Tensions are mounting in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catalonias-ex-leader-carles-puigdemont-banned-from-european-union-polls-party-214518">Catalonia</a> where pro-independence lawmakers have been sabre-rattling against Madrid as Spain's top court prepares to rule on the fate of 12 separatist leaders over a failed 2017 independence bid.&nbsp;

Setting aside their divisions, Catalonia's pro-independence parties on Thursday adopted a clutch of motions granting legitimacy to "civil disobedience", demanding the withdrawal of Spain's national police from the wealthy northeastern region, and calling for an amnesty for the leaders soon to be judged by the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

The move came on the same day that seven Catalan separatists suspected of preparing violent attacks were charged with belonging to a "terrorist organisation".

Although the declarations by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pedro-says-no-independence-for-catalonia-208738">Catalan parliament are purely symbolic</a>, given it does not have the authority to make such decisions, the central government in Madrid hit back on Friday, saying it would take legal action.

"This government is not willing to accept any attack... on the constitution," warned government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa following Friday's cabinet meeting.

Such declarations by the regional government bear a worrying similarity to similar motions passed ahead of the failed independence bid on October 1, 2017, that triggered Spain's worst political crisis in decades.&nbsp;

"It's evident that the parliament set in motion the start of its strategy of confrontation yesterday" as called for by former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont&nbsp;"which is going to result in more tension", Marius Carol, director of the La Vanguardia, Catalonia's leading daily, wrote in an editorial.&nbsp;

Puigdemont fled to Belgium after the failed independence bid to avoid prosecution and keeps a strong hold over Catalan politics from there.

An unexpected boost

Monday's arrest of a group of radical independence activists gave an unexpected boost to the separatist movement which has been struggling recently to mobilise the street.&nbsp;

And the police operation took place just a few weeks before the Supreme Court issues its verdict against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catalonia-protesters-burn-tires-block-highways-over-separatist-trial-198803">12 separatist leaders</a> following a high-profile trial.&nbsp;

According to historian Joan Esculies, "the independence movement is divided... it doesn't have a shared strategy" as it had back in 2017 when it organised an independence referendum that was banned by Madrid and a vote on secession by the Catalan parliament.&nbsp;

But "they can reach agreement when faced with what they call repression" by the central government, he told AFP.&nbsp;

"It's very easy for them to show a common front and display a certain amount of unity" even if politically, the divisions are still there between those who want dialogue with Madrid and those who want confrontation, Esculies said.&nbsp;

On Thursday, seven of the nine activists arrested earlier in the week were placed in provisional detention for "belonging to a terrorist organisation", according to a statement from Spain's National Court.&nbsp;

Announcing their arrest on Monday, police said investigators had found "material and substances which could have been used for making explosives".

But Quim Torra, the region's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-independence-protesters-catalonia-block-roads-railway-line-reports-168729">pro-independence president</a>, said that in arresting them, the Spanish state had wanted "to establish a violent narrative ahead of the verdict" of the 12 separatists on trial.

The use of violence during the 2017 crisis has been at the heart of the case against them because it is a key element of the charge of rebellion that they are facing, which carries a very heavy penalty.&nbsp;

The separatists have always stressed the peaceful nature of their movement.&nbsp;

Torra's remarks drew a sharp retort from Pedro Sanchez's Socialist government, which has repeatedly been accused by its opponents of showing weakness in respect to the pro-independence movement.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Celaa said the government "totally rejected" Torra's remarks.&nbsp;

"He must make clear his respect for the laws of democracy and the principles of the state of law," she insisted.

Tensions are mounting in Catalonia where pro-independence lawmakers have been sabre-rattling against Madrid as Spain's top court prepares to rule on the fate of 12 separatist leaders over a failed 2017 independence bid.

Tensions are mounting in Catalonia where pro-independence lawmakers have been sabre-rattling against Madrid as Spain's top court prepares to rule on the fate of 12 separatist leaders over a failed 2017 independence bid. Setting aside their divisions, Catalonia's pro-independence parties on Thursday adopted a clutch of motions granting legitimacy to "civil disobedience", demanding the withdrawal of Spain's national police from the wealthy northeastern region, and calling for an amnesty for the leaders soon to be judged by the Supreme Court. The move came on the same day that seven Catalan separatists suspected of preparing violent attacks were charged with belonging to a "terrorist organisation". Although the declarations by the Catalan parliament are purely symbolic, given it does not have the authority to make such decisions, the central government in Madrid hit back on Friday, saying it would take legal action. "This government is not willing to accept any attack... on the constitution," warned government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa following Friday's cabinet meeting. Such declarations by the regional government bear a worrying similarity to similar motions passed ahead of the failed independence bid on October 1, 2017, that triggered Spain's worst political crisis in decades. "It's evident that the parliament set in motion the start of its strategy of confrontation yesterday" as called for by former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont "which is going to result in more tension", Marius Carol, director of the La Vanguardia, Catalonia's leading daily, wrote in an editorial. Puigdemont fled to Belgium after the failed independence bid to avoid prosecution and keeps a strong hold over Catalan politics from there. An unexpected boost Monday's arrest of a group of radical independence activists gave an unexpected boost to the separatist movement which has been struggling recently to mobilise the street. And the police operation took place just a few weeks before the Supreme Court issues its verdict against the 12 separatist leaders following a high-profile trial. According to historian Joan Esculies, "the independence movement is divided... it doesn't have a shared strategy" as it had back in 2017 when it organised an independence referendum that was banned by Madrid and a vote on secession by the Catalan parliament. But "they can reach agreement when faced with what they call repression" by the central government, he told AFP. "It's very easy for them to show a common front and display a certain amount of unity" even if politically, the divisions are still there between those who want dialogue with Madrid and those who want confrontation, Esculies said. On Thursday, seven of the nine activists arrested earlier in the week were placed in provisional detention for "belonging to a terrorist organisation", according to a statement from Spain's National Court. Announcing their arrest on Monday, police said investigators had found "material and substances which could have been used for making explosives". But Quim Torra, the region's pro-independence president, said that in arresting them, the Spanish state had wanted "to establish a violent narrative ahead of the verdict" of the 12 separatists on trial. The use of violence during the 2017 crisis has been at the heart of the case against them because it is a key element of the charge of rebellion that they are facing, which carries a very heavy penalty. The separatists have always stressed the peaceful nature of their movement. Torra's remarks drew a sharp retort from Pedro Sanchez's Socialist government, which has repeatedly been accused by its opponents of showing weakness in respect to the pro-independence movement. Speaking to reporters, Celaa said the government "totally rejected" Torra's remarks. "He must make clear his respect for the laws of democracy and the principles of the state of law," she insisted.

Catalonia tense ahead of verdict in separatist leaders trial

During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) address, Indian representatives <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-swipe-at-trump-china-tells-un-tariffs-could-plunge-world-into-recession-252572">asserted that</a> China should "respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity" as the recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir are "entirely a matter internal to India".&nbsp;

This comes in a day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi made a reference to Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

India also did not hold back words and referred to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as "ïllegal". One of the key stressors in India-China ties, the $50 billion corridor that connects Kashgar in western China to Gwadar port in Pakistan, covering 3,000 kilometres. India has been very vocal about its disdain for the&nbsp;corridor as it passes through&nbsp;Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK).&nbsp;

At the General Debate of the 74th session of the UNGA, the Chinese foreign minister had said that the Kashmir issue should be "peacefully and properly addressed in accordance with the U.N. Charter, Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreement".

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response, said:&nbsp;"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-promotes-china-as-bigger-threat-than-nuclear-armed-north-korea-252313">Chinese</a> side is well aware of India's position that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are an integral part of India, and that the recent developments are entirely a matter internal to us."

Watch: India slams China over CPEC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-slams-china-over-cpec-252597/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We expect that other countries will respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and desist from efforts to change the status quo through the illegal so-called China Pakistan Economic Corridor in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">Pakistan occupied Kashmir</a>," the foreign ministry&nbsp;spokesperson said.

The centre on August 5 had scrapped special status of&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and had divided the state into two Union Territories.&nbsp;

Pakistan PM Imran Khan had on Friday said that there would be a “bloodbath” when India eases restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and warned the tensions between the two countries could escalate into a nuclear war, which India dismissed as "brinkmanship, not statesmanship".

During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) address, Indian representatives asserted that China should "respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity" as the recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir are "entirely a matter internal to India".

During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) address, Indian representatives asserted that China should "respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity" as the recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir are "entirely a matter internal to India". This comes in a day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi made a reference to Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. India also did not hold back words and referred to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as "ïllegal". One of the key stressors in India-China ties, the $50 billion corridor that connects Kashgar in western China to Gwadar port in Pakistan, covering 3,000 kilometres. India has been very vocal about its disdain for the corridor as it passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK). At the General Debate of the 74th session of the UNGA, the Chinese foreign minister had said that the Kashmir issue should be "peacefully and properly addressed in accordance with the U.N. Charter, Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreement". External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response, said: "The Chinese side is well aware of India's position that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are an integral part of India, and that the recent developments are entirely a matter internal to us." Watch: India slams China over CPEC "We expect that other countries will respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and desist from efforts to change the status quo through the illegal so-called China Pakistan Economic Corridor in Pakistan occupied Kashmir," the foreign ministry spokesperson said. The centre on August 5 had scrapped special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and had divided the state into two Union Territories. Pakistan PM Imran Khan had on Friday said that there would be a “bloodbath” when India eases restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and warned the tensions between the two countries could escalate into a nuclear war, which India dismissed as "brinkmanship, not statesmanship".

India slams China over reference to J&K situation at UNGA

A desperate Pakistan already plagued by acute financial crisis has been spending millions of dollars to further its propaganda on Jammu and Kashmir at Times Square in New York.

Huge billboards in New York are often used for political advertising and campaigning. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay reports on how Pakistan used one such space at Times Square to politicise and internationalise the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

One of the quintessential features of New York's Times Square are the gigantic billboards. Neon, digital signs deck all the buildings and advertisements appear&nbsp;on almost everything from products, movies and with political advertisements also visible on several occasions.&nbsp;

Watch Video:

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One such campaign on&nbsp;Kashmir&nbsp;was spotted on one of the buildings. "Stand with Kashmir", it said.&nbsp;

"This is a motivated, political campaign sponsored by, it would be fair to say, the Pakistan government as they have tweeted about it with this picture saying that they are raising awareness," Upadhyay reported from New York.

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With the extraordinary efforts of PM Imran Khan, Kashmir issue has now become a Global concern. The voice of people of IOJ&amp;K is once again being heard in the highest diplomatic forums. 
“Stand With Kashmir” has been highlighted on Times Square New York, today.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/2k8u4PYNp1">pic.twitter.com/2k8u4PYNp1</a>
— Govt of Pakistan (@pid_gov) <a href="https://twitter.com/pid_gov/status/1177110039334653952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Interestingly, real estate in New York, especially at Times Square is extremely expensive and it can reportedly cost anywhere up to $1-4 million per year to advertise on one billboard at Times Square.&nbsp;

WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, meanwhile, reported trucks being stationed in New York, highlighting human rights abuses in Karachi.&nbsp;

"Not just this, across New York City, there have been banners on human rights violations in Pakistan's Balochistan, Karachi," Sibal said in his ground report from New York.

Meanwhile, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi evaded questions on Pakistan's support to terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Right outside the venue of SAARC foreign minister's meeting, Sidhant Sibal asked Qureshi why Pakistan has been supporting Saaed, however, the Pakistan finance minister evaded WION's question.&nbsp;

Amid the advertising slugfest at Times Square, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be addressing the UNGA today. In the week-long visit to the US, while the agenda for PM Modi at the UNGA has been diverse focusing on trade and investment, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been adamant on just one agenda - Kashmir.

A desperate Pakistan already plagued by acute financial crisis has been spending millions of dollars to further its propaganda on Jammu and Kashmir at Times Square in New York.

A desperate Pakistan already plagued by acute financial crisis has been spending millions of dollars to further its propaganda on Jammu and Kashmir at Times Square in New York. Huge billboards in New York are often used for political advertising and campaigning. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay reports on how Pakistan used one such space at Times Square to politicise and internationalise the Kashmir issue. One of the quintessential features of New York's Times Square are the gigantic billboards. Neon, digital signs deck all the buildings and advertisements appear on almost everything from products, movies and with political advertisements also visible on several occasions. Watch Video: × One such campaign on Kashmir was spotted on one of the buildings. "Stand with Kashmir", it said. "This is a motivated, political campaign sponsored by, it would be fair to say, the Pakistan government as they have tweeted about it with this picture saying that they are raising awareness," Upadhyay reported from New York. With the extraordinary efforts of PM Imran Khan, Kashmir issue has now become a Global concern. The voice of people of IOJ&K is once again being heard in the highest diplomatic forums. “Stand With Kashmir” has been highlighted on Times Square New York, today.#StandWithKashmir pic.twitter.com/2k8u4PYNp1 — Govt of Pakistan (@pid_gov) September 26, 2019 × Interestingly, real estate in New York, especially at Times Square is extremely expensive and it can reportedly cost anywhere up to $1-4 million per year to advertise on one billboard at Times Square. WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, meanwhile, reported trucks being stationed in New York, highlighting human rights abuses in Karachi. "Not just this, across New York City, there have been banners on human rights violations in Pakistan's Balochistan, Karachi," Sibal said in his ground report from New York. Meanwhile, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi evaded questions on Pakistan's support to terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Right outside the venue of SAARC foreign minister's meeting, Sidhant Sibal asked Qureshi why Pakistan has been supporting Saaed, however, the Pakistan finance minister evaded WION's question. Amid the advertising slugfest at Times Square, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be addressing the UNGA today. In the week-long visit to the US, while the agenda for PM Modi at the UNGA has been diverse focusing on trade and investment, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been adamant on just one agenda - Kashmir.

Pak endorses billboards on Kashmir at New York's Times Square

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Donald Trump on the sidelines of UN session in New York on Tuesday, during the bilateral meet, PM Modi gifted a framed portrait from the mega <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-calls-modi-elvis-of-india-says-modi-will-take-care-of-terrorism-from-pakistan-251819">'Howdy, Modi' event </a>to the US president.

"Memories from Houston, where history was made!" Prime Minister's office posted on Twitter while sharing a photo of PM Modi giving the framed portrait to Trump.

"President Trump thanked PM Modi for this gesture," PMO said in the tweet.

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Memories from Houston, where history was made! 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> presented a framed photograph from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HowdyModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HowdyModi</a> event to <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. 
 
President Trump thanked PM Modi for this gesture. <a href="https://t.co/jP3QjpU4uW">pic.twitter.com/jP3QjpU4uW</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1176546725345071107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to reporters after bilateral talks, Trump referred&nbsp;to Modi as "Elvis of India" equating the Indian prime minister with the famous US singer.

Trump added that Modi is a great leader and we "will have a trade deal soon."

Speaking to reporters in the presence of PM Modi on the sidelines of UN session in New York, Trump said: "I remember India before was very torn. There was a lot of dissension, fighting and he brought it all together. Like a father would bring it together. Maybe he is the Father of India. We'll call him the Father of India."

PM Modi thanked Trump for joining him in Houston for the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event and said, "He (Trump) is my friend but he is also a good friend of India."

The two leaders had jointly addressed a gathering of over 50,000 Indian-Americans at 'Howdy, Modi' event in Houston on Sunday which showcased India-US bonhomie.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Donald Trump on the sidelines of UN session in New York on Tuesday, during the bilateral meet, PM Modi gifted a framed portrait from the mega 'Howdy, Modi' event to the US president.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Donald Trump on the sidelines of UN session in New York on Tuesday, during the bilateral meet, PM Modi gifted a framed portrait from the mega 'Howdy, Modi' event to the US president. "Memories from Houston, where history was made!" Prime Minister's office posted on Twitter while sharing a photo of PM Modi giving the framed portrait to Trump. "President Trump thanked PM Modi for this gesture," PMO said in the tweet. Memories from Houston, where history was made! PM @narendramodi presented a framed photograph from the #HowdyModi event to @POTUS @realDonaldTrump. President Trump thanked PM Modi for this gesture. pic.twitter.com/jP3QjpU4uW — PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 24, 2019 × Speaking to reporters after bilateral talks, Trump referred to Modi as "Elvis of India" equating the Indian prime minister with the famous US singer. Trump added that Modi is a great leader and we "will have a trade deal soon." Speaking to reporters in the presence of PM Modi on the sidelines of UN session in New York, Trump said: "I remember India before was very torn. There was a lot of dissension, fighting and he brought it all together. Like a father would bring it together. Maybe he is the Father of India. We'll call him the Father of India." PM Modi thanked Trump for joining him in Houston for the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event and said, "He (Trump) is my friend but he is also a good friend of India." The two leaders had jointly addressed a gathering of over 50,000 Indian-Americans at 'Howdy, Modi' event in Houston on Sunday which showcased India-US bonhomie.

'Memories from Houston': PM Modi gifts framed photograph from 'Howdy, Modi' to Trump

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-thunders-at-world-leaders-at-united-nations-251573">Greta Thunberg and 15 other</a> young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming.

The complaint accused Germany, France, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey of failing to uphold their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed 30 years ago.

The complaint, filed by the 16-year-old Swedish activist and 15 other petitioners from 12 different countries and aged between eight and 17, accused the five countries of violating children's rights by failing to take adequate and timely action against climate change.

It was filed after Thunberg delivered a searing attack on world leaders for their slow response to climate change at a special session kicking off the UN General Assembly in New York.

Every member of the United Nations except the United States has ratified the convention to protect the health and rights of children.&nbsp;

Monday's complaint focuses on a little-known "optional protocol" that came into effect in 2014 that allows children to file a complaint to the Committee on the Rights of the Child if they feel their rights are being denied. &nbsp;

The committee is then meant to investigate the charges before making recommendations to the countries concerned on how they can fix the issue.&nbsp;

The 16 young people were backed by the legal firm Hausfeld LLP and Earthjustice, an environmental law group.

Lawyer Michael Hausfeld said that while the committee's recommendations are not legally binding, the 44 countries that ratified the protocol pledged to respect them. He said he hoped the recommendations would be made in the coming 12 months.

The five countries named in the complaint are among the 44 that ratified the protocol and are also among the top global polluters, as well as being members of the G20 group of leading global economies.&nbsp;

The largest polluters in the world - the United States, China and India - did not ratify the protocol.

Countries like France and Germany may have recently begun working to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, but have also played a large role historically in polluting the atmosphere, the law firm argued.

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, Greta Thunberg and 15 other young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming.

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, Greta Thunberg and 15 other young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming. The complaint accused Germany, France, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey of failing to uphold their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed 30 years ago. The complaint, filed by the 16-year-old Swedish activist and 15 other petitioners from 12 different countries and aged between eight and 17, accused the five countries of violating children's rights by failing to take adequate and timely action against climate change. It was filed after Thunberg delivered a searing attack on world leaders for their slow response to climate change at a special session kicking off the UN General Assembly in New York. Every member of the United Nations except the United States has ratified the convention to protect the health and rights of children. Monday's complaint focuses on a little-known "optional protocol" that came into effect in 2014 that allows children to file a complaint to the Committee on the Rights of the Child if they feel their rights are being denied. The committee is then meant to investigate the charges before making recommendations to the countries concerned on how they can fix the issue. The 16 young people were backed by the legal firm Hausfeld LLP and Earthjustice, an environmental law group. Lawyer Michael Hausfeld said that while the committee's recommendations are not legally binding, the 44 countries that ratified the protocol pledged to respect them. He said he hoped the recommendations would be made in the coming 12 months. The five countries named in the complaint are among the 44 that ratified the protocol and are also among the top global polluters, as well as being members of the G20 group of leading global economies. The largest polluters in the world - the United States, China and India - did not ratify the protocol. Countries like France and Germany may have recently begun working to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, but have also played a large role historically in polluting the atmosphere, the law firm argued.

After protests at climate change summit, Greta Thunberg, others file UN complaint against five countries

PM Modi and President Trump came together to address the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/howdy-modi-us-president-donald-trump-hints-he-might-visit-india-for-nba-next-month-251328"> Indian-American community </a>at "Howdy, Modi" event at the NRG stadium in Houston today with both leaders pledging to further strengthen India-US ties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-pm-modi-president-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-nrg-stadium-houston-251225">Also Read - Howdy, Modi': Several defence deals in the works between US, India, says Trump</a>

The Indian prime minister arrived amid a standing ovation&nbsp;by the crowd who had gathered at the stadium several hours ahead of the event.

Modi was later joined by President Trump as the crowd cheered both leaders. PM Modi lauded India-US relationship as President Trump looked visibly elated with Indian-Americans cheering him on.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/howdy-modi-event-trump-calls-modi-the-most-loyal-friend-251324/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During his speech, Trump announced that "several defence deals" were in the works between the two countries even as he stressed that enhanced space cooperation was also being worked out.&nbsp;

Sending a strong anti-terror message, Trump said: "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists." "In November, we will conduct tri-service military exercise," the US president added.

"India-US ties are stronger than ever, Trump said, adding," border security is vital for both of us."&nbsp;

"India is growing remarkably under PM Modi," Trump said. "India lifted 300 million people from poverty, under PM Modi," Trump told the crowd amid loud cheers.

"India will shortly have NBA," he said. "Am I invited Mr Prime Minister," he asked PM Modi, "I may come," he added.

"Proud to have Indians as Americans," Trump said.

"We love you," Trump told the over 50,000 strong Indian-Americans gathered at the NRG stadium.

"The relationship between India and US is stronger than ever before," Trump said.

"Both countries are guided by commitment to justice," the US President said.

PM Modi and President Trump came together to address the Indian-American community at "Howdy, Modi" event at the NRG stadium in Houston today with both leaders pledging to further strengthen India-US ties.

PM Modi and President Trump came together to address the Indian-American community at "Howdy, Modi" event at the NRG stadium in Houston today with both leaders pledging to further strengthen India-US ties. Also Read - Howdy, Modi': Several defence deals in the works between US, India, says Trump The Indian prime minister arrived amid a standing ovation by the crowd who had gathered at the stadium several hours ahead of the event. Modi was later joined by President Trump as the crowd cheered both leaders. PM Modi lauded India-US relationship as President Trump looked visibly elated with Indian-Americans cheering him on. Watch Video: During his speech, Trump announced that "several defence deals" were in the works between the two countries even as he stressed that enhanced space cooperation was also being worked out. Sending a strong anti-terror message, Trump said: "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists." "In November, we will conduct tri-service military exercise," the US president added. "India-US ties are stronger than ever, Trump said, adding," border security is vital for both of us." "India is growing remarkably under PM Modi," Trump said. "India lifted 300 million people from poverty, under PM Modi," Trump told the crowd amid loud cheers. "India will shortly have NBA," he said. "Am I invited Mr Prime Minister," he asked PM Modi, "I may come," he added. "Proud to have Indians as Americans," Trump said. "We love you," Trump told the over 50,000 strong Indian-Americans gathered at the NRG stadium. "The relationship between India and US is stronger than ever before," Trump said. "Both countries are guided by commitment to justice," the US President said.

Border security vital for both US and India, says Trump at 'Howdy, Modi' event in Houston

All eyes will be on New York today where it is going to be a busy week for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-security-vital-for-both-us-and-india-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251331">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>with several bilateral meetings planned. PM Modi will take part in a climate summit and also address the UN General Assembly.

The summit is being held before the second mega meeting of the international solar alliance to be held in New Delhi. At least, 66 nations have vowed to achieve net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, as a vital goal in preventing catastrophic long term climate change.

PM Modi, along with the then French President Francois Hollande had jointly inaugurated the solar summit in Paris, on the sidelines of Cop-21 UN climate conference.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-takes-a-jibe-at-imran-khan-targets-pakistan-251436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian prime minister had a busy Sunday during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-committed-to-protect-innocents-from-radical-islamic-terrorism-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-251404">the 'Howdy, Modi' event</a> at Houston where he was joined by US President Donald Trump.

PM Modi during his address raised the Article 370 issue in the presence of Trump as the crowd gave a standing ovation for scrapping article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Prime minister Modi's address in Houston drew loud cheers from the 50 thousand stong Indian-American community.

All eyes will be on New York today where it is going to be a busy week for Prime Minister Narendra Modi with several bilateral meetings planned. PM Modi will take part in a climate summit and also address the UN General Assembly.

All eyes will be on New York today where it is going to be a busy week for Prime Minister Narendra Modi with several bilateral meetings planned. PM Modi will take part in a climate summit and also address the UN General Assembly. The summit is being held before the second mega meeting of the international solar alliance to be held in New Delhi. At least, 66 nations have vowed to achieve net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, as a vital goal in preventing catastrophic long term climate change. PM Modi, along with the then French President Francois Hollande had jointly inaugurated the solar summit in Paris, on the sidelines of Cop-21 UN climate conference. Watch Video: The Indian prime minister had a busy Sunday during the 'Howdy, Modi' event at Houston where he was joined by US President Donald Trump. PM Modi during his address raised the Article 370 issue in the presence of Trump as the crowd gave a standing ovation for scrapping article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Prime minister Modi's address in Houston drew loud cheers from the 50 thousand stong Indian-American community.

PM Modi arrives at UN headquarters to address climate change summit

As the "Howdy, Modi" event came to an end at the NRG stadium in Houston, Texas, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-pm-modi-president-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-nrg-stadium-houston-251225">US President Donald Trump</a> in a tweet said, "the USA loves India!"

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The USA Loves India! <a href="https://t.co/xlfnWafxpg">https://t.co/xlfnWafxpg</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1175848139112308739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During his speech, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-security-vital-for-both-us-and-india-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251331">Trump praised India-Americans</a> for their contribution to America.

"Proud to have Indians as Americans," Trump said in the presence of PM Modi.

"We love you," Trump told the over 50,000 strong Indian-Americans gathered at the NRG stadium.

"The relationship between India and US is stronger than ever before," Trump said.

Watch Video:

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"Both countries are guided by commitment to justice," the US President said.

"PM Modi is doing a truly exceptional job for India," Trump said during the "Howdy, Modi" event at Houston.

"I am thrilled to be here," he added while wishing the Indian prime minister happy birthday. The Indian prime minister had celebrated his 69 birthday on September 17.

"PM Modi is one of the most loyal friends of India," Trump told an elated Indian-American community, adding: "India is growing remarkably under PM Modi."

As the foreign affairs spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted on the size of the Texas crowd, Trump replied on Twitter saying: "Incredible".

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Incredible! <a href="https://t.co/SHs0RkxjzF">https://t.co/SHs0RkxjzF</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1175848677145042944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Electric atmosphere at the NRG arena in Houston as 50,000 strong Indian Americans wait for the historic occasion when PM Modi comes on stage together with US President Trump at HowdyModi," Raveesh Kumar said in his tweet.

As the "Howdy, Modi" event came to an end at the NRG stadium in Houston, Texas, US President Donald Trump in a tweet said, "the USA loves India!" The USA Loves India!

As the "Howdy, Modi" event came to an end at the NRG stadium in Houston, Texas, US President Donald Trump in a tweet said, "the USA loves India!" The USA Loves India! https://t.co/xlfnWafxpg — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 22, 2019 × During his speech, Trump praised India-Americans for their contribution to America. "Proud to have Indians as Americans," Trump said in the presence of PM Modi. "We love you," Trump told the over 50,000 strong Indian-Americans gathered at the NRG stadium. "The relationship between India and US is stronger than ever before," Trump said. Watch Video: "Both countries are guided by commitment to justice," the US President said. "PM Modi is doing a truly exceptional job for India," Trump said during the "Howdy, Modi" event at Houston. "I am thrilled to be here," he added while wishing the Indian prime minister happy birthday. The Indian prime minister had celebrated his 69 birthday on September 17. "PM Modi is one of the most loyal friends of India," Trump told an elated Indian-American community, adding: "India is growing remarkably under PM Modi." As the foreign affairs spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted on the size of the Texas crowd, Trump replied on Twitter saying: "Incredible". Incredible! https://t.co/SHs0RkxjzF — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 22, 2019 × "Electric atmosphere at the NRG arena in Houston as 50,000 strong Indian Americans wait for the historic occasion when PM Modi comes on stage together with US President Trump at HowdyModi," Raveesh Kumar said in his tweet.

USA loves India, tweets Trump after 'Howdy, Modi' event in Houston

One look at Prime Minister Modi's historic address at the Madison Square Garden in 2014 or the Wembley stadium in 2015 would explain the importance of the Indian diaspora. In the past - the Indian diaspora was viewed as a vote bank since previous Indian governments did not always harness the strength of the Indian diaspora.

Of course, overseas Indians contribute heavily to the funds of political parties in India but their reach extends far beyond it. According to the US census, the Indian diaspora in the US outpaces all other ethnic groups in terms of socio-economic status.

Indian-Americans account for over six per cent of physicians in the US with&nbsp;high household income. The Indian diaspora is often seen as a "model minority" not just in the US, but in other countries as well including in the United Kingdom, Australia, and France. They own several businesses in these countries and their political representation is ever-increasing.

If India wants a steady flow of investments from countries like the US, then the government must &nbsp;promote serious engagement with the Indian diaspora. It's unbelievable that such engagement remained poor in the past. It's as if India did&nbsp;not want to synergise the strength of its 31 million people.

Under PM Modi, things have changed for sure! The remittances in 2016 alone were over $62 billion. It is a direct contribution to the Indian economy. In simple terms, the Indian diaspora gives India the soft power to improve its reach in other markets. As India's export-competitiveness increases further, such links would be crucial to maintain holistic growth. Unlike the current regime, the Congress was handicapped by suspicion of the Indian diaspora be it Myanmar in 1964, or Uganda in 1972, the party did not support the people of Indian origin when they most needed it.

It created an environment of mistrust and that has hurt India's ability to engage with other countries.

A strong engagement between the Indian government and the Indian diaspora will also help in another way - it will force foreign governments to take the Indian diaspora seriously and not just as a vote bank, and that in turn would lend strength to the government on crucial issues.

India is going to be a major growth engine of this century and the clout of New Delhi can improve only if diplomatic links are established with other countries at a micro-economic level. It can only happen through the Indian diaspora which is a vital cog in the wheel of India's engagement with the world.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

One look at Prime Minister Modi's historic address at the Madison Square Garden in 2014 or the Wembley stadium in 2015 would explain the importance of the Indian diaspora.

One look at Prime Minister Modi's historic address at the Madison Square Garden in 2014 or the Wembley stadium in 2015 would explain the importance of the Indian diaspora. In the past - the Indian diaspora was viewed as a vote bank since previous Indian governments did not always harness the strength of the Indian diaspora. Of course, overseas Indians contribute heavily to the funds of political parties in India but their reach extends far beyond it. According to the US census, the Indian diaspora in the US outpaces all other ethnic groups in terms of socio-economic status. Indian-Americans account for over six per cent of physicians in the US with high household income. The Indian diaspora is often seen as a "model minority" not just in the US, but in other countries as well including in the United Kingdom, Australia, and France. They own several businesses in these countries and their political representation is ever-increasing. If India wants a steady flow of investments from countries like the US, then the government must promote serious engagement with the Indian diaspora. It's unbelievable that such engagement remained poor in the past. It's as if India did not want to synergise the strength of its 31 million people. Under PM Modi, things have changed for sure! The remittances in 2016 alone were over $62 billion. It is a direct contribution to the Indian economy. In simple terms, the Indian diaspora gives India the soft power to improve its reach in other markets. As India's export-competitiveness increases further, such links would be crucial to maintain holistic growth. Unlike the current regime, the Congress was handicapped by suspicion of the Indian diaspora be it Myanmar in 1964, or Uganda in 1972, the party did not support the people of Indian origin when they most needed it. It created an environment of mistrust and that has hurt India's ability to engage with other countries. A strong engagement between the Indian government and the Indian diaspora will also help in another way - it will force foreign governments to take the Indian diaspora seriously and not just as a vote bank, and that in turn would lend strength to the government on crucial issues. India is going to be a major growth engine of this century and the clout of New Delhi can improve only if diplomatic links are established with other countries at a micro-economic level. It can only happen through the Indian diaspora which is a vital cog in the wheel of India's engagement with the world. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

WION Edit: Diaspora vital cog in India's engagement with the world

Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday that strikes on its oil infrastructure came from the "north" and were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/initial-investigations-show-iranian-weapons-were-used-in-attacks-foreign-ministry-250405">sponsored by Iran</a>, but added the kingdom was still investigating the exact launch site.

"The attack was launched from the north and unquestionably sponsored by Iran," defence ministry spokesman Turki al-Maliki said. "We are working to know the exact launch point."

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement had&nbsp;claimed responsibility for the strikes, but the spokesman for the Saudi-led military coalition battling the group had said preliminary findings indicated the attack was not launched from Yemen.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/history-of-saudi-arabia-iran-conflict-250152/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, Maliki&nbsp;would not be drawn on whether Saudi Arabia believed Iran would ultimately be found to be the culprit, only saying they were confident they would find where the weapons were fired from.

Maliki displayed pieces of what he said were cruise missiles and drones used in the strike, recovered from the site of Saturday's attack in the country's east.&nbsp;

He said a combination of 18 drones and seven cruise missiles fired at the two key oil installations from a direction that ruled out its southern neighbour Yemen as a source.

The Saudi Arabian spokesman reiterated Riyadh's position that the Iran-backed Huthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen, where a Saudi-led coalition is mired in a five-year conflict, were not responsible for the assault despite claiming it.

"Despite Iran's efforts to make it appear so" they did not originate from Yemen, he said, adding the strike was beyond the capabilities of the militia -- who have however mounted dozens of smaller attacks on Saudi territory.

In addition, "the targeting direction indicates it came from the north," he added.

Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday that strikes on its oil infrastructure came from the "north" and were sponsored by Iran, but added the kingdom was still investigating the exact launch site.

Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday that strikes on its oil infrastructure came from the "north" and were sponsored by Iran, but added the kingdom was still investigating the exact launch site. "The attack was launched from the north and unquestionably sponsored by Iran," defence ministry spokesman Turki al-Maliki said. "We are working to know the exact launch point." Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement had claimed responsibility for the strikes, but the spokesman for the Saudi-led military coalition battling the group had said preliminary findings indicated the attack was not launched from Yemen. Watch Video: However, Maliki would not be drawn on whether Saudi Arabia believed Iran would ultimately be found to be the culprit, only saying they were confident they would find where the weapons were fired from. Maliki displayed pieces of what he said were cruise missiles and drones used in the strike, recovered from the site of Saturday's attack in the country's east. He said a combination of 18 drones and seven cruise missiles fired at the two key oil installations from a direction that ruled out its southern neighbour Yemen as a source. The Saudi Arabian spokesman reiterated Riyadh's position that the Iran-backed Huthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen, where a Saudi-led coalition is mired in a five-year conflict, were not responsible for the assault despite claiming it. "Despite Iran's efforts to make it appear so" they did not originate from Yemen, he said, adding the strike was beyond the capabilities of the militia -- who have however mounted dozens of smaller attacks on Saudi territory. In addition, "the targeting direction indicates it came from the north," he added.

Attacks on Aramco oil facility unquestionably sponsored by Iran: Saudi Arabia

Hong Kong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activist-joshua-wong-seeks-trump-us-congress-support-249535">democracy activists urged members of the US&nbsp;Congress</a> on Tuesday to pass legislation to combat human rights abuses in the city, rejecting any suggestion that such a move would be inappropriate US&nbsp;involvement in another country's affairs.

"This is not a plea for so-called foreign interference. This is a plea for democracy," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/stand-up-to-beijing-hong-kong-singer-tells-us-lawmakers-companies-250172">singer and activist Denise Ho</a> told a hearing of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.

The panel of witnesses also urged members of the commission, which includes senators and members of the House of Representatives from both parties, to take actions that might affect Hong Kong's economy.

"Beijing should not have it both ways, reaping all the economic benefits of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hills-shine-with-protest-lights-in-festival-themed-rally-249521">Hong Kong</a>'s standing in the world while eradicating our sociopolitical identity," said Joshua Wong, secretary-general of Hong Kong's Demosisto party and leader of the "Umbrella Movement."

Members of Congress at the hearing also pushed for a look at Hong Kong's special trade status.

"The United States and other nations have options precisely because Beijing benefits from Hong Kong's special status a special status which has made Hong Kong an international financial centre built on the promises that China made to the world with regards to Hong Kong, which they seek to break," said Senator Marco Rubio, the Republican co-chairman of the commission.

The former British colony has been rocked by more than three months of sometimes violent clashes, with demonstrators angry over what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in Hong Kong's affairs, despite a promise of autonomy.

Hong Kong returned to China in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” formula that guarantees freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland, including an independent legal system.

China in 1997 promised to guarantee the freedoms for 50 years.

The trigger for the unrest was an extradition bill, now withdrawn, that would have allowed people to be sent from Hong Kong to mainland China for trial.

The legislation was introduced in the US&nbsp;Senate and House earlier this year that would require an annual review of the special treatment Washington gives Hong Kong, including trade and business privileges.

The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would also make officials in China and Hong Kong, who have undermined the city's autonomy, vulnerable to sanctions.

Another bill introduced in the House last week with support from Republicans and Democrats, the "PROTECT Hong Kong Act," would bar commercial exports of some crowd-control items to the Hong Kong police force.

The legislation has not come up for a vote, but the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees are both holding hearings this week expected to address relations with China on issues including Hong Kong.

President Donald Trump, who has been waging a tit-for-tat tariff war with China for more than a year, has suggested China should "humanely" settle the problem before a trade deal is reached.

Some industry groups worry that the legislation could threaten the delicate trade talks.

"Hopefully we will be able to pass some of this legislation to make it clear to the regime in Beijing that democracy is an important value," said Senator Angus King, an independent who caucuses with Democrats.

Hong Kong democracy activists urged members of the US Congress on Tuesday to pass legislation to combat human rights abuses in the city, rejecting any suggestion that such a move would be inappropriate US involvement in another country's affairs.

Hong Kong democracy activists urged members of the US Congress on Tuesday to pass legislation to combat human rights abuses in the city, rejecting any suggestion that such a move would be inappropriate US involvement in another country's affairs. "This is not a plea for so-called foreign interference. This is a plea for democracy," singer and activist Denise Ho told a hearing of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China. The panel of witnesses also urged members of the commission, which includes senators and members of the House of Representatives from both parties, to take actions that might affect Hong Kong's economy. "Beijing should not have it both ways, reaping all the economic benefits of Hong Kong's standing in the world while eradicating our sociopolitical identity," said Joshua Wong, secretary-general of Hong Kong's Demosisto party and leader of the "Umbrella Movement." Members of Congress at the hearing also pushed for a look at Hong Kong's special trade status. "The United States and other nations have options precisely because Beijing benefits from Hong Kong's special status a special status which has made Hong Kong an international financial centre built on the promises that China made to the world with regards to Hong Kong, which they seek to break," said Senator Marco Rubio, the Republican co-chairman of the commission. The former British colony has been rocked by more than three months of sometimes violent clashes, with demonstrators angry over what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in Hong Kong's affairs, despite a promise of autonomy. Hong Kong returned to China in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” formula that guarantees freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland, including an independent legal system. China in 1997 promised to guarantee the freedoms for 50 years. The trigger for the unrest was an extradition bill, now withdrawn, that would have allowed people to be sent from Hong Kong to mainland China for trial. The legislation was introduced in the US Senate and House earlier this year that would require an annual review of the special treatment Washington gives Hong Kong, including trade and business privileges. The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act would also make officials in China and Hong Kong, who have undermined the city's autonomy, vulnerable to sanctions. Another bill introduced in the House last week with support from Republicans and Democrats, the "PROTECT Hong Kong Act," would bar commercial exports of some crowd-control items to the Hong Kong police force. The legislation has not come up for a vote, but the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees are both holding hearings this week expected to address relations with China on issues including Hong Kong. President Donald Trump, who has been waging a tit-for-tat tariff war with China for more than a year, has suggested China should "humanely" settle the problem before a trade deal is reached. Some industry groups worry that the legislation could threaten the delicate trade talks. "Hopefully we will be able to pass some of this legislation to make it clear to the regime in Beijing that democracy is an important value," said Senator Angus King, an independent who caucuses with Democrats.

China should not have it both ways: Hong Kong's Joshua Wong to US Congress

China and the United States are deadlocked over a UN resolution to extend a mission in Afghanistan, with Beijing signalling it will cast a veto because there is no reference to its Belt and Road project, diplomats said on Monday.

A planned vote on Monday by the 15-member Security Council to renew the UN mission, known as UNAMA, was delayed to Tuesday to allow for more negotiations.

The mission's mandate expires on Tuesday.

To pass, a resolution needs nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the United States, China, France, Russia and Britain.

Ahead of the postponement, diplomats said China was expected to veto a resolution drafted by Germany and Indonesia that did not include a reference to its global Belt and Road infrastructure project.

China's UN&nbsp;mission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China was then planning to propose a vote on a short draft resolution, known as a technical rollover, to allow the mission to keep operating, diplomats said.

But they added it could fail to get the nine votes needed to pass because several council members were considering abstaining.

Speaking in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she "did not know where this news had come from".

The situation in Afghanistan was at a crucial stage and China supported UNAMA - the UN&nbsp;Assistance Mission in Afghanistan&nbsp;to support reconstruction there, she said.

China hoped Security Council members would "jointly safeguard the important consensus reached in the past, respect each other's concerns, continue to carry out constructive cooperation on the Afghan issue and safeguard the unity of the Security Council".

The UN&nbsp;mission, which was established in 2002, is helping Afghanistan prepare for a September&nbsp;28 presidential election and is pushing for peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

Talks between the United States and Taliban militants on a US&nbsp;troop withdrawal fell apart this month.

There are about 14,000 US&nbsp;troops and thousands of other NATO troops in the country, 18 years after a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban following September 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

The UNAMA mandate is renewed annually by the Security Council.

The resolutions in 2016, 2017 and 2018 all included a reference welcoming and urging efforts, like China's Belt and Road initiative, to facilitate trade and transit.

But when it came time to extend the mandate again in March, the United States and other Western council members wanted the language removed, sparking a standoff with China.

The council ended up adopting a six-month technical rollover to allow the mission to keep operating.

At the time, acting US ambassador Jonathan Cohen denounced China for holding "the resolution hostage" by insisting "on making it about Chinese national political priorities rather than the people of Afghanistan".

He criticized Beijing's Belt and Road initiative&nbsp;which aims to link China by sea and land through an infrastructure network with southeast and central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa&nbsp;for "known problems with corruption, debt distress, environmental damage, and lack of transparency".

At a Security Council meeting on Afghanistan last week, Cohen referred to the impasse with China.

"We strongly believe this mandate is too important at this moment to have one Security Council member deny consensus for reasons having nothing to do with UNAMA," Cohen said.

Chinese UN&nbsp;Ambassador Zhang Jun did not specifically mention the negotiations on the UNAMA resolution, but said China was working with Afghanistan to advance "the Belt and Road construction to actively support the Afghan rebuilding and its reintegration into the regional economic development".

China and the United States are deadlocked over a UN resolution to extend a mission in Afghanistan, with Beijing signalling it will cast a veto because there is no reference to its Belt and Road project, diplomats said on Monday.

China and the United States are deadlocked over a UN resolution to extend a mission in Afghanistan, with Beijing signalling it will cast a veto because there is no reference to its Belt and Road project, diplomats said on Monday. A planned vote on Monday by the 15-member Security Council to renew the UN mission, known as UNAMA, was delayed to Tuesday to allow for more negotiations. The mission's mandate expires on Tuesday. To pass, a resolution needs nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the United States, China, France, Russia and Britain. Ahead of the postponement, diplomats said China was expected to veto a resolution drafted by Germany and Indonesia that did not include a reference to its global Belt and Road infrastructure project. China's UN mission did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China was then planning to propose a vote on a short draft resolution, known as a technical rollover, to allow the mission to keep operating, diplomats said. But they added it could fail to get the nine votes needed to pass because several council members were considering abstaining. Speaking in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she "did not know where this news had come from". The situation in Afghanistan was at a crucial stage and China supported UNAMA - the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan to support reconstruction there, she said. China hoped Security Council members would "jointly safeguard the important consensus reached in the past, respect each other's concerns, continue to carry out constructive cooperation on the Afghan issue and safeguard the unity of the Security Council". The UN mission, which was established in 2002, is helping Afghanistan prepare for a September 28 presidential election and is pushing for peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Talks between the United States and Taliban militants on a US troop withdrawal fell apart this month. There are about 14,000 US troops and thousands of other NATO troops in the country, 18 years after a US-led coalition ousted the Taliban following September 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States. The UNAMA mandate is renewed annually by the Security Council. The resolutions in 2016, 2017 and 2018 all included a reference welcoming and urging efforts, like China's Belt and Road initiative, to facilitate trade and transit. But when it came time to extend the mandate again in March, the United States and other Western council members wanted the language removed, sparking a standoff with China. The council ended up adopting a six-month technical rollover to allow the mission to keep operating. At the time, acting US ambassador Jonathan Cohen denounced China for holding "the resolution hostage" by insisting "on making it about Chinese national political priorities rather than the people of Afghanistan". He criticized Beijing's Belt and Road initiative which aims to link China by sea and land through an infrastructure network with southeast and central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa for "known problems with corruption, debt distress, environmental damage, and lack of transparency". At a Security Council meeting on Afghanistan last week, Cohen referred to the impasse with China. "We strongly believe this mandate is too important at this moment to have one Security Council member deny consensus for reasons having nothing to do with UNAMA," Cohen said. Chinese UN Ambassador Zhang Jun did not specifically mention the negotiations on the UNAMA resolution, but said China was working with Afghanistan to advance "the Belt and Road construction to actively support the Afghan rebuilding and its reintegration into the regional economic development".

Belt and Road row: China, US in standoff over UN mission in Afghanistan

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