Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- U.S Republican Senator Chuck Grassley has claimed that an FBI-generated form has 17 audio and call recordings of the Burisma executive with President Joe Biden and his son Hunter.

Audio recordings of Burisma Executive with Prez Biden and son Hunter with FBI

<p>In a shocking expose ahead of the next US presidential elections, Fox News&nbsp;has alleged,&nbsp;citing sources,&nbsp;that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from an executive at the Ukrainian gas company, Burisma Holdings. It is noteworthy that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the board of this company.</p>

<p>The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation&nbsp;by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report by&nbsp;Fox News, the FBI was informed about this information during an interview in June 2020 with a confidential human source who indicated that then-vice president Biden and a foreign individual were allegedly involved in a criminal bribery scheme, which reportedly had an impact on US policy decisions.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iowa-minor-tries-to-rent-hitman-to-kill-child-gets-caught-on-parody-site-602549">Iowa: Minor tries to rent hitman to kill child, gets caught on parody site</a></p>

<p>The report refers to an FBI FD-1023 form, which is used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources.</p>

<p>The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes the interviewed source as "highly credible." As per the form, the source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015.</p>

<p>During these meetings, the Burisma executive sought advice from a confidential source, who was a business professional, on matters related to obtaining oil rights in the US and establishing connections with a US oil company. The executive wanted guidance on the best course of action in 2015 and 2016.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deserted-dystopia-chinese-city-evacuated-after-cracks-appear-near-high-rises-602506">Deserted dystopia: Chinese city evacuated after cracks appear near high-rises</a></p>

<p>The source revealed to Fox News that the Burisma executive discussed Hunter Biden's role on the board and referred to him as "dumb".</p>

<p>The executive explained to the confidential source that Burisma had to make payments to the Bidens due to an ongoing investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin. The executive emphasised the difficulty Burisma would face in entering the US market amid that investigation.</p>

<p>Further details from the conversation indicate that the confidential source suggested to the Burisma executive to pay the Bidens $50,000 each. In response, the executive corrected the source, stating that it was not $50,000 but rather $5 million for each Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China</strong></p>

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<p>According to a Fox News source familiar with the document, the Burisma executive allegedly told the confidential human source that payments of $5 million were made to both Joe Biden and Hunter Biden. The sources who shared this information with Fox News Digital claim that the confidential human source believes these payments occurred based on their conversations with the Burisma executive.</p>

<p>The confidential source reportedly stated that the Burisma executive mentioned making the payments through multiple bank accounts, making it difficult for investigators to uncover the truth for at least a decade. Additionally, the document makes a reference to "the Big Guy",&nbsp;which is believed to be a mention of Joe Biden.</p>

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In a shocking expose ahead of the next US presidential elections, Fox News has alleged, citing sources, that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from an executive at the Ukrainian gas company, Burisma Holdings.

In a shocking expose ahead of the next US presidential elections, Fox News has alleged, citing sources, that US President Joe Biden received a substantial payment of $5 million from an executive at the Ukrainian gas company, Burisma Holdings. It is noteworthy that Biden's son, Hunter Biden, served on the board of this company. The matter is related to the gas firm's executive who was facing challenges in accessing the US oil market due to a corruption investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and was seeking favour from the Bidens. According to the report by Fox News, the FBI was informed about this information during an interview in June 2020 with a confidential human source who indicated that then-vice president Biden and a foreign individual were allegedly involved in a criminal bribery scheme, which reportedly had an impact on US policy decisions. Also Read | Iowa: Minor tries to rent hitman to kill child, gets caught on parody site The report refers to an FBI FD-1023 form, which is used by FBI agents to document unverified information provided by confidential human sources. The form, dated 30 June 2020, reportedly describes the interviewed source as "highly credible." As per the form, the source discussed multiple meetings held with a senior executive from Burisma over several years, starting in 2015. During these meetings, the Burisma executive sought advice from a confidential source, who was a business professional, on matters related to obtaining oil rights in the US and establishing connections with a US oil company. The executive wanted guidance on the best course of action in 2015 and 2016. Also Read | Deserted dystopia: Chinese city evacuated after cracks appear near high-rises The source revealed to Fox News that the Burisma executive discussed Hunter Biden's role on the board and referred to him as "dumb". The executive explained to the confidential source that Burisma had to make payments to the Bidens due to an ongoing investigation by Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin. The executive emphasised the difficulty Burisma would face in entering the US market amid that investigation. Further details from the conversation indicate that the confidential source suggested to the Burisma executive to pay the Bidens $50,000 each. In response, the executive corrected the source, stating that it was not $50,000 but rather $5 million for each Biden. Watch | Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China × According to a Fox News source familiar with the document, the Burisma executive allegedly told the confidential human source that payments of $5 million were made to both Joe Biden and Hunter Biden. The sources who shared this information with Fox News Digital claim that the confidential human source believes these payments occurred based on their conversations with the Burisma executive. The confidential source reportedly stated that the Burisma executive mentioned making the payments through multiple bank accounts, making it difficult for investigators to uncover the truth for at least a decade. Additionally, the document makes a reference to "the Big Guy", which is believed to be a mention of Joe Biden. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Biden received $5mn in bribery scheme from Ukrainian gas firm executive: Report

<p>With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries. In the run-up to the visit, a slew of press briefings, official visits, and expert commentaries have surfaced, underlining the various facets of the evolving India-US partnership, the global geopolitical dynamics, and what to expect next.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the recent New Delhi visit, Pentagon official Ely Ratner underlined that PM Modi’s upcoming visit would be historic and set a new benchmark in the relationship. In another briefing in Washington DC, the US Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre remarked that the US and India share a resolve to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership, and the discussions would centre around strengthening the commitment toward the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beyond everything else, the tech partnership is emerging as the most keenly observed theme on the agenda, not just for India and the US but also for Russia, China, Europe, West Asia, and others.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tech takes centre stage</strong></p>

<p>With the signing of the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the intent to craft a high-technology bilateral partnership has been signalled by the highest echelons of policymaking in both countries. It has been widely appreciated for moving toward realising the vast potential for strengthening the US-India relationship. Through this initiative, India and the US have sought to create coordination and cooperation mechanisms on semiconductor supply chains, quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G and 6G, and other emerging technologies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking the iCET forward, the inaugural meeting of the India-US Strategic Trade Dialogue (IUSTD) was held recently in Washington, DC, focusing on facilitating development and trade in critical domain technologies like AI, semiconductors, quantum, biotech, and telecom. To keep things on track, both have also agreed to set up a monitoring group to review the progress toward the bilateral high-tech trade and the deepening tech partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, a new roadmap for defence industrial cooperation—expected to fast-track technology tie-ups and co-production of military platforms—has been adopted, along with the soon-to-be-launched‘ India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem’ (INDUS-X) for advancing cutting-edge technology cooperation. This will supplement the governmental mechanisms by partnerships between companies, investors, research institutions, and start-up accelerators in the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Impact on Tech Geopolitics&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Today, the 'Make in India policy' is focused on attracting global investments in various sectors. This is now complemented by the evolving geopolitical dynamics, where American firms are reshaping their supply chains and manufacturing in line with the growing tech rivalry with China. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Beyond the bilateral track, India and the US could also seek to expand the tech partnership in other formats. For instance, pillar five under the new US national cybersecurity strategy emphasises utilising mechanisms like Quad to advance shared goals for cyberspace, in conjunction with other mechanisms like AUKUS to enable effective operational collaboration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-president-biden-to-host-indias-pm-modi-on-june-22-white-house-591050"><strong>ALSO READ|&nbsp;US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House</strong></a><br />
<br />
At the Quad level, India is engaging in cooperation in the high-tech sector through mechanisms like the 'Quad Critical and Emerging Technology' working group, while the other AUKUS nations (Australia and the UK) are also strengthening tech partnerships with India. According to some reports, the UK has also proposed a trilateral cyber partnership between India, Australia, and the UK. A closer US-India tech partnership will only deepen India’s engagement in these frameworks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, not everything is as straightforward as the US and India would like. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has shaken the global geopolitical landscape. Along with other G7 members, the US has committed itself to ‘starving’ Russia of technology by disrupting the supply chains that fuel the Russian military and economy. In this light, Russia now aims to craft a Eurasian tech alliance where it sees both India and China as valuable partners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though a strong Russia-China partnership in the tech domain is inevitable, Russian companies are now seeking the Indian market for investments and engagement. This was displayed in the recent India-Russia business forums, where Russian firms presented their tech offerings for the Indian market. Moscow has declared 2022-2031 as the decade of science and technology, seeking to build self-reliance and closer partnerships with friendly countries. In the new foreign policy strategy released in April this year, Russia reaffirmed the partnership with India as privileged and strategic, emphasising increasing bilateral trade, strengthening investment, and technological ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, China will see the growing India-US partnership as the next phase in its global tech competition with the US and its allies. It is now widely accepted that the US is at an inflexion point, with its tech superiority gradually waning compared to China. In its national strategies, the US now deems China as the “only country with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly, having the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do so.” A greater Indian partnership with the US and its allies, as well as with Taiwan; and India’s decisions in recent years to ban Chinese technologies and platforms, will be seen in Beijing as New Delhi’s stamp of approval for the unfolding tech war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What’s next?</strong></p>

<p>A closer India-US tech partnership will have ripple effects on the dynamics beyond bilateral levels. In the previous decade, China has been a significant partner in the tech domain for Europe. While for West Asia, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, China is now increasingly emerging as a major tech partner. As the war in Eastern Europe continues, US-led sanctions on Russia have pushed it into the Chinese tech ecosystem. However, Moscow is still looking to avoid complete dependence on Beijing. This is where India holds tremendous significance as a major tech hub for global tech dynamics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On its part, New Delhi has looked to increase its tech outreach to West Asia and sought to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN. A closer India-US partnership can boost India’s capacity and capability for further outreach in regions like Africa and Central Asia, where China continues to make inroads. However, though India continues to maintain strategic autonomy by balancing both the West and Russia, apprehensions in Moscow will peak regarding the feasibility of India as a tech partner as New Delhi becomes enmeshed in the overlapping groups and frameworks led by the US. Overall, strong signals are in the air that the upcoming visit might define the Indian strategic direction in the tech domain for the decade ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

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With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries.

With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries. In the run-up to the visit, a slew of press briefings, official visits, and expert commentaries have surfaced, underlining the various facets of the evolving India-US partnership, the global geopolitical dynamics, and what to expect next. During the recent New Delhi visit, Pentagon official Ely Ratner underlined that PM Modi’s upcoming visit would be historic and set a new benchmark in the relationship. In another briefing in Washington DC, the US Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre remarked that the US and India share a resolve to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership, and the discussions would centre around strengthening the commitment toward the Indo-Pacific region. Beyond everything else, the tech partnership is emerging as the most keenly observed theme on the agenda, not just for India and the US but also for Russia, China, Europe, West Asia, and others. Tech takes centre stage With the signing of the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the intent to craft a high-technology bilateral partnership has been signalled by the highest echelons of policymaking in both countries. It has been widely appreciated for moving toward realising the vast potential for strengthening the US-India relationship. Through this initiative, India and the US have sought to create coordination and cooperation mechanisms on semiconductor supply chains, quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G and 6G, and other emerging technologies. Taking the iCET forward, the inaugural meeting of the India-US Strategic Trade Dialogue (IUSTD) was held recently in Washington, DC, focusing on facilitating development and trade in critical domain technologies like AI, semiconductors, quantum, biotech, and telecom. To keep things on track, both have also agreed to set up a monitoring group to review the progress toward the bilateral high-tech trade and the deepening tech partnership. Further, a new roadmap for defence industrial cooperation—expected to fast-track technology tie-ups and co-production of military platforms—has been adopted, along with the soon-to-be-launched‘ India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem’ (INDUS-X) for advancing cutting-edge technology cooperation. This will supplement the governmental mechanisms by partnerships between companies, investors, research institutions, and start-up accelerators in the two countries. Impact on Tech Geopolitics Today, the 'Make in India policy' is focused on attracting global investments in various sectors. This is now complemented by the evolving geopolitical dynamics, where American firms are reshaping their supply chains and manufacturing in line with the growing tech rivalry with China. Beyond the bilateral track, India and the US could also seek to expand the tech partnership in other formats. For instance, pillar five under the new US national cybersecurity strategy emphasises utilising mechanisms like Quad to advance shared goals for cyberspace, in conjunction with other mechanisms like AUKUS to enable effective operational collaboration. ALSO READ| US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House At the Quad level, India is engaging in cooperation in the high-tech sector through mechanisms like the 'Quad Critical and Emerging Technology' working group, while the other AUKUS nations (Australia and the UK) are also strengthening tech partnerships with India. According to some reports, the UK has also proposed a trilateral cyber partnership between India, Australia, and the UK. A closer US-India tech partnership will only deepen India’s engagement in these frameworks. However, not everything is as straightforward as the US and India would like. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has shaken the global geopolitical landscape. Along with other G7 members, the US has committed itself to ‘starving’ Russia of technology by disrupting the supply chains that fuel the Russian military and economy. In this light, Russia now aims to craft a Eurasian tech alliance where it sees both India and China as valuable partners. Though a strong Russia-China partnership in the tech domain is inevitable, Russian companies are now seeking the Indian market for investments and engagement. This was displayed in the recent India-Russia business forums, where Russian firms presented their tech offerings for the Indian market. Moscow has declared 2022-2031 as the decade of science and technology, seeking to build self-reliance and closer partnerships with friendly countries. In the new foreign policy strategy released in April this year, Russia reaffirmed the partnership with India as privileged and strategic, emphasising increasing bilateral trade, strengthening investment, and technological ties. On the other hand, China will see the growing India-US partnership as the next phase in its global tech competition with the US and its allies. It is now widely accepted that the US is at an inflexion point, with its tech superiority gradually waning compared to China. In its national strategies, the US now deems China as the “only country with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly, having the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do so.” A greater Indian partnership with the US and its allies, as well as with Taiwan; and India’s decisions in recent years to ban Chinese technologies and platforms, will be seen in Beijing as New Delhi’s stamp of approval for the unfolding tech war. What’s next? A closer India-US tech partnership will have ripple effects on the dynamics beyond bilateral levels. In the previous decade, China has been a significant partner in the tech domain for Europe. While for West Asia, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, China is now increasingly emerging as a major tech partner. As the war in Eastern Europe continues, US-led sanctions on Russia have pushed it into the Chinese tech ecosystem. However, Moscow is still looking to avoid complete dependence on Beijing. This is where India holds tremendous significance as a major tech hub for global tech dynamics. On its part, New Delhi has looked to increase its tech outreach to West Asia and sought to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN. A closer India-US partnership can boost India’s capacity and capability for further outreach in regions like Africa and Central Asia, where China continues to make inroads. However, though India continues to maintain strategic autonomy by balancing both the West and Russia, apprehensions in Moscow will peak regarding the feasibility of India as a tech partner as New Delhi becomes enmeshed in the overlapping groups and frameworks led by the US. Overall, strong signals are in the air that the upcoming visit might define the Indian strategic direction in the tech domain for the decade ahead. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE

PM Modi’s US visit: A new chapter to be heralded for tech geopolitics

China has been spying on the United States from a base in Cuba, a Biden administration official said on Saturday, claiming that “this is an issue that this administration inherited.”

China using secret base in Cuba to spy on U.S., Biden admin official confirms

As per reports, President Joe Biden was allegedly paid $5 million by an executive of the Ukrainian natural gas firm Burisma Holdings, where his son Hunter Biden sat on the board, a confidential human source told the FBI during a June 2020 interview, sources familiar.

Joe Biden accused of taking $5m bribe, according to FBI document

<p>It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country.</p>

<p>In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work.</p>

<p>We have come a long way from there, haven't we?</p>

<p>Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be.</p>

<p>Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level.</p>

<p>But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest.</p>

<p>Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army.</p>

<p>The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016.</p>

<p>I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries.</p>

<p>Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach&nbsp;a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day.</p>

<p>Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-1994-visit-to-unga-2021-heres-a-look-at-modis-us-visits-415717">From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits</a></strong><br />
<br />
It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I.</p>

<p>When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government."</p>

<p>The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then.</p>

<p>Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country.</p>

<p>Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what.</p>

<p>Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy.</p>

<p>On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India.</p>

<p>Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal.<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

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It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot.

It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country. In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work. We have come a long way from there, haven't we? Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be. Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level. But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest. Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army. The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016. I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries. Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day. Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie. ALSO READ | From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I. When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government." The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then. Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country. Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what. Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy. On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India. Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Modi's US visit a rebound from historic lows, but dissident notes of Track III diplomacy abound

US President Joe Biden on Thursday called British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace "very qualified" to lead NATO but said a consensus was needed on the alliance's next secretary general.

Biden calls UK candidate for NATO chief 'very qualified'

A report claims President Joe Biden was allegedly paid $5 million by an executive of the Ukrainian natural gas firm Burisma Holdings, where his son Hunter Biden sat on the board, a confidential human source told the FBI during a June 2020 interview. More in this report.

US President Joe Biden accused of taking $5 million bribe

<p>US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak.</p>

<p>"I don't think ever in the history of human endeavour has there been as fundamental potential technological change as is presented by artificial intelligence. It is staggering," said Biden.</p>

<p>PM Sunak said that that the US and the UK have agreed to work together on AI safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas | About Ducking Time: Apple to introduce AI-powered autocorrect</strong></p>

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<p>"Today, the President and I agreed to work together on AI safety," said Sunak.</p>

<p>Thursday's discussion between the two leaders had a focus on ensuring safety over AI and other technologies that are emerging, said Sunak. He said that Britain would host the first AI summit this year. The summit will see how the risks posed by AI can be tackled through global action.</p>

<p>"The UK looks forward to hosting the first global summit on AI safety later this year, so that we can seize the extraordinary possibilities of this new technological age, and do so with confidence," said Sunak.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-adopt-atlantic-declaration-to-tackle-emerging-global-threats-602333">US, UK adopt 'Atlantic Declaration' to tackle emerging global threats</a></strong></p>

<p>The last meeting between Biden and Sunak took place in Hiroshima, Japan last month at the Group of Seven (G7) summit. The two leaders also met in Belfast in April and before that in San Diego in March.</p>

<h2><strong>Supporting Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’</strong></h2>

<p>During the joint press conference,&nbsp;Biden expressed confidence that the US will support Ukraine in its war with Russia for 'as long as it takes'. There has been some hesitation among US lawmakers of Republican Party about helping Ukraine in an indefinite manner.</p>

<p>"The fact of the matter is that I believe we'll have the funding necessary to support Ukraine as long as it takes," said Biden.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Western countries, led by the US have poured in millions and millions of dollars for humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. This, among other factors, has been credited for Ukraine's success in defending its territory so far.</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak condemns France knife attack</strong></h2>

<p>At the press conference, PM Sunak condemned a knife attack in French Alps in a park that wounded four preschool children including one from the UK.</p>

<p>"All our thoughts are with those affected by this unfathomable attack, including a British child," Sunak said at the start of the news conference.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak.

US President Joe Biden said on Thursday (June 8) that security risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be addressed. He was speaking at joint press conference with British PM Rishi Sunak. "I don't think ever in the history of human endeavour has there been as fundamental potential technological change as is presented by artificial intelligence. It is staggering," said Biden. PM Sunak said that that the US and the UK have agreed to work together on AI safety. Gravitas | About Ducking Time: Apple to introduce AI-powered autocorrect × "Today, the President and I agreed to work together on AI safety," said Sunak. Thursday's discussion between the two leaders had a focus on ensuring safety over AI and other technologies that are emerging, said Sunak. He said that Britain would host the first AI summit this year. The summit will see how the risks posed by AI can be tackled through global action. "The UK looks forward to hosting the first global summit on AI safety later this year, so that we can seize the extraordinary possibilities of this new technological age, and do so with confidence," said Sunak. Also Read | US, UK adopt 'Atlantic Declaration' to tackle emerging global threats The last meeting between Biden and Sunak took place in Hiroshima, Japan last month at the Group of Seven (G7) summit. The two leaders also met in Belfast in April and before that in San Diego in March. Supporting Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’ During the joint press conference, Biden expressed confidence that the US will support Ukraine in its war with Russia for 'as long as it takes'. There has been some hesitation among US lawmakers of Republican Party about helping Ukraine in an indefinite manner. "The fact of the matter is that I believe we'll have the funding necessary to support Ukraine as long as it takes," said Biden. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Western countries, led by the US have poured in millions and millions of dollars for humanitarian as well as military help for Ukraine. This, among other factors, has been credited for Ukraine's success in defending its territory so far. Sunak condemns France knife attack At the press conference, PM Sunak condemned a knife attack in French Alps in a park that wounded four preschool children including one from the UK. "All our thoughts are with those affected by this unfathomable attack, including a British child," Sunak said at the start of the news conference. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

AI risks need to be addressed, says Biden in joint news conference with Sunak

The Indian PM Modi is soon going to step foot in the U.S. for the official state visit. A meeting will be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House. PM Modi is scheduled to visit the US on June 22.

PM Modi in US: What are the issues PM Modi & Joe Biden will discuss when they meet?

The United States and the United Kingdom on Thursday (June 8) struck a fresh strategic pact underlining the "special relationship" to tackle China, Russia, and economic instability. US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak adopted an "Atlantic Declaration" which is aimed at boosting industry ties on defence and renewable energy. The countries have come together in the face of growing competition from China.

Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China

<p>Some three years after an interview to The New York Times in 2020, where US President Joe Biden famously said that he would encourage the Turkish opposition to defeat Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the election, Washington wants to make nice with Turkey’s president.<br />
<br />
The efforts of the US and its western allies, aided by the western media and dubious pollsters, to prop up the electoral opposition to President Erdogan came a cropper. In fact, such a West-inspired and supported campaign made it easier for Erdogan to triumph over his opponent. All he had to do to win another five-year term as president was to keep telling his audience of western interference in Turkey's politics and reminding them of Biden's 2020 NYT interview. This helped Erdogan to deflect attention for soaring inflation, the steep fall in the Turkish lira’s value, unemployment, flight of capital, his human rights record and his government’s performance in the aftermath of the earthquake that claimed at least 50,000 lives and destroyed infrastructure on a massive scale.<br />
<br />
In the event, after the presidential election concluded on May 28, Biden lost no time in calling Erdogan to congratulate him on his victory. During the call, Erdogan spoke of Turkey wanting to buy the F-16 fighter jets. Biden reciprocated by asking Ankara to drop its objection to Sweden’s membership of NATO. Turkey wants to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s. The sale has been held up because of Turkey, along with Hungary, blocking Sweden’s entry into NATO. Interestingly, the US and EU also failed in their efforts to thwart the re-election of Viktor Orban as Hungary’s prime minister last year.<br />
<br />
"I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters. On Sweden's NATO membership, Biden said: "I raised that issue with him. We're going to talk more about it next week."<br />
<br />
ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/rise-and-rise-of-turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-name-etched-in-gold-but-challenge-not-over-597903">&nbsp;<strong>Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenges not over</strong></a><br />
<br />
There are compelling reasons for the US and Turkey to make up with each other. Erdogan’s Turkey has emerged as a power, much like Angela Merkel’s Germany had. The US has not been doing well in West Asia and the Arab world, what with Biden being snubbed by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has revived ties with both Iran and Syria, and paved the way for China as a counterweight in the region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Like in West Asia, Turkey is a power in the Mediterranean, too. It is the only NATO member to assert its strategic autonomy, refuse to join US-led sanctions against Russia; and, while maintaining complicated but cooperative ties with Russia, also selling weapons to Ukraine. And, keeping above bloc politics, Ankara has sought to thrive in a mediating role between Ukraine and Russia, and between Russia and the West. The sustenance of the grain deal between Kyiv and Moscow, along with the UN, attests to Turkey’s usefulness, as an independent power, to the US, Europe, Russia, China, West Asia and the UN. These underscore the security implications of Erdogan’s victory which are all too obvious for the big powers, especially the US, Russia, and China, to ignore.<br />
<br />
In the Ukraine war, Erdogan was the first to move in as peace-maker, months before China’s President Xi Jinping entered the race. Turkey hosted peace talks in Istanbul between Moscow and Kyiv weeks after the war broke out in Ukraine. The talks did produce a deal, which was scuttled by the US and the UK. Ankara has not been put off by the collapse of the Istanbul deal. It has been calling for revival of peace talks and putting itself forward as a mediator. Erdogan has been saying that peace in Ukraine can be achieved through “determined mediation.”<br />
<br />
Thus, neither Ankara nor Washington can risk burning the trans-Atlantic bridge.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em><br />
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WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Some three years after an interview to The New York Times in 2020, where US President Joe Biden famously said that he would encourage the Turkish opposition to defeat Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the election, Washington wants to make nice with Turkey’s president.

Some three years after an interview to The New York Times in 2020, where US President Joe Biden famously said that he would encourage the Turkish opposition to defeat Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the election, Washington wants to make nice with Turkey’s president. The efforts of the US and its western allies, aided by the western media and dubious pollsters, to prop up the electoral opposition to President Erdogan came a cropper. In fact, such a West-inspired and supported campaign made it easier for Erdogan to triumph over his opponent. All he had to do to win another five-year term as president was to keep telling his audience of western interference in Turkey's politics and reminding them of Biden's 2020 NYT interview. This helped Erdogan to deflect attention for soaring inflation, the steep fall in the Turkish lira’s value, unemployment, flight of capital, his human rights record and his government’s performance in the aftermath of the earthquake that claimed at least 50,000 lives and destroyed infrastructure on a massive scale. In the event, after the presidential election concluded on May 28, Biden lost no time in calling Erdogan to congratulate him on his victory. During the call, Erdogan spoke of Turkey wanting to buy the F-16 fighter jets. Biden reciprocated by asking Ankara to drop its objection to Sweden’s membership of NATO. Turkey wants to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s. The sale has been held up because of Turkey, along with Hungary, blocking Sweden’s entry into NATO. Interestingly, the US and EU also failed in their efforts to thwart the re-election of Viktor Orban as Hungary’s prime minister last year. "I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters. On Sweden's NATO membership, Biden said: "I raised that issue with him. We're going to talk more about it next week." ALSO READ| Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenges not over There are compelling reasons for the US and Turkey to make up with each other. Erdogan’s Turkey has emerged as a power, much like Angela Merkel’s Germany had. The US has not been doing well in West Asia and the Arab world, what with Biden being snubbed by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has revived ties with both Iran and Syria, and paved the way for China as a counterweight in the region. Like in West Asia, Turkey is a power in the Mediterranean, too. It is the only NATO member to assert its strategic autonomy, refuse to join US-led sanctions against Russia; and, while maintaining complicated but cooperative ties with Russia, also selling weapons to Ukraine. And, keeping above bloc politics, Ankara has sought to thrive in a mediating role between Ukraine and Russia, and between Russia and the West. The sustenance of the grain deal between Kyiv and Moscow, along with the UN, attests to Turkey’s usefulness, as an independent power, to the US, Europe, Russia, China, West Asia and the UN. These underscore the security implications of Erdogan’s victory which are all too obvious for the big powers, especially the US, Russia, and China, to ignore. In the Ukraine war, Erdogan was the first to move in as peace-maker, months before China’s President Xi Jinping entered the race. Turkey hosted peace talks in Istanbul between Moscow and Kyiv weeks after the war broke out in Ukraine. The talks did produce a deal, which was scuttled by the US and the UK. Ankara has not been put off by the collapse of the Istanbul deal. It has been calling for revival of peace talks and putting itself forward as a mediator. Erdogan has been saying that peace in Ukraine can be achieved through “determined mediation.” Thus, neither Ankara nor Washington can risk burning the trans-Atlantic bridge. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WION Spotlight | The importance of being Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic Declaration' to focus on defence, renewable energy industries

As per reports, the Biden administration received an intelligence report that Ukraine had a plan for an attack on the Nord Stream pipelines three months before an underwater explosion disabled the natural gas link from Russia to Germany.

US knew of Ukraine's plan to attack Nord Stream gas link: Reports

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has thrown his hat into the ring he has launched his presidential campaign on Tuesday under the slogan because truth matters this is Christie's second presidential campaign and he is entering the growing Republican primary race as former U.S president Donald Trump's main antagonist the former New Jersey governor took aim at Trump throughout his campaign calling him a bitter angry man who wants power back for himself and Donald Trump made us smaller by dividing us even further and pitting one group against another.

Chris Christie attacks Donald Trump as he launches 2024 presidential bid

<p>It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country.</p>

<p>In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work.</p>

<p>We have come a long way from there, haven't we?</p>

<p>Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be.</p>

<p>Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level.</p>

<p>But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest.</p>

<p>Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army.</p>

<p>The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016.</p>

<p>I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries.</p>

<p>Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to read a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day.</p>

<p>Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie.</p>

<p>It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I.</p>

<p>When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government."</p>

<p>The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then.</p>

<p>Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country.</p>

<p>Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what.</p>

<p>Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy.</p>

<p>On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India.</p>

<p>Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal.<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country. In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work. We have come a long way from there, haven't we? Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be. Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level. But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest. Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army. The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016. I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries. Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to read a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day. Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie. It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I. When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government." The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then. Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country. Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what. Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy. On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India. Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. 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Modi's US visit a rebound from historic lows, but dissident notes abound

<p>US President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law the debt ceiling bill that had been passed by Congress preventing a potential default in the largest economy worldwide.&nbsp;The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 enables the government to raise the debt ceiling and continue borrowing, ensuring the timely payment of obligations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after in a display of bipartisan support, the US Senate successfully passed legislation on Thursday, endorsed by President Joe Biden, to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/breast-cancer-drug-slashes-risk-of-recurrence-by-25-a-game-changer-in-fight-against-the-disease-600156">Breast cancer drug slashes risk of recurrence by 25 pc, a game-changer in fight against the disease</a></p>

<p>This crucial action averted the possibility of an unprecedented default. With a vote of 63-36, the Senate approved the bill, which had already been passed by the House of Representatives on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Lawmakers worked against the ticking clock after months of partisan disagreements between Democrats and Republicans. The Treasury had previously cautioned that failure to raise the debt ceiling by Monday would result in a default on the nation's $31 trillion debt.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-in-talks-to-introduce-prime-wireless-slashing-cell-phone-bills-to-10-or-even-free-600134">Amazon in talks to introduce 'Prime wireless', slashing cell phone bills to $10 or even free</a></p>

<p>Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, "We are avoiding default tonight."&nbsp;President Biden commended Congress for their prompt action, hailing the bipartisan agreement as a significant victory for the American people and the economy.</p>

<p>President Biden actively engaged in negotiations on the bill alongside House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell signaled the next budget dispute.&nbsp;In a statement, McConnell asserted that Senate Republicans will persist to rein in what they perceive as "reckless" spending by the Democrats in Washington.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said, "I continue to strongly believe that the full faith and credit of the United States must never be used as a bargaining chip."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>House approved debt ceiling bill&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday evening, the bill received approval from the Republican-controlled House with a vote of 314-117. The majority of those who voted against the bill were from Republican Party.</p>

<p>Addressing the urgency of the situation, Senator Schumer remarked on Thursday "Time is a luxury the Senate does not have."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He emphasized that any unwarranted delays or last-minute obstacles would pose an unnecessary and potentially hazardous risk.</p>

<p>During the discussions, various amendments were debated, including proposals to enforce more substantial spending cuts compared to those outlined in the House-approved bill and to halt the expeditious final approval of an energy pipeline in West Virginia.</p>

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US President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law the debt ceiling bill that had been passed by Congress preventing a potential default in the largest economy worldwide.

US President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law the debt ceiling bill that had been passed by Congress preventing a potential default in the largest economy worldwide. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 enables the government to raise the debt ceiling and continue borrowing, ensuring the timely payment of obligations. This comes after in a display of bipartisan support, the US Senate successfully passed legislation on Thursday, endorsed by President Joe Biden, to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. Also Read | Breast cancer drug slashes risk of recurrence by 25 pc, a game-changer in fight against the disease This crucial action averted the possibility of an unprecedented default. With a vote of 63-36, the Senate approved the bill, which had already been passed by the House of Representatives on Wednesday. Lawmakers worked against the ticking clock after months of partisan disagreements between Democrats and Republicans. The Treasury had previously cautioned that failure to raise the debt ceiling by Monday would result in a default on the nation's $31 trillion debt. Also Read | Amazon in talks to introduce 'Prime wireless', slashing cell phone bills to $10 or even free Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, "We are avoiding default tonight." President Biden commended Congress for their prompt action, hailing the bipartisan agreement as a significant victory for the American people and the economy. President Biden actively engaged in negotiations on the bill alongside House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell signaled the next budget dispute. In a statement, McConnell asserted that Senate Republicans will persist to rein in what they perceive as "reckless" spending by the Democrats in Washington. Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia × Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said, "I continue to strongly believe that the full faith and credit of the United States must never be used as a bargaining chip." House approved debt ceiling bill On Wednesday evening, the bill received approval from the Republican-controlled House with a vote of 314-117. The majority of those who voted against the bill were from Republican Party. Addressing the urgency of the situation, Senator Schumer remarked on Thursday "Time is a luxury the Senate does not have." He emphasized that any unwarranted delays or last-minute obstacles would pose an unnecessary and potentially hazardous risk. During the discussions, various amendments were debated, including proposals to enforce more substantial spending cuts compared to those outlined in the House-approved bill and to halt the expeditious final approval of an energy pipeline in West Virginia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Biden signs debt ceiling bill into law preventing potential default

<p>US President Joe Biden on Friday (June 1) addressed Americans in a rare Oval Office address that the debt ceiling bill that was passed by US Congress after negotiations that lasted weeks, has saved the country from an "economic collapse". He was speaking from behind the historic Resolute Desk live on primetime television. Biden said that the deal was a compromise between the Democrats and the Republicans and that "no one got everything they wanted."</p>

<p>"We averted an economic crisis and an economic collapse," he said, adding that "the stakes could not have been higher."</p>

<p>Biden said that he will sign the bill into law on Saturday. The bill authorises the government to extend the debt ceiling and paves way for new borrowing.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US Debt Ceiling: Biden and MCcarthy break the deadlock, debt limit suspended till January 1, 2025</strong></p>

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<p>The US Treasury Department had warned that if the debt ceiling was blocked beyond Monday, the country could default on its $31 trillion debt. A default would have likely triggered market panic, huge job losses and a recession, with global implications.</p>

<p>"Nothing would have been more catastrophic," Biden said.</p>

<p>Addresses by the US presidents from the Oval Office have alsways been reserved for moments of unique national danger or importance.</p>

<h2><strong>A reassuring, calm Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Biden sprinkled his speech with chuckles and smiles as he spoke in calm and reassuring manner. He praised the Republican Party for negotiating in good faith. He promised Americans that he had never felt more optimistic.</p>

<p>Biden said that Congress has now preserved "the full faith and credit of the United States."</p>

<p>Although the debt ceiling crisis has been averted, the US economy's reputation has taken a hit. Ratings agency Fitch said Friday that it is keeping the United States' "AAA" credit rating on negative watch, despite the deal.</p>

<h2><strong>The political tussle</strong></h2>

<p>This year, hard-right Republicans dominating their party's narrow majority in the House of Representatives, decided to use the must-pass vote as leverage for forcing Biden into accepting cuts to many Democratic spending priorities.</p>

<p>This triggered a test of political strength that threatened to end in chaos before the two sides agreed this week on raising the debt ceiling while freezing some budgetary spending in return -- yet stopping well short of Republican demands for cuts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-in-the-debt-ceiling-bill-passed-by-us-senate-599184">Explained: What is in the debt ceiling bill passed by US Congress?</a></strong></p>

<p>Kevin McCarthy, speaker of the Republican-led House of Representatives, chose to call the compromise bill a big victory for conservatives. However, he faced backlash from hardliners on the right accused McCarthy made too many concessions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden on Friday (June 1) addressed Americans in a rare Oval Office address that the debt ceiling bill that was passed by US Congress after negotiations that lasted weeks, has saved the country from an "economic collapse".

US President Joe Biden on Friday (June 1) addressed Americans in a rare Oval Office address that the debt ceiling bill that was passed by US Congress after negotiations that lasted weeks, has saved the country from an "economic collapse". He was speaking from behind the historic Resolute Desk live on primetime television. Biden said that the deal was a compromise between the Democrats and the Republicans and that "no one got everything they wanted." "We averted an economic crisis and an economic collapse," he said, adding that "the stakes could not have been higher." Biden said that he will sign the bill into law on Saturday. The bill authorises the government to extend the debt ceiling and paves way for new borrowing. Watch | US Debt Ceiling: Biden and MCcarthy break the deadlock, debt limit suspended till January 1, 2025 × The US Treasury Department had warned that if the debt ceiling was blocked beyond Monday, the country could default on its $31 trillion debt. A default would have likely triggered market panic, huge job losses and a recession, with global implications. "Nothing would have been more catastrophic," Biden said. Addresses by the US presidents from the Oval Office have alsways been reserved for moments of unique national danger or importance. A reassuring, calm Biden Biden sprinkled his speech with chuckles and smiles as he spoke in calm and reassuring manner. He praised the Republican Party for negotiating in good faith. He promised Americans that he had never felt more optimistic. Biden said that Congress has now preserved "the full faith and credit of the United States." Although the debt ceiling crisis has been averted, the US economy's reputation has taken a hit. Ratings agency Fitch said Friday that it is keeping the United States' "AAA" credit rating on negative watch, despite the deal. The political tussle This year, hard-right Republicans dominating their party's narrow majority in the House of Representatives, decided to use the must-pass vote as leverage for forcing Biden into accepting cuts to many Democratic spending priorities. This triggered a test of political strength that threatened to end in chaos before the two sides agreed this week on raising the debt ceiling while freezing some budgetary spending in return -- yet stopping well short of Republican demands for cuts. Also Read | Explained: What is in the debt ceiling bill passed by US Congress? Kevin McCarthy, speaker of the Republican-led House of Representatives, chose to call the compromise bill a big victory for conservatives. However, he faced backlash from hardliners on the right accused McCarthy made too many concessions. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Biden addresses nation from Oval Office, to sign debt ceiling bill on Saturday

<p>US President Joe Biden tumbled face-first on Thursday (June 1) as he tripped over an obstacle on the stage at the Air Force Academy in Colorado. The president, who was quickly helped by officials around him, appeared unhurt as he stood up. Biden (80) had delivered a commencement address to military academy graduates just moments before the fall. He had shaken hands with a cadet and had begun walking back to his seat when he fell.</p>

<p>As he got back up on his feet, Biden pointed at an object which he apparently stumbled on. Media reports say that the object resembled a small sandbag on the stage.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Biden takes a big fall on stage just now at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation <a href="https://t.co/GxkMbpyoNo">pic.twitter.com/GxkMbpyoNo</a></p>
— Jake Schneider (@jacobkschneider) <a href="https://twitter.com/jacobkschneider/status/1664343681321541636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In November 2020, shortly after winning his election against the incumbent Donald Trump, Biden broke his foot while playing with a pet dog.</p>

<p>This is not the first time the current president of the world's most powerful&nbsp;country has made news for taking one wrong step before falling down.</p>

<p>Video of him stumbling on the steps of Air Force One did rounds in February this year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Biden falls again. DC Establishment ignores his obvious physical and cognitive impairments. <a href="https://t.co/xCkYxsYpF2">pic.twitter.com/xCkYxsYpF2</a></p>
— Tom Fitton (@TomFitton) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomFitton/status/1628446079174819842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In March 2021, when he was departing for Georgia, Biden stumbled twice and fell on the steps.</p>

<p>The list isn't finished.</p>

<p>In May 2022, Biden lost balance on his plane's steps at Andrews Air Base.</p>

<p>Biden is the oldest person ever to hold the presidential office in the history of US presidency. He is seeking re-election in the 2024 US Presidential Election. His official doctor's report this year declared him physically fit.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;exercises regularly.</p>

<h2><strong>Air Force Academy speech</strong>: Sweden will join NATO</h2>

<p>During his speech at the academy, Biden said that Sweden will join NATO "soon". Days ago, he had hinted a possible deal to overcome Turkey's opposition to Sweden's membership to the alliance.</p>

<p>Addressing the graduates, Biden said that they will enter the service in an increasingly unstable world. He cited challenges from Russia and China.</p>

<p>Biden said that NATO is stronger in spite of Russia's attempt to divide the alliance by attacking Ukraine.</p>

<p>It is bolstered further, he said, by the recent admission of Finland, "and soon, Sweden."</p>

<p>"It will happen, I promise you," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he did not provide concrete details.</p>

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US President Joe Biden tumbled face-first on Thursday (June 1) as he tripped over an obstacle on the stage at the Air Force Academy in Colorado. The president, who was quickly helped by officials around him, appeared unhurt as he stood up.

US President Joe Biden tumbled face-first on Thursday (June 1) as he tripped over an obstacle on the stage at the Air Force Academy in Colorado. The president, who was quickly helped by officials around him, appeared unhurt as he stood up. Biden (80) had delivered a commencement address to military academy graduates just moments before the fall. He had shaken hands with a cadet and had begun walking back to his seat when he fell. As he got back up on his feet, Biden pointed at an object which he apparently stumbled on. Media reports say that the object resembled a small sandbag on the stage. BREAKING: Biden takes a big fall on stage just now at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation pic.twitter.com/GxkMbpyoNo — Jake Schneider (@jacobkschneider) June 1, 2023 × In November 2020, shortly after winning his election against the incumbent Donald Trump, Biden broke his foot while playing with a pet dog. This is not the first time the current president of the world's most powerful country has made news for taking one wrong step before falling down. Video of him stumbling on the steps of Air Force One did rounds in February this year. President Biden falls again. DC Establishment ignores his obvious physical and cognitive impairments. pic.twitter.com/xCkYxsYpF2 — Tom Fitton (@TomFitton) February 22, 2023 × In March 2021, when he was departing for Georgia, Biden stumbled twice and fell on the steps. The list isn't finished. In May 2022, Biden lost balance on his plane's steps at Andrews Air Base. Biden is the oldest person ever to hold the presidential office in the history of US presidency. He is seeking re-election in the 2024 US Presidential Election. His official doctor's report this year declared him physically fit. Biden exercises regularly. Air Force Academy speech: Sweden will join NATO During his speech at the academy, Biden said that Sweden will join NATO "soon". Days ago, he had hinted a possible deal to overcome Turkey's opposition to Sweden's membership to the alliance. Addressing the graduates, Biden said that they will enter the service in an increasingly unstable world. He cited challenges from Russia and China. Biden said that NATO is stronger in spite of Russia's attempt to divide the alliance by attacking Ukraine. It is bolstered further, he said, by the recent admission of Finland, "and soon, Sweden." "It will happen, I promise you," he said. However, he did not provide concrete details. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Video: US President Biden takes yet another tumble, this time at Air Force Academy

House of Oversight Committee and the United States main investigative agency are pursuing action to place FBI's director Christopher Ray in contempt of congress after the bureau informed the panel that it will not abide by its subpoena about a potential criminal plot involving the then Vice President Joe Biden. Watch to know more.

FBI Director to be held over Biden document, while White House denies Biden's involvement

<p>Under heat from conservatives, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked&nbsp;frantically&nbsp;Tuesday (May 30)&nbsp;to persuade other Republicans to support the debt ceiling and budget agreement he signed&nbsp;with President Joe Biden in order to avoid a potentially catastrophic US&nbsp;default.</p>

<p>Leaders of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus slammed the deal for falling well short of the expenditure cutbacks they seek, vowing to block its approval in Congress, as reported by the Associated press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Republican Study Committee, a far larger conservative bloc, remained silent. Even rank-and-file moderate conservatives were divided, leaving McCarthy urgently seeking support.</p>

<p>The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 Tuesday to send a bill to the entire House dealing with the federal debt ceiling, with two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition.</p>

<p>The House as a whole is set to vote on Wednesday.</p>

<h2><strong>What would an approval from both the House and Senate mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Quick passage by both the House and Senate would ensure that federal payments continue to be issued to social security beneficiaries, veterans, and others, as well as preventing economic turmoil across&nbsp;the world by allowing the Treasury to continue paying US bills.</p>

<p>The agreement, as outlined in the 99-page law, would limit spending over the next two years, but it contains environmental policy changes and enhanced job requirements for certain senior food aid recipients, both of which Democrats fiercely oppose.</p>

<p>According to the White House, Biden was communicating directly to lawmakers, making more than 100 one-on-one calls. Top administration officials are on their way to Capitol Hill to inform Democrats secretly ahead of the scheduled vote on Wednesday.</p>

<p>With few members anticipated to be completely happy, Biden and McCarthy are hoping to gain majority approval from the Senate.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lashes-out-at-kosovo-after-clashes-with-ethnic-serbs-598528">US expels Kosovo from military exercises after ethnic Serb clashes involving NATO troops</a></p>

<p>The House plans to vote on the bill on Wednesday and send it to the Senate, where Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican Leader McConnell are aiming for passage by the end of the week.</p>

<p>Schumer referred to the bill as a "sensible compromise." McCarthy, according to McConnell, "deserves our thanks."</p>

<p>Senators, who had mostly stood on the sidelines during much of the president's and House Speaker's deliberations, began to intervene more aggressively in the argument.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Is United States provoking China by using Philippines?</strong></p>

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<p>Some senators are pressing on modifications from both the left and right edges to modify the plan. This might need lengthy deliberations, delaying ultimate acceptance of the agreement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Under heat from conservatives, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked frantically Tuesday (May 30) to persuade other Republicans to support the debt ceiling and budget agreement he signed with President Joe Biden in order to avoid a potentially catastrophic US default.

Under heat from conservatives, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked frantically Tuesday (May 30) to persuade other Republicans to support the debt ceiling and budget agreement he signed with President Joe Biden in order to avoid a potentially catastrophic US default. Leaders of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus slammed the deal for falling well short of the expenditure cutbacks they seek, vowing to block its approval in Congress, as reported by the Associated press. The Republican Study Committee, a far larger conservative bloc, remained silent. Even rank-and-file moderate conservatives were divided, leaving McCarthy urgently seeking support. The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 Tuesday to send a bill to the entire House dealing with the federal debt ceiling, with two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. The House as a whole is set to vote on Wednesday. What would an approval from both the House and Senate mean? Quick passage by both the House and Senate would ensure that federal payments continue to be issued to social security beneficiaries, veterans, and others, as well as preventing economic turmoil across the world by allowing the Treasury to continue paying US bills. The agreement, as outlined in the 99-page law, would limit spending over the next two years, but it contains environmental policy changes and enhanced job requirements for certain senior food aid recipients, both of which Democrats fiercely oppose. According to the White House, Biden was communicating directly to lawmakers, making more than 100 one-on-one calls. Top administration officials are on their way to Capitol Hill to inform Democrats secretly ahead of the scheduled vote on Wednesday. With few members anticipated to be completely happy, Biden and McCarthy are hoping to gain majority approval from the Senate. ALSO READ | US expels Kosovo from military exercises after ethnic Serb clashes involving NATO troops The House plans to vote on the bill on Wednesday and send it to the Senate, where Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican Leader McConnell are aiming for passage by the end of the week. Schumer referred to the bill as a "sensible compromise." McCarthy, according to McConnell, "deserves our thanks." Senators, who had mostly stood on the sidelines during much of the president's and House Speaker's deliberations, began to intervene more aggressively in the argument. ALSO WATCH | Is United States provoking China by using Philippines? Some senators are pressing on modifications from both the left and right edges to modify the plan. This might need lengthy deliberations, delaying ultimate acceptance of the agreement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Debt limit deal heads to vote in full House while McCarthy seeks Republican approval

<p>US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US. Biden conveyed&nbsp;Erdogan that the US was keen for Turkey to drop its objection to Sweden joining NATO. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory.</p>

<p>"I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work out something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted to deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters before departing the White House for Delaware.</p>

<p>"We're going to talk more about it next week," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Erdogan and the policies that helped him win Turkey presidential runoff</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If a country is to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), all existing members must approve the bid. Turkey and Hungary are yet to approve Sweden's bid to join the alliance.</p>

<p>Turkey has sought to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits from the United States, but the sale has been stalled due to objections from the US Congress over Ankara's problematic human rights record and Syria policy, even though the Biden administration has repeatedly said it supports the sale.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, when Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession, the US Congress approved a much smaller USD 259 million package for Turkey within days. The package included avionics software upgrades for Turkey's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft.</p>

<h2><strong>Quid pro quo?</strong></h2>

<p>The US government has repeatedly rejected assertions that the F-16 sale was being delayed in order to obtain Turkey's approval for new NATO bids. However, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in January this year that it was made clear by the US side that approval of NATO bids would be viewed positively by the US Congress.</p>

<p>A bipartisan group of senators in a February letter to Biden said Turkey's failure to ratify the accession protocols for Sweden and Finland, which was still waiting at the time, would "call into question this pending sale", referring to the F-16s.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/rise-and-rise-of-turkish-president-recep-tayyip-erdogan-name-etched-in-gold-but-challenge-not-over-597903">Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenge not over</a></strong></p>

<p>AFP quoted an unnamed source who said that the US had previously told Turkey that if it&nbsp;doesn't greenlight Sweden, it would be hard to approve the F-16 deal.</p>

<p>Sweden as well as Finland applied for NATO membership last year, ditching long-held policies of military non-alignment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US.

US President Joe Biden and Turkey's re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke over phone on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US. Biden conveyed Erdogan that the US was keen for Turkey to drop its objection to Sweden joining NATO. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory. "I spoke to Erdogan. I congratulated Erdogan. He still wants to work out something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted to deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden told reporters before departing the White House for Delaware. "We're going to talk more about it next week," he added. Watch | Erdogan and the policies that helped him win Turkey presidential runoff × If a country is to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), all existing members must approve the bid. Turkey and Hungary are yet to approve Sweden's bid to join the alliance. Turkey has sought to buy $20 billion worth of F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits from the United States, but the sale has been stalled due to objections from the US Congress over Ankara's problematic human rights record and Syria policy, even though the Biden administration has repeatedly said it supports the sale. Earlier this year, when Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession, the US Congress approved a much smaller USD 259 million package for Turkey within days. The package included avionics software upgrades for Turkey's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft. Quid pro quo? The US government has repeatedly rejected assertions that the F-16 sale was being delayed in order to obtain Turkey's approval for new NATO bids. However, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in January this year that it was made clear by the US side that approval of NATO bids would be viewed positively by the US Congress. A bipartisan group of senators in a February letter to Biden said Turkey's failure to ratify the accession protocols for Sweden and Finland, which was still waiting at the time, would "call into question this pending sale", referring to the F-16s. Also Read | Rise and rise of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Name etched in gold, but challenge not over AFP quoted an unnamed source who said that the US had previously told Turkey that if it doesn't greenlight Sweden, it would be hard to approve the F-16 deal. Sweden as well as Finland applied for NATO membership last year, ditching long-held policies of military non-alignment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Biden congratulates Erodogan for poll win, discusses F-16s, NATO with Turkish leader

US President Joe Biden and Turkey's fresh-from-election-victory President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke with each other on a phone call on Monday (May 29). The US president said later on that Erdogan repeated Turkey's desire to buy F-16 fighter jets from the US. Biden conveyed Erdogan that the US was keen for Turkey to drop its objection to Sweden joining NATO. Biden had called Erdogan to congratulate him on his election victory.

Biden calls up Erdogan to congratulate, later talked about F-16s, NATO as well

<p>President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China.</p>

<p>Brown, whose long-anticipated appointment is subject to Senate confirmation, would be only the second Black officer to become chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after Colin Powell two decades ago.</p>

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<p>Biden's official schedule for Wednesday said: "In the afternoon, the president will announce his intent to nominate General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. to serve as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff."</p>

<p>The move follows Biden's appointment of Lloyd Austin to become the first Black U.S. secretary of defense, the top civilian position at the Pentagon.</p>

<p>A senior Biden administration official said Biden had accepted Austin's recommendation to pick Brown for the position, believing he "understands the strategic challenges the United States faces around the world."</p>

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<p>"He helped build and lead the air campaign against ISIS. He is deeply versed in the challenges posed by the PRC (Peoples Republic of China). And he has a strong understanding of our NATO allies’ perspectives and capabilities," the official said.</p>

<p>Upon Brown's confirmation, Black Americans would hold the top two positions at the Pentagon for the first time - a major milestone for an institution that is diverse in its lower ranks but largely white and male at the top.</p>

<p>Brown is a self-described introvert whose public persona contrasts sharply with the outgoing chair, Army General Mark Milley, a loquacious Boston native whose tenure included both the Trump and Biden administrations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

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<p>Last year, speaking at a security forum, Brown joked that his wife would ask: "Did you use all your words at work today?"</p>

<p>In the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police, Brown recounted his experiences in an emotional video posted online.</p>

<p>He said how, during his Air Force career, he was "often the only African American in my squadron or, as a senior officer, the only African American in the room" and of wearing the same flight suit as his squadron with wings pinned on his chest yet being asked if he was a pilot.</p>

<p>Known by colleagues as "CQ," Brown's experiences include overseeing coalition air operations against Islamic State from the Air Force's top base in the Middle East.</p>

<p>But it's his experiences as commander of the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific from 2018 to 2020 that gave him a primer on tensions with China's rapidly strengthening military, an issue likely to loom large over his four-year term as chair.</p>

<p>Heather Wilson, who was secretary of the Air Force at the time, praised Brown's leadership style and experience in the Pacific.</p>

<p>"He's thoughtful, respected by his peers and subordinates, and will provide steady leadership and good advice for the country," she told Reuters.</p>

<p>Although widely respected, it is unclear how quickly Brown would be confirmed by the Senate. Senator Tommy Tuberville has been blocking military nominations from moving forward since February because he believes the Pentagon is improperly using funding to cover travel costs for abortions of service members. The White House on Wednesday urged Tuberville to release his hold on Pentagon nominees, saying he is threatening national security.</p>

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President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China.

President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China. Brown, whose long-anticipated appointment is subject to Senate confirmation, would be only the second Black officer to become chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after Colin Powell two decades ago. Also Read | 11-year-old black boy shot in chest by Mississippi police he called for help Biden's official schedule for Wednesday said: "In the afternoon, the president will announce his intent to nominate General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. to serve as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff." The move follows Biden's appointment of Lloyd Austin to become the first Black U.S. secretary of defense, the top civilian position at the Pentagon. A senior Biden administration official said Biden had accepted Austin's recommendation to pick Brown for the position, believing he "understands the strategic challenges the United States faces around the world." Also Read | Imran, his loyalists orchestrated May 9 violence: Intel report "He helped build and lead the air campaign against ISIS. He is deeply versed in the challenges posed by the PRC (Peoples Republic of China). And he has a strong understanding of our NATO allies’ perspectives and capabilities," the official said. Upon Brown's confirmation, Black Americans would hold the top two positions at the Pentagon for the first time - a major milestone for an institution that is diverse in its lower ranks but largely white and male at the top. Brown is a self-described introvert whose public persona contrasts sharply with the outgoing chair, Army General Mark Milley, a loquacious Boston native whose tenure included both the Trump and Biden administrations. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × Last year, speaking at a security forum, Brown joked that his wife would ask: "Did you use all your words at work today?" In the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police, Brown recounted his experiences in an emotional video posted online. He said how, during his Air Force career, he was "often the only African American in my squadron or, as a senior officer, the only African American in the room" and of wearing the same flight suit as his squadron with wings pinned on his chest yet being asked if he was a pilot. Known by colleagues as "CQ," Brown's experiences include overseeing coalition air operations against Islamic State from the Air Force's top base in the Middle East. But it's his experiences as commander of the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific from 2018 to 2020 that gave him a primer on tensions with China's rapidly strengthening military, an issue likely to loom large over his four-year term as chair. Heather Wilson, who was secretary of the Air Force at the time, praised Brown's leadership style and experience in the Pacific. "He's thoughtful, respected by his peers and subordinates, and will provide steady leadership and good advice for the country," she told Reuters. Although widely respected, it is unclear how quickly Brown would be confirmed by the Senate. Senator Tommy Tuberville has been blocking military nominations from moving forward since February because he believes the Pentagon is improperly using funding to cover travel costs for abortions of service members. The White House on Wednesday urged Tuberville to release his hold on Pentagon nominees, saying he is threatening national security. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Biden picks Air Force Chief General Charles Q. Brown to become top US general

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