Asian stocks struggled to rebound on Tuesday as investors came to terms with sharply reduced expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large interest rate cut at the end of July.

Those views were bolstered after solid gains in US jobs for June and pushed down Wall Street for the second straight day.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan ticked up 0.1% in early trade, after falling 0.6% the previous day. Japan's Nikkei rose 0.5% thanks in part to the yen's retreat against the dollar.

On Wall Street, the S&amp;P 500 lost 0.48% while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.78%, led by fall in Apple Inc.

Money market futures are still fully pricing in a 25 basis point cut at the Fed's next policy meeting on July 30-31, but have almost priced out a larger 50 basis point reduction.

"The headline payrolls figures was pretty strong but wages were tepid, so, on the whole, a 25 basis-point cut would be justified as a pre-emptive move and I think the current market pricing is fair," said Naoya Oshikubo, senior economist at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management.

Investors' focus is shifting to Fed Chairman Jerome Powell's testimony before Congress later in the week for clues on monetary policy.

In the currency market, fading expectations of aggressive easing by the Fed helped the dollar.

The euro traded at $1.1215, near Monday's low of $1.1207, its weakest level since June 19.

The dollar changed hands at 108.75 yen, having risen up to 108.81 yen in the previous session, its highest in more than a month.

The British pound stood at 1.2518, not far from six-month lows of $1.2481 touched on Friday.

Oil prices were slightly softer as concerns about whether slowing global economic growth would hit oil demand eclipsed tensions over Iran's nuclear programme.

Brent crude futures fell 23 cents, or 0.36% to settle at $63.88 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures shed 19 cents, or 0.33% to settle at $57.47 a barrel.

Asian stocks struggled to rebound on Tuesday as investors came to terms with sharply reduced expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large interest rate cut at the end of July.

Asian stocks struggled to rebound on Tuesday as investors came to terms with sharply reduced expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver a large interest rate cut at the end of July. Those views were bolstered after solid gains in US jobs for June and pushed down Wall Street for the second straight day. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan ticked up 0.1% in early trade, after falling 0.6% the previous day. Japan's Nikkei rose 0.5% thanks in part to the yen's retreat against the dollar. On Wall Street, the S&P 500 lost 0.48% while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.78%, led by fall in Apple Inc. Money market futures are still fully pricing in a 25 basis point cut at the Fed's next policy meeting on July 30-31, but have almost priced out a larger 50 basis point reduction. "The headline payrolls figures was pretty strong but wages were tepid, so, on the whole, a 25 basis-point cut would be justified as a pre-emptive move and I think the current market pricing is fair," said Naoya Oshikubo, senior economist at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management. Investors' focus is shifting to Fed Chairman Jerome Powell's testimony before Congress later in the week for clues on monetary policy. In the currency market, fading expectations of aggressive easing by the Fed helped the dollar. The euro traded at $1.1215, near Monday's low of $1.1207, its weakest level since June 19. The dollar changed hands at 108.75 yen, having risen up to 108.81 yen in the previous session, its highest in more than a month. The British pound stood at 1.2518, not far from six-month lows of $1.2481 touched on Friday. Oil prices were slightly softer as concerns about whether slowing global economic growth would hit oil demand eclipsed tensions over Iran's nuclear programme. Brent crude futures fell 23 cents, or 0.36% to settle at $63.88 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures shed 19 cents, or 0.33% to settle at $57.47 a barrel.

Asian stocks hobbled by fading expectations for aggressive Fed rate cut

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday hosted a dinner in honour of retired Chiefs of Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) Rajiv Jain and Anil Dhasmana, respectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Shah lauded their contribution in strengthening national security during their illustrious career spanning 40 years.

Jain and Dhasmana thanked the Home Minister for his gesture of hosting a dinner in their honour.

MoS G Kishan Reddy, MoS Nityanand Rai, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and other senior officers were present on the occasion.

On June 26, the government had named chiefs of two top intelligence agencies of the country appointing Samant Kumar Goel as head of foreign intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), and Arvind Kumar as Director of Intelligence Bureau, an internal intelligence agency.

Goel, who was earlier Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, succeeds A K Dhasmana whose tenure ends on June 29.

Goel's appointment, which was approved by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC), is for two years, according to an official statement.

The ACC also approved elevation of Arvind Kumar from Special Director to Director of the Intelligence Bureau. He replaces Rajiv Jain whose tenure will end on June 30.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday hosted a dinner in honour of retired Chiefs of Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) Rajiv Jain and Anil Dhasmana, respectively.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday hosted a dinner in honour of retired Chiefs of Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) Rajiv Jain and Anil Dhasmana, respectively. Speaking on the occasion, Shah lauded their contribution in strengthening national security during their illustrious career spanning 40 years. Jain and Dhasmana thanked the Home Minister for his gesture of hosting a dinner in their honour. MoS G Kishan Reddy, MoS Nityanand Rai, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and other senior officers were present on the occasion. On June 26, the government had named chiefs of two top intelligence agencies of the country appointing Samant Kumar Goel as head of foreign intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), and Arvind Kumar as Director of Intelligence Bureau, an internal intelligence agency. Goel, who was earlier Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, succeeds A K Dhasmana whose tenure ends on June 29. Goel's appointment, which was approved by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC), is for two years, according to an official statement. The ACC also approved elevation of Arvind Kumar from Special Director to Director of the Intelligence Bureau. He replaces Rajiv Jain whose tenure will end on June 30.

Home Minister Amit Shah hosts dinner for retired Chiefs of Intelligence Bureau, RAW

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government on Monday reiterated its "full support" for its ambassador to Washington after U<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-back-at-britains-ambassador-in-us-says-not-served-the-uk-well-233860">S President Donald Trump</a> said he would no longer deal with him.

"Sir Kim Darroch continues to have the prime minister's full support," a spokesman said.

Trump launched an extraordinary attack on outgoing British premier Theresa May, following the leak of diplomatic cables highly critical of his presidency.

London has been scrambling to stem the damage caused by the weekend release of confidential telegrams in which its envoy to Washington, Kim Darroch, described the US leader as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-top-envoy-in-us-says-trump-executive-inept-report-233737">"inept" and his White House as "uniquely dysfunctional."</a>

Visibly angered by May's continuing support for her ambassador -- which Downing Street reiterated on Monday -- Trump assailed the prime minister over her handling of fraught Brexit negotiations, and welcomed her impending departure from office.

"What a mess she and her representatives have created," Trump fumed in a series of tweets. "I told her how it should be done, but she decided to go another way."

"The good news for the wonderful United Kingdom is that they will soon have a new Prime Minister," he wrote.&nbsp;

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....thought of within the U.S. We will no longer deal with him. The good news for the wonderful United Kingdom is that they will soon have a new Prime Minister. While I thoroughly enjoyed the magnificent State Visit last month, it was the Queen who I was most impressed with!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1148298497189392384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As for London's man in Washington, Trump declared he would have no further contact with him.

"I do not know the Ambassador, but he is not liked or well thought of within the US," the president said, doubling down on weekend comments claiming his administration were "not big fans" of Darroch.

"We will no longer deal with him," Trump vowed.

But even after Trump's remarks, a government spokesman said that "Sir Kim Darroch continues to have the prime minister's full support."

The cables' publication in the Mail on Sunday newspaper came just a month after Trump enjoyed a state visit to Britain that included a 41-gun salute welcome at Buckingham Palace and a banquet dinner with the queen.

The incident threatens to complicate London's efforts to strike a new trade agreement with key ally the United States, in hope of mitigating potential damage from Britain's withdrawal from the European Union.

May's office called the leak "unacceptable," but said, "the prime minister has full faith in her ambassador to Washington."

'Very serious consequences'

British officials defended Darroch as carrying out his duties by providing "frank" accounts of developments in Washington.

"We have made clear to the US how unfortunate this leak is. The selective extracts leaked do not reflect the closeness of, and the esteem in which we hold, the relationship," the government spokesperson said.

"At the same time we have also underlined the importance of ambassadors being able to provide honest, unvarnished assessments of the politics in their country."

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the culprit, if identified, would face "very serious consequences."

His US affairs deputy Alan Duncan told parliament police could launch their own investigation "if evidence of criminality is found."

The Daily Telegraph newspaper said such memos are seen by up to 100 people working in the Foreign Office and other government departments.

"But it would require a single official or minister to have access to the whole cache, inevitably casting the spotlight on senior ministers," it wrote.

The immediate suspicion of the London papers fell on Brexit-backing players in a power struggle within the governing Conservative Party.

Coveted job

British politics are in for a major revamp once May ends her three-year spell in power later this month.

Brexit-supporting former foreign minister Boris Johnson is the favourite to replace her in a leadership contest against Hunt.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-envoy-to-us-calls-trump-incompetent-233758/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The winner will get to appoint his own US envoy by the time Darroch's term expires in January.

Commentators note that the official widely tipped for the Washington job was less enthusiastic about Brexit than Johnson or some members of his team.

"There have been reports that Mark Sedwill, the current cabinet secretary, is being lined up for the position," The Guardian's diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour wrote.

But Trump "may be suspicious of Sedwill, and would prefer a true Brexiter".

Wintour wrote that Sedwill "may not fill that bill, but Nigel Farage -- who pretty openly campaigned for the job before Darroch's appointment in 2016 -- does."

Farage has met Trump on several occasions and has brandished his anti-EU credentials by leading his Brexit Party to victory in European elections in May.

Farage on Monday called Darroch's memos "pretty irresponsible" even as he played down his interest in the job.

"I'm not a diplomat, and I think that's quite an understatement," he told BBC radio.

But Farage added that he "could be very useful" in forging a better relationship "with an administration that contains friends of mine."

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government on Monday reiterated its "full support" for its ambassador to Washington after US President Donald Trump said he would no longer deal with him.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government on Monday reiterated its "full support" for its ambassador to Washington after US President Donald Trump said he would no longer deal with him. "Sir Kim Darroch continues to have the prime minister's full support," a spokesman said. Trump launched an extraordinary attack on outgoing British premier Theresa May, following the leak of diplomatic cables highly critical of his presidency. London has been scrambling to stem the damage caused by the weekend release of confidential telegrams in which its envoy to Washington, Kim Darroch, described the US leader as "inept" and his White House as "uniquely dysfunctional." Visibly angered by May's continuing support for her ambassador -- which Downing Street reiterated on Monday -- Trump assailed the prime minister over her handling of fraught Brexit negotiations, and welcomed her impending departure from office. "What a mess she and her representatives have created," Trump fumed in a series of tweets. "I told her how it should be done, but she decided to go another way." "The good news for the wonderful United Kingdom is that they will soon have a new Prime Minister," he wrote. ....thought of within the U.S. We will no longer deal with him. The good news for the wonderful United Kingdom is that they will soon have a new Prime Minister. While I thoroughly enjoyed the magnificent State Visit last month, it was the Queen who I was most impressed with! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 8, 2019 × As for London's man in Washington, Trump declared he would have no further contact with him. "I do not know the Ambassador, but he is not liked or well thought of within the US," the president said, doubling down on weekend comments claiming his administration were "not big fans" of Darroch. "We will no longer deal with him," Trump vowed. But even after Trump's remarks, a government spokesman said that "Sir Kim Darroch continues to have the prime minister's full support." The cables' publication in the Mail on Sunday newspaper came just a month after Trump enjoyed a state visit to Britain that included a 41-gun salute welcome at Buckingham Palace and a banquet dinner with the queen. The incident threatens to complicate London's efforts to strike a new trade agreement with key ally the United States, in hope of mitigating potential damage from Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. May's office called the leak "unacceptable," but said, "the prime minister has full faith in her ambassador to Washington." 'Very serious consequences' British officials defended Darroch as carrying out his duties by providing "frank" accounts of developments in Washington. "We have made clear to the US how unfortunate this leak is. The selective extracts leaked do not reflect the closeness of, and the esteem in which we hold, the relationship," the government spokesperson said. "At the same time we have also underlined the importance of ambassadors being able to provide honest, unvarnished assessments of the politics in their country." Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the culprit, if identified, would face "very serious consequences." His US affairs deputy Alan Duncan told parliament police could launch their own investigation "if evidence of criminality is found." The Daily Telegraph newspaper said such memos are seen by up to 100 people working in the Foreign Office and other government departments. "But it would require a single official or minister to have access to the whole cache, inevitably casting the spotlight on senior ministers," it wrote. The immediate suspicion of the London papers fell on Brexit-backing players in a power struggle within the governing Conservative Party. Coveted job British politics are in for a major revamp once May ends her three-year spell in power later this month. Brexit-supporting former foreign minister Boris Johnson is the favourite to replace her in a leadership contest against Hunt. The winner will get to appoint his own US envoy by the time Darroch's term expires in January. Commentators note that the official widely tipped for the Washington job was less enthusiastic about Brexit than Johnson or some members of his team. "There have been reports that Mark Sedwill, the current cabinet secretary, is being lined up for the position," The Guardian's diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour wrote. But Trump "may be suspicious of Sedwill, and would prefer a true Brexiter". Wintour wrote that Sedwill "may not fill that bill, but Nigel Farage -- who pretty openly campaigned for the job before Darroch's appointment in 2016 -- does." Farage has met Trump on several occasions and has brandished his anti-EU credentials by leading his Brexit Party to victory in European elections in May. Farage on Monday called Darroch's memos "pretty irresponsible" even as he played down his interest in the job. "I'm not a diplomat, and I think that's quite an understatement," he told BBC radio. But Farage added that he "could be very useful" in forging a better relationship "with an administration that contains friends of mine."

UK offers 'full support' to US ambassador, Trump lashes out at Theresa May after leak of damning cables

Dozens of influential Afghans concluded two days of talks with the Taliban on Monday in Doha, laying the foundations for renewed negotiations between the United States and the militants.

The encounter ended with a joint statement pledging a "roadmap for peace" based on the opening of a monitored peace process, return of internally displaced people, and non-interference by regional powers in Afghanistan.

"Assuring women rights in political, social, economic, educational, cultural affairs as per (and) within the Islamic framework of Islamic values," also featured in the joint text.

"It's not an agreement, it's a foundation to start the discussion," delegate Mary Akrami, executive director of the Afghan Women's Network, told AFP.

"The good part was that both sides agreed."

The Taliban's Amir Khan Mutaqi, a former minister during the militant group's 1996-2001 rule of Afghanistan, read a Pashto version of the roughly 700-word statement.&nbsp;

Habiba Sarabi, deputy chair of the Afghan High Peace Council established by former president Hamid Karzai to engage elements of the Taliban, read the Dari equivalent.&nbsp;

Around 70 delegates attended the gathering at a luxury hotel in Doha and the large meeting room erupted into applause after the joint statement had been read out shortly before 2100 GMT.

"The differences is almost so narrow... we are quite frankly surprised how serious both sides are and they are so committed to putting an end to this conflict," said Qatar's counter-terrorism special envoy Mutlaq al-Qahtani.

The so-called intra-Afghan meetings follow six days of direct US-Taliban talks that were put on hold for the two-day Afghan conference.

The flurry of talks will continue with the resumption of direct US-Taliban contact also in Doha on Tuesday as both sides eye a resolution to the bloody 18-year conflict.

Washington has said it wants to seal a political deal with the Taliban ahead of Afghan presidential polls due in September to allow foreign forces to begin to withdraw.

'Most productive'

US lead negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has said that the latest round of US-Taliban talks "have been the most productive of the rounds we've had with the Talibs".

"We want a stable Afghanistan," he told reporters on the sidelines of the dialogue on Monday.

"Afghans meeting with the Taliban was a big success."

The Taliban said they were "happy with progress".

The United States did not participate directly in the two-day Afghan summit, which was attended by political heavyweights, government officials and at least six women.

The Taliban have steadfastly refused to negotiate with the government of President Ashraf Ghani, members of which only took part in a "personal capacity".

Ghani's administration, which the Taliban consider a puppet regime, has also been excluded from the direct US-Taliban talks.

Sunday and Monday's gathering was the third such meeting following landmark summits in Moscow in February and May.

An agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two main pillars -- a US withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the militants not to offer sanctuary to jihadists.&nbsp;

The Taliban's relationship with Al-Qaeda was the main reason for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago.

But the thorny issues of power-sharing with the Taliban, the role of regional powers including Pakistan and India, and the fate of Ghani's administration remain unresolved.

The Taliban, believing they have the upper hand in the war, have kept up attacks even while talking to the United States and agreeing to the Afghan dialogue.

A Taliban car bomb in eastern Afghanistan killed at least 12 people and wounded scores more on Sunday, officials said.

Despite the violence, both the Taliban and the US have been positive about their engagement.

Dozens of influential Afghans concluded two days of talks with the Taliban on Monday in Doha, laying the foundations for renewed negotiations between the United States and the militants.

Dozens of influential Afghans concluded two days of talks with the Taliban on Monday in Doha, laying the foundations for renewed negotiations between the United States and the militants. The encounter ended with a joint statement pledging a "roadmap for peace" based on the opening of a monitored peace process, return of internally displaced people, and non-interference by regional powers in Afghanistan. "Assuring women rights in political, social, economic, educational, cultural affairs as per (and) within the Islamic framework of Islamic values," also featured in the joint text. "It's not an agreement, it's a foundation to start the discussion," delegate Mary Akrami, executive director of the Afghan Women's Network, told AFP. "The good part was that both sides agreed." The Taliban's Amir Khan Mutaqi, a former minister during the militant group's 1996-2001 rule of Afghanistan, read a Pashto version of the roughly 700-word statement. Habiba Sarabi, deputy chair of the Afghan High Peace Council established by former president Hamid Karzai to engage elements of the Taliban, read the Dari equivalent. Around 70 delegates attended the gathering at a luxury hotel in Doha and the large meeting room erupted into applause after the joint statement had been read out shortly before 2100 GMT. "The differences is almost so narrow... we are quite frankly surprised how serious both sides are and they are so committed to putting an end to this conflict," said Qatar's counter-terrorism special envoy Mutlaq al-Qahtani. The so-called intra-Afghan meetings follow six days of direct US-Taliban talks that were put on hold for the two-day Afghan conference. The flurry of talks will continue with the resumption of direct US-Taliban contact also in Doha on Tuesday as both sides eye a resolution to the bloody 18-year conflict. Washington has said it wants to seal a political deal with the Taliban ahead of Afghan presidential polls due in September to allow foreign forces to begin to withdraw. 'Most productive' US lead negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has said that the latest round of US-Taliban talks "have been the most productive of the rounds we've had with the Talibs". "We want a stable Afghanistan," he told reporters on the sidelines of the dialogue on Monday. "Afghans meeting with the Taliban was a big success." The Taliban said they were "happy with progress". The United States did not participate directly in the two-day Afghan summit, which was attended by political heavyweights, government officials and at least six women. The Taliban have steadfastly refused to negotiate with the government of President Ashraf Ghani, members of which only took part in a "personal capacity". Ghani's administration, which the Taliban consider a puppet regime, has also been excluded from the direct US-Taliban talks. Sunday and Monday's gathering was the third such meeting following landmark summits in Moscow in February and May. An agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two main pillars -- a US withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the militants not to offer sanctuary to jihadists. The Taliban's relationship with Al-Qaeda was the main reason for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago. But the thorny issues of power-sharing with the Taliban, the role of regional powers including Pakistan and India, and the fate of Ghani's administration remain unresolved. The Taliban, believing they have the upper hand in the war, have kept up attacks even while talking to the United States and agreeing to the Afghan dialogue. A Taliban car bomb in eastern Afghanistan killed at least 12 people and wounded scores more on Sunday, officials said. Despite the violence, both the Taliban and the US have been positive about their engagement.

Afghan rivals conclude talks with Taliban on 'roadmap for peace'

Pakistan's "heaviest man" died in hospital on Monday after he suffered a heart attack while he was left unattended by nursing staff who fled to deal with a disturbance in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Lahore, his surgeon said.

Noor Hasan, weighing over 330 kilograms, had undergone successful liposuction surgery last month and was being kept in the ICU for further observation.

The nursing staff reportedly left Hasan unattended for nearly an hour on Monday after the family of another patient became violent after hearing the news that their loved one had died. The family members blamed the death of the female patient on doctors' negligence.

Hospital staff claimed that relatives of the patient had broken windows, switched off ventilators and hit medical staff.

Treating surgeon Dr Maazul Hassan said upon the return of medical staff to the ICU, Hasan had already suffered a heart attack and all attempts to resuscitate him were futile.

Hasan's wife, Malooka Bibi, blamed her husband's death on the relatives who caused the disruption.

A hospital spokesperson said that they were investigating the incident and examining CCTV footage.

Last month, the army helped rescue Hasan from his home and transferred him to hospital after a plea for help on social media by the father of seven yielded no responses.

Pakistan's "heaviest man" died in hospital on Monday after he suffered a heart attack while he was left unattended by nursing staff who fled to deal with a disturbance in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Lahore, his surgeon said.

Pakistan's "heaviest man" died in hospital on Monday after he suffered a heart attack while he was left unattended by nursing staff who fled to deal with a disturbance in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in Lahore, his surgeon said. Noor Hasan, weighing over 330 kilograms, had undergone successful liposuction surgery last month and was being kept in the ICU for further observation. The nursing staff reportedly left Hasan unattended for nearly an hour on Monday after the family of another patient became violent after hearing the news that their loved one had died. The family members blamed the death of the female patient on doctors' negligence. Hospital staff claimed that relatives of the patient had broken windows, switched off ventilators and hit medical staff. Treating surgeon Dr Maazul Hassan said upon the return of medical staff to the ICU, Hasan had already suffered a heart attack and all attempts to resuscitate him were futile. Hasan's wife, Malooka Bibi, blamed her husband's death on the relatives who caused the disruption. A hospital spokesperson said that they were investigating the incident and examining CCTV footage. Last month, the army helped rescue Hasan from his home and transferred him to hospital after a plea for help on social media by the father of seven yielded no responses.

Pakistan's 'heaviest man' dies after commotion in hospital

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-jab-at-united-states-china-vice-president-wang-qishan-says-world-cannot-shut-china-out-233914">despite Chinese criticism of the deal</a>.

China's Foreign Ministry said last month when the possible sale was first reported that it was seriously concerned about US arms sales to self-ruled Taiwan, and it urged the United States to halt the sales to avoid harming bilateral ties.

The sale of the weapons requested by Taiwan, including 108 General Dynamics Corp Abrams tanks and 250 Stinger missiles, would not alter the basic military balance in the region, the Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

DSCA notified Congress on Monday of the possible arms sale, which it said could also include mounted machine guns, ammunition, Hercules armoured vehicles for recovering inoperative tanks, heavy equipment transporters and related support.

Reuters reported last month that an informal notification of the proposed sale had been sent to the US Congress.

The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a renegade province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

G20 Summit Day 2: US-China Bilateral

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in March that Washington was responding positively to Taipei's requests for new arms sales to bolster its defences in the face of pressure from China. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry confirmed it had requested those weapons and that the request was proceeding normally.

The US commitment to providing Taiwan with the weapons to defend itself helps Taipei's military raise its combat abilities, consolidates the Taiwan-US security partnership and ensures Taiwan's security, the ministry said last month in a statement.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal.

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal. China's Foreign Ministry said last month when the possible sale was first reported that it was seriously concerned about US arms sales to self-ruled Taiwan, and it urged the United States to halt the sales to avoid harming bilateral ties. The sale of the weapons requested by Taiwan, including 108 General Dynamics Corp Abrams tanks and 250 Stinger missiles, would not alter the basic military balance in the region, the Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. DSCA notified Congress on Monday of the possible arms sale, which it said could also include mounted machine guns, ammunition, Hercules armoured vehicles for recovering inoperative tanks, heavy equipment transporters and related support. Reuters reported last month that an informal notification of the proposed sale had been sent to the US Congress. The United States is the main arms supplier to Taiwan, which China deems a renegade province. Beijing has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. G20 Summit Day 2: US-China Bilateral Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in March that Washington was responding positively to Taipei's requests for new arms sales to bolster its defences in the face of pressure from China. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide it with the means to defend itself. Taiwan's Defence Ministry confirmed it had requested those weapons and that the request was proceeding normally. The US commitment to providing Taiwan with the weapons to defend itself helps Taipei's military raise its combat abilities, consolidates the Taiwan-US security partnership and ensures Taiwan's security, the ministry said last month in a statement.

US approves possible $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan amid tension with China

Terrorists shot at a civilian in the Chandhara area in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-terrorists-attack-police-station-in-pulwama-civilians-injured-228416">Awantipora</a> here on Monday evening.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-based-terrorists-joining-hands-with-afghan-outfits-after-balakot-strike-sources-233866">Terrorists</a> fired on a civilian identified as Mohammad Rafiq Rather, son of Ghulam Mohammad resident of Chandhara.

He received gunshot injuries in this incident and was evacuated to the hospital for medical treatment.

Police have registered a case.

Officers from the local police unit arrived at the spot and are investigating the circumstances of this terror crime. 
&nbsp;

Terrorists shot at a civilian in the Chandhara area in Awantipora here on Monday evening. Terrorists fired on a civilian identified as Mohammad Rafiq Rather, son of Ghulam Mohammad resident of Chandhara.

Terrorists shot at a civilian in the Chandhara area in Awantipora here on Monday evening. Terrorists fired on a civilian identified as Mohammad Rafiq Rather, son of Ghulam Mohammad resident of Chandhara. He received gunshot injuries in this incident and was evacuated to the hospital for medical treatment. Police have registered a case. Officers from the local police unit arrived at the spot and are investigating the circumstances of this terror crime.

Civilian shot at by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-expected-in-delhi-ncr-in-the-next-24-hours-india-meteorological-department-233890">heavy rainfall</a> from July 9 to July 13.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-in-mumbai-leads-to-water-logging-slow-traffic-233946">Heavy to very heavy rainfall</a> likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal &amp; Dehradun Districts on July 9 and July 10, 2019," read a statement from the IMD.

IMD also issued a warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar districts for July 11 to 13.

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive heavy rainfall from July 9 to July 13.

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive heavy rainfall from July 9 to July 13. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal & Dehradun Districts on July 9 and July 10, 2019," read a statement from the IMD. IMD also issued a warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar districts for July 11 to 13.

India Meteorological Department predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-kumaraswamy-has-lost-confidence-of-house-should-resign-says-bs-yeddyurappa-234106">political situation in Karnataka</a>.

Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka. As a result, the House was adjourned till 2 pm.

The over 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) coalition in Karnataka is on the verge of collapse after a wave of resignations by over 10 disgruntled MLAs who are in Mumbai at an undisclosed location.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the current bout of crisis. All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs.

Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday accused the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JDS coalition government in Karnataka.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in reply, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the political situation in Karnataka. Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the political situation in Karnataka. Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka. As a result, the House was adjourned till 2 pm. The over 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) coalition in Karnataka is on the verge of collapse after a wave of resignations by over 10 disgruntled MLAs who are in Mumbai at an undisclosed location. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113. The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the current bout of crisis. All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs. Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday accused the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JDS coalition government in Karnataka. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in reply, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2pm after Opposition uproar over Karnataka crisis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-norway-mediation-will-resume-talks-with-maduro-government-in-barbados-guaido-233875">Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro</a> said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados.

The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/news-brief-big-stories-of-the-day-233881">Juan Guaido</a> declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

The opposition leader is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Venezuela's socialist leader, who is backed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-is-behind-georgias-anti-russia-protests-233898">Russia</a>, China, and Cuba.

Delegations from both sides arrived in Barbados Monday morning to revive discussions after a previous round in Norway petered out.

"I am very optimistic... Today they had a five-hour session, and I think that step by step, with strategic patience, we can find a path to peace," Maduro said in a broadcast on the state television channel VTV.

Without giving details, he said that a six-point agenda was being discussed with "the whole country in mind."

"If you work with goodwill and there is no American interventionism, I am sure that we will reach an agreement," said Maduro, who blames the United States for fanning the crisis.

The Barbados talks will be the third round since the Oslo talks in May, although Guaido had originally said last Tuesday there were no plans to re-open talks with Maduro's "murderous dictatorship" following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot.

The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo had sparked international condemnation.

Guido said Sunday he wants the talks to lead them towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013 to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers".

Ravaged by crises

Some members of the opposition oppose the Barbados talks, fearing they may reinvigorate Maduro, but Enrique Marquez, vice president of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rule-of-law-in-venezuela-eroded-un-rights-chief-233251">Venezuela</a>'s opposition-controlled National Assembly, said they are the best option.

"A violent solution... could generate a loss of governance even for a new government," he told AFP.

Along with the negotiations in Barbados, Guaido had a closed-door meeting on Monday in the capital Caracas with Enrique Iglesias, the European Union's special advisor for Venezuela.

Afterwards, Iglesias met with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez.

"Iglesias has confirmed his commitment to the dialogue process," Rodriguez said on Twitter.

Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities, and the economic woes have been exacerbated by the political crisis.

Delegations representing the Venezuelan rivals met face-to-face in Oslo for the first time in late May, in a process begun two weeks earlier under Norwegian auspices to find a solution to the nation's multiple crises.

Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue will continue with the opposition "for peace in Venezuela."

Guido has called Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham.

Meanwhile, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo stressed in a TV interview that military intervention is not the solution to the Venezuelan crisis, and offered his country's assistance in reaching a negotiated solution.

Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados. The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados. The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. The opposition leader is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Venezuela's socialist leader, who is backed by Russia, China, and Cuba. Delegations from both sides arrived in Barbados Monday morning to revive discussions after a previous round in Norway petered out. "I am very optimistic... Today they had a five-hour session, and I think that step by step, with strategic patience, we can find a path to peace," Maduro said in a broadcast on the state television channel VTV. Without giving details, he said that a six-point agenda was being discussed with "the whole country in mind." "If you work with goodwill and there is no American interventionism, I am sure that we will reach an agreement," said Maduro, who blames the United States for fanning the crisis. The Barbados talks will be the third round since the Oslo talks in May, although Guaido had originally said last Tuesday there were no plans to re-open talks with Maduro's "murderous dictatorship" following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot. The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo had sparked international condemnation. Guido said Sunday he wants the talks to lead them towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013 to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers". Ravaged by crises Some members of the opposition oppose the Barbados talks, fearing they may reinvigorate Maduro, but Enrique Marquez, vice president of Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly, said they are the best option. "A violent solution... could generate a loss of governance even for a new government," he told AFP. Along with the negotiations in Barbados, Guaido had a closed-door meeting on Monday in the capital Caracas with Enrique Iglesias, the European Union's special advisor for Venezuela. Afterwards, Iglesias met with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. "Iglesias has confirmed his commitment to the dialogue process," Rodriguez said on Twitter. Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities, and the economic woes have been exacerbated by the political crisis. Delegations representing the Venezuelan rivals met face-to-face in Oslo for the first time in late May, in a process begun two weeks earlier under Norwegian auspices to find a solution to the nation's multiple crises. Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue will continue with the opposition "for peace in Venezuela." Guido has called Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham. Meanwhile, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo stressed in a TV interview that military intervention is not the solution to the Venezuelan crisis, and offered his country's assistance in reaching a negotiated solution.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro 'optimistic' after opposition talks resume in Barbados

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypts-former-president-mohamed-mursi-dies-report-228094">Egypt</a> has asked international police agency Interpol to track down a 3,000-year-old Tutankhamun artifact that was sold in London for $6 million despite fierce opposition from Cairo, government officials said.

Christie's auction house sold the 28.5-centimetre&nbsp;relic for $5,970,000 to an unknown buyer in early July at one of its most controversial auctions in years.

But less than a week after the sale, Egypt's National Committee for Antiquities Repatriation (NCAR) said after an urgent meeting that national prosecutors had asked Interpol "to issue a circular to trace" such artifacts over alleged missing paperwork.

"The committee expresses its deep discontent of the unprofessional behavior of the sale of Egyptian antiquities without providing the ownership documents and the evidence that proves its legal export from Egypt," the NCAR said in a statement.

The committee headed by Minister of Antiquities Khaled El-Enany and attended by his predecessor Zahi Hawass as well as officials from various ministries also called upon Britain to "prohibit the export of the sold artifacts" until the Egyptian authorities were shown the documents.

It suggested the issue could have an impact on cultural relations, by referencing "the ongoing cooperation between both countries in the field of archaeology, especially that there are 18 British archaeological missions are working in Egypt".

The NCAR added it had hired a British law firm to file a "civil lawsuit" although no further details were given.&nbsp;

'Stolen from Karnak'&nbsp;

The London sale of the head of "Boy King" Tutankhamun angered Egyptian officials at the time and sparked a protest outside Christie's by about a dozen people who held up signs reading "stop trading in smuggled antiquities".

Hawass told AFP that the piece appeared to have been "stolen" in the 1970s from the Karnak Temple complex just north of Luxor and the Egyptian foreign ministry asked the UK Foreign Office and the UN cultural body UNESCO to step in and halt the sale.

But such interventions are rare and made only when there is clear evidence of the item's legitimate acquisition by the seller being in dispute.

Christie's argued that Egypt had never before expressed the same level of concern about an item whose existence has been "well known and exhibited publicly" for many years.

"The object is not, and has not been, the subject of an investigation," Christie's said in a statement to AFP.

The auction house has published a chronology of how the relic changed hands between European art dealers over the past 50 years and told AFP that it would "not sell any work where there isn't the clear title of ownership".

Egypt has asked international police agency Interpol to track down a 3,000-year-old Tutankhamun artifact that was sold in London for $6 million despite fierce opposition from Cairo, government officials said.

Egypt has asked international police agency Interpol to track down a 3,000-year-old Tutankhamun artifact that was sold in London for $6 million despite fierce opposition from Cairo, government officials said. Christie's auction house sold the 28.5-centimetre relic for $5,970,000 to an unknown buyer in early July at one of its most controversial auctions in years. But less than a week after the sale, Egypt's National Committee for Antiquities Repatriation (NCAR) said after an urgent meeting that national prosecutors had asked Interpol "to issue a circular to trace" such artifacts over alleged missing paperwork. "The committee expresses its deep discontent of the unprofessional behavior of the sale of Egyptian antiquities without providing the ownership documents and the evidence that proves its legal export from Egypt," the NCAR said in a statement. The committee headed by Minister of Antiquities Khaled El-Enany and attended by his predecessor Zahi Hawass as well as officials from various ministries also called upon Britain to "prohibit the export of the sold artifacts" until the Egyptian authorities were shown the documents. It suggested the issue could have an impact on cultural relations, by referencing "the ongoing cooperation between both countries in the field of archaeology, especially that there are 18 British archaeological missions are working in Egypt". The NCAR added it had hired a British law firm to file a "civil lawsuit" although no further details were given. 'Stolen from Karnak' The London sale of the head of "Boy King" Tutankhamun angered Egyptian officials at the time and sparked a protest outside Christie's by about a dozen people who held up signs reading "stop trading in smuggled antiquities". Hawass told AFP that the piece appeared to have been "stolen" in the 1970s from the Karnak Temple complex just north of Luxor and the Egyptian foreign ministry asked the UK Foreign Office and the UN cultural body UNESCO to step in and halt the sale. But such interventions are rare and made only when there is clear evidence of the item's legitimate acquisition by the seller being in dispute. Christie's argued that Egypt had never before expressed the same level of concern about an item whose existence has been "well known and exhibited publicly" for many years. "The object is not, and has not been, the subject of an investigation," Christie's said in a statement to AFP. The auction house has published a chronology of how the relic changed hands between European art dealers over the past 50 years and told AFP that it would "not sell any work where there isn't the clear title of ownership".

Egypt asks Interpol to trace Tutankhamun mask over ownership docs

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-tear-gas-gay-pride-paraders-in-istanbul-231958">Istanbul pride parade</a>, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said.

The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-across-europe-for-gay-pride-233705">LGBT+ Pride Week</a>.

Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said.

There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers.

There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas.

Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued.

"It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement.

Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month.

Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003.&nbsp;

The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region.

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row. Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said. The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul LGBT+ Pride Week. Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said. There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers. There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas. Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued. "It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement. Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month. Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Police tear gas gay pride paraders in Istanbul

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