remains of a number of motorcycle taxis and trees scorched by the flames.

Mtafungwa said the dead were mainly drivers of the taxis known as "boda-boda" and local residents flocking to the scene for the fuel after the tanker crashed.

Police later announced the fire had been brought under control. 
&nbsp;

Fifty-seven people perished in Tanzania on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded after overturning on a road west of the capital Dar Es Salaam, police said. The disaster took place near the town of Morogoro, with police saying the blaze may have been sparked by a cigarette as people rushed to collect leaking fuel from the stricken truck.

Fifty-seven people perished in Tanzania on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded after overturning on a road west of the capital Dar Es Salaam, police said. The disaster took place near the town of Morogoro, with police saying the blaze may have been sparked by a cigarette as people rushed to collect leaking fuel from the stricken truck. "There was a huge blast which has so far killed at least 57 people," regional police chief Willbrod Mtafungwa told reporters,. Witnesses said they saw the charred remains of a number of motorcycle taxis and trees scorched by the flames. Mtafungwa said the dead were mainly drivers of the taxis known as "boda-boda" and local residents flocking to the scene for the fuel after the tanker crashed. Police later announced the fire had been brought under control.

Tanzania tanker blast kills 57 as flames rip through crowd gathered to siphon petrol from it

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum.&nbsp; &nbsp;

But the club has had to cut back activities since popular unrest erupted in December and led to the fall of autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April, dampening higher social life.

Horse races were halted and attendance at equestrian classes dwindled after protests broke out in the dusty streets of the capital on the Nile river, with the loss of scores of lives as security forces cracked down.&nbsp;

"The main problem is that people don`t have enough cash (for the club), they're keeping it to live on, not to bring children to ride horses," said Rafat Awad, the club`s treasurer.

"You see the situation in our country, people dying. You can't just go and race. Some people are sad, some are angry, some still waging revolution, so we found it wasn't&nbsp;right to stage competitions."&nbsp;

The club was founded in 1908 under British colonial rule but betting on horse races ended in 1983 when sharia (Islamic law) took effect. Before being halted, horse races were run through sponsorships and some 200 horses are kept in the club's stables.&nbsp;

There has been a modest resurgence of visitors to the club in recent weeks as violence has eased following a political transition deal between the temporary ruling military council and opposition leaders.

Around two dozen people, including children, come for riding classes in the evenings, after the searing daytime heat eases, often watched by their families.

Lessons are offered daily except Friday, the Muslim holy day, for 1,400 Sudanese pounds (nearly $20) a month - a sum beyond the means of most Sudanese, let alone the cost of buying and keeping a horse at the club.&nbsp;

Some female club members describe how they`ve had to overcome the disapproval of women participating in a sport that is common in strictly Islamic Sudan.

&nbsp;"If your family members are interested, it's easier than if you start on your own," said Einas, 18, who has been riding for one year. Her father has racehorses and has won competitions. She said that in Sudan, however, racing was mainly a man`s sport while women often practiced show-jumping.

Twenty-four-year-old Sagada, a club member who had been riding for 11 years, said: "My mum brought me here, my family doesn't mind that I'm a woman riding.&nbsp;

"It can be a bit hard - some people disapprove of how we are dressed," she added, referring to tight-fitting equestrian garb.

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum.

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum. But the club has had to cut back activities since popular unrest erupted in December and led to the fall of autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April, dampening higher social life. Horse races were halted and attendance at equestrian classes dwindled after protests broke out in the dusty streets of the capital on the Nile river, with the loss of scores of lives as security forces cracked down. "The main problem is that people don`t have enough cash (for the club), they're keeping it to live on, not to bring children to ride horses," said Rafat Awad, the club`s treasurer. "You see the situation in our country, people dying. You can't just go and race. Some people are sad, some are angry, some still waging revolution, so we found it wasn't right to stage competitions." The club was founded in 1908 under British colonial rule but betting on horse races ended in 1983 when sharia (Islamic law) took effect. Before being halted, horse races were run through sponsorships and some 200 horses are kept in the club's stables. There has been a modest resurgence of visitors to the club in recent weeks as violence has eased following a political transition deal between the temporary ruling military council and opposition leaders. Around two dozen people, including children, come for riding classes in the evenings, after the searing daytime heat eases, often watched by their families. Lessons are offered daily except Friday, the Muslim holy day, for 1,400 Sudanese pounds (nearly $20) a month - a sum beyond the means of most Sudanese, let alone the cost of buying and keeping a horse at the club. Some female club members describe how they`ve had to overcome the disapproval of women participating in a sport that is common in strictly Islamic Sudan. "If your family members are interested, it's easier than if you start on your own," said Einas, 18, who has been riding for one year. Her father has racehorses and has won competitions. She said that in Sudan, however, racing was mainly a man`s sport while women often practiced show-jumping. Twenty-four-year-old Sagada, a club member who had been riding for 11 years, said: "My mum brought me here, my family doesn't mind that I'm a woman riding. "It can be a bit hard - some people disapprove of how we are dressed," she added, referring to tight-fitting equestrian garb.

Khartoum's Equestrian Club struggles amid Sudan upheaval

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city.

On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website.

The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights.&nbsp;

Crew members that have not gained the authority's&nbsp;approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations.

The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement.

In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly."

"The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously."

Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China".

"We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said.&nbsp;

On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights.

Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions.

"We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're&nbsp;all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said.

Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests.

Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy.

Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon.

The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire &amp; Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10. Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city. On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website. The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights. Crew members that have not gained the authority's approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations. The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement. In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly." "The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously." Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China". "We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said. On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights. Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions. "We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said. Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests. Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy. Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon. The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire & Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China orders Cathay Pacific to suspend staff backing Hong Kong protests

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote to all government employees on Friday to tell them that preparing for a no-deal exit from the European Union is his and their top priority, according to a copy of the email seen by Reuters.

Johnson has promised voters Britain will leave the EU on October 31 with or without an exit deal, demanding that Brussels drop parts of the existing proposed deal relating to the Irish border and negotiate a fresh exit arrangement.

But the EU is adamant that the legal terms of the deal cannot be rewritten, raising expectations among politicians and financial markets that Britain is headed for an unmanaged divorce from the bloc in less than three months.

"I would very much prefer to leave with a deal – one that must abolish the anti-democratic Irish backstop, which has unacceptable consequences for our country," Johnson said in the email.

"But I recognise this may not happen. That is why preparing urgently and rapidly for the possibility of an exit without a deal will be my top priority, and it will be the top priority for the Civil Service too."

Previously, pro-Brexit campaigners have criticised the ranks of Britain's civil service, which adopts a politically neutral stance while working to enact government policy, saying they were biased towards remaining in the EU and trying to obstruct the exit process.

Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

"I know many of you have already done a great deal of hard work in mobilising to prepare for a No Deal scenario, so that we can leave on 31 October come what may," Johnson wrote in the email, first reported by Sky News.

"Between now and then, we must engage and communicate clearly with the British people about what our plans for taking back control mean, what people and businesses need to do, and the support we will provide."

Although advocates of a no-deal exit say that Britain would swiftly recover from any disruption and benefit over the long term from improved economic flexibility, sterling and other economic indicators reflect a broadly pessimistic outlook.

Data on Friday showed the British economy shrank unexpectedly for the first time since 2012 in the second quarter, dragged down by a slump in manufacturing.

Johnson, however praised the work of government employees in the 650-word bulletin issued on Friday afternoon, and promised a reforming agenda beyond Brexit, highlighting plans for improved public services.

"The Government I lead is fully committed to leaving the European Union by 31 October 2019 and getting a grip of the vital issues that affect people’s lives: the NHS, education and crime," he wrote.

"While there are no grounds for complacency, there is every reason for optimism."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote to all government employees on Friday to tell them that preparing for a no-deal exit from the European Union is his and their top priority, according to a copy of the email seen by Reuters.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote to all government employees on Friday to tell them that preparing for a no-deal exit from the European Union is his and their top priority, according to a copy of the email seen by Reuters. Johnson has promised voters Britain will leave the EU on October 31 with or without an exit deal, demanding that Brussels drop parts of the existing proposed deal relating to the Irish border and negotiate a fresh exit arrangement. But the EU is adamant that the legal terms of the deal cannot be rewritten, raising expectations among politicians and financial markets that Britain is headed for an unmanaged divorce from the bloc in less than three months. "I would very much prefer to leave with a deal – one that must abolish the anti-democratic Irish backstop, which has unacceptable consequences for our country," Johnson said in the email. "But I recognise this may not happen. That is why preparing urgently and rapidly for the possibility of an exit without a deal will be my top priority, and it will be the top priority for the Civil Service too." Previously, pro-Brexit campaigners have criticised the ranks of Britain's civil service, which adopts a politically neutral stance while working to enact government policy, saying they were biased towards remaining in the EU and trying to obstruct the exit process. Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre. "I know many of you have already done a great deal of hard work in mobilising to prepare for a No Deal scenario, so that we can leave on 31 October come what may," Johnson wrote in the email, first reported by Sky News. "Between now and then, we must engage and communicate clearly with the British people about what our plans for taking back control mean, what people and businesses need to do, and the support we will provide." Although advocates of a no-deal exit say that Britain would swiftly recover from any disruption and benefit over the long term from improved economic flexibility, sterling and other economic indicators reflect a broadly pessimistic outlook. Data on Friday showed the British economy shrank unexpectedly for the first time since 2012 in the second quarter, dragged down by a slump in manufacturing. Johnson, however praised the work of government employees in the 650-word bulletin issued on Friday afternoon, and promised a reforming agenda beyond Brexit, highlighting plans for improved public services. "The Government I lead is fully committed to leaving the European Union by 31 October 2019 and getting a grip of the vital issues that affect people’s lives: the NHS, education and crime," he wrote. "While there are no grounds for complacency, there is every reason for optimism."

UK's Boris Johnson tells civil servants their top priority is preparing for no deal Brexit: Report

President Donald Trump on Friday called for "common sense" solutions to address gun violence without mentioning what specific measures he would support.

Trump also said that the views of the powerful National Rifle Association lobbyists should be considered.

Thirty-one people were killed in two-weekend shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, in attacks that shook the country and reopened a national debate on gun safety as Americans grapple with yet another mass shooting.

A week later, it remains unclear what, if any, specific steps the Republican president would back. Democrats are trying to galvanize public support for legislative action over what has been a contentious issue for years, even before Trump's&nbsp;administration.

Since he became president in 2017, there have been mass shootings at a church in Texas, a concert in Las Vegas and high schools in Florida and Texas.

Trump earlier this week initially appeared to back background checks but then did not mention them in a public address on Monday that focused on mental illness and media culture.

He later predicted congressional support for those background checks and blocking gun access to the mentally ill, but not for any effort to ban assault rifles.

He had promised to take action in early 2018 after 17 people were killed at a Parkland, Florida, high school but backed down after the NRA, a key financial donor to Republican politicians, weighed in.

On Friday, he appeared to want to balance any congressional action with the NRA`s views.

"I am the biggest Second Amendment person there is, but we all must work together for the good and safety of our Country," he wrote.

"Common sense things can be done that are good for everyone."

Trump said he had "been speaking to the NRA, and others, so that their very strong views can be fully represented and respected."

The NRA, in a statement on Thursday, indicated it opposed further gun restrictions.&nbsp;

Congress is in recess but Trump said leaders of the House of Representatives and Senate were discussing expanding background checks for gun sales.&nbsp;

Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell on Thursday rejected a plea from more than 200 mayors to call the Senate back early to consider gun legislation.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said they had each spoken separately to Trump and that he had assured them he would review legislation that has already passed the Democratic-majority House.&nbsp;

The White House had said it would hold also a meeting with representatives from the technology industry on Friday to discuss violent extremism online.

Trump is not scheduled to be at the White House for most of the day as he attends a fundraiser in the Hamptons in New York for his 2020 re-election campaign.

President Donald Trump on Friday called for "common sense" solutions to address gun violence without mentioning what specific measures he would support. Trump also said that the views of the powerful National Rifle Association lobbyists should be considered.

President Donald Trump on Friday called for "common sense" solutions to address gun violence without mentioning what specific measures he would support. Trump also said that the views of the powerful National Rifle Association lobbyists should be considered. Thirty-one people were killed in two-weekend shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, in attacks that shook the country and reopened a national debate on gun safety as Americans grapple with yet another mass shooting. A week later, it remains unclear what, if any, specific steps the Republican president would back. Democrats are trying to galvanize public support for legislative action over what has been a contentious issue for years, even before Trump's administration. Since he became president in 2017, there have been mass shootings at a church in Texas, a concert in Las Vegas and high schools in Florida and Texas. Trump earlier this week initially appeared to back background checks but then did not mention them in a public address on Monday that focused on mental illness and media culture. He later predicted congressional support for those background checks and blocking gun access to the mentally ill, but not for any effort to ban assault rifles. He had promised to take action in early 2018 after 17 people were killed at a Parkland, Florida, high school but backed down after the NRA, a key financial donor to Republican politicians, weighed in. On Friday, he appeared to want to balance any congressional action with the NRA`s views. "I am the biggest Second Amendment person there is, but we all must work together for the good and safety of our Country," he wrote. "Common sense things can be done that are good for everyone." Trump said he had "been speaking to the NRA, and others, so that their very strong views can be fully represented and respected." The NRA, in a statement on Thursday, indicated it opposed further gun restrictions. Congress is in recess but Trump said leaders of the House of Representatives and Senate were discussing expanding background checks for gun sales. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell on Thursday rejected a plea from more than 200 mayors to call the Senate back early to consider gun legislation. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said they had each spoken separately to Trump and that he had assured them he would review legislation that has already passed the Democratic-majority House. The White House had said it would hold also a meeting with representatives from the technology industry on Friday to discuss violent extremism online. Trump is not scheduled to be at the White House for most of the day as he attends a fundraiser in the Hamptons in New York for his 2020 re-election campaign.

Trump says 'common sense things can be done' on guns, wants NRA input

President Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;said on Friday he has received a "very beautiful letter" on Thursday from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-sends-missile-warning-to-south-korea-us-as-tensions-rise-241269">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un</a> and added that he could have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-president-donald-trump-and-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-have-to-find-real-common-ground-233182">another meeting </a>with him.

Speaking to reporters,&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;did not say when such a meeting would take place. North Korea has been testing missiles despite a June 30 meeting between&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;and Kim at which the two agreed to revive stalled working-level talks, which have yet to resume.

Trump&nbsp;and Kim have met three times since last year to discuss ways to resolve a crisis over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, but progress has been scant on Washington's aim of getting the North Korea leader to give up his weapons.

The recent missile tests have raised questions about the future of dialogue. Pyongyang has warned of a possible end to its freeze of nuclear and long-range missile tests in place since 2017.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has repeatedly pointed to that freeze as evidence of the success of more than a year of engagement with Kim.

Keen to tout his North Korea policy as a success ahead of his 2020 reelection bid,&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has sought to play down the missile launches, saying they do not violate Kim's pledge to forego nuclear and long-range tests.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was hopeful talks would resume in coming and that the US side was planning for negotiations in a couple of weeks.

A summit between&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;and Kim in Hanoi in February collapsed over a failure to narrow differences over US demands for North Korea to give up all of its nuclear weapons and Pyongyang's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump said on Friday he has received a "very beautiful letter" on Thursday from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and added that he could have another meeting with him.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he has received a "very beautiful letter" on Thursday from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and added that he could have another meeting with him. Speaking to reporters, Trump did not say when such a meeting would take place. North Korea has been testing missiles despite a June 30 meeting between Trump and Kim at which the two agreed to revive stalled working-level talks, which have yet to resume. Trump and Kim have met three times since last year to discuss ways to resolve a crisis over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, but progress has been scant on Washington's aim of getting the North Korea leader to give up his weapons. The recent missile tests have raised questions about the future of dialogue. Pyongyang has warned of a possible end to its freeze of nuclear and long-range missile tests in place since 2017. Trump has repeatedly pointed to that freeze as evidence of the success of more than a year of engagement with Kim. Keen to tout his North Korea policy as a success ahead of his 2020 reelection bid, Trump has sought to play down the missile launches, saying they do not violate Kim's pledge to forego nuclear and long-range tests. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was hopeful talks would resume in coming and that the US side was planning for negotiations in a couple of weeks. A summit between Trump and Kim in Hanoi in February collapsed over a failure to narrow differences over US demands for North Korea to give up all of its nuclear weapons and Pyongyang's demands for relief from punishing sanctions.

Trump says North Korea's Kim sent 'very beautiful letter'; new meeting possible

Russia on Friday accused the US Embassy of having meddled in Russia`s internal affairs when it published a map online showing the route of an unauthorised anti-government protest earlier this month.

Russia`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had summoned a senior US diplomat over what it said was a post on Twitter and the embassy`s website containing a map drawn up by Russia`s opposition ahead of the August 3 rally in Moscow.

Russian police detained over 1,000 people at the protest, the latest in a series of opposition rallies ahead of a Moscow city election next month that have led to the biggest standoff between the authorities and the opposition in years.

The US Embassy warned US nationals in an English-language statement on its website on August&nbsp;2 to avoid the protest route, noting that the rally had not been sanctioned by Moscow authorities.

The statement contained a map of the planned route as well as details and information about it in Russian.

"We underlined that we consider the publication of the route ... as promoting participation in (the protest) and calling for action, which constitutes interference in the internal affairs of our country," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The US Embassy did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The complaint came a day after Russia accused German media outlet Deutsche Welle of having also called on Russians to take part in recent anti-government protests.

Russia on Friday accused the US Embassy of having meddled in Russia`s internal affairs when it published a map online showing the route of an unauthorised anti-government protest earlier this month.

Russia on Friday accused the US Embassy of having meddled in Russia`s internal affairs when it published a map online showing the route of an unauthorised anti-government protest earlier this month. Russia`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had summoned a senior US diplomat over what it said was a post on Twitter and the embassy`s website containing a map drawn up by Russia`s opposition ahead of the August 3 rally in Moscow. Russian police detained over 1,000 people at the protest, the latest in a series of opposition rallies ahead of a Moscow city election next month that have led to the biggest standoff between the authorities and the opposition in years. The US Embassy warned US nationals in an English-language statement on its website on August 2 to avoid the protest route, noting that the rally had not been sanctioned by Moscow authorities. The statement contained a map of the planned route as well as details and information about it in Russian. "We underlined that we consider the publication of the route ... as promoting participation in (the protest) and calling for action, which constitutes interference in the internal affairs of our country," the foreign ministry said in a statement. The US Embassy did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The complaint came a day after Russia accused German media outlet Deutsche Welle of having also called on Russians to take part in recent anti-government protests.

Russia accuses US of meddling over publication of protest map

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-confirms-mark-esper-as-secretary-of-defense-238023">US&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Mark Esper</a> met with senior&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean leaders on Friday amid a series of&nbsp;regional&nbsp;challenges&nbsp;ranging from a bitter trade row between Seoul and Tokyo to the cost of&nbsp;US troops stationed in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea.

Esper, on his first international trip since being confirmed as&nbsp;defence&nbsp;secretary, arrived in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;on Thursday evening amid an escalating trade feud between two of Washington's main Asian allies.

While the trade issue,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-warns-japan-of-security-pact-risk-calls-for-cooling-off-in-trade-row-240488"> which threatens&nbsp;regional intelligence sharing,</a> came up in his meetings in Seoul, Esper reiterated the importance of the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean US alliance and said the allies would continue to coordinate on North&nbsp;Korea.

In his opening remarks of the meeting with Esper,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-test-fired-same-type-of-missiles-in-may-seoul-223632">South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;Defense&nbsp;Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo</a> said Japan's export restrictions against&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;are "causing adverse effects on&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea-Japan relations and security cooperation among&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, the&nbsp;US, and Japan".

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has said it was exploring all options in a bitter trade dispute with Japan, including scrapping an intelligence-sharing pact.

The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), facilitates a three-way intelligence gathering with Washington, which is crucial in fending off North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The deal is automatically renewed annually on Aug. 24.

Relations between&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and Japan are at their worst in decades, with the trade row rooted in a long-running dispute over compensation for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Koreans forced to work for Japanese firms during World War Two.

Esper arrived in Seoul a day after&nbsp;US President Donald Trump said&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;agreed to 'pay a lot more' to shoulder the costs required for the upkeep of 28,500&nbsp;US troops in South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and that talks are underway to discuss&nbsp;the issue.

But a spokesman at&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's foreign ministry told reporters on Thursday that the negotiations have not yet begun, and a ministry official said on Friday that Esper did not mention the costs during his meeting with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha, according to Yonhap.

The trip comes after North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;recently carried out a series of missile tests and with de-nuclearisation talks between the United States and North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;stalled.

"At a time when the security environment is so severe, it is very meaningful to discuss&nbsp;the security situation on the&nbsp;Korean Peninsula and the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea-US alliance," Jeong said.

Noting that&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States are working together to denuclearise North&nbsp;Korea, Jeong praised "President Trump's amazing imagination that transcends conventions" for bringing about his meeting with North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un at the inter-Korean border in June.

On Tuesday, Esper said the United States would not overreact to the short-range missile launches by North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and would keep the door open to talks with Pyongyang. He also added that, despite complaints by North&nbsp;Korea, there was no plan to alter future joint military drills with Seoul.

Esper's visit comes as&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean President Moon Jae-in tapped a seasoned diplomat as the new ambassador to Washington on Friday. 
South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is Esper's last stop on a trip that has also included&nbsp;visits&nbsp;to Australia, Japan, and Mongolia.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper met with senior South Korean leaders on Friday amid a series of regional challenges ranging from a bitter trade row between Seoul and Tokyo to the cost of US troops stationed in South Korea.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper met with senior South Korean leaders on Friday amid a series of regional challenges ranging from a bitter trade row between Seoul and Tokyo to the cost of US troops stationed in South Korea. Esper, on his first international trip since being confirmed as defence secretary, arrived in South Korea on Thursday evening amid an escalating trade feud between two of Washington's main Asian allies. While the trade issue, which threatens regional intelligence sharing, came up in his meetings in Seoul, Esper reiterated the importance of the South Korean US alliance and said the allies would continue to coordinate on North Korea. In his opening remarks of the meeting with Esper, South Korean Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said Japan's export restrictions against South Korea are "causing adverse effects on South Korea-Japan relations and security cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan". South Korea has said it was exploring all options in a bitter trade dispute with Japan, including scrapping an intelligence-sharing pact. The accord, the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), facilitates a three-way intelligence gathering with Washington, which is crucial in fending off North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The deal is automatically renewed annually on Aug. 24. Relations between South Korea and Japan are at their worst in decades, with the trade row rooted in a long-running dispute over compensation for South Koreans forced to work for Japanese firms during World War Two. Esper arrived in Seoul a day after US President Donald Trump said South Korea agreed to 'pay a lot more' to shoulder the costs required for the upkeep of 28,500 US troops in South Korea and that talks are underway to discuss the issue. But a spokesman at South Korea's foreign ministry told reporters on Thursday that the negotiations have not yet begun, and a ministry official said on Friday that Esper did not mention the costs during his meeting with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha, according to Yonhap. The trip comes after North Korea recently carried out a series of missile tests and with de-nuclearisation talks between the United States and North Korea stalled. "At a time when the security environment is so severe, it is very meaningful to discuss the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and the South Korea-US alliance," Jeong said. Noting that South Korea and the United States are working together to denuclearise North Korea, Jeong praised "President Trump's amazing imagination that transcends conventions" for bringing about his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at the inter-Korean border in June. On Tuesday, Esper said the United States would not overreact to the short-range missile launches by North Korea and would keep the door open to talks with Pyongyang. He also added that, despite complaints by North Korea, there was no plan to alter future joint military drills with Seoul. Esper's visit comes as South Korean President Moon Jae-in tapped a seasoned diplomat as the new ambassador to Washington on Friday. South Korea is Esper's last stop on a trip that has also included visits to Australia, Japan, and Mongolia.

US defence secretary visits South Korea as the region faces myriad challenges

US stocks edged lower on Friday after rebounding strongly a day earlier, as investors grappled with fresh trade tensions, political turmoil in Italy and a surprise contraction in Britain's economy.

Shares of chipmakers and other tariff-sensitive technology companies came under pressure after a report that Washington was delaying a decision about allowing some trade between US firms and China's telecom equipment maker Huawei again.

The Philadelphia SE semiconductor index fell 1.16 per cent, while Apple Inc slipped 0.6 per cent.

In Europe, Italy's ruling League party Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for early elections; while Britain's economy shrank for the first time since 2012, raising concerns as the country gears up to leave the European Union in October.

"Political uncertainty in the eurozone is adding an additional variable that the market has to juggle around with. That, coupled with the GDP numbers and the trade war, is giving investors an indigestion," said Andre Bakhos, managing director at New Vines Capital LLC in Bernardsville, New Jersey.

"Until we get some sort of tangible answers to what the (Trump) administration is going to do with China, this is going to be a overhang on the market, creating plenty of sharp swings."

US stocks roared back on Thursday, recording their best one-day percentage gain in two months in what has been a turbulent week for the markets dominated by a symbolic drop in China's currency.

At 9:50 am ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 82.56 points, or 0.31 per cent, at 26,295.63 and the S&amp;P 500 was down 12.15 points, or 0.41 per cent, at 2,925.94. The Nasdaq Composite was down 54.54 points, or 0.68 per cent, at 7,984.62.

Investors seeking safety helped the defensive sectors, including utilities and real estate, outperform the other major S&amp;P sectors this week.

Shares of Uber Technologies Inc shed 9.4% after the ride-hailing company reported a record $5.2 billion loss and revenue that fell short of Wall Street targets.

DXC Technology tumbled 31.4% after the IT and consulting services provider cut its full-year profit and revenue forecast.

Nektar Therapeutics shares plunged 38.2% after the drug developer flagged manufacturing issues with its experimental cancer drug bempeg.

Declining issues outnumbered advancers for a 1.73-to-1 ratio on the NYSE and for a 1.44-to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq.

The S&amp;P index recorded 33 new 52-week highs and three new lows, while the Nasdaq recorded 35 new highs and 39 new lows.

US stocks edged lower on Friday after rebounding strongly a day earlier, as investors grappled with fresh trade tensions, political turmoil in Italy and a surprise contraction in Britain's economy.

US stocks edged lower on Friday after rebounding strongly a day earlier, as investors grappled with fresh trade tensions, political turmoil in Italy and a surprise contraction in Britain's economy. Shares of chipmakers and other tariff-sensitive technology companies came under pressure after a report that Washington was delaying a decision about allowing some trade between US firms and China's telecom equipment maker Huawei again. The Philadelphia SE semiconductor index fell 1.16 per cent, while Apple Inc slipped 0.6 per cent. In Europe, Italy's ruling League party Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for early elections; while Britain's economy shrank for the first time since 2012, raising concerns as the country gears up to leave the European Union in October. "Political uncertainty in the eurozone is adding an additional variable that the market has to juggle around with. That, coupled with the GDP numbers and the trade war, is giving investors an indigestion," said Andre Bakhos, managing director at New Vines Capital LLC in Bernardsville, New Jersey. "Until we get some sort of tangible answers to what the (Trump) administration is going to do with China, this is going to be a overhang on the market, creating plenty of sharp swings." US stocks roared back on Thursday, recording their best one-day percentage gain in two months in what has been a turbulent week for the markets dominated by a symbolic drop in China's currency. At 9:50 am ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 82.56 points, or 0.31 per cent, at 26,295.63 and the S&P 500 was down 12.15 points, or 0.41 per cent, at 2,925.94. The Nasdaq Composite was down 54.54 points, or 0.68 per cent, at 7,984.62. Investors seeking safety helped the defensive sectors, including utilities and real estate, outperform the other major S&P sectors this week. Shares of Uber Technologies Inc shed 9.4% after the ride-hailing company reported a record $5.2 billion loss and revenue that fell short of Wall Street targets. DXC Technology tumbled 31.4% after the IT and consulting services provider cut its full-year profit and revenue forecast. Nektar Therapeutics shares plunged 38.2% after the drug developer flagged manufacturing issues with its experimental cancer drug bempeg. Declining issues outnumbered advancers for a 1.73-to-1 ratio on the NYSE and for a 1.44-to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq. The S&P index recorded 33 new 52-week highs and three new lows, while the Nasdaq recorded 35 new highs and 39 new lows.

Wall Street slips as Huawei report adds to trade concerns

Mexico's prickly pear cactus, which is emblazoned on the country's flag,&nbsp;could soon play a new and innovative role in the production of biodegradable plastics.

A packaging material that is made from the plant has been developed by a Mexican researcher and is offering a promising solution to one of the&nbsp;world's biggest pollution conundrums.

'The pulp is strained to obtain a juice that I then use,' said Sandra Pascoe, who developed the product and works at the Atemajac Valley University in the western city of Guadalajara.

That substance is then mixed with non-toxic additives and stretched to produce sheets that are coloured with pigments and folded to form different types of packaging.

'What we're doing is trying to concentrate on objects that don't have a long life,' she said, particularly "single-use" packaging.

Pascoe is still conducting tests but hopes to patent her product later this year and look for partners in early 2020, with an eye towards larger-scale production.

The cacti&nbsp;Pascoe uses for her experiments come from San Esteban, a small town on the outskirts of Guadalajara, where they grow by the hundreds.

San Esteban is located in Jalisco state where, starting next year, single-use non-recyclable plastic bags, straws and other disposable items will be banned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-journalists-slain-in-mexico-in-a-week-240458">Mexico city</a>&nbsp;and states such as Baja California have also introduced similar measures.

In May, the capital city adopted a "historic" ban on plastic bags beginning in 2020.

From 2021, straws, plastic plates and cutlery, and balloons will also be banned if they're made "entirely or partially from plastic," according to the bill adopted by the local congress.

Pascoe says her new material would be no more than a "drop in the ocean" in the battle to preserve the environment.

Given the rampant production of industrial&nbsp;plastics&nbsp;and the time it takes to make her material, there would need to be "other recycling strategies" to make any concrete difference, she said.

Latin America and the Caribbean account for around 10 per cent of worldwide waste, according to United Nations figures.

In March, UN member states committed to "significantly reduce" single-use plastics over the next decade, although green groups warned that goal fell short of tackling the Earth's pollution crisis.

Plastic pollution has become a global concern, particularly after bans imposed by China and other countries on the import of plastic waste from overseas.

Despite widespread alarm on the environmental cost, Asia and the United States lifted&nbsp;world production of plastic last year while Europe saw a dip, according to numbers released by the PlasticsEurope federation in June.

More than eight million tons of plastics&nbsp;enter the&nbsp;world's oceans every year.

Mexico's prickly pear cactus, which is emblazoned on the country's flag, could soon play a new and innovative role in the production of biodegradable plastics. A packaging material that is made from the plant has been developed by a Mexican researcher and is offering a promising solution to one of the world's biggest pollution conundrums.

Mexico's prickly pear cactus, which is emblazoned on the country's flag, could soon play a new and innovative role in the production of biodegradable plastics. A packaging material that is made from the plant has been developed by a Mexican researcher and is offering a promising solution to one of the world's biggest pollution conundrums. 'The pulp is strained to obtain a juice that I then use,' said Sandra Pascoe, who developed the product and works at the Atemajac Valley University in the western city of Guadalajara. That substance is then mixed with non-toxic additives and stretched to produce sheets that are coloured with pigments and folded to form different types of packaging. 'What we're doing is trying to concentrate on objects that don't have a long life,' she said, particularly "single-use" packaging. Pascoe is still conducting tests but hopes to patent her product later this year and look for partners in early 2020, with an eye towards larger-scale production. The cacti Pascoe uses for her experiments come from San Esteban, a small town on the outskirts of Guadalajara, where they grow by the hundreds. San Esteban is located in Jalisco state where, starting next year, single-use non-recyclable plastic bags, straws and other disposable items will be banned. Mexico city and states such as Baja California have also introduced similar measures. In May, the capital city adopted a "historic" ban on plastic bags beginning in 2020. From 2021, straws, plastic plates and cutlery, and balloons will also be banned if they're made "entirely or partially from plastic," according to the bill adopted by the local congress. Pascoe says her new material would be no more than a "drop in the ocean" in the battle to preserve the environment. Given the rampant production of industrial plastics and the time it takes to make her material, there would need to be "other recycling strategies" to make any concrete difference, she said. Latin America and the Caribbean account for around 10 per cent of worldwide waste, according to United Nations figures. In March, UN member states committed to "significantly reduce" single-use plastics over the next decade, although green groups warned that goal fell short of tackling the Earth's pollution crisis. Plastic pollution has become a global concern, particularly after bans imposed by China and other countries on the import of plastic waste from overseas. Despite widespread alarm on the environmental cost, Asia and the United States lifted world production of plastic last year while Europe saw a dip, according to numbers released by the PlasticsEurope federation in June. More than eight million tons of plastics enter the world's oceans every year.

Could Mexico cactus solve world's plastics problem?

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday.

The 737 MAX, Boeing's best-selling jet, was grounded globally in March following another fatal crash of the jet operated by Ethiopian Airlines. The two crashes together killed 346 people.

A draft of the report by the transport safety agency (KNKT) will be sent next week to Boeing, Lion Air, the US Federal Aviation Administration and other parties to seek feedback, said Polana Pramesti, director general of civil aviation.

"After getting the responses, KNKT will release it in September," Pramesti told Reuters.

The report will include the facts and a chronology of the Lion Air crash, the causes of the incident and give recommendations, said KNKT deputy chairman Haryo Satmiko.

Boeing and the FAA provided data for the report, he said, which is expected to be released at the end of September.

Boeing has been working on an upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since the Lion Air crash when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down.

Boeing said last month it would give $100 million over multiple years to governments and non-profit organizations to help families and communities affected by the crashes of its 737 MAX planes in&nbsp;Indonesia&nbsp;and Ethiopia.

The airline is the target of a US Department of Justice criminal investigation into the development of the 737 MAX, regulatory probes and more than 100 lawsuits by victims' families.

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday.

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday. The 737 MAX, Boeing's best-selling jet, was grounded globally in March following another fatal crash of the jet operated by Ethiopian Airlines. The two crashes together killed 346 people. A draft of the report by the transport safety agency (KNKT) will be sent next week to Boeing, Lion Air, the US Federal Aviation Administration and other parties to seek feedback, said Polana Pramesti, director general of civil aviation. "After getting the responses, KNKT will release it in September," Pramesti told Reuters. The report will include the facts and a chronology of the Lion Air crash, the causes of the incident and give recommendations, said KNKT deputy chairman Haryo Satmiko. Boeing and the FAA provided data for the report, he said, which is expected to be released at the end of September. Boeing has been working on an upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since the Lion Air crash when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down. Boeing said last month it would give $100 million over multiple years to governments and non-profit organizations to help families and communities affected by the crashes of its 737 MAX planes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. The airline is the target of a US Department of Justice criminal investigation into the development of the 737 MAX, regulatory probes and more than 100 lawsuits by victims' families.

Indonesia to publish final report on Lion Air crash next month

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