<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-seeks-to-override-supreme-court-ruling-on-census-233448">US President Donald Trump</a> violated the Constitution by blocking people whose views he disliked from his Twitter account, a federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday.

In a 3-0 decision, the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan said the First Amendment forbids Trump from using Twitter's "blocking" function to limit access to his account, which has 61.8 million followers.

"The First Amendment does not permit a public official who utilizes a social media account for all manner of official purposes to exclude persons from an otherwise-open online dialogue because they expressed views with which the official disagrees," wrote Circuit Judge Barrington Parker, citing several Supreme Court decisions.

Kelly Laco, a spokeswoman for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-introduce-bipartisan-bills-targeting-chinas-huawei-and-zte-190862">US Department of Justice</a>, which argued the appeal, said: "We are disappointed with the court's decision and are exploring possible next steps."

The White House declined to comment. White House social media director Dan Scavino was also a defendant. Twitter &lt;TWTR.N&gt; declined to comment.

Trump has made his @RealDonaldTrump account, which he opened in 2009, a central and controversial part of his presidency, using it to promote his agenda and to attack critics.

His blocking of critics was challenged by the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, as well as seven Twitter users he had blocked.

"The decision will help ensure the integrity and vitality of digital spaces that are increasingly important to our democracy," said Jameel Jaffer, Knight's executive director.

Tuesday's decision upheld a May 2018 ruling by US District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald in Manhattan, which prompted Trump to unblock some accounts.

The Justice Department had called her ruling "fundamentally misconceived," saying Trump used Twitter to express his views, not to offer a public forum for discussion.

Parker, however, said Trump's account bears "all the trappings of an official, state-run account" and is "one of the White House's main vehicles for conducting official business."

He said Trump and his aides have characterized the president's tweets as official statements, and that even the National Archives considers them official records.

Parker also found it ironic that Trump censored speech at a time the conduct of the US government and its officials is subject to intense, passionate and wide-open debate.

"This debate, as uncomfortable and as unpleasant as it frequently may be, is nonetheless a good thing," he wrote. "We remind the litigants and the public that if the First Amendment means anything, it means that the best response to a disfavoured speech on matters of public concern is more speech, not less."

The case is Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University et al v Trump et al, 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 18-1691.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump violated the Constitution by blocking people whose views he disliked from his Twitter account, a federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump violated the Constitution by blocking people whose views he disliked from his Twitter account, a federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday. In a 3-0 decision, the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan said the First Amendment forbids Trump from using Twitter's "blocking" function to limit access to his account, which has 61.8 million followers. "The First Amendment does not permit a public official who utilizes a social media account for all manner of official purposes to exclude persons from an otherwise-open online dialogue because they expressed views with which the official disagrees," wrote Circuit Judge Barrington Parker, citing several Supreme Court decisions. Kelly Laco, a spokeswoman for the US Department of Justice, which argued the appeal, said: "We are disappointed with the court's decision and are exploring possible next steps." The White House declined to comment. White House social media director Dan Scavino was also a defendant. Twitter <TWTR.N> declined to comment. Trump has made his @RealDonaldTrump account, which he opened in 2009, a central and controversial part of his presidency, using it to promote his agenda and to attack critics. His blocking of critics was challenged by the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, as well as seven Twitter users he had blocked. "The decision will help ensure the integrity and vitality of digital spaces that are increasingly important to our democracy," said Jameel Jaffer, Knight's executive director. Tuesday's decision upheld a May 2018 ruling by US District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald in Manhattan, which prompted Trump to unblock some accounts. The Justice Department had called her ruling "fundamentally misconceived," saying Trump used Twitter to express his views, not to offer a public forum for discussion. Parker, however, said Trump's account bears "all the trappings of an official, state-run account" and is "one of the White House's main vehicles for conducting official business." He said Trump and his aides have characterized the president's tweets as official statements, and that even the National Archives considers them official records. Parker also found it ironic that Trump censored speech at a time the conduct of the US government and its officials is subject to intense, passionate and wide-open debate. "This debate, as uncomfortable and as unpleasant as it frequently may be, is nonetheless a good thing," he wrote. "We remind the litigants and the public that if the First Amendment means anything, it means that the best response to a disfavoured speech on matters of public concern is more speech, not less." The case is Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University et al v Trump et al, 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 18-1691.

Donald Trump's blocking of Twitter critics unconstitutional:  US appeals court

Asian shares pulled ahead on Wednesday while rising Treasury yields lifted the dollar as investors waited anxiously to hear if the world's most powerful central banker would confirm or confound expectations for US easing this month.

MSCI's broadest index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-fall-as-bets-off-on-sharp-us-rate-cuts-233889">Asia-Pacific shares</a> outside Japan advanced 0.4 per cent,&nbsp;after three sessions of losses.

South Korea edged up 0.4%, but Japan's Nikkei lagged with a loss of 0.1 per cent&nbsp;E-Mini futures for the S&amp;P 500 were flat, while EURO STOXX and FTSE futures pointed to small opening gains in Europe.

Chinese blue chips barely budged as data showed inflation remained stubbornly subdued despite a spike in pork prices.

A worrying lack of inflation globally is one reason investors are counting on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to sound suitably dovish when testifying to Congress on Wednesday.

Futures are still fully priced for a 25-basis-point cut at the Fed's July 30-31 meeting but have abandoned wagers on a half-point move. They had implied a 25% probability of an aggressive cut before Friday's upbeat jobs report.

"We still think the odds favour a 25 bps 'insurance' cut," said Kevin Cummins, a senior US economist at NatWest Markets.

"The Fed's consideration of rate cuts is not only about growth but also about inflation, which remains well below target, and inflation expectations, which were breaking to the downside before the Fed signalled the likelihood of cuts."

Overnight, Atlanta Fed bank president Raphael Bostic let nothing out of the bag by saying the central bank was debating the risks and benefits of letting the US economy run "a little hotter."

Lurking in the background, the US and Chinese trade officials held "constructive" talks on trade by phone on Tuesday, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said.

Wall Street had been duly circumspect on Tuesday, with the Dow ending down 0.08%, while the S&amp;P 500 added 0.12% and the Nasdaq 0.54%.

A little More Yield

The cooling in US rate fever has seen bonds give back just a little of their huge rally, with yields on two-year Treasuries rising to 1.917% from the recent trough of 1.696%.

That, in turn, has helped the dollar bounce on a basket of currencies to 97.500 from a June low of 95.843.

The dollar also firmed to 108.90 yen, while the euro faded to $1.1206 having been as high as $1.1412 just a couple of weeks ago.

The Mexican peso was nursing a few bruises after sliding on Tuesday when the country's moderate Finance Minister Carlos Urzua suddenly resigned, citing "extremism" in economic policy.

The Canadian dollar was on the defensive ahead of a rate meeting by the Bank of Canada in case policymakers tried to slow the currency's recent rally.

The dollar's gains took the shine off gold, which eased 0.3 per cent to $1,393.68 per ounce.

Oil prices were supported by Middle East tensions and news that US stockpiles fell for a fourth week in a row, easing concerns about oversupply.

Brent crude futures rose 64 cents to $64.80, while US crude gained 82 cents to $58.65 a barrel.

Asian shares pulled ahead on Wednesday while rising Treasury yields lifted the dollar as investors waited anxiously to hear if the world's most powerful central banker would confirm or confound expectations for US easing this month.

Asian shares pulled ahead on Wednesday while rising Treasury yields lifted the dollar as investors waited anxiously to hear if the world's most powerful central banker would confirm or confound expectations for US easing this month. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan advanced 0.4 per cent, after three sessions of losses. South Korea edged up 0.4%, but Japan's Nikkei lagged with a loss of 0.1 per cent E-Mini futures for the S&P 500 were flat, while EURO STOXX and FTSE futures pointed to small opening gains in Europe. Chinese blue chips barely budged as data showed inflation remained stubbornly subdued despite a spike in pork prices. A worrying lack of inflation globally is one reason investors are counting on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to sound suitably dovish when testifying to Congress on Wednesday. Futures are still fully priced for a 25-basis-point cut at the Fed's July 30-31 meeting but have abandoned wagers on a half-point move. They had implied a 25% probability of an aggressive cut before Friday's upbeat jobs report. "We still think the odds favour a 25 bps 'insurance' cut," said Kevin Cummins, a senior US economist at NatWest Markets. "The Fed's consideration of rate cuts is not only about growth but also about inflation, which remains well below target, and inflation expectations, which were breaking to the downside before the Fed signalled the likelihood of cuts." Overnight, Atlanta Fed bank president Raphael Bostic let nothing out of the bag by saying the central bank was debating the risks and benefits of letting the US economy run "a little hotter." Lurking in the background, the US and Chinese trade officials held "constructive" talks on trade by phone on Tuesday, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said. Wall Street had been duly circumspect on Tuesday, with the Dow ending down 0.08%, while the S&P 500 added 0.12% and the Nasdaq 0.54%. A little More Yield The cooling in US rate fever has seen bonds give back just a little of their huge rally, with yields on two-year Treasuries rising to 1.917% from the recent trough of 1.696%. That, in turn, has helped the dollar bounce on a basket of currencies to 97.500 from a June low of 95.843. The dollar also firmed to 108.90 yen, while the euro faded to $1.1206 having been as high as $1.1412 just a couple of weeks ago. The Mexican peso was nursing a few bruises after sliding on Tuesday when the country's moderate Finance Minister Carlos Urzua suddenly resigned, citing "extremism" in economic policy. The Canadian dollar was on the defensive ahead of a rate meeting by the Bank of Canada in case policymakers tried to slow the currency's recent rally. The dollar's gains took the shine off gold, which eased 0.3 per cent to $1,393.68 per ounce. Oil prices were supported by Middle East tensions and news that US stockpiles fell for a fourth week in a row, easing concerns about oversupply. Brent crude futures rose 64 cents to $64.80, while US crude gained 82 cents to $58.65 a barrel.

Asia shares rise as US dollar moves up

The iconic German car Volkswagen's Beetle will go out of production today after 82 years in existence after it was first designed by Austrian automotive giant ‎Ferdinand Porsche and presented to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler in 1937.

The first Volkswagen Beetle&nbsp;was produced in 1937 in Stuttgart which was inaugurated by the German leader amid great fanfare.

The car envisaged as a "family car" for four members, never went into mass production in Germany due to disruption caused due to&nbsp;World War-II but finally saw the light of day in the late 1940s when it began production in Germany's Wolfsburg area and later spread across the country and then worldwide.

In the 1950s sales of the "superbug" soared in the US with the car's mesmeric appeal towards the "rebellious generation" in the US. The VW symbol symbolising freshness and youth captured the imagination of European and American youth who were jaded by the Vietnam war in the 1960s.

However, production and sales began taking a hit after Japanese cars - Toyota, Nissan, Honda including Ford and Opel began giving the VW Beetle stiff competition but the "Beetles generation" in the 1960s spearheaded by English rock band - The Beatles - comprising of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr made the brand a household name across the world.

In the 2000s facing stiff challenges, the car's production fell as demand began to collapse, even though it tried to sell in emerging markets in China and India however the magic had faded for the new generation powered by new cars and contemporary designs.

Beetle's Type 1 production was stopped in 2003 with new model failing&nbsp;to boost car&nbsp;numbers. The people living in Mexico's Cuautepec area&nbsp;which produced the modern version of the Beetle are now bracing for a shutdown after the car's long and fruitful run.

The iconic German car Volkswagen's Beetle will go out of production today after 82 years in existence after it was first designed by Austrian automotive giant ‎Ferdinand Porsche and presented to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler in 1937.

The iconic German car Volkswagen's Beetle will go out of production today after 82 years in existence after it was first designed by Austrian automotive giant ‎Ferdinand Porsche and presented to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler in 1937. The first Volkswagen Beetle was produced in 1937 in Stuttgart which was inaugurated by the German leader amid great fanfare. The car envisaged as a "family car" for four members, never went into mass production in Germany due to disruption caused due to World War-II but finally saw the light of day in the late 1940s when it began production in Germany's Wolfsburg area and later spread across the country and then worldwide. In the 1950s sales of the "superbug" soared in the US with the car's mesmeric appeal towards the "rebellious generation" in the US. The VW symbol symbolising freshness and youth captured the imagination of European and American youth who were jaded by the Vietnam war in the 1960s. However, production and sales began taking a hit after Japanese cars - Toyota, Nissan, Honda including Ford and Opel began giving the VW Beetle stiff competition but the "Beetles generation" in the 1960s spearheaded by English rock band - The Beatles - comprising of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr made the brand a household name across the world. In the 2000s facing stiff challenges, the car's production fell as demand began to collapse, even though it tried to sell in emerging markets in China and India however the magic had faded for the new generation powered by new cars and contemporary designs. Beetle's Type 1 production was stopped in 2003 with new model failing to boost car numbers. The people living in Mexico's Cuautepec area which produced the modern version of the Beetle are now bracing for a shutdown after the car's long and fruitful run.

1937-1919: Iconic Volkswagen Beetle car set to cease production

The rain gods played spoilsport on Tuesday in the semi-final 1 between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-jasprit-bumrah-has-bowled-most-maiden-overs-in-world-cup-2019-234432">India </a>and New Zealand as the match was halted and the players were off the field at Old Trafford in Manchester in the 47th over of the New Zealand innings.

The rain continued throughout the day and the umpires decided to call off play on Tuesday and take the World Cup 2019 semi-final 1 onto the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-semi-final-new-zealand-2115-against-india-as-rain-stops-play-234446">reserve day</a> (Wednesday, July 10).

New Zealand thus will continue their innings at 211 for 5 in 46.1 overs if there is no further rain delay.

The weather forecast on Wednesday is not too bright either.&nbsp;

It is expected to be cloudy in the morning and the sun may come out when the semi-final resumes on the reserve day at 10:30 AM BST (3 PM IST).&nbsp;

Rain is expected to hit the pitch again at 12 PM BST (5:30 PM IST) and again by 5 PM (9 PM IST).

The chances of rain are very high and Team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-new-zealands-martin-guptill-in-semi-final-234308">India </a>will hope to have a full game instead of a 20-over game to have better chances to win the match.

If there is a shortened game today and New Zealand do not resume their batting, according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method (DLS) the targets as per the overs in play would be:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Overs</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Target</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 46</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 237</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 40</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 223</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 35</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 209</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 30</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 192</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 25</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 172</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 20</td>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 148</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

For the semi-final match to be completed, India are required to bat for at least 20 overs.&nbsp;

If after the reserve day the match is also washed out and does not reach a result, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-semi-final-1st-india-vs-new-zealand-234231">India </a>will progress to the final as they finished higher in the points table to New Zealand in the group stage.

The rain gods played spoilsport on Tuesday in the semi-final 1 between India and New Zealand as the match was halted and the players were off the field at Old Trafford in Manchester in the 47th over of the New Zealand innings.

The rain gods played spoilsport on Tuesday in the semi-final 1 between India and New Zealand as the match was halted and the players were off the field at Old Trafford in Manchester in the 47th over of the New Zealand innings. The rain continued throughout the day and the umpires decided to call off play on Tuesday and take the World Cup 2019 semi-final 1 onto the reserve day (Wednesday, July 10). New Zealand thus will continue their innings at 211 for 5 in 46.1 overs if there is no further rain delay. The weather forecast on Wednesday is not too bright either. It is expected to be cloudy in the morning and the sun may come out when the semi-final resumes on the reserve day at 10:30 AM BST (3 PM IST). Rain is expected to hit the pitch again at 12 PM BST (5:30 PM IST) and again by 5 PM (9 PM IST). The chances of rain are very high and Team India will hope to have a full game instead of a 20-over game to have better chances to win the match. If there is a shortened game today and New Zealand do not resume their batting, according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method (DLS) the targets as per the overs in play would be: Overs Target 46 237 40 223 35 209 30 192 25 172 20 148 For the semi-final match to be completed, India are required to bat for at least 20 overs. If after the reserve day the match is also washed out and does not reach a result, India will progress to the final as they finished higher in the points table to New Zealand in the group stage.

World Cup: Rain may play spoilsport again on reserve day at Manchester in India vs New Zealand semi-final 1

The US aims to form a coalition to guarantee freedom of navigation in strategic Gulf waters amid fraught relations <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-standoff-tests-show-seized-tanker-was-loaded-to-capacity-with-crude-oil-confirms-uk-government-234176">between Washington and Tehran</a>, a top general told media on Tuesday.

Tensions in the area -- through which nearly a third of the world's oil is transported -- have spiked in recent weeks, with the US blaming Iran for multiple attacks on tanker ships in the region, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-deputy-foreign-minister-says-captured-iranian-tanker-wasnt-headed-to-syria-calls-the-incident-maritime-robbery-233772">Tehran shooting down</a> an American drone.

"We're engaging now with a number of countries to see if we can put together a coalition that would ensure freedom of navigation both in the Straits of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab," General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a video carried by the Reuters news agency.

"I think probably over the next couple weeks we'll identify which nations have the political will to support that initiative and then we'll work directly with the militaries to identify the specific capabilities that'll support that," Dunford said.

The US would provide "maritime domain awareness and surveillance," while ships would be escorted by the nations whose flag they carry, the general said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month that he hopes more than 20 countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, would work together on building maritime security.

"We'll need you all to participate, your military folks," Pompeo said.

"The president is keen on sharing that the United States doesn't bear the cost of this."

The US aims to form a coalition to guarantee freedom of navigation in strategic Gulf waters amid fraught relations between Washington and Tehran, a top general told media on Tuesday.

The US aims to form a coalition to guarantee freedom of navigation in strategic Gulf waters amid fraught relations between Washington and Tehran, a top general told media on Tuesday. Tensions in the area -- through which nearly a third of the world's oil is transported -- have spiked in recent weeks, with the US blaming Iran for multiple attacks on tanker ships in the region, and Tehran shooting down an American drone. "We're engaging now with a number of countries to see if we can put together a coalition that would ensure freedom of navigation both in the Straits of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab," General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a video carried by the Reuters news agency. "I think probably over the next couple weeks we'll identify which nations have the political will to support that initiative and then we'll work directly with the militaries to identify the specific capabilities that'll support that," Dunford said. The US would provide "maritime domain awareness and surveillance," while ships would be escorted by the nations whose flag they carry, the general said. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month that he hopes more than 20 countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, would work together on building maritime security. "We'll need you all to participate, your military folks," Pompeo said. "The president is keen on sharing that the United States doesn't bear the cost of this."

We can put together coalition to ensure freedom of navigation in Straits of Hormuz: US General Joseph Dunford

Top US and Chinese negotiators held phone talks on Tuesday as the world's top two economies seek to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-us-tariffs-must-be-lifted-to-reach-a-deal-to-end-trade-war-232996">resolve their trade war</a>, more than a week after they declared a truce.

Talks had broken down in May over US accusations that Beijing had reneged on its commitments, and the dispute escalated with the two sides exchanging steep increases in punitive tariffs.

But US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to revive negotiations when they met on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/g20-says-worsening-trade-wars-pose-risk-to-world-economy-225664">sidelines of the G20 summit</a> in Japan on June 29.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer spoke with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and Commerce Minister Zhong Shan on Tuesday.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told reporters the talks "went constructively" but it was "too soon for details."

In an interview with the Fox Business Network, Kudlow described the discussions as "preliminary" and said meetings will "probably" be arranged, but did not give more details.

Kudlow noted that Trump has agreed to hold off on imposing new tariffs and will allow certain US products to be sold to Chinese telecom giant Huawei.

"Having said that, we have a very strong -&nbsp;I want to underscore this -&nbsp;a very strong expectation that China will really shortly, maybe immediately, begin to purchase US agricultural products," he told the US broadcaster.

The Chinese commerce ministry said in a brief statement that the two sides exchanged "opinions on implementing the consensus reached between the two countries' heads of state in Osaka."

Washington and Beijing have hit each other with punitive tariffs covering more than $360 billion in two-way trade and those duties remain in place.

After his meeting with Xi in Osaka, Trump said he would refrain from imposing tariffs on more Chinese products. He had previously threatened to put punitive duties on an additional $300 billion in Chinese exports.

He also triggered a backlash in the US Congress by agreeing to soften some US export restrictions on components to Huawei, though Trump stipulated that officials would take care to avoid creating new risks to US national security.

The United States had imposed tough sanctions on the company, whose equipment US officials fear could be used as Trojan horses for China's intelligence services.

The ceasefire comes as the US presidential campaign has started ahead of the November 2020 election.

Asked about speculation that Beijing may be waiting to see how the race plays out, Kudlow said it "would be a very big mistake on their part."

"I think that kind of thinking would probably do great damage to these trade talks," he said.

But he suggested that the US was in no hurry to finalize a deal.

"Speed is not an issue, quality is the issue," Kudlow said. "And so I make no forecast on that and reiterate this view. &nbsp;There's no timetable, none of that stuff."

Top US and Chinese negotiators held phone talks on Tuesday as the world's top two economies seek to resolve their trade war, more than a week after they declared a truce.

Top US and Chinese negotiators held phone talks on Tuesday as the world's top two economies seek to resolve their trade war, more than a week after they declared a truce. Talks had broken down in May over US accusations that Beijing had reneged on its commitments, and the dispute escalated with the two sides exchanging steep increases in punitive tariffs. But US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to revive negotiations when they met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan on June 29. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer spoke with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and Commerce Minister Zhong Shan on Tuesday. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told reporters the talks "went constructively" but it was "too soon for details." In an interview with the Fox Business Network, Kudlow described the discussions as "preliminary" and said meetings will "probably" be arranged, but did not give more details. Kudlow noted that Trump has agreed to hold off on imposing new tariffs and will allow certain US products to be sold to Chinese telecom giant Huawei. "Having said that, we have a very strong - I want to underscore this - a very strong expectation that China will really shortly, maybe immediately, begin to purchase US agricultural products," he told the US broadcaster. The Chinese commerce ministry said in a brief statement that the two sides exchanged "opinions on implementing the consensus reached between the two countries' heads of state in Osaka." Washington and Beijing have hit each other with punitive tariffs covering more than $360 billion in two-way trade and those duties remain in place. After his meeting with Xi in Osaka, Trump said he would refrain from imposing tariffs on more Chinese products. He had previously threatened to put punitive duties on an additional $300 billion in Chinese exports. He also triggered a backlash in the US Congress by agreeing to soften some US export restrictions on components to Huawei, though Trump stipulated that officials would take care to avoid creating new risks to US national security. The United States had imposed tough sanctions on the company, whose equipment US officials fear could be used as Trojan horses for China's intelligence services. The ceasefire comes as the US presidential campaign has started ahead of the November 2020 election. Asked about speculation that Beijing may be waiting to see how the race plays out, Kudlow said it "would be a very big mistake on their part." "I think that kind of thinking would probably do great damage to these trade talks," he said. But he suggested that the US was in no hurry to finalize a deal. "Speed is not an issue, quality is the issue," Kudlow said. "And so I make no forecast on that and reiterate this view. There's no timetable, none of that stuff."

After Trump, Xi G20 meeting, US, China resume talks to resolve trade war

Oil prices gained more than 1% in early trade on Wednesday, led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/crude-oil-prices-fall-1-on-fears-for-global-economy-233148">US&nbsp;crude after an industry group</a> reported that US&nbsp;stockpiles fell for a fourth week in a row, alleviating concerns about oversupply.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) WTI futures rose 90 cents, or 1.5 per cent, to $58.73 by 0027 GMT. Brent was up 69 cents, or 1.1 per cent, at $64.85.

The US&nbsp;and global benchmarks have risen this year as OPEC and big producers like Russia have honoured commitments to cut production and support prices.

But investors have been looking for signs that unrelenting production from the United States is being consumed, leading to inventory declines.

US&nbsp;crude stockpiles fell more than forecast last week, while gasoline inventories decreased and distillate stocks built, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute (API) showed on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Crude inventories fell by 8.1 million barrels in the week to July 5 to 461.4 million, compared with analysts' expectations for a decrease of 3.1 million barrels.

Crude stocks at the Cushing, Oklahoma, delivery hub fell by 754,000 barrels, API said.

Figures are due later on Tuesday from the US&nbsp;government's Energy Information Administration and, if the official data confirms fall, it will also be the fourth consecutive weekly decline.

Oil prices have been under pressure from concerns about global economic growth amid growing signs of harm from the US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year.

"Prices are finely balanced right now as investors await fresh stimulus," said Fawad Razaqzada, technical analyst at FOREX.com. "The stimulus could come in the form of a sharp change in US&nbsp;crude oil inventories."

Still, US&nbsp;crude oil production is forecast to rise to a fresh record of 12.36 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2019 from the high of 10.96 million bpd last year, the EIA's Short Term Energy Outlook said on Tuesday.

OPEC and allied producers led by Russia agreed last week to extend their supply-cutting deal until March 2020. Brent has risen nearly 20 per cent&nbsp;in 2019, supported by the pact and tensions in the Middle East, especially the row over Iran's nuclear programme.

Oil prices gained more than 1% in early trade on Wednesday, led by US crude after an industry group reported that US stockpiles fell for a fourth week in a row, alleviating concerns about oversupply.

Oil prices gained more than 1% in early trade on Wednesday, led by US crude after an industry group reported that US stockpiles fell for a fourth week in a row, alleviating concerns about oversupply. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) WTI futures rose 90 cents, or 1.5 per cent, to $58.73 by 0027 GMT. Brent was up 69 cents, or 1.1 per cent, at $64.85. The US and global benchmarks have risen this year as OPEC and big producers like Russia have honoured commitments to cut production and support prices. But investors have been looking for signs that unrelenting production from the United States is being consumed, leading to inventory declines. US crude stockpiles fell more than forecast last week, while gasoline inventories decreased and distillate stocks built, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute (API) showed on Tuesday. Crude inventories fell by 8.1 million barrels in the week to July 5 to 461.4 million, compared with analysts' expectations for a decrease of 3.1 million barrels. Crude stocks at the Cushing, Oklahoma, delivery hub fell by 754,000 barrels, API said. Figures are due later on Tuesday from the US government's Energy Information Administration and, if the official data confirms fall, it will also be the fourth consecutive weekly decline. Oil prices have been under pressure from concerns about global economic growth amid growing signs of harm from the US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year. "Prices are finely balanced right now as investors await fresh stimulus," said Fawad Razaqzada, technical analyst at FOREX.com. "The stimulus could come in the form of a sharp change in US crude oil inventories." Still, US crude oil production is forecast to rise to a fresh record of 12.36 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2019 from the high of 10.96 million bpd last year, the EIA's Short Term Energy Outlook said on Tuesday. OPEC and allied producers led by Russia agreed last week to extend their supply-cutting deal until March 2020. Brent has risen nearly 20 per cent in 2019, supported by the pact and tensions in the Middle East, especially the row over Iran's nuclear programme.

International oil prices rise over US stockpile drop

Chinese officials must not use the fight against corruption as an excuse to sit around and do nothing, idling their time away and "spending the whole day eating", President Xi Jinping told a meeting of senior Communist Party leaders on Tuesday.

Since Xi began his war on graft after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-no-clash-between-different-civilisations-says-president-xi-amid-us-china-trade-war-218993"> assuming power in late 2012</a>, the party and government have repeatedly scolded officials who think they can avoid punishment by trying to keep a low profile by not doing their jobs or making decisions.

Xi told the meeting that it was important to “correctly handle the relationship between being clean and being responsible”, the official Xinhua news agency said.

"You absolutely cannot view anti-corruption as an excuse to not accept responsibility or to do nothing,"&nbsp;Xinhua cited Xi as saying.

"Be brave to handle heavy burdens, crack hard nuts and handle hot potatoes,"&nbsp;he added.

"Don’t be muddle-headed officials who are politically apathetic and do things half-heartedly; don’t be lazy officials who spend the whole day eating and idle their time away."

Xi has vowed to target both "tigers” and "flies", referring to elite officials and ordinary bureaucrats in his corruption battle.

The campaign has led to the jailing or punishment of thousands of officials and also brought down dozens of senior party and military officials, including Zhou Yongkang, the much feared former domestic security chief.

The anti-corruption effort has not only focused on issues like bribery and using public money to fund lavish lifestyles. It has also taken aim at those whose political loyalty is found lacking or who express doubt in public about party policies.

Chinese officials must not use the fight against corruption as an excuse to sit around and do nothing, idling their time away and "spending the whole day eating", President Xi Jinping told a meeting of senior Communist Party leaders on Tuesday.

Chinese officials must not use the fight against corruption as an excuse to sit around and do nothing, idling their time away and "spending the whole day eating", President Xi Jinping told a meeting of senior Communist Party leaders on Tuesday. Since Xi began his war on graft after assuming power in late 2012, the party and government have repeatedly scolded officials who think they can avoid punishment by trying to keep a low profile by not doing their jobs or making decisions. Xi told the meeting that it was important to “correctly handle the relationship between being clean and being responsible”, the official Xinhua news agency said. "You absolutely cannot view anti-corruption as an excuse to not accept responsibility or to do nothing," Xinhua cited Xi as saying. "Be brave to handle heavy burdens, crack hard nuts and handle hot potatoes," he added. "Don’t be muddle-headed officials who are politically apathetic and do things half-heartedly; don’t be lazy officials who spend the whole day eating and idle their time away." Xi has vowed to target both "tigers” and "flies", referring to elite officials and ordinary bureaucrats in his corruption battle. The campaign has led to the jailing or punishment of thousands of officials and also brought down dozens of senior party and military officials, including Zhou Yongkang, the much feared former domestic security chief. The anti-corruption effort has not only focused on issues like bribery and using public money to fund lavish lifestyles. It has also taken aim at those whose political loyalty is found lacking or who express doubt in public about party policies.

Xi Jinping tells officials not to be lazy and 'spend whole day eating'

Marriott International Inc said on Tuesday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-intelligence-behind-marriott-data-hack-us-183707">UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)</a> had proposed to fine the hotel chain $124 million due to a massive data breach in its Starwood hotels reservation system.

In November, Marriott disclosed it had discovered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reservation-database-hacked-500-million-guests-affected-marriott-hotel-180542">Starwood reservation database</a> had been hacked over a four-year period in one of the largest breaches in history, involving up to 383 million guests.

"We are disappointed with this notice of intent from the ICO, which we will contest," Marriott Chief Executive Officer Arne Sorenson said in a statement.

Marriott's fine is one of the largest from the British data protection watchdog, which on Monday proposed a record 183.4 million pound ($230 million) penalty for British Airways-owner IAG for the theft of data from 500,000 customers from its website last year.

As of March, at least five US states were also investigating the Marriott breach, making it potentially even more expensive for the hotel group.

The hack began in 2014, a year before Marriott offered to buy Starwood to create the world's largest hotel operator. The $13.6 billion deal closed in September 2016.

Several million customer records containing information including passport details, birthdates, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses were exposed, according to the company.

The hackers also accessed payment card data for an undisclosed number of customers.

Marriott International Inc said on Tuesday the UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) had proposed to fine the hotel chain $124 million due to a massive data breach in its Starwood hotels reservation system.

Marriott International Inc said on Tuesday the UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) had proposed to fine the hotel chain $124 million due to a massive data breach in its Starwood hotels reservation system. In November, Marriott disclosed it had discovered the Starwood reservation database had been hacked over a four-year period in one of the largest breaches in history, involving up to 383 million guests. "We are disappointed with this notice of intent from the ICO, which we will contest," Marriott Chief Executive Officer Arne Sorenson said in a statement. Marriott's fine is one of the largest from the British data protection watchdog, which on Monday proposed a record 183.4 million pound ($230 million) penalty for British Airways-owner IAG for the theft of data from 500,000 customers from its website last year. As of March, at least five US states were also investigating the Marriott breach, making it potentially even more expensive for the hotel group. The hack began in 2014, a year before Marriott offered to buy Starwood to create the world's largest hotel operator. The $13.6 billion deal closed in September 2016. Several million customer records containing information including passport details, birthdates, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses were exposed, according to the company. The hackers also accessed payment card data for an undisclosed number of customers.

UK watchdog proposes to fine Marriott $124 million over data breach

The US Treasury placed two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-sees-united-states-war-on-iran-as-unlikely-report-230823">Hezbollah members of Lebanon's</a> parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians.

Stepping up its effort to build global pressure on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-to-ban-hezbollah-under-anti-terror-laws-199666">powerful Lebanese Shiite movement</a>, the Treasury named MPs Amin Sherri and Muhammad Hasan Raad to a terror-related blacklist, saying that Hezbollah uses its parliamentary power to advance violent activities.

Also placed on the blacklist was Wafiq Safa, a top Hezbollah official close to the movement's Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the US targeted three officials "who leverage their positions to facilitate Hezbollah and the Iranian regime's malign efforts to undermine Lebanese sovereignty."

"Any distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wings is artificial," he said.

"We call on our allies and partners to designate Hezbollah in its entirety as a terrorist organization."

Pompeo tied the action to the US "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran and its "proxies" in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, which Washington has officially designated a "terrorist group."

However, Washington stopped short of imposing similar sanctions on &nbsp;Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said were forthcoming in late June.

A senior administration official who insisted on anonymity Tuesday would not confirm any plan to blacklist Zarif, who was crucial in achieving the landmark 2015 nuclear deal.

"We are obviously exploring... various avenues for additional sanctions on Tehran. Obviously Foreign Minister Zarif is a figure of key interest," she said.

It is the first time the US Treasury has placed Hezbollah lawmakers on its blacklist, which forbids US individuals and businesses with a US branch -- including leading international banks -&nbsp;from doing business with those sanctioned.

With the electoral backing of many Lebanese Shiites, Hezbollah won 13 seats out of 128 in the May 6, 2018 general election.

It joined a coalition government formed on January 31, gaining control of three ministries.

But Washington says it will not regard the group's political and military activities as separate from one another.

"It is time, we believe, for other nations around the world to recognize that there is no distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wing," the senior US administration official said.

"To any member of Hezbollah considering running for office, know that you will not be able to hide beneath the cover of political office," she said.

Raad, 64, is the head of the parliamentary bloc of the party and an MP since 1992.

Sherri, 62, is a 17-year Hezbollah veteran of parliament representing Beirut.

Safa, the Treasury said, maintains the group's ties to financiers and allegedly helps arrange the smuggling of weapons and drugs.

The newest sanctions brought to 50 the number of Hezbollah individuals and entities blacklisted by the Treasury since 2017.

They have included bankers and businessmen that Washington says are deeply involved in Hezbollah business activities around the world, allegedly including narcotics trafficking and gun-running.

The sanctions have aimed particularly at companies and individuals who help the group move money throughout the Middle East.

Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad told Lebanon's MTV news channel that the new sanctions Tuesday were "a humiliation for the Lebanese people," and called on parliament and the government to issue a formal condemnation.

Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hasan Khalil meanwhile tweeted that the US sanctions were "unjustified" and "concern all of the Lebanese even if they are directed at Hezbollah."

Pompeo said the US pressure on Iran and Hezbollah was having an effect on the Lebanese group's operations.

"As a result, this designated terrorist organization has been forced to take unprecedented austerity measures. For example, in March 2019, for the first time ever, Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah made a public appeal for financial support."

The US Treasury placed two Hezbollah members of Lebanon's parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians.

The US Treasury placed two Hezbollah members of Lebanon's parliament on its sanctions blacklist on Tuesday - the first time Washington has taken aim at the Iran-allied group's elected politicians. Stepping up its effort to build global pressure on the powerful Lebanese Shiite movement, the Treasury named MPs Amin Sherri and Muhammad Hasan Raad to a terror-related blacklist, saying that Hezbollah uses its parliamentary power to advance violent activities. Also placed on the blacklist was Wafiq Safa, a top Hezbollah official close to the movement's Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the US targeted three officials "who leverage their positions to facilitate Hezbollah and the Iranian regime's malign efforts to undermine Lebanese sovereignty." "Any distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wings is artificial," he said. "We call on our allies and partners to designate Hezbollah in its entirety as a terrorist organization." Pompeo tied the action to the US "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran and its "proxies" in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, which Washington has officially designated a "terrorist group." However, Washington stopped short of imposing similar sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said were forthcoming in late June. A senior administration official who insisted on anonymity Tuesday would not confirm any plan to blacklist Zarif, who was crucial in achieving the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. "We are obviously exploring... various avenues for additional sanctions on Tehran. Obviously Foreign Minister Zarif is a figure of key interest," she said. It is the first time the US Treasury has placed Hezbollah lawmakers on its blacklist, which forbids US individuals and businesses with a US branch -- including leading international banks - from doing business with those sanctioned. With the electoral backing of many Lebanese Shiites, Hezbollah won 13 seats out of 128 in the May 6, 2018 general election. It joined a coalition government formed on January 31, gaining control of three ministries. But Washington says it will not regard the group's political and military activities as separate from one another. "It is time, we believe, for other nations around the world to recognize that there is no distinction between Hezbollah's political and military wing," the senior US administration official said. "To any member of Hezbollah considering running for office, know that you will not be able to hide beneath the cover of political office," she said. Raad, 64, is the head of the parliamentary bloc of the party and an MP since 1992. Sherri, 62, is a 17-year Hezbollah veteran of parliament representing Beirut. Safa, the Treasury said, maintains the group's ties to financiers and allegedly helps arrange the smuggling of weapons and drugs. The newest sanctions brought to 50 the number of Hezbollah individuals and entities blacklisted by the Treasury since 2017. They have included bankers and businessmen that Washington says are deeply involved in Hezbollah business activities around the world, allegedly including narcotics trafficking and gun-running. The sanctions have aimed particularly at companies and individuals who help the group move money throughout the Middle East. Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad told Lebanon's MTV news channel that the new sanctions Tuesday were "a humiliation for the Lebanese people," and called on parliament and the government to issue a formal condemnation. Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hasan Khalil meanwhile tweeted that the US sanctions were "unjustified" and "concern all of the Lebanese even if they are directed at Hezbollah." Pompeo said the US pressure on Iran and Hezbollah was having an effect on the Lebanese group's operations. "As a result, this designated terrorist organization has been forced to take unprecedented austerity measures. For example, in March 2019, for the first time ever, Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah made a public appeal for financial support."

In a first, US puts two Hezbollah lawmakers on sanctions blacklist

The Pentagon said on Tuesday that President Trump's celebration of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4th-july-celebrations-battle-tanks-arrive-in-washington-trump-promises-incredible-flyovers-biggest-ever-fireworks-232578">US Independence Day,</a> which included bringing tanks and equipment to Washington, cost the military at least $1.2 million.

Two Bradley fighting vehicles flanked Trump during his July Fourth speech last week. Trump told stories about each military branch before separate, dramatic flyovers of their respective military aircraft.

Trump, a Republican who was inspired to stage the flashy affair after seeing a similar display in France, dismissed concerns ahead of the ceremony about the expense and militaristic overtones of the event outside the 97-year-old Lincoln Memorial, a symbol of national unity.

"The total cost of the Department's support to the 'Salute to America' event was $1.2 million," the Pentagon said in a statement.

In addition to the cost to the military, the Washington Post reported last week that the US National Park Service had diverted $2.5 million in park entrance fees to help pay for the event.

The actual cost for the Pentagon is likely higher, since the Pentagon said funding for the aircraft demonstrations came from the military services' training budgets.

It was not immediately clear if all of the $1.2 million was for the cost of transporting equipment like two Abrams tanks and two Bradley fighting vehicles from Fort Stewart in Georgia for the celebration.

The military did not immediately provide a breakdown of the cost. Simply flying the B-2 bomber for an hour costs about $122,000, according to the Air Force.

On Monday, Trump said such an event would take place in the future.

"Based on its tremendous success, we're just making the decision - and I can think we can say we've made the decision - to do it again next year, and, maybe we can say, for the foreseeable future," Trump told reporters.

The July Fourth holiday celebrates the US founders’ declaring independence from Britain in 1776.

The Pentagon said on Tuesday that President Trump's celebration of US Independence Day, which included bringing tanks and equipment to Washington, cost the military at least $1.

The Pentagon said on Tuesday that President Trump's celebration of US Independence Day, which included bringing tanks and equipment to Washington, cost the military at least $1.2 million. Two Bradley fighting vehicles flanked Trump during his July Fourth speech last week. Trump told stories about each military branch before separate, dramatic flyovers of their respective military aircraft. Trump, a Republican who was inspired to stage the flashy affair after seeing a similar display in France, dismissed concerns ahead of the ceremony about the expense and militaristic overtones of the event outside the 97-year-old Lincoln Memorial, a symbol of national unity. "The total cost of the Department's support to the 'Salute to America' event was $1.2 million," the Pentagon said in a statement. In addition to the cost to the military, the Washington Post reported last week that the US National Park Service had diverted $2.5 million in park entrance fees to help pay for the event. The actual cost for the Pentagon is likely higher, since the Pentagon said funding for the aircraft demonstrations came from the military services' training budgets. It was not immediately clear if all of the $1.2 million was for the cost of transporting equipment like two Abrams tanks and two Bradley fighting vehicles from Fort Stewart in Georgia for the celebration. The military did not immediately provide a breakdown of the cost. Simply flying the B-2 bomber for an hour costs about $122,000, according to the Air Force. On Monday, Trump said such an event would take place in the future. "Based on its tremendous success, we're just making the decision - and I can think we can say we've made the decision - to do it again next year, and, maybe we can say, for the foreseeable future," Trump told reporters. The July Fourth holiday celebrates the US founders’ declaring independence from Britain in 1776.

'Salute to America': US Independence Day celebration cost military $1.2 million, confirms Pentagon

The United States said Tuesday that its $2.2 billion arms sale to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sale-of-weapons-to-taiwan-violates-one-china-policy-cancel-it-immediately-china-to-us-234236">Taiwan will contribute to stability</a> in Asia after China demanded that Washington cancel the order.

The State Department said the deal, which includes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-possible-22-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-amid-tension-with-china-234130">battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles</a>, did not change US recognition of Beijing as China's sole government.

"Our interest in Taiwan, especially as it relates to these military sales, is to promote peace and stability across the strait, across the region," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told reporters.

"So there is no change of course in our long-standing one-China policy," she said.

"I don't see our notification here as anything other than complying with the Taiwan Relations Act," she said, referring to the law passed by Congress in 1979 that requires the United States to ensure that the island has the means to defend itself.

It was the biggest US arms sale in years to the self-governing democracy, where China's defeated nationalists fled in 1949 and which Beijing considers a province awaiting reunification.

China said it lodged a complaint through diplomatic channels expressing "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" to the sale.

The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taipei since the election in 2016 of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose Democratic Progressive Party refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "One China".

The United States said Tuesday that its $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan will contribute to stability in Asia after China demanded that Washington cancel the order.

The United States said Tuesday that its $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan will contribute to stability in Asia after China demanded that Washington cancel the order. The State Department said the deal, which includes battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles, did not change US recognition of Beijing as China's sole government. "Our interest in Taiwan, especially as it relates to these military sales, is to promote peace and stability across the strait, across the region," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told reporters. "So there is no change of course in our long-standing one-China policy," she said. "I don't see our notification here as anything other than complying with the Taiwan Relations Act," she said, referring to the law passed by Congress in 1979 that requires the United States to ensure that the island has the means to defend itself. It was the biggest US arms sale in years to the self-governing democracy, where China's defeated nationalists fled in 1949 and which Beijing considers a province awaiting reunification. China said it lodged a complaint through diplomatic channels expressing "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" to the sale. The deal includes 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks, 250 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missiles, related equipment and support at an estimated cost of just over $2.2 billion, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taipei since the election in 2016 of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose Democratic Progressive Party refuses to acknowledge that the island is part of "One China".

Military ties with Taiwan meant to promote peace across the strait: US

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