World leaders on Thursday&nbsp;praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US&nbsp;President Donald Trump helped broker.

Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-peace-agreement-between-israel-uae-320287" hreflang="en">Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE</a>

The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said.

The normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel is a "HUGE breakthrough" Trump tweeted, calling it a "Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends."

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HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1293922936609546240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-hails-peace-deal-with-uae-320298">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails peace deal with UAE</a>

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;hailed "a historic day"&nbsp;after the announcement of the agreement.

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יום היסטורי 🇮🇱 <a href="https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE">https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1293924443086114819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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UAE's&nbsp;Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said ''Most countries will see this as a bold step to secure a two-state solution, allowing time for negotiations.''

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Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi took to Twitter to praise&nbsp;the&nbsp;US-brokered deal&nbsp;that would halt Israeli annexation of Palestinian land.

"I read with interest and great appreciation the joint statement between the United States, the brotherly United Arab Emirates and Israel concerning the halt of Israel's annexation of Palestinian land," Sisi said in a tweet, adding that this would help bring "peace" to the Middle East.

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تابعت بإهتمام و تقدير بالغ البيان المشترك الثلاثي بين الولايات المتحدة الامريكية و دولة الامارات العربية الشقيقة وإسرائيل حول الاتفاق علي ايقاف ضم إسرائيل للاراضي الفلسطينية ..١/٢
— Abdelfattah Elsisi (@AlsisiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlsisiOfficial/status/1293935489569914882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Congratulations to Israel and UAE for reaching a historic agreement that establishes full diplomatic relations between the two nations. Israel deserves diplomatic recognition from its neighbors and this is a critical step to contain Iranian aggression against both nations.
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1293938598451064834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, the Gaza Strip's Islamist leaders Hamas&nbsp;rejected the agreement saying, it ''does not serve Palestinian cause.''

World leaders on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US President Donald Trump helped broker. Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said.

World leaders on Thursday praised the historic peace deal between his country and United Arab Emirates that US President Donald Trump helped broker. Under the agreement, Israel has agreed to suspend applying sovereignty to areas of the West Bank that it has been discussing annexing, senior White House officials said. Also read: Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE The peace deal was the product of lengthy discussions between Israel, the UAE and the United States that accelerated recently, White House officials said. The normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel is a "HUGE breakthrough" Trump tweeted, calling it a "Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends." HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 13, 2020 × Also read: Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hails peace deal with UAE Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed "a historic day" after the announcement of the agreement. יום היסטורי 🇮🇱 https://t.co/4mD6DzoTvE — Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) August 13, 2020 × UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said ''Most countries will see this as a bold step to secure a two-state solution, allowing time for negotiations.'' Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi took to Twitter to praise the US-brokered deal that would halt Israeli annexation of Palestinian land. "I read with interest and great appreciation the joint statement between the United States, the brotherly United Arab Emirates and Israel concerning the halt of Israel's annexation of Palestinian land," Sisi said in a tweet, adding that this would help bring "peace" to the Middle East. تابعت بإهتمام و تقدير بالغ البيان المشترك الثلاثي بين الولايات المتحدة الامريكية و دولة الامارات العربية الشقيقة وإسرائيل حول الاتفاق علي ايقاف ضم إسرائيل للاراضي الفلسطينية ..١/٢ — Abdelfattah Elsisi (@AlsisiOfficial) August 13, 2020 × Congratulations to Israel and UAE for reaching a historic agreement that establishes full diplomatic relations between the two nations. Israel deserves diplomatic recognition from its neighbors and this is a critical step to contain Iranian aggression against both nations. — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) August 13, 2020 × However, the Gaza Strip's Islamist leaders Hamas rejected the agreement saying, it ''does not serve Palestinian cause.''

World leaders welcome UAE-Israel peace deal and halt to annexation

Nearly nine out of 10 Democrats approve of US Senator Kamala Harris as their party's vice presidential nominee, and she is more popular than presidential candidate Joe Biden among women, young voters and some Republicans, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Wednesday.

The August 11-12 public opinion survey also found that 60% of Americans, including 87% of Democrats and 37% of Republicans, considered the selection of Harris - the first Black woman and Asian American nominated for vice presidency - to be a "major milestone" for the United States.

The US&nbsp;Senator from California is viewed about as favorably or better than Biden in most major demographic groups, the poll showed, highlighting her potential to help the former vice president expand his support in November's election.

Harris, 55, is the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants and made her own bid for the White House. She was a former prosecutor and state attorney general in California, and became only the second Black female U.S. senator in history when elected in 2016.

The poll showed Biden's lead over Republican President Donald Trump was effectively unchanged after he announced his running mate choice, increasing by 1 percentage point among all Americans to an 8-point advantage - well within the poll's credibility interval - when compared with a similar poll that ran on Monday and Tuesday.

Forty-six percent of U.S. adults said they would vote for a Biden/Harris ticket, while 38% would vote for Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. A similar poll that ran on Monday and Tuesday showed that 44% would vote for Biden while 37% would back Trump.

The latest poll also found that 56% of Americans have a favorable impression of Harris, which is about the same as the number who favor Biden. Forty-two percent of US adults say they have a favorable view of Trump and 47% said the same of Pence.

Among women, 60% said they have a favorable view of Harris, compared with 53% who felt the same way about Biden. Women are the dominant force in American elections: they make up a bigger proportion of the U.S. electorate than men, and a surge in support for Democrats among white, college-educated women helped the party retake the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018.

Biden already has an advantage over Trump among women overall, but he has not improved his standing among black women in recent months, while white women without college degrees still largely favor Trump.

EDGE WITH REPUBLICANS

In addition, about 25% of Republicans said they had a favorable view of Harris and approve of her choice as Biden's running mate. Only about 20% of Republicans said they have a similarly favorable view of Biden. 
In a close election, peeling off even a small number of voters from the Republican Party could make a difference to the Democrats, political analysts said.

Harris also is a little more popular among American adults who are younger than 35 years old: 62% said they view Harris favorably, while 60% said the same of Biden.

Public opinion could change and Trump's re-election campaign sharpens its criticism of the Democratic challengers. Within minutes of Biden’s announcement on Tuesday, Trump had called Harris “nasty,” “horrible” and “disrespectful," while his campaign painted her as an extremist who would yank the moderate Biden to the left.

In choosing Harris, Biden heeded calls from Black leaders and activists to choose a woman of color as a running mate and avoid a repeat of 2016, when the first decline of Black voter turnout in 20 years helped Trump's upset victory over Hillary Clinton. Black Americans - and Black women particularly - are the most loyal Democratic constituencies.

The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online, in English, throughout the United States. It gathered responses from 1,000 adults, including 389 Republicans and 419 Democrats. It has a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 3 percentage points.

Nearly nine out of 10 Democrats approve of US Senator Kamala Harris as their party's vice presidential nominee, and she is more popular than presidential candidate Joe Biden among women, young voters and some Republicans, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Wednesday.

Nearly nine out of 10 Democrats approve of US Senator Kamala Harris as their party's vice presidential nominee, and she is more popular than presidential candidate Joe Biden among women, young voters and some Republicans, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Wednesday. The August 11-12 public opinion survey also found that 60% of Americans, including 87% of Democrats and 37% of Republicans, considered the selection of Harris - the first Black woman and Asian American nominated for vice presidency - to be a "major milestone" for the United States. The US Senator from California is viewed about as favorably or better than Biden in most major demographic groups, the poll showed, highlighting her potential to help the former vice president expand his support in November's election. Harris, 55, is the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants and made her own bid for the White House. She was a former prosecutor and state attorney general in California, and became only the second Black female U.S. senator in history when elected in 2016. The poll showed Biden's lead over Republican President Donald Trump was effectively unchanged after he announced his running mate choice, increasing by 1 percentage point among all Americans to an 8-point advantage - well within the poll's credibility interval - when compared with a similar poll that ran on Monday and Tuesday. Forty-six percent of U.S. adults said they would vote for a Biden/Harris ticket, while 38% would vote for Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. A similar poll that ran on Monday and Tuesday showed that 44% would vote for Biden while 37% would back Trump. The latest poll also found that 56% of Americans have a favorable impression of Harris, which is about the same as the number who favor Biden. Forty-two percent of US adults say they have a favorable view of Trump and 47% said the same of Pence. Among women, 60% said they have a favorable view of Harris, compared with 53% who felt the same way about Biden. Women are the dominant force in American elections: they make up a bigger proportion of the U.S. electorate than men, and a surge in support for Democrats among white, college-educated women helped the party retake the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018. Biden already has an advantage over Trump among women overall, but he has not improved his standing among black women in recent months, while white women without college degrees still largely favor Trump. EDGE WITH REPUBLICANS In addition, about 25% of Republicans said they had a favorable view of Harris and approve of her choice as Biden's running mate. Only about 20% of Republicans said they have a similarly favorable view of Biden. In a close election, peeling off even a small number of voters from the Republican Party could make a difference to the Democrats, political analysts said. Harris also is a little more popular among American adults who are younger than 35 years old: 62% said they view Harris favorably, while 60% said the same of Biden. Public opinion could change and Trump's re-election campaign sharpens its criticism of the Democratic challengers. Within minutes of Biden’s announcement on Tuesday, Trump had called Harris “nasty,” “horrible” and “disrespectful," while his campaign painted her as an extremist who would yank the moderate Biden to the left. In choosing Harris, Biden heeded calls from Black leaders and activists to choose a woman of color as a running mate and avoid a repeat of 2016, when the first decline of Black voter turnout in 20 years helped Trump's upset victory over Hillary Clinton. Black Americans - and Black women particularly - are the most loyal Democratic constituencies. The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online, in English, throughout the United States. It gathered responses from 1,000 adults, including 389 Republicans and 419 Democrats. It has a credibility interval, a measure of precision, of about 3 percentage points.

Harris could help Biden with women, young voters, maybe some Republicans too: Reuters survey

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it.&nbsp;So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash.

"Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says.

Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking.

"Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde.

"We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said.

In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change.

Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking. The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it. So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash. "Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says. Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking. "Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde. "We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said. In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change. Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair.

Now, Donald Trump wants rule change to ensure perfect hair wash

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position.&nbsp;

The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-makes-exception-to-visa-ban-h-1b-holders-can-enter-us-on-this-condition-320068">America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition</a>

In the latest advisory, the state department has also allowed children and spouse of primary visa holders to travel with them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-will-h1-b-visa-suspension-impact-indian-companies-307963">How will H1-B visa suspension impact Indian companies?</a>

This is the first relaxations given by the US administration following June 22 proclamation signed by President Donald Trump, which suspended the entry into the country under H-1B and L-1 visa categories. &nbsp;

The decision was taken as the coronavirus pandemic saw unemployment levels triggered by the coronavirus pandemic rising at record levels in the US.&nbsp;

With the new changes, people employed in in critical infrastructure sectors including healthcare and information technology, whose roles are important for their respective organisations to flourish are also allowed to get the visas.

The state department has issued five guidelines and the applicant must meet at least two of them to get a visa.&nbsp;

Healthcare personnel, people involved in COVID-19 research work, travelling to fulfil contractual obligations or because of a request by any US government agency will also be allowed entry into the US.

 
&nbsp;

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position. The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification".

The Trump administration has relaxed certain provisions for H-1B visas, allowing people to come back for the same job in a similar position. The US Department of State, in its advisory, permitted "travel by applicants seeking to resume ongoing employment in the United States in the same position with the same employer and visa classification". Also read | America makes exception to visa ban; H-1B holders can enter US on this condition In the latest advisory, the state department has also allowed children and spouse of primary visa holders to travel with them. Also read | How will H1-B visa suspension impact Indian companies? This is the first relaxations given by the US administration following June 22 proclamation signed by President Donald Trump, which suspended the entry into the country under H-1B and L-1 visa categories. The decision was taken as the coronavirus pandemic saw unemployment levels triggered by the coronavirus pandemic rising at record levels in the US. With the new changes, people employed in in critical infrastructure sectors including healthcare and information technology, whose roles are important for their respective organisations to flourish are also allowed to get the visas. The state department has issued five guidelines and the applicant must meet at least two of them to get a visa. Healthcare personnel, people involved in COVID-19 research work, travelling to fulfil contractual obligations or because of a request by any US government agency will also be allowed entry into the US.

Trump administration relaxes rules to get H-1B visas

US President Donald Trump has hair rinsing complaints. He says the bathroom fixtures do not work to his liking.

And the US government has, to this end, proposed rule changes that would allow shower heads to boost water pressure -- all this amid a vigorous presidential campaign and the coronavirus pandemic.

The Department of Energy plan followed comments from Trump last month a White House event on rolling back regulations. He said he believed water does come out fast enough from fixtures.

"So what do you do? You just stand there longer or you take a shower longer? Because my hair - I don't know about you, but it has to be perfect."

Last December, Trump said environmental regulators were looking at sinks, faucets and toilets to revise rules meant to conserve water and fuel that heats it.

"People are flushing toilets 10 times, 15 times, as opposed to once," Trump told a meeting of small business leaders at the White House.

Consumer groups decried the plan, saying current rules saved consumers money by conserving water and fuel. 
The proposal would effectively allow shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads that would get around the 2.5 gallon (9.4 liter) per minute standard Congress set in 1992, when Trump's fellow Republican George H.W. Bush was president.

The Energy Department also proposed easier standards on clothes washers. The Trump administration says its regulatory rollbacks save average American households $3,100 a year. But conservationists say easing bathroom fixture standards could boost energy and water costs.

It was uncertain whether the plan would be finalised. Trump is campaigning for reelection and trails in opinion polls ahead of the vote November 3. If he wins and the proposal advances it could also face court battles.

David Friedman, vice president of advocacy at the organization Consumer Reports and a former Energy Department official, said there was no need to change the rules because tests show today's shower heads "achieve high levels of customer satisfaction," while saving money. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has hair rinsing complaints. He says the bathroom fixtures do not work to his liking. And the US government has, to this end, proposed rule changes that would allow shower heads to boost water pressure -- all this amid a vigorous presidential campaign and the coronavirus pandemic.

US President Donald Trump has hair rinsing complaints. He says the bathroom fixtures do not work to his liking. And the US government has, to this end, proposed rule changes that would allow shower heads to boost water pressure -- all this amid a vigorous presidential campaign and the coronavirus pandemic. The Department of Energy plan followed comments from Trump last month a White House event on rolling back regulations. He said he believed water does come out fast enough from fixtures. "So what do you do? You just stand there longer or you take a shower longer? Because my hair - I don't know about you, but it has to be perfect." Last December, Trump said environmental regulators were looking at sinks, faucets and toilets to revise rules meant to conserve water and fuel that heats it. "People are flushing toilets 10 times, 15 times, as opposed to once," Trump told a meeting of small business leaders at the White House. Consumer groups decried the plan, saying current rules saved consumers money by conserving water and fuel. The proposal would effectively allow shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads that would get around the 2.5 gallon (9.4 liter) per minute standard Congress set in 1992, when Trump's fellow Republican George H.W. Bush was president. The Energy Department also proposed easier standards on clothes washers. The Trump administration says its regulatory rollbacks save average American households $3,100 a year. But conservationists say easing bathroom fixture standards could boost energy and water costs. It was uncertain whether the plan would be finalised. Trump is campaigning for reelection and trails in opinion polls ahead of the vote November 3. If he wins and the proposal advances it could also face court battles. David Friedman, vice president of advocacy at the organization Consumer Reports and a former Energy Department official, said there was no need to change the rules because tests show today's shower heads "achieve high levels of customer satisfaction," while saving money.

Amid presidential campaign and coronavirus pandemic, Trump has hair rinsing complaints

Senator Kamala Harris may have created history on Tuesday by becoming the first African and South Asian woman in the United States to appear on a national major-party ticket, but actress-activist Rose McGowan isn't too happy with her.

Harris has been named by Democrats <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-candidate-joe-biden-picks-indian-origin-senator-kamala-harris-for-us-vice-presidential-candidate-319835">Presidential candidate Joe Biden</a> as his running mate in the upcoming elections. Ever since then Harris has been in news, been congratulated world over and celebrated. 
 
However, McGowan criticized Harris over an old incident. Hours after the announcement was made, McGowan took to Twitter to voice her opinion on the senator and those who donated to her past campaigns.

Tagging Harris, McGowan wrote, "Did you return the money Weinstein gave you? @SenKamalaHarris How many predators bankroll you?" as she shared a tweet by Washington Post editor who revealed that President Trump and his daughter Ivanka had earlier donated to Harris's California attorney general re-election campaign.

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Did you return the money Weinstein gave you? <a href="https://twitter.com/SenKamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenKamalaHarris</a> How many predators bankroll you? <a href="https://t.co/vQmcCllRDB">https://t.co/vQmcCllRDB</a>
— rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) <a href="https://twitter.com/rosemcgowan/status/1293420825639624704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Donald Trump donated twice to Kamala Harris when she was running for reelection as California attorney general, according to state records," the reporter tweeted and added, "Ivanka Trump donated as well." 
 
In 2017, when Weinstein's name first came up in the #MeToo controversy, several publications had revealed that the former Movie mogul had donated to several politicians' funds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-indian-origin-us-senator-kamala-harris-is-making-history-319837">Also see: How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history</a>

A follower of McGowan reminded the actress that Harris&nbsp; planned to give the $5,000 Weinstein had donated to the non-profit women's rights organization Equal Rights Advocates.To which McGowan wrote, "Good. Still creepy. Everyone knew."

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Good. Still creepy. Everyone knew. <a href="https://t.co/NE7Qnyt8Ml">https://t.co/NE7Qnyt8Ml</a>
— rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) <a href="https://twitter.com/rosemcgowan/status/1293435184482856961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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McGowan was one of the first few to speak up against Harvey Weinstein and sexual misconduct.

&nbsp;

Senator Kamala Harris may have created history on Tuesday by becoming the first African and South Asian woman in the United States to appear on a national major-party ticket, but actress-activist Rose McGowan isn't too happy with her.

Senator Kamala Harris may have created history on Tuesday by becoming the first African and South Asian woman in the United States to appear on a national major-party ticket, but actress-activist Rose McGowan isn't too happy with her. Harris has been named by Democrats Presidential candidate Joe Biden as his running mate in the upcoming elections. Ever since then Harris has been in news, been congratulated world over and celebrated. However, McGowan criticized Harris over an old incident. Hours after the announcement was made, McGowan took to Twitter to voice her opinion on the senator and those who donated to her past campaigns. Tagging Harris, McGowan wrote, "Did you return the money Weinstein gave you? @SenKamalaHarris How many predators bankroll you?" as she shared a tweet by Washington Post editor who revealed that President Trump and his daughter Ivanka had earlier donated to Harris's California attorney general re-election campaign. Did you return the money Weinstein gave you? @SenKamalaHarris How many predators bankroll you? https://t.co/vQmcCllRDB — rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) August 12, 2020 × "Donald Trump donated twice to Kamala Harris when she was running for reelection as California attorney general, according to state records," the reporter tweeted and added, "Ivanka Trump donated as well." In 2017, when Weinstein's name first came up in the #MeToo controversy, several publications had revealed that the former Movie mogul had donated to several politicians' funds. Also see: How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history A follower of McGowan reminded the actress that Harris planned to give the $5,000 Weinstein had donated to the non-profit women's rights organization Equal Rights Advocates.To which McGowan wrote, "Good. Still creepy. Everyone knew." Good. Still creepy. Everyone knew. https://t.co/NE7Qnyt8Ml — rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) August 12, 2020 × McGowan was one of the first few to speak up against Harvey Weinstein and sexual misconduct.

Rose McGowan slams Kamala Harris for taking donation in the past from Harvey Weinstein

China's Tencent said on Wednesday it did not believe a US&nbsp;move to ban transactions on its international messaging to payments&nbsp;WeChat&nbsp;app would apply to its domestic Weixin platform, potentially limiting fallout from the move.

Tencent is the latest Chinese tech giant caught in the crosshairs of an escalated Sino-US&nbsp;cyber war after President Trump said last week the United States would ban&nbsp;WeChat-related transactions in the country.

In a call after reporting a 37% rise in second-quarter net profit, executives tried to soothe market sentiment and said the company was in the process of seeking further clarification from relevant parties.

Chief financial officer John Lo said Tencent's initial reading was that the US&nbsp;executive order was focused on&nbsp;WeChat&nbsp;in the United States and it did not believe its other businesses there would be affected.

The US&nbsp;accounts for less than 2 per cent&nbsp;of Tencent's total revenue, said James Mitchell, chief strategy officer, and likely less than 1% of total advertising revenue.

"If you look at the executive orders from May 2019 and then obviously the executive order a couple of days ago, they specify very clearly they cover US&nbsp;jurisdiction, and consequently we don't see any impact on companies advertising on our platform in China," he said.

Revenue from online games, which accounts for one-third of total sales, jumped 40% in the second quarter, primarily driven by smart phone games including Peacekeeper Elite and Honour of Kings, as the coronavirus put a dent in other entertainment options.

However, the company postponed a blockbuster release of "Dungeon and Fighter Mobile" game, planned for August&nbsp;12, citing upgrades needed to the game's addiction prevention system. It did not indicate a new release date.

Social networks, fintech and business services, and social advertising revenues all grew by nearly 30%.

Media advertising revenues fell by 25&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;however, amid a "challenging macro environment" and delayed content production and releases.

The world's largest gaming firm by revenue booked $4.8 billion&nbsp;profit for the three months through June, ahead of an average analysts' estimate of 27.56 billion yuan, according to data from Refinitiv.

Revenue rose 29&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to 114.88 billion yuan, versus market expectations of 112.76 billion yuan.

China's Tencent said on Wednesday it did not believe a US move to ban transactions on its international messaging to payments WeChat app would apply to its domestic Weixin platform, potentially limiting fallout from the move.

China's Tencent said on Wednesday it did not believe a US move to ban transactions on its international messaging to payments WeChat app would apply to its domestic Weixin platform, potentially limiting fallout from the move. Tencent is the latest Chinese tech giant caught in the crosshairs of an escalated Sino-US cyber war after President Trump said last week the United States would ban WeChat-related transactions in the country. In a call after reporting a 37% rise in second-quarter net profit, executives tried to soothe market sentiment and said the company was in the process of seeking further clarification from relevant parties. Chief financial officer John Lo said Tencent's initial reading was that the US executive order was focused on WeChat in the United States and it did not believe its other businesses there would be affected. The US accounts for less than 2 per cent of Tencent's total revenue, said James Mitchell, chief strategy officer, and likely less than 1% of total advertising revenue. "If you look at the executive orders from May 2019 and then obviously the executive order a couple of days ago, they specify very clearly they cover US jurisdiction, and consequently we don't see any impact on companies advertising on our platform in China," he said. Revenue from online games, which accounts for one-third of total sales, jumped 40% in the second quarter, primarily driven by smart phone games including Peacekeeper Elite and Honour of Kings, as the coronavirus put a dent in other entertainment options. However, the company postponed a blockbuster release of "Dungeon and Fighter Mobile" game, planned for August 12, citing upgrades needed to the game's addiction prevention system. It did not indicate a new release date. Social networks, fintech and business services, and social advertising revenues all grew by nearly 30%. Media advertising revenues fell by 25 per cent however, amid a "challenging macro environment" and delayed content production and releases. The world's largest gaming firm by revenue booked $4.8 billion profit for the three months through June, ahead of an average analysts' estimate of 27.56 billion yuan, according to data from Refinitiv. Revenue rose 29 per cent to 114.88 billion yuan, versus market expectations of 112.76 billion yuan.

WeChat-owner tries to soothe concerns about Trump's proposed US ban

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China.

While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt.

"If I don't win the election, China will own the United States. You're going to have to learn to speak Chinese, you want to know the truth”, the president claimed.

China a contentious issue

China has become a focal point for the upcoming elections, with both candidates trying to sound tough against Chinese influence.

Trump has repeatedly blamed China for failing to contain the spread of COVID-19, and claims that his relationship with Chinese President Jinping has now soured. The US continues to bother China, be it in the form of sanctions against its top politicians like Carrie Lam, or the historic visit to Taiwan, which was the first in decades.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-kamala-harris-phony-mean-and-most-disrespectful-senator-319848" hreflang="en">Donald Trump calls Kamala Harris 'phony’, 'mean' and, most disrespectful senator</a>

However, Trump is yet to still refer to the persecution of Uighur muslims in China, and his ex aide John Bolton claimed in a book that he had given his approval for the camps to Jinping.

"Who would ever say a thing like that? He made it up. He made up everything," Trump said, while referring to Bolton. "John Bolton is a sick person. And John, and he's not a smart person”, he added.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had referred to the Chinese action against the Uighurs “the stain of the century”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-candidate-joe-biden-picks-indian-origin-senator-kamala-harris-for-us-vice-presidential-candidate-319835" hreflang="en">Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate</a>

Trump attacks Harris

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate.

Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden.

In Pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-top-politicians-and-celebrities-are-reacting-to-kamala-harris-vp-pick-319853" hreflang="en">How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick</a>

"I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said.

Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate."

Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a "phony"&nbsp;and 'attacking Joe Biden for "racist policies".

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China. While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump continued to attack his rival in the upcoming presidential elections, Joe Biden, by suggesting he was too soft on China. While addressing himself in the third person, Trump said, “China will own the United States if this election is lost by Donald Trump," in conversation with radio host Hugh Hewitt. "If I don't win the election, China will own the United States. You're going to have to learn to speak Chinese, you want to know the truth”, the president claimed. China a contentious issue China has become a focal point for the upcoming elections, with both candidates trying to sound tough against Chinese influence. Trump has repeatedly blamed China for failing to contain the spread of COVID-19, and claims that his relationship with Chinese President Jinping has now soured. The US continues to bother China, be it in the form of sanctions against its top politicians like Carrie Lam, or the historic visit to Taiwan, which was the first in decades. Also read: Donald Trump calls Kamala Harris 'phony’, 'mean' and, most disrespectful senator However, Trump is yet to still refer to the persecution of Uighur muslims in China, and his ex aide John Bolton claimed in a book that he had given his approval for the camps to Jinping. "Who would ever say a thing like that? He made it up. He made up everything," Trump said, while referring to Bolton. "John Bolton is a sick person. And John, and he's not a smart person”, he added. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had referred to the Chinese action against the Uighurs “the stain of the century”. Also read: Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate Trump attacks Harris US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate. Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden. In Pics | How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick "I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said. Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate." Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a "phony" and 'attacking Joe Biden for "racist policies".

Americans will need to learn Chinese if Biden wins, says Trump

Harris becomes the first Black woman and the first Asian American to compete on a major party's presidential ticket.

WION Fineprint: Democrat Joe Biden chooses Senator Kamala Harris as VP candidate

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-candidate-joe-biden-picks-indian-origin-senator-kamala-harris-for-us-vice-presidential-candidate-319835" hreflang="en">Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate</a>

Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-top-politicians-and-celebrities-are-reacting-to-kamala-harris-vp-pick-319853">In pictures: How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick</a>

"I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-indian-origin-us-senator-kamala-harris-is-making-history-319837" hreflang="en">How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history</a>

Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate." 
 
Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a 'phony' and 'attacking Joe Biden for racist policies.'

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— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1293285949917495300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Donald Trump said that some men might feel "insulted" by his Democratic rival Joe Biden's commitment to choosing a woman as his vice-presidential candidate.

"He roped himself into a certain group of people. Some people would say men are insulted by that and some people would say it is fine," Trump said.

(Inputs from AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he was "surprised" when Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential candidate. He called Kamala Harris, the "most horrible" member of the US Senate. Also read: Biden picks Indian-origin Kamala Harris for US vice presidential candidate Trump told reporters at the White House that Harris did not impress him when she was striving for the Democratic nomination in primaries ultimately won by Biden. In pictures: How top politicians and celebrities are reacting to Kamala Harris' VP pick "I was more surprised than anything else because she did so poorly," he said. Also read: How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history Donald Trump added that during his 2018 Senate confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Harris was "the meanest, the most horrible, the most disrespectful of anybody in the US Senate." Trump tweeted out a video calling Harris a 'phony' and 'attacking Joe Biden for racist policies.' pic.twitter.com/jXoffXyZed — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 11, 2020 × Earlier, Donald Trump said that some men might feel "insulted" by his Democratic rival Joe Biden's commitment to choosing a woman as his vice-presidential candidate. "He roped himself into a certain group of people. Some people would say men are insulted by that and some people would say it is fine," Trump said. (Inputs from AFP)

Donald Trump calls Kamala Harris 'phony’, 'mean' and, most disrespectful senator

On Sunday night, President Donald Trump tweeted a picture of himself standing in front of Mount Rushmore. Reportedly, he has discussed the possibility of adding his own visage to iconic mountain - that features four US Presidents.

Gravitas: Trump wants his face added to Mount Rushmore

US Presidential candidate Joe Biden has named Kamala Harris, a high-profile black senator from California, as his vice presidential choice, capping a months-long search for a Democratic partner to challenge President Donald Trump in November.

2020 US Elections: Search for Biden's running mate ends | Kamala Harris picked up as VP nominee

US 2020 elections: Biden picks Kamala Devi Harris as VP nominee

The U.S. Secret Service abruptly escorted President Donald Trump out of the White House press room in the middle of a briefing on Monday because of a shooting outside the White House.

Trump escorted from briefing after shooting near White House

The US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to host the delayed G7 Summit after the Presidential elections scheduled in November 2020.

The&nbsp;Group of Seven summit was to be held in June this year but the US President Donald Trump had decided to postpone it due to the ongoing pandemic, which had sent the world in a worldwide lockdown. Since then, trump has been unable to host the summit due to the surge in coronavirus cases, especially in the US.

However, Trump has now announced that he would like to host the summit in a "calmer atmosphere" after the November 3 presidential elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-china-would-be-needed-in-expanded-g7-summit-310694">Also read|&nbsp;Russia says China would be needed in expanded G7 summit</a>

"I'm much more inclined to do it sometime after the election. ... We could do it through teleconference or we could do it through a meeting," Trump said at a news conference from White House. He feels November would be a&nbsp;"better, calmer atmosphere to have a G7."

However, he has not given any conformation on whether or not Russian President Vladimir Putin will be invited to this summit, after he declared his intentions of extending invitations to Russia, India, South Korea and Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-politics-over-g7-expansion-heats-up-303077">Also watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: Politics over G7 expansion heats up</a>

&nbsp;"I don`t know but we have invited a number of people to the meeting. I certainly would invite him to the meeting," he said, adding that no date has been finalised yet, and therefore the invitations have not been sent out.

The invite as discussed between Trump and Putin over a phone call in June. Russia was once a part of the then-called G8 group, but was expelled in 2014&nbsp;after annexing the Crimea region from Ukraine, and the name was changed to G7 — which includes the US,&nbsp;Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Japan and Canada.

The US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to host the delayed G7 Summit after the Presidential elections scheduled in November 2020. The Group of Seven summit was to be held in June this year but the US President Donald Trump had decided to postpone it due to the ongoing pandemic, which had sent the world in a worldwide lockdown.

The US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to host the delayed G7 Summit after the Presidential elections scheduled in November 2020. The Group of Seven summit was to be held in June this year but the US President Donald Trump had decided to postpone it due to the ongoing pandemic, which had sent the world in a worldwide lockdown. Since then, trump has been unable to host the summit due to the surge in coronavirus cases, especially in the US. However, Trump has now announced that he would like to host the summit in a "calmer atmosphere" after the November 3 presidential elections. Also read| Russia says China would be needed in expanded G7 summit "I'm much more inclined to do it sometime after the election. ... We could do it through teleconference or we could do it through a meeting," Trump said at a news conference from White House. He feels November would be a "better, calmer atmosphere to have a G7." However, he has not given any conformation on whether or not Russian President Vladimir Putin will be invited to this summit, after he declared his intentions of extending invitations to Russia, India, South Korea and Australia. Also watch| Gravitas: Politics over G7 expansion heats up "I don`t know but we have invited a number of people to the meeting. I certainly would invite him to the meeting," he said, adding that no date has been finalised yet, and therefore the invitations have not been sent out. The invite as discussed between Trump and Putin over a phone call in June. Russia was once a part of the then-called G8 group, but was expelled in 2014 after annexing the Crimea region from Ukraine, and the name was changed to G7 — which includes the US, Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Japan and Canada.

Trump wants to host G7 Summit after November elections in 'calmer atmosphere'

The administration of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US&nbsp;official confirmed to Reuters.

The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals who could “reasonably” be believed to have contracted COVID-19 or other diseases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/india-has-conducted-most-coronavirus-tests-after-us-donald-trump-319602" hreflang="en">India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump</a>

Trump has instituted a series of sweeping immigration restrictions since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, suspending some legal immigration and allowing U.S. border authorities to rapidly deport migrants caught at the border without standard legal processes.

Reuters reported in May that U.S. government officials were concerned that dual U.S.-Mexico citizens might flee to the United States if the coronavirus outbreak in Mexico worsened, putting more stress on U.S. hospitals.

The draft regulation, which was first reported by The New York Times on Monday, would be issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has played a lead role in the pandemic response, the senior official told Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/donald-trump-briefly-evacuated-during-press-conference-after-shooting-outside-white-house-319589" hreflang="en">Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House</a>

A Trump pandemic task force was not expected to act on the proposal this week, although that timeline could change, the official said.

The United States leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths, with more than 5 million cases recorded and over 162,000 deaths, according to a Reuters tally.

Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s immigrants’ rights project, said in a written statement that barring U.S. citizens from entering the country would be unconstitutional and "another grave error in a year that has already seen far too many."

The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US official confirmed to Reuters.

The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US official confirmed to Reuters. The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals who could “reasonably” be believed to have contracted COVID-19 or other diseases. Also read: India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump Trump has instituted a series of sweeping immigration restrictions since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, suspending some legal immigration and allowing U.S. border authorities to rapidly deport migrants caught at the border without standard legal processes. Reuters reported in May that U.S. government officials were concerned that dual U.S.-Mexico citizens might flee to the United States if the coronavirus outbreak in Mexico worsened, putting more stress on U.S. hospitals. The draft regulation, which was first reported by The New York Times on Monday, would be issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has played a lead role in the pandemic response, the senior official told Reuters. Also read: Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House A Trump pandemic task force was not expected to act on the proposal this week, although that timeline could change, the official said. The United States leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths, with more than 5 million cases recorded and over 162,000 deaths, according to a Reuters tally. Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s immigrants’ rights project, said in a written statement that barring U.S. citizens from entering the country would be unconstitutional and "another grave error in a year that has already seen far too many." The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump weighs blocking US citizens coming home if coronavirus infection feared

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world.

"We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number. India would be second at 11 million (tests) and they have 1.5 billion people. We have the number one testing in the world by far and also the highest quality tests," Donald Trump told reporters.

"I feel strongly that we will have a vaccine by the end of the year and it will be put into service as soon as we get it," he added.

"Nationwide we continue to see encouraging signs in the last seven days as in the last seven days we continue to see a decline in cases by 14 per cent, hospitalisations decrease by 7 per cent and fatalities decrease by 9 per cent," he said further.

As per Johns Hopkins University, the US has a total of 5,089,416 COVID-19 cases and India has a total of 2,215,074 COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday.

India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August.

ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world. "We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that India is at second place when it comes to coronavirus COVID-19 testing while the US leading the world. "We have tested close to 65 million people and no country is even close to that number. India would be second at 11 million (tests) and they have 1.5 billion people. We have the number one testing in the world by far and also the highest quality tests," Donald Trump told reporters. "I feel strongly that we will have a vaccine by the end of the year and it will be put into service as soon as we get it," he added. "Nationwide we continue to see encouraging signs in the last seven days as in the last seven days we continue to see a decline in cases by 14 per cent, hospitalisations decrease by 7 per cent and fatalities decrease by 9 per cent," he said further. As per Johns Hopkins University, the US has a total of 5,089,416 COVID-19 cases and India has a total of 2,215,074 COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday. India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August. ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump

Secret Service guards shot a person, who was apparently armed, outside the White House on Monday, President Donald Trump said just after being briefly evacuated in the middle of a press conference. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ends-press-conference-after-being-fact-checked-by-a-reporter-319326">Also read: Trump ends press conference after being fact-checked by a reporter</a> 
 
The president was abruptly ushered out of the press event and black-clad secret service agents with automatic rifles rushed across the lawn north of the White House.

Minutes later, Trump reappeared at the press conference, where journalists had been locked in, and announced that someone had been shot outside the White House grounds. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-americans-are-relinquishing-their-us-citizenship-than-ever-before-319312" hreflang="en">More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before</a>

The Secret Service tweeted that it "can confirm there has been an officer involved shooting at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Ave."

"Law enforcement shot someone, it seems to be, the suspect. And the suspect is on the way to the hospital," he said.

Trump said he knew nothing about the identity or motives of the person shot, but when asked if the person had been armed, he answered: "From what I understand, the answer is yes."

"It might not have had anything to do with me," Trump added, saying the incident took place "on the outside" of the White House perimeter.

"I don't believe anything was breached, they were relatively far away," he added.

Outside the White House, the situation was calm, but a portion of the surrounding streets had been blocked off, with a number of police and other official vehicles converging towards the corner of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Philipos Melaku, a protester who has been camping in front of the White House for years, said he had heard a shot fired at around 5:50 pm (2150 GMT).

"I heard a gunshot and before that I heard screaming," he told AFP.

"It was a male voice," he said. "After that immediately, pointing their AR-15s, at least eight or nine men came in running."

Following the security scare, Trump returned almost immediately to the White House podium where he resumed his scheduled press conference.

Asked if he was rattled by the incident, he replied: "The world's always been a dangerous place. It's not something that's unique."

Trump went onto praise the Secret Service as "fantastic people, the best of the best."

"I feel very safe with Secret Service," he said. "A lot of terrific looking people ready to go if something was necessary."

Secret Service guards shot a person, who was apparently armed, outside the White House on Monday, President Donald Trump said just after being briefly evacuated in the middle of a press conference.

Secret Service guards shot a person, who was apparently armed, outside the White House on Monday, President Donald Trump said just after being briefly evacuated in the middle of a press conference. Also read: Trump ends press conference after being fact-checked by a reporter The president was abruptly ushered out of the press event and black-clad secret service agents with automatic rifles rushed across the lawn north of the White House. Minutes later, Trump reappeared at the press conference, where journalists had been locked in, and announced that someone had been shot outside the White House grounds. Also read: More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before The Secret Service tweeted that it "can confirm there has been an officer involved shooting at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Ave." "Law enforcement shot someone, it seems to be, the suspect. And the suspect is on the way to the hospital," he said. Trump said he knew nothing about the identity or motives of the person shot, but when asked if the person had been armed, he answered: "From what I understand, the answer is yes." "It might not have had anything to do with me," Trump added, saying the incident took place "on the outside" of the White House perimeter. "I don't believe anything was breached, they were relatively far away," he added. Outside the White House, the situation was calm, but a portion of the surrounding streets had been blocked off, with a number of police and other official vehicles converging towards the corner of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. Philipos Melaku, a protester who has been camping in front of the White House for years, said he had heard a shot fired at around 5:50 pm (2150 GMT). "I heard a gunshot and before that I heard screaming," he told AFP. "It was a male voice," he said. "After that immediately, pointing their AR-15s, at least eight or nine men came in running." Following the security scare, Trump returned almost immediately to the White House podium where he resumed his scheduled press conference. Asked if he was rattled by the incident, he replied: "The world's always been a dangerous place. It's not something that's unique." Trump went onto praise the Secret Service as "fantastic people, the best of the best." "I feel very safe with Secret Service," he said. "A lot of terrific looking people ready to go if something was necessary."

Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House

In the latest from the United States, a recent study on COVID-19 and its impact on children has revealed that more than 97,000 children in the US have now tested positive for coronavirus. Trump's claim that children are 'virtually immune' to coronavirus now falls flat.

Recent Study: 97,000 children in US tested coronavirus positive

US secret service agents shot and wounded a man who was apparently armed outside the White House. This comes after US President Donald Trump was seen briefly evacuating in the middle of a press conference. Watch report.

Security alert at White House | Trump briefly leaves a press conference in the middle

It all happened pretty fast. The New York Times reported that White House aides reached out to South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem last year about the process of adding faces to Mount Rushmore. The report was aggregated by other news outlets, including CNN.

The incumbent US president, Donald Trump, was very quick to react to this. He said while this did not happen at all, it was not a bad idea.

Trump, retweeting CNN's headline, called the reports "fake news," though he added that it "sounds like a good idea".

"This is Fake News by the failing @nytimes &amp; bad ratings @CNN. Never suggested it although, based on all of the many things accomplished during the first 3 1/2 years, perhaps more than any other Presidency, sounds like a good idea to me!" he posted.

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This is Fake News by the failing <a href="https://twitter.com/nytimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nytimes</a> &amp; bad ratings <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CNN</a>. Never suggested it although, based on all of the many things accomplished during the first 3 1/2 years, perhaps more than any other Presidency, sounds like a good idea to me! <a href="https://t.co/EHrA9yUsAw">https://t.co/EHrA9yUsAw</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1292628590425759747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Noem, then a congresswoman, said in 2018 that Trump had told her he aspired to have his image on the monument and clarified to her that he was “totally serious".

Trump had, in 2017, at a Youngstown, Ohio, rally, said, "I'd ask whether or not you think I will someday be on Mount Rushmore, but here's the problem: If I did it joking, totally joking, having fun, the fake news media will say 'he believes he should be on Mount Rushmore,’ so I won’t say it, okay? I won’t say it.”

Noem, reportedly, had then greeted Trump when he arrived in the state for his July Fourth celebrations at the monument with a four-foot replica of Mount Rushmore that included his face.

The only response to the Times about the story from the White House was to note that Mount Rushmore is a federal, not a state, monument.

p.s. If at all this is true, Twitterverse had a lot to pacify Trump.

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So, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainFanta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainFanta</a> wants to be on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MountRushmore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MountRushmore</a>.... 
 
&lt;sigh&gt; <a href="https://t.co/2NW5bUdtcG">pic.twitter.com/2NW5bUdtcG</a>
— 🌊Mr Bungle's Spleen🌊 (Venting Since 1977) 😈 (@Darkfurmatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/Darkfurmatte/status/1292509642115944448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Grifters seems to be a popular reply for some reason. <a href="https://t.co/34pTAXx7Z5">pic.twitter.com/34pTAXx7Z5</a>
— D Villella ❄️ (@dvillella) <a href="https://twitter.com/dvillella/status/1290085679527948289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

It all happened pretty fast. The New York Times reported that White House aides reached out to South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem last year about the process of adding faces to Mount Rushmore.

It all happened pretty fast. The New York Times reported that White House aides reached out to South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem last year about the process of adding faces to Mount Rushmore. The report was aggregated by other news outlets, including CNN. The incumbent US president, Donald Trump, was very quick to react to this. He said while this did not happen at all, it was not a bad idea. Trump, retweeting CNN's headline, called the reports "fake news," though he added that it "sounds like a good idea". "This is Fake News by the failing @nytimes & bad ratings @CNN. Never suggested it although, based on all of the many things accomplished during the first 3 1/2 years, perhaps more than any other Presidency, sounds like a good idea to me!" he posted. This is Fake News by the failing @nytimes & bad ratings @CNN. Never suggested it although, based on all of the many things accomplished during the first 3 1/2 years, perhaps more than any other Presidency, sounds like a good idea to me! https://t.co/EHrA9yUsAw — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 10, 2020 × Noem, then a congresswoman, said in 2018 that Trump had told her he aspired to have his image on the monument and clarified to her that he was “totally serious". Trump had, in 2017, at a Youngstown, Ohio, rally, said, "I'd ask whether or not you think I will someday be on Mount Rushmore, but here's the problem: If I did it joking, totally joking, having fun, the fake news media will say 'he believes he should be on Mount Rushmore,’ so I won’t say it, okay? I won’t say it.” Noem, reportedly, had then greeted Trump when he arrived in the state for his July Fourth celebrations at the monument with a four-foot replica of Mount Rushmore that included his face. The only response to the Times about the story from the White House was to note that Mount Rushmore is a federal, not a state, monument. p.s. If at all this is true, Twitterverse had a lot to pacify Trump. So, #CaptainFanta wants to be on #MountRushmore.... <sigh> pic.twitter.com/2NW5bUdtcG — 🌊Mr Bungle's Spleen🌊 (Venting Since 1977) 😈 (@Darkfurmatte) August 9, 2020 × The Grifters seems to be a popular reply for some reason. pic.twitter.com/34pTAXx7Z5 — D Villella ❄️ (@dvillella) August 3, 2020 ×

Did White House pitch Trump for Mount Rushmore? Sounds like a good idea, says the president

The historian, who has the knack of accurately predicting the future, has issued his verdict for 2020.

American University Professor Allan Lichtman is famous for accurately predicting the winner of every US presidential election since 1984, and according to him, this year, Joe Biden will defeat the incumbent president, Donald Trump.

Lichtman uses a system, he created of 13 "keys", which decides who will win the White House. In 2016, Lichtman was one of the few forecasters who said Trump would be the next president.&nbsp;

Surprisingly, he also predicted that Trump would be impeached. He now foresees a Biden victory in November.

"The keys predict that Trump will lose the White House," Lichtman says in a New York Times video op-ed released on Wednesday and in an interview with CNN released on Saturday.

The "13 keys" in his system include factors such as the economy, incumbency, social unrest and scandals, as well as the candidates' personal charisma.

Lichtman, however, considers it as a close contest, and notes that there are extraordinary factors that could still alter the outcome. According to his system, seven of the 13 keys favour Biden and six favour Trump.

Lichtman says Biden has the edge, "in light of the coronavirus pandemic and the national movement of protests against police brutality and systematic racism."

Lichtman has used the key system to forecast the winner of each race since Ronald Reagan's reelection victory in 1984.&nbsp;

The only one time there was a lapse in his judgement was back in 2000. He has predicted that Al Gore would win the election. Gore won the popular vote, but lost the presidency to George W Bush after the Supreme Court ruled to stop the recount for Florida's electoral votes. Lichtman still stands by validity of his prediction.

The historian, who has the knack of accurately predicting the future, has issued his verdict for 2020. American University Professor Allan Lichtman is famous for accurately predicting the winner of every US presidential election since 1984, and according to him, this year, Joe Biden will defeat the incumbent president, Donald Trump.

The historian, who has the knack of accurately predicting the future, has issued his verdict for 2020. American University Professor Allan Lichtman is famous for accurately predicting the winner of every US presidential election since 1984, and according to him, this year, Joe Biden will defeat the incumbent president, Donald Trump. Lichtman uses a system, he created of 13 "keys", which decides who will win the White House. In 2016, Lichtman was one of the few forecasters who said Trump would be the next president. Surprisingly, he also predicted that Trump would be impeached. He now foresees a Biden victory in November. "The keys predict that Trump will lose the White House," Lichtman says in a New York Times video op-ed released on Wednesday and in an interview with CNN released on Saturday. The "13 keys" in his system include factors such as the economy, incumbency, social unrest and scandals, as well as the candidates' personal charisma. Lichtman, however, considers it as a close contest, and notes that there are extraordinary factors that could still alter the outcome. According to his system, seven of the 13 keys favour Biden and six favour Trump. Lichtman says Biden has the edge, "in light of the coronavirus pandemic and the national movement of protests against police brutality and systematic racism." Lichtman has used the key system to forecast the winner of each race since Ronald Reagan's reelection victory in 1984. The only one time there was a lapse in his judgement was back in 2000. He has predicted that Al Gore would win the election. Gore won the popular vote, but lost the presidency to George W Bush after the Supreme Court ruled to stop the recount for Florida's electoral votes. Lichtman still stands by validity of his prediction.

Professor, who accurately predicted every US election since 1984, says Biden will beat Trump

Chinese government-linked hackers have been targeting US election infrastructure ahead of the 2020 presidential election, White House National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday.

Chinese government-linked hackers have been targeting US election infrastructure ahead of the 2020 presidential election, White House National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien said on Sunday. O'Brien's comments appeared to go beyond a statement released on Friday by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence which said China "has been expanding its influence efforts," and that Russia was already trying to undercut Democratic candidate Joe Biden. But did not specifically accuse Beijing of hacking attempts against US election-related systems. "They'd like to see the President lose," O'Brien said on CBS' "Face the Nation." "China - like Russia, like Iran - they've engaged in cyberattacks and phishing and that sort of thing with respect to our election infrastructure, with respect to websites and that sort of thing." China has consistently denied US government claims that it hacks US companies, politicians or government agencies. "The US presidential election is an internal affair, we have no interest in interfering in it," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in April. O'Brien indicating a more active level of alleged Chinese interference, said the United States had seen hackers try to infiltrate websites belonging to Secretary of State offices around the country, which are responsible for administering elections at the local level, and collecting data on Americans. "It is a real concern and it's not just Russia," he said. "There will be severe consequences for any country that attempts to interfere in our free and fair elections."

China targeting US election infrastructure with cyberattacks, says Trump's aide

After waves of controversies related to a possible ban and discussions with Microsoft to take over the US operations, TikTok now has a new suitor.

Twitter, the California-based company, is in talks with TikTok to discuss the possibility of merging the two companies, according to reports published by a leading US media house.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-planning-to-buy-tiktoks-global-business-reports-318751">Also read|&nbsp;Microsoft planning to buy TikTok's global business: Reports</a>

Few weeks ago, the US President Donald Trump had announced a ban on the short-video sharing app claiming that the app was a front for Chinese intelligence to snoop in on the US. Later, Microsoft came to the rescue of the Chinese app, announcing a possibility of taking over TikTok's US operations.&nbsp;

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However, there has been no confirmation on the possible take-over. Meanwhile, Trump has given a 45-days notice to TikTok to either sell or face the ban, demanding&nbsp;significant portion of the sale go to the US Treasury.

Now, it has been revealed by the US media that the social media giant Twitter, co-founded by&nbsp;Jack Dorsey, might be in discussions to merge with TikTok. Since Twitter is a smaller company than Microsoft, Twitter would have a long-shot bid for TikTok and would need support of other investors to acquire this deal. However, Twitter, in such a case, has the benefit of facing less scrutiny than Microsoft, due to its size.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-banning-transactions-with-tiktok-owner-after-45-days-318735">Also read|&nbsp;Trump signs executive order banning transactions with TikTok owner after 45 days</a>

Since the reports came out, people have been trying to figure out how the transformation of Twitter — an app that has very limited characters and upload size — look like if combined with TikTok — an app that usually has fun short videos.

This is not the first time Twitter has proposed such a deal. In 2012, Twitter acquired Vine, a similar app to TikTok, but had to shut it down in 2016.

There have been no official statements from TikTok and Twitter on this issue.

After waves of controversies related to a possible ban and discussions with Microsoft to take over the US operations, TikTok now has a new suitor. Twitter, the California-based company, is in talks with TikTok to discuss the possibility of merging the two companies, according to reports published by a leading US media house.

After waves of controversies related to a possible ban and discussions with Microsoft to take over the US operations, TikTok now has a new suitor. Twitter, the California-based company, is in talks with TikTok to discuss the possibility of merging the two companies, according to reports published by a leading US media house. Also read| Microsoft planning to buy TikTok's global business: Reports Few weeks ago, the US President Donald Trump had announced a ban on the short-video sharing app claiming that the app was a front for Chinese intelligence to snoop in on the US. Later, Microsoft came to the rescue of the Chinese app, announcing a possibility of taking over TikTok's US operations. × However, there has been no confirmation on the possible take-over. Meanwhile, Trump has given a 45-days notice to TikTok to either sell or face the ban, demanding significant portion of the sale go to the US Treasury. Now, it has been revealed by the US media that the social media giant Twitter, co-founded by Jack Dorsey, might be in discussions to merge with TikTok. Since Twitter is a smaller company than Microsoft, Twitter would have a long-shot bid for TikTok and would need support of other investors to acquire this deal. However, Twitter, in such a case, has the benefit of facing less scrutiny than Microsoft, due to its size. Also read| Trump signs executive order banning transactions with TikTok owner after 45 days Since the reports came out, people have been trying to figure out how the transformation of Twitter — an app that has very limited characters and upload size — look like if combined with TikTok — an app that usually has fun short videos. This is not the first time Twitter has proposed such a deal. In 2012, Twitter acquired Vine, a similar app to TikTok, but had to shut it down in 2016. There have been no official statements from TikTok and Twitter on this issue.

Twitter in talks with TikTok to discuss possible merging: Reports

US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Lebanon to conduct a "full and transparent investigation" into the huge explosion that hit Beirut, and expressed his support for protests demanding reform in the country.

Trump&nbsp;"urged the Government of Lebanon to conduct a full and transparent investigation, in which the United States stands ready to assist," according to the White House, after he participated in a virtual conference on the international response to the disaster.

"The President called for calm in Lebanon and acknowledged the legitimate calls of peaceful protesters for transparency, reform, and accountability," the White House added.

The Lebanese army said Sunday that hopes have dwindled of finding survivors at the blast site following days of search-and-rescue operations.

The explosion that hit Beirut's port devastated large parts of the Lebanese capital, claiming over 150 lives and wounding some 6,000 people.

Most Lebanese authorities say Tuesday's explosion was triggered by a fire in a port warehouse, where a shipment of ammonium nitrate, a chemical that can be used as a fertilizer or as an explosive, had languished for years.

World leaders, international organizations and a seething Lebanese public have pressed for an international probe, but President Michel Aoun has said that calls for such an investigation are a "waste of time."

US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Lebanon to conduct a "full and transparent investigation" into the huge explosion that hit Beirut, and expressed his support for protests demanding reform in the country.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Lebanon to conduct a "full and transparent investigation" into the huge explosion that hit Beirut, and expressed his support for protests demanding reform in the country. Trump "urged the Government of Lebanon to conduct a full and transparent investigation, in which the United States stands ready to assist," according to the White House, after he participated in a virtual conference on the international response to the disaster. "The President called for calm in Lebanon and acknowledged the legitimate calls of peaceful protesters for transparency, reform, and accountability," the White House added. The Lebanese army said Sunday that hopes have dwindled of finding survivors at the blast site following days of search-and-rescue operations. The explosion that hit Beirut's port devastated large parts of the Lebanese capital, claiming over 150 lives and wounding some 6,000 people. Most Lebanese authorities say Tuesday's explosion was triggered by a fire in a port warehouse, where a shipment of ammonium nitrate, a chemical that can be used as a fertilizer or as an explosive, had languished for years. World leaders, international organizations and a seething Lebanese public have pressed for an international probe, but President Michel Aoun has said that calls for such an investigation are a "waste of time."

Trump calls for Lebanon to hold 'transparent investigation' into blast

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases.

Negotiations between his Republican party and opposition Democrats had earlier failed, and they could not agree on a new stimulus package.

"We've had it and we're going to save American jobs and provide relief to the American workers," Trump said, at a press conference in his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey on Saturday.

With double digit unemployment, massive disruption to businesses from social distancing rules, and stubbornly high rates of coronavirus infection, many Americans have been relying on relief measures approved earlier by Congress, but which mostly expired in July.

Trump said his decision to circumvent Congress with executive orders would mean relief money getting "rapidly distributed."

Trump said the orders would provide an extra $400 per week in unemployment payments, less than the $600 per week passed earlier in the crisis. Some of the measures were likely to face legal challenges, as the US Constitution gives Congress authority over federal spending.

"This is the money they need, this is the money they want, this gives them an incentive to go back to work," the Republican president said of the lower payments. He said 25% of it would be paid by states, whose budgets have been hard hit by the crisis.

Republicans have argued that higher payments were a disincentive for unemployed Americans to try to return to work, though economists, including Federal Reserve officials, disputed that assertion. 
Trump`s move to take relief measures out of the hands of Congress drew immediate criticism from some Democrats.

Trump also said he was suspending collection of payroll taxes, which pay for Social Security and other federal programs, an idea that he has repeatedly raised but has been rejected by both parties in Congress. He said the suspension would apply to people making less than $100,000 per year.

His orders would also stop evictions from rental housing that has federal financial backing and extend zero percent interest on federally financed student loans.

Democrats pushed for a massive new $3 trillion stimulus package aimed at propping up the economy, repairing the tattered postal system in time for the presidential election, and giving the unemployed an extra $600 a week.

Democrats later announced they could drop the price tag but refused the Republicans' offer of a $1 trillion package.

Trump, who is down in the polls against Democrat Joe Biden, faces broad criticism over his handling of the health and economic responses to the coronavirus pandemic.

He initially played down the disease's threat and has drawn criticism for inconsistent messages on public health steps such as social distancing and masks.

(with inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases.

US President Donald Trump has signed executive orders partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country marked a grim milestone of 5 million cases. Negotiations between his Republican party and opposition Democrats had earlier failed, and they could not agree on a new stimulus package. "We've had it and we're going to save American jobs and provide relief to the American workers," Trump said, at a press conference in his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey on Saturday. With double digit unemployment, massive disruption to businesses from social distancing rules, and stubbornly high rates of coronavirus infection, many Americans have been relying on relief measures approved earlier by Congress, but which mostly expired in July. Trump said his decision to circumvent Congress with executive orders would mean relief money getting "rapidly distributed." Trump said the orders would provide an extra $400 per week in unemployment payments, less than the $600 per week passed earlier in the crisis. Some of the measures were likely to face legal challenges, as the US Constitution gives Congress authority over federal spending. "This is the money they need, this is the money they want, this gives them an incentive to go back to work," the Republican president said of the lower payments. He said 25% of it would be paid by states, whose budgets have been hard hit by the crisis. Republicans have argued that higher payments were a disincentive for unemployed Americans to try to return to work, though economists, including Federal Reserve officials, disputed that assertion. Trump`s move to take relief measures out of the hands of Congress drew immediate criticism from some Democrats. Trump also said he was suspending collection of payroll taxes, which pay for Social Security and other federal programs, an idea that he has repeatedly raised but has been rejected by both parties in Congress. He said the suspension would apply to people making less than $100,000 per year. His orders would also stop evictions from rental housing that has federal financial backing and extend zero percent interest on federally financed student loans. Democrats pushed for a massive new $3 trillion stimulus package aimed at propping up the economy, repairing the tattered postal system in time for the presidential election, and giving the unemployed an extra $600 a week. Democrats later announced they could drop the price tag but refused the Republicans' offer of a $1 trillion package. Trump, who is down in the polls against Democrat Joe Biden, faces broad criticism over his handling of the health and economic responses to the coronavirus pandemic. He initially played down the disease's threat and has drawn criticism for inconsistent messages on public health steps such as social distancing and masks. (with inputs from agencies)

Trump signs orders extending coronavirus relief after talks with Congress break down

United States' Trump administration has sanctioned the Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over her role in curtailing political freedom in the Hong Kong.

US sanctioned Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam over crackdown on protesters

President Donald Trump signed executive orders on Saturday partly restoring enhanced unemployment payments to the tens of millions of Americans who lost jobs in the coronavirus pandemic

Trump signs Coronavirus relief orders | US Prez bypasses Congress with new order

The tussle continues over the second COVID-19 stimulus bill in the United States. Even after more than a week's meetings no decision has been taken. Watch report.

US virus stimulus talks deadlocked | Negotiations on relief package fall apart

China on Saturday called for frank dialogue and closer cooperation in reaction to news that Trump administration officials had urged the US president to delist Chinese companies that trade on US exchanges and fail to meet its auditing requirements by January 2022 US Securities and Exchange Commission and Treasury officials revealed the development on Thursday, which came after President Donald Trump tasked a group of key advisers, including Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and SEC Chairman Jay Clayton, with drafting a report with recommendations to protect US investors from Chinese companies whose audit documents have long been kept from US regulators.

China on Saturday called for frank dialogue and closer cooperation in reaction to news that Trump administration officials had urged the US president to delist Chinese companies that trade on US exchanges and fail to meet its auditing requirements by January 2022 US Securities and Exchange Commission and Treasury officials revealed the development on Thursday, which came after President Donald Trump tasked a group of key advisers, including Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and SEC Chairman Jay Clayton, with drafting a report with recommendations to protect US investors from Chinese companies whose audit documents have long been kept from US regulators. The development also came amid pressure from Congress to crack down on Chinese companies that avail themselves of US capital markets but do not comply with US rules faced by American rivals. "We are simply leveling the playing field, holding Chinese firms listed in the US to the same standards as everyone else," a Treasury official told reporters in a briefing call. China's top securities regulator on Saturday reacted to the US securities regulators' revelation from Thursday cautiously. "We think that solving problems of mutual concern through dialogue is the only way toward win-win situation," the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) said in a statement in response to the U.S. recommendations. The Chinese watchdog also said it has been proposing joint accounting inspections with U.S. regulators with a show of "total sincerity towards cooperation". CSRC argued in the statement that China has never forbidden or prevented accounting firms from providing overseas regulators with auditing working papers, though such information exchange should be made through regulators' cooperative channels according to Chinese law.The US. Senate unanimously passed legislation in May that could prevent some Chinese companies from listing their shares on U.S. exchanges unless they follow standards for U.S. audits and regulations. "Important first step'' Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, who sponsored the bill described the recommendations as "an important first step," but said that "without the added teeth of our bill, this report alone does not implement the requirements necessary to protect everyday American investors.” The administration's recommendations, if implemented via an SEC rulemaking process, would give Chinese companies already listed in the United States until Jan. 1, 2022, to ensure the U.S. auditing watchdog, known as the PCAOB, has access to their audit documents. They can also provide a "co-audit," for example, performed by a U.S. parent company of the China-based affiliate tasked with auditing the Chinese firm. However, companies seeking to list in the United States for the first time will need to comply immediately, the officials said. A State Department official told Reuters the administration plans soon to scrap a 2013 agreement between U.S. and Chinese auditing authorities to set up a process for the PCAOB to seek documents in enforcement cases against Chinese auditors. The PCAOB has long complained of China’s failure to grant requests, giving it scant insight on audits of Chinese firms that trade on U.S. exchanges. The report also recommends requiring greater disclosure by issuers and registered funds of the risk of investing in China, as well as mandating more due diligence by funds that track indexes and issuing guidance to investment advisers about fiduciary obligations surrounding investments in China. The moves come amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing over China's handling of the coronavirus and its moves to curb freedoms in Hong Kong, among other issues.

Trump advisers urge delisting of US-listed Chinese firms that fail to meet audit standards

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner.&nbsp;

To talk about similar aids,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city.

The two leaders spoke on the phone on Friday evening and "expressed their deep sadness over the loss of life and devastation in Beirut," , White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-owner-files-lawsuit-against-those-responsible-for-beirut-port-explosion-318961">Also read:&nbsp;Ship owner files lawsuit against those responsible for Beirut port explosion</a>

Trump and Macron also discussed plans of joining other countries in sending the necessary aids to Beirut.

The talk happened after it was observed that while France and other countries offered emergency aid, such as team of doctors and equipment, the US has not offered any sort of aid to the ailing city till now.

The blast, that took place a couple of days ago, has taken more than&nbsp;154 lives, injured 5,000 and caused immense structural damage.

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Had a lengthy discussion this morning with President Macron of France concerning numerous subjects, but in particular the catastrophic event which took place in Beirut, Lebanon...
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1291864494608732170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After the call with the French President, trump also had a call with the Lebanon President who was informed that three large US aircrafts are en route Lebanon with emergency supplies and personnel.

Trump also announced through Twitter that he will be having a conference call with Lebanon President, leaders, French president and their other counterparts from around the world to discuss different ways in which Lebanon can be offered help.&nbsp;

"We will be having a conference call on Sunday with President Macron, leaders of Lebanon, and leaders from various other parts of the world. Everyone wants to help!," he tweeted.

The US Agency for International Development has offered to&nbsp;provide more than $15 million in assistance, including food aid for 50,000 people for three months. The US military will also be sending medical supplies&nbsp;and pharmaceuticals to support up to 60,000 people for&nbsp; the next three months.

Meanwhile, Trump had raised suspicions about the origin of the blast claiming that nobody could be sure if this was an attack or now, at this point.&nbsp;Lebanese President Michel Aoun has promised citizens to look deeper in this matter and hold the guilty people accountable for one of the worst blasts the country has faced in the past few years.

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner. To talk about similar aids, French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city.

After the horrifying blast in Beirut, Lebanon, several countries have come ahead to lend support in every possible manner. To talk about similar aids, French President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart Donald Trump had a phone call to discuss plans of extending immediate help to the ailing city. The two leaders spoke on the phone on Friday evening and "expressed their deep sadness over the loss of life and devastation in Beirut," , White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. Also read: Ship owner files lawsuit against those responsible for Beirut port explosion Trump and Macron also discussed plans of joining other countries in sending the necessary aids to Beirut. The talk happened after it was observed that while France and other countries offered emergency aid, such as team of doctors and equipment, the US has not offered any sort of aid to the ailing city till now. The blast, that took place a couple of days ago, has taken more than 154 lives, injured 5,000 and caused immense structural damage. Had a lengthy discussion this morning with President Macron of France concerning numerous subjects, but in particular the catastrophic event which took place in Beirut, Lebanon... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 7, 2020 × After the call with the French President, trump also had a call with the Lebanon President who was informed that three large US aircrafts are en route Lebanon with emergency supplies and personnel. Trump also announced through Twitter that he will be having a conference call with Lebanon President, leaders, French president and their other counterparts from around the world to discuss different ways in which Lebanon can be offered help. "We will be having a conference call on Sunday with President Macron, leaders of Lebanon, and leaders from various other parts of the world. Everyone wants to help!," he tweeted. The US Agency for International Development has offered to provide more than $15 million in assistance, including food aid for 50,000 people for three months. The US military will also be sending medical supplies and pharmaceuticals to support up to 60,000 people for the next three months. Meanwhile, Trump had raised suspicions about the origin of the blast claiming that nobody could be sure if this was an attack or now, at this point. Lebanese President Michel Aoun has promised citizens to look deeper in this matter and hold the guilty people accountable for one of the worst blasts the country has faced in the past few years.

Trump and Macron discuss plans for immediate aid to Lebanon; US to send aid for three months

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