Pakistan should be wary of the recent additions to our naval capacity as with them we could deliver them a bigger blow, said Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh at the commissioning ceremony of the second Kalvari-class submarine INS 'Khanderi'&nbsp;on Saturday.

"Pakistan should understand that today with the strong resolve of our government and advancement in naval capacity with additions like INS Khanderi, we are capable of giving a much bigger blow to it," Singh said at an event here.

Lauding the name given to the Kalvari-class submarine, Rajnath said, "The name Khanderi is inspired by the dreaded 'Sword Tooth Fish,'&nbsp;a deadly fish known to hunt whilst swimming close to the bottom of the ocean.

Khanderi is also the name of an island fort constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

He was one of the few medieval rulers in the country who understood the significance of Naval supremacy.

"Singh also praised India's collaboration with France in building the INS Khanderi, which is the second of the Navy's six Kalvari-class submarines being built in India.

It is a diesel-electric attack submarine which is designed by French naval defense and energy company DCNS which is being manufactured at Mazagon Dock in Mumbai.

"Our special partnership with French naval will touch new heights. The construction of the submarine is benefiting industries indirectly, through the Make in India program. Our government is alert to the needs of our defense forces and we are committed to fulfilling it," he said.

The Defense Minister in his speech also said that he would stay on board the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya for today.He also hailed the work done by the Indian Navy in ridding the sea routes of piracy and added about the upcoming additions to its capabilities.

"Our Navy has done great work in the eradication of Piracy in waters. When sea routes are secured, the impact can be seen on the trade of that region. The Nilgiri ship is also going to be launched and world-class aircraft carrier dock will also be inaugurated soon," Singh said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan should be wary of the recent additions to our naval capacity as with them we could deliver them a bigger blow, said Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh at the commissioning ceremony of the second Kalvari-class submarine INS 'Khanderi' on Saturday.

Pakistan should be wary of the recent additions to our naval capacity as with them we could deliver them a bigger blow, said Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh at the commissioning ceremony of the second Kalvari-class submarine INS 'Khanderi' on Saturday. "Pakistan should understand that today with the strong resolve of our government and advancement in naval capacity with additions like INS Khanderi, we are capable of giving a much bigger blow to it," Singh said at an event here. Lauding the name given to the Kalvari-class submarine, Rajnath said, "The name Khanderi is inspired by the dreaded 'Sword Tooth Fish,' a deadly fish known to hunt whilst swimming close to the bottom of the ocean. Khanderi is also the name of an island fort constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He was one of the few medieval rulers in the country who understood the significance of Naval supremacy. "Singh also praised India's collaboration with France in building the INS Khanderi, which is the second of the Navy's six Kalvari-class submarines being built in India. It is a diesel-electric attack submarine which is designed by French naval defense and energy company DCNS which is being manufactured at Mazagon Dock in Mumbai. "Our special partnership with French naval will touch new heights. The construction of the submarine is benefiting industries indirectly, through the Make in India program. Our government is alert to the needs of our defense forces and we are committed to fulfilling it," he said. The Defense Minister in his speech also said that he would stay on board the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya for today.He also hailed the work done by the Indian Navy in ridding the sea routes of piracy and added about the upcoming additions to its capabilities. "Our Navy has done great work in the eradication of Piracy in waters. When sea routes are secured, the impact can be seen on the trade of that region. The Nilgiri ship is also going to be launched and world-class aircraft carrier dock will also be inaugurated soon," Singh said.

With additions like INS Khanderi, we're capable of giving Pakistan much bigger blow: Rajnath

An exchange of fire took place between the security forces and two suspected terrorists in Batote area on Saturday.

The exchange of fire started this morning between the Army and two suspicious individuals, who tried to stop a civilian vehicle in Batote.

The operation is still underway.The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu, said,&nbsp;"Today at around 7:30 am two suspicious individuals, tried to stop a civil vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244. The civilian did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army QRT."

"The quick reaction team (QRT) reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place," the defence spokesperson said. More details are awaited.&nbsp;

An exchange of fire took place between the security forces and two suspected terrorists in Batote area on Saturday. The exchange of fire started this morning between the Army and two suspicious individuals, who tried to stop a civilian vehicle in Batote.

An exchange of fire took place between the security forces and two suspected terrorists in Batote area on Saturday. The exchange of fire started this morning between the Army and two suspicious individuals, who tried to stop a civilian vehicle in Batote. The operation is still underway.The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu, said, "Today at around 7:30 am two suspicious individuals, tried to stop a civil vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244. The civilian did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army QRT." "The quick reaction team (QRT) reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place," the defence spokesperson said. More details are awaited.

Jammu and Kashmir: Exchange of fire between security forces, suspected terrorists at Batote

China wants to join as soon as possible <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-set-busy-schedule-ahead-of-china-national-day-252568">an international arms treaty</a> that the United States has spurned, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, adding it was China's responsibility to take part as a member of the international community.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump has said he intends to revoke the US&nbsp;signature to the treaty, which regulates the $70 billion global cross-border trade in conventional arms and seeks to keep weapons out of the hands of human rights abusers.

So far, 104 countries have joined the pact, which the General Assembly approved in 2013. Then-US&nbsp;President Barack Obama had signed it but it was opposed by the National Rifle Association and other conservative groups and never ratified by the U.S. Senate.

Speaking at the United Nations on Friday, the Chinese government's top diplomat State Councillor Wang Yi said China has initiated domestic legal procedures to join the Arms Trade Treaty.

China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement following Wang's announcement that the country was striving to join the treaty "as soon as possible".

This is an important action for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-swipe-at-trump-china-tells-un-tariffs-could-plunge-world-into-recession-252572">China to actively participate</a> in the governance of the global arms trade governance and reflects China's determination to support multilateralism, it said.

China has always attached great importance to the issue of illegal arms sales and their misuse, and supports the purposes and objectives of the treaty, the ministry added.

"As a responsible member of the international family, China is willing to continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all parties and work together to build a standardised and reasonable arms trade order and make positive contributions to maintaining international and regional peace and stability."

Since the two countries embarked on a trade war, China has frequently rebuked the United States for its withdrawal from international treaties and not playing by the rules, seeking to portray China as a staunch defender of multilateralism.

China was the fifth-largest global arms exporter between 2014 and 2018, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, though China itself does not publish figures for how many arms it exports.

During that period <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-called-out-by-us-for-staying-mum-over-chinas-treatment-of-muslims-252323">China delivered major arms to 53 countries</a>, with Pakistan the main recipient followed by Bangladesh, according to the think-tank.

After years of steep increases in military spending and cash injections into domestic contractors, experts say some Chinese-made equipment is now comparable to Russian or Western counterparts, though accurate information about the performance of Chinese weapons is scarce.

China faces bans on Western military imports, dating back to anger over its crushing of pro-democracy protests in and around Tiananmen Square in 1989. That makes its domestic arms industry crucial in assembling a modern military that can enforce claims over self-ruled Taiwan and disputed maritime territories.

China wants to join as soon as possible an international arms treaty that the United States has spurned, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, adding it was China's responsibility to take part as a member of the international community.

China wants to join as soon as possible an international arms treaty that the United States has spurned, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday, adding it was China's responsibility to take part as a member of the international community. US President Donald Trump has said he intends to revoke the US signature to the treaty, which regulates the $70 billion global cross-border trade in conventional arms and seeks to keep weapons out of the hands of human rights abusers. So far, 104 countries have joined the pact, which the General Assembly approved in 2013. Then-US President Barack Obama had signed it but it was opposed by the National Rifle Association and other conservative groups and never ratified by the U.S. Senate. Speaking at the United Nations on Friday, the Chinese government's top diplomat State Councillor Wang Yi said China has initiated domestic legal procedures to join the Arms Trade Treaty. China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement following Wang's announcement that the country was striving to join the treaty "as soon as possible". This is an important action for China to actively participate in the governance of the global arms trade governance and reflects China's determination to support multilateralism, it said. China has always attached great importance to the issue of illegal arms sales and their misuse, and supports the purposes and objectives of the treaty, the ministry added. "As a responsible member of the international family, China is willing to continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all parties and work together to build a standardised and reasonable arms trade order and make positive contributions to maintaining international and regional peace and stability." Since the two countries embarked on a trade war, China has frequently rebuked the United States for its withdrawal from international treaties and not playing by the rules, seeking to portray China as a staunch defender of multilateralism. China was the fifth-largest global arms exporter between 2014 and 2018, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, though China itself does not publish figures for how many arms it exports. During that period China delivered major arms to 53 countries, with Pakistan the main recipient followed by Bangladesh, according to the think-tank. After years of steep increases in military spending and cash injections into domestic contractors, experts say some Chinese-made equipment is now comparable to Russian or Western counterparts, though accurate information about the performance of Chinese weapons is scarce. China faces bans on Western military imports, dating back to anger over its crushing of pro-democracy protests in and around Tiananmen Square in 1989. That makes its domestic arms industry crucial in assembling a modern military that can enforce claims over self-ruled Taiwan and disputed maritime territories.

China aims to join US-spurned arms treaty as soon as possible

Delhi Metro's Grey Line, which connects Dwarka to Najafgarh, has got the mandatory approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), and date for the commencement of operations is expected to be announced soon.

CMRS Janak Kumar Garg carried out a safety inspection on the 4.29 kilometre-long corridor.

"Grey Line Update -- The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety, Shri Janak Kumar Garg has accorded the mandatory approval for the commencement of passenger operations on the 4.295 km long Dwarka - Najafgarh section. The date for commencement of operations shall be intimated shortly," the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a tweet.

The safety inspection is the last step before the commissioning of any metro stretch.

The soon-to-be-operational section will have three stations -- Dwarka, Nangli and Najafgarh.

While Dwarka and Nangli are elevated stations, Najafgarh is underground. Trial runs had begun on this stretch in July.

The corridor is also being further extended by another 1.18 kilometres till Dhansa Stand, which is slated for completion by December 2020.

When operational, the Dwarka-Najafgarh section is expected to give a boost to connectivity and ease commuting to Najafgarh, a popular suburb in south-west Delhi, which is at present lacks a robust transport network.

The upcoming stretch will have an interchange at the Dwarka station, where commuters can change to Blue Line, which connects Dwarka Sector-21 to Noida Electronic City and Vaishali in Ghaziabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi Metro's Grey Line, which connects Dwarka to Najafgarh, has got the mandatory approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), and date for the commencement of operations is expected to be announced soon.

Delhi Metro's Grey Line, which connects Dwarka to Najafgarh, has got the mandatory approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), and date for the commencement of operations is expected to be announced soon. CMRS Janak Kumar Garg carried out a safety inspection on the 4.29 kilometre-long corridor. "Grey Line Update -- The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety, Shri Janak Kumar Garg has accorded the mandatory approval for the commencement of passenger operations on the 4.295 km long Dwarka - Najafgarh section. The date for commencement of operations shall be intimated shortly," the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a tweet. The safety inspection is the last step before the commissioning of any metro stretch. The soon-to-be-operational section will have three stations -- Dwarka, Nangli and Najafgarh. While Dwarka and Nangli are elevated stations, Najafgarh is underground. Trial runs had begun on this stretch in July. The corridor is also being further extended by another 1.18 kilometres till Dhansa Stand, which is slated for completion by December 2020. When operational, the Dwarka-Najafgarh section is expected to give a boost to connectivity and ease commuting to Najafgarh, a popular suburb in south-west Delhi, which is at present lacks a robust transport network. The upcoming stretch will have an interchange at the Dwarka station, where commuters can change to Blue Line, which connects Dwarka Sector-21 to Noida Electronic City and Vaishali in Ghaziabad.

Delhi Metro's Grey Line gets CMRS approval, to open soon

It's a wrap: As PM Modi's week-long US visit ends, here's what stole the limelight

The Chinese government's top diplomat said on Friday that tariffs and trade disputes could plunge the world into recession and Beijing was committed to resolving them in a "calm, rational and cooperative manner."

In a blunt speech to the annual United Nations General Assembly, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said: "Erecting walls will not resolve global challenges, and blaming others for one's own problems does not work. The lessons of the Great Depression should not be forgotten."

Taking a clear swipe at US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who started a damaging trade war on China nearly 15 months ago, Wang added, without naming the US&nbsp;leader:

"Tariffs and provocation of trade disputes, which upset global industrial and supply chains, serve to undermine the multilateral trade regime and global economic and trade order.

"They may even plunge the world into recession."

In successive rounds of tit-for-tat tariffs, the United States and China have levied punitive duties on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods, roiling financial markets and threatening global growth.

A new round of high-level talks between the world's two largest economies is expected in Washington in the first half of October.

Wang's remarks, unusually pointed for a Chinese diplomat, coincided with word that the Trump administration is considering radical new financial pressure tactics on Beijing, including the possibility of delisting Chinese companies from US&nbsp;stock exchanges.

Sources told Reuters on Friday that the move would be part of a broader effort to limit US&nbsp;investments into Chinese companies, in part because of growing security concerns about their activities.

News of the potential restrictions on portfolio investments restrictions sent US&nbsp;stocks and oil prices lower on Friday on fears that US-China trade tensions would again escalate. An increase in US&nbsp;tariffs to 30% from 25% on $250 billion in Chinese imports is scheduled for Oct. 15 if no progress is made before then.

US&nbsp;and Chinese rhetoric on trade this week had seesawed between harsher and more conciliatory, with Trump issuing a sharp rebuke of China`s trade practices and state-led development model in his speech before the General Assembly on Tuesday, adding that he would not accept a "bad deal."

On the same day, Wang warned the United States not to interfere with China's sovereignty. But on Thursday he said China was willing to consider increased purchases of farm products and predicted that talks would lead to a resolution if both sides took more steps to improve goodwill.

Trump said on Wednesday a trade deal with China could come sooner than people think, and praised the Chinese purchases.

North Korea&nbsp;

At the United Nations, Wang also took aim at Trump`s policy on North Korea, in which groundbreaking talks between Pyongyang and Washington have stalled, largely over the US&nbsp;refusal to ease punishing sanctions.

Wang said it was necessary for the United Nations to consider invoking the rollback terms of North Korea-related sanctions resolutions "in the light of new developments" on the Korean Peninsula "to bolster the political settlement of the Peninsula issue."

He said "the realistic and viable way forward" was to promote "parallel progress in denuclearization and the establishment of a peace mechanism" to gradually build trust "through phased and synchronized actions."

Wang criticized the US&nbsp;withdrawal this year from a treaty governing intermediate range nuclear missiles, and said China was against the deployment of such missiles in the Asia-Pacific region.

He said China would continue to take an active role in the international arms control process and added that it has initiated domestic legal procedures to join the Arms Trade Treaty.

Trump has said he intends to revoke the US&nbsp;signature to the treaty, which regulates the $70 billion global cross-border trade in conventional arms and seeks to keep weapons out of the hands of human rights abusers.

So far, 104 countries have joined the pact, which the General Assembly approved in 2013.

Wang reiterated comments made earlier in the week, stressing China's commitment to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of another country, an apparent reference to Beijing's displeasure at criticism of its handling of protests in Hong Kong.

"On the international stage, we speak for justice and oppose hegemonism or bullying," Wang said.

Shortly before Wang's speech, China and Kiribati formally resumed diplomatic ties at a ceremony he presided over at the Chinese Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.

The move followed the Pacific island state's decision to ditch relations with Taiwan, which the United States supports with arms supplies and which Beijing considers a renegade province.

"I do believe that there is much to learn and gain from the People's Republic of China, and the re-establishment of our diplomatic relations is just the beginning," Kiribati's President Taneti Maamau said at the event.

The Solomon Islands and Kiribati are the latest countries to switch relations to China, leaving self-ruled Taiwan with formal ties to only 15 countries. 
&nbsp;

The Chinese government's top diplomat said on Friday that tariffs and trade disputes could plunge the world into recession and Beijing was committed to resolving them in a "calm, rational and cooperative manner.

The Chinese government's top diplomat said on Friday that tariffs and trade disputes could plunge the world into recession and Beijing was committed to resolving them in a "calm, rational and cooperative manner." In a blunt speech to the annual United Nations General Assembly, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said: "Erecting walls will not resolve global challenges, and blaming others for one's own problems does not work. The lessons of the Great Depression should not be forgotten." Taking a clear swipe at US President Donald Trump, who started a damaging trade war on China nearly 15 months ago, Wang added, without naming the US leader: "Tariffs and provocation of trade disputes, which upset global industrial and supply chains, serve to undermine the multilateral trade regime and global economic and trade order. "They may even plunge the world into recession." In successive rounds of tit-for-tat tariffs, the United States and China have levied punitive duties on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods, roiling financial markets and threatening global growth. A new round of high-level talks between the world's two largest economies is expected in Washington in the first half of October. Wang's remarks, unusually pointed for a Chinese diplomat, coincided with word that the Trump administration is considering radical new financial pressure tactics on Beijing, including the possibility of delisting Chinese companies from US stock exchanges. Sources told Reuters on Friday that the move would be part of a broader effort to limit US investments into Chinese companies, in part because of growing security concerns about their activities. News of the potential restrictions on portfolio investments restrictions sent US stocks and oil prices lower on Friday on fears that US-China trade tensions would again escalate. An increase in US tariffs to 30% from 25% on $250 billion in Chinese imports is scheduled for Oct. 15 if no progress is made before then. US and Chinese rhetoric on trade this week had seesawed between harsher and more conciliatory, with Trump issuing a sharp rebuke of China`s trade practices and state-led development model in his speech before the General Assembly on Tuesday, adding that he would not accept a "bad deal." On the same day, Wang warned the United States not to interfere with China's sovereignty. But on Thursday he said China was willing to consider increased purchases of farm products and predicted that talks would lead to a resolution if both sides took more steps to improve goodwill. Trump said on Wednesday a trade deal with China could come sooner than people think, and praised the Chinese purchases. North Korea At the United Nations, Wang also took aim at Trump`s policy on North Korea, in which groundbreaking talks between Pyongyang and Washington have stalled, largely over the US refusal to ease punishing sanctions. Wang said it was necessary for the United Nations to consider invoking the rollback terms of North Korea-related sanctions resolutions "in the light of new developments" on the Korean Peninsula "to bolster the political settlement of the Peninsula issue." He said "the realistic and viable way forward" was to promote "parallel progress in denuclearization and the establishment of a peace mechanism" to gradually build trust "through phased and synchronized actions." Wang criticized the US withdrawal this year from a treaty governing intermediate range nuclear missiles, and said China was against the deployment of such missiles in the Asia-Pacific region. He said China would continue to take an active role in the international arms control process and added that it has initiated domestic legal procedures to join the Arms Trade Treaty. Trump has said he intends to revoke the US signature to the treaty, which regulates the $70 billion global cross-border trade in conventional arms and seeks to keep weapons out of the hands of human rights abusers. So far, 104 countries have joined the pact, which the General Assembly approved in 2013. Wang reiterated comments made earlier in the week, stressing China's commitment to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of another country, an apparent reference to Beijing's displeasure at criticism of its handling of protests in Hong Kong. "On the international stage, we speak for justice and oppose hegemonism or bullying," Wang said. Shortly before Wang's speech, China and Kiribati formally resumed diplomatic ties at a ceremony he presided over at the Chinese Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York. The move followed the Pacific island state's decision to ditch relations with Taiwan, which the United States supports with arms supplies and which Beijing considers a renegade province. "I do believe that there is much to learn and gain from the People's Republic of China, and the re-establishment of our diplomatic relations is just the beginning," Kiribati's President Taneti Maamau said at the event. The Solomon Islands and Kiribati are the latest countries to switch relations to China, leaving self-ruled Taiwan with formal ties to only 15 countries.

In swipe at Trump, China tells U.N. tariffs could plunge world into recession

America's first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-interacts-with-sikh-leaders-in-houston-251123">Sikh</a> police officer on Friday&nbsp;was shot dead in northwest Harris County in Houston. Sandeep Dhaliwal was a 10-year veteran at the Harris County Sheriff`s Office and a father of three, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said at a press conference.

"He wore the turban, he represented his community with integrity, respect and pride and he was respected by all," he added.

Dhaliwal was conducting a traffic stop when he was shot, the sheriff said. There were two people in the vehicle. As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/europe-india-business-chamber-demands-suspension-of-gsp-status-to-pakistan-for-persecution-of-sikhs-hindus-and-christians-249695">Dhaliwal</a> was headed back to his patrol car, Gonzalez said that a man got out of the vehicle with a pistol.

"In a cold-blooded manner, ambush-style, (he) shot Deputy Dhaliwal from behind," CNN quoted Gonzalez as saying.

Two people are currently in custody in connection with the shooting, the sheriff said, and a weapon was found that deputies believed was used to shoot Dhaliwal.

"It`s the worst day, the worst nightmare for any police executive," Gonzalez said.

"This guy had a heart of gold, he treated his brothers and sisters in law enforcement as if they were just brothers and sisters. He thought of them before he thought of himself. He thought of the broader community before he thought of himself," said Adrian Garcia, Harris County Police Commissioner.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, released a statement on Friday, saying "this tragic loss is a grave reminder of the risks that our law enforcement officers face every single day."

"I thank the officers who bravely responded to apprehend the suspect, and I assure you that the state of Texas is committed to bringing this killer to justice," Abbott said.&nbsp;

America's first Sikh police officer on Friday was shot dead in northwest Harris County in Houston. Sandeep Dhaliwal was a 10-year veteran at the Harris County Sheriff`s Office and a father of three, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said at a press conference.

America's first Sikh police officer on Friday was shot dead in northwest Harris County in Houston. Sandeep Dhaliwal was a 10-year veteran at the Harris County Sheriff`s Office and a father of three, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said at a press conference. "He wore the turban, he represented his community with integrity, respect and pride and he was respected by all," he added. Dhaliwal was conducting a traffic stop when he was shot, the sheriff said. There were two people in the vehicle. As Dhaliwal was headed back to his patrol car, Gonzalez said that a man got out of the vehicle with a pistol. "In a cold-blooded manner, ambush-style, (he) shot Deputy Dhaliwal from behind," CNN quoted Gonzalez as saying. Two people are currently in custody in connection with the shooting, the sheriff said, and a weapon was found that deputies believed was used to shoot Dhaliwal. "It`s the worst day, the worst nightmare for any police executive," Gonzalez said. "This guy had a heart of gold, he treated his brothers and sisters in law enforcement as if they were just brothers and sisters. He thought of them before he thought of himself. He thought of the broader community before he thought of himself," said Adrian Garcia, Harris County Police Commissioner. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, released a statement on Friday, saying "this tragic loss is a grave reminder of the risks that our law enforcement officers face every single day." "I thank the officers who bravely responded to apprehend the suspect, and I assure you that the state of Texas is committed to bringing this killer to justice," Abbott said.

America's first Sikh Deputy Sheriff fatally shot in Houston

Teen activist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-movement-now-too-loud-to-handle-for-trump-and-critics-says-greta-thunberg-252545">Greta Thunberg</a> urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other world leaders Friday to do more for the environment as she led half a million protesters in Montreal as part of a global wave of "climate strikes."

The 16-year-old Swede met privately with Trudeau but later told a news conference with local indigenous leaders that he was "not doing enough" to curb greenhouse gases responsible for global warming.

"My message to all the politicians around the world is the same. Just listen and act on the current best available science," she said.

Thunberg generated headlines around the world earlier this week with her viral so-called "How Dare You?" speech at the UN climate summit, accusing world leaders of betraying her generation.

"You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words," she thundered, visibly angry and close to tears.

The teen has inspired millions of youngsters, drawn to her cause by her passion and a mature, committed rhetorical style -- articulated in near-perfect English -- that belies her young age.

"It's incredible to be united in such a way for a common cause," she told the cheering Montreal crowd, adding: "If the people in power won't take their responsibility, then we will."

"This week, world leaders from all around the world gathered in New York. They disappointed us once again with their empty words and insufficient plans," she went on.

"It should not be up to us, but somebody needs to do it. This is an emergency, and we will not be bystanders. We are the change and change is coming."

Trudeau and other Canadian party leaders took a breather from a tight election campaign <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=%09Canada%27s+Trudeau+to+march+with+climate+activist+Greta+Thunberg">to join Thunberg at the Montreal rally</a> -- along with around 500,000 protesters, according to organisers.

Walking with his wife and children, Trudeau mingled with a boisterous crowd that brandished placards reading "Respect Mother Earth" and &nbsp;"Make America Greta Again" -- a riff on a campaign slogan popularised by US president and noted climate sceptic Donald Trump.

Two billion trees

One man was tackled by security when he appeared to lunge at the prime minister, while 13-year-old Annabelle Vellend broke out in tears when she spotted Thunberg marching, telling AFP: "I really believe in Greta's movement."

"She is doing amazing things and it's great that she's able to press politicians to act on climate change, during an election," she said.

In his first term, Trudeau cast himself as a champion in the fight against global warming, but his green image was tarnished by his nationalization of an oil pipeline to salvage the construction project after years of delay.

The Prime Minister said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-nobel-for-swedens-greta-thunberg-a-tough-decision-for-prize-committee-252010">after meeting Thunberg</a> and pledging to fund the planting of two billion trees: "I agree with her entirely. We need to do more."

Earlier this week, the Liberal leader promised Canada would reach net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, joining 66 other countries that have already signed onto the pledge.

Last Friday, more than six million youths -- and adults -- rallied in "climate strikes" around the world.

Turnout at events a week on was smaller, but still vocal. In Italy, hundreds of thousands of young people took to the streets while an estimated 40,000 protested outside New Zealand's parliament, and in Switzerland police intervened when protestors tried to block a major thoroughfare.

"Don't take away my planet, you jerks!" yelled demonstrators who surged through the streets of Madrid singing raucously along to a brass band, and dancing.

Record CO2 emissions

Climate is "being talked about every day, everywhere, by everyone," commented Maria Paralejo, 22.

Her friend Alicia Portela told AFP it wasn't just up to politicians to act. "We have to stop using so much plastic, cut back on eating meat and reuse clothes instead of buying new ones."

Back at the giant Montreal march made up mostly of children and a few adults, Alexanne Lessard stood out in her tree costume.

"I'm here for our future, to show our government that we the majority want to do something and that they can take big steps that will have an impact," she said.

The world's top scientists believe the long-term average temperature rise must be limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels to prevent runaway warming and catastrophic longer-term damage.

But the level of emissions being released into the atmosphere has risen to an all-time high, triggering global weather hazards from heat waves to intense hurricanes and raging wildfires.

The U.N. estimates that the world needs to increase its current efforts five-fold to contain climate change. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-striker-greta-thunberg-wins-right-livelihood-award-251941">The U.N. summit</a> in New York sought to reinvigorate the faltering Paris agreement on climate change.

Teen activist Greta Thunberg urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other world leaders Friday to do more for the environment as she led half a million protesters in Montreal as part of a global wave of "climate strikes.

Teen activist Greta Thunberg urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other world leaders Friday to do more for the environment as she led half a million protesters in Montreal as part of a global wave of "climate strikes." The 16-year-old Swede met privately with Trudeau but later told a news conference with local indigenous leaders that he was "not doing enough" to curb greenhouse gases responsible for global warming. "My message to all the politicians around the world is the same. Just listen and act on the current best available science," she said. Thunberg generated headlines around the world earlier this week with her viral so-called "How Dare You?" speech at the UN climate summit, accusing world leaders of betraying her generation. "You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words," she thundered, visibly angry and close to tears. The teen has inspired millions of youngsters, drawn to her cause by her passion and a mature, committed rhetorical style -- articulated in near-perfect English -- that belies her young age. "It's incredible to be united in such a way for a common cause," she told the cheering Montreal crowd, adding: "If the people in power won't take their responsibility, then we will." "This week, world leaders from all around the world gathered in New York. They disappointed us once again with their empty words and insufficient plans," she went on. "It should not be up to us, but somebody needs to do it. This is an emergency, and we will not be bystanders. We are the change and change is coming." Trudeau and other Canadian party leaders took a breather from a tight election campaign to join Thunberg at the Montreal rally -- along with around 500,000 protesters, according to organisers. Walking with his wife and children, Trudeau mingled with a boisterous crowd that brandished placards reading "Respect Mother Earth" and "Make America Greta Again" -- a riff on a campaign slogan popularised by US president and noted climate sceptic Donald Trump. Two billion trees One man was tackled by security when he appeared to lunge at the prime minister, while 13-year-old Annabelle Vellend broke out in tears when she spotted Thunberg marching, telling AFP: "I really believe in Greta's movement." "She is doing amazing things and it's great that she's able to press politicians to act on climate change, during an election," she said. In his first term, Trudeau cast himself as a champion in the fight against global warming, but his green image was tarnished by his nationalization of an oil pipeline to salvage the construction project after years of delay. The Prime Minister said after meeting Thunberg and pledging to fund the planting of two billion trees: "I agree with her entirely. We need to do more." Earlier this week, the Liberal leader promised Canada would reach net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, joining 66 other countries that have already signed onto the pledge. Last Friday, more than six million youths -- and adults -- rallied in "climate strikes" around the world. Turnout at events a week on was smaller, but still vocal. In Italy, hundreds of thousands of young people took to the streets while an estimated 40,000 protested outside New Zealand's parliament, and in Switzerland police intervened when protestors tried to block a major thoroughfare. "Don't take away my planet, you jerks!" yelled demonstrators who surged through the streets of Madrid singing raucously along to a brass band, and dancing. Record CO2 emissions Climate is "being talked about every day, everywhere, by everyone," commented Maria Paralejo, 22. Her friend Alicia Portela told AFP it wasn't just up to politicians to act. "We have to stop using so much plastic, cut back on eating meat and reuse clothes instead of buying new ones." Back at the giant Montreal march made up mostly of children and a few adults, Alexanne Lessard stood out in her tree costume. "I'm here for our future, to show our government that we the majority want to do something and that they can take big steps that will have an impact," she said. The world's top scientists believe the long-term average temperature rise must be limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels to prevent runaway warming and catastrophic longer-term damage. But the level of emissions being released into the atmosphere has risen to an all-time high, triggering global weather hazards from heat waves to intense hurricanes and raging wildfires. The U.N. estimates that the world needs to increase its current efforts five-fold to contain climate change. The U.N. summit in New York sought to reinvigorate the faltering Paris agreement on climate change.

Greta Thunberg marches in Montreal for global climate protests

President Donald Trump's administration is considering delisting Chinese companies from US&nbsp;stock exchanges, three sources briefed on the matter said on Friday, in what would be a radical escalation of <a href="Asian markets slip amidst US-China trade war">US-China trade tensions</a>.

The move would be part of a broader effort to limit US&nbsp;investment in Chinese companies, two of the sources said. One said it was motivated by the Trump administration's growing security concerns about the companies' activities.

Major US&nbsp;stock indexes slipped on the news, which came days before China celebrates the 70th anniversary of the birth of the People's Republic on October&nbsp;1, when the world's No. 2 economy will shut down for a week of festivities.

Shares of Hangzhou, Zhejiang-based Alibaba ended down 5.15 per cent. JD.com fell by 5.95 per cent&nbsp;and Baidu Inc declined by 3.67 per cent. The iShares China Large-Cap ETF shed 1.15 per cent.

Shares of New York Stock Exchange-owner Intercontinental Exchange Inc ended down 1.88 per cent&nbsp;and shares of Nasdaq Inc declined by 1.70 per cent.

It was not immediately clear how any delisting would work.

In June, US&nbsp;lawmakers from both parties introduced a bill to force <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-exports-fall-in-august-as-us-trade-war-rumbles-248393">Chinese companies</a>&nbsp;listed on American stock exchanges to submit to regulatory oversight, including providing access to audits, or face delisting.

Chinese authorities have long been reluctant to let overseas regulators inspect local accounting firms - including member firms of the Big Four international accounting networks - citing national security concerns.

"Beijing should no longer be allowed to shield US-listed Chinese companies from complying with American laws and regulations for financial transparency and accountability," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said at the time.

One of the sources briefed on the matter said the idea of delisting was the latest salvo in this longstanding dispute.

"This is a very high priority for the administration. Chinese companies not complying with the PCAOB (Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) process poses risks to US&nbsp;investors," the source said.

Any plan is subject to approval by Trump, who has given the green light to the discussion, Bloomberg reported, citing a person close to the deliberations.

Officials are also examining how the United States could put limits on Chinese companies included in stock indexes managed by US&nbsp;firms, the agency cited three sources as saying.

No decision or action is imminent, two sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

As of February, 156 Chinese companies were listed on the NASDAQ and New York Stock Exchanges, according to US&nbsp;government data, including at least 11 state-owned firms.&nbsp;

NYSE declined to comment on Friday, while Nasdaq, MSCI, S&amp;P and FTSE Russell did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

China's yuan currency, traded in offshore markets, fell against the dollar after the news to trade near its weakest against the greenback in about three weeks.

Ploy?

Trade talks between the United States and China are expected to be held October&nbsp;10-11 after months of tit-for-tat moves by both sides which have weakened global growth and driven rollercoaster moves in markets.

While the idea of delisting could be a manoeuvre ahead of those talks, the main aim was to counteract the civilian-military fusion of Chinese technology firms, the Made in China 2025 industrial development programme targeting key industries for domination and a growing surveillance state in Xinjiang, one of the sources said.

The source said there are longstanding concerns about US&nbsp;capital enabling these activities, especially as the lines blur between state-owned and private companies in China.

"It's all very disruptive, it just adds to uncertainty and it's a big negative for business investment," said Scott Brown, chief economist at investment bank Raymond James. He noted, however, that both sides have used aggressive moves in the past ahead of talks.

"You never know if it's a ploy to get some leverage," he said.

Trump on Tuesday criticized Beijing's trade practices in a speech at the United Nations, but the next day stoked hopes that the nearly 15-month standoff could be nearing an end.

"They want to make a deal very badly ... It could happen sooner than you think," he told reporters in New York on Wednesday.

China says it cannot allow its companies to submit to oversight by PCOAB because of rules prohibiting the storage, processing or transfer of any material considered to be state secrets or national security matters.

US hedge fund manager Kyle Bass, a prominent critic of China, said on Friday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-exports-fall-in-august-as-us-trade-war-rumbles-248393">Chinese companies should have to play by US</a>&nbsp;rules if they want to sell to US&nbsp;investors.

"The US&nbsp;should require any securities sold in the US to adhere to US Securities Laws. Crazy huh?" Bass wrote on Twitter.

President Donald Trump's administration is considering delisting Chinese companies from US stock exchanges, three sources briefed on the matter said on Friday, in what would be a radical escalation of US-China trade tensions.

President Donald Trump's administration is considering delisting Chinese companies from US stock exchanges, three sources briefed on the matter said on Friday, in what would be a radical escalation of US-China trade tensions. The move would be part of a broader effort to limit US investment in Chinese companies, two of the sources said. One said it was motivated by the Trump administration's growing security concerns about the companies' activities. Major US stock indexes slipped on the news, which came days before China celebrates the 70th anniversary of the birth of the People's Republic on October 1, when the world's No. 2 economy will shut down for a week of festivities. Shares of Hangzhou, Zhejiang-based Alibaba ended down 5.15 per cent. JD.com fell by 5.95 per cent and Baidu Inc declined by 3.67 per cent. The iShares China Large-Cap ETF shed 1.15 per cent. Shares of New York Stock Exchange-owner Intercontinental Exchange Inc ended down 1.88 per cent and shares of Nasdaq Inc declined by 1.70 per cent. It was not immediately clear how any delisting would work. In June, US lawmakers from both parties introduced a bill to force Chinese companies listed on American stock exchanges to submit to regulatory oversight, including providing access to audits, or face delisting. Chinese authorities have long been reluctant to let overseas regulators inspect local accounting firms - including member firms of the Big Four international accounting networks - citing national security concerns. "Beijing should no longer be allowed to shield US-listed Chinese companies from complying with American laws and regulations for financial transparency and accountability," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said at the time. One of the sources briefed on the matter said the idea of delisting was the latest salvo in this longstanding dispute. "This is a very high priority for the administration. Chinese companies not complying with the PCAOB (Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) process poses risks to US investors," the source said. Any plan is subject to approval by Trump, who has given the green light to the discussion, Bloomberg reported, citing a person close to the deliberations. Officials are also examining how the United States could put limits on Chinese companies included in stock indexes managed by US firms, the agency cited three sources as saying. No decision or action is imminent, two sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters. As of February, 156 Chinese companies were listed on the NASDAQ and New York Stock Exchanges, according to US government data, including at least 11 state-owned firms. NYSE declined to comment on Friday, while Nasdaq, MSCI, S&P and FTSE Russell did not immediately respond to requests for comment. China's yuan currency, traded in offshore markets, fell against the dollar after the news to trade near its weakest against the greenback in about three weeks. Ploy? Trade talks between the United States and China are expected to be held October 10-11 after months of tit-for-tat moves by both sides which have weakened global growth and driven rollercoaster moves in markets. While the idea of delisting could be a manoeuvre ahead of those talks, the main aim was to counteract the civilian-military fusion of Chinese technology firms, the Made in China 2025 industrial development programme targeting key industries for domination and a growing surveillance state in Xinjiang, one of the sources said. The source said there are longstanding concerns about US capital enabling these activities, especially as the lines blur between state-owned and private companies in China. "It's all very disruptive, it just adds to uncertainty and it's a big negative for business investment," said Scott Brown, chief economist at investment bank Raymond James. He noted, however, that both sides have used aggressive moves in the past ahead of talks. "You never know if it's a ploy to get some leverage," he said. Trump on Tuesday criticized Beijing's trade practices in a speech at the United Nations, but the next day stoked hopes that the nearly 15-month standoff could be nearing an end. "They want to make a deal very badly ... It could happen sooner than you think," he told reporters in New York on Wednesday. China says it cannot allow its companies to submit to oversight by PCOAB because of rules prohibiting the storage, processing or transfer of any material considered to be state secrets or national security matters. US hedge fund manager Kyle Bass, a prominent critic of China, said on Friday that Chinese companies should have to play by US rules if they want to sell to US investors. "The US should require any securities sold in the US to adhere to US Securities Laws. Crazy huh?" Bass wrote on Twitter.

Trump considers delisting Chinese firms from US markets

At least 44 people were killed and thousands moved to relief camps because of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/disaster-reduction-day-most-devastating-floods-in-india-492">flooding</a> caused by torrential rains in northern India's Uttar Pradesh state, officials told AFP Saturday.

Densely populated regions on the banks of two main rivers in the state, which are overflowing because of incessant rainfall in the last 24-48 hours, are among the worst hit.

"We had confirmed 44 deaths till late yesterday night. The authorities are focusing on rescue and relief work in the affected regions," Ravindra Pratap Sahi, vice chairman of the state disaster management authority, told AFP.

"We have moved thousands to relief shelters as there is a forecast of heavy rains in the next 48 hours in most of the affected districts of the state," Sahi said.

Officials and local media reports said most people lost their lives for a variety of reasons including wall collapses, drowning, lightning and snake bites.

Flash floods after heavy rains <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-from-indian-floods-reaches-147-hundreds-of-thousands-evacuated-242250">killed at least 17</a> people in western India's Maharashtra state earlier this week.

Monsoon rains are crucial to replenishing water supplies in drought-stricken India, but they kill hundreds of people across the country every year.

At least 44 people were killed and thousands moved to relief camps because of flooding caused by torrential rains in northern India's Uttar Pradesh state, officials told AFP Saturday.

At least 44 people were killed and thousands moved to relief camps because of flooding caused by torrential rains in northern India's Uttar Pradesh state, officials told AFP Saturday. Densely populated regions on the banks of two main rivers in the state, which are overflowing because of incessant rainfall in the last 24-48 hours, are among the worst hit. "We had confirmed 44 deaths till late yesterday night. The authorities are focusing on rescue and relief work in the affected regions," Ravindra Pratap Sahi, vice chairman of the state disaster management authority, told AFP. "We have moved thousands to relief shelters as there is a forecast of heavy rains in the next 48 hours in most of the affected districts of the state," Sahi said. Officials and local media reports said most people lost their lives for a variety of reasons including wall collapses, drowning, lightning and snake bites. Flash floods after heavy rains killed at least 17 people in western India's Maharashtra state earlier this week. Monsoon rains are crucial to replenishing water supplies in drought-stricken India, but they kill hundreds of people across the country every year.

Floods kill around 44 people in North India

Insurgents worked to disrupt <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-taliban-lifts-ban-on-world-health-organization-252047">Afghanistan's</a>&nbsp;presidential election Saturday, with a series of blasts reported across the country as voters headed to the polls and troops flooded the streets of the capital.

The vote marks the culmination of a bloody election campaign that is seen as a two-horse race between President Ashraf Ghani and his bitter rival Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive.

The Taliban, who unleashed a string of bombings during the two-month campaign, in recent days issued repeated warnings they intend to attack polling centres.

At least 15 people were wounded in the southern city of Kandahar when a bomb went off at a polling station about two hours after voting began, a hospital director told AFP, and officials across the country reported several small explosions at other election sites.

"Peace is the first desire of our people," Ghani said after casting his vote at a high school in Kabul.

"Our roadmap (for peace) is ready, I want the people to give us permission and legitimacy so that we pursue peace."

Wary authorities placed an uneasy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-delegation-meets-chinas-special-envoy-for-afghanistan-251582">Kabul under partial lockdown</a>, flooding streets with troops and banning trucks from entering the city in an effort to stop would-be suicide bombers attacking the electoral process.

One voter at a polling station in a Kabul high school said it was important to cast a ballot.

"I know there are security threats but bombs and attacks have become part of our everyday lives," 55-year-old Mohiuddin, who only gave one name, told AFP.

"I am not afraid, we have to vote if we want to bring changes to our lives", he added.

The capital's traffic, often gridlocked, dropped to a trickle as schools and offices closed for the day and as many people chose to stay off the roads.

Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security.

Abdullah and <a href="Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani says he'll 'never accept division of power'">Ghani both claimed victory</a> in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US president Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role.

Sunawbar Mirzae, 23, said she chose to brave the polls because she valued her right to vote.

"The only request I have from the election commission is that they ensure the transparency of the election because lots of people have lost their trust," she told AFP.

Abysmal security

Voting in Afghanistan's fourth presidential election began at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) at some 5,000 polling centres across the country. Authorities had initially planned to open hundreds more but were unable to owing to the abysmal security situation.

Campaigning was hampered by violence from the first day when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead.&nbsp;

Bloody attacks have continued to rock Afghanistan, including a Taliban bombing at a Ghani rally last week that killed at least 26 people in the central province of Parwan near Kabul.

The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations.

Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said: "Any acts of violence against the electoral process, including attacks directed at polling centres, polling staff and voters, are unacceptable."

Election officials say this will be the cleanest election yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair.

Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud" and many Afghans say they have no intention of voting, citing fraud and security fears.

Saturday's poll was initially slated to take place in April but was twice delayed because election workers were ill-prepared, and the US was leading a push to forge a withdrawal agreement with the Taliban.&nbsp;

That deal has been scuppered for now after US President Donald Trump pulled out.

Polls close at 3:00 pm (1030 GMT).

Insurgents worked to disrupt Afghanistan's presidential election Saturday, with a series of blasts reported across the country as voters headed to the polls and troops flooded the streets of the capital.

Insurgents worked to disrupt Afghanistan's presidential election Saturday, with a series of blasts reported across the country as voters headed to the polls and troops flooded the streets of the capital. The vote marks the culmination of a bloody election campaign that is seen as a two-horse race between President Ashraf Ghani and his bitter rival Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive. The Taliban, who unleashed a string of bombings during the two-month campaign, in recent days issued repeated warnings they intend to attack polling centres. At least 15 people were wounded in the southern city of Kandahar when a bomb went off at a polling station about two hours after voting began, a hospital director told AFP, and officials across the country reported several small explosions at other election sites. "Peace is the first desire of our people," Ghani said after casting his vote at a high school in Kabul. "Our roadmap (for peace) is ready, I want the people to give us permission and legitimacy so that we pursue peace." Wary authorities placed an uneasy Kabul under partial lockdown, flooding streets with troops and banning trucks from entering the city in an effort to stop would-be suicide bombers attacking the electoral process. One voter at a polling station in a Kabul high school said it was important to cast a ballot. "I know there are security threats but bombs and attacks have become part of our everyday lives," 55-year-old Mohiuddin, who only gave one name, told AFP. "I am not afraid, we have to vote if we want to bring changes to our lives", he added. The capital's traffic, often gridlocked, dropped to a trickle as schools and offices closed for the day and as many people chose to stay off the roads. Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security. Abdullah and Ghani both claimed victory in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US president Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role. Sunawbar Mirzae, 23, said she chose to brave the polls because she valued her right to vote. "The only request I have from the election commission is that they ensure the transparency of the election because lots of people have lost their trust," she told AFP. Abysmal security Voting in Afghanistan's fourth presidential election began at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) at some 5,000 polling centres across the country. Authorities had initially planned to open hundreds more but were unable to owing to the abysmal security situation. Campaigning was hampered by violence from the first day when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead. Bloody attacks have continued to rock Afghanistan, including a Taliban bombing at a Ghani rally last week that killed at least 26 people in the central province of Parwan near Kabul. The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations. Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said: "Any acts of violence against the electoral process, including attacks directed at polling centres, polling staff and voters, are unacceptable." Election officials say this will be the cleanest election yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair. Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud" and many Afghans say they have no intention of voting, citing fraud and security fears. Saturday's poll was initially slated to take place in April but was twice delayed because election workers were ill-prepared, and the US was leading a push to forge a withdrawal agreement with the Taliban. That deal has been scuppered for now after US President Donald Trump pulled out. Polls close at 3:00 pm (1030 GMT).

Afghanistan rocked by blasts during presidential election

Hong Kong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-umbrella-protests-sowed-seed-for-future-freed-activist-252402">pro-democracy protesters</a> have set themselves a busy schedule for Saturday, rebuilding "Lennon Walls" of anti-government graffiti and marking the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" street movement that gridlocked the city for weeks.

Thousands of protesters rallied at the harbourside on Friday, chanting slogans accusing the police of brutality amid more than three months of often violent unrest in the Chinese-ruled territory.

That came ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday, when there are pro- and anti-Beijing protests planned across the former British colony, including at the British Consulate where protesters this month asked for help in reining in Beijing.

Protesters are angry about what they see as creeping <a href="ong Kong protesters trap Carrie Lam for hours in stadium after 'open dialogue'">Chinese interference</a> in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland.

China vehemently denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of inciting the unrest.

Saturday is also the fifth anniversary of the start of the "Umbrella" protests, 79 days of student-led demonstrations in 2014 calling for universal suffrage that failed to wrest concessions from Beijing.

One of the most prominent leaders of those protests, the bespectacled Joshua Wong, 22, is expected to announce on Saturday he will run for local district council elections in November, his supporters said.

He is on bail after being charged with inciting and participating in an unauthorised assembly outside police headquarters on June 21.

Thousands of people are also expected to rally in the city centre on Saturday evening.

Protests are expected on Sunday to mark Global Anti-Totalitarianism Day, with solidarity events planned in cities across the world, including Paris, Berlin, Taipei, New York, Kiev and London.

But the biggest protests are likely to be on October , marking the anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, with protesters saying they plan to use the holiday to propel calls for greater democracy.

Activists plan a mass rally from Victoria Park in the bustling Causeway Bay district to Chater Garden, a cricket pitch back in colonial days, home to the elite Hong Kong Cricket Club, in downtown Central.

Official festivities for National Day have been scaled back, with authorities keen to avoid embarrassing Beijing at a time when President Xi Jinping is seeking to project an image of national strength and unity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-to-hold-first-talks-in-a-bid-to-end-crisis-252148">The protests</a> were sparked in June by a bill, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement.

The Lennon Walls are large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy which have cropped up in underpasses, under footbridges, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities and elsewhere across the territory.

Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters have set themselves a busy schedule for Saturday, rebuilding "Lennon Walls" of anti-government graffiti and marking the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" street movement that gridlocked the city for weeks.

Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters have set themselves a busy schedule for Saturday, rebuilding "Lennon Walls" of anti-government graffiti and marking the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" street movement that gridlocked the city for weeks. Thousands of protesters rallied at the harbourside on Friday, chanting slogans accusing the police of brutality amid more than three months of often violent unrest in the Chinese-ruled territory. That came ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday, when there are pro- and anti-Beijing protests planned across the former British colony, including at the British Consulate where protesters this month asked for help in reining in Beijing. Protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland. China vehemently denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of inciting the unrest. Saturday is also the fifth anniversary of the start of the "Umbrella" protests, 79 days of student-led demonstrations in 2014 calling for universal suffrage that failed to wrest concessions from Beijing. One of the most prominent leaders of those protests, the bespectacled Joshua Wong, 22, is expected to announce on Saturday he will run for local district council elections in November, his supporters said. He is on bail after being charged with inciting and participating in an unauthorised assembly outside police headquarters on June 21. Thousands of people are also expected to rally in the city centre on Saturday evening. Protests are expected on Sunday to mark Global Anti-Totalitarianism Day, with solidarity events planned in cities across the world, including Paris, Berlin, Taipei, New York, Kiev and London. But the biggest protests are likely to be on October , marking the anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, with protesters saying they plan to use the holiday to propel calls for greater democracy. Activists plan a mass rally from Victoria Park in the bustling Causeway Bay district to Chater Garden, a cricket pitch back in colonial days, home to the elite Hong Kong Cricket Club, in downtown Central. Official festivities for National Day have been scaled back, with authorities keen to avoid embarrassing Beijing at a time when President Xi Jinping is seeking to project an image of national strength and unity. The protests were sparked in June by a bill, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement. The Lennon Walls are large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy which have cropped up in underpasses, under footbridges, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities and elsewhere across the territory.

Hong Kong protesters set busy schedule ahead of China National Day

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