Germany plans to ban single-use plastic bags from next year, joining a growing movement to fight global pollution, the environment minister said Friday.

Supermarkets and other retailers will be barred from offering lightweight plastic carrier bags at their checkouts, including those now marketed as being biodegradable or being made from renewable sources instead of petroleum.

"The vast majority of Germans want this ban," said Environment Minister Svenja Schulze of the centre-left Social Democrats, introducing the initiative that she hopes to soon turn into law.

Breaches of the ban, set to take effect in the first half of next year, would threaten businesses with fines of up to 100,000 euros ($110,000), according to a report by Bild newspaper.&nbsp;

Plastic pollution, especially in waterways and oceans, is a major ecological hazard as it injures or kills marine and bird life, fouls beaches and creates giant floating garbage patches in oceans.

Scientists warn that, as plastic slowly breaks down, the micro-particles enter food chains and end up in humans, with studies showing toxic traces in the waste of people in Europe and Asia.

Germany plans to ban single-use plastic bags from next year, joining a growing movement to fight global pollution, the environment minister said Friday. Supermarkets and other retailers will be barred from offering lightweight plastic carrier bags at their checkouts, including those now marketed as being biodegradable or being made from renewable sources instead of petroleum.

Germany plans to ban single-use plastic bags from next year, joining a growing movement to fight global pollution, the environment minister said Friday. Supermarkets and other retailers will be barred from offering lightweight plastic carrier bags at their checkouts, including those now marketed as being biodegradable or being made from renewable sources instead of petroleum. "The vast majority of Germans want this ban," said Environment Minister Svenja Schulze of the centre-left Social Democrats, introducing the initiative that she hopes to soon turn into law. Breaches of the ban, set to take effect in the first half of next year, would threaten businesses with fines of up to 100,000 euros ($110,000), according to a report by Bild newspaper. Plastic pollution, especially in waterways and oceans, is a major ecological hazard as it injures or kills marine and bird life, fouls beaches and creates giant floating garbage patches in oceans. Scientists warn that, as plastic slowly breaks down, the micro-particles enter food chains and end up in humans, with studies showing toxic traces in the waste of people in Europe and Asia.

Germany plans to ban single-use plastic shopping bags next year

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday the rights and freedoms of people in Hong Kong "must be guaranteed" after meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday the rights and freedoms of people in Hong Kong "must be guaranteed" after meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing. Hong Kong has been plunged into months of pro-democracy protests, and ahead of her three-day visit to China, this week demonstrators in the semi-autonomous city appealed to the German chancellor to support them in her meetings with China's leadership. Merkel said she had discussed tensions in the former British colony, and civil rights there, with her hosts and had "pointed out that these rights and freedoms must, of course, be guaranteed". "In the current situation everything must be done to avoid violence," Merkel said at a joint press conference with Li, as seen in video footage published by German media. "And the solutions can only be found in a political process meaning through dialogue." Watch Video: Merkel arrived in China on Thursday with a large business delegation in tow. The companies travelling with Merkel include Volkswagen, Allianz, and Deutsche Bank according to the German daily Bild, which carried a headline Friday that read: "Do our companies not care about Hong Kong's freedom?" Chinese officials blamed a lack of space due to a large contingent of journalists accompanying Merkel. In a statement, the German Federation of Journalists criticised the limited access as a "diplomatic farce". "What image do the organisers have of the travelling German press? Did they think that the chancellor of Germany is coming with her courtiers, who politely listen, ask no questions and report meekly?" it said. Merkel also met Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday evening, according to state news agency Xinhua, and the two leaders were scheduled to have dinner together. The German leader is also due to give a speech to university students in the central city of Wuhan on Saturday. Ahead of her trip, prominent Hong Kong democracy activist Joshua Wong and others had recalled in an open letter published by Bild on Wednesday that Merkel grew up in the communist police state of East Germany. "You have the first-hand experience of the terrors of a dictatorial government," the letter read. "We hope that you will express your concern about our catastrophic situation and that you will convey our demands to the Chinese government during your stay in China." Hong Kong has endured dozens of sometimes violent pro-democracy protests triggered by opposition to a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extradition to mainland China. In their open letter, the protesters also warned that "Germany should be on its guard before doing business with China, as China does not comply with international law and has repeatedly broken its promises". Many Chinese dissidents have been given refuge in Germany, including artist Ai Weiwei. In May, two former Hong kong independence activists were granted refugee status in Germany in what is one of the first cases of dissenters from the semi-autonomous Chinese city receiving such protection. On a visit to China last year, Merkel met with the wife of a Chinese human rights lawyer charged with state subversion, an extremely rare meeting between a dissident and a visiting head of state. The trip marks her 12th visit to China as chancellor. Xinhua said in a commentary on Friday that Merkel's visit came as "productive cooperation between the world's two major economies is much needed against the backdrop of global uncertainties". The agency said China accounted for the largest share of imports into Germany in 2018 with goods worth 106.2 billion euros ($117.4 billion). In a statement, the German Federation of Journalists criticised the limited access as a "diplomatic farce". "What image do the organisers have of the travelling German press? Did they think that the chancellor of Germany is coming with her courtiers, who politely listen, ask no questions and report meekly?" it said. Merkel also met Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday evening, according to state news agency Xinhua, and the two leaders were scheduled to have dinner together. The German leader is also due to give a speech to university students in the central city of Wuhan on Saturday. Ahead of her trip, prominent Hong Kong democracy activist Joshua Wong and others had recalled in an open letter published by Bild on Wednesday that Merkel grew up in the communist police state of East Germany. "You have the first-hand experience of the terrors of a dictatorial government," the letter read. "We hope that you will express your concern about our catastrophic situation and that you will convey our demands to the Chinese government during your stay in China." Hong Kong has endured dozens of sometimes violent pro-democracy protests triggered by opposition to a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extradition to mainland China. In their open letter, the protesters also warned that "Germany should be on its guard before doing business with China, as China does not comply with international law and has repeatedly broken its promises". Many Chinese dissidents have been given refuge in Germany, including artist Ai Weiwei. In May, two former Hong Kong independence activists were granted refugee status in Germany in what is one of the first cases of dissenters from the semi-autonomous Chinese city receiving such protection. On a visit to China last year, Merkel met with the wife of a Chinese human rights lawyer charged with state subversion, an extremely rare meeting between a dissident and a visiting head of state. The trip marks her 12th visit to China as chancellor. Xinhua said in a commentary on Friday that Merkel's visit came as "productive cooperation between the world's two major economies is much needed against the backdrop of global uncertainties". The agency said China accounted for the largest share of imports into Germany in 2018 with goods worth $117.4 billion.

Everything must be done in Hong Kong to avoid violence: Merkel to Chinese premier

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday.

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday. The attack on 65-year-old Ella Pamfilova, at around 1:30 am (Thursday 2330 GMT) came ahead of contentious regional elections on Sunday, which have prompted large protests in Moscow. Police described the attack in a village outside Moscow as "armed assault," saying the offender "entered the house's conservatory via a window and hit the owner with an electric shocker several times, after which he fled". Pamfilova on Friday took part in a press conference and television footage did not show any visible injuries. She told journalists that she is ok. "I'll survive," she was quoted as saying by Interfax. Police have launched a probe into the attack. State media immediately speculated that the attack could be foul play related to elections for Moscow city parliament, criticised by the opposition after authorities barred most independent candidates from standing. "What was it, a robbery or carrying out of an order to disrupt the election?" asked state-controlled Rossiya 24 channel. Meanwhile, top opposition leader Alexei Navalny claimed that the attack was "fake". Electoral officials including Pamfilova have backed the decision to bar opposition candidates, saying the signatures of supporters they gathered to run were invalid. This led to the biggest political crisis in years, with large protests gathering in the capital since July to demand that the opposition be allowed to run. Following mass detentions, several people have been sentenced to long prison terms for attacking police during the rallies. "I hope the culprits are found quickly," wrote one of the rejected opposition candidates, Lyubov Sobol. "Pamfilova should certainly be put on trial for election falsifications. But I'm against extrajudicial punishment."

Armed assault on Russian election chief: Police

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-opposition-parties-discuss-pm-johnsons-brexit-election-gamble-247990">resigning over the Brexit deal</a> which has got entangled in Parliament.

"That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row.

The European Union has set October 31 as the deadline for Britain to exit entity, however, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-in-election-mode-as-he-visits-scotland-after-brexit-setbacks-247908">British Parliament is adamant </a>Johnson cannot walk out with a no-deal. On Thursday, the British prime minister had said he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit.

The House of Commons had voted against Johnson's no-deal Brexit plan on Wednesday as Britain continued to reel in indecision. Johnson is now contemplating snap polls, however, the British Parliament has been adamant against it, despite this, Johnson has put himself on election mode.

"Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said,&nbsp;adding," Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election."

Britain in a referendum had voted against staying in the European Union in 2016 leading to the resignation of former prime minister Cameron, later Theresa May resigned as her party lost confidence in her to deliver Brexit.

Johnson was the face of "Vote Leave" campaign during the refrendum.

On Wednesday, the British Parliament had voted 329 to 300 forcing the government not to leave the EU without a deal allowing a three-month Brexit delay.

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating resigning over the Brexit deal which has got entangled in Parliament. "That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row.

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating resigning over the Brexit deal which has got entangled in Parliament. "That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row. The European Union has set October 31 as the deadline for Britain to exit entity, however, the British Parliament is adamant Johnson cannot walk out with a no-deal. On Thursday, the British prime minister had said he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit. The House of Commons had voted against Johnson's no-deal Brexit plan on Wednesday as Britain continued to reel in indecision. Johnson is now contemplating snap polls, however, the British Parliament has been adamant against it, despite this, Johnson has put himself on election mode. "Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said, adding," Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election." Britain in a referendum had voted against staying in the European Union in 2016 leading to the resignation of former prime minister Cameron, later Theresa May resigned as her party lost confidence in her to deliver Brexit. Johnson was the face of "Vote Leave" campaign during the refrendum. On Wednesday, the British Parliament had voted 329 to 300 forcing the government not to leave the EU without a deal allowing a three-month Brexit delay.

Not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate, Johnson on resignation over Brexit

North Korea is pressing ahead with its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-denies-it-amassed-2-billion-through-cyberattacks-on-banks-247021">nuclear weapons programme</a> while evading sanctions, a United Nations report said, following a series of recent test-launches that have been downplayed by US President Donald Trump.

The reclusive regime has declared a moratorium on nuclear blasts and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-hits-out-at-mike-pompeo-warns-hopes-for-us-talks-disappearing-246829"> long-range missile launches</a>, and last year said its Punggye-ri atomic bomb test site would be dismantled as it was no longer needed.

But the report by a panel of experts, published Thursday, said that despite these moves, Pyongyang's development of nuclear warheads had not stopped.

"The nuclear programme of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea continues to operate, notwithstanding the absence of nuclear testing and the closure of the test site at Punggye-ri," it said.

Trump has embarked on months of personal diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un&nbsp;in a so-far unsuccessful effort to persuade him to give up his atomic arsenal.

Talks between the two nations have been gridlocked for months since a second summit between the pair collapsed without an agreement in Hanoi in February.

One of the sticking points in the Vietnamese capital was the future of North Korea's decades-old Yongbyon nuclear complex, which has long been at the heart of its atomic programme but remains shrouded in secrecy.

One UN member state "assessed that the Yongbyon uranium enrichment facility continues to operate" between early February and early August, the report said.

In that period there was no sign Yongbyon's main reactor had been operated, it added, but "the construction of the light-water reactor continues" while "occasional activity was observed at the radiochemical laboratory", possibly for maintenance.

- Sanctions evasion - 
Trump often points to the absence of the North's nuclear testing and long-range missile firing since late 2017 as one of his diplomatic achievements.

But North Korea has launched multiple rounds of short-range missile tests in recent weeks -- actions the US president has described as "standard", saying he has "no problem" with them.

With its recent weapons tests, North Korea has demonstrated it can "master key components of ballistic missile systems, including solid-rocket fuel production... and the capacity to penetrate ballistic missile defence systems", the UN report said, citing an opinion of a member state.

North Korea is under heavy US and UN sanctions over its nuclear programme.

The UN panel said it had received assessments from member states indicating Pyongyang had breached an annual cap of 500,000 barrels of refined petroleum through "unabated" ship-to-ship transfers in the first four months of this year.

Trump and Kim agreed to restart working-level dialogue during an impromptu meeting at the Demilitarised Zone dividing North and South Korea in June, but those talks have yet to begin.

Pyongyang has not responded to US calls to come to the table and warned last week its expectations for nuclear talks with Washington were "disappearing".

North Korea is pressing ahead with its nuclear weapons programme while evading sanctions, a United Nations report said, following a series of recent test-launches that have been downplayed by US President Donald Trump.

North Korea is pressing ahead with its nuclear weapons programme while evading sanctions, a United Nations report said, following a series of recent test-launches that have been downplayed by US President Donald Trump. The reclusive regime has declared a moratorium on nuclear blasts and long-range missile launches, and last year said its Punggye-ri atomic bomb test site would be dismantled as it was no longer needed. But the report by a panel of experts, published Thursday, said that despite these moves, Pyongyang's development of nuclear warheads had not stopped. "The nuclear programme of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea continues to operate, notwithstanding the absence of nuclear testing and the closure of the test site at Punggye-ri," it said. Trump has embarked on months of personal diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in a so-far unsuccessful effort to persuade him to give up his atomic arsenal. Talks between the two nations have been gridlocked for months since a second summit between the pair collapsed without an agreement in Hanoi in February. One of the sticking points in the Vietnamese capital was the future of North Korea's decades-old Yongbyon nuclear complex, which has long been at the heart of its atomic programme but remains shrouded in secrecy. One UN member state "assessed that the Yongbyon uranium enrichment facility continues to operate" between early February and early August, the report said. In that period there was no sign Yongbyon's main reactor had been operated, it added, but "the construction of the light-water reactor continues" while "occasional activity was observed at the radiochemical laboratory", possibly for maintenance. - Sanctions evasion - Trump often points to the absence of the North's nuclear testing and long-range missile firing since late 2017 as one of his diplomatic achievements. But North Korea has launched multiple rounds of short-range missile tests in recent weeks -- actions the US president has described as "standard", saying he has "no problem" with them. With its recent weapons tests, North Korea has demonstrated it can "master key components of ballistic missile systems, including solid-rocket fuel production... and the capacity to penetrate ballistic missile defence systems", the UN report said, citing an opinion of a member state. North Korea is under heavy US and UN sanctions over its nuclear programme. The UN panel said it had received assessments from member states indicating Pyongyang had breached an annual cap of 500,000 barrels of refined petroleum through "unabated" ship-to-ship transfers in the first four months of this year. Trump and Kim agreed to restart working-level dialogue during an impromptu meeting at the Demilitarised Zone dividing North and South Korea in June, but those talks have yet to begin. Pyongyang has not responded to US calls to come to the table and warned last week its expectations for nuclear talks with Washington were "disappearing".

North Korea's nuclear programme continues to operate: UN

WION and Russian news agency Sputnik exchanged letters of intent on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum(EEF) in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Russia.

The tie-up is a mutual partnership between Federal State Unitary Enterprise Rossiya Segodbya International Information Agency, founder of the Russian media outlet (SPUTNIK) information agency and Zee Media Corporation Limited's entity WION.

Sputnik and WION aim to amplify digital and broadcast content of the two nations with technologically enhanced communication. The MoU will also help facilitate coordination and exchange of information and ideas with various communities of the two countries.

Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor-in-Chief, WION, said: "A glorious friendship that has withstood the test of time and vagaries of history embarks on a journey to deepen mutual respect through culture, education and science. This new era of bilateral cooperation promises to be a model for the world and will demonstrate the importance of soft power in a complex geopolitical landscape."

The partnership will focus on the creation of an interactive platform that develops rich content in all forms to ensure improved understanding of the socio-cultural values of the two nations with a view towards harnessing technological innovation while delivering accurate content. The exchange of content would involve issues related to cultural, humanitarian, economic, sports and political events.

"The ties between Russia and India are very strong historically, and our cooperation will meet this high standard. The Indian media field has requested for news content from our country, and we hope that we can satisfy the needs of the audience," Vasily Pushkov,&nbsp;Sputnik Head of International Projects, said, at a letter-exchange ceremony between WION and Sputnik at Vladivostok.

The partnership is meant to uplift the spirit of friendship and cooperation between the two great nations - Russia and India.

WION is India’s first news channel dedicated to putting forth India’s perspective on emerging global issues to the world. WION's vision is to create avenues for discourse which can complement India’s efforts in setting a new global agenda on principles of free trade, human rights and co-existence of civilizations that in turn can consolidate India’s position in the world as a responsible global power.

As a responsible fourth pillar of democracy, WION believes in the importance of providing news that is rich in content and allows viewers to form an informed view on key debates affecting India and the world. In order to achieve this end, WION actively engages with global leaders, game changers, influencers, activists, environmentalists and corporate leaders from all quarters of the world to fulfill its goals.

India's premier English channel was inaugurated by the honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and former President of India Pranab Mukherjee in 2016.

Sputnik is one of the largest international media houses combining multimedia and regional Internet sites in 32 languages including in analogue and digital broadcasting in Russian, English, French and other languages ​​in more than 90 cities around the world and on the Internet.&nbsp;

Sputnik's through its news feeds delivers information to leading publications around the world in English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish and Farsi.

WION and Russian news agency Sputnik exchanged letters of intent on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum(EEF) in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Russia.

WION and Russian news agency Sputnik exchanged letters of intent on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum(EEF) in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Russia. The tie-up is a mutual partnership between Federal State Unitary Enterprise Rossiya Segodbya International Information Agency, founder of the Russian media outlet (SPUTNIK) information agency and Zee Media Corporation Limited's entity WION. Sputnik and WION aim to amplify digital and broadcast content of the two nations with technologically enhanced communication. The MoU will also help facilitate coordination and exchange of information and ideas with various communities of the two countries. Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor-in-Chief, WION, said: "A glorious friendship that has withstood the test of time and vagaries of history embarks on a journey to deepen mutual respect through culture, education and science. This new era of bilateral cooperation promises to be a model for the world and will demonstrate the importance of soft power in a complex geopolitical landscape." The partnership will focus on the creation of an interactive platform that develops rich content in all forms to ensure improved understanding of the socio-cultural values of the two nations with a view towards harnessing technological innovation while delivering accurate content. The exchange of content would involve issues related to cultural, humanitarian, economic, sports and political events. "The ties between Russia and India are very strong historically, and our cooperation will meet this high standard. The Indian media field has requested for news content from our country, and we hope that we can satisfy the needs of the audience," Vasily Pushkov, Sputnik Head of International Projects, said, at a letter-exchange ceremony between WION and Sputnik at Vladivostok. The partnership is meant to uplift the spirit of friendship and cooperation between the two great nations - Russia and India. WION is India’s first news channel dedicated to putting forth India’s perspective on emerging global issues to the world. WION's vision is to create avenues for discourse which can complement India’s efforts in setting a new global agenda on principles of free trade, human rights and co-existence of civilizations that in turn can consolidate India’s position in the world as a responsible global power. As a responsible fourth pillar of democracy, WION believes in the importance of providing news that is rich in content and allows viewers to form an informed view on key debates affecting India and the world. In order to achieve this end, WION actively engages with global leaders, game changers, influencers, activists, environmentalists and corporate leaders from all quarters of the world to fulfill its goals. India's premier English channel was inaugurated by the honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and former President of India Pranab Mukherjee in 2016. Sputnik is one of the largest international media houses combining multimedia and regional Internet sites in 32 languages including in analogue and digital broadcasting in Russian, English, French and other languages in more than 90 cities around the world and on the Internet. Sputnik's through its news feeds delivers information to leading publications around the world in English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish and Farsi.

WION & Sputnik partnership announced at Eastern Economic Forum, Vladivostok

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-warplanes-hit-gaza-after-palestinian-rocket-attack-243596">Israeli-Palestinian peace plan</a>, announced his resignation Thursday.

Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House.

A senior administration official said Greenblatt was going to spend more time with his family but left on good terms and "holds the confidence of the president."

His departure places another question mark over the troubled plan, which Trump has touted as the "deal of the century," but has yet to see the light of day and has been rejected in advance <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-israelis-palestinian-assailant-hurt-in-west-bank-car-ramming-army-243502">by the Palestinians</a>.

Just a week ago, Greenblatt signalled the latest pushback to the plan's unveiling, saying it would not be released until after the September 17 Israeli election that will decide whether Trump ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stays in power.

Trump has repeatedly boasted that he is the most pro-Israeli US president in history. He has slashed aid to the Palestinians, while making big concessions to the Israelis.

According to the Republican, his vision for ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict revolves around encouraging massive economic investment. However, Palestinian leaders have dismissed the plan as one-sided and failing to address their wish to end Israeli occupation.

Netanyahu said after news of Greenblatt's departure that he thanked him "for his dedicated work for security and peace and for never hesitating to tell the truth about the state of Israel to its detractors."

Trump tweeted that Greenblatt "has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer."

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After almost 3 years in my Administration, Jason Greenblatt will be leaving to pursue work in the private sector. Jason has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer....
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However, Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, told AFP: "I think the Palestinians as a whole are going to say good riddance."

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, announced his resignation Thursday. Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House.

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, announced his resignation Thursday. Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House. A senior administration official said Greenblatt was going to spend more time with his family but left on good terms and "holds the confidence of the president." His departure places another question mark over the troubled plan, which Trump has touted as the "deal of the century," but has yet to see the light of day and has been rejected in advance by the Palestinians. Just a week ago, Greenblatt signalled the latest pushback to the plan's unveiling, saying it would not be released until after the September 17 Israeli election that will decide whether Trump ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stays in power. Trump has repeatedly boasted that he is the most pro-Israeli US president in history. He has slashed aid to the Palestinians, while making big concessions to the Israelis. According to the Republican, his vision for ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict revolves around encouraging massive economic investment. However, Palestinian leaders have dismissed the plan as one-sided and failing to address their wish to end Israeli occupation. Netanyahu said after news of Greenblatt's departure that he thanked him "for his dedicated work for security and peace and for never hesitating to tell the truth about the state of Israel to its detractors." Trump tweeted that Greenblatt "has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer." After almost 3 years in my Administration, Jason Greenblatt will be leaving to pursue work in the private sector. Jason has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 5, 2019 × However, Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, told AFP: "I think the Palestinians as a whole are going to say good riddance."

Trump's key architect in Israeli-Palestinian peace deal Jason Greenblatt resigns

Weaker demand from abroad drove a bigger-than-expected drop in German industrial orders in July, suggesting that struggling manufacturers could tip Europe's biggest economy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-business-activity-contracts-over-brexit-turmoil-raises-recession-risk-247628">into a recession in the third quarter</a>.

Germany's export-reliant economy is suffering from slower global growth and business uncertainty caused by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's 'America First' trade policies and Britain's planned, but delayed, exit from the European Union.

Contracts for 'Made in Germany' goods fell 2.7 per cent from the previous month in July, data showed on Thursday, driven by a big drop in bookings from non-euro zone countries, the economy ministry said. That undershot a Reuters consensus forecast for a 1.5 per cent&nbsp;drop.

"The misery in manufacturing continues. The decline in new orders significantly increases the risk of a recession for the German economy," VP Bank analyst Thomas Gitzel said.

Germany's gross domestic product contracted by 0.1 per cent&nbsp;quarter-on-quarter in the second quarter on weaker exports, with the decrease in foreign sales mainly driven by Britain and below average demand from China.

"The danger is great that negative growth will also be recorded in the third quarter," Gitzel added.

The economy ministry said new orders in manufacturing had a weak start to the third quarter and that the outlook for the sector was also looking grim.

"In light of still unresolved international trade conflicts and muted business expectations in manufacturing, there are still no signs of a fundamental improvement in the industrial sector in the coming months," the ministry added.

Orders from non-euro zone countries plunged nearly 7 per cent&nbsp;on the month while demand from other euro zone countries and domestic bookings rose slightly, the data showed.

Without the distorting effects of bulk orders, industrial orders rose 0.5 per cent&nbsp;on the month in July, the ministry added.

The overall reading for June was revised up to an increase of 2.7 from a previously reported 2.5 per cent&nbsp;increase.

The VDMA business association said engineering orders in July fell by 3 per cent&nbsp;in real terms from the previous year, driven by weaker demand from both domestic and foreign clients.

"The business and export outlook is still gloomy for the second half of the year given the economic and political risks," VDMA chief economist Ralph Wiechers said.

Germany's DIHK business association said that companies around the globe were reluctant to invest due to slowing world trade and growing business uncertainty.

"So there is little light on the horizon for German industry which is characterized by its large share of capital goods producers," DIHK economist Kevin Heidenreich.

Carsten Brzeski from ING noted that the downward trend in manufacturing was not only driven by weaker foreign demand and trade conflicts.

"Since the start of the year, domestic orders have actually dropped more than foreign orders, suggesting that global woes have reached the domestic economy," Brzeski added.

Labour market data showed last week that seasonally adjusted unemployment rose in August, eroding a pillar of growth that has helped support Germany's traditionally export-driven economy.

With its sales abroad hit by a worsening trade climate, a global economic slowdown and the increasingly chaotic run-up to Brexit, the bulk of Germany's growth momentum is now being generated domestically - a dependency that leaves it exposed to any weakening of the jobs market.

Goldman Sachs Chief Financial Officer Stephen Scherr said on Thursday that the German economy is in the "early days of a slowdown".

The government expects economic growth to slow to 0.5 per cent&nbsp;this year from 1.5 per cent&nbsp;in the previous year. This would be the weakest expansion since 2013 when the euro zone struggled amid a sovereign debt crisis.

Weaker demand from abroad drove a bigger-than-expected drop in German industrial orders in July, suggesting that struggling manufacturers could tip Europe's biggest economy into a recession in the third quarter.

Weaker demand from abroad drove a bigger-than-expected drop in German industrial orders in July, suggesting that struggling manufacturers could tip Europe's biggest economy into a recession in the third quarter. Germany's export-reliant economy is suffering from slower global growth and business uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump's 'America First' trade policies and Britain's planned, but delayed, exit from the European Union. Contracts for 'Made in Germany' goods fell 2.7 per cent from the previous month in July, data showed on Thursday, driven by a big drop in bookings from non-euro zone countries, the economy ministry said. That undershot a Reuters consensus forecast for a 1.5 per cent drop. "The misery in manufacturing continues. The decline in new orders significantly increases the risk of a recession for the German economy," VP Bank analyst Thomas Gitzel said. Germany's gross domestic product contracted by 0.1 per cent quarter-on-quarter in the second quarter on weaker exports, with the decrease in foreign sales mainly driven by Britain and below average demand from China. "The danger is great that negative growth will also be recorded in the third quarter," Gitzel added. The economy ministry said new orders in manufacturing had a weak start to the third quarter and that the outlook for the sector was also looking grim. "In light of still unresolved international trade conflicts and muted business expectations in manufacturing, there are still no signs of a fundamental improvement in the industrial sector in the coming months," the ministry added. Orders from non-euro zone countries plunged nearly 7 per cent on the month while demand from other euro zone countries and domestic bookings rose slightly, the data showed. Without the distorting effects of bulk orders, industrial orders rose 0.5 per cent on the month in July, the ministry added. The overall reading for June was revised up to an increase of 2.7 from a previously reported 2.5 per cent increase. The VDMA business association said engineering orders in July fell by 3 per cent in real terms from the previous year, driven by weaker demand from both domestic and foreign clients. "The business and export outlook is still gloomy for the second half of the year given the economic and political risks," VDMA chief economist Ralph Wiechers said. Germany's DIHK business association said that companies around the globe were reluctant to invest due to slowing world trade and growing business uncertainty. "So there is little light on the horizon for German industry which is characterized by its large share of capital goods producers," DIHK economist Kevin Heidenreich. Carsten Brzeski from ING noted that the downward trend in manufacturing was not only driven by weaker foreign demand and trade conflicts. "Since the start of the year, domestic orders have actually dropped more than foreign orders, suggesting that global woes have reached the domestic economy," Brzeski added. Labour market data showed last week that seasonally adjusted unemployment rose in August, eroding a pillar of growth that has helped support Germany's traditionally export-driven economy. With its sales abroad hit by a worsening trade climate, a global economic slowdown and the increasingly chaotic run-up to Brexit, the bulk of Germany's growth momentum is now being generated domestically - a dependency that leaves it exposed to any weakening of the jobs market. Goldman Sachs Chief Financial Officer Stephen Scherr said on Thursday that the German economy is in the "early days of a slowdown". The government expects economic growth to slow to 0.5 per cent this year from 1.5 per cent in the previous year. This would be the weakest expansion since 2013 when the euro zone struggled amid a sovereign debt crisis.

Germany risks recession risk as industrial orders plunge

Facebook rolled out its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/400-million-facebook-users-phone-numbers-exposed-in-privacy-lapse-reports-247741">online dating service</a> for the United States on Thursday, a move taking on rivals such as smartphone app Tinder.

The free "Facebook Dating" site which was announced last year and already available in other countries will allow users to link their Facebook and Instagram post to a separate dating profile.

It will seek to facilitate connections among the more than two billion users of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-facebook-tightens-rules-for-us-political-advertisers-ahead-of-2020-polls-246223">social network worldwide</a>.

"Facebook Dating allows you to match with friends of friends and/or people not in your friend circle," said a blog post from Nathan Sharp, head of the project.

One of the features, "secret crush" which allows people to connect if they both secretly express interest in each other.

"Facebook Dating won't match you with friends, unless you choose to use Secret Crush and you both add each other to your list," Sharp said.

"Finding a romantic partner is deeply personal, which is why we built Dating to be safe, inclusive and opt-in. Safety, security and privacy are at the forefront of this product."

Sharp said users will have the ability to report and block anyone,and prohibit people from sending photos, links, payments or videos in messages.

Users may share their "stories" posts from the network, which are short video segments, which will help the service be "authentic in a way that a typical dating profile can't," according to Sharp.

Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, in announcing the plan last year, said it was being designed for "real, long-term relationships, not just hookups."

He pointed out that one in three marriages in the United States start online and that some 200 million Facebook users identify as being single.

Facebook may have an advantage over rivals in that it can allow people to share profiles and images from their social media profiles.

The dating service will be free to users, unlike some rivals which offer both free and paid plans.

Facebook Dating has already been launched in 19 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Surinam, Thailand, Uruguay and Vietnam.&nbsp;

It is set to launch in Europe in 2020.

Facebook rolled out its online dating service for the United States on Thursday, a move taking on rivals such as smartphone app Tinder. The free "Facebook Dating" site which was announced last year and already available in other countries will allow users to link their Facebook and Instagram post to a separate dating profile.

Facebook rolled out its online dating service for the United States on Thursday, a move taking on rivals such as smartphone app Tinder. The free "Facebook Dating" site which was announced last year and already available in other countries will allow users to link their Facebook and Instagram post to a separate dating profile. It will seek to facilitate connections among the more than two billion users of the social network worldwide. "Facebook Dating allows you to match with friends of friends and/or people not in your friend circle," said a blog post from Nathan Sharp, head of the project. One of the features, "secret crush" which allows people to connect if they both secretly express interest in each other. "Facebook Dating won't match you with friends, unless you choose to use Secret Crush and you both add each other to your list," Sharp said. "Finding a romantic partner is deeply personal, which is why we built Dating to be safe, inclusive and opt-in. Safety, security and privacy are at the forefront of this product." Sharp said users will have the ability to report and block anyone,and prohibit people from sending photos, links, payments or videos in messages. Users may share their "stories" posts from the network, which are short video segments, which will help the service be "authentic in a way that a typical dating profile can't," according to Sharp. Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, in announcing the plan last year, said it was being designed for "real, long-term relationships, not just hookups." He pointed out that one in three marriages in the United States start online and that some 200 million Facebook users identify as being single. Facebook may have an advantage over rivals in that it can allow people to share profiles and images from their social media profiles. The dating service will be free to users, unlike some rivals which offer both free and paid plans. Facebook Dating has already been launched in 19 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Surinam, Thailand, Uruguay and Vietnam. It is set to launch in Europe in 2020.

Facebook launches online dating service in US

US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has returned to Qatar for further talks with the Taliban as he fine-tunes a deal on withdrawing troops, the State Department said on Thursday.

"Ambassador Khalilzad has returned to Doha to continue talks," a State Department spokesperson said.

Khalilzad had earlier reached an agreement "in principle" with the Taliban that would lead to an end to America's longest war, a top goal for President Donald Trump.

The internationally recognised government in Kabul, with which the Taliban have refused to negotiate, voiced concern and sought clarifications, pointing to risks.

The Taliban, however, have not relented on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-nato-troops-among-10-killed-in-kabul-suicide-attack-taliban-claims-responsibility-247831">violence despite negotiating</a> with the United States, killing at least 10 people including NATO troops in a bombing Thursday in Kabul.

On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed. 
&nbsp;

US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has returned to Qatar for further talks with the Taliban as he fine-tunes a deal on withdrawing troops, the State Department said on Thursday.

US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has returned to Qatar for further talks with the Taliban as he fine-tunes a deal on withdrawing troops, the State Department said on Thursday. "Ambassador Khalilzad has returned to Doha to continue talks," a State Department spokesperson said. Khalilzad had earlier reached an agreement "in principle" with the Taliban that would lead to an end to America's longest war, a top goal for President Donald Trump. The internationally recognised government in Kabul, with which the Taliban have refused to negotiate, voiced concern and sought clarifications, pointing to risks. The Taliban, however, have not relented on violence despite negotiating with the United States, killing at least 10 people including NATO troops in a bombing Thursday in Kabul. On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed.

US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad has returned to Qatar for talks with Taliban: State Department

The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-meets-afghan-president-in-kabul-247118">NATO troops in a bombing</a> in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country.

The car bomb blast shook Shash Darak, a heavily fortified area adjacent to the Green Zone and home to several important complexes including the National Directorate of Security (NDS), the Afghan intelligence service.

Apparent surveillance<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-suicide-blast-kills-at-least-4-in-kabul-city-246717"> footage of the attack</a>, which occurred at about 10:10 am (0540 GMT), showed a grey minivan explode just after it had cut in front of a line of white SUVs waiting to make a right turn onto a street.

One nearby pedestrian can be seen turning and trying to run away as the minivan crashed through a barrier just before the blast.

Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said a Romanian and an American service member had been killed in the explosion.

Romania's defence ministry said the Romanian soldier had been conducting a joint patrol near the Green Zone. The American death brings to at least 16 the number of US military killed in action in Afghanistan this year, just as Washington is seeking a way out of its longest war.

According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, at least 10 people were killed and 42 more wounded.

On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed.

Massoud Zazai, who owns a photo studio across the street from the blast site, said he was in his shop when the explosion happened.

"I fell off my chair and it got dark inside the shop because of smoke and dust," Zazai said. "I went out to the scene moments after the attack, the side of the road was littered with debris and bodies."

Through the smoke, Zazai said he could hear injured people crying and calling for their mothers and brothers.

"I saw at least five very badly injured, one was covered in blood and not moving. It was horrifying."

The attack was close to where the Islamic State group killed nine journalists in a blast in April last year, including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai.

It was the second Romanian national to be killed by the Taliban this week. On Monday, a Romanian was among at least 16 people killed in a Taliban attack on a residential area in east Kabul.

Currently, Romania contributes about 760 military personnel to the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, which has a total force size of about 17,000 troops from 39 countries. About half of these are American.

The capital has been gripped by a surge in deadly violence even after the US and the insurgents reached an agreement "in principle" that would see the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for various Taliban security promises.

But there is increasing unease about the deal, with Afghans fearing it will lead to a return of the Taliban to power, and a growing chorus of US lawmakers and officials expressing doubts.

According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hews to its security pledges.

The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven.

On Wednesday, the Afghan government expressed doubts about the prospective deal, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses.

"There is too much concern about it, and we are still not assured of what consequences this agreement could have for Afghanistan's future," presidential advisor Waheed Omar told journalists Thursday.

"The people of Afghanistan have been bitten by the snake before, and have been witness to the consequences of hasty deals".

Even as negotiations for an accord have entered what are widely considered to be the final stages, violence has surged across Afghanistan.

On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting has continued on the outskirts all week.&nbsp;

Insurgents launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province on Sunday.

The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two NATO troops in a bombing in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country.

The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two NATO troops in a bombing in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country. The car bomb blast shook Shash Darak, a heavily fortified area adjacent to the Green Zone and home to several important complexes including the National Directorate of Security (NDS), the Afghan intelligence service. Apparent surveillance footage of the attack, which occurred at about 10:10 am (0540 GMT), showed a grey minivan explode just after it had cut in front of a line of white SUVs waiting to make a right turn onto a street. One nearby pedestrian can be seen turning and trying to run away as the minivan crashed through a barrier just before the blast. Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said a Romanian and an American service member had been killed in the explosion. Romania's defence ministry said the Romanian soldier had been conducting a joint patrol near the Green Zone. The American death brings to at least 16 the number of US military killed in action in Afghanistan this year, just as Washington is seeking a way out of its longest war. According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, at least 10 people were killed and 42 more wounded. On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed. Massoud Zazai, who owns a photo studio across the street from the blast site, said he was in his shop when the explosion happened. "I fell off my chair and it got dark inside the shop because of smoke and dust," Zazai said. "I went out to the scene moments after the attack, the side of the road was littered with debris and bodies." Through the smoke, Zazai said he could hear injured people crying and calling for their mothers and brothers. "I saw at least five very badly injured, one was covered in blood and not moving. It was horrifying." The attack was close to where the Islamic State group killed nine journalists in a blast in April last year, including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai. It was the second Romanian national to be killed by the Taliban this week. On Monday, a Romanian was among at least 16 people killed in a Taliban attack on a residential area in east Kabul. Currently, Romania contributes about 760 military personnel to the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, which has a total force size of about 17,000 troops from 39 countries. About half of these are American. The capital has been gripped by a surge in deadly violence even after the US and the insurgents reached an agreement "in principle" that would see the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for various Taliban security promises. But there is increasing unease about the deal, with Afghans fearing it will lead to a return of the Taliban to power, and a growing chorus of US lawmakers and officials expressing doubts. According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hews to its security pledges. The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven. On Wednesday, the Afghan government expressed doubts about the prospective deal, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses. "There is too much concern about it, and we are still not assured of what consequences this agreement could have for Afghanistan's future," presidential advisor Waheed Omar told journalists Thursday. "The people of Afghanistan have been bitten by the snake before, and have been witness to the consequences of hasty deals". Even as negotiations for an accord have entered what are widely considered to be the final stages, violence has surged across Afghanistan. On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting has continued on the outskirts all week. Insurgents launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province on Sunday.

Two NATO troops among 10 killed in Kabul suicide attack; Taliban claims responsibility

Rohingya refugees living in camps in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-bans-two-aid-agencies-from-rohingya-refugee-camps-247755">Bangladesh on Wednesday</a>&nbsp;expressed their unhappiness at the decision to block mobile data services due to security concerns.

Bangladesh's telecom regulatory authority on Tuesday had&nbsp;ordered mobile phone operators to partially block high-speed data services to areas where Rohingya refugees are living in sprawling camps. The operators were also asked on Sunday to block mobile services and stop selling mobile SIMs to the Rohingya.

The move came following a spike in violent crime in the southern district of Cox's Bazar, where more than one million Rohingya are sheltered.

Over 730,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar's Rakhine state for Bangladesh after a military-led crackdown in August 2017 that the United Nations has said was perpetrated with "genocidal intent". Myanmar has denied almost all the allegations.

Tensions are running high in the camps after a youth wing leader from Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party was killed last week, allegedly by Rohingya refugees, and at least four Rohingya were shot dead by police.

Rohingya refugees living in camps in Bangladesh on Wednesday expressed their unhappiness at the decision to block mobile data services due to security concerns. Bangladesh's telecom regulatory authority on Tuesday had ordered mobile phone operators to partially block high-speed data services to areas where Rohingya refugees are living in sprawling camps.

Rohingya refugees living in camps in Bangladesh on Wednesday expressed their unhappiness at the decision to block mobile data services due to security concerns. Bangladesh's telecom regulatory authority on Tuesday had ordered mobile phone operators to partially block high-speed data services to areas where Rohingya refugees are living in sprawling camps. The operators were also asked on Sunday to block mobile services and stop selling mobile SIMs to the Rohingya. The move came following a spike in violent crime in the southern district of Cox's Bazar, where more than one million Rohingya are sheltered. Over 730,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar's Rakhine state for Bangladesh after a military-led crackdown in August 2017 that the United Nations has said was perpetrated with "genocidal intent". Myanmar has denied almost all the allegations. Tensions are running high in the camps after a youth wing leader from Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party was killed last week, allegedly by Rohingya refugees, and at least four Rohingya were shot dead by police.

Rohingyas in Bangladesh unhappy over mobile internet curbs

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