Britain has still not proposed any workable alternatives to the Northern Ireland "backstop" provisions of its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-the-brexit-hulk-to-meet-eus-jean-claude-junker-249883">Brexit withdrawal</a> agreement, the EU said Monday after talks between bloc chief Jean-Claude Juncker and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The first face-to-face encounter between Johnson and European Commission president Juncker failed to yield any major breakthrough, although Downing Street insisted it had been a "constructive meeting".

Johnson says <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-liberal-democrat-leader-says-her-party-will-not-support-any-brexit-deal-249809">Britain will not agree</a> to a divorce deal that includes the backstop, a provision which temporarily keeps the UK in the EU customs union to keep the Irish border open, and will not delay Brexit beyond October 31, even if it means leaving with no deal.

Juncker's office said he used the lunch meeting in Luxembourg to reiterate the EU view that it is Britain's responsibility to come up with a workable alternative to he backstop, which was agreed by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May but rejected by MPs.

"President Juncker recalled that it is the UK's responsibility to come forward with legally operational solutions that are compatible with the Withdrawal Agreement," a statement from Juncker's office said.

"President Juncker underlined the Commission's continued willingness and openness to examine whether such proposals meet the objectives of the backstop. Such proposals have not yet been made."

Alongside the main meeting, EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier also held talks with British Brexit Minister Stephen Barclay.

A small but noisy clutch of anti-Brexit protesters greeted Johnson as he arrived and left the talks, singing the "Ode to Joy" EU anthem, waving flags and chanting slogans.

With just six weeks to go before Brexit day, the two sides have agreed to step up the pace of talks, Downing Street said, with negotiators to start meeting "soon" on a daily basis rather than twice a week as at present.

"It was agreed that talks should also take place at a political level between Michel Barnier and the Brexit Secretary, and conversations would also continue between President Juncker and the prime minister," a spokesperson said.

Britain has still not proposed any workable alternatives to the Northern Ireland "backstop" provisions of its Brexit withdrawal agreement, the EU said Monday after talks between bloc chief Jean-Claude Juncker and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Britain has still not proposed any workable alternatives to the Northern Ireland "backstop" provisions of its Brexit withdrawal agreement, the EU said Monday after talks between bloc chief Jean-Claude Juncker and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The first face-to-face encounter between Johnson and European Commission president Juncker failed to yield any major breakthrough, although Downing Street insisted it had been a "constructive meeting". Johnson says Britain will not agree to a divorce deal that includes the backstop, a provision which temporarily keeps the UK in the EU customs union to keep the Irish border open, and will not delay Brexit beyond October 31, even if it means leaving with no deal. Juncker's office said he used the lunch meeting in Luxembourg to reiterate the EU view that it is Britain's responsibility to come up with a workable alternative to he backstop, which was agreed by Johnson's predecessor Theresa May but rejected by MPs. "President Juncker recalled that it is the UK's responsibility to come forward with legally operational solutions that are compatible with the Withdrawal Agreement," a statement from Juncker's office said. "President Juncker underlined the Commission's continued willingness and openness to examine whether such proposals meet the objectives of the backstop. Such proposals have not yet been made." Alongside the main meeting, EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier also held talks with British Brexit Minister Stephen Barclay. A small but noisy clutch of anti-Brexit protesters greeted Johnson as he arrived and left the talks, singing the "Ode to Joy" EU anthem, waving flags and chanting slogans. With just six weeks to go before Brexit day, the two sides have agreed to step up the pace of talks, Downing Street said, with negotiators to start meeting "soon" on a daily basis rather than twice a week as at present. "It was agreed that talks should also take place at a political level between Michel Barnier and the Brexit Secretary, and conversations would also continue between President Juncker and the prime minister," a spokesperson said.

Still no workable alternative from UK on Northern Ireland 'backstop' provision: EU

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">Solomon Islands</a> after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable".

"The cabinet of the Solomon Islands government decided to switch diplomatic relations to the People's Republic of China," foreign minister Joseph Wu announced at a press conference in Taipei on Monday.

"The government hereby declares the termination of diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands with immediate effect," he added.

The move is yet another diplomatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-approves-sale-of-66-f-16-fighters-to-taiwan-244591">blow for Taiwan</a> which has seen its few remaining allies steadily whittled down by Beijing.

Only 16 nations still diplomatically recognise the island over Beijing.&nbsp;

Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it -&nbsp;by force if necessary.

Over the decades, as China's economic and military power has grown, dozens of countries, including the United States and most Western nations, have switched recognition to Beijing.

In the last few years only a handful of countries have remained loyal to Taiwan, largely in Latin America and the Pacific.

But Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan after the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who hails from a party that refused to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China".

Since her election, six of Taiwan's allies have now defected.

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the Solomon Islands after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable".

Taiwan on Monday severed ties with the Solomon Islands after learning the Pacific nation had decided to switch diplomatic recognition to China, a decision it described as "extremely regrettable". "The cabinet of the Solomon Islands government decided to switch diplomatic relations to the People's Republic of China," foreign minister Joseph Wu announced at a press conference in Taipei on Monday. "The government hereby declares the termination of diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands with immediate effect," he added. The move is yet another diplomatic blow for Taiwan which has seen its few remaining allies steadily whittled down by Beijing. Only 16 nations still diplomatically recognise the island over Beijing. Taiwan has been a de facto sovereign nation since the end of a civil war in 1949, but China still views the island as its territory and has vowed to seize it - by force if necessary. Over the decades, as China's economic and military power has grown, dozens of countries, including the United States and most Western nations, have switched recognition to Beijing. In the last few years only a handful of countries have remained loyal to Taiwan, largely in Latin America and the Pacific. But Beijing stepped up its campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan after the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, who hails from a party that refused to recognise the idea that the island is part of "one China". Since her election, six of Taiwan's allies have now defected.

Solomon Islands has switched relations to China, our diplomatic relations terminated: Taiwan

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gm-recalls-35-mn-vehicles-on-brake-issue-249068">strike against General Motors</a> on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse.

The move to strike, which the Wall Street Journal described as the first major stoppage at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-barbs-general-motors-announces-18-billion-investment-new-jobs-204938">GM in more than a decade</a>, came after the manufacturer's four-year contract with workers expired without an agreement on a replacement.

Local union leaders met in Detroit "and opted to strike at midnight on Sunday," the UAW said on its Twitter account.

"This is our last resort," Terry Dittes, the union's lead negotiator with GM, told a news conference after the meeting. "We are standing up for the fundamental rights of working people in this country."

UAW officials said the two sides remained far apart in the contract negotiations, with disagreements on wages, health care benefits, the status of temporary workers and job security.

"Our members have spoken; we have taken action; and this is a decision we did not make lightly," Ted Krumm, chair of the UAW's national bargaining committee, said in a statement.

"We are standing up for what is right," Krumm said.

Hours before the strike began, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!"

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Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!
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Democratic presidential hopefuls also took to Twitter, to voice support for the strike.

"A job is about a lot more than a paycheck. It's about dignity and respect," frontrunner Joe Biden wrote.

Bernie Sanders urged GM to "end the greed."

"Sit down with the UAW and work out an agreement that treats your workers with the respect and dignity they deserve," the Vermont senator tweeted.

GM's last major strike, according to the Journal, was in 2007 when 73,000 workers at more than 89 facilities walked off the job for two days.&nbsp;

In a statement, GM said it was "disappointing" that the UAW's leadership had decided to call the strike, saying it had presented a "strong offer" in contract negotiations.

"We have negotiated in good faith and with a sense of urgency. Our goal remains to build a strong future for our employees and our business," it said.

UAW's leadership had previously won overwhelming approval from its rank-and-file for a strike if it became necessary.

Workers at Ford and Fiat Chrysler agreed to extend their contracts, but GM management was informed Saturday that the union would not extend its contract.

Earlier on Sunday, contract maintenance workers walked off the job at GM plants in Michigan and Ohio in a parallel dispute with contractor Aramark.

GM has enjoyed several years of strong sales, posting $11.8 billion in operating profits last year, prompting union officials to argue it is time to share the wealth with workers who have borne the brunt of downturns.

But the outlook for GM is less clear, with concerns growing that a recession may be in the offing amid protracted trade tensions.

GM announced last November it was effectively shuttering five plants in North America, including facilities in Michigan and Ohio that were "unallocated" for production.

Protecting jobs and saving those plants have been key issues in the negotiations.

In its response to the strike, GM's management revealed that its offer included a promise of $7 billion in investments that would save or protect 5,400 union jobs and address the issue of the two "unallocated" plants.

It also promised that a new all-electric truck would be built in a US plant.

Adding to the friction is a federal corruption probe of the union leadership, which resulted in an FBI search last month of the home of UAW President Gary Jones.

A member of the UAW's executive board, Vance Pearson, was arrested on Thursday on charges of conspiracy to use union dues for lavish personal expenses.

Pearson, a UAW director in St. Louis, Missouri, was accused of using union conferences as a cover to justify long-term stays at luxury resorts in California.

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide strike against General Motors on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse.

The United Auto Workers union began a nationwide strike against General Motors on Monday, with some 46,000 members walking off the job after contract talks hit an impasse. The move to strike, which the Wall Street Journal described as the first major stoppage at GM in more than a decade, came after the manufacturer's four-year contract with workers expired without an agreement on a replacement. Local union leaders met in Detroit "and opted to strike at midnight on Sunday," the UAW said on its Twitter account. "This is our last resort," Terry Dittes, the union's lead negotiator with GM, told a news conference after the meeting. "We are standing up for the fundamental rights of working people in this country." UAW officials said the two sides remained far apart in the contract negotiations, with disagreements on wages, health care benefits, the status of temporary workers and job security. "Our members have spoken; we have taken action; and this is a decision we did not make lightly," Ted Krumm, chair of the UAW's national bargaining committee, said in a statement. "We are standing up for what is right," Krumm said. Hours before the strike began, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal!" Here we go again with General Motors and the United Auto Workers. Get together and make a deal! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 15, 2019 × Democratic presidential hopefuls also took to Twitter, to voice support for the strike. "A job is about a lot more than a paycheck. It's about dignity and respect," frontrunner Joe Biden wrote. Bernie Sanders urged GM to "end the greed." "Sit down with the UAW and work out an agreement that treats your workers with the respect and dignity they deserve," the Vermont senator tweeted. GM's last major strike, according to the Journal, was in 2007 when 73,000 workers at more than 89 facilities walked off the job for two days. In a statement, GM said it was "disappointing" that the UAW's leadership had decided to call the strike, saying it had presented a "strong offer" in contract negotiations. "We have negotiated in good faith and with a sense of urgency. Our goal remains to build a strong future for our employees and our business," it said. UAW's leadership had previously won overwhelming approval from its rank-and-file for a strike if it became necessary. Workers at Ford and Fiat Chrysler agreed to extend their contracts, but GM management was informed Saturday that the union would not extend its contract. Earlier on Sunday, contract maintenance workers walked off the job at GM plants in Michigan and Ohio in a parallel dispute with contractor Aramark. GM has enjoyed several years of strong sales, posting $11.8 billion in operating profits last year, prompting union officials to argue it is time to share the wealth with workers who have borne the brunt of downturns. But the outlook for GM is less clear, with concerns growing that a recession may be in the offing amid protracted trade tensions. GM announced last November it was effectively shuttering five plants in North America, including facilities in Michigan and Ohio that were "unallocated" for production. Protecting jobs and saving those plants have been key issues in the negotiations. In its response to the strike, GM's management revealed that its offer included a promise of $7 billion in investments that would save or protect 5,400 union jobs and address the issue of the two "unallocated" plants. It also promised that a new all-electric truck would be built in a US plant. Adding to the friction is a federal corruption probe of the union leadership, which resulted in an FBI search last month of the home of UAW President Gary Jones. A member of the UAW's executive board, Vance Pearson, was arrested on Thursday on charges of conspiracy to use union dues for lavish personal expenses. Pearson, a UAW director in St. Louis, Missouri, was accused of using union conferences as a cover to justify long-term stays at luxury resorts in California.

General Motors workers begin nationwide strike in US

Oil prices surged nearly 20 per cent at one point on Monday, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dollar-falls-oil-exporter-currencies-rise-after-saudi-attacks-yen-firms-249915">Brent crude posting</a> its biggest intraday gain since the Gulf War in 1991, after an attack on Saudi Arabian oil facilities at the weekend halved the kingdom's production.

Prices came off their peaks after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump authorised the use of his country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-soar-more-than-10-after-saudi-plant-attacks-249877">emergency stockpile</a> to ensure stable supply.

Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, rose as much as 19.5 per cent&nbsp;to $71.95 per barrel, the biggest intraday jump since January,&nbsp;14, 1991. By 0940 GMT, the contract was at $65.77, up $5.55 or 8.4 per cent.

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US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures climbed as much as 15.5 per cent&nbsp;to $63.34, the biggest intraday percentage gain since June 22, 1998. The contract was later at $59.54, up $4.69 or 7.88 per cent.

&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia is the world's biggest oil exporter and the attack on state-owned producer Saudi Aramco's crude-processing facilities at Abqaiq and Khurais has cut output by 5.7 million barrels per day. The company has not given a timeline for the resumption of full output.

Two sources briefed on Aramco's operations said a full return to normal production volumes "may take months".

"To take out over 5 per cent&nbsp;of global supply in a single strike - a volume exceeding cumulative non-OPEC supply growth over 2014-2018 - is highly worrying," UBS analysts said in a note.

"The departure of US&nbsp;National Security Advisor John Bolton last week was interpreted by many as a reduction in political risk - this event may be significant magnitudes more consequential."

Trump said he had approved the release of oil from the US&nbsp;Strategic Petroleum Reserve if needed in a quantity to be determined.

Trump also said the United States was "locked and loaded" for a potential response to the attack.

Major importers of Saudi crude, such as India, China and Indonesia, will be the most vulnerable to the supply disruption.

Saudi oil exports will continue as normal this week as the kingdom taps into stocks from its large storage facilities, an industry source briefed on the developments told Reuters.

South Korea said it would consider releasing oil from its strategic reserves if circumstances worsened in the wake of Saturday's attacks.

The attack on plants in the heartland of Saudi Arabia's oil industry, including the world's biggest petroleum-processing facility at Abqaiq, came from the direction of Iran, and cruise missiles may have been used, a US&nbsp;official said.

"Growing fears of a supply squeeze and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East will add a risk premium for oil prices," said Benjamin Lu, analyst at Singapore-based brokerage Phillip Futures.

Saudi Arabia is set to become a significant buyer of refined products after the attacks, consultancy Energy Aspects said.

Saudi Aramco is likely to buy significant quantities of gasoline, diesel and possibly fuel oil while cutting liquefied petroleum gas exports.

US&nbsp;gasoline futures rose as much as 12.9 per cent, while US&nbsp;heating oil futures gained 10.8 per cent. China's Shanghai crude futures rose to their trading limit gaining 8 per cent at the open.

&nbsp;

Oil prices surged nearly 20 per cent at one point on Monday, with Brent crude posting its biggest intraday gain since the Gulf War in 1991, after an attack on Saudi Arabian oil facilities at the weekend halved the kingdom's production.

Oil prices surged nearly 20 per cent at one point on Monday, with Brent crude posting its biggest intraday gain since the Gulf War in 1991, after an attack on Saudi Arabian oil facilities at the weekend halved the kingdom's production. Prices came off their peaks after US President Donald Trump authorised the use of his country's emergency stockpile to ensure stable supply. Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, rose as much as 19.5 per cent to $71.95 per barrel, the biggest intraday jump since January, 14, 1991. By 0940 GMT, the contract was at $65.77, up $5.55 or 8.4 per cent. Watch Video: US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures climbed as much as 15.5 per cent to $63.34, the biggest intraday percentage gain since June 22, 1998. The contract was later at $59.54, up $4.69 or 7.88 per cent. Saudi Arabia is the world's biggest oil exporter and the attack on state-owned producer Saudi Aramco's crude-processing facilities at Abqaiq and Khurais has cut output by 5.7 million barrels per day. The company has not given a timeline for the resumption of full output. Two sources briefed on Aramco's operations said a full return to normal production volumes "may take months". "To take out over 5 per cent of global supply in a single strike - a volume exceeding cumulative non-OPEC supply growth over 2014-2018 - is highly worrying," UBS analysts said in a note. "The departure of US National Security Advisor John Bolton last week was interpreted by many as a reduction in political risk - this event may be significant magnitudes more consequential." Trump said he had approved the release of oil from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve if needed in a quantity to be determined. Trump also said the United States was "locked and loaded" for a potential response to the attack. Major importers of Saudi crude, such as India, China and Indonesia, will be the most vulnerable to the supply disruption. Saudi oil exports will continue as normal this week as the kingdom taps into stocks from its large storage facilities, an industry source briefed on the developments told Reuters. South Korea said it would consider releasing oil from its strategic reserves if circumstances worsened in the wake of Saturday's attacks. The attack on plants in the heartland of Saudi Arabia's oil industry, including the world's biggest petroleum-processing facility at Abqaiq, came from the direction of Iran, and cruise missiles may have been used, a US official said. "Growing fears of a supply squeeze and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East will add a risk premium for oil prices," said Benjamin Lu, analyst at Singapore-based brokerage Phillip Futures. Saudi Arabia is set to become a significant buyer of refined products after the attacks, consultancy Energy Aspects said. Saudi Aramco is likely to buy significant quantities of gasoline, diesel and possibly fuel oil while cutting liquefied petroleum gas exports. US gasoline futures rose as much as 12.9 per cent, while US heating oil futures gained 10.8 per cent. China's Shanghai crude futures rose to their trading limit gaining 8 per cent at the open.

International oil prices surge nearly 20% after attack on Saudi oil facilities

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-blames-myanmar-for-rohingya-repatriation-failure-249197">Rohingyas remaining in Myanmar</a> still face a "serious risk of genocide", UN investigators said on Monday, warning the repatriation of a million already driven from the country by the army remains "impossible".

The fact-finding mission to Myanmar, set up by the Human Rights Council, last year branded the army operations in 2017 as "genocide" and called for the prosecution of top generals, including army chief Min Aung Hlaing.

Some 740,000 Rohingya fled burning villages, bringing accounts of murder, rape and torture over the border to sprawling refugee camps in Bangladesh, where survivors of previous waves of persecution already languish.

But in a damning report, the UN team said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-halts-new-sim-card-sale-in-rohingya-camps-248751">600,000 Rohingya</a> still inside Myanmar's Rakhine state remain in deteriorating and "deplorable" conditions.

"Myanmar continues to harbour genocidal intent and the Rohingya remain under serious risk of genocide," the investigators said in their final report on Myanmar, due to be presented Tuesday in Geneva.

The country is "denying wrongdoing, destroying evidence, refusing to conduct effective investigations and clearing, razing, confiscating and building on land from which it displaced Rohingya," it said.

Myanmar military spokesman Zaw Min Tun rejected the team's findings, calling them "one-sided".

"Instead of making biased accusations, they should go onto the ground to see the reality," Zaw Min Tun said.

Rohingyas remaining in Myanmar still face a "serious risk of genocide", UN investigators said on Monday, warning the repatriation of a million already driven from the country by the army remains "impossible".

Rohingyas remaining in Myanmar still face a "serious risk of genocide", UN investigators said on Monday, warning the repatriation of a million already driven from the country by the army remains "impossible". The fact-finding mission to Myanmar, set up by the Human Rights Council, last year branded the army operations in 2017 as "genocide" and called for the prosecution of top generals, including army chief Min Aung Hlaing. Some 740,000 Rohingya fled burning villages, bringing accounts of murder, rape and torture over the border to sprawling refugee camps in Bangladesh, where survivors of previous waves of persecution already languish. But in a damning report, the UN team said the 600,000 Rohingya still inside Myanmar's Rakhine state remain in deteriorating and "deplorable" conditions. "Myanmar continues to harbour genocidal intent and the Rohingya remain under serious risk of genocide," the investigators said in their final report on Myanmar, due to be presented Tuesday in Geneva. The country is "denying wrongdoing, destroying evidence, refusing to conduct effective investigations and clearing, razing, confiscating and building on land from which it displaced Rohingya," it said. Myanmar military spokesman Zaw Min Tun rejected the team's findings, calling them "one-sided". "Instead of making biased accusations, they should go onto the ground to see the reality," Zaw Min Tun said.

600,000 Rohingyas in Myanmar still at 'serious risk of genocide': United Nations

European powers on Friday called on Iran to cooperate with the UN's nuclear watchdog, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-nuclear-chief-eu-has-failed-to-fulfil-2015-deal-commitments-248415">International Atomic Energy Agency</a>, after Tehran warned that undue pressure from the US and Israel could jeopardise the agency's activities in Iran.

In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany and the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini called on Tehran "to cooperate with the IAEA on all relevant matters, including safeguards issues".

The four European signatories of the 2015 accord on Iran's nuclear programme said they were "deeply concerned" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-up-advanced-centrifuges-in-latest-nuclear-step-248329">by an IAEA report</a> that showed Iran was installing advanced centrifuges.

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Expressing fears that the nuclear deal "further unravels", they urged Iran "to reverse all activities that are inconsistent with its commitments".

US President Donald Trump last year pulled out of the deal on curbing Iran's nuclear programme and reimposed crippling economic sanctions, throwing the accord into jeopardy.

European powers led by French President Emmanuel Macron have been scrambling to try to save the accord and to convince Iran, which has begun reneging on some of its nuclear commitments, to abide by the agreement.

Tehran on Wednesday accused the US and Israel of applying "undue pressure" on the IAEA to vet its nuclear programme and warned it could be "counterproductive" to its cooperation with the agency.

Tehran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharib Abadi, said statements by Israel and the US could jeopardise Iran's "constructive, timely and proactive cooperation" with the watchdog. 
&nbsp;

European powers on Friday called on Iran to cooperate with the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, after Tehran warned that undue pressure from the US and Israel could jeopardise the agency's activities in Iran.

European powers on Friday called on Iran to cooperate with the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, after Tehran warned that undue pressure from the US and Israel could jeopardise the agency's activities in Iran. In a joint statement, Britain, France, Germany and the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini called on Tehran "to cooperate with the IAEA on all relevant matters, including safeguards issues". The four European signatories of the 2015 accord on Iran's nuclear programme said they were "deeply concerned" by an IAEA report that showed Iran was installing advanced centrifuges. Watch Video: Expressing fears that the nuclear deal "further unravels", they urged Iran "to reverse all activities that are inconsistent with its commitments". US President Donald Trump last year pulled out of the deal on curbing Iran's nuclear programme and reimposed crippling economic sanctions, throwing the accord into jeopardy. European powers led by French President Emmanuel Macron have been scrambling to try to save the accord and to convince Iran, which has begun reneging on some of its nuclear commitments, to abide by the agreement. Tehran on Wednesday accused the US and Israel of applying "undue pressure" on the IAEA to vet its nuclear programme and warned it could be "counterproductive" to its cooperation with the agency. Tehran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharib Abadi, said statements by Israel and the US could jeopardise Iran's "constructive, timely and proactive cooperation" with the watchdog.

Britain, France, Germany & EU urge Iran to cooperate with IAEA on nuclear issue

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-approaches-international-community-over-kashmir-but-commits-genocide-in-balochistan-baloch-leader-248933"> at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan</a> Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the &nbsp;"ambassador of Kashmiri people".

The Pakistan prime minister who is set to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly in a fortnight set the stage during his address at&nbsp;PoK. "I am going to the UN General Assembly in New York and I will not disappoint the Kashmiri people," he said in a clear message that he would rake up the Kashmir issue during the congregation of world leaders later in the month.

Despite Imran's claim of support, several nations including organisation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kashmir-issue-does-not-concern-muslim-community-uae-snubs-pakistan-247853">Islamic cooperation(OIC) members </a>have backed India's move on abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

In fact, Pakistan's ally China had attempted to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UNSC last month calling for a consultative meet. In a huge diplomatic setback for Pakistan, the meeting ended with Russia, France, UK and US backing India. The&nbsp;consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for Jammy and Kashmir, Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Kashmir by reaching out to global capitals but it hasn't received any traction.

In his PoK speech, Imran Khan attacked PM Modi blaming him for the "injustice" in Kashmir. "Today Kashmir has been internationalised," the Pakistan prime minister told the crowd.

The Pakistan prime minister said India was "pushing" Muslim citizens towards "extremism".

Imran referred to the February 27 incident when Pak jets entered Indian airspace asserting that Pak Air Force brought down down the Indian jet. Imran said the government returned the pilot because he wanted to "solve issues through dialogue".

"Let me go to the United Nations and fight Kashmir's case," the Pakistan prime said while concluding his speech.

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the "ambassador of Kashmiri people".

In a bid to keep the Kashmir issue in focus, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today gave a speech at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(PoK) asserting that he was the "ambassador of Kashmiri people". The Pakistan prime minister who is set to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly in a fortnight set the stage during his address at PoK. "I am going to the UN General Assembly in New York and I will not disappoint the Kashmiri people," he said in a clear message that he would rake up the Kashmir issue during the congregation of world leaders later in the month. Despite Imran's claim of support, several nations including organisation of Islamic cooperation(OIC) members have backed India's move on abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In fact, Pakistan's ally China had attempted to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UNSC last month calling for a consultative meet. In a huge diplomatic setback for Pakistan, the meeting ended with Russia, France, UK and US backing India. The consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have. In the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for Jammy and Kashmir, Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Kashmir by reaching out to global capitals but it hasn't received any traction. In his PoK speech, Imran Khan attacked PM Modi blaming him for the "injustice" in Kashmir. "Today Kashmir has been internationalised," the Pakistan prime minister told the crowd. The Pakistan prime minister said India was "pushing" Muslim citizens towards "extremism". Imran referred to the February 27 incident when Pak jets entered Indian airspace asserting that Pak Air Force brought down down the Indian jet. Imran said the government returned the pilot because he wanted to "solve issues through dialogue". "Let me go to the United Nations and fight Kashmir's case," the Pakistan prime said while concluding his speech.

In PoK rally, Imran rakes up Kashmir, set to bring up issue at UNGA

Paris metro workers on Friday went off work over President's Macron's pension plan as thousands of commuters were left waiting on platforms with main <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-yellow-vest-protesters-look-to-revive-movement-248327">suburban lines coming</a> to a virtual standstill.

"Ten of the city's 16 metro lines were shut down completely, while service on most others was extremely disrupted, Paris RATP transit operator told AFP.

French metro workers say &nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-reviews-police-methods-after-yellow-vest-protests-228069">universal pension system</a> works against them as it takes away their right for early retirement which was agreed upon decades ago as a compensation for working long hours.

During his election campaign, Macron had pledged to relook the pension plans and had sought reforms. The plan seeks to merge forty-two different pension systems into a single-point based system.

The current plan ensures workers would now retire at age 62 with reduced pension with full pension available from 64.

Lawyers, airline pilots, stewards and medical workers have also decided to join the protest, calling for a separate strike on Monday.

As a result of the strike, people were left stranded with several looking for alternate avenues to move around the city. &nbsp;French officials said there were 235km of traffic jams with media reports of crammed platforms on metro lines.

The strikes come close on the heels of the "yellow vest" protests last month when anti-government protesters calling for social justice sought the ouster of President Emmanuel Macron.

Paris saw an upsurge of violence as thousands of protesters took to the streets to clash with police as authorities repeatedly used tear gas shells to quell the violence. The protests spread to other cities Marseille, Rouen, Lille, Strasbourg, Dijon, Bordeaux and Toulouse as police arrested several protesters amid large scale violence.

Paris metro workers on Friday went off work over President's Macron's pension plan as thousands of commuters were left waiting on platforms with main suburban lines coming to a virtual standstill.

Paris metro workers on Friday went off work over President's Macron's pension plan as thousands of commuters were left waiting on platforms with main suburban lines coming to a virtual standstill. "Ten of the city's 16 metro lines were shut down completely, while service on most others was extremely disrupted, Paris RATP transit operator told AFP. French metro workers say President Emmanuel Macron's universal pension system works against them as it takes away their right for early retirement which was agreed upon decades ago as a compensation for working long hours. During his election campaign, Macron had pledged to relook the pension plans and had sought reforms. The plan seeks to merge forty-two different pension systems into a single-point based system. The current plan ensures workers would now retire at age 62 with reduced pension with full pension available from 64. Lawyers, airline pilots, stewards and medical workers have also decided to join the protest, calling for a separate strike on Monday. As a result of the strike, people were left stranded with several looking for alternate avenues to move around the city. French officials said there were 235km of traffic jams with media reports of crammed platforms on metro lines. The strikes come close on the heels of the "yellow vest" protests last month when anti-government protesters calling for social justice sought the ouster of President Emmanuel Macron. Paris saw an upsurge of violence as thousands of protesters took to the streets to clash with police as authorities repeatedly used tear gas shells to quell the violence. The protests spread to other cities Marseille, Rouen, Lille, Strasbourg, Dijon, Bordeaux and Toulouse as police arrested several protesters amid large scale violence.

Paris faces traffic chaos as metro workers strike over Macron's pension reform

Boeing's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-regulator-discrepancies-over-boeing-737-max-worry-international-air-transport-association-247510">737 MAX could be brought back </a>into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday.

"A phased ungrounding is a possibility," Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg said at an investor conference in California.&nbsp;

The aircraft has been grounded since mid-March following two deadly crashes but could return to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/financial-hit-from-737-max-will-not-slow-appetite-for-services-deals-boeing-ceo-dennis-muilenburg-246131">air on a staggered schedule</a> in different countries.

Muilenburg said the company is still working through a number of questions with the US Federal Aviation &nbsp;Administration and other regulators but that "all of that work supports our timeline for an early fourth quarter return to service."

The company is addressing questions from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which has expressed concerns about pilot training requirements and about a malfunction of the "angle of attack" which triggered an anti-stall system linked to the deadly crashes of Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines planes.

"I wouldn't see those as divisive," Muilenburg said of the EASA queries. "I just think those are questions that we need to answer as part of the process."

Boeing has cut production of the 737 MAX from 52 to 42 per month due to the grounding and said in July it could cut production further or even temporarily halt output if the grounding drags out much longer.

Muilenburg said the company still viewed a temporary shutdown as a possibility under certain scenarios, but that "our bias right now is to maintain a stable rate at 42 a month."

Boeing's 737 MAX could be brought back into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday.

Boeing's 737 MAX could be brought back into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday. "A phased ungrounding is a possibility," Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg said at an investor conference in California. The aircraft has been grounded since mid-March following two deadly crashes but could return to the air on a staggered schedule in different countries. Muilenburg said the company is still working through a number of questions with the US Federal Aviation Administration and other regulators but that "all of that work supports our timeline for an early fourth quarter return to service." The company is addressing questions from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which has expressed concerns about pilot training requirements and about a malfunction of the "angle of attack" which triggered an anti-stall system linked to the deadly crashes of Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines planes. "I wouldn't see those as divisive," Muilenburg said of the EASA queries. "I just think those are questions that we need to answer as part of the process." Boeing has cut production of the 737 MAX from 52 to 42 per month due to the grounding and said in July it could cut production further or even temporarily halt output if the grounding drags out much longer. Muilenburg said the company still viewed a temporary shutdown as a possibility under certain scenarios, but that "our bias right now is to maintain a stable rate at 42 a month."

Phased ungrounding of Boeing 737 MAX possible: CEO Muilenburg

Indian Army, PLA 'face-off' at Pangong Tso Lake: Why China eyes Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh

A popular Russian rapper on Tuesday deleted a music video singing the praises of Moscow authorities ahead of contentious elections after it gathered almost 1.5 million dislikes on YouTube.

Timati, a 36-year-old rapper known for his fervent support of President Vladimir Putin, posted the video, titled simply "Moscow", shortly before Muscovites were set to vote in elections for city parliament on Sunday that had caused mass protests.

"I don't go to rallies, I don't bullshit," the song goes, apparently referring to weeks of protests in Moscow after the authorities barred opposition candidates from running in the polls.

Lyrics in the clip praise the Russian capital as a wealthy city that has become "world standard" and "doesn't hold gay parades."

"I will down a burger for Sobyanin," the song says, referring to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a Putin ally who has been in charge since 2010 and is detested by the opposition for refusing permission for rallies and cracking down on protesters.

Timati, who is ranked the seventh wealthiest celebrity under 40 in Russia by Forbes magazine, made the video together with another rapper, Guf.

The video had gained 1.48 million dislikes when Timati took it down on Tuesday, writing on Instagram that he did not intend any offence.

"I'm deleting the video to stop this wave of negativity," he wrote. "I made a record. Only I didn't have such a goal."

In Instagram comments, Russians mocked Timati, accusing him of being a sellout and getting paid by the authorities to make propaganda.

"The world's first government rapper. I'm sorry for his fans," one commentator wrote.

"Did you also return the money to those who ordered (the video)?" asked another.

"I am proud of our young people who understand politics," he says.

"I'm sorry that I don't follow the political situation in the country."

According to Wikipedia, the video is the 30th most disliked in YouTube history and the most disliked Russian music video.

The Russian opposition has accused celebrities of engaging in paid propaganda before.

Last year a wave of nearly identical messages praising the positive changes in Moscow appeared on celebrities' social media ahead of the mayoral polls swept by Sobyanin.

Other Russian rappers have performed at opposition protests and expressed solidarity with people arrested over the summer.

A popular Russian rapper on Tuesday deleted a music video singing the praises of Moscow authorities ahead of contentious elections after it gathered almost 1.5 million dislikes on YouTube.

A popular Russian rapper on Tuesday deleted a music video singing the praises of Moscow authorities ahead of contentious elections after it gathered almost 1.5 million dislikes on YouTube. Timati, a 36-year-old rapper known for his fervent support of President Vladimir Putin, posted the video, titled simply "Moscow", shortly before Muscovites were set to vote in elections for city parliament on Sunday that had caused mass protests. "I don't go to rallies, I don't bullshit," the song goes, apparently referring to weeks of protests in Moscow after the authorities barred opposition candidates from running in the polls. Lyrics in the clip praise the Russian capital as a wealthy city that has become "world standard" and "doesn't hold gay parades." "I will down a burger for Sobyanin," the song says, referring to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a Putin ally who has been in charge since 2010 and is detested by the opposition for refusing permission for rallies and cracking down on protesters. Timati, who is ranked the seventh wealthiest celebrity under 40 in Russia by Forbes magazine, made the video together with another rapper, Guf. The video had gained 1.48 million dislikes when Timati took it down on Tuesday, writing on Instagram that he did not intend any offence. "I'm deleting the video to stop this wave of negativity," he wrote. "I made a record. Only I didn't have such a goal." In Instagram comments, Russians mocked Timati, accusing him of being a sellout and getting paid by the authorities to make propaganda. "The world's first government rapper. I'm sorry for his fans," one commentator wrote. "Did you also return the money to those who ordered (the video)?" asked another. "I am proud of our young people who understand politics," he says. "I'm sorry that I don't follow the political situation in the country." According to Wikipedia, the video is the 30th most disliked in YouTube history and the most disliked Russian music video. The Russian opposition has accused celebrities of engaging in paid propaganda before. Last year a wave of nearly identical messages praising the positive changes in Moscow appeared on celebrities' social media ahead of the mayoral polls swept by Sobyanin. Other Russian rappers have performed at opposition protests and expressed solidarity with people arrested over the summer.

Russian rapper deletes pro-Moscow video with 1.5 million dislikes

Beijing summoned the German ambassador after a meeting between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fury-as-hks-joshua-wong-meets-german-foreign-minister-248831">Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong</a> and Germany's foreign minister, China's envoy said Wednesday, as a row between the trading giants escalated over the widening pro-democracy protests in the Asian financial hub.

Wong, 22, had arrived late Monday in the German capital, where he met German<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-joshua-wong-on-way-to-germany-us-after-brief-detention-248594"> foreign minister Heiko Maas </a>at an event hosted by the daily newspaper Bild -&nbsp;a meeting China branded "disrespectful".

"The ambassador was summoned in Beijing by the foreign ministry," China's ambassador to Germany Wu Ken told reporters, without giving details.

"What I can say is how big the disappointment is on the Chinese side, and we protest very strongly. This incident will have a very negative impact on the bilateral relationship".

China has regularly accused "external forces", notably the United States, of being behind the unrest in Hong Kong.

Millions have taken to Hong Kong's streets over the last 14 weeks in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997.

Wu accused "some radicals" of using democracy as a mask to hide their separatist intentions.

But speaking earlier Wednesday at a press conference, Wong denied being a separatist, saying he simply wants free elections for the former British colony -&nbsp;a promise enshrined in the 1997 handover agreement between Britain and China.

Hong Kong is the new Berlin, the young activist said, alluding to the German capital's divided past where protesters brought down the Wall separating a communist East and a democratic West.

"Three decades ago, no one expected the Soviet Union would fall. No one predicted the Berlin Wall will fall. With our pressure and determination we just hope to let the world (be) aware that the Hong Kong people deserve democracy.

"Some brand me as a separatist. But just let me make it clear: Hong Kong is asking for election system reform. We just hope to elect our own government. We just hope to elect the chief executive of Hong Kong," he told journalists in Berlin.

China has repeatedly warned it will not tolerate any move towards independence for Hong Kong, threatening to crack down hard on any "separatist" groups.

Wong pointed to pledges made in the Hong Kong handover agreement.

"Before 1997, Beijing promised to let the Hong Kong people enjoy the right of free election... so we will continue our fight until the day we enjoy democracy," he vowed.

Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 under a handover agreement that guaranteed the territory certain levels of autonomy and freedoms unseen on the Chinese mainland.&nbsp;

That "one country, two systems" status persists but there are increasing criticisms of Beijing policies in the city, with accusations it is trying to muzzle criticism and keep opponents out of the territory's legislature.&nbsp;

Wong's visit to Germany came on the heels of German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to China, where she stressed on Friday that the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong "must be guaranteed".

Addressing the German parliament on Wednesday, Merkel said she pointed out during her trip that human rights is "indispensable for us".

Wong acknowledged that China's economic might may make world leaders hesitate about speaking out forcefully in favour of the protesters.

But he stressed that "we're not seeking any world leaders or any countries to interfere in Hong Kong's process but it's a must for the free world to support Hong Kong's democratisation".

Statements are not enough, he said, urging concrete action from the West.

German and other European countries should require a human rights clause included in any trade deals with China.

And Washington should pass a bill expressing support for the pro-democracy movement, he added.

Such a law could undermine Hong Kong's special US trade privileges by mandating regular checks on whether authorities were respecting the Basic Law that underpins the city's semi-autonomous status.

Wong will travel to the United States on Friday, where he will seek "bipartisan support" for his cause.

"I'm not sure how many days months or years it would take for us (to obtain) democracy and freedom.

"I hope one day, not only Hong Kong but also mainland China people can enjoy human rights and freedom."

Beijing summoned the German ambassador after a meeting between Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong and Germany's foreign minister, China's envoy said Wednesday, as a row between the trading giants escalated over the widening pro-democracy protests in the Asian financial hub.

Beijing summoned the German ambassador after a meeting between Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong and Germany's foreign minister, China's envoy said Wednesday, as a row between the trading giants escalated over the widening pro-democracy protests in the Asian financial hub. Wong, 22, had arrived late Monday in the German capital, where he met German foreign minister Heiko Maas at an event hosted by the daily newspaper Bild - a meeting China branded "disrespectful". "The ambassador was summoned in Beijing by the foreign ministry," China's ambassador to Germany Wu Ken told reporters, without giving details. "What I can say is how big the disappointment is on the Chinese side, and we protest very strongly. This incident will have a very negative impact on the bilateral relationship". China has regularly accused "external forces", notably the United States, of being behind the unrest in Hong Kong. Millions have taken to Hong Kong's streets over the last 14 weeks in the biggest challenge to China's rule since the city's handover from Britain in 1997. Wu accused "some radicals" of using democracy as a mask to hide their separatist intentions. But speaking earlier Wednesday at a press conference, Wong denied being a separatist, saying he simply wants free elections for the former British colony - a promise enshrined in the 1997 handover agreement between Britain and China. Hong Kong is the new Berlin, the young activist said, alluding to the German capital's divided past where protesters brought down the Wall separating a communist East and a democratic West. "Three decades ago, no one expected the Soviet Union would fall. No one predicted the Berlin Wall will fall. With our pressure and determination we just hope to let the world (be) aware that the Hong Kong people deserve democracy. "Some brand me as a separatist. But just let me make it clear: Hong Kong is asking for election system reform. We just hope to elect our own government. We just hope to elect the chief executive of Hong Kong," he told journalists in Berlin. China has repeatedly warned it will not tolerate any move towards independence for Hong Kong, threatening to crack down hard on any "separatist" groups. Wong pointed to pledges made in the Hong Kong handover agreement. "Before 1997, Beijing promised to let the Hong Kong people enjoy the right of free election... so we will continue our fight until the day we enjoy democracy," he vowed. Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 under a handover agreement that guaranteed the territory certain levels of autonomy and freedoms unseen on the Chinese mainland. That "one country, two systems" status persists but there are increasing criticisms of Beijing policies in the city, with accusations it is trying to muzzle criticism and keep opponents out of the territory's legislature. Wong's visit to Germany came on the heels of German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to China, where she stressed on Friday that the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong "must be guaranteed". Addressing the German parliament on Wednesday, Merkel said she pointed out during her trip that human rights is "indispensable for us". Wong acknowledged that China's economic might may make world leaders hesitate about speaking out forcefully in favour of the protesters. But he stressed that "we're not seeking any world leaders or any countries to interfere in Hong Kong's process but it's a must for the free world to support Hong Kong's democratisation". Statements are not enough, he said, urging concrete action from the West. German and other European countries should require a human rights clause included in any trade deals with China. And Washington should pass a bill expressing support for the pro-democracy movement, he added. Such a law could undermine Hong Kong's special US trade privileges by mandating regular checks on whether authorities were respecting the Basic Law that underpins the city's semi-autonomous status. Wong will travel to the United States on Friday, where he will seek "bipartisan support" for his cause. "I'm not sure how many days months or years it would take for us (to obtain) democracy and freedom. "I hope one day, not only Hong Kong but also mainland China people can enjoy human rights and freedom."

China summons German ambassador over Joshua Wong's Berlin visit

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