<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-hits-42000-for-first-time-nifty-at-a-record-high-274544">Indian markets </a>have climbed to&nbsp;a record high with the announcement of phase one trade deal between the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-iran-conflict-a-high-stakes-bet-on-who-blinks-first-274636"> US</a> and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-isnt-like-youve-got-china-on-your-border-when-trump-shocked-modi-with-his-remark-274653"> China</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-elements-of-the-us-china-trade-deal-a-pact-to-pause-the-economic-conflict-274516">Also read:&nbsp;Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict</a>

Although it's just the first step, this deal between the world's two largest economies can benefit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/family-of-british-explorer-return-old-buddha-statue-to-sri-lankan-temple-274652">Asia</a>'s third-largest economy India in several areas.

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Firstly, if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-inside-chinas-trafficking-problem-266666">China</a> starts exporting goods to the US which is its biggest market, then there will probably be a reduction&nbsp;in the dumping of unsold goods to&nbsp;India.

The global trade wars have increased the apprehensions of the global economies which are getting into recession and&nbsp;demand slowing.

So, this deal will indirectly help India by keeping the demand intact in many other markets.

But the trade deal will have a negatives side as well.&nbsp;

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The renewed demand in these economies will yield a price hike in oil prices which will, in turn, will impact India as it imports over 80 per cent of its crude oil.

With the pre-trade war levels due to this deal, India will also miss the opportunity to be the manufacturing hub of the world, as some companies had earlier shown interest in shifting their manufacturing base to India from China, owing to high US tariffs.

Indian markets have climbed to a record high with the announcement of phase one trade deal between the US and China. Also read: Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict Although it's just the first step, this deal between the world's two largest economies can benefit Asia's third-largest economy India in several areas.

Indian markets have climbed to a record high with the announcement of phase one trade deal between the US and China. Also read: Key elements of the US-China trade deal: A pact to pause the economic conflict Although it's just the first step, this deal between the world's two largest economies can benefit Asia's third-largest economy India in several areas. × Firstly, if China starts exporting goods to the US which is its biggest market, then there will probably be a reduction in the dumping of unsold goods to India. The global trade wars have increased the apprehensions of the global economies which are getting into recession and demand slowing. So, this deal will indirectly help India by keeping the demand intact in many other markets. But the trade deal will have a negatives side as well. × The renewed demand in these economies will yield a price hike in oil prices which will, in turn, will impact India as it imports over 80 per cent of its crude oil. With the pre-trade war levels due to this deal, India will also miss the opportunity to be the manufacturing hub of the world, as some companies had earlier shown interest in shifting their manufacturing base to India from China, owing to high US tariffs.

US-China trade deal: Hits and misses for India

Dozens of fighters and civilians were killed in Syria's Idlib province as the government pressed a deadly offensive Thursday towards a key town in the country's last rebel bastion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/250000-migrants-fleeing-from-syrias-idlib-towards-turkey-tayyip-erdogan-271660">Also Read:&nbsp;250,000 migrants fleeing from Syria's Idlib towards Turkey, says Erdogan</a>

The latest violence, which followed airstrikes that killed 19 civilians on Wednesday, buried a ceasefire deal announced by Russia and rebel backer Turkey that never really took hold.

"Clashes broke out around midnight on Wednesday south of the city of Maaret al-Numan, together with heavy bombardment despite the Russian-Turkish truce," Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said.

According to the Britain-based war monitor, the fighting raged in areas south of Maaret al-Numan, the key target of the Syrian government's latest military offensive.

At least 26 anti-government fighters were killed, most of them members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group that includes fighters from the former Al-Qaeda affiliate in Syria.

The Observatory said 29 government troops and allied militia were also killed in the fighting.

The Syrian state news agency SANA later reported that at least four civilians were killed by rocket fire on the city of Aleppo.

Jihadist and rebel groups are present west of northern city, on which hey routinely launch rocket attacks.

Abdel Rahman said that government forces were now just seven kilometres (less than five miles) from Maaret al-Numan, a town that was one of the bastions of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad's rule.

Nearly nine years into the conflict, protests against the government are still held in some of the province's towns.

In the city of Idlib itself, 19 civilians were killed and several others wounded in Russian and Syrian air strikes on Wednesday, the Observatory said.

AFP reporters saw scenes of chaos after the strikes, that blew several buildings in an industrial zone to smithereens.

The bombardment engulfed several vehicles, leaving torched corpses of motorists trapped inside.

- 'Nowhere to go' - 
Mustafa, who runs a repair shop in the area, was lucky to escape with his life. He had just left the store to pick up some spare parts.

He told AFP he returned to find the shop destroyed and his four employees trapped under rubble. It was not immediately clear if they had survived.&nbsp;

"This is not the neighbourhood I left two minutes ago!" Mustafa said, tears rolling down his face.&nbsp;

The ceasefire announced by the Russian army on Sunday joins a long list of short-lived or still-born initiatives to curb the violence in Syria.

"We live here without knowing if there is really a truce or if it's just in the media. On the ground, there is no truce. People are afraid, the markets are empty," Sari Bitar, a 32-year-old engineer living in Idlib city told AFP on Thursday.

"Just like everybody else, I can't stay in an area on which the regime, Russian forces and Iranian militia will advance," he said.

"The only problem is that there is nowhere to go," Bitar said. "Syria is now limited to this geographical area, which is getting smaller day by day."

Assad has repeatedly pledged to continue the reconquest that Russia's 2015 military intervention kickstarted until all Syrian territory has been reclaimed.

Idlib province is a dead end for people displaced from other formerly rebel-held parts of the country that government forces have retaken.

It has come under mounting bombardment in recent weeks, displacing tens of thousands of people in the northwestern province, which is home to some three million.

The United Nations' humanitarian coordination agency OCHA said that since December 1 alone, almost 350,000 people had fled their homes, mainly heading northwards from southern Idlib, which has borne the brunt of the air strikes.

"An additional 650,000 people, the majority of them women and children, could be forced to flee their homes if the violence continues," the International Rescue Committee warned in a statement.

The European Union expressed deep concern over the collapse of the fledgling ceasefire in Idlib and also warned that further violence could trigger an unprecedented wave of refugees and displaced.

The winter conditions in Idlib, with sub-zero temperatures interspersed by heavy rain, are putting thousands of lives at risk.

A UN resolution on cross-border aid to Syria maintained two key entry points for UN humanitarian aid into Idlib, where the number of people in extreme need keeps growing. 
&nbsp;

Dozens of fighters and civilians were killed in Syria's Idlib province as the government pressed a deadly offensive Thursday towards a key town in the country's last rebel bastion.

Dozens of fighters and civilians were killed in Syria's Idlib province as the government pressed a deadly offensive Thursday towards a key town in the country's last rebel bastion. Also Read: 250,000 migrants fleeing from Syria's Idlib towards Turkey, says Erdogan The latest violence, which followed airstrikes that killed 19 civilians on Wednesday, buried a ceasefire deal announced by Russia and rebel backer Turkey that never really took hold. "Clashes broke out around midnight on Wednesday south of the city of Maaret al-Numan, together with heavy bombardment despite the Russian-Turkish truce," Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said. According to the Britain-based war monitor, the fighting raged in areas south of Maaret al-Numan, the key target of the Syrian government's latest military offensive. At least 26 anti-government fighters were killed, most of them members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group that includes fighters from the former Al-Qaeda affiliate in Syria. The Observatory said 29 government troops and allied militia were also killed in the fighting. The Syrian state news agency SANA later reported that at least four civilians were killed by rocket fire on the city of Aleppo. Jihadist and rebel groups are present west of northern city, on which hey routinely launch rocket attacks. Abdel Rahman said that government forces were now just seven kilometres (less than five miles) from Maaret al-Numan, a town that was one of the bastions of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad's rule. Nearly nine years into the conflict, protests against the government are still held in some of the province's towns. In the city of Idlib itself, 19 civilians were killed and several others wounded in Russian and Syrian air strikes on Wednesday, the Observatory said. AFP reporters saw scenes of chaos after the strikes, that blew several buildings in an industrial zone to smithereens. The bombardment engulfed several vehicles, leaving torched corpses of motorists trapped inside. - 'Nowhere to go' - Mustafa, who runs a repair shop in the area, was lucky to escape with his life. He had just left the store to pick up some spare parts. He told AFP he returned to find the shop destroyed and his four employees trapped under rubble. It was not immediately clear if they had survived. "This is not the neighbourhood I left two minutes ago!" Mustafa said, tears rolling down his face. The ceasefire announced by the Russian army on Sunday joins a long list of short-lived or still-born initiatives to curb the violence in Syria. "We live here without knowing if there is really a truce or if it's just in the media. On the ground, there is no truce. People are afraid, the markets are empty," Sari Bitar, a 32-year-old engineer living in Idlib city told AFP on Thursday. "Just like everybody else, I can't stay in an area on which the regime, Russian forces and Iranian militia will advance," he said. "The only problem is that there is nowhere to go," Bitar said. "Syria is now limited to this geographical area, which is getting smaller day by day." Assad has repeatedly pledged to continue the reconquest that Russia's 2015 military intervention kickstarted until all Syrian territory has been reclaimed. Idlib province is a dead end for people displaced from other formerly rebel-held parts of the country that government forces have retaken. It has come under mounting bombardment in recent weeks, displacing tens of thousands of people in the northwestern province, which is home to some three million. The United Nations' humanitarian coordination agency OCHA said that since December 1 alone, almost 350,000 people had fled their homes, mainly heading northwards from southern Idlib, which has borne the brunt of the air strikes. "An additional 650,000 people, the majority of them women and children, could be forced to flee their homes if the violence continues," the International Rescue Committee warned in a statement. The European Union expressed deep concern over the collapse of the fledgling ceasefire in Idlib and also warned that further violence could trigger an unprecedented wave of refugees and displaced. The winter conditions in Idlib, with sub-zero temperatures interspersed by heavy rain, are putting thousands of lives at risk. A UN resolution on cross-border aid to Syria maintained two key entry points for UN humanitarian aid into Idlib, where the number of people in extreme need keeps growing.

Several civilians killed as Syrian government presses Idlib offensive

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ready-to-teach-a-lesson-to-haftar-if-libyan-forces-continue-attacks-274241">Also Read:&nbsp;Turkey ready to 'teach a lesson' to Haftar if Libyan forces continue attacks</a>

Libya's UN-recognised government in Tripoli has been under attack since April from Haftar's forces, with clashes killing more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displacing tens of thousands.

The leaders of the North African state's warring factions were in Moscow early this week at talks aimed at finalising a ceasefire orchestrated by Russia and Turkey.

"During my visit to Libya today, General Haftar made clear: He wants to contribute to the success of the Libyan conference in Berlin and is in principle ready to participate in it. He has agreed to abide by the ongoing ceasefire," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted after talks in Benghazi.

After the Moscow talks, Haftar had walked away without signing the permanent truce, sparking fears about the shaky ceasefire.

Maas had travelled to meet Haftar in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi -- one of the general's strongholds -- in a bid to persuade him to join in the peace initiative.

The trip came days after Maas spoke with Haftar's rival Fayez al-Sarraj, who serves as head of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.

Separately in Tripoli, Sarraj announced he would attend the Berlin talks held under the auspices of the United Nations.

The battle over Tripoli is the latest unrest to wrack Libya since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Since then, Libya has been caught up in fighting between rival armed factions, including Islamist militants.

In his report to the UN Security Council late on Wednesday, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged all warring parties to stop fighting and "engage constructively towards that end, including within the Berlin process".

He also warned against "external interference", which he said would "deepen the ongoing conflict and further complicate efforts to reach a clear international commitment to a peaceful resolution of the underlying crisis".

The Berlin conference will aim to agree six points including a permanent ceasefire, implementation of the arms embargo and a return to the political process for peace, Guterres said.

As well as killing hundreds of people, the fighting in Libya has also spurred a growing exodus of migrants, though nearly 1,000 intercepted at sea have been forced to return this year, according to the UN.

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said.

Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has agreed to abide by a ceasefire and said he was ready to participate in an international conference in Berlin on Sunday, Germany's foreign minister said. Also Read: Turkey ready to 'teach a lesson' to Haftar if Libyan forces continue attacks Libya's UN-recognised government in Tripoli has been under attack since April from Haftar's forces, with clashes killing more than 280 civilians and 2,000 fighters and displacing tens of thousands. The leaders of the North African state's warring factions were in Moscow early this week at talks aimed at finalising a ceasefire orchestrated by Russia and Turkey. "During my visit to Libya today, General Haftar made clear: He wants to contribute to the success of the Libyan conference in Berlin and is in principle ready to participate in it. He has agreed to abide by the ongoing ceasefire," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted after talks in Benghazi. After the Moscow talks, Haftar had walked away without signing the permanent truce, sparking fears about the shaky ceasefire. Maas had travelled to meet Haftar in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi -- one of the general's strongholds -- in a bid to persuade him to join in the peace initiative. The trip came days after Maas spoke with Haftar's rival Fayez al-Sarraj, who serves as head of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli. Separately in Tripoli, Sarraj announced he would attend the Berlin talks held under the auspices of the United Nations. The battle over Tripoli is the latest unrest to wrack Libya since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Since then, Libya has been caught up in fighting between rival armed factions, including Islamist militants. In his report to the UN Security Council late on Wednesday, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged all warring parties to stop fighting and "engage constructively towards that end, including within the Berlin process". He also warned against "external interference", which he said would "deepen the ongoing conflict and further complicate efforts to reach a clear international commitment to a peaceful resolution of the underlying crisis". The Berlin conference will aim to agree six points including a permanent ceasefire, implementation of the arms embargo and a return to the political process for peace, Guterres said. As well as killing hundreds of people, the fighting in Libya has also spurred a growing exodus of migrants, though nearly 1,000 intercepted at sea have been forced to return this year, according to the UN.

General Haftar ready to abide by ongoing ceasefire in Libya: Germany

Iran President Rouhani said today that the country's daily enrichment was higher than before the 2015 nuclear deal.

"Today, we are under no restrictions in the area of nuclear energy," he said during a speech in Tehran, adding, "Our daily enrichment (of uranium) is higher than it was before... the agreement."

The President in a televised address to the nation said that Iran is "trying daily to prevent military confrontation or war".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-are-our-masters-and-we-are-its-servants-says-rouhani-amid-protests-in-tehran-274463">Also Read:&nbsp;People are our masters and we are its servants, says Rouhani amid protests in Tehran</a>

Rouhani went a step further in the speech and said dialogue was "possible" with the United States despite the events of the past two weeks and escalated tensions between the United States and Iran.

Watch Video:

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The Iranian government has been under fire by its people after it announced last week that its forces had shot down the Boeing 737 airliner in which 176 people were killed on board.

Meanwhile, Canada &nbsp;Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and Britain have called for&nbsp;"full cooperation from Iranian authorities" as the controversy over the downing of the airliner continued to trail the Iranian government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path'</a>

"Canada will not accept a situation where we feel that we're not being given the information that we're looking for," &nbsp;Canadian Transport Minister Marc Garneau said, adding,"Make no mistake about it, Canada is going to get to the very bottom of this."

PM Justin Trudeau had said earlier that the government intends to ask the Iranian government for compensation for the families of Canadian victims.

"Our first priority at this time is supporting the families and friends of the 57 Canadians who lost their lives in this tragedy," Garneau said.

"While we cannot bring back their loved ones, we can make sure that they receive compensation to help them navigate this difficult time."

Iran President Rouhani said today that the country's daily enrichment was higher than before the 2015 nuclear deal. "Today, we are under no restrictions in the area of nuclear energy," he said during a speech in Tehran, adding, "Our daily enrichment (of uranium) is higher than it was before.

Iran President Rouhani said today that the country's daily enrichment was higher than before the 2015 nuclear deal. "Today, we are under no restrictions in the area of nuclear energy," he said during a speech in Tehran, adding, "Our daily enrichment (of uranium) is higher than it was before... the agreement." The President in a televised address to the nation said that Iran is "trying daily to prevent military confrontation or war". Also Read: People are our masters and we are its servants, says Rouhani amid protests in Tehran Rouhani went a step further in the speech and said dialogue was "possible" with the United States despite the events of the past two weeks and escalated tensions between the United States and Iran. Watch Video: The Iranian government has been under fire by its people after it announced last week that its forces had shot down the Boeing 737 airliner in which 176 people were killed on board. Meanwhile, Canada Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and Britain have called for "full cooperation from Iranian authorities" as the controversy over the downing of the airliner continued to trail the Iranian government. Also Read: Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path' "Canada will not accept a situation where we feel that we're not being given the information that we're looking for," Canadian Transport Minister Marc Garneau said, adding,"Make no mistake about it, Canada is going to get to the very bottom of this." PM Justin Trudeau had said earlier that the government intends to ask the Iranian government for compensation for the families of Canadian victims. "Our first priority at this time is supporting the families and friends of the 57 Canadians who lost their lives in this tragedy," Garneau said. "While we cannot bring back their loved ones, we can make sure that they receive compensation to help them navigate this difficult time."

Iran's daily uranium enrichment higher than before 2015 nuclear agreement: President Rouhani

Japan has confirmed a case of a mystery virus that first emerged in China and is from the same family as the deadly SARS pathogen, authorities said Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-confirmed-in-chinese-traveller-who-arrived-in-thailand-who-274059">Coronavirus confirmed in Chinese traveller who arrived in Thailand: WHO</a>

It appears to be only the second time the novel coronavirus has been detected outside China, after the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed a case in Thailand.

Japan's health ministry said a man who had visited the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the apparent epicentre of the outbreak, was hospitalised on January 10, four days after his return to Japan. He reported a persistent fever.

Tests on the patient, who was released from hospital on Wednesday, confirmed he was infected with the new virus.

"This is the first domestic discovery of a pneumonia case related to the new coronavirus," the ministry said in a statement.

"We will continue active epidemiological research while also coordinating efforts with the World Health Organization and related agencies to conduct a risk assessment."

The outbreak has caused alarm because the new virus is from the same family as the pathogen that causes SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), which killed 349 people in mainland China and 299 in Hong Kong in 2002 and 2003.

Authorities in Wuhan said a seafood market was the centre of the outbreak. It was closed on January 1.

Japanese authorities said the man had not visited the market and that it was possible he had been in contact with a person infected with the virus while in Wuhan.

Health ministry official Eiji Hinoshita told reporters that the risk of the disease spreading from the patient was considered low, with careful checks done on those who had been in close contact with him.

"At this point, we feel it is unlikely this will lead to a dramatic outbreak," he said, adding that the patient was no longer suffering a fever and was recuperating at home.

Officials declined to give further information on the man, including his nationality, citing privacy concerns.

The health ministry urged people who develop a cough or fever after visiting Wuhan to wear a surgical mask and "swiftly visit a medical institution".

Hinoshita said Japan would need to raise its guard ahead of the Lunar New Year, a popular travel period in China.

"It is expected that Japan will see many visitors from China," he said.

It is not yet clear whether the mystery virus can be transmitted between humans, but on Wednesday authorities said it was possible it had spread inside a family.

The woman diagnosed in Thailand, who is in a stable condition, also said she had not visited the Wuhan seafood market.

And WHO doctor Maria Van Kerkhove on Tuesday said she "wouldn't be surprised if there was some limited human-to-human transmission, especially among families who have close contact with one another".

The outbreak has killed one person so far, with 41 patients reported in Wuhan.

Hong Kong authorities on Tuesday said several dozen people had been hospitalised with fever or respiratory symptoms after travelling to Wuhan, but no cases of the new virus have so far been confirmed.

Japan has confirmed a case of a mystery virus that first emerged in China and is from the same family as the deadly SARS pathogen, authorities said Thursday. Coronavirus confirmed in Chinese traveller who arrived in Thailand: WHO It appears to be only the second time the novel coronavirus has been detected outside China, after the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed a case in Thailand.

Japan has confirmed a case of a mystery virus that first emerged in China and is from the same family as the deadly SARS pathogen, authorities said Thursday. Coronavirus confirmed in Chinese traveller who arrived in Thailand: WHO It appears to be only the second time the novel coronavirus has been detected outside China, after the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed a case in Thailand. Japan's health ministry said a man who had visited the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the apparent epicentre of the outbreak, was hospitalised on January 10, four days after his return to Japan. He reported a persistent fever. Tests on the patient, who was released from hospital on Wednesday, confirmed he was infected with the new virus. "This is the first domestic discovery of a pneumonia case related to the new coronavirus," the ministry said in a statement. "We will continue active epidemiological research while also coordinating efforts with the World Health Organization and related agencies to conduct a risk assessment." The outbreak has caused alarm because the new virus is from the same family as the pathogen that causes SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), which killed 349 people in mainland China and 299 in Hong Kong in 2002 and 2003. Authorities in Wuhan said a seafood market was the centre of the outbreak. It was closed on January 1. Japanese authorities said the man had not visited the market and that it was possible he had been in contact with a person infected with the virus while in Wuhan. Health ministry official Eiji Hinoshita told reporters that the risk of the disease spreading from the patient was considered low, with careful checks done on those who had been in close contact with him. "At this point, we feel it is unlikely this will lead to a dramatic outbreak," he said, adding that the patient was no longer suffering a fever and was recuperating at home. Officials declined to give further information on the man, including his nationality, citing privacy concerns. The health ministry urged people who develop a cough or fever after visiting Wuhan to wear a surgical mask and "swiftly visit a medical institution". Hinoshita said Japan would need to raise its guard ahead of the Lunar New Year, a popular travel period in China. "It is expected that Japan will see many visitors from China," he said. It is not yet clear whether the mystery virus can be transmitted between humans, but on Wednesday authorities said it was possible it had spread inside a family. The woman diagnosed in Thailand, who is in a stable condition, also said she had not visited the Wuhan seafood market. And WHO doctor Maria Van Kerkhove on Tuesday said she "wouldn't be surprised if there was some limited human-to-human transmission, especially among families who have close contact with one another". The outbreak has killed one person so far, with 41 patients reported in Wuhan. Hong Kong authorities on Tuesday said several dozen people had been hospitalised with fever or respiratory symptoms after travelling to Wuhan, but no cases of the new virus have so far been confirmed.

Japan reports first case of mystery virus behind China outbreak

Wall Street stocks jumped early Thursday, adding to records following the signing of a US-China trade accord and solid US retail sales data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-elements-of-the-us-china-trade-deal-a-pact-to-pause-the-economic-conflict-274516">Also Read:&nbsp;Key elements of the US-China trade deal</a>

Analysts generally view the US-China deal as removing the near-term risk of an escalation between the two economic powers, even though there is skepticism it will resolve issues between the countries.

The Senate later Thursday is expected to approve a new trade accord between the United States, Mexico and Canada, another benign trade development that has boosted sentiment.

Retail sales for December rose 0.3 per cent as US consumers continued to spend freely through the key holiday shopping season.

About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average stood at 29,178.52, up 0.5 per cent.

The broad-based S&amp;P 500 also gained 0.5 per cent, rising to 3,305.00, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index won 0.7 per cent, moving up to 9,326.33.

The Dow and S&amp;P 500 both closed at records on Wednesday.

Among individual companies, Morgan Stanley gained 5.7 per cent as fourth-quarter earnings easily topped expectations, making it the latest large financial group to report good results.

Among other companies reporting results, PPG Industries lost 3.7 per cent and Alcoa 7.9 per cent.

Wall Street stocks jumped early Thursday, adding to records following the signing of a US-China trade accord and solid US retail sales data. Also Read: Key elements of the US-China trade deal Analysts generally view the US-China deal as removing the near-term risk of an escalation between the two economic powers, even though there is skepticism it will resolve issues between the countries.

Wall Street stocks jumped early Thursday, adding to records following the signing of a US-China trade accord and solid US retail sales data. Also Read: Key elements of the US-China trade deal Analysts generally view the US-China deal as removing the near-term risk of an escalation between the two economic powers, even though there is skepticism it will resolve issues between the countries. The Senate later Thursday is expected to approve a new trade accord between the United States, Mexico and Canada, another benign trade development that has boosted sentiment. Retail sales for December rose 0.3 per cent as US consumers continued to spend freely through the key holiday shopping season. About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average stood at 29,178.52, up 0.5 per cent. The broad-based S&P 500 also gained 0.5 per cent, rising to 3,305.00, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index won 0.7 per cent, moving up to 9,326.33. The Dow and S&P 500 both closed at records on Wednesday. Among individual companies, Morgan Stanley gained 5.7 per cent as fourth-quarter earnings easily topped expectations, making it the latest large financial group to report good results. Among other companies reporting results, PPG Industries lost 3.7 per cent and Alcoa 7.9 per cent.

Wall Street stocks surge after US-China trade accord

Ethiopia made progress with Egypt and Sudan in US-brokered talks in easing concerns over a hotly contested mega-dam on the Nile, with a tentative agreement to fill it only during the rainy season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-ethiopia-sudan-views-come-closer-on-giant-nile-dam-sudanese-minister-269627">Also Read: Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan views closer on Nile dam, says Sudanese minister</a>

The three countries had set a deadline of Wednesday to reach an accord over the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia, which Egypt fears could deplete its scarce drinking water.

After three days of talks in Washington, the countries' foreign ministers "noted the progress achieved," a joint statement said.

But they stopped short of announcing a resolution, saying the three countries would meet again in the US capital on January 28-29 to finalize an agreement.

Analysts have feared that the three Nile basin countries could be drawn into a conflict if the dispute is not resolved before the colossal 1.8-kilometer-long dam, under construction since 2011, begins operating.

In a draft deal, Ethiopia agreed that it will fill the dam -- set to be Africa's largest hydroelectric project -- only in the wet season from July to August, or also in September if conditions are right.

Ethiopia will aim rapidly to reach the level of 595 meters (1,952 feet) above sea level, with later filling to be determined based on the conditions of the river.

The filling "will be executed in stages and will be undertaken in an adaptive and cooperative manner that takes into consideration the hydrological conditions of the Blue Nile and the potential impact of the filling on downstream reservoirs," said the statement released by the United States.

The three foreign ministers "reaffirmed the importance of transboundary cooperation in the development of the Blue Nile to improve the lives of the people of Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan, and their shared commitment to concluding an agreement," it said.

The draft deal also calls for special mitigation measures for Egypt and Sudan on years that they are especially dry.

In early negotiations, Ethiopia had said it would fill the dam's reservoir in three years while Egypt wanted the process drawn out over 15 years.

Ethiopia says the $4.2 billion hydroelectric barrage would double its electricity and be indispensable for a growing economy. It is expected to begin generating power by the end of 2020 and be fully operational by 2022.

But Egypt fears disruption in the river that provides 90 per cent of its drinking water.

Discussions between the three countries broke down, prompting Egypt to call for international mediation.

The US Treasury Department agreed to broker talks after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made a pitch to President Donald Trump, his close ally.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who won the Nobel Peace Prize for his democratic reforms, promised Sunday to take into consideration the other Nile nations' concerns.

"Ethiopia always believes in a win-win approach with Egypt and Sudan," Abiy said on a visit to South Africa, adding that peace was essential to "realize our vision of development and growth."

Abiy also invited South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, the incoming chairperson of the African Union, to help push forward negotiations on the dam.

The International Crisis Group, in a report last year, urged the three nations not to see the dam dispute as an "existential conflict" but as a way to improve resource-sharing.

"Waiting until the dam is operational -- when its impact on downstream countries is clearer -- would raise the risk of violent conflict," it warned.

Ethiopia made progress with Egypt and Sudan in US-brokered talks in easing concerns over a hotly contested mega-dam on the Nile, with a tentative agreement to fill it only during the rainy season.

Ethiopia made progress with Egypt and Sudan in US-brokered talks in easing concerns over a hotly contested mega-dam on the Nile, with a tentative agreement to fill it only during the rainy season. Also Read: Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan views closer on Nile dam, says Sudanese minister The three countries had set a deadline of Wednesday to reach an accord over the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia, which Egypt fears could deplete its scarce drinking water. After three days of talks in Washington, the countries' foreign ministers "noted the progress achieved," a joint statement said. But they stopped short of announcing a resolution, saying the three countries would meet again in the US capital on January 28-29 to finalize an agreement. Analysts have feared that the three Nile basin countries could be drawn into a conflict if the dispute is not resolved before the colossal 1.8-kilometer-long dam, under construction since 2011, begins operating. In a draft deal, Ethiopia agreed that it will fill the dam -- set to be Africa's largest hydroelectric project -- only in the wet season from July to August, or also in September if conditions are right. Ethiopia will aim rapidly to reach the level of 595 meters (1,952 feet) above sea level, with later filling to be determined based on the conditions of the river. The filling "will be executed in stages and will be undertaken in an adaptive and cooperative manner that takes into consideration the hydrological conditions of the Blue Nile and the potential impact of the filling on downstream reservoirs," said the statement released by the United States. The three foreign ministers "reaffirmed the importance of transboundary cooperation in the development of the Blue Nile to improve the lives of the people of Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan, and their shared commitment to concluding an agreement," it said. The draft deal also calls for special mitigation measures for Egypt and Sudan on years that they are especially dry. In early negotiations, Ethiopia had said it would fill the dam's reservoir in three years while Egypt wanted the process drawn out over 15 years. Ethiopia says the $4.2 billion hydroelectric barrage would double its electricity and be indispensable for a growing economy. It is expected to begin generating power by the end of 2020 and be fully operational by 2022. But Egypt fears disruption in the river that provides 90 per cent of its drinking water. Discussions between the three countries broke down, prompting Egypt to call for international mediation. The US Treasury Department agreed to broker talks after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made a pitch to President Donald Trump, his close ally. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who won the Nobel Peace Prize for his democratic reforms, promised Sunday to take into consideration the other Nile nations' concerns. "Ethiopia always believes in a win-win approach with Egypt and Sudan," Abiy said on a visit to South Africa, adding that peace was essential to "realize our vision of development and growth." Abiy also invited South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, the incoming chairperson of the African Union, to help push forward negotiations on the dam. The International Crisis Group, in a report last year, urged the three nations not to see the dam dispute as an "existential conflict" but as a way to improve resource-sharing. "Waiting until the dam is operational -- when its impact on downstream countries is clearer -- would raise the risk of violent conflict," it warned.

Ethiopia, Egypt, Sudan  delay deadline in Nile dam row

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adam-schiff-to-lead-prosecution-in-us-senate-on-trump-impeachment-trial-pelosi-274484">Also Read: Adam Schiff to lead prosecution in US Senate on Trump impeachment trial</a>

Trump has strongly denied allegations he ordered a campaign pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate the business dealings of former vice president Biden and his son, part of the impeachment inquiry that will formally read out charges facing the president in the Senate Thursday.

Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, told MSNBC on Wednesday that "President Trump knew exactly what was going on."

"He was aware of all my movements. I wouldn't do anything without the consent of Rudy Giuliani or the president."

On Tuesday Democrats released newly acquired files that showed Giuliani working with Parnas early last year to pressure Kiev to investigate Biden.

They also showed the two, working with Ukrainian officials, trying to force out the US ambassador to the country, Marie Yovanovitch, who was eventually removed by Trump.

Parnas, a Soviet-born American, was arrested on charges of campaign finance violations in October as he attempted to flee the country, and was ordered to turn over key documents to House investigators.

Representative Adam Schiff, who had led the investigation and who will now lead the prosecution against Trump, said previously that Parnas "reportedly worked with Giuliani to pressure Ukraine for dirt on Trump's opponents."

The president has denied all wrongdoing, and sought to distance himself from Parnas when he was arrested in October -- along with his business partner.

"I don't know those gentlemen... I don't know what they do," Trump said last year. "Maybe you will have to ask Rudy."

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media.

US President Donald Trump "knew exactly what was going on" with an alleged campaign to pressure Ukrainian officials to investigate political rival Joe Biden, an indicted member his inner circle told US media. Also Read: Adam Schiff to lead prosecution in US Senate on Trump impeachment trial Trump has strongly denied allegations he ordered a campaign pressuring Ukrainian officials to investigate the business dealings of former vice president Biden and his son, part of the impeachment inquiry that will formally read out charges facing the president in the Senate Thursday. Lev Parnas, an associate of Trump's personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, told MSNBC on Wednesday that "President Trump knew exactly what was going on." "He was aware of all my movements. I wouldn't do anything without the consent of Rudy Giuliani or the president." On Tuesday Democrats released newly acquired files that showed Giuliani working with Parnas early last year to pressure Kiev to investigate Biden. They also showed the two, working with Ukrainian officials, trying to force out the US ambassador to the country, Marie Yovanovitch, who was eventually removed by Trump. Parnas, a Soviet-born American, was arrested on charges of campaign finance violations in October as he attempted to flee the country, and was ordered to turn over key documents to House investigators. Representative Adam Schiff, who had led the investigation and who will now lead the prosecution against Trump, said previously that Parnas "reportedly worked with Giuliani to pressure Ukraine for dirt on Trump's opponents." The president has denied all wrongdoing, and sought to distance himself from Parnas when he was arrested in October -- along with his business partner. "I don't know those gentlemen... I don't know what they do," Trump said last year. "Maybe you will have to ask Rudy."

President Trump knew exactly what was going on: Giuliani associate on Ukraine row

Pakistan's foreign minister on Thursday said the Taliban has shown "a willingness" to reduce violence in war-torn Afghanistan after more than 18 years fighting the US, sparking speculation that a potential breakthrough in talks with the Americans may be near.

Also see-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-china-trade-deal-biggest-winners-losers-in-phase-1-274683">US-China trade deal: Biggest winners &amp; losers in phase 1</a>

Negotiations between the Taliban and the US have repeatedly stalled, with Washington calling on the insurgent group to reduce violence before they can resume.

"Today, positive progress has been made, the Taliban have shown their willingness to reduce the violence, which was a demand... it's a step towards the peace agreement," said Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in a video statement.

He gave no further details.&nbsp;

Zabihullah Mujahid, the official Taliban spokesman, told AFP the Taliban was looking into the comments.&nbsp;

The Taliban and the US were on the brink of announcing a withdrawal deal in September last year when President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence.

Talks were later restarted between the two sides in December in Qatar but were paused following an attack near the Bagram military base in Afghanistan.

Islamabad has helped facilitate the talks between the militants and Washington in Qatar over the past year, seeking an agreement that would pave the way for a US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in return for various security promises from the insurgents.

Pakistan was one of only three countries to recognise the Taliban regime, and its shadowy military establishment particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is widely believed to back the bloody insurgency in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Islamabad denies the accusation.

Any agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two main pillars&nbsp;an American withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the insurgents not to offer sanctuary to jihadists.

The Taliban's relationship with Al-Qaeda was the main reason cited for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago.

The Taliban have until now refused to negotiate with the Afghan government, which they consider an illegitimate regime, raising fears that fighting will continue regardless of any deal ironed out with the Americans.

Pakistan's foreign minister on Thursday said the Taliban has shown "a willingness" to reduce violence in war-torn Afghanistan after more than 18 years fighting the US, sparking speculation that a potential breakthrough in talks with the Americans may be near.

Pakistan's foreign minister on Thursday said the Taliban has shown "a willingness" to reduce violence in war-torn Afghanistan after more than 18 years fighting the US, sparking speculation that a potential breakthrough in talks with the Americans may be near. Also see- US-China trade deal: Biggest winners & losers in phase 1 Negotiations between the Taliban and the US have repeatedly stalled, with Washington calling on the insurgent group to reduce violence before they can resume. "Today, positive progress has been made, the Taliban have shown their willingness to reduce the violence, which was a demand... it's a step towards the peace agreement," said Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in a video statement. He gave no further details. Zabihullah Mujahid, the official Taliban spokesman, told AFP the Taliban was looking into the comments. The Taliban and the US were on the brink of announcing a withdrawal deal in September last year when President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence. Talks were later restarted between the two sides in December in Qatar but were paused following an attack near the Bagram military base in Afghanistan. Islamabad has helped facilitate the talks between the militants and Washington in Qatar over the past year, seeking an agreement that would pave the way for a US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in return for various security promises from the insurgents. Pakistan was one of only three countries to recognise the Taliban regime, and its shadowy military establishment particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is widely believed to back the bloody insurgency in Afghanistan. Islamabad denies the accusation. Any agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two main pillars an American withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the insurgents not to offer sanctuary to jihadists. The Taliban's relationship with Al-Qaeda was the main reason cited for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago. The Taliban have until now refused to negotiate with the Afghan government, which they consider an illegitimate regime, raising fears that fighting will continue regardless of any deal ironed out with the Americans.

Taliban showing willingness to reduce Afghan violence: Pak

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../jk-issue-attempt-made-by-pakistan-through- china-to-misuse-unsc-platform-says-india-274661">Pakistan</a>&nbsp;says&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;will&nbsp;help&nbsp;the country in its&nbsp;fight&nbsp;against&nbsp;polio&nbsp;after authorities blamed anti-vaccine content posted last year on the social network site for a leap in the number of cases.

Pakistan&nbsp;is one of only three countries where&nbsp;polio&nbsp;has not been eradicated, but a years-long effort began to show fruit with a major drop in cases from 2016.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-efforts-to-raise-kashmir-at-un-security-council-crumbled-once-again-274575">Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again</a>

By 2018 just 12 cases had been recorded, but to the dismay of Pakistani authorities and the World Health Organization, that number soared to 136 last year.&nbsp;

Pakistani officials quickly tied the surge to a slew of fake news reports and videos claiming many children had been killed by the vaccine that garnered thousands of views and shares on social media.&nbsp;

They called on&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;do more to remove harmful anti-vaccine content from the site, saying it was jeopardising eradication initiatives and putting the lives of&nbsp;polio&nbsp;workers at risk.&nbsp;

Health authorities later said&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;had removed dozens such videos.

This week a delegation from the company visited Islamabad and reaffirmed their commitment to the campaign, a Pakistani government statement said.&nbsp;

"We stand behind the national and global efforts to create a&nbsp;polio-free world and will continue to support these efforts," Rafael Frankel, a&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;regional director, was quoted as saying in a statement released by&nbsp;Pakistan's ministry of health.

Dr Zafar Mirza, a Special Assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan on health, highlighted the importance of communicating correct health information online and stressed "the need to counter harmful content on social media".

Facebook&nbsp;did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.

Vaccination campaigns have faced stubborn resistance for years in&nbsp;Pakistan, with many refusing to have their children inoculated because of misinformation and conspiracy theories.

Islamist opposition to all forms of inoculation grew after the CIA organised a fake vaccination drive to&nbsp;help&nbsp;track down Al Qaeda's former leader Osama Bin Laden in the Pakistani city of Abbottabad.

As&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;tries to reach its goal of eliminating&nbsp;polio, the growing global movement&nbsp;against&nbsp;vaccinations -- fuelled by social media -- has presented a new challenge.

Afghanistan and Nigeria are the two other countries where the disease has not been entirely eradicated, although the latter is expected to be declared&nbsp;polio-free later this year.

Pakistan says Facebook will help the country in its fight against polio after authorities blamed anti-vaccine content posted last year on the social network site for a leap in the number of cases.

Pakistan says Facebook will help the country in its fight against polio after authorities blamed anti-vaccine content posted last year on the social network site for a leap in the number of cases. Pakistan is one of only three countries where polio has not been eradicated, but a years-long effort began to show fruit with a major drop in cases from 2016. Also read- Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again By 2018 just 12 cases had been recorded, but to the dismay of Pakistani authorities and the World Health Organization, that number soared to 136 last year. Pakistani officials quickly tied the surge to a slew of fake news reports and videos claiming many children had been killed by the vaccine that garnered thousands of views and shares on social media. They called on Facebook do more to remove harmful anti-vaccine content from the site, saying it was jeopardising eradication initiatives and putting the lives of polio workers at risk. Health authorities later said Facebook had removed dozens such videos. This week a delegation from the company visited Islamabad and reaffirmed their commitment to the campaign, a Pakistani government statement said. "We stand behind the national and global efforts to create a polio-free world and will continue to support these efforts," Rafael Frankel, a Facebook regional director, was quoted as saying in a statement released by Pakistan's ministry of health. Dr Zafar Mirza, a Special Assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan on health, highlighted the importance of communicating correct health information online and stressed "the need to counter harmful content on social media". Facebook did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. Vaccination campaigns have faced stubborn resistance for years in Pakistan, with many refusing to have their children inoculated because of misinformation and conspiracy theories. Islamist opposition to all forms of inoculation grew after the CIA organised a fake vaccination drive to help track down Al Qaeda's former leader Osama Bin Laden in the Pakistani city of Abbottabad. As Pakistan tries to reach its goal of eliminating polio, the growing global movement against vaccinations -- fuelled by social media -- has presented a new challenge. Afghanistan and Nigeria are the two other countries where the disease has not been entirely eradicated, although the latter is expected to be declared polio-free later this year.

Facebook to help in fight against polio: Pakistan

Search teams found the bodies of 14 people buried by&nbsp;avalanches&nbsp;and heavy snowfall in Pakistani-administered Kashmir Wednesday, with harsh weather hampering rescuers as they race to find any survivors, officials said.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;death&nbsp;toll&nbsp;from days of bad weather now stands at 76 in Kashmir, and at&nbsp;least&nbsp;100&nbsp;across the country, according to a statement from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

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Most were killed in Kashmir's picturesque Neelum Valley, which had been hard hit by&nbsp;avalanches&nbsp;earlier in the week, said operations director of the Kashmiri disaster management authority Saeed ur Rehamn Qureshi.&nbsp;

He said "scores" of houses had been damaged, and put the&nbsp;death&nbsp;toll&nbsp;slightly higher than the national authorities, at 77 dead with 94 wounded.&nbsp;

One Neelum Valley resident, Lal Hussain Minhas, said he had pulled his cousin's wife from under the&nbsp;snow&nbsp;and debris when her house was hit by an avalanche.

Now, he told AFP by telephone, he and other locals are trying to reach two of her children trapped beneath a collapsed roof.

Some 24 people were killed in heavy snowfall in other parts of the country, the NDMA said.

Forecasts suggest more harsh weather is on the way.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday visited some of the injured in a hospital in Muzaffarabad, the capital of&nbsp;Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Authorities have shuttered schools, while several highways and roads were closed across the country's northern mountainous areas, according to officials.

Search teams found the bodies of 14 people buried by avalanches and heavy snowfall in Pakistani-administered Kashmir Wednesday, with harsh weather hampering rescuers as they race to find any survivors, officials said.

Search teams found the bodies of 14 people buried by avalanches and heavy snowfall in Pakistani-administered Kashmir Wednesday, with harsh weather hampering rescuers as they race to find any survivors, officials said. The death toll from days of bad weather now stands at 76 in Kashmir, and at least 100 across the country, according to a statement from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). × Most were killed in Kashmir's picturesque Neelum Valley, which had been hard hit by avalanches earlier in the week, said operations director of the Kashmiri disaster management authority Saeed ur Rehamn Qureshi. He said "scores" of houses had been damaged, and put the death toll slightly higher than the national authorities, at 77 dead with 94 wounded. One Neelum Valley resident, Lal Hussain Minhas, said he had pulled his cousin's wife from under the snow and debris when her house was hit by an avalanche. Now, he told AFP by telephone, he and other locals are trying to reach two of her children trapped beneath a collapsed roof. Some 24 people were killed in heavy snowfall in other parts of the country, the NDMA said. Forecasts suggest more harsh weather is on the way. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday visited some of the injured in a hospital in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Authorities have shuttered schools, while several highways and roads were closed across the country's northern mountainous areas, according to officials.

Death toll rises to at least 100 after Pakistan snow, avalanches

The US government on Wednesday indicted five men for allegedly running an international racket smuggling US origin goods to&nbsp;Pakistan's nuclear program.

The five men identified as - Haji Wali Muhammad Sheikh, Ashraf Khan Muhammad, Ahmed Waheed, Muhammad Ahsan Wali and &nbsp;Muhammad Kamran Wali - were charged by the US government for violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the Export Control Reform Act.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-surface-to-surface-ballistic-missile-shaheen-1-262916">Also Read: Pakistan launches surface-to-surface Ballistic missile Shaheen-1</a>

The men were accused of transporting the goods to Pakistan's Advanced Engineering Research Organization(AERO) and the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission(PAEC) without licenses through a front company based in Rawalpindi in Pakistan.

Jason Molina, a special agent with the Department of Homeland Security, said: "The alleged behaviour of these five individuals presented more than a violation of US export laws, it posed a potential threat to the national security interests of the United States and to the delicate balance of power among nations within the region."

The men who haven't been arrested were found guilty by a US jury last year with arrest warrants pending against them. The men are believed to be living in England, Canada, Hong Kong and Pakistan.

“The defendants smuggled US-origin goods to entities that have been designated for years as threats to US national security for their ties to Pakistan’s weapons programs,” John Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, said in a statement, adding, “This indictment puts the world on notice not to do business with these defendants and demonstrates our commitment to holding them accountable.”

The US government on Wednesday indicted five men for allegedly running an international racket smuggling US origin goods to Pakistan's nuclear program. The five men identified as - Haji Wali Muhammad Sheikh, Ashraf Khan Muhammad, Ahmed Waheed, Muhammad Ahsan Wali and Muhammad Kamran Wali - were charged by the US government for violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the Export Control Reform Act.

The US government on Wednesday indicted five men for allegedly running an international racket smuggling US origin goods to Pakistan's nuclear program. The five men identified as - Haji Wali Muhammad Sheikh, Ashraf Khan Muhammad, Ahmed Waheed, Muhammad Ahsan Wali and Muhammad Kamran Wali - were charged by the US government for violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the Export Control Reform Act. Also Read: Pakistan launches surface-to-surface Ballistic missile Shaheen-1 The men were accused of transporting the goods to Pakistan's Advanced Engineering Research Organization(AERO) and the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission(PAEC) without licenses through a front company based in Rawalpindi in Pakistan. Jason Molina, a special agent with the Department of Homeland Security, said: "The alleged behaviour of these five individuals presented more than a violation of US export laws, it posed a potential threat to the national security interests of the United States and to the delicate balance of power among nations within the region." The men who haven't been arrested were found guilty by a US jury last year with arrest warrants pending against them. The men are believed to be living in England, Canada, Hong Kong and Pakistan. “The defendants smuggled US-origin goods to entities that have been designated for years as threats to US national security for their ties to Pakistan’s weapons programs,” John Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, said in a statement, adding, “This indictment puts the world on notice not to do business with these defendants and demonstrates our commitment to holding them accountable.”

US charges five men for illegally transporting goods to Pakistan's nuclear program

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